Ch. 4: Eternal Battlefront 4
Infrared Heart Pt. 1
Lunasa
...Good, it's all coming back to me. I feel at peace, like I've just listened to a nostalgic song.
Merlin
I can feel the happiness welling up inside me. And when I release these feelings, they come out as musical bullets.
Lyrica
I can't believe I collected so many different sounds in the past. I'm so glad I found them again.
Wow, your performance and your bullets were amazing!
Merlin
Hehehe! Yeah, we've got the hang of it now!
Lyrica
Don't get overconfident, Merlin. You'll just get hit again.
Lunasa
Merlin actually takes training pretty seriously. So maybe she's just acting to try and catch us off guard.
Lyrica
Huh?! Is she really that cunning?
Merlin
Why don't we have another practice battle, and you can find out?
Lunasa
You're on! I've gotten quite good at shooting bullets. In fact, I bet I could win even if you both teamed up against me.
Merlin
Now you're talking!
Lyrica
All right, let's finish this up with one final battle of bullets jam!
Alice
Sorry, everyone, but you're gonna have to save that for an actual battle.
Does that mean...?!
Alice
Sorry for the wait, PLAYER. I know you're in a hurry.
Alice
But now's your chance to infiltrate the Capital.
Prismriver Sisters
*gulp*
Alice
Most rabbits don't know about the Waste Ward, but every so often, some wander in here, either on purpose or by accident.
Alice
Our surveillance network has spotted what appears to be a rookie rabbit coming this way all on her own.
Alice
This is just what we were waiting for. She'll soon come within contact distance.
Alice
If she ends up being aggressive, we'll threaten her until she agrees to take you to the Capital. Otherwise, we'll trick her.
But how do we enter the Capital once we get there?
Alice
The Prismriver Sisters will be identified as poltergeist-type tools, so you don't have to worry about them.
Alice
The Capital has forgotten that tools used bullets in the past, so it won't even cross their minds that they might be dangerous.
Right, their reacquired bullet skills give us an advantage.
But what about me?
Alice
Listen closely. There are three things you'll need in order to infiltrate the Capital successfully.
Alice
First, you'll need a fake ID.
Alice
The Capital's citizens call each other sisters, and each is given their own unique ID. You'll be taking this fake ID tag I made.
Alice
Second, you'll need to change the way you speak.
Alice
You'll be entering a distorted society dominated by a unique ideology. My thought checker will help you blend in.
Alice
Finally, you'll need a disguise.
Alice
To prevent your appearance and clothes from drawing suspicion, I'll make you look like the "sisters" in the Capital.
Yikes! That's a lot to look out for...!
But can I really pull this off? I'm not the best actor...!
Alice
Don't worry. I've prepared a single item that'll take care of everything for you.
Alice
Pretending to share their ideology on your own would be impossible without extensive training. You'd get found out.
Alice
So we always planned for you to use an item for that. This way is much more likely to succeed.
Wow, Miss Alice, you're, like, a genius inventor!
Alice
W-Well, I wouldn't go that far, but I have learned a fair bit about how to use tools from listening to a certain human.
Medicine
Alice... We're running out of time!
Alice
Oh, thanks.
Alice
All right, I'll lead you to the rabbit. Follow me. Meddy, take care of things here while I'm away.
Medicine
O-OK.
See you later, Meddy.
Medicine
Eep!
(I guess she needed more time to get used to me...)
Alice
...
Alice
Are you sure you're OK with this, Meddy? Don't you want to say goodbye?
Alice
PLAYER will return here once she completes her mission.
Alice
Without hacking skills, she can't communicate with us from the Capital. She'll have to bring the data back here in person.
Alice
But as I'm sure you know, there have been plenty of people...
Alice
...who haven't made it back.
Medicine
...
Alice
Are you sure you don't want to say anything?
Medicine
...
Medicine
...
Medicine
Um...
Medicine
...
Medicine
I... don't hate you... PLAYER.
Medicine
You... seem like a really... nice person...
Medicine
...
Medicine
So... once you get back... I'd like to try... and talk some more... with you...
Medicine
...
Medicine
That's all...
Don't worry. I promise I'll come back.
Alice
We're here. The rabbit should pass by this way soon.
...!
Alice
Prismriver Sisters, go up ahead and act natural. Don't worry. PLAYER and I will watch over you from here.
Prismriver Sisters
R-Roger!
Alice
I'm fairly certain this rabbit is here to look for some tools.
How do you know that...?
Alice
Two reasons. First, most of the equipment provided to the rabbits by the Capital is practically useless.
Alice
Second, I spread a rumor...
Alice
...that there are legendary items hidden in a secret area underground!
Wow!
Alice
Strong rabbits don't need such items, and those with important jobs are watched too closely to act on a rumor.
Alice
Thus, only weak rabbits fall for this trap. We usually do this to extract information from them.
That's brilliant, Miss Alice! You're so smart!
Alice
...
Alice
I wasn't the one who thought all this stuff up. I merely adapted her ideas to the situation at hand.
Are you talking about that human who never returned?
Alice
Yes. One of them.
Alice
She was exceptionally skilled at finding things out and foiling other people's plans.
Alice
"I'm human, so, no matter how you spin it, I haven't got that long to live. That's why I'm gonna borrow as much as I can."
Alice
"You can keep on living and pay everyone back for me. I know I can count on you, Alice."
Alice
I may have forgotten everything else, but those words have always stuck with me.
...
Alice
Oh!
Alice
She's here! Hide! And whatever you do, make sure you keep your disguise on!
R-Roger!
Prismriver Sisters
...
Rabbit
Umm, I think they're meant to be around here somewhere.
Rabbit
...
