28.02.1642

The Southeast Military Base

20:41

LUK3 is waiting for the little recruit to come, standing alongside Officer KYR4. With them, C0NNER seems to be around as well, training with his weapon in one of the corners by himself, while LUK3 seems to be joking around as always, as he is trying to make KYR4 laugh in the meantime. Just their usual, not something special. After a while, N04H finally makes his appearance in the room, as he goes towards LUK3 so that he can find out about what is going to be next for him. LUK3 ignores him for a while and the little man doesn't understand his actions at first.

[KYR4]-...LUK3, stop it. You are embarrassing yourself every time you're asking me this.

[LUK3]-Come oooon! Don't be like that! You know it will be fun!

[KYR4]-At least ask some more people to join rather than us going alone, 'cause every time we are alone, you act like a creep!

[LUK3]-How do I... Yeah, fine. Hold on then.

Then the man turns to N04H, finally deciding to speak to the recruit who was waiting to get his attention.

[LUK3]-Hey, little guy! What's up?

[N04H]-What were you two talking about?

[LUK3]-Oh, I was just inviting KYR4 to go out with me today! You know, like we did a while ago! Nothing special.

[N04H]-I see... So, what did you prepare for me today?

[LUK3]-Hm? What did I prepare? I didn't prepare anything, buddy.

[N04H]-Huh?

[LUK3]-It's the last day of the month, which means that we have a free day! Because we don't really have holidays like you guys had at school, we take a few breaks at the end of the months, just so that we can have a small rest for ourselves.

[N04H]-But the previous month you didn't seem to have a free day.

[KYR4]-...That's because the first month and the last month of the year are the hardest ones to bear. The new recruits are joining the bases in different times and there are also lots of supplies distributed to all the areas. We have to make sure that in these two months nothing bad happens. You will be surprised how often students get caught by the M soldiers in these times every year, by the same reason your friends got caught that day.

[N04H]-And yet when you saw me for the first time, you were also surprised.

[LUK3]-Well, don't you think it's a bit out of nowhere for a student to wander the roads, crying, when nobody is supposed to know about these situations? I personally thought at first that you were joking!

[KYR4]-...Anyway, this is a break that you should take advantage of. You will have to wait for the next month if you would want another one.

Yet the boy then looks at C0NNER, who was still minding his own business.

[N04H]-Then what about him? Shouldn't he take a break as well?

So, LUK3 looks at the young man then starts screaming at him.

[LUK3]-C0NNER, you stupid ass! Take a pause from that bow and join us!

But it seems as C0NNER ignores him at first, yet LUK3 persists in annoying him.

[LUK3]-Boy, you didn't hear me!? I said put the weapon down!

He gets angry at the man screaming at him, yet he tries to hold himself and not fight him yet. N04H notices that, so he tries to change the subject, maybe feeling a little uncomfortable about the situation.

[N04H]-By the way... how did you guys enter this base? I'm just a bit curious.

[LUK3]-Oh? Easy question! Back when we were your age, the whole censorship didn't exist! The base was available to be one of your choices, but it didn't provide people with useful information of what you were suppose to do here. So it was the last one on the lists.

[KYR4]-LUK3, MY4 and I have been friends from the first year of school, even though MY4 and I know each other for a longer time than that. We were raised at the shelters together, even though there were more people with us. After we graduated, LUK3 came with the idea of going in the same base together, all of us.

[LUK3]-But KYR4 betrayed me and went to the Central Base instead of coming with us! She played with my feelings!!

[KYR4]-I explained this to you many times before. I can't trust people who don't provide any kind of information of what I have to do when I'm working for them.

[LUK3]-*sigh* Anyway... MY4 and I went together in this base, so we separated our paths with KYR4. But one year later, KYR4 realised her mistake and came back to me!

[KYR4]-I came because those bastards were lazy and never did anything when it came to work, not because I "came back to you"! I do not like people who don't do anything besides avoiding real problems and you know that! Did you really think I will work for them for the rest of my life?

[LUK3]-Just accept the fact that you missed me, god dammit! You cannot lie for too long!

[KYR4]-Oh, dear gods...

[LUK3]-Oh, and there were also some people from our school that used to work here too, as they were transported at the same time when MY4 and I were! But they are no longer here since they left one year ago. And, as far as I know, KYR4's transportation was the last one which was made for this base, as the next year after that, the censorship was implanted and nobody was able to join anymore.

[KYR4]-The rest of the people here are much older in this system than us. Most of them even worked with the previous Great Leader, Master CHE5TER and Master RY4N's father. A reason why we might appear so young compared to the others...

N04H makes an idea of how many people are here for a very long time, like most of the soldiers that he met during his time here, but then he remembers that the man training is even younger than these two. He looks a bit to wonder how could he possibly enter this base after all these rules, but because of his obvious curiosity, he makes LUK3 explain to him without even wanting.

