02.07.1642

The Southeast Military Base

19:24

In the meantime, RY4N looks to be searching for his brother around the hallway as he seems to have known that He was somewhere with LUK3, a reason why he is walking towards him right now. Yet by doing so, he finds LUK3 alongside N04H who were talking to each other, while CHE5TER is nowhere to be found. So, he begins to talk to him to get some answers.

[RY4N]-LUK3!

[LUK3]-Huh? Oh, hey, RY4N! What's up?

[RY4N]-I was wondering if you know where CHE5TER is? I remember the last time I've seen him, he said he is going to discuss with you something.

[LUK3]-Oh, yeah! We've just talked a few minutes ago! I believe He went in His office now, so don't worry, alright? He just wanted to show N04H something on his equipment 'cause He improved it yesterday after he said it has some issues and talked with me about a thing regarding my father.

[RY4N]-Really? What was the issue?

[LUK3]-Mmm... Nothing serious actually. It's just that N04H didn't find it so comfortable the way it works and so. I mean, he still needs to train and all...

[N04H]-I'm more disappointed in the mission rather than the the equipment, LUK3.

[LUK3]-Yeah, but He told you already that it's possible to do it in vain after all! At least you managed to take part in a mission and have a small training in a real experience! You should be grateful, I don't know when we will be able to convince Him again!

[N04H]-I know, but I don't like that the quest really gave us nothing in return! We've just wasted time, that's all!

[LUK3]-I mean, you think all the missions are exciting and all? I have missions in which I wasted my time as well! You have to get used to it!

While they argue, RY4N intervenes so he can take his leave.

[RY4N]-So... you say he is in his office right now?

[LUK3]-Mhm! But I believe He will leave soon, so if you have something to tell Him, you better hurry.

[RY4N]-Leave? Leave where?

[LUK3]-Umm... He said something yesterday that He has some work around the City of Above today. I don't know much more than this. You can ask Him if you want, but knowing Him, I don't how much of an information you will get.

[RY4N]-Alright... Thank you, LUK3.

[LUK3]-No problem, man! Come on, N04H! We have training to do.

[N04H]-Yeah, like in every single day...

LUK3 and N04H leave towards the training ground, while RY4N goes the opposite direction towards the Great Leader's office. As he enters the room, he notices his brother preparing Himself for His leaving as said, rather rushed and stressed.

[RY4N]-CHE5TER?

[CHE5TER]-Hm? What is it? Is there any problem?

[RY4N]-No, no, but... LUK3 said that you are going to leave in the City of Above, right?

[CHE5TER]-Right...? What's up with that? Yeah, I forgot to tell you yesterday and all, I guess it's my fault here, but I really don't have time for any arguing right now, RY4N.

[RY4N]-I'm not blaming you, CHE5TER. And I'm not trying to argue with you. I've never tried! I just don't understand what's happening. Why are you going in the City of Above all of a sudden?

So, CHE5TER stops moving chaotically and searches for something in His pockets, being the advertise card of the strip club given by the crevaator, which He later throws at RY4N to catch.

[CHE5TER]-Here. Your answer.

RY4N then looks at the small card, before he too notices what the card is advertising and gets confused as hell.

[RY4N]-...A strip club?

[CHE5TER]-Mhm.

He observe it one more time as he really doesn't understand what's up with it, while the Great Leader continues to prepare His equipment for the City of Above. Even so, after he took his time to analyse the small card, he began to mess around with the ruler.

[RY4N]-Hmph... I didn't know you are into this type of stuff...

As a consequence, CHE5TER then rolls His eyes and gets annoyed by the answer given, taking a small break again and looking back at His brother.

[CHE5TER]-Oh, dear heav... I'm not into this stuff, okay!? I have some work around there for a while. I just... think I might have to meet up with someone...

[RY4N]-How come?

[CHE5TER]-*sigh* Alright... Remember when I met up with a crevaator and you caught me, right? After that, we went in the City of Above and... well... you know the rest of the story already.

[RY4N]-Okay...? So what does this have to do with the club?

[CHE5TER]-Well, after you left, I got that information from the crevaator about the demons which I told you about and all, but also got this advertise card from a person which he encountered when he went in the city. Yes, I got it, not him. You heard it right. But he didn't know the name of the person he got it from or why. He simply said it was a woman who was doing some advertising for the club.

[RY4N]-So what makes you think you have to meet up with someone? He said she was doing some advertising, right? Maybe you are overthinking it too much.

[CHE5TER]-Maybe... But the way he explained it... He said that the woman emphasised a sentence which got my attention, and I might know who that person is which really wanted to see me.

[RY4N]-Really? Who is it?

But CHE5TER doesn't respond. He just looks straight in RY4N's eyes with such expression of hatred, and he too understands in a moment who is this person He talks about.

[RY4N]-...How are you so sure it's him?

[CHE5TER]-Just a thought... But I have to go and confirm it on my own. If it really wasn't him and I got fooled, I might as well just find that crevaator and make sure he won't fool me ever again.

[RY4N]-So... How long do you think you will stay up there?

[CHE5TER]-I don't know... Knowing him, I might as well lose the whole day. If I don't come back until 41:00, don't get yourself worried about me. I'm saying just so you won't start calling me every five minutes.

[RY4N]-Are you sure you don't want me to come with you? You used to tell me how much you hate going and confronting him alone, remember? Maybe I can pay him a visit as well so you won't feel like I left you be fooled by him again.

