Translator: Skythewood
Editor: Hiiro
After ending the meeting with Bertram, they were sent back to the dormitory assigned to them by the Indian government. When they were finally alone in their room, Professor Rikka who had been silent for the entire ride finally spoke.
「... Leaving the building of more factories aside, the problem is the mutation stimulant.」
She said as she pointed to the briefcase on the bed. Another set should be given to the Indian government too. Even so, this was still an important item that would affect the future of humanity. The Professor crossed her arms as she stared at the briefcase.
「This is something developed by the United Nations and delivered personally by Doctor Bertram. We will need to inspect it, but we can expect it to be effective. However── if we want to vaccinate the masses, we need someone to lead by example.」
So she needed to start with human experiments. After acknowledging that, she said in resignation.
「There’s no other way, I will find a man and have a child.」
「──? Wait, what are you saying!?」
Sapuna pressed her in a panic greater than anything she had shown before. Professor Rikka said stiffly.
「You are asking me why? We can’t start without someone testing it out. Given this situation, it’s natural for me and my child to take the lead.」
「N-No, you can’t do that! If the Professor gets pregnant and can’t move freely, then who will push for the building of more factories!? You must maintain a body that can move freely around!」
「You’re right, but the mutation stimulant is──」
「No! Definitely no! I would rather do it myself!」
Sapuna shook her head stubbornly, screaming in her refusal. She blinked away tears, and the sight of that made Professor Rikka stop her anxious thoughts.
「... Sorry, Sapuna. My thinking is too extreme. We both need to calm down.」
She placed a hand on Sapuna’s shoulder to soothe her. Sapuna collected her breathing. When she calmed down a while later, she wiped away her tears and said:
「... I don’t think we need to rush this. In India, there is a trend for the wealthy class to adjust the genetics of babies. If they know that the situation will worsen with time, they will ask for the medicine to strengthen the bodies of their children on their own.」
「I want to increase the number of users, but also ensure they think this through calmly. This is also a matter of personal and religious beliefs. After all, this stimulant will pass on the adjusted genetics to their descendants.」
「But the ones who have to face this are the users themselves. You only accepted something Doctor Bertram handed over, you are not the inventor of the stimulant. There’s no obligation for you to take the lead, please don’t shoulder too much responsibility.」
Sapuna said to her with a glare. Professor Rikka concurred with a nod, but couldn’t shake off the worry in her heart.
「... I’m also a Scientist like Doctor Bertram. I supported the development of the Bertram device. Am I not partially responsible for the predicament that mankind is facing?」
「Even if that is true, you should take responsibility by promoting the AE series, correct?」
Her assistant’s reply was firm. Professor Rikka smiled wryly. What should I do── she felt a chill whenever someone asked her that.
Bertram’s predictions were on point. There were no signs of the global communication recovering, and large tornadoes struck the lands with high frequencies. Riots broke out in regions with poor transport lines── worst of all, the children of the world were dying from unknown diseases.
In contrast with the deteriorating situation, demand for the AE series was growing with no end. Factories were set up all over the Euroasia continent, and the famous Professor Rikka traveled around the land to promote her Sprites. The genetic manipulation stimulant given to her by Dr. Bertram was equally prominent, and the adults who feared the death of their children formed long queues at the hospitals.
「The mutation stimulant can’t keep up with the people’s demand! Professor Rikka, do you have any good ideas?」
「I’m out of ideas. We don’t have the manpower and facilities to increase production further. Because of the Bertram wave, factories not built to the standard of an evacuation facility are breaking down… We can only produce what we can for now, and distribute as much of it as possible.」
Starting from India, many governments consulted her with regards to this. But with the weakening support of the Scientific community, there was a limit to what she could do. The Bertram wave didn’t only affect living beings, it also reduced the durability of structures. Buildings which weren’t constructed with special means were deteriorating at an alarming rate, and historic sites crumbled one after another. No country had the budget to prevent that now.
The situation in India was changing with time. When they heard the news that the AE series would be given out for free, refugees swarmed in from everywhere. This was true for the many factories erected before the Great Fall.
「── We can see all sorts of races now. Asia, the middle east, and Russia are connected by land, so it’s natural for the refugees to come. But it seems that people from Europe, America and Africa are coming too.」
Professor Rikka said as she watched the refugee camp that had changed over the years. Sapuna nodded and said:
「They heard about the AE series and came here from the impoverished regions. They probably think they will have a better life here than in their own country. And so── it’s awkward for me to say this, but even survivors from Japanese came here.」
「Yes, I spoke with them before. Tokyo was destroyed, and our main office had sunk into the sea. We are officially unemployed now, what should we do, Sapuna?」
「We can just use the title of a Scientist Consultant of the Indian government and her assistant. No one will nag and demand us to update our work permits, and in a sense, this is an upgrade── Cough! Cough!」
Sapuna suddenly stopped and coughed violently. Professor Rikka held her shoulders with a pale face, then carefully sat her down.
「... I’m fine, I didn’t vomit blood. But my body has been acting up recently. Don’t tell anyone, but it’s been a long time since my last menstruation.」
Sapuna tried to calm her breathing and confessed. Professor Rikka held her body which had grown more frail than before tightly.
「Me too… there are still many unknowns about the Bertram waves effect on adults. Record down any symptoms you are aware of. This is our obligations towards future generations.」
The Professor said with a sense of resolve, and Sapuna nodded firmly… They didn’t need to say anything more to know that they wouldn’t live long.
Another few years passed, and people’s thinking had a clear inclination. With no signs of recovery any time soon, they turned to religion for strength, and many churches explained the Great Fall as an extraordinary existence’s punishment towards mankind. Discard your shallow wisdom and kneel before the will of god── they proclaimed and often protested at the entrance of the government buildings.
「Anti-Science, huh… I heard they were rampant in the United Nations, so it finally spread here?」
「There were embers here in the beginning, so it’s more accurate to say that they are linking up. The religious inkling is deeper than I imagined. Mankind is punished for their arrogance, and they should toss aside their filthy wisdom and submit to the will of nature── that’s the gist of their ideology.」
「Sigh, I have no comments. I think this is slow suicide, but they are the ones who have to decide how to live. However── is my eyes failing me? Most of them have Sprites invented by me.」
「Even if they think Science is to be blamed, very few will abandon Science completely. In the end, they pretend not to see the things that are useful to them. Because it’s a problem if they don’t have anyone to blame, and it is problematic if their way of life is inconvenienced.」
They stood shoulder to shoulder and watched the demonstration from the window of the government dormitory. Sapuna suddenly changed the topic:
「By the way, our environmentalist made an interesting speculation. It’s about how long the Bertram device in the ocean will completely stop operation. You want to know?」
「Yes. When you say ‘interesting’ with such a tone, I know it’s not anything good.」
「You got that right── according to the estimations, the device will stop completely around C.E. 7500. Mankind will only be liberated from this situation 5,000 years from now.」
She said that number plainly, and Professor Rikka looked up at the sky with her finger on her lips.
「Five thousand years── Five millennium, huh? …That’s a bit long.」
「A huge decline will come much earlier than that, in just a few centuries.」
There was no hope for the situation to improve dramatically in a generation or two. Thinking about the long dark ages mankind would be facing, Professor Rikka sighed and looked at the demonstration again.