[LUK3]-Oh, yeah! Right! I almost forgot! C0NNER joined us afte--

Yet before he could end his sentence, an arrow flies towards his direction, hitting the wall behind him. It seems that C0NNER has purposely pointed at his direction in order to make LUK3 shut his mouth. He looks at him with a cold expression, as he got angry at the man for talking way too much.

[LUK3]-Hey!!! What was that for!?

[C0NNER]-...That will teach you to keep your mouth shut. It's none of your business to talk about others.

[LUK3]-You have no reason to act like this! I have the right to talk about everything I want! I'm a living being like all the others!!

[C0NNER]-Need I remind you that you've informed a student about our secret base, which means that you broke one of the most important rules written in this building? You have to learn to not talk about every little thing you think of, dumbass.

[LUK3]-So what? He joined us after all that have happened back then! He is no danger for us!

[KYR4]-*sigh* Here we go again...

[C0NNER]-And what if he was an enemy trying to trick us all this time? Can't you think of your actions just for a minute?

[LUK3]-Well, he wasn't! And even so, I make the decisions here! Don't forget that I'm older in this system than you, meaning that I'm your superior!

[C0NNER]-Older or not, you have no rank to prove that you are worth to make the rules. In the end, you are just a soldier, just like me or all the others.

LUK3 gets angry at the man that was confronting him. He points at him and asks just to make him somehow shut up.

[LUK3]-Oh, you want me to prove it to you that I'm your superior!? Then, come on! Fight me, you little brat!

He takes his own weapon and both of them take their position. Then, after some death staring, they start running towards each other and start the battle, like warriors on a battleground, or in this case some idiots not managing to deal with each other and making a scene over everything. Meanwhile, KYR4 looks at them both, tired of their stupid actions. It does seem that this isn't the first time they do something like this, that's for sure.

Suddenly, MY4 and CHE5TER enter the room, as it seems that the Great Leader has accompanied the Healer until she came here. And the first thing they see when they enter, obviously, is the two boys fighting. So they go to KYR4 and N04H, avoiding the battle area.

[MY4]-*sigh* Are they fighting again?

[KYR4]-Yep...

[CHE5TER]-...What's the reason this time?

[KYR4]-LUK3 told N04H about how we all joined, and C0NNER, being himself, got angry and tried to make LUK3 shut up. Then, this happened.

[CHE5TER]-I swear, the next time that man asks me about his son, I will just keep my mouth shut... I'm tired of forever helping LUCAS with this subject anyway.

[MY4]-Should we stop them?

[CHE5TER]-Give them two more minutes. Maybe they will finally learn to stop fighting over every possible subject and get in their senses.

[KYR4]-Yeah, great joke, Master!

They look a bit at the boys fighting, the ruler looking like He is really interested in every movement they make, analysing them in details. But the two girls seem to want to chat more than watch two idiots fight like some kids from the schools.

[KYR4]-By the way, MY4! LUK3 told me that he wants to go out today. Are you interested in coming with us?

[MY4]-Sure! I guess I can take some time to go visit the city before I go to my work. Is little N04H coming with us as well?

[KYR4]-Ask him yourself.

[N04H]-Oh, me?

[MY4]-Mhm! You are a part of the team too after all! And with this occasion, we can get to know each other better!

[N04H]-Oh, then... I guess I have nothing to lose.

[CHE5TER]-I'm sorry to interrupt, but hold on your words for a bit.

The Great Leader goes in the middle of the fight as He saw the two boys jumping at each other's throats, both strangling each other as they got on the ground. So, to calm them down, He makes some simple moves and manages to knock the boys for good. As His two soldiers stand on the ground, obligated this time from the pain He gave them, He turns back to the girls and closes His eyes, talking with the back on them.

[CHE5TER]-Mr. LUCAS, Mr. C0NNER, mind explaining your behaviour to me?

[LUK3+C0NNER]-IT WAS HIS FAULT!

[CHE5TER]-I do not care about whose fault was. I expect both of you to behave properly. As my soldiers, I do not want any of you to act like we are on the battlefield with each other. Save your energy for the real work. Did I make myself clear?

The two men get up on their feet and look at Him, a bit ashamed. Then, CHE5TER turns His head towards C0NNER.

[CHE5TER]-...Especially you, Mr. C0NNER. I expect a better behaviour from you.

The boy looks down, even more ashamed of everything that had happened, while the other man just stands there, still angry.

[C0NNER]-...Yes, Master.

N04H looks at him as he says these words, as he doesn't seem to be so happy. Then, he remembers some words that LUK3 had said before. "You know this feeling better than any of us after all!". Words that he had said when he explained about his friends situation. He stands a bit to think of what could have possibly happened to him before he joined them.