[CHE5TER]-No. You stay at the base, RY4N. We can't leave at the same time for a long period of time and let the base on its own. Either the Leader or the Great Leader have to stay and make sure everything is fine. Come on, RY4N, we've already discussed about this! Besides, if you come as well, he might waste even more of our time. It's better if I go alone. Who knows what he wants to tell me...

[RY4N]-Alright... I will do as you say, Ches. Just be careful, okay?

[CHE5TER]-I guarantee you, nothing bad will happen, alright? Don't worry. I will be careful. Just a visit, eventually as quick as possible, and then come back to do my duty. If anybody asks, I'm out with some work.

[RY4N]-Okay, okay...

They both pause for a while, as CHE5TER starts preparing everything for His leave, again, before RY4N talks once more.

[RY4N]-Oh, CHESTER, one more thing...

[CHE5TER]-What is it?

[RY4N]-So... I suppose I shouldn't tell MY4 where you're going or...?

[CHE5TER]-*sigh* Are you serious, RY4N? You think I have time for you to fool around with me right now?

[RY4N]-Hahah, I'm just joking, Brother! Don't take it personally! I won't tell her anything, I promise!

[CHE5TER]-You better not... I don't want to start arguing with her as well because of the most stupid reason ever.

[RY4N]-From when do you think her that way, Ches? I thought you both trust each other no matter the case.

[CHE5TER]-I just don't want her to make some wrong thoughts all of a sudden and feel like shit, okay!? Just keep your mouth shut and let me do my work! Don't tell anybody about this!

[RY4N]-Heh, okay, okay! Good luck in finding who you want then, Ches! If you come with somebody else, don't ask for my help while talking with her about this.

[CHE5TER]-Oh, dear M1NERV4, have mercy on me...

CHE5TER then leaves in a hurry, pissed off, as He takes the small card back from His brother's hands, while RY4N just laughs about the situation, waving at Him as a goodbye. Yet he remains behind as he watches his brother leave, still smirking a bit, but this time, he seems a bit more serious.

[RY4N]-...So, a club that encourages sinful behaviour, hm? Jokes aside, your fate is very interesting indeed. I wonder where will it take you in the future.

The City of Above

20:04

CHE5TER seems to be disguised in that costume of an R born again, walking around the city to find the club He needs. But He is a bit lost, 'cause all the buildings He knows about in this city are the ones in which He had to work throughout His life. He had asked a few people around, but none of them seemed as they wanted to talk with someone like Him. At some point, He really got pissed off about the situation and almost gave up, until He saw one of the soldiers wandering around. More exactly, the same soldier He annoyed with RY4N present, Sergeant ZAF4R. And knowing that soldiers are aware of every building, why not try to annoy him again?

["BENJ4M1N"]-Oh, excuse me, Mr. ZAF4R! Greetings!

[ZAF4R]-Oh, not you again...

["BENJ4M1N"]-I hope you have a wonderful day and all, but I was wondering if y--

[ZAF4R]- --Look. I don't want to waste my time and you don't want to get in trouble. So why don't you do both of us a favour and leave me alone? ...Where is your little guy anyway? He lost you already?

["BENJ4M1N"]-Oh? Why are you so cold with me today, ZAF4R? RY4N is away trying to get some money, so I came alone. I'm on my own, nobody lost me. But I just wanted to ask you something, that's all.

[ZAF4R]-*sigh* Just say already what do you want so you can leave me alone sooner...

["BENJ4M1N"]-I was just wondering if you know where this club is, if you do not mind. Since you are a soldier and must know every corner of this city, I thought of asking you for some guidance. So? What do you think? Can you help me out?

CHE5TER shows the card to the soldier, which then takes it annoyed in his hands and analyses it before he gets disgusted.

[ZAF4R]-Wha... Are you drunk again, Mr. BENJ4M1N!? From when do you exactly have started going to such clubs??

["BENJ4M1N"]-Huh? What's the matter? How does it affect you in any way? I just asked a question.

[ZAF4R]-So you are telling me that you sent Mr. RY4N to work and get money so he can treat you, while you are here doing this type of stuff?? Are you kidding me!? What's in your mind, BENJ4M1N??

["BENJ4M1N"]-And I will ask you once again: In which way does this affect you?

The soldier is pissed a little, but he doesn't seem as he wants to hurt Him or anything yet, so he tries to calm down.

[ZAF4R]-...You are mentally ill, Mr. BENJ4M1N. Did you know that? Your problem is not your illness, but your insanity. You have no dignity putting a child at work just for you to take advantage of him...

["BENJ4M1N"]-Why, thank you, ZAF4R. But if I get my answer faster, you get rid of me sooner, you know? So...?

They both look straight in each other's eyes, yet ZAF4R gives up in the end.

[ZAF4R]-*sigh*...Go straight this street for about two kilometers and a half, then take right. You will find it easily after.

["BENJ4M1N"]-I see... Alright, I really appreciate your help a lot! I owe you on this one!

[ZAF4R]-Oh, yeah!? Then do me a favour and tell RY4N to let you die! You probably make his life a living Hell from what you're telling me!

["BENJ4M1N"]-Oh? Oh, okay! Have a safe schedule!

CHE5TER then leaves and starts searching for the club, but as He gets a bit further in order for the soldier to not hear Him, He starts whispering to Himself.

