The three made their way back through the winding tunnels and icy paths of the Underworld, carrying the salvaged supplies between them. The return trip was much quieter than the journey out; exhaustion had finally begun to catch up with all of them.
When Boulder Town came into view, the warm glow of lanterns and the familiar bustle around Natasha's clinic felt oddly comforting.
Seele pushed open the clinic door.
Seele: "Nat! We're back."
Natasha looked up from treating a patient and smiled warmly.
Natasha: "Hehe, that's our Seele. Nothing if not punctual. So, did you find any usable supplies?"
The three set the supply boxes down on a nearby table. Natasha immediately walked over and began sorting through them with practiced efficiency.
Natasha: "Let me see... metal plates, gauze bandages, painkillers, rubbing alcohol... Perfect, that's everything I needed."
She paused when she reached the painkillers.
Natasha: "Huh... It's just, there are less painkillers than I'd expected. Did someone break into the storage room?"
Caelus answered honestly.
Caelus: "We shared some with Clara."
Natasha looked up.
Natasha: "...Clara?"
A moment later, understanding softened her expression.
Natasha: "...If she was there too then... I understand. She wants to look after the injured vagrants, right? Clara's always been a kind-hearted girl..."
She carefully placed the remaining bottles into a cabinet.
Natasha: "I think you made the right decision. Still, it means I'm going to have to draw up a detailed dosage plan."
Seele immediately stepped forward.
Seele: "Hey, don't worry. I'll help you."
Natasha smiled and gently shook her head.
Natasha: "Um, no need. I'll handle the clinic. I assume you three have more important things to be getting on with, right? Oleg will be waiting, not to mention your three companions."
Caelus blinked.
Caelus: "I forgot to say anything to them before I left..."
Natasha laughed softly.
Natasha: "I'm sure they won't mind, they seemed in good spirits."
Seele looked toward the clinic entrance.
Seele: "I bet old Oleg wants to talk about Svarog. We should get going — sorry Nat, we'll have to leave the wounded to you."
Natasha waved them off.
Natasha: "No worries, I hope things go smoothly."
The three left the clinic and headed toward Wildfire's meeting point.
Bronya covered a yawn.
Bronya: "yawn"
Seele smirked.
Seele: "Huh? Tired already?"
Bronya looked at her with half-lidded eyes.
Bronya: "Aren't you? We didn't get any rest last night."
Seele shrugged.
Seele: "You're gonna have to step it up, y'know. My record is six days no shut-eye."
Bronya stared at her.
"...That's not something to brag about."
Seele grinned.
After a short walk, they arrived at the plaza where March 7th, Dan Heng, Kouga, and Oleg were waiting.
March spotted them first and waved energetically.
March 7th: "Hey, they're finally back!"
Caelus rubbed the back of his head.
Caelus: "Sorry for the unannounced disappearance."
March laughed.
March 7th: "Ha, that's nothing — the unannounced disappearance record-holder is right here!"
She pointed at herself proudly.
Dan Heng looked at her.
Dan Heng: "And that's something to be proud of?"
March coughed awkwardly.
"...Maybe not."
Kouga stepped away from the group and walked over to Caelus.
Kouga: "Caelus."
Caelus turned toward him.
Kouga tilted his head slightly, signaling him to follow.
The two moved to a quieter corner of the plaza, away from the others.
Caelus: "Yes ? ,Mr Hayata."
Kouga looked at him calmly.
Kouga: "I sense that when you were away, you used some of my power, i thought that even without transforming into Ganbarider, there should still be very few thing that can force you go transform."
Caelus immediately understood what he was referring to.
Caelus: "Oh that! I was just testing my power."
Kouga nodded once.
Kouga: "I see."
Caelus hesitated for a moment before adding,
Caelus: "Oh and i give out some Recovery Capsems too."
Kouga slowly turned his head.
One eyebrow rose, demanded an explanation.
Caelus quickly continued.
Caelus: "Well, there are some people that need healing, so i think that it would be best to give them some recovery capsems, tho each of them could only be used once then reduce to dust."
Kouga let out a long breath of relief.
Then—
Thonk.
He chopped Caelus on the head.
Kouga: "Never give it out like that ever again."
Caelus grabbed the top of his head.
Caelus: "But why ?"
Kouga folded his arms.
Kouga: "Because power isn't dangerous only when it's used with bad intentions. It's also dangerous when it's used carelessly."
Caelus looked confused.
Kouga continued.
Kouga: "Think about what a Recovery Capsem can do. It can heal any injury and cure any illness."
Kouga: "If thousands of unlimited Recovery Capsems suddenly appeared, what would happen to doctors? Hospitals? Pharmacists? Medical researchers?"
Caelus blinked.
Kouga: "An entire medical system could collapse overnight."
He gestured toward Natasha's clinic.
Kouga: "People like Natasha dedicate their lives to learning medicine, treating patients, and building clinics. If everyone can instantly heal everything with a capsule, many of those people lose their purpose, their work, and their livelihood."
Caelus's expression began to change.
Kouga kept going.
Kouga: "And that's only the peaceful consequence."
His voice became more serious.
Kouga: "A miracle that can cure any illness is also something people would wage wars over."
The color drained from Caelus's face.
He looked down at his hands.
He had never thought that far ahead.
Caelus: "I didn't mean to ..."
Kouga's expression softened.
He placed a hand on Caelus's shoulder.
Kouga: "It's alright, what done is done, at least the one you give are just one time use each instead of unlimited, just be careful of how you use your power okay, every action have consequences regardless of intention."
Caelus nodded slowly.
This time, he truly understood.
Caelus: "...I'll be more careful."
Kouga gave his shoulder a reassuring pat.
Kouga: "Now let's go back to the Group."
The two returned to the others.
Oleg looked around at everyone and smiled broadly.
Oleg: "Hahaha, it's good to have everyone back together. Let me get straight to it..."
He turned his attention to the Astral Express crew.
Oleg: "Regarding this "Stellaron" and your predicament in the Overworld, your friends have gone over both with me again."
His expression grew nostalgic.
Oleg: "The last time I saw Cocolia, she was an impressive young lady... I never thought that after becoming the guardian..."
He sighed.
Oleg: "All I can say is that I sympathize with your situation. Rest easy. Wildfire won't go behind your back on this."
He laughed quietly.
Oleg: "Your plan sounds a bit like the ravings of a drunken miner, but at least you're offering a road forwards. We Underworlders haven't had a road to anywhere for a long time now, and you can see how things have become. I'm willing to give you guys a shot."
March gave a confident thumbs-up.
March 7th: "Don't worry, Mr. Oleg, we'll make sure you don't regret it!"
Dan Heng adjusted his grip on his spear.
Dan Heng: "Ravings of a drunken miner is a little harsh."
Oleg laughed.
Oleg: "Maybe it is! But I think we need to set our sights on something a bit more realistic. You guys want to know the whereabouts of the Stellaron. Wildfire wants to remove the restrictions on the Underworld..."
He looked at all of them.
Oleg: "In other words, Svarog is the target of both our efforts. If we can't deal with the boss, we can't deal with anything."
Caelus nodded.
Caelus: "We need to find a way to bring him over to our side."
Seele snorted.
Seele: "Hmph, he wouldn't understand — you're forgetting he's a robot. It'd be faster to smash him to scrap metal!"
Oleg raised a hand.
Oleg: "We should make preparations for both approaches. Of course, it's better to settle matters through peaceful means. But if the situation changes, we must be prepared for armed conflict at a moment's notice."
He continued.
Oleg: "Wildfire has tried many times to make contact with Svarog — without success. He has no intention of engaging with us."
His mechanical arm folded across his chest.
Oleg: "At our current strength, it would be incredibly dangerous to use force. Svarog's robots don't fear sacrifice, and I don't want to risk Underworld lives."
He looked toward the Astral Express crew.
Oleg: "But things have changed — your arrival constitutes an "external variable" for Svarog. I may not have the full picture, but perhaps you guys have an opportunity to sway him."
Dan Heng nodded.
Dan Heng: "That would be best."
Oleg grinned.
