Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was a relatively uneventful evening in New Eridu on Monday night. Belle, the co-owner of Random Play, a video store, had just closed up for the night alongside her brother Wise. They had instructed one of their Bangboo employees, 18, to keep an eye on the store while they went out to get something to eat. Since Wise had chosen the last time, it was Belle's turn to select the meal for the siblings.

As they stepped out into the bustling streets of New Eridu, Belle felt a sense of excitement. She loved exploring the diverse culinary options the city had to offer, and this was her chance to indulge in a new dining experience. Glancing over at Wise, she could see the same anticipation reflected in his expression. The two of them made an excellent team, complementing each other's strengths and always striving to provide the best possible service to their customers at Random Play.

With Eous, their trusted Bangboo assistant, diligently monitoring the store, Belle knew they could venture out without worry. The modified Bangboo had become an integral part of their lives, aiding them in navigating the Hollows and keeping their Proxy operations running smoothly. As they walked, Belle couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in the progress they had made, both in their business and their personal endeavours.

"Hey Wise, let's go get some hot pot. There's a promotional deal running in Lumina Square," Belle suggested to her brother as they walked side by side along the bustling pavement. She had her phone out, scrolling through the directions while occasionally glancing up to avoid other pedestrians.

"I think I know the place you're talking about. It's been quite popular on the inter-knot lately. Are the trains still running?" Wise replied thoughtfully, slowing his naturally brisk pace to match Belle's as she focused on navigating through her phone's map application.

"It seems there's been an issue, and the trains aren't running. Some kind of signal failure near the central hub," Belle sighed, tucking a strand of blue hair behind her ear. "Do you feel up for some noodles at Waterfall Soup instead?" she suggested, looking towards Wise with a questioning tilt of her head, waiting for him to reply before turning her gaze back to her phone to check alternative routes.

"Are you sure, Belle? We could drive? I don't mind taking the long route," Wise asked, his aquamarine eyes meeting hers, wanting to make sure Belle was genuinely content with the change of plans rather than just settling.

"Yeah, and there's always another time we can go to the hot pot restaurant. I'm craving those fresh iced noodles they do with the spicy broth, actually," Belle replied with a small smile, pocketing her phone and giving her full attention to her brother. The thought of those perfectly chewy noodles was already making her mouth water.

"Alright then, Belle, if you're sure, let's go to General Chop and order something to eat," Wise said, looking ahead with a casual tone as he adjusted his course towards their new destination. "I could go for their dumplings anyway."

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However, at that moment, something shifted in the world around them, causing Wise to pause and push himself in front of Belle to protect her from the unknown threat. His body tensed, his eyes narrowed, and he scanned the area for anything suspicious. Without warning, he grabbed Belle's arm firmly but carefully, pulling her closer to him, his fingers digging slightly into her sleeve.

"Wise, what's wrong?" Belle asked, startled by Wise's sudden change in demeanour and reaction. Fearful, she had hidden behind her brother, almost dropping her phone in the chaos that had unfolded. Her heart began to race, the familiar sensation of adrenaline flooding her system—a feeling she knew all too well from her work as a Proxie.

"Stay behind me, Belle!" Wise quickly told her, his voice alarmed, the urgency in his tone sending a chill down her spine.

As Belle opened her mouth to question him further, she noticed what had caught Wise's attention beneath their feet. The world was fading away to a purple light, similar to a Hollow. It was as if a hollow was forming by their feet, leaving a black void in its place. The telltale shimmer of Ether corruption began to dance around the edges of the void, beautiful and terrifying all at once.

"What is that?!" Belle cried out in fear, her heart pounding in her ears like a drum. She tried to take a step back to avoid the purple abyss that was forming on the ground beneath their feet, her chunky sneakers scrabbling for purchase on the disintegrating surface, but unfortunately, the ground gave way too quickly for them to escape, crumbling into nothingness beneath them.

The siblings fell for what felt like years. Time seemed to stretch and warp around them, the sensation of falling never-ending. Belle clung to Wise with all her strength, her fingers gripping his bomber jacket so tightly her knuckles turned white, her mind swirling with fear and uncertainty. The purple light and black abyss engulfed them completely, swallowing their cries and turning their thoughts to echoes that reverberated through the void. Her aquamarine eyes squeezed shut against the overwhelming sensations as they plummeted deeper into the unknown.

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As they journeyed downward, Belle's grasp on reality began to slip away. Visions of their shared history materialised before her—snippets of joy, disputes, and confidences with such striking clarity that it caused an ache in her chest. She experienced a deep yearning for the ordinary life that had been so suddenly disrupted, for idle weekend mornings and trivial disagreements about whose responsibility it was to clean the dishes. Wise, consistently the guardian, remained quiet but determined at her side, his clasp on her hand unwavering, tethering her to what scant certainty persisted.

All at once, the gloom began to alter, and a dim shimmer of illumination emerged beneath them. It expanded steadily, slicing through the ebony emptiness like a guiding star through mist. Belle's pulse quickened with a blend of anticipation and anxiety, her heartbeat roaring in her ears. What existed beyond this ceaseless plummet? What waited for them in the radiance? The queries cascaded through her thoughts, each more disquieting than its predecessor.

Their fall gradually decelerated, the feeling of plunging replaced by a delicate hovering, as if they were buoyed in liquid. The siblings found themselves washed in a gentle, otherworldly luminescence that brushed their skin with gossamer touches. The violet brilliance and sable chasm continued to envelop them, apparently infinite, extending in every direction like a celestial tapestry.

They touched down gently and instantaneously from what had felt like an eternity, they were whisked to a Cinema, the shift so sudden it seemed as though reality had stuttered. Adjacent to one another unconscious with Belle firmly clutching Wise's hand in her slumber, her digits entwined with his as though even in her unaware state she dreaded losing him to the vast mysterious realm they'd just navigated.

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Belle slowly awoke, feeling stiff and disoriented. She blinked several times to clear her blurry vision, each movement deliberate as her body fought against the lingering grogginess. The floating sensation that had enveloped her earlier had completely vanished, and with a jolt of awareness, she realised she was sitting in a comfortable seat with padded armrests. However, an uncomfortable chill spread throughout her body, raising goosebumps along her arms beneath her dark long-sleeved shirt. Her mind raced with questions—where exactly was she, and more importantly, was Wise safe?

She could hear muffled voices in the background, like listening underwater, but she was having trouble focusing on anything specific, making it impossible for her to understand what was being said. Her implants were malfunctioning slightly, the usually seamless connection to her senses now stuttering and unreliable.

She called out, her voice cracking slightly, "Where am I? And where is Wise?" The words felt heavy on her tongue, her anxiety building with each passing second.

As her implants gradually recalibrated and started functioning correctly again, her vision cleared like fog lifting, and she could make out a familiar figure sitting next to her in what appeared to be a cinema, the dim lighting now apparent around them.

"Wise!!" she shouted, her voice carrying both fear and profound relief when she saw that her brother was unharmed and slowly coming to awareness beside her. Without thinking, she flung herself at him, wrapping her arms around him in a desperate hug, her blue hair brushing against his cheek. He returned the embrace with equal intensity, but there was a look of confusion clouding his aquamarine eyes as he glanced around, clearly wondering where they had ended up and how they had arrived in such a place.

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"Belle, are you okay? Are you hurt?" Wise's voice cracked with panic as he rushed to her side, his grey hair dishevelled from the sudden movement. His aquamarine eyes, usually calm and calculating, now wide with alarm as his hands hovered anxiously over her, checking for any visible injuries. However, as he frantically assessed his sister, the realisation slowly dawned on him that Belle was just as bewildered as he was. Her own aquamarine eyes mirrored his confusion, her blue and orange hair slightly tousled as she tried to make sense of what had just happened. The siblings shared a moment of mutual disorientation, both equally lost in the unexpected situation that had unfolded before them.

"I think I'm fine, Wise. You don't need to worry, brother," Belle replies, holding onto Wise but pulling back from the hug to look at her brother properly. She gives him a reassuring smile despite the lingering confusion clouding her thoughts. "After we fell, it felt like we were falling for ages, like being caught in some strange time loop. Then I think I blacked out completely, and the next thing I remember was waking up next to you in this seat." She blinks rapidly, the familiar sensation of her ocular technology recalibrating itself. "My ocular implants were malfunctioning, showing all sorts of bizarre readings and distorted visuals, though that seems to have stopped now," her voice trails off as she begins to look around the room, taking in their unfamiliar surroundings. Her attention shifts to the other voices she can hear in the background, muffled conversations that only add to the mystery of where they've found themselves. Belle's hand instinctively moves to the small device at her hip, checking it's still there as she continues to assess their situation.

She notices that they're in a spacious, modern cinema room with blue and black fabric chairs arranged in neat, curved rows around them. The plush seating, clearly designed for comfort during long viewings, contrasts sharply with the anxiety Belle feels bubbling up inside her chest. The room feels tense, like a powder keg ready to explode, with an almost palpable electricity hanging in the air. Belle's ocular implants, now functioning properly again, pick up subtle details—the soft ambient lighting along the aisles, the high-tech projection equipment mounted on the ceiling, and the strained expressions on the faces of others scattered throughout the room. She shifts uncomfortably in her seat, wondering what circumstances had brought them all to this peculiar theatre.

"I've never been to a place like this before, Belle," Wise whispers into Belle's ear, his breath warm against her skin as he leans in close to keep the others from hearing them talk. His voice carries a hint of unease that mirrors her own growing discomfort. Belle feels a small shiver run down her spine, not entirely from his proximity but from the strange circumstances they find themselves in. They scan the surroundings methodically, their trained eyes sweeping across the dimly lit theatre, trying to figure out where they are and, more importantly, why they've been brought here. Belle notices Wise's fingers drumming lightly against his knee—a subtle tell of his anxiety that few besides her would recognise.

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Belle's heart starts to race as fear begins to settle in, a cold weight dropping into the pit of her stomach. "Wise, where are we? What's happening?" she asks her brother, her gaze darting frantically to the various groups of people gathered in the dimly lit room. Some she recognises from their previous jobs as a Proxy—faces she'd guided through treacherous Hollows—while others are familiar from Inter-knot forums, digital acquaintances now materialised in the flesh. The unexpected convergence of these separate worlds only heightens her growing anxiety, her fingers instinctively reaching for the small device attached to her hip as if it might offer some explanation.

She asks Wise quietly, her body filled with unease, her shoulders tensing as she leans closer to her brother. "Who are they, Wise?" The tremor in her voice betrays the anxiety coursing through her veins, her fingertips nervously tapping against the device at her hip.

"Belle, I don't recognise these individuals, but there are a few we've encountered before. Hopefully, they won't address us as Phaethon or proxies, as that group appears to be composed of public security officers." Wise scans the group methodically, his eyes narrowing as recognition dawns. He tilts his head subtly towards a familiar face. "That's Nicole from The Cunning Hares—still hasn't paid our last invoice, I see—and over there is Hoshimi Miyabi from what I've gathered on Inter-Knot." His voice drops to a barely audible whisper. "Consequently, the remaining individuals around Miyabi must belong to H.A.N.D. Hollow Special Operations Section 6, which is more commonly abbreviated as H.S.O.S.6."

Belle's stomach tightens further. Public security and Hollow specialists in the same room as underground Proxies? This couldn't possibly end well.

"Wait, Miyabi's here!" Belle exclaims to Wise when she spots her, ensuring she remains quiet to avoid drawing attention to them. Her fingers instinctively tighten around her brother's sleeve, a nervous habit from their childhood days. The sight of the H.A.N.D. operative in this cinema sends a cold shiver down her spine. "But what is she doing here, Wise?"

"I'm not entirely sure at the moment, but I have a feeling we might find out soon," Wise replies to Belle, continuing to observe the individuals in the room with the calculating gaze she's known since childhood.

He can make out Hollow Special Operations Section 6 standing around Miyabi in a guarding formation, their serious demeanours scanning the cinema for threats with an icy alertness matching what they had read about them online. Belle follows his line of sight, her stomach twisting into knots. The H.S.O.S.6 agents moved with military precision, their postures rigid and eyes constantly sweeping the space—exactly like the reports on the Proxy Network had described. Their presence in a civilian location like this could only mean something significant was happening, and Belle couldn't shake the feeling that whatever it was, it wouldn't bode well for underground operators like themselves.

"She appears to be taking this matter very seriously, Belle. Perhaps we should approach them and ask for their help?" Wise suggests to Belle, considering the possibility of seeking their assistance in this situation.

Belle bites her lower lip, weighing the risks. Involving H.S.O.S.6 agents was never part of their playbook as Proxies, The military precision of the agents made her skin prickle with unease.

"I'm not sure that's our best move," she whispers back, her aquamarine eyes never leaving the formation around Miyabi. "They're not exactly friendly to people in our line of work. If they discover who we are..." She lets the sentence hang, both of them knowing all too well what could happen if their current operations were exposed to official channels.

"Yeah, I understand. There's a lot happening here," Belle replies, her eyes scanning the other groups with the practiced scrutiny of an experienced Proxy. The familiar weight of caution settles on her shoulders—too many players in one space rarely ended well.

Belle continues to observe, cataloguing potential threats and escape routes as second nature. In one corner of the cinema, there's another group of people who appear to have just emerged from a construction site, their clothes dusty and their voices carrying across the space without restraint. The contrast is striking—while Miyabi's group exudes composure and professionalism with their coordinated movements and disciplined formation, this group is boisterous and unrefined, laughing loudly and gesturing wildly as they converse. Belle's aquamarine eyes narrow slightly, her mind already calculating how these disparate elements might complicate their already precarious situation.

A small young woman with red hair arranged in twin tails holds her ground confidently in front of them, her tiny frame at odds with the powerful aura she projects. She's dressed in an unassuming dark vest top that makes a stark contrast against her baggy cream trousers, the informal outfit somehow enhancing rather than reducing her air of control. Her countenance appears resolute, nearly intense, and Belle observes how the other members of the party are carefully heeding each syllable she speaks, their bodies unconsciously oriented towards her like heliotropic blooms following the movement of daylight.

"Is she... the leader of their group?" Belle inquires, her brow furrowed in concentration as she catalogues this new development. Another variable in an already complex equation. She studies the young woman with keen interest, noting the subtle interactions between her and the rest of the party. Each glance, each nod, seems to affirm the redhead's influence over them.

"I believe so," Wise replies, his voice filled with curiosity and a hint of professional assessment. "There's an aura of authority surrounding her. They're not just listening, but hanging on every word she says. Their bodies are turned towards her, almost instinctively. It's in the way they stand, the way they respond—the body language doesn't lie." He pauses, his gaze narrowing as he observes the group dynamics. "And she's not just commanding their attention; she's earning it. There's a respect there, a trust that's palpable."

Belle, continuing to scan the room with Wise, remarked, "Wise, that group looks like a group of butlers from the uniforms they're wearing!" She gestured subtly towards the well-dressed individuals scattered throughout the gathering. Their crisp, formal attire—complete with pristine white gloves and immaculately pressed waistcoats—gave them away instantly. Even from this distance, Belle could recognise the practiced posture and attentive demeanour that marked professional household staff. As a Proxy accustomed to noticing details that others might miss, the uniformity of their presentation stood out like a beacon in the crowded room.

Wise followed Belle's gaze toward the group she had indicated, his eyes narrowing slightly in analytical focus. He immediately noticed the imposing figure among them—a wolf Thiren who towered over his companions by at least a head. The creature cut a striking figure in his impeccably tailored suit, which Belle couldn't help but admire for its perfect fit despite the Thiren's unusual proportions. Most remarkable were his lower limbs—either sophisticated mechanical prosthetics or some form of highly specialised boots that added to his already considerable height.

Belle watched with professional interest as the Thiren subtly adjusted his stance, positioning himself slightly forward of his companions. To the untrained eye, it might appear casual, but Belle recognised the protective formation immediately. The wolf was strategically placing himself as a shield, ready to intercept any potential threat to the others in his group. It was the practiced move of someone accustomed to security work, executed with such natural grace that most would never notice the deliberate nature of the positioning.

Belle recognised the subtle dynamics at play immediately. The wolf Thiren wasn't just any member of the group—he carried himself with the unmistakable air of leadership. His authoritative stance and calculated positioning spoke volumes to her trained eye, revealing both his command status and protective instincts. Having guided countless clients through Hollows as a Proxy, Belle had developed a keen sense for identifying security professionals, and this Thiren displayed all the hallmarks of someone accustomed to safeguarding others. The way he had subtly manoeuvred to create a defensive barrier between potential threats and his companions was textbook, yet executed with such natural fluidity that most observers would never notice the deliberate strategy behind it. Belle made a mental note to approach with appropriate caution—leaders like him were typically the decision-makers, and in her experience, often the most difficult to convince of anything they hadn't already decided for themselves.

"Wise, that Butler Bangboo is so adorable! Perhaps we should get some more outfits for Eous. I think he would look absolutely charming in something similar," Belle exclaims with genuine enthusiasm, her aquamarine eyes lighting up at the thought. She glances fondly at the group's assembled Bangboos, noting how they seem to huddle together, their electronic eyes blinking in what she'd learned to recognise as wistfulness. After years of working with these mechanical companions, Belle could read their non-verbal cues almost as clearly as human expressions. It was obvious they were all wishing Eous was with them at this moment in time, rather than back at Random Play manning their remote operation systems. Perhaps a new outfit would be a nice reward for their loyal companion when they returned.

"This is so strange, why are there so many different people here and what is this place?" Belle mutters to Wise, absently wondering where they were. She shifts her weight from one foot to the other, her fingers drumming nervously against her thigh as she scans the unfamiliar surroundings. The crowd seems to pulse with a collective energy that makes her instinctively wary.

"Wait! Belle, I just realised Nicole is here with the others from her company. Look over there in that corner." Wise nudges her gently, his voice dropping to a whisper. "Normally, I would suggest we go to her, but given the current situation, it would be best to stay in the background until we have more information. However, if it comes down to it, we can hide behind the Cunning Hares or H.S.O.S.6 for protection." Wise said to Belle in relief and a bit of worry, hoping Nicole wouldn't expose them as proxies.

Belle follows her brother's gaze, spotting Nicole's distinctive silhouette amongst the crowd. A flicker of recognition passes through her—both comforting and concerning. She bites her lower lip, weighing their options. Having the Cunning Hares present was like finding a familiar landmark in uncharted territory, but it also meant potential complications. Nicole's team had a knack for attracting attention, the very thing they needed to avoid right now.

Belle turned her gaze towards the direction Wise was pointing, her eyes settling on the trio of people standing apart from the others. At the forefront was a woman with pink hair—Nicole Demara, unmistakable even from this distance. She wore a tight-fitting shirt and black, shiny shorts, an outfit that seemed designed specifically to command attention in any room she entered. This striking ensemble drew eyes to her effortlessly, exactly as she likely intended.

The two individuals seated beside her—Anby and Billy, no doubt—were equally peculiar in their own right, their combined attention fixed on Nicole with that familiar mix of exasperation and loyalty. They hung on her every gesture, awaiting instructions with the practiced patience of people who had followed her into countless misadventures.

Belle sighed, her fingers moving in the discreet sign language she and Wise had perfected over years of working as Proxies. "What are they doing here? Did they avoid yet another creditor? Although this is precisely the kind of situation I would anticipate Nicole to find herself in and subsequently involve the rest of the Cunning Hares in, as they follow her like Bangboos programmed for loyalty." She bit her lip, calculating the odds that Nicole's presence would complicate their already precarious position. The Hares had a talent for turning simple situations into spectacles—useful when you needed a distraction, disastrous when you were trying to maintain a low profile.

“Wise, do you notice that other group over there?” Belle interjects, her curiosity piqued as she shifts her attention from her previous thoughts. The other group occupies a section of the cinema, their presence a stark contrast to the casual patrons surrounding them. They seem to hail from the outer ring, their outfits a vivid tapestry of patches and symbols that tell stories of allegiance and defiance—biker gang insignias prominently displayed among them. At the forefront of their assembly stands a striking woman, tall and imposing, with long green hair that cascades down her back. She wears a gunmetal grey dress that clings to her figure, accentuating her commanding presence.

“I believe the tall woman is the leader of that group, Belle,” Wise replies, his keen observation honed by years of navigating the intricate dynamics of human interactions. “Just look at how the others are gazing at her, their eyes filled with anticipation, waiting for her orders or instinctively shielding her from any potential threats. Meanwhile, she positions herself as a protective barrier, ensuring the safety of her group.” As Wise studies Belle's reaction, he also contemplates the purpose of this unfamiliar group's presence in the cinema and the nature of the space around them, sensing an undercurrent of tension that could easily escalate.

"Wise, the real question is, why are we all here, and what is this place?" Belle asks Wise, taking in the situation and rapidly thinking to herself. Her eyes dart around the unfamiliar surroundings, mentally cataloguing potential exits and threats as any experienced Proxy would. The presence of the Cunning Hares—especially Anby with her unpredictable reactions to cinematic situations—adds another layer of complexity to an already perplexing scenario.

Wise turns to Belle with a serious, calm expression. "I don't know why we're all here, but we need to stick together and figure out what's happening. Something is clearly happening, and we're right in the middle of it." His voice carries the measured tone she's come to rely on during their years working together as Phaethon, a subtle reminder of their well-practiced partnership in navigating dangerous situations.

Belle nods slightly, her hand instinctively moving towards where Eous would normally be. The absence of their modified Bangboo companion leaves her feeling oddly vulnerable, like missing a crucial piece of equipment before a Hollow dive.

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The background noise and talking gradually fade as everyone turns their attention to each other and the front of the room. Belle noticed how the anxious murmurs died down, replaced by an uneasy silence that seemed to press against her ears. On the cinema screen, an image with text reads, "Good evening, everyone. You're probably all wondering why you're here. Let this note put your questions to rest." The words glowed eerily against the dark background, sending a chill down her spine.

Belle and Wise exchanged a wary, cautious glance with each other. She could read the concern in her brother's aquamarine eyes, so similar to her own, and knew he was thinking the same thing—this was no ordinary gathering. Her fingers instinctively moved to the small device attached to her hip, seeking reassurance from its familiar presence.

The red-haired girl from the construction company's group suddenly snaps at the screen, her voice cutting through the tense atmosphere like a knife. "Who do you think you are kidnapping us like this?" she exclaimed, her indignation echoing what Belle herself was feeling but hadn't yet voiced. Belle studied the outspoken woman, wondering if her boldness would bring answers or consequences.

This outburst elicits murmurs of agreement from everyone else in the cinema room. People subconsciously nod and exchange uneasy glances, the tension in the air thickening with each passing second. Belle noticed how the strangers around her—previously isolated in their separate groups—were suddenly united in their confusion and indignation.

The screen text transforms into an unsettling message, disclosing the purpose of the gathering: "You are here to witness the unfolding of your future, the secrets people conceal, and the truth that awaits you and the future of both Belle and Wise."

The mention of their names sent a ripple of shock and surprise throughout the room. Belle felt her stomach drop, a cold wave of dread washing over her as her own name appeared before her eyes. She instinctively reached for her brother's arm, her fingers gripping the fabric of his bomber jacket. Wise stepped in front of Belle to protect her from the screen, his body becoming a shield between her and whatever threat this mysterious presentation posed. Everyone else in the room turned to look at them, their gazes a mixture of curiosity, suspicion and alarm. Belle could feel the weight of their stares pressing against her, questions forming in their eyes that she herself couldn't answer.

The Cunning Hares glanced at them and then exchanged confused glances with each other. Their expressions were a mix of confusion and worry, their normally confident demeanours suddenly uncertain. Nicole's brow furrowed deeply while Anby's eyes widened with alarm. Even Billy seemed unsettled, shifting his weight from one foot to the other.

Whispering to each other quietly, their hushed voices barely audible over the ambient hum of the room, they wondered, "What are the proxies doing here? Why are we reacting to their future? Is something bad going to happen to Phaethon?" Their concerned murmurs carried across the space to Belle's ears, making her stomach clench with renewed anxiety. These people—who owed Phaethon months of unpaid fees—suddenly seemed genuinely concerned for their wellbeing, which only amplified Belle's growing sense of dread.

One of the girls from the outer-ring biker gang shouts out to the screen, demanding, "Why should we care about them? What makes them so significant?" After her initial outburst, she crosses her arms and adds, "Not only do you kidnap us, but you also expect us to watch some strangers? This is utterly ridiculous and absurd!"

"Lucy, please calm down. Yelling at the screen won't make it respond to you, nor will it solve anything by getting angry." A man from the outer-ring group interjects, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. Belle recognised the woman immediately—Luciana de Montefio, the runaway heiress who'd made quite a name for herself in the Outer Ring. The man was clearly trying to calm her down while maintaining his composure, though Lucy's fiery temperament wasn't easily subdued.

A figure, the wolf Thiren from the butler group, steps forward. He moves with graceful intent, his silver fur catching the dim light as he prowls with deliberate steps towards the front. "I agree with the sentiments expressed by the young lady," he says, approaching the cinema screen with a measured gait that betrayed his predatory nature. His amber eyes narrowed as he scanned the room, clearly sensing that there's more to this situation than meets the eye. "My time and the time of my employees are precious, and I can't afford to squander them on this trivial matter. If there is a point to this charade, I suggest it be revealed promptly."

From the Public Security group, another voice joins the conversation, adding their own perspective to the mix. A rat thiren, who smirks casually from where she is leaning against a chair, her tail flicking with barely contained amusement, asks, "The future, you say? It sounds impossible, so why don't you elaborate?" Her beady eyes narrow with suspicion as she gestures towards the screen with a hand. "Perhaps you could tell us more about this rather unusual screen, or should I say the person or group responsible for this?" Her tone carries the unmistakable edge of someone accustomed to interrogations, each word carefully measured to extract information rather than simply participate in the discussion.

Belle grapples with confusion and fear, contemplating the meaning of their future. Her mind races through possibilities, each more unsettling than the last. She glances at Wise with concern, noting the familiar crease between his brows that always appears when he's troubled, and mutters to herself, "What does it all mean? How could they possibly know what hasn't happened yet?"

Wise leans in closer, his shoulder brushing against hers as he maintains a low voice, barely audible above the murmurs filling the room. "I'm not sure, Belle, and I'm not comfortable with the fact that we're the main focus. Something about this feels wrong—like we're being watched through a lens we can't see." His uneasiness mirrors her own, sending a chill down her spine despite the warmth of the crowded space.

The display's text changes again, startling everyone in the room. Belle's breath catches in her throat as the realisation dawns on them all – something is actively listening in, or the screen is monitoring their every word and reaction in real-time. The technology behind this is unlike anything she's encountered, even during her most dangerous Hollow expeditions.

"You're here to witness their lives unfold before your very eyes on this screen. You'll witness their choices, struggles, secrets, and triumphs. Nothing will be spared. And as you watch, your reactions, thoughts, and emotions will become an integral part of this experience."

Belle feels a chill run through her body, her fingers instinctively reaching for Wise's hand beside her. The implications are unsettling – not just observation, but integration of their responses into... whatever this is.

"What are you reacting to? Their mistakes?" Lucy scoffs, the defiance in her voice cutting through the tension. She receives a warning glance from her companions and disapproving murmurs from others in the room who clearly find her confrontational attitude inappropriate given the circumstances. Belle notices Anby shifting uncomfortably, her usual movie references notably absent in this all-too-real scenario.

The text then shifts to reveal, with an ominous deliberateness that makes Belle's skin prickle, "You will be reacting to everything. You will witness the repercussions of their actions and possibly your own." The words hang in the air like a threat, or perhaps a promise – one that Belle, despite all her experience navigating the unpredictable dangers of Hollows, finds herself thoroughly unprepared for.