[CHE5TER]-You should go out with them so you can take some fresh air. Maybe it will clear up your mind. Just a suggestion...

Yet as He says these words, He walks towards the exit of the room so He can leave, but N04H notices that and tries to stop Him quickly.

[N04H]-H-Hey! Wait! You don't come with us too?

[CHE5TER]-Hm?

[N04H]-I-I mean... It's a free day for everyone, right? Why don't you come with us as well?

He looks at the young boy as he is staring at Him, waiting for His response. Then He looks at MY4, which was trying to make Him accept this invitation, even begging from her movements, before He stares down and sighs.

[CHE5TER]-...Alright then. I will join you this time. But, let me get something from my office first.

From behind though, as He tries to leave again, He could hear LUK3 whispering to KYR4 something.

[LUK3]-Did you see? I won the fight!

[KYR4]-Yeah, sure...

So, CHE5TER looks at LUK3 before He does any more movements.

[CHE5TER]-Oh, and Mr. LUCAS?

[LUK3]-Huh? What is it, Boss?

[CHE5TER]-You should train more on your defence on the left side of your body.

The Underground City

22:13

And here they are, on the streets of the Underground City. The group wanders the city together, enjoying a peaceful day. Everyone is dressed up in a much comfortable way, KYR4 and LUK3 being in the same clothes as when they first found little N04H. But only CHE5TER refused this idea, as He hides from the public eye, so that nobody can see who He truly is. He is dressed up in His crevaator clothes so that everyone will avoid Him completely, but besides N04H, nobody really seems to care about that.

[LUK3]-Alright! So, I was thinking of going first to see some of our old classmates, the barman that we saved with N04H, maybe some people from the south...

[MY4]-But where exactly are we going now?

[LUK3]-Oh, I thought that we could just walk around this area first! You know, just to relax a bit!

[N04H]-Why don't we let the Leader decide though?

[CHE5TER]-...

CHE5TER refuses to respond to his question for some reason, so the boy turns to the group for an answer.

[MY4]-He... doesn't like to go in the city just for the fun.

[LUK3]-If it was for Him, we would have probably just stood in some closed areas anyway! For Heaven's sake, Boss, you have a problem!

[CHE5TER]-...You know very well that nobody can know about my identity, LUCAS. Bringing me in an open area full of people isn't a wise choice.

[LUK3]-It's not like people know about your position in this city. Come on! Everything I hear from my father is the same. "Uh, Master M4TTH3W this", "Master M4TTH3W that"... For fuck sake, I can't bear that man...

[CHE5TER]-Even so, they are aware of the previous man in this position and His descendants, as well as the information that the one called "CHE5TER LENKOV" is supposedly dead.

[N04H]-Wait, what?

[CHE5TER]-...

[KYR4]-...It's a long story, Green Head.

[N04H]-Does this has to do with the whole "incident" from a year ago everyone is talking about?

[MY4]-No... That one is... different.

[CHE5TER]-...And I cannot explain it to you here. We either need to switch the place, or stop talking about the subject now. *sigh* It's not like it's going to be easy for me to explain about the situation of the true ruler anyw--

Then, a young boy bumps into the group by accident, as he looks at the group and starts apologising.

[RY3]-I-I'm so sorry! I wasn't paying attention to where I was going! I swear, I didn't want this to happen.

[MY4]-Hey! Calm down! It's okay! You have nothing to worry about.

Yet as the boy apologises, CHE5TER looks at him with a face of fear. He recognises the young man. But then the boy looks at Him as well and manages to remember Him too. The Leader tries His best to hide His face from him when He notices that he is staring at Him, avoiding anything that would cause Him trouble.

[LUK3]-You seem to be a soldier from the North Base, right?

[RY3]-Huh? ...Oh, yeah. Yes, I am.

[N04H]-Wait... RY3?

[RY3]-O-Oh? ...Oh, hi N04H! I didn't expect to see you here.

[KYR4]-You know this guy?

[N04H]-Yeah! He was in the same school with me! I met him during the breaks and managed to exchange a few words with each other!

[RY3]-Um, N04H... Do you... know these people?

[N04H]-Yes! I'm working with them now!

[RY3]-So... you know Seven Two as well?

[N04H]-Seven who...?

[RY3]-The guy over th--

But as the boy starts pointing at a spot near the group, he notices that the man was already gone. It doesn't take long before the group then realises that CHE5TER, and C0NNER for some reason, had already started moving away, letting them behind. N04H sees them behind RY3, as they walk without looking back, so he tries to end the conversation quickly.

[RY3]-...He was here a second ago. I swear, he was... How did he just left without me noticing?

[N04H]-H-Hey, RY3! I think we will talk in another day, okay?

[RY3]-Oh? Oh, alright... Well then, I will see you later, N04H. Have a good day!