Rabbit
So it was just a rumor, after all. I should've known there was no easy way to get stronger. It was too good to be true.
Rabbit
I'm such a fool. How could I take that rumor seriously?
Rabbit
If SS sees me, I'm done for... No, I shouldn't say that.
Rabbit
*sigh* I should head back and get some rest for tomorrow.
???
Are you looking for something?
Rabbit
Huh?!
Lunasa
We might be able to help you.
Merlin
But, we've already got an owner, so...
Lyrica
...We'll only go with you if she can come too.
Reisen?
N-No way! The rumor was true!
Reisen?
I bet I'm the first rabbit to find legendary items like this!
Reisen?
Oh, sorry. I let my excitement get the better of me... Um, you said something about an owner?
Reisen?
Where is she? I'd be really grateful if she'd let me borrow you all for a while...
(That's my cue!)
Um, that would be me! My name's PLAYER!
Reisen?
N-Nice to meet you! I'm Reisen.
Reisen
Um, I hope this doesn't sound weird, considering we've only just met, but...!
Reisen
PLAYER, your ears...
Reisen
Are really CUTE!
(This is so embarrassing!)
(Miss Alice's item is super effective!)
Alice
(I knew it would work!)
Infrared Heart Pt. 2
Reisen
Yeah, I know what you mean. I can't stop thinking about all those rumors.
Rabbit 111
They're just rumors, so I sincerely doubt there's any truth to them. It's foolish to take them seriously.
Rabbit 39
I'm not sure why I have to say this, Triple One, but we wouldn't be moon rabbits if we didn't like gossip and rumors.
Rabbit 111
What has that got to do with anything? They're not true, so there's no point talking about them.
Rabbit 800
Aren't you jumping to conclusions? You know what they say, right? Where there's smoke, there's fire.
Rabbit 39
Eight Double O, you seem to know some awfully old expressions. It's a little bit scary.
Rabbit 800
Oops, my apologies, Three Nine. I'll be more careful.
Reisen
Um, this is just a what-if question, but...!
Rabbit 111
Hm?
Rabbit 800
What?
Rabbit 39
Yes?
Reisen
You know the famous story about the mysterious, forgotten ward underground, right?
Reisen
And how there's supposed to be treasure there?
Reisen
I'm thinking the treasure might be a super powerful item that'll let you complete any mission.
Reisen
And, um, I was wondering what you guys thought about it...
Rabbit 111
...
Rabbit 800
......
Rabbit 39
.........
Rabbit 111
Heh.
Rabbit 800
Hahaha. Classic Reisen.
Rabbit 39
Hehehe, honestly, Miss Reisen, you had me worried there for a second.
Reisen
Um... D-Did I say something funny?
Rabbit 111
Even children know the urban legend... no, the fairy tale, about the treasure in the Underworld.
Rabbit 800
No one actually believes it. Not even the children.
Rabbit 39
Not to mention that talk about the underground is restricted by color clearance, so it's scary to discuss this in public.
Reisen
Y-Yeah, you're right.
Rabbit 111
You've got a proper name and used to work directly under the elite sisters in the medicine-making squad, right?
Reisen
Oh, um... Yes! But I couldn't keep up, so now I'm this color.
Rabbit 800
It's all thanks to Miss Reisen that we can gather together in such a nice house like this. We're very grateful.
Reisen
Ahaha, you're welcome anytime. I'm always happy to drink tea with you guys.
Rabbit 39
But, Miss Reisen, we've heard that you've been struggling to complete missions lately. Um... are you OK?
Reisen
Err, um, yeah, I'm fine. Thanks for worrying about me.
Reisen
Um, actually, there's something I've been meaning to tell you all...
Reisen
...
Reisen
I've been tasked with a mission to prevent a kaiju disaster.
Rabbit 111
What?
Rabbit 800
Really?!
Rabbit 39
No way...
Reisen
It's tomorrow... I have to go fight kaiju tomorrow.
Rabbit 111
...
Rabbit 800
......
Rabbit 39
.........
Rabbit 111
I'm happy for you.
Rabbit 800
Me too. SS has blessed you with an opportunity to get out of your slump.
Rabbit 39
Yes, that must be it. SS is always watching over us, after all.
Reisen
Y-Yeah...
Reisen
You're... probably right.
Rabbit 111
Oh, is it that late already? It's almost bedtime for our color.
Rabbit 800
We should hurry home. Miss Reisen, let's have tea again after you finish exterminating those kaiju.
Rabbit 39
Yes, that sounds good. See you tomorrow, Miss Reisen.
Reisen
OK.
Reisen
See you.
Reisen
...
There wasn't a good opportunity to introduce us.
(It might've caused trouble if we showed ourselves.)
Lyrica
Dealing with other people is pretty rough, huh? Are you OK, Reisen?
Reisen
Huh? Of course, I'm OK. Why do you ask?
Merlin
Because you didn't look as happy as you sounded. Is life in the Capital always like this?
Reisen
Yeah, pretty much!
Lunasa
Lyrica, Merlin, stop pestering her with questions.
Reisen
Thanks, Lunasa. I'd rather talk about something more fun right now.
Reisen
How about we have some tea, and you can tell me about yourselves?
Reisen
I'm looking forward to tomorrow's mission, and I want it to succeed. You three are treasures that will make that happen.
Reisen
...Oh, sorry, you're actually PLAYER's treasures, aren't you?
No, I don't own them. They'll help you too, Reisen.
That's the kind of treasure the Prismriver Sisters are.
Reisen
Wow, that's really strange, but I kinda like the sound of it.
Reisen
Anyway, thanks, PLAYER. I can tell they're gonna be a big help.
Reisen
Sentient tools that look like people, huh? That really is strange, and yet... it feels right.