["BENJ4M1N"]-...You son of a bitch, what's so hard to answer a damn question and not give a shit about others' business? Hope you burn in Hell once this is over...

He has walked for quite a while, until He finally found the club. Though He had something to solve here, He really didn't want to enter. But He had to if He wanted to get this done for once and for all, so He did it after all.

As He enters, His vibe lowered so badly because of how the environment was around Him. Some people were on the floor, drunker than anybody He could think of, other people were gambling, others were watching the prostitutes dancing or even paying them to have some intimate time in one of the available small booths. Even if in our world most of such clubs deny the guests to even touch the dancers, here the situation is even worse than the idea behind these buildings. They allow everyone to do whatever they want as long as they pay, even if it consists in the dancers to get into an intimate time with the guests. Of course, they have boundaries, such as not allowing violence towards the dancers or allowing the dancers themselves to still have consent on what they are doing, letting them decide whenever they want whether to satisfy the client or not, but it is still such a place full of sins for the culture of the underground.

This is the culture of the City of Above after all. And as we can all see... not everyone likes it that much. People come here to get rid of their stresses, but also waste money on the most stupid ways possible since they do not care. If the way of the Underground City to get relaxed is a simple drink with friends around, then in this city, this is the way of doing it. Cultures being on the complete opposite side, for short.

He really dislikes the way everyone acts around here for sure, and what He disliked more was that one of the prostitutes came to Him so she can serve Him with a drink.

[ANUV4]-Oh, my... Well, hello there, my dear~ Say... do you have any desire in mind that made you come here? You can tell me anything~

["BENJ4M1N"]-I simply want to discuss with the barman. I'm afraid that I do not have the time to please you.

[ANUV4]-Oh, what a pity... Here! Have some of our drinks as a little taste~ On the house, of course...

["BENJ4M1N"]-Thank you, but I must refuse. I'm here to simply solve something.

[ANUV4]-Oh, dear, but I know... I can see it in your eyes... Bright as the suns themselves, yet so deep like a dark void... You know... I can make all your wishes come true... All you need to do is to call my name~

["BENJ4M1N"]-Thank you for the advice.

And with that sentence, He simply leaves her behind and goes towards the barman. Yet the woman doesn't seem as she wants to let go of her eyes on Him, almost as if she expected Him to come. He then sits down on one of the chairs and looks at the barman that was occupied with some orders, but still welcomed the new customer.

[Barman]-Say the drink and I make your wish come true, buddy. Come, don't be shy! I have anything you wish for. Come!

["BENJ4M1N"]-...Anything?

[Barman]-Of course! Just say it and I give it to you, no matter the order.

["BENJ4M1N"]-Alright then...

He stops for a while, as the barman looks behind to take a glass. Yet the moment He opens His mouth, the barman gets in shock.

["BENJ4M1N"]-...How about a small conversation with someone that might work here?

[Barman]-...Oh? And who might that be?

He then gets the small advertise card from one of His pockets and shows it to the barman.

["BENJ4M1N"]-...I'll get straight to the point. I'm coming from the order of someone called "Young LENKOV", who says that He has been informed about a potential man which used to know Him that now stands somewhere around this club's property. Mr. LENKOV informed me that someone who works at this club has sent Him one of your cards, more precisely this one, through one of His people, and that someone seemed like she knew who He is. Could you help me on this regard?

[Barman]-Oh, this type of serving you want, huh? I'm afraid that if you want to speak to the Manager of this club, he won't be available for the next few days. You can try again on another time, or you can stay and enjoy everything we offer you at this club now. I'm sorry, buddy.

He looks down in disappointment, then takes a deep breath and gets ready to get up and leave.

["BENJ4M1N"]-*sigh* Alright... I understand. Thank you for the information.

Yet, as He tries to get up from His seat, the woman returns to Him so she won't let Him leave just yet.

[ANUV4]-Oh? Leaving already, dear...? Oh, but you didn't even manage to feel relaxed and let... the stress... out... You cannot leave so quickly without even a small drink~ Come... So that you won't say you left empty-handed...

["BENJ4M1N"]-Look... Miss... I really don't think I ha--

[Barman]- --Mm-mhmm...

But the barman made a small sound to attract CHE5TER's attention, and he succeeded. When the ruler looked back at him, he made a small gesture with his head like a "follow her" command, enough for Him to understand what is happening. As a respond, He gives Him a smirk and a quick nod, then leaves in the end with the woman.

The woman takes Him into one of the booths, yet CHE5TER gets a bit disappointed or rather annoyed that He has to enter it as well. But, He does so in hope He will get His answer in the end. When He enters, the woman was waiting for Him, standing on a lower platform as a seat and makes a sign with her hand for Him to sit down.

As He does so, the woman gets up and looks a bit at Him, analysing this strange man that stands in front of her.

[ANUV4]-Dear, you look so tensed... You know... I hate when people are tensed up and cannot enjoy the beauty of... life... So... why don't you tell me what makes you this way, hm...?

["BENJ4M1N"]-Oh? Well, there are so many reasons that I might even start to bore you.

[ANUV4]-Really? Then how about... we get rid of all your stress first...

She leans down slowly, looking straight in His eyes, yet CHE5TER seems to get more pissed off by each second.

[ANUV4]-So... dear... what does this Young LENKOV want?

["BENJ4M1N"]-I'm afraid that's confidential, Miss. I'm only here to get the work done.

She then leans her head a bit to the right, getting closer to His ear this time.

