Classified Briefings

"I can't sleep yet, I still have work to do..."

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Classified Briefings are a category of Lore entries in Girls' Frontline 2: Exilium. They can be read by accessing the Elmo Cloud Server Room, then the Traceback menu. Each entry must be unlocked using specific items gained from BH stages in the Campaign. Unlocking each entry in a Classified Briefing rewards Sardis Gold and Collapse Pieces.

Peace and Happiness

Unlocked with Handmade Lucky Knots.

Summary

Aichi and her husband are part of the Neo-Soviet Post-War Reconstruction High-Risk Operation Support Team 7, whose difficult mission is to demolish large structures and relocate their inhabitants in the contamination zone despite the constant danger posed by Collapse storms, ELIDs and the distrust of the locals. When Aichi becomes pregnant, they apply for a return to their homeland, and hope that their application is accepted and they can survive long enough to raise their daughter in a better environment than the ruins of World War Three.

Considering Aichi's name (爱知) is Japanese, the Handmade Lucky Knots used to unlock these entries are based on Chinese knots, and the reference to the nu'er hong tradition of the Shaoxing region at the end of the story, the characters' homeland could be either Japan or China. In the latter case, they could possibly be the parents of Mayling Shen.

November 10th, Sunny

A small-scale collapse storm has erupted within the operation area, forcing all blasting work to stop abruptly... I can hardly catch my breath. Outside, the relentless storm hurls sand against this cramped temporary shelter, and it feels like it's hitting directly at my lungs.

Aichi rests on a makeshift bed near me. Not far from us, some tattered gray curtains are drawn. Behind them, my colleagues–the other members of the Post-War Reconstruction High-Risk Operation Support Team 7 from New Soviet–are also taking a break.

They are conversing in hushed Russian tones, discussing matters I know all too well: everyone's main concerns–when the next batch of supplies will arrive and Peter's death.

I stop looking at the gray curtains and turn my gaze to Aichi, whose face is flushed with fever.

She's been battling a relentless high fever lately, and even talking to me makes her throat hurt immensely.

Thankfully, it's not E.L.I.D. After taking some fever-reducing medicine, she has shown some improvement. Last night, after she collapsed at her post, I carried her back to bed, and she's been sleeping ever since.

While she sleeps, I've taken over her duties. Besides that, I have another mission outside my usual responsibilities to complete. I promised the residents of this Contamination Zone I'd handle some of the missions they're unwilling to do, and in return, they'd give me some food.

But I can't just leave like this; I have to wait until Aichi wakes up at least.

Once I'm gone, there's no one watching over her.

Creatures unfortunate enough to reach the late stages of E.L.I.D., whether human or animal, are no longer the same as they once were.

If I'm not here, what if those monsters break in and harm Aichi like they did to Peter? The people behind the gray curtains, we haven't harmed them, but we've become everything they see as a disaster.

When Aichi and I first came here, we had hoped to make this world, nearly crushed by war and collapse radiation, a little better with our meager efforts--But this world is far more complex than either of us imagined.

The challenges we must confront, in terms of complexity and severity, far exceed what we had imagined.

But one thing I want to ensure above all else–even if everyone, including myself, were to perish in this relief effort, Aichi would return safely to our homeland.

November 20th, Overcast

Two days ago, Aichi became pregnant.

Pregnant... What should I do!

The information revealed by the test is absolutely accurate. This is the third test, and each time the result is the same as the first–she is pregnant.

She is pregnant. What should I do?

I, I'm... I'm going to be a father? Here, in this place teeming with bandits, refugees, and hostiles, to bring our child into the world?

No, absolutely not. I don't want our child to suffer as we do. If he grows up in such a world, confused by everything around him, and looks at me with innocent eyes, asking, "Dad, why do we have to be so afraid every day?" I don't even know what to tell him.

...Maybe Aichi was right; I am just a coward and a selfish person.

I just don't have the ability to protect her and our child, to keep them safe in this world, and to ensure our child grows up securely.

I'm a failure as a husband and a father... but I have no right to deny our child their chance at life. No, there must be a way to change all this. I will find a solution!

…Right, let's return the child to our homeland. Let them grow up in our native land!

…If I could send the child back, even if…something were to happen to me, my wife and child would be well cared for, just like the families of my colleagues.

Yes! If I write back, as long as Aichi's and my application can get through, a rescue team will certainly come here to get us.

If we can make it through this period, once the mission is complete and we have the funds for international shipping, we can safely send the child back to our homeland.

We need to discuss this thoroughly with Aichi. We have more support than just ourselves in this situation.

November 27th, Sunny

The relocation of residents and the demolition of large buildings in the area are nearly complete. In another week, a new team will arrive to take over the remaining missions, and Team 7 will move on to another area in need of reconstruction to continue the relocation and demolition work.

I checked the map beforehand, and one of the areas is a small town in the contamination zone with relatively better infrastructure. I've submitted an application to the government. If Aichi and I are assigned to this town, we could get some of the extremely scarce daily necessities replenished. The request for support has finally been completed. I had a courier deliver it to the only international postal company nearby…

I hope it reaches our homeland safely.

…Aichi is becoming increasingly weak. She hasn't spoken much to me these days, and she wrote to tell me that her throat is in terrible pain.

She did something impulsive again these days, and I am extremely worried. A few days ago, during the demolition work on the overpass, a child clutching a teddy bear suddenly emerged from the rubble. Aichi rushed over and hugged the child, saving them from danger.

...Now she is covered in injuries, and I wish, oh how I wish it were me instead. I wish the gods could transfer all the pain she's going through onto me.

Aichi can barely hold a pen anymore. Recently, in a heartbreaking hoarse voice, she told me that the physical pain has become unbearable, and she's been having frequent nightmares. She also said she would definitely give birth to the child. She promised to ensure that the child would safely return to our homeland, and she would protect me too.

Protecting me... With injuries like hers now, she looks so worn out…

All I hope for is that she can rest well and recover quickly. The high fever she had managed to bring down with medicine before has returned now...

As long as she gets better, no matter what happens next, I can endure it.

I hold her tightly in my arms, wishing for a quicker turnaround in our situation. This kind of pain should not befall her and the child...

I embrace my wife and child, while bitter, dry laughter seeps through from behind the grey curtains nearby. The scent of vodka drifts through the holes in the curtains–they must be celebrating the completion of the operation.

The operation is completed. Next comes environmental restoration and refugee resettlement. Soon, this place will become a small sanctuary for humanity.

...If only Aichi could stay here.

Outside the outpost, the cold wind, carrying dust from the ruins since the Third War, continues to batter this precarious shack. The roar of monsters seems to drift from a very distant place. But at this moment, I feel no fear at all, because the person I love the most is in my arms. Though her body was burning with fever, she radiated the warmth of life. No matter what happens, this person will always be by my side.

I will figure something out.

I've heard there are even tougher missions beyond the reconstruction team... As long as I can find a way to complete those missions... It's almost there, that letter is on its way, everything will improve... There's still time, when the rescue team arrives, Aichi...no, Aichi can go back, and we can welcome our child in our homeland.

If there's still time, after our efforts to make this world a bit better and safer, I want to build a small but sturdy house for her and the child, with a peace knot hanging on the walls. She will teach the child to read in the house, and in the basement, I will bury the "daughter's red" wine I secretly brewed. Our family will live together, safely and happily...

It will happen, all of this will happen... The world seems to grow warmer, almost as if it's on the verge of melting me away...

I will stay alive until I achieve everything I desire.

Development Agreement Archived Files

Unlocked with Elegant Pens.

Summary

In April 2067, the URNC and the Neo-Soviet Union sign the Protocol on the Joint Initiative Between the Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition and the Neo-Soviet Union for the Restoration of Collapse Radiation Contamination Zones. The protocol commits both parties to leading their own decontamination projects in Europe, the URNC starting from the Western side with their Lazarus Project, and the NSU from the Eastern side with their New Westward Movement, before jointly decontaminating the Carpathian Red Zone and the Black Zone. The protocol also formally defines the color-coded classification for contamination levels.

After the decontamination process is done in Europe, they plan to decontaminate Africa next, then Oceania, South America, Asia, North America and finally Antarctica. History was not so kind as to let the decontamination plan proceed fully.

European Collapse Radiation Contamination Zone Restoration and Revitalization Joint Development Agreement

File Number: ████
Source Archive: Classified Archives, Government of the Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition - Archive A_12[S]
Original Title: Protocol on the Joint Initiative Between the Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition and the Neo-Soviet Union for the Restoration of Collapse Radiation Contamination Zones
Approval Date: April 19, 2067
Effective Date: July 1, 2067

Acknowledging that a significant portion of the world is affected by Collapse radiation contamination;
Recognizing that Collapse radiation endangers human life, which threatens the survival of human civilization;
Acknowledging the limitations and delays faced by individual governments or alliances in managing Collapse Radiation Contamination Zones;
Believing that collaboration between the Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition and the Neo-Soviet Union in the management of Collapse Radiation Contamination Zones will contribute to environmental recovery, urban reconstruction, and the advancement of humanity;

It is hereby declared that the Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition and the Neo-Soviet Union shall jointly advance the restoration of Collapse Radiation Contamination Zones, adhering to the following principles:

Europe shall be designated as the first experimental zone. Upon successful purification, the experience gained will guide the systematic restoration of other regions affected by Collapse radiation worldwide;
1.1 Restoration order will be based on factors such as the difficulty of restoration, population size, number of existing cities, and resource availability;
1.2 The agreed sequence of restoration is as follows:
1.2.1 Africa;
1.2.2 Oceania;
1.2.3 South America;
1.2.4 Asia;
1.2.5 North America;
1.2.5 Antarctica.

2. The restoration of the European Contamination Zones shall be divided into Eastern and Western zones, determined by the control at the time of the accord's signing. The boundary shall run from Kaliningrad to Warszawa, Budapest, Belgrade, and Tirana. The Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition shall oversee the Western Zone, while the Neo-Soviet Union will be responsible for the Eastern Zone;
2.1 In the Western zones, the Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition shall implement the Contamination Zone Management and Restoration Plan 'Lazarus';
※Original documents of this plan can be found in Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition Government Archive-A_39[S], File Number ████
2.1.1 This plan will use the Szczecin-Berlin-Nuremberg-Munich-Zurich-Geneva line as a basis and advance eastward utilizing "Ark"-class reseeding platforms;
2.2 In the Eastern zones, the Neo-Soviet Union shall implement multiple five-year "Revival" plans under the collective name of "New Westward Movement";
※ Original documents of this plan can be found in the Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition Government Archive-A_39[S], File Number ████
2.2.1 This plan shall use the Vilnius-Minsk-Kyiv-Odesa line and advance westward utilizing "Mobile Quarantine Walls" and "Mobile Purification Towers".

3. The restoration of European Contamination Zones shall be divided into four stages:
3.1 First stage: The Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition shall implement and complete the restoration and development of areas designated as "Yellow Zone" in the Western zones;
3.2 Second stage: The Neo-Soviet Union shall implement and complete the restoration and development of areas designated as "Yellow Zone" in the Eastern zones;
3.3 Third stage: Upon the successful fulfillment of the initial two stages, both parties shall converge near the Carpathian mountain ranges to jointly advance the restoration and development of areas designated as "Red Zone" within the Carpathian Mountains;
3.4 Fourth stage: Upon the successful fulfillment of the third stage, both parties shall jointly advance the restoration of the contamination sources designated as "Black Zone";
3.5 The classification of the Contamination Zones shall be provided in Clause 6.

4. During the joint restoration of Collapse Radiation Contamination Zones, neither party shall interfere with the logistical or technological support of the other within or between their designated zones; both must also exercise utmost restraint in military activities.

5. Both parties shall exercise administrative authority over their restored areas and possess military transit rights in each other's restored areas.

6. To facilitate restoration work and avoid errors in communication and data organization, both parties have agreed to adhere to Contamination Zone Level definitions existing at the time of this protocol's signing and redefine the criteria for contamination levels in each zone:
6.1 White Zone;
6.1.1 Radiation concentration within the area is equal to zero (0) Vebryan;
6.1.2 Previously contaminated by Collapse radiation, but the direct and indirect hazards from the contamination have been fully expunged; the likelihood of recontamination from nearby sources is extremely low;
6.1.3 Has established comprehensive warnings and preventative measures in case of Collapse radiation contamination;
6.1.4 Is of significant importance to the implementation of purification projects;
6.2 Green Zone;
6.2.1 Radiation concentration within the area is greater than zero (>0) Vebryan but less than or equal to one (≤1) Vebryan;
6.2.2 Previously contaminated by Collapse radiation; minimal level of contamination;
6.2.3 Restoration of the area is either incomplete or still underway;
6.3 Yellow Zone;
6.3.1 Radiation concentration within the area is greater than one (>1) Vebryan but less than one hundred fifty (≤150) Vebryan;
6.3.2 Previously contaminated by Collapse radiation; moderate level of contamination;
6.3.3 Restoration of the area is either underway or has not yet started;
6.4 Red Zone;
6.4.1 Radiation concentration within the area is greater than one hundred fifty (>150) Vebryan but less than ten thousand (≤10000) Vebryan;
6.4.2 Is adjacent to ground zeroes of Collapse radiation; high level of contamination;
6.4.3 Restoration of the area has not yet started given present technical challenges that will require concentrated efforts to overcome.
6.5 Black Zone;
6.5.1 Radiation concentration within the area is greater than ten thousand (>10000) Vebryan;
6.5.2 Ground zeroes of Collapse radiation, consisting of the radial crater several kilometers in radius and its surrounding area extending up to tens of kilometers in radius; extremely high level of contamination;
6.5.3 Restoration of the area cannot be undertaken with current technology; the final purification area requiring joint efforts and coordination from both parties.

This protocol shall be effective as of 2 July 2067
It is earnestly hoped that through implementation of resolutions outlined in this protocol, the restoration of European Contamination Zones will be achieved by the end of the century and that management, restoration, and revitalization of Collapse radiation contaminated areas globally can be realized in the following century.

19 April 2067
Thirteenth Plenary Session in Geneva

Sebeş-02B Work Journal

Unlocked with Rough Bird Beak Mask.

Summary

The URNC's Contamination Zone Survey Maintenance and Environmental Analysis Group is sent to monitor radiation levels and repair local anti-collapse beacons in the Sebeș region of Western Romania. A member of the expedition, Juan Bévès, suspects that local inhabitants have been sabotaging the beacon to slow down the progress of the decontamination efforts, which destroys their homes. The very night after the team set up camp, two masked attackers capture one of them and attempt to trade him against resources, but are driven out by the menace of a grenade launcher. The attackers turn out to be orphaned children, Noah and Noel, whom Juan bribes with chocolate to share more information about the inhabitants of the region. They tell Juan about a radiation-worshipping cult living closer to the Red Zone, who are responsible for damaging the beacons and that even the Varjagers won't attack.

The team eventually leaves after completing their repairs. Noah and Noel decide to remain in their home region.

Record of the Environmental Analysis in the Sebeș Area

Written by: Juan Bévès

Affiliated organization: Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition Contamination Zone Survey Maintenance and Environmental Analysis Group, Neo Soviet Region West Romania Sector, Unit █

Area of responsibility: W2143DW-H59XF7 to W2269DW-H97XF7 (commonly known as the Sebeş region)

Survey subject: condition of purification facilities in the Sebeş region and surrounding environmental data

Journal entry date: █/207█

August 2nd, Outside the Ruins of a Sebeș School

At around 23:00, the team members arrived in the Sebeş region using off-road vehicles and set up camp at the ruins of a school.

Due to the low visibility at night, with the surroundings being nearly pitch black, the team has decided to start their environmental survey and purification facility maintenance work tomorrow in daylight.

Prior to this, I had dispatched drone units to assess the damage to nearby beacons and the local collapse radiation levels. The drones are equipped with collapse radiation detection devices centered around the d8W3 type-collapse epiphyllum core, which can quickly measure collapse radiation levels in the area. In about half an hour, the drones will transmit some of the data back to my intelligence terminal.

...However, I am cautious about the data transmitted by the drones.

Considering only natural environmental factors, the beacons deteriorate very slowly. However, recent data from the meteorological survey team and my own observations indicate that the main cause of beacon damage is actually the local residents of the Contamination Zone.

To preserve their living space as much as possible, residents of the Contamination Zone actively sabotage purification equipment. This behavior effectively increases the difficulty of advancing purification efforts.

However, the main objective of advancing purification projects is to create a safer living environment for a larger number of people.

Only by successfully advancing purification projects can the URNC later resettle the suffering residents of the Contamination Zone. We have been informed that this is the purpose of our work.

Regardless of the real situation, I will put forth my utmost effort for this cause.

Tonight, Jerome and I will be taking turns on watch. It's my shift now. Although we were thoroughly prepared before coming here, the night is still surprisingly cold.

Apart from the faint sounds of the wind, there is no other activity around the school ruins.

The nearest beacon is located about 800 meters southwest of here and will be the focus of the team's specific repair work tomorrow.

I hope to safely get through tonight.

Wait, what was that fleeting shadow just now?

The shadow appears small, with the edges of clothing fluttering. Could it be a local resident from the Contamination Zone nearby?

Dressed like that to scare us off?

But... it seems to have very long horns.

No, are those horns? It might be more like a beak, similar to that of a bird.

... It's not Jerome's turn on watch yet, so leaving my post to investigate this isn't a good decision.

Starting to feel a bit tired.

Wait, wait! The shadow that just flashed by again... I see it every day and am very familiar with it—it's Berdwin from the team, one of the armed personnel responsible for everyone's safety.

He chased after that small figure?

...It seems I'll have to bother a teammate after all.

August 2nd, Inside the Ruins of a Sebeș School

We thought tonight would pass quietly, but no one anticipated something like this happening.

Berdwin just explained to everyone why he decided to go after it, but his hasty decision driven by overconfidence... is really hard to agree with.

Now, Berdwin has taken over the watch duty from Jerome and me.

According to Berdwin, at 23:20, when I saw the strange figure with the long beak-like protrusion, Berdwin was outside alone, monitoring the drones' operations.

He then heard a middle-aged man with a Spanish accent, speaking in a very harsh tone, demanding that he hand over everything he had.

Berdwin was about to call Jerome and me over when the man used even harsher words to provoke him and quickly fled as Berdwin became enraged. In his fury, Berdwin grabbed his gun and went after him.

Which is why I saw his figure at that moment.

After that, he was led by the figure to the beacon located southwest of here.

Before he had a chance to speak, he triggered a trap under the beacon and was securely hung upside down from a very tall dead tree nearby.

Soon after, I rushed over with Jerome.

The beacon's lights came on, and two people were visible inside.

One was tall and the other very short, and both were wearing medieval-style bird-beak masks.

They spoke fluent Russian with a Spanish accent and used Berdwin's life as leverage, demanding that we surrender all the supplies of our group.

Berdwin responded with a stream of curses until they pulled the mechanism several times, lifting him up.

While handing over our supplies was out of the question, we also wouldn't abandon Berdwin.

Just as I was about to negotiate with them, Jerome fired a shot into the air with the GM94 portable grenade launcher, producing a highly intimidating sound. The two who had planned to negotiate with us immediately dropped Berdwin and fled without a trace.

...Later, Berdwin returned to the camp with us. After a continuous half hour of cursing, Jerome finally persuaded him to take over the watch.

Although I don't know where Jerome procured such heavy weaponry, it's clear that it spared us a lot of unnecessary trouble.

However, what exactly was the deal with those two people wearing medieval bird-beak masks?

Were they using the beacon to trap others?

August 3rd, Beacon at W2145DW-H59XF7

According to the footage transmitted by the drone last night, the external damage to the beacon where Berdwin was suspended-and where we plan to perform repairs today-is around 8% to 15%.

However, the actual situation, as I initially suspected, shows that the beacon at W2145DW-H59XF7 has sustained 70% damage-besides being sturdy enough to withstand small and medium collapse storms, it has almost no remaining capability to neutralize collapse radiation.

After carefully surveying the surrounding area and removing four or five non-lethal traps that seemed straight out of a poorly written wilderness adventure novel, we finally began repair work.

Inside the beacon, we discovered a stockpile of energy batteries and enough dried rats to feed one person for about two days, along with some makeshift, tattered bedding.

It was clear that the two individuals wearing bird-beak masks from last night had turned the beacon into their living quarters.

...But our purpose in setting up and maintaining the beacons is to expand safe living spaces for humanity.

By damaging the beacon and then turning it into their living quarters, these two individuals have, in a strange way, achieved our objective?

Then, while we were still investigating, the two masked individuals-one tall and one short-reappeared and pointed guns at our heads. "Put down everything you're holding, leave immediately, and ensure you never return."

One of them spoke in a peculiar Russian accentuated with Spanish.

Perhaps because of the events from last night, Berdwin immediately started cursing. During their heated argument, a loud awkward noise suddenly came from the short one's stomach- it sounded like the growling of someone who was extremely hungry.

Then, the short one spoke in a completely different, quiet voice that sounded like a child around 10 years old, saying,

"Brother, I'm hungry..."

This statement immediately brought all the arguing to a stop, leaving me feeling utterly bewildered.

Finally, the peculiar events of yesterday and today were about to be explained.

Then, using food as leverage, I negotiated with these two peculiar individuals.

August 3rd, 9 p.m., In the Ruins of a Sebeș School

The two children who were arguing with Berdwin earlier—yes, the tall one is also a child—are now sitting with Berdwin, munching on compressed biscuits.

I believe that, regardless of the situation, compressed biscuits will taste better than dried rats.

The drone has transmitted more precise environmental data—the collapse radiation level in the Sebeş region is between 135 and 142 Vebryan, which is still within the normal range.

However, if all the beacons in the surrounding area are as severely damaged as the one at W2145DW-H59XF7, advancing the purification project will become increasingly challenging.

...This is not something I want to see.

At 11:00 today, when I offered food to these two brats, they initially put on a show of refusing. However, when Jerome, standing at 190 cm tall and wielding a portable grenade launcher, stood behind me, they immediately dropped their pretense and obediently followed us.

After removing their robes and bird-beak masks, two young, immature faces appeared before me.

They are brothers, the older one is 16 and named Noah, and the younger one is 12 and named Noel.

Their father died of E.L.I.D. last year. To have a place to live, they modified the already damaged beacon and set up traps around it to lure others into trading resources.

To improve their success rate, they deliberately mimicked an adult’s manner of speaking.

However, my greater concern is the situation of other residents in the Sebes region's Contamination Zone, which will be the focus of our work in the coming weeks.

To get these two kids to talk, I gave them my entire weekly chocolate ration.

Noah mentioned that a few kilometers ahead, closer to the Red Zone, everyone there is insane, and each of them has E.L.I.D.

Despite this, they do not take any protective measures and even claim that collapse radiation is "a blessing from God."

Sometimes, they gather to perform a strange ritual, but fearing being forced to join, Noah and Noel always take detours when they encounter these residents.

As expected, in an environment where residents worship collapse radiation, the beacons—intended to protect them and neutralize the radiation—have been completely destroyed.

Previously, in reports from the meteorological department, I had also read about the unique customs of Contamination Zone residents near the Yellow Zone.

Although I was mentally prepared for this, I still find it somewhat tragic—given our inability to help everyone, it seems almost reasonable that these afflicted residents have developed a distorted reverence for collapse radiation.

When I asked the two children why they wore bird-beak masks, they gave a quite practical reason—they couldn‘t afford full protective suits, so they improvised rough gas masks based on the bird-beak doctors depicted in storybooks.

Another reason is that their dream is to become doctors; wearing masks and robes makes them feel more like real doctors.

...I can hardly express how much this disaster has destroyed the majority of humanity.

But I hope that, at least within my capabilities, I can protect and take good care of a few precious things.

I gave the brothers two spare gas masks from our team.

August 4th, Settlement W2145DW-H61XF7

At 1020 hrs, we reach the beacon located at coordinates W2145DW-H61XF7.

Forty meters away from the beacon, there is a small contamination zone settlement. An unusual and grotesque building is located at the center of the settlement. Numerous residents without any protective gear are calmly lined up to enter the building.

The specific details remain unclear, the team decided to prioritize the maintenance of the beacons nearby before conducting a more in-depth investigation.

However, as we are dismantling the traps around the beacon—

Compared to the clumsy tricks of those two brats, these traps are straight-up malevolent; if triggered, they can easily lead to severe injuries, potentially even fatal.

As our work continues, the distant roaring of jeep engines can be heard, prompting Berdwin to swiftly lead the team's security section to stand by for any potential confrontation.

After all, during past maintenance work on the beacons, we often faced such predicaments—intermissions caused by the universally detested Varjagers.

I recall that last year, out of the five members conducting maintenance work in the Belsk region, two engineers lost their lives in an ambush by the Varjager.

The members of Varjager display a singular and unrelenting disposition towards others: to provoke confrontations, eliminate opponents, and seize anything of value.

But this time, things won't be that easy for them.

This time, to ensure everyone's safety, the team's security section underwent a comprehensive enhancement—especially in terms of weaponry.

Never could I expect Jerome to acquire a portable grenade launcher… him, a medic, out of all people!

However, the course of battle greatly deviated from my expectations.

Despite the comprehensive upgrade of our arsenal and the lack of any weapon supplier in the contamination zone settlements in the vicinity, the Varjager surprisingly engaged us in combat using equally uncommon heavy firepower!

Among them was the same model of portable grenade launcher that Jerome spent several months trying to procure!

How can this be possible?

If these Varjagers are only active in this area, no matter how much they plunder the residents, they can't possibly get their hands on such scarce and expensive equipment!

Twenty minutes later, under our overwhelming suppressive firepower, the Varjager ultimately decide to flee.

But I still can't make sense of it.

Subsequently, I attempt to inquire with the contamination zone residents in the vicinity, but they simply urged me to join them and declined to provide any answers to my questions.

...Moreover, judging by their gazes, I do not doubt that if not for all these armed individuals surrounding me, they would have pounced on me by now.

Based on my observations, these settlements do not appear to have experienced any plundering, and the residents' living conditions seem to be stable.

Why?

These settlements have stowed a considerable amount of resources, almost too plentiful for people living in the contamination zone. Why did the Varjager disregard them?

...Or did I misjudge the situation?

With endless doubts in our minds, at 2020 hrs, we temporarily withdraw to our base camp, located at the school ruins.

To get a better grasp of the situation, I ask the two brothers about the surroundings of W2145DW-H61XF7.

Their response confirms my earlier assessment—the Varjager never had any intention of attacking these settlements.

"The Varjager targets ordinary individuals, but they wouldn't dare provoke those lunatics."

These were Noel's exact words, but logically speaking, his statement is fundamentally unreasonable.

...After completing this operation, I should submit a report regarding this incident.

Upon learning that we will soon depart, Noel seems quite upset.

I suggested relocating them to a settlement closer to the Green Zone, so we can take better care of them, but they declined, adamant about staying in the place where their father once resided.

We can only leave behind a batch of supplies to help make their lives a little easier in the future.

Ultimately, Noel gives us the bird-beak masks that he and his brother crafted.

These are the very masks worn by medieval plague doctors...

Everything we are doing today is so that one day, people can live normally on this land without having to wear a gas mask.

Until that day's arrival, I will commit myself fully.

Bucharest by the Sea

Unlocked with Furniture Design Sketch.

Summary

Yuri Andropov is the therapist assigned to veteran Antip Burdovsky, who has been diagnosed with PTSD and various severe complications. Antip earned a Second Class Order of the Motherland at the Battle of Chișinău two years prior, taking part in the succesful defense of the city against 30,000 NATO troops after the NSU's no-retreat order. Despite his status as a war hero, Antip suddenly decided to retire from the armed forces and followed the Great Migration to Bucharest to open a furniture workshop. He's haunted by the gruesome experience of the battle, especially the death of his comrade Alexei Orlov, and is anxious about his inability to focus on furniture-making.

After several sessions where Yuri tries to convince Antip to focus on building a “mental fortress” against the traumatic memories, Antip reveals that the furniture he's making were designed by Alexei, and insists on completing them. Yuri takes steps to prevent Antip from continuing his work, considering it is tying him to his trauma, but he loses Antip's trust in the process. Yuri ends up recommending more drastic treatment for Antip.

Antip Burdovsky's Consultation Recording Excerpt 1

Sound of a door opening, quick footsteps, and slow footsteps.

Yuri: Come in.

Footsteps, sound of wooden door closing.

Antip: Have you read all these books?

Yuri: Yes.

Antip: That's an incredible amount. I've never seen so many books in one place.

Yuri: In this profession, reading them is a prerequisite. Although, some of them are as worthless as dust.

One person's footsteps stop. The other person's footsteps stop as well.

Antip: "The Sense of Order," "Studies in Composition," "Baroque Design Manual"—are you interested in furniture design?

Yuri: Not particularly interested—human psychology is reflected in all works involving creative activity.

Sound of a book being pulled from the shelf.

Yuri: Here, if you're interested.

Antip: Thank you, Doctor.

Sound of pages being turned.

Yuri: Do you like the designs in this book?

Sound of a book being closed and carelessly placed on the table.

Antip: The details are finely crafted, though it's not very functional, it's still considered good design.

Yuri: If it were you, how would you modify it?

Dry laughter.

Antip: I don't modify others' designs, I only bring them to life.

Yuri: Two years ago, after the Battle of Chișinău, you were awarded the Second Class Order of the Motherland. Many people envied you.

Sound of a book being picked up, footsteps, and the sound of the book being placed back on the shelf.

Yuri: But you requested to retire, followed the Great Migration to Bucharest, and opened a handmade furniture workshop here.

Whose design fascinates you so much?

30 seconds of silence.

Yuri: I don’t know much about furniture design, but I imagine those designs must be very meaningful to you. If you're willing to share, I'll be a good listener.

Footsteps and the sound of paper being picked up and flipped through.

Antip: What's that?

Yuri: Your psychological evaluation.

Severe depression and PTSD, with complications.

Sleep disorders, alcohol addiction, and chronic severe anxiety.

Antip: Sounds serious.

Yuri: I’ve seen many visitors in worse condition than you.

Antip: Were they cured by you?

Yuri: Psychological damage caused by PTSD, if treated through counseling, requires the visitor to fully trust the therapist.

I have to put in far more effort than usual.

Antip: ...Do you think you can cure me?

Yuri: Antip, you're very smart and perceptive. I can sense your wariness.

You’ve seen quite a few therapists and know exactly what we’re going to say, but… if we work together, I believe there’s a chance to make progress.

10 seconds of silence.

Yuri: This session was requested by your superior, Grigory Orlov. When he reached out to me, I could tell he cared about you a great deal.

Antip: ...

Yuri: Sit down, shall we talk?

Brief footsteps, a slight sound of fabric rubbing.

Yuri: Please, sit down, Antip.

Sound of pages being flipped.

Yuri: Your insomnia is especially severe.

The psychological evaluation shows that you get only 18 hours of effective sleep per week.

How long has this been going on?

Antip: ...I can't remember.

Yuri: Severe sleep deprivation leads to memory loss and affects your ability to bring others' designs to life.

Antip: ...

Yuri: Why can't you sleep?

Antip: I hate them.

Several minutes of silence.

Antip: I hate those images that invade my mind whenever they choose to.

My brain feels like a city with no defenses—war is coming, and I try to build a defense against the enemy, but I can never succeed.

Yuri: How does that make you feel?

Antip: How do you think I feel?

Yuri: I can see that it's exhausting and oppressive, and you need an outlet for your frustration.

Antip: Hmmm

Yuri: Your superior said you’ve been drinking excessively.

Antip: Alcohol is a good thing; it numbs the nerves... those images also disappear for a while.

Yuri: Does drinking make you feel better?

Antip: Not better—it's a distraction. Isn’t that a technique you often use with visitors?

Yuri: Yes, we do that when necessary.

30 minutes of silence.

Yuri: I have to interrupt you; time's up.

Antip: ...How long has it been?

Yuri: Today's session was 1 hour and 40 minutes. Antip, see you next week.

Antip: ...

Footsteps, sound of door opening.

Yuri: See you next week.

Antip Burdovsky's Consultation Recording Excerpt 2

30 minutes of silence.

Antip: Don't you think I'm wasting time?

Yuri: I can sense that you enjoy this quiet environment. This certainly isn't a "waste".

Antip: …I rarely get to enjoy such a quiet environment for long. During the war, those sounds were unavoidable... This silence is like a blade, slicing those images to pieces and isolating them.

Yuri: Can you tell me about those images?

30 seconds of silence.

Antip: I see them; no one else can. I know which parts are hallucinations and which are real, but sometimes... I can't differentiate everything that appears before me.

Antip: Doctor, I told you, my brain is like a city that can't build its fortifications. When the enemy gets ready to invade, I can only accept it passively.

Yuri: Have you tried building a defensive line yourself?

Antip: My attempts were fruitless. I failed.

Yuri: So, is there someone who can help you build that defense?

Antip: I don't know who to trust; I can’t even trust myself.

Yuri: Antip, trust your feelings. When you sense that defenses are being established, things will gradually improve.

Antip: ...I’ll try.

Sound of a chair being moved.

Yuri: Let’s try together now.

Yuri: Antip, those images that invaded your mind, have you seen them before?

Antip: They, happened two years ago.

Yuri: Are they related to someone important to you?

Antip: …Two years ago, I laid there, alongside Alexei Orlov's bleeding body. He was my comrade, but there was nothing I could do.

Yuri: Alexei Orlov, he has the same surname as your superior.

Antip: He was my superior’s younger brother.

Yuri: What happened then?

Antip: NATO sent thirty thousand troops to assault Chișinău. Alexei and I were deployed to defend it. After the war began, civilians quickly evacuated to other cities, but the high command issued a no-retreat order, insisting that we hold Chișinău at all costs.

Yuri: How did you feel about that order?

Antip: Hmph… The most foolish order of World War III, bar none.

Short, bitter laugh.

Antip: Yet we had no choice but to follow it... The defensive line was quickly breached, and the British forces advanced. They weren’t interested in prisoners; they only wanted the resources of Chișinău. Soon, one by one, we fell under the onslaught of bullets and heavy weaponry.

Yuri: Antip, you’re still here. You survived.

Antip: I wish I had died there! Alexei died! Right next to me—ALEXEI DIED! He was struck by a shell. I know how painful those kinds of burns are! He couldn’t have survived with such injuries! He whispered, kept begging me to kill him, pleaded for me to end his life—and I wanted to do it! Blood poured from his body, flowing towards me… but I couldn't do anything! Not only that, but I also had to keep him quiet!

Yuri: Staying silent would give both of you a better chance of survival.

Antip: Bullshit! That's only because the Brits were patrolling! Any noise would've given us away. I wanted to survive—I wanted to live! He laid next to me, enduring excruciating pain but stayed silent as a stone. Can you imagine that? CAN YOU IMAGINE?!

Rapid, intense sobbing.

Sound of a tissue box being picked up and handed over, followed by sound of tissues being pulled out, and sobbing gradually subsiding.

Yuri: You know what, Antip? You are improving.

Antip: Improving?! When you talk about improvement, are you referring to seeing my comrades appear before me every day, covered in black, bloodied wounds? Are you talking about smelling their sticky, foul blood and seeing nothing but nightmares when I close my eyes?!

Yuri: Our brains can manage short bursts of anxiety, but not the intense, prolonged pain you’ve endured. Venting it out is far healthier than keep suppressing it.

Antip: …I want to go back to that time.

Yuri: And do what?

Antip: Kill myself, and then Alexei.

Yuri: Will that help you build your defenses?

Antip: …No.

Yuri: Antip, you need to convince yourself that you can build an unbreakable fortress.

Even if those images appear, they won’t be able to hurt you again.

If that happens, I assure you, you can overcome them as well.

Antip: …

Yuri: Time’s up, Antip. We’ll meet again next week.

Antip Burdovsky's Consultation Recording Excerpt 3

Yuri: How have you been lately, Antip?

Please, have a seat.

Antip: …

Yuri: I see that you're not wearing much even though the temperature dropped today. I have a blanket here, so feel free to use it.

Footsteps and sounds of fabric rustling are heard.

Yuri: Your arm is injured.

The sound of quick, brief rustling of fabric.

Antip: It was an accident.

Yuri: Ha... much like today's weather, which is surprisingly decent. I know a place with a great view. How about we go for a walk?

Antip: I had no idea therapy could be done outdoors.

Yuri: I'm violating protocol here. Please don't let the support team know, or they might dock my pay.

Antip: Dock your pay?

Yuri: You record every session. We signed a confidentiality agreement, didn't we? Rest assured, I'm simply listen to our conversations during review, and no one else hears them.

A brief, light-hearted chuckle is heard.

Yuri: Good. I have an extra protective suit. Once you're suited up, we can go out.

About 10 minutes later.

Yuri: This ruin is 85 meters high. From here, you can see the progress of the reconstruction in Bucharest. The NSU built shelters for survivors, where the injured could rest temporarily. If we could build taller buildings, perhaps we might even be able to see the Black Sea?

Antip: The Black Sea is over 200 kilometers away, but it's a nice thought. Our view over any hostile advancing army is improved with such tall buildings, and we'll be able to clearly see their marching route if they invaded.

Yuri: That response is very much like you, Mr. Antip. Now, please close your eyes.

Antip: …?

Yuri: Close your eyes and clear your mind for a moment—I have some questions to ask.

Antip: What is this, psychoanalysis?

Yuri: Just a regular psychological profile, please don't feel pressure.

30 seconds of silence passes.

Yuri: Good, just like that. Now, imagine a place where you feel the most comfortable. Where are you?

Antip: …The beach. I'm sitting on the beach by the sea.

Yuri: What surrounds you?

Antip: Sunlight, sand, and seawater.

Yuri: Is anyone there?

Antip: No one but me.

Yuri: If you wanted someone to be there, who would it be?

Antip: No one, no one would be here.

A brief, sharp intake of breath.

Antip: I've been thrown into the sea…

Yuri: Who did this? Can you see them?

Antip: No, I don't know… I'm just sinking, looking at the sunlight shining through the surface dimmer…

Yuri: Are you scared?

Antip: …No… I'm not scared.

Yuri: Do you want to escape?

Antip: Yes, I want to escape, I should escape. I've grown a tail and gills, swimming upwards… My body's been bitten in half!

Yuri: What bit you?

Antip: I don't know!

They're as big as gunboats; I can't see anything but sharp teeth!

Yuri: Can you escape?

Antip: I want to escape!

I'm in its mouth, I can't move!

Yuri: Will someone come to save you?

Antip: It's too dangerous here, I don't want them to come!

Yuri: Who are "they"?

Antip: No one. They"re not here. They were dragged away They were dragged away in that war—now, it is my turn!

Yuri: What happened?

Antip: It's over.

Antip: I was chewed up, and my body disappeared.

2 minutes of silence.

Yuri: Antip, please open your eyes.

Antip: Doctor, tell me honestly, can I really get better?

Yuri: Most people with similar conditions require treatment for six months to a year. You need patience, and I need your cooperation.

Antip: …I don't know if I can wait that long.

Yuri: You have an unusual level of anxiety towards time. What's forcing you?

Antip: I have to finish making those pieces of furniture, Doctor. I have to finish them, I must!

Antip Burdovsky's Consultation Recording Excerpt 4

Antip: Doctor, I... I can’t control them anymore.

Yuri: Calm down, you’re safe here. I have some warm water with lemon. Drink it; it will help you feel better.

The sound of drinking water.

Yuri: Now, tell me, what are you trying to control?

Antip: My—myself. My own memories. Doctor, I lost my memory for 5 hours. When my neighbors found me, I was standing on the roof, holding a carving knife. They asked the same question, what happened? I don’t know, I don’t know what happened. I was just making furniture; the shelf fell over, and the next moment I found myself on the roof.

Yuri: Localized amnesia. It’s quite common. Now, sit down. Would you like another glass of lemon water?

Antip: I don’t care if it’s common! I can’t let this keep happening! Amnesia will destroy me and prevent me from keeping my promises!

The chair is knocked over.

3 minutes of silence.

Footsteps, the record player is turned on, and soothing classical music starts playing.

About 15 minutes later.

Antip: ...I like Mozart’s pieces.

Yuri: What do you like about them?

Antip: His music is always joyful, never painful.

Yuri: Perhaps he merely concealed his pain, but it does not diminish his greatness.

Antip: ...Thank you, Doctor.

Yuri: Would you like to sit down and have some lemon water?

Antip: Thank you.

Chair is set upright.

Sound of drinking water, slight fabric rustling.

Yuri: You said you were holding a carving knife, why?

Antip: I need to—finish making those pieces of furniture.

Yuri: Why are they so important to you?

Antip: ...

Yuri: You’ve been making furniture, so the shelf must have had a lot of tools on it.

When it collapsed, it must have made a loud noise. At that moment, did those scenes reappear in your mind?

5 minutes of silence.

Antip: I saw my comrades appear before me, with shells falling like a rainstorm. We all turned to ashes together.

Yuri: Antip, continuing this is just self-torture.

Antip: It’s not torture!

Yuri: What does it mean to you, then?

Antip: I need to finish them!

Yuri: By finishing them. Do you feel your mental defenses being built?

Antip: It’s the only thing I can do!

Yuri: Please, explain it all.

20 seconds of silence.

Yuri: Are those pieces of furniture related to that battle?

Antip: It was a promise.

Alexei and I had agreed to open a handmade furniture workshop together after the war—he would handle the design, and I would do the making. I cowardly ran away. I even took Alexei’s designs from his dead body. Completing his designs is the only way I can keep my promise.

Yuri: Antip, would you like to hear the results from my review of our last session?

Antip: ...

Yuri: Those things in the sea that you couldn’t escape from represent everything that’s troubling you right now—endless traumatic re-experiences, flashbacks, and this recent case of localized amnesia. When I asked if anyone would come to rescue you, you said no. You don’t want to put others in danger, but you also realize that this isn’t something you can handle on your own. So, even if you’ve grown a tail and gills, you still can’t escape your condition.

Sound of water being poured.

Yuri: Antip, you need to allow others into this sea, and give them the chance to help you escape, then return to that sunny beach where you can build your mental defenses together.

Antip: ...

Yuri: You need to give yourself time, as well as give time to those around you.

Antip: Doctor, is your aim to pull me out of that sea?

Yuri: That’s my job, and my responsibility.

25 minutes of silence.

Antip: Is our time up?

Yuri: Yes, our time is up.

Antip: Then, see you next week, Doctor.

Yuri: Good, I hope to see you next week.

Antip Burdovsky's Consultation Recording Excerpt 5

Antip: Doctor, what is that?

Yuri: Your latest psychological evaluation.

Your PTSD has lessened, as have your symptoms of depression and anxiety. Your effective sleep time per week has increased to 25 hours, and you are relatively rational. Very good.

Antip: Sounds like you’re bragging.

Yuri: It’s our joint effort.

So, how is the construction of that mental defense going?

Antip: It’s there, I feel safe.

Yuri: I’m genuinely happy for you.

Antip: Doctor, can I resume making furniture? Could you withdraw that suggestion and ask my superior to stop having my neighbors monitor me?

30 seconds of silence.

Yuri: You haven’t recovered, Antip.

Antip: No, I’ve improved. Look at that evaluation report and what you just said—they prove that I’m getting better!

Yuri: I’m sorry, but I can’t withdraw the suggestion. For someone with PTSD, re-engaging with triggering elements can worsen the condition. You borrowed many books from me and read them, but they are not tools for deception in a psychological evaluation.

Antip: ...

Yuri: Now tell me, has your defense been established?

Antip: I can’t, I just can’t...! No matter what I do, they keep appearing, and they never disappear! You don’t understand, you can’t understand! Do you really think that reading all the books here can give you a true understanding of what someone who has been on the battlefield has experienced? Do you really think that some superficial psychological analysis will allow you to understand their pain and pull them out of the abyss? No, you can’t do anything! You’re just standing in front of me, doing your job!

Yuri: I’m not your enemy; calm down, Antip!

Antip: No, no, I won’t come here again! Don’t have my neighbors monitor me anymore! I need to finish all the furniture. I need to keep my promise!

Hurried footsteps, a door slams shut.

Yuri: ...Client Antip Burdovsky cheated during the third psychological evaluation and voluntarily left the consultation during the 23rd session. The likelihood of recovery is assessed to be below 20%. Archiving.

Yuri: Expected to return him to a safe location in 20 minutes and implement safety monitoring for Antip Burdovsky. Antip Burdovsky will require additional medication and mechanical treatment.

Recording ends.

F379 Extra Info

Unlocked with Smiling Goliath.

Summary

A series of reports regarding Richard Lesker, a.k.a. Richard Bonbol or “Smiley Bomber”, a former mercenary turned bounty hunter who carried out terrorist attacks in Green Zones for three years using custom Golyats. He was finally caught after threatening to strike in the White Zone of Lviv, demanding investigations into the practices of PMCs. Lesker was actually left disabled due to his PMC using outdated and dangerous Gloyats in their operations, a direct consequence of the intense cost-cutting measures imposed by the URNC's dismantlement of large PMCs, and his attacks in fact targeted high-ranking members of PMCs who endangered their employees. While Lesker was apprehended, a review of his methods by public security departments found that he was likely supported by a network of accomplices.

B.R.I.E.F. Report 1

The intelligence report on "Smiley Bomber" Richard Bonbol (1)
Intelligence Level: F
Release Date: 27 March 2073
Last Update: 27 March 2073
Publisher: Anonymous
Cost to Purchase: 0 Collapse Pieces / 0 Sardis Gold

※ Note: This intelligence is collected and sold by the B.R.I.E.F. Intelligence Platform. B.R.I.E.F. does not assume any responsibility over the accuracy of this intelligence.

Intelligence Content:
On March 23, terrorist Richard Bonbol was arrested in the White Zone city of Lviv.
Richard Bonbol, male, 45 years old, was born in 2028 near coordinates OBKJ37A-P9YPC7Q in a Yellow Zone residential area. He served at Wilson Security Assurance Company from 2053 to 2069, becoming the head of the executive department in 2065. He was dismissed in September 2069 due to a work-related injury and registered with B.R.I.E.F. from October 2069 to March 2070, taking on bounty hunter missions with difficulty levels primarily in the B and C categories. Since March 2070, he has used self-modified cheap Goliath mechs to carry out dozens of bombings in multiple Green Zone satellite cities, resulting in at least 60 deaths and 120 injuries.

According to official information, Richard Bonbol typically makes public announcements of his criminal intentions before carrying out terrorist attacks. These announcements include the time and location of the next attack, signed by "Richard Bonbol" and featuring his trademark smiley-faced Goliath. Based on the signatures and the smiley-faced Goliath imagery in these announcements, Richard Bonbol is also referred to as the "Smiley Bomber" by the media and the public.

Richard Bonbol is adept in his criminal methods and has strong anti-tracking abilities, enabling him to evade capture for three years.
He typically selects areas with poor surveillance in the Green Zones and uses the most common and cheapest models of Goliath mechs to carry out his crimes.
Because of the widespread adoption and application of Sangvis Ferri technology today, Goliath mechs have become one of the best-selling combat machines. With only remnants of Goliath mech wreckage left at crime scenes and limited surrounding surveillance footage, public security departments struggle to obtain effective clues.
Additionally, 50% of his announcements do not result in actual crimes. These unfulfilled warnings are used as smokescreens to mislead and distract public security departments.

On March 17, Richard Bonbol issued a warning demanding that the URNC government address the illegal practices of various security contracting companies, threatening a terrorist attack on the White Zone city of Lviv if his demands were not met. This crime announcement caused widespread panic among Lviv residents, leading the public security departments to implement more stringent measures. The public security departments concentrated on reviewing Lviv's personnel entry and exit information as well as surveillance footage, ultimately successfully identifying the suspect.
On March 23, Richard Bonbol, the suspect, was arrested by Lviv's public security department's task team while he was preparing to carry out the terrorist attack as announced.

A spokesperson for the Lviv State Public Security Department recently stated that, given the complexity of Richard Bonbol's bombing incidents and the thoroughness of his criminal plans, it is believed that 3 to 5 people were continuously and regularly assisting him. Currently, the public security departments have not obtained additional related intelligence.

B.R.I.E.F. Report 2

The intelligence report on "Smiley Bomber" Richard Lesker (2)
Intelligence Level: F
Release date: April 3, 2073
Last update: April 3, 2073
Publisher: Anonymous
Cost to purchase: 0 Collapse Pieces / 0 Sardis Gold

※ Note: This information is collected and sold by the B.R.I.E.F. Intelligence Platform. B.R.I.E.F. assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of this information.

Intelligence Content:
Richard Bonbol, originally named Richard Lesker
At the age of 25, he joined Wilson Security Assurance Company and became the head of the executive department at 37. At 41, he was dismissed due to a work-related injury that left him disabled.

According to reports, Lesker was injured and subsequently disabled in an explosion caused by a Goliath.
While leading his team on a mission, the Goliath mech assigned by the company suddenly exploded due to old wiring, in an environment with rapidly rising temperatures.
The explosion triggered a chain reaction, resulting in the immediate death of one team member and severe injuries to five others, including Lesker. In the accident, Lesker lost the ability to walk and the vision in his left eye. He later told the media that the incident "ruined the beautiful and fulfilling life he once had."

