No Game No Life - Volume 6 - Chapter 2

Chapter 2 – 1x1=Aimless
......Okay, let's organize the current situation.
My name is Riku, 18 years old, a virgin——....What? Can't I
be one——!?
——wrong.
Wrong, wrong wrong wrong, even though my mind is in a
mess and questions are piling up messily, but for now——calm
down first, and organize what exactly happened.
Even though I can't comprehend what is going on, but I'm
currently in the worst situation one can expect.
Firstly, prioritize my heart's question——what happened, what
is happening and what is going to happen, this.
Confirm the state of the [Lock]....No problem. Regardless of
the inexplicable things that are happening, the lock must
always stay locked. Then, grasp the present situation in a
second, no a millionth of a second. Or else——
".....[Investigate]....Organizing current situation...."
It looks like a monster resembling a naked young girl is
straddling my body. However, I have no means of escape even
if she were to do anything to me!
I must accelerate my thinking——to a speed where even time
seems to have stopped——
Riding on a horse, Riku headed to the ruins mapped out by the
dwarves, east of the Colony.
It was an Elven city destroyed by an attack from a Flügel.
Information about the elves were extremely precious and
important.
However, there wasn't any loot on the battlefield, and the intel
collected was insufficient.
In any case, the Flügels didn't employ any weapons on the
battlefield; they could simply cast magic without a medium to
rid them of their enemies.
But on the way, the falling of the Black ash became more
intense, causing Riku to flee to a nearby ruin to avoid
distress——there, he came into contact with a [Different race].
Aside from the slight mechanical properties seen, the body was
of a normal naked young girl——an [Ex-Machina].
One of the more violent races. But there wouldn't be any
problems if she wasn't provoked. That was supposed to be the
case.
Riku intended to ignore her and continue moving.
——in an instant, Riku was down on the floor.
He was pressed onto the ground while the surrounding Black
ash and his equipment disappeared.
Although he couldn't comprehend what just happened....Riku
was still alive.
Facing against Riku whose upper body was stripped naked, the
Ex-Machina stuck on his body and said.
"Nii, I can't resist it anymore. Turn me into a woman."
——
....Did I lose my memory?
When I fell down. The possibility of me hitting my head is
high.
If I'm not mistaken, she expressionlessly said some weird
things as if in a narration, and then, my chastity——my first
kiss was taken away.
....I seemed to have grasped onto everything. That was the first
question, [What happened].
Continuing on to question two——just when I'm about to think
about [What is happening]....
"[Problem]....In,comprehensible."
The Ex-Machina who tightly clung onto Riku's body muttered
out. She was emotionless, expressionless and like a machine.
——...Un, I'm still quite competent, Riku's heart boasted.
He used his knowledge and reason to suppress his spinal reflex
of wanting to open his mouth.
Which means he suppressed his urge to yell out [I'm the one
who is supposed to feel that this is incomprehensible right you
jerk!].
——[Ex-Machina], even among all of the Great War monsters,
they were an extremely special race.
Firstly, they were made out of machines. Even creatures cannot
compare against their coordination and movements as a
[Cluster] population.
That means——an individual's find means the entire
population's find and being hostile to one means being hostile
to the entire race.
One of the reasons why this race was regarded as an extremely
special race was due to their way of fighting.
After receiving an attack, they could figure out and replicate
the type of attack in less than a second, before quickly firing it
back.
Regardless of whether it was an Elf's magic, the attack from a
dwarf's weapon, or even a Dragonias's breath——it can be
replicated and fired back.
Their arms were constantly evolving in the long Great War. It
could be theorized that the Ex-Machina——are the most brutal
race without any limits to their strengths.
However, they had another special property.
——that is, [Never instigating].
They would retaliate if they were under attack, but they
wouldn't adopt a hostile attitude when they aren't attacked.
Therefore, the data that the dwarves recorded down——[A
dangerous race not to be touched].
——the knowledge above, forced Riku to shut his mouth.
In other words, if he was designated as an [Enemy]——the
entire human species will be destroyed.
——then, [What exactly is happening] !? "What is wrong with
this guy!!"
Against such contradiction with the intel he knew, Riku cried
out in his heart.
Never instigating. So he was going to ignore her and move
on——which spiralled into an awkward scene between the
two.
Even after he had organised all his information correctly, Riku
still couldn't understand the present situation and the situation
where there was no instigation.
The young mechanical girl continued while on his body.
"<Speculation>——because the setting to fulfill this condition,
is not sufficient?"
This question was phrased as if a speculation has failed——
Riku was hesitant about the answer to that question.
Human beings are dead. They cannot exist so they cannot be
perceived——so should he remain silent and not respond?
"....Let's not care about likes and dislikes first. On whose
permission did you obtain to take away my chastity?"
"No"———she replied using [Human language].
At least, he was sure that he was identified as a human.
While this fact in itself would bring shivers down a human's
spine, if he was to
ignore or reject her now, she would possibly declare humans as
[Hostile]. Comply to rationality———[Now, talk to her].
———Don't act rashly before grasping the situation.
She didn't answer the question directed to herself as she
continued speaking expressionlessly with a nonchalant tone.
"<Read> Set 072——[I, its not like I'm doing this because I
like you. Accident, yes this is an accident]"
....It was read without any sentimental feelings, just like the
[Nii] from before. This caused Riku's mind to blank out.
——what is with this situation.
".........<Confirm> Person's temperature, pulse, genitals, did not
react." "Can you please stop peeking into someone's
physiological reactions?"
Riku tried to put on a calm look——while his heart who found
a troublesome situation cried out.
She was capable of reading humans' physiological response.
The possibility of being deemed a hostile target after [Lying]
was——very high.
As if understanding Riku's heartfelt worries, the Ex-Machina
girl asked once more.