Oleg: "Hahahaha! Our scheme is coming along nicely! But I fear that Svarog just isn't the swaying type. sigh You'll understand when you get to his territory. Things never run smoothly down here."
He turned to Bronya.
Oleg: "What about you, Miss Silvermane? You're the only one here that isn't compelled to do or die with Svarog. I'd like to hear your plan."
Bronya answered firmly.
Bronya: "The Underworld is still a part of Belobog. If Svarog's existence constitutes a threat to the people here, I will of course stand with you."
Oleg laughed approvingly.
Oleg: "Hahaha, excellent! An enlightened answer, young lady — and spoken like a true successor to the guardianship."
He clapped his hands together.
Oleg: "Seeing as we're all on the same side, there's no reason to delay. Let's go, I've arranged for a guide to take you to Svarog."
Caelus looked at him.
Caelus: "You're not coming?"
Oleg shook his head.
Oleg: "Wildfire's relationship with Svarog has been hostile for a long time now, accompanying you would only lead to misunderstandings. We'll be nearby, awaiting orders. If things go south, we'll be there in no time."
He looked toward Seele.
Oleg: "Seele, perhaps you can take our outsider friends the rest of the way."
Seele nodded.
Seele: "Mm, I'm on it, boss."
The group—Caelus, Kouga, March 7th, Dan Heng, and Bronya—followed Seele through another series of tunnels leading deeper into the Underworld.
After a short walk, they reached a small open area where someone was waiting.
A tiny figure wearing a large hat stood proudly with her hands on her hips.
Hook.
Seele looked genuinely surprised.
Seele: "...Hook? You..."
March blinked.
March 7th: "This I really wasn't expecting..."
Dan Heng looked thoughtful.
Dan Heng: "So, The Moles are a part of Wildfire..."
Hook puffed out her chest.
Hook: "Th—That's right! It's me, Pitch-Dark Hook the Great! What do you want?"
Before anyone could respond—
A familiar voice came from behind her.
Sampo: "Uh, kiddo, I think there's been a misunderstanding..."
He stepped forward with his usual exaggerated smile.
Sampo: "I will be your guide, friends. By order of Chief Oleg..."
He placed a hand dramatically over his chest.
Sampo: "I gotta say I'm a little upset at the thought of you choosing a toddler over your old buddy Sampo..."
Seele sighed.
Seele: "Alright, alright, don't get started. But I wanna ask you something: Everyone in Wildfire knows the location of Svarog's lair. Why do we need you as a guide?"
Sampo grinned.
Sampo: "sigh My specialties in the field, perhaps? Wildfire may know where the base is, but have they ever been inside?"
Seele narrowed her eyes.
Seele: "You've been inside?"
Sampo coughed awkwardly.
Sampo: "...No. But I've felt my way around the outside and picked up more than a few clues. I can help you. You have my word."
Caelus looked at him skeptically.
Caelus: "Let's hope you can walk the talk."
Sampo placed a hand on his chest in mock offense.
Sampo: "Hey, what are you trying to say!? Name me someone above or below ground that walks the talk like Sampo Koski."
Kouga stepped directly in front of him.
Sampo immediately stopped talking.
Kouga: "Do something like abanding us or trick us and you will find youself in a clinic with all your bones broken."
Sampo laughed nervously and gave a quick salute.
Sampo: "Yes, sir."
He swallowed.
Sampo: "My legacy will prove that Sampo Koski was nothing but a willing and devoted servant of—"
March interrupted him immediately.
March 7th: "Ugh, enough! Jeez! We believe you, okay? Show us the way already."
Sampo straightened up.
Sampo: "Great! Stay close."
After another long trek through icy tunnels and steel walkways, the group emerged into a vast cavern.
Dimly lit, snow-covered steel catwalks crisscrossed the area, while towering icy cliffs surrounded the settlement ahead.
March stretched dramatically.
March 7th: "Sampo... Are we there yet?"
Sampo sighed.
Sampo: "Do you have to ask every other minute, missy? Two more steps, just two more steps and you're there."
After a few more steps, the settlement finally came into view.
A cluster of worn tents, scrap-metal shelters, rusted pipes, and burning campfires occupied the cavern floor.
People moved about quietly, repairing equipment and tending small fires.
March looked around in surprise.
March 7th: "This is Svarog's lair? I thought it'd be cold and lifeless, turns out it's pretty busy!"
Seele looked toward the refugees.
Seele: "Many vagrants are staying here temporarily. Their homes were overrun by monsters."
March frowned.
March 7th: "Isn't it dangerous for them to make camp right under Svarog's metal nose?"
Seele shook her head.
Seele: "No. Svarog may be ruthless, but he never attacks without reason. For those with no home, this is actually a safe place to be."
Her expression became thoughtful.
Seele: "Hm... If I hadn't moved away when I did, I'd probably be where they are right now."
The group continued forward until they reached a massive reinforced gate built into the rock wall.
It was sealed completely shut.
March walked up confidently.
March 7th: "What a heavy gate... Okay, watch this!"
She struck a dramatic pose.
March 7th: "Opennnn sesame~!"
Nothing happened.
Bronya looked at her.
Bronya: "Is that a secret code or something?"
Dan Heng answered flatly.
Dan Heng: "It's an imaginary password that children like to use... and I don't think it's going to be of much use."
Caelus turned to Kouga.
Caelus: "Should we break the gate open ?"
Kouga calmly shook his head.
Kouga: "Let's try a more civilized solution."
Caelus looked at Sampo.
Caelus: "What about these clues of yours?"
Sampo smiled proudly.
Sampo: "I was just about to get into those, before Miss March's colorful attempt."
He pointed toward the gate.
Sampo: "Luckily for us, I've already figured out the mechanism for this gate. They don't just let any Joe Shmoe in and out of Boss Svarog's territory. I mean, if you wanna see the big cheese himself, you need "certification.""
Seele frowned.
Seele: "Certification?"
Sampo nodded enthusiastically.
Sampo: "Correct, only prospectors with the right certification can get in or out. These prospectors collect mechanical remnants from all over the underground, and then bring them to Svarog for him to repair."
He sighed dramatically.
Sampo: "Honestly, it's a very profitable little venture. If only I'd beaten him to it... Hehe, they'd be calling me Sampo "Boss-ki" by now..."
Seele looked unimpressed.
Seele: "...Time out. Where do we get this "certification"?"
Sampo pointed toward several robots patrolling near the refugee camp.
Sampo: "That's simple. You see the robots over by the vagrants? They're all Svarog's scouts — every one of them is commanded to maintain order here."
He continued.
Sampo: "Apart from them keeping a watchful eye on these hooligans, another one of their duties is "processing." Anyone who wants to become a prospector has to pass a test from these walkin' stoplights first."
Caelus looked toward the machines.
Caelus: "What's the test?"
Sampo shrugged.
Sampo: "Not a clue, I never had the urge to go on a Svarog suicide mission before. You guys are the ones that want in, why not go and ask the robots?"
With that, the group headed toward the patrolling machines.
As they approached, Bronya observed the scene carefully.
Bronya: "It feels like the people here are all under the supervision of robots..."
She looked at the orderly patrols with a troubled expression.
Bronya: "This would be unthinkable on the surface. Robots are merely tools in the Overworld."
Seele glanced toward the towering gate that concealed Svarog's territory.
Seele: "Don't take Svarog as an ordinary robot. He's, uh... special."
After wandering through the refugee settlement for a while, the group finally spotted a small robot patrolling near a row of scrap-metal shelters.
It was exactly as Sampo had described: a squat machine that looked like a traffic light mounted on four mechanical legs, its lenses blinking rhythmically as it rolled back and forth.
Seele pointed at it.
Seele: "This has to be one of them, right?"
March tilted her head.
March 7th: "It looks so... lame."
Seele leaned in closer.
Seele: "Is it even awake in there? Maybe it's broken down."
The robot suddenly twitched.
Its lenses flashed from yellow to green.
Certification Robot: "Beep... Boop..."
Seele jumped backward.
Seele: "Ah! That scared me."