So, the group starts running towards C0NNER and CHE5TER, as N04H was a bit confused and all the others surprised.

[LUK3]-Hey, hey! Hold on there! Wait for us!

[MY4]-Why did you guys leave without us?

[KYR4]-Master, do you know that guy??

[CHE5TER]-...

[N04H]-Who is Seven Two??

[KYR4]-Seven Two is the name that He uses whenever He doesn't want to tell His real identity. My question is: how did that guy know Him??

[CHE5TER]-...

[KYR4]-Wait, did he say that he wa--

[CHE5TER]- --Didn't you tell us earlier that you want to see a barman that you've saved, LUCAS? I think it is a good time to stop talking and go find him. I suddenly want to drink something refreshing.

22:45

After a while of walking around the city, they find themselves near one of the bars of the east. And as the group enters the bar, the barman recognises the four faces that saved his life, and along with them two unknown people to him. The barman welcomes everyone with a smile though, even if he doesn't know everybody.

[D4N7E]-Greetings everyone!

[LUK3]-Hey, D4N7E! How's it going?

[D4N7E]-I see that you've come in a larger number this time... What's the occasion?

[N04H]-Oh, we are only having a free day, so Mr. LUK3 decided that we should visit you as well, just so that we can see how have you been.

[D4N7E]-I see... Well then, take a seat. We can discuss while you rest.

Everyone sits down and look around to see what they could get.

[LUK3]-So, how's life going, man?

[D4N7E]-Well, I guess the answer is the same as the last time you came here. Nothing really changed. I've met some people now that are currently working in this area and made a small collaboration with them, as well as starting a small friendship. And very recently, I adopted three kids, two girls and a boy. So... I can say that I'm doing pretty well.

[LUK3]-Aww, when can I see them?

[D4N7E]-Well I guess I can take you one day to see them if that's what you wish... Though you might have to wait for a while 'cause I'm a bit busy these days. But anyway, you cannot just stay here and look at me the whole time without me giving you anything. What can I get for you today?

Everyone makes their order as they all already had decided on what could they get, the only problem being with C0NNER, who at first didn't even want to order, but the barman helped him decide in the end. The only one left to decide was CHE5TER. When the barman finally had to take His order, the man just stands and looks deadly at all the drinks, as the barman observes the strange figure, waiting for His response, maybe to find out more about this mysterious person. After some time, the man looks at him in the eyes and simply says two words.

[CHE5TER]-...Surprise me.

Because of this strange request, the barman doesn't understand His command at first, as the person didn't seem so easy to read for him to get an idea of His preferences. But he thinks that maybe he should try to make something that probably He didn't try before, or at least that He simply doesn't want something ordinary from what it is usually sold in this city. The barman gives everyone the drinks they ordered, CHE5TER being the only one left waiting for it.

Everyone starts chatting, trying maybe to explain more to little N04H about what they are doing and maybe to get to know themselves better. Everyone, except two people. C0NNER doesn't seem as he wants to talk about anything, he rather stares down, waiting for the moment of leaving, while the ruler seems to think about something this whole time.

In the end, C0NNER decides to take a cigarette as he seems to got bored, but when he searches for his lighter, he seems to have either forgotten it at the base or lost it on the way here. He sighs as he realises that, but then the one next to him hands him His lighter. The Great Leader, as He stood in his left side, had realised that C0NNER had lost it, so He decided to help him a bit. So, C0NNER looks at Him before he takes it, but He still seems to be thinking about something else, staring deadly at nothing. In the end, he takes it from His hand without bothering Him anymore.

After some time, the barman finally comes with CHE5TER's drink. He stops and watches the strange figure analyse what He got, as if he wants some kind of feedback. It doesn't take long before the man notices that, so just to be sure He asks him a question.

[CHE5TER]-...I assume you wait to see what I could say about it? Before that, could I ask you why did you choose to go with this one? Of course, it is a made up recipe which makes it unique from the other drinks here, but I am curious to hear why did you try this one.

[D4N7E]-It is... a drink that I used to serve someone special to me. As I knew she loved it, I thought that I have nothing to lose when giving it to someone else.

[CHE5TER]-And you decided to try your luck on me?

[D4N7E]-To be honest, I had no idea of what type of drinks you would prefer, so I thought that trying to combine something old and something new for you would be a good choice. It's not that I couldn't come up with a different recipe, but giving that I don't know anything about you in particular, I just went by what my mind told me. To me, a person that hides from everyone else is the type of being that has a past like none other, and a future without a specific path, one that the being has to make in order to survive, giving this idea of the combination between old and new.

[CHE5TER]-I see...

Some people stopped chatting as they all were a bit curious to find out the response. Most of the times, CHE5TER is used to order the same drink over and over again, reason that is only known to Him, but this time, He changed the plan of the game, just like a type of a test.