Reisen
Perhaps tools of the ancient past, the ancestors of tools, were like you three.
(It's like she's speaking to dolls or fictional characters.)
(Are "tools" a thing of fantasy to the people here?)
Lunasa
It's pretty late, so we'll have to keep the volume down, but let's show our gratitude to Reisen with a performance.
Merlin
Nice idea, Lunasa. If we're gonna give a gift, it's gotta be that.
Lyrica
Yeah, a performance is the best gift we can give.
Reisen
Huh, what's going on? Are you going to give me a present? This is so exciting.
Reisen
Wow...!
Reisen
It feels like all my worries are melting away...
Reisen
I think I'll be able to rest easy tonight.
Reisen
Then tomorrow, I'll defeat the kaiju...
Reisen
...and, one day, I'll return to the princesses.
So this is the Capital... Thanks to the chance encounter with Reisen, we were able to sneak in without a hitch.
I'm relieved, but what am I supposed to do now?
The fake ears Alice made for me seem to be functioning as intended.
Apparently, rabbits who have lost their ears sometimes wear similar detachable devices.
But even though I'm perfectly disguised, I doubt I can move freely about the Capital.
I told Reisen that I'm a rabbit from the outskirts who's never been to the central district of the Capital before.
And that I was exploring underground for the same reason as her―because I heard the rumors.
She happily let me stay at her house. Though, the fact that the "tools" were with me probably helped.
I think Reisen is a kind and unassuming rabbit. She's probably the same in the Gensokyo I came from too.
But there's one thing that worries me.
Reisen
*sob*
Reisen
*sniffle*
She's crying.
Reisen's crying because she's scared of what might happen tomorrow.
Reisen
...!
Reisen
Princess...
She's crying because she misses her masters.
Reisen
...
Reisen
Zzz... zzz...
The longer I stay in the Capital, the greater the risk I'll blow my cover.
I need to find the tiny Yukari or some clue that'll lead me to the one causing the Lost Word Incident.
And to do that, I'll have to...
Reisen
Princess...
...make contact with someone who holds authority in the Capital. I can't afford to waste any time.
At the moment, the only leads I've got to go on are Reisen's masters.
So I'm going to help Reisen with her mission.
Reisen
I'll... do my best... so...
That's my best chance.
Infrared Heart Pt. 3
―Elsewhere, in a mysterious base at (presumably) the same time.
???
We aren't the only group traversing between worlds. There are quite a few others.
Mokou
But you already know that. In fact, it seems like none of this is new to you.
Mokou
Thanks for saving us the trouble of explaining everything, Yukari Yakumo.
Yukari
No, I should be thanking you.
Yukari
Thanks for keeping me safe and letting us stay here. We'll give you whatever assistance we can.
Yukari
But we also have our own objectives.
Yukari
First, we must return to the world where we left our ship.
Yukari
Then we need to get back into fighting shape, which includes repairing our broken ship.
Yukari
And finally, we must find and retrieve the human known as PLAYER.
Tewi
Yes, I was briefed on this earlier. I'll hash out all the details with you later.
Tewi
You'll also need to be informed of our goals and our methods. As the strategist, it would be best if that came from me.
Tewi
I'll contact you as fast as I can, faster than my friends who've accompanied me in countless battles.
Yukari
Very well.
Reimu
(Sanae, have you got any idea what they're on about?)
Sanae
(It sounds like the dialogue in one of those strategy war games!)
Reimu
(Right, so you've got no clue either...)
Yukari
So, have there been any changes in the current situation that weren't listed in the report I received?
Tewi
No, that report is up to date.
Mokou
For clarity's sake, I'll give a brief overview.
Mokou
We are currently at war with the Lunar Capital.
Mokou
But this is just part of a larger conflict that began ages ago and has continued without pause over multiple parallel worlds.
Mokou
And we are also beset by creatures known as kaiju.
Mokou
We have yet to ascertain the relationship between the kaiju and the Lunar Capital. They could be allies or bitter foes.
Yukari
What's the current state of the Lunar Capital?
Yukari
Have you got any contacts there?
Tewi
I see. So we have to explain from there, huh? Actually, it might be faster if you saw it for yourselves.
Tewi
What do you think, Mokou?
Mokou
Yes, there's no time for long explanations. We'll show it to them.
Mokou
...
Mokou
We'll teleport you from this underground lunar base directly to the location of the Lunar Capital.
Mokou
Make sure you protect yourselves with a barrier, shield, or energy field before we go.
Mokou
People, especially normal humans, can't survive there otherwise.
Reimu
Huh? Why would we need a barrier?
Sanae
Is it really that dangerous?!
Sumireko
Wait a sec! I'm, like, the most normal human here!
Sumireko
And I've got no idea what's going on either! If this was a movie, I'm pretty sure I'd be the first character to die!
Reimu
I don't know much about movies, but I reckon you're more the type that'd survive to the end.
Sanae
Yeah, I agree.
Sumireko
I get the feeling that's not a compliment...
Tewi
This mode of transport was designed to quickly intercept sudden enemy raids, but...
Tewi
...it doesn't subject your body to an excessive amount of g-force, so you don't have to worry about that.
Sumireko
Then why even mention it?! That just makes me worry even more!
Tewi
It's essential for all communications during war to be clear and accurate. So if I say you don't have to worry, you shouldn't.
Sumireko
Is th-this a warzone?!
Sumireko
(Me, a high school student, is in a war... Why am I thinking this would make for a good story?)
Sumireko
(None of this makes any sense!)
Tewi
Okie dokie, I'm gonna push the teleport button now. Beep!
Sumireko
Wait, I still haven't wrapped my head around what you just said! This is all going too fast―
Reimu
Huh?