This statement prompts a woman from the Public Security police group to step forward. Her boots click against the carpet as she speaks firmly and with authority, her hand hovering near her weapon in a gesture Belle recognises all too well from her own encounters with New Eridu's law enforcement. "This act is highly illegal and carries severe consequences. Kidnapping an entire room and then forcing them to watch something without their consent is a crime in New Eridu," she declares, her voice cutting through the tension like a knife.

Next to her, the robotic girl with green hair cautions, "Zhu Yuan, be careful. We're clueless about our location or the identities of those responsible. If they can bring us all here simultaneously, it suggests they possess resources or abilities beyond our comprehension." Belle watches this exchange with growing unease, mentally cataloguing the dynamics between these two as she would for any potential client or threat. As a Proxy who's navigated countless dangerous situations, she knows that understanding the power players in any room could mean the difference between survival and disaster.

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Before anyone can react, all weapons in the room vanish into thin air with a subtle shimmer of displacement—pistols, knives, even concealed backup pieces—all gone without a trace. Belle watches with mild fascination as the text on the screen updates in crisp, authoritative font, indicating that "all weapons have been removed from the room. Any threats directed towards the screen or towards each other will not be tolerated." The message glows with an unmistakable finality.

The officer refocuses on the screen, her expression morphing into a potent blend of barely contained anger and poorly disguised fear. Her hands instinctively pat the empty holster at her hip, fingers twitching with the phantom sensation of a weapon that's no longer there. "How did you manage that?" she demands, voice tight with professional indignation.

The text updates again, letters forming with mechanical precision. "Your weapons were confiscated because they are unnecessary and pose a risk to yourself and the others in this room. As such, they have been removed. You will be able to retrieve them once you are returned to your homes. However, I do require your cooperation throughout this process." Belle notes how the message manages to sound both reasonable and utterly non-negotiable, the digital equivalent of a polite smile with steel behind it.

Belle clings to Wise's arm, her fingers digging into the fabric of his bomber jacket, her fear palpable. The sensation of her weapons vanishing has left her feeling exposed and vulnerable in a way she hasn't experienced since her earliest days as a Proxy. "This is insane! What have we gotten ourselves into?" she whispers to Wise, her aquamarine eyes darting around the room, searching for any sign of their confiscated items or an explanation that might make sense of the impossible.

Wise simply nods in response, his body tense beneath her grip and his jaw clenched tight enough that she can see a muscle twitching. "This situation is beyond insane; it's impossible. Items can't simply vanish into thin air, and if that's possible for objects, what prevents it from happening to people or us?" The calm logic in his voice does little to settle the churning anxiety in Belle's stomach. If their weapons could disappear without a trace, what other impossibilities might they face in this strange place?

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After this, the display transitions to a new blank image set against a stark, empty background. Text materialises across the screen with deliberate precision: "Before we begin, you should introduce yourselves to each other. Unbeknownst to you now, you are all connected to one another. Understanding your identities will aid in comprehending your purpose here."

Nicole steps forward abruptly, her face contorted with indignation. She jabs an accusatory finger toward the unseen presenter, exclaiming, "You better be compensating me with Dennies for being here without my consent! Do you have any idea how much money I'm missing out on by being here and the debt I have to pay?" Her voice rises with each word, the familiar desperation of the Cunning Hares' perpetual financial troubles evident in her tone. Belle notices Nicole's hands clenching and unclenching at her sides—a telltale sign of her mounting frustration.

The text updates, assuring, "Time has been paused in your world, so you don't need to worry about missing anything. Once you're returned home, everything will be precisely as it was when you left."

Belle watches Nicole's tense posture relax slightly at this revelation, though the Cunning Hares' manager still appears sceptical, her eyes narrowed in suspicion. Belle herself feels a small wave of relief wash over her; at least whatever strange situation they've found themselves in won't disrupt their already complicated lives back in New Eridu.

Another update appears after everyone has read the previous one: "Now, I would advise that you all find a seat so we can commence our discussion."

Belle glances around, noting the chairs arranged in a semi-circle before them. She hesitates momentarily, wondering which seat to choose and what strange revelations might await them once they're all settled. With a small sigh, she moves toward one of the chairs, her chunky sneakers hardly making a sound against the floor.

Belle and Wise exchanged worried glances, a silent communication born from years of working together as Phaethon. Wise shrugged his shoulder gently and pointed towards a set of seats for them, his expression suggesting they might as well play along with whatever this bizarre situation entailed. Belle nodded in response, tucking a strand of blue-orange hair behind her ear.

Together, they slowly made their way towards the two empty seats at the bottom of the room in front of the screen, but towards the outer edge. Belle noticed how her brother instinctively positioned himself to maintain optimal visibility of both the display and the room's exits—a habit from their Proxy work. They ensured that there was a distance between them and the others in the room, a precautionary measure Belle appreciated. After all, in New Eridu, strangers rarely brought good news, and this strange gathering was peculiar even by their standards.

Everyone began to move towards the seats in the cinema room, shuffling down the narrow aisles with murmured excuses and the occasional squeak of shoes on polished flooring. They arranged themselves in their respective groups, settling into the plush seats with rustling movements and whispered conversations. However, Belle noticed they deliberately remained close to the other groups, positioning themselves within easy speaking distance rather than spreading throughout the available space. This strategic seating allowed them to talk and discuss what they were about to watch, exchanging theories in hushed tones and preparing to share reactions when the presentation began. There was an unusual camaraderie in the air—strange for New Eridu, where people typically kept their distance from strangers. Whatever was about to be shown clearly warranted this collective experience rather than individual viewing.

Chapter Text

Once everyone was seated, they exchanged uncertain glances, a palpable awkwardness hanging in the air as each person waited for someone else to take the initiative. Belle observed the hesitation rippling through the group, noticing how they all seemed to be silently negotiating who should speak first. A striking woman with long, pink hair styled in high pigtails, secured with black ribbons, finally broke the uncomfortable silence. "Since no one else has started, I'll begin," she announced with confidence that Belle couldn't help but admire.

Standing up with a fluid motion, the woman instantly commanded the room's attention. It wasn't just her vibrant pink hair that drew Belle's eye, but her entire edgy ensemble: a well-worn black leather jacket draped over a boldly striped, cropped top, paired with dark shorts featuring decorative straps and artfully distressed detailing. Belle watched as the others responded to this self-assured presence, some nodding appreciatively at her initiative, whilst others visibly relaxed, clearly relieved that someone had taken charge of the situation.

In the room, all eyes turned to the woman who stood, crossed her arms, and exuded a proud and commanding presence. Her yellow eyes sparkled as she smirked at the room full of people, evidently relishing the attention. Her confident demeanour, enhanced by her bold style, was impossible to ignore. Belle couldn't help but notice how the vibrant pink pigtails framed her face perfectly, the black ribbons securing them adding a touch of flair that matched her leather jacket.

"I'm Nicole Demara, the head of the human resource dispatch agency, The Cunning Hares, or as you might know us, the Gentle House. We're based in New Eridu." As she gestured with her hands, she introduced her two colleagues seated beside her: Anby on the left and Billy on the right. Belle recognised the familiar theatrical flourish in Nicole's movements—something she'd witnessed countless times when the woman visited their store.

"This is Anby Demara. She is my sister and a member of my company. She loves watching movies, which is how we know Belle and Wise. We regularly rent movies from them." Nicole said, gesturing towards the woman with short white hair and orange eyes, wearing a green combat suit. Anby was calm and collected, with an unshakeable demeanour that contrasted sharply with Nicole's boldness. A quiet intensity radiated from her, her gaze steady and observant. Belle had always appreciated Anby's thoughtful film selections whenever she browsed Random Play's shelves, often recommending obscure titles that revealed her surprisingly extensive knowledge of cinema.

The green combat suit, while practical, seemed almost understated on her, highlighting her slender frame. Her short, white hair was impeccably styled, framing her striking orange eyes that held a hint of amusement, as if she were silently assessing the situation and those around her. She offered a small, almost imperceptible nod in acknowledgement of the introductions, her expression betraying little emotion, yet conveying a sense of quiet competence and unwavering resolve.

There was a subtle strength in her stillness, a quiet power that spoke volumes without a single word. She seemed perfectly content to let Nicole handle the more boisterous aspects of the introduction, her presence a silent testament to her own capabilities. Belle had always appreciated this quality in Anby—the way she could command attention without demanding it, so unlike Nicole's exuberant leadership style.

A fleeting glance, barely noticeable to anyone else, passed between Belle and Wise. It was a silent confirmation of their mutual satisfaction that their secret remained safe, at least for now. The burden of their double lives, the constant pressure to maintain their charade as ordinary video store owners, momentarily eased in that shared, silent acknowledgment. Belle felt a familiar rush of relief; even surrounded by clients who trusted them with dangerous Hollow missions, no one suspected that the siblings behind Random Play's counter were also the legendary Proxy Phaethon—a secret that had to be guarded at all costs.

During this, Nicole continued introducing the cyborg next to her. "And this is Billy Kid, who is the other colleague of mine." However, he interrupted her mid-sentence. "I am Nicole's most trusted ally!" he declared with enthusiasm, drawing a few chuckles from the audience. Billy Kid was a striking cyborg, his white spiky hair a stark contrast to his black skin.

Belle watched the interaction with a small smile, recognising the familiar dynamic between Nicole and her team. She'd seen this exact scene play out dozens of times during their many collaborations, though usually in the privacy of Random Play's back office rather than before an audience.

His light-yellow eyes, devoid of the usual human softness, held a sharp intelligence. He was clad in his signature red jacket, the black accents highlighting the sharp lines of his cybernetic enhancements. A faint hum emanated from somewhere within his chassis, a subtle reminder of the advanced technology beneath his stylish exterior.

Belle had always found Billy's construction fascinating—a marvel of technology that somehow managed to convey more humanity than many flesh-and-blood people she'd met. She'd once spent an entire afternoon discussing his internal mechanisms with him while repairing Eous, much to Wise's exasperation.

He flashed a grin, revealing no mouth but somehow conveying a mischievous charm. "Nice to meet you all," he added, his voice a smooth baritone that belied his youthful appearance. "Though, honestly, I'm more of a 'show, don't tell' kind of guy. Let's just say... I'm very good at his job." He winked, the gesture oddly endearing despite the lack of a mouth to form it. The audience responded with a mixture of amusement and intrigued curiosity.

Belle bit back a laugh. Billy's understated boasting hardly did justice to his capabilities—she'd seen firsthand how devastating he could be in combat. The former Red Scarf of Calydon had saved both her and Wise from tight spots more than once, though she doubted many in this room knew the full extent of his abilities.

The audience reacted with a mixture of amusement and intrigued curiosity. A few members of the Sons of Calydon, who recognised him, exchanged knowing glances and grins. Belle noted these subtle interactions, mentally cataloguing which gang members seemed familiar with Billy—information that might prove useful later. As a Proxy, she'd learned that even the smallest connections could become vital when navigating the complex web of New Eridu's underground networks.

Belle whispered to Wise, "It seems like that particular group might already be familiar with him." She tracked the subtle exchanges between certain Sons of Calydon members, mentally mapping the connections. Wise hummed in agreement, observing each group's reaction to the introduction of the Cunning Hares with the same analytical precision she'd come to rely on.

Nicole claps her hands together, a sharp sound that cuts through the low hum of conversation. "Alright everyone, settle down! This is my team, the best damn company in New Eridu, naturally. But enough about us, let's hear from the other teams. Who's next? Ah, I believe I saw a certain *someone* with a rather striking… presence. Perhaps the elephant could grace us with an introduction?" Nicole gestures subtly towards someone in the room with a knowing smirk.

Wise, ever the literal interpreter, mutters loudly enough for everyone to hear, "Who's the elephant? I don't see any elephant, Thiren, here." Belle suppressed a smile at her brother's deliberately obtuse comment, recognising his strategy of playing the fool to observe others' reactions.

Miyabi, unfazed by Wise's comment and Nicole's pointed remark, replies smoothly, "I am Miyabi, a Fox Thiren. And while I appreciate the compliment about my… presence, I assure you, my methods are far more subtle than any elephant's." She offers a small, almost imperceptible smile, her eyes twinkling with amusement. The subtle jab at Nicole's overly dramatic introduction is not lost on anyone present. Belle noted the practiced grace in Miyabi's response—the hallmark of someone accustomed to navigating delicate political situations with ease.

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Miyabi stood confidently, commanding attention with her presence. Her long, raven-black hair cascaded down her back, framing a striking face with dark eyes that seemed to pierce through Belle's defences. Fox-like ears peeked from beneath her dark, almost black hair, twitching slightly as if attuned to every sound in the room. She wore a stylish yet practical outfit: a dark-coloured, pleated skirt that fell to mid-thigh, layered over dark leggings that accentuated her athletic build. A teal-blue shawl draped elegantly over her shoulders, contrasting with the black of her fitted top and fingerless gloves that hinted at a warrior's hands beneath. Dark, heeled boots completed her look, hinting at both grace and readiness for action, the slight tap of them against the floor echoing with authority as she shifted her weight.

"As I mentioned earlier," she stated, her voice calm and controlled, carrying effortlessly across the room and sending an unexpected shiver down Belle's spine, "I am Hoshimi Miyabi, Chief of Hollow Special Operations Section 6 for the Organisation H.A.N.D. And these are the individuals who comprise my elite team." She gestured with a subtle, refined movement of her hand, drawing Belle's attention to the remarkable figures standing beside her.

Miyabi continued, "First, we have Tsukishiro Yanagi, whose skill with a blade is matched only by her unwavering resolve and quiet intensity. She stands poised and ready, a vision of sharp contrasts." Her long, pale pink hair, styled with a slight wave, framed a delicate face softened by kind eyes behind rectangular glasses. A crisp white blouse, partially obscured by a dark grey, military-style jacket, contrasted with her short, dark grey pleated skirt. The jacket featured intricate, dark grey and black detailing on the shoulders, adding a touch of formality to her otherwise youthful appearance. A teal-green shawl draped elegantly over her shoulders, adding a splash of colour to her otherwise muted palette. Black, heeled boots completed her ensemble, hinting at a blend of grace and lethal efficiency.

Belle found herself studying Yanagi with growing fascination. There was something reassuringly competent about the woman—a steadiness that seemed to anchor the entire room. Despite her formal attire, Yanagi carried herself with the unmistakable poise of someone who had seen combat, her posture betraying years of military discipline beneath the polished exterior.

"Next, we have Asaba Harumasa, another member of my team," Miyabi continued, her voice steady and composed.

A man seated in section six sprang from his chair with a confident swagger. "Greetings! I'm Harumasa. I trust we'll all get along well." His dark, almost midnight-blue hair was neatly styled, partially obscured by a yellow headband. His eyes, a warm amber, held a quiet intensity that belied his youthful appearance. He wore a crisp white, long-sleeved shirt under a tactical vest, the dark grey fabric adorned with various pouches and straps. Over this, he sported a teal-coloured, almost kimono-like outer garment that flowed slightly behind him. Black pants, tucked into sturdy, yellow-accented black boots, completed his attire.

Harumasa adjusted the jacket around his waist and turned his gaze towards the last person to introduce themselves from section six. His confident demeanour and striking appearance drew the attention of everyone in the room, including Belle's. She couldn't help but notice how his entire presence seemed calculated to make an impression—from the dramatic rising from his chair to the carefully styled hair. There was something theatrical about him that made Belle wonder if his confidence was entirely genuine or partly performance. Still, she had to admit, it was an effective one.

As he settled back into his stance, Belle caught a glimpse of the fingerless glove on one hand, the material worn in places that suggested frequent use. Despite his seemingly carefree attitude, there was something in the way he carried himself—a readiness, an almost imperceptible tension in his shoulders—that hinted at combat experience. His charismatic smile never quite reached those amber eyes, which remained watchful, assessing the room with the practiced gaze of someone accustomed to identifying threats. The yellow headband, faded in places but meticulously maintained, seemed more than a mere fashion choice; Belle sensed it held some deeper significance to the archer. For all his theatrical flair, there appeared to be layers to Harumasa that his carefully cultivated persona was designed to obscure.

"And I'm Soukaku!" she declared, her voice a low, melodic hum that contrasted with the mischievous glint in her orange eyes. "It's nice to meet you all… I think?" she added with a playful wink. "Don't mind me, I'm just being friendly," she said, slightly tightening her grip on Yanagi's waist in shyness.

Belle observed the young Oni with interest, noting how her silver-white hair caught the light as she half-hid behind her guardian. Despite Soukaku's apparent confidence in her introduction, there was something endearingly childlike about the way she clung to Yanagi, as if seeking reassurance in an unfamiliar situation. The contrast between her playful demeanour and the powerful Oni heritage evident in her horns wasn't lost on Belle. She wondered what kind of relationship the two shared—clearly more complex than mere colleagues, with Yanagi's protective stance suggesting the maternal guardianship Belle had heard rumoured within Section 6. The patches adorning Soukaku's teal jacket caught Belle's attention momentarily, their enigmatic symbols adding another layer of mystery to the already intriguing Oni.

Surprisingly, her usually chaotic silver-white hair was neatly combed today, though a few rebellious strands still defiantly stuck out at odd angles, as if asserting their independence from Yanagi's morning grooming attempts. She wore her usual teal jacket, slightly rumpled, over a crisp white shirt, the sleeves pushed up to reveal her forearms—perhaps ready for whatever snacks might come her way, Belle mused. Her dark pleated skirt and sturdy boots completed the outfit—a practical yet stylish blend that somehow harmonised perfectly with her oni horns, which caught the light as she tilted her head inquisitively. Patches, some bearing enigmatic symbols Belle couldn't quite decipher, adorned her jacket and skirt, further enhancing her already distinctive appearance. They looked like souvenirs collected from various missions or perhaps meaningful tokens from her mysterious past. She grinned, revealing a wide smile that transformed her entire face, lighting up her orange eyes with a childlike enthusiasm that Belle found instantly endearing despite the formidable heritage her horns represented.

Soukaku's personality was a captivating blend of playfulness and shyness. She had a mischievous streak, often teasing her friends with light-hearted jokes and playful winks, her orange eyes twinkling with barely contained glee. Despite her outgoing nature, there was a certain shyness to her, especially when she was the centre of attention, at which point she would fidget with the patches on her teal jacket or scuff her sturdy boots against the floor. This duality made her both endearing and intriguing to those around her, a walking contradiction of childlike enthusiasm and ancient Oni heritage. Her playful demeanour often masked a deep sense of loyalty and protectiveness towards her friends, especially Yanagi, who had taken her under wing as her legal guardian despite Soukaku technically being the older of the two. She had a knack for lightening the mood in any situation, her infectious energy and cheerful disposition—complete with that transformative wide smile—making her a beloved member of the team, even when her gluttonous appetite occasionally emptied the Section 6 refrigerator overnight.

"Thank you, Soukaku. That concludes my team's introductions." After Miyabi concludes her team's introductions, the room falls silent once more, the pressure shifting to someone else to step forward. The silence is heavy, as everyone eagerly awaits the next introduction. Miyabi glanced over at her team with a subtle nod of approval, particularly at Soukaku, whose enthusiastic presentation had ended with that characteristic wide smile that transformed her entire demeanour. Yanagi, ever the professional, stood with perfect posture beside her ward, while the weight of expectation settled across the room like a tangible presence. The gathered officials exchanged meaningful looks, their eyes eventually settling on whoever might speak next, the momentary pause stretching just long enough to become uncomfortable before someone would inevitably break the tension.

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A blonde-haired girl wearing latex clothing stood up with a wide smile on her face, striking a cute pose. Her loose waves cascaded down her back as she bounced slightly on her heels, the intricate patterns on her form-fitting outfit catching the light. "I'm Burnice White of the Sons of Calydon. Nice to meet all of you!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with unbridled enthusiasm. Her eyes sparkled with genuine warmth as she glanced around at everyone, her carefree demeanour immediately lightening the atmosphere in the room.

Burnice's appearance was striking in every sense of the word. Her blonde hair was styled in loose waves that cascaded down her back like a golden waterfall, catching the light and adding a touch of glamour to her already captivating look. She wore a form-fitting latex outfit that accentuated her slender figure, the glossy material reflecting the room's lighting in mesmerising patterns. Intricate designs adorned the unusual fabric, creating visual interest that drew the eye across the contours of her confident stance. The outfit was a bold choice, showcasing her unwavering confidence and unique sense of style that seemed perfectly aligned with her role as the Sons of Calydon's Nitro-Fuel bartender. Her wide smile and playful pose added to her charming and approachable demeanour, the infectious enthusiasm she radiated making her stand out in the room like a vibrant spark of energy amongst the gathering.

Her latex clothing was not just a fashion statement but also a testament to her bold personality. The outfit was adorned with intricate patterns and designs, adding a touch of elegance to the otherwise edgy look. She accessorised with a pair of black gloves and high-heeled boots, completing the ensemble with a touch of sophistication. Her makeup was flawless, with a hint of shimmer on her eyelids and a bold red lipstick that highlighted her smile, drawing attention to her expressive features that seemed to communicate her joy without effort.

Burnice's introduction was met with a mixture of curiosity and admiration. Her confident and cheerful demeanour instantly made her a memorable presence in the room. As she struck her cute pose, she exuded a sense of fun and playfulness, making it clear that she was someone who enjoyed being in the spotlight. The way she carried herself suggested an openness and friendliness that invited others to approach her, a quality that no doubt served her well as the fuel-mixing bartender for the notorious biker gang. Even among the hardened members of the Sons of Calydon, Burnice's effervescent personality seemed to shine through like a beacon, promising warmth and camaraderie to anyone fortunate enough to cross her path.

From the Victoria Housekeeping group, Rina comments with a slight tilt of her head and a knowing smile, "She appears to be an enjoyable individual." Her assessment of Burnice's vivacious personality was astute, as the bartender's enthusiasm had already spread through the gathering. Rina's perception recognised the magnetic energy from Burnice, making her both delightful and a catalyst for camaraderie. The head maid's crimson eyes followed Burnice's animated movements appreciatively, noting how effortlessly she navigated social interactions despite her rough biker associates. Even amongst Victoria Housekeeping's refined staff, such natural charisma was rare—a quality Alexandrina Sebastiane, with her experience in reading people, immediately identified and respected.

Ellen, sprawled on the floor with her shark tail half-curled around her, rubs her eyes and sits up slowly. "Yeah, she seems fun," she says flatly, her voice hinting at boredom despite Burnice's lively impact. Her black hair with vibrant red streaks falls over her shoulders as she blinks at the group, thoroughly unbothered. The young Thiren maid made no effort to hide her perpetual exhaustion, her crimson eyes half-lidded as she observed the bartender from the floor. Unlike her composed colleagues, Ellen preferred this casual posture, conserving energy as was her habit both at work and with friends.

Corin, a small woman with green pigtails that bounced with her nervous movements, shifted uncomfortably. "I-I agree with Rina," she stammered rapidly, fidgeting with her maid uniform's frilly hem. "Burnice seems really nice!" Her voice rose questioningly. Her lavender eyes darted anxiously around the room before dropping to the floor, clearly uneasy with the brief attention.

A tall woman stood, placing a hand on her chest confidently. Her long black hair framed a face with piercing blue eyes that surveyed the room authoritatively.

"I am the Leader Caesar King of the Sons of Calydon; a biker gang from the outer-ring," she announced, her voice carrying pride throughout the space. Her leather jacket, covered with patches and insignias, rustled as she moved. Caesar smiled warmly, the expression softening her commanding presence. The silver chain at her neck caught the light as she nodded appreciatively, her posture reflecting someone accustomed to leadership.

Caesar King was imposing, her effortless authority silencing rooms. Her long black hair contrasted with piercing blue eyes that evaluated everything. She wore a well-worn leather jacket covered in meaningful patches and insignias, a white tank top highlighting her athletic build beneath. Black jeans tucked into sturdy knee-high boots completed her outfit—rugged yet elegant, commanding respect through presence and proven strength rather than flashiness.

Her accessories enhanced her formidable image. Worn fingerless leather gloves revealed battle-hardened knuckles, while a silver chain caught the light with each authoritative movement. Her confident smile and bearing radiated leadership, marking her as someone not to be trifled with in the Outer Ring.

As Caesar introduced herself, her piercing blue eyes swept across the room, meeting the gaze of gang members and other groups. Her broadening smile revealed genuine warmth that softened her intimidating aura. "We are a tight-knit group, and I am proud to lead such dedicated individuals," she declared with resonant conviction, demonstrating her commitment to those under her protection.

The room hummed with respect and curiosity as everyone absorbed the commanding presence of the Sons of Calydon's leader. Several attendees leaned forward, drawn in by her natural charisma. Caesar's introduction established the meeting's tone, her confident demeanour and directness impressing both allies and potential rivals alike.

A handsome man in sunglasses rose, pushing them up with his finger as he surveyed the cinema. "You can call me Lighter, it's a pleasure," he said with a smug smile, his confident voice commanding attention.

Lighter cut a striking figure. His neat dark hair and mysterious sunglasses concealed eyes that had witnessed countless underground fights. His sleek black leather jacket over a fitted white shirt accentuated his athletic build—earned through years as the Sons of Calydon's undefeated Champion. Black jeans and stylish boots added rugged elegance to his appearance. The sunglasses weren't merely fashionable but practical, shielding him from the sight of blood that triggered his hemophobia. His demeanour radiated charisma and self-assurance, while the red scarf partially tucked into his jacket subtly marked his champion status to those familiar with the gang's symbols.

As Lighter introduced himself, he glanced around the room, his eyes hidden behind the dark lenses of his sunglasses. His confident demeanour and striking appearance drew the attention of everyone present, an effect he was clearly accustomed to. The red scarf partially tucked into his leather jacket caught the light as he shifted his weight, a subtle identifier of his champion status that wouldn't be lost on those familiar with the gang's hierarchy. "It's a pleasure to meet all of you," he added, his voice smooth and composed, carrying just enough warmth to be welcoming without sacrificing the air of mystery he cultivated.

Belle leaned towards Wise, her expression thoughtful, the orange highlights in her blue hair catching the light as she moved. "It's interesting how the Sons of Calydon have such a diverse group, despite the name suggesting otherwise," she whispered, her curiosity piqued. Her aquamarine eyes darted between Caesar, Burnice, and the others present, mentally cataloguing the varied personalities that somehow formed a cohesive unit under the gang's banner.

A young-looking girl with long golden hair tied in a high side ponytail stepped forward, crossing her arms defensively and wearing an annoyed expression on her face. Her sharp golden eyes narrowed slightly as she surveyed the group with barely concealed disdain. The military-inspired black ensemble she wore, adorned with intricate gold detailing, seemed at odds with the rough surroundings of the Outer Ring hideout.

"It's Luciana Auxesis Theodoro de Montefio, but I go by Lucy," she announced with a toss of her blonde curls, her voice carrying a hint of irritation that seemed to mask a deeper pride. The way she emphasised her full noble name before dismissing it suggested a complicated relationship with her heritage—one that she both rejected and clung to simultaneously.

Nicole raised an eyebrow, studying the noble runaway's authoritative air with shrewd yellow eyes. The Cunning Hares' leader smirked, twirling her pink pigtail. "Lucy, huh? Quite the fiery introduction." She found it amusing how the girl rejected privilege while naturally commanding the room.

Billy leaned closer, his mechanical frame tilting as he whispered, "I like her attitude. She's got spunk." Though their champion, he hadn't revealed his Sons of Calydon ties to Nicole and Anby, but his yellow eyes flickered towards Caesar knowingly.

Nicole giggled, her yellow eyes twinkling as she nudged Anby. "She does seem interesting," she agreed, considering how such spirit might benefit their network.

Von Lycaon observed Lucy with a thoughtful expression, his wolf ears twitching slightly as he picked up subtle nuances in her bearing. The elegant Thiren's tail gave a single, controlled swish as he adjusted his immaculate white cuffs. "A name like de Montefio suggests a certain level of sophistication. I wonder what brings her to the outer ring," he mused quietly, his piercing red eyes assessing the dichotomy between her refined name and rebellious presentation. As the leader of Victoria Housekeeping Co., he had encountered many of New Eridu's elite families, and the Montefio name carried particular weight in those rarefied circles—making this young woman's presence here all the more intriguing.