[CHE5TER]-...To put my answer simple, you've decided to combine something traditional from both of the cities, which would mean combining quality and quantity. A risky decision, if I may add. I do assume that you've practiced this recipe before, as it is harder to just do something like this in such a short time. But even so, the drink in cause is still the equivalent of an "Energy Killer", not a drink that is served in our bars.

[C0NNER]-...What do you mean by that? Can it really be the same thing we use for medicine?

[CHE5TER]-You see... I am sure you are aware of the recipes they have up there, don't you, Mr. C0NNER? The people of the above focus on putting the quantity on the top, which is why the most drinks there are heavy, while we focus on the quality of them. This is the same reason as why most of the drinks used by the people of the above could be also used in medicine for us, C borns. The M borns and the R borns do not function on energy as we do, so the quantity of the "Energy Killer" isn't important for them, rather, it works like a drug if exploited. But because our bodies work based on our energy, the quantity really matters to us. I mean, it can still be used as a drug for us as well, but in very large quantities of the ore like this one.

And it seems like MY4 wants to add something up to the explanation too.

[MY4]-In medicine, we give the injured people to drink this type of liquid and depending on how badly the injuries are, we have to give a specific quantity, so that they recover their energy and that the body is able to heal itself on its own. It is injected only in emergencies, like when a person is dying, badly injured or unconscious, because the injection has spontaneous effects, regaining the energy of the person in just a few seconds, but it can also cause a lot of troubles.

[CHE5TER]-Exactly. It is the same reason as why just this glass alone, if injected, could put a C being in a two months coma. It could give a lot of energy at the moment and could be used for some time, but when the effect is done, the whole energy of the person is wasted, leaving him to wait until it is regenerated naturally and making him unable to move as well as before. This is why they are called "Energy Killers". But is very interesting indeed that you chose to mix a drink like this for some time now. I assume the "special person" was a C born herself, because I don't think that those from the above like this type of recipes. Quality isn't really what they search for.

[D4N7E]-She... was indeed...

[CHE5TER]-I think it's the best to say that this drink could be a good investment in this industry. After all, everyone loves things that are new. You could try and sell it from now on as the house specialty. But take it easier on the quantity as an advice. It's still a bit dangerous to put too much of the ore in it. The M borns and R borns from the city might be affected by such a drink for days, just from one glass. We do not want to drug our city like those above us after all, do we?

[D4N7E]-I will do as you said, don't worry. I'm not really used in tasting what I'm combining in the drinks since it's not really necessary, so probably that's why I didn't know about this before. As an M born myself, I wouldn't really want to risk anything. Maybe if you didn't tell me, I wouldn't even know about it until I got into an unwanted incident.

[CHE5TER]-I'm here to help after all. And at least you've learnt from your mistake on this one. But again, the C borns might like it, as they do not suffer as much as the other races from the combination. Rather... let's say it helps us a lot sometimes.

[D4N7E]-Alright. Thanks for the advice, Mister...?

[CHE5TER]-...Seven.

[D4N7E]-Right...

[LUK3]-Oh, D4N7E! Can I get what He got as well? I wanna try!

[D4N7E]-Su--

[CHE5TER]- --I don't think it's such a good idea, LUCAS. You've already had one drink. Putting this one as well might not end up very well for you. Well... for the others. You probably won't even know what's happening during your drunkenness.

[LUK3]-Oh, come oooon! That's not true! I will just take a small sip and then stop! What's the worst that could happen, man?

[CHE5TER]-I was just saying...

CHE5TER takes another sip from His drink, then looks a bit at C0NNER who was standing in His right side, moving the glass around with his head on the table as if he is bored or thinking about something. He looks rather alone as well, as he doesn't seem like he wants to talk to anybody.

[CHE5TER]-C0NNER, stand straight. What's with that expression on your face and this lack of interest?

[C0NNER]-It's nothing, Master...

[CHE5TER]-Then if it is nothing, don't you want to have fun with them?

Yet C0NNER looks down, while standing straight as the Great Leader commanded, and still with that upset face of his.

[C0NNER]-...No, Master. I'm waiting for our leaving.

N04H looks again at C0NNER as he feels that he isn't so pleased, but he can't understand what's in his mind after all. He stays and wonders as he keeps looking at him, a man with such a strange character that does not really want to reveal anything about himself.

24:09

The group walks around the city, trying to find some old friends of the three people that know each other the best which they talked about. But as they do so, LUK3 seems a bit drunk as he tried the drink that the ruler had out of curiosity, yet CHE5TER doesn't seem to be affected, not even a bit.

[LUK3]-I think... I will need... to take a rest... after... this.

[MY4]-Oh, gods... LUK3, do you want us to stop and carry you to the base?