Sanae
Umm, there's nothing here.
Reimu
Where's the Lunar Capital?
Sumireko
(I'M IN SPACE!)
Mokou
It's here.
Tewi
This is the spot.
Reimu
But isn't this outside the barrier? I remember the Lunar Capital being hidden behind some kind of barrier.
Sanae
Maybe we're not there yet. Are we going to go through a hole in the barrier from here?
Mokou
No, this is the far side of the moon...
Mokou
...this world's Lunar Capital.
Infrared Heart Pt. 4
...Huh? Is it morning already?
Reisen
That's right! Rise and shine! It's time to wake up!
Eep! Don't pull the covers off!
Reisen
Hehehe! It looked like you'd try to stay in bed forever if I didn't.
Reisen
C'mon, get up. Let's have breakfast.
So this is what everyone eats in the central district.
It's delicious.
Reisen
Yeah, it's the latest synthetic food. It tastes just like the real thing.
Reisen
Not that I've ever had the real thing, hehe. Do you want some more tea?
Oh, yes, please. Thanks!
...
Reisen
...
Reisen
I'm sorry.
Reisen
I'd like to show you around the central district since you've come all the way from the outskirts.
Reisen
This district is the heart and soul of the Capital. It'd be a shame if you didn't get to see it all.
Reisen
We've got everything you could ever want. State-of-the-art technology, comfortable living conditions, fulfilling jobs...
Reisen
And, of course, the great SS! That's why living in the Capital makes me so... happy.
Reisen
But I can't show you around today.
Reisen
I've got a mission. So you'll have to enjoy seeing the sights on your own.
Reisen
Here, I'll lend you a key to my house.
Reisen
Feel free to drop by if you ever need a place to stay.
...
Reisen
...
Um, actually, I'm more interested in your mission.
Reisen
Huh?
So I'd rather go with you than see the sights.
Reisen
What are you saying?! I can't bring you with me! I'll be fighting the kaiju!
Reisen
I know you're from the outskirts, but you must've heard the stories, right?
Reisen
No ordinary peacekeeper sent on a kaiju disaster prevention mission has ever returned unharmed.
Reisen
...
Reisen
I can't drag you into this...
No, um... that's not what I meant.
Reisen
...?
Observing missions in the central district is my mission.
Reisen
Oh!
Reisen
Now I get it! Sorry! I'm a little bit slow sometimes!
Reisen
I see. So that's your mission, PLAYER!
Reisen
It all makes sense now. I was really confused.
Reisen
All right then, let's go together!
Reisen
I'm glad you're coming with me.
(I'm sorry, Reisen. I've told you nothing but lies...)
Reisen
It should be around here somewhere.
Reisen
According to my mission brief, this is where the kaiju should appear...
Reisen
I hope I haven't read it wrong.
Lunasa
PLAYER, I doubt I have to tell you this but be on your guard, OK?
Lunasa
We don't know what might happen.
Thanks, Lunasa. But this isn't really what I expected...
It doesn't feel like we're about to fight some kaiju.
Reisen
It might be a bit early, but I think I'll change into my suit now!
Your suit?
Reisen
Yeah, I received a special suit for this mission!
Reisen
And you change into it like...
Reisen
...this!
Reisen
H-How do I look? It doesn't look weird, does it?
That's so cool! (This is more like what I was expecting.)
Reisen
Hehe!
Reisen
Th-There's a hit on my kaiju sensor!
Reisen
It's close!
Infrared Heart Pt. 5
Reisen
There!
Reisen
Kaiju exterminated!
Reisen
Wow, I didn't expect this suit to be so easy to use!
Reisen
I was sure it'd be like all the other tools that never work when you need them most.
Reisen
But it was the complete opposite this time! It seems I didn't need any treasure, after all!
Was that a kaiju...?
(Hmm, can my "ears" give me any info on them...?)
Reisen
What's wrong, PLAYER?
Huh? Oh, no, it's nothing! I was just a little surprised.
(I can't let the info coming from my "ears" distract me.)
Reisen
Yeah, that kaiju was pretty scary. But don't worry. You'll be fine as long as you stick with me!
Reisen
Usually, the equipment and supplies we get for missions from the Plentiful Temple don't work like they're supposed to.
Reisen
But not this time! I didn't have a single problem with my gun, my suit, or anything!
Reisen
...
Reisen
We have to head to the next spot!
Reisen
That wasn't the only kaiju! More will appear at the times and locations indicated on my mission brief!
Reisen
Uh-oh, we have to hurry. Follow me!
Wait, the brief states when and where they'll appear?!
That doesn't make any sense...
Lunasa
PLAYER.
Lunasa, what are these kaiju things?
Lunasa
Yeah, I understand your confusion.
Lunasa
We've, of course, heard about the kaiju in Xanadu. We got some information on them while investigating the Capital.
Lunasa
But something wasn't right about that "kaiju" earlier...
I feel the same way.
Lunasa
...
Lunasa
We're in the Capital now. They have eyes and ears everywhere.
Lunasa
Make sure you don't do anything to raise suspicion, including from Reisen.
O-OK!
(I'll have to think about it later...!)
Reisen
Everything looks kinda the same around here, but I'm sure this is the place.
Reisen
...
Reisen
I knew it! There's a hit on my kaiju sensor!
Reisen
Get ready, PLAYER! It's coming!
Infrared Heart Pt. 6
Reisen
Great, I defeated it! That was easy!
Reisen
Wasn't that impressive, PLAYER?! I've never done something like this before!
Y-Yeah, good job!
(I understand why she's so happy, but...)
Reisen
I'm starting to get my confidence back! Once I finish this mission, I'm gonna have another fun tea party with everyone.
