Now then–
The criminals who terrorized Japan into oblivion and sent the world into a vortex of chaos.
Once he declared this unprecedented, unparalleled act–the boy who proclaimed to wipe off Japan from the map, he was–
“Fwuaa~~…ahh~ really~…haa, I live for the sake of enjoying this happiness…”
Was relaxing leisurely, as though he was in the comfort of his home.
To be specific, he was sleeping on the thighs of a black dress girl–an automata. His face was buried in those thighs as he frolicked away in a bored manner.
The automata girl providing her thighs–RyuZU said,
“Pardon my words, Master Naoto, but since you are born with a cheap head, I suppose this alone would have allowed you to enjoy eons of enjoyment.
But Naoto, who had his face still buried in RyuZU’s thighs, refuted with a vague voice,
“How rude, RyuZU! Really rude! Is there a pillow better than your thigh laps!”
“–Do pardon me. It is humiliating for me to be refuted so through logic by you, Master Naoto–but there is truly nothing in this world that is superior to my thighs, or even a strand of my hair. As you may tell, my thighs are an exalted treasure even God would be envious of…undoubtedly, sleeping on my lap is an unparalleled privilege. My apologies for my mistake.”
RyuZU bent her neck, lowering her head in apology.
A young girl in red and white armor–another automata saw this, placed her index finger in her mouth, and muttered,
“…Papa, I want, an order….”
“Okkaay, okay okay! Come to papa’s belly~”
Naoto turned, lying face up, beaming away, spreading his arms wide, indicating ‘come here!”
AnchoR leapt to Naoto’s belly, saying happily,
“…ehehe…papa’s warm…”
Naoto patted his forehead, yelling,
“–kaahh–! There’s no one happier than me in this world right now!”
“Master Naoto, you crushed the masses’ plain happiness, and I suppose in return–no, even considering absolutes, it did not matter how the world is now as long you have two such prized, exalted pieces of arts in AnchoR and me even the Heavens will be envious of.”
–Right.
Phew, at this moment, Noto’s feelings were somewhere beyond cloud nine.”
Naoto seemed to have abandoned the chaos in the lower realm behind him, and muttered to himself, praying,
“Ooh…to the great certain person who gave birth to me, RyuZU and AnchoR on this world, I love you–!!!”
Well, allow us to ignore this space of idiocy that is filled with such sweetness, it was as though sugar was caramelized and applied everywhere.
–The ‘Heaven’s Pillar’.
As its name implied, it was the country’s Core Tower that would seemingly pierce into the clouds, and at this point, they were on the 20th level.
At this point, there was a tense atmosphere engulfed there, comparable to the battlefield from before.
“Professor Conrad! Everyone! How’s the sense like!”
Marie yelled, and there were 18 automata facing the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’s amazingly intricate constructs in the level, busy with their work, turned in unison to give Marie a thumbs up.
That was not the reaction of AIs.
–They were 18 technicians from all over Tokyo, in Resonance Bases, controlling the maintenance automata of the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’ that were modified for remote control.
The 18 of them were Meisters who admired Marie and assisted–they did display their skills during the original Akihabara terrorist incident.
And their skills were the best amongst Meisters.
They were tucked in the relay stations, controlling the automata, doing precision work–while the clockwork technicians had their senses sealed as they united under Marie’s command–showing such precision no ordinary person could understand.
If any of the JSDF technicians who maintained the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’ every day was to see such a scene–though they were Meisters who could be a part of the ‘Meister Guid’–surely they would cry and hand in their resignations ‘you’re taking over this place from today onwards’.
And there’s one more–
“Oh this side is going well too, Missy…is this really the ability of a Meister? So cool.”
Vermouth noted,
And also–there was an old gentleman’s voice coming from the same vocal cord,
“Professor Marie, you do not have to worry about me. I might be the most comfortable one here.”
Upon hearing those words, Vermouth continued to chuckle using the body Conrad was controlling,
“I guess so, old man. It’s most comfortable for you in ‘all kinds of ways’, right?”
It was true–that no matter how unwilling Marie was to admit it, she had to agree with Vermouth.
Vermouth’s unit was the only remote control unit with specially ordered parts from Conrad’s personal collection.
Typically, the resonance installation–the non-contact resonance movement was something exceptionally hard to replicate, even in the 1,000 years where they discovered artificial atoms.
Amongst them, the largest resonance distance was approximately 40km.
However, the ones that used such precious materials without restraint, resulting in a ‘100% purity’–was the ‘Long Distance Resonance Gears’.
To be honest, these were parts of the highest quality, the price of one equivalent to constructing a building in a prime location.
Furthermore, if it was for personal use, there would be a need for two of them for the reception and communications–so basic calculation wise, it would be double the pricing.
To be honest–the ‘long distance resonance’ were not exactly necessary.
There were cabled installations built all over the world, and with many relay stations, one could communicate without from one end of the world to the other end without practically any delay, even if they were short distance communications.
Thus, the only ones requiring this were a few enterprises, the ‘military’, or the high ranking politicians–who would send classified information frequency and require secrecy.
–But there was an exception.
Perhaps that exception was the reason why Conrad had such a thing, and installed it in this playdoll automata. Marie realized this, and was unable to say anything.
–There were 3 advantages to the ‘long distance resonance gears’.
One was ‘distance’, two was ‘secrecy’.
And the third was ‘content capacity’.
Obviously, there would be other users using the resonance communication through the relay points. With the limits of the continual movement and resources, there was a limit to the continuous movements that could be done–the resonance movements.
–But it was a different case with the ‘long distance resonance gears’.
Of course, it could feed in a massive amount of information far beyond the former.
For example–yes, ‘resonance remote control’ could be done.
And so, the reason why Conrad would have such a rare, precious installation, and installed it in a playdoll automata.
…Marie could only cup her head and grimace.
“But now we have to be thankful for that…right, don’t think too much, Marie.”
Upon hearing Marie mutter and coax herself, Vermouth said,
“I say, Missy, do you know about this? The original reason why this long distance resonance gear was set up wasn’t for ‘distance’, but for ‘information content’.
“…So?”
“In any case, the main driving force of this world has always been about ero–”
“Professor Conrad, do shut this guy up. Please, I’ll leave it to you.”
Marie immediately cut off the conversation, returning to her work.
Thinking about it, it’s strange that they had a rendezvous at a strip bar in case of emergency–no, don’t think about it.
She stopped thinking, and told everyone,
“Everyone, take note, we’re being slower than expected by 18 seconds! Please hurry up!”
There was no time to worry about it.
Since they made their declaration and got 3 hours–there was at least 2 hours in which the ‘military’ would not dare to barge in.
But if the fact that they were using the relay stations was found out, they would be controlled.
And in the worst situation, the locations of the 18 helpers would be traced back and exposed.
So before then, they had to finish their work as soon as possibl–
“Miss Mar–bel.”
Marie lifted her head upon hearing someone call for her.
A young woman–Houko, was standing there with a stiff face.
Marie continued to tap at the simulation control panel connected to the control systems, glancing with her eyes to prompt Houko to continue.
“There is this thing I really have to ask you.”
“–”
Marie had a little idea of what she wanted to ask.
Without answering, Marie glanced to look at Naoto who was failing around with the 2 automata.
Houko followed Marie’s stare, and said,
“–Where did he get the blueprint of the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’?”
“There isn’t such a thing…is there?”
“No. This is why I am asking. You clearly understood the structure of the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’, more than us who are in charge of maintaining this place. You are the one supervising, but he was the one giving the initial instructions.”
“–”
“The logical idea is that he obtained the blueprint through some way.”
“Then you’re wrong. We don’t have such a thing, and this guy doesn’t know the structure of the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’ until he got here.”
“Do you assume that I will believe that?”
“No…but this is a fact.”
Marie answered, and Houko pressed the issue without giving time to pause,
“So–what you are implying is that this boy merely listened for 6 minutes, and understood the entire structure of the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’, is that so?”
Houko felt that it was impossible.
–As its name implied, the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’ was the pillar supporting the country of Japan.
Its massiveness, complexity, and intricacy was not something the surrounding Core Towers or clock towers could compare to.
And thus, the Palace staff in charge of maintenance–even the palace did not have a complete understanding of it. All they had was a fragment of the blueprint they spent a thousand years analyzing.
And even that kind of a blueprint was a classified information more secretive than the state records. Even the Prime Minister did not know where it was hidden, let alone try to duplicate it.
Nor could anyone dare to piece those fragments together and understand the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’.
Yet he easily did it just by listening for 6 minutes?
Houko knew that her face showed a different look.
A chill was creeping up her back.
She had such a feeling when she knew the terrifying capabilities of these adorable automata–but this feeling this had at this point might be more terrifying than back then.
–This boy, more than ‘Y’s inheritance, is dangerous.
The blond girl–Marie seemed to have realized Houko’s thoughts, saying,
“I understand your concerns, but sorry, I can’t explain. Can you please pretend not to have noticed it?”
“I can’t.”
Houko concluded.
She permitted their actions initially for she assumed they were beneficial to the country–in other words, she wanted to ‘make use of them’.
On one hand, they would be the culprits taking the fall for this crumbling country.
And second, to figure out what the people triggering the ‘Akihabara terrorist incident’ wanted to do to the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’.
Houko herself was not an amateur when it came to clockwork technology. She did have a formal education in a foreign university, and thought her abilities were no match for a Meister, she did have the certification of a Gazelle.
She affirmed the their steps, and the sources of their technology and information, that they were contribution to the safety of the country. They planned countermeasures, preventing repeats–
That was the initial thought she had as she went along with their plans, but…
“–”
Houko narrowed her eyes sharply,
The answer was that–what was the talent of this plain, ordinary looking boy?
How could one counter this one person who could understand the structure of the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’ just by listening?
If that was the truth, this boy in front of her–
“He ‘can’t exist’–he is a grievous ‘disaster’ threatening our security.”
Upon hearing Houko’s words, Marie sighed, saying,
“Relax–this isn’t something I can say though. I do think there’s something to this guy’s hearing and senses, but I don’t understand the theory behind it.”
In other words, nobody could replicate it.
If he was gone, there would never be–
Once Houko considered this fact, Marie lowered her voice, telling her,
“I’ll warn you. Given your personality, you might be thinking of killing him once everything is over, but–”
There was no need for the following warning.
Unknowingly, there was a black scythe placed at Houko’s neck. Of course, that scythe–belonged to a black dress automata.
“If you wish to kill yourself, do take ‘a little step’ towards me, no? I can assure you the most painless death in the world.”
The topaz eyes belonged to the real automata, devoid of any emotion.
The girl in red and white beside him stared emotionlessly at Houko,
“…If you dare do anything to papa…I won’t hold back, you know?”
“Hm? Eh, wh-what’s going on?”
The boy appeared to be the only one who did not understand what was going on, looking perplexed.
Houko sighed. It was foolish to die in such a situation.
“My apologies. You may back down.”
Having said that, Houko took a step back, and the black dress automata silently retracted her scythe.
“…Do you understand now?”
Marie said. Houko sighed, nodding.
“Yes. Unfortunately, I seem to be out of ideas…I shall leave this aside and think of countermeasures later on.”