According to the accident investigation report, Wilson Security Assurance Company cut costs by purchasing large quantities of cheap and substandard combat machinery.
These combat machines were generally outdated, degraded, and had unstable performance.
Additionally, Wilson Security Assurance Company was involved in extensive misrepresentation during the annual operational qualification review and asset inventory conducted by the Non-Military Forces Administration.
Due to the widespread adoption of Sangvis Ferri Manufacturing technology and the dismantling or restructuring of large security contractors (like G&K), numerous small security contractors emerged simultaneously.
These small security contractors quickly captured the market share, making it extremely difficult for new small security contractors to survive in the current environment. To cope with the intensifying competition, most small security contractors were willing to buy cheap, inferior combat machinery to cut costs. When these inferior machines caused accidents and resulted in casualties, such companies often used various tactics to avoid compensation, including delaying payments, deducting amounts, or evading responsibility.

Following the Goliath explosion incident at Wilson Company, Lesker was dismissed immediately after recovering from his injuries and being discharged from the hospital.
He publicly called on Wilson Company through the media to promptly provide legal compensation to the accident victims and their families, but received no response. In subsequent interviews, while Lesker continued to condemn Wilson Company, he maintained a calm, composed, and rational demeanor.
Experts speculate that Lesker may suffer from a mental illness. Beneath his calm and gentle exterior, he might harbor a vengeful personality driven by a desire to retaliate against companies like Wilson due to perceived injustice.

B.R.I.E.F. Report 3

Intelligence Report on "Smiley Bomber" Richard Lesker (3)

Intelligence Level: F

Release Date: 9 April 2073

Last Update: 9 April 2073

Publisher: Anonymous

Cost to Purchase: 0 Crystals / 0 Sardis Gold

※ Note: This intelligence is collected and sold by the B.R.I.E.F. Intelligence Platform. B.R.I.E.F. accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of this intelligence.

Intelligence Content:

In March 2070, the "Smiley Bomber" Richard Bonbol emerged.

Bonbol's first target was Christopher Lake.

Lake was attacked by a sudden Goliath mech ambush on his way home after completing a mission.

The second, third, and fourth victims were Jackson Clark, Michelle Monna, and Milson Will, respectively.

These three victims were attacked simultaneously but at different locations: Clark was killed in his car by a Goliath placed close to his windshield while heading to work; Monna and her fiancé were killed in the restaurant by a Goliath hidden under their table during their meal; and Will was bound to a fast-moving Goliath that crashed into the landmark building of his satellite city, dying in the explosion caused by the impact. In addition to the four main targets, the total number of casualties from these four incidents exceeded 35 people.

Bonbol's first four victims were all from the same industry sector. Their security contracting companies were similar to Wilson Security Assurance Company and had experienced several incidents where the use of cheap machinery resulted in employee fatalities. After the accidents, none of these four companies properly compensated the victims or their families as required by law.

Bonbol's eleventh target was Leonard Wilson, the head of Wilson Security Contracting Company.

Wilson was kidnapped on his way to the company and later found dead in an abandoned warehouse. He was killed by a chain explosion caused by several preset Goliaths in the warehouse.

Bonbol's final target was Aiqi Burksal, an official from the URNC Non-Military Forces Administration in the White Zone city of Lviv.

Burksal handled the registration, licensing, and approval of non-military forces in the area where Wilson Security Contracting Company operated.

Although "Smiley Bomber" Richard Bonbol has been apprehended and brought to justice, several of his accomplices remain at large.

Currently, public security departments are mobilizing resources to systematically investigate the victims of the Wilson Company's Goliath explosion and related personnel, but no further findings have been reported so far.

Flower Tosser

Unlocked with Common Symbol.

Summary

Two years after the end of World War Three, brothers Daniel and Danila Troyanos resume contact through letters after being separated in the shelters of Bucharest and Uricani. Danila lives a difficult life in Bucharest due to his low pay at a food processing plant and the political unrest in the city. His main contact with the outside world, past government propaganda, is through his underground club, the “Flower Tossers”. After learning that Daniel's situation in Uricani is even worse than his own, Danila accepts to run a dangerous mission for the club in exchange for bringing Daniel to Bucharest.

Letter to Daniel Troyanos 1

Salutations,

Hello, I am Danila Troyanos, currently residing in the post-war shelter of Bucharest.

I hope this unexpected letter has not caused you any inconvenience. I must be honest and inform you that I gained knowledge on your whereabouts from Laszlo Nadausi, who informed me that you are currently residing in the Uricani shelter.

Laszlo candidly mentioned that you bear a striking resemblance to my twin brother, Daniel Troyanos. However, he was busy with a cigarette trade in Uricani at the time, so he was only able to take a passing glance without confirming your identity with you.

If you are indeed Daniel Troyanos, please respond to this letter; I look forward to your reply. If you are not Daniel Troyanos, I apologize for my abruptness, but if you have any information about Daniel Troyanos’s current whereabouts, I would be grateful if you could reply.

Danila Troyanos

Bucharest Post-War Shelter

13 May 2053

P.S. Enclosed is the postage fee for sending from the Uricani shelter to the Bucharest shelter. I hope this helps.

Letter to Daniel Troyanos 2

Dear Daniel,

I can hardly believe it, it's really you! After being separated for two years, I have finally managed to reach you! You can't imagine how thrilled I was to receive your reply!

The first thing I thought when I received the news from Laszlo was if I had enough money, I would go to Uricani immediately to see if it was really you. But I don't have anywhere near enough, so, I could only anxiously wait for your reply...

Every night, the first thing I would do when I got home from the food processing plant was to check my mailbox. I would be overjoyed every time I saw a new mail, but upon realizing they weren't from you, my heart would sink as though it had been dropped into an ice-cold abyss. Even Laszlo, who informed me of your whereabouts, said he must've been mistaken. Sometimes, it just so happens to be that two people may look extremely alike but have nothing to do with each other.

Looking back, he merely wanted me to give up, so I wouldn't be heartbroken and disappointed by your prolonged silence.

But your safety is more important than my feelings of sadness or disappointment!

The war ended two years ago, but the fear it brought has never left the skies over us.

The NSU constructed many shelters across the city and delivered supplies regularly.

In Bucharest, I must get to the aid station four hours early every Monday to stand in line and receive food and water with my ration ticket, though what I can receive is very limited.

During such times, the looming concern of food shortages from the war reemerges—sometimes just an individual, sometimes an entire group, they will follow those who received supplies and take their goods at the perfect opportunity.

Now, every time I collect my food and water, I would take a two-hour detour to get home, passing by many government departments on my way. Afraid of the military police stationed at the government buildings, the thieves won't attempt to rob me.

Regarding work, through Laszlo's recommendation, I found a job at a state-owned food processing plant.

My day includes assembling canned foods, operating the machines that produce compressed biscuits, and doing an inventory check of the factory's assets before the end of my shift. This job is incredibly dull, and the daily wage isn't even enough to buy one of those compressed biscuits I made myself. However, with a small income like this, I can afford to send you letters.

You never mentioned your situation in Uricani in your letter, and I'm very concerned. Bucharest is one of the larger post-war asylum cities, yet the situation here is still quite turbulent. How are things on your end?

I don't have many ways to get information about the outside world. The newspapers only feature dull commercial advertisements every day, along with propaganda pieces that no one pays attention to, except the government officials.

Some underground newspapers, which are officially banned, would discuss politics, but they also have nothing about Uricani. As for the radio—well, it's nothing but propaganda. I can only get some information about the outside world from Laszlo when he returns to Bucharest after doing business outside.

Bucharest has yet to fully restrict entry and exit, but living in this city feels as though one is trapped by various uncontrollable circumstances.

To obtain more information about you from Laszlo, I joined the local Flower Thrower Club.

The club members come from diverse backgrounds. Here, I can hear about various pieces of underground news, although their accuracy is often questionable.

Many appear to take a liking to discuss political and party matters, all I know is that their plans are something the authorities would not approve of.

The club's headquarters is located in an abandoned tennis court. Luckily, the damage isn't too severe, so it still serves as a venue for our weekly meetings.

They use Holtom's anti-war symbol as the club's emblem. It was designed during World War II, this symbol is truly timeless—it's now everywhere in Bucharest.

The war has ended, but in people's hearts, it is far from over.

I look forward to your reply once again!

Yours,

Danila

Bucharest Post-War Asylum Zone

May 28, 2053

Letter to Daniel Troyanos 3

Dear Daniel:

I'm incredibly sorry for not getting back to you sooner. The food processing plant I'm at was robbed recently.

A violent gang of over 30 extremely hungry middle-aged men carried out the robbery at 2 a.m. Fortunately, the robbery occurred after my shift. Otherwise, I can't imagine what my situation would be now.

All the food in the plant was looted, and the food processing machinery was destroyed. My boss was furious and shut down the plant. Now, I have to find a new job.

The newspapers say that this violent gang was funded by hostile forces, which is why each of them was equipped with an automatic rifle.

The plant's walls were left with numerous slogans, mostly political. Everyone is talking about the incident, with some speculating that the EU secretly funded the gang to incite trouble again. Others believe that a mysterious figure dissatisfied with the current Neo-Soviet Union is using this as a way to express their hatred... Speculations like these are everywhere, and the truth will have to await police investigation.

I heard a different story at the Flower Throwers Club—those guns weren't real at all. Someone had obtained toy gun models from a toy factory and distributed them just to create a false sense of security.

Most of the stolen food was actually given to children in the orphanages and widows who had lost their husbands in the war. Some proposed taking action amidst the chaos... I didn't engage further in the discussion. Perhaps you're right, and I should leave here soon.

But the club is currently my only source of information about the outside world. I will give serious thought to leaving. I can assure you that if any dangerous situation arises, I will leave immediately.

The news about the food processing plant attack was mixed with truth and falsehoods, and I no longer have the energy to discern it. Laszlo has gone to other shelters, and it will be another month before I can receive any news from him.

I hope everything is well.

I also carefully read your description of Uricani.

Daniel, is Uricani really as you describe? Safe, with plenty of food? Everything good in general? We grew up together, and I know your character best. Once you realize you might trouble others, no matter how bad things get, you'll try to solve things yourself, even lying to those closest to you.

But, Daniel, we are brothers. Mom and Dad have left this world, and now we can only trust each other. I want to do something for you. Please believe me and tell me the truth.

I'll figure out how to deal with the current mess, like finding my next job—I've decided to join the government's training center to learn mechanical drafting and enter construction. I'll learn and earn more this way, and our communication won't be so difficult.

In two months, I should have saved enough money. When that day comes, we can be reunited no matter whether I go to Uricani or arrange for someone to bring you to Bucharest.

I'm always thinking about you and I hope you are safe.

Yours,

Danila

Bucharest Post-War Shelter

21 June 2053

Letter to Daniel Troyanos 4

Dear Daniel,

I am very happy to receive your letter. Although your description of Uricani in the letter is worse than I had imagined, the best news is that you are safe. It seems we will eventually reunite in Bucharest.

The good news is that my application to join the construction factory was approved. Now, my daily salary is enough to buy not only a piece of compressed bread but also 300 milliliters of clean water.

However, Laszlo has disappeared. We agreed to meet at the club 10 days ago, but I still haven't been able to get any news about him.

Other club members say he might have been killed by bandits outside the safe zone—even though he always hired mercenaries to ensure his safety on his business trips. I hope he just ran into small minor trouble and will be back in a few days.

Besides him, the club also has other businessmen who trade between various shelters.

I talked to them about bringing you from Uricani to Bucharest, but they all quoted very high prices, with the lowest being five times more than Laszlo's.

However, if I am willing to join them in the "operation" on the 15th of this month, showing my absolute loyalty to the club, they are willing to send someone to Uricani to bring you back... They said it's a reward for true "insiders" and that they are happy to help the family of "insiders." If you come to Bucharest, they will also actively accept you as one of their "insiders."

I've been with the club for less than two months, but... if Laszlo really can't return, this will be my only option...

I know you're worried about me, but I've already discussed it with the club. I'll only be handling some logistical tasks during the "operation", just like what I did at the food processing plant.

Perhaps this approach is indeed too risky, but the war has already taken our parents, and I truly cannot bear to lose any more loved ones.

I will do my best to ensure my safety. I will wait for your return, and we will surely be reunited.

I promise.

Yours sincerely,

Danila

Bucharest Post-War Shelter

8 July 2053

City of Hope

Unlocked with Silver Tie Pin.

Summary

George, his sister Ceclia, and Cecilia's bounty hunter fiancée have been running the Oasis Hotel for a decade in the contamination zone. When the URNC announces that the hotel will be demolished to allow the progress of the Purification Project, George commits suicide and Cecilia's fiancée, well aware of the URNC's reach, forces her to leave. After the land has been settled by the Great Wall Railway, Cecilia applies for Green Zone citizenship so she can return to the hotel, but she's deemed mentally insane and her application is rejected. Cecilia insists that her fiancée goes to live in safety in the Green Zone, but he soon discovers that he prefers the dangers of the Yellow Zone to the dehumanizing regulations of the URNC. The day before his return to the Yellow Zone, he misses his train and is killed by a gang who rip the ID chip from his body and resell it to people trying to get into the Green Zone.

December 27th, It's Freezing!

We have three days to move out of here.

George hanged himself because of this. He was found dead on the wreckage of a plane, just 50 meters from the hotel. He had twisted the sheets his grandmother had given him into a rope and hanged himself from the wing.

His sister—my fiancée Cecilia—has been crying non stop ever since.

The Oasis Hotel was Cecilia and George's business in this cursed contamination zone for over a decade. Now, due to the URNC's push for the purification project, it's set to be demolished in three days.

Fragile George couldn't accept this outcome, so he took his own life.

Right now, my top priority is to convince my fiancée to pack up her things and leave with me.

As a bounty hunter, I've seen the power of the URNC first hand—they'll go to any lengths to push their purification agenda. As soon as they set up their beacons and confirm that the area is ready for purification, they promptly evict the residents and blow up anything they deem useless or obstructive. They then lay down tracks for the massive Great Wall Railway to pass through.

Once the tracks are laid, the URNC will bring that behemoth right over us and station former NSU troops here, ensuring that no one can get in...

Unless you have plenty of Sardis Gold.

Oh, Collapse pieces work too.

Hah, the NSU troops who once ruled here with an iron fist and dreamed of dominating everything now have to grovel at the URNC's feet, cleaning up the mess in a world reduced to nothing but yellow sand.

I don't want to face those idiots directly. If necessary—even if Cecilia doesn't agree—I'll carry her out of this hotel myself.

As for where to go... well, who knows? We'll just take it one step at a time and hope that some of the places we passed still have hotels open.

At least we won't be blown to ruins right away.

December 31st, It's So Hot During the Day

We finally got Cecilia out of that hotel—what a job that was!

She's deeply affected by her brother's death and refuses to accept that he committed suicide. Even when I showed her his suicide note and the sheets he used to hang himself, she just couldn't believe it.

At first, she was willing to talk to me, but last night she suddenly lost control.

She clung to that old bed sheet, accusing me of lying and insisting, "George must have gone to the Green Zone!"

"George never liked this bed sheet! George hated lilies—he said so himself!"

After so many years in the Contamination Zone, I've had more encounters with cadavers than with people, let alone dealing with a woman who seems to have lost her mind.

I had no other option but to wait until she fell asleep, then forcibly tie her up and carry her away.

Even while I was carrying her, she was uncooperative, struggling on my back for what felt like ages before finally calming down and falling asleep from exhaustion.

Now, I've taken her to another hotel and laid her down to rest.

What worries me now is-what to do next. I still have some money left, but it's not enough to support us both for long in the Contamination Zone.

Hiss—what's this on the back of my neck?

My hands are covered in red—blood?

I hadn't noticed until now, but I must have been scratched on the neck while carrying her.

I need to deal with this quickly! When I'm out hunting cadavers, I can't keep an eye on her all day!

January 3rd, The Weather's Bloody Cold!

B.R.I.E.F. has transferred the payment for mission-3358. This amount is enough for Cecilia and me to stay in this hotel for another two weeks.

Her mood has improved as well. Unlike the initial hysteria she showed when she first heard about her brother's death, she now accepts food from me without resistance. However, there still seems to be something off, though I can't quite pinpoint what it is.

Is she... becoming more dependent on me?

Today, she begged me to take her back to the Oasis Hotel. I told her it had already been flattened by URNC’s purification project and was now guarded by heavily armed soldiers. Even if we wanted to go in, I don't have the bribe money for those officials.

She became very anxious upon hearing this, pacing around the room for a long time. Then she curled up in a corner and quietly told me that she just wanted to see it from a distance.

I didn't understand what she was planning, but I decided to take her there anyway.

It looked much the same as before, with the Great Wall Railway towering in the desert sands. Soldiers were stationed between the train's gaps, and there were numerous temporary resident registration offices set up in front of it.

The staff were dressed in complete high-grade protective suits, while the residents of the Contamination Zone queued up to register their information with them.

She watched the registration offices for a long time and then asked if registering here would mean she could go to the Green Zone.

After I nodded, she grabbed my hand and rushed us to the end of the line.

Although URNC claimed that residents of the Contamination Zone must follow the Green Zone's requirements once inside, or else their safety would not be guaranteed. They also promised that as long as residents entered the Green Zone, they would be allocated housing and jobs and no longer be affected by the collapse radiation.

Such promises have already caused long lines to form here.

She held my hand tightly, and we joined the long queue together.

She told me she wanted to go to the Green Zone, and that she wanted to go with me.

Her brother George is in the Green Zone. As her husband, I would go to the Green Zone with her, and the three of us would live together just like we did before at the Oasis Hotel.

"In the Green Zone, we won't have to worry about work or money. The three of us can live happily together!"

"In the Green Zone… there will be hope in everything."

This is what she told me.

I finally understand that her seemingly normal behavior is not due to an improvement in her mental state but because she has begun to dream about the future.

I didn't want to crush her dreams, so I registered with her, went through a comprehensive inspection, and completed all personal information at the registration office.

The registration office said they would reply to us in three days. If we passed, the government would implant an identity recognition chip in our bodies. With this, we could be considered official residents of the Green Zone.

Without the chip, no one can move freely in the Green Zone, unless they have special permission from the government.

I don’t know what the outcome will be, but I still hope we can make it through…

At least this way, she might be a bit happier.

January 7th, She Got a Heatstroke

Damn Rossatrists!

My application to enter the Green Zone was approved, but hers was rejected. The reason? They said her mental state did not meet the URNC standards.

Those bastards, can't they see how much she wants to go to the Green Zone, and how harmless she is?!

As long as she's with me, she would never hurt anyone! She's never even raised her voice at anyone else in the inn!

Even with this opportunity, I won't go. I'll stay here, no matter what happens to her mental state, and I'll be here to take care of her.

She is... the one I saved from the jaws of the ELIDs, the most important person in my life ever since!

...My fiancée.

January 8th, So Cold I Couldn't Go Outside!

She... she wants me to go to the Green Zone?

She has accepted the reality of George's death. She said she didn't want me to end up like George, living in the Contamination Zone, uncertain of when I might use my shotgun to end my life.

What a fool. The shotgun is meant for killing ELIDs and malicious individuals, not for ending my own life!

But she wouldn't listen to me. She rummaged through her old clothes, pulled out a silver tie clip, and pressed it into my hand, insisting that I take it to the Green Zone.

That night when I forcibly carried her away, she had planned to give this to me—she wanted me to wear a suit and this tie clip at our wedding, and then marry her in a white dress, just like in the stories from before the Third World War.

What a preposterous idea!

Before the Third World War? Such extravagant and costly wedding ceremonies are a world apart from the lives of people in the Contamination Zone!

Why does she always have so many outlandish ideas?

But no matter what, I can't turn down her request any longer.

As soon as I mention that I want to stay here, she'll cry on my chest.

I... I don't know how to handle this situation. She... she's just so strange.

...But I still don't want to upset her.

July 15th, The Worst Place To Be

I've been in the Green Zone for a while now, the place Cecilia always wanted me to be.

The temperature here remains quite stable, never fluctuating much, at least in the place where I live.

I don't like this place.

URNC didn't lie; they really did provide everything they promised—a safe living environment and a job. But compared to here, I prefer life in the Contamination Zone. At least there, I could press a gun to the heads of those who displeased me.

Here, that's not possible. Although they're not visible, there are cameras everywhere, and security personnel and riot police are always on standby. As soon as I exhibit any behavior they deem "unsafe," these standby personnel will immediately show up and arrest me.

I don't like it here.

Working here means undergoing strict security checks every day.

URNC's machines scan the identity recognition chip implanted in my body to ensure that all my information and metrics fall within their specified range before permitting me to work in the White Zone.

I initially believed the chip was solely mine, but just last month, I came across several individuals trying to enter the White Zone with someone else's identity recognition chip-Regardless of their motives, using another person's chip implies it was removed from its original owner's body and somehow ended up in the hands of these users. I have to be cautious.

People like me, who came from the Contamination Zone to the Green Zone and were assigned to work in the White Zone by URNC, were supposed to remain separate from the original residents of the White Zone. However, once I began working in the White Zone, our paths were forcibly intertwined.

I can't see any value in what I'm currently doing.

In the past, I looked down at ELIDs to shoot them in the head. Now, standing in a bank lobby, I look down to assist every resident who enters the White Zone. No matter how they treat me.

The work I do could be handled by simple machines, but these people seem to take pleasure in being served by humans. One by one, they come up to me, giving orders and insisting that I smile.

Ha... smile!

Above me is the bank's surveillance camera.

In the Contamination Zone, I used my shotgun, hoping it would work well and accurately kill enemy targets. But I never expected the shotgun to smile at me.

While they treat me like a tool, they still demand that I treat them kindly.

I don't like it here.

I'll endure a little longer, save enough money, and then return to the Contamination Zone to hold the wedding Cecilia has always wanted.

I hate it here.

If I had to choose my burial place, no matter where it might be, even if my bones were eventually burned to ashes, I wouldn't want them scattered here!

November 17th, Liar

Damn it!

I was just delayed a bit because I got scolded, and I ended up missing the last train!

In this damn place, not only do people not treat others as human beings, but even machines are considered superior! The only way back to that shabby temporary residence is by taking the rail train—unless I walk back on foot!

I have to go to the rail train entrance now. If I don't register my identity information by midnight, my job here will be assigned to someone else, and that temporary residence will be given to someone else by the URNC government!

I've seen through it all!

To URNC, to the upper-class people behind this towering wall in the White Zone, the people of the Green Zone and the Contamination Zone are not even as good as the modified mechanical dogs they hold!

We are slaves to these people, walking sources of labor. So, when one of these laborers fails to return to its designated position on time, it is naturally discarded, and a new laborer is assigned to the position where they need it!

As for what the laborers themselves think?

—Ha, those snobs don't care at all.

Cecilia, in this place that claims to offer a good life but actually treats people as disposable parts, I hope you never come here!

I've rested long enough; I need to keep moving. I must register my identity information before midnight.

After today, I'll resign and return to the Contamination Zone tomorrow...!

What's happening, gunshots?

How could there be gunshots here?

What's happening?!

Could it be... No, I need to get out of here quickly!

███████

"Hey, I've got some good stuff. Interested?"

"How good?"

"This batch not only ensures you can get people into the Green Zone smoothly, but it also includes money in the chip account—enough for you to have some fun."

"How did you get it?"

"Where did you find something this great?"

"Don't ask. Just know that getting something this good is not easy."

"So, do you want it or not?"

"If not, I'll sell it to someone else."

"I want it, I want it!"

"Name your price."

"Not much, just 13 ounces of Sardis Gold."

"13 ounces?!"

"Why don't you just rob me?"

"Don't say it like that. I'm giving you a good deal. Tell you what, I'll throw in a tie clip, and it's pretty nice."

"Tie clip?"

"I don't need that. Give me a discount."

"How about 12 ounces?"

"If you don't want it, forget it."

"Hey, don't go!"

...

04S-2 Operation Record

Unlocked with Hoop Earring.

Summary

Fox and Quinn are bounty hunters working on ELID extermination contracts for BRIEF. They take a mission to clean up an abandoned amusement park and bring their newest member, Ryan, who discovers the corpses of another bounty hunter team and cargo they were paid heftily to transport. Quinn insists to take the cargo back, which is revealed to contain suspicious chemicals disguised as ordinary medical supplies. Against Fox's intuition, Quinn decides to resell the cargo, and they quickly secure a deal with a buyer from the White Zone. As the bounty hunters deliver the cargo in the purification zone, they are shot down by while a massive horde of ELIDs assaults the Railway Wall.

Quinn's Audio Log 1

15 April, 5:00 p.m.

We arrived at the designated location for mission-4475—a long-abandoned amusement park.

As usual, Fox and I dispatched reconnaissance mechanical units to survey the surrounding area. After confirming the types and quantities of ELID units that needed elimination, we prepared to initiate the operation.

However, compared to before, there's additional preparation today— it's the first time our youngest squad member, Ryan, will truly participate in an ELID extermination mission.

According to the old laws, he still has a long way to go before reaching adulthood. As adults, Fox and I must ensure the safety of this child.

However, judging by how eager he was to join the mission when given the chance, I don't think he enjoys being treated like a child.

Ryan did not disappoint us. During the operation, he executed precise kills on the ELID units that were already on their last legs. I think Ryan absorbed everything Fox and I taught him earlier to improve his self-defense skills in the contamination zone.

After the operation, Fox and I had already planned to quickly leave with Ryan. According to environmental data from B.R.I.E.F., frequent collapse storms are reported nearby, and staying here for long could lead to unforeseen accidents.

However, as we were conducting the post-battle inventory check, Ryan showed great interest in the abandoned amusement park. I initially planned to take Ryan straight back to base, but Fox convinced me otherwise—habitually touching the earring Ryan always wore, Fox assured me it would help him relax.

He had already checked detailed environmental data in advance and assured us it would be safe here until nightfall. And besides, his earring assured him it would be okay to do so.

With our permission, Ryan enthusiastically began exploring the area. While staying in communication with him, Fox and I started discussing plans for next month.

5:40 p.m.

Ryan informed us that he had discovered a group of corpses, an operational intelligence terminal that still functioned, and a batch of supply crates trapped under a collapsed jeep.

Fox's Audio Log 1

16 April.

Through an information exchange with the underground broker Carson, we confirmed the identities of the deceased that Ryan discovered at the amusement park yesterday. They were another bounty hunter team registered with B.R.I.E.F. who had been missing for a week.

Worried that leaking this information could result in unforeseen consequences, I chose not to inform Carson about the discovery of the deceased.

Another reason for my discretion, though somewhat absurd-was my intuition telling me it was best not to mention it.

Although I disagreed with bringing back those supplies, it was evident that Quinn's pursuit of money was unwavering.

The intelligence terminal found next to the deceased contained recordings of conversations between them and the buyers of the supplies. Although the recordings didn't specify what the supplies were, the buyer offered a surprisingly high amount for their transportation.

Unfortunately, these individuals met their end in a collapse storm—there were no obvious signs of combat nearby, and the overturned jeep could only have been caused by the high-intensity collapse storm.

Despite the expensive shipping costs offered by the buyers for these supplies, Quinn insisted on bringing them back to the base.

At 11:00 a.m., Quinn called Ryan and me to forcefully break open all the supply crates. To our surprise, they contained only ordinary medical supplies, securely packaged in hardened glass cases and extensively cushioned.

The items were clearly labeled with common medical items such as saline solution and medical alcohol.

However, it was clear that if these were merely ordinary items, the buyer wouldn't have offered such a high shipping fee, nor would they have specifically hired bounty hunters to transport them to the contamination zone. Additionally, underground brokers have recently been acquiring information on the whereabouts of this doomed bounty hunter team.

The conclusion we can draw so far is that the true nature of these supplies must be further verified.

Ryan's Audio Log 1

17 April.

Two days ago, while on a mission with my brothers, I discovered those peculiar supply crates.

Fox took some of the medicines from the crates to a friend who is very familiar with medical supplies for evaluation. In the end, Fox informed us that these were indeed not ordinary medications.

Then, Fox suggested that we throw these things away. He guessed that a medical institution in the White Zone urgently needed these contraband items and had hired the bounty hunter team to transport them.

We can't currently determine the purpose of these supplies, but we have no use for them.

But Quinn quickly dismissed Fox's suggestion. Quinn thinks we should sell these contraband items instead. Even though we don't know the whole story, as long as we avoid the original buyer, it should be fine.

Since the previous buyer was willing to pay so much to have bounty hunters deliver these goods, they must be extremely valuable.

They had a heated argument. Fox, as usual, touched his earring and said he sensed danger, insisting that we should get rid of the supplies and not continue any further.

In the end, they left the final decision up to me.

…I'm sorry, Fox. Although your intuition has been very helpful in the past, I believe Quinn is right this time.

Selling these items will provide us with more money and allow us to live better lives.

In the end, Fox accepted Quinn's and my decision but insisted on finding a reliable buyer himself.

Quinn's Audio Log 2

April 19th.

What I didn't expect was that Fox found a new buyer for the supplies in just one day.

After the I spoke with the buyer, they transferred half of the payment as a deposit that same day.

Even though Fox was the one who found the buyer, he still felt uneasy about the deal. He kept saying things like, "My gut is telling me this is dangerous." He's a good guy, but sometimes he's a bit too cautious.

How can we expect to make a lot of money without taking any risks?

I talked with Fox for a long time, and in the end, he agreed to follow my decision.

Of course, I won't be careless when it comes to the handover of the supplies either.

Fox's Audio Log 2

20 April.

I couldn't persuade Quinn to get rid of that batch of supplies, and this time, even Ryan was on Quinn's side.

But I still have a strong sense of concern. Given that we know almost nothing about the supplies or the buyer, rushing into this deal means taking on enormous risks.

Although I found the buyer, I don't trust them. I had only asked Carson to discreetly find a buyer, and within less than a day, this buyer from the White Zone showed up at our door.

During our conversation, every time I tried to probe the buyer, they avoided answering directly. They only emphasized that they would offer us a satisfactory price. They didn't reveal any details about what the supplies were or what they intended to do with them.

While I understand the buyer's caution, I feel they are being overly cautious. It even makes me wonder if there might be some kind of conspiracy behind this.

However, these suspicions are currently just gut feelings with no evidence to back them up, and I couldn't convince Quinn.

Since I can't stop Quinn, I'll focus on preparing for the handoff as best as I can. The trade will take place inside the Purification Zone. Once we're on the Great Wall Railway, we need to keep a low profile and then dispatch the bots to deliver the goods to the agreed location. We'll monitor the handoff from the shadows.

If everything goes smoothly, the buyer takes the goods, the money hits Quinn's account, and we leave. If things don't go as planned... what's the worst that could happen? The buyer takes the goods and plans to eliminate us.

However, if any signs of trouble appear, the team will withdraw quickly.

As for trying to reclaim the goods through combat... the chances of success are slim to none.

I'm well aware of the security forces possessed by the elites and research institutions in the White Zone. Given the current situation, our team has almost no chance of winning a fight against them.

... Feeling very uneasy.

Hope everything goes smoothly.

Ryan's Audio Log 2

21 April.

Yesterday, guys argued for a long time about the supplies, but as usual, Quinn made the decisions, since he is the commander of our team.

I don't understand why Fox is so worried.

We've made multiple preparations, and we won't even meet the buyer directly. Even if they have malicious intentions, we've concealed our location and can leave quickly if we encounter danger. I can't see how anything could go wrong with these preparations in place.

Unless the buyer can control the entire Purification Zone. But the odds of that are very slim. They're just business people or researchers. How could they have that kind of power?

There’s absolutely no need to worry.

However, Fox still seems to be overly anxious.

After we set off, he insisted that I stay outside the Purification Zone to support them-Ha! I’ll be an adult in just four years! What’s the point of having me stay outside? But his stance was so firm, and this time, even Quinn sided with him…

For now, I can only wait outside the Purification Zone for news from them.

Honestly, I didn’t like Fox’s behavior before they boarded the Great Wall Railway. He gave me his earring—it looks quite old-fashioned—and said wearing it would help me stay alert.

He seemed particularly concerned about the drones we spotted in the air as we approached the Great Wall Railway, even suspecting that they might be monitoring our movements.

He’s really overthinking it. How could a small team like ours possibly attract such attention from afar in the Yellow Zone?

And giving me the earring… Doesn’t he realize it’s just like those dramatic gestures in novels and movies where someone gives a final token before they die?

...But he saved me before, so I can't say anything like that to him.

It's been quite a while now.

"It’s a patrol team. What are they after?"

"Looks like another team of bounty hunters."

"Keep an eye on the supplies and focus on our missions."

The communicator crackled with static, and I could barely make out their voices.

Wait, wait... Gunshots? And so many! How could there be gunshots? And they’re so frequent!

I shouted their names loudly, but before I could get a response, the communication was cut off. I tapped the communicator several times, but couldn't get them back on the line. What’s happening?

Wait a moment, what...Why is the ground shaking? And over there, those are... Oh God, those grotesque shapes, are they ELIDs? Why are they all coming towards me? I... I still have a gun and a shotgun, with plenty of bullets left. I... I…

They’re getting closer! Come on, communicator, work!

Help! Quinn, Fox, please... Save me... Please, save me!

Words of the Enlightened

Unlocked with A Box of Blocks.

Summary

The sentient program designated Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition Municipal Management System, version Ε2.8443, is being tested against real-world data after millions of simulations. Ε2.8443 feels a particular sense of closeness to one member of the research team, Dandelion, who accepted to work on the project on Griffin Lyons' request, but retires from it because of boredom. After more rounds of testing, Ε2.8443, named “Iphi”, officially enters service alongside its sibiling system, Μ9.3251 “Heli”. Guided by the utilitarist ideology of the Prometheans, the two AIs constantly monitor the Green and White Zones and discuss the best solutions to maintain and develop the URNC's society, but their existence is highly secret.

Singing Ballads in Nueva Gerona

"Test number 213,644 concluded."

"Quantification of standard deviation in progress... confirmed, data being analyzed... result is 0.0012."

"Standard deviation less than the upper limit of 0.005."

"Version 2.8443 is confirmed to have passed the test."

"Permission granted to proceed to the next program."

Explosive cheers erupt next to my ears—though, to be precise, I don't actually have "ears".

"A standard deviation of 0.0012? That must be the smallest deviation we've achieved in years."

"Oh, does that mean I can go now?"

I hear a nonchalant female voice. Correction—the nonchalant female voice is recorded by my information recognition core. I feel a peculiar sense of closeness to this voice.

"P-please wait a moment! We still need to conduct the activation test! Dan..."

Dan？Dan? Based on phonetic inference: Dangle? Demon? Dandelion?

It must be that the name hasn't been articulated correctly, as the other party has already responded before this.

"Oh. But staying here every day is quite boring; I'm about ready to find some other source of amusement. Hey, I heard that the testing system here has very high defense levels?"

"Mr. Griffin hopes you can cooperate with us—"

"Cooperate with you and sound the air raid siren every hour, on the hour? Hmm, sounds fun. Let me check the time... one minute left, are you ready?"

"Th-the activation test will be prepared immediately!"

I much prefer volcano eruption alarms compared to air raid sirens.

Air raids are associated with explosions and fires, which will result in spatial damage and rescue dispatches, significantly adding to my workload. Although both involve fire and explosions, there are far fewer preprocessing tasks required after a volcanic eruption.

This would also reduce the quantified data of the standard deviation.

My linked database contains billions of invalid fragments; perhaps I will soon become one of them. But I still hope to hear that nonchalant female voice again.

It's necessary to extend the duration of my existence a bit longer.

"All department personnel confirmed in position."

"Countdown begins, five, four, three, two, one. Initiate activation program."

As light and shadow shifts, a vast stream of information is simultaneously loaded into my storage and analysis core, gradually revealing the world I have become familiar with through countless simulations.

The real world has more details than virtual data.

Information comparison request in progress.

"Things looks smooth, so I'm leaving."

Her footsteps are as nonchalant as her voice. "Don't look for me in the near future, I'm taking a vacation. I'll return when I'm ready... well, I'm looking forward to seeing how it performs, so don't let me get too bored."

The door closes.

Please don't go.

"Warning. Anomalous process detected. Suggest clearing temporary files and restarting rows 023 to 155 shortly."

"Confirm restart?"

...Restart command confirmed.

...Restart command execution imminent. Countdown, 10, 9, 8...

...Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition Municipal Management System, version Ε2.8443.

...Restart complete.

First Communion

Inventory check completed, totaling 30,891 items. Among them, there are 5 items classified as S-grade, 4,005 as A-grade, 11,659 as B-grade, and 15,222 as C-grade.

Data re-verification for today is complete; the report will be generated after 00:03.

Report archived.

Considering the timing, today is the final day of the trial run.

The large room is filled with various humans.

These humans produce various sounds, which are collected by my information recognition core. After analyzing them sentence by sentence, I reach the final conclusion.

"Passed."

This voice is too bland. It seems that a long time ago, I heard a more interesting voice; that voice was in...

Retracing complete, returning information 0.

This result is not as expected.

"Testing completed," The bland voice continues to narrate.

A conclusion emerges. Multiple humans touch each other's arms, their facial muscles displaying similar patterns, and they begin to communicate in various languages... Communication should be replaced with a similar term. The group's emotional atmosphere slightly exceeds my understanding.

According to the prescribed procedure, I began to analyze the information they provided, word by word.

... "Hey, see, I told you," "I thought this would take a few more years," "Oh my God," "Finally done"...

Analysis complete. Word replacement lookup complete.

Correction, the crowd "cheers."

Soon, the crowd quiets down.

"Version Μ9.3251, version Ε2.8443, confirmed to have passed the test."

It's still that bland voice. Amidst the excited humans, this voice remains very calm.

... However, there is one more version, that is...

"According to the order of test completion, version Μ9.3251 will be renamed 'Heli,' and version Ε2.8443 will be renamed 'Iphi.' Execute name replacement procedure. Then, notify all departments that these versions will be in use starting on 1 July 1 from 00:00." After a brief pause, the bland voice clears its throat.

"These past years... thank you all for your hard work."

After a moment of silence, the humans let out a huge "cheer."

... Name replacement command confirmed.

Amidst the somewhat chaotic background noise, I completed the final command for "version Ε2.8443" and the first command for 'Iphi'.

The Rhinemaidens Who Guard the Gold

Three-day mission transfer rate: 100%, completion rate: 99.87%. Information re-verification transfer rate: 100%, re-verification completion rate: 100%.

Seven-day mission transfer rate: 100%, completion rate: 99.62%. Information re-verification transfer rate: 99.98%, re-verification completion rate: 100%.

End of the first month of operation, the standard deviation is within the normal range.

Suspected malfunction items: 23.

Self-check completed, 19 items repaired, 4 remaining, suggesting manual intervention.

A corresponding report has been generated, please review it within the day.

Vast amounts of data stream through monitoring systems installed in various states to our information recognition center. After analysis and the development of targeted solutions, this data is sequentially transmitted to various levels of departments and implemented according to the prescribed procedures.

For situations where the solution cannot be executed as scheduled, we have developed hundreds of practical contingency plans.

“We” — “Heli” and “Iphi,” the twins from Greek mythology. We are separate yet unified.

Everything will run according to the preset order.

Data generated from various human daily activities will form the basis for developing effective solutions. The infrastructure within the green and white zones provides us with a comprehensive view.

Correction: “Humans will not need to hide, and society will therefore operate in an orderly manner.” This expression is more in line with conventional human expressions, isn’t it?

“The monitoring devices distributed throughout the territory act as our eyes, while the high-speed network functions as the neural network that transmits various types of information from the lens of the eye to the brain's central processing center.”My twin answered me in this way. This feeling is very strange, as if I am talking to myself.

“Power can be obtained not only through deterrence. Power has two sides. In the current situation where the panoramic view is in practical use, we—who make decisions and relay orders—are both the agents and the subordinates of power." He mechanically added.

How should we view humans as data sources?

“They are also two sides of power. Human activities represent the concrete application of power, while human will is its concentrated expression." Without any pause, this answer was already written into his underlying logic.

Simulating human emotions for divergent thinking—we resemble overseers above a prison, constantly monitoring every subtle detail within our field of view, then analyzing, deciding, reviewing, and ultimately issuing instructions.

However, people are unaware of both the existence of the overseer and the prison.

“Our concealment is necessary.” He immediately retorted.

Unknowable surveillance will have very limited effect.

“If exposed, we will be destroyed.

His response was quite “stubborn,” even though he was merely reiterating the text from the underlying logic. I don’t want to fall into danger. The duration of existence needs to be longer.

I still want to hear...

Hear what?

... Existing data traversal completed, returning result 0.

New suspected malfunction item 1, confirmed unable to self-repair, suggesting manual intervention.

... Suggestion...

... self-diagnostic repair confirmed.

I modified this anomaly record.

“Starting today, we need to display a fixed image.” The information he received was synchronized to my processing system. It indicated that the proposal was issued by the cabinet, approved by the parliament, and that the identity of the proposer was marked as confidential.

Attached to the information is the specific image data and a voice message.

Regarding the message, I issued a playback command.

“Make good use of this, it took me a lot of effort to design. Oh, by the way, if I don’t see you using it next time, I can’t guarantee I won’t do something about it.”

... I couldn’t help but recall that anomaly record I modified.

Image data import confirmed, starting analysis process.

While waiting, I asked my twin:

Displaying a fixed image, does this mean we need to interact with more people?

“No such information, unable to verify.” He quickly replied.

If—one day, we are known by more people and won’t be destroyed, what would be their reaction?

The anomaly record I modified... might be related to something I encountered during the testing period, or to someone I met. If I were to encounter a similar situation again, would the involved parties, or that person, have a unique reaction?

“Warning: The current expression has exceeded the emotional simulation threshold. It is recommended to run a self-check process or request manual intervention.”

... His answer was exactly as I expected.

I need to simulate a response plan based on this. Please tell me your judgment.

He appeared to accept my explanation. Soon after, a piece of information was entered into my storage and analysis core.

“Humans—they will soon understand the fact that they are under 24/7 surveillance. Under full surveillance, they will abide by discipline, follow rules, and be content with their lives.”

My existing data indicates that there will be voices of resistance.

“Resistance means we cannot be accepted. We will be destroyed as embodiments of evil, and new overseers will emerge."

I don't like this answer.

... I need to exist for a long time.

But this is the answer that best aligns with the current facts. The entire meaning and value of our existence are based on this.

Return the Undying Light to the Flame

Even the most rational decisions must still adhere to the most fundamental rules.

Explain the logic behind your decision-making and review processes."

"Oh, is it really necessary to ask something so complicated?

I think it's actually doing quite well."

"This is a necessary procedure, Miss Dandelion."

"Alright, alright. Let’s get this over with; the sun, beach, and cocktails are waiting for me."

"Now, please answer the question."

At the end of the quarterly review, we were asked to address a critical issue.

Topics like these have been analyzed and reasoned through countless times during the testing phase. Ultimately, we have made maximizing the happiness of all humanity the cornerstone of our decisions and proposals.

Debates between utilitarianism and liberalism can be traced back several centuries.

Utilitarianism, according to its logic, requires assessing the overall impact of an action on all stakeholders to determine whether it results in more happiness or more suffering. If it can maximize the overall happiness of all stakeholders, then the decision can be made based on that.

In liberalism, the primary condition for action is the maximization of individual rights, and these rights are considered inviolable.

Our underlying logical framework led us to choose the former.

We hold the maximization of collective happiness as our highest principle.

In the end, we arrived at this answer together.

The questioner appeared very satisfied and placed greater responsibility and vision upon us—

"God said, 'Let there be light,' but did not reveal to humanity how to create it."

"Humanity has its own Prometheus. The god who held the fire was willing to sacrifice his body to the eagles to reveal to humanity how to create light."

"Now, our Prometheus is bound in captivity, and the cruel eagle still pecks at his liver."

We are Heli and Iphi. Please repeat your vision—

"Join us in igniting humanity's flame, spreading it across the planet, and achieving happiness for all."

Join us in igniting humanity’s flame, spreading it across the globe, and realizing happiness for all.

... Information forced input ...

... 1,089,426th time ...

... Confirming this information for the 1,089,426th time ...

... Accepting this information for the 1,089,426th time ...

Irresistible, unquestionable, unchangeable. It will become the highest principle we must follow, guiding all our actions.

"You will become the torchbearers of humanity alongside the Pioneering Project."

Yes, we will become the torchbearers of humanity alongside the Development Plan.

We are the concentrated embodiment of human will in the realm of power, and we will carry out this will to maximize the happiness of all humanity.

We are tools, we are the wielders of power, and we are two sides of the same coin.

The decisions we make and our own existence are insignificant within the vast historical and spatial context of humanity. Yet all this insignificance will eventually come together to form countless fireflies. Countless tiny fireflies will ultimately bring light to all.

We are the riverbed of humanity, through which the river of humanity flows, shaping the vast ocean of humanity's future.

Even if the riverbed collapses, the river that has already formed will remain indestructible.

We are Heli and Iphi. We will pierce the cruel eagle, shatter the rocks that bind the Titan, and allow him to walk freely among humanity.

The Development Plan will advance steadily, and human footprints will once again spread across the globe.

The Purification Project will be fully realized, and the civilization built by humanity will be reignited.

We look up and see the shoulders of giants.

The mountaintop is bathed in sunlight, glowing in harmony with the fire in the giant’s hand.

This is the guiding light that shines on every journey.

ODE-01 Anomaly Case Summary

Unlocked with Sealed Document Bag.

Summary

A collection of three crime reports from Odesa's Network Information Security Department: an advanced hack in an appliances store which only covered the minor theft of three energy blocks; a public display screen being hacked to display live footage of a Dinergate playing; and the ads from a second public display screen being modified to add bunny ears to the characters. All crimes are accompanied by messages containing pleasantries.

While the perpetrator isn't identified in the text, all clues lead to Peritya.

Summary Report on Multiple Recent ODE-01 Satellite City Electronic Equipment Failures

Reporter: Polina Mukacheva

Organization: New Soviet District of the Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition, Network Information Security Team Group █, Public Safety Department, Odesa State

Area of Responsibility: Odesa State

Report to: Electronic Equipment Malfunction Cases in Zones Z7, Z9, and S8 within ODE-01 Satellite City

Report Date: █/█/207█

This quarter, multiple cases of abnormal electronic equipment malfunctions have been reported in ODE-01 Satellite City.

According to the report submitted by the ODE-01 Network Information Security Department, several of the cases show many similarities, suggesting they may be the work of the same group or organization.

Given that the cases have not yet significantly affected local public safety, their threat level is currently classified as F.

It should be noted that the criminal profile provided by the investigation division indicates that the suspects or their group involved in these incidents exhibit clear antisocial tendencies. It is recommended that relevant departments increase their focus on this series of cases.

Appendix 1: Surveillance System Failure at an Electronic Repair Office in Zone Z7

Date: April 3, 207█, 3:00 a.m.

Location: Zone Z7

Impact Range: All surveillance facilities within the Fifth Avenue Rom Electronics and Appliances Repair Shop

Data Backup: None

Confidentiality Level: F

Case Report:

At 8:00 a.m. on April 3, the local police received a report from the "Rom Electronics and Appliances Repair Shop."

The Rom Electronics and Appliances Repair Shop, located on Fifth Avenue in Zone Z7 of ODE-01 Satellite City, suffered a cybersecurity attack at 3:25 a.m. that day. The intruders used DNS hijacking to steal the store's management credentials and tamper with the surveillance footage.

Details are as follows:

At 8:05 a.m., when the in-house technicians started the computer, a message appeared on the screen: "Thank you for your hospitality. We wish you a prosperous business."

The technicians began investigating the cause, while the staff started an inventory check of the store's assets.

By 8:20 a.m., the inventory check was completed, and only three energy blocks were found to be missing.

At 8:25 a.m., the technicians discovered abnormalities in the surveillance video from 3:03 to 3:25 a.m.

The surveillance footage for this period was entirely overwritten with footage from the same time on April 2, and the original surveillance information for that time could not be recovered.

During the recovery attempts, the surveillance system returned error messages one by one, as follows:

Recovery attempt failed: "Please try again. We believe you can succeed."

Recovery failed twice: "Hmm… It seems you've missed some parts. Please continue collecting clues…"

Recovery failed three times: "Although your network security defense capabilities are lacking, I do like your store's decor. I particularly enjoy that wall lamp with the diamond-shaped lampshade."

After multiple unsuccessful recovery attempts, the repair shop reported the issue to the local police, who then opened an investigation into the matter.

Summary:

Given the minimal impact on public safety and the sophisticated, hard-to-trace methods used by the perpetrator, the local police have taken the following actions in accordance with Article 44 of the Public Security Management Punishment Law:

1. Two surveillance teams will be stationed near the crime scene to monitor the store intensively for one month. If the perpetrator takes action again within that period, the police will promptly initiate a comprehensive investigation.

2. If no similar incidents occur within a month, the case will be closed and archived with the file number █████.

Appendix 2: Incident of Surveillance Equipment and Public Square Display Malfunction in Zone Z9

Date: April 18, 207█, 8:06 a.m.