The robot's lenses focused on the group one by one.
Certification Robot: "Protocol initiating... Scanning... Verifying."
A beam of light swept across March, Dan Heng, Bronya, Caelus, Seele, Sampo, and finally Kouga.
Certification Robot: "Certification failure... Subject has yet to obtain access permissions. Launching processing."
March blinked.
March 7th: "Huh? Are we starting now!?"
The robot remained perfectly expressionless.
Certification Robot: "Launching stage one processing. Please listen to the following question..."
A brief electronic chime sounded.
Certification Robot: "Who is the reigning champion of the Internal Combustion Engine Rap Tournament?"
Silence.
March looked horrified.
March 7th: "Infernal construction what now? How would we know anything about that!"
Dan Heng turned toward Sampo.
Dan Heng: "Sampo, do you know the answer?"
Sampo placed a hand on his chest confidently.
Sampo: "Sampo Koski always knows the... Wait, what did it say again?"
March threw her hands into the air.
March 7th: "Ugh, aren't you supposed to be dependable?"
Sampo shrugged helplessly.
Sampo: "Well, I don't know everything. sigh Sometimes you've gotta ask around if you wanna know the answer. Don't panic... Let's listen in to what these vagrants are talking about, we might just hit the jackpot."
The robot repeated itself.
Certification Robot: "Please answer the following question: Who is the reigning champion of the Internal Combustion Engine Rap Tournament?"
The group fell into discussion.
Bronya frowned thoughtfully.
Seele muttered random guesses under her breath.
March looked ready to cry.
Caelus glanced at Kouga.
Kouga suddenly stepped forward.
A Green-and-red transformation burst around him.
Kamen Rider Zero-Two stood before the robot.
The others stared in confusion.
Without hesitation, Kouga answered.
Kouga: "88 Degrees Bedrock"
A beat passed.
The robot's green light flashed brightly.
Certification Robot: "Correct answer."
March spun toward Kouga.
March 7th: "Whoa! Was that a lucky guess? gasp Did you go to a music festival without us?"
Kouga tapped the side of his helmet.
Kouga: "Uhm no, Kamen rider Zero-two have the ability to predict future possibilities and calculating outcomes in real time, and that's how i come to that answer."
He then looked at Caelus.
Kouga: "Get stronger and then you'll get abilities like this."
March puffed out her cheeks dramatically and marched over to Kouga, tugging lightly on the edge of his sleeve.
March 7th: "That's so unfair... After we're done, can I borrow some of your power? Just a little! I promise I won't use it for anything weird. Mostly."
Kouga looked at her for a moment.
Then gave a small nod.
Kouga: "Let me see."
March immediately brightened.
March 7th: "I'm counting that as a yes!"
Dan Heng quietly muttered, "...It was not a yes."
The robot rolled closer.
Certification Robot: "Certification result: Success. Requisite certifications remaining: Two."
It extended a small mechanical arm.
Certification Robot: "Please extend your right hand."
March looked around.
March 7th: "My right hand? Here you go. Why is this part of the— Hey, hey! Ow, ow, ow!"
A glowing symbol was branded onto the back of her hand.
March yanked it back and shook it frantically.
March 7th: "...So this is the certification mark?"
Sampo clapped.
Sampo: "Great, only two more steps to go. Let's move."
After searching the settlement a little longer, they found another traffic-light robot.
This one was slumped against a pile of scrap, its lenses blinking lazily.
As they approached, it let out an exaggerated electronic sigh.
Irritable Robot: "Beep... Boop..."
Irritable Robot: "Protocol... initiating. Scanning... Ugh. I'm so sick of repeating this."
Seele stared.
Seele: "Ha? What did this bucket of bolts just say?"
March snickered.
March 7th: "Seems like this one's got a temper..."
The robot looked at them with obvious annoyance.
Irritable Robot: "Ugh, let's get this over with. Did you get your first certification? If not then you're wasting your time."
March immediately held up the back of her hand.
March 7th: "You mean this? Here, look."
The robot barely glanced at it.
Irritable Robot: "Yeah, yeah, whatever... Here comes your question, listen up."
Its lenses flashed.
Irritable Robot: "Riddle me this: A microcrystalline unit should be connected to which component?"
Without even pausing, Kouga answered.
Kouga: "Logic control hub."
The robot froze.
Irritable Robot: "Huh? Lucky guess."
It reluctantly extended its mechanical arm.
Irritable Robot: "Ugh! Now I have to do this again. Put your hand out."
Caelus obediently extended his hand.
The robot looked offended.
Irritable Robot: "What are you doing? I meant her, give me your hand!"
Caelus looked at March.
Caelus: "March, put your hand out."
March groaned.
March 7th: "Huh? Me again? It hurts, y'know!"
The robot stamped another glowing mark onto the back of her hand.
March 7th: "...Ah! Owwww..."
She blew on her hand dramatically.
The robot waved them away.
Irritable Robot: "There, one step left. Now get outta here and leave me in peace..."
After another long search through the settlement, they finally found the third and final certification robot.
This one was spinning in small circles, occasionally bumping into rocks.
Sparks popped from its chassis.
Malfunctioning Robot: "Beep... Boop..."
Caelus watched it wobble.
Caelus: "Is it me or is this one getting Malfunction."
Dan Heng narrowed his eyes.
Dan Heng: "Whatever the case, we'll need it to identify our certifications."
Seele frowned.
Seele: "There's something wrong with this one..."
The robot jerked violently.
Malfunctioning Robot: "Protocol... Inish-nish-nish-nish-nish..."
Smoke puffed from its side.
Malfunctioning Robot: "Initialization failure. Attempting system restorashhhh..."
Bronya looked concerned.
Bronya: "Not encouraging..."
The robot suddenly lurched upright.
Its red lens blazed brightly.
Malfunctioning Robot: "System restoration failure. Core module damaged. External threat detected."
Malfunctioning Robot: "Threat elimination activated. Initializing combat module."
Seele grinned and summoned her scythe.
Seele: "Ha! Finally, no more racking our brains. This rust bucket's about to meet its maker!"
The robot launched itself forward with surprising speed.
Before anyone else could move—
Kouga disappeared.
He appeared directly in front of the charging robot.
In one smooth motion, he grabbed its traffic-light head and slammed it into the ground.
BOOM!
The impact cracked the frozen earth and sent a cloud of dust and snow exploding outward.
The robot twitched helplessly beneath his hand.
No one reacted.
Not because it wasn't impressive.
But because they had seen this kind of thing from Kouga so many times that their brains had simply stopped trying to process it.
Sampo, meanwhile, was sweating profusely as he remembered the threat Kouga had made earlier.
Kouga released the robot.
He summoned a Recovery Capsem, spun it, and pointed it toward the damaged machine.
Green healing energy flowed through the robot's shattered frame.
Bent metal straightened.
Broken circuits reconnected.
Sparks disappeared.
The robot stood upright.
Its lenses blinked normally.
Malfunctioning Robot: "...Certification system online. Please extend your right hand."
Everyone slowly turned toward March.
March looked utterly betrayed.
March 7th: "sigh ...Why is it always me..."
She reluctantly extended her hand.
The robot stamped the third and final mark onto it.
March 7th: "Aaaah!!! How come it hurt even more than the other two!? Hmph, at least that's the final step..."
She clutched her hand dramatically.
With that, the group had obtained all three certifications.
March held up the glowing marks proudly.
March 7th: "We can get in now, right? Hehe, Svarog's certification system is no match for us!"
Seele nodded.
Seele: "This better work. Let's get back to the gate and give it a go."
They returned to the massive gate.
As soon as March placed her marked hand against the access panel, the symbols glowed brightly.
Deep mechanical sounds echoed through the cavern.
KRRRRRRRRRRR...
The enormous gate began to rise.
March immediately struck a triumphant pose.
March 7th: "Opennnn sesame~!"
Sampo grinned smugly.
Sampo: "See? Not so bad having Sampo on the team after all, right? Chief Oleg knew all along that I—"
March waved him off.
March 7th: "Yeah, yeah, thank you very much."