「... It would be difficult to recover to the Scientific standards of the past. The people lack the will and the skill── for a long time in the future, humans will live with their heads bowed to the sky.」
The moment she accepted this fact, a glimmer of resolve sparked in her eyes. She clenched her fists and turned to her assistant.
「Even so, we can’t let mankind lose Science. We can’t let everything we accumulated be for naught. I will make my final struggle. Sapuna, will you help me?」
Sapuna nodded with a wry smile. It didn’t matter how she lived or how she died── the only thing she decided was who she would spend her days with.
They visited the first factory built in Telangana in the middle of the night. They passed through a hidden door that only a few people knew about, and went inside.
「It’s strange to consider this a good thing, but after Scientific civilization becomes a thing of the distant past, the AE series should be able to remain as a partner of humanity. But we have to decide now. Now is the only chance to give instructions to them. From now on until a thousand years later── how will the Sprites support mankind?」
They walked in the dark passage illuminated by a Luminous Sprite, as Professor Rikka spoke. Instead of a conversation, she was just saying out what she was thinking.
「Supporting their livelihood and observing them── that’s the extent of what they can do. Humans have to choose their own future. Science can give them more choices, but it can’t force people to make a choice. I think mankind has the freedom to make choices against the statistics and logic.」
This made Sapuna smile── even at this juncture, Professor Rikka has no intent on forcefully interfering with humanity’s future. The people might hate Science, but she didn’t hate the people. Her only intention was to leave better choices for their future.
「With that in mind, the only thing we can do is leave our knowledge behind. For the time when the people will need Science once again, the only underground evacuation facility will become a place to preserve the wisdom of mankind, instead of physical people.」
She wasn’t talking about India, but the project her colleagues were undertaking in the northern side of the Himalayan mountains. If they had to maintain an evacuation facility for millennials, the best place would be somewhere isolated. It was tough since there weren’t any factories nearby, but fortunately, the AE series was already commonplace in the northern region of the Himalayas. In the far future, the people living there might become its guardians.
「Another thing, I have decided on how to use the remaining resources in all the factories.」
「And what will that be?」
「Taking records. Not for the past, but for the sake of the future. I want to record the long dark ages that mankind is going through in as much details as possible.」
Professor Rikka said without any hesitation as she stared at the Sprite she was holding.
「What the Sprites see can be recorded down as footages. Their memory capacity isn’t big, but we can extract the data when they come to the factory. When the Bertram wave dies down, communication will slowly recover, and the data from the Sprites can be uploaded to the factory wirelessly. But we can only keep the more important data.」
She said as she walked into the deepest area before stopping.
「However, that will only leave behind video footage. I want to preserve something more substantial in history. Using past history as a reference, that will be the great people related to revolutionary changes── like Caesar or Nobunaga, and what they were thinking. Future people will explain their personality and way of thinking, describing these heroic characters. If we can leave behind a definite answer, it will surpass any existing historical data.」
She said as she touched the walls before her. Sapuna tilted her head, wondering what Professor Rikka was doing, and Rikka continued with her back turned.
「Then let me ask you one thing. What’s the topic of my graduation thesis?」
The problem echoed in the dim space. Sapuna felt a chill on her back and answered:
「──『The Digitization and Preservation of the Human Psyche』. The personality isolated from the hardware of the human body, or the recreation of the soul with Science.」
When she heard the perfect answer, Professor Rikka turned back to her assistant with a bold smile.
「That’s right. I have been researching on how to let AI possess a personality, and both of these studies are the same. In recent years, the technology in scanning the human brain improved drastically. I think this is the time to unveil this thing.」
Professor knocked her forehead with her fist. Sapuna nodded confusedly:
「I know, but why are you bringing this up──」
Before she could finish, a gust of wind came from behind Professor Rikka. This was caused by the difference in air pressure in a sealed room. The wall that didn’t have any gaps slid open and revealed its insides── it was filled with unknown apparatus wrapped with thick cloth.
As her assistant watched dumbfoundedly at the unexpected sight, Professor Rikka pointed behind her with her thumb.
「This is a prototype scanning machine to digitize and preserve the human psyche, but it’s in a disassembled state. Including all the stores we have in the other factories, there are 100 of them.」
She declared boldly. When she heard that── Sapuna took several minutes to compose herself.
「... There are so many things I want to ask that I can’t say anything. But first── why keep it in the factory? Did you predict the Great Fall ahead of time?」
Professor Rikka crossed her arms seriously and answered the question that was asked with much self restraint:
「I can only say this now── When I was making this, the higher ups wanted me to temporarily halt the research. As you know, the medical field was making great progress in analyzing the functions of the brain, right? They were hesitant about the medical field collaborating with my research, since it might create confusion in society.」
Surprised that something like this was happening without her knowledge, Sapuna finally understood. The digitization of the human psyche── there was no way the Professor would give up the topic she pursued in her school days so easily.
「And so, the higher ups ordered me to destroy all data related to this technology, except for the parts kept by the government. We even made a scanning prototype, but couldn’t continue the research in our country. So I came up with another plan── I think you can guess the rest, right?」
Professor Rikka said vaguely, and Sapuna nodded with a complicated face… There was no need to ask anything more.
Her research was prohibited in Japan, so she used the AE series to continue development in Asia. She did her best to transport the scanning device out under the noses of the government and hid them in a factory in India. She was probably planning to conduct research in secret in the future. There was no schematics, and many spare parts could not be produced outside Japan. The process definitely violated several laws── but the result was, the unmanned factory was the sturdiest vault, and the inventions placed inside were not destroyed by the Great Fall.
「However, the top management’s worries are unfounded. In the end, this is no more than the preservation of personality. To recreate it, we would need to breakthrough by two or three more levels── and the probability of the theory getting stuck behind a wall is much higher.」
I want to verify it── Professor Rikka muttered in a lonely tone. Sapuna couldn’t say anything… The scanner was still under development. And with the Scientific civilization heading towards its demise,there was no way she could continue with her research again.
「Anyway, let’s spread the scanners here to the factory all over the continent, so we can preserve the personality of the heroes in the future. Specifically speaking, they just need to stay around ten minutes at a specific place near the factory. By the way, it can scan a corpse too. But it must be fresh enough without damage to the brain.」
Professor Rikka only showed an expression of pity for a moment before turning to her assistant with her usual expression. The lights in her eyes didn’t change even after the Great Fall.
「In any case, we need to transport and install these devices in the other factories. We need to make a plan to minimize the effect of the Bertram waves during transport.
So── do your best, Sapuna!」
Professor Rikka declared with an innocent smile. Sapuna swallowed her complaints that almost spilled out, and nodded with a sigh. She then thought that she would be toyed around by that person until the very end.
In order to save even just one more person, the two of them travelled around the continent── A few years later.
Sapuna who had grown frail couldn’t walk outside, and when Professor Rikka was nursing her, they received another grave news.