Lucy's expression softened slightly as she continued, her posture relaxing just enough to be noticeable, the rigid tension in her shoulders easing as though she were gradually letting down her carefully constructed defences. The golden-haired Thiren's fierce demeanour seemed to mellow, if only momentarily, revealing a glimpse of vulnerability beneath her typically commanding presence.

The last person from the Sons of Calydon group was a young-looking girl with her blonde hair swept into a messy side half-bun, small colourful accessories peeking through the tousled strands. She sat sluggishly in her seat, eyes half-lidded as though perpetually on the verge of dozing off. The girl stretched languidly, arms reaching skyward before she sat upright with visible effort, looking as tired as ever despite the momentary burst of movement. "I'm Piper, it's a pleasure as long as you don't bother lil' old me," she said, her voice carrying a hint of weariness that seemed ingrained in her very being, the words drawled out as if each required considerable effort to form.

Nicole chuckled softly, shaking her head with a bemused smile. "Piper, you remind me of someone who could sleep through a hurricane, completely unbothered by the chaos around them," she commented, her voice light and teasing. Her eyes sparkled with amusement as she observed Piper's perpetually sleepy demeanour, wondering how someone could maintain such a relaxed state in any situation.

Von Lycaon glanced at Piper, his expression one of mild curiosity, his wolf-like ears twitching slightly as he observed her slouched form. "It's rare to see someone so openly tired in a setting like this. I wonder what her story is," he pondered, absently adjusting his immaculate white cuffs as he studied the peculiarly lethargic truck driver with growing interest. His tail swayed gently behind him, betraying his intrigue despite his composed demeanour.

Some people looked at one another in confusion, exchanging bemused glances at the stark contrast between Piper's youthful appearance and her world-weary demeanour. "Lil' old me? She looks pretty young to me," Belle wondered aloud, tilting her head slightly as she studied the perpetually exhausted truck driver.

Caesar placed a hand on the back of her own neck and said, "Don't mind Piper, she's always tired." She gave an affectionate but exasperated sigh, clearly accustomed to explaining her friend's peculiar energy levels to newcomers.

The room hummed with intrigue as everyone observed the Sons of Calydon's diverse personalities - from Lighter's swagger to Burnice's enthusiasm and Piper's indifference. Their introductions had sparked anticipation, hinting this unusual group would prove more fascinating than expected.

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The room hummed with anticipation as the Public Security group prepared their introduction. They stood in precise formation, tactical gear glinting beneath harsh lights. A commanding figure stepped forward, their pristine uniform and authoritative presence drawing all eyes.

"I am Captain Zhu Yuan of the New Eridu Public Security," the figure declared, her voice firm and authoritative, resonating through the room with unmistakable command. The orange streaks in her high ponytail caught the light as she stood with perfect military posture. "We are entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining order and safeguarding the citizens of New Eridu from the perils that lurk within the Hollows and those who would exploit them for criminal gain."

Belle leaned in closer to Wise, her eyes gleaming with intrigue as she observed the captain's tactical gear and disciplined demeanor. "Public Security, huh? They must have some formidable duties," she whispered, her blue hair with orange highlights brushing against her brother's shoulder. "Especially with someone that intense leading them."

Wise nodded, his expression thoughtful as he assessed the Public Security team's formation and equipment with a practiced eye. "Indeed, they do. Ensuring the city's safety is no small feat," he murmured, noting the various specialised roles represented in the tactical unit before them. "Captain Zhu has quite the reputation for perfectionism and getting results."

Subsequently, a female with a laid-back and casual bearing moved ahead. "I am Qingyi," she announced, her tone tranquil and collected. "I focus on electrical immobilization operations. My function is to disable dangers and guarantee their suppression is quick and thorough." Qingyi's look was remarkable, with her extensive, forest-green locks arranged in dual elevated bunches, each embellished with tiny, jade-colored decorations near the roots. The smoothness of the bunches stood out against the slightly rippled texture of her tresses, providing her a distinctive and modernistic appearance that enhanced her synthetic characteristics. She sported a truncated, navy and ebony functional vest with tangerine accents and bands, displaying a hint of her fit physique. Her black combat trousers were furnished with patella protectors and armor sections, providing defense without hindering flexibility. A set of advanced fortified trainers finished her attire, designed for nimble and dexterous movements. Her gentle, viridian eyes conveyed a concentrated and resolute demeanor, indicating she was prepared for whatever obstacle presented itself.

Von Lycaon observed Qingyi with a thoughtful expression, his piercing red eyes tracking her movements with professional curiosity. The wolf Thiren's ears twitched slightly as he analyzed her technique, his immaculate white fur catching the light.

"Her approach to neutralising threats certainly piques my interest. I wonder how effective it truly is in practice," he mused quietly, adjusting his red tie with a gloved hand. His bushy tail remained perfectly still behind him, a sign of his complete concentration as he considered the tactical applications of her methods. There was something admirable about her efficiency, though he naturally questioned whether such techniques would meet his own exacting standards.

Finally, a cat Thiren with a calm and composed demeanour stepped forward. "I am Seth Lowell," he introduced himself, his voice steady and professional. "I specialise in defence operations. My role is to provide shields and protect our team from harm during investigations." Seth's striking appearance was equally noteworthy, with his silvery-white hair and two pointed cat ears giving him a distinctive and memorable look. His ice-blue eyes held a mixture of confidence and alertness as he stood at attention, the PUBSEC insignia visible on his tactical bodysuit. The bushy tail behind him remained perfectly still, showcasing his disciplined nature even as he made his introduction to the group.

Seth's character was defined by his unwavering dedication to his team and his role as a defender. He was renowned for his ability to create shields that could protect his allies from various threats, a skill he had honed through countless training sessions and real-world operations. His calm and composed nature made him a reliable presence in any situation, and his strategic thinking ensured that his team was always well-protected, even in the most chaotic of circumstances. The methodical way he assessed potential dangers and positioned himself to intercept them had saved lives on numerous occasions, earning him the respect of his colleagues at PUBSEC. However, his inability to keep secrets proved to be a challenge, as the other officers often avoided sharing sensitive information with him. His transparent expressions and tendency to blurt out confidential details when flustered had become somewhat infamous among the team, leading to good-natured teasing but also genuine operational concerns.

Finally, a young woman with long, flowing hair and a calm demeanour stepped forward. "I am Jane Doe," she introduced herself, her voice soft yet clear, carrying a hint of playfulness beneath its professional tone. "I am a criminal behaviour specialist working at the criminal investigation special response team. It's a pleasure to meet all of you." Jane discreetly tucked her hair behind her rat-like ears, her sharp teal blue eyes scanning the room with practiced ease. Her fingers, clad in fingerless gloves, moved with a subtle dexterity that suggested years of fieldwork. The multiple tactical belts wrapped around her waist shifted slightly as she adjusted her posture, the various pouches and tools attached to them hinting at her preparedness for any situation.

Belle smiled; her curiosity piqued. "Jane Doe? That's an intriguing name." Her aquamarine eyes sparkled with interest as she tilted her head slightly, the orange highlights in her blue hair catching the light. There was something about unusual names that always drew Belle's attention, perhaps because they often came with equally unusual stories behind them.

Wise chuckled softly, a hint of curiosity dancing in his aquamarine eyes. "Indeed, it is. I wonder what her story is." He leaned forward slightly, intrigued by the mysterious woman before them. There was something about people who chose unusual names that often suggested a life filled with interesting experiences – and Jane Doe was perhaps the most deliberately enigmatic name one could choose.

Belle whispered in Wise's ear, her lips barely moving as she leaned in close. "I hope the screen doesn't reveal anything that exposes us as Phaethon or as Proxies." Her voice was tense with concern, almost inaudible even to him. The last thing they needed was for their carefully maintained cover to be blown, especially in front of someone from Public Security. They'd worked too hard rebuilding their reputation after losing their credentials to risk everything on a careless display of information.

Nicole whispered to her team with a mix of resignation and dark humor in her voice, "Just perfect. We're stuck in a room with the police, and we regularly go into the hollows." Her words carried the weight of their precarious situation, highlighting the irony of sharing space with law enforcement when their work often skirted legal boundaries. This earned her a brief, understanding nod from both Billy and Anby, their subtle gestures acknowledging the delicate position they found themselves in.

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At this point in the dimly lit room, only two distinct groups remain to introduce themselves to the gathered assembly. One group stands out immediately with their rugged appearance - wearing scuffed work boots, weathered hard hats, and high-visibility vests that suggest they'd be more at home on a construction site than in this meeting. The other group cuts an impressive contrast, each member impeccably dressed in sleek black formal attire, their polished shoes and perfectly pressed suits speaking of corporate power and wealth.

The impeccably dressed group decides to introduce itself first. Leading them is Von Lycaon, a distinguished wolf thiren wearing an all-black suit that fits his frame perfectly, complemented by a gleaming silver pocket watch neatly tucked into his breast pocket. His pristine white fur and sharp red eyes command attention as he takes the lead with practiced grace.

Stepping forward with measured steps and clearing his throat with deliberate politeness, he speaks in a refined and elegant tone that carries effortlessly through the room. "I am Von Lycaon of Victoria Housekeeping Co. We provide a variety of services, but we are particularly known for our excellence in household chores and maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness. It is a pleasure to meet you all." Von Lycaon concludes his introduction with a formal bow, his movements precise and dignified, while his tail unconsciously gives a slight, professional wag despite his best efforts to maintain complete composure.

Belle whispers to Wise, her voice low and contemplative as she studies the impeccably dressed group before them, "I don't think we have ever heard of Victoria Housekeeping. They must serve the wealthy and well-established." She notes the refined details of their uniforms and their practiced, professional demeanor with quiet admiration.

Wise glances at the group and replies in equally hushed tones, his analytical mind already piecing together the implications of their presence, "Judging by their attire, I would estimate that they belong to one of those exclusive companies that exclusively cater to the wealthy. Most individuals like us would likely remain unaware of their existence." He takes in the quality of their clothing and the subtle air of authority they exude, further confirming his assessment of their elite status.

Alexandrina Sebastiane, also known as Rina, the next member of Victoria Housekeeping to introduce themselves, acknowledges Mr. Wise's observation with a subtle nod of her silver-crowned head. While maintaining her characteristic modesty and refusing to boast, Rina confirms to Belle and Wise that their clientele indeed comprises members of the wealthy class, her crimson eyes reflecting a quiet pride in their establishment's reputation.

Rina, a graceful woman with flowing silver-white hair, glides forward in an immaculate long maid's dress that reaches her ankles, its intricate red and silver detailing catching the light with each movement. The black and white fabric rustles softly as she gracefully floats in the air, her movements fluid and ethereal, like a dancer performing an elegant waltz. Her white lace trimmings and frilled headpiece complete her sophisticated appearance as she offers a perfectly measured curtsy. "Excuse me, where are my manners? I am Miss Alexandrina Sebastiane, but you can call me Rina for short. My dear guests, I am delighted to serve you," she announces in a melodious voice that carries both warmth and authority, her gloved hands folded precisely before her.

Next, Von Lycaon introduces Corin, another essential member of their company. He gestures towards a petite young woman with light green pigtails that curl elegantly at the ends. Her lavender eyes widen in alarm as her hair bounces with each nervous movement, visibly recoiling and flinching at the mere mention of her name. She shrinks back in obvious discomfort, her fingers fidgeting with the frilly trim of her maid uniform before gathering enough courage to step forward and offer a deep, formal bow.

"H-ell-o, I-I am Corin, a m-maid with Victoria Housekeeping Co.," she stutters, her voice barely above a whisper as she struggles to form coherent sentences. Her words tumble out at an uncontrolled, almost frantic pace, like water breaking through a damaged dam. Slowly, she peeks up from her bow, only her anxious lavender eyes visible beneath her frilled headpiece, clearly frightened by the collective attention focused on her from everyone in the room.

While the other members present, particularly the women, are silently thinking that she's adorably timid and endearing in her shyness, Belle doesn't hesitate to voice what everyone is thinking. "Aww, she's so adorable and shy," she exclaims with genuine warmth. "It makes you want to protect her."

This unexpected compliment causes Corin's cheeks to flush a deep crimson, but something in Belle's sincere words seems to give her strength. She straightens her posture slightly, though her fingers still nervously adjust the cross-shaped clips in her hair. Von Lycaon nods in approval, his red eyes softening as he acknowledges her effort with a gentle praise. "Thank you, Corin. Your diligence is always appreciated. If you wish, you may sit back down in your seat now," he says with a warm, caring smile that reveals just a hint of his canine heritage.

"The final member of our company is Ellen Joe," Von Lycaon continues introducing the last and final member of Victoria Housekeeping Co, revealing a girl sleeping soundly on the floor with her shark tail wrapped around her like a makeshift blanket. Her peaceful expression suggests she's completely oblivious to the ongoing introductions.

Rina gently rouses Ellen from her slumber, providing her with both an introduction and a cherry-flavored lollipop from her utility belt. Ellen groans softly, stretching like a lazy cat before rubbing her tired eyes as she slowly sits up. Her black hair, streaked with vibrant red underneath, falls loosely over her shoulders in a disheveled manner that perfectly matches her drowsy demeanor. She blinks slowly at the group, her crimson eyes barely focusing as she appears completely unperturbed by the situation or the fact that she was just caught napping during an important meeting.

"I am Ellen Joe, a shark Thiren, and it's a pleasure to meet you all, I suppose," Ellen says with a completely flat, tired voice, unwrapping and popping the cherry lollipop into her mouth. The sugar seems to work quickly, making her slightly more active and alert, though her expression remains largely disinterested as she absently swishes her tail against the floor. Her sharp teeth glint briefly as she rolls the candy from one side of her mouth to the other, clearly more focused on enjoying the sweet treat than engaging with the group. The rhythmic tapping of her tail creates a soft, almost hypnotic pattern against the polished surface, betraying her shark-like nature despite her decidedly lackadaisical demeanor.

"Thank you for your introduction, Ellen. That concludes our introduction." Lycaon says with polite formality, her tail giving a small professional swish as she straightens her vest. "We greatly appreciate everyone's patience and cooperation today." She steps back gracefully, her heels clicking softly against the floor before she settles back into her plush cinema seat. Her red eyes scan the room with quiet authority as she folds her gloved hands in her lap, awaiting the next group's introduction with characteristic composure.

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As the introductions continued around the circle, only one more group remained before it would be the turn of the siblings. Belle caught Wise's eye across the room, a silent communication passing between them as they mentally prepared. After this final team finished their presentation, Belle and Wise would step forward to introduce themselves and share the story of Random Play, their unique video store that served as both their livelihood and the headquarters for their more specialised operations. Belle adjusted her stance slightly, already formulating in her mind how best to explain their business without revealing too much about their proxy work as Phaethon or their current technological advantages.

The room buzzed with excitement as the next group prepared to introduce themselves, their presence commanding immediate attention from the gathered audience. Belobog Heavy Industries, renowned for their expertise in heavy machinery and Hollow diving, stood ready with an air of practiced professionalism. Their reputation for completing challenging projects in extreme environments preceded them, drawing curious glances from other attendees. A young woman with fiery red hair styled in wild twin pigtails and a resolute expression stepped forward, confidently placing her hands on her hips. Her bearing spoke of someone accustomed to leadership, and the black and orange checkered crop top paired with white work pants marked her unmistakably as a hands-on industrial professional.

"I am Koleda Belobog, the President of Belobog Heavy Industries," she declared, her voice firm and unwavering, carrying across the room with natural authority. "We are an industrial powerhouse based in New Eridu, specialising in In-Hollow construction and cutting-edge machinery." Koleda's commanding presence was evident, her striking red hair and fierce demeanour making her an imposing figure in the room. The twin pigtails framing her face seemed to emphasize rather than diminish her authority, and the orange-black checkered crop top she wore spoke of someone unafraid to blend practicality with individuality. As she stood with hands planted confidently on her hips, several attendees straightened their posture instinctively, responding to the aura of leadership that emanated from the young company president.

Belle leaned in closer to Wise, her eyes wide with intrigue, the orange highlights in her hair catching the light as she moved. "Belobog Heavy Industries, huh? They must be involved in some truly remarkable projects," she whispered, her aquamarine eyes sparkling with the same fascination she always showed when discovering potential new opportunities. The way she studied the industrial powerhouse's representatives reminded Wise of how she used to pour over Bangboo engineering schematics in their early days as Proxies.

Wise nodded, his expression thoughtful. “Indeed, they are.  Handling heavy machinery and Hollow diving are no easy feats, especially given the inherent dangers and logistical complexities involved.  Their innovative designs and specialized equipment are highly regarded, but they recently lost the prestigious metro station reconstruction project to Vision Corporations, a setback that speaks volumes about the competitive landscape in New Eridu's burgeoning infrastructure sector.”

“Hello! Grace Howard here, ready to assist. I am part of Belobog Industries' In-Hollow machinery division, which is my area of expertise.” Grace stood tall and confident, her posture exuding an almost defiant demeanour that commanded attention. Her short, dark hair framed her striking red eyes, which sparkled with intelligence and determination. She wore a form-fitting black sports bra-style top, paired with a dark grey utility belt that held various tools of her trade, and dark grey pants accented with vibrant orange details that highlighted her active lifestyle. Over this ensemble, she draped a long coat that was dark grey—almost black—giving her a professional yet edgy look suitable for her line of work. Her outfit was completed with protective grey and black arm guards, knee pads designed for durability during demanding tasks, and stylish grey and orange sneakers that spoke to her practicality and flair. Grace's entire appearance conveyed a blend of expertise and readiness, making it clear that she was more than prepared to tackle the challenges of navigating the complexities of Hollow machinery.

Next, a large bear adorned with a glimmering golden chain approached the group, radiating a friendly and approachable demeanor that seemed to soften his formidable presence. “I’m Ben Bigger, the head of finance at Belobog Heavy Industries. It’s a pleasure to meet you all,” he introduced himself, his voice deep yet inviting, accompanied by a warm smile that reached his eyes. Despite his imposing stature and muscular build, Ben's affable nature quickly put everyone at ease, easing any initial apprehension they might have felt in his presence. The atmosphere lightened as he continued, his genuine enthusiasm for the meeting evident in every word.

Following Ben, a man with dark hair and a confident swagger stepped forward, gripping a jackhammer firmly in his hands. “I’m Anton, the manager of Belobog Heavy Industries, and this is my partner in crime,” he said, gesturing playfully to the jackhammer as if it were a living companion. Anton’s striking appearance was hard to overlook; his neatly styled dark hair framed a face brimming with energy and enthusiasm, while his confident demeanor commanded attention. It was clear that he took pride in his role, embodying the spirit of the hardworking team at Belobog, and his lively presence added an infectious vibrancy to the gathering.

Anby turned to Nicole, her expression a mixture of confusion and curiosity. “His partner in crime? Is he referring to the jackhammer?” she whispered, her voice barely audible above the commotion, as she tried to decipher Anton's playful banter.

Nicole let out a soft chuckle, her eyes sparkling with amusement. “It certainly seems like it,” she replied, her voice light and playful, as if the situation had sparked a delightful camaraderie among those present.

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Belle and Wise, seemingly ordinary siblings running a vintage video rental shop 'Random Play', concealed their true identity as Phaethon - Public Security's most wanted criminal proxies. Their unassuming appearance and business masked their reputation as legendary Hollow navigators, whose innovative methods had led to countless successful missions.

Belle stepped forward first, cheerful and approachable, moving with practiced grace. Her short, wavy blue hair with orange highlights matched their vintage video store's aesthetic, while her aquamarine eyes scanned surroundings with a Proxy's keen awareness. She wore a futuristic dark shirt with orange accents, a gray skirt for mobility, thigh-high socks, and chunky sneakers. A small device hung at her hip, likely for covert operations. Her friendly smile and confident posture masked the calculated precision behind their carefully crafted public image.

"Hello everyone, I'm Belle, and this is my brother Wise," she said with a warm, welcoming smile, gesturing gracefully to the young man standing beside her. Her aquamarine eyes sparkled with genuine friendliness as she continued, "We run a video rental store called 'Random Play' - it's our little slice of entertainment heaven in this bustling city. It's a pleasure to meet all of you!" Her enthusiasm was infectious, radiating through the room like a tangible force. She maintained perfect eye contact with everyone present, a skill honed through years of building trust with clients in dangerous situations. Though only she and her brother knew that the modest storefront served as much more than just a simple video rental shop—it was the carefully constructed front for their Proxy operations, a base where they coordinated Hollow expeditions and stored their specialised equipment, including their prized Bangboo, Eous, and the revolutionary Hollow Deep Dive system that had earned them legendary status.

Wise stepped forward, his demeanour calm and composed as he surveyed the room with practiced ease. He had short, neatly styled grey hair that complemented his sister's vibrant blue, and piercing aquamarine eyes that seemed to see right through you, analyzing every detail with quiet intensity. He wore a black graphic t-shirt featuring a stylized logo - a subtle nod to Random Play's branding - under a dark grey bomber jacket with orange accents that matched the store's color scheme. Dark grey pants and light grey sneakers with orange laces completed his outfit, the entire ensemble carefully chosen to appear casual yet professional. His confident posture and thoughtful expression gave him an air of someone always in control, capable of handling any situation with ease - a trait that had served him well in his years of guiding others through the dangers that lurked beyond New Eridu's walls. Unlike his sister's warm openness, there was something more reserved about his presence, a calculated distance that spoke of someone who preferred to observe before acting.

Belle and Wise's introduction was met with a mixture of curiosity and admiration from everyone present. Their friendly and approachable demeanour instantly made them a memorable presence in the room, with Belle's warm smile complementing Wise's measured confidence. As they stood together, shoulders nearly touching, they exuded a sense of camaraderie and teamwork that spoke of years navigating challenges side by side. The subtle glances they exchanged during conversation made it clear that they were a strong and united pair, their bond forged through countless shared experiences beyond New Eridu's protective walls. There was something reassuring about the way they completed each other's thoughts—Belle's enthusiastic energy balanced perfectly by Wise's calm pragmatism.

Belle leaned towards Wise, whispering, "I hope the screen doesn't reveal anything that exposes us as Phaethon or as Proxies." Her fingers unconsciously tightened around the edge of her sleeve.

Wise nodded, his expression thoughtful as he subtly scanned the room. "Yeah, let's hope it stays that way." His calm voice betrayed none of the tension that had become second nature whenever they operated in official spaces like this, where discovery could mean immediate arrest.

After Belle and Wise's introduction, everyone turns their attention to the screen, which displays a warning message in bold text against a blue background. "Now that everyone's been introduced, please sit down so we can start the event. At later stages, new people will be added to the room and given time to introduce themselves." The announcement hangs in the air for a moment before the lights begin to dim gradually, casting long shadows across the assembled faces. With the atmosphere shifting from casual to formal, the event begins in earnest.

Miyabi narrows her crimson red eyes, an expression unreadable to anyone else as she settles into her seat. She thinks to herself, "Now, we will finally witness the grand spectacle of this main event." Her posture remains perfectly poised, betraying none of the keen interest that courses through her veins as she prepares to analyse every detail of what's to come.

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Chapter Text

The cinema comes to life to show a close-up of a television screen playing the New Eridu News channel, which shows a scene of a hollow in the middle of the city, shallowing some high-rise buildings. The reporter announces that “…We interrupt your regular programming for this breaking news…” The screen changes to a map view that shows the expansion of the hollow, with the text NEN LIVE BREAKING NEWS: “A Companion Hollow has suddenly appeared on Fourteenth Street and has already breached level-three containment.”

As the scene unfolded on the massive cinema screen, an eerie hush fell over the room, enveloping the audience in a heavy silence. Eyes remained locked on the footage, scanning every detail of the unfolding events and their locations, as if searching for some shred of hope amidst the chaos. The devastation being reported on the news left everyone in a state of shock, their minds struggling to process the sheer scale of the tragedy that had suddenly erupted in their city. It was unsettling—unnatural—and the uneasy atmosphere only thickened as the footage continued to play, a relentless reminder of the grim reality they faced.

A flickering light from the television on-screen cast long, distorted shadows across the walls of the Random Play staff room, creating an almost surreal backdrop that heightened the tension in the air. This specific detail did not go unnoticed by anyone present, adding to the weight of unease that hung over them.

The Cunning Hares exchanged a quick, meaningful glance with both Wise and Belle, their expressions subtly shifting as they absorbed the gravity of the situation. It was a silent exchange, a recognition of something familiar—too familiar—that sparked a flicker of concern in their hearts. In that moment, they were bound together not just by their shared experiences, but by an unspoken understanding of the dangers that lurked in the shadows of their world.

They knew that room.

They had all been in that room before.

For the siblings, it was their own—the space they used for both business and, when necessary, proxy work. Seeing it displayed so publicly sent an involuntary chill down their spines. The familiar layout, with equipment carefully arranged just as they had left it, now exposed for anyone to scrutinise, felt like an intimate violation of their private sanctuary.

This moment was not lost on Yanagi, whose sharp crimson gaze flickered between Wise and Belle, catching the subtle shift in their demeanour. She hummed quietly to herself, intrigued by their reaction. Why them? Why did everything seem to orbit around these two siblings? There was something deeper going on here—something they weren't telling the rest of the group. The Deputy Chief's analytical mind began connecting threads of evidence, piecing together fragments of a puzzle that had been nagging at her since their paths first crossed with the siblings from Random Play.

Her years in the Defense Force had honed her instincts for deception, and now those instincts were practically screaming. The way they exchanged glances, their synchronised tension at the sight of that familiar room—it spoke volumes. Yanagi's fingers tapped silently against her thigh as she catalogued their reactions, filing away each micro expression for later consideration. Whatever connection these siblings had to this extended far beyond simple shopkeepers caught up in circumstances beyond their control. They knew too much, reacted too specifically, and seemed altogether too comfortable in this dangerous world of Hollows.

Unbothered by the silence, Ben patted the seat beside him and muttered, "Damn, that's messed up. You'd think if someone had that footage, they'd at least explain why." His casual tone masked unease. Thiren's fingers drummed the upholstery, his usual confidence replaced by a subtle tension in his shoulders. Confronted with surveillance footage that shouldn't exist, Ben's furrowed brow revealed the calculations running through his financial director's mind as he assessed the implications.

Nicole sat with one leg crossed, relaxed but showing her irritation. She clicked her tongue, her narrowing eyes reflecting skepticism. “Yeah, I don’t like this. First, we’re stuck watching news about a Hollow we can’t handle, and now we have mystery surveillance footage from a room without cameras? What’s next? Footage from our own apartments?” Her words lingered, heightening the room's tension.

She scoffed but subtly glanced toward the siblings, gauging their reaction. Her eyes narrowed slightly as she studied their faces, searching for any telling signs of discomfort or recognition.

Belle, barely above a whisper, leaned toward Wise. "Isn't that our staff room?" Her voice trembled with the faintest hint of anxiety, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her sleeve as she fought to maintain her composure.

Wise gave a subtle nod, confirming her fears. His fingers curled into fists against his legs, knuckles whitening with tension. If this footage continued... would the H.D.D (Hollow Deep Dive System) be exposed? That system was their lifeline, the revolutionary technology that had elevated them to legendary Proxy status. It wasn't something they could afford to let just anyone see. The consequences would be catastrophic—not just for their operation, but potentially for everyone who relied on their services.

Further away, Anby's usually neutral expression hardened slightly, her military training evident in the way her posture tensed. She adjusted her glasses with a practiced gesture, eyes flickering toward Wise and Belle before returning to the screen with analytical precision. The electric geek's assessment was blunt and concerning.