Seele nodded toward him.
Seele: "I'll commend you to the chief. No need to waste your time."
Sampo straightened.
Sampo: "Alright, well let me issue a warning now: Everything from here on out is uncharted territory — we must proceed with the utmost caution..."
March was already walking through the opening gate.
March 7th: "Now to set the record straight with Svarog. Let's get in there!"
Sampo sighed dramatically and hurried after the group.
Sampo: "...Ugh! Did anyone hear what I just said?"
The massive outer gate groaned open behind them as the group stepped into Svarog's territory.
Beyond the entrance lay a maze of steel catwalks, reinforced walls, exposed pipes, and ancient machinery embedded directly into the rock. The deeper they walked, the more the settlement resembled a fortress built around an industrial complex.
Snow drifted through cracks in the ceiling, collecting along the edges of the metal walkways.
Then—
They stopped.
Another gate.
This one was even larger than the previous one, its heavy locking mechanisms covered in rotating gears and mechanical conduits.
Seele stared at it in disbelief.
Seele: "A gate..."
She threw her hands into the air.
Seele: "Ugh... Why is there another gate here!?"
Bronya stepped forward and examined the control panel.
She brushed a thin layer of frost from the surface.
Bronya: "It looks like this gate has a more complicated structure than the last one..."
Seele turned toward Sampo.
Seele: "Sampo, what is this?"
No answer.
She looked around.
Seele: "...Sampo? Where is he?"
Silence.
The empty corridor echoed faintly.
March looked around wildly.
March 7th: "Ugh! Where did he run off to — he was just here a second ago!"
Dan Heng sighed.
Dan Heng: "...This isn't the first time."
Seele pinched the bridge of her nose.
"...Of course he ran."
A familiar mechanical whirring sound echoed from the side passage.
Another traffic-light robot rolled toward them on four mechanical legs.
Seele immediately recognized it.
Seele: "It's that same type of robot again! Please don't tell me there's another round of "processing.""
The robot stopped in front of the group.
Its lenses flashed green.
Wandering Robot: "Visitors for Svarog detected."
The scanning beam swept across each of them.
Wandering Robot: "Protocol initiating... Scanning... Verifying."
Caelus stepped forward and pointed at the certification marks.
Caelus: "Who's a good boy? Here's our certification, we just wanna see your master."
March gave him a thumbs-up.
March 7th: "Ooh, good plan! Treat the robots like guard dogs!"
She paused.
March 7th: "...How is that gonna improve our chances?"
The robot finished scanning.
Its light turned red.
Wandering Robot: "Certification failure... Subject has yet to obtain access permissions."
The group collectively groaned.
The robot continued.
Wandering Robot: "Request rejected. Visitors must acquire access permissions from Miss Clara."
March blinked.
March 7th: "Clara? Oh, the girl we saw in the Great Mine?"
She looked confused.
March 7th: "We need to get permissions from her? What's she got to do with this?"
Caelus answered quietly.
Caelus: "She's Svarog's family."
March looked even more confused.
March 7th: "Family... Huh, weird."
Kouga looked at her.
Kouga: "It's not weird , sometime robot can be a family member."
March scratched her head.
March 7th: "...I guess I've seen weirder things today."
Dan Heng stepped forward.
Dan Heng: "Don't trouble yourself about it. We need to find her."
He looked directly at the robot.
Dan Heng: "...I don't know if this will work, but it's worth a try: Where is Clara right now?"
The robot's lights flickered.
Wandering Robot: "Obtaining audio data, please wait..."
For a few seconds, only static echoed through the corridor.
Then a familiar young voice played from the robot's speaker.
Wandering Robot: "The energy core's bearing component is broken... If we don't repair it soon, the settlement will be pitch-black."
It was clearly a recorded conversation.
Wandering Robot: "Timmy, I'm going back to Rivet Town — maybe I can recover some usable components. You need to guard the gate while I'm gone."
The recording ended.
The robot returned to standby mode.
Wandering Robot: "Recording recovery complete. Resuming execution of Clara's commands."
The group exchanged looks.
Bronya spoke first.
"...Rivet Town."
Seele let out a long sigh.
Seele: "She went back? But we were just there. sigh Sounds like we better head over again."
March looked between them.
March 7th: "Wait, you guys went sightseeing in another town?"
Seele gave her a deadpan look.
Seele: "...It wasn't as fun as you think."
Caelus nodded.
Caelus: "That town has danger lurking in every corner."
Bronya looked toward the direction of Rivet Town.
Bronya: "Indeed. And that little girl heading into the Fragmentum all by herself... It doesn't bear thinking about."
She remembered Clara walking through the ruins carrying the box of medicine.
Bronya: "Her strength belies her appearance, but even so..."
Seele adjusted her scythe on her shoulder.
Seele: "You don't look so tough yourself. Well, let's find her. Svarog's not going anywhere."
Without another word, the group turned around and began rushing toward the ruined streets of Rivet Town once again in search of Clara.
The group hurried back through the frozen streets of Rivet Town, snow crunching beneath their boots as they searched for Clara.
The abandoned town was eerily quiet, broken only by the distant groans of shifting Fragmentum ice and the occasional metallic creak of ruined machinery.
March looked around at the rows of abandoned buildings.
March 7th: "This is a big town. Where should we start?"
Seele answered immediately.
Seele: "Clara said she was going to find components, right? Let's start with Nat's storage room."
The group made their way to the old orphanage and descended into the storage room.
As soon as they entered, Bronya's eyes narrowed.
A damaged four-legged robot lay collapsed against the wall, sparks occasionally flickering from its chassis.
She recognized it instantly.
Bronya: "Isn't this the robot that was following Clara around?"
It was Perkins.
Seele glanced at the machine.
Seele: "...These can openers all look the same. How can you tell them apart?"
Bronya raised a hand for silence.
Bronya: "Shh, it's about to say something. Listen..."
Perkins's lenses flickered weakly.
Perkins: "Initializing self-repair module... Initialization failure..."
The robot twitched.
Perkins: "Clara... in danger..."
Its voice crackled through bursts of static.
Perkins: "Must... protect..."
Seele stepped forward sharply.
Seele: "In danger? What do you mean?"
Perkins: "Workshop... target... must be eliminated..."
Bronya looked alarmed.
Bronya: "Does it mean that a monster appeared over at the workshop? Clara, she..."
Seele immediately turned toward the exit.
Seele: "Not good. She's in danger! Quick. Let's head over to the workshop and check it out. I know the way."
Without another word, everyone broke into a run.
They sprinted through the frozen streets, leaping over collapsed walls and weaving between abandoned vehicles buried beneath layers of ice.
Seele led the way with incredible speed, darting through the familiar alleys of her childhood home.
As they approached the old workshop district, a deafening roar echoed through the ruins.
They rounded the final corner—
And saw Clara.
She was backed against the wall of a shattered workshop, clutching a small box of machine components.
Towering over her was a massive Fragmentum monster, its armor burning with blazing blue-white flames.
The creature raised a gigantic claw.
Clara had nowhere left to run.
The monster lunged.
Before it could even reach her—
Two blur crossed the battlefield.
Caelus was already transformed into Ganbarider.
At the same instant, Kouga—already in Kamen Rider Zero-Two form—appeared from the opposite side.
Both riders drew Attache Caliburs in Blade Mode.
Then—
They moved.
A storm of sword strikes erupted.
Afterimages crisscrossed through the air faster than the eye could follow.
The monster was sliced once.
Twice.
A dozen times.
A hundred.
A thousand.
Within a fraction of a second, the gigantic Fragmentum beast had been cut into millions of microscopic pieces.
The blazing flames vanished.
The frozen ground behind it remained untouched.
The fragments disintegrated into shimmering particles before they even hit the ground.
Caelus and Kouga stood side by side, blades lowered.
Clara stared at the empty space where the monster had been.
The rest of the group finally caught up.
March looked at the vanished monster.
March: "...I think they overdid it."
Dan Heng quietly nodded.
The two Warriors de-transformed.
Seele rushed straight to Clara.
Seele: "Are you okay, Clara? Are you hurt?"