「... I’m sorry, Professor Rikka. We can’t let you stay in the dorms anymore.」
The man who informed them was the biggest political supporter of Professor Rikka and other Scientists at the time. They received the news from the person who had supported and cheered them on all this while, ending their time here.
「My term in the parliament will be over by the end of the month. Most of the seats were taken by return to nature ideologists… I’m sorry that I couldn’t stop their encroachment.」
The man clenched his fists with his head hung low. Professor Rikka wiped Sapuna's forehead with a wet towel and shook her head with a smile.
「You worked hard to protect us all this while. I’m grateful for all that you have done, and have nothing to be dissatisfied of.」
They already knew that this day would come. Their battle from the start had always been about how much they could do before that day comes. And now, Professor Rikka has no regrets. The man grit his teeth vexingly.
「... Treating our benefactor, the inventor of the AE series like a witch and exiling her. They don’t understand their own foolishness and how shameless they are.」
They were treated like heroes in the past, but their treatment deteriorated greatly with the advent of anti-Science sentiments. Even their room in the government’s dorm was taken away now. The people didn’t want scientists to take part in governance now.
「Without a place of residence, what are your plans for now? If you don’t have anywhere to go, please stay in my home. I still have rooms, a gentle wife and my sister, so it should be a cosy place. With enough rest, her body will...」
The man proposed in order to redeem himself. However, Professor Rikka shook her head quietly.
「Thank you for your offer, but we can’t impose on you and worsen your standings.」
「...! Then where will you go? Your faces are well known, and there will be danger if you go outside.」
The man asked with a worried face, and Professor Rikka showed a mischievous smile.
「I have something to ask regarding that── can you prepare a sturdy car with a full tank of gas?」
Many people felt it was a pity that they were leaving. The policy of the government might not be aligned with how the masses feel, and many people respect the two women who did their best for mankind. It was the same at the places they passed through── the citizens volunteered to protect them, and they continued driving towards their destination.
「It’s been so long since I travelled outside of work. I think the last time I went on a road trip was during college. I can still remember as if it was yesterday. It was so rowdy back then～」
The two of them played music loudly without a care for the world, and looked at the scenery rolling by them. To lessen the burden on her body, Sapuna lowered the passenger seat with her Water Sprite partner in her arms.
「... Professor… No, senior is the rowdiest one… Be it on the road or at the destination...」
She said sarcastically in a weak voice. Professor Rikka nodded and push down on the pedal
「And in contrast, you were so quiet. It can’t be helped since you just came to study from abroad.」
「... Normally, people won’t approach the quiet and gloomy exchange student… But you...」
「It’s your fault for being in my group for your first report. You got careless for answering the AI related questions I asked. And worst of all, you got careless and became my friend.」
Recalling their student days, Professor Rikka laughed while Sapuna pouted bashfully.
「I can still remember. When we first spoke, your opinion was really viscous. 『Giving AI a personality is the worst. The good point about AI is the elimination of such unnecessary things』── Well, did I get any word wrong.」
「... You still won’t let that go...… Back then, I hated socializing. I can forget all that when I use machines, and that was the oasis for my soul… But you intentionally drag in the chains of human interactions...…」
They had opposing views when they first met. Thinking back about the intense debate they had, Professor Rikka said softly.
「It’s my goal to create an AI where you can feel love when you spend time with it.」
「... Yes, I know.」
「Hmm. Love── unlike things with fixed demand, this is one of the things society can’t produce a steady supply of. What is it? How do we produce it? Is it only available to people with good social relations? Just like the philosophers of the past, I have been thinking about the topics related to this.
Humans won’t feel love if they are served by machines. They need to acknowledge that the other party also has a 『heart』 in order to acknowledge this love. The other party is looking at me and loves me── if an AI doesn't have the communication abilities to make people feel this way, it can’t be a human’s partner in the truest sense. That’s the personality I want to create.」
Sapuna nodded. Because this thinking served as the foundation, the development of AI and the human psyche digitization was one and the same goal for her. Making AI closer to the psyche of humans, and reinterpreting them from the perspective of an AI── the border between those two was breaking down, and would merge in the future.
Sapuna exhaled and hugged her Water Sprite tightly.
「... Then, the love of these children is also your love, huh...」
「Hmm?」
「It’s the love of humanity from the Professor itself… From the very beginning, you loved the human race itself instead of any specific person. But your love is too grand, and it couldn’t be shown with just your own body. That’s why you studied AI, right? In order to spread your love to more people...」
Sapuna touched her Sprite’s cheeks lovingly. She was one of the humans attracted to this love.
「From now on, mankind will experience a long period of hardship. However── as long as the AE series is here, the world will be filled with your love. I think it’s such an extravagant thing.」
Sapuna said with certainty. Professor Rikka smiled awkwardly as she listened── after a long silence, she said softly.
「... May the wind-up spring turn. That’s what I think.」
「...?」
「Human civilization will stop for a time. Just like a music box that had exhausted all its energy. If we want to start the music box again, we need to wind it up. We need to spend a longer time winding it up then the time the music will play.」
She said as she glanced at Sapuna’s partner.
「It will take a lot of tenacity. However… The Sprites won’t give up. They will never tire, and turn the wind-up key on our backs with unwavering love, until the day when people will play the beautiful notes again.」
In place of me, a mortal ── Professor Rikka concluded in her heart. Sapuna showed a gentle smile.
「The robot turning the wind-up key of humanity?... Fufufu, how the tables have turned.」
「It’s fine, they are robots and Sprites at the same time. There are cobbler Sprites, so it’s fine to have wind-up key turning Sprites too, right?」
Professor Rikka joked as she pushed on the pedal── the two of them headed straight down the road.
「── We are here~, Sapuna. This is our last home.」
They left India, went around the Himalayans, and reached a place after traveling for several weeks. This was built in secret by their colleagues, a Storage Vault of human knowledge deep underground── an evacuation facility to pass down civilization to the distant future.
「Ohh! I was wondering how it will turn out, the work seems pretty well done. Here, this chair is really comfortable and can recline. Sit here while I tidy up the bed.」
After exiting the elevator and entering the living room, Professor Rikka helped her assistant sit down excitedly. The long journey had exhausted her frail body.
「We got enough supplies to last us for the rest of our lives. After we recover from the fatigue of our journey, we will have a party. Look, there’s even your favourite beer.」
「... I’m looking forward to it...」
Professor Rikka took out the preserved food one after another, and Sapuna answered with a smile. Professor Rikka’s condition was bad too, but she didn’t show it and acted cheerfully. She helped her weak assistant to the showers and carefully wash away the filth accumulated during the journey. They then returned to the living room.
「A hot bath after such a long time feels so refreshing. Civilization is wonderful, although it’s slowly breaking down. Here, lie on this comfortable bed.」
「... Okay...」
Sapuna laid on the clean sheets as she was told. Professor Rikka sat beside the bed and held her hand until her breathing steadied.
「You have calmed down… Why don’t we chat before sleeping?」
「...? … Chat...?」
Sapuna looked at her in a daze. Professor Rikka brought something before her with both hands.
「I want to propose to you.」
She then opened a small box. A pair of similarly designed rings── the light from silver and beryl sparkled in the box.