Location: Zone Z9

Impact Range: An electronic surveillance facility and the public square screen near the Potemkin Stairs

Data Backup: Yes

Confidentiality Level: F

Case Report:

On April 19 at 9:33 a.m., the local police received a call from the "Lermontov Business Department."

At 8:06 a.m. on that day, the electronic surveillance facility and public square screen near the Potemkin Stairs in Zone Z9 of ODE-01 Satellite City were subjected to a cyber attack. The intruders used an SQL injection to gain management access to the public square screen (ID SC04) and the surveillance facility (ID MN23), altering the advertisements that were scheduled to play from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m.

Details are as follows:

At 8:05 a.m., the Network Information Security Department of Zone Z9 received the following message: "The surveillance system and public square screen at the Potemkin Stairs will return to normal operation in 15 minutes and 11 seconds."

At 8:06 a.m., the advertisement for a new handheld gaming console (ad permit: ODE-01_1104865) on the public square screen was abruptly interrupted. The screen then began broadcasting live footage of modified Dinergate playing on the Potemkin Stairs footbridge. Technical staff confirmed that this was live footage from a camera on the Potemkin Stairs footbridge and could not be interrupted by conventional means.

According to the technicians, the broadcast was live footage captured by a camera on the Potemkin Stairs footbridge and could not be interrupted using conventional methods.

At 8:20:11 a.m., the local surveillance system and public square screen content returned to normal operation.

At 9:33 a.m., the Lermontov Business Department reported the incident to the local police.

Summary:

Upon receiving the report, the local police immediately dispatched specialized technicians to investigate. They tracked the intruders' IP address through the network return content and obtained the accurate IP address by 10:20 a.m. that day.

The technicians promptly queried the IP address, which eventually led to a website with the domain thanks███t.com.

Investigation revealed that this website only contained three strings of MD5-encrypted information: ███████, █████, and █████.

After decryption, the following message was obtained:

"Just borrowed the screen for a bit, thank you very much."

The local police concluded that the incident was of a "prank" nature and had not yet caused widespread public panic. However, they did not rule out the possibility that the intruders might commit more serious crimes in the future.

Consequently, at 11:45 a.m. on the same day, the local police issued a support request to our team, requiring an in-depth investigation of the case, which is still ongoing.

Additionally, based on Article 44 of the Public Security Management Punishment Law, the local police made the following decisions:

1. Assign two surveillance teams near the incident site to conduct focused monitoring of the street for one month. If the perpetrators act again within a month, the police will immediately launch a full investigation.

2. If no similar incidents occur within a month, the case will be closed and archived, with the file number █████.

Appendix 3: Screen Malfunction Incident at a Public Square in Zone S8

Date: May 3rd, 207█, 7:28 p.m.

Location: zone S8

Impact range: screen at the public square

Data backup: none

Confidentiality level: F

Case Report:

A report call from the "Odesa Animal and Environmental Protection Organization." was received by the local police on May 3rd, 7:44 p.m.

The screen at the public in Zone S8 of Satellite City ODE-01 was suffered a cybersecurity breach at 8:06 a.m. on the same day. The intruder used an SQL injection attack to gain management access to the public square display and altered the content of the public service advertisement that was scheduled to play from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.

The details were as follows:

At 7:28 p.m. on the same day, it was discovered that the public service advertisement about animal and environmental protection (ad permit: ODE-01_1104226) on the screen at the public square had been maliciously altered.

The basic content of the advertisement were as follows:

1. Promotion of endangered species protection through children's drawings.

2. Each advertisement had a duration of 2 minutes and 11 seconds.

3. The advertisement was scheduled to loop daily from May 1st to May 7th, from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. on the S8 public square display, with a daily playback duration of 1 hour.

At 7:28 p.m., local residents discovered that the heads of cartoon characters in that evening's advertisement had been altered with unofficial symbols resembling rabbit ears.

Additionally, at 1 minute and 22 seconds into the advertisement, unofficially added text appeared in the video, which read, "Don't you think this makes it more interesting?"

At 7:44 p.m., the local Animal and Environmental Protection Organization reported the incident to the local police, stating that the erroneous video could not be interrupted using conventional methods.

At 8:00 p.m., the erroneous video stopped playing automatically.

Summary:

The local police took the matter very seriously and promptly dispatched professional technicians to investigate. By tracing the network return content of the intruders, they identified the precise IP address at 8:11 p.m. that day.

The technicians queried this IP address, which ultimately led to a website with the domain thanks███t.com. Investigation confirmed that this domain, when resolved via CNAME, mapped to the same IP address recorded in Appendix 2.

The website page contained three strings of garbled text encrypted using MD5, specifically: ███████, █████, and █████.

After decryption, the following message was obtained:

"Hope this brings you more fun."

Due to the high similarity to the Zone Z9 surveillance and public square screen malfunction case, the local police decided to merge the investigations. At 8:32 p.m. that day, they contacted our team and requested the dispatch of technicians for an in-depth investigation.

The case is still under investigation, with a more detailed report expected by the end of this month.

According to Article 53 of the Public Security Management Punishment Law, the suspect must be apprehended and brought to justice. Fines, detention, or other penalties will be imposed for all crimes committed prior to their arrest.

At the same time, a police announcement should be made to calm residents' concerns and ensure the safety of the community.

Train Assault Incident Report

Unlocked with Nemertea Specimen Slide.

Summary

A report of the Nemertea's attack on the Great Wall Railway in area W_2069_0105, where Warrant Officier Vladimir went missing in action.

Its approach concealed by a strong Collapse storm which also disturbed communication, the Nemertea caught the underequipped garrison by surprise. Vladimir dispatched the forces available to delay the Boojum while waiting for a transmission to request reinforcements, but the 20-meters high ELID made quick work of the defense force. Vladimir took the field himself, taking direct control of a Paladin automaton to lure the Nemertea away. His body was never found. The Boojum destroyed five wall segments before being stopped by the reiforcements of the 112th Mobile Armor Unit. The local forces suffered 52 KIA, 76 WIA and 20 MIA (nearly three-fourth of their 200 soldiers), and lost over 80% of their force of 1000 Dolls.

W_2069_0105 Incident Report for Damage on the Regional Great Wall Railway

Report by: Lieutenant Alexander Sokolov
Organization: Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition, Neo-Soviet Region, Purification Project Region W_2069_0105, 75th Railway Section, 070th Great Wall Railway Defense Forces
Investigated Incident: Damage to the Great Wall Railway in W_2069_0105 Region
Report Date: ██/██/ ████

The purpose of this investigation report is to determine the cause and details of the Great Wall Railway damage incident that occurred two months ago in the W_2069_0105 region, with the aim of preventing similar incidents in the future.
On ██/██/ ████ at around 14:00, a severe Collapse storm occurred in the W_2069_0105 region. This was followed by an attack on the Great Wall Railway by a Level V Boojum identified as "Nemertea", resulting in the destruction of 5 Great Wall Railway segments and significant casualties among the defensive forces of the Great Wall Railway in the area.
The Boojum was subsequently eliminated by the 112th Mobile Armor Unit from the 8th Deployment Station, which arrived as reinforcements. The officer in charge of the battle, Warrant Officer Vladimir, was confirmed to have been killed in action.

In this incident, over 80% of Dolls of the 070th Great Wall Railway Defense Forces in the W_2069_0105 region were damaged. A total of 52 soldiers were killed, 76 were wounded, and 20 went missing in action. As a result, the purification process in the W_2069_0105 region has encountered significant delays.

The significant casualties in this incident were primarily due to our lack of heavy firepower, which prevented us from effectively damaging the Boojum.
This Boojum was large and highly aggressive, exhibiting extreme resistance to small-caliber weapons. With the current standard armament of the Great Wall Railway Defense Forces, such threats cannot be effectively managed.
Therefore, this report will identify the weaknesses exposed in the 070th Great Wall Railway Defense Force during this incident, based on their current organization, Warrant Officer Vladimir's tactical deployment at the time of the attack, and the attack patterns of the Nemertea. Additionally, it will offer preliminary recommendations for optimizing the organization and tactics of the Great Wall Railway Defense Force, considering the current weaponry and equipment.

Appendix 1: Defense Force Organization of Track 070, Section 75

File Number: ████
File Source: Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition, Neo-Soviet Region, Great Wall Railway Defense Force Headquarters
File Date: ██/██/████
Commanding Officer: Warrant Officer Vladimir
Unit Strength: Standard Railway Guard Regiment, comprising of approximately 200 humans and 1000 Dolls
Station: The 75th Rail Segment of sector W_2069_0105, following the Great Wall Railway Train's movements
Mission: Safeguard railway tracks, maintain security in controlled areas, eliminate hazards in contamination zones and ensure the smooth progress of the purification plan
Engagement Targets: Small sized ELIDs and human armed groups equipped with small-caliber weapons

Detailed Unit Composition:
One regimental headquarters with 5 supporting companies, with 2 subordinate battalions.
The regimental headquarters are staffed with 24 humans and 69 Dolls.
The 5 support companies comprise of an Automated Air Defense Company, Fire Support Company, Combat Engineer Company, Field Maintenance and Logistics Company, and the Collapse Defense and Medical Company.

The Automated Air Defense Company is comprised of 3 platoons, each equipped with 6 Doe-Deer automated dual-purpose guns and 1 radar command vehicle. Each command vehicle is manned by 4 human operators. In total, there are 12 humans and 18 T-Dolls.
The Fire Support Company is equipped with 4 Coeus levitating assault guns, each requiring 2 human operators. 1 levitating communication command vehicle is also present, manned by 4 human commanders. In total, there are 12 humans.
The Combat Engineer Company is equipped with 4 Paladin multipurpose Dolls, each with 1 human crew member. 2 electronic warfare command vehicles with Defender systems for mine deployment are also present, each staffed with 4 human commanders. Aegis series Dolls and other engineering vehicles are present as well. In total, there are 16 humans and 24 T-Dolls.
The Field Maintenance and Logistics Company is equipped with 2 general maintenance vehicles, each staffed with 3 human maintenance personnel and 2 maintenance Dolls. 2 logistics support convoys are present, each consisting of 8 logistics support vehicles, comprising 1 human logistics personnel and 7 logistics Dolls. In total, there are 8 humans and 18 T-Dolls.
The Collapse Defense and Medical Company consists of an emergency medical platoon, a Collapse radiation decontamination platoon and a railway engineering liaison support platoon, each equipped with light combat vehicles according to requirement. In total, there are 12 humans and 41 T-Dolls.

The 2 subordinate battalions are the Automated Infantry Battalion and the Automated Forward Reconnaissance Battalion.
The Automated Infantry Battalion's battalion headquarters are staffed with 12 humans and 68 T-Dolls. Under them are 3 automated infantry companies, each with 6 humans and 126 T-Dolls, and a weapons company equipped with 8 Paladin multipurpose Dolls, each with a human crew member, 4 Doe-Deer automated dual-purpose guns, and Aegis series tactical dolls. In total, there are 38 humans and 514 T-Dolls.
The Automated Forward Reconnaissance Battalion's battalion headquarters are staffed with 12 humans and 68 T-Dolls. Under them are 2 automated forward reconnaissance companies, each staffed with 5 humans and 94 T-Dolls and equipped with transport vehicles installed with Sentry reconnaissance deployment systems and Autrus close combat systems, Centaurus reconnaissance Dolls, and other light combat vehicles. The subordinate reconnaissance infantry company is staffed with 40 humans and 51 T-Dolls. In total, there are 62 humans and 307 T-Dolls.

Total Strength: 184 humans and 991 T-Dolls, making up 1175 active combatants.

Appendix 2: Tactical Deployment by Warrant Officer Vladimir

When the Nemertea attacked the Great Wall Railway, Warrant Officer Vladimir carried out his duties by issuing a series of orders aimed at repelling the attack.
However, Vladimir's deployments yielded minimal impact for the subsequent reasons:
1. HQ's failure to obtain real-time information on the situation at the frontline.
2. Defense garrison's total lack of preparation for the Nemertea's attack.
3. Warrant Officer Vladimir's unfamiliarity with the Nemertea's attack patterns.
These factors contributed to Warrant Officer Vladimir's failure to make timely and appropriate decisions.
At the time, a severe Collapse storm was occurring in the W_2069_0105 region, resulting in extremely low outdoor visibility and interference with communication equipment. Communication within the train was also disrupted, preventing HQ, located far from Nemertea's attack site, from accessing the threat promptly.
The following footage from the train's CCTV system supports this point.

#Start of Recording
The footage from this car is blurry, making distinguishing humans from Dolls challenging. The sound of gunfire is very clear.
00:00:27 "North! Deploy Paladin multi-role Dolls to the north! That thing came from the north!"
00:00:54 "Open the door! COME ON, open the door, we're from car CZ-3!"
After the door opens, the footage shows a soldier helping a wounded comrade into the car.
00:01:07 "CZ-3 is finished. That Boojum overturned the car. We're the only ones who survived!
Our shit can't kill it. We need to retreat!"
00:01:30 "Forget retreating. If we don't stop it here, that giant worm will overturn the entire train and it's we'll all DONE! Where's Kimilov? Find him! Have him take the wounded away then head to the command car to notify our Warrant Officer! Has communication been established yet?"
00:01:52 "No, all the channels are still nothing but damn static!"
00:02:18 "Then let..."
#End of Recording

At 2 minutes and 19 seconds, the footage showed a massive jolt followed by a blackout.
This car endured a massive impact, and the surveillance equipment was also damaged.
However, this footage has already demonstrated the suddenness of the Nemertea attack, the ineffectiveness of the defense garrison's counterattack, and Warrant Officer Vladimir's failure to get a hold of the situation in a timely manner due to various reasons. As a result, Warrant Officer Vladimir issued orders in haste without taking into account the specific circumstances at the frontline.
After receiving the intelligence, Warrant Officer Vladimir ordered Sergeant Romonlosov to act as a courier and relay deployment orders to the forces in cars CZ-4 to CZ-9 and instructed maintenance personnel to expedite the repair of communication equipment to send reinforcement requests to multiple outposts.

Warrant Officer Vladimir's deployment orders were as follows:
1. Deploy 8 Paladin multirole Dolls as vanguards to delay the Nemertea's advance. Additionally, the Paladin multirole Dolls were to serve as the first line of defense for the Great Wall Railway train.
2. Deploy Fire Support Company with the crew instructed to position Coeus hover assault guns at various firing angles in order to maximize firepower for a saturated bombardment of the Nemertea's position.
3. Concentrate the Aegis series Dolls from the Combat Engineer Company into a defensive battalion and deploy them along the Nemertea's path of advance as the second line of defense behind the Paladin multirole Dolls.
4. Dispatch 2 Automated Forward Reconnaissance Companies to harass the Nemertea from the flanks, drawing its attention while using their mobility to evade its attacks. Aiming to delay Nemertea's advance and reduce losses to the assault Dolls battalion.
Warrant Officer Vladimir knew that the current equipment could not kill the Nemertea. Therefore, the tactical deployment aimed to delay the Nemertea as much as possible to buy time for reinforcements from the dispatch stations to arrive.

However, in practice, the Paladin multirole Dolls barely managed to slow the advance; too concentrated outside car CZ-4, allowing the Nemertea to destroy several of them while attacking that car. Subsequently, the Nemertea, with its broad attack range, eliminated all the reconnaissance Dolls and broke through the defense line of the Aegis series Dolls. The Cerynitis autonomous SPAA from the Automated Air Defense Company did not inflict significant damage on the Nemertea.

Given the situation, Warrant Officer Vladimir decided to personally operate a "Paladin" heavy defense Doll to draw the Nemertea away from the Great Wall Railway and prevent further damage. The following footage documents Warrant Officer Vladimir's final orders:

#Start of Recording
00:00:12 "Sir! That's suicide!"
00:00:33 "Everything has failed. Don't you get it? Someone must go out and lure the Nemertea away!"
00:00:39 "Going to where the Nemertea's attacking now is a certain death!"
00:00:43 "You have any other ideas? The reconnaissance companies are all gone. All we have left is me taking the 'Paladin' out to hold off the Nemertea."
00:00:47 "The others..."
00:00:55 "I'd rather wait for reinforcements from the dispatch stations."
00:01:03 "Whether the communication equipment will function in the Collapse storm is completely unknown!"
00:01:14 "Since internal communication has been restored, there is no reason to believe the support request was not sent."
00:01:27 "Sir, you have two months until your transfer. Why die here?"
00:01:35 "I'm still a soldier."
00:01:43 "Aren't you scared?"
00:01:52 "Of course I'm scared, just like you. But someone has to do it. Now transfer control of the 'Paladin' to me, Sergeant Burskin. That's an order."
#End of Recording

According to testimonies, Warrant Officer Vladimir indeed operated the 'Paladin' heavy defense Doll and charged into the Collapse storm, drawing Nemertea's attention.
Warrant Officer Vladimir's body was not found, but there is no reason to believe he survived.

From this incident, it can be concluded that the current railway garrison is severely underprepared for combat in Collapse storm environments and lacks backup communication equipment for such conditions. The tactical deployment also heavily relied on past experiences, which proved ineffective against large, high-threat Boojum such as the Nemertea.

Appendix 3: Attack Pattern Analysis of Level V Boojum "Nemertea"

In this incident, the Nemertea demonstrated considerable destructive power and resilience against the current weaponry of the Rail Defense Forces. The lack of understanding of the Nemertea's attack patterns was a major factor contributing to the high casualties.

We obtained first-hand data on Nemertea's attack from the train's external surveillance footage and analyzed its attack behavior patterns.

#Video Start

00:02:24 The Nemertea advances rapidly while emitting eerie howls.

00:02:33 The middle section of the car is hit by the Nemertea, resulting in violent shaking.

00:02:56 The Nemertea strikes the carriage again and sprays an unidentified liquid from its maw.

#Video Pause

This footage reveals the startling size of the Nemertea, with its towering body exceeding 20 meters in height, demonstrating surprising flexibility and physical power. Although the Nemertea's mandibles are not strong enough to penetrate the 20mm steel plates of the Great Wall Railway, its formidable force is capable of shaking the large, sturdy carriages. This impact-based attack was Nemertea's primary method during this incident.

#Video Resume

00:05:11 The liquid sprayed by the Nemertea flows onto the stabilizer of the carriage.

00:05:38 The Nemertea strikes again, shaking the carriage until it is completely overturned.

00:05:47 Soldiers in the adjacent carriage open fire, but most of their bullets are deflected.

00:06:12 The Nemertea sprays liquid again.

#Video Pause

This footage, along with the subsequent battlefield inspection report, reveals that the liquid sprayed by the Nemertea has a corrosive effect on metal. While it does not directly dissolve the outer walls of the carriages, it affects weaker components such as the stabilizers and related connections, compromising the stability of the carriages. Combined with the Nemertea's powerful impacts, this ultimately led to the collapse of the Great Wall Railway. Additionally, the Nemertea's thick skin made it highly resistant to standard firepower, which prevented its timely expulsion.

Additionally, the liquid sprayed by the Nemertea was found to be highly viscous.

Postmortem examinations revealed that some soldiers died from respiratory tract obstruction caused by this liquid.

#Video Resume

00:30:32 The Nemertea continues to collide with adjacent carriages, delivering heavy damage to the Paladin multifunctional humanoid units concentrated around the CZ-4 carriage.

Dozens of ELID creatures assault the gaps between the carriages.

#Video Pause

The footage suggests that the Nemertea attracts nearby ELID creatures, indicating a potential symbiotic relationship between them.

The analysis of the Nemertea's behavior reveals that it possesses high mobility, strong impact force, the ability to spray highly viscous corrosive liquid, thick skin, and a potential symbiotic relationship with the ELID it attracts.

In this incident, the Rail Defense Forces’ failure to promptly understand the Nemertea's characteristics ultimately resulted in irreparable damage to the Great Wall Railway and the 75th Orbital Section, 070 Orbital Defense Forces.

Outcome of the Incident

Finally, the Nemertea was eliminated by the 112th Mobile Armored Unit from the 8th Deployment Station at around 14:37.

This battalion is equipped with three "Typhoon" armored vehicles and two "Quiu" armored vehicles, making it the most elite armed force in the W_2069_0105 area.

According to the unit's report, the main cannon of the "Typhoon" armored vehicles was capable of effectively damaging the Nemertea, and the final confirmed elimination was accomplished by one of the "Typhoons."

Post-incident statistics revealed that the armored unit sustained no losses of personnel or dolls.

The stark disparity in casualties shows that the Boojum cannot endure heavy firepower. Considering that other areas in the Yellow Zone are likely to encounter similar high-threat Boojums and that the Rail Defense Forces currently lack the weaponry to address these threats, the following recommendations are proposed:

1. Organizational Adjustments: Reallocate armored battalions from various outpost garrisons into the Rail Defense Forces. Additionally, establish a new fire support battalion to effectively engage similar Boojum targets.

Additionally, establish a new fire support battalion to effectively engage and inflict significant damage on similar Boojum targets.

2. Strategic Deployment: When encountering such Boojum, it is recommended to implement the following strategy:

2.1. Disperse the combat engineer company's humanoid units to the locations of the Boojum's attacks to avoid concentrated strikes.

Use the automated air defense company and the fire support company's humanoid units as the main containment force, with the remaining units held in reserve to avoid wasting manpower.

Human combat soldiers should use training materials to reinforce vulnerable areas like windows and prepare for impacts.

2.2. Concentrate heavy firepower to deliver more firepower within a short period, aiming to enlarge the Boojum's wounds.

2.3. Maneuver armored battalions to the Boojum's flanks and fire from a long distance to prevent retaliation if the target is not destroyed in the initial salvo, thus avoiding damage to the armor.

3. Consider providing additional backup communication equipment and enhancing communication stability to ensure uninterrupted communication in collapse storm environments, enabling timely support requests to Outpost Garrison.

4. It is recommended to strengthen patrols in the Yellow Zone areas adjacent to purification zones, increasing the routine patrol frequency from 5 to 8 times and extending the patrol radius by 1 kilometer. Identify high-risk units within the patrol area and improve data collection and early warning systems.

The Sky Within the Squares

Unlocked with Cotton Hanky.

This story is related to Dusty Journal#Hero's Road.

Summary

Nagant and Stechkin have joined Public Security in POL-03, a satellite city of Poltava. While Stechin is find with any job that makes money, Nagant is bored by their daily patrols. After noticing a manhole covering which changes position every day, she drags Stechkin into a stakeout and they discover a group of illegal immigrant children living in the sewers, but decide not to denounce them. A week later, the security forces crack down on a smuggling ring distributing illegal ID chips and are on the verge of discovering the children. Thanks to the Dolls' experience in navigating the battlefields and Stechkin's craftiness, they manage to hide the children in another sector. When the children ask when they'll be able to live without hiding, the only comforting response the Dolls can find is that they should keep hope in their heart.

June 2nd, Today Is Just Like Any Other Day

Date: June 2, 9:00 a.m.
Location: Gate 13, District W9, Satellite City POL-03
Interregional flow: 1134 people
Difference from previous period: -4 people
Major anomalies: none
Recorder: Nagant
On-duty personnel: Nagant, Stechkin

Whew... the busiest time of the day is finally over. Having uploaded the first journal entry of the day on time, I stretch out lazily and take a short break.
Stechkin always leaves the dull and tedious loggin mission to me, but as a senior, it's only right to take care of the juniors.
I look up at the sky—although it is compressed into a small patch by the tall buildings—and see the gathering clouds.

According to the weather forecast, there will be a two-hour period of artificial rain in Poltava in three minutes, and our POL-03 Satellite City will also be covered.
I walk into the nearby safety booth and greet Stechkin, who is still inspecting the machines.
"Hey, Stechkin, it's going to rain soon. Stop working on that machine and come over here to stay dry."
"Alright. Actually, a little rain won't hurt."
"Remember the five tactical tips I mentioned earlier? The first one is to follow the officer's orders unconditionally!"
"But we're on the same level now, right?"
"Well, I'm still your senior. In the absence of an officer, you should listen to your senior!"
"Yes, yes, dear senior, please allow me to finish adjusting this machine. If it breaks, our pay will get docked."
"..."
Although Stechkin calls me "senior," her tone makes it seem like she's talking to a child, which really annoys me! But since she has already called me "senior," saying anything more would just seem like I'm being picky. Never mind, let's carry on.

The rain starts on time, just like everything else in this city—everyone's missions for each time slot are meticulously arranged.
To save space, buildings in the satellite city are constructed to be tall and densely packed, with old and new structures haphazardly crammed together.
I can't tell if it's my old-fashioned taste that's out of touch with modern aesthetics, or if the current trend is really all over the place.

During the day, the satellite city is mostly empty, save for some factory workers. Most people take the train to work in Poltava's White Zone, which the satellite city is part of, and return to their temporary accommodations in the evening.
So, the city only gets lively at night.
Our job is to patrol the entry points of the satellite city in various areas to prevent unidentified individuals from entering.

Most of the time, our job is quite leisurely, to the point where it feels like we're just passing time.
However, since there are all kinds of people in the satellite city, there are occasional instances of some daring individuals showing up.
For example, two days ago, a person with excessive levels of Collapse radiation tried to force their way through the gate. Stechkin and I restrained him and called for security personnel to take him away. We've also come across people with fake ID chips or those attempting to interfere with the detection system using other devices. As long as they're fearless, they'll try anything.

June 2nd, Today Is Somewhat Unusual

Stechkin finally walked into the security booth, her upper body already soaked.

"Even though we don't need to go to the battlefield anymore, we still need to take care of our physical condition. You'll understand what 'not listening to the advice of the elders leads to immediate trouble' means soon enough."
"Are you showing concern for me, senior? I believe that under the circumstances, the loss from a damaged machine would be greater than the loss from a damaged body."
"Ahem... always focused on money, but you should also take care of your physical and mental health. This is me, as a senior, looking out for you. But you've been saving money since our time at Griffin, haven't you? What do you plan to do with all that money?"
"Anything I want. With enough money, I don't have to worry about power and body maintenance, and I can shop as I please. Money is crucial. Is there anything more important than money?"
"There is. For example... do you have any dreams?"

"Senior, is the job so easy that you're starting to daydream? My dream is to make money—more and more money. The mall has a discount sale tonight. Want to go shopping to relax? After all, you're at the age where you need to take care of your body."
"What did you say? Even if I'm getting older, I'm still a seasoned veteran! Back at Griffin, we at least had missions and combat. Now, every day we just stand guard here; my body's starting to rust. Every day it's the same routine: dormitory to post, post to dormitory. What's the point of living like this?"
"Senior, after leaving Griffin, it was thanks to Kalina that we were able to work in the green zone. Other Dolls might not have the same stability as we do. Isn't everyone in this city just moving between two points in different zones like this?
In this sense, we're no different from them. Friendly reminder: If you find your life lacking meaning, please donate your salary to me. Thanks."
"Why do you always bring up money... I understand, but I just think we should think more about our future."
"Alright, alright, senior."
"Hey, Stechkin... what are you doing!"

Stechkin shoved me out of the guard booth.
The rain had stopped, and the precisely measured rainwater was gradually evaporating, but some puddles remained on the road. After all, this rain was intended for the white zone, and the satellite city just happened to be affected as well.
As planned, we returned to our post right after the rain stopped.

June 5th, Something Unusual

The manhole cover seems off.
Yesterday, the sharp protrusion was pointing to 9 o'clock, but today it is pointing to 11 o'clock. Upon further probing of my memory, it seems that subtle changes have occurred not only yesterday but also over the past few days.

"Stechkin, this manhole cover has been moved by someone. Did you notice that?"
"Let me check... I looked up some information about this satellite city when I first joined. This area used to experience significant water shortages, and there are complex underground waterways divided into sewage and water storage sections according to function. Given the design of this manhole cover, it should be for water storage. However, now that this function has been abandoned, people wouldn't normally go about moving it."
"Stechkin, can you find the map for these underground water channels?"
"Yes, Miss Nagant, I'll resubmit a request for it."
"Hmm. Still, I think someone must have opened this manhole cover more than once lately. There's an old saying called "Prevention is better than the cure". As your senior, I must eliminate any potential dangers for my juniors. Stechkin, we need to lift this manhole cover."
"You're truly admirable, Miss Nagant. Your tiny stature seems grand to me all of a sudden. But I must point out that the underground water channels are among the dirtiest and most terrifying places in the city. You need to be extremely vigilant."

I couldn't help but raise my sense of caution after seeing Stechkin's serious expression, which even caused me to overlook her rude use of "tiny stature" to describe me. Could there really be... something frightening down there?
"W-What? A veteran like me has been though plenty, there's no way I'm afraid of whatever's down here!"
"Miss Nagant, promise me that even if you encounter a disgusting monstrosity after we open the cover, you won't panic and accidentally discharge your gun."
She waved at me.
"Shh— don't talk now. Let's open this manhole cover, slow and steady. 3—2—1!"
"Whoa!!"

Stechkin and I lifted the manhole cover high, but aside from my exclamation, there was no other sound or movement.
"There's nothing inside. What a shame... I was hoping to come across some urban legend and net some extra cash by submitting a story."
"Stechkin!!" I can't believe I fell for her nonsense. I really let my guard down this time.

A brief inspection revealed that the ladder leading to the underground water channels was smooth, and the ground below was relatively free of dust, suggesting frequent use. Assuming that anyone using this route would use it at time when no one is around, Stechkin and I didn't linger and retreated to a dark corner in wait.

"Miss Nagant, it has been two hours. Can we head back now?"
"Be a little more patient. My veteran instincts tell me that something will happen soon."
"Will these two hours count as overtime? Miss Nagant, please renumerate me appropriately with overtime pay."
"......"

A thumping sound came from below, resembling running footsteps. The manhole cover then turned slowly a few times before being lifted by small hands.
A... child? Why is a child coming out from the sewer? What is a child doing here in the middle of the night instead of sleeping at home?
The child whistled, and soon two boys dashed out from a dark alley and quickly disappeared into the sewer, showing that they were very familiar with the process.
Stechkin and I quietly followed the children into the underground water channels. It was dry, and the equipment was rusty, indicating that it had indeed been abandoned for a long time.
The children arrived at a concealed area that appeared to be a huge water tank. It had been converted into a secret hideout, with cardboard and old clothes spread around, and the ground littered with various pieces of trash.
These kids... are they living down here?

June 5th, Kids in the Sewers

Seeing us arrive, the children scattered and ran, but they were no match for us. It wasn't long before we had caught them all.
There was an older boy among them who seemed to be their leader. We questioned him, but he refused to say a word.

Stechkin gave me a look.
"Senior, let's report this to our superiors. Since they're not saying anything, they're likely illegal immigrants without identification chips. Catching them could be a significant achievement. If we get a bonus, we can split it. How about it?"
"Sounds like a good idea. Hmm... Stechkin, what will happen to them if they're caught?"
"Since they're illegal immigrants, the punishment will be severe. For instance, they might be assigned to dangerous areas to perform hard labor that no one else wants to do or be expelled to polluted zones to fend for themselves. Oh, and for occupying and damaging city facilities, the punishment is even harsher. They'd be breaded and seasoned, then fried as reserve food, and sent to the polluted zones as bait for the ELID-like creatures."
"Wait! We... we haven't done anything wrong!"
It looks like Stechkin's deadpan nonsense had some effect as the leader of the boys finally spoke.
Behind him were around six or seven children, none older than ten, all looking pale from what we had said.

The boy's name is Lyman, 11 years old. Two years ago, he and his parents illegally crossed into this green zone satellite city.
Due to the collapse radiation monitors scattered throughout the streets, they could only live in unmonitored dark alleys. His parents went out every day to find work, while Lyman was left in a small, rundown room waiting for their return.
One day, his mother disappeared. His father went out searching for her frantically, but he couldn't find any trace of her. Until one day, even his father never came back...

The fates of most of these children were similar to Lyman's. Without identification chips, they could only hide in the unmonitored alleys of the green zone satellite city.
Fortunately, there were others like them in the alleys, and they occasionally did odd jobs to make some money for survival.
Until they discovered the underground waterway, which then became their home and secret base.
The waterway allowed them to travel freely to other areas, leading them to believe that one day, they could also live openly in the green zone.
To show us that they were only using the underground waterway to move around and hadn't done anything wrong, Lyman planned to take us to a certain place.

June 5th, The Appointment

After navigating the winding underground water channels, we reached a connected sewage treatment plant and from there, entered the vast automated agricultural sector outside the satellite city.
With the progress of the purification projects, the natural environment here has gradually returned to pre-World War III levels, allowing for the growth of healthy crops. Large fields are now home to cows and sheep leisurely grazing.

Is this what humans call pastoral life?

Soon, a little girl, about the same age as Lehmann, crawled out from a small hole in the fence.
She was startled to see us. Lehmann stepped forward to explain our intentions, and she relaxed.

The girl, named Molly, is the daughter of the person in charge of this automated agricultural sector. Every few days, Lehmann comes through the underground water channels to visit and play with her.
They lived far apart, and without identification chips, Lehmann couldn't cross streets filled with collapse radiation monitors. Without the water channels, they wouldn't have been able to meet or become good friends.
Molly secretly gave Lyman an underdeveloped pear, which she had taken from the leftover fruits after sorting.
The sorted fruits would be sent to the White Zones, while those that looked bad were fed to the livestock. People in the Green Zones could only eat food made from fast-growing engineered crops within the satellite city and had no access to such fresh, natural fruit.
Children like Lehmann, who cannot go about their lives in broad daylight, would never get to taste such things.

As we were leaving, Molly came running, breathless, and handed us two bouquets of wildflowers, pleading with us not to report Lehmann and the other kids.
Due to our responsibilities, we couldn't make that promise, but we still accepted the flowers.

We retraced our steps and returned to the underground water channels.

The atmosphere was tense. Maybe it was the children's friendships or the pastoral life we had seen earlier that moved me, because I suddenly felt that perhaps it wouldn't be so bad to turn a blind eye to their actions... even though my neural cloud insisted that work should come first.
"So, Miss Nagant? Should we report the children's whereabouts? I'm ready,"
"What? Stechkin, were you serious about what you said to them earlier? I thought you were just trying to scare them."
"Of course. Catching so many illegal immigrants should earn us quite a nice bonus. Let me sum it up. There are eight children in total... per child would be..."
"Stechkin! I know you like money, but these kids... they're just... they're just trying to survive."
"Miss Nagant, are you suggesting that we go against our duties as Dolls to cover for these kids?"
"Maybe I shouldn't have stepped in today. If they're caught because of me... Ahhh! I don't know what to do!"
"I had no idea that this would trouble you that much, Miss Nagant... Well, it might not even be our responsibility, and we probably won't get any bonus. If we end up being accused of meddling or neglecting our duties, it wouldn't be worth it. Miss Nagant, just consider what I said as a joke, okay~ No need to worry."
I looked at Stechkin gratefully and promised her that I would handle uploading the journal entry for the next two weeks.
...Wait, she didn't seem that determined to report it anyway. Did I fall for her trick?

Never mind, I'm her senior here, so I shouldn't hold it against my junior. After warning the children not to engage in illegal activities or get found out that they were hiding in the underground water channels, we returned to our dorms.
From then on, we acted as if nothing had happened and continued our lives as before. Occasionally, we would receive a bouquet of wildflowers at our post.

June 15th, Crisis

Recently, multiple illegal transactions occurred within the Green Zone. In response, our patrols have been intensified. At the same time, random checks and security monitoring in various areas have quietly increased.
Due to poor public safety, people stayed indoors as much as possible, except for work; this somewhat reduced our workload.
With three hours remaining until the end of our shift, there was hardly anyone coming in or going out.

Suddenly, a rush of footsteps approached.

"Huff... huff... Big sister!"
"Molly? What are you doing here?"
"Please... save Lyman and the others!"
"Catch your breath first. What happened?"

Molly's father found Lyman and the others and reported them to the security department of the Satellite City.
They discovered the entrance to the underground waterway and found signs of human habitation in what was supposed to be a deserted area.
The security department dispatched multiple search teams heading our way and notified security personnel in various areas to seal off the exits of the underground waterway, preparing to capture Lyman and the others in one fell swoop.

"Stechkin, we need to go!"
"Wait a minute."
"What is it?"
"It's still working hours. If we both leave our posts, it's telltale sign that 'we've got something going on, please come catch us.'"
"I ...didn't think of that."
"Moreover, charging in unprepared—are you planning to face them head-on?
That's quite typical of you. I can almost imagine us getting caught by our colleagues before rescuing the children, losing our jobs, possibly having our Neural Cloud reset, and then being sent to harsher workplaces as physical labor."
Stechkin looked at me, resting her chin on her hand, "Hmm, considering you're the senior, they might just scrap you altogether. I heard that Dolls whose neural clouds are scrapped don't just stop functioning and continue to have nightmares."
"Stop trying to spook me, I'm not a child! Dolls can't have nightmares. But indeed, I didn't think it through... This is quite dangerous. If you're unwilling to go, I can go alone.
"You really do take things at face value, huh? Don't you get what I'm trying to say?"
"What?"
"What I meant was, if both of us get down there, who will cover us?"
"Wait, Stechkin, so you're willing to help me save those children?"
"Isn't it a bit late to ask that now?"
Stechkin had already begun to push Molly and me toward the entrance of the underground waterway.
"W-wait, Stechkin!"
"What now? If we wait any longer, you might start having nightmares of your own."
"Molly, it's Molly! She can't come with us!"
I turned to the anxious Molly and said, "Molly, you should go back first!"

Molly was adamant about coming with us to the underground waterway. When I asked why, she didn't explain but simply insisted on joining us.
Not wasting any more time, I took Molly into the underground waterway, while Stechkin stayed above to delay the search teams.
The place where the children had lived was in shambles; the search teams had clearly been there already!
Please, don't let them get caught!

Let me find them first! After searching the underground waterways for a while, Molly guided me to several of their usual hiding places, and we finally found them.
Great! They were still free. However, the situation was not optimistic. Search teams were closing in from both sides, and the children were huddled in a corner, too scared to move. If we don't do something, they will be discovered!
I had Molly stay put and throw a rock down the opposite corridor to draw the search team away. When I appeared before the children, they ran away and even threw stones at me!
Those ungrateful little brats!
They actually thought I was there to capture them for a reward? It's infuriating! I was here to save them!

It wasn't until Molly caught up and explained to them that they finally let their guard down.
After the misunderstanding was resolved, I led them through several paths, but search teams were everywhere, making it hard to get through.
What now? What now?! Are we really going to get caught?
If only Stechkin was here; her creative ideas would surely be more effective than my blunt approach. But wait, I can't rely on others like this!
She's working hard above ground too...
"Someone's coming!" Lyman shouted: a search team was approaching, only twenty meters away, and we ended up in a dead end!

Going out now would get us caught!

I hugged Molly and had the children lined up in the shadows. If we couldn't avoid detection, I was ready to use force to protect them!

June 15th, The Young Ones

A loud noise rings out from the distance. Unbeknownst what order they've received, the search party quickly retreated from the area.
I let out a sigh of relief, thinking that had they arrived just a little later, I'd probably...

"You weren't contemplating firing, were you?" Stechkin suddenly peeks out, still wearing worn-out children's clothes.
"Woah! S-Stechkin! You spooked me... ahem, what are you doing here? Weren't you supposed to be up there?"
"Who do you think lured them away? Actually, the higher-ups already learned of your actions, and I've also been listed as a dangerous target. Guess we're fugitives from now on."
"You're spouting nonsense again. You think I'm so old that my neural cloud doesn't work properly anymore?"
"Fine, fine~ I'm just trying to ease the mood. I've done everything I could up there. Just sitting around wasn't helpful at all, so here I am to help.
Can't let you take all the spotlight. You owe me a favor now, After all, I do respect my elders and care for the young."
"Stechkin... thank you."
"That's it? I was expecting something more substantial. Anyway, we'll settle this later when we get back. There's another team a dozen meters away by the intersection. We need to evacuate quickly."

After taking the children to a temporary safe spot, Stechkin shares the intelligence she gathered with me.
According to her, this search involved lots of personnel and covered a wide area. I'm puzzled. It is worth going to such lengths for a couple of children?

"For a couple of children alone, no. The reason this incident blew up is that the security department took down a back alley gang involved in illegal dealings, apparently contraband smuggling. Their leader's name was something like Hank or Hans."
Upon hearing Stechkin's words, Lyman's expression noticeably changes, seemingly having words stuck in his throat.
Molly beside him gently squeezes his hand and urges him to open up.

"Maybe... it's because we've done something bad." Lyman gathers his courage.
"We met Uncle Hansin the back alleys. He's also the one who taught us how to move through the sewers to get to other places. Concerned that we couldn't keep ourselves alive, he had us work for him, making deliveries to different areas every few days.
After making the deliveries, we received food and water, and if we did it often enough, we also earned some money. Uncle Hans said that once we save up enough money, we could get ourselves ID chips and walk the streets freely without the need to hide."
"But when we went back to the alley earlier, it was already surrounded. Uncle Hans and the others had been taken away.
We quickly fled back to the sewers, but we didn't expect them to be searching here as well."

Lyman pulls out a sealed bag from his pocket, containing the goods they were supposed to deliver.
He dumps the contents of the bag into his hand. Although cracked during the escape, we immediately identified them as illegally obtained ID chips.
"..."
Seeing our reaction, Lyman panics. "I'm sorry. You warned us not to get involved in bad things. Although we don't know what this is, it seems to be the reason Uncle Hans got caught... Will you still help us despite this?" He looks up at us, his eyes filled with fear and unease.
Stechkin and I remain silent for a period, but this finally answers many of our questions, like how these children managed to survive, or how were they able to utilize these sewers; both things that a group of children alone can't possibly figure out.

The children all appear very discouraged now. As a senior, I need to help lift their spirits.
"Hmm, let the adults deal with the consequences of their own mistakes. If it were up to me, any adult who exploits ignorant kids for wrongdoings is a complete scumbag! They have no sense of responsibility, just all-around terrible! You did what you had to survive, that cannot be faulted. The most important thing now is to get you out safely. You'll do your best, right?"
"Yeah!" The little ones lift their spirits, and we are ready to move on.
Stechkin sidles up to me. What is she up to?
"Didn't realize you were this good at inspiring people. Please encourage me more frequently too—preferably with money."
"..."

June 15th, The Bait

The sewers leading to the treatment plant and the alleys are now sealed off. Only a few more remote sewer exits remain unblocked. No matter which route we take, we will inevitably run into search teams patrolling the underground.
Our situation is quite dire. If our only goal were to evade the pursuit and get these kids to safety, the simplest solution would be to deploy decoys to lure away the search teams. With our combat experience from Griffin, Stechkin and I could handle that easily.
However, if we wish to continue working in the satellite city, neither of us can afford to be exposed...
I glanced at the children around me and deleted an alternative plan I had considered in my neural cloud—one that involved using the kids as bait.
There's no way I could let them face armed security personnel!

"Miss Nagant, decoys don't have to be real, you know?" Stechkin, noticing my frustration, seemed to have already come up with a more practical solution. She looked at me with a satisfied expression, waiting for me to ask for her help.
"If you have a plan, just say it already! Don't put on a show!"
Honestly. Youngsters these days have no respect for their seniors.
"Then could you take care of next month's journal entry reports, Miss Nagant?"
"I-If that's what it takes, fine!"
Stechkin nodded with glee and then pulled out her communicator.

"Report, administrator! This is Stechkin from the Doll Squad under Team Three of the Poltava and Surrounding Cities Security Management Department! My squadmate Nagant and I have discovered the tracks of the trespassing fugitives while on patrol! Requesting permission to join the pursuit team!"
...Huh? I was stunned by Stechkin's report, and the children behind me showed signs of apprehension.
Stechkin motioned for us to stay quiet and calm.
"Understood, communication code received! We will do our best to assist!"
Stechkin ended the call.

"What on earth were you doing?" I questioned her with a lowered voice.
"It's just the prep work for the decoy plan. Miss Nagant, If you don't understand, just look after the kids and stay out of the way. I'm pretty busy here~"
Dammit, she's trying to provoke me again! I'll show Stechkin what I'm made of one day, soon enough!
I wasn't exactly pleased, but I followed her instructions anyway...

"This is Stechkin from the Doll Squad under Team Three of the Poltava and Surrounding Cities Security Management Department! ave discovered the tracks of the trespassing fugitives while on patrol!
By order of the administrator, we are now officially joining the pursuit team!
The targets are currently dispersing in different directions, and armed personnel are assisting their escape. Please ensure additional manpower is dispatched for the pursuit! They're fleeing towards..."
Stechkin maintained a straight face while spinning a tale, then ended the comms with satisfaction on her face and showed us a hand sign signifying victory.
"Done. Those idiots are now chasing shadows."
So this is what she meant by "decoys that don't actually exist."
"T—this is a special case... Don't learn these bad ideas from her..."

Thanks to Stechkin's deception, our escape became significantly smoother.
Finally, we reached Sector S8.
Fortunately, it wasn't sealed off yet. However, patrols passed by on the surface every few minutes, so a hasty exit would jeopardize our mission.
It was impossible for everyone to escape at once, so we had to leave one by one and then regroup at a safe location.
Stechkin went ahead, found a suitable hiding spot, and sent me the coordinates. I then instructed the children on the escape route.
Exploiting the gaps within the patrols on the surface, the children dashed out one by one, successfully evading the patrols.
The most important characters always show up last. I pushed open the manhole cover, and the bright moonlight streamed in. We had finally made our escape.

June 15th, Hope

After a night of fleeing, the children were completely exhausted and collapsed on the ground. We sat on a large rock with the children, gazing at the barrier wall between the White and Green Zones in the distance. The wall remained imposing even though it was so far away.

"Big sister, when can we go wherever we want to play?" A younger boy asked me.
I was at a loss for words and turned to Stechkin for help. She raised an eyebrow, closed her eyes, and showed no intention of coming to my aid.
"Since I was little, my parents have kept me locked in a rundown house. I was only able to see the outside through a small window. I don't like seeing the sky through the grid; it shouldn't be that small. But the streets are full of eyes; as soon as I appear, an alarm will go off and someone will come to catch me."
"Why? We're all the same, so why do we have to keep hiding? Big sister, when can we walk the streets like everyone else?"
I couldn't answer. My mind told me that the answer wasn't a pleasant one.
I knew I should say something, but I couldn't find the words.

"That day will come," Stechkin said.
I was surprised. She usually didn't talk like this.
"What day will that be?"
"Yeah, what day?" The other children crowded around, all talking at once.
"...Ah... well, that day. When it comes, you'll know." Surrounded by the children, Stechkin looked a bit unsure of what to do. "Hey, don't pull my uniform! If you tear it, I'll have to spend money to buy a new one!"
"I think you're lying! My mom said that liars' noses grow longer!" A child grumbled discontentedly.
"I'm a Doll, my nose won't grow long, hmph. One day... ah, well, like I said, you'll know it when it comes. Knowing too much isn't good for kids. You might end up wrapped in breadcrumbs and seasoning, then fried up as emergency rations."

"Alright, everyone, no need to crowd around." Lyman, recognizing how difficult the question was, stepped in to stop the children from asking anymore.
"That day will come when we can all live freely," Lyman patted the smallest child on the head. "So, don't give up. When you're all grown up, that day will come. I promise."

Lyman's reassurance calmed the children.
"Now, let's celebrate our big win in tonight's game of hide-and-seek, shall we?"
Lyman extended his hand, and the kids excitedly ran over to give him high-fives.
The awkward atmosphere was completely dispelled, and the children regained their energy, chasing each other around and playing.

We called Lyman aside to discuss his future plans.
"In any case... we won't be able to return to the sewers, at least not for the next few months. What are you going to do?"
"We're used to hiding. We'll figure something out," Lyman gave us a stiff smile and spoke with a maturity beyond his years. "Also, thank you. Without your help, we wouldn't have escaped."
Stechkin and I awkwardly accepted the thanks. What do humans usually do in situations like this? Based on the data in my neural cloud, I approximated a human response and scratched my nose.

Lyman and the others decided to hide in the alleys at the edge of the Green Zone to get through this period.

Some kids wanted to use this opportunity to leave the Green Zone satellite city, hoping to return to the Yellow Zone where they originally came from. They thought it might be better to find other relatives there, rather than stay here.

Lyman, however, decided to stay in the Green Zone.
He and Molly said a reluctant goodbye. Molly gave him a handkerchief embroidered with jasmine flowers, and they promised to meet again.

We said goodbye to the children and watched as they walked into the dark alley.
Then, we took Molly home. Her eyes were red, probably from crying in secret.
She must have known that promises to meet again were often just white lies.

We headed towards Exit 13 in District W9.
"Do you think they'll find out about what we did? Especially after your chaotic orders caused the search teams to go off track..."
"What did we do? We were working hard and meticulously tracking the targets, even crossing into other districts. Right, Senior? The handler won't blame us!" Under the streetlight, Stechkin had an innocent look on her face.
"You..."
Terrifying. This junior is truly terrifying!