[LUK3]-...NO! ...I'm... fine...

[CHE5TER]-*sigh*...I told him to not try it. Yet he seems a bit more stubborn than usual when it comes to what I say.

[N04H]-How come he is like this and you don't have any kind of problem?

[CHE5TER]-That's because it isn't my first time having a drink like this. Well, this and another reason... Mr. LUCAS here had drank a heavy liquid without having loss of energy... so, the energy was most of it wasted and the drink worked only as a drug. It is a possibility he could use his powers without him in control just 'cause of the amount of energy he gained in plus, so we have to keep an eye on him for now.

[KYR4]-And how come I am the one that has to carry him??

[CHE5TER]-I simply don't want to be responsible for him again. Isn't it obvious already?

Meanwhile, C0NNER seems to be by the Great Leader's side again, only talking with Him as he walks.

[C0NNER]-...How much did this all cost?

[CHE5TER]-Around 170.000 Novha.

[C0NNER]-So we add that to the monthly payments of the base?

[CHE5TER]-No. It's just for the satisfaction. Everything still remains up to 45.000.000.000 Novha.

[C0NNER]-So we will give Mr. XANTH3 the information when we get back?

[CHE5TER]-You mean I will give him the information. And no. I will wait until the end of the day.

[C0NNER]-...Alright. Understood.

[CHE5TER]-I know you want to help me, C0NNER, but you really shouldn't bother yourself with my work. Leave it to me. Just focus on what you are already doing. These things aren't meant to be a burden to you at all.

[C0NNER]-...Yes, Master.

Yet again, N04H notices C0NNER's discomfort, so he tries to change a bit the subject to do him a favour.

[N04H]-Mr. CHE5TER, how do you know so much about the City of Above, if I may ask?

[CHE5TER]-Simply because of my title. I have people everywhere across these lands, not only in this tiny city. I stay a lot up there just to get the information I require, so of course it's always the possibility for me to learn something new every day. An explanation for the earlier scenario might be that the bars are simply to my liking.

[N04H]-You sure seem to drink a lot...

These words crack a smile on the man's face. He doesn't seem to be mad about what he said, rather impressed that he had the audacity to tell Him this.

[CHE5TER]-...Let's just say they give me a bit of nostalgia every time I enter them. It's not about the drinks they serve or anything like that, it's more about the memories I have around them. It is true that I take a drink once in a while just to relax for a bit, yet I do not like that much to take them in an unknown place to me for example.

As they talk, they seem to have finally arrived at the location LUK3 decided for everyone to meet. There are lots of people who seem to be old classmates or just friends of KYR4, MY4 and LUK3, so these three go close to their friends so they can greet them, while KYR4 and MY4 are trying to help LUK3 walk. N04H looks excited to go and meet them too, as they all seem so happy about the reunion. But when he wants to go, he notices that both CHE5TER and C0NNER don't seem to want to join.

[N04H]-...Hm? Why don't you guys go as well?

[CHE5TER]-It is only their reunion. I have nothing to do with them.

[N04H]-Then... did you arrange a reunion with your classmates too?

[CHE5TER]-Even if I wanted and if it wasn't for me to hide myself in the shadows, I'd rather refuse to make one. I didn't get along so well with my classmates.

[N04H]-Why not?

[CHE5TER]-Let's just say that... I didn't really have that many friends when I was in school apart from Officer RY4N.

[N04H]-...And you, C0NNER?

C0NNER seems to watch everyone enjoying talking about anything they came up to. He doesn't seem to be so happy about the situation. Both N04H and CHE5TER notice that, but before C0NNER could say a word, CHE5TER adds another sentence.

[CHE5TER]-...Same situation for him as well. Not everyone is lucky to have some good memories during these years unfortunately. But it's just how fate is in the end.

They look at the people in the distance for a while, but then the Great Leader decides in His mind that He wants to leave alone, letting these two behind.

[CHE5TER]-You could go with them if you want. I do not obligated you to stay with me. It is a fine opportunity for you to meet new people anyway.

[N04H]-But what about you?

[CHE5TER]-I... need to go to a specific place. I will be back a bit later. Do not worry about me. Just... make sure that LUCAS doesn't... puke or something.

The Great Leader leaves, letting C0NNER and N04H alone. N04H seems to be looking at C0NNER to see what plan he has in mind, but he notices that he wants to follow his Leader.

[N04H]-Hey! He said that we should stay with them! Why do you still want to follow Him?

[C0NNER]-...He was only talking to you.

[N04H]-No, He wasn't! What are you talking about??

[C0NNER]-Listen... Just stay with them and we will meet later, alright?

[N04H]-But why don't you stay with us as well, C0NNER? They are your colleagues from your work place, your friends, aren't they? I understand you barely know me and probably I mean nothing to you, but what about the others?