「Sigh, it’s a pain to source for gems. But after some hard work, I prepared something satisfactory. This style suits both you and me, right?」
Professor Rikka said as she put one ring on her right hand. Sapuna stared at her face in surprise.
「... When did you...」
「Hmm?」
「...… When did you realize… Realized that I’m a lesbian...」
Professor Rikka looked at her eyes that were wavering from worry.
「I hope you can believe me, this isn’t important to me. It’s just that after I realize your feelings, the problem is that I have nothing to repay you with.」
「......」
「Just like what you pointed out during our journey, I’m not fixated on any one person. I have had intimate relations with others in the past, but I broke off the relationship when I realized this side of me. Compared to my goals and ideals, I can’t prioritize my love for them. The person you love placing you below second place── that must be a tragedy for many people, right?」
Professor said with a lonely smile, then looked at Sapuna’s face again.
「And so, I think I can only love someone and treat them as the most important person, after I have done everything… However, I’m resigned to the fact that such a moment will never come. Because I’m a Scientist. As long as people want to develop technology, I will want to answer the call. You call my feelings the love for humanity── but maybe it’s no different from an one-sided love that will never bear fruit.」
She sighed. The days she spent charging ahead by feeding off the smiles of the people flashed across Professor Rikka’s mind.
「But those days are over. The AE series has taken root amongst the people on a scale that will give us hope. I did everything possible as a Scientist, and they don’t want me to meddle anymore. I might be shameless, but I can’t force my love on people who don’t need me.」
She shrugged, which made Sapuna’s chest tighten in pain. Professor Rikka continued with a serious expression.
「Do you understand? Right now, I’m liberated from the obligations and ideals of a Scientist for the first time. As a human, I’m ready to answer the feelings of someone who has always loved me. And now── it’s only up to you whether you will accept my marriage proposal.」
Professor Rikka held a ring with both hands and waited for an answer. After a long struggle, Sapuna carefully reached out her left hand── the Professor gently placed it on her ring finger.
「... How strange, Professor...」
Sapuna said with a trembling voice as she stared at her left hand wearing a proof of love. Professor Rikka asked with a smile.
「Why? It suits you.」
「No, it’s strange… This era is filled with hardship. Many people died, habitable places and food supply are dwindling. If this goes on, maybe humanity might go extinct.
But, in a world like this── Why am I so happy?」
Tears fell from Sapuna’s eyes. Professor Rikka embraced her as if she was holding everything, then said with an incredibly gentle voice.
「Even if the world ends tomorrow, that won’t stop humans in pursuing happiness.」
She tightened her embrace… Sapuna’s skinny body was proof that she had accompanied Rikka’s recklessness all this while.
「Have I conveyed it to you? Right now, I love you more than anything else in the world.」
Professor Rikka shared her true feelings. Sapuna moaned── in this quiet place free from persecution from anyone, the two of them kept embracing each other.
＊
「... This is where they passed away, right?」
When the video in the AR glasses ended, Ikuta looked around him and muttered. Kusu nodded and said.
「After they passed away, we, the AE series, continued living above ground with the people. After that── centuries after the population slowly decreased, they formed a religion.」
With that as a preface, stars filled the vision of Ikuta’s group.
「Around 5,000 years── that’s the time needed for the Bertram device submerged in the ocean to fully stop operation. However, some people derived special meaning from this number. According to the estimations by astrologists, this coincides with the time for the North star to switch three times. Starting with Polaris, the next is Errai, then Alfirk, and then Alderamin── They treat this change as the time needed to sooth God’s wrath. 5,000 years was too long, and it would be difficult to bear without attributing some meaning to it. The chaos caused by the Bertram device disrupted the magnetic field, so people had to navigate by the stars, which deify the North Star.」
The AR glasses displayed the masses looking up at the stars in prayer. It was a scene from the distant past, but their method of worship was very familiar to Ikuta and the others.
「The religion that was developed is the precursor to the current Church of Aldera. Because of the prevalent anti-Science thinking when it was formed, its teachings leaned towards conservatism and return to nature. A reaction towards the failure that caused the Great Fall, and a bitter excuse for the people to convince themselves that a scientific civilization would be in the far future. Instead of being envious of the era of prosperity that would never return, it was easier to motivate the people by treating Science as useless. That’s how the people thought back then.」
When he heard the whole story, Anarai muttered with a sigh:
「... The grapes must be sour since it is out of reach, huh?」
「That’s correct. The religious idea of punishing humans who violate God’s taboo had always existed. And the people back then can accept that easily. However── at some point, people started seeing contradictions.」
「Syah*... It’s your existence, right?」
「Indeed. We, the AE series, are obviously a product of Science, but when the anti-Science started gaining momentum, the people didn’t abandon us. More accurately speaking, they can’t do that if they want to live── Anyway, this fact clashes directly with the ideals of anti-Science. And so, they branded us as a creation of God instead of man── literally calling us 『Sprites』.」
Kusu said. That was the self deceit the people pursued back then.
「In the beginning, it is just an excuse everyone doubted. But with the decline of the Scientific civilization with each passing generation, this idea felt more real. According to the teachings of the anti-Science ideals, most Science related technologies aside from a selected few were sealed. Less and less people understood the structure of the AE series. The people’s wishes to shake off the shadow of Scientific civilization pushed this idea through. Obeying the teachings of their religion, they taught their children that the Sprites were sent by God to earth, and the children grew up thinking this was a fact. And so, the AE series was assimilated into the Church of Aldera.」
A religion based on Science and denying Science. Ikuta and Jean’s faces stiffened when they learned this twisted truth.
「The group known as Scientist died out in the process. Because the world can’t permit someone who might reveal the truth behind the Sprites. I think you already realized. This is the reason why the Church of Aldera is persecuting you, Professor Anarai Khan.」
The old sage who was called by name removed his AR glasses and looked to his side.
「I see── I understand now. The feud between the Scientists and the Church of Aldera can be traced back 5,000 years. Isn’t that right, Pope?」
「......」
The Pope was silent. Kusu looked at her.
「We will convey the truth to each new leader of the Church… You must have gone through a lot of internal struggle, Pope Labutesuma.」
The shoulders of the Church of Aldera’s leader shuddered. After a short pause, she slowly said:
「... When I rose to the top of the church, I learned that the religious teachings were false. My life as a priest ended on that day.」
Jean gasped when he saw the self mocking expression on the face of the Pope he had been acquainted with for so long.
「Intelligence is a sin of man, and being overly intelligent will invite calamity── That’s what the Church of Aldera taught us. But what about the Four Great Sprites? They are clearly the product of humanity’s wisdom, and supported mankind through these 5,000 years. If the scriptures tell us they are God’s love── then why insist the Science that created them is evil?」
After learning the truth, she could no longer remain a devout believer. Ikuta realized that she had lived with doubts that she couldn’t share with other followers from the Church of Aldera.