"The footage quality is far too clean. This isn't a standard security feed," she observed, her voice carrying the clinical detachment she often adopted when analysing technical matters. "If someone went through the trouble of recording this… they wanted it to be seen." Her fingers tapped methodically against her thigh as she considered the implications, the former soldier's instincts clearly registering this as a potential threat.

Von Lycaon hummed quietly, red eyes narrowing as his wolf-like ears twitched. "A bold revelation. Are they informing us, or warning us?" He adjusted his white cuffs, gold chains glinting at his wrists.

His enigmatic statement caused a fresh wave of unease to sweep across the chamber, with tension nearly tangible as the occupants shared worried looks. The refined Thiren's evaluation held significance—his standing as a logical thinker made his apprehensions especially disturbing to the assembled group.

The air in the cinema grew thick with tension as the footage continued to play. Belle shifted uncomfortably in her seat, her gaze occasionally drifting from the screen to where Miyabi sat with her team. There was something about the fox Thiren that caught Belle's attention—the composed way she carried herself, the quiet authority she exuded even in silence.

When their eyes briefly met across the darkened room, Belle quickly looked away, focusing intently on the screen again. She wasn't sure why her heart had suddenly quickened its pace. Perhaps it was just the stress of the situation, she told herself, or the fear of their secrets being exposed.

Miyabi, for her part, maintained her professional demeanor, but found herself distracted by the blue-haired sibling. There was something intriguing about Belle—a quiet resilience beneath her outward nervousness that spoke of someone who had weathered many storms. As Chief of Section 6, Miyabi had learned to read people quickly, to assess potential threats or allies at a glance. Yet Belle seemed to defy easy categorization.

When Belle glanced her way again, Miyabi offered a small, almost imperceptible nod—neither friendly nor hostile, just an acknowledgment of their shared predicament. It was a measured response, appropriate for the uncertain circumstances they found themselves in.

"What do you make of them?" Yanagi whispered, leaning slightly toward her superior.

Miyabi considered the question carefully. "They're hiding something," she replied softly, her eyes lingering on Belle for a moment longer than necessary. "But then again, who isn't in this room?"

Belle turned to Wise, speaking in hushed tones about the footage, but couldn't help feeling the weight of Miyabi's gaze. There was something both unsettling and oddly compelling about being the focus of such intense scrutiny. She wondered what the fox Thiren was thinking, what conclusions she might be drawing about the siblings from Random Play.

For now, both women maintained their distance, each wary of the other's potential role in this strange scenario, yet unable to completely ignore the subtle current of interest that had unexpectedly sparked between them.

The footage transitioned with a flicker of static before settling into a new image. The room fell silent.

Everyone tensed, minds racing. Belle leaned forward while Wise's fingers tightened around the armrests. people exchanged anxious glances.

None were certain they were ready for what came next. Anticipation hung in the air, charged with dread and curiosity. Belle sensed that what they were about to witness would change everything they thought they knew.

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The screen transitions from the TV to a white Bangboo, who is intensely watching it. Suddenly, the Bangboo turns around and looks out of sight. The Bangboo, wearing a grey jacket and a scarf with the number “01” on it, turns its head around and runs towards a girl with blue hair, who is sleeping on a settee with earphones in dead to the world around her.

“The Hollow Investigative Association has dispatched a team to the scene to carry out emergency protocols”

“Oh, look, Wise! It’s Eous!” Belle exclaimed excitedly, her voice bubbling with enthusiasm as she pointed at the screen, her blue hair catching the light as she leaned forward. However, her excitement quickly faded into a furrowed brow of confusion. “Wait… I don’t recall this happening. I think I’d remember if we had any cameras in our staff room.” She paused, her expression shifting as she tried to piece together the puzzling scene unfolding before her. The vibrant images danced across the screen, but instead of clarity, they only deepened her sense of bewilderment.

Wise, sitting beside her, narrowed his eyes in deep contemplation. He didn’t like this at all. If Belle didn’t remember any such event, and they hadn’t installed any cameras in that room, then where was this mysterious footage coming from? A sense of dread began to creep into his thoughts, and his arms crossed tightly over his chest, the gesture reflecting the unease settling within him. He scanned the screen again, searching for clues that might explain the bizarre situation, but the vibrant images only deepened his concern, leaving him with a lingering feeling of uncertainty.

Miyabi, who had been silently observing from her position against the wall, finally spoke up. "How many Bangboos work at your store, Belle?" Her voice was steady, but there was something else behind it—curiosity, and perhaps even concern. Her dark eyes narrowed slightly as she awaited the answer.

Belle turned to Miyabi, momentarily surprised that she was addressing her directly. The fox-eared woman rarely initiated conversations unless they served a tactical purpose. After a brief pause, she tucked a strand of blue hair behind her ear and answered, "In total, we have three. Eighteen—he watches the front of the store and handles customer inquiries. Six keeps an eye on the staff room and helps restock the front with video tapes when we're busy. And finally, there's Eous, who assists Wise and me with the more administrative parts of running a video rental store." She hesitated, then added, "They've been incredibly reliable. We couldn't manage Random Play without them."

Miyabi nodded, absorbing the information with a thoughtful expression. “Thank you for explaining, Belle,” she said, her tone courteous and measured. Yet, beneath her composed exterior, an unfamiliar sensation began to stir within her—a peculiar blend of connection and concern for this girl she had only just crossed paths with. It was an instinctive feeling, difficult to articulate, but something about Belle struck a chord deep within her. It didn’t unsettle her in a negative way; rather, it sparked a curiosity that compelled her to observe more closely, to delve deeper into the layers of the young woman's persona and uncover what lay beneath the surface.

Belle, unaware of Miyabi's lingering thoughts, gave a small nod in return before turning her gaze back to the screen. Wise, however, caught the look in Miyabi's eyes—that peculiar mixture of curiosity and something deeper that flashed across her face. His expression remained unreadable, a carefully maintained mask of professional indifference, but inwardly, he was already wary. Years of navigating the complex social landscape of New Eridu had honed his instincts, and something about the Void Hunter's interest in his sister triggered a protective alertness he couldn't ignore.

As the footage played on, tension thickened in the dim light of the cinema. Whatever unseen force had captured this moment was far from normal. The recording's quality intensified the unease that hung in the air, like a physical presence between them.

Both Belle and Miyabi refocused their attention on the screen, their expressions a mirror of concentration and apprehension. Belle leaned forward slightly, her fingers unconsciously gripping the edge of her chair, while Miyabi's hand drifted towards the missing hilt of Tailless—a reflexive gesture born from years of facing the unknown. They braced themselves for whatever came next, silently acknowledging that what they were witnessing could change everything they thought they understood about New Eridu's shadows.

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Eous clambered eagerly onto the settee, his small frame bouncing slightly as he hopped around, his movements filled with an infectious energy. With each enthusiastic gesture, he pointed toward the TV with increasing urgency, His excitement was impossible to ignore, radiating throughout the room and drawing the attention of Belle.

Belle let out an exasperated sigh and removed her earphones, the music still faintly audible as she set them aside on the cushion. She turned toward Eous with mild annoyance etched across her features—until she noticed what he was pointing at with such enthusiasm. Her expression shifted instantly from irritation to surprise, aquamarine eyes widening as her gaze locked onto the screen. all thoughts of her interrupted relaxation forgotten in the sudden gravity of what was being broadcast.

Harumasa leaned back slightly in his chair, his arms crossed over his chest as he surveyed the room with a thoughtful expression. He mused aloud, his voice carrying a hint of curiosity, “Has anyone noticed that the equipment used to record this scene must be highly advanced? Even the most sophisticated security cameras in New Eridu aren’t that good.” His eyes sparkled with intrigue, as if he were unraveling a mystery that had piqued his interest.

Murmurs of agreement rippled through the gathered group, a collective acknowledgment of the astonishing quality they were witnessing. The clarity of the recording, coupled with the seamless angles that presented the scene, surpassed anything they had previously encountered. It was a level of sophistication that was far beyond what they were accustomed to seeing, even in the most secure facilities, leaving an air of intrigue hanging over them.

Rina, ever perceptive and attuned to the subtleties around her, tilted her head slightly as she turned her gaze toward Belle. “Miss Belle, my dear,” she began, her voice smooth and inviting, yet tinged with an undercurrent of inquiry, “I recall you mentioning to Mr. Wise that you don’t recognize this event, yet it’s undeniably unfolding right within your store. Do you happen to have any cameras situated inside that room?” The gentle cadence of her tone belied a hint of suspicion, a natural wariness beginning to creep into her demeanor. If Belle was indeed unaware of this footage, then who could have captured it? And what could their motives possibly be?

Before Belle could formulate a response, Wise’s voice sliced through the air, his concern unmistakable. “No. There shouldn’t be any security cameras in our staff room. We haven’t installed any.” His brows furrowed deeply, the tension radiating from his voice palpable as he pressed on. “The only cameras we have are located on the shop floor and outside at the front and back entrances. If this footage exists… it means my sister was being watched while she was utterly vulnerable—sleeping peacefully, lost in her own world with her music. Someone had to be observing her without our knowledge, and that thought sends a chill down my spine.” His words hung heavily in the air, a grim realization settling over the room as Belle and Wise grappled with the implications of such a privacy violation. The idea of being watched in their supposed sanctuary sent an uneasy shiver down their spines. Belle rubbed her arms as if to ward off a chill, while Wise's jaw tightened. The violation implied by the surveillance transformed private moments into exposed vulnerabilities, leaving them with the unsettling sensation of invisible eyes tracking their every move.

Anby, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke, her voice calm but thoughtful. "The scenes shown so far remind me of an old-world TV series I watched called 'Big Brother.' In that show, the actors were constantly monitored by the set crew while they went about their daily lives. Cameras were strategically placed to capture their every move. They were hidden in walls, disguised as household objects, even embedded in furniture—nowhere was truly private."

A hush fell over the room as the implications sank in. The air seemed to grow heavier with each passing second, weighted by the disturbing possibility that someone had violated their most personal spaces.

Belle stiffened, feeling exposed as never before. Being recorded on store surveillance was one thing; realising someone had observed her in solitude was another. Her mind raced through private moments—Late-night talks with Wise, and vulnerable times she thought were safe. The idea that unseen eyes might have watched these intimate moments made her skin crawl.

Miyabi, who had been quietly watching Belle's reaction, clenched her fists until her knuckles whitened. "This isn't just about surveillance. If someone can see inside that room without their knowledge, what else have they been watching?" Her voice carried the cold edge of a Void Hunter who'd faced countless dangers but found this invasion particularly disturbing.

The atmosphere in the room grew heavier, like a physical weight pressing down on everyone present. The implications stretched beyond mere privacy—this was about security, about vulnerability in spaces they'd believed safe.

Belle swallowed hard, trying to steady her nerves as her mind continued cycling through every private moment that might have been observed. "But why? Who would even go through the trouble of doing this?" She unconsciously wrapped her arms around herself, as if creating a barrier against invisible watchers.

No one had an answer, but the unease in the room was palpable. Soukaku fidgeted uncomfortably while Yanagi's expression darkened behind her glasses. The realisation that someone—or something—had been watching without their consent changed everything. Their sanctuary had been compromised, and with it, any sense of security they once took for granted.

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Belle rested her head on her right arm, propped up on the plush settee, her expression a mix of annoyance and intrigue as she called out for Wise. “Wise – come check this out!” The tone of her voice conveyed her desire for him to share in the discovery, reflecting her curiosity about the unfolding situation.

Walking behind her, Wise carefully balanced a stack of video tapes in his arms, each one precariously piled atop the other. The scene shifted, drawing attention to him as he navigated the space with a steady gait, his expression focused and determined. The tapes, their colourful labels slightly faded with age, hinted at the stories contained within, each one a fragment of a different time, waiting to be revisited.

During the scene, Ellen voiced a question that had been bothering her—a detail about the room on display and why Belle would be resting there. The thought had been lingering in her mind since they'd entered the space, something that didn't quite align with her expectations.

"So, I have a question for you, Belle and Wise," Ellen murmured sleepily, raising a hand to catch everyone's attention as she shifted in her chair. Her shark-like features became more pronounced as she leaned forward, the red streaks in her black hair catching the light from above.

The store owners exchanged glances, momentarily hesitant, before turning their focus to Ellen, curiosity evident on their faces. There was an almost imperceptible tension that passed between them, a silent communication that spoke volumes.

"You mentioned that this is your staff room," Ellen continued, her crimson-red eyes locking onto Belle and Wise. She twirled one of her lollipops between her fingers, a habit she'd developed to keep her energy levels stable. The candy caught the light as it spun, a small flash of color against her dark attire. "But the background doesn't match what I'd expect from a staff room—or even a storage space for extra stock. You have lockers and high-tech computers. That's... not exactly normal for a store's break room." Her observation hung in the air, sharp and direct despite her perpetually tired demeanor. She shifted in her seat, her shark-like features becoming more pronounced as she leaned forward expectantly, waiting for an explanation that would satisfy her curiosity. The shark Thiren might appear lazy most of the time, but her keen eye for details rarely missed anything suspicious.

Her question struck a chord, resonating deeply with everyone present. Several others in the room exchanged glances and nodded in agreement, their expressions mirroring her curiosity. A wave of relief washed over the group, as if a shared burden had been lifted—finally, someone had mustered the courage to voice what they had all been pondering but dared not say aloud. The atmosphere shifted, charged with an unspoken camaraderie as they collectively leaned in, eager for the answers they had long sought.

Belle answered calmly, her aquamarine eyes meeting Ellen's curious gaze. "It is our staff room, but since we're the only ones who work and live at the store full-time, we also use it as a third room. We store tapes here, too." She gestured to the space with a casual sweep of her hand, indicating the shelves lined with carefully organised videotapes and the personal touches that transformed what should have been a purely functional space into something more homely. The room clearly served multiple purposes, blending the boundaries between their professional and private lives—a necessity when your workplace was also your home.

Ellen raised an eyebrow, her crimson eyes narrowing as she processed Belle’s explanation. “So, it’s like a hybrid between a staff room and a secret hideout?” Her tone was playful, but the underlying tension in her voice hinted at the seriousness of the situation. “I get that it makes sense for you two, but you have to admit, it’s kinda sketchy.”

She leaned back in her seat, crossing her arms with an exaggerated sigh, her posture relaxed yet alert. “Who wouldn’t want to know what goes on in a place like this? I mean, we’re all sitting here like characters in some weird reality show.”

Nicole chuckled softly, glancing sideways at Ellen. “You’d definitely make an entertaining contestant,” she remarked, amusement dancing in her voice.

“Yeah,” Billy added, his cyborg enhancements gleaming faintly as he adjusted his posture. “The kind that sleeps through every episode and only wakes up for snacks.” His comment elicited a few chuckles from nearby groups.

Miyabi crossed her arms, observing the dynamics with keen interest. “So, if we’re all stuck here together for… whatever this is,” she said slowly, eyeing the screen warily as if it might spring to life with new revelations any moment, “maybe we should discuss how we got here and why.” Her expression turned serious; she knew that behind the humor lay genuine concern.

Wise leaned forward slightly in his seat, his brow furrowing at Miyabi's suggestion. He scanned the faces around him—some filled with curiosity while others showed signs of anxiety. The presence of Public Security members added another layer of tension to their gathering.

Caesar scratched his head as he spoke up from the Sons of Calydon section. “I don’t know about anyone else,” he admitted, shifting uncomfortably in his chair, “but I didn’t sign up for a mystery movie marathon with zero context.”

“Same here,” Lighter chimed in with a hint of frustration. His eyes darted around the room as if searching for an exit that wasn’t there. “We need answers—fast.”

Belle shifted slightly closer to Wise and whispered under her breath, “What do we do if they start pointing fingers?” The worry was evident on her face as she kept an eye on both sides of the aisle—those who had come from law enforcement and those who danced along the edges of legality.

The air thickened with uncertainty as everyone awaited further developments while grappling with their shared predicament—a puzzle that remained unsolved amidst their uneasy gathering.

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“What’s that?”, turning to look at the TV before following that up with “Fourteenth Street?” looking at the room thinking “I think the news mentioned it earlier… Give me a sec.” and then begins moving towards a computer monitor with the video tapes in his arms.

Belle remained fixated on the news broadcast, her aquamarine eyes tracking the urgent headlines scrolling across the screen. She continued speaking while Wise made his way across the room toward the computer monitor, the video tapes still clutched in his arms. "Yeah, in the Janus Quartar," she explained with a note of concern in her voice, tucking a strand of blue hair behind her ear. "They say it's already breached level-three controls. That's not supposed to happen with the current protocols in place."

Wise shifted his gaze towards the monitor, the glow of the screen reflecting in his piercing aquamarine eyes. He replied to Belle, his voice steady, "Yeah, Public Security were conducting a manhunt over there today." As he spoke, his fingers danced across the keyboard, deftly entering commands. "Evacuations may not be going as expected," he added, a hint of concern creeping into his tone as he processed the unfolding situation.

The scene switches to show Belle and Eous lounging on the plush settee. The small Bangboo turns curiously to the right, its rabbit-like ears twitching as something catches its attention, before swiveling back to gaze at Belle with its luminous yellow-green eyes. She grins and suddenly pulls the white-bodied assistant into her arms, cradling it against her blue hair. Eous squirms playfully in her embrace, its orange scarf bunching up as it wiggles, the "01" marking clearly visible as it emits a series of cheerful "Ehn-ne" sounds that echo through the room.

"So, you're saying…?" Belle's voice trailed off questioningly as she looked up from cuddling Eous, her brow furrowing slightly with curiosity.

Wise turned towards his sister with a calm expression on his face, his aquamarine eyes reflecting quiet determination. "We should get ready," he stated matter-of-factly, adjusting the sleeve of his dark grey bomber jacket. "We'll be seeing some business coming our way soon." His tone carried a hint of anticipation, suggesting he had already begun formulating a plan in his methodical mind.

A murmur spread across the room as members of Public Security and Section 6 exchanged wary, concerned glances, wondering what the siblings were alluding to in this last part of the scene. Captain Zhu Yuan's brow furrowed slightly as she caught Seth's eye, his tail twitching with barely contained curiosity. Qingyi leaned back against the wall, arms crossed, her sharp green eyes studying the Phaethon siblings with measured interest. Jane Doe, meanwhile, wore her trademark smirk, clearly intrigued by the cryptic exchange between Belle and Wise. The tension in the air was palpable, thickening with each passing second as everyone present tried to decipher the meaning behind Wise's confident assertion about incoming "business" and what exactly that might entail for all of them.

Qingyi turned to the pair with a pointed question, her tone carrying the weight of everyone's curiosity. "Why would a rental video store be expecting business when a new Hollow has formed—one beyond our ability to handle?" Her emerald eyes narrowed slightly as she pushed away from the wall, her twin tails swaying with the movement. The question hung in the air like a challenge, cutting through the tension with surgical precision. It was the very contradiction everyone had noticed but hadn't yet articulated—the strange disconnect between Wise's casual confidence about incoming customers and the looming catastrophe of a Hollow that had Public Security's elite team at a standstill.

At this, almost every group—except for The Cunning Hares, Victoria Housekeeping Co., and Section 6—began speaking in hushed, urgent tones, trying to piece together the answer. Whispers rippled through the crowd like wind through tall grass, theories and suspicions exchanged in frantic murmurs. Some turned their attention to Belle and Wise, suspicion flickering in their eyes, their gazes sharp and questioning. The accusatory looks made Belle shrink behind her brother, her shoulders hunching slightly as she tried to make herself smaller. She fidgeted with the hem of her shirt, unease settling over her like a heavy cloak, while Wise maintained his composed expression despite the growing tension in the room.

Wise was about to respond when Von Lycaon, already piecing together the truth from the fragments of conversation, cut in with elegant precision. "It seems Mr. Wise is suggesting that during times of stress or after receiving unsettling news, people tend to seek comfort in movies—something familiar to ease their sense of dread." The wolf Thiren's ears twitched slightly as he spoke, his crimson eyes scanning the room with calm assessment, noting the subtle shifts in posture and expression among those gathered. His voice carried a measured confidence that commanded attention, the kind of authority that came naturally to someone accustomed to managing complex situations with grace.

Miyabi, determined to shield Belle from scrutiny, suddenly spoke up. "It's like when I'm stressed... I secretly eat another melon bread." The fox-eared Void Hunter shifted slightly in her seat, her dark eyes briefly darting around the room before returning to meet the gazes of those present. There was something endearingly vulnerable in this admission from someone known for her formidable combat skills—a small glimpse behind the disciplined warrior's facade that few were privileged to witness.

Her unexpected confession drew amused chuckles from a few in the room, momentarily easing the tension that had been building in the atmosphere. Belle, appreciative of the distraction, offered a warm smile towards Miyabi, who felt a rush of warmth creep into her cheeks. It was a fleeting moment, as Miyabi quickly shifted her gaze, her ears twitching slightly in embarrassment. The fox-eared Void Hunter looked somewhat bashful, aware that her candid admission had lightened the mood, yet a hint of uncertainty lingered in her expression.

Wise watched the interaction, concern creeping into his thoughts. If Belle’s identity as Phaethon—or their other secret as students of the Guilty—were ever exposed, Miyabi would be forced to choose between her duty as Section 6’s chief and her growing bond with Belle. But as her older brother, he kept his thoughts to himself.

Wise watched the interaction, a knot of concern forming in his stomach. If Belle’s identity as Phaethon—or their other secret as students of the Guilty—were ever exposed, it could force Miyabi into a difficult position, one that might challenge her duties as Section 6’s chief. As her older brother, however, he decided to keep his thoughts to himself for the moment.

Sensing the need to steer the conversation back on track, Wise cleared his throat. “Von Lycaon is right. During difficult times, people often turn to movies for comfort, which is why we see an increase in business when something stressful happens.”

Miyabi and Belle, taken by surprise at the sudden change in conversation, momentarily glanced at each other before looking away, a slight warmth coloring their cheeks. The atmosphere in the room remained mixed—some were nodding in understanding of Wise's explanation, while others exchanged skeptical glances, still uncertain about the implications of the situation.

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“Cool, now we play the waiting game,” Belle replied to Wise, her gaze fixed on the flickering images of the news broadcast on the television. Just then, Eous hopped out of Belle’s lap and landed softly on the empty space beside her on the settee, emitting a gentle thudding noise as it settled in. Wise stood confidently to the right side of the settee, his posture relaxed yet attentive as he focused on the unfolding situation.

On the screen, Inspector Bringer's familiar face appeared momentarily, his expression serious and determined, but before any words could be exchanged, the visuals abruptly flickered into static. The display distorted, colors swirling chaotically as it flashed erratically, sending a jolt of confusion through the room. Suddenly, a deep black void engulfed the screen, replacing the chaos with stark clarity as bold text materialized, proclaiming, “CHAPTER 000.” Beneath this enigmatic title, a cryptic subtitle followed, reading “Business x Strangeness x Justness,” leaving the viewers with a mix of anticipation and uncertainty about what lay ahead.

A strange, weighty silence filled the air, settling over the room like an invisible fog as everyone processed what they had just witnessed on the screen.

Ben, who had been lazily watching from his position against the wall, straightened up slightly, his muscular frame shifting as his interest piqued. "Alright, I'll admit, that's got some dramatic flair." He smirked, scratching absently at his thick brown fur, but his casual bravado barely masked the underlying tension creeping into his voice. His gold chain glinted under the overhead lights as he leaned forward, eyes narrowing with a mixture of curiosity and apprehension.

Nicole, arms folded tightly across her chest, narrowed her yellow eyes at the ominous display, her pink pigtails swaying slightly as she tilted her head in suspicion. "Chapter 000? That's a weird way to start something," she remarked, her voice carrying the street-smart wariness that had kept her business afloat despite her financial missteps. "Sounds like the beginning of a bad deal." She tapped one finger against her leather jacket sleeve, the gesture betraying her unease despite the confident front she maintained for her team. As the head of The Cunning Hares, she'd developed a sixth sense for trouble, and this definitely triggered all her warning bells.

Yanagi tilted her head, her expression a mix of curiosity and skepticism as she scrutinized the text before her. “A prelude… or a warning?” she mused aloud, her voice tinged with a thoughtful edge that suggested she was weighing the implications of the words carefully. Her keen gaze flicked toward Belle and Wise, seeking their reactions. If this was indeed about them, what could this cryptic introduction possibly signify for their future? The air around them grew heavy with uncertainty, as each of them pondered the hidden meanings lurking within those initial lines.

Belle, momentarily mesmerized by the glowing screen before her, found herself lost in its captivating display, unaware of the fleeting glance Miyabi cast in her direction from the corner of her eye. The intensity of the visuals seemed to pull Belle deeper into her thoughts, leaving her oblivious to the subtle shifts in the atmosphere around her.

Miyabi wasn’t entirely sure why her attention kept drifting back to Belle—there was just something uniquely captivating about her. The soft way her aquamarine eyes reflected the shifting light of the screen drew Miyabi in, creating a mesmerizing dance of colors that seemed to hold a world of intrigue. Belle’s posture, as she absentmindedly leaned into the couch, exuded a sense of comfort and ease, yet it also hinted at the depths of her thoughts as she appeared utterly lost in contemplation. This blend of innocence and complexity in Belle was… distracting, pulling Miyabi's focus away from her own concerns and into the enigmatic aura that surrounded her.

Realising she had been staring at Belle for longer than appropriate, Miyabi quickly averted her gaze, her cheeks flushing slightly as she cleared her throat to regain her composure.

“This setup…” Anby remarked, her analytical mind already piecing together the intricate details before her. “It’s structured like an introduction sequence. Whoever compiled this footage clearly intends for us to follow along, as if we’re part of a larger narrative, woven into a story that unfolds with each frame.” Her eyes narrowed slightly, a spark of intrigue igniting within her as she considered the implications of the footage.

Von Lycaon let out an amused chuckle, his red eyes gleaming with a hint of mischief. “A most curious choice, indeed. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say we’re being invited into a story that has already begun, as if the pages have already turned without us.” His voice held an undertone of intrigue, suggesting that he was both captivated and eager to unravel the narrative that awaited them.

His words sent an involuntary shiver down Belle's spine, the subtle implication that they were merely players entering an established narrative unsettling her more than she cared to admit. There was something in his tone—that refined, knowing cadence peculiar to the wolf Thiren—that suggested he found their predicament not just intriguing but somehow amusing, as if he could already see threads of the story they couldn't yet discern.

Wise, on the other hand, remained completely still, an unyielding figure amidst the shifting tides of uncertainty around him. His expression betrayed nothing—a mask of calm that belied the turmoil brewing within. Yet, deep down, a gnawing sense of unease twisted in his gut, coiling tighter with each passing moment. He had a bad feeling about this, an instinctive warning that whispered to him, urging him to tread carefully in the shadows of the unknown.

Miyabi's fingers curled slightly against her knee, the subtle movement betraying a tension otherwise invisible in her composed demeanor. She stole one last glance at Belle, her dark eyes lingering for a heartbeat longer than necessary before deliberately refocusing on the screen before them. The fox-like ears peeking from beneath her raven hair twitched almost imperceptibly.

She wasn't sure what was about to happen next, couldn't predict how this strange situation would unfold or what dangers it might present...

But she knew, without a doubt—with the same certainty that had guided her blade through countless battles—

She would be watching Belle closely. The Void Hunter's instincts, honed through years of tracking ethereals and uncovering corruption, had rarely led her astray. Something about this proxy demanded her complete attention, and Miyabi intended to miss nothing.

Chapter Text

Chapter 4: Prologue

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As the screen shifted, a large poster came into view, the bold text "Next Generation, New Pre-Sale" prominently displayed across the digital surface. The word "New" in striking green, pulsing subtly to draw the eye, accompanied by the sleek, futuristic design of an unfamiliar Bangboo model. This prototype featured streamlined ears and a more angular body shape than the traditional rounded Bangboos that populated New Eridu. Its metallic finish caught the light, giving it an almost premium appearance that suggested advanced functionality beyond the standard helper models. The advertisement clearly aimed to generate excitement for Marcel Group's latest innovation in robotic assistant technology.