[C0NNER]-I just... have some work to do as well. I will see you all later.

Yet as C0NNER leaves, N04H seems a bit annoyed by the response.

[N04H]-...Following the Great Leader? Yeah, sure you have work to do, man...

"The Renaissance" Park

24:53

Now, we found ourselves in an unknown place to us. This park is known in the whole city, even though its position is located next to the ground walls. What makes it special is that in the wall, there is a little cave where it is located the Statue of M1NERV4 Herself, the first Great Leader that founded the group the Renaissance and the Underground City, and the same person who killed the old General around 240 years ago. It is well maintained, as it is the most appreciated historical place. But even so, people seem to have forgotten about its existence.

But the ruler of this city doesn't seem as He wants to forget about this place. No matter how far He advances in this war, He still has a lot of questions for the first Great Leader, questions that She never answered to any of Her people. Maybe it is hope alone who tells CHE5TER to come and see Her every day, or maybe it is something else telling Him that there is more to Her than meets the eye. He bows at the statue, putting Himself on a knee and looking down as a signal of respect. But even now He seems bothered by an unknown presence.

...Admit it, Little Ruler. You are a disappointment to the Renaissance, even to Her. This is why She didn't leave anything for you to find. She knew that you won't be able to do anything, no matter how much do you fight and overwork. You are a disgrace to the bloodline of this title!

[CHE5TER]-...I know you are there, C0NNER. Stop staring at me.

So, C0NNER walks towards the entrance of the cave, where the Great Leader was, a bit surprised by His voice.

[CHE5TER]-Why didn't you stay with them?

[C0NNER]-I... thought you were talking only to the recruit.

[CHE5TER]-I know you are aware of the fact that I was talking to both of you. And even so, the recruit himself decided to do whatever your plan was. After all, he wouldn't be present here with us if he didn't do as I just anticipated.

CHE5TER looks at the recruit who was hiding behind both of them, so N04H leaves his hiding position and gets close. The place was new for him, as he was never in this area before. He looks at the Leader first, a bit ashamed since he got caught, but then his attention moves to the statue.

[N04H]-The Statue of M1NERVA... I've heard about it before, but I never saw it with my own eyes.

[CHE5TER]-You are not the first person who says that. This place has been abandoned for years now to the point that people forgot about the most famous statue of the city. Many hear about it, but don't seem to know where it is located. It is a sad truth...

[N04H]-How did you find out about it?

[CHE5TER]-The previous Great Leader used to take me here very often. He always told me that this place is not made to be lost in the void of the past. "It is here where the history started and where it ended. But where there is an end, there is also a new beginning, a beginning of a new era, and we are responsible for writing it, so that the future generations could live in peace and freedom."

CHE5TER looks a bit to the statue, maybe seeing a vision of a distant memory.

[CHE5TER]-*sigh*...But I do not come here just for the memories. I come here in hope that one day I will get some answers to the questions I have for years now, in hope that I will learn more about Her successor.

[N04H]-Why do you wish to know that?

[CHE5TER]-M1NERV4 didn't have time to get all of Her plans till the end, as She died sooner than anybody expected. So, the one that is supposedly in the possession of all of Her plans regarding how to end this war is the person She left behind. But nobody knows anything about Him, not even I, a descendant of the bloodline. All I've guessed, for example, is that the person is suppose to be someone close to Her, like an old friend, or a relative. If I find who He was, I will be able to end this war forever. After all, She managed to kill the old General, something that the God of War Himself from the legends didn't succeed. I found many documents with different names, but I couldn't find anything from the years close to Her death. The oldest one I could find is one from around 150 years ago.

[N04H]-Did you ask the previous Great Leader?

[CHE5TER]-I did. But not even He knew anything about this person. He once told me that the second previous generation is always forgotten by the present one. I've never knew anything about my grandfather, nor did the previous ruler know about His. So maybe this is why He got lost in the past. Most of the Great Leaders live in the present and refuse to talk that much about the events before. A pity... But, of course, you shouldn't bother yourself with all of this information. The war in cause shouldn't affect any of you, only me. For many years, the people of both of these cities have suffered just because of one man's madness, and I have the obligation to end this for once and for all. I am sick of seeing people die every day... This is why I didn't want to take you so early, Mr. C0NNER, but you still don't want to understand that and follow me blindly.

[C0NNER]-...

[N04H]-...Is this the reason behind the "censorship"?

[CHE5TER]-This reason alone is just a motivation. I have many reasons behind my actions.

[N04H]-Then what are your reasons?

CHE5TER looks a bit at the recruit, making him uncomfortable by seeing His expression, yet He decides to speak again.

[CHE5TER]-...You are so curious. I admire that. Yet curiosity alone could kill a person one day.

[N04H]-...?