–Looks like Houko gave up on that idea for now.
Right when marie was grateful that her friend managed to keep her life, Houko suddenly took out a little machine from her pocket–it was something like a necklace.
And right when Marie was feeling skeptical, Houko put that thing on her neck, smiling,
“Now then–it has been a while, Marie.”
Houko’s voice was far different from before–it was a voice changer.
It appeared that she had prepared this beforehand, something meant to prevent records of a terrorist cell making contact with the Princess.
So well-prepared–Marie thought as she beamed.
“Yeah. It has been a while, Houko.”
“I’m really happy to be able to meet you again. The last time we met, it was your funeral, right?”
“That coffin is empty, and I was in another country.”
“I already knew that you were alive. I thought that we never had a chance to meet again though.”
There was a chance they could have met if it was the Princess of Japan and her classmate, the Princess of the Breguets.
However, Marie, now known as Maribel Halter, did not have the chance and reason to meet Houko.
For Houko was unlike her fellow technicians, on with a public standing.
Having realized this fact at this point, Marie sighed, feeling dejected, saying,
“–Yeah, glad to see you too.”
Marie then lowered her eyes.
“You’re still wearing that watch?”
“Of course. This is a work of my good friend, an important gift. This child has been with me ever since we went our separate ways.”
Houko touched her left wrist, saying,
“I was so mortified when I heard of your death in Grid Kyoto. It was in my country…and it is late, but I do have to give my apologies.”
“You don’t have to. It’s my decision after all.”
Sounds of rapid-fire typing could be heard on the simulator next to Marie.
The metal belt had numerous holes in it–and the punch card glided down the console.
“But I’m doing this not because this is your country. No matter which country it is, I will do the same thing. I am a clockwork technician after all.”
Having said that, Marie reached her right hand out, her fingers gliding down the metal belt. She was typing the commands into the punchcard, as though she was writing in a torrent like manner.
“…Yeah, you are always the type to seek justice.”
Houko noted a little forlornly as she watched Marie work without stopping.
And at this moment–
“Just to ask, why is Marie friends with the Princess of Japan?”
Naoto, still resting on RyuZU’s thighs, raised his voice to ask. He was as nonchalant as ever, just voicing whatever doubt he had on his mind.
Marie clicked her tongue unhappily, slapping the control panel.
“I say, Naoto, it’s rude to interrupt when someone else is talking.”
“Oh, so that’s rude–anyway, why?”
“To summarize, I was classmates with her.”
Houko answered.
“I was studying in a European university when I met her. However, she graduated with all credits in a single month.”
“A month!?”
Naoto widened his eyes, and Marie shrugged,
“Without Houko around to play with me, I would have left in a week.”
“Oh! It sounds like I was getting in your way, no?”
“That is it, isn’t it? You were always dragging me around.”
“Now that is funny, Marie. You are the one who played the most, right? That incident back then still has people in that university talking now.”
Marie and Houko continued to bicker as they revisited the past.
But Naoto merely looked back at forth between the duo, saying,
“I don’t really understand, but logically, a Princess studying overseas will have bodyguards or something like that, right? Why is it that she only made friends with Marie?”
“…Seriously, the Breguets is one of the 5 Enterprises of the world. They’re French nobility, and I’m the Princess there, you know? Is there a problem for me to get along with the Princess of Japan?”
Marie raised her eyebrow as she answered.
Naoto looked as though he never thought of it, saying,
“Then, uncle Halter calling you ‘Milady’ is…”
“…? That’s a fact. Is there a problem?”
“I thought it was sarcasm.”
“Impossible. Of course he’s praising me for my intellect, precious bloodline and elegance.”
At that instant, Naoto gave a serious look,
“Sorry, I don’t get you. Are you joking?”
“…what do you mean? Hold it right there, I’m going to get you to explain that later.”
Marie growled as she narrowed her eyes to glare at Naoto.
Seeing that, Houko giggled,
“You have changed a little, Marie. No, perhaps that is how you always were…I am a little envious.”
“…Houko?”
Marie titled her head in skepticism.
Houko did not answer, instead speaking with a stern tone,
“Speaking of which, I suppose it is about time for you to tell me now, no? What are you actually planning to do with the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’?”
“Erm–yeah, I should have informed you beforehand.”
Marie, who was speechless, continued on,
“Houko, how much do you know about the massive weapon in Akihabara?”
“There was no definite proof, but looking at the situation, it is obviously an electromagnetic type. As far as I can see from the reports of the Intelligence branch, they are from the old Shiga ‘military’, wanting to launch a coup d’etat on the government.”
“–As expected of you.”
Marie nodded, looking impressed.
“So, anyway?”
“Yeah, that electromagnetic weapon magnetized Akihabara. If this kept up, even after eliminating the massive weapon,, I don’t know whether we can repair it.”
So…
“We intend to follow this idiot’s idea–throw that massive weapon down into a pot to cook it. The pot is Akihabara, and the heat–probably 2,000 degrees.”
Upon hearing Marie’s words, Houko widened her eyes.
As expected of her smarts, Marie thought.
A mere few words alone allowed to understand their plans.
–They would heat Grid Akihabara until the magnetism faded.
Naoto’s plan was to wipe out the massive weapon and remove the magnetism from Grid Akihabara.
“–”
Marie suddenly recalled.
Back then, at Grid Akihabara, Naoto, who probably did not have any knowledge of electromagnetism back then, said the first words when he talked about how to deal with those people.
–“I’m going to throw those people into a pot and cook them alive’.
Back then, Naoto probably did not realize that heating could remove magnetism.
Throughout it all, this guy has been–
Marie diverted her stare towards Naoto.
Did he realize it–or did he not care about it in the first place?
Naoto was lying down, relaxing–and RyuZU, caressing his hair, suddenly mentioned,
“Master Naoto…I really do apologize.”
–She apologized?
That RyuZU actually apologized so sincerely?
Marie was dumbfounded, her fingers nearly typing the wrong controls.
Naoto too was dumbfounded, his eyes widened as he said,
“RyuZU?”
“It is because I was unable to remove the magnetism by myself–that your hand and shoulder bear the fate of the planet, Master Naoto…”
The catkin-like hands were quietly touching Naoto’s hand and shoulder.
Those were the scalded parts on Naoto when he carried the sizzling hot RyuZU.
It was thanks to nanomachines that the wound did not become pus. However, it was still so swollen, and one would feel heartbroken just looking at him.
Marie too was worried about Naoto’s burn.
It would probably take about another week before there was no more of that stinging pain, but whether the nervous system and delicate touch most important to a technician could recover…
Without looking at the healing process of the wound, it would be impossible to comment on that aspect alone.
In fact–Marie did not grumble even though Naoto was lazing away in such a situation, for Naoto did do a lot on his part–she had to let him rest.
“–”
Feeling what felt like setbacks over the past few days, Marie was sighing as she thought about it.
She recalled the first time when she met Naoto.
That boy, just an ordinary person–full of nonsense.
While that weapon’s electromagnetic weapon caused Marie to be almost, completely dejected, that boy never once stopped in his tracks, always doing the most suitable thing.
–Yes, the most suitable action.
And he never seemed to be bothered about the price he had to pay for his actions.
Even though the city was magnetized, and all technology was rendered ineffective; for Marie–the one most trustworthy to her was Halter–but for Naoto, it was RyuZU, so much more important than his own life, who broke down.
In such a peril, he continued with his instincts of ‘doing this’, creating RyuZU while she was so hot the heat could melt the floor.
Without any rest, he escaped Akihabara, leaving behind Marie, who was dejected, thinking of herself to be at her wits end.
In such a pain, where he felt suicide was a sweet temptation, he encouraged AnchoR too, and went to the streets, looking for a clue to improve the situation–
Was that truly–an ordinary person? An amateur?
What kind of sarcasm was that–Marie gritted her teeth.
–How much am I relying on that ordinary person, amateur’s willpower and strength? And anyway, what have I been doing? Without Naoto dragging me along, I’ll probably be drifting in Akihabara, unable to move.
And moresoever–
“It’s alright knowing that you’re alright, RyuZU. This is a man’s medal now, isn’t it? Haha.”
–Naoto still had his headphones removed at this point.
It was so that he could respond in sudden cases of emergency. His forehead was sweating as he showed a tender smile back at RyuZU.
–Is that a normal person?
You got to be kidding. That’s…that is, the one I’ve always–always–been aiming–
“But since you say so, RyuZU, I’ll help myself and make sure that you praise me for my hard work, RyuZU! Basically, I want a reward! More accurately, it’s–”
“Yes, Master naoto, you want me to relieve yourself of all the possible twisted sexual desires you have. I understand.”
“Wait, that’s not it–no, that’s not it, oh, yeah…no, now’s not the, erm…I-I’ll talk about that next time…”
–Upon seeing Naoto gleefully say such lecherous words, Marie hastily stopped her inner monologue.
And Naoto, unable to understand Marie’s inner heart, continued on,
“Ahhh! ‘Now’s not it! Listen to it me, it’s about my date with AnchoR–”
“Master Naoto, you certain are an amazing masochist to actually mention such a topic at this moment. I understand. Since you wish to so for some spanking–which part shall it be?”
“Let me finish here, okay!? I-I didn’t go out strolling with the intention of leaving my bride behind, so I bought a gift for you~”
“Papa…bought this for me♪”
AnchoR cut off Naoto’s words, showing an angelic smile as she said this,
At the same, she opened her palms in front of RyuZu.
Her finger was wearing something shiny–a ring.
“–Master Naoto? I am a little bewildered as to the kind of masochistic play you wish to play, that this is why you are treating me so cruelly, no?”
“Please keep those scythes back, I beg of you! Look, that’s the right middle finger!”
Upon hearing Naoto shriek, RyuZU stared at the ring.
With a treasuring attitude, AnchoR stared at the ring cheerfully.
“…It’s something I bought out of my own will…a little spell..papa…made this for me.”
“I think it also has the meaning of avoiding evil, something like a talisman. This is something I bought to commerate going out with AnchoR when I wanted to buy something for you, RyuZU. That’s what the shop attendant said when I asked—but I thought I should personally make one—so…”
RyuZU looked perplexed as she tilted her head.
Naoto beamed as he took out a little box from his pocket, opening it in front of her.
Inside the box was a ring gittering silver.
“Since it’s a reward…don’t ask the meaning of that, and show me your ring finger, okay?”
“…”
“It doesn’t mean anything until I put it on too. So don’t mind–is that alright?”
RyuZU did not answer, and her expression did not change.
She merely nodded, reaching her left hand out.
Naoto smiled happily. Perhaps he heard some miniscule change within RyuZU’s body which Marie’s ears could not hear.
“Thank you, RyuZU.”
Naoto slipped a ring on the girl’s left ring finger.
“If it is this level of service, I do intend to repay your excessive concern for me, Master Naoto…though I am unwilling.”
It was opposite of RyuZU’s own words, and she embraced the ring that was slipped onto her finger.
Got to add on, Marie thought.
Till this point, everything Naoto did, and beyond–probably during the time Marie spent repairing RyuZU, replacing parts for Vermouth, preparing installation work of Halter.
Even during that time, when he had nothing to do–he made a ring.