"<Doubt> Speculated that human's carnal desires would
activate in the present situation. Wrong speculation?"
"...That is so, yah. The answer would vary from different
humans."
——he cannot lie. But her purpose can't be understood either. He
was unable to comprehend the current situation.
If she could read physiological responses, then Riku's fear
would've been seen through in a glance. What exactly was her
motive....?
"<Question> Did not feel sexual excitement from this
machine——because
machines lack [Charm]?"
While thinking——a brave question was thrown at him,
causing Riku to feel dizzy.

Facing against a disaster that would bring forth genocide upon
being deemed as a hostile target, while also being thrown a
question that would trouble a human being——also the fact
that lying wasn't permitted.
....After some determination, Riku carefully observed the ExMachina
who was straddled on his body.
——she looked similar to a ten-year-old human girl. In contrast
with her black hair and white body, she had ruby eyes. She was
undoubtedly a beautiful girl
——if not for the two cables resembling tails that were sticking
out her body.
"From an objective point of view, I think you are very cute. To
arouse me, the best would be someone from the same race.
And also you are too childish."
...How was this answer. Neither lie nor deny——as a virgin,
this was not a perfect answer.
Riku felt a sense of accomplishment, but the Ex-Machina girl
immediately questioned him again.
"<Doubt> Without experience, still want to choose the
person?" "Do you really think virgins have no right to choose
anything..."
——while answering, Riku's thoughts gradually stabilized and he
began to see the current [Situation].
From the negotiations, Riku had a doubt in his head. Assuming
this doubt was correct——
"Its about time....Could you tell me [Why did you look for
me]?"
——question. It was dangerous to ask this kind of imprudent
question, but.
From the available information, it could be predicted that——
there was a crisis more serious than this.
The Ex-Machina girl immediately replied with an indifferent
tone.
"<Answer> Want to resolve the independent language between
humans." "....Independent language?"
Riku repeated——praying and hoping that this was consistent
with his predictions.
But the Ex-Machina girl simply nodded her head and
mechanically said. "<Affirmative>——the independent
language known as [Heart]." "<Confirm> Mutual-skinship——
the independent language that requires skin
contact. Speculated Ex-Machinas do not have, the behavior of
[Heart]. Imitating movements, judged that this machine can
also read [Heart].....Wrong?"
——Really.
It looks like the bad feeling was slowly getting fulfilled, Riku
gave a bitter smile. Being wrestled like this, the intention to
commit suicide was present, but——
Able to speak human's language, able to speculate out human's
sexuality even though it was incorrect, and able to grasp onto a
human's physiological responses.
Facing against these facts and concerns, Riku should start
feeling self- depreciative.
Humanity wasn't of a verge of being revealed, they were
already seen through long ago.
——we were observed. I'm afraid, we have been observed since
long ago.
"——yes, if skinship would allow the [Heart] to convey
message, then humanity wouldn't be worried anymore."
The Ex-Machina's gaze was on him as she started to display
actions akin of going into a deep thought——
Riku's ideas gradually cleared out as he thought of the
confusion from before. No matter the reason, the Ex-Machinas
were eyeing on humanity——they were
spied on.
It was ridiculous for them to hide themselves when in fact,
their entirety was understood by the Ex-Machinas.
In any case, it might either be best or worse scenerio to get
spied on by the Ex- Machinas, regardless of their intentions.
The race deemed as the most dangerous by the other races was
watching them
——this point was enough for destruction.
——what should I do? Nothing, just go with the norms.
It wasn't a good method——it was the best method. Nothing
more Placing my hand onto my chest, I start to chant a spell as
usual.
But this time, there was a slight difference——sealing it. ——
seal it up, close it, forget it all.
Drive off the memory that this hateful Ex-Machina can wipe
off humanity like dust, killing us all.
Whether feelings, memories, horror, shaking, anxiety, remove
all of them—— become an undead.
There were two motives. Find out all intention, and then
proceed with [Induction].
Proceed with deep breaths. I have a [Friendly relation] with
this Ex-Machina—— this gave me confidence.
Deceive your physiological responses. Deceive your memory.
Chain yourself in everything——install the [Lock].
Can it be done? Of course it can be done [Riku]——if it's you.
Her motive was to understand the [Heart], if that's the case,
then she does not possess a——[Heart].
Its easier to deceive someone without a heart than another
human.
Then——deceiving is just like breathing for this guy, acting as
a natural human scum all along.
Right?——then, no, more problems——
——*kacha*
After hearing the sound of the lock that was several times
heavier than the usual, Riku opened his eyes.
——there, was a long black-haired——[Girl].
[She] finished her long thoughts and solemnly narrated about
the views of her wrong speculation.
"......<Understood> Skinship is metaphor for procreation——
[Request], undergo procreation with this machine——"
"Un. I refuse——it should be said like this right?"
A somewhat tough rejection. It may be a statement that would
be considered having hostile intention.
But his thoroughly sober head unconsciously made this
judgement. No problems. Furthermore——
"What kind of sorrows am I going through to rely on other
species other than humans to have sex. And compared to that—
—"
——squeeze out the information needed.
"The Ex-Machinas are linked together with something called
the cluster right. I'm sorry but I don't have exhibitionism."
"<Negative>——this machine was relieved from the
[Cluster]."
——yes, this was the intelligence.
It was predicted beforehand that this would happen. But these
thoughts were too idealistic...
"Oh, why?"
——respond back with a proper attitude. Confused, then ask.
Even though the reason I speculated should be close.
"<Answer>——this machine tried to analyze if the ExMachinas
had [Heart], [Self] or [Soul]."
——the results can be expected. If she is an Ex-Machina.
"<Results> Failure of theories caused constant contradicting
results, this machine was released from the link and
abandoned."
Which means, self-referential paradox.