Reisen
I think I'll be able to live happily in the lower central district from now on.
Don't you want to return to your masters?
Reisen
Well... Ahaha.
Reisen
I thought I only told you bits and pieces of my past, but it seems like you're a pretty good listener, PLAYER.
Reisen
Do I want to go back to them, huh? Hmm... Well...
Reisen
―Ah!
Reisen
We're running out of time! We have to get to the next spot! Follow me!
...
Merlin
(Don't be alarmed, PLAYER, I'm speaking to you with words that directly reverberate in your mind.)
Merlin
(Lyrica is analyzing the data we acquired from those "kaiju" and comparing them with the info we already had in Xanadu.)
Merlin
(I'll let you know when the results are in. It shouldn't be long. But there's also something else you should know...)
Merlin
(Judging from where we're heading, the next spot is probably in one of the Capital's satellite cities...)
Merlin
(The Blue City: Tsiolkovsky.)
Merlin
(It's essentially ruled by the blue rabbits, and since your class is infrared, which is lower than red, you'll have to be careful.)
(I'll have to get my ears to tell me about the colors...!)
Merlin
(Who knows what might happen if you draw suspicion, so try and keep a low profile.)
Merlin
(...I know it's not much fun, but hang in there, OK?)
Reisen
The Blue City: Tsiolkovsky is one of the largest satellite cities...
Reisen
...but I never imagined the last spot to be right in the middle of it!
(So this is the last one... The last "kaiju.")
Reisen
I-I'm getting nervous. There are so many civilians here...
Moon Rabbit Civilian
Oh? I don't think I've ever seen that peacekeeper before.
Moon Rabbit Civilian
There's nothing happening. I wonder why she's here.
Moon Rabbit Civilian
...No clue. It couldn't be more peaceful.
Moon Rabbit Civilian
All right, I've got work, so I better get going.
Moon Rabbit Civilian
Me too. I should go far away from here.
Moon Rabbit Civilian
Yeah, I can't imagine what might happen, but I don't wanna get caught up in it.
Moon Rabbit Civilian
See you, Peacekeeper. Keep up the good work.
Reisen
...!
All the rabbits are gone! It's like a ghost town now!
Kaiju?
...
Reisen
I-It's a KAIJU! How did it sneak up on us?!
Kaiju?
...so RED...
Kaiju?
So rED... sO, So RED!
Reisen
It's speaking?!
Kaiju?
DOn'T wAke ME. doN'T ShaKe ME aWAkE.
Kaiju?
DON'T diSTuRb My SLEEP!
Lyrica
(Listen closely, PLAYER. The results of the analysis are in.)
Lyrica
(Comparing the things we've been fighting to what we had already learned in Xanadu...)
Lyrica
(...there's a zero percent chance that they're kaiju.)
Me
(Zero?!)
Me
(You mean they're nothing like kaiju?)
Me
(Then what in the world are they?)
Me
(This doesn't make any sense...)
Infrared Heart Pt. 7
Kaiju?
...
Kaiju?
FiNAlLy...
Kaiju?
I CAn fiNaLLy slEEp OnCe mORE...
Kaiju?
goOD. THIs Is GOod. I NEveR waNt tO WAke Up aGAiN...
Kaiju?
nEvER...
Kaiju?
...again.
Reisen
...!
Reisen
N-No way... D-Did we win?!
Reisen
Did I just complete my mission?!
Reisen
...!
Reisen
WOOHOOOOOO!
Reisen
I can't really explain it, but it's like the battles have been in my favor ever since I put on this suit!
Reisen
It's like the rules have changed to give me an advantage! I would've never stood a chance against kaiju before!
Reisen
Is this the suit's power?! The Plentiful Temple's technology is something else!
Reisen
We're so fortunate that we get to live in the Capital supported by this super-advanced technology!
Reisen
I still can't believe I won! I defeated the kaiju!
???
What did you defeat?
Reisen
Huh?
Reisen!
Reisen
Urgh...!
???
Oops, I thought you'd be able to take a little bit of light and sound!
???
That was just meant to be a gift to our fans before the show!
Don't tell me you're...!
Moon Rabbit Civilians
...Oh?
Moon Rabbit Civilians
Look over there!
Moon Rabbit Civilians
The kaiju are here!
Moon Rabbit Civilians
It's gonna start!
Moon Rabbit Civilians
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!
(Are they screaming?! No, it's more like...!)
???
Ooh, lucky us. Looks like we've got a pretty decent crowd tonight.
???
Let's give them what they want! Our best light and sound!
(What's happening? Ears, what's going on?)
(Umm... Huh?!)
Prismriver Sisters
Watch out, PLAYER!
Moon Rabbit Civilians
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!
Moon Rabbit Civilians
SOUND! SONGS! MUSIC! LIGHT! PICTURES! MOVIES!
???
Wow, they're already in a frenzy! We've well and truly caught their attention.
???
Let's deploy our Spatial Reign―
???
―Hm?
???
It looks like some of them aren't enjoying our show.
Lunasa
How can waves of sound and light be so powerful?!
Merlin
We somehow managed to cancel them out, but I'm not sure how long we can last!
Lyrica
Keep it up, you two! We have to protect PLAYER!
???
Wait a second... They're not rabbits.
???
But the way they look, speak, and act is somewhat familiar...
???
Oh, now I get it. They can use bullets.
???
You mean that thing the professor was talking about?
???
Yeah, battles with people like them always follow the battle of bullet rules, so we have to be careful.
???
Then I guess we better try and remember too...
???
And regain our lost bullet battle skills!
Reisen
Wh-What are they? If they're kaiju... then what was I fighting just before...?
Reisen
M-My suit... It's broken... What's going on? Why is this happening?