A voice rang out urgently from the shadows of the corridor—

"Go left! Now!"

Anby sprinted across the frame, her movements precise and efficient as she pivoted sharply at the junction. Behind her, Billy stumbled slightly on the uneven flooring before regaining his balance with a mechanical whir, and Nicole followed close behind, her pink pigtails bouncing with each determined stride. Their footsteps echoed against the walls as they raced toward the indicated passage.

"Whoa, hey, careful there, Billy!" Ben quipped from his seat, leaning forward in interest. The burly Thiren adjusted his position, his gold chain glinting under the lights as he watched the intelligent construct regain his balance. His thick fingers gripped the armrests, his expression a mixture of concern and fascination at the unfolding chase. Despite his imposing stature, there was something almost gentle in the way he tracked their movements, his keen eyes missing nothing as the group navigated the treacherous corridor.

As the chase scene unfolded on screen, Ellen Joe stirred from her half-dozing state, her shark-like features perking up with sudden interest. She nudged Corin with her elbow.

"Look at their form," she muttered, pointing at Anby's efficient movements. "That's military training if I've ever seen it."

Corin flinched at the sudden contact, nearly dropping the small notebook she'd been clutching. "Y-yes, quite impressive," she stammered, her light green twin-tails quivering slightly as she adjusted her posture. "Do you think they're in danger? It seems rather intense..."

Von Lycaon observed the scene with analytical precision, his ears twitching slightly as he cataloged every detail. "The corridor architecture suggests this is in the industrial sector, possibly near the Marcel Group facilities," he noted quietly, his red eyes narrowing. "Interesting that The Cunning Hares would have business there."

Beside him, Rina maintained her perfect posture, though a subtle tightening around her eyes betrayed her interest. "Their coordination is quite remarkable for an agency with such... unconventional management," she commented, her tone measured but with the faintest hint of approval.

Belle shifted uncomfortably in her seat, her fingers absently reaching for Wise's sleeve. "They've gotten better," she whispered, just loud enough for her brother to hear. "Remember when Nicole would trip over her own feet during our first few jobs together?"

Wise nodded almost imperceptibly, his expression carefully neutral even as his mind raced through possibilities. "The Marcel Group's new Bangboo model," he murmured back.

Ellen let out a low whistle as Billy executed a particularly nimble manoeuvre despite his mechanical limitations. "Maybe we should recruit that construct," she joked, earning a disapproving glance from Rina. "What? He's got moves."

"P-perhaps we should focus on why they're running?" Corin suggested timidly, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her maid uniform. "It seems rather dangerous..."

With Anby acting as cover, the group dashed left, their pace unrelenting. They tore through a dimly lit corridor, wire fences lining the sides, stacks of old cardboard boxes haphazardly shoved into corners. The tension in the room was palpable as the scene carried them deeper into the action. Billy's mechanical joints whirred with each nimble step, his movements surprisingly fluid despite his fumbling around. The air smelled of dust and metal, the distant echo of their footsteps bouncing off concrete walls as they navigated the industrial maze, each member acutely aware that whoever pursued them wouldn't be far behind.

Miyabi's gaze flickered to Anby, taking note of her sheer agility. "Her movement is incredibly efficient…" she murmured to herself, impressed by the precision of her footwork. The Void Hunter's trained eye could appreciate the economy in every step, the way Anby navigated the industrial labyrinth with calculated grace. There was something almost mechanical in her movements—purposeful and direct, without a single wasted motion. Even in this chaotic situation, Anby's combat training shone through with remarkable clarity.

Yanagi, ever perceptive, smirked as she studied their pursuers' coordinated movements through the industrial labyrinth. "They've done this before. Look at the way they move—it's like second nature," she observed, her trained eye noting how efficiently they maintained formation even in the cramped corridors. Their hunters displayed the unmistakable rhythm of a team that had tracked prey through these concrete mazes many times before—each step purposeful, each position tactical.

As they reached a stairway, Billy took the fast route, launching himself down the steps in a single leap. Nicole, with her usual flair, opted for the banister, sliding down effortlessly.

Anby, however, took an entirely different approach. She ran up the wall before seamlessly transitioning through the doorway ahead, her movements fluid and economical, like a gymnast executing a well-practiced routine. Her green combat suit barely rustled as she defied gravity with practiced ease.

"That's just showing off at this point," Nicole muttered under her breath, but there was unmistakable admiration in her tone as she watched her teammates' acrobatic displays. Her lips quirked into a half-smile despite her feigned annoyance.

"Now that's style," Anton chuckled, his eyes following the impressive descent with appreciation for their athletic prowess. He crossed his arms over his broad chest, nodding with genuine respect for the team's efficient yet flashy movements through the urban terrain.

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The scene cut to a close-up of Billy sprinting, his yellow eyes narrowed with determination as his mechanical limbs carried him forward with inhuman precision. The intensity etched across his expressionless face was mirrored perfectly by Anby and Nicole as they followed close behind. Anby maintained a cool, tactical composure despite her quickened pace, her orange eyes scanning for potential threats, while Nicole's pink pigtails bounced with each hurried step, her usual smirk replaced by a rare look of serious concentration as she led her Cunning Hares through the dangerous situation.

Then, the camera panned to a window—

A breathtaking yet ominous sight awaited beyond the glass.

The moon loomed in the night sky, its usual silvery brilliance tainted by the unsettling darkness of a massive Hollow partially consuming its light. The celestial body seemed to struggle against the encroaching void, its radiance dimmed and distorted where the supernatural anomaly touched it. Below, the cityscape of New Eridu stretched out in panoramic splendor, high-rise buildings standing tall amidst the eerie glow, their illuminated windows forming constellations of human activity against the darkened backdrop. The city's neon advertisements flickered like nervous fireflies, casting multicolored reflections across the sleek surfaces of skyscrapers that seemed both defiant and vulnerable beneath the half-eclipsed moon.

Nicole came to a sudden halt. Instead of pushing forward, she turned back, stepping in front of the window as if drawn to something unseen in the corridor, her pigtails swinging with the abrupt change in direction. Her yellow eyes narrowed, focusing intently on whatever had captured her attention.

Belle leaned forward slightly, mirroring Nicole's expression of curiosity, her blue hair falling across her forehead as she strained to see. What's she looking at?

Then, "hm?" Nicole laughed, the sound light and unexpected in the tense atmosphere, her shoulders relaxing as if she'd discovered some private joke. Her yellow eyes crinkled at the corners, pigtails swaying slightly as she tilted her head to one side.

That simple, carefree sound sent a ripple of confusion through the watchers, their bewilderment almost palpable in the charged air. Belle and the others exchanged puzzled glances, shoulders tensing at the unexpected shift in Nicole's demeanor. The laughter seemed strangely out of place against the backdrop of moonlight and shadows, like a cheerful note in an otherwise somber melody, leaving everyone uncertain how to interpret this sudden lightness in such a tense situation.

"Why is she laughing?" Belle asked aloud, tilting her head, fingers drumming nervously against her thigh as she tried to make sense of Nicole's sudden shift in mood. The tension in the room seemed to crystallise around her question, hanging in the air unanswered. Belle's brow furrowed slightly, her blue hair catching the light as she leaned forward even more, studying Nicole's unexpectedly relaxed posture with growing confusion. Whatever had triggered that carefree laugh remained a mystery, one that only deepened the unease spreading through her chest.

Von Lycaon hummed, intrigued, his wolf ears perking up slightly as he considered the situation, tail perfectly still behind him. "Perhaps she has found something worth smiling about amidst the chaos? The Cunning Hares' leader has always had a peculiar sense of timing."

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A sharp male voice interrupted the moment—

"Over there!" "Go! Go!" The urgent commands echoed through the area, cutting through the ambient noise.

The shadow of some figures darted past the statue of the Bangboo, their silhouettes elongated and distorted across the ground as they moved with purpose. Their footsteps faded quickly into the distance.

The camera panned slowly, finally revealing what had caught Nicole's attention and drawn her gaze away from the conversation.

Tucked away in the corner was a statue of a Bangboo—dark blue with a light blue bottom, its rabbit-like ears perked up attentively despite its forgotten state. A circular sign rested on it, depicting a large red hand, and a plaster near to the bottom, the paint slightly chipped at the edges. Surrounding the statue were old boxes stacked haphazardly, a rusted metal ladder leaning precariously against the wall, and a weather-worn barricade, as if the little figure had been abandoned to time and neglect, a silent sentinel in this forgotten corner.

"...Huh." Ben blinked, his burly frame shifting as he leaned forward to get a better look. "That's... not what I expected to find tucked away in this dusty corner."

"Why would something like that be stashed away here?" Anby mused aloud, her analytical mind already piecing together the puzzle. She tilted her head slightly, orange eyes narrowing as she assessed the forgotten Bangboo statue with the methodical precision of her military training.

Belle found herself oddly fascinated by the Bangboo statue. There was something about its presence—something that felt important, almost familiar. The way its rabbit-like ears perked up reminded her of Eous, though this one had clearly been abandoned to time and neglect. Her fingers twitched at her side, fighting the urge to reach out and touch it.

Miyabi, catching the look in Belle's eyes—that dangerous spark of curiosity—tightened her grip on her sleeve. She's too focused on this... The fox-eared woman frowned, sensing trouble brewing behind those aquamarine eyes. Experience had taught her that such fixations rarely led anywhere safe.

Despite the uncertainty of what lay ahead, one thing was clear—this was only the beginning of something much, much bigger. The forgotten Bangboo sentinel stood as a silent witness to their discovery, its presence an unspoken harbinger of the complex web they were about to entangle themselves in.

As the figures dashed past the hidden Bangboo statue, the tension in the room remained thick. However, a moment later, Nicole, Anby, and Billy cautiously peeked out from behind it. Their bodies were low, their movements careful, but the contrast between their approaches was almost comedic.

Billy was making a spectacle of himself. Instead of simply sneaking past, he hugged himself against the statue, inching forward at a painfully slow pace. His white spiky hair occasionally brushed against the ancient surface as he pressed his black metallic body flat against it, yellow eyes darting dramatically from side to side. The intelligent construct moved with exaggerated stealth that would have been more at home in one of the action movies he so often referenced than in an actual covert operation.

Anton let out an amused scoff, his gruff voice barely above a whisper. "Real subtle, Billy."

"Maybe he thinks if he clings hard enough, he'll become the statue," Ben mused, grinning broadly at the construct's theatrics. The bear Thiren crossed his massive arms over his chest, his eyes twinkling with mirth.

Belle chuckled softly, shaking her head at the absurdity of the moment. The sight of the combat android with his dramatic sneaking was a welcome bit of levity in their tense situation. Miyabi, watching beside her, allowed a small smile to tug at her lips—a rare break in her usually stoic demeanour as she observed Billy's ridiculous stealth attempt.

* ⟨──●──◇◇◆◇◇──●──⟩​ *

With the group successfully sneaking away, the perspective shifted to Billy's point of view, the feed from his optic sensors transmitting directly to the viewers.

The screen jolted forward with the rapid movement of Billy sprinting up a flight of stairs, his mechanical legs carrying him with inhuman speed. The world around him blurred into streaks of colour and light, his metallic hands appearing in the frame as he pushed forward into a narrow corridor lined with peeling wallpaper. The far end of the hallway was blocked off by large, haphazardly placed posters—advertisements for products long discontinued—forcing him to change course with a quick pivot that would have been impossible for a human.

Before the audience could process this change in scenery, the view warped again, Billy's advanced visual processing struggling to maintain clarity at such velocity.

The corridor transformed into a tunnel filled with TV screens of varying sizes and antiquity, each broadcasting the news at a dizzying speed. The flashing visuals, mixed with the blur of movement and occasional static from Billy's own systems, made the entire scene feel disorienting and almost nauseating. The screens flickered with urgent headlines about events in New Eridu, their voices overlapping into an incomprehensible cacophony as the Cunning Hares' construct charged deeper into the strange passage.

The cinema audience watched in stunned silence as Billy's perspective careened through the bizarre corridor. The disorienting visuals of countless screens flickering with news broadcasts created a surreal, almost hypnotic effect.

Belle gripped the armrest, her knuckles whitening. "I've never seen anything like this before. It's like some kind of... media nightmare."

Wise nodded slowly beside her. "A corridor of pure information overload. Whoever built this was either paranoid or obsessed with staying informed."

Yanagi leaned forward, narrowing her eyes. "This is chaotic. I love it."

"Why are there so many TVs?" Rina questioned, tilting her head. "It seems excessive even for the most dedicated news follower."

Miyabi's ears twitched with interest. "A surveillance hub, perhaps? Or maybe a collection point for information gathering." She studied the scene with professional curiosity. "Either way, it's not registered in any official H.A.N.D. database."

Nicole shifted uncomfortably in her seat. "I don't remember ever being in a place like this. Are you sure this is actually us in the future?"

"I've seen experimental technology labs, but nothing this... unhinged," Anby added, her analytical mind trying to make sense of the visual assault.

Von Lycaon straightened his tie, visibly disturbed by the chaotic environment. "The lack of organization is concerning. No proper cataloging system for the information. Just noise."

Ellen yawned, though her eyes remained fixed on the screen. "Reminds me of those conspiracy theorists' hideouts you see in movies. You know, the ones where some guy has newspaper clippings all over the walls connected with red string?"

"It's almost like someone's trying to watch everything at once," Soukaku observed, her childlike voice cutting through the tension. "But why would anyone need that many screens?"

Billy, watching his future self navigate the corridor, tilted his head. "My optical processors would struggle with that much visual input. It's... inefficient."

As if in response to her question, the camera pulled back, revealing Nicole sprinting toward the left while Anby veered to the right, their paths diverging through the bizarre surveillance maze.

Nicole navigated the labyrinth of flickering screens with skill, weaving through the chaos with practiced ease. Her pink pigtails bounced with each swift movement as she ducked and slid between monitors, her yellow eyes scanning ahead for the clearest route. Meanwhile, Anby took a different approach. Rather than avoiding the obstacles, she used them to her advantage—leaping from TV to TV with precise acrobatics, her green combat suit barely visible as she became a blur of calculated motion. Each jump landed with perfect balance, the screens wobbling but never toppling as she traversed the electronic jungle with military precision.

The camera continued to follow Billy's perspective as he navigated through the bizarre corridor of screens. The dizzying array of flashing news broadcasts created a disorienting labyrinth that somehow Nicole and Anby were traversing with remarkable skill.

Von Lycaon let out an approving hum, his tail giving an unconscious swish of appreciation. "She's quick on her feet. That level of agility is difficult to master, even for those with extensive training."

"She makes it look effortless," Belle added, watching in fascination. "I've seen Anby move fast before, but nothing like this."

Miyabi, arms crossed, muttered, "Efficient movement. Wasted energy leads to failure." Her fox ears twitched forward with interest. "Her military background shows in every step."

Wise leaned forward slightly, his analytical gaze fixed on the screen. "They're moving with purpose. This isn't random panic—they know exactly where they're going."

"Look at Nicole!" Soukaku exclaimed, pointing excitedly. "She's sliding under things like in those action movies!"

Yanagi nodded with professional appreciation. "Both display different but equally effective techniques. Nicole relies on intuition and adaptability, while Anby employs tactical precision."

"Billy's perspective gives us a unique vantage point," Ellen observed through half-lidded eyes. "The construct's visual processing is capturing details a human eye might miss."

Harumasa whistled softly. "I'd love to race against them sometime. Might actually be a challenge."

"The way they're splitting up suggests a coordinated strategy," Rina noted, her perfect posture never wavering despite her evident interest. "Perhaps to divide whatever is pursuing them?"

Anby, watching her future self with detached curiosity, simply stated, "Standard evasive manoeuvres. Though the environment presents unusual obstacles."

"Is nobody going to mention how terrifying this place is?" Ben interjected, adjusting his glasses nervously. "Who builds a tunnel of nothing but news screens?"

Captain Zhu Yuan's eyes narrowed. "This location doesn't appear in any official registry. Another unauthorised operation in New Eridu."

⟨──●──◇◇◆◇◇──●──⟩​

As the duo pushed through the final doorway at the end of the room, the screen faded to black, dissolving their figures into nothingness like watercolors running down a canvas. The transition was smooth, deliberate, closing one chapter of their journey with quiet finality.

For a moment, the silence lingered, heavy and expectant, only to be broken by the smooth notes of jazzy music floating through the darkness, bringing with them a sense of both conclusion and new beginnings. The sultry rhythm seemed to whisper stories of what might come next, even as it drew a veil over what had just transpired.

Text appeared on the screen, glowing in sharp white letters against the darkness. The stark contrast drew the eye immediately, commanding attention as the characters materialized one by one with mechanical precision. The digital font stood crisp and unwavering, waiting to deliver its message to whoever watched.

"Inside a high-rise building on Fourteenth Street in the Janus Quarter, New Eridu…"

The music set a different tone entirely, shifting the atmosphere from high-intensity chase to a more structured briefing. The jazzy instrumental notes created a sense of order and professionalism, pulling viewers from the adrenaline of pursuit into the methodical world of law enforcement procedure.

Then, the scene transitioned into a comic-strip-style visual, presenting a live news report at 14:09. The panels appeared in sequence, each framed with bold lines that emphasized the official nature of the broadcast. The timestamp glowed prominently in the corner, lending authenticity to the unfolding media coverage.

And there he was—a familiar figure.

Inspector Bringer.

His awkward presence was enough to immediately change the mood in the room. With his stiff posture and slightly disheveled uniform, he radiated discomfort before he even spoke a word.

"Ahem, umm, yes… Citizens," Bringer began, clearing his throat with an obvious attempt to sound composed. "I'm the head of the Janus Quarters Public Security, currently conducting an operation on Fourteenth Street." His voice wavered slightly as he addressed the camera, fingers fidgeting with the microphone as though he'd rather be anywhere else but in the public eye.

Nicole, watching herself dodge through the TVs in the earlier footage, smirked and leaned back with a satisfied air. Her eyes gleamed with amusement as the scene shifted to a familiar face on screen.

"Oh, look. It's our favourite inspector," she drawled sarcastically, crossing her arms across her chest as she studied the awkward figure now addressing the cameras.

"Didn't he mess up last time?" Billy asked, scratching the back of his head thoughtfully. The intelligent construct tilted his head slightly, yellow eyes fixed on the inspector's uncomfortable demeanour as memories of their previous encounter surfaced in his mind.

As he continued to speak, a ripple of reaction spread among the Public Security group gathered. Captain Zhu Yuan shifted forward in her seat, arms crossed tightly, eyes narrowing at the monitor. Her expression hardened with concern as she watched Bringer struggle.

“Great, just what we need—an unprepared inspector,” Seth whispered to Qingyi beside him, his voice barely masking the annoyance creeping into his tone.

“Try to focus on the message, not the messenger,” Qingyi replied softly, though her own skepticism flickered in her emerald eyes. She had always prided herself on maintaining professionalism and keeping emotions in check, but even she felt a twinge of disbelief at Bringer's floundering presence.

Jane leaned back, arms stretched behind her head with an air of nonchalance. “If this is our so-called leadership… We’re in trouble,” she chuckled darkly. Her sharp gaze swept across her fellow officers, gauging their reactions to their superior's performance.

Ben Bigger grunted, crossing his massive arms over his broad chest. “Not exactly reassuring,” he muttered under his breath. The financial director’s face remained stoic, but there was a hint of disappointment lurking beneath the surface. He expected better from someone representing New Eridu’s Public Security.

“Look at him! He’s practically sweating bullets!” Billy exclaimed, unable to hold back a laugh as he leaned closer to Anby and Nicole. “You’d think he was trying to defuse a bomb.”

Nicole smirked but quickly composed herself when Bringer continued speaking about Fourteenth Street’s containment breach and subsequent evacuation orders.

A tall wolf Thiren from their ranks shifted uncomfortably in his seat as he watched Bringer squirm. “This isn’t going well…” he murmured, glancing sideways at Zhu Yuan for reassurance.

Zhu Yuan met his gaze with a fierce determination that belied her worry. “He may be fumbling now, but we need to see how he handles this crisis,” she said firmly.

Qingyi nodded in agreement while leaning forward slightly; every word from Bringer carried weight now that it concerned their operations. The flicker of uncertainty among them all settled like lead in the pit of their stomachs as they awaited further developments on-screen.

Bringer, continuing on the screen, suddenly seemed to hesitate, a flicker of uncertainty crossing his face.

“I-I regret to inform everyone that our operation has been disrupted due to the appearance of a Hollow.”

Belle frowned slightly, her brow furrowing in concern. “Disrupted? That’s putting it mildly, isn’t it?” Her tone conveyed a mix of skepticism and disappointment, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

Bringer, clearly flustered by the weight of his announcement, fumbled his next words as he struggled to maintain his composure.

“I-I’d like to remind the public that we are currently in pursuit of the Red Fang Gang—the group responsible for the terrorist attack on the research institute.”

At the mention of the Red Fang Gang, a few glances were exchanged among the audience members, a palpable tension rising in the air as the implications of Bringer's statement sank in.

“Finally, a name,” Wise muttered, rubbing his chin thoughtfully, his mind racing with the implications of this new information.

“These are dangerous dudes… Uh… I mean criminals,” Bringer continued, visibly sweating as he grappled with the gravity of his words. “Particularly their leader, Miguel Silver. Everyone should remain vigilant!” His voice wavered slightly, betraying his apprehension as he urged the public to take the threat seriously.

Nicole groaned dramatically, rolling her eyes as she leaned back in her seat. "He always sounds like he's barely keeping it together. Every time he speaks, it's like watching a train wreck in slow motion."

"Because he is," Anby replied bluntly, her orange eyes unwavering as she assessed the situation with her characteristic directness. "His posture indicates extreme anxiety and his speech patterns suggest minimal preparation."

Miyabi, however, wasn't focused on Bringer's awkward delivery. Her crimson gaze remained locked onto Belle, noticing the slight tension in her expression, the almost imperceptible furrow between her brows. Something in the young woman's demeanour had shifted at the mention of the Red Fang Gang.

"What's wrong?" Miyabi asked quietly, her voice barely audible above the murmurs of the crowd.

Belle hesitated before shaking her head, her blue hair swaying slightly with the movement. "Nothing. It's just… something about all this doesn't sit right." Her fingers fidgeted with the edge of her sleeve, betraying her unease despite her attempt to appear calm.

Miyabi didn't press further, but her concern deepened, filing away Belle's reaction for later consideration. Years of training had taught her to recognise when someone was holding back information.

With the news briefing ongoing, everyone silently braced themselves for what was to come next, the atmosphere in the room growing heavier with each passing second as Bringer continued his stumbling delivery of what was clearly grave news for New Eridu.

*⟨──●──◇◇◆◇◇──●──⟩​* *

The tension in the room remained thick as the news broadcast continued, but that tension was immediately shattered by the sudden outburst of the station's reporter. The man's professional demeanour cracked like thin ice under too much weight.

"I'm ing ed! As this station's reporter, I can't listen to this anymore! Those criminals need to get ed!" His face had flushed crimson, veins bulging at his temples as he abandoned all pretence of journalistic neutrality.

Inspector Bringer's eyes widened in pure shock, his mouth falling open in disbelief. Never in his fifteen years of law enforcement had he witnessed such a flagrant display of unprofessionalism on live television. He leaned forward unconsciously, as if proximity to the screen might somehow make sense of the bizarre scene unfolding before him.

The room, filled with onlookers, was equally stunned, their collective silence punctuated by a mix of disbelief and amusement as they processed the unfolding chaos on the screen.

Anton, unable to contain himself, let out a sharp, unexpected laugh that cut through the tension. “Damn! Guess we found someone with less patience than Bringer,” he remarked, his eyes twinkling with a mischievous spark.

Nicole, unable to hold back her excitement, cackled heartily, leaning back in her seat as she reveled in the moment. “Finally! Someone says what we’re all thinking,” she exclaimed, her voice ringing with a sense of camaraderie that resonated throughout the room.

The reporter, still completely unhinged, continued with fervor, “As soon as we find them, we should just ing them all! And then ing them again!” His voice was a wild mix of excitement and chaos, as if he were caught in the throes of a fever dream where logic had long since abandoned him. The intensity in his eyes hinted at a deeper madness, a relentless desire to see his outrageous ideas come to fruition, no matter how absurd they sounded.

Ben chuckled, shaking his head, his broad shoulders bouncing with the movement. "I'm starting to like this guy," he admitted, a glimmer of amusement dancing in his eyes as he watched the unhinged reporter continue his tirade.

Yanagi smirked, adjusting her glasses with a practiced motion. "Yeah, but he's gonna get so fired," she remarked dryly, her military-trained posture relaxing slightly at the absurd spectacle before them. She could already imagine the fallout this reporter would face from his superiors.

Before anyone could fully process the absolute chaos unfolding on the news broadcast, the scene shifted abruptly to a different segment, cutting off the reporter mid-rant and leaving the room in a moment of stunned silence.

⟨──●──◇◇◆◇◇──●──⟩​

BAM!

The door was kicked off its hinges as Billy, Anby, and Nicole burst through, making a dramatic entrance that echoed through the room. Their arrival was a whirlwind of energy, a stark contrast to the tense atmosphere that had settled in. Above them, a TV blared the same news feed, the host Bringer looking visibly exhausted as he struggled to regain control of the chaotic situation unfolding before him.

“E-Excuse me, Mister Reporter, I’m still giving a briefing on the case… Let me—” he stammered, his voice wavering under the pressure.

But the reporter wasn’t having any of it.

“I don’t give a motherfucking shit! Listen here, you Red Fang fuckers!” he shouted, his voice laced with frustration and defiance, cutting through the air like a knife. The tension in the room escalated, the stakes rising with every heated word exchanged.

The sheer rage in his voice sent the watching room into a stunned silence before Wise let out an impressed whistle, leaning back slightly in his chair. The reporter's unbridled fury had broken through every standard of broadcast decorum in spectacular fashion, shattering the usual veneer of professional restraint that normally governed news segments.

"Well. He's committed to the bit," Wise remarked, a hint of admiration in his tone for the sheer audacity on display. His fingers tapped thoughtfully against the armrest as he watched the chaos unfold on screen.

Belle blinked in shock, her aquamarine eyes wide as she stared at the screen. Her hand unconsciously moved to cover her mouth, fingers splayed across her lips. "Is he even allowed to say all that on live TV? That's got to violate at least a dozen broadcast regulations." She leaned forward, unable to tear her gaze away from the trainwreck of professionalism playing out before them.

Von Lycaon sighed dramatically, his red eyes narrowing as his ears flattened slightly against his head in disapproval. He adjusted his red tie with a practiced flick of his gloved fingers, the gold-plated knuckles catching the light. "If he wasn't before, he definitely isn't now. The Broadcasting Authority will have his credentials by morning, I suspect." His bushy tail twitched once in irritation, betraying his otherwise composed demeanor as he watched another standard of New Eridu decorum crumble in real time.

The reporter, still on his warpath, continued, "Don't think the Hollow can protect you! The Public Security's air force is on the way. You're fucked! Is that right, officer?" His voice cracked with a mixture of desperation and misplaced bravado as sweat beaded on his forehead, the camera still rolling despite the increasingly unprofessional tirade.

Bringer looked so done. His shoulders slumped with the weight of professional exhaustion, eyes half-lidded as though this particular brand of journalistic malpractice was the last in a long line of disappointments he'd encountered today. The subtle twitch at the corner of his mouth betrayed the internal struggle between maintaining composure and walking away from this circus entirely.

Billy stood there, arms crossed, observing the spectacle of his own dramatic entrance unfold before him. A smirk played on his lips as he quipped, “Man, I thought I had anger issues.”

Anby, unfazed and with a perfectly straight face, met his gaze with a deadpan look that left no room for argument. “You do.”