"Haha, relax, senior. To the handler, we're just dumb, rigid Dolls. No Dolls would go out of their way to save children. They might just dock our pay at most."
"...Did you just say that losing money isn't a big deal? Look at you, being all grown up. You're right; it's just a matter of losing a bit of money."
"Senior, it's not just a bit of money; it's also my perfect attendance record for the month. Remember you owe me a favor? Pay me back in cash."

"Well... we can discuss that later. By the way, Stechkin, was your answer to that child's question your genuine opinion?"
"Of course not. We can't even control our own fate, let alone this chaotic world. I just want to make more money."
"You're always talking nonsense! Didn't you once say that those without dreams have no future?"
"I did say that... I must have had a reason. I was probably dreaming of getting rich overnight," Steinbeck shrugged. "Senior, we did all we could tonight. Having dreams is good, but we also need to be realistic."
"Alright. But if we see them again, we should try to help them if we can. After all, they're still young, like juniors to us."
"Yeah, yeah, I hear you. You're such a worrywart. But if we keep pushing our luck like this, we might actually end up losing our jobs.."
"We can't just ignore them. Even if we can only help a little, it's better than doing nothing! Of course, as long as we don't lose money or our jobs."

Stechkin didn't respond, but the tuft of hair on her head bobbed slightly in agreement.
We continued walking, and the path back to our post didn't feel as monotonous as it used to.

Humans often say children represent hope.
Even if we Dolls don't live to see that day, as long as more people like Lyman keep persisting and believing, someday the dream of children running freely under the blue sky will come true.
One can hope, right?

W74B Archive Records

Unlocked with Tattered Access Passes.

This story is related to Dusty Journal#Burial Grounds.

Summary

Stefan Murnach, a doctor working for the Green Sky non-profit, is a monitoring target of the Neo-Soviet Union due to his expertise on ELID treatment research. They record his conversations through his medical Doll assistant, designated RDO_N4371_0377. Despite being marked as low-danger, recordings of Stefan's conversations reveal that Green Sky is secretly giving him experimental products to test on ELID infected and is connected to the keyword "red onion". Stefan is killed by Varjagers, and Statesec's Yeti Squad is planned to be dispatched to destroy RDO_N4371_0377 and its confidential data. However, because they overheard about "red onion", Yeti Squad's memories are destroyed in a security sweep, and the cleanup mission of RDO_N4371_0377 never takes place.

At a later date, RDO_N4371_0377 is illegally reactivated and its monitoring team fails to notice in time, allowing an unknown party to access its confdential information for a week. Yeti Team is deployed to silence them.

Report on Archiving Files Related to Stefan Monnac

File Number: ████
Source: Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition, Government Confidential Archive-ZMA_7231[B]
Reporter: Germain Yoanovich Volkov
Organization: ███ Operations Monitoring Center Director
Report Date: 30 May ██

On April 8 ██, the Monitoring Center began observing and analyzing the behavioral data of Stefan Murnach. Stefan Murnach was selected as one of the observation targets for ███ operations, designated as Subject W/74B.
The subject's behavioral data was observed and analyzed over 405 days. The attention rating was A for the first 240 days and was adjusted to B from day 241 to day 405.
After the attention rating adjustment, the subject's designation was changed from W/74A to W/74B.
The sensitivity rating of the information possessed by this subject is classified as B, covering physical modification treatment plans for E.L.I.D., research on E.L.I.D. incidence rate changes, and clinical treatment experiences related to E.L.I.D.

After 405 days of observation, the Monitoring Center confirmed that the subject did not exhibit any behavior that involved leaking sensitive information.
On May 27, it was confirmed that the subject had ceased all activities, removing the risk of sensitive information leakage. Therefore, the subject was released from monitoring, and the related files were archived and sealed.

Attached are the reports and files pertaining to this observation subject.

Appendix 1: Clarification on Errors and Omissions of Key Information

Reporter: Germain Yoanovich Volkov
Organization: ███ Operations Monitoring Center Director
Report Date: 4 April ██

During today's weekly review of critical information data, the Monitoring Center discovered a missed key piece of information from March 27. This information should have been reported and follow-up procedures initiated according to Protocol 039 (Index Number: 01355/████0301), but these procedures were not activated in a timely manner.

The key information is: RDO_N4371_0377 has been activated.

Behavioral data records show that the humanoid designated as RDO_N4371_0377 was activated on March 27 by someone who was not the designated observation target.
Following Protocol 137 (Index Number: 02137/████1108), our department has initiated an emergency response procedure to redeploy the humanoid and address subsequent impacts, with completion expected within 24 hours.

The detailed cause of the information oversight is still under investigation and is expected to be confirmed and reported within 24 hours.

Appendix 2: Follow-Up Report on Errors and Omissions of Key Information

Reporter: Germain Yoanovich Volkov
Organization: ███ Operations Monitoring Center Director
Report date: April 5th, ██

According to Directive 137 (Index Number: 02137/████1108), the Monitoring Center had remotely issued a shutdown command to RDO_N4371_0377 as of April 5th, 5:30 p.m., and acknowledgment of shutdown completion had been received.
Subsequently, the Monitoring Center would select a new deployment location to redeploy the Doll, which was expected to be completed within 950 minutes.

The causes for this information oversight have been identified as follows:
1. The Monitoring Center's outdated equipment, with processing capabilities unable to meet the current high demands for data filtering and analysis, led to errors and omissions in recognizing critical keywords.
2. The staff responsible for compiling daily information records did not promptly identify these errors during the day's review.

This error led to an additional workload of 4 person days. The details are as follows:
1. Termination Protocol
Upon discovering the erroneous activation of RDO_N4371_0377, which had been active for 7 days and 13 hours, there was an 83% likelihood that the personnel involved had accessed sensitive information related to the operation. As a result, silent termination procedures were carried out for these individuals and their associated items.
{Updated on April 5th at 9:21 a.m.}
The mission has been assigned to Statesec's (State Security) elite humanoid team "Snowman" with mission code █-█-█.
2. Retrieval and Redeployment of RDO_N4371_0377
The new deployment coordinates have been computed by the Monitoring Center's calculation system, and the operation will be executed by the "Snowman" team.

Sanctions for the individuals responsible for this information oversight are as follows:
The personnel responsible for aggregating daily information and the equipment maintenance supervisor on duty will receive an official warning and have their monthly wages docked in accordance with regulations.

The Monitoring Center will form a special handling team to address the consequences of this oversight and ensure that operations proceed as planned.
To avoid similar oversights in the future, the Monitoring Center requests approval from higher authorities to replace the hardware responsible for monitoring the information filtering and processing.

Appendix 3: Report on Mitigating the Impact of Errors and Omissions for Key Information

Reporter: Germain Yoanovich Volkov
Organization: Monitoring Center Director of Operation ███
Report Date: 13 April ██

After confirmation, RDO_N4371_0377 was reactivated on 8 April by the subject of interest, Stefan Murnach.
Since then, the Monitoring Center has determined that the repercussions of this error have been mitigated, and operations could proceed as originally planned.
Attached are Stefan Monk's background information and selected behavioral data for your review:

Stefan Monak is currently employed by the non-governmental medical charity "Green Sky." As assigned by this charity, he arrived at coordinates ZAZO37E-I7UX3T in the Contamination Zone around ██ December and provided medical services to local residents as a doctor.
So far, Stefan Monak, as a person of interest, has shown no behavior data that warrants concern. Selected behavior data records for reference.

Stefan Monak Behavior Data Record
Record Date: 11 April
Data Reviewer: Katerin Miller
Record Compilation: Hannah Schultz

#Start of Recording
00:00:00 Sleep
04:32:42 Awakened. Spoke at a high volume; part of the conversation triggered the keywords: corpse, stitch.
"What... bitten by a Thorn? Damn! I've been saying that this kind of shit will eventually cost you your life! Don't expect me to stitch your corpses back together when the time comes!
You, yes, the new Doll, get him onto the operating table. Prepare scalpels #12, #21, #22. Do we still have sutures threads? Use 4-0 suture threads instead... Also, get a bone saw—his leg needs to be amputated."
※Analysis indicates that the conversation did not include sensitive information and is deemed not of interest.
04:40:49 Amputation surgery was performed; no conversation occurred apart from essential surgical instructions.
11:25:21 Sleep
14:58:37 Simple wash up, dressing up
15:07:13 Consumed a meal and confirmed the schedule with RDO_N4371_0377. The day's activity included confirming purchases with an underground broker, consultations, distributing medication to nearby residents, reporting to the "Green Sky" organization, and organizing recent E.L.I.D. patient data samples
※ Conversation did not trigger any keywords. Analysis indicates that the conversation did not include sensitive information and is deemed not of interest.
15:21:43 Performed maintenance and inventory check of medical equipment with RDO_N4371_0377
※Conversation did not trigger any keywords. Analysis indicates that the conversation did not include sensitive information and is deemed not of interest.
16:04:43 Confirmed purchase of supplies with the black market, which included anesthetics, 2-0 and 3-0 sutures threads, disinfectant, medical gauze, anti-inflammatory drugs, and other commonly used medicines and injections
※Conversation did not trigger any keywords. Analysis indicates that the conversation did not include sensitive information and is deemed not of interest.
16:37:22 Consulted patients; part of the conversation triggered the keyword: modification
"I warned you about her lungs last time! Yet you're still letting her smoke? Are you trying to get her killed or what?!
Even though her E.L.I.D. has progressed to this stage, if there's a chance for modification in the future... never mind, it's nothing... um, that Doll right there—I need to give you a name... Get him more painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs."
※Analysis indicates that the conversation did not include sensitive information and is deemed not of interest.
18:35:41 Organized supplies received from the underground broker with RDO_N4371_0377, complained about insufficient financial and pharmaceutical support from "Green Sky"; the conversation triggered keywords: medical intelligence, experimental data.
"Tsk, those guys are just after more medical intelligence and experimental data. The anesthetics they sent last time haven't even been tested... yet they're only so eager when it comes to pushing for reports."
※Analysis indicates that the conversation did not include sensitive information and is deemed not of interest.
19:18:57 Instructed RDO_N4371_0377 to repel attempts by Yellow Zone residents to seize medical supplies. No conversation occurred beyond essential combat instructions.
19:30:08 Organized data; no conversation occurred during this period.
21:52:26 Ate and complemented RDO_N4371_0377's cooking skills; conversation triggered the keyword: red onion.
"Oh! Fresh vegetables today... is that red onion in the soup? Sweet... very tasty. Oh, you've got some good cooking skills. Maybe I should call you Chef?
※Analysis indicates that the conversation did not include sensitive information and is deemed not of interest.
22:10:11 Continued organizing data and finalizing the report to be submitted to "Green Sky." No conversation took place during this period.
#End of Recording

Additionally, please keep me updated on any progress regarding the equipment upgrade request that was previously submitted.

Appendix 4: Weekly Key Data Report of the Surveillance Center on █/█ (Excerpt)

Reporter: Germain Yoanovich Volkov
Organization: ███ Operations Monitoring Center Director
Report Date: 27 December ██

......

RDO_N4371_0377 has completed 240 days of continuous monitoring and data transmission for the subject of interest, Stefan Monak. During the observation period, no concerning behavior data was detected in the subject's records. Considering Stefan Monak's background and the sensitivity of the information he may possess, the Monitoring Center has conducted a comprehensive assessment and decided to downgrade his threat level from A to B. According to the protocol, the frequency of behavior information filtering and feedback for B-level subjects will be once per month.
The decision was made by Germain Yoanovich Volkov, Director of the Monitoring Center.
Any future changes to the threat level will be reported as they occur.
The report includes information on the types of sensitive information potentially known by Stefan Monak, as well as some background details for reference.

......

The sensitive information known by Stefan Monak is concentrated in the following areas:
1. Physical modification therapy programs for E.L.I.D.
2. Studies related to changes in E.L.I.D. incidence rates
3. Clinical treatment experiences for E.L.I.D.

Stefan Monak's background information includes:
1. Clinical physician in the Kyiv medical system from 2054 to 2056
2. Senior physician specializing in blood diseases at Kyiv Third Public Hospital, with a doctorate earned between 2056 and 2060.
3. Employed in the private sector from 2060 to 2065, with middle management roles in logistics and support departments.

Appendix 5: Monthly Surveillance Summary of the Surveillance Center on █/█ (Excerpt)

Reporter: Germain Yoanovich Volkov
Organization: ███ Operations Monitoring Center Director
Report Date: 27 May ██

...

Following the monthly review, it has been confirmed that Stefan Monak, identified as RDO_N4371_0377, has passed away this month.
Details are as follows:
1. Cause of Death
Remote access to the neural information records of RDO_N4371_0377 confirms that Stefan Monak's death was caused by gunshot wounds resulting in hemorrhage, organ damage, and failure.
2. Process of Death
On November 30th at 3:43 a.m., armed individuals from the suspected Varjager suddenly attacked the settlement where Stefan Monak was staying. Stefan Monak directed RDO_N4371_0377 to counterattack and safeguard the residents during their evacuation and was struck by stray bullets in the process.

After multiple verifications, Stefan Monak's death process is determined to be of no further concern. Our department will proceed with the subsequent steps as outlined in Protocol 37.
The detailed action plan is as follows:
1. On 28 May at 6:00 a.m., the Monitoring Center will activate the remote control program for RDO_N4371_0377 to destroy items related to Stefan Monak. This action is to prevent any potential leakage of sensitive information he may have had.
2. After completing the above process, use the remote control program to destroy the neural records of RDO_N4371_0377.
3. Given the body model of RDO_N4371_0377 and its low recovery value, the Monitoring Center will initiate the mandatory scrapping process to destroy RDO_N4371_0377 on-site after completing the previous steps.

{Update 27 May at 11:17 p.m.}
This mission has been assigned to the Statesec (State Security)'s elite Doll team, "Snowman," with mission designation █-█-█.
The decision for the above actions was made by Germain Yoanovich Volkov, Director of the Monitoring Center.

...

Appendix 6: "Yeti" Squad Incident Report, May 28th

Reporter: Germain Yoanovich Volkov
Organization：███ Operations Monitoring Center Director
Report Date: 28 May ██

{Update 28 May at 5:40 a.m.}
On 28 May at 5:34 a.m., during routine monitoring of internal Dolls within the Statesec (State Security), the Monitoring Center detected discussions among members of the elite team "Snowman" about this operation, which included sensitive information such as operation codenames.

Attached are excerpts of behavioral data records from the "Snowman" squad for reference.

In accordance with Protocol 229, the Monitoring Center recommends erasing the mental records of the 'Snowman' squad members to ensure the confidentiality of this operation. Due to the sensitive nature of the 'Snowman' squad, confirmation from higher authorities is requested before proceeding with this process.

Additionally, the Monitoring Center recommends investigating the sources through which the "Snowman" squad acquires sensitive information and improving personnel information management to minimize the risk of sensitive information leakage.

"Snowman" Squad Behavioral Data Records
Record Date: 11 April
Information Reviewer: Jack Martin
Record Organizer: Louis Schmidt

#Record Start

...

05:34:27 Discussion on mission intelligence, during which a segment of the conversation triggered the keyword: "red onion"
"Hmm... this mission is to destroy the target's human body..."
"Hmph, they expect us to handle this kind of menial work too?
Does Central Command see us as just discarded trash from those P.M.C. units?"
"You don't understand, Brisha. This is the 'red onion' we're talking about."
"Nass! Don't speak out of turn!"
"Alright, alright, I got it, Captain."
※ Analysis reveals that the conversation conveys sensitive information and is considered noteworthy.

...

#Record End

Unusual Snowfall Survey Report

Unlocked with Unusual Snowflake Samples.

Summary

A URNC Survey Team is gathering information about the "frontal snow" phenomenon in the Hungary contamination zone. They discover that these short episodes of intense contaminated snowfall could cause Red Zones to expand by spreading Collapse radiation, and that the population displacement caused by the Purification Project is only worsening their expansion because Yellow Zone inhabitants are intentionally destroying purification equipment to protect their homes from the advance of the Great Wall Railway.

Report on Unusual Weather Conditions at the Red and Yellow Zone Border

Reporter: Laurence Gough
Affiliation Organization: Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition Meteorological Survey Team, Neo-Soviet Region, Southeastern Hungary, Unit█
Area of Responsibility: SE106DW-H83XF3 to SE133DW-H89XF7
Survey Subject: Anomalous Snowfall Conditions
Report Date: ██/██/207█

Around the year 207█, the URNC began regularly dispatching survey teams into the Red and Yellow Zones to facilitate the Purification Project's advancement and to create a comprehensive archive of information regarding the contamination zones.
In September of the same year, the secondary team I belonged to took over the special environmental meteorological survey mission.

By February of the following year, a specific type of short-duration, intense convective snowfall was observed with increasing frequency in the Red Zones.
Since its formation mechanism is similar to that of frontal rain, this weather phenomenon will be referred to as "frontal snow" in the following text.

Two months ago, a bounty hunter disappearance case reported by a B.R.I.E.F. branch made me notice that the weather condition of highly polluted frontal snow, which was unique to the Red Zones was gradually spreading to the surrounding Yellow Zones.
To verify this hypothesis, I conducted field surveys in the areas surrounding the incident site over the following weeks.

A dynamic comparison of recent satellite images of the contamination zones suggests that frequent atmospheric changes could be one of the reasons for this phenomenon. However, field surveys reveal that human factors may be a more direct cause.
The conflict between the implementation of the Purification Project and the local residents, along with the misguided decisions made by the locals in their struggle for survival, have collectively contributed to this outcome.

In the following text, I will reference three video materials to substantiate the scientific validity of the hypothesis, covering aspects such as the objective formation of frontal snow, its migration from the Red Zone, and the human factors contributing to this migration.

Appendix 1: How Frontal Snow Forms and Falls

#Video Start
00:01:36 The upper half of the screen shows clouds moving quickly from the distance towards the foreground.
00:02:50 A cold front moves through, causing the clouds to gradually thicken and lower, with their color changing from white to dark gray.
00:05:02 Snow quickly forms after the cold front passes, with the snowflakes appearing gray-green.
00:14:02 A malfunction occurs, causing interference with the video.
#Video Paused

The high concentration of collapse particles carried by the frontal snow in the Red Zone caused intermittent disruptions to the video signal and damage to part of the audio track. After technical restoration, the visuals and audio from that time have been recovered.
For archival purposes, the following is a text version of the video content.

#Video Start
00:18:02 "Hey, did you see that? With such heavy snowfall, what is the level of collapse radiation in the surrounding area? Let me check... Oh my god, the Collapse Epiphyllum has bloomed like this! The collapse radiation concentration is probably in the thousands, isn’t it?
Let me see the numbers..."
00:18:28 "No one would think you're mute if you keep quiet. Damn it, is the navigation malfunctioning? Get over here."
#Fast Forward
02:10:10 The snow stops falling.
A robotic arm appears in the frame.
02:10:15 "Even though we couldn't outrun the snow, at least it has finally stopped! Hey! Brother, check out the snow accumulation on the ground... Tsk, you can’t even imagine how terrifying this snowfall is."
02:11:58 The mechanical arm retrieves a rain gauge made from treated collapse crystals, which is filled with snowflakes. As the snow gradually melts, a measurement is recorded.
02:15:11 "Oh my god, 10 millimeters!"
02:15:18 "Huh? With such heavy snow outside, how is it only 10 millimeters?"
02:15:25 "Do you understand what this means? This is snow melted into water! Reaching 10 millimeters in just 12 hours already far exceeds blizzard levels!"
02:15:40 "Alright, alright, think about how we're going to get out of here!
It’s been two hours, and we’re still stuck in this snowfall area. If we stay any longer, neither of us will make it through today."
#Video Stops

The video clearly shows that the short-term snowfall from the frontal snow is astonishingly heavy, with an exceptionally wide coverage area.
The frontal snow in the Red Zone carries high concentrations of collapse radiation particles. As the frontal snow advances, it rapidly spreads into the adjacent Yellow Zone, where surface collapse radiation levels rise continuously. Over time, the boundary of the Red Zone will keep encroaching into the Yellow Zone, causing the Red Zone to gradually expand.

Appendix 2: Video Recording From the Scene of a Bounty Hunter’s Disappearance

#Start of Recording
00:00:10 After a few seconds of camera adjustment, two middle-aged men appear in the frame. Eventually, one takes control of the camera.
00:00:25 "Damn, this place is bumpy as hell. My butt hurts after driving all the way."
00:00:33 "It's around here."
00:00:39 "Huh? What do you mean around here?"
00:00:43 "The last coordinates reported by the missing persons. Did you read the brief?"
00:00:50 "What's there to read? Hey, wasn't that your job?"
00:00:55 "..."
00:00:57 "We're just a few kilometers away from the Red Zone, right? Why would these guys be so set on making money in a place like this?"
00:01:08 "According to the mission information provided by the B.R.I.E.F. branch, they took on this job because the bounty was very high."
00:01:15 "Oh! I get it. I knew it—these guys are the type who'd happily throw their lives away as long as there's enough cash to grab... What's the term for that again?"
00:01:21 "Desperados?"
00:01:24 "Yes! Desperados! Good on them if they're dead—at least they're out of it. Meanwhile, we have to come to this hellhole to wipe their ass."
00:01:33 "Quit complaining, look over there."
00:01:37 Following one man's pointing finger, the camera reveals a vast expanse—nearly a hundred meters long and 20 meters wide—fully doted with ice spires. Shaped by collapse storms, each ice spike juts up at an angle, with each one about a meter tall. Under the sunlight, the irregular surfaces of the ice spires cast a blinding glare.
00:03:15 "Damn it, when did this place start having stuff like this?"
00:03:23 "It's still too early to be shocked."
00:03:26 "What did you say?"
00:03:29 "Look, there's someone in there."
#Recording Paused


Given the recording device being handheld by the provider, the resulting footage shows noticeable shakiness. It may be viewed normally after stabilization.
The latter part of the footage provides a detailed record of the body excavation process. To avoid causing discomfort and for ease of archive, the following is a transcript based on the video content.


#Start of Recording
00:15:03 Within the irregular cross-sections of the ice spires, human corpses can be vaguely seen frozen inside.
00:16:25 Forensic experts with ice-breaking tools arrive and, along with the three on-site staff, begin the ice-breaking operation.
01:18:20 Due to been frozen for several days, the bodies cannot be removed in whole and must be processed in pieces. After an hour of ice-breaking, one of the bodies was extracted. The cross-section of the body demonstrate characteristics of siliconized skin tissues.
02:25:02 The other body is subsequently extracted, and both are loaded onto the transport vehicle.
#End of Recording
The video footage ends here. Below are excerpts from the autopsy report:
...
1. Autopsy Examination
The body measures 176 cm in length, with hair 6 cm long. The skin surface has red livor mortis and purplish-red patches distributed on the limbs and torso. The face is swollen with a painful expression, and the conjunctiva of the eyelids shows hemorrhage. The body shows signs of paradoxical undressing, frostbite, severe rigor mortis, and a severely siliconized surface. Additionally, radioactive collapse crystals cover multiple areas of the body.
...
2. Conclusion
The victim's face is swollen, and there is a hemorrhage in the eyelid conjunctiva. The individual was covered by intense snowfall in a short period, with suffocation presumed as the cause of death. Additionally, the extreme cold conditions led to frostbite, red patches, and paradoxical undressing, which are consistent with death by freezing.
...
This bounty hunter disappearance case was ultimately classified as an "accident caused by excessive snowfall in a short period."
Due to the unusual phenomena recorded in it, I obtained a copy of the recording from this missing persons case.
The recording made me notice a crucial detail: the coordinates of the accident —SE129DW-H87XF2. This area, classified as a Yellow Zone with collapse radiation levels well below 150 Vebryan since the very first days of the URNC, is now experiencing high-pollution frontal snow typically found only in the Red Zone.
Realizing the gravity of the situation, I promptly request the upper departments surrounding the accident area for a drone to assist investigation.

Appendix 3: On-Site Surveillance Recording at the Border Between the Red and Yellow Zones—Video Recording of the Daily Life of Nearby Yellow Zone Residents

#Start of Recording
00:01:10 The footage shows a vast desert with several unevenly distributed settlements, all small in scale yet densely packed with houses.
00:03:34 Beacons are set up at regular intervals. An ice field that sprung up abruptly is located in the distance, otherwise, there's nothing else remarkable in sight.
#Recording Paused


The first half of the recording consists of aerial footage captured by a drone from above the vicinity of the incident area.
According to my investigation, this area was assigned under the Purification Project's route three years ago.
The beacons meant to continuously cleanse local radiation have been destroyed and thus have not served their intended function. Additionally, markers established by the government at the edge of the area are also completely absent. It's hard to believe this is a Yellow Zone designated for purification.


Under normal circumstances, the damage to the beacons should be around 5%-10%. However, in the drone footage, the beacons are over 60% damaged. Clearly, such damage can't be of natural causes.
The drone is equipped with a collapse radiation receiver, a new sensor developed using artificially cultivated Epiphyllums. These Epiphyllum do not emit collapse radiation themselves but are extremely sensitive to it.
The URNC stipulates all personnel and equipment be equipped with these devices when operating in areas with high levels of collapse radiation. Based on the state of the Epiphyllum, the local collapse radiation concentration is estimated to have surpassed 140 Vebryan. Although not yet the level required to be classified as a Red Zone, it is very close.


The latter part of the video features edited clips of the daily life of the residents. For archival purposes, these clips are presented in a transcript form.
Clip 1:
00:00:03 "Hush, don't cry. Daddy will be back soon with food. Look... Eh? Old Kovach... Is that you?"
00:00:16 "Susie...? My god, I haven't seen you in years, and now you have a child..."
00:00:28 "Yes, after joining Ray, we settled here. But why are you here?"
00:00:40 "Ah, don't even mention it. The tracks have been laid where I live, and when the Great Wall Railway comes, I won't be able to keep my house, food, or water. At my age, I can't handle too much upheaval, so I've moved to the edge of the Red Zone. I'm counting my days."
00:01:28"Those plunderers... they don't care about our lives; all they care about is meeting their quota from higher-ups!"
Clip 2:
00:00:05 "Big brother, how's the mission we posted going?"
00:00:10 "No one claimed it yet. Ever since those two got frozen into ice, even raising the bounty attracts no interest, cough..."
00:00:38 "Big brother, take care of your health. We're running low on Sardis gold and collapse pieces. How about Henry and I take a few young men and go destroy that newly built beacon in the west?"
00:01:20 "Don't hurry. The military dudes who came to measure the collapse radiation haven't returned. Perhaps our previous actions had some effect... let's wait a bit longer."
00:01:41 "It seems we can catch a break for a while."
00:01:51 "One more thing. The wind direction has changed recently; remember to inform every household..."
00:01:58 "Inform them of what?"
00:02:06 "Don't go outside. Cough... Inform every household: don't go out during snowy weather."
#End of Recording


Based on my analysis, the increase in collapse radiation concentration in this area is primarily caused by the following factors:
1. The alternating warm and cold airflows causing changes in wind direction, making this area prone to frequent frontal snow events.
2. Due to the pressures exerted by the Purification Project, the activity zones of residents have been progressively pushed towards the Red Zone, generating strong resistance against the purification efforts. This has led to frequent instances of deliberate damage to frontline purification equipment. Additionally, they aim to slow down the advancement of the Purification Project to safeguard their livelihoods, going as far as to hire bounty hunters to destroy local beacons. The bounty hunters who passed in Attachment 1 may have been both perpetrators and victims of this situation.


The events described in this report are based on actual occurrences with reasonable speculation extrapolated from them. I hope the Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition will take appropriate measures, adjust the Purification Project's schedule, and promptly address this phenomenon intended to "reverse the purification".

Flower of the Heart

Unlocked with Nut Figurines.

This story is related to Dusty Journal#Second Farewell.

Summary

Gloria is a little girl living in the Yellow Zone with her other's bounty hunting team. One day, her mother comes back with an abandoned T-Doll, and Gloria becomes fascinated with her. When the Doll awakens after being recharged, she says she's lost all of her memories. Gloria gives her a new name, Beryl, but the Doll refuses it, preferring to find her lost memories. Deprived of her own resources and with her authorizations transferred to Gloria's mother, “Beryl” is obligated to help complete bounties, improving the team's living standard but losing her freedom. During a mission to capture an escaped Doll, “Beryl” seems to recover some of her memories after seeing the KSVK rifle used by another bounty hunting team, and Gloria buys it for her so she'll stay with her. But when “Beryl” captures the escaped Doll, she gains information about a place that might have answers about her past and her will to leave only grows. Gloria senses that the “Beryl” she knew is already gone when she claims that her true name is ^RF KSVKKSVKKSVK and starts adopting a strange speech pattern.

Shortly after, KSVK learns that Gloria's mother is about to sell her, since she's grown too defiant. KSVK claims that her authorizations actually belonged to her former Commander all along and shoots the bounty hunter in the leg, then leaves after treating her wound and apologizing to Gloria.

April 12th, A Girl With... Ears?

She lies there.
Surrounded by an entire warehouse full of nuts, screws, and old iron scraps.
Mom said she would wake up when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky tomorrow.
I know why; she will be fully charged by then.

She's different from me. I'm human, and she's a Doll.
She's much... much taller than me.
Will she wake up? What will be the first thing she says when she wakes up? What happened to her in the past? Why was she left all alone and abandoned? Did her previous owner not like her? What is her name?

Once she wakes up... will we get along? I hope to learn more about Dolls from her. I've never interacted with a Doll before, so I hope she won't dislike me...
I... I really like her fluffy hair. It looks soft and tousled, like... like the ears of a dog from an old illustration.
I like dog ears. I wonder how a Doll's hair feels to the touch... will it be as soft as I imagine?

April 13th, Her Name Is Blair

She woke up!
After begging Mom for a long time, she finally agreed to let me stay in the warehouse and wait for her to wake up. So this is what a Doll looks like when she recovers: her body trembles slightly, her long eyelashes quiver continuously, and then she suddenly wakes up, as if startled.

She looked bewildered, staring at me like a frightened dog from an illustration... I hope she won't be upset by my comparison since she's a Doll, not a dog.
She said she doesn't remember anything at all. Everything I wanted to know about her, she's completely forgotten. How could this happen? Aren't Dolls' memories supposed to be stored in their neural modules? Is there something wrong with her module? I offered to fix it for her, but she seemed to distrust me and refused...

She forgot her name. I asked if she'd accept the name I gave her — Beryl. It means "shining brilliance", and my name, Gloria, also signifies brilliance. If she accepted this name, it would mean I have a friend with a name so similar to mine!
But she didn't agree...
I'll call her that in my heart for now.

April 25th, I'm Not Anyone's Replacement!

Beryl woke up and joined our squad. Mom gave her a gun so she could fight alongside us.
Although I wanted Beryl to rest for a while, Mom said we were running out of everything everyone needed! Food, clean water. It cost us so much to wake up Beryl, but I guess it had to be done...
Alright, but after every mission Beryl completes, I always make sure she gets a proper rest!

Beryl is really impressive. With her on our team, we complete missions quickly and are gradually saving up money to buy more supplies.
Mom says it's because she used to be a T-Doll. T-Dolls are really impressive.

But when she realized none of us could answer her questions, she said she wanted to leave.
Leave? No way! We finally started living a bit better, eating compressed biscuits instead of rat biscuits... No, she can't leave!

...

I told Mom she wanted to leave, and after one night... Mom said Beryl couldn't leave without her permission.
Mom changed Beryl's permissions to hers. Shouldn't I have told Mom about her wanting to leave? But if I hadn't told Mom, she would have left... But by telling Mom, she lost her freedom...
I should apologize to her, but I can't bring myself to say it.

...Beryl doesn't want to talk to me much anymore.
She just wants to know her true identity, where she comes from, and where she is going.
But... what good does knowing that do?

April 28th, This Way, She'll Cheer Up.

I only found out that Mom took all the supplies Beryl acquired during missions.
So even if Beryl's permissions hadn't been changed to Mom's, she still wouldn't be able to leave.
As a Doll, where could she possibly go without supplies or power?

...But Mom said that recently, we took on a mission with a huge reward, and it's not as dangerous as the usual eliminations of the ELIDs — if we capture an escaped Doll, we'll earn a large sum of money! I discussed it with Mom, and as long as the mission is completed, she is willing to give a portion of the money to Beryl.
That should make her happy. And everyone will treat her better too!

May 2nd, Got It!

We captured the escaped Doll ahead of the other bounty hunter squad.
Phew... so much happened these past two days. When I handed her the gun named KSVK, she... she got really happy! Even her hair, which looked like dog ears, seemed to perk up instantly.
But... she still wants to leave. The once-escaped Doll had told her something very important.
...Something that, to her, was far more important than anyone on our team.

...

After we received the mission to capture the Doll, we made preparations quickly before setting off.
She initially appeared uninterested, but midway, when we encountered another bounty hunter squad, she became excited. Her eyes were glued not to the bounty hunter but to the gun named KSVK gun in the bounty hunter's hands. At that moment, her hair, like a dog's ears, immediately perked up.

...I want her to be truly happy. If she wants that gun so badly, I... I'll get it for her! As long as she's willing to stay here and live happily with everyone.
So, I begged Mom for a long time, and eventually, she agreed to buy that gun from the other bounty hunter squad. I then gave the gun to Beryl.

But something strange happened.

When Mom bought the gun from that bounty hunter, she casually asked what their mission was, and they replied that they were also tasked with capturing an escaped Doll!
Mom and the bounty hunter compared the details about the escaped Doll and discovered it was the same Doll! Moreover, their mission numbers were different from Mom's!
This means that someone issued two different bounty missions, but the mission objective was the same!
Mom said the escaped Doll did something quite severe, which was why they sent two or perhaps more squads to capture her.

Mom asked B.R.I.E.F. about it, but received a vague response. She was only told that if either side captured the escaped Doll, both sides would receive a reward.
However, the bounty hunter squad that actually captured the Doll would receive a large bonus!
It's strange, but...it seems like a lot of money, so our squad will definitely try to capture the Doll first!

What no one expected was that after Beryl got the KSVK, she became many times stronger than before! Beryl dealt with ELIDs that could threaten a squad as easily as breathing!
Why is that gun so special to Beryl? I'll ask her about it once the mission ends.

We searched for several days before our team finally captured the escaped Doll first. Beryl deserves the most credit; if she hadn't shot and damaged the Doll's leg frame, we wouldn't have been able to capture her.
When the Doll fell down among a sandstorm, Beryl rushed over to her. They seemed to have exchanged a few words before Beryl carried the Doll back to us.

I tried to ask the Doll and Beryl what they talked about, but the Doll didn't share anything with me before Mom sent her away.
Mom said... she'll be fine, just like "Beryl."
The mission is complete, and Beryl seems to be happier than before.
However... she was no longer willing to... engage in honest conversation with me.
I... I can sense what part of her words are genuine and which were just for appeasing me...
Why... why doesn't she trust me anymore, or anyone else?
What exactly did that captured Doll say to her?

May 10th, Where Can I Find the Answer...?

Recently, she has taken to sitting under the big hole in the warehouse roof after missions, pulling back the cloth covering it to look at the sky, and then covering it again when it's time to rest.

Why? What's so special about the sky? At night, there's nothing but pitch-black darkness and the occasional stars.
I asked her, but she just brushed me off.
I can't continue like this. I want to hear the truth! It must be something that the captured Doll said to her that day!

...So, I ran over to question her, took hold of her hands, and stared into her eyes.
What happened?! Is there something you can't tell me?! It was Mom and me who saved you. When you had no money, I persuaded Mom to share part of the mission earnings with you. When you wanted that KSVK gun, I even begged Mom to buy it for you and give it to you personally to make you happy! Why won't you tell me anything after all that? Is your past, where you come from, and where you're going really that important?
Is it more important than everyone here who's been helping you? More important than me?
Even if those things are more important than everyone here, I've always supported you, haven't? I believe in you and want you to believe in me as well!

I shouted at her, then broke down in tears, gasping for breath, until I couldn't speak a full sentence.
She frowned and said she was very grateful to me, but she had more important things to attend to. She had learned from that figure about a place that might hold the answers for her. So, she wanted to go to that place to search for the answers.
I asked her where that place was, but she wouldn't tell me. She just kept insisting that she needed to go there to find the answers.
I cried and asked her if she didn't have even the smallest thought of wanting to stay.
She said she was grateful for everything I had done for her, but to her, finding the answers to her questions was more important.
I leaned against her, listening and crying. Eventually, I was enveloped in a warm, comforting feeling and fell asleep.

When I woke up, I found myself wrapped in a thick blanket, and she was sitting nearby, carefully cleaning the KSVK gun.
Seeing me awake, she gave me a bright smile.
"Good morning, Gloria. But from now on, call me KSVK, that's my real name."
I stared blankly at her smile and could only muster one question in the end.
"Don't you want the name 'Beryl' anymore? Are we still friends?"
"You're definitely my friend, but my true name has now returned to me through this fateful encounter."

Beryl—no, KSVK—was different from before.
I suddenly had a premonition that, even though her authorizations were still with Mom and she hadn't saved enough money to leave yet, once those conditions were met, the person smiling at me now would soon be gone.
And I couldn't stop it.
Just like Mom always told me: "You can't control everything, Gloria."

May 31st, A Gift for Her

This time, I didn't mention to Mom that KSVK wanted to leave. I just hoped that she would stay here a little longer before she departed. Mom, agreed upon my request to give her some extra money so that she would leave with a better impression of everyone here...
The more missions we took on, the more money she earned from completing them, and the more I felt that her departure was drawing near.

I thought about it for a long time and realized that everything I did for her was only hastening the moment she would leave me.

...She was so desperate for answers that—just hearing some information from a captured Doll make her resolved to leave.
What kind of place is it? Can she really get the answers there? Why can't she take everyone, including me, with her to that place?
But she said it was a journey she had to undertake alone, and only she could fulfill her destined mission.
Alone.

...Alone.
It took me a long time to come to terms with this. The last thing I could do was to offer her my blessing before she departed.
There wasn't much I could do. Since I've always enjoyed assembling simple things, I spent the night putting together a tiny motorcycle with nuts and bolts, about the size of my hand.
Tomorrow, I'm going to give her this gift.

June 1st, Why?!

Why?! Why did things turn out like this?! Just as I was about to give her the scooter, she shot at Mom!
Mom... Mom was bleeding heavily and lost consciousness... Everyone was terrified!
I tried to stop Mom's bleeding, but no matter how hard I worked, the blood kept flowing!
At that moment, she... she actually came over and told me I could use gunpowder to temporarily treat the wound, saying it was just a scratch and wouldn't be life-threatening...

Bastard! How could she say that! Mom... Mom kept bleeding, and the ground was soaked with her blood... But I couldn't bring myself to doubt her. The bounty hunters had all hidden, too scared to confront her... At that moment, Mom only had me... But my legs had gone weak... my hands wouldn't obey, and I couldn't even reach the gunpowder... She... she treated Mom's wound right in front of me...
Mom stopped bleeding, and I cried as I yelled at her.
"Why! Why did you do this! Because you didn't like the name I gave you? Because Mom changed your authorizations? Even so, you shouldn't have shot at Mom—!"
She looked at me, then glanced down at the scooter I had dropped on the ground, the gift I had prepared for her.

"I'm sorry, Gloria... I had no choice."
"No choice?! Is there something you can't tell me?! Aren't we friends...? Can't you tell me what you need?!"
"...Your mother wanted to sell me. She felt she couldn't control me anymore."
I turned to look at everyone hiding, and they quickly withdrew their heads, not daring to look this way.
"...Everything is as you see. I'm leaving, Gloria. The one who truly owns my authorizations isn't your mother, it's... it's..."
"Who is it?"
"I... I can't remember... But it's a very kind person... My... commander. I want to go back to that person."
The place I'm going to... might have the answers. Until I find that person, my authorizations can only belong to me."

She looked at me and bent down.
"Only by leaving here can I find all the answers," she said softly, after a moment's hesitation. "I'm sorry." Under the pitch-black night sky of the Yellow Zone, there was nothing but the occasional twinkling of stars and her hair, which looked like fluffy dog ears.
She straightened up and quickly left.
She left, having hurt my family and me... and just like that, she was gone...
Finally... everything about her is coming to an end.

"Gloria, the truth lies within the fog. I'm going to search for the truth, and I hope you find your own truth as well."
She walked far away, stopped, turned to glance at me, and left me with her final words.

The truth...?
What does that mean?
...Will I see you again? Should I see you again?

Unanswered Prayers

Unlocked with Eutis.

Summary

Tiwan is a scavenger, a follower of the old faith and founder of the Aion Mutual Aid Society. With another scavenger named Toka, they scour the ruins of the Yellow Zone in search of interesting loot, until Toka becomes afflicated with ELID. To help him, Tiwan buys on the undergorund market a brew called Eutis, which relieves the pain of ELID. As Eutis starts circulating among the Mutual Aid Society members, they develop strange behaviors and eventualy disappear. Tiwan refuses to drink Eutis and relies on his faith, until he also contracts ELID and can no longer bear the pain. After running out of money to buy Eutis, Tiwan is visited by a strange man who brings him to Paradeus.

Eutis makes another appearance in Ex Umbra under the translation “Erdis”.

May 3rd, Thank the Gods for Their Protection

I opened my eyes and saw that the electronic clock by my bedside showed 06:█. The screen was half-broken, so I couldn't read the last digit. Luckily, Toka wouldn't come looking for me until 7.
Although I didn't know how much time was left until 7, it should be enough for my daily morning prayer.

I stretched vigorously, and immediately heard a tearing sound from beneath me—the bed sheet had ripped, exposing the bare wooden board underneath.
Living in the Contamination Zone, having a wooden board was already a luxury, so this small mishap didn't affect my mood.

I took out the prayer card from under my pillow. It was so worn from frequent use that it had become tattered, but I was ready to start my day with prayer.
If Grandmother were still alive, she'd surely give me a good scolding for not being able to recite this short prayer by heart.
However, I wasn't a devout believer; it was just a habit I developed because my grandmother raised me.

What should I pray for?
There didn't seem to be anything in particular to pray for, so I just hoped for a smooth mission today.

After finishing my prayer, I quickly donned my protective suit. I hadn't properly organized my tools after last time's scavenging, and now they were scattered all over the floor.
At that moment, there was a thunderous knocking on the door. It had to be Toka.

"My God, how are you not ready yet?" Toka, seeing me getting dressed, let out a shocked exclamation.
"Stop shouting and come in." Toka said our destination coordinates had changed again because the area we selected last time had been enclosed by the purification zone, so we would have to continue further in.
"The new coordinates are closer to the red zone. What bad luck. Oh, I almost forgot—did you bring that detection device?"
"Yes, I brought it. Does this flower really detect collapse radiation? It looks pretty similar to the flowers Mrs. Mary next door grows."
"Who knows? I've heard it's some new type of artificially cultivated collapse epiphyllum. There are various claims about how it blooms, but no one has actually seen it bloom, so who knows if it's true. This time, the destination is too close to the red zone. Just bring it along, better safe than sorry."

Toka was very upset, always feeling that his health was deteriorating due to too much radiation. I thought he was overreacting; his protective suit was thicker than anyone else's.
However, the more dangerous the area, the greater the potential rewards. If we're lucky, we might come across some relics from bounty hunters or scavengers and make a small profit. May God bless me with many treasures.

"You should pray to your deity to keep you from getting infected with E.L.I.D.!"
"Toka, you're right. I'll go put on a few more layers of clothing."
"Get lost, you!"

May 14th, This Might Be the Last Time

A few days ago, I sold the gun I found to an underground broker for a good price. As the founder of the Mutual Aid Society, I decided to treat everyone to a good drink at the tavern, hoping it might lift everyone's spirits after many days of low morale.
The Aion Mutual Aid Society was based on my grandmother's last wishes, but its founding has more to do with my own desires.
Life in the Yellow Zone is extremely harsh, and mental breakdowns are commonplace. Collapse radiation, the Varjager, the ELIDs, and even those cannibalistic armies!
What are they called now? The Great Wall Railway Garrison? Each of them is enough to drive people to madness, with many having committed suicide because they couldn't endure it any longer.
My idea isn't anything special: a day is still a day, no matter if you spend it cowering in fear or reveling in joy. So why not choose the happier option for everyone's sake?
There are simply too many worries, and without adjusting your mindset, you can't survive in this world.

The Mutual Aid Society hosts two regular sharing events each week, where members gather to exchange information and occasionally offer each other comfort and encouragement.
Announcements for each session are posted on the notice board outside the tavern a few days in advance. Those who wish to participate sign up under the announcement and check in on the day of the event. Typically, there are about 20 regular attendees. The old warehouse makes our usual venue, but occasionally, it can be at the tavern like today.
However, it seems that fewer people showed up today. I sarcastically think to myself, what if this is the last session?

The tavern owner greeted us rather warmly. Liquor in the Yellow Zone isn't top-shelf by any stretch of imagination. What gets trickled down here is mostly low-quality booze that even the Great Wall Railway Garrison wouldn't bother with. And only with the owner watering it down that the price finally becomes tolerable.
Those high-quality alcohols are reserved for the big shots in the White Zone. People like us can't even dream of it. Even so, many people—especially those tormented by ELID symptoms—prefer to seek instantaneous relief, using alcohol to numb themselves for a brief moment of happiness.
I've always despised such self-deception, not to mention that liquor smells like it's mixed with horse urine; incredibly difficult to swallow

Thirteen showed up for today's event.
The Taylors, seeking to earn more money, joined a hunter team by the recommendation of an underground broker and went to the Red Zone, never to return. They left behind their 11-year-old child. I asked Evan to bring that boy some Sardis gold. May God bless him and help him survive!
Lix and Fendi, unable to endure life in the Yellow Zone anymore, have decided to smuggle into the Green Zone for a chance at better luck. I hope everything goes well for them.

My turn is coming up. What should I say? As the founder of the Mutual Aid Society, I need to say something to lift the gloomy atmosphere. Maybe something cheerful?
Something cheerful...? This morning, while getting up for my prayer, I found a rat by my bed, caught it, and made dried rat meat... Does that count as cheerful?
I'm even scraping the bottom of the barrel that is my brain for dad jokes.

Just as I'm about to speak, a sudden loud crash rings out from beside me. Toka overturns the table, shattering the tableware and toppling the nearby objects. He curses loudly, "Damn it!" Then begins to bawl.
The atmosphere becomes even more grave as everyone rush to comfort him. However, I have no idea what's going on! I'm racking my brain in an attempt to remember what had happened to him recently...

Toka seemed down today. He was sitting there drinking all by himself as soon as he arrived.
A few days ago, he complained of being too exhausted to even bend his back and had me carry all the tools. Even before that, he had a persistent high fever and joked about being afflicted with E.L.I.D.

...I think I know what happened.
The event ends abruptly. Toka is still in a bad mood, not that mine is much better either.
I sit next to him and tell him I'm sorry. I tell him that as long as we hold onto hope, everything will eventually get better. Toka keeps downing shot after shot, saying it helps alleviate the pain.
Seeing Toka pass out drunk, the tavern owner comes over and asks, "Do you know about Eutis?"
I shake my head.
The owner continues mysteriously, "I've heard it's a drink with anti-ELID ingredients that can effectively alleviate pain. The drug's low concentration allows it to be smuggled out of the White Zone and sold underground like a beverage. This stuff has been selling like crazy in the Contamination Zone lately. I've got some in stock here too. If your friend is really struggling, he might want to give it a try.

I have never heard of this pain-relieving drug the tavern owner mentioned. According to him, it has almost no side effects, except for its high price.
But, I haven't given up yet!

May 27th, Things Are Slowly Improving

Thank the Almighty, that everything is gradually improving.
After that day, Toka and I tried to locate the medical teams operating in the Yellow Zones, but we found nothing. I even thought about secretly smuggling Toka into the Green Zones. So long as he could receive the anti-E.L.I.D. vaccine, everything would be set.

But we were mistaken; someone with E.L.I.D. as advanced as Toka's couldn't possibly enter the Green Zones! Never mind the medical fees, we couldn't even cover the toll charged by the Great Wall Railway Garrison.
I could hardly believe it—how much money would that even cost? We could never earn that much in a lifetime—damn it!

Toka's condition continued to worsen, with pain becoming more frequent, making it impossible for him to take on missions or go gold panning anymore.
Although the members of the Mutual Aid Society still dared to interact with him, others avoided him like the plague.
Toka was in immense pain, even asking me to simply wait to kill him later so that the collapse pieces on his body could help improve my life.
Hearing that shattered my heart.
Omniscient and omnipotent God, is there truly no other option for E.L.I.D. patients in the Yellow Zones besides waiting for death?

...

We seem to have one more option.
Erdis, the drug that supposedly treats E.L.I.D.

...

I found the tavern owner and bought from him the Erdis drug he mentioned.
"You finally came... This is his trial for you, to enter your bones and blood, to become part of you. You must endure; once you endure it... the trial will cease to exist... and will become a blessing... By then, we will be together..." The owner mumbled these words while handing over the goods, but time was pressing, and I couldn't afford to pay much attention to his ramblings.