Marie lowered her eyes, and her lips inadvertently let slip.
“–What kind of an ordinary person is that? How is there possibly an ordinary person like you–really.”
Houko heard the conversation between the boy and the automata.
It was a confirmation of love, something that had been repeated billions of times on this planet.
Houko did not know what it meant to truly love an automata.
All she knew was that this boy was serious, and that this automata knew how to reciprocate those feelings.
Those were the only two things she understood.
…However, it was insufficient. She had to know more about this boy.
And while driven by those thoughts, Houko quietly spoke up,
“–Excuse me, but may I talk to you?”
“Eh? Ah, okay…”
The boy lifted his face in shock. He was rude, but it was obvious that he was tense. It seemed that he was not used to the idea of others speaking to him.
Houko smiled.
“My name is Houko. Master Naoto Miura, I suppose? May I call you Master Naoto?”
“–Ah, yes, please go ahead.”
“Thank you very much. Pardon my rudeness, but may you answer two questions of mine?”
“E-eh, what’s the questions about?”
“Master Naoto, your treasured automata were damaged–and you wanted to deal with that weapon for revenge, no?”
Upon hearing that, the boy–Naoto was taken aback.
“Eh, revenge?–…no, that’s not it. They did something infuriatingly shitty to AnchoR, and even hurt RyuZU, so I want them to pay. I guess that’s it?”
“Pay…is that not what they call revenge?”
Houko reaffirmed, and Naoto gave a conflicted expression.
“No, I’ll say that it’s just to put an end to it…no, that’s not it, I don’t like it. As for what I don’t like, it’s complicated to say–whatever, that’s bascially it, simply–”
He paused,
“I’ll make them pay for what they owe–that’s just it, Princess.”
Naoto gingerly used some formal language, and Houko tilted her head slightly.
“Pay…is that so?”
“Hmm…well, I don’t really know how to explain…”
Naoto tapped his forehead, saying,
“It’s weird to enter a restaurant and eat without paying, right? If you can’t pay, don’t order it! Don’t you feel that’s the case?”
“…So you mean that if you buy it, you should pay, is that it?”
“Yeah yeah yeah, that’s right. That’s the kind of feeling.”
Naoto showed an earnest smile as he said that.
Houko nodded, and answered,
“Thank you for your answer. Now for the second question–with a talent like yours, if you want to simply wipe out Akihabara, would you not have done so a long time ago?”
“Eh–?”
Upon hearing Houko’s words, Naoto widened his eyes.
“Since your aim is to get rid of that weapon, it should be faster for you to simply get rid of the whole of Akihabara discreetly. There is no need for this risk, and it will be simpler for you, no?”
“Eh–” Naoto pondered with a perturbed look.
“But I heard that it will get the whole of Tokyo involved…right?”
“Yes. As you have said, Mr Naoto, once Akihabara is gone, the whole capital will collapse, merely a matter of time–but, what about it?”
The straightforward words caused Naoto to be dumbfounded.
Houko gave a stern look, continuing,
“As far as I can tell, you appear to be someone unscrupulous, but you chose not to use the most effective method for your aim–why is that?”
However, Naoto appeared to be really bewildered as he tilted his head, answering,
“…Eh, other than those related to that weapon, it has ‘nothing to do’ with the rest, right?”
“–”
I see, Houko understood.
I said to make them pay the price.
In other words, that excluded the ones who did not have to pay.
But that also meant that he would not hesitant in paying the price.
Thus, he understood very well. At this point, he had no reason to kill anyone.
It was not simply because he respected the value of a human life.
And not that he considered that it would affect Japan.
He merely wanted payback for those who hurt those dear to him. He was mentally prepared to pay all the price for that.
That alone–was all.
I see, Houko thought.
–If I want to become his friend, there is nobody more trustworthy than him.
–But if I want to be enemies against him, I have to be mentally prepared to bear the risk of sinking with the country.
Houko smiled, and nodded.
“I understand now. I suppose you are really someone who cannot be trusted, Mr Naoto.”
“Ehhh!? You decided that based on what I said!? Did I say something strange!?”
Yes, he could not be trusted.
As long as that boy felt that it was the necessary ‘price’, he probably would sink tokyo without hesitation.
At the very least, he had the ability and will to do such a thing.
It was extremely risky to leave such a person unrestrained–but…
With a smile on her face, Houko noted heartily,
“However–I do understand very well why Marie trusts you.”
“–Huh!?”
“Wai, what are you saying, Houko!?”
Naoto was dumbfounded, and Houko’s close friend–Marie, yelled in a panic.
Houko ignored Marie’s yell, and with a firm belief, she said,
“You are a ‘fair’ person.”
Or, Houko thought,
–Perhaps this boy was very greedy, self-centered.
But at the same time, extremely ‘fair’. Houko believed.
He disagreed with the idea of ‘unfair’, and did not allow for injustice.
He would never think of desiring something, and not paying for it.
This boy would demand this from everyone, including himself, to pay for whatever he wants.
It was likely the idea of ‘unfair’, to earn without paying for it never did cross his mind.
If there was something he wanted, no matter what it was, no matter how, he would pay the price.
Simply put, it was whether he could ‘accept it’, or not.
By comparing it to his desires, if he could ‘accept’, he would pay the price without hesitation.
He was probably this kind of a person.
No matter whether it was his own life–or others.
And because of this–Houko thought.
I should not get involved with this boy and my close friend.
No matter the personal reasons, ‘Houko’ as to the public would certainly be thinking in her mind on how to manipulate them.
If not–if Houko wanted to abide by her ‘fairness’.
Though his power was certainly alluring…
Suddenly, the automata–RyuZU said,
“…To be honest, I am truly amazed. I never did dream that someone amongst humanity, other than Master Naoto, would not be so blind.”
Upon hearing those impudent words that did not sound like praise in any means, Houko giggled,
“Why thank you, I am honored that the Great ‘Y’s masterpiece said this. It appears that I do have some value after all.”
RyuZU continued,
“Master Houko…I suppose? May I say a few words?”
“Certainly, what is it?”
“Please allow me to advise you–I suppose you should choose your friends wisely. Honestly put, I do feel that a mere Master Marie does not go well with you.”
“S-seriously, you–”
The close friend kicked up a fuss, saying,
However, Houko merely raised a hand to stop Marie, smiling at RyuZu,
“Then, Miss RyuZU, I too shall give you an advise–I do not know the reason for that, but by being stubborn to admit one’s outstanding qualities just because you do not like her, you will be belittling yourself, and your master’s honor too, you know…?”
“–”
Houko’s words dented RyuZU’s momentum.
RyuZU spoke up, wanting to say something, but went silent, lowered her eyes, and nodded in a gaudy manner.
“…I shall reflect on this advice.”
Seeing RyuZU’s reaction, both Naoto and Marie widened their eyes.
All they had was the same one thought.
And it was–‘that RyuZU actually backed down…!?’.
Well, Naoto said.
“Marie…uncle Halter keeps calling you Milady here and there, but,”
“–What?”
“Well, I guess the real princess is full of personal charms, you know…? Sure feels like she’s of a completely different level.”
“Huh?” Marie continued on with a vicious smile,
“–What are you getting at? Do you mind getting to the specifics, young Naoto?”
“The head face chest height royal attitude–I can continue listing examples if you want to know.”
“You guysss!!!!!”
RyuZU blankly responded, triggering Marie’s rage.
Houko in turn held in her laughter as she watched this scene.
“Recharging is almost at the targeted 82%…!”
The communications officer’s agitated voice rang.
Gennai nodded nonchalantly,
“…My lord, is it time for you to tell everyone what you intend to do exactly?”
The lieutenant standing next to him asked uneasily.
Gennai glanced at this lieutenant, but did not answer, instead probing back,
“…What do you think of this world?”
“Yes…? Yo-your question is?”
“The Clockwork Planet–the actual thing is right in front of our eyes, actually spinning, but–even after a thousand years, humans still can’t analyse it, let alone replicate it; it was made with that kind of technology…an artificial world.”
Gennai sighed.
“Do you think this can be deemed as ‘science’?”
The lieutenant gave a skeptical look upon hearing this question, aying,
“It is true that there is still a whole lot of mysteries surrounding the gear technology running the planet’s operations…but since that involves reality, by that reasoning, it is ‘science’, ‘technology’…?”
“Such an understanding is pertinent, too fitting. Nobody understands the theory of this thing, ‘it’s beyond our understanding, but since we have it, let’s use it’–I suppose this is science. But do you know?”
“My lord…?”
Gennai showed a cynical sneer, saying to the skeptical lieutenant.
“30,000 years have passed since humanity obtained ‘fire’. However, the actual form of it was determined to be a kind of plasma–a form of electricity, less than a hundred years before the planet was reconstructed. This means that humanity used fire for 28,928 years without understanding this natural phenomenon. It is scientific, no? But have you realized? There is a ‘significant difference’ between these two, and that is–”
Gennai paused,
“–This Clockwork Planet is not a natural creation. It is ‘artificial’.”
“This…”
“Yes, this universe is created by some God–or some God named ‘coincidence’. By revealing God’s laws, and using them, now that is technology, theory, induction, logic! Now then, shall I ask? This ‘artificial being’…on what ‘science’ is it created based on?”
In the face of Gennai’s question, this seemingly correcting tone, the lieutenant inadvertently retreated,
“Bu-but…it is very true that the one who created this planet is ‘Y’.”
“That is the case. And because of that, I conclude that ‘Y’ is not human.”
Gennai, who said those words, obviously lost it–no,
Upon seeing Gennai’s crazed eyes, the lieutenant gulped. However, Gennai did not mind, saying,
‘That thing–‘Y’ created the blueprint based on ‘a theory that did not exist’! Super technology? Unknown technology? A technology that a genius created, and even after a thousand years, nobody can understand? It will be believable if we say that it was based on prehistoric civilization technology or done by aliens…but I do not have the preference for such fantasies, and will not believe in them.”
–It was understandable if it was an analysis of the unknown nature.
That was the science humanity had been building upon.
…But analysing the theory of the artificial under their feet?
That was illogical. The order was ‘reversed’, turned on its head. In that case, it meant that there was a blueprint, that someone knew of a theory nobody knew of! –Now then, lieutenant, let me hear your
–Such a thing definitely was not science.
‘Y’ was said to have created such a thing, but where exactly did he derive that theory from?
Gennai then knew.
That automata called AnchoR had a function–the ‘Perpetual Gear’.
Perpetual? Impossible! Technology? Don’t mess me with!
That is a law that can’t possibly exist–defying the laws of this universe.
Some time passed. All the people in the room had their attention on him.
Skeptical, flustered, perturbed–stares that might be filled with some fear.
In the face of these stares, Gennai roared, his tone filled with anger,
“We spent a thousand years understanding this Clockwork Planet, and yet now, we don’t understand it entirely. There are so many functions that even theories and logic have yet to solve! –Now then, lieutenant, let me hear your opinion.”
“My lord…”
“–Where exactly did ‘Y’ create the theory of this installation that humanity has yet to understand even after 1,000 years?”
There was none who could answer.
This silence caused Gennai to recall the same question he tossed out a few days ago.