Clara quickly shook her head.
Clara: "Th—Thanks, everyone. I'm fine. Just a few scratches."
Seele sighed in relief.
Seele: "You shouldn't be running around by yourself. It's too dangerous. What are you looking for here?"
Clara held up the box of components.
Clara: "There's a fault with one of the energy supply units at the base. If I don't repair it soon, everyone at the settlement will be affected."
She glanced toward the workshop.
Clara: "I knew there was a workshop in this town, so I wanted to try my luck here. I found all the components I need, but then I ran into a monster..."
She looked at Caelus and Kouga.
Clara: "You guys saved me — I'll tell Mr. Svarog about it."
Caelus stepped forward.
Caelus: "We were just about to pay him a visit."
Clara blinked.
Clara: "...Huh? What do you need to see him for? I can pass him a message..."
Seele shook her head.
Seele: "No, this time we need to set things straight with him face to face. Can you take us to meet him?"
Clara hesitated.
Clara: "But... Mr. Svarog doesn't like talking to others, especially Wildfire..."
Seele folded her arms.
Seele: "Don't I know it. But he's evaded communication with us for too long — this time we have to see him."
Clara looked down.
Clara: "Um... I know you're working hard for the people down here, but Mr. Svarog doesn't trust human emotions. He only trusts his calculation results."
Clara: "So, I can't take you to see him... If Mr. Svarog and you had a fight, someone would get hurt for sure. Maybe even bystanders..."
Seele stepped forward.
Seele: "Listen kid, you—"
Bronya gently stopped her.
Bronya: "Clara, you said it yourself before, right? Svarog's duty is to protect the Underworld and preserve the civilization here. We have the same wish. Why would he refuse to cooperate with us?"
Clara answered quietly.
Clara: "I know Mr. Svarog. He isn't affected by other people's wishes. He only follows logical judgments."
She looked toward the distant ceiling of the cavern.
Clara: "Terrible things are happening on this world... Mr. Svarog thinks that the Overworld will end soon."
Bronya remained silent.
Clara: "According to his calculation results, the strength of the Underworlders won't be enough to prevent the disaster."
Clara: "His plan is to keep the Underworlders away from the source of the disaster, so they can survive for longer..."
Seele clenched her fists.
Seele: "...Isn't that just putting us in a cage? It's ridiculous — what difference does it make if our death gets postponed a couple of days? How is that better than putting up a fight?"
Caelus met Clara's eyes.
Caelus: "We have to see him, whatever the cost."
Clara looked genuinely distressed.
Clara: "I'm sorry... I really can't help you with this."
Clara: "Um, if you don't mind... I still have important things to do. I'll go back now."
Before anyone could stop her, Clara turned and ran.
Seele: "Clara—"
Seele started after her.
Bronya caught her arm.
Bronya: "It's no use, Seele. She's made up her mind. I could tell from her expression."
Bronya watched Clara disappear into the ruins.
Bronya: "We will have to think of another way..."
March sighed.
March 7th: "That's no ordinary kid. So young and yet so... stubborn? No, intelligent?"
Dan Heng nodded.
Dan Heng: "She's incisive, and determined... in sharp contrast to you, March."
March gasped.
March 7th: "...Did you really have to add that last part!?"
Dan Heng ignored the complaint.
Dan Heng: "It looks like we'll have to get past Clara if we want to speak to Svarog."
Caelus looked thoughtful.
Caelus: "Is there any other way?"
Dan Heng shook his head.
Dan Heng: "If we circumvent Clara and the gate, Svarog will only identify us as intruders. He'll be even more likely to give us the cold shoulder."
March frowned.
March 7th: "Isn't a robot shoulder cold to begin with?"
Dan Heng continued as if she hadn't spoken.
Dan Heng: "Clara mentioned Svarog's "calculation results" many times..."
He looked at everyone.
Dan Heng: "The strength of the Underworlders won't be enough to prevent the disaster... Those were her exact words. For me, that's our starting point."
March tilted her head.
March 7th: "So... you think Svarog's logic has a hole in it?"
Dan Heng answered calmly.
Dan Heng: "No, his calculation is correct. At its current strength, it is highly unlikely that Wildfire would be able to resolve the problems stemming from the Stellaron. However, that calculation didn't take the present situation into account. There's a new variable yet to be added to the equation..."
Caelus nodded.
Caelus: "We need him to recognize our value."
Dan Heng: "...Precisely. If we can make Svarog believe in us, we can almost certainly overturn the result of his calculation, and we'll be one step closer to peace talks."
March rubbed her chin.
March 7th: "But, how we can get him to do that... Showing him some of our photos wouldn't cut it, right?"
Dan Heng: "There's always a way. But first, we have to convince Clara."
He looked toward the settlement.
Dan Heng: "I assume she must be on her way back to the robot settlement. Let's catch up with her."
The group hurried back toward the robot settlement and approached the gate leading to Svarog's base.
March suddenly pointed ahead.
Far in the distance, Clara stepped onto a large industrial elevator platform.
The platform began descending into the depths below the Furnace Core.
March 7th: "She turned that way, quick!"
They rushed onto the elevator and followed her downward.
When the platform reached the lower level—
Clara was gone.
March 7th: "Huh? Where'd she go? We just saw her go this way."
She sighed dramatically.
March 7th: "sigh We'll just have to head straight and keep looking."
The group moved deeper into the underground facility.
After a while, they found Clara kneeling beside a large industrial machine.
Panels were open across its side, and mechanical components were scattered around her.
She was frowning in concentration.
Clara: "Hmm... why won't it..."
She adjusted another component.
Clara: "Argh... I can't figure it out..."
The group approached quietly.
Clara looked up.
Clara: "...Oh, it's you. You came with me after all."
Caelus smiled slightly.
Caelus: "We couldn't give up that easily."
Clara looked away.
Clara: "You keep saying that, but..."
Dan Heng stepped beside the machine.
He examined the exposed gears and bearings for a few seconds.
Dan Heng: "Are you repairing this installation, Clara? Hit a snag?"
Clara blinked.
Clara: "Huh? How did you know?"
Dan Heng pointed at two newly installed rollers.
Dan Heng: "The dimensions and wear of these two roller components look very different from the rest of the unit. You must have only just replaced them."
He traced the mechanism with his fingers.
Dan Heng: "You replaced the damaged components, but the unit isn't starting up as normal. That's what you're trying to figure out, right?"
Clara looked surprised.
Clara: "...Yeah. I've fixed a lot of things before, but I never had to repair one as complicated as this."
March groaned.
March 7th: "More fixing?"
Dan Heng looked at her.
Dan Heng: "We can't let Caelus and Mr Hayata do all the work."
March sighed dramatically.
March 7th : "Fine."
Clara looked hopeful.
Clara: "Can we really fix this?"
March rolled up her sleeves.
March 7th: "Relax, we got this. Right, Dan Heng?"
Dan Heng was already working.
Dan Heng: "...Less asking, more helping."
Together, the two adjusted the misaligned bearing, loosened the pressure assembly, and carefully repositioned the roller components.
After a few minutes—
The machine suddenly rumbled to life.
Lights flickered on across its surface.
Steam hissed through nearby pipes.
The entire installation began operating normally.
Clara's eyes lit up.
Clara: "Whoa! It lit up! Thanks guys!"
Dan Heng stepped back.
Dan Heng: "No need. We hardly lifted a finger. So, the settlement's energy supply problem is solved for the time being?"
Clara nodded enthusiastically.
Clara: "Yes. The people on the outskirts don't need to worry about heat or light now."
She looked at all of them.
Clara: "Umm..."
Caelus spoke gently.
Caelus: "We're not trying to win you over."
Clara shook her head.
Clara: "I understand. You helped a lot of injured people in the mine, and you risked going into the town for supplies. You're good people."
She hesitated.
Clara: "If there's any other way I can help you, I'll do my best! But this..."
March sighed.
March 7th: "sigh How are we gonna convince her?"
Kouga spoke first.
Kouga: "Remind her of the "present situation.""