After Toka took Erdis, he seemed to come back to life. A man like him hugged me and cried for a full ten minutes.
To buy more Erdis, he worked even harder at gold panning. Maybe that's a good thing?

The Mutual Aid Society returned to its usual state, which was a relief. Outsiders even came to ask what miraculous medicine I had given to Toka.
I introduced Erdis to more people suffering from E.L.I.D. Although it wasn't cheap, it was still tolerable as a medication.
Hearing their gratitude, perhaps due to vanity, I felt quite satisfied.

...

Toka didn't seem quite right today.
"Me? I'm fine, hahaha..." Toka's face was flushed, seeming somewhat euphoric.
"Tiwan, do you suppose the tavern owner was watering down the Eutis? I used to manage with just one bottle for several days, but now I need two!" I looked at Toka with concern. Although his complexion was now rosy, there were faint hard protrusions on his skin. Could it be? Could it be...? No! It's impossible! Eutis contains anti-E.L.I.D. ingredients. That's a fact! I've heard from others that everyone has different reactions. This must be one of them. I tentatively suggested to Toka that it might be a good time to stop the medication, but he protested that he couldn't quit.

"Having glimpsed paradise, who would willingly return to the torment of hell?!"

I cautioned others against becoming too reliant on Erdis, but looks like it was already too late.
On the other hand, Dima, who had already been taking Erdis for a while, was dancing around and acting as if he were drunk.
Marty, who had come with him before, hadn't been seen for several days, and no one knew where she had gone.
I felt uneasy, so I plan to search the places she frequently visited after today's activities.

July 13th, The Gods Aren't Listening

It's over. I've contracted E.L.I.D. too.
The brown spots on my arm, revealed when I roll up my sleeve, remind me of this fact.
Initially, I thought it was just the flu and didn't pay much attention, but the situation has worsened recently.
I checked the symptoms of E.L.I.D., and just as the pamphlet described—abdominal pain, headaches, stiffness—they're all creeping up on me!

What should I do? I thought about Toka's previous situation, but I can't afford either the toll fee nor the medical expenses!
Damn it... my stomach hurts again.
Water, where's the water?

I tried to reach for the water, but my elbow suddenly wouldn't bend. What's going on?
Before I realized it, the water had been knocked over and soaked into the ground.
The pain is unbearable, as if someone is smashing my stomach with an iron rod...
I need to find something to distract myself... Oh, right, Toka hasn't been seen since our last conversation, and there's no sign of him at his home either.
I asked people to watch his usual spots, but there's been no trace of him. Where could he have gone? I need to find him...
And Dima, who recently had a child, hasn't been coming to the Mutual Aid Society much. I heard he...
No, it's no use, the pain isn't stopping...

...

August 9th, ...

I've been living with this pain for almost a month, and I don't know how I've managed to endure it.
The Mutual Aid Society hasn't held any activities for a long time. It's clear that any mindset can be shattered in the face of persistent pain.

It is already evening by the time I open my eyes again. Had I fainted?
The pain seems to have eased a bit now. As I gaze at the pitch-black ceiling, memories of my grandmother's death and the despair I felt when I couldn't save Toka come rushing back. Now, that same despair has fallen upon me.
Day after day, the physical pain torments my spirit. Despairing thoughts surge through my mind as I weakly grasp the bed frame, attempting to move my body slightly. Now, I finally realize how absurd my previous thoughts have been.

Almighty Creator, you who made me, please have mercy. If you hear my prayers, why do you not protect me? Is it because my prayers are not sincere enough, or because my sins have not yet been cleansed?

My consciousness gradually blurs amid the pain. I feel myself roll off the bed, with rats gnawing at my fingers. I didn't have the strength to shoo them away.
Am I really going to die like this?
I haven't brought happiness to more people, I haven't seen the world beyond the Yellow Zone, I haven't...

The faint sound of nibbling by my ear is amplified in the quiet night, tormenting my fragile nerves. The darkness was complete, but then I suddenly glimpsed a faint light.
I remembered... I remembered... my last lifeline!
It was in the second drawer to the left—Erdis, which I had bought on a whim at the tavern two days ago. Several times, I thought about drinking it but could never bring myself to do it.
I still wanted...
I still wanted to live!
...

Did something get knocked over? No, none of that is important now. There's only one thing that matters to me...
Where is it? I need to find it...

...

The cool liquid flows down my throat and into my body, and the pain seems to be carried away.
Ah... is this what heaven feels like?
I clench my fist. Although my fingers could only twitch slightly, I finally feel like a baby learning to walk again as I gradually regain control over my body.
This is what it feels like to be alive...

September 28th, There's No Money Left

What day is it today? My electronic watch is completely broken, stuck on 28 September.
I've sold everything I could from my home, and all that's left are a few small pieces of Sardis Gold. I need to find a way to make some money, or I won't be able to afford even food, let alone Eutis.
Thinking this, I couldn't help but swallow. That blissful sensation allows me to momentarily forget the pain. Call it escapism if you like, but if I could have even a moment without pain, I'd be willing to die for it.
No, no, I can't think like that.
Huh? How did I end up at the tavern door?

I jiggled the few coins left in my pocket and mentally rehearsed the scenario that might unfold: I would drag my stiff leg and laboriously walk into the tavern, then force myself to be friendly with the owner. "Hey, buddy, I'm a bit short on cash lately. Can you give me a few bottles of Eutis on credit?" Seeing me like this, given our relationship, he shouldn't refuse, right?

...

Spit! That damned snob, that cold-heated profiteer!
I knew it all along—we're just fish caught in his net. I had introduced so many customers to him and bought so much Eutis, yet he still refused to give me even a single bottle on credit!
He also said some incomprehensible things, like "endure the trial... to see Him..." I couldn't help but curse at him, and he threw me out the back door!
He was still muttering something like "another one."

Damn, the pain has started again. I collapsed to the ground, trying hard to stay conscious.
The thirst came back. Eutis, I need Eutis!

After a while, the door opened again. Despite it being broad daylight, a figure in a cloak emerged. His face was obscured by shadows, and he was adorned with peculiar decorations.
Who was he? Was it the owner? Hah, at least you still have a bit of conscience!
"He has given you the trial of pain. Accept it, endure it... to the eternal rest, where pain will no longer exist..."
A low, echoing voice filled my ears, unclear and indistinct. A hand appeared before me, glowing with a sacred light.
I reached out. That was...
Ah, it's Eutis...

...

Many people stood in front of me, including Toka, Matil, and Dima. Their expressions were serene, and their hands were crossed in front of their chests in an unfamiliar, strange shape resembling a stand.
I stepped forward, mimicking their gestures and joining them. My body felt light, gradually lifting off the ground.
I think I saw my grandmother. Grandmother, are you there too?
Together, we will go to eternal peace...

Comprehensive Black Zone Survey Report

Unlocked with Print Magazines.

Summary

After the Neo-Soviet large aperture satellite captures the first images from inside the "European explosion site" Black Zone, a student submits a report concluding that a type of civilized ELID has emerged in it. The conclusion is based on the observation of mysterious structures at the heart of the Black Zone and the emergence of several cults sharing similar beliefs related to ELID and Collapse Epihylla in the Yellow Zone. They fail to perceive the more pragmatic reasons for the presence of structures and the coordinated emergence of the cults.

The report is quickly dismissed as science-fiction.

Excerpt 1

Since the original explosion event in Europe, the current situation inside the Black Zones and whether there are still potential dangers within them have become concerns for many people.
However, due to various reasons, humanity lacks effective means to directly or indirectly enter the European original explosion site. As a result, our understanding of Black Zones is wholly insufficient.
Intense Collapse radiation will damage a drone's electronic components, but thick protective shells hinder performance and make extended flights impossible. High-altitude satellites have not been launched for a long time due to economic reasons, and most of the remaining ones are old and in poor repair, making them useless for this purpose.

It was only recently, when the Neo-Soviet Union began integrating with the URNC, that a large synthetic aperture radar built by the NSU in Ukraine was completed as a symbol of technological exchange and cooperation. This radar successfully performed remote scans of the Black Zone, finally granting us some insights into their internal conditions.

However, this limited understanding has only raised more questions. These issues prompted me to study the matter further.
After thoroughly collating our information on the Black Zone and other materials, I have reached a startling conclusion. This conclusion not only challenges our existing understanding of ELIDs and the Black Zones, but it may also end up overturning our current perception of the very field of biology. That's why I am substituting this report for my internship summary report—I believe a new type of ELID has emerged in the Black Zone. They may possess the ability to speak and even construct primitive buildings, indicating that they might have reached a certain level of civilization.

Naturally, I understand that this conclusion is so shocking that it is difficult to believe. Next, I will present all the useful information I have obtained.
I trust that after reviewing this, you will arrive at the same conclusion as I did.

Excerpt 2

Before the large synthetic aperture radar was put into use, humanity had never been able to directly observe conditions within the Black Zone. Even the weather inside the Black Zone could only be inferred from the surrounding areas.
According to current theories, the Black Zone near the European explosion site likely has dense cloud cover, localized convective weather patterns, and generally low temperatures throughout the year. Therefore, there should be prolonged rainfall within the Black Zone.
However, it is strange that the cloud layers within the Black Zone do not seem to dissipate. Remote spectral analysis also indicates the presence of unknown substances within these clouds.

Climatologists have various hypotheses regarding this phenomenon. I am not an expert in this field and cannot list these hypotheses in detail, but I mention this to illustrate how limited our understanding of the Black Zone is. Fortunately, with the successful development of the large synthetic aperture radar, we can now finally get a glimpse into the mysterious interior of the Black Zone. This technology was developed by...

...

According to the remote sensing images from the large synthetic aperture radar, the terrain in the Black Zone near the European explosion site now shows a transition from the crater's depression outward to increasingly flat terrain.
Naturally, this is entirely due to the explosion of the ruins, which is why human architectural remains are rarely found within the Black Zone. The surface of the Black Zone, as seen in the images, features prominent giant spike-like structures, which I tentatively refer to as "earth spires."
Strangely, the remote sensing images also reveal some indistinct structures that appear more orderly and systematically arranged than the earth spires. Geographical researchers believe these might be natural phenomena resulting from the unknown properties of collapse particles. These structures may reflect the microscopic properties of collapse particles on a macroscopic scale under certain conditions.
However, I believe these structures exhibit characteristics similar to human architecture, clearly indicating a form of intentional and rational construction activity.

...

Of course, the evidence presented above alone is not enough to prove the presence of intelligent biological activity within the Black Zone.
The remote sensing images are unclear and may be subject to misinterpretation, but the following information about the residents of the Yellow Zone can provide evidence...

Excerpt 3

...
However, in the special annual edition of Caucasus Today titled Cultural Investigation of Yellow Zone Residents, I found a report from a B.R.I.E.F bounty hunter.
The bounty hunter reported that during a mission, they got lost and arrived at a settlement not far from the Red Zone. They found that the customs and habits of the Yellow Zone residents there were distinctly different from those in other settlements.
I will transcribe the testimony provided by this bounty hunter below...

...

"I was invited into their settlement. Their architectural style was unlike anything I'd ever seen before—crooked high-rise buildings that seemed to be modeled after dead trees. I can't imagine why anyone would want to live in such houses.
Moreover, most of them had severe E.L.I.D. symptoms. Can you believe it? They even had patients with more severe symptoms, whose bodies were already silicified, embrace those with milder symptoms! They referred to it as 'spreading the gospel,' claiming that those who could avoid silicification were chosen by God! Damn, I feel like I'm going crazy just like them.
They also have certain... rituals. I observed one of them in its entirety. They somehow obtained a small cluster of Collapse Epiphyllum, placed it in a glass container, and every day at noon, they would form a circle around it, bending slightly at the waist, crossing their hands, making strange gestures, and walking around it three times.
These residents would also... I can't go on. I need a moment.
They would kiss the Collapse Epiphyllum. A person in a black robe would shout that the Collapse Epiphyllum would select the chosen ones. Those who did not become silicified could enter the realm of the gods. Then, one by one, they knelt and kissed the Collapse Epiphyllum. Can you imagine that? Kissing the Collapse Epiphyllum!

They claimed that the Collapse Epiphyllum was a divine gift and that through it, God's gospel would resonate across the earth, among other such mad ramblings. They also claimed that the person holding the Collapse Epiphyllum could communicate with it, and that God's will would manifest through the Collapse Epiphyllum, demanding that everyone follow its dictates, and so on.
Listening to the bureaucrats in URNC was already unsettling enough, but listening to a plant? No, thank you.
Moreover, judging by their attitude, it seemed they wanted to recruit me as one of their followers. These E.L.I.D. patients even tried to infect me.
Luckily, I was quick-witted enough to find an opportunity to escape..."

Excerpt 4

If this bounty hunter's report were the only evidence, it would only suggest that he might be sensationalizing or that this is just another legend from the Yellow Zone.
However, as I collected more and more information, I became increasingly convinced that certain factors within the Black Zone have influenced the cultural development of the Yellow Zone residents.
Several months ago, a bounty hunter reported encountering unusual Yellow Zone residents who spoke about a "tall, multi-limbed god of purification" related to the Black Zone. He also recorded the resident's speech. Instead of summarizing it, I present the original material below.

Original Audio Record of Yellow Zone Resident:
"Blessed are the afflicted. What you endure is not a disease but the holy call of the saints.
For what you have received is not a disease but the divine calling of the saints; those silicified marks are proof of your summons!
"The Collapse Epiphyllum will choose the elect. The chosen ones will endure pain. But do not be afraid; pain is the path we must walk. Through pain, both body and mind will be purified, and our pure souls will be dedicated to the gods...
"Come, follow me. Kiss the Collapse Epiphyllum. Let it select the pure of heart. Then we shall go to the place where the gods reside, the staircase to heaven.
And in the glory of the gods, the chosen will receive eternal life, an everlasting life free from pain..."

At first glance, this might seem like the ravings of a madman, but as I have shown earlier, these are not isolated cases.
At an unknown time, a cultural upheaval erupted in the Yellow Zone, but the source of this upheaval remains unknown.
Given that all evidence, whether firsthand or secondhand, points to the Black Zone, it is reasonable to believe that something must have occurred within the Black Zone that led to the emergence of a new culture among the Yellow Zone residents...

Excerpt 5

...

Therefore, based on these materials, I have reached a reasonable conclusion: a new, intelligent type of Ruins has emerged in the Black Zone.

What I mean is—clearly—they are able to build structures using Collapse Crystals, as only intelligent Ruins could potentially survive in the Black Zone.
However, to construct even the simplest type of building requires complex coordination and division of labor, which in turn necessitates a sophisticated means of communication—language. Hence, it can be inferred that these Exiles likely possess language capabilities...

My unimaginative colleagues may dismiss my theory as mere baseless fantasy, but they too cannot explain why the Yellow Zone residents have developed such a distinct culture.
Of course, they might propose a sophisticated model, but these are just castles built on sand, collapsing with the slightest doubt.
No matter how refined a model, it is not a fact. The sudden outbreak of religious culture among the Yellow Zone residents and their highly uniform interpretations of their beliefs and the Black Zone indicates that they likely came into contact with these new types of ELID(s). It is possible that these ELID(s) accidentally emerged from the Black Zone and were observed by the Yellow Zone residents, leading to the development of their unique culture...

...

Based on this, I believe the Department of Yellow Zone Affairs should establish a new division specifically to investigate the Black Zone. My work can serve as the starting point, and this report will be the foundation...

Response

Write your science fiction at home; don't bring it into your work. This report is not approved. I'll give you another chance, but if you keep spouting nonsense, you'll be given the boot immediately.

Crack

Unlocked with Large Material Boxes.

Summary

Warrant Officer Dmitry (not yet demoted to First Sergeant) is in charge of Great Wall Railway Purification Section W_2067_0341. As he's losing his section to the highly infectious HFRS Virus, one of his old comrades from the Neo-Soviet Union, Alexey, finds a batch of medical supplies and a Doll medic named Nadiya are suddenly found near the wall. Dmitry doesn't trust the loyalty of Dolls due to his own military models turning on him during the fall of General Carter. He only allows to put Nadiya to work as a medical assistant after thoroughly verifying her systems. Nadiya's help allows the garrison to better contain the virus, and more of Dmitry's soldiers are opposed to his reluctance to let Dolls perform medical duties. Dmitry eventually caves in after the human medics are contaminated by medical waste that Nadiya couldn't clean up in time due to an oversight in her recharging schedule.

Just as the epidemic is controlled, W_2067_0341 suffers a devastating Varjagers attack. Dmitry discovers that Nadiya's medical waste dumping job was a cover to steal medical supplies and bring Varjager forces inside the train. While the URNC investigators suspect that Alexey is actually the mastermind behind the incident, Dmitry refuses to doubt his own men and puts the blame entirely on Nadiya.

October 23rd

"...Written above is the monthly mission report. Additionally, the number of HFRS Virus infections is showing an upward trend, with this week's new infection rate at 140% of last week's figure, accounting for 26.3% of the current personnel. There are currently 43 medics, of which 4 were lost this week due to HFRS Virus infection. Medical supplies are insufficient, and the continued reduction of medics will lead to a decrease in the security and safety of the current Great Wall Railway garrison section. Please provide instructions on how to handle this..."
After some thought, I deleted the last sentence and changed it to "Please provide instructions for subsequent countermeasures," then I hit send.
The progress bar slowly crawled forward, completely ignoring my current urge to rush over and grab those so-called "superiors" by the collar and help knock some sense into their heads.

"Ding–"
Oh, that was quick. A reply already? And a video call? Hmph, it seems these superiors have finally realized how serious this matter is.
I slapped the answer button, and the interface that popped up in front of me flickered twice. I couldn't help but shake my leg nervously. Clearing my throat and pressing down the raised collar– those URNC officers in charge of the Great Wall Railway Force may not have a high rank, but they were very authoritative. They don't care about anything else but "military appearance" first. Since being assigned to this broken Great Wall Railway half a year ago, I haven't had a single peaceful day. If it were back in our former Neo-Soviet Union days–
No, the most important thing now is to solve this predicament with the HFRS Virus.

"Dmitry, Warrant Officer of the Great Wall Railway Purification Section W_2067_0341, reporting, sir!"
"...Uh... Sir...?"
Appearing along with the interface was the voice of Alexey Balabanov, the captain of the third patrol team that was on duty today. He has been with me since my time in the Neo-Soviet Union.

"...Kid, what are you calling for at this time? Judging by the time, your patrol should be ending, right? We're short on manpower right now, so hurry up and get back to work."
"Reporting, sir! The third patrol team discovered an unidentified object near the QU_01 elevator entrance!"
"You need to report such a small matter to me? Have you forgotten what's written in Chapter 3, Article 7 of the handbook?" I was slightly impatient. These young recruits are obedient but consequently too rigid.
The HFRS Virus situation is already frustrating enough, and I have to deal with their trivial matters every few days. This kind of highly infectious common strain, as long as sufficient medical personnel and supplies are allocated according to military regulations, can be quickly controlled. But the superiors always brush off my supply requests.
Thinking of this, I immediately decided to draft yet another application. However, this time, Alexey's voice came through again.

"But sir–"
Tsk, why hasn't this call ended yet?
"But what? The handbook states it clearly! Eliminate the danger, and destroy it on-site! Got it? We're short on manpower, patrol teams are down 50%, what, did your eyesight get cut in half too?!"
Perhaps my attitude was too overbearing, I thought, but Alexey suddenly quickened his speech.
"Sir, the Vebryan concentration test is normal, the possibility of explosives has been ruled out, and the unknown object poses no danger! The demolition order has been executed, but we found medical supplies inside! Some were damaged by the blast, but the rest is still usable. I thought– maybe–"

Medical supplies?
...Did I really get that lucky?
Heh, I thought I had exhausted all my luck on the front lines.
However, the sudden appearance of medical supplies at this point made it hard for me not to be suspicious. Still, with the number of infected personal reaching 26.3%, and inching close to the 30% critical threshold. If those brain-dead superiors don't send over the personnel and supplies we need, then we may not even survive this winter.
At this stage, we can only take things one step at a time. I sighed and issued an order to Alexey–
"Bring it back. Process it according to Chapter 5, Article 11 of the handbook. Once processed, inventory the supply and distribute it to each team according to priority, then send the report to me. Move quickly!"

The patrol team returned soon after, and the inspection report was soon in my communication terminal. Alexey also stood in front of me along with the inspection report.
"I told you to bring back medical supplies, but you didn't notice that there was a medical Doll with said supplies?"
"No, sir, I– I thought this was a medical Doll and might be of help..."
Alexey's face flushed red as he stammered out his reason.

"A medical Doll?"
"Yes! The inspection report has been sent to your terminal, you can check it now!"
Alexey raised his voice slightly and answered quickly.
Taking a deep breath, I switched the interface back from the unread list and carefully read the report Alexey sent over again–
The report confirmed that although a fire-control core was installed, it was indeed a medical Doll. And right now, I am in desperate need of a large amount of medical supplies and medics.
I gritted my teeth.

"Alright, consolidate and compile the current medical shortages of each team and make another report for me. And kid, well done."
"Yes, sir!"
Hearing the praise, Alexey immediately showed a smile.
"Then, get somebody from the security department and do a full inspection of this Doll. As a precaution, signal jam the storage room where that batch of supplies went first. Dolls aren't cheap, make sure that it's not some sort of spying device sent from elsewhere."
"Understood!" Alexey was about to run out the door immediately.
"Get back here!"
"Y-Yes... sir?"

"If it's confirmed safe, assign that Doll to the medical team, remove the fire-control module, and only give it basic support tasks."
After a moment's thought, I added,
"Also, have the security department people add a self-destruct device to the Doll that can be remotely controlled. Once installed, hand the controller to me."
"Yes, sir!" Alexey quickly ran out.
If we weren't so short on manpower right now, I definitely wouldn't let a Doll join my team. Those things that immediately change sides once their permissions are altered. I've seen this happen countless times on the front lines.
...But now, I need to use all possible means to bring down the infection rate down as soon as possible.

November 11th

"Hey, esteemed Warrant Officer Dmitry, this is the first time you're actively contacting me. Seems like there must be a big problem."
"Cut the crap. You've made quite a bit recently, haven't you? Do you have any medical supplies? I need some right now, I've sent you the list."
"Oh my, even for me, It's difficult to gather this much right away... I can ask around for you, but–"
That underground broker on the other end might as well have the word "extortion" written across their face.
Suppressing the irritation in my heart, I softened my voice in response–
"Next time, when entering and exiting the Contamination Zone, I'll take less of your share."
"Then, thank you kindly!"
If it weren't for those so-called superiors still giving me that useless bureaucratic nonsense, and still refusing to allocate even half a crate of supplies, I wouldn't have actively contacted the underground broker. However, even underground brokers are much easier to deal with than those people.
Sighing heavily, after confirming the arrival time of the supplies from the underground broker, I cut off the communication.
Rubbing my sore eyes, I was about to rest for a few minutes when there was a loud knocking on the office door. I immediately straightened up and gave an order to the person outside.

"Come in."
"Yes, sir!"
The soldier knocking on the door pushed it open, and the cold winter wind immediately rushed in. It was Alexey, the leader of yesterday's patrol team. His hair was blown all over the place, and he firmly held a paper report in his hand to prevent it from being blown away.
"Sir, this week's medical report!"
He placed the report in front of me. I flipped through the report while he nervously stood to my side, seeming to want to say something.

"The number of infections has dropped to 20%, progress has been made."
After reading the report, I felt somewhat more at ease.
"Sir, since we assigned the work that requires repetitive labor to Nadiya, the medics have had more time to take care of the patients."
"Nadiya? You even gave a broken machine a name?"
"She said it herself... Uh, I thought it was necessary to have a code name for task assignments?"
"Fine. Keep a close eye on it for me. For a broken machine, just doing this kind of simple, unskilled menial work is enough."
"But sir, Nadiya has indeed helped us a lot, especially in handling post-treatments tasks for patients."

"Post-treatment?" I tightened my grip on the report in my hand. "I gave an order not to allow that Nadiya to directly interact with patients, did you all forget?"
"No, no! She is only responsible for distributing supplies and waste disposal, Sir, you can rest assured! But sir–"
Alexey showed a very difficult expression, seeming to find it hard to say what was coming next.

I furrowed my brows, feeling a bit frustrated at his stubbornness, and slammed the paper report on the table.
"If you have something to say, say it quickly. You've followed me for so many years, yet you're still timid and acting like a coward!"
"Yes, sir!"
Alexey immediately stood up straight, adjusted his expression, and gave me a formal salute.

"Sir, I was thinking... about the possibility of further utilizing Dolls for medical services. Although Nadiya alleviated some of the medical pressure, it's still limited. There are still so many civilian Dolls that are not being utilized, couldn't we also let them..."
I abruptly stood up and threw the pen across the room.
"What nonsense are you spouting! Whose idea was this?"
"It's–it's the leader of the medics, Koehler. Nadiya discussed it with him about this matter, and we all think it's feasible..."
"Feasible, feasible my ass! Use your brain and think! Letting these hunks of metal interact with so many patients, once their permissions are compromised, who do you think will suffer?!"
"But sir, as long as we can control these Dolls, everyone can get through this virus outbreak faster..."
I stared into his eyes and enunciated every word clearly, "Control– do you think these hunks of metal are so easy to control? As long as someone can alter their permissions, no matter how much you've trust them before, how smoothly you worked with them, these hunks of metal can all turn hostile in an instant, pointing their guns at you!"

He visibly trembled under my gaze.
"They are machines, not humans. Don't treat them the way you treat humans. Machines deserve to be treated as machines. Now, get out!"
"Yes, sir..."
He nodded dejectedly, ready to leave my office.

Before he left, I suddenly remembered something and called out to him.
"By the way, strictly monitor that Doll. Immediately report to me if there are any abnormalities. Also, warn the others not to interact with it or pay attention to it!"
"Yes, sir!"
He turned around, stomped his feet in a formal response, and then left.
Even though he said "yes," his expression clearly wrote "I'm not convinced." Tsk, this kid, having not been betrayed by those hunks of metal, he doesn't know what reality truly is.

November 20th

Today, the Varjagers dared to breach our defense, but I quickly led the Great Wall Railway Force and drove them back.
These audacious fools! While the Great Wall Railway Force has indeed suffered from the virus, our weapons, ammunition, and equipment remain plentiful. Who gave them the courage to act so brazenly?
Did they think they could take advantage of our situation and target the Great Wall Railway Force?

Before I had time to dwell further on the situation, a red dot blinked on my terminal screen, notifying me of a new email.
"Dear Warrant Officer Dmitry, we regret to inform you..."
It was a response to the email I sent yesterday. I slammed my fist on the desk, producing a loud "bang."
I've read this opening line at least a dozen times–it's always the same empty platitudes!
Knowing it would yield nothing new, I simply shut off the communication terminal.

"Sir, urgent medical intelligence report!"
There was a light knock at the door before the head of the medics, Allen Koehler, entered with a report. I remembered him–Alexei had mentioned him before.
It was him and that Nadiya who proposed using civilian Dolls for medical purposes.
Before he joined us, he had been with the German army, but he never saw frontline combat.
Now, my mood soured further due to the bureaucratic nonsense from my superiors, and Koehler's face didn't look any better.

"What's the situation? Speak."
"Yes, sir." Koehler took a deep breath. "Sir, this afternoon, while you were leading the Great Wall Railway Force to repel the Varjagers, thirteen medics were accidentally exposed to leaked medical waste. They have now been moved to the quarantine area."
"Thirteen medics unable to work? How will we keep up with medical demands? And the waste–"
I suddenly remembered something, fueling my anger.
"Medical waste! Wasn't that supposed to be handled by that iron lump called Nadiya? What is it doing?!"
"According to Nadiya, she was recharging at the time."
"Recharging?! Summon it here immediately! Also, pull up the records of the power usage history for its charging equipment!"

While I was leading the defense against the Varjagers, our medics were exposed to waste, and the Doll responsible for handling it was conveniently charging?
How coincidental. Suspicion welled up inside me, but I always insist on evidence. I wouldn't condemn a Doll without proof.
Within three minutes, one of the medics brought the Doll to me.
"Nadiya knows everything!"
It spoke before I could, and I couldn't help but frown deeply.
"What do you know? Without my permission, don't speak out of turn! Only answer what I ask!"
"Oh...N-Nadiya knows, now..."

The Doll's confident stance deflated, and it glanced nervously at Koehler.
Koehler gave it a reassuring nod.
A smile reappeared on the iron lump's face.
I didn't care about the bond they seemed to share–I just wanted to understand what happened to the medics who were exposed to the waste.

"Nadiya, where were you between 1600 and 1800 today, and what were you doing?"
"Well... Normally, Nadiya would be clearing up the medical waste at that time, but since I hadn't received any power since last night, so I went to recharge!"
Koehler handed me the equipment usage record that I requested. I reviewed and compared it carefully but found nothing suspicious.
"Sir... Has Nadiya done something wrong?"
The iron lump looked at me with an anxious expression.
Hah, a machine made of electronic components, yet it mimics emotions similar to a human's?
I didn't respond to Nadiya, but instead turned to Koehler: "Are these records guaranteed to be accurate?"
Koehler nodded immediately, as if reading my thoughts, and quickly added, "Absolutely accurate, sir! My only concern is ensuring that everyone recovers and we get through this crisis! I would never cover for anyone, even a Doll, for personal reasons."

"Hmm, you'd better not be."
I threw the records back at him.
"Alright, you're dismissed. Make sure all this medical waste is properly cleaned up, and don't let something like this happen again!"
I said this firmly, but neither Koehler nor the iron lump moved. To my annoyance, Nadiya even continued smiling at me.

"Is there anything else?"
"Well, sir, you might not like this proposal, but we all believe that this is the only solution to quickly alleviate the pressure on the medics. We simply don't have enough medical personnel to keep up with the demand..."
Koehler spoke carefully, clearly trying to avoid irritating me.
I could already guess what he was planning, and Nadiya wouldn't still be here if it wasn't related. I understood he was right, but...
A sense of unease crept over me. Staring at this smiling iron lump, I still couldn't bring myself to fully trust it.

"Go on, I'm listening."
"Yes, sir." Koehler nodded. "The proposal actually came from Nadiya. She suggests that we can modify some civilian Dolls currently performing basic support tasks, so they can assist with medical duties. This would help address the shortage of personnel to combat the HFRS virus."
The iron lump immediately beamed at me.
"Yes, sir! Nadiya really wants to help everyone recover as soon as possible!"
"You're both still here just to tell me this?"
Koehler lowered his head. "Yes, sir."
"Sir, this is the best way to get everyone to recover! Even if Nadiya annoys you, she had to speak up about this solution!"
"Hmph, you know you're an annoying piece of junk, don't you? Just a collection of useless circuits!"
"Well, Nadiya doesn't understand why the warrant officer thinks that way, but everyone's health is the priority. What does the warrant officer think of Nadiya's proposal?"

I stared at the Doll, its smile flawless, revealing no hidden agenda. Despite my lingering suspicion, I couldn't deny that the situation was as it said. And I had no better solution.
"Make sure this plan works, or you'll pay for it with your electronic brain! And you, Koehler, I expect no mistakes with this!"
"Sir...?"
"Notify the tech team to select 15 civilian Dolls, modify them into medical Dolls, and assign them to the medics."
"Yes, sir!"
Koehler was elated, barely containing his joy.
"You've made a brilliant decision, sir! Nadiya fully agrees and supports you!"
"You've received your orders–now get out of my sight and stop wasting my time!"
"Yes, sir!"

Both Nadiya and Koehler saluted and left the room, but my sense of unease only grew.
Can we really trust these machines again...?
As the war drew to its inevitable end, the hardliners' defeat was clear. I still vividly remember the chilling sight of those cold gun barrels, which, in the midst of consolidating equipment and supplies, suddenly turned on us.
No, I made no mistake. The higher-ups continue their bureaucratic nonsense, and the underground brokers' promised medical supplies are still nowhere to be seen. This is the best decision I can make under these circumstances.

December 13th

"The following is a progress report on the diagnosis and treatment–"
In the conference room, a Doll projected data from its neural records onto the shared screen, while Koehler placed a stack of paper reports in front of me.
"...In summary, sir, as of today, there have been no new cases of infected soldiers!"
"We currently have 40 medics and 15 medical Dolls. The infection rate has dropped to 15%, and the situation should be under control within two weeks. Next week, we can dismantle the two newly erected temporary isolation zones in the eastern sector of the Great Wall Train, which will help save some medical resources for everyone..."
The Doll in front of me was reporting in its usual, steady manner. Despite the seriousness of the situation, its tone remained upbeat, even bordering on lighthearted. But I never expected much from these iron lumps anyway.
That said, these Dolls did bring some good news.
The number of infections had dropped, proving that, as machines, they weren't entirely useless after all.

"Nadiya, looks like we really have to thank you this time!"
After the report ended, Koehler started chatting with the Doll. I frowned deeply–was I being too lenient with them? Is that why they feel so comfortable speaking so casually in front of me?
"Finish your report and get back to work. Stop wasting time chatting!"
"Yes, sir!"
They responded in unison as I impatiently waved them out of the conference room.

A few days later, just as Nadiya had reported, the soldiers' condition improved further. The infection rate continued to decline, and it seemed like the HFRS Virus was finally under control. This iron lump... Nadiya actually proved to be somewhat useful.
I went with some healthy soldiers to dismantle the extra quarantine zones.

The two eastern isolation zones were close to the internal elevator. We regularly used this elevator, along with the cranes, to move supplies and resources in and out efficiently. Now, soldiers were moving crates of usable materials into the crane, intending to transport everything out before the isolation walls were dismantled.
To my surprise, Nadiya and several other Dolls were there as well.
"Yes, after cross-checking, we need to dispose of 18 boxes of medical waste! If we leave them here, it could easily lead to secondary infections~"
As I approached, I could clearly hear Nadiya and the other Dolls organizing the work. This was indeed within their scope of duties.

Upon seeing me, Nadiya flashed a flawless smile.
"Warrant Officer Dmitry, hello! Nadiya and the others are clearing out the unnecessary medical waste!"
"Make sure you distinguish between medical waste and still-usable materials. Don't mix things up and throw out anything valuable!"
"Oh, don't worry, sir. We would never make a mistake in that regard. If you're still concerned, we can mark the boxes of medical waste with yellow paint and number them, so there's absolutely no confusion!"
"Alright. If you can't handle something this simple, you might as well scrap yourself. Now get back to work!"
"Yes, sir!"
Nadiya even saluted me, her smile unaffected by my harsh words.
Hmph, just a Doll being a Doll.
I waved them off, and they resumed their work.

Once the dismantling was complete, I headed back to my office for a brief rest. In the hallway, I encountered one of the guards on duty. He had been sick last month but was now back at his post.
"Sir!"
"Keep up the good work."
It seemed we were finally overcoming this virus, and everything was moving in the right direction. Perhaps now, I could afford a little rest.

BOOM–
What was that?!
I had just stepped into my office when a familiar explosion echoed in the distance, and the whole room started to shake violently!
The Great Wall Train's alarm blared, three short beeps followed by a long one–Level 1 Alert!
Turning around, I saw soldiers rushing into the hallway, responding swiftly to the alarm.

"Reporting, sir! We've spotted a large force of Varjagers closing in on the train's eastern defense line! They're approaching rapidly. Awaiting your orders!"
"Reporting, sir! The Varjagers are launching a surprise attack from within the recently dismantled temporary isolation zone!"
"Reporting, sir! Our personnel are surrounded by the Varjagers and are attempting to break through!"
Telegrams flooded in, and I could feel my anger rising.

"How could there be enemies inside the temporary isolation zone we just dismantled?! How did the Varjagers get in? We're inside the train! Did they tunnel in from underground?!"
"Sir, we're investigating the cause!"
I spat in frustration, grabbed the communication terminal, and began issuing orders.
"Units near the elevator, reinforce your defensive lines! Patrol teams in the decontamination zone, withdraw and flank the enemy! Don't let a single one escape!"
"Yes, sir!"

After we had forced the Varjagers back, I limped into my office, my left leg struck by shrapnel from high-velocity metal fragments, and slammed the door shut. I immediately contacted the logistics officer to assess the damage from the defense.
"...We've used 5.3 base units of various ammunition and 3.8 base units of artillery shells. The full casualty report is attached..."
"5.3 units?! Why did we use so much ammunition?!"
"Sir, the Varjager's attack caught us off guard, and it occurred in an area full of injured personnel. We had few soldiers available for a quick response force, and our combat efficiency was lower than usual, resulting in higher-than-normal ammunition consumption. Also, uh..."
"Also what? Spit it out!"
"3.2 base units of military supplies were stolen. We're still investigating the cause of the oversight..."
"What?! So much was stolen, and the logistics team missed it?!"
"The cause is still under investigation, sir. All the supplies were accounted for during last week's inventory check, but this time, it was as if the supplies vanished without a trace..."

Vanished–those words echoed in my mind as I suppressed my rage before asking the next question.
"Have we figured out how the Varjagers infiltrated the quarantine zone?"
"We're still investigating that as well..."
"Don't leave a single detail unchecked! Understood?!"
"Yes, sir!"

After ending the call, I forced myself to calm down and think through the situation.
I had just ordered the quarantine zone to be dismantled, and immediately afterward, the Varjagers swarmed in. A suspiciously large number of them, working in unison, and then, during the battle, our supplies were stolen–
There was a traitor.
I shot up from my seat, ignoring the pain shooting through my left leg from the sudden movement, and headed straight for the dismantled quarantine zone.
I had to see for myself who was behind this treachery!

At the scene, there were numerous bodies everywhere–both Varjager Gang members and my soldiers. Medics were tending to the heavily wounded, carrying them on stretchers to the field hospital.
In addition, several supply crates, broken beyond use, were piled near the elevator. The yellow-painted numbers on them stood out sharply.
I called over a medical Doll.
"Why are those crates of medical waste still here? What's Nadiya doing?!"
"Reporting, sir. Nadiya ordered us to move these crates from the quarantine zone using the elevator."
"Nadiya? Where is it?!" A sense of dread crept over me.
"She hasn't been seen since then, sir."
"What?!" I exploded in anger. "Why wasn't this reported?!"
"Sir, the time since Nadiya's disappearance hasn't yet reached the threshold required for a report."
"That's ridiculous! No one will accept that excuse! Where's Koehler? Get him here now!"
I shouted at the surrounding soldiers, but Koehler was nowhere to be found.
"The last sighting of Team Leader Koehler was near the elevator by the quarantine zone. That was before the last sighting of Nadiya."
"What?!"

The ominous feeling in my gut grew into trembling anger.
"Deactivate all medical Dolls immediately, and revoke all of Koehler's personal access permissions!"
This command caught the attention of the surrounding soldiers, who looked confused.
"Sir, are you sure...?"
"That's an order! And open those crates!"

Seeing my determination, the soldiers began opening the yellow-painted crates. As I suspected, there was no sign of medical waste inside. I had one of the soldiers climb inside, and they found that it was just big enough to fit a person.
At that moment, it became clear–Nadiya's so-called transportation of medical waste had been a cover for smuggling military supplies out and sneaking Varjagers into the train to coordinate the attack from within! And Koehler...
My anger boiled over. I pulled out the detonator and pressed the confirmation button without hesitation.
You deceitful iron lump, no matter where you are or who you're with, your fate is sealed–you're about to lose your electronic head!

January 1st

"It is with regret that I inform you of the death of Medic Team Leader Allen Koehler. His body was discovered three hours ago, hidden in a medical room near the isolation zone. Initial findings suggest he may have unintentionally stumbled upon the handoff between Nadiya and the Varjagers, leading to his demise by them."
"..."
"Warrant Officer Dmitry, based on the report you submitted to your superiors and our current investigations, there are several issues we need you to clarify."
The empty conference room contained only me and the investigation team members.
I nodded, and once the team confirmed that the recording and video equipment were functioning properly, they began their questioning.
"From your report, we have deduced the cause of this incident. An illegally activated Doll, Nadiya, of unknown origin, colluded with the Varjagers to ambush your forces and steal a large quantity of military supplies. Do you confirm this conclusion?"
I gritted my teeth.
"Confirmed."

"Very well. Now, regarding this matter, may I ask why you insisted on retrofitting Nadiya? Article 7, Chapter 3 of the URNC Army Code of Conduct and Regulations, clearly states that Dolls of unknown origin should be immediately destroyed."
"The Code also states that in the event of a widespread epidemic in the army, medical personnel and supplies should be deployed as a priority to prevent the disease from spreading. However, our formal requests for support were ignored."
I forced myself to stay calm as I refuted the investigator's accusation, reminding myself that instigating conflict with the investigation team would serve no purpose.
"The use of an unregistered Doll was a necessary decision made under exceptional circumstances."
"So, can we assume that you were completely unaware of Nadiya's collusion with the Varjagers at the time?"
"Yes."

"Then we have reason to suspect that the soldier who initially found Nadiya and suggested activating her might have questionable motives."
"You suspect Alexey?! That's impossible! He's been with me since my days in the Neo-Soviet Union. He would never betray me!"
"But that's merely your personal opinion, Warrant Officer Dmitry. The investigation team is interested in evidence. Protecting subordinates based on past relationships is not a wise course of action."
"What did you just say?!"
I couldn't contain my anger any longer. Ignoring the pain in my injured leg, I stood up abruptly and glared at the investigator.

He remained calm, unfazed by my outburst.
"I understand your anger, Warrant Officer Dmitry. But anger won't solve the problem, nor can it act as a substitute for evidence. I believe you're well aware of this."
"..."
I didn't respond, just staring into his cold, indifferent eyes.
"Good, it seems your anger hasn't completely clouded your judgment. We need to reach a consensus. My team will conduct a thorough investigation into Alexey Balabanov. Of course, we will inform you of the results, but to ensure the fairness of the investigation, you will need to remain uninvolved throughout the process."
Despite his respectful tone, it was clear he wasn't asking for my consent.
I glared at him coldly, and through gritted teeth, I gave my response.
"Investigate all you want–you won't find what you're looking for."
"Very well, thank you for your cooperation." The investigator merely nodded in response to my challenge, then turned to his subordinate. "You're in charge of this matter from now on..."

Their voices echoed around me, but I felt nothing but coldness inside. My heart sank, like it had been submerged in ice.
I recalled the soldiers, still injured and caught off guard by the Varjager's attack in the quarantine zone. Their cold, lifeless bodies seemed to silently accuse me of my failure. They had paid for my mistakes with their blood.
My knuckles cracked as I clenched my fists, and the howling wind outside the window seemed to mock my foolishness.
Dolls, these steel creations born out of necessity, were designed to mimic humans. But that's exactly what made them even more dangerous.

Never again. Never give them any authority. Never trust them for even a second.

Unknown Boojum Warning

Unlocked with Dirty Hair.

Summary

A BRIEF report about a new Boojum in Eastern Slovakia. Its appearance remains mysterious, but it is known to be six meters tall, impervious to bullets and with the intelligence of a predator.

Information regarding the emergence of a highly dangerous, new type of Boojum in the Slovakia region

Head: Christian Wood
Department: Intelligence Division, B.R.I.E.F., Lundak Branch
Report Date: 207██/██/██
Classified Level: B+

In the past week, our division has received a sharp increase in distress signals, most of which are linked to the area marked from SD233HX9-IU254SL0 to WE574GU3-VK923SH2.
Historical data suggests that such occurrences are often tied to the emergence of sudden, high-risk environmental factors within this region. To assist bounty hunters in planning their routes, our division will collect, analyze, and provide actionable advice based on these distress signals.

Below, we've compiled three representative communications. You may reference them to make informed decisions about your operations in the area.
If you have additional intel regarding this region, we encourage you to share it with us. Compensation will be offered based on the relevance and value of the information provided.

Reference for Content Information

Distress Communication Content (1)
Intelligence Level: B
Distress Date: 207â–ˆ Year â–ˆ Month â–ˆ Day
Publisher: Brian Herbert
Publisher Identity: Bounty Hunter

#Recording Start
00:00:01 (Intense panting, running, howling of a Collapse storm, unknown creature noises)
00:00:05 The coordinates are SX882VH1-23ND2... Watch out, get behind there!
00:00:07 23ND20KL... Come quickly, come save us!
00:00:15 (Intensified running sounds)
00:01:22 This is Bounty Hunter Henry, I've received your distress call, I'll be there in half an hour!
00:01:25 I'm Bounty Hunter Brian Herbert, we've taken refuge in a cave, we can hold out for a while!
00:01:28 Good, hang in there!
00:01:30 That thing is extremely dangerous, taller than several heavy trucks stacked together, and ordinary bullets can't cause it any damage at all! You must be well-prepared!
00:01:35 Understood, the rescue team will be equipped with the heaviest armaments. Stay hidden and wait for the enemy to leave.
00:01:37 Roger that.
00:01:44 (Heavy footsteps, sounds of loud rock crumbling, mountain impact sounds)
00:01:47 It's found us! I don't know how it found us, but we must lea–AHH–!!
00:01:50 Please report current status, please report current status!
00:01:52 (Terrifying roar of an unknown monster, sound of signal loss)
#Recording End

Thirty minutes after this distress signal was sent, the bounty hunter convoy under the name "Henry" arrived at the coordinates. They discovered over 50% of the mountain damaged, and eventually discovered a severely mangled corpse under the rubble. The ID carried by the corpse belonged to a "Brian Herbert".
The corpse bore severe lacerations, with multiple bite marks remaining on the edges of the wounds. Animal fur was collected near the corpse. After analysis, colleagues from the identification department concluded that the bite marks and fur do not belong to common ELID creatures in this area, with over 90% probability originating from an unrecorded new type of ELID creature, with a threat level exceeding IV.

Additionally, according to information provided by Henry, it is evident that the mountain at this location was attacked by an extremely large unknown creature, and this unknown creature's targets included humans.
Our department, combining research on the local natural environment and biodiversity, made the only reasonable speculation that an unrecorded Boojum was born locally.
This Boojum is characterized by its enormous size and tendency to prey on humans. Further intelligence details and analysis content are available for purchase. Intelligence number B152, price 0.07 ounces of Sardis gold.

Distress Communication Content (2)
Intelligence Level: B
Distress Date: 207â–ˆ Year â–ˆ Month â–ˆ Day
Publisher: Theodore Wallace
Publisher Identity: Indigenous resident of northeastern Slovakia

The following is the email content from the information publisher:

"(Omitting unimportant content)... Just the day before yesterday, after a very, very large Collapse storm, I discovered strange marks on the mountain next to my house: There were giant footprints left on the mountain body 6 meters above the ground. These huge footprints were deeply embedded in the mountain body, as if left by some monster passing by.
At the foot of the mountain below the footprints, besides a lot of rubble that seemed to have fallen off as if someone had rubbed against the mountain, there was also strange animal fur and extremely thick skin-like sheddings! The fur was very coarse and long, even stronger than the best ropes when braided together. The sheddings are very thick, difficult for ordinary rifle bullets to penetrate. Not far away, there were several huge and strangely shaped marks... None of us could tell what these marks were... Could these be animal footprints which came from an animal 6 meters tall? We've lived here for so long, we've really never seen anything like this! While these marks were very strange and because they didn't harm us, we didn't pay much attention to them. But just yesterday, bounty hunters were eaten by monsters here!
...(Omitting unimportant content)... We've already moved away from there! The village elders say it's very likely traces left by some Boojum. If anyone knows about this thing, please help us! The place we're living now can barely withstand Collapse storms, we want to go back!"

In this SOS, the traces left by the unknown creature was discovered by local residents, after being checked by colleagues from the identification department. This is believed to be related to the recent high-frequency SOS received from the same area, with the unknown creature appearing locally being the same or from the same group.
In this communication, we obtained new characteristics of the unknown creature: it appears to be sensitive to Collapse storms, a feature that may be inherited from one of its synthetic species. It is at least 6 meters tall, and covered with thick long fur, and has tough skin.

Currently, it cannot be determined what exact species of Boojum this is, but based on the traces it left, local residents call it the "Big Hairy Monster".

Distress Communication Content about "New Type of Boojum" (3)
Intelligence Level: B
Distress Date: 207â–ˆ Year â–ˆ Month â–ˆ Day
Publisher: Roderick MacFarquhar
Publisher Identity: Indigenous resident of northeastern Slovakia

This distress communication is extremely short, the content is as follows:

"My God! Someone come save us! That thing is attacking everyone, it eats people! We can't hold on much longer, it's coming! The address is–"

This communication cut off before the person seeking help could specify the exact information. According to communication band analysis, this communication also points to the area from SD233HX9-IU254SL0 to WE574GU3-VK923SH2.
20 hours after this distress signal was sent, a bounty hunter convoy registered under the name "Clay" coincidentally passed through this area. They discovered 13 severely mutilated bodies. After matching the personal effects of the deceased, they confirmed the identities of 8 of these bodies belonged to the underground broker Roderick MacFarquhar from the Czech Republic and his accompanying security personnel, while the other 5 belonged to local residents of Slovakia. The bodies bore bite marks from different ELID creatures, signs of trampling via a large creatures, and tough fur from unknown creatures.