Finally, Riku confirmed the reason why this Ex-Machina was
making unrelated actions.
——no, she is broken.
For Riku, this was really great. Even though he was still
uneasy, this was slightly better than the other worse
possibilities.
Come, [Riku] with [Friend relations]? The next step should be
to show concern for her right?
"....Oh, which means....You."
Riku frowned upon the thought of saying words of worry——
but the [Young girl] nodded her head in exaggeration.
"<Conclusion> There is no problem in desiring to ravage
against this machine. Although there isn't, hole."
"I won't! In any case, just no!"
Maintaining her expressionless face, she nodded and declared.
"<Proposal> Agree to take this machine to the [Colony],
allowed to slowly ravage."
"It's not because of this question...eh."
——[Finished]
The colony was exposed——how good could that be.
For other colonies other than the humans, they could be
discovered very easily
——this in itself was obvious.
Compared to those things, he wanted to confirm if she didn't
hide the matter with the colony.
There were only two possibilities.
But regardless of which, it wouldn't turn into a problem. As a
result——the necessary intel would cobble together.
It was in order to allow her to create the [Role] she was looking
forward to. Once again, the magical sound of a *kacha*.
This was what she was looking forward to——it appears to
have a [Heart], but in actuality was closed off to form [Riku].
As if being unaware towards Riku's heart, the young girl
nodded her head seriously, understanding something.
"<Understood> Because this machine's charm cannot be felt,
so reproductive behavior was rejected."
"Ah——, you don't understand at all..."
The young girl nodded again and decided to leave Riku's body.
Riku who was freed straightened his body while the young girl
sat down in front of him and declared.
"<Proposal>——game to be carried out." ".....What?"
"<Open>——game 001 [Chess]——"
Saying so, from the hand of the young girl——no, from the
palm of her hand which faced the ground.
From the void, rays appeared to form an outline of a board——
it instantiated.
——this was instantiated, looking at Riku whose eyes were
widened as the Ex- Machina displayed magic from her arms,
the young girl quietly said.
"<victory> If this machine was to win, request to bring this
machine back to colony, carrying out reproductive behavior."
"——then, if I win?"
"<Answer> Bring this machine back to colony, allowing the
process of carrying out reproduction."
"THERE ISN'T ANY DIFFERENCE RIGHT!?"
Facing against her inorganic face that had a complacent look as
if she proposed a great idea, Riku couldn't help but shout out.
But at the same time, Riku thought——this was a good
opportunity.
"Hmmm, however, nevermind. I accept this challenge, but I
require a change in the conditions."
Even if it's not the best, it would be the most appropriate step—
—
After a long time of having a mind associating with death, a
combination of complex strategies was instantly formed.
After using a move to attain loads of information, another step
would be enough to turn the tables around and make this
profitable.
Come, to what extent can I fulfill this. It's time for you to show
your ability—— fraud master.
"If I win, I request that you release me and not follow me back
to the [Colony]." Although he said so, Riku understood.
Winning in this game was [Impossible].
If the rumors stand that Ex-Machinas are good with analysis
and parsing—— having good calculation like a machine, then
there would be no competitors for chess and the like.
So, the young girl nodded and replied.
"<Accepted> No problems. As long as the victory conditions
remain the same for this machine, no change."
——yes, you must agree. However, the problem does not [Lies in
there]. "Nono, your victory conditions must change too."
Reason is——
"If you want to understand the thing known as [Heart], blindly
undergoing reproduction won't allow you to understand it."
"...."
In contrast to the young girl who had fallen silent, Riku's mind
was clear and thinking.
There were two reasons why she would utter out [Colony].
To calmly state the facts——or for other purposes, to cause a
[Containment].
Although her motives were unclear, from the way she accepted
the conditions, some things could be determined out.
If she had other motives, she would definitely say that she
would change her victory conditions herself. Or else the whole
plan is ruined.
Was it possible to induce a state of confusion to an ExMachina?
However, the Ex-Machina maintained her
expressionless face, widened her eyes and asked.
"——<Amazed>.......<Question> How to understand?"
........
Unless——what she really said was all true——?
The most desirable, overly optimistic possibility to arouse
suspicion in people
——but, if...
What she said was all true, using clever deception——seal her
and use her.
"If you win, until the moment you understood [Heart], I will
allow you to stay with me."
"......<Question> Understand [Heart], possible if stay by your
side?"
Allow the intellectual machine to understand, using the best
reasons, to try and form it out.
"[Heart] isn't a material." "......."
"[Heart] is something that is difficult to express with words. It
is something only understood with mutual-understanding.
Under the circumstances that you aren't discovered as an ExMachina,
never leave my side——you would understand after
spending some time, don't reject the opportunity to be able to
connect to others spiritually."
".........."
The Ex-Machina girl continued her silence and watched Riku's
eyes.
Seeing her red pupil, Riku was convinced——he was being
[Identified] if he was lying.
But it was useless. I didn't utter a lie out.
.....After a deep thought, the young girl nodded. "<Accepted>
Then begin the game."
——it appears I avoided the worst situation. At least the
possibility of avoiding it is high.
"Ah, before that, can I add another condition." Yes, he
fearlessly smiled——then.
"I'm almost freezing to death. You destroyed my clothes, could
you help me replace it?"
With his snot freezing, Riku pleaded while his teeth chattered.

——the game was simply one-sided.
Unable to see his odds of winning, Riku lost on his 29th move.
It was all according to plan.
"Damn, I lost...It can't be helped, I'll just take you to the
[Colony] to fulfill the conditions."
To have a highly calculative Ex-Machina as an opponent——it
was impossible for Riku who could only predict the next move.
Because of this——he proposed a condition favorable for the
one losing. "....."
The Ex-Machina girl watched as Riku faked a smile, not
forgetting to show an expression of regret.