…–
31 years ago, the government commissioned the research to fuse clockwork and electromagnetic technology, and Gennai learned something.
Humanity of the past..though incomplete, they were about to unravel this world, the partial veil of this universe.
Humanity of the past tried to define the universe through the electromagnetic theories they researched on.
–But all that was for naught.
Everything changed on the day the existence called ‘Y’ modified the world into the Clockwork Planet.
And to wipe off the evidence, they rid his footing–eliminating everything.
All theories were toppled from its origina.
And he understood, more than anyone else.
That the ones who kept rewriting and reassembling this world was humanity.
But despite being able to change the world, humanity would not change.
The ironic thing was that–even ‘Y’ could not change humanity.
On that case, Gennai had a firm belief inside that collapsed Shiga Core Tower.
–‘Y’ was not human.
Humans could never change, and would never change. But only that person–toppled over all premises, and arrogantly overturned the world. That was impossible to do based on human hands.
If that was the case, he could accept it. Puny humans were obviously powerless against Gods, demons or monsters beyond human intelligence that could change the world.
In this reality he saw, Gennai led his subordinates so that he could live.
Even if defying God was a sin, he could not let puny ‘humans’ be destroyed with a mere whimper.
They controlled Mie, continued their research, and finally completed the electromagnetic weapon that could destroy the world.
And again, Gennai felt despair.
For he understood.
No matter whether it was he, this weapon, or his comrades seeking revenge, they were merely existences that were to be expected.
No matter whether they had realized it, the results were all in ‘Y’s hands. How foolish…
–And, finally disgusted with that, Gennai retreated into a hermit life.
Yes, they were ultimately ordinary humans, unable to defy against those who surpass us. Thu–
Having felt disappointed in history itself, he despaired at the world, and felt that he was fine with ending his life now that he had seen reality.
Until he saw that boy–with that ‘Y’ automata along.
“I shall do so, if you are willing to hear some words from an old man.”
A few days ago, Gennai said such words,
At his residence deep in the basement of Grid Mie, where he decided to spend his last days, an Initial-Y unit suddenly appeared.
And unlike Unit 4, it was someone he could talk with.
Gennai recalled the ‘Judgment Day’ mentioned in ancient legends.
It was said that when the world ends, God would appear before humanity, hearing their doubts–or excuses.
And so, he would be able to hear God’s answers–with such little expectations, Gennai raised his doubts.
The Clockwork Planet that was yet to be fully discovered, ‘Y’, who created this world.
That mystery was–where did ‘Y’ come from?
Was he or she a God? Or Human?
Are we living in a fantasy–or actually living on this planet?
However…
“I do wish of you to return me the precious time I spent with you. Is that all with your foolish questions?”
The automata refused to answer Gennai’s doubts.”
“I shall ask of you not to lament your misfortune of having a brain inferior to a speck of dust–no, I do not pity you, but ‘naming something you cannot understand’ as God out of laziness is a natural thinking of a common peasant. For you, ‘Y’ is a ‘great’ worth exalting as a God. To add on, mixing up reality and fantasy proves that you cannot understand the logic behind things, and I do advise you to hurry and accept treatment.”
Upon hearing the automata’s smile as she replied with disdain–
“–Are you kidding?”
The metallic eyes on Gennai’s wrinkled face showed a vicious glare, and he retorted,
“A foolish question, you say? It has been 1,000 years since ‘Y’ recreated this planet, and till now, humanity is yet to solve this technology…!”
“That does appear to be the case. I suppose I can see the ‘I don’t believe this’ look on that man’s face.”
“In so many years…how many scholars, technicians spent their lives trying to attain the truth! I may not be as successful as my predecessors, but I am also one. Humans gave up their lives trying to unravel God’s throne–and failed. Are you going to mock this act of mine?”
“–No, I do have to applaud you for that effort.”
The automata’s words left Gennai speechless.
“But as you have said–you are a failure.”
“Yes, that is right. I assumed in the past that I took a step forward, but in the end, it is–”
However, the automata cut off his words, coldly telling him,
“You were ‘finished’ at that moment–this rare appraisal of hard work is for naught now…”
Upon seeing the automata unwilling to give an answer, Gennai suddenly got up from his chair,
“Answer me–what was ‘Y’ thinking when he recreated the world!? Why did he throw at us such–a similar thing that is beyond our thoughts, vauggue, something nobody can understand!”
“–This old man is so noisy…”
The one answering was not the automata.
Naoto, who had been unconscious till this while and lying on the bed, was glaring at him,
“Master Naoto.”
The automata girl warned the boy,
“It is better for you to rest a little longer…I will ask for this old man to prepare an elevator–”
“Forget about it, RyuZU.”
The boy slowly got up, shaking his head, saying,
“…I heard your conversation. It’s a waste of time to continue talking. Let’s ignore this guy for now and find a way to get back up.”
At this moment, Gennai spoke up harshly.
“It is impossible. The elevator will not be powered on electricity unless on my orders.”
“Powered on electricity? What’s that…well, just give the order. We got no time to waste here.”
‘I’m not done here–!”
Gennai’s tone harshened, and the boy scowled.
Then, he said impatiently,
“Seriously, old man, I’m pissed off because of what happened with AnchoR, and I’m now busy! If you don’t hurry up and activate the elevator, I’ll–”
“–You’ll kill me?”
Gennai retorted defiantly.
This was the last fight the old man would say to the arrogant youngster, a protest of the question he risked his life on being dismissed as something an old man would do to spend the time.
However, the boy merely looked flabbergasted.
“–Huh? Have you lost it, old man? Will the elevator move if I kill you? If you don’t activate it, I’ll”
The boy’s eyes showed no doubt as he said convincingly,
“‘Climb up using my own strength’. That’s what an elevator means, right? If there’s a cable leading up there, I’ll be able to climb up there.”
The boy was able to pinpoint the location of the elevator–and even reveal the structure acurately. Gennai was silent.
At the same time, he recalled that the boy was the owner of this Initial-Y series unit.
‘Y’s inheritance; the latest myth, God’s own automata.
Gennai knew that they existed, and saw the activation of unit 04.
However, the one in front of him was not any other unit, but the ‘1st unit’–YD 01 ‘RyuZU’.
Nobody in the past had managed to break through that unit’s master identification, and having recalled that, Gennai realized,
“–Boy.”
‘I asked the wrong person’–he faced the boy again.
He said,
“I shall ask you a question. Depending on your answer, I may activate the elevator.”
The boy wordlessly turned around.
Gennai stared at those light grey eyes, asking,
“–Do you have no doubts about this world, this world of endless despair that humanity had, and will continue to challenge?”
On this unknown planet, in this vague, illogical planet.
Do you not have any doubts–this was the question.
And then, Gennai was forced to face this reality he did not want to know.
It was something beyond his imagination, merciless, illogical, simple, and foolish–answer.
His heart was so devoid of hope he thought he had none, yet he felt despair for the 3rd time.
That boy was undoubtedly just a normal human, or so he appeared to be, saying human speech, acting like a human.
And then, he dared to act so nonchalant, as though ‘he had completely understood Gennai’s despair’, directing his response not at anyone else, but at Gennai.
“–It’s your choice to say that you’re a failure and grumble about it, but…”
The grey eyes were filled with condescendence as the boy said,
“You’re being too cocky, old man. Who do you think you are, being a ‘representative’ of humanity’?”
“–”
“Don’t lump me along with you.”
–Unlike you who have given up, we didn’t despair’.
Right–the boy described ‘what is a human’.
Gennai remained speechless, and he sat down.
He exerted his weight on the chair, rocking it–and he exhaled deeply, nodding,
“…Fine. I shall contact them and activate the elevator.”
Gennai said, and the boy’s expression immediately changed.
“Oh? Why old~man~! You’re really reasonable! Right, RyuZU, let’s go!”
“Please wait, Master Naoto. You will faint due to lack of oxygen if you run.”
The boy and automata dashed out of his home in a rush.
With a grim look, Gennai watched that back, pondering alone,
How laughable–that person, that boy clearly, blatantly, in an enlightened manner, saw the ‘center of the illusion’ shrouding humans with his eyes, and boldly said ‘why can’t you see this’.
–I see, he may have the form of a human.
–Many have said that God created Man out of his own image.
However, that genius who appeared human–no, an abnormality, radical, superhuman, God or demon–was nonchalantly saying that.
Despite not being human, he boldly described what was a human without a doubt.
Gennai chuckled ominously.
The target of his hatred, almost on mania, appeared in front of him.
The arrogant, foolish God fooled humanity. In that case–
“–We shall meet again, boy. No…”
‘Y’ (That monster)–impersonating a human.
–…
A sharp beep rang.
The monitor on the wall changed, flickering.
Gennai pulled back his consciousness from the past, saying to the communications officer.
“–What is the matter, report.”
“Ah…y-yes. Recharge at 82%….”
“Good work.”
Gennai nodded, and stood up.
He slowly looked around the command room, at the faces of his subordinates who were serving him.
They were his old subordinates, who were with him since the research in Grid Shiga; or the sons of his allies who raised them in Mie.
Gennai, without a kin or home, viewed these people as his ‘family
–Well, whatever Gennai thought.
Since the planet we are standing on is unstable to begin with…
Everything…is merely some ordinary, fleeting illusion.
–If you are really God, you may kill me off.
But if ‘Y’ is merely a person lying, bluffing humanity.
I want you to know the limits of us ordinary people–the definite limits of humanity.
I want you to know your sins, for you denied absolutes, rebuilt the world, and stagnated humanity for a thousand years.
And then, you shall see everything, and die in your despair.
With such fury and hatred, Gennai declared,
“Good work, everyone. Now then–I shall ‘give instructions’.
And then, a high pressure electric current that could easily turn human bodies into ash ran amok in the command room.
Naoto suddenly got up like a spring.
His eyes were widened to their limits, sweating profusely.
“Master Naoto…?”
“Wait, Naoto, what’s with you?”
Both RyuZU and Marie stared at Naoto skeptically. AnchoR, resting on his belly, too looked up in shock.
But this was not the moment to be bothered with it.
Naoto heared something dangerous.
His eardrums, his instincts, no, all his senses captured the greatest siren alert.
It was not merely the matter of a life threatening moment, but something more terrifying than that. It was something he never heard before–no, correction, he did hear before!
“Wait…you got to be kidding–!?”
How can I forget? His rage was boiling.
I get to hear this ugly, indecent, unpleasant sound again.
“What’s wrong now, Naoto? After a little while, the Bypass will–”
“Marie!!!”
Naoto shrieked, his teeth gnashing.
“Get everyone out to the South right now! To where the clouds are! Hurry!”
Perhaps she saw something from that face–
“–Everyone! 20th Outside team, head to your 6! Begin weather manipulation!”
–She yelled while leaving aside her doubt and questions, and began operating the control panel at her hands.
Then, Naoto sensed the mechanical operation sounds of the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’ interfering with the external temperature and humidity.
The winds were trembling, the air pressure changed drastically, creating a massive amount of steam–but…
“Shiiittt! We can’t make it! Everyone runn!!!!”
Naoto’s holler echoed through the massive floor.
And then, 5 seconds later.
–The light of destruction came, blowing away everything in its path.