[ANUV4]-Oh, what a pity... I might have a lot of ways to solve His problems... as well as I have for you~ Tell me... are you taken by any chance...?

["BENJ4M1N"]-Yes. I am taken.

[ANUV4]-Oh, but of course... the finest gentlemen I meet... are already taken... And I am left to suffer... alone... in this cruel world... My dear... how do you please an upset woman like myself...?

["BENJ4M1N"]-Mmm...

He then gets up from His seat, where He looks down at the woman, who was waiting for Him to do something. In the end, He takes her by both of her arms with His left hand, raises them and sticks them to the wall, making her stay in a vulnerable position. He looks straight in her eyes, with a softer expression.

["BENJ4M1N"]-...I guess all I can do for you now is to whisper what I want...

[ANUV4]-Mm... And is this thing you want so badly, dear...?

He then gets closer to her ear, closing His eyes, making it look like He wants to bite her by the neck. Yet, His intentions are... different. With a more serious expression, He whispers to her ear.

["BENJ4M1N"]-...Tell me where the fuck is that man already and stop wasting my time.

He then makes one step back after when He is done saying His wish, letting go of her hands, looking mad at her and done with her bullshit. Yet the woman only smiles, pleased, looking at Him straight in the eyes.

[ANUV4]-You are a loyal one... I respect that~ Oh, what a pity... What a lucky girl she might be... Oh, but I would have truly loved if we've stayed together for just a little... longer...

The woman then puts her hand on the wall, while still looking at the man in front of her. In just a matter of a few seconds, a door is finally open, in which the woman points at for Him to enter. It looks like an elevator, given that it has buttons that work as floors and so. Yet He doesn't even say a goodbye, as He enters the door right away, waiting to leave.

[ANUV4]-But just know that... if you need anything... I can always come to please all your desires, my dear~

She presses a button in the small elevator, which is more like a platform attached to the walls in a way that lets it go up and down, no cabin like ours, then she gets her arm out fast enough before the door closes. CHE5TER just gives her a nod as a goodbye, before finally not seeing her for the next... few minutes? Hours? He takes a deep breath now that He is alone, mad about the situation, as He takes a cigarette out if His pocket and His lighter, starting to smoke right away.

21:12

And it seems like now we stand in a room, in which its walls are what they seem to be screens, with an image of their "water" as if the room is placed under a river. A small illusion of the room to make it look better, but also providing the room with light. In it, a figure seems to be standing on a chair, with his back towards the entrance of the elevator, from which CHE5TER finally exists.

[??]-So... you come from Young LENKOV's order, huh? I must say, it took you a while, but it truly deserved its waiting for that show, hahah... Oh, my dear ANUV4 really did a pretty good job, didn't she?

["BENJ4M1N"]-*sigh* Of course you were the one who put her to act like that around me...

[??]-Oh, but of course. Is there anybody else besides me who would do such thing after all? It was a fine entertainment show, and I knew I can count on her to make it happen.

["BENJ4M1N"]-Hmph...

[??]-By the way... may I ask how did you know exactly that I'm here?

["BENJ4M1N"]-...The word "steal" sure defines your character pretty well, especially when it comes to my time. Don't you think the same?

[??]-Heheheh... So you liked the show as well.

["BENJ4M1N"]-Oh, indeed... Especially when I had to endure your people's bullshit and start playing a role myself. I think I'm getting pretty good at becoming any person I want, am I not?

[??]-Hmm... Maybe... But now that we are done playing roles, how about you take off that disguise of yours so I can see my beloved little boy that I've been waiting to meet again for so long, hm?

So, CHE5TER does as he said, taking the disguise off and finally remaining in His true character. And then, the figure, either an M born or an R born with white hair and green eyes, with his skin a bit darker, and a few black highlights from his natural hair colour, turns back to finally see the little boy...

[??]-Heheheh... Welcome back, CHE5... Huh?

...that has died years ago. He gets surprised to see an emotionless young man, with half of His face covered by a scar, now looking at him straight in the eyes, almost as if He wanted to kill him.

[CHE5TER]-...Greetings to you too, Master AL7AN. Long time, no see, hm?

[AL7AN]-...W-What happened t--

[CHE5TER]- --So? A strip club, hm? That's what the almighty Leader of the Southeast Base has done after his retirement? Hide under such a pitiful environment, waiting for his beloved disciple to come back to him, thinking that the boy will have mercy on him? What a shame...

Yet even if His master has a lot of questions himself, he gets back in his character and starts talking again.

[AL7AN]-...But of course. After all, this is the most efficient way of manipulating people's minds, isn't it? Make them vulnerable enough until they tell you even their darkest secrets hidden deep in their hearts.

[CHE5TER]-Oh, so manipulation is still your business, hm? You didn't change that much from the last day I saw you... when you left the base behind when we needed a ruler the most. I must say... curiosity kills me... Why did you decide to retire so suddenly?

CHE5TER is almost killing His own master just by looking at him. Even His master now fears the man that He has become.

[CHE5TER]-What? No Answer? I thought that Master AL7AN has an answer to each question that little CHE5TER has. How come that has changed?

[AL7AN]-Hmph... I have a question for you myself. Are you truly the same CHE5TER we are talking about here? Because you don't seem like him at all.

