Before we go to resolve the Stellaron, we must first find a way to unify the thoughts of the Lower District.
[Jing Yuan] rested his chin on his hand, looking like a mastermind—if one ignored the fact that he was leaning against a pile of scrap parts.
I heard on the way that a mechanical settlement seems to have seized a large Geomarrow vein.
Hmm.
Seele crossed her arms and nodded, her brows slightly furrowed.
This faction is primarily composed of automatons, and their leader is a robot named Svarog, who is said to be an Old Timer—over seven hundred years old.
Svarog?
Dan Heng looked thoughtful and exchanged a glance with March 7th beside him.
Seele: "Yes, and Clara."
Stella! It's up to you!
Stelle suddenly patted Stella beside her, startling her.
Get us some 'insider information' on Svarog! Make it authentic!
Why does that description sound like you're about to cook it...
Stella muttered, but still nodded.
With a flash of light, she transformed into a timid-looking little girl in red clothes—[Clara].
Then, data streams converged around her, and [Svarog], with its metallic body gleaming coldly, was summoned.
[Svarog], sir.
Stella [Clara] asked, looking up.
Could you please disclose your situation?
Understood.
[Svarog]'s electronic eyes flickered with a steady red light, and it began to broadcast in its signature, emotionless synthetic voice:
Based on logical deduction, the true me knows the truth about the Stellaron. The conclusion is: the survival probability for Lower District residents going to the Upper District is extremely low, and the probability of Belobog's total annihilation is as high as 97.3%. Therefore, my core directive is to extend the survival time of the existing ecosystem in the Lower District as much as possible, measured in days. The Geomarrow vein is a vital survival resource and must be controlled.
It paused, its mechanical head turning slightly toward "Clara": "My strategy overlooked one variable that cannot be precisely calculated: the irrational human pursuit of 'freedom' and 'hope'. Therefore, I usually do not provide explanations; it is inefficient. Exception unit: Clara."
It extended its hand, as if intending to make a gesture, but ultimately just pointed straight at Stella [Clara].
I have defined her as 'daughter'. This emotion simulation program has the highest priority.
I see, the core conflict is between survivalism and hope-ism.
Natasha's voice sounded gently as she walked over.
What was striking was what followed behind her—[Little Herta] was leisurely sitting on the neck of a three-meter-tall, silver-white, gorgeously styled mechanical creation, "galatron." However, as this big guy walked, its joints emitted slightly loose "creaking" sounds; it looked imposing, but it always made one feel... it might fall apart after taking a few steps on its own?
Thank you for your information, [Svarog].
Natasha nodded politely to the tall robot.
We need that vein to support our upcoming actions and integration.
She spread her hands helplessly.
Therefore, a direct negotiation—or conflict—with that'survivalist' is likely unavoidable.
Understood.
[Svarog] was concise.
Combat plan suggestion: prioritize destroying its external armed units; the core body's defense is extremely high.
Just then, a lazy voice with a hint of playfulness came from the shadows: "Need my help?"
[Cocolia] stepped out, holding a steaming cup of coffee (where would they get this in the Lower District?) that had appeared in her hand out of nowhere.
I can use the 'warmth' of winter to hang that old iron-shelled geezer up and 'persuade' it slowly. Whether it lives or dies is up to you.
She took a sip of the "coffee" and added.
Consider it an extra practical lesson for Bronya, free of charge.
March 7th whispered to Stelle: "Aren't the 'family relationships' and 'character skills' on our side a bit too rich? Even the enemy boss has our side's youth version and luxury VIP helping with explanations and substitute fighting?"
Stelle responded profoundly: "This is called information asymmetry crushing, and... well, there is strength in numbers."
Dan Heng glanced at [Little Herta], who was trying to make galatron strike a mighty pose but almost snapped its arm off, and at Stella [Clara], who was using [Clara]'s face to discuss "how to effectively deal with oneself" with [Svarog], and silently pressed his forehead.
Hopefully, when the real fight starts later, the scene won't be too chaotic... or rather, not too ridiculous.