Now then–
The criminals who terrorized Japan into oblivion and sent the world into a vortex of chaos.
Once he declared this unprecedented, unparalleled act–the boy who proclaimed to wipe off Japan from the map, he was–
“Fwuaa~~…ahh~ really~…haa, I live for the sake of enjoying this happiness…”
Was relaxing leisurely, as though he was in the comfort of his home.
To be specific, he was sleeping on the thighs of a black dress girl–an automata. His face was buried in those thighs as he frolicked away in a bored manner.
The automata girl providing her thighs–RyuZU said,
“Pardon my words, Master Naoto, but since you are born with a cheap head, I suppose this alone would have allowed you to enjoy eons of enjoyment.
But Naoto, who had his face still buried in RyuZU’s thighs, refuted with a vague voice,
“How rude, RyuZU! Really rude! Is there a pillow better than your thigh laps!”
“–Do pardon me. It is humiliating for me to be refuted so through logic by you, Master Naoto–but there is truly nothing in this world that is superior to my thighs, or even a strand of my hair. As you may tell, my thighs are an exalted treasure even God would be envious of…undoubtedly, sleeping on my lap is an unparalleled privilege. My apologies for my mistake.”
RyuZU bent her neck, lowering her head in apology.
A young girl in red and white armor–another automata saw this, placed her index finger in her mouth, and muttered,
“…Papa, I want, an order….”
“Okkaay, okay okay! Come to papa’s belly~”
Naoto turned, lying face up, beaming away, spreading his arms wide, indicating ‘come here!”
AnchoR leapt to Naoto’s belly, saying happily,
“…ehehe…papa’s warm…”
Naoto patted his forehead, yelling,
“–kaahh–! There’s no one happier than me in this world right now!”
“Master Naoto, you crushed the masses’ plain happiness, and I suppose in return–no, even considering absolutes, it did not matter how the world is now as long you have two such prized, exalted pieces of arts in AnchoR and me even the Heavens will be envious of.”
–Right.
Phew, at this moment, Noto’s feelings were somewhere beyond cloud nine.”
Naoto seemed to have abandoned the chaos in the lower realm behind him, and muttered to himself, praying,
“Ooh…to the great certain person who gave birth to me, RyuZU and AnchoR on this world, I love you–!!!”
Well, allow us to ignore this space of idiocy that is filled with such sweetness, it was as though sugar was caramelized and applied everywhere.
–The ‘Heaven’s Pillar’.
As its name implied, it was the country’s Core Tower that would seemingly pierce into the clouds, and at this point, they were on the 20th level.
At this point, there was a tense atmosphere engulfed there, comparable to the battlefield from before.
“Professor Conrad! Everyone! How’s the sense like!”
Marie yelled, and there were 18 automata facing the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’s amazingly intricate constructs in the level, busy with their work, turned in unison to give Marie a thumbs up.
That was not the reaction of AIs.
–They were 18 technicians from all over Tokyo, in Resonance Bases, controlling the maintenance automata of the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’ that were modified for remote control.
The 18 of them were Meisters who admired Marie and assisted–they did display their skills during the original Akihabara terrorist incident.
And their skills were the best amongst Meisters.
They were tucked in the relay stations, controlling the automata, doing precision work–while the clockwork technicians had their senses sealed as they united under Marie’s command–showing such precision no ordinary person could understand.
If any of the JSDF technicians who maintained the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’ every day was to see such a scene–though they were Meisters who could be a part of the ‘Meister Guid’–surely they would cry and hand in their resignations ‘you’re taking over this place from today onwards’.
And there’s one more–
“Oh this side is going well too, Missy…is this really the ability of a Meister? So cool.”
Vermouth noted,
And also–there was an old gentleman’s voice coming from the same vocal cord,
“Professor Marie, you do not have to worry about me. I might be the most comfortable one here.”
Upon hearing those words, Vermouth continued to chuckle using the body Conrad was controlling,
“I guess so, old man. It’s most comfortable for you in ‘all kinds of ways’, right?”
It was true–that no matter how unwilling Marie was to admit it, she had to agree with Vermouth.
Vermouth’s unit was the only remote control unit with specially ordered parts from Conrad’s personal collection.
Typically, the resonance installation–the non-contact resonance movement was something exceptionally hard to replicate, even in the 1,000 years where they discovered artificial atoms.
Amongst them, the largest resonance distance was approximately 40km.
However, the ones that used such precious materials without restraint, resulting in a ‘100% purity’–was the ‘Long Distance Resonance Gears’.
To be honest, these were parts of the highest quality, the price of one equivalent to constructing a building in a prime location.
Furthermore, if it was for personal use, there would be a need for two of them for the reception and communications–so basic calculation wise, it would be double the pricing.
To be honest–the ‘long distance resonance’ were not exactly necessary.
There were cabled installations built all over the world, and with many relay stations, one could communicate without from one end of the world to the other end without practically any delay, even if they were short distance communications.
Thus, the only ones requiring this were a few enterprises, the ‘military’, or the high ranking politicians–who would send classified information frequency and require secrecy.
–But there was an exception.
Perhaps that exception was the reason why Conrad had such a thing, and installed it in this playdoll automata. Marie realized this, and was unable to say anything.
–There were 3 advantages to the ‘long distance resonance gears’.
One was ‘distance’, two was ‘secrecy’.
And the third was ‘content capacity’.
Obviously, there would be other users using the resonance communication through the relay points. With the limits of the continual movement and resources, there was a limit to the continuous movements that could be done–the resonance movements.
–But it was a different case with the ‘long distance resonance gears’.
Of course, it could feed in a massive amount of information far beyond the former.
For example–yes, ‘resonance remote control’ could be done.
And so, the reason why Conrad would have such a rare, precious installation, and installed it in a playdoll automata.
…Marie could only cup her head and grimace.
“But now we have to be thankful for that…right, don’t think too much, Marie.”
Upon hearing Marie mutter and coax herself, Vermouth said,
“I say, Missy, do you know about this? The original reason why this long distance resonance gear was set up wasn’t for ‘distance’, but for ‘information content’.
“…So?”
“In any case, the main driving force of this world has always been about ero–”
“Professor Conrad, do shut this guy up. Please, I’ll leave it to you.”
Marie immediately cut off the conversation, returning to her work.
Thinking about it, it’s strange that they had a rendezvous at a strip bar in case of emergency–no, don’t think about it.
She stopped thinking, and told everyone,
“Everyone, take note, we’re being slower than expected by 18 seconds! Please hurry up!”
There was no time to worry about it.
Since they made their declaration and got 3 hours–there was at least 2 hours in which the ‘military’ would not dare to barge in.
But if the fact that they were using the relay stations was found out, they would be controlled.
And in the worst situation, the locations of the 18 helpers would be traced back and exposed.
So before then, they had to finish their work as soon as possibl–
“Miss Mar–bel.”
Marie lifted her head upon hearing someone call for her.
A young woman–Houko, was standing there with a stiff face.
Marie continued to tap at the simulation control panel connected to the control systems, glancing with her eyes to prompt Houko to continue.
“There is this thing I really have to ask you.”
“–”
Marie had a little idea of what she wanted to ask.
Without answering, Marie glanced to look at Naoto who was failing around with the 2 automata.
Houko followed Marie’s stare, and said,
“–Where did he get the blueprint of the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’?”
“There isn’t such a thing…is there?”
“No. This is why I am asking. You clearly understood the structure of the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’, more than us who are in charge of maintaining this place. You are the one supervising, but he was the one giving the initial instructions.”
“–”
“The logical idea is that he obtained the blueprint through some way.”
“Then you’re wrong. We don’t have such a thing, and this guy doesn’t know the structure of the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’ until he got here.”
“Do you assume that I will believe that?”
“No…but this is a fact.”
Marie answered, and Houko pressed the issue without giving time to pause,
“So–what you are implying is that this boy merely listened for 6 minutes, and understood the entire structure of the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’, is that so?”
Houko felt that it was impossible.
–As its name implied, the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’ was the pillar supporting the country of Japan.
Its massiveness, complexity, and intricacy was not something the surrounding Core Towers or clock towers could compare to.
And thus, the Palace staff in charge of maintenance–even the palace did not have a complete understanding of it. All they had was a fragment of the blueprint they spent a thousand years analyzing.
And even that kind of a blueprint was a classified information more secretive than the state records. Even the Prime Minister did not know where it was hidden, let alone try to duplicate it.
Nor could anyone dare to piece those fragments together and understand the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’.
Yet he easily did it just by listening for 6 minutes?
Houko knew that her face showed a different look.
A chill was creeping up her back.
She had such a feeling when she knew the terrifying capabilities of these adorable automata–but this feeling this had at this point might be more terrifying than back then.
–This boy, more than ‘Y’s inheritance, is dangerous.
The blond girl–Marie seemed to have realized Houko’s thoughts, saying,
“I understand your concerns, but sorry, I can’t explain. Can you please pretend not to have noticed it?”
“I can’t.”
Houko concluded.
She permitted their actions initially for she assumed they were beneficial to the country–in other words, she wanted to ‘make use of them’.
On one hand, they would be the culprits taking the fall for this crumbling country.
And second, to figure out what the people triggering the ‘Akihabara terrorist incident’ wanted to do to the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’.
Houko herself was not an amateur when it came to clockwork technology. She did have a formal education in a foreign university, and thought her abilities were no match for a Meister, she did have the certification of a Gazelle.
She affirmed the their steps, and the sources of their technology and information, that they were contribution to the safety of the country. They planned countermeasures, preventing repeats–
That was the initial thought she had as she went along with their plans, but…
“–”
Houko narrowed her eyes sharply,
The answer was that–what was the talent of this plain, ordinary looking boy?
How could one counter this one person who could understand the structure of the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’ just by listening?
If that was the truth, this boy in front of her–
“He ‘can’t exist’–he is a grievous ‘disaster’ threatening our security.”
Upon hearing Houko’s words, Marie sighed, saying,
“Relax–this isn’t something I can say though. I do think there’s something to this guy’s hearing and senses, but I don’t understand the theory behind it.”
In other words, nobody could replicate it.
If he was gone, there would never be–
Once Houko considered this fact, Marie lowered her voice, telling her,
“I’ll warn you. Given your personality, you might be thinking of killing him once everything is over, but–”
There was no need for the following warning.
Unknowingly, there was a black scythe placed at Houko’s neck. Of course, that scythe–belonged to a black dress automata.
“If you wish to kill yourself, do take ‘a little step’ towards me, no? I can assure you the most painless death in the world.”
The topaz eyes belonged to the real automata, devoid of any emotion.
The girl in red and white beside him stared emotionlessly at Houko,
“…If you dare do anything to papa…I won’t hold back, you know?”
“Hm? Eh, wh-what’s going on?”
The boy appeared to be the only one who did not understand what was going on, looking perplexed.
Houko sighed. It was foolish to die in such a situation.
“My apologies. You may back down.”
Having said that, Houko took a step back, and the black dress automata silently retracted her scythe.
“…Do you understand now?”
Marie said. Houko sighed, nodding.
“Yes. Unfortunately, I seem to be out of ideas…I shall leave this aside and think of countermeasures later on.”
–Looks like Houko gave up on that idea for now.