——it could be said to be miraculous, for the development to go
according to plan.
Although her motives were unknown, there was no meaning
for her to play with a human using such complicated strategies.
It was only her who was interested in humans——which meant
that other Ex- Machinas didn't have a tinge of interest towards
the human race. This meant that her race was probably not
eyeing onto the humans.
With that being said, since the game itself didn't have any
binding force, any negligence wasn't allowed to——
"<Question> Why do you exhibit behavior of deep regret?" "—
—what?"
For a moment, his breathing stopped.
His [Act] of being regretful was seen through, Riku couldn't
help but ponder——
this was supposed to be impossible.
Because he completely closed off his feelings, it was just an
interpretation. Up to now even Riku himself couldn't
comprehend if those feelings were his true thoughts. However,
if his [True thoughts] were seen through, then—
The Ex-Machina girl gazed into Riku's watchful eyes——there
should be nothing reflected in those pitch-dark eyes.
"<Concluded> Existence of person's [Heart] confirmed. There
is value to continue analyzing."
——the meaning behind this sentence, Riku did not understand.
However, the Ex-Machina girl, looked as if she showed a
smile——it was probably an illusion.
"...Ah, speaking of which, I haven't introduce myself yet."
Riku only thought of it now. Because of the emergencies he
faced in succession, he had completely forgotten about it.
"That, my name is Riku. How about you——?" "<Answer>—
—Üc207Pr4f57t9"
"...Ah? Uh, what? Is that...A name?"
"<Correct> This machine's individual identification number—
—is it not synonymous with [Name]?"
"...No, if you want to understand a human's heart in the colony,
you should have a more human-like name——"
This sentence caused the little girl to be shrouded in a deep
thought. "<Question> Can name be freely set by said
individual?" "Well——there is such a thing."
Then, the girl wrapped herself in deep thoughts.
Suddenly, she wrapped her fingers in her hair and announced
her name.
"<Answer>——[Shuwaruvi]"
"Too long, it confuses people, and it doesn't seem like a name.
Dismissed with the above three reasons——calling yourself
[ShuVi] would do though."
Riku readily rejected her proposal. But, it seemed to be an
illusion——
"....<Puzzled> Said free to choose yet revised....<Rebuttal>
Should call me yourself from the start."
Riku always wondered, the girl looked as if she was protesting
in a fit of anger.
——it must be my illusion, Riku once again came down with this
judgement.
"Okay, I'll tidy up for a while then I'll take you to the colony—
—but before that, there are a few precautions."
Bending one of his finger, he said.
"The Ex-Machinas are unable to have a mutual-understanding
heart. Is because they fear it, they are scared of having mutualunderstanding."
"........<Correct>"
Seeing the Ex-Machina who was named ShuVi nod her head,
Riku continued.
"So aside from changing the name, could you change the tone
of your voice that instantly determines the fact that you are an
Ex-Machina?"
"——<Read> Simulated personality 1610——"
ShuVi's gaze rose, and she started to have an expression as if
pondering. "——hey hey, then~ Onii-chan❤ Will this do?"
"You're kidding, rejected."
Expressionless, without any undulating sound, on top of that, to
add unnecessary tone. Riku flat out rejected this.
".....<Paradox> I have carefully reviewed over...."
"I already have a sister, so this setting cannot be accepted."
".....<Request> Please provide me with the best setting that
suits the situation."
Riku ignored ShuVi who looked like she was still angry and
began to seriously think.
To be honest, he left alone and forced Coron to watch his home
for five days. Under these circumstances, Riku brought a girl
back home.
——the best setting would be——
"......Then, pretend you are a survivor who was dragged into the
war." ".........————"
"You're timid, quiet. It would mean trouble if you were found
out, so don't say too much. And stop using the speech pattern
that instantly denotes you as an Ex- Machina——is that fine?"
ShuVi intently paid attention to what Riku said with her heart.
".............Un."
Just a full 10 seconds.
After some careful considerations, the Ex-Machina girl——
ShuVi, nodded.
Then——
In her originally inorganic expressionless face, shadows started
to cover her face.
She quietly——opened her mouth.
"....I, understand....Is this......Okay?"
——
She even had a corresponding expression——because of how
it resembled a genuine human, Riku was momentarily stunned.
"....This is, an act——right?"
It was as if there was a new person.
If not for the exposed machinery parts, even Riku would've
been fooled thinking that she was human.
It would have been better if it was simply unnatural, weird and
made no sense
——this was what Riku had expected—— But ShuVi shook her
head and replied.
"....Acting? No....Imitated the proposed setting,.....By
tracing....People.." Riku didn't understand the meaning behind
those words.
But in that case she wouldn't be recognized as an Ex-Machina.
The next step was——
"Okay, firstly, you need to put on some appropriate clothes."
————yes, no matter how skillful the facial expressions and
language are disguised, a human girl wouldn't walk outside
stark naked.
"Hide the machinery parts up. A hood would be enough to
cover the head—— listen carefully, absolutely never allow
anyone to see your body oh?"
ShuVi nodded in response.
".....Un. Absolutely, only allow Riku....."
.........
"Although I have a subtle feeling that something is wrong,
well——nevermind. I'll
count on you then."
Looking from a wider range of view, Riku was expecting lots
of commotion when he returns home.
Despite the anxiety welling in his heart, Riku decided to give
the thought and started the return trip back to the colony.
He also brought along an extremely troublesome gift——
"....Riku, are we, there yet...?" "Ahhh. Really. I can't believe
you."
——the one brought back was Riku.
The distance it took for a horse to run for five days, ShuVi did
it in a few hours
——while carrying Riku.
Arriving near the colony, ShuVi placed Riku down.
Riku was at a point where he was beyond shocked, he was
stunned by this unreasonable race.