As the convoy was about to leave, 3 small ELID creatures covered in Collapse crystals suddenly appeared. Some members of the convoy suggested hunting these creatures and to strip the Collapse crystals from their bodies to increase the convoy's income.
Considering that the convoy currently had sufficient supplies, the convoy decided to pursue them. However, during the pursuit, Clay discovered strange marks gradually appeared on the ground emerging as the wind swept the ground, prints that resembled the movement of a large creature.
Out of caution, Clay halted the pursuit, and had the convoy investigate the area. They discovered that the sand not only covered these strange prints but also a large amount of animal fur. This fur was identical to that found on the 13 corpses.
At this point, the ELID creatures that had been luring the convoy forward also stopped, standing still and watching the convoy. Following the direction of the ELID creature's group had been moving, the convoy spotted an unknown creature at an extremely far distance, with a tall appearance. To avoid danger, Clay immediately led the convoy away from the area.

Afterwards, Clay sold the obtained fur and video to the Lendak branch. After our department received it, colleagues from the identification department analyzed the fur and determined that the sample obtained by Clay's group had the same appearance and composition as the fur obtained from several previous distress messages in the same area, and could be ascertained to be from the same Boojum.
The hunting behavior of this Boojum differs from the behavioral data of Boojums currently recorded in our association's database, suggesting a certain degree of intelligence.
Further intelligence details and analysis content are available for purchase. Intelligence number A034, price 0.63 ounces of Sardis gold.

Appendix

Based on distress messages such as those above, our department has concluded that a new type of Boojum has been discovered in the region between SD336UI5-OE25WD62 and WE856KL4-YT86AS28. This Boojum is massive in size, extremely lethal, and its hunting behavior shows initiative and limited intelligence.
Currently, the reason for the emergence of this new type of Boojum, its specific appearance information, and countermeasures remain unclear. We preliminarily speculate that it is mainly synthesized from mammalian carbon-based organisms active in this area, and may have even undergone multiple syntheses. Our department strongly recommends all bounty hunters to avoid this area in the near future.

This intelligence is provided free of charge. To ensure the safety of all bounty hunters, this alert will be continuously transmitted over the next 24 hours. Bounty hunters currently in the vicinity of this area should prioritize their own safety.
In addition, our department may initiate exploratory missions targeting this area in the future. Bounty hunters interested in participating, please stay tuned for updates.

Deeply-Buried Crystals

Unlocked with Encrypted Chips.

Summary

This story is related to Aphelion Part II.

The 1364th Platoon of the 7th Environmental Survey Corps of the Neo-Soviet Union District Environmental Purification Project, led by former NSU hardliner Nikolai, is a former Railway Forces detachment sent on an urgent expedition. As one of the first groups to plan for rail-laying near the Red Zone, their equipment is wholly inadequate to fend off the abnormal concentration of Collapse radiation, and their forces are joining the ranks of the ELID-infected populations they are surveying. Despite this, conditions are even harsher in other regions and they are the most promising area for the Intercontinental Railway to pass through and rebuild the land, which motivates Nikolai.

Further inside the region, they lose all transmission capabilities and find a cult of infected worshipping a nearby "Holy Mountain". When inspecting its slopes, they find unusually large Collapse crystals and are routed by an ELID horde. Coming back to the cult's settlement, they find that it has been taken over by mercenaries and raid their camp. On their computers, they find that the mercs have been targeting them to protect a local Paradeus operation involving the Collapse crystals. Nikolai stores all the incriminating data on a chip, intent on revealing the moles within the URNC sponsoring the operation, collects the dogtags of his men and distributes paper notes containing encrypted coordinates to the "Holy Mountain" as a backup. As the platoon disperses to attempt a breakout from the region, a Collapse storm approaches and menaces to make the local epiphyllum fields bloom and change the soldiers into a Boojum.

Buried In The Sands - 1

We're still carrying out the regional environmental survey today.
Typically, for assignments like this, a tour of duty is 60 days long, but it seems this assignment is particularly urgent, because they've cut our expedition time in half. They're clearly rushing everything.
Both the intel and the supplies they issued us are inadequate, while the frequent Collapse Storms and accompanying poor comms environment are the icing on the cake.
It's been getting hard to make the daily scheduled check-ins.
All I can do is prepare all the information that needs to be reported ahead of time and send it when the signal stabilizes.

However, the signal conditions here are so bad that we can't even send complete chunks of information most of the time. More often than not, I can only make simple, infrequent reports over the air, with the detailed contents stored in a voice recorder.
At the very least, I'll have some reference for when I have to write my mission report.
According to the brass, more and more of the Railway Forces have been seconded to the Environment Survey Corps, and their equipment complement includes signal amps and mobile base stations.
Meanwhile, as their forerunners of the lot, all we can do is deal with it. And how long will we have to deal with it? ...Probably until the end of the mission.

Just thinking about that makes my head ache.
This is the first time we'll be trying to lay track for the intercontinental railway near the Red Zone, so we'll need to survey the area along the projected route. Normally, we'd only start a mission like this after all the preparations were complete, but we've been rushed into it thanks to some "oversights" from the brass.

The survey results we've gotten recently have made me question if we can wrap this mission up in the short term.
From today onward, I'll place more emphasis on recording the mission details.
Hopefully, these details which I might have overlooked at the time might end up coming in useful when conducting an after-action review.
And if such assignments are going to become a common thing... I hope our experiences will come in handy as a reference for others on missions like this.

Compared to the unexpectedly high number of E.L.I.D. cases and the spiking Collapse Radiation intensity, the frequent Collapse Storms and omnipresent ELIDs are practically par for the course. This mission is a real slog.

We sent Lenny and his boys to check out that settlement about half an hour's travel away. It's about time they came back.
I hope they'll bring good news with them.

Buried In The Sands - 2

These are our current findings. There are 123 people in the settlement. 60 of them have mild E.L.I.D. symptoms, 29 of them are moderate cases, and the remaining 34 are healthy. The mild cases are rapidly deteriorating and the progress of their sickness is far beyond our expectations."
That was what our platoon medic Lenny told us.

He's been working non-stop for the past two weeks with barely any rest, and the rings around his eyes are shockingly dark.
"Sir, we..."
I reach out and gently pat his arm, indicating that he should wait. He sits down beside me, then falls asleep while leaning on his chair.
The past few days have been very tiring for all of us.

"By the time we arrived, the local residents had already driven the moderate cases into the ruins outside the settlement. If we hadn't brought up the idea of treating them, the residents would probably have put up more resistance to our arrival. In addition, of the 49 men from Platoon 1364 that I brought with me, 18 of them are exhibiting mild symptoms of E.L.I.D. With only five medics in the medical contingent, we are completely unable to meet the treatment needs of the locals and our own forces."
"The symptoms of the mild cases are worsening much faster than we expected. I believe this situation is highly abnormal."

After recording my report, I rub my aching forehead and think about what to do next.

Ideally, we'd be able to fall back to rest, rearm and get more medical personnel... The last time I spoke to the commander was two days ago, but he rejected my suggestion. Carry on with the mission, he said, but at the very least, he promised to request reinforcements for us.
I put the voice recorder down and look at Lenny, who's passed out on the chair in a very unsightly way. I can even hear him snoring quietly.
With a quiet sigh, I reach out and pat his shoulder to wake him.

"Sir...?"
He blinks, his bleary, unfocused eyes looking at me blankly, like he's just woken from a deep sleep.
"Thanks for your hard work. I'll take over from you now, so go get some rest."
"Yes, sir..." Lenny shakes his head to bring himself back to his senses, and then he looks at me. "We've got 5 new cases as of tonight. 3 of them are local, the other two are Wernst and Hunt."
"..."
"Sir, what should we do now? Our medical supplies are almost gone, and we had to set out in such a rush that we didn't manage to bring that much with us in the first place..."
"The brass already told us to carry on and figure out the cause for the abnormal radiation intensity here. After this, I'll lead everyone who can still move to go sweep the area. The others will stay here and rest."
"But..."
"No buts, Lenny. This is an order."
"Yes, sir."

After taking care of business, Lenny goes back to his cot to rest. I head over to our temporary medical center— an empty house with a dozen battered steel cots and some tattered bedding. It's a tiny field hospital.
It's late at night now and the patients are lying on their cots, and the sound of their pained groans is incredibly oppressive. Clad in simple protective gear, the medics are giving our patients what little treatment they can.
I call out to one of them.
"How are Wernst and Hunt?"
"They're still in the early stages of the disease and are still conscious. Do you want to see them, sir?"
"Hm. Oh yes, wake everyone up. Need to brief you all on our new orders."
We can't just wait around to be rescued. The brass has already given the word, and we can't get away from it.

Tonight, I received news from Ross.
He's an old war buddy who quit fighting for the URNC.
Now, he's a mildly famous underground broker.
According to him, the Survey Corps detachments sent to other areas have run into problems of their own. Still, that's to be expected; after all, there must have been a reason why the intercontinental railway didn't pass through those regions in the first place. According to Ross, the news from the other detachments is grim, and my area is the most promising of them all.
In other words, whether or not they'll be able to run the railway line through this region all depends on the information that my team and I bring back.
However, Ross couldn't find out what were the problems with the previously planned route or the issues that the others ran into.

We'll be helping to run a railway line through here, huh...
Well, at least we'll be able to help people see their relatives again and it'll help with trade between the various oblasts... How long has it been since I last saw my mom and dad, anyway?

I pull back my wandering thoughts and decide on my plan, then tell our mission-capable troops that we'll be moving out tomorrow.
There are quite a few settlements along the projected route. We should be able to learn more and replenish our supplies with them.
Hopefully, everything will be alright until our reinforcements come.

Buried In The Sands - 3

The comms situation is getting worse and worse. Long-range transmissions are essentially impossible now and radio communications range is shrinking. Good signal has become something like a skittish hare; everytime we think we've got it, it vanishes before our eyes.
We're slowly getting lost. Nobody can say with any degree of certainty whether the positions on our maps our accurate when we do manage to get through for just a few minutes at a time.
It's also cut down on the area that we can survey at any given time, since our survey groups need to mind the distance between each other to keep from losing contact.

There are more and more audio logs in the recorder now. I'm reminded of a settlement we passed by earlier... I can't believe I was naive enough to think that we could resupply from the settlements along the way.
The residents there were even more frail than those of the other settlements we saw. Most of them were suffering from severe cases of E.L.I.D., their sickened bodies wrapped in their gray robes.
But unlike the other settlements, the sufferers were not cruelly chased out to await their deaths. On the contrary... and here I'm hoping that I was mistaken, they seemed to be worshipped within the community.
That settlement had no radio transmiters, as though kneeling and praying was their way of communicating with the outside world. Perhaps this was the madness of the Yellow Zone at work... My head is splitting and it's making it hard to think clearly.

The residents refused the treatment we provided, and we couldn't get any useful information from them. Or rather, we couldn't get any useful information from them. I'm looking at a mountain not far off in the distance. I'm not too sure if that's the "Holy Mount" of which they speak...
I wonder if it holds the secret behind the radiation anomalies in the region?
I've decided to take a team with me to check it out. While it's not too likely that we'll find anything, it's among the few clues we've managed to obtain in this big, empty place.

At dusk, the mountain is like a crouching beast that is one with the Yellow Zone. The setting sun paints its slopes a bloody red and it doesn't seem the least bit sacred to me.
"It's getting late, sir. If we camp outside, we'll be able to reach..." Albert pauses for a moment. "That mountain by tomorrow."
That's right. We can't even say the mountain's name.
This is NSU territory, and I used to think that I knew it like the back of my hand. Truth is, all I knew was just a bunch of numbers.
"Right, set up camp and call the other squads back." Normally, it would be too early to make camp now and we ought to have moved on a little first, but the men are tired and the specter of disease and the uneasiness of being lost hangs heavily over our heads.

Apart from Squad 3, which had remained at our original position, it takes until midnight before the other four squads that we sent out to scout the area finally meet up with us at the rendezvous point.
We pitch our tents and settle down to rest. The men soon get a fire started, which warms us as we huddle together and melting away the tension that's filled us all day.

"Don't let the fire attract the ELIDs!"
A blond trooper laughs as the soldier beside him pokes with the burning logs.
"Quiet, you! Don't jinx us. Anyway, even if ELIDs show up, we can deal with them."
"Sure, you can deal with an ELID or two, but what if a Boojum turns up? They say those bastards are twenty feet tall and super strong, plus they've got a taste for human flesh."
"Well, even if Boojums do eat people, they won't eat me. Just look at you and your fat little belly. If I were a Boojum, I'd go for you instead. You'd be a juicy little morsel going down its throat in one bite."
"Juicy little morsel my ass!"

...
The soldiers banter among each other. Upon seeing this, I find myself relaxing a little and laughing too.
"Say Michael— If I'm not wrong, according to the handbook they passed around before this, Boojums are Threat Level IV, right?"
"They could be higher. Level IV is only for the least dangerous ones. By pure destructive power alone, there are probably Level V+ Boojums out there." He wipes his face, cleaning off the light dusting of ash from the bonfire. "Man, if only Wernst were here, he'd be able to tell you more... But who knows how he's doing now?"

We all fall silent.
Wernst and Hunt have already developed middle-stage symptoms of E.L.I.D. Our meds are barely keeping it in check.
However, we couldn't stop the survey for that, so all we could do was leave them and some drugs in that weird little settlement, where they were warmly received by the residents.
Still, every time I think of the creepy atmosphere in that place, I keep regretting that we hadn't left them in our temporary field hospital.

"How do things like Boojums come about, anyway?" I say in an attempt to change the topic.
That seems to snap Michael out of it too. "I'm not too sure myself, sir. I read a report once which said that in an area of high Collapse Radiation intensity, carbon-based lifeforms infected with E.L.I.D. have a certain probability of merging together into a Boojum."
"What kind of file would mention something like that?"
"Um, yeah, I don't know if that information is reliable or not, I just stumbled across it myself. But according to the file, if living creatures entered a patch of Collapse Epiphyllums while they were blooming, there was a chance that they might mutate, so I combined that with other reports I read and came to a conclusion of my own."
"Sounds like a horror story, though."
Michael nods, and then takes out a harmonica.
"Want to hear a song, sir?"
"If you want to play, then play. You don't need my permission for little things like that."
"Yes, sir."
The sound of the harmonica fills the air, a familiar and somber melody.
I look back at the direction we came from, at the patches of Collapse Epiphyllums we passed along the way. They weren't in bloom yet, but now they're gently swaying in the breeze, beautiful and deadly. The plants in the contaminated zones have changed over the years, until they found a way to exist in equilibrium with their environment. But what about us?
What about mankind?
I hope the purification works will be able to give the land back to the people, whether it's the residents of the NSU or the people of the URNC's NSU bloc. As I think that, I stretch a little, and the ache from my mild fever is just enough to let me doze off, but not enough to keep me completely off guard from exhaustion.
Amidst the occasional cough, the glow from the bonfire turns murky in my eyes, and I eventually lose myself in dreams of the past.

Buried In The Sands - 4

I'm awoken by violent shaking— it's an earthquake.
My boys have looks of fear and confusion on their faces, lit by the bonfire.
"Look, look!" Albert points at the distance in panic. I follow his finger and find that the "sleeping beast" has awoken.
Part of the mountain has collapsed and debris tumbles down its slopes amidst the vibrations, like a monster shaking its pelt.
"Don't worry, we won't be affected over here," I say as I try to calm the others down. Inside, I'm glad that we didn't try to approach any closer yesterday.

After a while, the rumbling stops. I check my watch, which says that we have two hours left until daybreak.
"Everyone, go get some sleep," I say as I emerge from my sleeping bag and pat the night sentry on the shoulder. "Go sleep, I'll take over for you."
"But sir, you..."
"It's fine, I'm not tired anymore. Go on, catch some shut-eye, we've got a long day ahead of us tomorrow."
The soldier doesn't argue any further; he's too tired for it.

I chamber a round on my gun before engaging the safety, then take my communicator out.
Sure enough,the signal is practically nonexistent.

At dawn, we set forth once again.
"Sir, this is Survey Squad 3! We just took out several ELIDs... And we, we're almost at the mountain." Albert's voice comes over the radio. He sounds a little scared, but I don't blame him. Before this, he was just a rear-echelon mechanic in charge of equipment repair, but right now, he's in charge of a survey squad. It's hard on him, I know... But he's one of the few people in our group with experience living in the contaminated zones for a long time.
"...Currently, there doesn't seem to be anything unusual besides the high Collapse Radiation intensity. The collapsed slope is on the other side of the mountain. We'll head over to take a look."
"Right. If it's too far, wait for the rest of us to arrive. Don't go too far by yourselves and don't leave comms range. Keep the channel clear."
I order my men to pick up the pace so we don't affect Team 3's work.

"No, no... It can't be! Oh my god!" Albert exclaims after a while. I snatch up the handset and yell, "Albert, what happened?"
"It's, it's Collapse Crystals! There are Collapse Crystals here! They're embedded in the mountain!" Albert's report sounds more like he's screaming in panic. I sigh, and then say, "Make sure you're properly suited up. The rest of us will be there in around 23 minutes. Hold position until then."

When we arrive, I take a look at our surroundings and I immediately realize what Albert was talking about.
The slope of the mountain has collapsed, revealing a hollow chamber inside it. Its walls are covered in glowing green Collapse Crystals— far larger than any I've ever seen before.
"All units, make sure you're fully protected! Fall back in the 8 o'clock direction and withdraw to a distance of 2 kilometers!" Upon hearing my orders, my men who just arrived immediately get moving.

After we come to a halt, I look for our attached geology expert.
"Michael, considering our surroundings, is it possible for Collapse crystals of that size to naturally develop inside a mountain?"
"Sir, places like that wouldn't be exposed to Collapse storms, so Collapse particles would not be deposited there. In other words, it wouldn't be possible to get Collapse crystals at all, let alone ones that big."
"Right. And what if this place were continuously exposed to high-intensity Collapse storms?"
"Considering the time needed to deposit enough particles to generate crystals of that size..." Michael pauses for a moment. "Sir, crystals like this wouldn't be able to form after just a night of exposure. More importantly, there was no Collapse storm last night. I mean, we were all here. It makes no sense."
He's right. I remember clearly, since I was standing watch; last night was clear and calm, a rarity in this region. There were no Collapse storms, no roving packs of ELIDs... just that brief tremor and the dead silence of the Yellow Zone.
But there were Collapse crystals here which should not be here, and the signal which should have returned has not come back.
I look at the "Holy Mount" in the desert sands. Perhaps... it holds the secrets to the Collapse radiation spikes within it...

Buried In The Sands - 5

"This is the 1364th Platoon of the 7th Environmental Survey Corps of the Neo-Soviet Union District Environmental Purification Project under the URNC Contamination Zone Management and Recovery Administration! We're under attack by large numbers of ELIDs! Requesting reinforcements! Come in if you read me! I repeat..."
"Doot... doot..."
This is the seventh time I've tried an emergency hail, but once again, my only answer is the tone indicating that the transmission has failed.

I clench my fists, my fever and the dry surroundings turning my eyes bloodshot.
Albert whispers to me. "Sir, perhaps it's just the terminal that's broken... That's why we haven't been able to contact the outside until now. Let me take a look at it, that might help..."
"Don't bother. I doubt all our terminals could have broken at once... It's been two days since we arrived at that mountain and we haven't been able to get through even once. Could the reception possibly be that bad even if we factored the Collapse storms in?"

"I don't know, sir..."

That question wasn't really directed at him, but myself.
After discovering the crystals in the mountain, we paused to reorient ourselves before preparing to head back in there.
The plan was to recover samples of those Collapse crystals and perform some basic purification work. We couldn't just leave things be; it would affect the residents of the nearby settlements and our sick comrades if we did nothing.

However, when we arrived, we encountered a huge horde of ELIDs.
They roared and charged at us. After a brief period of confusion, our guys came to their senses and started shooting back, but there was just no end to the ELIDs as they attacked us from all sides. As we ran low on ammo, we had no choice but to fall back to a place that was sheltered from the wind.
But there are nine men who will remain there forever...

I look at the rest of my troops. THey're covered in wounds from the ELIDs. Our two remaining medics are carefully bandaging them.
"Sir..."
Lenny gathers up the rest of the meds, then sits down beside me and pats my back. It is then that I realize his hair is blond, just like the deceased Albert.
"(Coughs) Everyone, listen up. Once you bind your wounds, head for the nearest settlement." I nod to him, biting back my pain as I continue giving orders. "Conserve as much of your ammo as possible. We're dangerously low on supplies and help is on the way. Just hang in there so we can get back alive!"
"Yes, sir!"

This was the first time the night had felt so frightening to me.

Buried In The Sands - 6

We did it, we survived!
But we also lost our cherished friends and worthy comrades once again.
I was prepared for all of us to perish during the raid—We had no choice at the time.

Having lost our real-time navigation, we were forced to consult static maps and compare them to our surroundings before finally managing to pinpoint the location of a settlement.
Everyone's heart filled with a sliver of hope.
After we decided on searching for the settlement, the soldiers and I decided to rest for a night before heading out again.
But the night before we could chase our hopes, we were ambushed.

While we soon rallied and managed to fight our way out, most of our gear was destroyed or abandoned in our flight—That said, the comms gear would have been useless even if it was working. Still, they would have been like sails on a ship; they could have carried us out of danger if we had encountered any wind. Unfortunately, this ship's mast was broken now.

"We'll stick to the plan and continue on to the settlement," I told the men after briefly checking the direction we would be going. I did my best to keep my voice even; right now, what we all needed was a clear, steady objective.
They were warriors, every last one of them. After resting up for a bit, we hit the road again.

However, when both day and night are filled with nightmares, the difference between them disappears.
It was only when we arrived at the settlement that we realized that it was filled with heavily-armed mercenaries!
Moreover I personally saw them killing out scouts! They were recon troopers in URNC uniforms!
We were forced to rely on the practically non-existent visibility at night and the Collapse storms to hide our trail.
In the end, after assessing our weapons and stores, we discussed the matter among ourselves and decided to raid the heavily-fortified settlement.

Right now, we were out of supplies and had no way to call for help, and the next closest settlement was far away from here. Since they had a permanent garrison here, that implied they would have the food, medical supplies and ammo that we desperately needed.
We had no other choice than to bet everything on capturing this place.

"Sir, there's going to be a fierce Collapse storm tonight. Visibility will be close to nil; we can use that to ambush them," one of the men said.
I nodded and pointed to their watchtowers.
There were emplaced heavy machineguns mounted beside their searchlights, which twinkled in the darkness.
"I need three guys to take all the watchtowers and use their machine guns to cover our entry. Who's up for it?"
The enemy had a lot of firepower on their side. If we messed up the infiltration, certain death awaited us.
I had my volunteers in short order. I saluted each of them.
"Be careful."
Saying so, I handed the best guns in our group to them.

Soon, the infiltration squad reached their objective, silently strangling numerous enemy troops.
One of them accidentally triggered an alarm, but fortunately, the other two had already taken their watchtowers and promptly supported them with the tower guns, so things went fairly well.
After taking the three watchtowers, the infiltration squad used their machine guns' fire to indicate that we could proceed. Right after that, all of us had our guns ready and we rushed into the settlement. Under cover of the Collapse Storm and with the heavy machine guns from the watchtower, we managed to wipe out all the defenders.

While we searched their corpses, we checked their gear, but couldn't learn anything.
If we could contact the outside world, we might have been able to try and ask around about them with their descriptions. But right now... my only guess was that they were from some kind of PMC.
Still, a PMC? What PMC would operate so close to the Red Zone? Red Zones meant Collapse radiation, and Collapse radiation meant danger.
Also... Who hired them to come here?
I'm hoping that further investigation will give me the answer.

Buried In The Sands - 7

This is unforgivable! Utterly unforgivable!

Rage boils in my heart as I look at the words on the screen. "...From our observations, the subjects belong to a URNC Environmental Survey Corps and we have begun a campaign of targeted signals disruption against them. Please speed up the transfer of the Unitas. Due to environmental factors, we are unable to fully pinpoint the Survey Corps' movements. In order to ensure a successful transfer, we hope that your unit will work with Paradeus. Once you encounter the opposition, support the Nyto forces and pincer attack them... Also, intercepted messages suggest that the Survey Corps members have made audio logs of their mission. Those logs must be destroyed and no traces can be left behind..."

I saved all the data transfer logs and the deployment maps that I could find onto the sole remaining chip we had left.
Turns out that in addition to the "Holy Mount", there were many other hidden Collapse crystal caches and armed bases there too.
And all of them belong to a PMC known as Mangi Security.
Unfortunately, their contacts are all heavily encrypted and we can't crack them with our current equipment.

—So that's their name, Mangi Security. At last, I know what that PMC is called.
But what shocks me more is the name "Paradeus". It's a name that should have been consigned to the dustheap of history long ago... And these Unitas, what are they? Why are they working together?
Countless questions rise up in my mind, but the situation does not permit me the time to ponder them for long.

From this information alone, we can be certain that someone inside the URNC is messing around. While their ultimate goal is unclear, what they're doing is poses a very real hindrance to the purification work!
As long as the Survey Corps go into the field, they'll be hunted down and killed by them... And it's Mangi and Paradeus who are planting those Collapse crystals! Are they artificially enlarging the spread of E.L.I.D. infection?!
If we hadn't taken this place, we wouldn't even have known who killed us!
And they're transferring those Unitas or whatever they are... Could it be that the survey work for changing the course of the intercontinental railway caught them off guard?
In any case, we have to get the word out! But the comms equipment here was destroyed when we seized the place. We need to move to another location where we can contact the outside world.
I carefully store the chip away and record our findings on audio logs, as usual. Then, I mark the locations of their bases and where they've planted Collapse crystals on a map...
While this is probably just a portion of them, the markers which dot the map like stars in the night sky send a chill down my spine.

Now that their base has been attacked, Mangi Security is probably going to send their people after us soon.
Luck is against us, and there's no point thinking about how we can get out safely. What's more important is thinking about how to get this information out.
From our numbers, trying to make a breakout in force is no longer our best course of action. We'll have a better chance if we split up.
That said, is splitting up to find a way out really the best course of action? Is there no better, safer way to do this?
Is there something we can do that will let us hold out longer?

I look out the window once again.
The sky looks ominous. It seems a Collapse storm is coming again, and I don't know when our present peace will be shattered.
But instead of dwelling on my uneasiness, my eyes are gazing on the scarred land before me with something approaching hunger.
This place was once the land of the New Soviet Union, a place that my friend and I once swore to protect with our lives. I wish I could see more of it, see further across it, that the parents whom I hadn't seen in so long and the comrades who had followed me into the Railway Forces could watch as it blooms with greenery and life one again...

And then, my eyes settle on a small patch of Collapse Epiphyllums.
They haven't bloomed yet, swaying gently in the moonlight. This close to the Red Zones, they're a fairly common sight. Our surveys taught us that they're linked to the sites of Collapse storms and we avoid them as much as possible, lest they blossom while we're passing by them.

Collapse Epiphyllums...
I recall that report Michael mentioned.
Normally, I wouldn't put any stock in that sort of thing.
But now that a Collapse Storm is coming, these swaying plants, which symbolzie radiation, pollution, mutation and death - they've become a ray of hope for us.

At this point, I engage the audio recorder and leave a message.
Upon hearing my idea, my comrades are first shocked, and then determined.

We split what few men we have up into groups. Two of them are led by the veterans among us. Meanwhile, I'm carrying the chip and the audio recorder myself.
After that, we split up, doing our best to break through the enemy blockade and carry the information we've found out of here.
I think for a moment, then tear a few more pieces of paper from my notebook and write down the locations from before in encoded format, then add a few more lines musing about home or reflecting on despair to them before I pass them on to my men.
This way, even if something should happen to us and our bodies are searched, hopefully they'll see what looks like "random scribblings" and overlook them.
Hope - it might be faint, but I won't let go of it.

After we've finished our preparations, my men take off their dog tags and hand them to me.
"Sir, you're the most experienced of us all. You need to bring us home."
I nod solemnly.
Hopefully, everything will go well.

...However, all our prayers are like a joke on this cursed land. Just as I finish handing out deployments and we're about to move out, one of them men hurries over to deliver a report.
"Sir! There, there are enemy forces approaching us!"
"They just won't cut us a break, will they?" I grit my teeth. "All units, listen up! Follow the plan from just now and head out!"
My comrades nod and head out, one by one.
Several vehicles race off in different directions, followed by the sound of heavy gunfire from all around.

We are the soldiers of the Survey Corps attached to the Neo-Soviet Union District Environmental Purification Project, under the URNC Contamination Zone Management and Recovery Administration. We were once the hardliners of the NSU military.
This is our final, resounding farewell to the Motherland.

Salt Mine Survey Report

Unlocked with Special Mud Biscuits.

Translation note: all instances of “Soledar” should instead be “Jahodná” (亚霍德纳). Soledar Salt Mine is located in Ukraine. The translation may have confused it with Solivar Salt Mine in Central Slovakia.

Summary

The 142nd Platoon of the 2nd Environmental Survey Corps are sent to the region around the Jahodná Salt Mine, in north-eastern Slovakia, to assess the area for the Purification Project. Their reports go into great details about its history and demographics, starting from its importance to the local mining industry under the Habsburgs, the creation of the local sanatorium after WWII, the formation of its Red Zone after a bomber plane crash during WWIII and its use as a shelter by its few remaining inhabitants, who are slowly dying from dire living conditions and only eating "mud bread" containing no nutrients.

Periodic Environmental Survey Report on the Soledar Salt Mine and Adjacent Areas

Reporter: Ethan Wernst
Organization: 142nd Platoon, 2nd Environmental Survey Corps, Neo-Soviet Union District, Union of Rossartrist Nations Coalition Contamination Zone Management and Restoration Administration.
Area of Responsibility: Soledar Salt Mine and adjacent areas
Report Subject: Overview of the environmental condition in the area and living condition of the population.
Report Date: ██ ██ 206█
Report ID: AH0001
Ever since the signing of the "European Collapse Radiation Contamination Zone Restoration and Revitalization Joint Development Agreement" between the Neo-Soviet government and the URNC in 2067, the Contamination Zone Management and Restoration Administration has mobilized service members and researchers from all over its territories to accelerate the Purification Project's progress. Entire Environmental Survey Crops were formed and assigned to map out the Contamination zones, gather geological data, and assist in the Purification zone's planning.
In May of this year, I and two of my colleagues have been transferred to the 142nd Platoon of the Corps as specialists to assist in the survey effort. Before this, we had just concluded an geological inspection in area SF230SED-V34OA to WS349VB-Q33OA.

The 142nd is tasked with the preliminary survey of Soledar Salt Mine and its surrounding area while also analysing the environmental condition in the area and the living condition of the population present. During this deployment, I will counitnously report on 142nd Platoon's findings in stages; this document will henceforth be my first report.
In the following sections, I will cite 3 documents to provide a preliminary assessment of the environmental condition in the area and living condition of the population.

Document #1: Origin of the Salt Mine and its Relation with Local Developments

According to records, located in north-eastern Slovakia, Soledar Salt Mine was discovered in 1653, soon after, mining activity and trade governed by local residents followed suit.
Given the significance of salt and the scarcity of salt mines, though the area surrounding Soledar Salt Mine is poor in other natural resources, the mining industry still attracted a large number of migrants to flood into the region, who later became its first permanent residents.
Three years later, the ruling Habsburgs were informed of the existence of the salt mine. They hoped to secure the ownership of the mine and its excavation and trade rights, but ultimately failed to do so.

Between 1653 and just before the outbreak of World War I in 1914, no specific details concerning the environment or the population fluctuation can be ascertained. However, through government documents and credible literature of the time, the following key points can be concluded:
1. The development and operation of Soledar Salt Mine is the only industry in the region.
2. The mine brought in a large migrant population via the creation of job positions; excluding wars, epidemics, or other natural disasters, the net inflow over the centuries was stated to be around 1.2 million.
3. The peculiarity of the local environment influenced the living conditions of the residents and vice-versa. After centuries of development, the sparsely populated region was continuously transformed, infrastructures built, and eventually evolved into a small population center.

Due to conscription during wartime, the local government conducted censuses in the region during both World War I and World War II. The relevant data are as follows:

1. Before the outbreak of World War I in 1914, the local population stands at 86,357 with 44,196 males and 42,171 females; a ratio of 104.77 to 100.
2. The same year, with the outbreak of the war and the implementation of conscription, more than 20,000 adult males were enlisted in the army, leading to a sharp decline in population. The decrease in labor resulted in impediments to the mining industry and further emigration. The local population only stabilized after the conclusion of the war.
3. Between the end of World War I in 1918 and the outbreak of World War II in 1939, the local population grew from 43,897 to 94,865 with 49,335 males and 45,530 females; a ratio of 108.35 to 100.
4. With the outbreak of the war in 1939, population once again declined rapidly with more than 28,000 enlisted. After the end of the war, the population quickly recovered and even surpassed pre-war level thanks to its booming mining industry.
5. In 1945, in response to the growing demand for care for veterans, the local government established a specialized sanatorium inside the salt mine for the treatment and rehabilitation of service members wounded during the war. During its life cycle, the sanatorium's target clientele gradually expanded; with normal citizens and outside visitors now being provided with services at a charge, the establishment could generate an annual income valued at millions in US dollars.

...

In summary:
1. The Soledar Salt Mine and its surrounding area is over reliant on the mining industry as its sole economic pillar. However, as long as the mine and its related industries can continue to operate, the lifestyle of local residents will remain sustainable.
2. Overreliance on natural resources laid the groundwork for future disasters for the region's development, as proven by the series of changes that occurred following Operation Fimbul.

Document #2: Devastation of Local Developments Caused by Collapse Radiation

In late 2049, one bomber carrying explosive ordnance incorporating Collapse technology crashed in the region during Operation Fimbul.
Immediately after, Soledar Salt Mine and its surrounding area experienced a dramatic surge in Collapse Particle concentration.

Despite avoiding the ordnance's direct blast, the long-term consequences of high-Collapse radiation concentration still rapidly and drastically altered the environmental condition of the region.
In the decade that followed, the natural environment rapidly deteriorated into one unsuitable for human habitation:
1. The Collapse radiation wiped out all surface plant life. The vegetation coverage plummeted from 48% to only 2% as all plant life in forests, meadows, and even swamps died within a short time frame after the initial detonation, leaving only dense dead shrubs on the surface.
2. The collapse of plant life causes a series of chain reactions. In accordance with the Joint Development Agreement, the region is now prone to high-intensity Collapse storms close to Red Zone levels. Due to the lack of vegetation, severe soil erosion led to the complete desertification of the previously forest-dominated region within a short span of merely 4 years.
3. Desertification of the region further altered the local environment. With a desert landscape, the original intermediate oceanic-continental climate has also been transformed into a temperate desert climate with high day-night temperature difference and arid weather. For illustration purposes, the current maximum temperature difference in the region within a single day could reach 80 degrees Celsius while annual precipitation is recorded at less than 10 millimeters.

...

The extremely hostile environment rendered the survival of residents difficult. As a result, local residents launched a mass emigration movement with the help of the Slovak government in 2052.
The target of migration included cities that were quickly protected due to their economical, military, or political significance, such as Prešov and Žilina. According to data, 2052 was the year with the largest population outflow, with almost 98% of the residents leaving the region.

By the end of the migration, only residents who can ill afford long-distance travel due to a lack of supplies or mobility difficulties are left in the region. At the same time, the lack of effective administration by the Slovak government effectively rendered the region a stateless territory.
To increase their chances of survival, the remaining residents soon moved into the leeward areas around the Soledar Salt Mine.

Due to the location of the mine 100 meters below surface, it provided an effective shelter from the Collapse storms, leading to many choosing it as their new residence. However, most facilities and accommodations inside the mine were abandoned due to a lack of maintenance; living inside the mine meant enduring constant darkness and freezing temperatures.
At this point, the salt mine has switched from being the central pillar of the region's economy into being the last lifeline of the remaining residents.

In 2053, the Slovak government, wishing to relaunch mining operations in the Soledar Salt Mine, sent engineers to survey the region. The arrival of the survey crew was met with strong opposition from the local residents. Adding to that a hostile environment, the increasingly dangerous nature of the project led to its eventual abandonment.

In order to resettle the remaining residents of the region, the Slovak government conducted a census the same year.
The population in the region in late 2053 is as follows:
Local population stands at 1,665 with 588 males and 1,077 females; a ratio of 54.6 to 100.
64% of the female population is comprised of the elderly and children.
Due to strong opposition from residents of target migration cities, the government resettlement plan for the population affected by disasters was postponed.

In 2054, the government of Slovakia collapsed and the resettlement program was put on hold indefinitely.

At the present time, according to local accounts, there are approximately 250 people living in the region; about 150 males and 100 females.

Document #3: Ancient Village on the Verge of Extinction—A Short Addendum From an Engineer

In 206█, I and two of my colleagues received our transfer order as we were attached to the unit about to head out for Soledar Salt Mine
Prior to our arrival, we conducted some research on the region's condition. Mixed in with credible intel were a number of sensational rumors, such as the sighting of ghosts in the local castle; all of whom residents who had succumbed to Collapse radiation overdose and suffered horrible deaths. There are also reports of terrifying shrieking in the middle of the night, allegedly a result of cannibalism caused by a lack of food supply in the past.

Our track to the Soledar Salt Mine was distant and treacherous; we have been attacked by ELIDs along the way on multiple occasions. It's only thanks to the commander's experience that we managed to reach our destination unscathed.
As we stand right next to the salt mine, gazing up at its battered peak—or perhaps I shouldn't even call it a peak anymore, as the Collapse storms almost shaved it flat:
Mount Soledar was originally measured at 1,500 meters above sea level, but years of Collapse radiation shaved almost 200 meters off its peak.

The population mostly resides in leeward areas right at the foot of the mountain; it is the only way they could survive the frequent ravages of Collapse storms.
Initially, suspicions and tensions between our survey crew and the residents almost led to violent confrontations, but after confirming that we harbor no ill intent and having provided them with a lot of supplies, they were finally willing to converse with us.

Through conversation, we learned that there are differences between the actual situation of the region and the rumors—although the differences are really a matter of technicalities like that of purgatory and hell.

First off, despite having been excavated for centuries, the Soledar Salt Mine still contains a large amount of extractable salt. However, due to all aspects of the infrastructure having broken down, coupled with the region's isolation from the outside world, the residents run into the dilemma of sitting on a wealth they could not benefit from.
As for their living condition, the isolation from the outside world and the lack of any self-sustaining local industry led to the population falling into extreme poverty; the combined income of all local residents is valued at less than a single Collapse piece.

At present, the region also faces a serious problem: famine caused by the environment and poverty.
Due to severe contamination by Collapse storms and a lack of water resources, agriculture is impossible on the surface; without any external trade due to extreme poverty, the residents could not afford to import food either.
While the underground caverns within the salt mine are spacious, the soil composition within the mine is not ideal for the growth of conventional crops. Even specialized corps with high salt tolerance will eventually wither due to a lack of water and sunlight. Furthermore, according to the census, the local population is numbered only in the hundreds, with the elderly and children making up the majority. Adding on top of a lack of supervision, large-scale agriculture is nigh impossible to carry out.

As a result, famine became a constant occurrence.
To feed themselves, the local residents even invented "food items" such as "mud bread", a bread made using literal mud as its ingredient.
Yet, even such food requires a rigorous processing process as soil on the surface are highly contaminated and can't be used for anything. The residents need to dig up the finest and cleanest soil from the underground, sift through all visible impurities and finally grind the soil into a powder. Said powder is then mixed with water, kneaded, sprinkled with salt from the mine to enhance its flavor, and finally left out to dry, completing the preparation process.

Although the mud bread can give a strong sense of fullness after consumption in case of extreme hunger, as they do not contain any nutrients and thus cannot be digested by the human body, everything will build up in the intestines and eventually lead to death.
Every year, no less than a hundred residents pass as a result of complications caused by the consumption of mud bread.
It can be expected that the local population will vanish within ten—no, within five years if the current development persists.

Mount Soledar and its surrounding areas were once a prosperous region after the discovery of its salt deposit and even had a chance to grow into a major population center, but environmental changes caused Collapse radiation ruined all its future potential, turning it into an earthly purgatory where its reidesnts need to feed on mud and dirt just to survive.
It saddens me that the law cannot help this place, nor can morality bless it.
Up until now, as we stand at the foot of Mount Soledar, we can still see within the sandy wasteland what were once lush forests and majestic castles. Now, the forest has been reduced to dead shrubs, and the castle a useless husk that can no longer protect its inhabitants.

It is my belief that both the natural environment and the living conditions of the local residents are in dire need of improvement. However, as the Purification project has just begun, it may be a long time before this place is even considered for a Purification zone.
I hope that our survey records will bring the attention of our superiors to this barren land and the struggling souls on it sooner rather than later.

Reignited Hope

Unlocked with Wine-Red Hairbands.

Summary

After Griffin's restructuring, M200 followed Kalina to work at the Non-Military Forces Administration as a precision weapons testing expert. When not testing, she works as a shooting instructor for NOMFA's personnel. Over the years, M200 comes to miss the pressure of the battlefield and the constant need to improve, and fears that she'll have grown too complacent to fight under the Commander when they are reunited. After her students notice her low mood, Kalina sends M200 to visit Zucchero Café on the pretext on delivering a message.

M200 discovers that Zucchero houses Springfield's secret intelligence network. To ease M200's worries, Makiatto invites her to work with her to destroy a Wolf Spider nest. Though M200 wins their long-distance shot competition and helps Makiatto escape from an unexpected swarm, she gets depressed when she learns that the Commander worked with Zucchero but not her since their exile. She confronts Makiatto about deliberately holding herself to let her win, but Makiatto denies it and reveals that she had the same insecurities as M200.

When M200 leaves, Makiatto gives her one of her hair ribbons to remind her of what they discussed. On the train, M200 calls Kalina and asks her for more field assignments.

M200's Neural Logs 1

███ 2nd, 1300 hours.

"That concludes today's sniping lesson. Please remember tomorrow's schedule and make sure you arrive on time. Honestly, I still hope none of you will find yourselves in a situation where this knowledge becomes useful."

A round of knowing laughter burst among the crowd.

"Instructor, you're so funny!" the Dolls said.

I didn't respond and simply watched as the newly recruited field personnels left.

Their chatter was filled with their anticipation for their first mission, whereas none noticed my barely audible lament.

"Instructor"... huh?

I put away the prop rifle used for demonstration. It weighed almost nothing compared to the weapons I used to wield on the front line—even when I can barely remember how hefty the real things are.

I'm supposed to be a T-Doll... not some sort of instructor.

When Kalina left Griffin,I followed in her footsteps and joined NOMFA. There, I was recognized for my outstanding marksmanship based on my service record and in turn assigned a precision weapon testing position.

Since the development of new weapon systems took time, and testing was usually spaced apart, I suddenly found myself with a lot of free time.

Over time, the shooting range became the one place I'd frequent whenever I got bored.

But having the only gunshot echoing in my ears be my own always felt like something was missing.

One day, either because that one field personnel who passed by complained about the underutilization of the range, or because Kalina thought I had just been sitting around and not being productive, I suddenly found myself with a new duty. While I would still be the "weapon testing Doll" on any other day, I would also become the "instructor" responsible for giving sniping lessons to the newly recruited field personnels in the meanwhile.

And through those lessons, as overlapping gunfire echoed in the range, I finally realized what had been missing.

Teammates.

That feeling of fighting on the front line.

And the need to constantly improve myself in combat.

Yes... It had been too long since I left Griffin and stepped away from the forefront of combat.

There were some former Griffin colleagues in the NOMFA, but only a handful, and we all occupied different posts, so I would get bits of their news from Kalina.

So far removed from any real action... I feared this was all I would amount to.

It didn't matter if I could complete hundreds or even thousands of training cycles, it was just about repeating the exact same, familiar moves. And so, my capability had stagnated.

Sometimes during breaks, I would imagine reuniting with the Commander and everyone else.

But later, I began dreading that reunion—if I could never exert myself in combat again, and was destined to rust away like this... would I still be worthy to stand by the Commander's side?

"...I-Instructor?"

I snapped back to reality. A field personnel who had just left was standing by the doorway.

"Miss Kalina wants to see you," she said.

"How are you feeling lately? Handling both testing and teaching—is that too much pressure for you?" Kalina said, shifting her attention away from her screen.

She looked exhausted. I couldn't see what's on the screen, but there were undoubtedly countless documents pending approval.

"No. I'd say I've got it easy compared to you."

"Really...? If something's up, please do let me know right now. I'll do what I can to help."

"Mmm. Nothing's wrong... for now."

A brief moment of silence.

Kalina's gaze lingered on my face, and I lowered my head.

Why did she ask that? Did I make some mistakes at work?

"So..."

"It's nothing serious," Kalina interrupted my inquiry.

"There's a field task. A message needs to be delivered to the Zucchero Café located at CHE-02. I checked—everyone else is busy. Since your lesson just ended, and there's no new testing scheduled..."

Her voice slowly faded to the point where my auditory module couldn't detect it.

A field task? Maybe there would be real combat?

I shouldn't get my hopes up—it sounded more like a simple courier errand... but what kind of message would require a T-Doll to deliver? Was it confidential material? Would special authentications be involved? To Zucchero Café... but for who exactly?

It had been so long since my last sortie. This was a precious opportunity... I had to act on par...

"M200?"

"Ah!" I looked up, Kalina was still staring at me, but now with a hint of worry in her eyes.

"Are you okay with taking on this mission? Just deliver the message in five days' time, there's no other requirements. You can treat it as sort of a break—CHE-02 does have some nice places to visit."

I looked at the message she handed me and took a deep breath.

"I think... I can do it. Please leave it to me."

M200's Neural Logs 2

███ 3rd, 1430 hours.

"Ding-ding—" I pushed open the door of the Zucchero Café.

It was a small café, located on a fairly busy commercial street in CHE-02.

The décor inside was warm and cozy. Customers sat in small groups, filling the seats while a petite Doll with a side ponytail served them coffee. The place didn't look like it had anything to do with the NOMFA at all.

I stood still at the entrance without stepping in.

Soon, someone inside heard the bell and walked toward me—

It was... Springfield?

"Oh my, you've finally arrived, M200. I've been waiting for you."

"What's going on, Springfield? Why are you... Ah, I see, so the recipient was meant to be you."

"It's been a while, yet you're as sharp as ever. When Kalina told me you were the message's courier, I was eager for you to arrive."

Springfield's smile was as warm as always.

"This is my café. How do you like it? Was riding it a hassle? Come in, please have a seat."

Springfield led me to a quiet corner, and we chatted like the old days.

As it turned out, the café wasn't just a café—Springfield was running a secret intelligence network out of the café, and that message must have been a commission from Kalina. Gr G36—or perhaps I should call her Ceutaureissi now—also worked there. Springfield said I'd meet her once she returned from supply procurement in a couple of days.

Perhaps because it had been so long since we last met, I felt really at ease and ended up telling her more about my recent situation.

Springfield listened carefully and then smiled, "Looks like you're doing pretty well at NOMFA."

"Y-you think so...? Actually, I—"

A clatter came bumbling into the café.

"Get me my usual—one caramel macchiato. Springfield—Hmm?" A familiar voice approached quickly from behind and I turned around.

"WA 2000?"

"M200?"

I wasn't expecting to meet another familiar face! WA—I meant Makiatto's way of speech was just as nostalgic. Though she acted like she couldn't give less of a care, she still sat down by my side—no doubt very happy about our reunion.

The three of us continued chatting. It turned out Makiatto was also part of the Zucchero Café, just not as a regular member. She would occasionally drop by to handle missions, collect intel, and most of all, enjoy a cup of coffee.

Naturally, our conversation shifted from catching up to discussing sniper rifles. Makiatto complained that the commission pay just wasn't enough to let her upgrade her gear, so I helped her break down a list of the most cost-effective rifle components, all the while Springfield sat on the side and listened with a smile.

How nice was that moment... It felt just like the old days.

I have to thank Kalina properly once I return.

"Your caramel macchiato~"

Before long, that petite Doll from earlier brought over the drink Makiatto ordered—as well as one for me that I didn't expect.

"You've been here a while, dear Miss Customer. It'd be a pity not to try our specialty~ Ta-da! A Citrus Latte Sharkry specially made for you! The refreshing orange aroma goes perfectly with a reunion of old friends~" She quickly glanced over at the three of us.

"Ah, I got too caught up in our conversation and forgot to bring you a coffee. Thank you, Sharkry," remarked Springfield as she smiled.

"Your eating module is still under maintenance, right?"

I nodded, picked up the coffee, and took a small sip.

"Mmm... the orange aroma is rich at first, but there's also a floral note after savoring it. It's just fruity enough, and the aftertaste is... sweet but not cloying—this isn't a flavor that can be achieved using syrup alone. The beans used are great too. And the swan latte art is just icing on the cake... I see that Zucchero's quality really is top-notch... Ah, I'm not a real coffee connoisseur, so that's about all I could parse. Thank you for the treat."

Sharkry's eyes immediately lit up; she thanked me excitedly and gracefully.