Right when marie was grateful that her friend managed to keep her life, Houko suddenly took out a little machine from her pocket–it was something like a necklace.
And right when Marie was feeling skeptical, Houko put that thing on her neck, smiling,
“Now then–it has been a while, Marie.”
Houko’s voice was far different from before–it was a voice changer.
It appeared that she had prepared this beforehand, something meant to prevent records of a terrorist cell making contact with the Princess.
So well-prepared–Marie thought as she beamed.
“Yeah. It has been a while, Houko.”
“I’m really happy to be able to meet you again. The last time we met, it was your funeral, right?”
“That coffin is empty, and I was in another country.”
“I already knew that you were alive. I thought that we never had a chance to meet again though.”
There was a chance they could have met if it was the Princess of Japan and her classmate, the Princess of the Breguets.
However, Marie, now known as Maribel Halter, did not have the chance and reason to meet Houko.
For Houko was unlike her fellow technicians, on with a public standing.
Having realized this fact at this point, Marie sighed, feeling dejected, saying,
“–Yeah, glad to see you too.”
Marie then lowered her eyes.
“You’re still wearing that watch?”
“Of course. This is a work of my good friend, an important gift. This child has been with me ever since we went our separate ways.”
Houko touched her left wrist, saying,
“I was so mortified when I heard of your death in Grid Kyoto. It was in my country…and it is late, but I do have to give my apologies.”
“You don’t have to. It’s my decision after all.”
Sounds of rapid-fire typing could be heard on the simulator next to Marie.
The metal belt had numerous holes in it–and the punch card glided down the console.
“But I’m doing this not because this is your country. No matter which country it is, I will do the same thing. I am a clockwork technician after all.”
Having said that, Marie reached her right hand out, her fingers gliding down the metal belt. She was typing the commands into the punchcard, as though she was writing in a torrent like manner.
“…Yeah, you are always the type to seek justice.”
Houko noted a little forlornly as she watched Marie work without stopping.
And at this moment–
“Just to ask, why is Marie friends with the Princess of Japan?”
Naoto, still resting on RyuZU’s thighs, raised his voice to ask. He was as nonchalant as ever, just voicing whatever doubt he had on his mind.
Marie clicked her tongue unhappily, slapping the control panel.
“I say, Naoto, it’s rude to interrupt when someone else is talking.”
“Oh, so that’s rude–anyway, why?”
“To summarize, I was classmates with her.”
Houko answered.
“I was studying in a European university when I met her. However, she graduated with all credits in a single month.”
“A month!?”
Naoto widened his eyes, and Marie shrugged,
“Without Houko around to play with me, I would have left in a week.”
“Oh! It sounds like I was getting in your way, no?”
“That is it, isn’t it? You were always dragging me around.”
“Now that is funny, Marie. You are the one who played the most, right? That incident back then still has people in that university talking now.”
Marie and Houko continued to bicker as they revisited the past.
But Naoto merely looked back at forth between the duo, saying,
“I don’t really understand, but logically, a Princess studying overseas will have bodyguards or something like that, right? Why is it that she only made friends with Marie?”
“…Seriously, the Breguets is one of the 5 Enterprises of the world. They’re French nobility, and I’m the Princess there, you know? Is there a problem for me to get along with the Princess of Japan?”
Marie raised her eyebrow as she answered.
Naoto looked as though he never thought of it, saying,
“Then, uncle Halter calling you ‘Milady’ is…”
“…? That’s a fact. Is there a problem?”
“I thought it was sarcasm.”
“Impossible. Of course he’s praising me for my intellect, precious bloodline and elegance.”
At that instant, Naoto gave a serious look,
“Sorry, I don’t get you. Are you joking?”
“…what do you mean? Hold it right there, I’m going to get you to explain that later.”
Marie growled as she narrowed her eyes to glare at Naoto.
Seeing that, Houko giggled,
“You have changed a little, Marie. No, perhaps that is how you always were…I am a little envious.”
“…Houko?”
Marie titled her head in skepticism.
Houko did not answer, instead speaking with a stern tone,
“Speaking of which, I suppose it is about time for you to tell me now, no? What are you actually planning to do with the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’?”
“Erm–yeah, I should have informed you beforehand.”
Marie, who was speechless, continued on,
“Houko, how much do you know about the massive weapon in Akihabara?”
“There was no definite proof, but looking at the situation, it is obviously an electromagnetic type. As far as I can see from the reports of the Intelligence branch, they are from the old Shiga ‘military’, wanting to launch a coup d’etat on the government.”
“–As expected of you.”
Marie nodded, looking impressed.
“So, anyway?”
“Yeah, that electromagnetic weapon magnetized Akihabara. If this kept up, even after eliminating the massive weapon,, I don’t know whether we can repair it.”
So…
“We intend to follow this idiot’s idea–throw that massive weapon down into a pot to cook it. The pot is Akihabara, and the heat–probably 2,000 degrees.”
Upon hearing Marie’s words, Houko widened her eyes.
As expected of her smarts, Marie thought.
A mere few words alone allowed to understand their plans.
–They would heat Grid Akihabara until the magnetism faded.
Naoto’s plan was to wipe out the massive weapon and remove the magnetism from Grid Akihabara.
“–”
Marie suddenly recalled.
Back then, at Grid Akihabara, Naoto, who probably did not have any knowledge of electromagnetism back then, said the first words when he talked about how to deal with those people.
–“I’m going to throw those people into a pot and cook them alive’.
Back then, Naoto probably did not realize that heating could remove magnetism.
Throughout it all, this guy has been–
Marie diverted her stare towards Naoto.
Did he realize it–or did he not care about it in the first place?
Naoto was lying down, relaxing–and RyuZU, caressing his hair, suddenly mentioned,
“Master Naoto…I really do apologize.”
–She apologized?
That RyuZU actually apologized so sincerely?
Marie was dumbfounded, her fingers nearly typing the wrong controls.
Naoto too was dumbfounded, his eyes widened as he said,
“RyuZU?”
“It is because I was unable to remove the magnetism by myself–that your hand and shoulder bear the fate of the planet, Master Naoto…”
The catkin-like hands were quietly touching Naoto’s hand and shoulder.
Those were the scalded parts on Naoto when he carried the sizzling hot RyuZU.
It was thanks to nanomachines that the wound did not become pus. However, it was still so swollen, and one would feel heartbroken just looking at him.
Marie too was worried about Naoto’s burn.
It would probably take about another week before there was no more of that stinging pain, but whether the nervous system and delicate touch most important to a technician could recover…
Without looking at the healing process of the wound, it would be impossible to comment on that aspect alone.
In fact–Marie did not grumble even though Naoto was lazing away in such a situation, for Naoto did do a lot on his part–she had to let him rest.
“–”
Feeling what felt like setbacks over the past few days, Marie was sighing as she thought about it.
She recalled the first time when she met Naoto.
That boy, just an ordinary person–full of nonsense.
While that weapon’s electromagnetic weapon caused Marie to be almost, completely dejected, that boy never once stopped in his tracks, always doing the most suitable thing.
–Yes, the most suitable action.
And he never seemed to be bothered about the price he had to pay for his actions.
Even though the city was magnetized, and all technology was rendered ineffective; for Marie–the one most trustworthy to her was Halter–but for Naoto, it was RyuZU, so much more important than his own life, who broke down.
In such a peril, he continued with his instincts of ‘doing this’, creating RyuZU while she was so hot the heat could melt the floor.
Without any rest, he escaped Akihabara, leaving behind Marie, who was dejected, thinking of herself to be at her wits end.
In such a pain, where he felt suicide was a sweet temptation, he encouraged AnchoR too, and went to the streets, looking for a clue to improve the situation–
Was that truly–an ordinary person? An amateur?
What kind of sarcasm was that–Marie gritted her teeth.
–How much am I relying on that ordinary person, amateur’s willpower and strength? And anyway, what have I been doing? Without Naoto dragging me along, I’ll probably be drifting in Akihabara, unable to move.
And moresoever–
“It’s alright knowing that you’re alright, RyuZU. This is a man’s medal now, isn’t it? Haha.”
–Naoto still had his headphones removed at this point.
It was so that he could respond in sudden cases of emergency. His forehead was sweating as he showed a tender smile back at RyuZU.
–Is that a normal person?
You got to be kidding. That’s…that is, the one I’ve always–always–been aiming–
“But since you say so, RyuZU, I’ll help myself and make sure that you praise me for my hard work, RyuZU! Basically, I want a reward! More accurately, it’s–”
“Yes, Master naoto, you want me to relieve yourself of all the possible twisted sexual desires you have. I understand.”
“Wait, that’s not it–no, that’s not it, oh, yeah…no, now’s not the, erm…I-I’ll talk about that next time…”
–Upon seeing Naoto gleefully say such lecherous words, Marie hastily stopped her inner monologue.
And Naoto, unable to understand Marie’s inner heart, continued on,
“Ahhh! ‘Now’s not it! Listen to it me, it’s about my date with AnchoR–”
“Master Naoto, you certain are an amazing masochist to actually mention such a topic at this moment. I understand. Since you wish to so for some spanking–which part shall it be?”
“Let me finish here, okay!? I-I didn’t go out strolling with the intention of leaving my bride behind, so I bought a gift for you~”
“Papa…bought this for me♪”
AnchoR cut off Naoto’s words, showing an angelic smile as she said this,
At the same, she opened her palms in front of RyuZu.
Her finger was wearing something shiny–a ring.
“–Master Naoto? I am a little bewildered as to the kind of masochistic play you wish to play, that this is why you are treating me so cruelly, no?”
“Please keep those scythes back, I beg of you! Look, that’s the right middle finger!”
Upon hearing Naoto shriek, RyuZU stared at the ring.
With a treasuring attitude, AnchoR stared at the ring cheerfully.
“…It’s something I bought out of my own will…a little spell..papa…made this for me.”
“I think it also has the meaning of avoiding evil, something like a talisman. This is something I bought to commerate going out with AnchoR when I wanted to buy something for you, RyuZU. That’s what the shop attendant said when I asked—but I thought I should personally make one—so…”
RyuZU looked perplexed as she tilted her head.
Naoto beamed as he took out a little box from his pocket, opening it in front of her.
Inside the box was a ring gittering silver.
“Since it’s a reward…don’t ask the meaning of that, and show me your ring finger, okay?”
“…”
“It doesn’t mean anything until I put it on too. So don’t mind–is that alright?”
RyuZU did not answer, and her expression did not change.
She merely nodded, reaching her left hand out.
Naoto smiled happily. Perhaps he heard some miniscule change within RyuZU’s body which Marie’s ears could not hear.
“Thank you, RyuZU.”
Naoto slipped a ring on the girl’s left ring finger.
“If it is this level of service, I do intend to repay your excessive concern for me, Master Naoto…though I am unwilling.”
It was opposite of RyuZU’s own words, and she embraced the ring that was slipped onto her finger.
Got to add on, Marie thought.
Till this point, everything Naoto did, and beyond–probably during the time Marie spent repairing RyuZU, replacing parts for Vermouth, preparing installation work of Halter.
Even during that time, when he had nothing to do–he made a ring.