[CHE5TER]-It's obvious I don't seem like him. Little CHE5TER that you once knew died a while ago. But of course you wouldn't know that since you didn't give us any kind of sign in the last eight years. The only sign you gave me was just a few days ago, which didn't even come from you. So? You dare asking me any more questions? Or shall I continue my business here so I can go back to my duty as Great Leader and Leader of the Southeast Base?

The former Leader looks down, a bit unhappy, yet he closes his eyes and smirks, before he finally starts talking once more.

[AL7AN]-...Heh, you've changed, little one. And it's true... I wanted you to change. Yet I never imagined it will be a bit worse than I've imagined you to be... Alright then. Go on. Ask me any questions you want. I will do you any favour just for the sake of this long awaited reunion.

[CHE5TER]-Favour for the sake of the reunion... Pfft, what a bullshit. You wanted me to change because you saw me as a killing machine that you can manipulate. Guess what? That killing machine cannot be controlled. You have no power over me anymore. So tell me, what's the reason you retired when the base needed you the most? When I needed YOU the most?

[AL7AN]-But I didn't see you as a machine, CHE5TER. I wanted you to become a true ruler, someone that doesn't let Himself being stepped on just because of a problem that He cannot solve. I've succeeded, yet that ruler seems to be a bit more merciless than I thought He would.

[CHE5TER]-Answer my question already, Mr. AL7AN. Stop wasting my time.

[AL7AN]-Oh, but I told you the answer when I left already. There was no need of old AL7AN here to remain in the city after your father's death. I only stood with you two more years so you have the chance to learn how to be a Leader.

[CHE5TER]-No need? You're kidding me, right? I became the Great Leader exactly after my father's death. You were the one who chose me, remember?? You should have known that I couldn't take the Leader role as well at the same time! I've made a deal with my brother, RY4N, that when I decide he is ready, he will take my role as Leader of the Southeast Base. All of this could've been avoided if you remained in the city and still worked around the Council! You've put too much pressure on a young child just to "make him a great ruler"?

[AL7AN]-But does it look like I had to remain?

[CHE5TER]-What do you mean?

[AL7AN]-Look at the current state of the base, CHE5TER. Does it seem like it has gone numb? I've heard a lot around the city from my people about what the Southeast Base has been doing lately. It doesn't seem like you had any problems in being their ruler at the same time. And I must say, the story of the so-called "Seven Two" is truly fascinating... Not only you are the Great Leader and the boss of an entire military base, but you are also a feared criminal in the City of Above. It doesn't seem to me that you need any help from me from what I hear.

[CHE5TER]-Oh, yeah? But did it really have a reason this retirement, or your leaving from the entire city? Or you didn't want to admit that you are a coward who has given up the moment the former ruler died?

[AL7AN]-Oh, but it had, dear CHE5TER. I've planned this retirement even before the sudden death of your father. I put one of my people from the above to buy the club a few years before and renovate it, so that when I retire, I will hide here and provide your father with useful information from the inside. It's just so happened that a small inconvenience has destroyed the initial plans.

[CHE5TER]-So you are not afraid that the soldiers might find you here? After all, you are one of the convicted, Mr. Former-M-Thief.

[AL7AN]-Let them find me, I do not care. If they find my hiding spot, I have already planned everything with my people. I have no worries about that small inconvenience.

[CHE5TER]-Okay then... I guess I have only one more perplexity left without an answer.

[AL7AN]-Oh? This fast? How about "What have you done these past eight years" or "Did you miss the Underground City"?

[CHE5TER]-If I had to start with this bullshit, I know I won't get back to my work any sooner. Shouldn't we leave this type of conversation for another visit?

[AL7AN]-Oh, but I missed talking with my dear disciple, Ches... Why did you become so cruel to your own master all of a sudden? I'm sure you have a lot to talk about with me, like how is RY4N doing? Or how have the Council's problems progressed?

[CHE5TER]-RY4N is doing very well, thank you very much for checking after so many years of not even contacting us. And the Council has been the same as ever. Anything else?

[AL7AN]-Anything else...? Hmm... How about that scar of yours, little one? I don't remember you having such a thing before. How come?

[CHE5TER]-Oh, I get it... So now you got interested in how we have been because of my scar? It took you eight years and a wound to give a shit about us again? If you are asking about what happened to the little CHE5TER you once knew, then I should be able to ask what happened to the old master I had? Which checked on us after the whole incident with my father?

[AL7AN]-Don't make it sound like I really didn't give a damn. I trusted you and your brother's powers of protecting the city after all. The more I heard about the Southeast Base from my people, the more I realised that it was a fine decision for me to leave. The only problem that got my attention was a month ago, when I heard about the criminal Seven Two being possibly dead. So when one my people finally heard the name "Young LENKOV" again, I had to put them and invite you here so we can discuss. I did think for a whole month that you might have actually put an end to your own life since I didn't hear anything from the name LENKOV from that day on.

[CHE5TER]-So that's why you wanted me to come? Because you heard a rumour about Seven Two who got into a chase? You are not the only one, you know? If I got a coin every time I heard this information in the last few days, heck, I would've had around 9.000 Verha already! Even RY4N had the same thought as you.

[AL7AN]-Oh? So is there a story behind this whole incident of His death? What say you tell me about it? It sounds interesting enough.

[CHE5TER]-But do I want to tell you, though? I've informed you already that I have to go back to my duty as soon as possible. If you do not remember, I have a city to protect, while you hide here, waiting for your conviction to be forgotten.