Caelus added,
Caelus: "Point out the "variable.""
March blinked.
Then her eyes suddenly widened.
She turned to Clara.
March 7th: "The present situation is... we're here! This planet isn't doomed after all..."
She pointed at herself and the others.
March 7th: "The variable is... our arrival! No outsider's set foot in the underground for over a decade..."
March stepped closer.
March 7th: "Clara, you're observant, right? Take a look at us. Do we look like Underworlders?"
Clara looked at each of them carefully.
Clara: "Well, uhh... you do look very different from other people."
March nodded vigorously.
March 7th: "Right! That's because we're not from here. We've never been a factor in Svarog's calculations. And if those calculations are based solely on "the strength of the Underworlders," then the results don't apply to the present situation."
Dan Heng looked at Clara.
Dan Heng: "When did Svarog start doing his calculations, Clara?"
Clara: "It was... a long time ago. The same time the Underworld was sealed off, I think..."
March spread her arms.
March 7th: "Circumstances have changed since then — there's a Silvermane Guard down here now! Is that part of Svarog's calculation? Not to mention, we're—"
Caelus finished her sentence.
Caelus: "Not even from this planet!"
March pointed dramatically.
March 7th: "There's just no way that Svarog's calculations would have included variables like us, y'know?"
Clara frowned.
Clara: "Different planet...?"
She looked skeptical.
Clara: "D—Don't treat me like a child! Those are just made-up stories that grown-ups like to tell. I don't..."
Caelus answered calmly.
Caelus: "They're not made-up."
Kouga looked at Clara and added dryly,
Kouga: "And you ARE a child..."
March coughed to hide a laugh.
Bronya stepped forward.
Bronya: "Hey. Caelus and March aren't lying, Clara. I believe them."
Clara looked at her.
Clara: "Bronya, do you really..."
Bronya nodded.
Bronya: "I know how you feel, Clara. You want new hope for the underground, but you don't want anyone to get hurt in the process, right?"
She looked at Caelus, March, Dan Heng, and Kouga.
Bronya: "I also have doubts... But my gut tells me that March, Dan Heng, Kouga and Caelus... They are the new hope this world has been waiting for."
Bronya: "Let them meet Svarog, and let's see if his calculation result is any different. For you, for him... there's no harm in trying, right?"
Clara fell silent.
For several long seconds, she looked at the repaired machine, then at the people standing before her.
Finally—
Clara: "I... Okay. I'll take you to see Mr. Svarog."
March jumped excitedly.
March 7th: "Really? Awesome!"
Clara smiled faintly.
Clara: "...Mm. I understand now."
She looked down at her hands.
Clara: "Trying to change Mr. Svarog's mind on my own would take forever. Even if I kept trying until I was all grown up, I don't think I could do it."
She looked toward the settlement.
Clara: "And all the while, people would be getting sick, losing their homes, and fighting... just like in the mine."
Clara: "I don't want that to happen. If you guys really believe that you can convince Mr. Svarog... then I need to be brave too."
Clara took a deep breath.
Clara: "Everyone, follow me."
As they walked back toward Svarog's base, Seele nudged Bronya lightly.
Seele: "Bronya! I didn't know you'd stick up for us like that back there — well said!"
Bronya smiled modestly.
Bronya: "It was nothing. I just... said what I truly felt."
They returned to the gate leading to Svarog's base.
The wandering robot was still standing guard.
Clara approached it.
Clara: "...I'm back, Timmy."
The robot's lenses brightened immediately.
Wandering Robot: "Welcome back, Miss Clara."
Clara gestured toward the group.
Clara: "Timmy, open the gate please. I want to see Mr. Svarog."
The robot scanned everyone.
Wandering Robot: "Outsiders detected. Do you wish to permit access?"
Clara nodded firmly.
Clara: "It's okay. They're all my guests."
The robot processed the command.
Wandering Robot: "Command received. Access restriction terminal unlocked."
The massive gate slowly opened.
Wandering Robot: "Welcome back, Miss Clara and guests."
Clara turned toward the group.
Clara: "Uhh... If you can, please try not to upset Mr. Svarog..."
March gave a reassuring thumbs-up.
March 7th: "It's okay, Clara! We're here to reason with him."
Seele adjusted her scythe.
Seele: "I'll leave negotiations to you guys. They're not my strong point."
Bronya looked thoughtful.
Bronya: "Negotiating with robots... I can't say I've tried it before."
Dan Heng looked at Caelus.
Dan Heng: "Caelus, are you ready?"
Caelus nodded.
Caelus: "Let's go and see Svarog."
Together, they stepped through the gate and went toward Svarog Mansion.
As they went inside Svarog could be seen on the snowfield infront of the mansion
Clara stepped forward first.
Clara: "I'm back, Mr. Svarog."
Svarog turned his glowing red optics toward her.
Svarog: "I see that the energy supply system is back online. Thank you, Clara."
His gaze shifted to the people standing behind her.
Svarog: "But... why have you brought them?"
Clara clasped her hands together nervously.
Clara: "Mr. Svarog... they want to talk to you about going to the surface."
Svarog's eyes flickered rapidly.
Svarog: "Analyzing... Analysis result: Target does not belong to Wildfire. Background: Unknown. Classification: Unknown."
He paused.
Svarog: "You have arrived on Clara's recommendation. I will give you an opportunity to speak."
March immediately nudged Caelus.
March 7th: "Hey, sounds like he's willing to communicate! Quick, (Trailblazer), time to smooth-talk him!"
Caelus stepped forward calmly.
Caelus: "We're not interested in stoking conflict."
Svarog: "You seek peace, understood. Nevertheless, your statement is unilateral."
Svarog: "My position will be determined after assessing the result of our negotiation."
The giant robot remained motionless.
Svarog: "Proceed with your central point. Do not waste this world's valuable time."
March deflated.
March 7th: "He cut you off completely! This guy..."
Dan Heng spoke quietly.
Dan Heng: "Stay focused. Remember, we have to make him see that we're a variable in the calculation."
Caelus looked directly at Svarog.
Caelus: "We're here about the Stellaron."
For the first time, Svarog's posture shifted.
Svarog: "Stellaron..."
His eyes pulsed rapidly.
Svarog: "Searching database... Access denied. Discussing "Stellaron" with unauthorized targets: Prohibited."
The atmosphere in the room grew noticeably heavier.
Svarog: "You are broaching a secret that lies at the heart of this world. A secret that should remain unknown to humanity."
His optics brightened.
Svarog: "Reassessing targets... Threat index raised. I demand that you reveal your true intention."
Dan Heng narrowed his eyes.
Dan Heng: "As expected... He knows of the Stellaron, but it's a restricted topic..."
Seele folded her arms.
Seele: "We've come this far. Out with it already! Caelus, just be straight with him! Everything depends on it."
Caelus didn't hesitate.
Caelus: "We must find the Stellaron, and then..."
He took a breath.
Caelus: "We want to bring this world's disasters to a close."
Silence filled the chamber.
Svarog stood perfectly still.
Then—
Svarog: "Historical records state that humanity has already made multiple efforts to engage with the Stellaron. Without exception, these efforts have been motivated by human greed — attempts to secure the article for a selfish end."
His voice echoed through the hall.
Svarog: "As instructed by the Architects: Any attempt to engage with the Stellaron will result in grave consequences. Reassessing... Target threat index critical."
March took a nervous step backward.
March 7th: "What should we do? This is going from bad to worse!"
Caelus raised both hands.
Caelus: "Wait, we're not like those others!"
Svarog: "There is no evidence to suggest you are an exception. Calculation result remains unchanged."
A low alarm began sounding throughout the facility.
Svarog: "Peacekeeping protocol temporarily disengaged... Requesting extermination protocol launch."
March's eyes widened.
March 7th: "E—Extermination? In the literal sense?"
Dan Heng immediately summoned his spear.
Dan Heng: "Peace talks are over — March, prepare for combat!"
Clara rushed forward desperately.
Clara: "Mr. Svarog! Please, don't—"
Svarog: "Leave, Clara!"
Bronya called out to Clara protectively.