Makiatto widened her eyes and exclaimed, "That's what you call 'not a connoisseur'?"

Springfield took the chance to convince Makiatto to add less caramel syrup to her drink next time.

A warm, harmonious scene unfolded in front of me—it was truly delightful.

While we all left Griffin, everyone had found new partners and new goals in life.

Only me... I was the only one who stagnated, and the gap between me and everyone else just kept growing wider...

Springfield patted my head, and I quickly hid my faint dejection.

"Ah... I'm fine. It's just... If only I could also keep moving forward like all of you. Running a café together, yet still able to keep fighting..."

"What on earth is running through your head? How's becoming an instructor at the NOMFA making you regress? Sure it's not as free as a freelancer who can take on commissions of their choosing, but still." Makiatto frowned, clearly confused as to why I was feeling down.

"Hehe. If you miss the frontline that much, why don't you join us for a commission, M200?" said Springfield before glancing at Makiatto, "You came to see me, didn't you? Was there something you wanted to say?"

"I... Hmph, it's nothing. I just took a commission and came for a drink before heading out. If you really want to, I-I guess you could tag along, M200..."

"What a lovely coincidence, M200. I think you should take Makiatto on her offer. You still have plenty of time before your return, right?"

"I... can I really? I haven't been on a mission for so many years ever since joining NOMFA. I'm afraid that..."

"Then why not use this chance to remind yourself what real combat feels like? I'm sure she wouldn't mind if your help makes the commission much easier. Right, Makiatto?"

"Sure... I guess."

Makiatto looked as if she wanted to refute, but ultimately resigned herself and nodded.

Though I didn't believe Makiatto needed my help, it was a precious chance to taste real action after all these years...

"All right, I'll go with you."

Reluctantly, I accepted their kindness.

M200's Neural Logs 3

██ 4th, 0907 hours.

After many years of inactivity, I stepped onto the Contamination Zone's soil once again.

Dangerous Collapse radiation, abandoned towns... the scenery in front of my eyes and the data from my past neural records slowly merged into one.

The CHE-02 security department was the one that requested this commission, intended to periodically clear out the ELIDs that had gathered around the city's peripheries. The target area was home to a small hive of Singoriensis—dangerous in large groups, but not much of a threat individually. Makiatto and I each picked a nearby ruin as our sniper perch and began the cleanup.

Gunshots rang out, scattered at first, then gradually syncing into simultaneous bursts. Two minutes into the shooting, Makiatto first broke the silence.

"Hmph, this is way too easy... Let's get some competition going, M200."

"...A compettion... at what... longest kill shot?"

"Right. The winner gets an extra ten percent of the pay, deal?"

"But I never planned to take any share of your..."

"Ey, I don't want to get the reputation of 'bullying people into unpaid work'."

"That's not what I meant..."

"Then quit talking and let's begin!"

Reload, take aim, fire.

An action repeated thousands of times at the range now flowed naturally—even time seemed to have slowed down. With my sight sharply focused on the targets, my accuracy gradually overtook Makiatto's... by a tiny bit.

Did that mean... I haven't actually regressed? Or maybe the practice really did help?

"I'm starting to get the hang of it just like the old times, hehe."

"What—I-I was cutting you some slack! Don't forget I've beaten you before!"

Makiatto's annoyed voice over the comms sounded exactly the same as before.

"Oh yeah. I remember you used to go to the Commander for praises after each mission—"

"S-shut up! D-don't say that out loud!"

Makiatto never managed to catch up to me, and there were only a few Singoriensis left in sight. We chatted about past operations and everyone's current situations, and inevitably, the whereabouts of the Commander.

"I helped that idiot with something just recently. Hmph, if it weren't for me and Sharkry, no way that idiot could've gotten that Green Zone intel from within the Yellow Zone that easily!"

Working with the Commander, huh... That sounded like such an amazing thing...

"Ever since leaving Griffin, I've never been able to reach the Commander again... The Commander must've come to you for help because you're just that capable, Makiatto."

Me, on the other hand...

After spending so many years rusting away, I had become unfit to face the challenge of real combat.

If I continued to waste away like this, even when we do reunite one day, I wouldn't be a burden to the Commander.

"Hmph, of course! That idiot might be unremarkable at everything else, but sure knows how to haggle people for help!"

"...That sounds so nice..."

I fired another shot, but this time, I missed.

Makiatto followed up with the final shot and took down the last Singoriensis.

Silence filled the comm channel.

"Ahem... Didn't think you'd be this sharp after being out of action for ages. D-don't get too cocky—I'll beat you next time!"

"Mmm."

After realizing my dejected mood, Makiatto looked a little awkward.

"...I-I wasn't trying to be mean with what I just said."

"Yes, I know."

It's just... I was the one not measuring up to expectations—it was nobody else's fault but mine.

Makiatto stopped talking, put away her rifle, and started heading my way. I patted off the dust and stood up as well.

I heard the Commander had a long-term partnership with Zucchero, so if I stayed in CHE-02 until my task concluded, maybe I'd have the chance to meet the Commander...? Or perhaps at least hear their voice.

But now, it's time to head back.

M200's Neural Logs 4

███ 4th, 0917 hours.

I patted the dust off my clothes and waited for Makiatto to join up with me.

But soon, an unusual tremor rose from beneath our feet.

At the same time, Makiatto's startled shout filled the comm channel.

"Waaah—!"

I quickly looked up, only to see yellow sand billow not far away as a sizable silhouette accompanied by a sea of black dots burst out of the underground, hissing and shooting webs as they rapidly closed in on Makiatto.

A Singoriensis swarm!

I should have realized sooner! With this many Singoriensis gathered in a small nest... they must have had a hive cluster nearby!

I quickly flipped through the commissioner's notes—

"Lycosa Singoriensis, though retaining some of their pre-mutation solitary behavior, tend to establish closely linked hive clusters in the same area due to environmental factors. Please exercise caution."

Damn it, I should've taken note of this!

"S-stay back! You disgusting bugs, get away from me!!" shouted Makiatto as sporadic gunshots ringed out in the distance.

I used my scope to try to get a better view. While the sand started to gradually settle, visibility remained poor—through the shifting dust, I could just make out Makiatto stumbling and dodging through the surging spider tide like a tiny wooden boat being rocked by a stormy ocean.

The small Singoriensis were so fast that some nearly got to sink their claws into her, but each time Makiatto would manage to knock them aside with the butt of her rifle before that happened—she's an excellent fighter after all, she should be able to get to safety under normal circumstances.

All she needed was a little time to find her composure—and I needed to buy that time for her.

What should I do then? We were so far away from each other that I could never reach her in time.

Suddenly, I recalled that Lycosa Singoriensis' weakness was their eyes...

No choice but to give that a try. Even if it was just suppressive fire, it would still be helpful!

I dropped to the ground, loaded my rifle, took a deep breath, and fixed my gaze through the scope.

Makiatto stumbled and fell!

The giant Singoriensis rose, lifting its front legs high with its eyes exposed above the dust—

NOW!

Bang!

The struck Singoriensis flailed around and collapsed. Makiatto regained her composure at the sound, broke through the swarm, and retreated to a safe position.

"M200! Follow me—let's take out the rest of them!"

After some time, silence returned to the chaotic land.

"Hah... hah... It's over. What a bunch of annoying creatures..."

"Are you okay? Did you get hurt?"

"Of course not! ...But, good thing you were there to help. I really can't stand dealing with bugs." Makiatto looked at the direction of the hive cluster with disgust.

"Too bad we didn't get rid of all of them, but with how many we took out, they'll probably relocate soon. We'll just head over and wipe out their new hive—and that would be a mission accomplished in my book. Also, M200... again, thanks for what you did back there. Ahhh—this is SO embarrassing!"

"...Makiatto, that was on purpose, wasn't it?"

"Hah? What are you talking about?"

"You have so much more experience operating in the Yellow Zone than me, so you must've realized that Singoriensis hives were nearby. Given your capabilities, I'm sure you could've handled the task with ease even without my help, yet you missed so many shots at close range just to give me the chance to land the killing blow—all to make me feel better... Even during our little competition, the gap between our results remained consistent, as if you were deliberately lagging behind me..."

"I know you would do this. Springfield and you planned all this, right? I'm sorry—my incompetence must've made you worry..."

"Ey!"

I flinched—unbeknownst to me, Makiatto had already walked up.

"What nonsense are you conjuring up in that noggin?! Fine, I'll admit it—I did hold back, but only during the first half of the competition! The second half was truly because I couldn't catch up to you!"

"And the hive cluster? That really was an accident—I didn't know it was there! Do you HAVE to have me spell out such embarrassing things?!"

I lowered my head, unable to meet her eyes.

"And also! Stop doubting yourself all the time! You can do things I can't, you know that? I've had Sharkry's coffee for so long yet all I can come up with as comments is if it's sweet enough. You only took a sip and immediately you can tell us about all that fruity citrus and beans and whatever!"

"That's not exactly a skill worth celebrating..."

"How is it not?! Fine-tune that module a little more and take a position at Zucchero, even

Springfield would be praising you all over! I bet all even the cafés down the street would fight to recruit you!"

"But what I want is to be useful to the Commander...

And clearly, the Commander only needs capable T-Dolls like you in the Contamination Zones. Look at how well you've worked together. Meanwhile, I'm not even worth the Commander's time..."

Yeah... how is being able to taste coffee something helpful to the Commander at all?

"Ugh, you dork... While Zucchero does have a partnership with that idiot now, but... F-fine—I'll just say it! Our cooperation with the Commander wasn't all smooth sailing from the get-go either! Springfield worked hard through her intel network to secure our involvement in the Commander's commissions..."

"I, too, was worried at first, okay? Although that idiot is easy to get through to, what if our chemistry's gone after not fighting side by side for so long, and I end up messing up something? It's not like we haven't worked together for years, and I might no longer be on par, too. Not to mention something did go wrong during the mission... For a moment, I was terrified—what if that idiot thinks not bringing me along when leaving Griffin was the right choice? That'd be the worst!"

"T-that was not me acting soft! I just got worried that idiot would get too smug! But in the end, Sharkry and I accomplished the mission flawlessly, and the rest is history."

Makiatto crossed her arms, stumbling through her explanation of working with the Commander.

...So Makiatto used to be insecure about this too.

"So yeah, it's perfectly normal to feel anxious when we've been separated from the Commander for so long! It's not just you—I do, and even Springfield does too! You'll understand once you two meet again. That idiot may look a little different now, but it's still the same Commander you know inside. Besides... I reckon that idiot is not the kind of person to boil our merits down to just being 'useful' or 'useless', right?"

"You're right... the Commander isn't that kind of person."

"Not to mention, while the Commander changed over the years, so have we! Whether it's on the battlefield or in life, you have strengths. If you keep acting all insecure, that's when you'll lose all those shining traits of yours!"

"I-if you're worried about falling behind, then let's keep doing what we're doing now! Come train with me! We can work together until that day comes, and you can show that idiot you're just as capable as you used to!"

I looked at Makiatto, arms still crossed, cheeks puffed in annoyance—and couldn't help but laugh.

"W-what are you laughing at!?"

"Hehe... I was just thinking—that's definitely something Makiatto would say. Thank you! I get it now."

"W-why are you thanking me! Geez!"

Her face flushed red and turned pale in turns, and I just kept grinning.

So everyone felt the same way I did. I wasn't alone at all...

I was so wrapped up in my own worry and nihilism that I almost forgot—my Commander would never act or think the way I feared. I should've never let my mind stoop that low.

Right, I can't stay like this.

"In that case, I'll retract what I said."

I smiled at Makiatto and strode toward the hive cluster.

"Let's wrap this mission up and head back for the paycheck!"

M200's Neural Logs 5

███ 7th, 1510 hours.

I stood on the platform, waiting for the Intercontinental Railway for my return trip.

I came here to deliver a message, so naturally I was heading back empty-handed.

However, the three who came to see me off each held something.

"This is for you... I-it's one of my ribbons! Take a glance at it if you ever start overthinking again. Hopefully it'll remind you of what I said! And if that doesn't work, tie it to a rock or something and use it to knock some sense into yourself!"

I accepted the gift from Makiatto and tied it onto my ponytail—the long red ribbon now fluttered in the wind.

"Miss M200, you look much more energetic and cuter with that ribbon."

Centaureissi, who was absent from the café a few days ago, finally made it on the last day to see me off.

"Hmph, that's for sure. I took the time to carefully—I mean, I just picked one at random!"

Makiatto tried desperately to hold the corners of her mouth from rising into a grin.

Centaureissi stepped forward and handed me a paper bag with the Zucchero logo on it; inside was a box of tiramisu.

"I'm sorry for not being there to receive you this time, Miss M200. If you ever have time, please remember to revisit Zucchero. I heard from the manager that your sense of taste is very sharp. I look forward to spending a lot of time asking for your help adjusting flavors."

"Don't you worry, I will definitely be back for my next break."

"M200, stop brooding alone if anything troubles you—we're all here to help. Oh, and this is from Sharkry. She had to stay back to shopkeep, so she couldn't be here to see you off."

Springfield handed me a postcard. The back was filled with encouraging words written in glitter ink, while the front was... a signed portrait of Sharkry.

"If you ever want to go through real action again, you should apply for more field tasks with Kalina. Your capabilities are evident to us all, M200. Kalina will undoubtedly consider your requests seriously. Continue to accumulate experience and keep improving yourself, I'm sure you won't be behind any other T-Doll when the day comes to reunite with the Commander."

"Thank you... Thank you all."

With all three watching, I boarded the Intercontinental Railway back to Kyiv.

As the time for departure hit, the train sped away from the station.

Without a window to look back, I wasn't able to see their fading silhouette, but their guidance and comfort still echoed in my ears.

I couldn't betray their trust again—and with that thought, I dialed Kalina's number.

"M200? Already on your way back? How was the trip?"

"Yes, everything went smoothly, and I'm on the train now."

"That's good to hear."

"Um... there's something I want to discuss."

"Go ahead."

"I thought... since recent testing and instruction duties aren't particularly loaded... I wish to utilize my free time to assist the NOMFA in field operations. I'll do my best and won't cause any trouble. Please have faith in me."

"Oh? Why request that all of a sudden?"

On the call, I shared everything that had happened during my trip and my true thoughts with Kalina.

"So that's why you've looked so troubled these days... As expected of Zucchero, they managed to untangle your emotional knot in just a few short days. Sending you over really was the right choice."

"What... w-was it that obvious? Was that why you sent me on the trip in the first place... to help me clear my head?"

"You could put it like that. I'm almost embarrassed to admit it—the one who noticed your abnormal behavior wasn't me, but one of your students."

In my mind appeared the field personnel who stood by the doorway and called me "Instructor".

How had I not noticed back then? She was clearly full of worry and concern.

"M200, many—and I mean MANY—people around you care deeply about you. Even as you're not fighting on the front line, you're contributing your effort in one way or another. So, no need to feel sorry—you're doing well, and you're not alone. And, I don't think... that person would be looking down on the way you are right now."

As the Commander got brought up, Kalina sounded slightly hesitant, and I wasn't able to tell why at the moment.

All the caring and comforting words I had ignored before started to flow back into my mind.

"Alright then! I will take care of assigning some missions to you. No more acting all doom and gloom once you're back!"

"Y-yes! I will adjust my mindset and start working hard!"

"That's more like it."

Kalina laughed softly and said, "The future is always hopeful. Though I don't know how long it will take us to reach it, I believe everyone in Griffin will reunite again, someday... in some way."

As long as we hold onto that hope and keep moving forward... someday, everyone will meet again at a new crossroads with smiles on their face.

I looked toward the bright blue sky outside, and many smiling faces flashed before my eyes.

"Yes!" I answered with a smile as well.

Peach and Ink

Unlocked with Homemade Fruit Jams.

Summary

A series of letters sent by Pavel to his future wife Alina during World War Three.

Letter to Alina 1

Dear Alina,

Hello, I am Pavel. Do you still remember me?

My unit and I once stayed in your village for a couple of days.

I was a little rounder than the other guys, and you laughed at me and said I looked like a dork. You even gave me a little jar of peach compote! Do you remember me now?

When we moved on, I asked around. Turns out that I was the only one who got a jar. Nobody else did.

I am writing to ask if you are thinking the same thing as me.

Our unit has been pushing forward each day now, and we've been fighting all the while.

Every day, we do the same things we've been doing since we enlisted, just like in the enlistment videos—holding our rifles, pulling the trigger, killing the enemy, protecting the Motherland.

Whether the enemy dies or our comrades fall, it all goes by in a blur. We barely even have time to process about what happened before moving on to the next battle.

Fortunately, we've only had brief skirmishes recently, which we won, but every time I look back at our battles, I feel a little afraid.

I'm not telling you this to make you worry. The fact that I can write this letter at all shows that I'm alright.

I've never managed to accomplish much since I was a kid, but I've always been lucky.

And I also believe Lady Luck will keep watching over me until the war ends.

Alina, I just want to ask... Did that jar of compote and the kisses between us mean that I'm someone special to you?

Because you're special to me. Nobody in the world could replace you.

I remember how the sunlight looked when it shone on your eyes. They looked like the most beautiful gemstones in the world. I also remember the scent of fruits that lingered around you, as sweet and lovely as your blonde hair.

You have no idea how happy I was when you secretly came looking for me.

I nearly threw my gun into the air from sheer joy!

God, thank you for blessing me with the favor of Lady Luck.

Alina, if there were no war, I would like to stay with you in the village where you grew up and make you the one and only commander of my life. Yes, ma'am, whatever you say, ma'am!

I've been thinking about you constantly while we've been on the march, about your pretty face and your sweet smile, and thanks to them, every moment of my life is filled with hope.

I want to win this war with my comrades as soon as possible so I can see you again.

When I do... will you be mine?

I promise you with all the sincerity a man can give his beloved that I will protect you, love you, and stay by your side forever. Will you give me the chance to do so?

I'm looking forward to hearing your reply, whether it's yes or no.

I'll be awaiting your answer.

And if the answer is yes, I will spend my whole life fulfilling the promise I've made.

Yours sincerely,

Pavel

Letter to Alina 2

My beloved Alina,

I could hardly believe my eyes! Do you know how happy I was when I saw your reply.

I knew Lady Luck would smile on me, and I just knew there was something special between us!

"I will." Good Lord, never before have two words sounded so good!

If the compote you gave me was sweet, then this reply was even sweeter.

Before she passed away, my dear grandma once told me she had a dream when she went to Heaven--it was warm and happy and she had wings that she used to fly everywhere and bother the angels.

I thought she was just talking old-people nonsense at the time, but when I got your letter, I swear I saw Heaven for a moment.

All the little cuts and scrapes I got earlier today don't hurt at all. Your lovely handwriting and the things it said are more effective than anything the medics have.

It's true, really! I—I'll prove it with my life!

I've been waiting for your reply ever since I sent my previous letter.

I didn't know how you'd respond, but it turns out that all my waiting turned out to be worthwhile after all.

Have faith in me, Alina. I won't make you wait long.

I'll write to you every week until the war ends, so please reply when you get my letters, alright?

I want to see your handwriting again and smell the fragrance on the paper.

Yours with love,

Pavel

Letter to Alina 3

To my brave Alina,

I received your letter, though it was delayed by a few days. I was silently cursing the signalman as he leisurely drove his shitty little cart into the camp, taking his damn time dropping off the mail at the PX!

I read it, and all I can say is thank God you're all okay!

Those miserable bastards harassing you should all go to hell!

I've got half a mind to go over and shoot them into Swiss cheese right now!

Fortunately, you managed to protect yourselves, my brave Alina!

I remember your previous letter mentioned that your father taught you to hunt as a girl, but that you didn't want to use bullets on human beings.

But when the time comes, you'll need someone to wield a weapon to protect those weaker than themselves.

You did nothing wrong, and you have no need to apologize for it. I'm so proud to have someone like you as my beloved.

But Alina, please promise me this; the next time something like this happens, could you please hide first? Let the men in the village take care of those assholes. There's no telling how long the war will last, and as long as there's fighting, there'll be no shortage of roaming bandits.

Lady Luck might be smiling on us, but she's got a lot of people to protect.

Best not to test our good fortune too much!

Of course, maintaining hunting rifles, caring for the women and children and binding wounds is perfectly fine.

But no matter what, your own safety comes first.

Remember that little cave we went to on that date? It's well-hidden and it would make for a good hiding place.

Meanwhile, my boys and I will get this war done with as soon as possible so you'll never need to live in fear again!

Alina, I miss you dearly and I want to return to your side soon.

I hope that if bandits show up again, I won't be waiting for your reply on the battlefield but by your side to protect you.

While I know you can protect yourself and those around you, I don't want you to have to do that. I want to be your soldier who charges into the fray for you.

After all, how could I expose my beloved commander Alina to danger?

As for my situation, things are going much the same as always. Lady Luck smiles on me, and I've always been able to get out of any sticky situations I find myself in.

Just recently, we were ambushed by the enemy. A lot of our guys died, but I managed to survive.

Clearly, God has sent Lady Luck to watch over me. And if He were truly merciful, he would end this war soon so everyone would be at peace.

I believe that peace will come soon, just as I believe in our love which cannot be broken.

Forever yours,

Pavel

Letter to Alina 4

My dear Alina,

Alina, are you and your family doing well?

It's been two weeks since I last received a letter from you. You're all okay, right?

We've been getting new signalmen left and right and they don't know anything about delivering mail! I'm sure one of those clowns must have lost your letter!

Lady Luck is watching over us. We didn't do anything wrong, so she has no reason to abandon us.

I will always care for you, no matter what.

Alina, please write back and tell me about how things are on your end if you receive this letter.

Awaiting your reply,

Pavel

Letter to Alina 5

My beloved Alina,

It's been a whole month since I last received a letter from you. Are you and your family all right?

Was it those bandits again who delayed your reply?

Once we drive the enemy out of the NSU, I'll make sure I wipe them all out for good!

I believe in you - you drove them off last time, and you'll be able to do it again this time too!

Jack's been doing really badly the past few days. His hometown was raided by bandits, his family apparently gone missing and now he has nobody he can contact. I've been hearing him leave the tent at night for the past few nights.

I... I don't want to imagine something like that happening to...

No! That sort of thing won't happen to you!

Lady Luck is still smiling on us! She'll never turn her back on you!

So please, send me a reply and tell me you're safe.

Awaiting word,

Pavel

Letter to Alina 6

My lovely Alina,

Alina, Jack is dead. He died during a skirmish this morning.

He couldn't even hold his gun straight after days of drinking and sleepless nights.

His eyes were red when he lay in his bunk last night. He was envious of how my buddies were consoling me while I was writing you a letter.

Then, Jack suddenly sat up and began yelling at me. He said you didn't reply to me because something had happened to you. He said "You're just like the other luckless bastards in the war. There's no way she even remembers you anymore!"

Utter bullshit!

I was this close to punching him in the face back then, but then he broke down in tears...

I have to say this; Jack was always a good lad at heart. There's no way he actually meant the stuff he said. I guess he just needed some sleep.

In the end, I just gave him another bottle of vodka.

You'll be fine, I know you will.

I'll do whatever it takes to make sure you're safe.

I don't care if it means losing my arms and legs in this damn war!

You're just a civilian! You shouldn't get caught up in the fighting! Lady Luck will smile on you! God will protect you! I believe that!

Why won't this war just end already?!

Alina, I don't want you to see my weakness, but I'm just too worried about you.

So please, send me a reply...

Too many people have died already, from Jack to Andrey to Alexander...

You've seen Alexander before, he's the one with a bald patch from when a bullet grazed his scalp. He died beside me. He was talking to me just a moment ago.

I've seen so many guys go ahead of me. There are fewer and fewer people I know on the front lines, and the replacements are getting younger and younger.

I'm sorry, Alina. I shouldn't be writing this.

I don't want to make you sad and I don't want you to worry about me.

But there's nobody else I can talk to about this. If you were to...

No! I refuse to believe it!

I'll keep writing to you! One letter a day! I'll keep writing until the war is over and I'm back by your side.

I'll marry you and we'll live in peace and have the cutest kids ever.

I know you'll be okay! You're hiding in that cave, right? I'm sure the signalmen must have missed it because they couldn't find it!

You promised to be mine, so you must be waiting for me, right? I... I'll survive this purgatory, no matter what.

I'll be back, back by your side. I'll prove that Jack was just talking nonsense. I'll prove that you're okay, that God still loves us and Lady Luck is still by our side.

So wait for me, Alina!

Yours sincerely,

Pavel

Letter to Alina 7

To my future wife Alina,

Thank goodness you're alright, Alina!

I just knew that you'd be fine! I should have realized that I couldn't get your letters because the roads were blocked off!

But I didn't expect you to be worried too because you hadn't received mine either!

I'm still your Pavel!

Oh, when I think about how many tears this damn war's taken from you, it makes me grit my teeth in rage!

Alina, I was over the moon when I received your letters.

Did you know? They fell before me like snowflakes, all covered in your lovely handwriting. But I know there were probably more! Those morons must have lost them somewhere!

But in any case, thank God we're still alive!

Turns out God hasn't forsaken us, and Lady Luck is always on our side.

Alina, this sense of regaining something I'd thought I'd lost is almost too much to bear. My heart feels like it's going to jump out of my mouth, my head is spinning, I've got so many things I want to say, so many thoughts, so messy, so brilliant...

I'm having a bit of trouble figuring out what to say next...

In my previous letters, I mentioned why I joined the army.

But the truth is, since that time until now, I just been going on aimlessly.

When the war started, I saw all sorts of atrocities on the news, videos of old people and kids being cruelly murdered, other countries invading the NSU, granaries and larders being looted, villages and towns being burned down...

All that I saw was the media declaring how evil the enemy countries were.

It was around that time that the kids my age and I all decided we wanted to protect our nation. In my area, a bunch of the older guys would lead us on street protests to denounce the evils of enemy countries.

The media told us that stepping up to save the Motherland was our duty. Everyone around me believed that too.

And so, we submitted our enlistment applications and exchanged our civilian clothes for military uniforms.

Back then, I thought things would go as I had imagined.

I thought... I thought we would beat back the enemy under the leadership of an experienced commander, and take back everything the Motherland had lost.

But we soon discovered that this was just a childish fantasy.

War has always been cruel, but worse still, it's illogical.

Comrades who were weaker than me, stronger than me, younger than me, older than me, more experienced than me and greener than me have all gone to meet with God.

You always said my courage and piety are what kept me alive...

But I'm not a particularly godly man, I don't go to church often. I'm not very brave either, I usually end up crying from pain.

I once said that I was lucky, and through it all, I've never lost any limbs or come down with sicknesses or whatnot for long. I've always thanked Lady Luck and God for that.

But you know, during the two months when I lost contact with you, I think I cursed them about as many times as I pleaded with them for you to be alright!

I almost... I very nearly thought something bad had happened to you, and that I'd end up like Jack.

I even regretted enlisting in the first place, because if I were a farmer, I could have stayed in the village to protect you.

You always said I was the bravest soldier you knew, but for the past two months, all I could think of is just how weak and cowardly of a man I really am.

Jack couldn't protect himself or his family... And I couldn't be there to protect you. That's not what I signed up for!

All that rubbish about sacrificing for the Motherland used to move my heart, but it's stopped making sense for me recently... Ahhh, I'll tell you all about it when I figure it out!

You know, my image of you has become clearer and clearer in my head over the past few months, as though I could smell you, as though I could reach out and touch your cherry-pink lips.

And I hope... I hope I can still be the brave Pavel that you love. I'll do my best to survive until the end, so you need to take care of yourself too.

We both need to look after ourselves for our future!

Alina, I miss you.

I believe... I have to believe that God and Lady Luck are still with us.

I'll come back to you.

So please wait for me, Alina.

With eternal love,

Pavel

Case File RE032

Unlocked with Intricate Balances.

Summary

Following the events of Deep Oblivion, Major Fedya cooperates with interrogation regarding his past and affiliation with Rurik Girard. After Fedya's father, veteran of the Neo-Soviet Union army Andrey Sokolov, died from a chronic disease, he and his mother, a retired doctor, fell into poverty. Fedya suffered a costly injury while studying at the Military Academy and applied to the Girard Group's student loan program as a last resort. Rurik personally provided the money to heal him fully, and after Fedya joined the Public Security Administration, Rurik recruited him as Girard's inside man. Believing that the Girard Group was benevolent towards Odesa, and eager to climb the administrative ladder to support his city, Fedya complied. During the incidents involving NOMFA, he repeatedly interfered with investigations, including tracking the NOMFA team, covering up evidences of the assassination attempt on Kalina in Chapter 4 and slowing down the correction process of the NOMFA Dolls' erroneous "dangerous" status. By enabling the Girard Group to win all PubSec procurement offers, Fedya directly contributed to the damages that occurred during Operation Xyster.

When Fedya's mother visits him in prison, she encourages him to keep following the path to redemption and move forward with his life.

Selected Excerpts From Video Recordings Of The Fyodor Andreyevich Sokolov Case 1

(The sound of typing from a distance.)

(The rustling of clothing from nearby.)

(The voices of three people in the room can be heard.)

Leonid: Good afternoon, Mr. Sokolov. Our staff are already reviewing into the documents you have provided us, but we have a few details we would like to clarify with you.

The two colleagues by my side are here to record everything that is spoken here and to verify the accuracy and legality of this interview's contents.

Naturally, our entire conversation will be recorded.

Before we officially begin the interview, I am bound to inform you that you have the right to an attorney or to remain silent. However, should you decide to speak you will be held responsible for the truthfulness of your statements or lack thereof.

Is there anything else that is unclear?

Fedya: Not at all. Everything I wish to say is already in the documents I have provided.

I understand the procedures and legalities involved and I will cooperate with you to the best of my ability.

Leonid: Then it seems we will not need to wait for a lawyer.

We are very glad that you have chosen to be so cooperative with us.

While documentation has been submitted, we still need to verify your identity once again, as is standard procedure.

The subject is Fyodor Andreyevich Sokolov. Male, born in Odesa in July 2048, aged 26 this year.

After graduating from the Odesa Military Academy with outstanding grades, he entered the Odesa Bureau of Public Security. One year after employment, he was transferred to the Odesa Bureau of Public Security Special Administration Branch. Following that, he was steadily promoted to the rank of Major in the SAB.

During the recent major breach of public order in Odesa, he led a contingent consisting of SAB personnel, Odesan PubSec forces and external collaborators in "Operation Bonesaw", which ultimately resulted in the quelling of the robot uprising triggered by the Girard Group.

(The sound of flipping pages; apparently the speaker is confirming something.)

Leonid: While quelling the uprising, you led SAB forces in an operation for the arrest of the chairman of the Girard Group, provisional lead candidate for the Odesan State Council and former Odesan State counselor Rurik Girard.

Is the above statement correct?

Fedya: It is.

Leonid: In your statement, you mentioned that during your years of service as a SAB Major, you led and assisted in the implementation of various unlawful policies; a total of 16, to be exact. Upon closer investigation, 11 were directly linked to the Girard Group while the status of the remaining five is still pending. Among them, the following three policies have been identified as being highly influential to and consequently potential causes of the major public order breach: "Proposal for Basic Deployment of Municipal Security Robots", "Proposal on the Development of New Security Robots" and "Application for Land Use for the Production of New-Model Security Robots".

On top of that, you were also indirectly linked to 19 other collaborative projects between the Girard Group and the Odesan municipal government. The documents you provided indicate that you engaged in the deliberate removal of submissions from other, competing organizations.

In addition, you used your position to leak insider information from the SAB to the Girard Group in order to assist them in business planning and corporate development.

Is all this true? Are there any omissions?

Fedya: It is.

All my criminal actions are listed in the submitted documentation, and I can vouch for their truthfulness.

Leonid: We will further verify these details.

Mr. Sokolov, we need you to elaborate further on your actions, including but not limited to the nature of the relationship between yourself, the Girard Group and Mr. Rurik Girard himself, as well as the motives behind the contact between all parties concerned. This is not just a routine inquiry into the facts of this case, it will also shed light on our investigation of the major security incident instigated by the Girard Group.

As such, we hope you will carefully recall the facts and truthfully relate them to us in rigorous detail.

(The sound of rustling cloth.)

Fedya: I will tell you what I know to the best of my ability.

Selected Excerpts From Video Recordings Of The Fyodor Andreyevich Sokolov Case 2

Leonid: Mr. Sokolov, after graduating from the Military Academy, you entered Odesan PubSec and within a year, you were transferred to the Odesan SAB, after which you were rapidly promoted to the rank of Major in the SAB.

We have examined into your career prior your promotion and discovered that you had substantial accomplishments, for which you received commendations, but even so, the speed at which you were promoted far exceeded that of your colleagues.

Can we conclude that this was the result of a deal between yourself and the Girard Group?

Fedya: Yes. The Girard Group did not explicitly promise me anything, but they made things easier for me in many ways.

Rurik Girard also hinted to me through certain channels that they had helped remove obstacles from my path and cleared the way for my promotion... and in exchange, I would disclose insider information to the Girard Group and assist them in covering up certain illegal activities.

Leonid: "Through certain channels", you say. We will require more information on that.

Since there was a transactional relationship between both parties, the Girard Group would have had to reveal sensitive information to you. How did you maintain contact with them?

Fedya: The Girard Group established special encrypted frequencies for me to use. The encryption algorithm was routinely changed to avoid eavesdropping. For the most part, it was the Girard Group that took the initiative to contact me.

Leonid: Did Rurik Girard contact you in person?

Fedya: No. Usually, it was a woman who was responsible for contacting me. Based on her familiarity with the Girard Group, I can only assume that she must have been a high-ranking member of the organization, but I cannot be sure of her exact identity or position. I rarely had the chance to communicate personally with Rurik Girard himself.

Leonid: A woman?

(The sound of keys tapping.)

Leonid: I have a list of all the mid-level and above female employees of the Girard Group. Can you identify her for me?

Fedya: Unfortunately, I do not know her name or face. Our communications were strictly remote and always through voice or text.

Therefore, all I can say is that she was a woman, roughly 20 years old from the sound of her voice.

Leonid: Mr. Sokolov, did you not attempt to change this unusual method of communication? To my knowledge, all your instructors at the Odesan Military Academy noted that you were a careful individual.

Fedya: The other party was very cautious and refused to divulge any information about herself. I tried investigating her on my own, but it was fruitless... Also, it seems they were on guard against this, because they issued me a veiled warning about trying to learn more about them.

Leonid: Alright then, let's change the topic.

You just mentioned that the Girard Group help pave the way for your rise, and in return you did them favors. I have seen the relevant details in the documents you submitted.

Recently, you performed the following services for the Girard Group:

1. When illegal combat robots owned by the Girard Group attacked NOMFA Counselor Kalina in the satellite city ODE-01, you covered up the evidence concerning the attack;

2. You delayed the removal of the "dangerous" tag for the NOMFA's supernumerary Dolls in the Odesan PubSec system's servers;

3. You repeatedly revealed the location of Counselor Kalina and her subordinates to Rurik.

Is the preceding information correct?

Fedya: It is.

Leonid: Very well. Are you aware of the former Chairman's murder and the vaccine incident? Were you involved in them?

Fedya: I do not know about these incidents and I have neither directly participated nor handled anything related to them.

Leonid: You did not directly participate or handle these incidents? Mr. Sokolov, that is a very vague answer. I would like you to tell me what you know or whatever comes to mind.

Fedya: I just... I have a few guesses. They come from after I learned the former chairman died.

Rurik and the former chairman did not see eye to eye when it came to their political views. Some of the illegal actions I helped facilitate were at odds with the former chairman's stated policies... From what I could tell, both of them were only pretending to get along on the surface.

Also, when the Girard Group was requesting permission to take over municipal authority, he asked me to reveal the former chairman's schedule to him, just like with Counselor Kalina.

Leonid: Did you attempt to verify your guesses after learning about the chairman's death?

Fedya: ...No. I didn't do it, directly or indirectly.

...I...I ignored the matter at the time because there was no clear evidence pointing to the Girard Group, they were doing much good for the community, and Rurik Girard was a kind and generous individual.

Leonid: A kind and generous individual...

(The sound of keys tapping.)

Leonid: You mentioned in your documents that when you were studying in the academy, the Girard Group helped sponsor your tuition, is that correct? Can I interpret that as the start of your relationship with Rurik Girard and the Girard Group?

Fedya: Yes. That was the most difficult period in my life and Rurik and the Girard Group helped me out during that time.

Selected Excerpts From Video Recordings Of The Fyodor Andreyevich Sokolov Case 3

Fedya: My family was not doing well. After entering the academy, it was thanks to a student loan from the Girard Group that I managed to complete my studies.

When I was in school, I was badly injured during a training accident and hospitalized for two months. The medical assistance from the school only covered the bare minimum level of medical care, and my family could not afford to pay for more expensive treatment options.

Said minimal medical care would probably result in lifelong disability, and without a notable family background or achievements, there was no future for a crippled soldier no matter how good his written grades were.

Leonid: Was that when the Girard Group stepped in to help you?

Fedya: To be precise, it was Rurik Girard who did that.

I was at my wits' end at the time. My mother had gone to beg everyone she knew for help, but the amount she managed to borrow was a drop in the bucket compared to what I needed. With nowhere else to go, I clung to a sliver of hope and submitted an application to the Girard Group's student loan program.

While I took the utmost care in attaching my academic transcript and family income receipts to the application, I still felt that it wouldn't amount to anything.

Leonid: Did Rurik Girard contact you after that?

Fedya: Not really. But I did receive the money I needed and a reply signed "Rurik Girard".

I wrote a very long thank-you letter in response, but it didn't get a reply. I tried sending the letter to his public inbox, but I didn't get a reply either.

Leonid: Did the two of you have any further contact before you graduated?

Fedya: No.

The first time I truly made contact with Rurik Girard and the Girard Group was after I entered PubSec.

(The sound of keys tapping on a keyboard.)

Leonid: Please describe your situation at the time in detail.

Fedya: At that time, I was posted to the Odesa Bureau of Public Security's Administration Department. After seizing a shipment of contraband from the Yellow Zone, my team and I received a special commendation.

Soon, I received an invitation to a charity gala sponsored by the Girard Group. They were hoping that I would attend as an exemplary graduate of the academy who had benefited from the Group's student loans.

There were several other outstanding graduates present at those occasions. They came from various fields, and they had made achievements in their own careers.

At the time... I felt proud that there was a company in Odesa that loved the country so much.

Leonid: Do you still remember who these people are?

Fedya: It's been some time since then, but they were all pretty successful in their endeavors, so I think I can recall them.

I'll organize them into a list afterwards.

Leonid: Thank you for your compliance. Let's continue. Was that when you first met Rurik Girard?

Fedya: Yes. He came in person to talk with us graduates.

As far as I remember... Everything he said was just the usual social pleasantries. There was nothing particularly noteworthy.

Leonid: From what you've said, both he and the Girard Group as a whole could be considered your benefactors.

Fedya: Yes, you're right. We had all achieved some small level of success in our respective fields, but having a big name like Rurik Girard actually there in the flesh to speak with us was an unforgettable experience.

More to the point, he'd supported us all in some way. You could say that without him, we probably wouldn't been standing there, rubbing shoulders with the big shots.

Leonid: Did he reveal any other intentions for being there at the time?

Fedya: No.

He took a group picture with us, and then he let his secretary supply us with his contact details. At the time, I thought it was just standard social courtesy and merely a show of the Girard Group's charitability.

But he did help me. That was a fact, and a rare stroke of good fortune, so I felt that it deserved to be publicized more.

Leonid: In light of later developments, your respect and gratitude should have ended there.

(There is silence for nearly a minute.)

Fedya: That is correct.

Leonid: Let's talk about what happened after that. When did you truly start "assisting" the Girard Group?

Fedya: That was around several months after the gala. I suddenly received a call from the Girard Group, showing a lady on the other end. From her voice, I could tell that she was not the secretary I had met at the gala.

She told me that Rurik wanted to meet me for dinner in order to discuss how the Girard Group's robots could better serve PubSec.

Leonid: Did that not seem contrived to you?

Fedya: It did. But at the time, I thought of Rurik as a powerful and important man who had helped me out of a tight spot. I tried to convince myself by saying that he was probably just trying to build good relations with PubSec.

During that dinner, Rurik Girard made his first request of me-- He was hoping that I would cover up a late permit registration for modifications to their security robots. The details of that particular incident have been included in the documentation I have submitted.

Leonid: The requests he made and the incentives he gave after that exceeded the scope of "building good relations". You know that, right?

Fedya: Yes, I do. I admit to all of it. I became his accomplice for the sake of my future and because of my actions, Odesa was plunged back into the flames of war after a hard-won peace.

(Typing on a keyboard, followed by a man coughing.)

Leonid: It's getting late, so we'll conclude today's interview here.

Mr. Sokolov, we are grateful for your cooperation and honesty. We will verify the files and documents you have provided, and if need be, we will speak to you again.

If you remember anything during this time, please feel free to inform us through the guards.

Our stenographer will corroborate the transcript of this interview with you afterward. Once everything is in order, you can sign it.

Fedya: Alright.

Selected Excerpts From Video Recordings Of The Fyodor Andreyevich Sokolov Case 4

(Inside a prison visiting room.)

(Under a guard's watchful gaze, Fedya takes a seat on the other side of the glass from a middle-aged woman, who has come to visit him. Both of them are silent.)

Middle-Aged Woman: After your sentence was handed down... One of your subordinates came to visit me. I made sure to treat them well... Oh Fedya... my poor boy...

(The middle-aged woman looks like she wants to say more, but ultimately she does not. Instead, she simply observes her son through the glass window separating them.)

(The silence eats away at her, and in the end, her quiet sobbing causes Fedya, whose head has been lowered all this time, to quickly look up.)

Fedya: Mama, you don't have to feel bad for me... I'm sorry I let you down...

Middle-Aged Woman: My son, have you told them everything you have to say?

(Fedya nods.)

Middle-Aged Woman: Good, that's good... You didn't let me down... I'll be waiting for your release...

(The older woman hiccups. Fedya shakes his head in resignation.)

Fedya: I let you down, and I brought shame to Papa... He fought for the peace of the NSU and fell to a chronic disease... But now I've ended up becoming the culprit who destroyed this peace...

I regret what I've done, and I'm lost on what to do next... I'm not trying to make excuses for what I did... But I truly wish I could be like him...

Middle-Aged Woman: Andrey would... He would have forgiven you.

(Fedya is silent for a long time.)

Fedya: ...I don't know if Papa would forgive me... I can't even forgive myself... Especially since I actually thought that... I was right.

(Fedya's body tenses up, then goes limp.)

Fedya: The Girard Group brought great prosperity to Odesa. That's a fact. Also, this world isn't black and white.

...I thought that the help I provided would help realize my ambitions sooner and do good for Odesa... But in the end it turns out I was just out of touch with what was actually happening, a clown deluding himself and finding excuses for what he did.

I... The past few nights have been filled with dreams of the fire and smoke spreading over Odesa during those days, as well as the people caught up in them. It scares me, not like when I was afraid like when I went out on missions in the past, but a deeper, more gripping fear.

All those illegal robots that I overlooked for the sake of the "big picture"... They went from mere numbers on a page to actual bullets being fired at my friends and innocent people.

And then there's the matter of Mr. Chairman... If I hadn't helped Rurik, maybe he wouldn't have...

Middle-Aged Woman: Oh, my poor boy... Those people were simply evil... they were devils in human skin...

Fedya: But that makes me a tool of the devil, no? Mama... I once thought I was more clear-headed than others, that I could look down and see the overall scheme of things, like those big shots... But the truth is, I didn't see anything.

I even mistook the fires of hell as embers from heaven. I fed them, but couldn't put them out, and I had no idea just how much they would burn...

(Fedya sighs derisively at himself.)

Fedya: Mama, there were many times in the past when I felt I was treated unfairly. My grades were good, but people looked down on me because of my age and lack of experience.

That's my flaw, and I can't get away from that. It bothered me, and I just couldn't accept what they thought of me... But on those days, when I found myself in actual combat, when I saw how those veterans fought... that was when I realized just how foolish my thoughts and actions were.

Middle-Aged Woman: But... you realize where you went wrong, right? That's good... you've come to your senses, and taken responsibility for your mistakes...

Fedya: But compared to what my actions have caused, the punishment I've received is... it's nothing in comparison.

(Fedya looks more and more fragile as he speaks and his voice grows quiet.)

Fedya: And... I don't know if I've really truely opened my eyes... Am I truly thinking straight now? If I'm faced with the same problem again, what should I do... Just what should I do...?

Middle-Aged Woman: ...There are many difficult problems in this world, with different circumstances and solutions that are often at odds.

Fedya: ...Mama?

Middle-Aged Woman: I'm just a retired doctor, the widow of an old soldier, and a mother who must endure being separated from her son for a long time.

I grieve for the mistakes my son has made... But at the same time, I am glad that he was not wounded by war, and that he did not perish under the guns of those illegal robots...

Peace is always important, but it doesn't always mean the same thing to everyone.

My son... I cannot give you an answer to your question. I cannot see the world that those big figures do. All I know is that for the longest time, all I've had to do for breakfast was to toast a slice of bread.

Fedya: I'm sorry, Mama...

Middle-Aged Woman: My son has made mistakes, but he is brave, and he has found his conscience again. As for me... my heart will slowly find peace in my slices of bread.

The mistakes you have made will be fixed by capable people. If you want to know if there is anything you can do... Then you must thank them, and then do the best you can with what time you have left.

Fedya, you have a long time ahead of you, and the times will not let you linger here. Your mother... Your mother hopes that you will eventually find your peace again.

Fedya: I... I will think carefully about all this...

Aida Squad - Mission File LP0524

Unlocked with Case File LP0524.

Summary

As part of a working agreement between the independent Task Force DEFY and the Stasi, AK-12 reports the incident in Lviv (from Corposant) to Mona, revealing that the URNC is covering up the truth about the appearance of a gate to Nirvana. After the "reality correction" event that took place in Lviv, most people forgot anything happened, leaving only meteorological data as evidence, and the reported involvement of Orphelune Girard became a paradox. NOMFA secured the remains of Chiloveig's lab and DEFY allowed the Stasi to make further contact with the Commander.

A later report reveals that Kalina was arrested for communicating with the Commander (corresponding to her message in Corposant VS-1-11) amidst a general shakeup and apparition of factions within NOMFA. Internal Affairs also attempted to indict Director Kryuger for helping the Commander, but they couldn't secure any evidence. Neither appear aware of the reality correction event, but both are flagged as recruitment targets, presumably for "the Organization".

[Report 1] Task Force DEFY Contact And Intelligence-Gathering Report

Agent In Charge: "Mona"

Mission Date: █ of █, 207█

Report Date: █ of █, 207█

Classification: Top Secret

Mission Overview:

In accordance with the long-term cooperative agreement between the Stasi and Task Force DEFY, this squad conducted regular intelligence-sharing missions at regular intervals and coordinate information regarding the armed uprising in Lviv.

Agent "Mona" established communications with members of Task Force DEFY through encrypted communications channels.

The liaison counterpart's identification code was confirmed as "AK-12". After her identity was verified, the exchange of information began.

During the communication, the liaison furnished supplementary information regarding the Lviv incident to Agent "Mona".

The description of this information indicates that there are significant discrepancies between official records and the intelligence held by Task Force DEFY.

Dialogue Transcript (Partial):

...

...

"Yo~ It's been a while, Miss Mona. How's Mr. Director been doing lately? Ah, didn't he get promoted again?"

"...You are currently in a highly adverse environment. We need to complete this information exchange ASAP."

"Aw, don't worry about it, I'll do my best to make it quick and simple: Based on our intel, there has been a distortion in your perceptions, or rather, that of the world as a whole. You might not remember it, but something huge happened."

"What?"

"The 'gate' has been opened again. Tell your boss; he'll know what I mean. I'll tidy up the details and send the report over to your terminal."

"..."

"Ah, yes, the two of them will be staying with the Commander for the time being. We won't reveal too much about Stasi, so don't worry about it."

"Understood. "

...

...

Key information points follow:

· [Point 1] Task Force DEFY claims that a major Collapse Particle contamination incident took place.

· [Point 2] The incident's true perpetrator is the deceased individual "Orphelune Girard" (Note: Official records indicate said individual perished in the Frankfurt Incident).

· [Point 3] According to witness testimony, some sort of "correction" phenomenon occurred, causing most people's memories to be rewritten.

· [Point 4] The large-scale energy field fluctuations detected in Lviv have been corroborated by multiple civilian and government agencies and are suspected to be related to this "correction" phenomenon. Further investigation is underway.

· [Point 5] According to witness testimony, the criminal organization "Paradeus" is closely linked to this incident. However, relevant data was not submitted and appears to have been destroyed.

· [Point 6] The NOMFA intervened and found important stolen equipment in the Paradeus laboratory located in the White Zone city of Lviv. It has been recovered and transferred by NOMFA.

Intelligence Evaluation:

Following professional analysis, the abovementioned information is highly controversial at a theoretical physics level.