"Your movements...Really don't require any Elemental
particles?"
"Not, required. ShuVi's [Body]....Is below...Average, compared
to...Ex- Machinas."
——this feat was considered below average....Eh. Furthermore, it
was done without using any armament.
"If armament, is used....A few minutes....Enough.."
——but first, place the extra-dimensional speech aside .
The problem comes after that. Riku once again re-examined
ShuVi's appearance.
ShuVi was wearing an XL hooded robe, he at least managed to
hide the non- removable ears and head from being exposed.
But...
"The problem is the tail that is protruding out, right."
"....No, tail.....Suspected to be nerve connecting to Elemental
Gallery...." "Well, regardless of that, can you roll it into a ball
and hide it?"
ShuVi was unsupportive of that action, but those two lively
cables looked like tails no matter the situation.
".....No....This....ShuVi's....Power source....This explanation, is
second time..." Ahhh, I know that, Riku started to sigh.
Initially, it was intended for ShuVi to dress-up as a human, the
Elves——— camouflage magic could efficiently complete this
task.
But the problem would be the detection of the Elemental
particles within the colony.
So, as a desperate measure, they thought of a way to forcefully
hide it....
This tail——was supposed to be a nerve that connected to the
Elemental Gallery——ShuVi was moving because of it.
It was similar to when a human eats food, the behavior of
[Ingesting] instead of using Elemental particles.
Therefore, there wouldn't be any Elemental particles reading—
—but the tail in this case was exposed.
Scratching his head, Riku said with low self-esteem.
"...No matter, at this point, we'll just insist that it is a
[Decoration]. I'll repeat this one more time, if you are exposed,
it will be impossible to understand the [Heart] ok? Resolve
yourself to play as a human."
"....Un, understood....."
Renewing their determination, the two of them entered the cave
through a narrow tunnel.
Until they met the young door guard—— "Ah, Ri——"
He was going to greet Riku loudly, but Riku's panicky hand
gestures stopped him.
"It, it's been tough on you.....Everyone was worried about you,
ah."
The young guard who quietened down his face, noticed ShuVi
beside Riku and had a suspicious look.
Hush, Riku once again used the same gestures to shut him up,
before going through the door.
Seeing how Riku erased his breathing and slowly crept up the
stairs, ShuVi inquired.
"...Riku, is afraid....Because of ShuVi?"
"Ahh, of course there is this reason. But compared to that——"
Riku was going to say it out when he suddenly stopped. To
escape or to not escape, he started to cover his head——
"Ri——————————————————ku
————————————————————!"
At the same time as the shout came.
Directing the attack to Riku's head——no, his abdomen.
Coron who appeared in front of Riku, gave him a malicious
knee kick.
Riku who didn't have time to moan collapsed onto the ground,
and as if not easily letting him off.
Coron continued by pulling the chest area of Riku's shirt and
started scolding.
"YOUUUUU!! Are you satisfied for leaving home for five
days and making everyone worried——"
Riku started foaming at his mouth due to Coron's intense
shaking and roaring.
——at this time.
Suddenly, the moment Coron stopped her actions,
"WHY IS THIS CHILD SO CUTEEEE————————❤
"
She tossed Riku aside and hugged ShuVi.
Afterwards, she started laughing and sent her gaze over to Riku
who was coughing vigorously.
"Hey Riku, wouldn't it be fine if you've just said you were off
to pick up a new bride ♪"
"Coron, is your head okay. Who would try and find a bride in
this troubled world for five days——"
Hearing the answer from Riku whose eyes were semi-opened,
Coron attacked with her elbow and continued.
"Really now~ don't be shy~~ ♪ In this day and age, the first
thing is life, the second is food! Third fourth and fifth are life
too yo!"
——then what about you!
Riku almost blurted out the words he was thinking but he
swallowed it back.
"But Riku didn't have that meaning, so I was worried oh? I
absolutely won't hinder you too, so both of you enjoy your
baths and have an intimate relation~
——"
"....Stop your hand movements first!"
Riku hugged his head upon seeing how Coron placed her
thumb and forefinger before inserting the gap with her middle
finger.
"Hey, I say...Did you not normally think that she would be a
survivor of a destroyed colony?"
——then, as if regaining her rationality, Coron finally stopped.
She suddenly asked with a mysterious look.
"....——is that so?"
Finishing his words, Riku felt that the situation was a bit bad—
—he has no
choice.
Since he started it already, he was determined and said.
".....After interpreting the Dwarves' map, you should know that
there was a battle in the place that needed two and a half days
for a horse to travel. There was a small colony near that area—
—I went there to confirm it."
————not lying.
According to the map, there was a colony that disappeared due
to the exchange with the Demonia and the Dwarves.
But that was——a matter [Two years ago].
But in this colony, the only person who knows Dwarven
language was Riku—— so there won't be any flaws.
But Coron possibly couldn't agree just because of this——
"Even so, there was no need for you alone to go right."
Riku expected that the refute would be this, he shook his head
and said.
"There would be more risks if there were more people. But if I
tell that I will go alone——"
"Getting prohibited would of course be natural!! This kind of
things, although it's very Riku-like....Hey, you should give
some consideration to your sister and allow me to give your
stomach some new holes right?"
Coron looked at Riku with dependent eyes.
Noticing her red and swollen eyes, Riku's mood became
heavier than before.
Riku apologized deep in his heart to her sister that got worried
for him——even so, he couldn't tell the truth.
As if giving up, Coron sighed and turned around, gently
inquiring ShuVi.
"Sorry bout that——it seems like you encountered alot of
misfortune....What's your name?"
"....ShuVi...."
According to plan, according to the setting.
As if extremely timid, ShuVi hid behind Riku and replied.
Unun, Coron nodded her head while smiling and replied.