[AL7AN]-Oh, but please. Do not leave so quickly yet. I have so many things that I want to tell you. You said you have one more question for me, right? Enlighten me! What is this perplexity that bothers you, little ruler?

CHE5TER looks again at His old master, before He takes a deep breath and starts talking again.

[CHE5TER]-...I want you to tell me why exactly did you want me to come here. No more tricks of yours. Tell me, what's this secret I see in your eyes?

His master stops and admires this man that stands in front of him. All he can do is smile and give Him his answer.

[AL7AN]-...You've grown up pretty quickly. You are so mature that it even scares me now, hm? Alright then. I will tell you what's the deal. Just one question for you, then I give you my answer. Come here.

He is a bit pissed by this response, but He comes closer to the man that was simply sitting on that chair, and in front of him standing a small desk.

[AL7AN]-...How do you exactly know that I have something important to tell you, if you don't mind answering? Maybe I just wanted to see you after a long time. What makes you think it this way?

[CHE5TER]-...I know you too well for it to be just a small conversation on how I've been doing lately. No matter how much you liked to play with my brain when I was younger and invited me just for that, you always had an actual reason behind it in the end, whether it was something very important or just an announcement. I doubt you've invited me after so many years of nothingness just to discuss about such insignificant things. So? What's the deal here? Are you going to tell me, or should I take my leave?

He then looks down at the desk before he gives his answer.

[AL7AN]-I see... You've proved me right of how much you've advanced in being a true ruler. Seems like I cannot lie to you anymore... But I will be honest with you, CHE5TER. I'm not the one who truly wanted to talk with you.

[CHE5TER]-Then? Who is it?

[AL7AN]-Well... it's someone that has been waiting for a very long time to have His chance of giving His words. Now that I've seen you myself... I think it's time for that person to finally speak to you as well.

The former Leader puts his hands under the desk in order to find something that he has been keeping. He opens one of the drawers...

[AL7AN]-And that someone...

...to get a strange and old box which he puts on the desk, showing it to the Great Leader.

[AL7AN]-...is your father, little one.

21:37

The box stands now on that desk, as the Great Leader looks at it confused, while the former Leader is waiting for His answer. It seems to be covered in dust, as if it stood there, untouched, for so many years, even almost forgotten by the world.

[CHE5TER]-...What do you mean my father?

[AL7AN]-Listen--

[CHE5TER]- --You had a message for me from my own father all these years and didn't tell me anything!?

[AL7AN]-CHE5TE--

[CHE5TER]- --Why did you lie to me!?? You know very well how long I've been looking for His will to rule the city as He wished for me to do!??

[AL7AN]-...CHE5TER! Let me explain it!

CHE5TER looks at His old master, pissed, but calms Himself down to not do a scene in front of him.

[CHE5TER]-...Alright then. You have five minutes. They better be worth my time.

The former Leader then puts his hands on the desk, before he takes a deep breath and starts talking again.

[AL7AN]-*sigh*...I didn't give it to you earlier because I made a promise a long time ago, four years before He took His last breath, alright? It's not because I didn't want to. If it was by me, I would've given it to you in the same day I gave you the information of what had happened to Him. I think you were around ten when He came to me one day and made me give my words actually... Heh... What a difference...

"Now, he seems to be lost in the past, in a memory of him, sitting just like he does now, but instead of the merciless ruler, in front of him stands an innocent child, holding what seems to be a sword, a child that he missed for a very long time.

[CHE5TER]-Masteeer! You promised you're going to show me how to do that move, remember? Why don't you come already??

[AL7AN]-Because I said I have something to do now. Can't you just wait for a bit more?

[CHE5TER]-I've been waiting for TWO HOURS!! God dammit, old man!! You don't seem like you're doing anything now either! You're just trying to avoid me again!

[AL7AN]-Just have some patience. I will come soon, alright?

[CHE5TER]-*mumbles*

As the young boy starts cursing his own master silently, the former Great Leader, M4TTH3W, seems to be heading towards the office in which the Leader was standing. Little CHE5TER does see Him, so he gets his anger out on his father.

[CHE5TER]-Father! Your friend over here gave his words that he will teach me a move that I saw him performing, but now he is just lazing around and tries to avoid me! Do something!!

[M4TTH3W]-*chuckles* Is that so?

[CHE5TER]-Yeah!! Tell him something! He doesn't want to listen to me!

But the Great Leader only smiles, then puts His right hand on His son's head and gets on a knee, speaking on a softer tone.

[M4TTH3W]-Hey, CHE5TER... How about you go play with RY4N while I discuss something with Mr. AL7AN, hm? It won't take long, I promise. After that, I will tell him to go and teach you whatever you want. What do you say? Are you okay with it?

[CHE5TER]-*sigh* Alright, alright... I will go find RY4N...

[M4TTH3W]-Good. Have fun in a meantime.

The Great Leader gets up and taps him two times on his shoulder, before He enters the room and closes the door. Yet CHE5TER seems to be standing, left behind, looking at the door, a bit pissed.

[CHE5TER]-...Adults suck!

Inside the room though, the Leader seems to be looking at his ruler just a bit perplexed, yet the ruler simply seems unhappy.

[AL7AN]-...So? You told me you wanted to discuss something with me a while ago. Should I assume I did something wrong or...?

[M4TTH3W]-No, it's... nothing like that...

[AL7AN]-Okay... Then what is it? Something with the Council? Problems with the City of Above?