The silence that followed was broken by Anton's hearty laugh as he slapped his knee.

"Now that's what I call entertainment! Better than half the action movies I've seen lately."

Nicole nodded appreciatively. "Gotta respect someone who throws their entire career away with such commitment. That's passion."

Captain Zhu Yuan's expression remained professionally neutral, though her posture had tensed slightly. "That reporter will be facing disciplinary action. Public Security communications protocol exists for a reason—especially during active situations."

"I'd hate to be his supervisor right now," Seth added with a wince. "The paperwork alone..."

⟨──●──◇◇◆◇◇──●──⟩​

The scene shifted again, blurring at the edges before resolving into clarity.

Anby rushed toward the large glass window of the high-rise building, her green combat suit a blur of movement as she assessed their escape route. Billy, not far behind, his mechanical joints whirring with urgency, yelled out, "There's a window! Boss, we can get out this way!" His yellow eyes gleamed with determination as he pointed at the transparent barrier.

Nicole turned to look at the window with an unimpressed expression, her pink pigtails swinging with the motion. "But that's a Hollow down there..." she observed dryly, noting the telltale distortion of reality visible beyond the glass.

There was a beat of silence before she sighed in resignation, shoulders slumping beneath her black leather jacket. "Fine. A way out is a way out," she conceded, already mentally calculating how much this unexpected detour would cost them in time and resources.

Belle, watching intently from her position near the doorway, felt a flicker of unease crawl up her spine. She couldn't quite place it, but something about this situation felt like a bad idea. Her aquamarine eyes narrowed as she studied the distortion beyond the glass, her instincts as a Proxy sending warning signals through her mind. The Hollow waiting below wasn't part of their original plan, and improvisation inside these reality-warped spaces rarely ended well. Still, she kept her concerns to herself for now, trusting Nicole's judgment despite her misgivings.

Nicole's voice cut through the tension, her commanding tone leaving no room for hesitation.

"Can you break the glass, Billy?" she asked, yellow eyes fixed on the intelligent construct, clearly expecting nothing less than immediate action. The leader of the Cunning Hares had already made her decision, consequences be damned.

The moment those words left her mouth, everyone in the room watching collectively knew this was about to go south. Anby's posture tensed imperceptibly, her military training kicking in as she prepared for the inevitable chaos. Belle felt that familiar prickle of danger at the back of her neck—the same sensation that had kept her alive through countless Hollow expeditions. Even Billy, despite his mechanical nature, seemed to register the shift in atmosphere, his yellow eyes flickering briefly as his combat systems quietly initialised. Nicole's decisions had a way of catapulting them from bad situations into worse ones, yet somehow, they always survived—usually with a story worth telling afterward, assuming they made it out alive.

Billy grinned confidently, already pulling his pistols free from their holsters with a practiced flourish, yellow eyes gleaming with anticipation.

"Easy! Leave it to me!" he declared with childlike enthusiasm, taking aim with the casual certainty of someone who'd done this countless times before.

He fired. The sharp crack echoed through the space.

PING!

The bullet bounced harmlessly off the bulletproof glass, ricocheting away with a pitiful whine before clattering to the floor somewhere in the distance. The projectile left not even the faintest mark on the pristine surface, as if mocking their efforts.

There was a long, painful silence. The kind that stretches seconds into eternities, where everyone collectively pretends they didn't just witness a spectacular failure. The tension in the air thickened with each passing heartbeat.

Anby frowned slightly, visibly disappointed, her military-trained posture stiffening with secondhand embarrassment. Her orange eyes narrowed critically, assessing the failed attempt with the clinical detachment of a former soldier. Nicole hesitated, an awkward "Uh—" slipping from her mouth, her usual bravado momentarily short-circuited as she struggled to salvage the situation. Her confident smirk had vanished, replaced by a rare expression of uncertainty as she glanced between her team members.

Belle winced, already calculating how this setback would complicate their already precarious plan. Her mind raced through alternative options, none of them particularly appealing.

Rina immediately burst out laughing. "OH MY GOODNESS, BILLY." Her composed maid persona cracked completely as she doubled over, elegant silver hair cascading forward as her shoulders shook with unrestrained mirth. The contrast between her refined appearance and her reaction only made the moment more absurd.

Billy, watching this unfold, scowled. "Hey! That's not my fault! Who makes windows that strong?!" His yellow eyes flashed indignantly as he gestured wildly at the offending glass, the empty revolver still clutched in his mechanical hand. The battle android's pride was clearly wounded, his childlike enthusiasm replaced by defensive irritation.

Nicole in the scene had no time to respond before karma struck with swift and merciless precision.

The deflected bullet ricocheted off the glass with a sharp ping, arcing through the air before striking a flat-screen TV hanging precariously from the ceiling. The second the group realised where the heavy electronic was going to fall, their eyes widening in collective horror, it was already too late. Their expressions shifted from shock to wincing anticipation as gravity took its inevitable course.

BONK!

The TV slammed onto Billy's head with a sickening thud, the screen shattering on impact against his metallic cranium. Sparks briefly danced around the point of contact, adding insult to injury.

Billy, thoroughly dazed by the impact, swayed unsteadily on his feet. His yellow eyes flickered and dimmed momentarily as his systems attempted to recalibrate. He managed a weak, confused "Uhh..." before his knees buckled beneath him and he slumped unceremoniously to the floor, a small wisp of smoke rising from his head where the TV had made its devastating connection.

At this point, the entire room watching lost it, dissolving into uncontrollable fits of laughter at Billy's TV-induced misfortune. Anby covered her mouth, trying and failing to maintain her usual composure, while Nicole doubled over, tears streaming down her face. Even the normally dignified Rina let out a delicate chuckle behind her gloved hand. The unfortunate android's predicament—a walking battle machine felled by household electronics—proved universally hilarious, the collective laughter echoing off the walls as Billy remained sprawled on the floor, a wisp of smoke still curling from his metallic head.

Anton wiped a tear from his eye, his broad shoulders still shaking with mirth. "I swear, Billy is the luckiest and unluckiest person I've ever seen. Only he could survive a direct hit like that!"

Nicole, doubled over and holding her stomach from laughing too hard, gasped desperately for air between howls. "I CAN'T! THIS IS PERFECT! Oh my god, I wish I'd recorded that!" Her pink pigtails bounced as she struggled to compose herself.

Ben was shaking his head, a knowing smirk playing across his ursine features. "And that's why we don't shoot at untested surfaces, Billy. Basic construction safety, kid. Physics always wins."

Billy, arms crossed defensively across his metallic chest, grumbled with what remained of his dignity, "Yeah, yeah. I get it. Not my finest moment." A faint wisp of smoke still curled from the dent in his head.

Miyabi, while not laughing as loudly as the others, was clearly amused, her dark eyes twinkling with restrained humor. "A reckless plan leads to reckless results. Perhaps this will be a valuable lesson in strategy," she remarked with the measured tone of a seasoned Void Hunter. Her fox-like ears twitched slightly as she crossed her arms, the ghost of a smile playing across her lips. Even in moments of levity, she couldn't help but turn the situation into a teaching opportunity—it was simply in her nature as Section 6's youngest chief to find training potential in every mishap.

Belle, giggling uncontrollably, nudged Wise with her elbow. "You think Billy learned anything from this little demonstration of gravity?" Her eyes sparkled with mischief as she watched the smoke still rising from their mechanical companion's dented head. As a Proxy who had seen her fair share of mishaps in Hollows, she couldn't help but find humour in these safer moments of misadventure.

Wise, maintaining an utterly deadpan expression that seemed almost comical against the backdrop of the swirling chaos around him, replied without missing a beat, "Absolutely not. Give it a week, tops." His calm demeanour stood in stark contrast to the frenzied activity, as if he were a rock amidst a stormy sea, unfazed by the tumult surrounding him.

⟨──●──◇◇◆◇◇──●──⟩​

As laughter moved through the room, Miyabi observed the scene with mild amusement. Billy’s failure had completely disrupted the tension, turning what should have been a dramatic moment into an unintentional farce. The sheer absurdity of it made even the more composed members of the audience suppress smiles.

Miyabi exhaled, not quite a laugh but something close, her gaze lingering on Belle as she reveled in the humor. The way Belle's eyes sparkled, full of life, drew Miyabi in like a moth to a flame. “A reckless plan brings reckless results.”

Belle tilted her head slightly, her playful spirit shining through. “So what would you have done instead?”

Miyabi considered the question for a moment, her thoughts momentarily distracted by the gentle curve of Belle’s smile. “Something effective,” she replied, her tone steady, though a flicker of warmth danced in her chest.

Belle smirked, enjoying their exchange. “Very insightful.”

The corners of Miyabi’s lips curved into a sparser smile—her version of amusement—yet it carried a softness when directed at Belle. “Some lessons are better demonstrated than explained.” There was a weight to her words, as if they both understood this wasn’t just about the movie.

Shifting in her seat, Belle leaned just a fraction closer, drawn to the steady presence of Miyabi beside her. “Maybe you should demonstrate sometime. I’d like to see how effective you can be.”

Miyabi’s heartbeat quickened, her composure momentarily challenged. There was a spark in Belle’s eyes, an openness that made the air between them feel charged. “Perhaps,” she replied, her voice low and inviting, revealing a glimpse of her interest that she rarely shared with others.

In the midst of their exchange, Wise sat a few seats away, his sharp eyes observing the interaction closely. He noted how Belle seemed more animated and open in Miyabi’s presence, and how Miyabi allowed a softness to shine through that he rarely saw.

A few rows back, Nicole shifted in her seat, a frown creasing her brow as she caught sight of Belle and Miyabi’s growing intimacy. She exchanged a concerned look with Anby, who sat beside her, brows knit together. “Do you think they realize what could happen if they move any closer?” Nicole whispered, her voice low but urgent.

Anby nodded, her expression thoughtful. “It’s... complicated. If Belle and Miyabi’s connection deepens, it could lead to heartbreak. They don’t know what Belle's hiding from everyone else.”

Yanagi sat a few seats away, her focus entirely on Belle and Miyabi, unaware of the conversation happening behind her. She sensed something shifting in the atmosphere, recognizing the tension between the two. There was something warm and inviting about it, and she could see they were connecting on a deeper level.

Nicole sighed, her gaze returning to Belle and Miyabi, who seemed wrapped up in their own conversation. “I just don’t want Belle to get hurt. She deserves happiness, but this...” she trailed off, the weight of her worry apparent.

As Belle shifted her attention back to the screen, she felt a warmth lingering from her exchange with Miyabi—a warmth that had nothing to do with the cinema around them and everything to do with the connection forming in the stillness. The moment of humor faded, but the awareness between them lingered, building slowly yet powerfully.

As the next tense moment built in the footage, neither of them spoke of the awareness that had begun to take shape between them. Their shared glances and subtle movements felt more intimate now, the understanding that something deeper was brewing remaining just beneath the surface. Not yet, anyway.

Wise’s expression remained thoughtful, recognizing the significance of the moment unfolding, letting them navigate their connection while silently supporting Belle.

Meanwhile, Nicole and Anby continued to share concerned glances, acutely aware of the complexity of relationships forming around them, while Yanagi observed with curiosity, intrigued by the connections blossoming before her.

⟨──●──◇◇◆◇◇──●──⟩​

The room fell into silence as the scene lingered on Billy's slumped form, his red jacket crumpled against the metal chair. Nicole watched over both him and Anby with uncharacteristic solemnity, her usual brash confidence subdued. She placed a hand on the reinforced window, fingers splayed against the cold surface, yellow eyes reflecting in the glass as she stood sentinel over her unlikely family. The faint hum of Billy's systems was the only sound breaking the heavy quiet that had settled over them like a shroud.

Miyabi tilted her head slightly, her dark eyes betraying no emotion as she regarded Billy's slumped form. "It is quite unfortunate… but he brought that upon himself." Her tone carried the cool detachment of someone who had witnessed far worse fates befall those who acted without proper consideration.

Belle chuckled softly, nudging Miyabi with her elbow, the gesture strangely light-hearted against the somber backdrop of the scene. "Reckless plans, reckless results." Her aquamarine eyes flickered briefly to Nicole's vigil at the window, acknowledging the gravity of the situation while maintaining her pragmatic outlook—a balance she'd perfected during countless Hollow expeditions.

On the screen, Anby calmly explained, "It bounced off. This glass must be tough." Her expression remained unchanged, analytical rather than disappointed, as if she were merely cataloging the information for future reference.

Nicole sighed, placing a hand on the window, her fingers splaying against the transparent barrier. "Damn, I knew it wouldn't be that easy. This window is—" Frustration tinged her voice, pink pigtails swaying slightly as she leaned closer to examine the obstruction.

Before she could finish, an unknown voice interrupted her, cutting through the tension in the room.

"-Reinforced bulletproof glass. You won't be able to break it." The words carried a note of finality, spoken with the confidence of someone intimately familiar with the material's specifications.

The scene shifted to reveal a man outside, his body trembling visibly as he fell to his knees on the hard ground. Tears streamed down his face, glistening in the ambient light as they traced paths along his cheeks, his composure completely shattered.

"The Cunning Hares odd-job agency…" he uttered, his voice quavering with a mixture of recognition and what might have been either relief or dread.

Rina immediately burst out laughing, her elegant composure momentarily shattered as she doubled over with mirth. "Is he crying?! No way!" Her crimson eyes sparkled with amusement as Drusilla, one of her Bangboo companions, mimicked her laughter with a high-pitched giggle.

Anton grinned broadly, his energetic demeanor amplified by the unexpected sight. "Man, they really broke this guy, huh?" He crossed his muscular arms, shaking his head in disbelief as he exchanged glances with Ben, who remained stoically observant.

Nicole, still watching the screen with her yellow eyes narrowed in scrutiny, snorted derisively. Her pink pigtails bounced slightly as she leaned forward. "Not every day you see a crying gangster. Especially not one who knows our agency by name." She drummed her fingers against her leather jacket, curiosity piqued.

Von Lycaon sighed deeply, his elegant white-furred fingers rubbing his temple in a gesture of refined exasperation. His ears flattened slightly against his head despite his efforts to maintain decorum. "He's not exactly reinforcing the image of a dangerous criminal right now. Though I must say, his emotional display raises more questions than it answers about his connection to your establishment."

The screen changed again, now showing the man slumped against the door, still sobbing. His shoulders heaved with each ragged breath, tears streaming down his face as he pressed his forehead against the cold metal surface. The dim light of the corridor cast long shadows across his crumpled form.

"Why…?" he choked out, his voice breaking on the single syllable, the word hanging in the air like a fragile, unanswerable question.

Ben, deadpan, muttered, "Why not?" He crossed his massive arms across his chest, the gesture emphasising his imposing build while his expression remained utterly impassive. The bear Thiren's practical nature didn't allow for unnecessary emotional displays, especially in situations that called for straightforward solutions.

The next panel appeared, showing the man storming toward them, his face contorted with rage despite the tears still streaming down his cheeks. His footsteps echoed heavily against the metal floor as he approached, voice cracking with emotion as he shouted.

"Why would you steal from the Red Fang Gang?"

"My men went through so much trouble to—"

Before he could finish, Nicole cut him off with a sharp retort, her yellow eyes flashing dangerously. Her expression was fierce and unyielding as she clutched the rectangular strongbox securely under her left arm, her knuckles whitening with the tightness of her grip.

"You stole the strongbox from the institute! We're just returning it to its rightful owner!"

The scene shifted to Anby, her movements calm and precise as she stepped protectively in front of Nicole. With practiced efficiency, she drew her sword, the blade gleaming ominously in the dim corridor light as she positioned herself between her boss and the advancing threat.

Nicole continued, leaning slightly to the side to make eye contact with the man past Anby's shoulder, her voice rising indignantly, "Hey! Don't make it sound like we're the bad guys!"

Belle leaned forward, her entire body tense with anticipation, eyes locked onto the screen as if magnetically drawn to the unfolding drama. "I love how Nicole is just so done with people twisting things. That exasperated look on her face is priceless."

Miyabi nodded in approval, her posture perfectly straight as always. "It is honourable to correct false accusations. One must stand firm when truth is being distorted," she added with the quiet conviction of someone who lived by a strict moral code.

Billy, crossing his arms with a mechanical whirr, muttered through his expressionless face, "Yeah, but let's be real, this guy doesn't care who the bad guy is. He just cares about his loot. Seen his type a million times in the Outer Ring."

Nicole, still grinning with that characteristic smugness, stretched her arms above her head languidly. "Well, he should've stolen something less important. Amateur mistake, really. Everyone knows you don't take things people actually need back."

Anton smirked, leaning back in his chair. "Gotta respect the hustle though. Dude's sobbing but still committed to getting it back. That's dedication to the craft right there," he remarked, clearly appreciating the theatrical performance.

Yanagi chuckled, adjusting her glasses with a practiced motion. "I dunno, he's giving me 'pathetic villain of the week' vibes. The kind that gets defeated in the first five minutes of those shows Soukaku likes to watch."

As the scene continued to unfold on screen, the tension was palpable in both worlds—within the Hollow corridor where Anby stood protectively before Nicole, and here in the viewing room where the assembled group watched with rapt attention. Despite the serious nature of the confrontation, the group watching couldn't help but be thoroughly entertained by the sheer drama unfolding before them, each finding something different to appreciate in the spectacle.

⟨──●──◇◇◆◇◇──●──⟩​

As the scene shifted, the view panned out across the dimly lit street, revealing two opposing sides locked in a tense standoff. The Red Fang Gang stood to the left, their assortment of makeshift weapons and stolen firearms trained steadily on the Cunning Hares, who stood their ground on the right, bodies rigid but expressions unwavering in the face of danger. The evening air crackled with unspoken threats and mounting tension.

Front and centre, the white-haired man trembled visibly, his leather jacket hanging loose on his thin frame as his hands clenched and unclenched at his sides. His voice cracked with raw emotion as he spoke, "We're all trying to get by on the same streets. Why... Why would you be helping the cops!?" His eyes glistened with unshed tears, frustration and desperation evident in his tone as he confronted the infamous odd-jobs company. A mix of betrayal and disbelief painted across his weathered features, highlighting the deep circles under his eyes.

Belle scoffed, crossing her arms with obvious disdain. "Oh great, now he's trying the 'we're all the same' guilt trip. As if that's going to work on anyone with half a brain."

Wise, sitting beside her, snorted derisively. "Classic move. Rob and terrorize people, then whine when someone stops you. The criminal's handbook, page one."

Miyabi, ever composed, tilted her head slightly, her dark eyes assessing the situation with clinical detachment. "Desperation does strange things to people. It warps their perception of reality and morality."

Anton leaned back, muscular arms folded behind his head, his expression a mixture of amusement and disbelief. "Man's out here crying while his crew is pointing guns at people. Priorities, my guy. Maybe put the weapons down before the sob story?"

Nicole grinned, her yellow eyes gleaming with mischief. "I swear, if I had a credit for every time some punk tried to play the 'we're not so different' card while literally holding a gun to someone's head... I'd be rich enough to buy this entire district."

Von Lycaon, unimpressed, rubbed his chin thoughtfully, his tail perfectly still behind him. "It's amusing that he expects sympathy while still threatening them. The cognitive dissonance is rather remarkable."

Rina smirked, kicking her elegant heeled feet up onto the table with surprising casualness that contrasted with her refined appearance. "Bro's out here delivering the villain monologue like it's gonna fix anything. Should we applaud when he's finished or what?"

Belle nudged Wise with her elbow, a playful glint in her aquamarine eyes. "This reminds me of that time you tried to guilt-trip me into giving you the last piece of cake. Same energy, different stakes."

Wise gasped dramatically, clutching his chest as if mortally wounded. "How dare you compare me to this guy?! That was different! That was life or death. You know how I feel about chocolate ganache!"

Belle smirked, her blue hair catching the light as she shook her head. "Sure, it was. A matter of national security, clearly."

Miyabi watched them with quiet amusement before returning her attention to the screen, her expression growing serious once more. "Regardless, his words hold no weight. They act on their own self-interest yet expect others to comply with their demands. The hypocrisy is staggering."

Wise rolled his eyes expressively. "Yeah, like, 'oh nooo, we're criminals and you stopped us, how could you do this?'" He placed a hand over his heart, mock-sobbing with exaggerated distress.

Yanagi, laughing behind her rectangular glasses, added, "Right? Next, he's gonna say, 'We're actually the victims here!' as if we haven't heard that a thousand times before."

Nicole waved a dismissive hand, her pink pigtails bouncing with the movement. "Give him a second. I guarantee that's next. It's like they all read from the same script."

As the scene lingered on the standoff, the air was thick with tension. Despite the danger unfolding on the screen, the group watching was more entertained by the sheer irony of it all, finding humour in the predictable patterns of criminal justification.

As the scene unfolded, Nicole’s expression remained unfazed as she shot back, “Sorry, but it’s not Public Security that commissioned us. And also, that’s none of your business anyway.”

The white-haired leader immediately switched from grief to fury, his voice rising, “Of course it is! They had people steal from my territory, so I have to teach them a lesson!”

Belle sighed, leaning back. “Oh great, another guy who thinks he owns the whole city.”

Grace, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke up. “That logic is fundamentally flawed. If he claims ownership over stolen goods, then, he lacks rightful possession.” She tilted her head, eyes still fixed on the screen. “Does he even hear himself?”

Anton chuckled. “Nope. He’s in full-on ‘main character syndrome’ mode.”As the scene unfolded, Nicole's expression remained unfazed as she shot back, "Sorry, but it's not Public Security that commissioned us. And also, that's none of your business anyway." Her tone was dismissive, making it clear she had no interest in entertaining his accusations.

The white-haired leader immediately switched from grief to fury, his voice rising, "Of course it is! They had people steal from my territory, so I have to teach them a lesson!" His hands clenched into fists, veins visibly pulsing at his temples.

Belle sighed, leaning back against her chair with an air of weariness. "Oh great, another guy who thinks he owns the whole city." She rolled her eyes, all too familiar with this particular brand of criminal entitlement.

Grace, who had been quietly observing the confrontation through narrowed eyes, finally spoke up. "That logic is fundamentally flawed. If he claims ownership over stolen goods, then, he lacks rightful possession." She tilted her head, eyes still fixed on the screen as she analyzed the situation with her characteristic precision. "Does he even hear himself?"

Anton chuckled, shaking his head at the absurdity playing out before them. "Nope. He's in full-on 'main character syndrome' mode." He crossed his arms, amused by how predictable these encounters had become.

⟨──●──◇◇◆◇◇──●──⟩​

The scene cut to the Red Fang Gang leader sobbing again, his voice wobbling dramatically as he pleaded, "W-why don't you just give it back to me? It's so important to us—" before abruptly shifting to a lethal snarl, "—that I'm willing to exchange it for your lives!" His face contorted from exaggerated grief to murderous rage in an instant, revealing the theatrical performance for the threat it truly was.

The camera zoomed out to show the back of Nicole's head, tension thick in the air. Her pink pigtails remained perfectly still as she faced down the gang leader, her posture betraying neither fear nor surprise at the sudden change in demeanor. Around them, the other Red Fang members shifted their weight, hands hovering near concealed weapons as they awaited their leader's command. The standoff crackled with dangerous potential energy, like a circuit about to overload.

Miyabi exhaled sharply, her expression filled with disdain as her piercing gaze bore into the scene before her. “Dishonourable. A warrior who resorts to tears only to threaten lives a moment later is beyond redemption,” she declared, her voice laced with an unyielding conviction.

Yanagi chuckled lightly, a sharp glint in her eyes that suggested she found the entire situation amusing. “He’s conflicted about his own genre—does he want pity or terror? It’s hard to tell with such erratic behavior,” she mused, her tone playfully mocking the gang leader's theatrics.

Rina rolled her eyes dramatically, unimpressed by the display of emotional manipulation. “Make up your mind already! You can't beg for mercy and then suddenly decide murder is your brand. It’s an exhausting performance,” she interjected, her voice tinged with irritation at the lack of consistency.

Grace’s eyebrows knitted together in mild concern as she observed the unfolding drama. “His emotional swings are genuinely unsettling. Therapy might be beneficial, perhaps even a necessity at this point,” she remarked, her pragmatic nature shining through as she considered the implications of such instability.

Wise smirked, leaning back in amusement, clearly entertained by the unfolding chaos. “You mean, dude’s completely off the rails. Calling him 'unhinged' is polite. It’s like watching a train wreck in slow motion,” he quipped, his tone dripping with sarcasm as he relished the absurdity of the situation.

Nicole crossed her arms, a mischievous gleam lighting up her eyes as she took in the scene. “Honestly, his commitment to chaos is kind of admirable. He's testing every villain trope out there, and it’s almost impressive how he’s failing so spectacularly,” she teased, a playful smile spreading across her lips as she acknowledged the gang leader's misguided attempts at intimidation.

Belle snorted lightly, unable to contain her amusement. “Yeah, and failing at all of them. If this is his idea of villainy, he might want to rethink his career choices,” she chimed in, laughter dancing in her voice as she joined in on the mockery.

As the scene unfolded, Nicole's sharp retort cut through the tension: "So you need the whole gang armed and ready to handle three people? This is the 'Silver Tears'? It's even weirder than the rumours…"

The others in the room reacted in their unique ways, each personality coloring their response to the unfolding drama.

Corin nervously giggled, smoothing out her maid uniform with trembling fingers. "They're always like this—so dramatic. Simplicity would serve them far better," she offered, her voice barely above a whisper as she tucked a strand of light green hair behind her ear.

Ellen barely lifted her gaze from her game console, her shark tail twitching with mild irritation. "Subtlety isn't everyone's art form, unfortunately," she drawled, thumbs moving rapidly across the buttons without missing a beat.

Nicole's eyes then widened as she noticed something beside Anby. "Wait! Is that a flashbang?"

Anby nodded, her tone matter-of-fact. "Correct. It's a GS 2 High-lumen military flashbang. The blast is quite strong."

Belle leaned forward with intrigue, her aquamarine eyes gleaming as she examined the device, clearly impressed. "Serious hardware. Wonder how they acquired it," she mused, mentally cataloging the specifications for future reference.

Wise smirked knowingly, crossing his arms over his chest. "Likely from the same shady place we do," he remarked, his voice carrying a hint of amusement at their shared underworld connections.

The scene shifted to Nicole, a mischievous grin spreading across her face as she called out, "Awesome! Time to wake up, Billy!"

A Red Fang member blinked in confusion, shouting, "What?!"

Caesar's laughter echoed throughout the room, booming and full of admiration. "Classic misdirection! Always effective," she declared, slapping her knee with genuine delight at the tactical play unfolding before them.

Burnice smirked while gracefully preparing a drink, her hands moving with practiced precision. "One of my Nitro Fuels would certainly wake them up faster," she suggested with a playful wink, the concoction in her glass glowing an ominous blue.

Lucy sternly straightened her posture, golden eyes narrowing with intensity. "Stay sharp, everyone. Playtime's over," she commanded, her aristocratic upbringing evident in her authoritative tone.

As the scene unfolded, Billy's eye gleamed with determination as he brandished a flashbang, announcing, "Eyes open, everyone!

With a swift motion, Billy pulled the pin, shouting, "SAY CHEESE!" The flashbang detonated, engulfing the screen in blinding white light. Panels depicted the Red Fang members recoiling, clutching their eyes, exclaiming, "Wahhhh! My eyes!"

Ellen leaned casually against her chair, her shark tail lazily swishing back and forth as she unwrapped another piece of candy, eyes half-lidded from her perpetual tiredness. "Never gets old. Timeless classic," she murmured around the sweet, not bothering to hide her satisfaction at the enemies' discomfort.

Grace nodded approvingly, a soft smile forming on her face as she analyzed the tactical maneuver. "Indeed, an effective tactic never goes out of style," she observed, mentally calculating the flashbang's radius and effectiveness.