Lyrica
Stand back, Reisen! We'll handle this!
Merlin
Let's form a triangle around Reisen and PLAYER so we can protect them!
Lunasa
They'll soon learn who the better musicians are.
Prismriver Sisters
Let's do this!
The Real Kaiju Pt. 1
Lyrica
Huh? Didn't we just defeat them...?
Merlin
I bet they still had some attacks left...
Lunasa
Combatants declare the number of attacks they'll use before the named duel starts. And it won't end until they're spent.
Lyrica
Oh, right. I remember learning something like that in the training program PLAYER set for us.
Merlin
But I don't remember them declaring their number of attacks... And I'm not sure we did either...
Lunasa
Well, it doesn't say anywhere in the rules that they must be declared to your opponent.
???
What? Is that all you've got?
???
I was expecting more from people versed in battles of bullets, but I guess I got my hopes up over nothing.
???
It seems the battle of bullet rules aren't anything to be afraid of, after all.
???
Yeah, we're much better than them. In fact, that battle of bullets was―
???
We'll talk about that later after we get rid of our uninvited performers.
Lyrica
(Oh, no. Wh-What should we do?)
Merlin
(Our only option is to rely on that thing Alice prepared for us.)
Lunasa
(Right, that "rebirth" thing. It looks like we're gonna have to use it now―)
???
Thanks, everyone. But... this is my mission.
Reisen
I have to deal with them.
Lunasa
They're too strong for you, Reisen. Don't try to be a hero.
Merlin
We'll handle this.
Lyrica
You should try and think of a way to escape―
Reisen
NO! I have to... do this!
Lunasa
Reisen! Forget about your mission!
Merlin
Yeah, surviving is more important!
Lyrica
It's dangerous! Get back behind us!
Reisen
...
Reisen
I figured it out.
Prismriver Sisters
Huh?
Reisen
The treasure I was looking for...
Reisen
...wasn't a super-powerful item that'll make me stronger.
Reisen
...
Reisen
It was friendship.
Reisen
All I wanted... All I needed was friends to call my own.
Reisen
I finally figured it out.
Reisen
...
Reisen
Thanks, everyone. But I'm pretty sure I'm the only one who can defeat these kaiju...
Reisen
I'll protect you all.
Prismriver Sisters
Reisen...
???
Rabbit of the Capital, there's no reason for us to fight. No reason at all.
???
You should just enjoy our lights and sounds like the other rabbits.
???
Have you forgotten how to have fun? I truly pity you, slave of the Capital.
???
It's so sad how you can't realize that your devotion does nothing but eat away at your body and mind.
???
...
???
...
???
However...
???
It's not our job to lecture rabbits who choose to stand against us.
???
Yeah.
???
We gotta change this world with as much light and sound as we can.
???
And we'll change you too, rabbit of the Capital!
Reisen
Eeep!
Reisen
...
Reisen
...Huh?
???
Good job, Reisen. You held out well.
Reisen
Ah!
???
I'm here now, so let's finish them off. Back me up, Reisen.
Reisen
Huh? Oh... OK!
???
You help, too, mysterious rabbit. And after, you're going to tell me why I don't know which squad you belong to.
O-OK!
???
All right then...
???
Let's do this!
The Real Kaiju Pt. 2
???
Urgh! It's her again...!
???
It seems all our fluffing around dealing with the irregulars bought enough time for the pale blue rabbit to get here.
???
Are you finished? Good, then I'll bring you peace.
???
How can you claim to fight for peace when you get rid of music? Your "peace" leads to nothing but a silent wasteland.
???
People can't walk around at night without a light to guide them. But all you're doing is snuffing these lights out.
???
What was that?
???
Did you hear something, Reisen?
Reisen
Err... Ummm...
Reisen
Something about peace...
???
Did you hear that?
Reisen
Huh?
???
I didn't hear a thing. And even if I did, it wouldn't have made any sense.
???
What is peace? Peace is the eternal tranquility that exists throughout the Capital.
???
Peace is happiness.
Reisen
R-Right!
???
That's the only definition I can hear.
???
Now, as I was saying... It's time to enforce the peace.
???
*sigh* We're here to bail you out, but there won't be a next time, OK?
???
You should've planned for this before you left. Is it really that hard to call for help?
???
Let's get out of here!
Reisen
Th-They got away...!
Reisen
But, phew, we're saved!
???
...
???
No, it's not over yet.
Reisen
Huh?
Reisen
But all the kaiju are gone...
???
Then what's that over there?
???
I see three impure tools.
Reisen
Oh, no, um, they're not―
???
They're not standard Capital issued tools. They're impure and imperfect.
???
Or do my eyes deceive me?
Reisen
Errr... Umm...
???
...
???
Dispose of them.
???
I order you both to get rid of those impure tools.
Reisen
*sob*
(This is bad... How can we get out of this?!)
???
...
???
Fine. I'll help you out just this once.
Reisen
Huh?!
Lunasa
You shouldn't underestimate us.
Merlin
Unless you wanna get hurt.
Lyrica
Are you ready, Lunasa, Merlin?
Prismriver Sisters
Let's do this!
Prismriver Sisters
Convergent Rebirth!
Lunasa
We'll hijack the Capital's network and make it a stage for our concert.
Merlin
Are you good to go, Lunasa, Lyrica? There's no time for a rehearsal, so we've gotta make this count!
Lyrica
Don't worry about me. I'll synth together a song, no matter what you play, so go all out!
???
Oh, that's different.
???
Did they call it a rebirth...? No matter, it doesn't change anything.
Reisen
*sob* *sniff*
???
(Reisen... Reisen...)
Lunasa
(Chin up, Reisen. A frown doesn't suit you.)