"But, rest assured, this is safe because there is Riku. So how
did you get to know Riku ♪"
Riku thought——there shouldn't be any malice in this
question.
It was only a question formed with purely interest. Or maybe, it
was to comfort ShuVi who lost her colony, a feeling akin to
small doubt——
For ShuVi who did not follow up with the conversation, Riku
instructed her with his eyes to [Continue the interaction].
But——as an Ex-Machina, she couldn't interpret this kind of
hint.
"....ShuVi..Kissed with Riku....Then strongly
requested.....Reproduction behavior."
——okay, here comes the problem.
From this statement, it could be determined that it was [ShuVi
who approached Riku for reproduction behavior].
At this time, Coron started marching with unusually heavy
footsteps. "That kind of thing——"
The cave started shaking as Riku got bombarded with punches
that could potentially pierce through his heart.
"Can only be done after determining it's safe, after the success
then it should be done——————————————!"
Riku's consciousness was easily erased.
——Riku and the young survivor of a destroyed colony, recently
met and had already requested sex.
The speed this rumor traveled was even faster than the speed of
sound——the whole colony was buzzing around intensely.
"No, Riku is correct. When it can be done, it must be done."
"No, Riku should seek mutual-consent before doing that first."
"No wait, you are saying as if he hasn't gained the other party's
consent yet right?"
"Forcing it is similar to commitment right? What else is there
to discuss?——"
..........
"Strange."
The debate was strange. Reason being was the fact that no one
mentioned about how young ShuVi was.
Everything was strange. Or was it himself who was strange?
Perhaps driven to insanity by this war, it appears that the
people in this colony can't take it anymore....
Accepting all looks and words of contempt or respect, Riku
went through the colony into his room.
Then, using a barely audible voice, he complained to ShuVi
who was strolling beside him.
"I say, can't you give me a break....?" ".....What?"
Not understanding what she did wrong, ShuVi tilted her head
in confusion.
"Speaking of which, you want to understand my [Heart] right?
Which means you want to seduce me, right?"
He suddenly got reminded of the time when he was called
[Nii]. "Can't you have an appearance of someone older?"
If that was the case, this situation wouldn't have happened.
Riku was unsatisfied with the results, while ShuVi replied
blankly.
"....This is a look....The human males.....Including Riku...like."
"Why don't you just say that I'm a lolicon. I love fascinating—
—" "Liar."
Swiftly interrupting his words, ShuVi continued.
"...Then, with the human called Coron, the reason for no
reproductive behavior....None."
Aiya—Riku thought.
Because of an Ex-Machina's judgement, he got identified as a
lolicon.
And including the matter about Coron citing the evidence out,
it confirmed it. "....Probably, all human males, like, young
girl."
"Are you kidding, don't generalize, every individual has their
own personal preference——"
"....Deny....Biologically speaking, if you are fertile....Beneficial
for a young body, no room for discussions."
——this guy.
The Ex-Machina who wasn't supposed to have emotions,
displayed an astonished look to Riku while explaining. It was
probably an illusion.
"....Ex-Machina, don't have an ambiguous subject....Humans,
like to breed with younger girls....just, facts."
"——...You, are making things difficult...."
Burdened with all kinds of stares directing at his direction,
Riku had a disappointed expression as he returned back to his
room.
.....Just one day, it made someone feel so distant, this was
probably an illusion to Riku too.
——this was a really.....really long day.
Risking one's life to search for something, and the result was—
— "....This, is....Riku's....Room?"
Giving a strange look towards Riku's room, an Ex-Machina girl
whose intentions were unknown.
"Are you scared of it because it's too shabby?" "....Its
very......Scary."
Even an Ex-Machina can say flattery and ironic words, Riku
jokingly exclaimed to himself.
Probably prepared by Coron——Riku reached out for the food
placed on the cushioned bed that was on the floor.
Right now, all Riku wanted was to finish his meal and sleep
like a log. "...Doing, what....?"
"Although its not important to Ex-Machina-sama, humans
would die if we don't eat oh."
Riku casually said while tiredly eating the food with his fork.
"So, I'll lie down after eating this....You just do something
properly, I guess." "....Un, I understand......Do, something
properly..."
After the girl confirmed Riku's map, measuring tools and
others——she suddenly proposed something.
".....Riku, play a game together......Okay?" "——why?"
Looking at Riku who stopped moving his fork, ShuVi silently
pointed at the bookshelf.
What she pointed to was——the chessboard Riku took away
when his home was destroyed.
Using the gloomiest expression he had to look at the board, he
replied with disgust.
"I refuse. That time, the fight was forced. All these games, are
only used by bored kids to play."
".....?..Why...?"
"Because reality is not as simple as games." Without rules,
there would be no winner.
Alive, or dead. Nothing more. In this world——
"Games are just child's play, we can't waste time unnessecarily,
and we don't have the energy to do this."
"....If it, wasn't meaningless, then?"
Unconsciously, ShuVi had already placed the chess pieces on
the board and continued.
".....If you beat ShuVi....Then I'll give....The intel Riku wants."
"——what?"
"....Such as the origins of the Great war, the reasons...The
factors to end it...And the like..."
On the spot, Riku rejected this suggestion. "Ha... this is
boring."
The reason why the Great war started? The factors to end it?—
—I don't care. Endless war. No matter the reason, how can
knowing the truth about the Great
war change anything?
Moreover, the factors to end it? If it could be achieved, then it
would have been realized long ago.
If those people who destroyed the world can't accomplish it,
then as humans, it was definitely impossible.
So——Riku refused. It was useless even if he knew. Futile
hopes, would lead to an even deeper despair.
The Great War would end someday, because there wasn't any
proof that stated it won't——so people can't deny the fact that
there was [Hope].