Marie lowered her eyes, and her lips inadvertently let slip.
“–What kind of an ordinary person is that? How is there possibly an ordinary person like you–really.”
Houko heard the conversation between the boy and the automata.
It was a confirmation of love, something that had been repeated billions of times on this planet.
Houko did not know what it meant to truly love an automata.
All she knew was that this boy was serious, and that this automata knew how to reciprocate those feelings.
Those were the only two things she understood.
…However, it was insufficient. She had to know more about this boy.
And while driven by those thoughts, Houko quietly spoke up,
“–Excuse me, but may I talk to you?”
“Eh? Ah, okay…”
The boy lifted his face in shock. He was rude, but it was obvious that he was tense. It seemed that he was not used to the idea of others speaking to him.
Houko smiled.
“My name is Houko. Master Naoto Miura, I suppose? May I call you Master Naoto?”
“–Ah, yes, please go ahead.”
“Thank you very much. Pardon my rudeness, but may you answer two questions of mine?”
“E-eh, what’s the questions about?”
“Master Naoto, your treasured automata were damaged–and you wanted to deal with that weapon for revenge, no?”
Upon hearing that, the boy–Naoto was taken aback.
“Eh, revenge?–…no, that’s not it. They did something infuriatingly shitty to AnchoR, and even hurt RyuZU, so I want them to pay. I guess that’s it?”
“Pay…is that not what they call revenge?”
Houko reaffirmed, and Naoto gave a conflicted expression.
“No, I’ll say that it’s just to put an end to it…no, that’s not it, I don’t like it. As for what I don’t like, it’s complicated to say–whatever, that’s bascially it, simply–”
He paused,
“I’ll make them pay for what they owe–that’s just it, Princess.”
Naoto gingerly used some formal language, and Houko tilted her head slightly.
“Pay…is that so?”
“Hmm…well, I don’t really know how to explain…”
Naoto tapped his forehead, saying,
“It’s weird to enter a restaurant and eat without paying, right? If you can’t pay, don’t order it! Don’t you feel that’s the case?”
“…So you mean that if you buy it, you should pay, is that it?”
“Yeah yeah yeah, that’s right. That’s the kind of feeling.”
Naoto showed an earnest smile as he said that.
Houko nodded, and answered,
“Thank you for your answer. Now for the second question–with a talent like yours, if you want to simply wipe out Akihabara, would you not have done so a long time ago?”
“Eh–?”
Upon hearing Houko’s words, Naoto widened his eyes.
“Since your aim is to get rid of that weapon, it should be faster for you to simply get rid of the whole of Akihabara discreetly. There is no need for this risk, and it will be simpler for you, no?”
“Eh–” Naoto pondered with a perturbed look.
“But I heard that it will get the whole of Tokyo involved…right?”
“Yes. As you have said, Mr Naoto, once Akihabara is gone, the whole capital will collapse, merely a matter of time–but, what about it?”
The straightforward words caused Naoto to be dumbfounded.
Houko gave a stern look, continuing,
“As far as I can tell, you appear to be someone unscrupulous, but you chose not to use the most effective method for your aim–why is that?”
However, Naoto appeared to be really bewildered as he tilted his head, answering,
“…Eh, other than those related to that weapon, it has ‘nothing to do’ with the rest, right?”
“–”
I see, Houko understood.
I said to make them pay the price.
In other words, that excluded the ones who did not have to pay.
But that also meant that he would not hesitant in paying the price.
Thus, he understood very well. At this point, he had no reason to kill anyone.
It was not simply because he respected the value of a human life.
And not that he considered that it would affect Japan.
He merely wanted payback for those who hurt those dear to him. He was mentally prepared to pay all the price for that.
That alone–was all.
I see, Houko thought.
–If I want to become his friend, there is nobody more trustworthy than him.
–But if I want to be enemies against him, I have to be mentally prepared to bear the risk of sinking with the country.
Houko smiled, and nodded.
“I understand now. I suppose you are really someone who cannot be trusted, Mr Naoto.”
“Ehhh!? You decided that based on what I said!? Did I say something strange!?”
Yes, he could not be trusted.
As long as that boy felt that it was the necessary ‘price’, he probably would sink tokyo without hesitation.
At the very least, he had the ability and will to do such a thing.
It was extremely risky to leave such a person unrestrained–but…
With a smile on her face, Houko noted heartily,
“However–I do understand very well why Marie trusts you.”
“–Huh!?”
“Wai, what are you saying, Houko!?”
Naoto was dumbfounded, and Houko’s close friend–Marie, yelled in a panic.
Houko ignored Marie’s yell, and with a firm belief, she said,
“You are a ‘fair’ person.”
Or, Houko thought,
–Perhaps this boy was very greedy, self-centered.
But at the same time, extremely ‘fair’. Houko believed.
He disagreed with the idea of ‘unfair’, and did not allow for injustice.
He would never think of desiring something, and not paying for it.
This boy would demand this from everyone, including himself, to pay for whatever he wants.
It was likely the idea of ‘unfair’, to earn without paying for it never did cross his mind.
If there was something he wanted, no matter what it was, no matter how, he would pay the price.
Simply put, it was whether he could ‘accept it’, or not.
By comparing it to his desires, if he could ‘accept’, he would pay the price without hesitation.
He was probably this kind of a person.
No matter whether it was his own life–or others.
And because of this–Houko thought.
I should not get involved with this boy and my close friend.
No matter the personal reasons, ‘Houko’ as to the public would certainly be thinking in her mind on how to manipulate them.
If not–if Houko wanted to abide by her ‘fairness’.
Though his power was certainly alluring…
Suddenly, the automata–RyuZU said,
“…To be honest, I am truly amazed. I never did dream that someone amongst humanity, other than Master Naoto, would not be so blind.”
Upon hearing those impudent words that did not sound like praise in any means, Houko giggled,
“Why thank you, I am honored that the Great ‘Y’s masterpiece said this. It appears that I do have some value after all.”
RyuZU continued,
“Master Houko…I suppose? May I say a few words?”
“Certainly, what is it?”
“Please allow me to advise you–I suppose you should choose your friends wisely. Honestly put, I do feel that a mere Master Marie does not go well with you.”
“S-seriously, you–”
The close friend kicked up a fuss, saying,
However, Houko merely raised a hand to stop Marie, smiling at RyuZu,
“Then, Miss RyuZU, I too shall give you an advise–I do not know the reason for that, but by being stubborn to admit one’s outstanding qualities just because you do not like her, you will be belittling yourself, and your master’s honor too, you know…?”
“–”
Houko’s words dented RyuZU’s momentum.
RyuZU spoke up, wanting to say something, but went silent, lowered her eyes, and nodded in a gaudy manner.
“…I shall reflect on this advice.”
Seeing RyuZU’s reaction, both Naoto and Marie widened their eyes.
All they had was the same one thought.
And it was–‘that RyuZU actually backed down…!?’.
Well, Naoto said.
“Marie…uncle Halter keeps calling you Milady here and there, but,”
“–What?”
“Well, I guess the real princess is full of personal charms, you know…? Sure feels like she’s of a completely different level.”
“Huh?” Marie continued on with a vicious smile,
“–What are you getting at? Do you mind getting to the specifics, young Naoto?”
“The head face chest height royal attitude–I can continue listing examples if you want to know.”
“You guysss!!!!!”
RyuZU blankly responded, triggering Marie’s rage.
Houko in turn held in her laughter as she watched this scene.
“Recharging is almost at the targeted 82%…!”
The communications officer’s agitated voice rang.
Gennai nodded nonchalantly,
“…My lord, is it time for you to tell everyone what you intend to do exactly?”
The lieutenant standing next to him asked uneasily.
Gennai glanced at this lieutenant, but did not answer, instead probing back,
“…What do you think of this world?”
“Yes…? Yo-your question is?”
“The Clockwork Planet–the actual thing is right in front of our eyes, actually spinning, but–even after a thousand years, humans still can’t analyse it, let alone replicate it; it was made with that kind of technology…an artificial world.”
Gennai sighed.
“Do you think this can be deemed as ‘science’?”
The lieutenant gave a skeptical look upon hearing this question, aying,
“It is true that there is still a whole lot of mysteries surrounding the gear technology running the planet’s operations…but since that involves reality, by that reasoning, it is ‘science’, ‘technology’…?”
“Such an understanding is pertinent, too fitting. Nobody understands the theory of this thing, ‘it’s beyond our understanding, but since we have it, let’s use it’–I suppose this is science. But do you know?”
“My lord…?”
Gennai showed a cynical sneer, saying to the skeptical lieutenant.
“30,000 years have passed since humanity obtained ‘fire’. However, the actual form of it was determined to be a kind of plasma–a form of electricity, less than a hundred years before the planet was reconstructed. This means that humanity used fire for 28,928 years without understanding this natural phenomenon. It is scientific, no? But have you realized? There is a ‘significant difference’ between these two, and that is–”
Gennai paused,
“–This Clockwork Planet is not a natural creation. It is ‘artificial’.”
“This…”
“Yes, this universe is created by some God–or some God named ‘coincidence’. By revealing God’s laws, and using them, now that is technology, theory, induction, logic! Now then, shall I ask? This ‘artificial being’…on what ‘science’ is it created based on?”
In the face of Gennai’s question, this seemingly correcting tone, the lieutenant inadvertently retreated,
“Bu-but…it is very true that the one who created this planet is ‘Y’.”
“That is the case. And because of that, I conclude that ‘Y’ is not human.”
Gennai, who said those words, obviously lost it–no,
Upon seeing Gennai’s crazed eyes, the lieutenant gulped. However, Gennai did not mind, saying,
‘That thing–‘Y’ created the blueprint based on ‘a theory that did not exist’! Super technology? Unknown technology? A technology that a genius created, and even after a thousand years, nobody can understand? It will be believable if we say that it was based on prehistoric civilization technology or done by aliens…but I do not have the preference for such fantasies, and will not believe in them.”
–It was understandable if it was an analysis of the unknown nature.
That was the science humanity had been building upon.
…But analysing the theory of the artificial under their feet?
That was illogical. The order was ‘reversed’, turned on its head. In that case, it meant that there was a blueprint, that someone knew of a theory nobody knew of! –Now then, lieutenant, let me hear your
–Such a thing definitely was not science.
‘Y’ was said to have created such a thing, but where exactly did he derive that theory from?
Gennai then knew.
That automata called AnchoR had a function–the ‘Perpetual Gear’.
Perpetual? Impossible! Technology? Don’t mess me with!
That is a law that can’t possibly exist–defying the laws of this universe.
Some time passed. All the people in the room had their attention on him.
Skeptical, flustered, perturbed–stares that might be filled with some fear.
In the face of these stares, Gennai roared, his tone filled with anger,
“We spent a thousand years understanding this Clockwork Planet, and yet now, we don’t understand it entirely. There are so many functions that even theories and logic have yet to solve! –Now then, lieutenant, let me hear your opinion.”
“My lord…”
“–Where exactly did ‘Y’ create the theory of this installation that humanity has yet to understand even after 1,000 years?”
There was none who could answer.
This silence caused Gennai to recall the same question he tossed out a few days ago.
…–
31 years ago, the government commissioned the research to fuse clockwork and electromagnetic technology, and Gennai learned something.