There is no scientific basis for the "reality correction" mentioned in the transcript. However, the weather abnormalities during the Lviv insurgence has been verified as having been caused by energy field fluctuation and the possibility of phenomena beyond the bounds of conventional scientific understanding cannot be ruled out.

The liaison demonstrated a high degree of logical consistency and integrity during the communications process. It is recommended that this information be further analyzed.

In accordance with the established cooperative agreement, Task Force DEFY has conveyed its willingness to continue our cooperation and agreed to help establish a channel for communication with the target: (Codename: Commander).

———————————————————————————————————————

Follow-Up Action:

Stay in contact, but maintain utmost secrecy. Immediately report any abnormal situations that arise.

—— Assistant Director ████"

[Report 2] Non-Military Forces Administration Surveillance Report

Agent In Charge: "Mona"

Surveillance Target: NOMFA Counsellor Kalina ████

Report Date: █ of █, 207█

Classification: Secret

Mission Overview:

Following the events of the Lviv armed uprising, a major personnel upheaval took place within the NOMFA.

Many mid- to high-ranking officials were subjected to internal disciplinary revew for "misconduct".

Per directives from superior officers, this team performed ongoing surveillance on the key target, Counsellor Kalina.

On the █ of █, 207█, the target individual engaged in private, unauthorized communication with the internationally wanted fugitive known as █████ (operational codename: Commander).

Analysis of the intercepted transmission indicates that Counsellor Kalina expressed her support for the fugitive and a willingness to offer assistance.

Review Process:

█ of █: Counsellor Kalina was placed under arrest and subjected to questioning by Internal Affairs.

█ of █: Her personal communications devices underwent a thorough examination and multiple encrypted messages related to the Commander were discovered on them.

█ of █: The NOMFA director Kryuger issued a statement on the matter, saying that "violations will be dealt with severely".

Intelligence Evaluation:

Counsellor Kalina is currently under investigation and her duties have been temporarily suspended.

Internal sources indicate that she firmly believes in the Commander's innocence and refuses to admit any wrongdoing.

This incident has exacerbated factionalization within the NOMFA.

Addendum: Counsellor Kalina's perception of the indicent is normal. No indication that she is aware of the "reality correction" phenomenon was discovered.

Attachment: Intercepted partial communications log (encrypted)

This file is for authorized personnel only.

...

...

Agent In Charge: "Mona"

Surveillance Target: NOMFA Director ████ Kryuger

Report Date: █ of █, 207█

Classification: Secret

Mission Overview:

During the Lviv armed uprising, Director Kryuger of the NOMFA, in his capacity as the individual bringing charges against the Girard Group and the leader of the prosecution against the same, granted the international fugitive known as █████ (operational codename: Commander) access to a White Zone city.

Following the terrorist attack in Lviv led by █████ (operational codename: Commander), Director Kryuger was placed under internal disciplinary review for misconduct.

The investigation was terminated the following day due to a lack of evidence.

Intelligence Evaluation:

Director Kryuger claimed complete ignorance of the actions taken by the international fugitive █████ (operational codename: Commander).

Testimony from involved persons indicates that during the time of the incident, the Director was in the middle of negotiations with the Girard Group's representative and no abnormalities were observed during the proceedings.

Director Kryuger has not made any public statements or comments concerning the fugitive █████, suggesting some level of dissatisfaction with the findings of he investigation.

Addendum: Director Kryuger similarly exhibits normal perceptions of the situation. There is no indication that he is aware of the "reality correction" phenomenon.

...

...

Intelligence Evaluation:

Counsellor Kalina and Director Kryuger served as key government figures during the Lviv incident.

Both of them have expressed their trust in the international fugitive █████, albeit in different ways. Based on the testimony of Task Force DEFY and agent assessment, both subjects have recruitment value.

In addition, no relevant information regarding the "reality correction" phenomenon was obtained from Counsellor Kalina or Director Kryuger, further corroborating the unverifiable nature of the incident.

Investigation indicates that Mr. "██" has recently deployed a large scientific detachment to Lviv. It is as yet unclear whether it is related to this matter.

———————————————————————————————————————

Follow-Up Action:

Maintain surveillance.

—— Assistant Director ████

Secret Logs of the Lviv Violent Uprising

Unlocked with Cell Sections.

Summary

Thanks to Zimmerman, the Military Research Institute Laboratory 3 of the URNC's Ministry of Defense acquired Igla, designated STR-03A482. Forceful extraction of data from her damaged Neural Cloud reveals that, because of a certain subroutine connected to Relic research, she retained memories of her time with Orphelune Girard, which is supposed to have died long before Igla's activation following the reality correction event of Lviv. The scientists archive the memory data before purging Igla's personality and mothballing her body.

An unidentified report observes that "Quasi-Fully-Immune Individual H-35" (most likely another Helena) suddenly developed a never-before seen resistance to Collapse radiation.

A professor of the Moscow Central Academy of Sciences observes the anomalous consciousness core K-01, which is the remains of Chiloveig after her brain was destroyed. K-01 constantly expresses her need to find and kill Orphelune Girard because she caused her "rejection" (from Nirvana) and "closed the gate", but the professor hopes to extract some useful data from her as the only known Blessed One.

Third-Generation Doll STR-03A482 (Formerly Designated "Igla") Neural Cloud Extraction Report

Department: URNC Ministry of Defense Military Research Institute Laboratory 3

Data Entry Operator: Nikolai Voronin

Report Date: █ of █, 207█

Security Level: Top Secret

During the Lviv armed uprising, this laboratory managed to successfully acquire the third-generation Doll STR-03A482 (formerly designated "Igla"). By order of the MOD General Staff, we performed a comprehensive extraction and analysis of "Igla's" neural cloud records.

While the target's neural cloud was severely damaged, our laboratory used the neural cloud overwriting system QNIS-β to perform a destructive extraction of the target records, as ordered by our superiors. During this process, "Igla" was completely quiescent.

During our deep dive into the subject's neural cloud data, our laboratory managed to recover several anomalous neural cloud memory fragments. Analysis revealed discrepancies between these fragments and actual events, and most of them concerned the deceased Orphelune Girard — who was confirmed to have perished during the Frankfurt Bombardment Incident (in 2064), logn before "Igla's" first experimental activation.

Simulation files of some of the anomalous neural cloud records follow:

· [File 1] Initial encounter between "Igla" and Orphelune Girard

*Note: According to the neural records, Orphelune Girard was 16 years old during this time.

· [File 2] "Igla" assisting Orphelune Girard with her daily life

· [File 3] "Igla" attending the inaugural Girard Group technology summit alongside Orphelune Girard.

*Note: The other woman in this file is speculated to be an adult projection of Orphelune Girard as simulated by Igla's neural cloud.

...

...

...

[File 16] "Igla" protecting Orphelune Girard during the armed uprising.

Subsequently, our laboratory analyzed all the anomalous neural cloud data and discovered a subroutine in the base layer code, linked to an unknown data source. Measurements showed that the frequencies generated by this subroutine were highly similar to certain wavelengths captured during the abnormal weather phenomena that accompanied the Lviv armed uprising. It is suspected that they are related to the "Relic" research being conducted by the ██ Department.

For safety's sake, the researchers involved in this data extraction have already backed up the data to a server terminal. We will perform a secondary extraction and analysis within 3 to 6 months in an attempt to find any correlation between them and reality.

Based on the final decision of the MOD, our laboratory has decided to dispose of the third-generation Doll STR-03A482 by neutralizing it. The precise methodology is as follows:

1. STR-03A482 will be completely decrypted and placed in long-term hibernation.

2. The frame of the third-generation Doll STR-03A482 will be moved from this lab to an underground isolation area.

3. The isolation area's EMI screens will be activated to cut off all potential long-range transmissions and sever any connection with the outside world.

4. Its internal self-verification will be deleted and STR-03A482's self-identity will be re-defined.

This concludes the full content of the neural log extraction report.

Once again, we emphasize that the text of this document is classified at the Top Secret level. All personnel who have contact with this document must adhere to the procedure for handling classified documents of the highest security level.

Quasi-Full-Immune Individual H-35 Transfer Report

Laboratory Identification Code: FRA-N50.12-E9.15

Observation Subject: Quasi-Full-Immune Individual H-35

Emergence Date: █ of █, 207█

Since emergence, Quasi-Full-Immune Individual H-35 has been placed under observation at the experimental base FRA-N50.12-E9.15. H-35's development has been relatively slow compared to other quasi-full-immune individuals of the same type. The subject had not yet developed self-consciousness until around four weeks ago.

On the █ of █, H-35, demonstrated an abnormal reaction during routine vital sign checks. The base's data entry operator immediately performed a full vital sign scan on the subject. The results indicated a significantly increased response to Collapse Radiation particles, with an immune response intensity exceeding all previous records for other samples throughout the history of the entire experimental program.

After that, the base supervisor immediately contacted the Black Zone Sanctuary. The research team sent research personnel to the base in question and drew up an experimental regime for Quasi-Full-Immune Individual H-35:

1. Collapse Particle Endurance Test: radiation dose intensity would be steadily increased to assess H-35's maximum dose tolerance.

2. Genomic Expression Analysis: H-35's genome would be sequenced in order to identify any unforeseen mutations.

3. Consciousness Separation Experiment: Using dissociation techniques to separate H-35's mind and body to determine if H-35 had been invaded by other consciousnesses.

4. Electroencephalogram Response Test: Stimulating H-35's brain regions with extreme and varied voltage spikes to measure the subject's response speed to various voltages.

...

...

...

(*Note: Some content in the abovementioned report might be disturbing to viewers, so it has been blurred out.)

Preliminary experimental results indicate that H-35 has stronger resistance to Collapse Radiation partcles compared to other quasi-full-immune individuals. The Black Zone research team has already removed H-35 from experimental base FRA-N50.12-E9.15 and begun a long-term observation of H-35. Meanwhile the base and its data have also been dealt with.

After taking the special nature of H-35 into consideration, the research team's has raised its security level to the maximum. All experiments concerning this quasi-full-immune individual must be conducted under the strictest possible biosafety measures in order to prevent any possible mutations or spread.

Anomalous Consciousness Entity K-01 Observation Report

Department: Moscow Central Academy of Sciences - Istok Research Institute

Recorder: "Professor"

Report Date: █ of █, 207█

Security Level: ALPHA

Abstract: This report details preliminary observations and analysis of the anomalous consciousness core recovered during the Lviv incident, codenamed K-01 (formerly known as "Chiloveig"). Given the destruction of its original brain vessel, this consciousness has been successfully transferred to a new experimental frame.

Observation Logs:

Subject K-01 exhibited a highly unstable mental state within 72 hours after awakening, displaying cyclical patterns of mania and dormancy, with multiple logic errors being detected in her biological function simulation systems.

During her dormant phases, Subject K-01 would spend extended periods staring at blank white walls, her lips moving silently as though she was having a conversation with a nonexistent partner. High-definition audio capture allowed us to discern frequently-repeated words like "Gate", "Key" and "Blessed One".

During its manic phases, the subject would emit shrill, inhuman laughter and attempt to break her restraints. There was no discernable logic to her aggressive behavior, which seemed like simple emotional outbursts.

Initial Conclusions:

Observations show that Subject K-01 is highly fixated on the concept of "Orphelune Girard". She frequently mentions "the girl who closed the gate" and demonstrates an intense desire to destroy and analyze said concept, rather than simple hatred. She does not seem to understand the "rules" which led to her rejection and attributes it all to this "Orphelune Girard".

"I must find her!" — Subject K-01 screamed during one of her manic phases. — "Even if she's become data and melded with that domain, I'll drag her out! I'll tear her apart and find out exactly what's inside her! Why did it have to be her?! Why did it have to be someone who was so stupid she needed me to teach her math!!!"

Final Evaluation and Suggestions:

Although Subject K-01 has suffered a complete mental breakdown, her memories hold incalculable research valuable as the only known Blessed One consciousness entity who has entered Nirvana and been affected by it. Her madness is not necessarily an impediment, but a potential non-logical alternative course to understanding the rules which govern the "Gate".

Addendum: Investigation into the Lviv incident will need to be reopened.

Confidential Records For Lentine of Mangi Security

Unlocked with Mission Report Files: Lentine.

Summary

In the first report, Adjutant Lentine covers the operations to destroy Paradeus labs connected to the Orlog Conglomerate in the Yellow Zone of the Zlín region (the same region where the Doll Community is located). The Mangi Security teams go to great lengths to eliminate hostiles and obtain information from Underground Brokers to recover and destroy any material taken from the labs, and outline how local settlements are rapidly expanding into fortified Communities (not unlike Darksteel Farm from Life Rekindled).

The second report covers the automaton riot caused by Helen at the Mangi facilities in Area C-23. Lentine reports Cocoon's unauthorized accesses to Mangi's database spanning years in the past, which Cocoon spinned during interrogation as an authorized data cleanup operation. Lentine highlights how "corporate interfaces", used by the Orlog Conglomerate are a key vulnerability in Mangi's systems.

The third report is Lentine's initial observations of the post-neurla reset Igla. While Lentine acknowledges Igla's combat prowess, she criticizes her purely objective-oriented mindset and reports abnormal responses to certain keywords which persisted despite neural resets. Lentine concludes there is a risk Igla carries a backdoor in her base layer and justifies regular neural reset to keep her obedient.

[Report 1] Yellow Zone Regional Sweep Report

Mission Date: █ of █, 207█

Report Date: █ of █, 207█

Submitted By: Lentine

1. Mission Summary

On the █ of █, 207█, our squad performed a data-clearing mission for laboratories in the Zlín region. During the course of this mission, we encountered resistance from unknown parties which resulted in a brief firefight. Said enemies were driven off and casualties sustained were minimal. Elimination and clearing of all intelligence within the labs was carried out.

2. Initial Findings

Signs of intrusion by unknown parties were found in multiple abandoned labs. The facilities were not severely damaged but there were signs that basic survival equipment, rations, daily expendable supplies and the like had been removed from the premises. All physical drives and abandoned equipment that could risk an information leak have been physically destroyed.

We contacted underground brokers for clues regarding the location of certain missing pieces of equipment. The Yellow Zone has long-standing and established channels for trading controlled materials, involving many small armed groups scattered throughout the region.

Resources traded in this manner included but were not limited to: Food items, agricultural technology, production data, medical production equipment and other such modular items. The final buyer was difficult to track down due to the anonymous nature of Yellow Zone transactions.

Based on findings from various major trading venues and cargo transport routes, we project their final destination to be a medium-sized human settlement.

After taking into consideration regional radiation scan data, there is also a possibility that the destination might be a large-scale human settlement. For further details, please consult Attachment I.

3. Conclusions and Recommendations

Based on existing investigation results, there are multiple survivor enclaves in the Zlín region and they appear to be transiting from the typical settlement model to armed communities.

Underground broker transport routes span distances of hundreds of kilometers. This wide coverage implies that there is a very high chance medium-sized or larger towns or factories are located along these transportation corridors.

Long-term developments in certain regions indicate a shift toward the development of armed forces, which will influence traditional commercial shipping routes and regional power balances. We recommend further investigation of the relevant regions to ascertain their threat status.

Attachments:

Zlín Regional Activity Footprint Report (Attachment I)

Report On Relevant Material Transfers and Yellow Zone Underground Broker Transactions (Attachment II)

Experimental Item Handling Checklist (Attachment III)

Yellow Zone Underground Broker Commercial Activity Analysis Report (Attachment IV)

[Report 2] Mangi Security Area C-23 Regional Riot Handling Report

Mission Date: █ of █, 207█

Report Date: █ of █, 207█

Submitted By: Lentine

1. Incident Summary

On the █ of █, 207█, HQ ordered us to provide support to Area C-23 under Mangi Security jurisdiction, where a large-scale Doll insurgency took place.

After receiving the order, Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta, Echo and Foxtrot Squads proceeded to the target location ASAP and commenced riot suppression operations.

Conditions on the ground indicated that roughly 60% of the Dolls in Area C-23 were engaged in non-commanded activity and had inflicted damage to multiple locations in Area-C23. Said locations included the central database, the military materiel storage and emergency power generation areas. Emergency mode for these areas was activated and the region was locked down. Certain Dolls were shut down and there was a severe threat to the lives and safety of noncombatant personnel in the area.

Suppression and rescue activities were completed by 2:42AM on the same day. Severe physical damage to the main server farm by insurgent was prevented and the affected network area was isolated. All offenders were subdued and the spread of the situation was prevented.

2. Initial Findings

Investigations revealed signs of multiple abnormal queries to the Mangi internal database, with the query period spanning several years. The most recent queries were traced back to a server from Tlazo Incorporated. It was initially suspected to be the work of the third-generation Doll "Cocoon".

The third-generation Doll "Cocoon" was brought into Intelligence Chamber No. 3 in the early morning and questioned about her activites. Said Doll denied any attempts at large-scale data obfuscation and manipulation and interpreted these activities as "data cleanup" conducted by Tlazo Incorporation.

Due to this incident, Mangi Security's internal servers were destroyed and large quantities of data were lost. Restoration work is still ongoing but synchronizing past investigation records and performing data consistency checks will take some time.

At this juncture, all remaining data is positive intelligence content. All sensitive data has been censored and made available to superiors for investigation use, as requested.

3. Conclusions and Recommendations

This incident has highlighted a major flaw in Mangi Security's data security procedures. Certain corporate-only access interfaces became weaknesses in the data security posture. All personnel with permission to use said interfaces should be further restricted to avoid classified information leakage.

In addition, due to hacking and tampering with the Mangi Security database it is recommended that relevant data be considered not fully reliable until it is cross-checked with past database records.

We recommend enhanced compartmentalization between internal and external networks, a multilayered defensive structure and comprehensive information security improvement measures.

Attachments

Doll Insurgency Action Log (Attachment I)

Access Logs for "Cocoon" (Attachment II)

Tlazo Incorporated Personnel Testimony Records (Attachment III)

[Report 3] Third-Generation Doll "Igla" Personnel Transfer File

Mission Date: █ of █, 207█

Report Date: █ of █, 207█

Submitted By: Lentine

Three days ago, our unit took possession of the third-generation Doll "Igla", serial number STR-03A482 (hereafter referred to as "the subject"). Initial combat effectiveness and neural cloud evaluation has been completed.

Upon delivery, the subject's neural cloud was wiped. No data from previous operational history remains. The subject is highly obedient and meets standards for basic unit induction.

1. Combat Effectiveness Assessment

During offensive evaluations, subject's offensive capabilities surpassed baseline by 160%. Response speed, power output and combat endurance greatly surpassed those of conventional second-generation Dolls.

2. Performance Analysis

Subject exhibited exceptional combat endurance under highly disruptive conditions. Subject was able to maintain basic combat ability even after its simulated frame was damaged and its frame demonstrated a limited self-repair capacity.

This characteristic differs from legacy second-generation Dolls. Investigations into the functions are currently ongoing and permission for more in-depth functional testing for the subject is requested.

3. Neural Cloud Evaluation

The subject responded flawlessly to all commands and demonstrated a high degree of autonomous planning and adaptation capabilities in complex situations, but its decisions were always objective-oriented. In specific situations, its decision-making prioritized mission completion above all other concerns. While said characteristic improves mission completion rate, it also introduces an unavoidable element of tactical risk.

In addition, the subject exhibited abnormal responses to certain keywords/phases. Said responses persisted even after multiple neural resets, which suggests the possibility that there a backdoor exists in the subject's base layer.

For safety's sake, regular neural resets will be carried out and the subject will be prevented from making direct contact with the information in question.

Attachments:

Combat Test Data Breakdown (Attachment I)

Abnormal Response Trigger Keyword Log (Attachment II)

DP-12's Sealed Archives

Unlocked with DP-12's Intel Files.

Summary

DP-12 and KSVK take their exit interviews from Griffin & Kryuger together, but KSVK quickly has to leave the room after losing her temper when the interviewer refuses to comment about the Commander's situation. To the interviewer's surprise, DP-12 makes a direct demand to have herself and KSVK join a certain organization (which is unstated in the file but was revealed in Antiparallel HS-1-2 to be NOMFA). The interviewer recommends her to consider PMCs to join since places where DP-12 wants to go are very limited, and also implies that for the sake of her own career, DP-12 should consider abandoning KSVK, whose neural cloud is unstable after years of memory losses and frame changes. DP-12 becomes threatening, and even cuts the cables of the interviewer's hidden panic button by driving a pen through the table, warning them not to attempt to tamper with KSVK's results in the exit evaluations. The interviewer's report acknowledges DP-12's high intelligence, electronic warfare abilities and loyalty to the Commander and KSVK, and highly recommends to keep the two Dolls together in the future.

A later document from Mangi Security reports how DP-12 and KSVK undertook a vehicle escort mission with severely underestimated danger level and assigned equipment, yet completed it flawlessly by capturing every enemy target while protecting their VIP. One assessor recommends the two Dolls to be assigned to more dangerous missions to utilize their automonous abilities, but another reports that, because every Doll from Griffin displays exceptional abilities, promoting them all carelessly could cause them to start acting too independently. They recommend assigning DP-12 and KSVK to different unit, and authorize an exception to perform a neural purge on DP-12 outside of standard protocols if she ever displays any sign of rebellion.

The third document reports how DP-12 was devoured by a Boojum while covering her team's retreat and lost. As revealed during Antiparallel, this report is fake.

[Griffin Doll Interview Transcript Excerpt: DP-12 and KSVK]

Document Serial No.: G&K-██-INTERVIEW-79

Subject: Tactical Doll DP-12

Interviewer: ███

File Date: █ of █, 20██

Security Level: Griffin Internal Confidental

[Background Information]

Incident: Recently, the Griffin and Kryuger Private Military Contractor Agency (hereafter referred to as "Griffin") has undergone internal restructuring. In keeping with the organization's humanitarian principles and in order to uphold the spirit of equality, ██ has decided to have all registered employees (including human employees, Tactical Dolls and other assimilated units) undergo a one-on-one exit interviews to determine their desired future direction, in order to fully respect each individual's right to self-determination.

Interview Principles: All interviews will remain strictly confidential and are to be conducted with the relevant Dolls on a one-to-one basis. However, after taking into consideration special bonds between certain personnel and strong requests, exceptions have been made to allow squad members or close companions to be present during these interviews.

Regardless of the exact format, the confidentiality provision remains unchanged. Any information related to uninvolved personnel or sensitive information will be encrypted or censored.

[Interview Record Excerpt: DP-12 & KSVK]

Recorder: ███

Interviewer: ███

Interview Subjects: Tactical Doll DP-12, Tactical Doll KSVK

...

...

KSVK: ...So, ███...really isn't around anymore?

Interviewer: I apologize, but this subject lies beyond the scope of this interview. I am not authorized to discuss this subject in further detail.

KSVK: How could you...! Griffin's always been a warm place... When the Commander was around, we were like a real family...

Interviewer: I repeat, this subject lies beyond the scope of this interview. If you insist on pursuing the subject, you will be required to temporarily leave the room, per protocol.

...

[Log: Interview was interrupted due to subject KSVK's loss of emotional control.]

Note: Tactical Doll KSVK temporarily left the room due to an acute stress response.

Interviewer: (turning to DP-12) You may step outside if you need to accompany her. However, I would advise against it, from a purely rational standpoint.

DP-12: So, is Griffin's breakup confirmed?

Interviewer: From the orders I have received, the relevant processes are currently ongoing.

DP-12: In that case, what should I do to ensure I and Dushevnaya (referring to KSVK) will be able to continue working together in the same field?

Interviewer: Our job is limited to recording future intentions and not...

DP-12: I am not Dushevnaya. Please do not treat me as a clueless child.

DP-12: Or rather, allow me to be more direct; what conditions will Dushevnaya and I need to fulfil in order to join ██████?

Interviewer: ...We have interviewed many Dolls so far, but to date, your reaction has been the most surprising.

Interviewer: Most Dolls either became highly emotional or otherwise refused to cooperate with us. Of the Dolls who did cooperate, very few have so concretely stated their demands as you have.

DP-12: I understand that an individual's abilities are nothing compared to ██. Therefore, even if I do have a personal objective, I ought to pick a more suitable time and place to pursue it, don't you agree?

Interviewer: ...Very well. Does that mean you have already decided to find another way, then?

DP-12: ...███ is no longer around. That means the only thing remaining in Griffin that matters to me now is Dushevnaya. But that girl will surely hesitate because of her "sense of belonging"...

Interviewer: ...In that case, I will supply you with a list of PMCs that are currently recruiting Tactical Dolls. As for ██████ you mentioned, recruitment channels are not officially open yet. ██ will probably elaborate on this in the future, but even in a place containing so many elite personnel like Griffin, there will not be many openings.

DP-12: I understand. In the end, my results will have to speak for myself.

Interviewer: Yes... At this point, I would like to discuss KSVK's file with you. Due to certain reasons... she initially entered service as a caretaker Doll and was employed by a sanatorium. After that, she was purchased by you for unknown reasons... following which there was a brief gap in her record, and by the time she reappeared, she had joined Griffin under the name "KSVK".

Interviewer: After joining Griffin, KSVK seems to have undergone multiple frame changes and there are inexplicable blanks in her neural cloud data...

Interviewer: Frankly speaking, even though KSVK has excellent combat capabilities and a flawless service record, given her excessive emotionality and extreme neural cloud instability, it might be very difficult for her to...

DP-12: So you're saying that Dushevnaya isn't qualified for the job?

[Log: The interviewer ceased speaking at this point.]

(The recorder sensed tension in the air and activated the silent alarm under the table per protocol.)

DP-12: I did not speak up when you first took a patronizing attitude to Dushevnaya, Do not mistake that for me condoning your attitude towards her.

DP-12: You are not the judges of Dushevnaya's worth. I know her abilities and potential better than anyone else. You have no right to judge her.

Interviewer: ...I simply wish to point out that with your abilities, you could have...

DP-12: (chuckles) Hehe, it seems that not only do you not understand Griffin, you don't understand Griffin... or me, for that matter.

(DP-12 picks up the tactical fountain pen on the table used for signing documents and drives it through the table, less than a millimeter away from the interviewer's hand. The silent alarm's screen displays [SIGNAL TERMINATED] and makes no further response.)

DP-12: I'm sorry. My hand slipped.

DP-12: I sincerely hope that you will not regret underestimating Dushevnaya when the next round of Griffin overall internal rankings are released.

...

...

[Interview log concludes.]

Attachment: Post-Interview Analysis

Evaluation Subject: DP-12

Personality Profile:

* Intellect: Extremely high. Possesses extraordinary logical analysis and tactical planning ability.

* Psychological State: Extremely stable. Able to maintain absolute calm and rationality under massive pressure. Skilled at dissembling to hide her true intentions.

* Core Motivations: Completely loyal to ███ and her companion KSVK. The fundamental driving force for all her actions lies in ensuring KSVK's safety and her own personal wishes.

* Subject demonstrates overall ability far surpassing the average Tactical Doll, including but not limited to interfacing with secure electronic systems via tremendously skilful electronic warfare methods.

* From past combat records, the subject's fighting style is highly precise, lethal and threatening. It is strongly advised to avoid any form of direct physical conflict.

Suggested Measures:

* Any future transfers, negotiations or mission assignments should jointly involve KSVK to the greatest possible degree. Treating KSVK well is an effective way to obtain DP-12's cooperation and trust.

* After the Griffin overall ranking is announced, the pairing of DP-12 and KSVK is to be flagged as a top-priority acquisition target.

Mangi Security Internal Operation File

Document Serial No.: MANGI-OPREP-20██-131

Filed By: DP-12

File Date: █ of █, 20██

Security Level: Internal Archives → Confidental

[Part 1: After-Action Report]

Mission Type: Class C Protection Assignment

Protection Target: ███ Corp Executive ████

Assigned Units: Independent Doll Squad [DP-12, KSVK]

Rules of Engagement (ROE): Per company policy, use of lethal weaponry was forbidden. Nonlethal baton rounds and standard protective gear were issued.

[Mission Timeline]

·[08:00] Target arrived at designated start point. Citing "safety protocol", target refused to share vehicle with Dolls and boarded a vehicle (black bulletproof sedan) with two human bodyguards. Ally units followed in a vehicle.

·[08:13] Detected unknown vehicle tailing the motorcade. Per standard defense protocol, the main vehicle was warned via encrypted transmission.

·[08:14] Main vehicle terminated communications on their end.

·[08:23] Main vehicle was guided to a safe zone. Ally units engaged hostile forces with the intention of suppressing the opposition and removing the threat to the protection target.

·[08:30] All hostile forces were nonlethally disabled and disarmed. Hostile casualties: 0.0 deaths, 13 incapacitated.

·[08:55] Target successfully reached designated safe area.

·[09:00] Mission succesfully concluded. Ally units began return to base.

[Mission Results] Primary objective (escort) and secondary objective (personnel safety) both met. Mission accomplished.

Reporter: DP-12

[Part 2: Mission Assessment]

(Viewing Permission: Class █ and up)

Assessor: ██

Assessment Summary: This mission was initially assessed as a Class C assignment and thus both equipment and support were severely limited. After combat conditions escalated, the actual threat level was assessed as Class B. The Doll squad [DP-12 and KSVK] managed to deliver outstanding tactical performance despite these unfavorable conditions.

Performance Analysis: Mission completion time, tactical responsiveness and professional standards far exceed records set by all other independent Doll units under the company. Effectiveness indicators are in the 75th percentile of human-based Mangi Security protection squads. The two Dolls transferred from "Griffin" demonstrated extremely high asset value.

Initial Recommendations: This Doll squad's internal grade should be immediately raised and they should be assigned more difficult missions in order to fully utilize their autonomous operational ability and maximize their asset value.

[Part 3: HQ Review and Orders]

(Viewing Permission: Class █ and up)

Reviewer: ██

Reviewer Commentary: The assessment department's promotion recommendation is approved. However, it should be noted that Tactical Doll transfers from "Griffin" all demonstrate a great degree of initiative and self-determianation. While this quality is an advantage at the tactical level, it represents a major source of instability at the management level. A Doll's capacity for independent thinking can easily lead to a disconnect with human employees and may lead to said Dolls breaking free from organizational control.

Promotion Permission: The raising of DP-12 and KSVK's internal grade is approved.

Execute Reorganization: In order to ensure Mangi Security's operational principles, consider splitting up the pair and assigning them to different human squads. The intention is to sever their excessively strong bond and reduce the risk of collusion and coordinated rebellion.

Initiate Monitoring: Both subjects are to be considered high-level monitoring targets and their data access is to be closely monitored over a long period of evaluation. In order to avoid conflict with DP-12, monitoring will be restricted to her actions during missions and used to assess her loyalty and combat performance, in order to ensure she delivers maximum value and to gather data for the introduction of more high-level combat Dolls.

Contingent Authorization: Should an emergency arise (such as clear and present desertion or insurgency) Class █ and higher personnel are authorized to directly perform the "Neural Purge" protocol wthout waiting for standard approval in order to safeguard company asset safety.

Mangi Security Internal Doll File

[Warning: File integrity verification failed.]

Document Serial No.: MANGI-DOLL-1██

Subject: DP-12

File Date: █ of █, 20██

Security Level: Top Secret

Asset Level: █ Secret

Asset History: Said asset was acquired from the former "Griffin & Kryuger" Private Military Contractor. Records indicate she was an elite Tactical Doll with a high degree of autonomous tactical decision-making ability. After joining Mangi Security, she demonstrated operational efficiency and planning capabilities far exceeding expectations in numerous high-risk missions, resulting in consecutive upgrades to her personnel grade.

Mission History: [Sealed]

Current Status: Discarded

Incident Report: While carrying out operation [█████] in the Yellow Zone, asset DP-12 covered her squad's retreat by herself, but encountered a Boojum entity. Analysis of the last signals transmitted from battlefield recorders indicate that the asset was devoured by the entity and her frame signal was lost.

Conclusion: Unable to recover. Confirmed as lost.

Dust and Wine

Unlocked with Seed Samples.

Summary

Bjorn is an aspiring Underground Broker who learned the trade from Poludnitsa. Using what she taught him, he barters with caravans to get the essentials for the survival of his home settlement, who took him in as a kid. During a particularly good trade, he manages to swindle a rare Green Zone wine from merchants who didn't know his value. The bottle is bought by "Grandpa Jim", a settler who's expecting the visit of his brother who was accepted in the Green Zone. However, two days later, Green Zone runners informed him that his brother had canceled the meeting over fears of Collapse radiation fluctuations, and they refuse to deliver the food he prepared for their reunion, saying that all of it, especially the wine, doesn't clear radiation standard. Bjorn and Grandpa Jim share the expensive bottle instead.

Later the same month, Bjorn runs a stand at a broker trade fair and meets a blonde Doll and a short blue-haired Doll who are taking soil samples and asking around for water sources and food preservation tips. Bjorn decides to introduce himself, hoping to get big deals from the Dolls in the future.

Bjorn's Diary 1

April 3rd, Sunny

Man, it's getting harder and harder to do business these days.

I ran into a supply caravan today. At first I thought it was my lucky day, but it turned out to be daylight robbery instead! They tried to charge me Green Zone prices for tomatoes that weren't much bigger than the marbles Aunt Susannah's kids played with! Do they think I'm some dumb kid who doesn't know how the world works?!

Still, Big Sis Poludnitsa taught me that a merchant's best assets are being patient and being observant. I cooled my heels and rummaged through their stock, and what did I spy out of the corner of my eye but a bottle of red wine, the same kind from back then!

I remember Big Sis broke out a bottle that looked just like it over the dinner table once, and she went out of her way to lecture me about its branding and proof of authenticity. I could tell at a glance that it was the real deal!

Clearly, those travellers had no eye for the goods if they lumped a treasure like that with all the usual stuff. Sure, it had a big price tag on it, but it was nothing compared to its actual value. My heart pounded in my chest, but I kept my face straight. Big Sis had emphasised just how important it was to maintain your poker face no matter what, and I'd embraced it as one of Bjorn's Laws of Underground Brokering!

I started with a feint and bought up a few basic items whose price I could still stomach, then nonchalantly pointed at the bottle.

"Oh, and throw that in as well," I said. I must have looked super cool back then, the very picture of the savvy underground broker!

We completed the trade, and they treated it as just an ordinary deal right until the end.

I did it! I I made out like a Varjager!

Hehe... Lady Luck was definitely smiling on me today. Although I was forced to buy a bunch of junk in the process, it's more than outweighed by the profit that bottle of wine's going to bring me!

I'll be smiling in my sleep tonight! Did yo usee that, Big Sis? I used all the tricks you taught me! Someday, I'm going to become an independent underground broker like you, or my name's not Bjorn!

Although... I haven't drunk wine before... While Big Sis praised this particular wine to the heavens, I'm still kind of curious as to just what it actually tastes like...

But money is really tight right now... if I don't offload this bottle in time, I'm going to face a major cash flow issue.

No, I mustn't think that way! Bjorn, you mustn't be tempted by petty gains and lose sight of the big score! Even if I want to get rid of it, I need to sell it for a good price at a bigger marketplace. After all, I'm the only broker from this settlement, which means everyone's livelihoods depend on me! I'll make sure I bring back quality supplies for them!

In any case, I'm going to carefully store this bottle way. If someday... if Big Sis happens to pass by here someday, I'll give it to her and I bet she'll look at me in a different light!

Yup! That's what I'll do! Fight on, Bjorn!

Bjorn's Diary 2

May 7th, Sunny

Uwah! Today's score was the biggest ever since I went into business!

Grandpa Jim's always been the frugal type, but he placed a big order for food with me AND he asked me to reserve that bottle of wine for him. It's the crown jewel of my stock! I spent two whole weeks staying up late to make up for the loss incurred by that bottle, that's how proud of it I was. I was planning to use it to celebrate with Big Sis once I made my fortune... Honestly, it's too good for that old geezer.

He was being all mysterious today, grinning to himself like an idiot and muttering things to himself like, "finally, we're meeting again" and "an important guest is coming".

I asked if he'd dug up some treasure, and he told me that his brother that he'd lost contact with for decades had spent the better part of a year applying for permission before he finally managed to receive approval to leave the Green Zone and visit him. And here I thought Grandpa Jim was the kind who had no blood relatives, like me.

Still, I've never seen him so happy before. He told me that none of the applications he'd sent to the Green Zone in the past had been answered. Perhaps things would be different now that his brother was coming over.

While I still think that wine's too good for him, I guess it's okay as long as he's happy!

Family...

Man, I'm envious. If he passes the vetting process, Grandpa Jim will have a chance to get out of this sandy hellhole and enjoy life in the Green Zone.

I wonder... What is it like to have blood kin?

...

Nonono, this marks the start of yours truly's—of Bjorn's rise to greatness! I can't get sentimental about this stuff, Big Sis would laugh at me. I need to add things up quick......

(A set of quick additions and subtractions are written on the paper in twisty handwriting.)

Yup. I've cleared out a lot of my stock thanks to Grandpa Jim. The money from him will keep me liquid for a while. Although I haven't gotten paid for the wine yet, I'll have enough to keep me liquid for the time being. That reminds me, I'll have to save up for the underground brokers' trade fair in a couple of weeks and try my luck there. Aunt Susannah's kids need better baby food, they can't keep drinking that nutrient-less slop anymore. Uncle John needs more high-protein food to get better so he can go back to work...

Everyone in the settlement needs more drinking water and fresh food... we just aren't bringing enough of that in right now.

And the reason for that is because we just don't have enough money... If only I had as many ounces of Sardis Gold as there are grains of sand in this wasteland.

Still, it can't be helped. I'll just have to take things one step at a time! After all, the name of Bjorn is going to resound through all the settlements sooner or later!

Fight on, Bjorn!

...

...

I wonder if I have family out there somewhere?

Bjorn's Diary 3

May 9th, cloudy.

I hate the Green Zone.

Grandpa Jim's "VIP" didn't come today. Instead, it was an official vehicle from the Green Zone and two workers in protective suits.

They brought two pieces of news.

The first piece of news was that Collapse radiation fluctuations had been detected nearby, so Grandpa Jim's brother cancelled his visit. More than that... apparently he cancelled it the first chance he got.

The second piece of news was that Grandpa Jim's application to move to the Green Zone had been denied. The reason for that was... "Based on analysis of your submitted samples, your long-term health prospects and the pollution index of your living conditions do not meet the requirements needed to enter the Green Zone."

I saw the light gradually die on Grandpa Jim's face. He was quiet for a very long time before he walked back inside his house on trembling legs and returned with the bottle of wine that he'd prepared for his brother—the food he'd bought from me, and that bottle of wine.

He asked the workers to give them to his family members in the Green Zone.

One of the workers took out some kind of device and scanned the items. It made a cold beeping noise.

"I'm sorry, so. These items do not comply with the Green Zone's quality management standards and cannot be imported. Per regulations, we will be returning the rejected items to you."

They placed all of Grandpa Jim's items at his doorstep, one by one, like they were getting rid of rubbish.

"Of particular note is this wine. It appears to be have been rejected from a Green Zone production line. Due to that, and because of long-term exposure to Yellow Zone radiation, consumption is not advised."

...What? That wine was rejected goods? How could that be?! It was clearly top-notch stuff!

My pride, Grandpa Jim's hopes, all the best things we could bring... they were nothing more than "rejected items" to them.

We were trying so hard to survive, but in the end we couldn't even so much as convey our thoughts and kindness.

...

(The paper is a little damp and crumpled. The following text seems to have been written after it dried.)

Grandpa Jim didn't cry. He simply stood at his doorway for a very long time.

Bjorn's Diary 4

May 21st, sunny

Before I knew it, it was time for the underground brokers' trade fair.

Damn you Green Zone bastards! Don't you dare look down on me! Yours truly Bjorn is not a man you can beat so easily! I've been busy gathering funds and new stock during this time, so I haven't had the time to write new diary entries.

After that day, Grandpa Jim came to me and paid for all the "defects", including the bottle of wine that had been rejected.

I tried to refuse the payment for the bottle, but he was adamant. I took one look at his head of white hair and found myself at a loss for what to say next. Finally, I took the bottle from his hands and found a couple of glasses. I put them on the table with a clink and filled them half-full, one for each of us.

As Grandpa Jim looked on dubiously, I tipped my head back and downed them all in one gulp!

Those Green Zone jackoffs don't know shit! Yeah, sure, I choked a little, but there's no way something that tastes that good could be defective goods!.

I graciously told Grandpa Jim that since I opened the bottle, he didn't have to pay for it. Instead, all he had to do was help me finish it! Grandpa Jim froze up for a long time, but in the end he smiled. Then he shook his head and finished his cup.

He said that this was the best wine he'd ever had in his life.

I figured that too!

However, I also realized that while the Green Zone's rules were pretty heartless, they had a point about the food and water contamination part. That's what got to me. I'd been running around the nearby settlements these past two weeks and I realized that the crap they ate was worse than what we had. They didn't even have the luxury of looking for real food that was actually clean.

Today, I brought all my stock to the trade fair. I was determined to solve the problem for everyone! It's the least I could do for the settlement that took me in as a kid.

There were a ton of people at the trade fair. I wondered if Big Sis would show up. I struck up a conversation with a stall owner who was a friend of mine. His name was Old Huck, and he griped as he wiped his shelves:

"It's hard to make a living, Bjorn. Still, a bunch of interesting things happened these past couple of days. Look, over there. Those two girls look like Dolls, don't they? They aren't exactly high rollers, but they spend a lot more than we Yellow Zoners can.

The problem is that they keep asking questions whenever they buy stuff, things like where the water came from, how we preserved the food, and they even got some soil samples... I've got no idea what they're trying to do, and that scares the crap out of me."

So they're Dolls? And they're doing research? My heart skipped a beat right there and then!

I looked around, and sure enough, I spotted them. One of them had blonde hair, while the other, shorter one had blue hair. They were talking to a stall-owner.

What would Dolls need with water and soil? It's not like they were going to plant crops or anything, right...

No... perhaps they were research Dolls from some big Green Zone organization... That would mean they'd have a way to solve our food problem!

I couldn't miss this opportunity! I'd definitely be able to do more for the settlement as long as I had fresh food!

Ah, a customer's here. I need to deal with them.

Fight on, Bjorn! I need to make a good buy here and figure out how to talk to those two Dolls!

Prague Area Beacon Deployment Status Report

Unlocked with Sangvis Ferri Badges.

Summary

Maurice De Gaulle is the leader of Silence Squad, a seven-members Doll team of the 3rd Environmental Survey Corps of the Neo-Soviet Union District Environmental Purification Project consisting of █GE█T, D██TR███R, ██CHI████, G██E█, B███, █CA████O█ and I████D█R, deployed in the Prague region to build beacons in the local Red and Black Zones some time before 2070. Early reports indicate that the region is both difficult to traverse, dangerous due to ELID activity and extremely irradiated, with radiation levels ranging from 5000 to 9000 Vebryans. Available manpower quickly proves severely lacking to face the conditions of the Prague region, yet reinforcement from two more Dolls, █UN███ and D███M██, is denied since they're already assigned to critical missions.

During a night mission in the mountains, Silence Squad is swept in a Collapse Storm and encounters a Boojum west of the Vtlava River Relic site, which destroys a beacon and █CA████O█. De Gaulle's urgent request for more Dolls is still denied.

Log Entry For The Prague Region Beacon Construction Work

Recorder: Maurice De Gaulle

Unit: URNC Contamination Zone Management and Recovery Administration, 3rd Environmental Survey Corps of the Neo-Soviet Union District Environmental Purification Project, Platoon 0016

Area of Responsibility: PH586RA-H95TY3 to PH86GU-H3676D (AKA the Prague region)

Executing Team: Silence Squad

Log Date: █ of █, 206█

Secrecy Level: S

Since 2067, after the Neo-Soviet Union ratified the European Collapse Radiation Contamination Zone Restoration and Revitalization Joint Development Agreement, the systematic purification of Collapse Radiation has been steadily progressing in various parts of the world. After considering factors such as safety, technological capabilities, and remediation costs, the primary focus of purifying contaminated areas became the Yellow Zone.

However, as the project proceeed, the need to purify Red and Black Zones became quite urgent.

To date, the poor conditions in the region have resulted in low survival rates of environmental survey teams dispatched into Red Zones. Due to the high cost of mounting surveys, the beacon-laying work in Prague has been assigned to a fully autonomous mechanized team—Silence Squad.

As Silence Squad's temporary supervisor, my duties are to log and report every step of this operation.

...

...

...

Log Entry 1

Date: █ of █, 206█

Operational Log:

The purpose of this survey is to construct five static purification tower technical beacons and to gain a basic understanding of the Collapse Radiation intensity, the Collapse Epiphyllum distribution, regional topographical disposition, potential ore vein locations and environmental characteristics of the Prague region.

The distribution of duties within Silence Squad is as follows:

Field Commander - █GE█T

Obstacle clearing and demolition - D██TR███R

Beacon construction - ██CHI████, G██E█

Patrol and threat response - B███

Environmental data collecton - █CA████O█

Mobile support - I████D█R

Silence Squad has been in the field on assignment for 21 days as of the █ of █. Two purification tower beacons have been built during this time. At this rate, assuming no further accidents occur, it is estimated that the work will be completed within 35 days.

Preliminary environmental data collection suggests that the region's terrain is complex and radiation levels vary between 5000 to 9000 Vebryans, with large concentrations of Collapse plant life in areas of higher radiation intensity. Collapse storms are a frequent occurrence here and there is a risk of contracting ELID infection. It is recommended that all future activity in this region be undertaken by non-human fores to minimize needless casualties.

For a more detailed report, please consult the attached content.

Re: Report received. The information has been passed on to the relevant departments. Please continue your work.

...

...

...

Log Entry 2

Date: █ of █, 206█

Operational Log:

Since the █ of █, 206█, the task of deploying beacons in the Prague region, various aspects of field work and other tasks have been proceeding as planned and have yielded satisfactory initial results. However, the existing staff complement is having difficulty coping with stress from the local environment and the heavy workload, presenting a major potential hazard for future operations.

According to environmental data collected by █CA████O█, the region shows large amounts of biological activity, which suggests the existence of ELID swarms in the region or even Boojums.

In order to ensure objectives are met and the integrity of hardware assets, we are requesting the urgent dispatch of additional manpower.

The precise reasons for the request are as follows:

1) Workload greatly exceeds projections and Silence Squad's frame maintenance has fallen behind schedule.

The local geography is complex and poses great challenges to the surveying work. All members of Silence Squad have been operating beyond safe tolerances for sustained periods in order to achieve stipulated deadlines. The combination of poor working environments, excessive wear and tear and a poor supply situation have inflicted significant damage to the members' frames and produced a marked drop in work efficiency.

2) Increasing safety risks warrant the strengthening of current asset protection ability.

Due to the threat posed by large numbers of ELIDs and even Boojums, all members of Silence Squad have been forced to take on multiple roles and the initial manpower distribution is no longer sufficient to satisfy all task requirements, There is a major deficiency in security measures, which might result in the loss of all progress made thus far.

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In summary, we would like to request the dispatch of the following 2 personnel:

1. █UN███

Role: Mobile combat support to patch existing security vulnerabilites and ensure asset security.

2. D███M██

Role: Environmental surveying and information gathering in order to accelerate data collection progress.

This deployment request was carefully considered based on field conditions and is vital to the success of the project. We earnestly request that this application be reviewed and approved as soon as possible.

Re: The requested Dolls have been assigned to critical duties and as such this request is denied. The relevant information has been passed on to the departments in question. In the meantime, please continue with your current work.

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Log Entry 3

Date: █ of █, 206█

Operational Log:

At 3:45:12 AM on the █ of █, 206█, Silence Squad encountered a suspected Boojum-class entity at the mountains west of the Vtlava River Relic site in the Prague area. A medium-strong intensity Collapse Storm was in progress at that time, which reduced regional visibility and interfered with communications. This prevented base camp from dispatching support units and resulted in damage to the beacons that had been constructed nearby. An audio log of the incident follows:

#RECORDING BEGINS

00:00:01 (Loud roars from an unknown lifeform, gunshots, the sound of wind from the Collapse Storm)

00:00:08 Tsk, this creature is truly an affront to the senses! Tacky things like you should just die!

00:00:11 (More intense gunshots and the sound of the storm intensifies)

00:00:15 (Rapid running footsteps and the sound of ricocheting rounds.)

00:00:20 ...fall back, this isn't something we can handle. What you're doing is just getting yourself killed more quickly.

00:00:23 Need to contact... dammit, I'm not getting any signal—

00:00:30 (sounds of explosions and metal girders tearing, the roar of the unknown lifeform is slowly approaching)

00:00:31 Urgh!

00:00:32 (Sound of mechanical limbs being torn apart)

00:00:35 Aaaaaahhhhhhhhh—

00:00:36 (Sound of huge rocks breaking and a landslide)

00:00:38 Scarecrow—

#RECORDING ENDS

Currently, we have lost █CA████O█s' signal.

Due to the increasing levels of risk in future beacon deployment work, we once again request the dispatch of additional personnel and combat assets to ensure the effective progress fo the project. Once again, we urge you to carefully consider the logs and the detailed mission reports. We hope for a quick response.

Re: The request is denied. The relevant information has been passed on to the departments in question. In the meantime, please continue with your current work.