But if the proof was given, and if humans were to live in denial
with those words
——what's left of the humans would be a deserted, barren,
damaged and destroyed world.
It was enough just barely surviving as humans that could be
wiped with a blow. So——
"No interest, no reason to be. If it was something I want to
know——" Pointing his fork at ShuVi, Riku squinted his eyes
and said.
"It would be means of surviving, nothing more."
——one of the guys who pushed humans to the brink of
extinction.
"The Ex-Machinas' knowledge, mathematics, design
technology——if I win, you have to give all these to me."
All these strengths would be used for humans. In order to
survive, it would be for tomorrow——not for [Today].
"...Un...I, understand..."
ShuVi nodded with an expression of slight regret, Riku
continued. "Then what if I lost ?"
As machines that are full of calculations, there must be
something the Ex- Machinas would want.
ShuVi bluntly replied in response to Riku's wry smile and
words. "...[Exchange]...."
ShuVi continued while gazing straight into Riku's black eyes.
"...I want to understand the [Heart]....I need the
intelligence....of Riku's understanding of the [Heart].
"You want to understand something that is difficult to express
with rights, this must be what you mean right?"
"....Un, so, I request...Difficult to express with words...I
require..Effort to have mutual-understanding with ShuVi....."
".....Okay."
Saying this, Riku placed his food aside, and sat in front of the
chessboard—— and prepared to start the game.
......He stared at the board. When was the last time he seriously
thought about a question, Riku's heart couldn't help but think.
Faced against the computing power the Ex-Machinas possesses
and to calculate the best way in a chess game to win?——
impossible.
But ShuVi's actions so far, was being clueless about the human
heart, leading to these feelings of failure.
This showed that there was the existence that [There were
factors that computing can't solve].
Just by looking at the board, winning was impossible.
However, psychological factors and strategies——the
effectiveness of these were high.
"——check."
Riku who believed all of these, setted up a simple trap; ShuVi
who was easily caught in it was checked.
".....Check."
But ShuVi who discovered the mistake immediately took
measures to correct it.
The same trap wouldn't work the second time——it was as if
this fact was told to Riku. No, this was a specialty of being a
human.
What should he do?——simple. Use a different measure by
changing strategies.
The number of psychological guidance, baits or strategies that
could be utilized was——[Unlimited].
If you can calculate the unlimited——then try to calculate it,
Ex-Machina——!!
Riku didn't remember when his fatigue disappeared, his mood
was extremely intense, suddenly——
".....Riku, is laughing..." "——————————————
wh,at?"
Surprised by what ShuVi suddenly uttered out, Riku widened
his eyes and gently touched his mouth.
——because he confirmed that his mouth corresponded to the
fact, Riku's eyes widened even further.
As if unable to perceive Riku's frozen state, ShuVi continued
the chess game. "...Riku, in games...Isn't isolated...eh..."
————shut up. Don't ask, don't listen, turn a deaf ear——Riku
shouted all these out in his mind, but——
"——what, are you saying..." "........[Heart]....."
——————————————————————————*ka*.
"...In this world, humans being able to survive..To say it from a
biological point of view...Is unusual.."
————————————————————————————————.............
....*Cha*.
"....That reason....I want to know....Riku's [Heart]..." "——
hahh."
————————————————————————————somewhere in
Riku's body.
———————————————————————————————————
———————————something, was sounding out. "Ar, are you
kidding me?"
————————broken.
Riku suddenly lost control. When he regained control, he was
lifting ShuVi's head up with his fingers using a crushing force.
But to the Ex-Machina, this was nothing to them. ShuVi
watched Riku with her crystal-like eyes.
——her crystal-like eyes reflected the figure of Riku. "....Unless,
you, are not aware of your position?" Until now, Riku finally
understood——ah, I see.
Before meeting up with this killing machine, he tangled his
chains, hung up the lock, and sealed his countless feelings and
memories.
Things such as anger, antipathy, taboo, resentment, disgust,
hatred hatred hatred hatred hatred hatred hatred pain, etc——
the built-up emotions that were unlimited.
He hung up the [Lock], towards his forcefulness, his chaotic
heart, his memories and his feelings.
——finally, because of being overwhelmed, the sound of things
breaking came.
A rational questioning——what is this? Ahh, it was one of the
guys that want to destroy humanity.
Feelings were also questioned——in the face of this thing, how
could one remain calm?
Ahhh yes——haha——how can one calmly think when in this
situation.
"Blindly killing us, taking away my everything, continuously
repeating such a thing, I thought you would say.....[Hey hey,
what kind of mood are humans]? Haha, a human's [Heart],
ahhh let me tell you."
"YOU ALL CAN GO TO HELL!!"
——the bones in Riku's hands cried out. At this rate, his finger
might shatter.
Somewhere in his mind, someone questioned——what kind of
results would one gain from doing this.
However, regardless of rationality of feelings, ——you are all
to shut up. "———
HA,HAHAHA,HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"
How can one not laugh in this situation. Because this was the
first time rationality and emotions came to a consensus!!
Like this, concerns are not needed. Even if his fingers break,
RIku still growled towards ShuVi.
"Because of your reasons, how many people died, do you
understand!! HOW MANY PEOPLE WERE KILLED!? HOW
MANY PEOPLE——"
Were killed by my hands—— "....So, rry..."
ShuVi softly comforted, in contrast to Riku's shouting.
Could an apology solve this problem——when Riku was about
to retort this out, ShuVi started stroking Riku's cheek and said.
"....To let Riku, cry....Then, ShuVi, must've said something
horrible, then, speculation..."
——.....Wh,at?
Riku glared at ShuVi who was stroking his cheek, her hands
were stained with tears.
"Grasping....Riku's....[Heart].....Want to kill ShuVi...." ShuVi's
next words brought Riku's mind to a blank. "....ShuVi,
was.....removed from the link..."