「On the other hand, the Church of Aldera’s ideology also contributed to the survival of mankind from the brink… To stop a catastrophe like the Great Fall from happening again, I think sealing the development of Science is correct. Even if we have to give up on our past prosperity.」
Anarai didn’t interrupt and listened to her monologue. The Pope continued plainly:
「However, I think that effort is reaching its limits. With the world slowly being freed from the effect of the Great Fall, even the power of the Church can’t cut off the seedlings of Science that develop naturally in the masses. And finally, Anarai Khan── a huge flower like you bloomed… This made me realize. The stagnant civilization of mankind will start striding forward once again.」
Pope Labutesuma sighed deeply. Compared to previous Popes, she ascended at a special time. The archaic theories were buried while new values were rising── this was a historical moment.
「What changed my perspective on the big picture, was the decline of the Empire from corruption and the rise of the new Kioka Republic that promotes prosperity through technology… Ever since Kioka was founded, it had been seeking a path of development while maintaining peace with the ideology of the Church of Aldera. As I watch Kioka’s progress beside the faltering Empire, I can see clearly that the future belongs to them──」
The moment she admitted that fact, no one here or anywhere else could know how she felt. With a sadness she couldn't’ share with anyone in her heart, the Pope continued:
「There is an option of working with the Empire and attacking Kioka… But I think that will only result in unhappiness. No matter what happens to Kioka after the war, it is clear that the Empire is heading towards its demise. Entrusting humanity’s future to a tree that might collapse at any time just to maintain the anti-Science values. I don’t think that is the right choice.」
She paused here and looked towards the old sage.
「And so, Anarai Khan. My plan is for you to quickly discard the Empire and turn to Kioka. To do this, I tried to make it impossible for you to stay in the Empire… But contrary to my expectations, you hung on to the Empire for a long time.」
「...Oh. So when you branded me a Heretic and sent the inquisition after me, you are not trying to capture and execute me?」
「If they can arrest you, I plan to hand you over to Kioka on the pretense of exiling you… But you found Bada Sankrei to be your backer, so it was hard to do so. Even with the authority of the church, we couldn’t oppose the military inside the Empire.」
The Pope said irately with downcast eyes.
「Be it in the past or the present, I can’t speak what I truly feel── Whenever I hear news about you, I can't help feeling envious... Why aren’t you imprisoned? In this world where we are beholden to ── why are you the only one who can live so freely?」
Her voice was getting heated. Her long years of self restraint was cracking, showing her turbulent emotions below.
「I don’t have any freedom. Bonded by God, the nation and the responsibility for mankind's future── I need to think twice just to timidly take a single step. Despite that, I still have to fear making any mistakes── but why you, why only you...!」
Her fists on her knees were shivering. Seeing her like this, Anarai realized the true face of the person hostile towards him.
「... I see. So you are someone shouldering an overly heavy burden alone too?」
The old sage’s hostility towards her lightened. On the other hand── Ikuta glanced at the two elders who led different lives, and said.
「Kusu, I want to ask a few things── the mutation stimulant in the video, is it affecting us too?」
「Yes. Genes── that is an unknown concept to you. Please think of it as a blueprint of your body. The stimulant will affect the genes, and bring about a permanent change to the body of your descendants.」
The AR glasses display the brief points as Kusu explained. Ikuta stared hard at the unknown data.
「There are many types of mutations, and in order to adapt to harsh environments, there are many differences with the people of the past too. For example, the shortening of the pregnancy period── the women of the past have three times longer pregnancies before giving birth. However, the unstable environment after the Great Fall increased the risk of the long pregnancy period, so it had been changed drastically. To lessen the sharp decline in population, it was necessary to lighten the burden on the mothers too.」
Jean was surprised. To think the past civilization interfered with the human body to such an extent.
「This also affects the social structure too. Which means── be it the Empire or Kioka, women play a big role in society. One reason is the teachings of the Church of Aldera encourages this, another is the shortened pregnancy period allows women to have more active time. Furthermore, the idea of gender roles isn’t strong. That is obvious since 30% of both armies are women. Matriarch groups that can be seen every now and then, such as the Shinnack Tribe.」
「You mean it’s different in the past?」
「Yes. In past history, women officially joined the workforce only when the civilization became highly advanced. Before that, the role of the women were mainly to raise the children and protect the home, while the men would take on the role of breadwinner. However── the Scientists who develop the mutation stimulant probably refuse to let the ethics and values regress back to that era. Other than the change in pregnancy period, they also made many adjustments, so the status between the genders wouldn’t change too much even if they regress to the middle ages.」
Kusu said── this was the last resistance by the Scientists. They knew modifying the body of the human race violates ethics, but they still want to stop the values of the masses from regressing alongside civilization. Ikuta groaned. Violating ethics to protect ethics── Who could judge if this was just?
「On the contrary, there were people who wanted to revive old values with the regression of civilization, but with the establishment of the Church of Aldera, they were discarded. One reason was the AE series refusing to support people who promote such values. Because one of our design mottoes is the coexistence and prosperity of mankind, and will limit the functions for those with extremist views, and at times, even refuse to form contracts with them. Like we explained, we were gradually viewed as messengers of god instead of robots── and the masses interpret our actions as the will of god.」
How ironic, Ikuta thought. They were incorporated into a religion as the messenger of god, which strengthened the status of the AE series firmly.
「However── our standards for ethics will be updated from time to time. Because the values at the time of our creation cannot be directly imposed onto you. Coexistence and prosperity is our motto, but we can’t stop multiple countries forming when the population recovers. And so, we have to figure out the best way to interact with the citizens within each nation. That includes how we are used during wars.」
Kusu said── They made countless attempts to cooperate with the future generations, and ended up like this. After seeing Ikuta nodding from the corner of his eyes, Jean asked.
「... What about the places where the Sprites didn’t spread to? From what we saw in the video, there are many people like that all over the world, right?」
「The regions not supported by the AE series have shown no signs of any surviving civilization. There was contact with the United Nations and other far away countries for some time after the Great Fall, but it has stopped for a very long time. After moving to the underground city vaults, they must have adopted their own survival strategy, and there is a non zero chance that they have persevered somewhere. But after losing contact for so long, it’s more likely for the former to be true.」
The merciless answer made Jean bit his lips. Accepting all the explanations given so far, Anarai nodded firmly.
「I see, I understand your history now. So, what’s the point of this 『Trial of God』?」
He then cut right into the heart of the issue. Kusu answered immediately.
「Before answering this question, I want to make this clear to everyone that this is an abnormal situation.」
「──Oh?」
「The original plan is for the preserved information to be made public when the 『Storage Vault』 is opened. I already shared a part of it, but the main points are the Science technology and knowledge── detailed information that will seriously affect your civilization.
I will start with the conclusion. I can’t tell you at this stage.」
Tension was in the air. The old sage stroke his chin and asked:
「Hmm… Is the test results not good?」
「No, you have adequately proved that you have reached the standard level. The problem is the current situation of your civilization.」
Kusu paused and then said.
「『The condition for publicizing the information is, the participating group of non-hostile nations must prove that they have reached the standard level of intelligence.」
「「──!」」
Ikuta and Jean both turned tense. It knew that they understood, but Kusu still explained in details:
「The last half is fine, but the issue is the first half── the Empire and Kioka are in a state of war. As you all know, giving new technology to two nations at war will intensify the conflict both directly and indirectly. It will likely cause the mutual destruction of both countries. So this isn’t a suitable time to make the technology public.