[CHE5TER]-For now, we should stop the conversation here. I think it's the best to go back to our friends, is it not? They are probably waiting for us after all.

CHE5TER leaves the small cave, but before both of His soldiers follow His command, N04H looks again at C0NNER, as he stands and watches the Leader go. Then, C0NNER looks at the little man with a sad face and closes his eyes, starting then to follow his Leader again.

The Underground City

25:31

The Leader seems to be far ahead from the two boys, who are walking on the streets together. There is an awkward silence between them that maybe makes N04H feel a bit strange. He wants to start a conversation, but doesn't seem to find the right words. Yet at least he tries anyway.

[N04H]-...Hey, um... I've noticed for some time now and I can't really get rid of this thought... Why are you upset, Mr. C0NNER?

But no response. He doesn't seem as he wants to talk about it.

[N04H]-I know there is something bothering you. Why don't you want to talk?

Still no response. They walk for a bit as N04H doesn't know how to make him talk. Yet C0NNER finally decides to speak.

[C0NNER]-...I know you want me to feel better, but there is nothing in this world that would make me change.

[N04H]-Did something happen when you joined His group?

[C0NNER]-You could... say that.

[N04H]-...Is it the same reason as why are you following Him everywhere?

[C0NNER]-...

And he made him shut his mouth again. He doesn't know what's in his mind, but he knows something isn't right. He feels a bit bad about him, but without knowing the problem, he won't be able to help him.

[N04H]-Were your classmates that annoying?

[C0NNER]-Hm? ...Oh, um... yeah. I guess...

[N04H]-Did you manage to make at least a friend there though?

[C0NNER]-...Not really.

"So he was lonely. Maybe that's why he is so upset."

[N04H]-...You know, I can be your friend, if you want!

C0NNER stops as he hears these words. He looks down, thinking about something. Then he looks at the little man, as he remembers something from his past. But he refuses to think about it anymore.

[C0NNER]-...Thank you, N04H. But there is no need of doing that.

[N04H]-Huh? Why not?

[C0NNER]-It's... simply a waste of time.

[N04H]-C0NNER, from when I joined, I've never seen you talk to anybody about anything besides work. Even the Leader seems to talk to Miss MY4. Why don't you want to talk with us as well?

[C0NNER]-...

[N04H]-You know you can trust us, right? Even though you don't realise it, we are all already your friends.

[C0NNER]-It's... not about trust. I already know that the people working with us are trustworthy. But at the same time, we have to battle these times and stop thinking every time about fun. Master CHE5TER already works hard enough, don't you think we should take from His example and do the same?

[N04H]-And don't you think we should live our lives no matter how hard the times are and stop worrying about everything in every second? Everything is going to be alright. We will all get through this together. A life without a bit of fun is a waste, isn't it?

C0NNER looks at the little man, maybe trying to forget a memory, but he loses this battle between him and his mind. All he can think about now are these words, as they aren't spoken for the first time. But then he clears up his mind and decides to give N04H a chance.

[C0NNER]-...Alright then. You win. I will do as you wish.

N04H looks at him and smiles, but C0NNER stares at him as he seems to have lived this moment before. As they walk, N04H seems to be finally enjoying talking with C0NNER, as he seems to talk a bit more than usual. But, of course, he tries to dodge the subjects that may upset him for a bit, even though his curiosity is beyond the limit.

After some minutes of walking, they finally arrive close to the location of the rest of the group. They are not far, but they do have some time left to talk. The Great Leader seems to have stopped in the middle of both of the groups, looking at the bigger one, where LUK3 was still a bit drunk and KYR4 looking as if she is done with him. But then looks back at the smaller group as they are approaching, seeing little N04H and C0NNER chat, cracking a smile on His face.

They seem to be talking for some time now, about any random thing they could find. Though N04H seems to be happy about the situation, C0NNER remains serious as ever. But, as he wants to learn at least a bit about C0NNER, he finally dares to ask him.

[N04H]-By the way, C0NNER... if the reason behind your silence wasn't about the trust, then why don't you want to talk so much with us?

[C0NNER]-...

C0NNER looks down. He knows he can't hide from the truth forever, neither can run from it. Yet he is saved this time by drunk LUK3, who was calling N04H as he saw him.

[LUK3]-...N04444H! Come here for a bit...!

[N04H]-Hm? Oh, coming, Mr. LUK3!

So, little N04H leaves, running towards the bigger group, yet C0NNER then looks on the road ahead, as he sees the group in front of him and the people he came with. He tries maybe to say the words in his mind, but the pain feels a bit too much for him to handle. And it gets even harder... when he sees a distant vision of three boys and a girl, even younger than the recruit, with a boy being similar to C0NNER and the girl... looking a bit like N04H.

"...Maybe because of the fear of losing people I once knew again."