Merlin
(What you need is a happy smile, especially at times like this.)
Lyrica
(Yeah, you said it. So, right now...)
Prismriver Sisters
(...We'll fight with everything we've got!)
Reisen
...
???
Targets eliminated.
???
Good work, you two.
Reisen
...!
???
We need to debrief. Follow me.
???
The higher-ups are calling for you.
The Real Kaiju Pt. 3
―At the same time, near the Capital but in a completely separate space known as...
...the Kaiju Laboratory.
???
...And that's the end of the recording.
???
Well, Mark 2s, what do you have to say for yourselves?
???
Answer me, Kaiju 080-01 and Kaiju 080-02.
Kaiju 080-01
We're not gonna make any excuses. There's no twisting the fact that we failed to gather any spirit power energy.
Kaiju 080-01
We'll accept whatever punishment you deem necessary.
Kaiju 080-02
We didn't fail because that pale blue rabbit interfered. That was merely a consequence of the irregularities.
Kaiju 080-02
I'm sure you Mark 1s don't need us to tell you how strange that was.
Kaiju 080-02
Right, kaiju 150-03 and kaiju 080-03x?
Kaiju 150-03
I suppose I can't argue with that.
Kaiju 150-03
Dreams connect Otherworlds to form a universe meridian network, so I can easily tell when something's wrong.
Kaiju 080-03x
Yes, it's as you say. I remember every historical pattern, and this event clearly deviated from them.
Kaiju 080-03x
However, the reason for this is also clear―
???
That's enough. I have already analyzed what happened.
???
Thank you, my children... my youkai of this new age.
Kaiju 150-03
Professor?!
Kaiju 080-03x
Are you feeling all right?!
Professor
I managed to go to the gate earlier, didn't I? This body will hold for a while longer.
Professor
Don't worry.
Professor
But I have a lot of work for you all, my dear children.
Professor
You'll have to work until you shed every drop of blood and sweat. I'm truly sorry.
Kaiju 150-03
Don't be sorry, Professor. You've got nothing to apologize for.
Kaiju 080-03x
We're all in this together.
Professor
Hm... is that right?
Professor
If you truly wish for our continued survival...
Professor
...then how do you explain your failure?
Kaiju 080-02
S-Sorry, that was our fault!
Kaiju 080-01
We failed to adapt when we encountered something we didn't expect...!
Professor
No, don't trouble yourself. I've already heard the report.
Professor
I understand. I do. So please don't worry about that.
Professor
And besides, I wasn't asking for an apology. Why would I need such a thing?
Professor
What I want is an explanation. Why did you fail?
Professor
Oh, can no one explain it? That's not good.
Professor
Unlike you four, I wasn't there, so I have no recourse but to ask you.
Professor
But, well, it seems that won't get us anywhere, will it? Don't worry, I think I can guess why this happened.
Professor
Listen up.
Professor
We must procure spirit power energy.
Professor
Youkai without humans to fear them are the same as movies without an audience. We must periodically attract customers.
Professor
That is why we steal energy from the Capital's satellite cities by causing "kaiju disasters."
Professor
No organism can survive without outsourced sustenance. Be it gas, nutrients, heat, liquids... it's all the same.
Professor
There is no such thing as a perfectly self-supporting being... apart from that one exception.
Professor
That was just a simple explanation as to why gathering energy is so important, but it should suffice.
Professor
Now then, after hearing all that, it's only natural that you start questioning why we must live and our reasons for doing so.
Kaiju
(Is that natural...?)
Kaiju
(That doesn't seem all that natural to me...)
Professor
Our objective is to reclaim our paradise.
Professor
I'm certain we used to have a paradise where we all lived together.
Professor
But it has been so long since we lost it that our memories of that time have become vague and indistinct.
Professor
The passage of time has also eroded each of our abilities. This is because long-lived youkai are like original copies of books.
Professor
Creatures with shorter lifespans are much easier to preserve through frequent transcription.
Professor
They're also much more likely to evolve.
Professor
Each generation of youkai spans countless years, stagnating our evolution.
Professor
And for each year we live, we continue to grow old and deteriorate.
Professor
That's why we must supplement our abilities and gather memories while heading toward our lost paradise.
Kaiju
(How many times has she explained this...?)
Kaiju
(I'm gonna fall asleep...)
Professor
Now then...
Professor
I'm sure you're all aware of the risks I've taken to further this end.
Professor
I have entered...
Professor
...the multi-dimensional neural network.
Kaiju
...!
Kaiju
...!
Professor
That's why my body is wasting away... which is fine. That's a small price to pay.
Professor
However, I know this isn't enough.
Professor
Just following the multi-dimensional neural network won't lead us to paradise.
Professor
I know what we lack. It's as clear as day. All my theories and calculations point to one thing and one thing only.
Professor
I'm not even angry about it. This might even be a good thing.
Professor
I've decided to use the Mark 0 kaiju I was planning to seal away!
Kaiju 150-03
The Mark 0 kaiju?! Are you serious?!
Kaiju 080-03x
You must know how dangerous that is!
Kaiju 080-02
But this will get us what we've always needed, right?
Kaiju 080-01
Does this mean we're finally going to our paradise?!
Professor
Yes, that's right.
Professor
Our paradise... Kaiju Island is within reach.
Professor
And you've already seen...
Professor
...the last thing we need to get there.
Professor
We've found PLAYER!
Professor
Finally! We've finally found her after all this time!
Professor
Hahaha!
Professor
HAHA! Muahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha!
Professor
*cough* *cough*
Kaiju 150-03
A-Are you all right, Professor?! You're going to hurt yourself!
Professor
...Sorry. It's nothing. I just coughed from laughing too much.
Professor
But I think I will take a short rest.