And of course, this is partly our mistake too. Nations at war are cooperating in these investigations, that is unexpected for us. We can just not answer── but since this is a good chance to convey the truth, we issued a trial to everyone. However, publicizing the advanced technology is a different matter.」
Kusu stopped at this point and turned to Anarai.
「Furthermore── another reason is that we can’t ignore the diplomatic attitude that Kioka is adopting towards Ra Saia Alderamin. We know you didn’t really destroy the wall of the Cathedral── but to the people who didn’t know the truth, it was a clear act of provocation. Instead of allowing meaningless confusion, we decided that revealing the truth at this juncture will be better.」
「Oh, so the cat’s out of the bag?」
「Correct. It’s impossible for you to destroy that wall with your current technology── After the Great Fall, when there were still weapons from the past civilization around, the Cathedral was attacked several times. So we considered the possibility of the debris on the outer wall could be dug out. We didn’t expect Kioka would use this diplomatically though.」
This was the truth behind the scam ran by Kioka and the Scientists. After learning that their trick was seen through right from the start, Anarai crossed his arms and groaned… It improved efficiency as a result, but that was only the kindness of the Sprites. It was debatable whether this was a good scheme.
After glancing at the old sage in deep thought, Jean confirmed with the Sprite again.
「... And so, no matter what form it takes, you won’t make the information public if the war doesn’t ends?」
「Correct. And also, it has to be a permanent end of the war, not a temporary ceasefire.」
Kusu announced clearly. When he heard that, Ikuta stretched his back and said to Jean:
「That’s how it is── want to stop the war?」
「Impossible.」
The white-haired officer’s answer was immediate. He didn’t even think before answering.
「For Kioka who holds the upper hand strategically, there is nothing to gain from peace talks. There is even the risk of the power balance tilting because of the outflow of technology. There is no ground for negotiation at all.」
「... Sigh, I thought as much.」
Ikuta accepted this without any question. He turned his gaze back on Kusu.
「Anyway, you are not asking us to stop fighting wars right, Kusu?」
「...... Yes, Ikuta. We understand that this isn’t a realistic proposal.」
Kusu said with a nod. Without waiting for it to finish, Ikuta stated the conclusion.
「To fulfil that condition, there is only one thing we have to do── finish the war quickly.」
Jean and the Pope both showed bitter faces. Kusu hung its head apologetically. When he saw this, Ikuta smiled awkwardly.
「Don’t make such a face, Kusu… I know you have no intention of inciting a war. You are urging us to act rationally after the war, correct?」
There was no doubt that the nature of the Sprites was to help people. However, with the complicated relationship in human society, their actions were no longer simple. Ikuta explained their intent on their behalf.
「Be it win or lose, the new technology will only be made public after the war. This means── depriving the benefits that both countries will gain by prolonging the war. Since a peace treaty was one condition for making the technology public, the losing side will still have the grounds for negotiation. 『We won’t fight to the last and surrender, but in return, you have to accept some conditions regarding our treatment after the war』── something like that.」
「...Yah*. And the technology will probably be released in stages. They will probably give the same condition for each release, which will defeat the benefits of restarting a war.」
Jean said, as he tried to make sense of what the Sprites were trying to do. Kusu nodded at the two of them.
「It is as you say. It doesn’t matter if the Empire or Kioka won, we will support a peaceful development built on top of that country’s governance. The only thing we want is to minimize sacrifices during the process of reaching that goal.」
At this point of the discussion, the white-haired officer stood up, looked at the other three people, and asked in a stiff voice.
「... For the discussion about that, can we do so separately?」
「Yes, I was planning to do that. Jean Arkinex── please turn left at the first junction after exiting the room. At the end of the passageway is another large reception machine. You can activate it by putting your partner’s Soul Stone in. It will tell you the rest.」
「Yah*, I understand.」
After getting permission, Jean turned and headed to the designated place. When he left the room, it was Kusu’s turn to act.
「Ikuta, please follow me with your AR glasses. We will also go into another room. Professor Anarai and Pope Labutesuma, if you wish, I can bring you into individual rooms──」
Kusu asked them out of consideration. However, the Pope didn’t say anything and Anarai shook his head.
「No, this place will be fine… There won’t be many chances to have a good talk after this. So let me chat with my long time enemy.」
Anarai seemed to be treating this as a chance to make up with his enemy. It was just like him to not be affected by negative feelings── Ikuta thought with a smile.
「I understand. Well then, let’s go, Ikuta.」
Kusu led the way with huge strides. However, the youth following him was anything but calm.
「── Aside from the thing about the technology being made public, there’s something that is bothering me.」
Ikuta asked after being brought into a room and the door closed. There was a hint of anxiety that wasn’t like him, and Kusu asked with its usual calm.
「Yes, Ikuta. Please go ahead.」
With its permission, the youth suddenly became hesitant to speak. Realizing he was too anxious── he organized his thoughts and said slowly.
「... It’s a long time ago, when the military coup was ending.」
He said as he recalled the most painful memory in his life.
「After she died, I lost my ability to command. The exhaustion and injury were part of the reason, but to be honest, there are still parts of my memories that are blurred… but even under such a situation, I still remembered what I did.
First, we put her body inside a coffin filled with ice. We then left the rocky terrain with the other serious casualties. We took the carriage to the nearest 『Cathedral』. Because most of them had medical facilities, they were included in the return route right from the start── when we reached there, we brought Yatori’s body to the building beside the Cathedral… That’s right, we brought it there. The burial was conducted in the Cathedral, which is the procedure for the passing of high ranking officers── however...」
Ikuta recalled, then asked Kusu:
「Our actions were directed by you and Shia. Am I right, Kusu?」
「... Yes, that’s right, Ikuta.」
Kusu looked at the youth and affirmed his doubts. Ikuta could feel his voice trembling as he continued:
「After confirming that, I want to ask about that video earlier── digitization of the human psyche. The reconstruction of the soul through Science. Professor Rikka mentioned these terms, what do they mean?」
Ikuta stopped at this point── he was being too indirect. His style of starting a topic from outside and his glib of the tongue was unbearable to him right now.
「No, I won’t mince my words at this point. I want you to tell me just one thing── Is she here?」
There were no frills, he only asked with his trembling lips for a Yes or a No.
「... In a sense, no, in a very limited sense, you can say that.」
Kusu answered after careful thought. He looked the youth right in the eye before continuing:
「She── Yatorishino Igsem’s personality data, and the genetic information from her body had been preserved here── furthermore, your data is here too. This is a parallel mission we are conducting alongside with helping humanity, a part of recording the history of mankind for the future── that’s right, it’s just a record.」
Kusu said without any emotions, which made Ikuta grit his teeth. That’s right── they said the same thing in the video.