Bronya: "Clara, it's dangerous here! Find somewhere to hide!"
Seele spun her scythe into her hands.
Seele: "Tsk... looks like we have to take action after all."
Dan Heng leveled his spear.
March summoned her crystalline bow.
Bronya raised her rifle.
Caelus transformed into Ganbarider.
But before anyone moved—
Kouga raised one hand.
The others instinctively stopped.
Seele looked at him in disbelief.
Seele: "What are you doing, he is going to Exterminate us."
Kouga's voice remained calm.
Kouga: "I know, just let me do this so that both side won't suffer any damage."
White light engulfed him.
A moment later—
Kamen Rider Geats IX stood at the center of the chamber.
Svarog's eyes flashed crimson.
Svarog: "Prototype number 3, monitoring automaton Svarog, extermination protocol launch: Successful."
A dozen mechanical platforms opened across the room.
Robots emerged from every direction.
Svarog: "...Annihilation permitted!"
The entire robot army charged simultaneously.
Some rushed directly at Kouga.
Others lunged toward Seele, Bronya, Caelus, Dan Heng, and March.
They raised their weapons—
Then stopped.
Blue portals suddenly opened in front of every attacking robot.
The machines vanished into the portals.
An instant later—
They reappeared directly in front of Kouga.
March stared.
"...What?"
Kouga wasn't attacking.
He was dancing.
Almost playful.
A robot swung a chainsaw arm.
He leaned backward gracefully.
Another lunged from behind.
He spun, caught it by the shoulder, and redirected it into three more robots.
Claws, drills, and mechanical arms flew past him by millimeters.
He moved through the swarm like someone performing choreography rather than fighting.
Every motion was perfectly timed.
Perfectly controlled.
Seele could only stare.
Bronya forgot she was holding a rifle.
Dan Heng lowered his spear slightly.
March whispered,
"...That's so cool..."
Even Clara watched in amazement.
Svarog abruptly changed tactics.
Two Giant mechanical arms shot toward Kouga .
Kouga snapped his fingers.
The ground beneath the chamber trembled.
Two gigantic arms of earth and stone erupted from the floor, rising like ancient titans.
They caught Svarog's mechanical arms mid-air and locked them in place.
The metal groaned under the pressure.
Svarog paused.
Then activated his final measure.
Panels opened across his back.
Missiles.
Dozens of them.
They launched simultaneously toward Kouga.
Caelus shouted instinctively.
Caelus: "Watch Out."
Kouga simply snapped his fingers again.
A soft bell rang.
Reality itself seemed to respond.
Every missile slowed.
Softened.
Transformed into shimmering bubbles that floated harmlessly through the air.
One drifted past March.
Another Pop on Dan Heng's shoulder.
A third floated in front of Clara, reflecting the lights of the chamber like a child's toy.
Silence.
Svarog stared at the impossible scene.
His processors raced.
Nothing could explain what he had just witnessed.
Only one conclusion remained.
Svarog: "...Illogic."
He continued staring.
Svarog: "No logic can be found."
Kouga looked at him calmly.
Kouga: "Now then, Mr Svarog, what the percent chance of victory do you think you have against us"
Svarog's eyes flickered.
Calculations ran.
Again.
Again.
Again.
Every result converged.
Svarog: "Calculation complete. The chance of victory is zero."
Kouga nodded.
Kouga: "Look Mr Svarog, we're not here to cause any trouble, we just want to bring this word disaster to a close."
Svarog remained silent.
Clara slowly stepped forward.
Clara: "Mr. Svarog, you said you were willing to make all my wishes come true, right? My biggest wish right now is for everyone to work together. Like... like family."
Her voice trembled.
Clara: "Recently, I learned something new... Calculation results can't always bring people happiness."
She looked directly at Svarog.
Clara: "Even if the world outside the cage isn't beautiful... people still want to know what it's like."
Svarog stood motionless.
Then—
His eyes dimmed briefly.
Svarog: "Assessment system reset... successful. Processing variables..."
Svarog: "Variable 1: Clara's request... Variable 2: Outsiders' intentions."
A long pause followed.
Svarog: "...Updated assessment result: Transference of decision-making authority to outsiders. Outsiders are granted access to Stellaron intelligence."
March stared.
March 7th: "So... So we did it?"
Caelus looked at Kouga.
Caelus: "We don't even have to do anything thanks to Mr Hayata."
March nodded.
March 7th: "Although, if Clara hadn't been here... Svarog would never have granted us access to the intel, right? Even up until the end."
A familiar voice echoed from the entrance.
Natasha: "Oh, it's seem like you guy got it handle."
Seele turned.
Seele: "Nat? How did you..."
Another voice followed.
Sampo: "Huh, seem like we're late to the party"
Seele pointed at him accusingly.
Seele: "Sampo! I knew you'd be involved somehow..."
Svarog turned toward the newcomers.
Svarog: "Base breached. Armed Wildfire personnel detected. Assessing..."
Kouga stepped between Svarog and Natasha.
He raised one hand.
Natasha immediately lowered and holstered her grenade launcher.
Svarog processed the new information.
Svarog: "...Re-Updated assessment result: Transference of decision-making authority to outsiders. Outsiders are granted access to Stellaron intelligence."
Kouga exhaled quietly.
Dan Heng: "I hope his memory bank really does contain data on the Stellaron."
Seele looked around the room.
Seele: "Is this it, Nat? Us, Wildfire, the Underworld... Did... did we win?"
Natasha shook her head gently.
Natasha: "No, Seele."
She looked toward the path leading upward.
Natasha: "Our battle... their battle... it's just beginning."
Bronya stood silently.
Bronya: "Finally... We finally made it to this point."
Seele glanced at her.
Seele: "...What's up, nervous?"
Bronya placed a hand over her chest.
Bronya: "No, but... I do have an aching feeling in my chest."
Caelus looked at her gently.
Caelus: "The truth can be heartbreaking."
Bronya nodded.
Bronya: "...I'm ready, Caelus. Reveal the truth. I'm listening."
Caelus stepped toward Svarog.
Svarog: "I have finished collating the Stellaron data and records. Do you wish to proceed, outsiders?"
Caelus: "Let's have it."
Svarog's eyes projected a large digital display into the air.
Svarog: "Requesting database materials cache. Serial number, 13175. Encryption level: Highest."
Svarog: "Request approved. Transmission..."
The screen lit up.
Two figures appeared.
An elderly woman wearing the mantle of the Supreme Guardian.
A weary researcher standing before her.
Voice of Researcher: "...This is the fruit of many years of research, Madam Guardian. The evidence is irrefutable: This so-called "Stellaron" is the source of all the destruction."
Old Guardian: "The people will struggle to accept this conclusion, doctor. If we were to tell them that the almighty Alisa Rand activated this thing and triggered the Eternal Freeze..."
Voice of Researcher: "It's the truth, madam... The truth won't change with the opinions of the people. The reports before you are the precious result of painstaking effort on the part of Belobog's greatest scholars. You must trust the weight of its conclusion..."
Old Guardian: "...I have never doubted you, doctor. On the contrary, I am resolute in the face of this conclusion."
Her expression darkened.
Old Guardian: "From the moment I took up this mantle, that voice... their voice — has made its home in my mind. I cannot shake them."
She looked away.
Old Guardian: "...I shouldn't be telling you this — let's return to your research, doctor. I'm afraid I cannot make these reports known to the public. Unless..."
Voice of Researcher: "Unless? Unless what? Please proceed, madam..."
Voice of Guardian: "...Unless you have found a way to completely destroy the Stellaron."
Voice of Researcher: "I understand. In the name of Preservation... I will fulfill this mission."
The recording ended.
Svarog: "Cache number 13175, transmission complete. Next transmission: Cache number 24830."
The screen changed.
A younger researcher and an older, sickly scholar appeared.
Young Researcher: "...I don't understand, doctor. Why do we have to hide such valuable research results away? They're the work of a lifetime..."
Old Researcher: "coughing Y—You're still young, child. There will come a day... a day when you do understand."