Corin peeked from behind Rina, nervously twisting the hem of her maid uniform between her fingers. "It—it certainly seems to be working well," she stammered shyly, wincing slightly at the enemies' distress despite their antagonistic nature.

Rina gave a gentle yet pointed look at Ellen, gracefully smoothing her skirt with one elegant motion. "Ellen, my dear, do be careful. Excessive sweets might dull your senses," she cautioned, her crimson eyes reflecting both concern and mild disapproval.

Ellen merely hummed dismissively, slowly chewing her candy without a care in the world. "Actions overrated. Wake me up when something interesting happens," she mumbled through the sweet, slumping further into her seat.

The Red Fang leader, regaining composure, snarled, "Ahh, so... so you choose to resist!" Drawing his katana, he lunged toward the Cunning Hares, declaring, "In that case, I have no choice but to—KILL YOU ALL!"

The room watching the scene tensed, though reactions varied from genuine concern to barely concealed amusement.

Nicole let out a dramatic gasp, throwing a hand over her heart with theatrical flair. "Oh nooo, he's got a katana! What ever will we do?" she exclaimed, pink pigtails bouncing as she feigned distress with exaggerated movements.

Ben chuckled, leaning back in his seat, his burly frame causing the chair to creak slightly. "Yeah, because that worked out for the last dozen guys who tried to take us on," he rumbled, his deep voice carrying a mixture of amusement and dismissal.

Belle watched intently, her eyes flicking to Miyabi beside her. She could sense a quiet intensity from her—Miyabi's focus on the fight was unwavering, her fingers resting on her knee, almost like she was calculating the possible moves of both sides. The slight tension in Miyabi's shoulders betrayed her professional interest, a warrior recognizing the nuances of combat even in this absurd confrontation.

⟨──●──◇◇◆◇◇──●──⟩​

The scene shifted, focusing on Nicole standing in front of the window, laughter spilling from her lips like a cascade of mischievous bells. A brilliant light flared behind her, illuminating the glass and casting her silhouette in sharp relief against the pane. Something glowed ominously in the background, its presence just barely forming in the haze—a shapeless threat hovering at the edges of perception.

"Hahaha, you've made a mistake, mister. We aren't your enemy," she declared, her yellow eyes sparkling with that familiar confidence that had built The Cunning Hares from nothing. Her pigtails swayed slightly as she tilted her head, the black ribbons catching what little light filtered through the window.

Belle blinked rapidly, her aquamarine eyes widening with realization. "She's taunting him," she whispered, a mixture of admiration and concern coloring her voice.

Miyabi exhaled slowly, her long raven hair shifting slightly with the movement. She kept her dark eyes trained on the scene unfolding before them, her fox-like ears twitching almost imperceptibly. "It's a psychological tactic. Throw him off-balance before striking," she explained, her voice steady with the confidence of someone who had employed such strategies countless times before. Her fingers absently traced the outline of Tailless's scabbard at her side.

Wise nodded slightly, his piercing aquamarine eyes narrowing with analytical precision. "It's working," he observed, noting the subtle shifts in their opponent's posture. "He wasn't expecting that response." A hint of approval flickered across his otherwise composed features as he watched Nicole's strategy unfold. His hand instinctively moved toward Belle's arm, a protective gesture born of years of partnership.

⟨──●──◇◇◆◇◇──●──⟩​

The next scene struck with dramatic flair—

The Cunning Hares, in perfect sync, threw their arms forward in a grand gesture, fingers splayed dramatically as if unveiling a masterpiece.

The camera panned behind them, revealing a helicopter hovering just outside the window, its powerful searchlight cutting through the darkness and beaming into the room like a theatrical spotlight. The silhouette of its metal frame gleamed menacingly in the night, engines thrumming ominously, sending vibrations through the glass panes.

Nicole's teasing voice rang out, drawing the moment out with deliberate showmanship, "That is~"

The tension cracked like thin ice beneath a heavy boot.

"HA!" Ben barked out a laugh, shaking his head so vigorously his gold chain bounced against his chest. "Classic. Absolutely classic."

Nicole, watching herself in the scene, grinned with unmistakable pride, her yellow eyes sparkling. "Gotta keep 'em on their toes. Fear and confusion—works every time."

From Public Security, Captain Zhu Yuan let out a deep, exasperated sigh, rubbing her temples with practiced weariness. "Typical," she muttered, her golden-brown eyes narrowing. "First, the criminals announce themselves like they're in some action flick, and now we've got the Cunning Hares turning this into their own personal theatrical production."

Qingyi smirked slightly, arms crossed over her tactical vest, her green eyes alight with amusement. "Come on, Captain, you have to admit—this is more entertaining than Bringer's usual mess. At least they have style."

Seth Lowell, ever serious, furrowed his brows, his ice-blue eyes focused intently on the screen as his tail twitched with concern. "Shouldn't they be more focused on escaping instead of taunting their enemy? This seems unnecessarily risky."

Jane Doe, observing Nicole's confident posture in the video, tapped a finger thoughtfully against her cheek. "Actually, this is a strategic move. By asserting dominance and controlling the pace of the conversation, Nicole forces the Red Fang leader to act reactively rather than strategically. Classic psychological warfare."

Zhu Yuan exhaled, shoulders slumping slightly. "I hate that it makes sense."

Meanwhile, over at Belobog Heavy Industries, Koleda folded her arms across her chest, her wild red-orange hair seeming to bristle with excitement as she watched the hovering helicopter illuminate the scene. "Now that's an entrance. Flashy but effective."

Anton leaned forward, his usual smirk widening as he rubbed his hands together eagerly. "Coulda been cooler if they crashed through the window. Nothing says 'we mean business' like shattered glass everywhere."

Ben Bigger let out a gruff chuckle, his massive bear frame shifting in his seat. "Yeah, because that always ends well, huh, Anton? Remember the last time you tried something similar?"

Grace Howard, resting her chin in her palm, raised an eyebrow, her amber eyes calculating something unseen. "If this was one of our ops, we'd have had a mech punch through that wall instead. Maximum impact, minimum subtlety—the Belobog way."

Nicole, overhearing this from her seat, turned and grinned broadly, her pink pigtails bouncing with the movement. "I like that idea. Maybe next time. I'll put it on my tab with you guys."

Miyabi, still sitting beside Belle, glanced at her with quiet amusement, her dark eyes studying Belle's reactions. She had already noticed how engaged Belle was in the unfolding scene—her aquamarine eyes practically sparkling as she watched, reflecting the helicopter's searchlight.

Belle, caught up in the moment, whispered to herself, fingers unconsciously gripping the edge of her seat, "That timing was perfect. Not a second too early or late."

Miyabi smirked, leaning in slightly. "You seem very invested in this, Belle. Almost like you've seen it before."

Belle flinched slightly, heat rising to her cheeks as she became aware of Miyabi's proximity. "I—I mean, it's a good scene, you know? The coordination, the timing..." She rubbed the back of her neck, suddenly aware of how close Miyabi was sitting, the fox-eared woman's gaze penetrating.

Wise, ever observant, shot Belle a side glance from beneath his grey bangs, his aquamarine eyes narrowing slightly, but he chose not to comment, instead folding his arms across his chest.

Von Lycaon, ever the refined observer, took a delicate sip from his untouched cup of tea and chuckled, his red eyes gleaming with appreciation. "Ah, nothing quite like theatrical flair and military efficiency combined. Quite the spectacle, I must say. Victoria Housekeeping could learn something from this presentation."

From the side, Ellen, sprawled lazily on her seat with the posture of someone who'd rather be napping, flicked her shark tail idly against the armrest. "Meh. Would've been cooler if they'd dropped something from the helicopter, like a bomb or—I dunno—a fridge. Something with impact."

Corin, sitting next to Rina, gasped, her lavender eyes widening in shock as she nervously fidgeted with her green twin-tails. "Why would they drop a fridge? That's so dangerous!"

Ellen shrugged, absently sucking on a lollipop she'd produced from nowhere. "Woulda been funny. And unexpected. Nobody expects airborne kitchen appliances."

With the Cunning Hares staring down the Red Fang leader and the helicopter waiting on orders like a predatory bird hovering above its prey, the anticipation in the room built once again, electric and palpable.

Everyone leaned in slightly, bodies unconsciously tensing, waiting to see what happened next in this high-stakes confrontation.

⟨──●──◇◇◆◇◇──●──⟩​

The sound of radio chatter filled the scene, the unmistakable voice of the helicopter pilot relaying intel to his commander, crisp and authoritative through the static.

"Falcon 4 to Commander. We've arrived at the source of the light and found the Red Fang Gang. They appear to be cornered in the eastern quadrant."

The watching room collectively leaned forward, chairs creaking slightly as bodies tensed with anticipation. The air grew thick with unspoken excitement.

Belle turned her head slightly to see Miyabi's reaction. She noticed that the chief was watching closely, lips slightly parted as she processed the tactical situation unfolding. There was something about the sharp gleam in Miyabi's crimson eyes that made Belle's chest tighten—a mixture of admiration and something else she couldn't quite name.

But before she could dwell on it, the next line played, cutting through her thoughts.

"Repeat, we've found the Red Fang Gang. Awaiting orders for engagement protocol. Over."

A heavy silence followed, thick with anticipation. The room seemed to hold its collective breath, the tension almost palpable.

Nicole smirked, leaning back in her chair with the confidence of someone who'd seen enough operations to know what came next. "And now we wait. This is where it gets interesting."

Yanagi, ever the analyst, hummed in amusement, her tactical mind already calculating possibilities. "I have to admit, that's a very effective entrance. Outnumbered and trapped? That's textbook intimidation. Creates psychological pressure before any physical confrontation."

Wise rubbed his chin thoughtfully, eyes never leaving the screen. "Depends on the response. If their leader is reckless, he might double down and make things worse. Gang leaders often prioritise saving face over survival."

Rina, who had been mostly quiet, leaned forward with a grin that bordered on mischievous. "Or he panics, and then it's just fun from there. Nothing quite like watching a criminal's bravado crumble in real time."

Miyabi, still watching the screen closely, murmured, her voice low but carrying a weight of authority, "One way or another, this fight is about to change. The dynamics have shifted completely."

Belle, feeling a spark of excitement bubbling in her chest, smiled slightly. And I can't wait to see it. The thrill of witnessing justice unfold never got old.

As the scene changed, the Red Fang gang's expressions twisted into shock and horror. Their wide eyes darted between the hovering helicopter and the looming Public Security presence. Several dropped their weapons, while others clutched them tighter.

"B-Boss, it's the air force!" one of them stammered, barely able to keep his voice steady, his face pale with dawning realisation. "We're surrounded!"

Zhu Yuan, watching from her seat, scoffed, her golden-brown eyes narrowing with disdain. "Typical. Only now do they realise they're outmatched. Criminal intelligence at its finest."

Qingyi smirked, arms crossed over her chest, emerald eyes gleaming with satisfaction. "They had their chance to run before picking a fight with the Cunning Hares. Now? It's checkmate. Sometimes I almost feel sorry for them. Almost."

⟨──●──◇◇◆◇◇──●──⟩​

The screen flickered again, static dancing across the image before stabilising—

Nicole, her hands raised in a mock surrender, stood in the centre of the chaos, an all-too-wide grin stretched across her face. Her yellow eyes glinted with mischief as her pink pigtails swayed slightly with each confident movement she made.

To the right, a panel opened up, revealing the Red Fang gang near the door, caught between their choices, their expressions twisted with dawning comprehension and fury.

Their leader, fists clenched until knuckles whitened, snapped his gaze toward Nicole. Veins bulged at his temples, his face reddening with each passing second.

"That flash bang just now… it was to attract the helicopter?!" His voice cracked with disbelief and rage, realising too late that he'd been outmanoeuvred by the Cunning Hares' boss.

Nicole's teasing response dripped with amusement, her leather jacket catching the light as she leaned forward slightly, savouring their predicament.

"You finally noticed? Now it's your turn to choose, you cry-baby~" She punctuated her taunt with a wink, thoroughly enjoying the moment when her carefully laid trap finally sprung shut.

Miyabi hummed thoughtfully at Nicole's brazen provocation, her crimson gaze sharpening like the edge of her family's blade. "She's pushing them into a corner on purpose," she observed, a hint of professional admiration coloring her tone.

Belle tilted her head slightly, blue-orange hair catching the light as she analysed the tactical situation unfolding before them. "It's smart," she remarked with the confidence of someone who'd seen countless operations succeed and fail. "Now they're hesitating—and hesitation gets you caught. Every second of indecision works in her favour."

Wise simply nodded in agreement, his aquamarine eyes calculating the probable outcomes with machine-like precision. "A stalled enemy is a defeated enemy," he stated with quiet certainty, arms folded across his dark bomber jacket. The Cunning Hares' boss had orchestrated her trap flawlessly, and now they were all witnessing the inevitable collapse.

Nicole continued, her playful yet cutting words slicing through the gang leader's moment of indecision.

"You can stay and fight us and then get caught by Public Security… or you can run, and we all get to live."

Harumasa let out a low whistle. "Bold move. That's what I'd call tactical persuasion." He shifted his weight, his fingers absently tracing the edge of his bow as he studied the gang's body language with the practiced eye of an expert archer. The dark midnight-blue of his hair caught the dim light as he tilted his head, amber eyes calculating the probability of violence erupting in the next few moments.

Ben Bigger, from Belobog Heavy Industries, chuckled. "She's got 'em trapped like rats. Either way, she wins." The burly Thiren folded his massive arms across his chest, his gold chain catching the light as he nodded appreciatively at Nicole's strategy. His brown fur bristled slightly with amusement, the corners of his mouth lifting in a rare show of approval for someone outside his company.

Belle, leaning slightly toward Miyabi, whispered, "Do you think they'll take the bait?" Her aquamarine eyes narrowed as she analysed the gang members' increasingly nervous movements. She brushed a strand of blue-orange hair from her face, her fingers instinctively checking the small device attached to her hip—ready to call for backup if the situation deteriorated.

Miyabi smirked; her gaze locked onto the unfolding scene. "They should. But panic makes people stupid." Her hand rested lightly on the hilt of Tailless, her posture relaxed yet ready to spring into action at a moment's notice. The fox-like ears peeking from beneath her raven hair twitched almost imperceptibly, attuned to every subtle sound in the tense standoff.

Zhu Yuan sighed, shaking her head. "If they run, it just means we have to deal with them later." The Public Security captain's orange-streaked ponytail swayed as she crossed her arms, her tactical jacket creaking slightly with the movement. Her golden-brown eyes surveyed the scene with practiced precision, mentally cataloguing faces and details for the inevitable paperwork that would follow this encounter.

Nicole, watching herself with a smirk, casually leaned back in her seat. "Well, someone had to give them a chance. Wouldn't be fair if we just steamrolled them, right?" Her pink pigtails bounced as she tilted her head, yellow eyes gleaming with mischievous satisfaction at her own cleverness. She drummed her fingers against the leather of her jacket, already calculating how to spin this confrontation into maximum profit for the Cunning Hares.

The comic strip shifted, revealing the furious expression of the Red Fang leader, his canine features contorted with unbridled rage as veins bulged at his temples.

"Damn you, Cunning Hares!" he roared, his frustration palpable through the illustrated panel. Spittle flew from his mouth as he slammed his fist against a nearby surface, the sound effect "WHAM!" exploding across the frame.

A new panel slid into view on the right, where Nicole, ever the provocateur, smirked with undisguised satisfaction. Her pink pigtails seemed almost to bounce with her delight at having outfoxed her rival once again.

"It's in a hare's nature to avoid getting caught. Don't hold it against me," she purred, one finger tapping against her cheek in mock innocence while her eyes gleamed with mischief.

Yanagi adjusted her glasses, pushing them higher on the bridge of her nose as a small, knowing smile played on her lips. The light caught on the lenses momentarily, obscuring her eyes in that classic anime fashion. "Taunting an opponent while outmanoeuvring them… classic psychological warfare. She understands the game better than they ever will."

Miyabi remained quiet but nodded in agreement, her dark eyes calculating as she observed the exchange. She's playing them perfectly, she thought, impressed despite herself by Nicole's strategic manipulation of both the situation and her adversaries' emotions.

⟨──●──◇◇◆◇◇──●──⟩​

The scene dissolved and reconstructed itself, reality bending like a warped mirror before settling into a new configuration.

A battered television set rested askew on the grimy floor, its screen pulsing erratically between bursts of snow-white static and a frenzied news broadcast. The reporter—a man whose reputation for unfiltered outbursts had made him both notorious and oddly popular—was visibly coming unhinged, his face flushed with barely contained rage.

Before Bringer could even attempt to intervene or make sense of the situation, the reporter lunged forward, his movements sharp and aggressive as he snatched the communication device with trembling fingers. His knuckles whitened around the microphone as he brought it close to his contorted face.

"What?! You've found the Red Fang Fuckers?" The words exploded from him, spittle flying from his lips as his eyes bulged with intensity.

A secondary display materialized on the right side of the screen, offering another angle of the reporter's meltdown. His face had turned an alarming shade of crimson, veins visibly throbbing at his temples as he continued his tirade.

"Then what are you fucking waiting for, Commander?!?" he bellowed, each word dripping with venom and barely suppressed violence, his professional demeanour completely abandoned in the heat of the moment.

The room watching the scene collectively flinched, expressions ranging from shock to disbelief at the reporter's unfiltered outburst.

Belle's jaw nearly dropped, her aquamarine eyes widening. "Did… did he just say that on live television? That's career suicide."

Wise let out a slow exhale, running a hand through his neatly styled grey hair. "That man has a death wish. There's no coming back from this meltdown."

Over at Public Security, Captain Zhu Yuan pinched the bridge of her nose, the gold-brown of her eyes disappearing momentarily behind tightly closed lids. "I swear, if I get one more complaint about our media representatives... We'll need an entirely new PR department by morning."

Qingyi, on the other hand, laughed heartily, her emerald eyes twinkling as she clearly enjoyed the reporter's reckless energy. "At least someone has guts. Been a while since we've seen someone torch their career so spectacularly on air."

The scene transitioned again, focusing on Nicole as she turned to the TV screen, eyes narrowing, her pink pigtails swinging with the sudden movement.

The reporter's tirade continued, escalating at a breakneck pace, his face growing impossibly redder with each passing second.

"Pick the biggest gun and rain down JUSTICE!!!" he bellowed, spittle flying from his lips as he pounded his fist against the desk.

The moment the words left his mouth, both groups froze—shock flashing across their faces, a collective intake of breath filling both rooms.

Anton, from Belobog Heavy Industries, sat forward in his chair, his energetic demeanour intensifying as he exchanged glances with his colleagues. "Wait... wait, hold up—" he stammered, his voice thick with sudden realisation.

⟨──●──◇◇◆◇◇──●──⟩​

The screen changed abruptly.

An outside view of the hovering helicopter appeared, its rotors slicing through the night air as it maintained position above the city.

A loudspeaker blared through the night, the metallic voice cutting across the ambient sounds of the film.

"Falcon 4, attack order received. Commencing operation."

Koleda's eyes widened in disbelief, her fiery hair seeming to bristle. "Oh shit. They're actually going through with it."

Miyabi's hand subtly tensed against her leg, fingers curling almost imperceptibly into the fabric of her skirt. Her dark eyes narrowed, focused intently on the unfolding scene.

Belle, a little too invested in the film's tension, leaned forward until she was perched at the edge of her seat. "There's no way they actually—" she whispered, voice trailing off as the inevitable played out before them.

The next scene cut to a sweeping view of New Eridu's skyline, buildings illuminated against the darkness, unsuspecting of what was to come.

The helicopter loomed overhead, its silhouette predatory against the night sky, rotors creating rhythmic shadows across the cityscape.

A missile was launched with a flash of light and a plume of smoke, its trajectory unmistakable.

Straight at the building, the projectile cutting through the air with deadly precision toward its target.

There was a collective moment of silence in the room as everyone processed what they had just witnessed, the tension thick enough to cut with a knife.

Then—

Ben Bigger let out a thunderous laugh that shook the walls, slapping his knee with enough force to make the nearby furniture rattle. "NOW THAT'S A RESPONSE," he bellowed, clearly delighted by the turn of events.

Nicole, watching her own reaction unfold on the screen with a mixture of shock and amusement, crossed her arms and grinned wickedly. "I mean... they're not wrong," she drawled, a hint of pride creeping into her voice.

Wise exhaled slowly, running a hand through his grey hair as he tried to process the magnitude of what was happening. "That escalated insanely fast."

Miyabi turned to Belle, her dark eyes betraying nothing beneath her composed facade. "Still think they're taking the bait?" she asked, voice cool and measured.

Belle, eyes glued to the doomed building as the missile streaked ever closer to its target, whispered, "I, uh... I think they took it a bit too literally." Her fingers gripped the edge of her seat even tighter, knuckles turning white with tension.

The screen lingered on the missile streaking through the air, the moment stretched unbearably long, each second feeling like an eternity as everyone watching held their breath.

As the missile streaked toward the building, the inevitable consequences of the reporter's reckless enthusiasm became crystal clear, a textbook example of how quickly a publicity stunt could spiral into disaster.

A new panel appeared at the bottom of the screen, showcasing Nicole's wide-eyed, almost deadpan realisation, her usual confident demeanour completely evaporated in the face of imminent danger.

"I'm done for…" she whispered, voice barely audible over the broadcast.

Beside her, Billy had his head in his hands, his entire body sagging as if physically weighed down by sheer disbelief, his mechanical frame somehow conveying perfect human exasperation.

The room watching the scene braced themselves, a collective tension settling over them like a heavy blanket as they anticipated the inevitable.

Miyabi tilted her head slightly, arms crossed, her dark eyes calculating beneath her composed expression. "For someone always in control, she sure looks helpless now," she observed, a hint of something between amusement and professional assessment in her tone.

Belle, unable to look away from the impending disaster, muttered, "Well, I mean… what else can you do when there's a missile heading straight for you?" Her fingers dug deeper into the armrest, leaving small indentations in the fabric.

The scene changed abruptly—jarring in its sudden violence.

A violent explosion detonated, ripping apart the floor with devastating force, concrete and steel disintegrating in an instant.

A shockwave tore through the building, and the screen flashed white before cutting to the aftermath—debris raining down through the air like deadly confetti.

Billy and Anby plummeting straight into the Hollow below, their forms growing smaller as they fell into the swirling darkness that had opened beneath the building's foundation.

As Billy tumbled through the air, his mechanical voice distorted slightly from the velocity, somehow managing to sound both terrified and indignant at once.

"I want to file a complaint!" he shouted into the chaos surrounding him.

Ben Bigger let out an absolute roar of laughter, his massive frame shaking with mirth. "YEP! Yep, that's about the right response!" he bellowed, slapping his knee with enough force to make nearby furniture vibrate.

Nicole, watching from her seat, covered her face with her hands, mortification evident in every line of her body. "Billy, please," she groaned, peeking through her fingers at the screen as if unable to fully commit to looking away.

Anton, still watching in amusement, nudged Koleda with his elbow, a grin splitting his face. "Hey, think they need reinforcements?" he asked, already seeming eager for action.

Koleda snorted, rolling her fierce yellow eyes. "I think they need a miracle," she replied dryly, crossing her arms over her chest as she continued to watch the unfolding chaos with a mixture of exasperation and intrigue.

⟨──●──◇◇◆◇◇──●──⟩​

The screen shifted again—

A lockbox, slightly on fire, tumbled alongside them, spiralling into the Hollow's depths. Flames licked at its metal edges, casting an eerie glow against the swirling darkness surrounding it.

Wise's eyes narrowed slightly, his posture straightening with sudden interest. "That's important," he said, his voice low but firm.

Belle nodded in agreement, leaning forward in her seat. "Yeah... whatever's in there, someone definitely doesn't want it reaching the bottom. Must be valuable—or dangerous."

Miyabi remained silent, watching the screen intently, her dark eyes reflecting the flickering images. Her fingers unconsciously tightened around the hilt of Tailless at her side.

The screen faded to black for a long, heavy moment.

No one spoke. The silence hung thick in the air, tense with anticipation.

Then—

The style of the scene shifted again, colours bleeding back into view with jarring intensity.

Anby was still falling, her body angled downward, debris tumbling alongside her. The Hollow's abyss twisted around her, multi-coloured lights blooming like fractals in the air. Her green combat suit rippled against the rushing wind as she plummeted deeper.

She barely had time to process it, her orange eyes widening as the kaleidoscopic lights burst into a prismatic explosion around her. The colors refracted across her face, momentarily transforming her stoic features into a canvas of otherworldly hues.

The screen darkened again—only to reveal what lay below.

The room watching tensed, collective breaths held as they braced for what would come next. Shoulders stiffened, bodies leaned forward, all eyes fixed unblinkingly on the screen before them.

The inside of the Hollow was massive—black crystals had overgrown parts of buildings, jagged and unnatural, as if they had erupted from the city itself. The corruption spread like frozen veins across concrete and metal, transforming familiar urban structures into alien formations.

And yet… the city still had power. The electrical grid somehow persisted despite the otherworldly invasion.

Advertisement boards still flickered, the neon glow of New Eridu's tech contrasting eerily with the crystalline corruption creeping through the environment. Holographic displays projected ghostly images into the void, advertisements for products no one remained to purchase, their messages distorted and fragmented.

The scene shifted again, camera panning upward to the distorted sky above.

In the middle of the sky, a faint purple light began forming—multi-coloured, shifting, unnatural. It pulsed like a heartbeat, expanding and contracting with increasing intensity, casting prismatic reflections across the crystalline landscape below.

The scene shifted again, the footage jumping to a wider angle.

In the middle of the sky, a faint purple light began forming—multi-coloured, shifting, unnatural. The light rippled and warped, defying the laws of physics as it tore through the fabric of the Hollow's atmosphere.

The light expanded—then exploded outward, revealing Anby, launched through the sky like a shooting star, her body angled toward what appeared to be a railway platform. Her silhouette was momentarily outlined by the fading glow, making her appear almost ethereal against the corrupted backdrop of the fallen city.

Zhu Yuan's eyes narrowed slightly, her professional demeanour momentarily giving way to surprise. "That's... not normal. Even for Hollow phenomena."

Nicole, arms still folded, smirked with unmistakable pride. "There she is. Right on cue."

Qingyi let out a low whistle, leaning forward with newfound interest. "Talk about making an entrance. That's some serious style points."

Wise observed the trajectory carefully, his expression unreadable as he mentally calculated angles and forces. "She's angling herself... controlled descent. Not just falling."

Belle, watching intently, unconsciously gripped the edge of her seat, her breath hitching as she tracked Anby's plummet. "That's insane— nobody should be able to manoeuvre like that."

Miyabi remained still, her crimson gaze locked onto the screen, analyzing every detail with practiced precision. "She's not just falling—she's aiming. There's purpose in her movement."

Ben Bigger chuckled, his bearish frame shifting as he crossed his massive arms. "Well, if you gotta fall, might as well do it with style. The kid's got flair."

Koleda simply crossed her arms, her analytical mind dissecting the physics on display. "That kind of force should've sent her spinning. She's adjusting midair. Impressive control."

Yanagi adjusted her glasses, the lenses catching the light from the screen. "She's compensating for speed and gravity in real-time. That requires exceptional spatial awareness."

Nicole leaned back in her chair, clearly enjoying the moment and the reactions around her. "I'd be worried if she couldn't pull that off. That's standard procedure for her."

Anby's movements were precise—as she adjusted her descent, she grabbed hold of a hanging metal support, twisting herself midair to slow her fall. Her fingers wrapped around the cool metal with perfect tension, neither too tight nor too loose.

She narrowly slipped through a tight metal gap, her eyes closed, her focus entirely on execution. The slightest miscalculation would have resulted in a painful collision, but her body moved with machine-like accuracy.

The scene slowed down, emphasizing every calculated movement, from the subtle shift of her shoulders to the controlled extension of her legs.