[M4TTH3W]-No. I'm afraid it's a bit more personal this time.

Yet the Leader only got more confused by hearing that answer.

[AL7AN]-Alright... Come then. Take a seat.

[M4TTH3W]-No need. I will be quick.

[AL7AN]-*sigh* Okay then. Say, what's this problem that frightens the almighty Great Leader of the Underground City?

The Great Leader looks straight in the eyes of His friend, yet these eyes are not merciless like the ones of the current ruler, rather more of a complete opposite.

[M4TTH3W]-AL7AN, can I trust you in doing something for me in the future?

[AL7AN]-Oh? Well, that depends on what I have to do. If it is for me to learn about something, I cannot give you any word. You know I hate studying. But, if it's for me getting my hands on something in particular, then maybe... I guess I could try and get to my old habits if that's what the Great Leader's orders are.

[M4TTH3W]-No. It is a bit different this time.

[AL7AN]-Okay... Then what is it?

[M4TTH3W]-Well, I was rather thinking more like...

The Great Leader takes out from His long coat a box, the same box that stands in the present, but looking fresh rather than an old piece of ores.

[M4TTH3W]-...you... giving this to my sons, RY4N and CHE5TER.

The Leader looks lost at the box though, frowning, trying to understand what's happening.

[AL7AN]-I'm afraid I don't quite follow. Why can't you give it to them right now? You save yourself some worrying about me forgetting about it, and for me some time. It's not hard to go and just... give it, you know? Whatever is inside, it doesn't seem from your expression that it has to wait. Rather a quicker move than a long waiting for the time to come.

[M4TTH3W]-But I cannot give it to them now. They are too young to understand what's inside it.

[AL7AN]-Okay... Then why me? How come you won't be able to do it yourself? You have all the time in the world to keep it for yourself and wait for the moment you consider them "ready". I'm not associated with your family after all. This personal problem should be solved only with the members of it, shouldn't it?

[M4TTH3W]-I'm afraid it won't be possible.

[AL7AN]-Hm? Why not?

[M4TTH3W]-...Because I fear that when the day comes, I won't be around to give it to them anymore.

[AL7AN]-...What do you mean by that?

[M4TTH3W]-Let's just say that... every descendant has to meet their fate at some point. From now on, I want the box to be in your possession until the time comes for them to receive it. Can I count on you to do this for me?"

Yet the memory ends with the box standing on the desk, in the past and in the present, with the former Leader looking down, unhappy about the memory.

[AL7AN]-...After that, He told me that I should give it to you whenever I consider you ready to face whatever is inside of it, whenever I think that you have matured yourself enough to receive your last message from your father. I waited for such a long time, looking forward to see the ruler I wished you to become... and now that I see Him in front of my very own eyes, I guess it is time for you to finally get what's yours. I'm sorry, little one. But I gave Him my word on not saying anything until this moment.

[CHE5TER]-...So He wanted us to receive the box only after we got over the whole incident? But how did He know about what would happen to Him in the next four years?

[AL7AN]-I'm afraid that I do not possess an answer to that question myself... I thought for many years that maybe it's a curse which affects the family line which He never told us about, something that makes the descendants die when it's time for the new one to take the role. Maybe that's why you found so many ancestors, because they do not live as much as others do. But if it is so, how would it even be possible... But of course, I'm not sure if it's true, it's just my own theory. Yet I'm sure of one thing: whatever is inside this box is meant to arrive in your hands. Both you and RY4N should be together when you open it, so that both of His successors can receive His final message.

[CHE5TER]-...Do you... know what's inside it? Maybe an idea?

[AL7AN]-*sigh* No. I kept it hidden and never touched it myself. It is meant for you, not for me. But I guess it's just a letter of goodbye from Him. Nothing more.

The Great Leader looks down, thinking more about His father, the previous descendant, and the mysterious box that was suppose to be His inheritance.

[AL7AN]-Now, now... This is suppose to be a happy event, right? You've waited for so long to hear another word from your father, didn't you? After all these years, you've finally achieved what you wished. And I finally managed to see you again too. I guess we both won from this reunion, didn't we?

The former Leader then gets up from his chair, standing next to the desk, then looking at his disciple, spreading his arms, waiting for Him to come.

[AL7AN]-...Yet it will be a shame if I didn't receive anything in a physical form from it as well. Just seeing you isn't enough for me after all.

He closes his eyes with a smile, while the young Great Leader was watching him stand. In the end, He decides to give him what he wants. He moves slowly to His former master, getting closer and closer, until the Leader finally manages to take Him in his arms, as a greeting after such a very long time, and staying like that for a few minutes as the former Leader is caressing his old disciple on His head.

Yet the Great Leader cannot stay for any longer, as they both separate themselves from each other, while the ruler gets ready to leave.

[AL7AN]-...Now, take the box and make sure that you and RY4N are together when opening it, alright? Oh, and... pay me some visits every once in awhile. I do not want to hear that this will be your only visit until the next 20 years.

[CHE5TER]-Alright. But are you sure you will be fine up here and you don't wish to come back in the Underground City?

[AL7AN]-Oh, do not worry about me. I'm fine here. So, go without a bad thought and rest your mind.

So, CHE5TER takes the box in the end and goes towards the elevator. Yet as He turns around, His master seems to be looking at his hand as he got a small bag, CHE5TER's bag of money more exactly. But to his surprise, when he looks inside it, instead of finding money, he finds some small pieces of ores and an used cigarette.