Old Researcher: "The Supreme Guardian... sh—she sees further than you or I. All her decisions are for the security of Belobog..."
Young Researcher: "I just think... it's a shame. Our research has hit an obstacle. Meanwhile, your results will be buried in the snow..."
Old Researcher: "coughing Don't be upset, child. You still have lots of time ahead of you. When you find a way to destroy — coughing — destroy the Stellaron... our efforts will have been worth it."
The recording faded.
Svarog: "Cache number 24830, transmission complete. Next transmission: Cache number 57614."
The screen changed again.
A younger Supreme Guardian entered an old laboratory.
A dormant robot stood silently nearby.
Young Guardian: "...This is... Why is there a robot here?"
Guardian's Bodyguard: "During his life, this was Dr. Mearsheimer's personal robot bodyguard. I heard it's a prototype from the great war."
Guardian's Bodyguard: "Since the doctor and his assistants passed away, it's remained here. It hasn't moved an inch."
Young Guardian: "Oh... I see. Let's start. We must unearth the doctor's research conclusions — all of them."
The bodyguard returned carrying a stack of documents.
Guardian's Bodyguard: "Madam Guardian, I've found them... All the documents are here."
Young Guardian: "Mm... good. That'll do."
The bodyguard looked toward the robot.
Guardian's Bodyguard: "Madam Guardian, what should we do with the robot?"
The young guardian looked at it quietly.
Young Guardian: "Ah... It would seem a great waste to destroy it. Find someone to reset its system and then arrange for it to be sent to the Underworld. I hear that the development group is in need of a robot with defense capabilities."
Guardian's Bodyguard: "Yes, madam."
She looked back at the hidden research.
Young Guardian: "I'm sorry, doctor... but these results must be taken care of by the Architects."
Young Guardian: "One day, somebody will be able to carry out your behest."
The final recording ended.
Svarog: "Cache number 57614, transmission complete. Concluding data transmission."
The chamber fell silent.
March was the first to speak.
March 7th: "...So the truth is clear now, right?"
Bronya stood frozen.
Caelus looked at the darkened screen.
Caelus: "They were looking for a way to destroy the Stellaron..."
Dan Heng nodded.
Dan Heng: "And it would appear that they never succeeded."
Bronya didn't move.
March looked at her.
March 7th: "Bronya? Are you okay?"
Bronya's voice was barely audible.
Bronya: "...I'm fine. I just... feel a little faint."
Caelus looked at her gently.
Caelus: "This must be a lot to take in for you."
Bronya whispered,
Bronya: "Why...? Why, mother...? M—Maybe she wasn't aware, maybe she..."
Seele looked at her sadly.
Seele: "...I'm sorry. It's no use lying to yourself, Bronya. It's time for you to make a decision."
Bronya suddenly remembered something.
Her eyes widened.
She turned sharply toward Caelus.
Bronya: "Caelus, you once told me that mother was being influenced by this stellaron."
She rushed over and grabbed both of his shoulders tightly.
Bronya: "Please tell me, is this the Truth."
Seele stepped forward.
Seele: "Bronya..."
She tried to stop her.
Caelus answered honestly.
Caelus: "I mean yeah, i did told you about that before, Cocolia seem to be manipulated by the Stellaron due to her desire to save her people."
Seele frowned.
Seele: "Caelus, you don't have lie."
Caelus looked at her.
Caelus: "But it isn't a lie, it's the truth the stellaron was twisting her desire for a better world."
Bronya stared at him.
For a heartbeat, she simply stood there.
Then her strength gave out.
She fell to her knees.
Tears poured freely down her face.
Her shoulders trembled violently as years of fear, doubt, and guilt broke all at once.
Bronya: "T-Thank goodness..."
She covered her face with both hands.
Bronya: "T-Thank goodness... Thank goodness..."
Her voice cracked through her sobs.
Bronya: "Mother... Mother was being manipulated by the Stellaron..."
She bowed her head.
Bronya: "She wasn't... she wasn't completely lost..."
Bronya: "Thank goodness..."
Kouga watched quietly before speaking.
Kouga: "However, despite being a victim, Cocolia still have to answer for all the stuff she did despite being influenced by the stellaron."
Bronya looked up anxiously.
Kouga noticed immediately.
His voice softened.
Kouga: "Don't worried, it's not death sentence or torture or anything like that, but she must do her best to atone for all the thing she did."
Bronya exhaled slowly.
The fear in her eyes eased.
She gave a small, grateful nod.
Seele gently helped Bronya to her feet and led her a short distance away, giving her space to breathe.
Caelus looked at Kouga.
Caelus: "That's pretty kind of you, mr Hayata."
Kouga folded his arms.
Kouga: "Cocolia was manipulated by the stellaron after all, i think giving her a second chance to redeem herself is a good choice."
Caelus nodded.
Natasha approached them.
Natasha: "...Caelus, Kouga, can I have a word with you? I know that we'll need time to process this new information, but we have to decide on our next plan as soon as possible."
She looked toward the distant Furnace Core.
Natasha: "The Furnace Core... The path to the surface is close at hand now."
She smiled faintly.
Natasha: "Thank you, Caelus, Kouga. What you've done has brought new hope to the Underworld. Now we have to wait and see... But maybe this will lead to a new lease on life."
Kouga nodded.
Kouga: "Just doing what need to be done."
Caelus smiled.
Caelus: "We're willing to lend a hand when needed."
Natasha looked at both of them warmly.
Natasha: "As Wildfire's leader, I couldn't simply look on while you fought on our behalf. We had to come help."
March blinked.
March 7th: "Huh...? Huh!? So, you're the real chief? Wh—What about Oleg?"
Natasha laughed softly.
Natasha: "Oleg has always acted on my behalf — he helps me deal with all manner of problems in the Underworld."
She looked toward the people outside the base.
Natasha: "Thanks to him, I'm able to make time for the people. I do my best to make sure that they have everything they need... At the same time, I was formulating a plan to deal with Svarog."
She smiled.
Natasha: "Your arrival unraveled that carefully crafted yet rudimentary plan, hehe... and for that, you have my utmost thanks."
Caelus suddenly struck a dramatic pose.
Caelus: "You're welcome, all in a day's work for a hero."
Thonk.
Kouga lightly smacked the back of Caelus's head.
Caelus rubbed it sheepishly.
Natasha chuckled.
Natasha: "When the Underworld recovers its freedom, the people will indeed extol you as heroes."
Her expression became serious again.
Natasha: "However, even though Svarog is no longer sealing off the Furnace Core, there's no way that we undergrounders could go pouring onto the surface."
She looked toward Bronya.
Natasha: "That cold-blooded supreme guardian has used lies and tricks to keep the surface separated from the underground. If she detects any change in the Underworld, I don't know what she might resort to..."
She crossed her arms.
Natasha: "As for Wildfire, we need more time to build up our strength."
Caelus looked at her.
Caelus: "With things as they are, you want to take a back seat?"
Natasha shook her head.
Natasha: "No, but we need to wait for the opportune moment. In the meantime, I'm sending someone I trust to go with you."
March smiled knowingly.
March 7th: "Seele..."
Natasha nodded.
Natasha: "Didn't she tell you? In private, she insisted on accompanying you."
She looked at Seele, who was quietly speaking with Bronya nearby.
Natasha: "Don't let her carefree nature fool you — she's actually very discerning, and can read a situation like no one else."
Natasha: "Seele is a talented scout and a quick thinker — she takes decisive action. She'll definitely be able to help you. Not to mention... you also have Bronya now."
Caelus glanced toward Bronya.
Caelus: "She got a big shock."
Natasha nodded gently.
Natasha: "You're right, but with Seele by her side, I know she'll recover."
She looked at Caelus with concern.
Natasha: "Caelus, when's the last time you got some rest? I heard that you've been on your feet looking for Svarog since Rivet Town."
Her tone became firm.
Natasha: "Health is everything — you won't be much use if you neglect yours. Let Wildfire take care of the Furnace Core for now. You head back and recuperate."
She smiled softly.
Natasha: "If you're lucky... perhaps tomorrow you can return to the Overworld."