Anton crossed his massive arms. "Well, if you gotta fall, might as well do it with style. The kid's got flair."

Koleda simply crossed her arms, her analytical mind dissecting the physics on display. "That kind of force should've sent her spinning. She's adjusting midair. Impressive control."

Yanagi adjusted her glasses, the lenses catching the light from the screen. "She's compensating for speed and gravity in real-time. That requires exceptional spatial awareness."

Nicole leaned back in her chair, clearly enjoying the moment and the reactions around her. "I'd be worried if she couldn't pull that off. That's standard procedure for her."

Ben let out a low whistle, genuinely impressed by the display of skill. "That's not just training—that's instinct. You can't teach that level of body control."

⟨──●──◇◇◆◇◇──●──⟩​

The scene transitioned—

Anby unsheathed her sword midair, the blade crackling with charged energy as she angled herself downward.

She slammed the sword into the ground upon impact—

A shockwave dispersed the energy, effectively breaking her speed just before she landed.

Ben Bigger chuckled, crossing his arms. "Hell, I'd call that overkill, but hey, if it works, it works." His massive frame shifted slightly as he leaned back in his chair, the movement causing the metal to creak under his weight.

Koleda nodded in agreement, her fiery twin-tails bobbing with the motion. "That kind of landing would've shattered most people's legs. But she made it look easy." She unconsciously tapped her fingers against the armrest, eyes fixed on the display.

Zhu Yuan, still leaning forward with her arms crossed, exhaled sharply. "Efficient. No wasted motion." Her golden-brown eyes narrowed analytically, assessing every detail of the manoeuvre with professional scrutiny.

Miyabi's crimson eyes flickered slightly, impressed despite herself. "She timed it perfectly. Even with a controlled impact, landing like that requires immense skill." Her fingers absently traced the hilt of Tailless, as if comparing techniques.

Nicole grinned, stretching lazily like a cat in sunlight. "Well, what did you expect? She is my sister." Pride radiated from her voice as she tossed her pink pigtails over her shoulder.

Yanagi adjusted her glasses, the lenses briefly catching the light from the screen. "Precision, reaction speed, and the ability to control momentum. That level of ability isn't something you pick up overnight." She spoke with the measured tone of someone who had trained countless recruits.

Qingyi smirked, twirling a strand of her dark green hair around her finger. "I was this close to giving her a 10 out of 10 for the landing… but I was hoping for a bigger explosion." She held her thumb and index finger a millimetre apart for emphasis.

Ellen, sprawled across her seat, half-lidded eyes flicking toward the screen, muttered, "Eh. 8 out of 10. Would've been cooler if she'd flipped first." Her shark tail twitched lazily as she suppressed a yawn.

Corin, sitting beside her, flinched slightly, her light green twin-tails trembling. "I-I think that was impressive enough…! She didn't even hesitate…" Her lavender eyes darted nervously around the room, as if worried her opinion might offend someone.

Belle, still watching the scene, leaned forward slightly, her aquamarine eyes glinting with interest. "That was more than just a landing. She used the energy to cushion herself before she hit the ground." Her fingers instinctively mimicked the motion she'd witnessed.

Wise nodded, his grey hair shifting slightly with the movement. "It was a controlled release. She minimised damage while maintaining her momentum." His analytical tone matched his thoughtful expression.

Miyabi glanced toward Belle, a hint of curiosity in her gaze. "You noticed that too?"

Belle blinked, suddenly aware of how close Miyabi was sitting. She cleared her throat, feeling the fox-eared woman's intense scrutiny. "I mean—yeah, it's just physics, right?" She shifted slightly in her seat, trying to appear casual.

Harumasa grinned, his amber eyes sparkling with appreciation. "Physics or not, that was some damn fine execution." He adjusted the yellow headband keeping his midnight-blue hair in place.

Von Lycaon chuckled softly, swirling his untouched tea with elegant precision. "Ah, few things are more satisfying than witnessing perfection in motion." His ears twitched slightly, betraying his interest despite his composed demeanour.

Nicole, grinning ear to ear, leaned back with a smug expression, crossing her legs. "Well, I did tell you guys she was good." She flicked an imaginary speck of dust from her leather jacket.

The screen darkened again—

Before fading back in.

Anby was now walking, seemingly unfazed, her headphones on, music playing softly as she moved forward.

The sheer contrast—from high-speed combat landing to casually listening to music—left the room in stunned silence. The only sound was the soft hum of the ventilation system and the distant electronic beeps of equipment.

Belle blinked, her orange-highlighted blue hair catching the light. "Did she just... walk that off?" Disbelief coloured her voice as she stared at the white-haired woman on screen.

Nicole smirked, yellow eyes gleaming with familial pride. "She's always been like that." She tapped her fingers against her thigh, a rhythm matching whatever song Anby might be listening to.

Miyabi's gaze lingered on the screen, watching Anby's relaxed posture. Something about this felt... wrong. Her hand unconsciously drifted to her katana's hilt, fingers tightening around it as if preparing for an unseen threat.

Wise finally spoke, his tone unreadable, aquamarine eyes focused intently on the display. "She landed fine. But what's waiting ahead?" The question hung heavily in the air, weighted with unspoken concern.

No one had an answer.

But everyone knew—whatever was coming next... it wasn't going to be easy. The tension in the room thickened, a collective breath held in anticipation of what the next frame would reveal.

Chapter Text

Author's Note

Hey everyone — quick update:

I know I originally planned to have this chapter out sooner. What was meant to be a two new chapters  turned into a 60,000-word draft — but most of it ended up too messy to post right away, with a lot of rough notes and unfinished scenes.

That said… surprise! One clean section made it through, and it's now live: this chapter comes in at 4,080 words.

The rest of the draft (roughly 50k) is being split into smaller chapters (2.5k–5k each) for better pacing and polish. I'll be posting them weekly, starting with the next chapter by the end of next week — and keeping a backlog so updates can stay consistent even while I handle everything else going on (health stuff, music projects, uni prep, art commitments, etc.).

This fic isn't on going to get such delayed chapters anymore — I'm just being more deliberate with how I release things from here on out.

In the meantime, if you're curious what I've been working on while juggling everything: I'm still making original music, including cinematic vocal work and SCP-inspired tracks.

🎧 Check out my music here

Thanks so much for the continued patience and support — it really means a lot.

– Nimue

Scene then shifts to reveal a massive contorted figure with a luminous sphere as its head staggering backward, possessing a blade for its right hand and a buckler for its left.

After recovering its balance, it bellows, crimson ethereal power resembling lightning coursing across its form.

Billy's eyes narrowed as he observed the massive, contorted figure reeling from the previous assault. "His recovered?" he inquired, his voice tinged with caution. "is its Ether activity still increasing?"

Anby's response was curt and to the point. "Should we keep up the attack?"

Billy shook his head grimly. "Nah, we don't have the firepower to fight this thing for long!" he admitted, his gaze darting around the train station stop. Quickly, he took aim at a nearby fire extinguisher, his fingers tightening on the triggers of his revolvers.

Releasing a round, he detonates the canister, then targets a second extinguisher across the platform, generating a thick haze that provides cover for their retreat. "lets Bounce!" Billy calls to Anby as they flee from the creature, which sweeps its blade appendage through the vapours, dispersing them.

The perspective shifts to focus on the being's luminescent spherical head.

The cinema fell into a tense silence as the massive Ethereal appeared on screen, its luminescent spherical head and blade appendage sending a chill through the audience. The creature's crimson ethereal power crackled like lightning across its contorted form, creating an ominous glow that reflected in the wide eyes of those watching.

Belle gasped, her hand instinctively reaching for Wise's arm. "That's a high-level Ethereal," she whispered, her voice tight with concern. "Look at the ether corruption patterns—I've never seen anything that advanced outside of a level-five containment zone."

Her grip tightened as she watched Billy and Anby on screen, attempting to escape the monstrous entity. The sight of them in such danger made her stomach twist with anxiety. "They're in serious trouble," she murmured, leaning forward in her seat. "That thing could tear through an entire squadron of trained Hollow raiders."

Nicole bit her lower lip, her usual bravado momentarily absent as she watched her teammates flee from the creature. "They'll be fine," she said, though her voice lacked its typical confidence. "Anby and Billy have handled worse."

"Have they?" Miyabi questioned softly, her crimson eyes fixed on the screen. "That Ethereal appears to be at least a Class-4, possibly higher. Its ether signature is... concerning."

Belle turned to Wise, keeping her voice low. "This is bad. If they're showing us this, then..." She hesitated, glancing around at the others in the room before continuing in an even quieter tone. "What if they reveal that Nicole always comes to us for help with situations like this? Our cover would be completely blown."

Wise nodded subtly, his expression remaining carefully neutral despite the worry evident in his eyes. "I know. We need to be prepared for that possibility. If they show Phaethon in action, everything changes."

On screen, Billy's quick thinking with the fire extinguishers earned approving nods from several of the more tactically-minded viewers.

"Smart move," Captain Zhu Yuan commented, her professional assessment cutting through the tension. "Creating cover to break line of sight. Basic but effective."

"Yeah, but they're still trapped in a Hollow with that thing," Seth added, his tail swishing nervously behind him. "And those extinguishers won't hold it off for long."

Anby, watching her future self on screen, remained characteristically calm. "The Ethereal's movement patterns suggest it's territorial rather than hunting. We might be able to escape its range if we move quickly enough."

Billy leaned forward, his yellow eyes fixed on his on-screen counterpart. "Yeah, but where's Nicole?" he asked, suddenly realizing their leader wasn't visible in the escape scene. "Did we get separated?"

The question hung in the air, adding another layer of tension to an already fraught situation.

Belle shifted uncomfortably in her seat, stealing a glance at Miyabi beside her. The fox Thiren's composed expression betrayed nothing, but Belle could sense her heightened alertness. As Chief of Section 6, Miyabi would immediately recognize the implications if the screen revealed Belle and Wise as Phaethon coming to the rescue.

"Wise," Belle whispered, barely audible, "if they show us helping them as Phaethon, Miyabi will know immediately. She's too smart not to make the connection."

Wise's jaw tightened slightly. "Then we'll deal with it. One step at a time."

Yanagi, observing the siblings' hushed conversation from a few seats away, narrowed her eyes thoughtfully. There was something in their body language that piqued her interest—a tension that went beyond mere concern for the Cunning Hares.

"I don't like this," Koleda muttered, her fiery twin-tails seeming to bristle with agitation. "That Ethereal is too powerful for a standard extraction team. They need specialized equipment and backup."

"Or a miracle," Anton added, unusually serious for once.

Belle felt a cold weight settle in her stomach. As Phaethon, she and Wise had pulled the Cunning Hares out of countless dangerous situations. Nicole's tendency to call them for help when things went sideways had become something of a running joke between the siblings. But now, with everyone watching their future unfold, that connection could expose everything they'd worked so hard to conceal.

"If they show us coming to the rescue..." Belle whispered, leaving the thought unfinished.

"Then we adapt," Wise replied simply, his calm voice belying the gravity of their situation. "We always do."

Nicole, catching Belle's worried expression, offered a reassuring smile. "Don't worry so much, Belle. I'm sure we figure something out. We always do." Her confidence seemed to have returned, though whether it was genuine or for Belle's benefit remained unclear.

"Yes," Belle replied, forcing a smile in return. "I'm sure you do."

As the scene continued to unfold, the luminescent head of the Ethereal filled the screen, its otherworldly glow casting strange shadows across the faces of everyone watching. Whatever came next, Belle knew with absolute certainty that nothing would be the same afterward. The secrets they'd kept, the double lives they'd led—everything hung in the balance, dependent on what the mysterious screen chose to reveal next.

The lens rotates to expose the Ethereal and the absence of Billy and Anby, then lowers to showcase a locked safe with a keypad interface on its surface, as the Ethereal looms over it.

The recording shifts to reveal a monitor displaying cascades of pale azure programming language against an obsidian background, with the conspicuous label "Hollow deep dive system by Helios Academy" clearly visible.

The room fell into a stunned silence as the monitor displaying "Hollow deep dive system by Helios Academy" appeared on screen. The cascades of pale azure programming language against the obsidian background created an almost hypnotic effect, drawing everyone's attention to those five words that changed everything.

"Helios Academy?" Zhu Yuan's voice cut through the silence, her professional tone unable to mask her surprise. "Wasn't that destroyed during the Old Capital incident?"

Belle felt her blood run cold. Her fingers dug into her palms as she fought to maintain a neutral expression, but inside, panic was building like a pressure cooker. Nobody was supposed to know about their connection to Helios Academy. Their time as students there, the lessons from Carole Arna—all of it was carefully buried in their past, essential to keeping their identities as Phaethon secret.

"I thought all Helios technology was lost in the destruction," Seth added, his tail twitching with curiosity. "How could the Hollow deep dive system exist?"

Belle's eyes darted to Wise, a silent plea for help. His face remained carefully composed, but she could see the tension in his jaw, the slight narrowing of his eyes that only she would recognise as alarm.

From across the room, Nicole caught Belle's panicked gaze. The pink-haired leader of the Cunning Hares gave an almost imperceptible nod—a silent reassurance that she wouldn't reveal anything. Anby and Billy likewise remained silent, their knowledge of Belle and Wise's being Phaethon a closely guarded secret they'd never betrayed.

"Interesting," Miyabi murmured, her crimson eyes narrowing thoughtfully. "I've heard rumours about Helios Academy's advanced technology, but I didn't realise they had developed something this sophisticated." Her gaze shifted to Belle, studying her with newfound intensity. "I wonder how such technology survived the catastrophe."

Belle swallowed hard, trying to appear merely curious rather than terrified. "Maybe someone salvaged it before the destruction?" she suggested, her voice impressively steady despite her racing heart. "Lots of people scavenged technology from the Old Capital."

Wise nodded, seamlessly supporting her deflection. "Proxy networks are full of stories about recovered tech from that era. Some of it still functions remarkably well."

Von Lycaon's ears twitched forward with interest. "Indeed, though Helios Academy's work was particularly advanced. Their research into Hollows was revolutionary—until the incident, of course." His red eyes lingered on the siblings with unsettling perception. "One wonders who would have both the knowledge and ability to utilise such complex systems."

Koleda leaned forward, her fiery twin-tails swinging with the movement. "That code looks similar to some of the fragments we've recovered at excavation sites. Belobog has been trying to reverse-engineer Old Capital tech for years."

As the conversation continued around her, Belle felt a gentle pressure against her hand. She glanced down to find Miyabi's fingers barely touching hers—not quite holding her hand, but offering silent support nonetheless. When she looked up, Miyabi's expression remained unreadable to most, but Belle caught the subtle softening around her eyes.

"Are you alright?" Miyabi whispered, her voice so low that only Belle could hear.

Belle managed a small nod, grateful for the unexpected kindness even as she worried about what Miyabi might be piecing together. The fox Thiren was dangerously perceptive—how much had she already figured out?

Across the room, Nicole loudly cleared her throat. "Well, whoever has this system clearly knows what they're doing! Maybe that's how Billy and Anby will get out of this mess—some tech genius with salvaged equipment coming to save the day!"

Her obvious attempt at diversion worked, pulling attention away from Belle and Wise as others began speculating about how the situation might resolve.

Yanagi, however, continued to observe the siblings with quiet intensity. Her pale pink hair fell forward slightly as she leaned in to whisper something to Miyabi, who responded with the barest shake of her head.

Belle exhaled slowly, trying to calm her racing heart. The revelation of the Helios Academy technology had brought them dangerously close to exposure. If the screen revealed more—showed them using the system, or worse, mentioned Carole Arna by name—their carefully constructed lives could unravel in an instant.

For now, all they could do was wait, watch, and hope that whatever came next wouldn't destroy everything they'd built so far.

The scene then cuts to show Belle sitting in a chair, fingers dancing across the keyboard with practiced precision. A thin, focused smile plays across her lips as she studies something on the monitor just out of view. The soft glow from the screen illuminates her face in the dimly lit room. Wise enters the space with purposeful strides, his phone already pressed to his ear, his expression shifting from concern to determination as he answers an incoming call.

The scene transitions to reveal a vehicle parked behind black and yellow hazard tape barricades. The conversation continues from Wise's call: "Hello, can you hear me Nicole? You can put Eous through now!" The camera pans down to show Eous's distinctive legs as the Bangboo bounces gently on the concrete, its mechanical movements betraying a certain eagerness despite its robotic nature.

The view widens to show Nicole kneeling beside Eous in front of the barricade. The Bangboo's faceplate displays closed eyes, giving it an almost serene appearance. Nicole leans in close, her voice taking on an encouraging tone as she addresses the small robot: "Okay, right, little one, off you go then~" Her words carry a mix of affection and professional confidence.

With a deliberate gesture, she points toward the yawning entrance of the Hollow—a shimmering, distorted tear in reality that seems to bend the very air around it. Eous immediately responds to her command, its small form moving with surprising determination toward the dangerous anomaly. Nicole rises to her feet, brushing dust from her knees as she speaks into her phone: "Done! Bangboo's on the way!" Her voice carries a hint of both relief and anxiety as she reports back to Wise.

The scene shifts back to the Random Play store room, where Belle methodically flicks several switches to their 'ON' positions. Each one illuminates with a soft blue glow as she activates them. She exhales a satisfied "hmph" as the system comes to life around her, banks of equipment humming with building energy.

A close-up captures Wise's intense expression as he turns to Belle, his voice steady but charged with anticipation: "Well then, can we begin?" The camera pans to Belle, who closes her eyes with practiced calm, leaning back in her chair. She makes a soft "uh-hum" sound of affirmation, her body relaxing as she prepares for the connection.

Wise reaches down to the control panel where Belle had activated the switches and deliberately presses a distinctive red button shaped like a Bangboo. Immediately, the monitor fills with cryptic text and rapidly filling progress bars, the system initializing with alarming speed. Belle's eyes snap open, revealing an otherworldly transformation as concentric blue rings form within her irises, accompanied by the distinctive electronic chirping of data transmission.

The perspective suddenly shifts dramatically—we're now seeing through Eous's optical sensors at the threshold of the Hollow. Through Belle's control, Eous reaches into a compartment and withdraws a compact explosive device. With mechanical precision, the Bangboo begins its journey into the swirling, distorted entrance of the Hollow, carrying its dangerous payload deeper into the anomaly.

The final shot pulls back to a sweeping cityscape view—a sleek bridge stretches across the frame, adorned with vibrant Bangboo advertisements that cast colourful reflections on the water below. Dominating the skyline stands an imposing high-rise building, its distinctive red roof emblazoned with the simple yet commanding text: "RED"

The cinema plunged into profound silence as the concluding sequence unfolded before them. Belle's metamorphosed eyes with their hypnotic blue concentric rings, the sophisticated Hollow Deep Dive System salvaged from Helios Academy's ruins, Eous navigating the treacherous Hollow under precise remote guidance—the mountain of evidence stood irrefutable, the revelation impossible to dismiss. Every pair of eyes in the darkened theater remained transfixed on the screen, minds collectively processing the same staggering conclusion: they were witnessing the legendary Phaethon's operational methodology in real-time. The whispered rumors throughout New Eridu's underground networks had always suggested that only one Proxy team utilized a Bangboo for Hollow exploration instead of physical entry—and now that closely-guarded secret lay exposed for all to witness.

Belle sat frozen, her fingers digging into the armrests. Her carefully constructed façade was crumbling before her eyes. She could feel the weight of everyone's stares, particularly Miyabi's piercing gaze beside her.

"So that's how you do it," Miyabi whispered, her voice carrying no judgment, merely understanding. "Remote operation through a modified Bangboo. Ingenious."

Captain Zhu Yuan leaned forward, her professional demeanor momentarily shattered by genuine shock. "The Hollow Deep Dive System... that's how Phaethon navigates Hollows without physical presence. It explains everything."

Seth's tail twitched nervously. "We've been trying to catch them for years, and they were running a video store the whole time?"

Belle couldn't bring herself to look at Wise, afraid of what she might see in his eyes. Their entire operation, their carefully built reputation as Phaethon, their secret technology—all exposed in minutes of footage.

Nicole broke the tension with a dramatic sigh. "Well, cat's out of the bag now. Yes, Belle and Wise are Phaethon. And yes, they've saved our asses more times than I can count."

Anby nodded, her expression unchanged. "Their technical approach to Hollow navigation is 83% more efficient than traditional methods. The statistical advantage is undeniable."

Billy shrugged, his mechanical shoulders whirring softly. "I mean, someone had to be Phaethon, right? At least it's people we like."

Yanagi's eyes narrowed as she studied the siblings. "That explains your interest in Hollow-related news earlier. You weren't concerned about customers—you were preparing for a job."

Von Lycaon chuckled softly, his red eyes gleaming. "I suspected there was more to you two than mere shopkeepers. Your posture, your awareness... you carry yourselves like people accustomed to danger."

Belle finally found her voice, though it came out smaller than she intended. "We never meant to deceive anyone. We just—"

"You did what was necessary," Miyabi interrupted, her tone firm but gentle. "The world needs Phaethon, regardless of how Public Security feels about it."

Zhu Yuan's jaw tightened. "Technically, I should arrest you both right now for illegal Hollow operations."

"But you won't," Wise said, speaking for the first time since the revelation. His voice carried a quiet confidence that silenced the room. "Because you know we're needed. The system can't handle everything, Captain. That's why proxies exist."

The captain held his gaze for a long moment before sighing. "I suppose what happens in this... whatever this place is... doesn't necessarily reflect what I'll do when we return to New Eridu."

Koleda clapped her hands together, breaking the tension. "Well! This has been enlightening. But if we're going to be stuck here watching Belle and Wise's life story, can we at least get some food? I'm starving."

As if responding to her request, the screen flickered, displaying a new message: "INTERMISSION - Refreshments available in the adjacent room. One hour break."

The lights gradually brightened, illuminating the previously darkened cinema. Everyone blinked, adjusting to the change as they processed both the revelation and the unexpected break.

"Well," Anton said, stretching his arms overhead, "perfect timing. I could use a snack after all that excitement."

People began rising from their seats, the tension in the room gradually dissipating as they filed toward the doors that had appeared at the back of the cinema. The revelation of Belle and Wise as Phaethon had changed the dynamic, but hunger was a universal equaliser.

The adjacent room was surprisingly comfortable—a spacious lounge with plush seating arrangements, tables laden with food, and a variety of beverages. The walls were adorned with framed movie posters, many featuring titles from Random Play's collection.

Belle hung back, uncertain how to navigate this new reality where everyone knew their secret. Wise stayed close, his protective instinct on high alert.

"You okay?" he asked quietly.

"Not really," Belle admitted. "Everything we've worked for... our anonymity was our greatest asset."

"We'll figure it out," Wise assured her, though his voice lacked its usual confidence.

Miyabi approached them, two plates of food in hand. She offered one to Belle with a small smile. "You should eat. It helps with shock."

Belle accepted the plate gratefully, surprised by the fox Thiren's kindness. "Thank you. I... I'm not sure what to say."

"You don't need to say anything," Miyabi replied, her crimson eyes surprisingly gentle. "Your work speaks for itself. Phaethon has saved countless lives, including many of my own agents."

Across the room, various groups had formed, the revelation creating new alliances and conversations.

Nicole was regaling Belobog Heavy Industries with tales of Phaethon's exploits, embellishing wildly. "—and then they guided us through a Class-5 Hollow with nothing but Eous's night vision!"

Grace Howard listened intently, her analytical mind clearly dissecting the technological implications. "The neural interface must be incredibly sophisticated to maintain connection through Hollow interference."

Ben nodded, impressed. "No wonder they always seemed to know the safest routes. They weren't guessing—they were calculating."

Meanwhile, Zhu Yuan had cornered Wise, her expression stern but curious. "How long have you been operating as Phaethon?"

Wise sighed, seeing no point in further deception. "Since before the Fall of the Old Capital. We were students at Helios Academy under Carole Arna."

The captain's eyes widened. "You survived that? The casualties were—"

"Nearly total," Wise finished for her. "We know. We were there."

In another corner, Anby and Billy sat with Section 6, comparing notes on Ethereal encounters.

"The creature we saw in the footage," Yanagi began, "its ether signature was unusual."

Anby nodded. "Class-4 Malevolent type. Territorial but predictable. Billy's distraction tactic was statistically optimal."

Soukaku, munching happily on a plate piled high with desserts, looked up with bright eyes. "I've fought one like that! It went BOOM when Miyabi cut its core!"

Harumasa laughed. "Everything goes boom when the Chief cuts it, Soukaku."

Von Lycaon approached Belle, who had found a quiet corner away from the main groups. "Miss Belle," he said, his voice smooth as velvet. "I must say, I'm impressed. Running a successful business while maintaining your Proxy operations requires exceptional organizational skills."

Belle managed a small smile. "The video store wasn't just a cover. We genuinely love films."

"I believe you," the wolf Thiren replied. "Passion cannot be faked so convincingly. Speaking of which, Victoria Housekeeping would be honoured to assist Phaethon in the future. Our services extend beyond mere cleaning.

"You're... offering to help us? Even knowing we're illegal proxies?"

Von Lycaon's red eyes gleamed. "Let's just say we appreciate efficiency and discretion—qualities you and your brother possess in abundance."

As the hour progressed, the initial shock wore off, replaced by a strange camaraderie. The forced proximity and shared revelations had created an unusual bond among the diverse groups.

Koleda approached Belle with a plate of seconds, her fiery twin-tails bouncing with each step. "So, the legendary Phaethon uses Helios tech, huh? Belobog's been trying to recover fragments of their research for years."

Belle tensed slightly. "It's not something we advertise."

"Obviously," Koleda snorted. "But listen, if you ever need heavy machinery modified for Hollow operations, come to us. We're the best, and now that I know who you really are..." She lowered her voice. "I'd love to see that system up close sometime."

As conversations flowed around her, Belle found herself drifting toward Miyabi, who stood by the window, gazing out at the strange, starless sky beyond.

"Do you think this changes everything?" Belle asked quietly.

Miyabi considered the question. "Yes and no. Your identity is revealed, but your value remains the same. Perhaps this is an opportunity rather than a setback."

"How so?"

"Connections," Miyabi said simply. "Look around. Public Security, H.A.N.D., Belobog, Victoria Housekeeping—all potential allies now that they know who you are."

"Or potential threats," Belle countered.

Miyabi turned to face her fully, her expression serious. "Belle, do you know why I became a Void Hunter?"

The question caught Belle off guard. "To protect New Eridu?"

"To find truth in a world of shadows," Miyabi corrected. "The city needs both—those who work within the system, like me, and those who operate beyond its boundaries, like you." Her hand moved slightly, fingers brushing against Belle's. "Perhaps we were meant to meet like this."

The touch sent a surprising warmth through Belle's arm. "I... I've always admired your work, actually. The stories about you and Section 6 are legendary among proxies."

A faint blush colored Miyabi's cheeks. "And Phaethon's exploits are well-known among Void Hunters. It seems we've been circling each other for some time."

Their moment was interrupted by a chime, signaling the end of the intermission. People began gathering their final bites and drinks, preparing to return to the cinema.

"Looks like break time's over," Belle said, reluctantly pulling away from Miyabi.

"Indeed." Miyabi hesitated, then added, "Whatever comes next, Belle, know that not everyone sees Phaethon as an enemy. Some of us see you as essential."

As they filed back into the cinema, the mood had shifted. The revelation of Belle and Wise as Phaethon had changed everything, yet somehow made their shared predicament more bearable. They were no longer strangers thrust together by mysterious circumstances, but interconnected players in New Eridu's complex web.

Belle settled back into her seat beside Wise, Miyabi taking her place on Belle's other side. The lights dimmed, and the screen flickered to life once more.

Whatever came next, they would face it together—not as separate factions, but as reluctant allies bound by shared knowledge and an uncertain future. The truth of Phaethon had been revealed, but Belle suspected it was only the beginning of the secrets this strange cinema would uncover.