Humanity of the past..though incomplete, they were about to unravel this world, the partial veil of this universe.
Humanity of the past tried to define the universe through the electromagnetic theories they researched on.
–But all that was for naught.
Everything changed on the day the existence called ‘Y’ modified the world into the Clockwork Planet.
And to wipe off the evidence, they rid his footing–eliminating everything.
All theories were toppled from its origina.
And he understood, more than anyone else.
That the ones who kept rewriting and reassembling this world was humanity.
But despite being able to change the world, humanity would not change.
The ironic thing was that–even ‘Y’ could not change humanity.
On that case, Gennai had a firm belief inside that collapsed Shiga Core Tower.
–‘Y’ was not human.
Humans could never change, and would never change. But only that person–toppled over all premises, and arrogantly overturned the world. That was impossible to do based on human hands.
If that was the case, he could accept it. Puny humans were obviously powerless against Gods, demons or monsters beyond human intelligence that could change the world.
In this reality he saw, Gennai led his subordinates so that he could live.
Even if defying God was a sin, he could not let puny ‘humans’ be destroyed with a mere whimper.
They controlled Mie, continued their research, and finally completed the electromagnetic weapon that could destroy the world.
And again, Gennai felt despair.
For he understood.
No matter whether it was he, this weapon, or his comrades seeking revenge, they were merely existences that were to be expected.
No matter whether they had realized it, the results were all in ‘Y’s hands. How foolish…
–And, finally disgusted with that, Gennai retreated into a hermit life.
Yes, they were ultimately ordinary humans, unable to defy against those who surpass us. Thu–
Having felt disappointed in history itself, he despaired at the world, and felt that he was fine with ending his life now that he had seen reality.
Until he saw that boy–with that ‘Y’ automata along.
“I shall do so, if you are willing to hear some words from an old man.”
A few days ago, Gennai said such words,
At his residence deep in the basement of Grid Mie, where he decided to spend his last days, an Initial-Y unit suddenly appeared.
And unlike Unit 4, it was someone he could talk with.
Gennai recalled the ‘Judgment Day’ mentioned in ancient legends.
It was said that when the world ends, God would appear before humanity, hearing their doubts–or excuses.
And so, he would be able to hear God’s answers–with such little expectations, Gennai raised his doubts.
The Clockwork Planet that was yet to be fully discovered, ‘Y’, who created this world.
That mystery was–where did ‘Y’ come from?
Was he or she a God? Or Human?
Are we living in a fantasy–or actually living on this planet?
However…
“I do wish of you to return me the precious time I spent with you. Is that all with your foolish questions?”
The automata refused to answer Gennai’s doubts.”
“I shall ask of you not to lament your misfortune of having a brain inferior to a speck of dust–no, I do not pity you, but ‘naming something you cannot understand’ as God out of laziness is a natural thinking of a common peasant. For you, ‘Y’ is a ‘great’ worth exalting as a God. To add on, mixing up reality and fantasy proves that you cannot understand the logic behind things, and I do advise you to hurry and accept treatment.”
Upon hearing the automata’s smile as she replied with disdain–
“–Are you kidding?”
The metallic eyes on Gennai’s wrinkled face showed a vicious glare, and he retorted,
“A foolish question, you say? It has been 1,000 years since ‘Y’ recreated this planet, and till now, humanity is yet to solve this technology…!”
“That does appear to be the case. I suppose I can see the ‘I don’t believe this’ look on that man’s face.”
“In so many years…how many scholars, technicians spent their lives trying to attain the truth! I may not be as successful as my predecessors, but I am also one. Humans gave up their lives trying to unravel God’s throne–and failed. Are you going to mock this act of mine?”
“–No, I do have to applaud you for that effort.”
The automata’s words left Gennai speechless.
“But as you have said–you are a failure.”
“Yes, that is right. I assumed in the past that I took a step forward, but in the end, it is–”
However, the automata cut off his words, coldly telling him,
“You were ‘finished’ at that moment–this rare appraisal of hard work is for naught now…”
Upon seeing the automata unwilling to give an answer, Gennai suddenly got up from his chair,
“Answer me–what was ‘Y’ thinking when he recreated the world!? Why did he throw at us such–a similar thing that is beyond our thoughts, vauggue, something nobody can understand!”
“–This old man is so noisy…”
The one answering was not the automata.
Naoto, who had been unconscious till this while and lying on the bed, was glaring at him,
“Master Naoto.”
The automata girl warned the boy,
“It is better for you to rest a little longer…I will ask for this old man to prepare an elevator–”
“Forget about it, RyuZU.”
The boy slowly got up, shaking his head, saying,
“…I heard your conversation. It’s a waste of time to continue talking. Let’s ignore this guy for now and find a way to get back up.”
At this moment, Gennai spoke up harshly.
“It is impossible. The elevator will not be powered on electricity unless on my orders.”
“Powered on electricity? What’s that…well, just give the order. We got no time to waste here.”
‘I’m not done here–!”
Gennai’s tone harshened, and the boy scowled.
Then, he said impatiently,
“Seriously, old man, I’m pissed off because of what happened with AnchoR, and I’m now busy! If you don’t hurry up and activate the elevator, I’ll–”
“–You’ll kill me?”
Gennai retorted defiantly.
This was the last fight the old man would say to the arrogant youngster, a protest of the question he risked his life on being dismissed as something an old man would do to spend the time.
However, the boy merely looked flabbergasted.
“–Huh? Have you lost it, old man? Will the elevator move if I kill you? If you don’t activate it, I’ll”
The boy’s eyes showed no doubt as he said convincingly,
“‘Climb up using my own strength’. That’s what an elevator means, right? If there’s a cable leading up there, I’ll be able to climb up there.”
The boy was able to pinpoint the location of the elevator–and even reveal the structure acurately. Gennai was silent.
At the same time, he recalled that the boy was the owner of this Initial-Y series unit.
‘Y’s inheritance; the latest myth, God’s own automata.
Gennai knew that they existed, and saw the activation of unit 04.
However, the one in front of him was not any other unit, but the ‘1st unit’–YD 01 ‘RyuZU’.
Nobody in the past had managed to break through that unit’s master identification, and having recalled that, Gennai realized,
“–Boy.”
‘I asked the wrong person’–he faced the boy again.
He said,
“I shall ask you a question. Depending on your answer, I may activate the elevator.”
The boy wordlessly turned around.
Gennai stared at those light grey eyes, asking,
“–Do you have no doubts about this world, this world of endless despair that humanity had, and will continue to challenge?”
On this unknown planet, in this vague, illogical planet.
Do you not have any doubts–this was the question.
And then, Gennai was forced to face this reality he did not want to know.
It was something beyond his imagination, merciless, illogical, simple, and foolish–answer.
His heart was so devoid of hope he thought he had none, yet he felt despair for the 3rd time.
That boy was undoubtedly just a normal human, or so he appeared to be, saying human speech, acting like a human.
And then, he dared to act so nonchalant, as though ‘he had completely understood Gennai’s despair’, directing his response not at anyone else, but at Gennai.
“–It’s your choice to say that you’re a failure and grumble about it, but…”
The grey eyes were filled with condescendence as the boy said,
“You’re being too cocky, old man. Who do you think you are, being a ‘representative’ of humanity’?”
“–”
“Don’t lump me along with you.”
–Unlike you who have given up, we didn’t despair’.
Right–the boy described ‘what is a human’.
Gennai remained speechless, and he sat down.
He exerted his weight on the chair, rocking it–and he exhaled deeply, nodding,
“…Fine. I shall contact them and activate the elevator.”
Gennai said, and the boy’s expression immediately changed.
“Oh? Why old~man~! You’re really reasonable! Right, RyuZU, let’s go!”
“Please wait, Master Naoto. You will faint due to lack of oxygen if you run.”
The boy and automata dashed out of his home in a rush.
With a grim look, Gennai watched that back, pondering alone,
How laughable–that person, that boy clearly, blatantly, in an enlightened manner, saw the ‘center of the illusion’ shrouding humans with his eyes, and boldly said ‘why can’t you see this’.
–I see, he may have the form of a human.
–Many have said that God created Man out of his own image.
However, that genius who appeared human–no, an abnormality, radical, superhuman, God or demon–was nonchalantly saying that.
Despite not being human, he boldly described what was a human without a doubt.
Gennai chuckled ominously.
The target of his hatred, almost on mania, appeared in front of him.
The arrogant, foolish God fooled humanity. In that case–
“–We shall meet again, boy. No…”
‘Y’ (That monster)–impersonating a human.
–…
A sharp beep rang.
The monitor on the wall changed, flickering.
Gennai pulled back his consciousness from the past, saying to the communications officer.
“–What is the matter, report.”
“Ah…y-yes. Recharge at 82%….”
“Good work.”
Gennai nodded, and stood up.
He slowly looked around the command room, at the faces of his subordinates who were serving him.
They were his old subordinates, who were with him since the research in Grid Shiga; or the sons of his allies who raised them in Mie.
Gennai, without a kin or home, viewed these people as his ‘family
–Well, whatever Gennai thought.
Since the planet we are standing on is unstable to begin with…
Everything…is merely some ordinary, fleeting illusion.
–If you are really God, you may kill me off.
But if ‘Y’ is merely a person lying, bluffing humanity.
I want you to know the limits of us ordinary people–the definite limits of humanity.
I want you to know your sins, for you denied absolutes, rebuilt the world, and stagnated humanity for a thousand years.
And then, you shall see everything, and die in your despair.
With such fury and hatred, Gennai declared,
“Good work, everyone. Now then–I shall ‘give instructions’.
And then, a high pressure electric current that could easily turn human bodies into ash ran amok in the command room.
Naoto suddenly got up like a spring.
His eyes were widened to their limits, sweating profusely.
“Master Naoto…?”
“Wait, Naoto, what’s with you?”
Both RyuZU and Marie stared at Naoto skeptically. AnchoR, resting on his belly, too looked up in shock.
But this was not the moment to be bothered with it.
Naoto heared something dangerous.
His eardrums, his instincts, no, all his senses captured the greatest siren alert.
It was not merely the matter of a life threatening moment, but something more terrifying than that. It was something he never heard before–no, correction, he did hear before!
“Wait…you got to be kidding–!?”
How can I forget? His rage was boiling.
I get to hear this ugly, indecent, unpleasant sound again.
“What’s wrong now, Naoto? After a little while, the Bypass will–”
“Marie!!!”
Naoto shrieked, his teeth gnashing.
“Get everyone out to the South right now! To where the clouds are! Hurry!”
Perhaps she saw something from that face–
“–Everyone! 20th Outside team, head to your 6! Begin weather manipulation!”
–She yelled while leaving aside her doubt and questions, and began operating the control panel at her hands.
Then, Naoto sensed the mechanical operation sounds of the ‘Heaven’s Pillar’ interfering with the external temperature and humidity.
The winds were trembling, the air pressure changed drastically, creating a massive amount of steam–but…
“Shiiittt! We can’t make it! Everyone runn!!!!”
Naoto’s holler echoed through the massive floor.
And then, 5 seconds later.
–The light of destruction came, blowing away everything in its path.