[CHE5TER]-...Oh, and hope you enjoy the gift you got. I don't know how much of use is it to you, but you will find a way. Because I sure will find one to use mine.

The Great Leader then shows him a wallet, more exactly His master's wallet. Yet the Leader isn't even mad, more like impressed, giving Him a simple smirk.

[AL7AN]-Heh... You've learnt more than I thought...

[CHE5TER]-Well... I've learnt from the best, haven't I?

The Southeast Military Base

24:47

RY4N seems to get back from the meeting with the Council alongside Officer KYR4 for a while, before she leaves him to go towards her own destination. It doesn't bother him though, as he already had plans to see his brother and find out what He wants.

So, he opens the door of the office, finding the Great Leader standing on His chair, lost in His thoughts, looking at that box He just received.

[RY4N]-What is it? Why did you want us to meet immediately? I've just got back from the Council.

Yet the ruler doesn't say a word.

[RY4N]-...Ches? Are you alright?

Then, He takes a deep breath and looks at His brother, as the confused young man waits for an answer.

[CHE5TER]-...We have something to discuss, RY4N. And I suggest you get ready for what I'm about to say.

[RY4N]-Alright... I'm ready. What is it?

CHE5TER makes a small pause to clear His mind up, before He starts talking again.

[CHE5TER]-...I was right about my suspicion. It was indeed my master the one who wanted to meet up with me. He was hiding under the club I showed you earlier all these years. But... that's not what concerns me.

[RY4N]-What did you talk with him?

[CHE5TER]-Well... a bit of what happened in the past years and shit like that. Nothing so out of the ordinary. But before I left, the subject was changed and I got a bit confused at first. He gave me this box which is meant for both of us all of a sudden and told me to open it when we are together.

[RY4N]-A box? Why did he give us a box? What's inside it?

[CHE5TER]-RY4N... The box comes from our father...

RY4N then takes a breath as well. He didn't hear a word about his father either, just like CHE5TER. Hearing now about a box coming from Him is a bit shocking, yet he remains calm.

[RY4N]-*sigh*...So it's His letter of goodbye, huh? What did it say?

[CHE5TER]-I... don't know. I didn't open it yet. I've waited for you to come back from the Council so we can read it together. You are His son as well, remember? If it was for only one of us to get it, probably you were the one chosen to receive it anyway. You are the one similar to Him.

The ruler gets up from His chair and goes next to His brother, standing side by side, Him on RY4N's right side. Then, He looks again at the box, but He doesn't seem as He is ready to open it yet.

[CHE5TER]-...It was made way before He died. What... do you think it says?

[RY4N]-I'm not... sure. Maybe it's something similar to the wills of the other soldiers that have died, talking about His last wish and legacy. Or maybe it's something different being a descendant of the Great Leader title. Come to think of it... I never saw a last will from one of the ancestors of our line... That would mean we have to get rid of it after we read it? Maybe it's a tradition.

[CHE5TER]-Get rid of the last thing we have from Him? Yeah... Tradition or not, I'm not sure I would agree to that.

[RY4N]-But the more you keep it, the more you prove you cannot let go of the past, right? You said it yourself. The descendants are lost in history as they live in the present trying to achieve a better future. Maybe we are meant to do the same.

[CHE5TER]-Yeah, but I don't th--

[RY4N]- --CHE5TER. Let Him go and put His soul at rest. That's what He would've wanted us to do. Can you trust me, at least this time?

CHE5TER looks a bit at His brother, yet both seem to have the same expression this time. A serious, yet unsure face, as not even RY4N seems to be ready for whatever is inside. But he stands more mature than his own sibling, taking the responsibility of "older son". As he sees that He doesn't have any response, he bends his right arm, clenching his fist, and waits for his younger brother to respond. It's not a position of fighting, he stands relaxed, with his right arm being next to his body, a bit raised from the bending and the back of the fist towards CHE5TER.

In the end, He gives him a small nod, so weak that you can miss it with just a blink of an eye, then, He does the same gesture. He bends His left hand, clenching his fist and puts it close to RY4N's, even touching it. It is maybe a sign of brotherhood, made so long ago, meaning trust and forgiveness.

[CHE5TER]-..."I will trust these words of yours, for the love of our lands."

[RY4N]-"And the lands should give their love back, for the trust that we've bounded."

Then, they let their hands down, looking back at the box. RY4N seems to be more confident now, even with an unsure face, and puts his right hand on the box, looking back at CHE5TER.

[RY4N]-...Are you ready, Brother?

CHE5TER raises His left arm for a bit to reach for the box and put His hand on it too, but stops in the middle of the action and looks at the chair that now stands behind the desk, empty. Maybe a vision of their father, standing on the chair, with the same smile they cherish and same smile in which He died. But it is only a vision, not a memory, not a reality. He puts His left hand down, and instead, He raises His right one, still wounded to this very day, yet able to move it properly again. Why did He change it all of a sudden? Only He knows.

He puts it on the box, just like RY4N, as their signs on their hands light up, the one of the above and the one of the right side. Yet the right one is flickering a bit on RY4N's hand, while on CHE5TER the light is a weak one, sometimes flickering as well. It has nothing to do with the fact that His arm is bandaged and it covers His signs, but rather the poor heartbeats He might have. Then, He finally speaks again, as a last word before they open the box of their fallen father.

"...I'm ready."