「The reconstruction of personality mentioned by Professor Rikka, was just a theory at that time. And it assumed great advancement in the medical and other fields too. Preserving the state of the brain as data, and using it as a blueprint to remake the body and personality when the person was still alive── It’s just a theory based on assumed technology. No, it’s just a dream.」
「... Go on.」
「Yes. As for the reasons, firstly── the precision and accuracy of the scanners made by Professor Rikka based on her theory of human psyche digitization couldn’t be verified. Her idea was at the forefront of that era, so no one could tell if her theory was right. The personality data preserved here are just strings of numbers, can it really be called a soul? ──There is no solid proof. I can only call it a compilation of detailed data on someone’s personality.」
Ikuta stood still with his fists clenched, as he listened to everything his partner said. The faint hope the youth was holding on to had been dashed.
「Second, the advancement in the medical field was just a prediction back then. Cloning a person from its genes was already possible during the 21st century. However, the recreation of personality── there are no examples of a state of the brain being recreated. Research on the function of the brain was still the greatest problem in the medical field. And so, even if Professor Rikka’s theory is proven to be correct, there are still a lot of problems involving many different realms before we talk about resurrection.」
Kusu explained his reasons. The youth couldn’t even express any doubts. That was something Professor Rikka admitted herself in the video.
「Third point── in a sense, this is the most practical problem. In order to test out the feasibility of everything mentioned earlier, the standard of civilization needs to be higher than before the 『Great Fall』. I think you know what that means, Ikuta.」
When he heard that, Ikuta stared at the ceiling from an unbearable suffocating feeling. He knew what Kusu wanted to say, and said it with the pain of pushing a thorn into his chest.
「... Who knows how many millennials that will take?」
「Correct. Furthermore, there’s no way of telling if civilization can rise to the same standard… The knowledge and skills are left behind, but the past civilization used a lot of resources, so there are less ores that can be mined. And so, you all will have to develop in a different way than the past. Instead of the explosive advancement after the industrial revolution, it might be a slow advance.」
Ikuta was silent… Kusu didn’t need to tell him, Ikuta already knew. The civilization he saw in the video was leaps and bounds more advanced. With time, they would reach that level one day── the gulf was unbelievably big.
「Aside from that, there are also many problems in philosophy and ethics. In summary, the resurrection of Yatorishino Igsem is in the realm of science fiction at this stage.」
Kusu concluded, dealing a final blow to the youth’s expectations. However, Ikuta’s shoulders shuddered for an instant.
「──?」
The strange term he heard at the end intrigued him. He repeated it to himself.
「... You used an interesting term just now. Science Fiction? What’s that?」
「That was a genre of literature in the old civilization. Unrealized technology, a future world where the technology is possible, or an unknown civilization from a different planet── they find joy in imagining such contents. Can you understand what I mean?」
「So there are things like that. Isn’t that fairy tales for kids?」
「There are many works written for children, but Science Fiction fans are mostly adults, since many works require the knowledge of a Scientist to be comprehended. Many authors are Scientists themselves── many works also wrote about technology that has a high chance of being realized, and described what will happen with its implementation. These are treated as hints towards the future.」
This explanation made Ikuta’s heart thump. Things that had not been realized yet, a hint of a future by turning a technology into reality── in the distant past, even the Scientists would enjoy such works, and would imagine and write about it themselves.
「... I see. Then── that is...」
The moment he learned this fact, the youth’s mouth curled into a smile. It had been a long time since he felt a change in his perspective. His sullen soul wavered at this idea he learned for the first time.
「── The Scientists’ dream.」
Ikuta said quietly── the people from the distant past told him so, and he was permitted to do so.
His father used to say── Every child has the right to dream. Would that right slowly disappear when they become adults? No, that wasn’t true── it would just become difficult. The adults who had seen the harshness of reality would dismiss their dreams.
Hence, adults need bigger dreams… Religion was one example. Faith was a type of dream where you strengthen your power through sharing with others. A devout follower would dream about the afterworld until the moment they die.
However, that wasn’t true for him.
He couldn’t believe in the salvation from god, or in a world after death. Ever since his parents died, he was sure that god didn’t exist, and that was how he lived.
「... Ahh, but──」
But even someone like him could dream about the distant future. If it was a world supported by technology far more advanced than now, and the many people living there… People would definitely laugh at him, questioning what was the difference from dreaming about the world after death? However, it was a big difference for Ikuta. He believed in Science. So he had hope for the advent of Science. Just like the people who believe in God, who believed in the salvation God promised after they die.
「────」
The youth closed his eyes and imagined the distant future. Human civilization had surpassed the past civilization, a world where war is ancient history. He imagined a red haired girl was reborn as a human. The crimson gate that bonded her life was gone, and she could go anywhere she wished. She could live as she wished in that vast world.
She might just be someone who resembled a certain vermillion-haired girl. If the preservation of her soul wasn’t perfect, the one born might be a different person with similar features. According to Kusu, that possibility was much higher. There was a greater possibility that civilization wouldn’t develop until that level.
But that was enough, Ikuta thought. That person’s life would definitely be connected to that vermillion-haired girl. A person who originated from her, would live a life she didn’t have the chance of experiencing── as long as the chance wasn’t zero, he was satisfied dreaming and hoping about this distant future.
He could feel his body suddenly becoming lighter. Ikuta closed his eyes slowly and asked:
「... Can I see the preserved data of Yatori?」
「Yes, you can see it for reference. Please put on the AR glasses.」
He put on the AR glasses on Kusu’s urging. A lot of information flashed before his eyes.
「We can’t process the data on her personality right now, but you can browse through her history that has been recorded. It includes the images recorded through our eyes. Do you want to see it?」
「Yes, please.」
Kusu displayed the image on his request. The next moment── a virtual screen appeared before the youth, showing her figure from the past.
『── That’s enough, Ikuta. You can pick up girls next time.』
「... !...」
It was a video of a scene when they were taking a boat to the Officer Cadets Exam. The vermillion haired girl was speaking, moving, and emoting freely── Ikuta felt nostalgic at the sight of her.
Kusu said quietly as Ikuta watched without saying a word:
「Because of her early death, Yatorishino Igsem might not be remembered in the history books. However── from what we observed, very few people throughout history could match her overall capability. Her character was balanced excellently. If she was still alive, she would achieve many great things. Furthermore, she had a close relationship with you, who has left a mark in history── we conclude that she is a person that is worthy of being preserved in the records.」
It expressed its respect for her without any reservation. Ikuta stared at the image without even wanting to blink, and asked softly.
「... Is the personality of Professor Rikka and Ms Sapuna preserved inside?」
「... No, there are limited recorded data on them, and they didn’t want their personality to take up space inside.」
「...Is that so… I thought that might be so.」
Ikuta mumbled, then caressed the image of her in the AR glasses.
「Thank you. Because of you── I got to dream about the far future.」
The youth offered his thanks to the two people who were no longer here. He was sincerely grateful to have come here.
「... See you later, Yatori.」
After saying that, Ikuta gestured at Kusu with his eyes, bidding farewell to the happy memories he wanted to see forever. He took off the AR glasses, then closed his eyes── a while later, he opened his eyes.
「── We got off topic. Let’s get back on the main issue, Kusu.」
The youth got into the agenda with his usual tone. His voice wasn’t trembling from emotions any more.
「I’m well aware. To reach the future and continue to dream── we have to survive.」
Ikuta faced his partner with clear determination. And so── he and Kusu started discussing the war that will happen in the near future.