Kaiju 150-03
Please do. You need to take better care of yourself.
―Around the same time, at the very heart of the Capital...
...in the throne room of the Wise Empress.
(W-Why were we suddenly brought here...?!)
???
[So you are the rabbits who quelled the kaiju disaster.]
???
[Well done. I am Sagume Kishin, the Truth Temple.]
Sagume
[Your actions have been of great service in maintaining the purity of information within the Capital.]
Sagume
[Thank you, Reisen. And I must also thank the rabbit accompanying you. PLAYER, I believe.]
Reisen
Y-You're too kind, L-Lady Sagume! Th-thank you!
Y-Yes, thank you!
(Information purity? Can my ears tell me about that...?)
Sagume
[There's no need to be so formal.]
Sagume
[Relax.]
Sagume
[You also have my thanks, Rabbit 3. Oh, sorry, I've heard that you prefer to go by a different name ever since that time...]
Sagume
[Thank you, Seiran.]
???
Yes, ma'am. But those days are long behind me. I can barely remember them now.
Seiran
So I don't mind being called Rabbit 3.
Sagume
[You are a special rabbit, so I shall call you by your proper name.]
Seiran
Thank you, ma'am. You do me a great honor.
Sagume
[You have also done well today. Now, leave us. We have something to discuss with these two.]
Seiran
...
Seiran
Yes, ma'am.
M-Miss Seiran, um...
(I need to ask her about the Prismriver Sisters...!)
Seiran
You're standing before the Four Temples. Don't speak unless spoken to.
???
You know that the Four Temples refer to us, do you not? Or is that not taught in the outskirts of the Capital?
???
I am Watatsuki no Yorihime, the Peace Temple. It's my duty to keep the Capital safe... Surely you must at least know that.
Yorihime
And this is my sister, Watatsuki no Toyohime, the Plentiful Temple.
???
Teehee, it's a pleasure to meet you.
Toyohime
I'm in charge of manufacturing and distributing all the Capital's goods and commodities, such as food and tools.
Toyohime
Teehee, it seems kind of silly to tell you what you must've learned in elementary training.
Reisen
P-Princess!
Toyohime
Hello, Reisen. It's been a while, hasn't it? You've done well to work your way back up to us.
Reisen
Th-The kaiju were really scary!
Toyohime
There, there. You were very brave.
Are you Reisen's former masters?
Yorihime
That's correct. Reisen is our rabbit.
Toyohime
We are very proud of you, Reisen. It seems like we made the right decision to leave you down in the lower central district.
Reisen
B-But, how did you know I could defeat the kaiju? I had almost given up.
Toyohime
Teehee, no, that wasn't what we sent you down there for.
Reisen
Huh?
Reisen
But you gave me the mission to prevent the kaiju disaster... Wasn't that why you praised me?
Toyohime
Oh, I thought you might have realized it by now.
Toyohime
Don't you see that rabbit over there?
Toyohime
Someone has been looking for her. You did very well to bring her to us.
Reisen
Huh? A rabbit...?
Reisen
But PLAYER is the only other rabbit here...
...?!
???
Sorry for the wait, everyone! I've brought her with me!
???
Hello, I'm Kaguya Houraisan. I'm in charge of the Love Temple.
Kaguya
There are four temples, so didn't you wonder where the last one was? Or did that not cross your mind?
Kaguya
Now, explaining the role of the Love Temple is kinda tricky, but simply put, it's my job to fill the Capital with LOVE.
Kaguya
I'm also in charge of managing the Inabas. Oh, and when I say "Inabas," I mean rabbits.
Kaguya
Anyway, nice to meet you!
Toyohime
Miss Kaguya... Shouldn't you try and be a bit more respectful?
Sagume
[Yes, I don't mind a little levity, but I was thinking the same thing.]
Yorihime
Don't bother. She's been like this since forever.
Are you the one who was looking for me, Lady Kaguya?
Kaguya
No. Didn't I just say that I brought her here?
Kaguya
The one who's been looking for you is none other than...
Kaguya
...SS. The Senior Sister. The most elite of us elite sisters.
Reisen
No way!
Kaguya
She's the current speaker for the Capital's ruling council, the three leaders.
???
That's enough, Kaguya. I can introduce myself.
Kaguya
Oh, sorry.
???
It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss PLAYER. My name is Eirin Yagokoro.
Eirin
I am the Wise Empress. Custodian of the Capital.
Reisen
(It's SS! The real SS!)
(So she's this world's Miss Eirin...!)
(Why would the boss of the Capital want to meet me?!)
Eirin
Please, come closer.
Eirin
I cover my eyes with a monitor so I can see everything that happens in the Capital.
Eirin
I excel at seeing over a broad distance... but I struggle a little at seeing things close by.
Eirin
So please come closer so I can get a better look at you.
Kaguya
(It seems she's taken a liking to you. Please step closer to Eirin.)
O-OK!
(Whoa...!)
Eirin
Don't be scared. I won't hurt you.
Eirin
Hmm, I see. Now I have a good picture of what you look like.
(She's so warm and soft... and kind.)
(She smells nice...!)
Eirin
*pats head*
Eirin
...Is there something you want to talk to me about?
Umm...!
Do you... know anything... about Lost Words?
Eirin
...
Eirin
Hm?
Eirin
I have long been called the Wise Empress, but it seems I cannot live up to that name...
Eirin
What are these Lost Words you speak of?
(What?!)
(How can Miss Eirin not know about the Lost Words?!)
Eirin
I'm sorry. It seems I still have much to learn.
Eirin
...
Eirin
However...
Eirin
I have learned something about you, Miss PLAYER.
...?
Eirin
You're...
Eirin
...not a rabbit, are you?