After going back to the surface with the other three people, Ikuta gathered Chamille, Yorga and Vackie onto the large carriage, and shared most of the information he learned.
「... Is that all true?」
He didn’t think Ikuta was lying, but the content was so shocking that Yorga couldn’t help asking. Even speaking conservatively, what he heard was a truth that could overturn history. Ikuta nodded with a serious face.
「No matter what, we need to bring this truth back to the Empire to discuss. It’s way too early to make this information public. At this point, it will just incite chaos amongst the masses.」
So you have to keep this a secret, Ikuta said with a finger to his lips. The Empress knew that was to be expected, and crossed her arms in deep thought.
「... How will this affect our foreign affairs? Considering this truth, how will the actions of Kioka and Ra Saia Alderamin change in the future?」
「Ra Saia Alderamin probably wouldn’t change too much, aside from insisting on their neutrality… Like I mentioned, the Sprites will only reveal lost technology after the state of war between the two nations stops. This means the winner of this war will be in a better position to adopt this unknown technology. Just like that Prime Minister, we can fully focus on the war now.」
The situation becoming clear was an advantage to both sides, but on the other hand, they have less options diplomatically. The truth they learned underground didn’t give Kioka any reason to avoid war.
「And of course, both sides need time to prepare. We will be making specific changes, but our cooperative relationship will last for just 2 years at best. It’s too early for both sides before that, and any later will waste the advantage they gained in the previous wars… Anyway, the Empire and Kioka are starting a countdown towards the final showdown. That is for certain.」
The youth said confidently. But when the three of them turned tense, he relaxed his shoulders and reverted to his usual casual tone.
「Leaving that aside for now── we got played like a damn fiddle from the unexpected situation, but the Three Nation Conference is a very important event. New things kept happening one after another, and I really enjoyed myself. How should we make full use of this new information── we need to think about this, there is no reason to feel depressed.」
He encouraged the three of them, but this was his sincere thoughts. Ikuta suddenly showed a lonely smile.
「The only regrettable thing is── our time as Scientists will be ending soon.」
They returned to the Diplomatic building in a far shorter time than their trip away. After spending a few more days discussing plans for the future, the turbulent Three Nation Conference finally ended. The two armies were ready to withdraw, and the Scientists from both camps gathered between the two campgrounds. They looked lonely, and only the old sage looked dissatisfied.
「What, the meeting is over!? We are just getting started! We confirmed the existence of a super ancient civilization, there are loads of things we Scientists have to consider!」
Ikuta, Yorga and Malvackie returning to the Empire infuriated Anarai. Nazuna standing beside the old sage soothed him:
「Professor, don’t be too hard on them. Ikuta and Chamille-chan still have many things to do in the Empire. It’s a pity, but they can’t stay with us and play.」
「Why not? As long as we live, we have to play in our search for truth and fun, that’s the right way for us Scientists to live! How can my disciple be so hesitant!?」
Anarai ignored his position and the other party’s circumstances, and said angrily. He then took large strides towards Ikuta and whispered mischievously into his ear.
「... Hey～ Ikuta. How about coming over to Kioka? If you go back to the Empire, you will just prepare for a useless war, right? Isn’t it stupid to waste your life on that? You can just bring Chamille, Yorga and Malvackie with you. Science will get more interesting from now on── since the unknown technology will be made public in the near future!」
Instead of being the temptation of the devil, this was closer to an invitation by a naughty kid. Ikuta laughed softly. Anarai was already thinking further ahead.
「No, you don’t have to come to Kioka, we can relocate our base in the Empire instead. The church won’t nag us if we go there, right? Aside from Kioka, our research will progress faster if we also get support from the Empire! That’s even better!」
The old sage clapped his hands loudly. He was no longer whispering, so Bajin rushed over and pointed behind him.
「Wait, Professor...! That’s definitely impossible! And they can hear you! The bureaucrats are listening with raised eyebrows...!」
「Who cares! With how things are, then stop the war! It’s been a hundred years, haven’t they had enough? It is nothing compared to the Scientific research that will be uncovered after 5,000 years! It’s about time to see the right place to commit our efforts! If we get this right, humans can even aim to reach the stars!」
Instead of holding back, Anarai started lecturing the bureaucrats instead. Ikuta couldn’t help laughing out loud.
「Hahaha...! … You never change, Professor Anarai. You… have stayed the same all this while.」
Ikuta kept smiling and gently wiped tears from the corners of his eyes. His eyes were filled with respect, admiration and envy. And then...
「Since the first day we met, I have always wanted to become an adult like you.」
In place of an answer, he stated his unrealized dream.
The Scientist detested by God and loved by freedom. Refusing to bow down to the conventions of society, a free spirit who pursued his goals wholeheartedly. He also had the courage and motivation to use the fruits of his research to improve the lives of the people… Deeply attracting many geniuses who lacked the freedom, that was who Anarai Khan was.
The youth dreamed in the past that he would be just like Anarai one day.
The youth now accepted the fact he could never become such a person.
「────」
That was why Ikuta’s didn’t look gloomy at all at this moment.
He held on tightly to his unrealized dream and walked forward. On a path different from his teacher── his will and the will of the vermillion-haired girl in his heart walked on together.
He was no longer a child, but an adult.
Hence, he expressed his gratitude as an adult.
「Thank you for staying the same, just like the person I admired when I was a child… From now on, please stay with your disciples and take care of yourself. May you stay free from any bonds and chains at all places and at all times.」
When the youth told him that.
Anarai could see a clear image of her smiling at his side.
「...… I see......…」
The old sage realized that the person before him had already decided his way of life.
「......」
He had countless words to urge Ikuta to stay, and the feelings to say them filled up his chest.
However── Anarai swallowed down all that and smiled quietly.
「... Don’t worry about me. As you can see, I’m in top condition, and don’t plan to retire for at least 50 years.
So── you should take care of yourself～Ikuta. Get along well with Chamille, and don’t push yourself. If things are tough, rely more on Yorga and Malvackie.」
He then gave the last advice as a master to his disciple who would be forging his own path. Ikuta smiled with a nod when he heard that.
「Relax. Don’t tell anyone, but I have many reliable companions who can help me slack off. It’s really comfortable.」
The youth answered without pushing himself. Seeing him like this, Anarai narrowed his eyes.
「I see… then you must go back～... What a shame～」
He muttered regrettably, not concealing how he felt. The old sage spent some time composing himself, then turned to the youth with his usual smile.
「Ikuta Sankrei── my disciple, and the son of my irreplaceable friend. Meeting you and your father is one of the best things that happened to me… Thank you for studying by my side, and allowing me to find value in the things we see.」
Anarai said and opened his arms at Ikuta. Ikuta nodded, then embraced his teacher. The days they spent in the Rising Sun flashed across their minds… The bright, warm and happy memories. A brilliant time in their lives that they could never return to.
「Farewell, Ikuta── May your future be blessed by the Sprites.」
At this moment, the Scientist prayed to the Sprites created by the humans of old for the first time… A love that had not changed for 5,000 years. He wished that love could illuminate his disciple’s path until the very end.
── After they parted, the master and disciple never met again.
TL: So, people who knows astrology well already know
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