In the dark, she told Riku that it wasn't necessary to worry
about the other Ex- Machinas knowing.
ShuVi opened her chest and pointed to the mechanically
complex packaged, light-emitting part——
"....Use that fork, stab here, this way... ShuVi... will die."
Perhaps she was aware that there was some sense of violation
with her words, she revised with a dazed expression.
"?....Die.....Not, biological.....Permanently stop————repair,
impossible.....Everything destroyed?"
She was overly specific. Naturally, she continued.
"....ShuVi..Want to be like Riku.....Have the same
[Heart].....So.....Ca,n oh....." ShuVi talked, as if it was natural.
Facing against those black eyes that reflected her own body,
the teenager that
possessed a [Heart]———she [Requested].
".....Complying with inner thoughts...To kill off.....ShuVi?"
————————————haha.....
——this isn't right, Riku.
To want to shirk your responsibility at this time——in the end,
how low of a jerk do you want to stoop to.
Talking about the root of this, it was because of this guys that
ignited the [Great war].
But the passing of 48 people——Chaden, Anton, Elma, Kerry,
Dilo, Sirius, Addo, Daler, Deven, Lucus, Wayne, Eric, Charlie,
Tommy, Sindt, Yarn, Za Za, Zelge, Morey, Golovin, Pita,
Arthur, Morton, Kimi, Dutton, Cilson, Sandy, Wally, Kay,
Sabrile, Rirai, Bo Bo, Cotton, Luke, Samuel, Simon, Wolf,
Ben, Yale, Kelvin, Ahmad, Bell, Harrod, Berrod, Mariah,
Melissa, Karim....
——and also, Ivan.
They were people told to die, Regardless of any excuses.
It was none other than——Riku!!
——*peng*.....
Riku loosened his hands and ShuVi sat down on the floor.
Unable to continue looking at ShuVi's crystal-like eyes, Riku
turned his body. ".....Time to sleep."
Saying that, he lied down on the bed weaved with straw.
"....Why...Didn't you kill me...?" Came ShuVi's doubtful yet
incredible voice. "————how would I know, I don't
understand, asshole!! SO CAN YOU
PLEASE SHUT UP!!"
Why didn't I kill you? There were reasons.
——like how can you compare me with you guys.
——like how the dead can't be revived.
——like how this could solve any problem.
He could list all these rhetorical arguments if he wanted to.
But Riku would feel that this would be disgusting of him to do
so. He does not possess the rights to talk about the dead.
Because, although Riku could tell the words to send someone
to their death. But personally, he didn't kill anyone. He was this
much of a coward.
"....I'm sorry...."
Did she do something wrong——perhaps, she might have
misunderstood Riku's intentions.
ShuVi's voice seemed apologetic.
Riku was once again struck by a deep feeling of self-loathing.
——can't, cope with it anymore.....I don't understand...Lots of
things are happening....
"...Don't leave from my sight. If you want to harm the others in
the colony...." "...Un....I know...."
ShuVi candidly agreed in a relaxed tone, Riku felt the pressure
weighing down on him even more.
".....What, do I want to do in the end...."
Although he tried to ask these questions, Riku felt that he
himself already knew
the answer.
——he was already broken.
Regardless of the intentions, Riku had one of the Ex-Machinas
who pushed humanity to the brink of extinction as a company.
——since he successfully suggested that he had [Friendly
relations] with her
——then, he himself wasn't a human anymore right.
Compared to the Ex-Machina who was bothered because she
was worried, he himself felt that——he was the one who was
more machine.
Currently, he was continuously [Calculating] her.
——using rational thinking, killing her would be best.
——but there were too much uncertain factors. It cannot be
believed that she was relieved from the link.
——up till the end, could she be killed. A lie —was there the
possibility of being tricked by her?
But, Riku asked himself.
[Thinking till this extent, I should let it go.]
No. Only——he felt something wasn't right. However, he
didn't know what was wrong.
If he had to say it——it was everything. Whatever he felt, was
wrong.
"You say the human [Heart]?.....That kind of thing, I'm the one
who wants to know.....Damn....."
"?.....Riku....?"
Closing his eyes, he seemed to hear ShuVi's uncertain voice.
Fatigued, the sleep demon easily snatched Riku's
consciousness and dragged him into the dark....
——*bang bang*, the knocking on the door brough awareness to
Riku's eyes. "Riku~♪ I'm so sorry for doing this while you are
tired——"
As the sound continued, the door was slightly opened——
"——Ohhhya❤ So sorry! Nee-chan is too dense, so please
take your time oh~♪"
Immediately afterwards the door was closed, and the sound of
her leaving footsteps *pata pata* resounded.
——what happened?
Acknowledging the fact that he needed to know what was
going on, Riku made an effort to open his heavy eyelids.
"........"
"........"
Underneath the blanket, Riku and ShuVi gazed into each
other's eyes, with ShuVi on his body.
"...Why are you, riding on my body, may I hear an
explanation?"
——from the time when he fell asleep, a few hours had passed
already——no, the few hours was fine.
They were in a dispute of life and death awhile ago, so what
was this guy planning on doing——
"...Riku said, be in....vicinity where Riku can see...But
Riku...Closed his eyes...." So. ShuVi while looking a bit
prideful——this may be an illusion Riku was saying
——said.
"...[Vicinity where Riku can see].....Unable to express using
words, presumably......Speculated, [vicinity where one Riku is
aware]."
"——oh? And then?"
"....Contact, even sleeping.....Can detect, usage.....Therefore
judged as [Aware of]...."
This was her own judgement, she must feel confident.
ShuVi who didn't have a [Heart] had a look as if asking Riku to
praise her for studying the abstract intentions of humans.
Riku frowned and replied.
"Do not go out of this room——this is the meaning. You
understand?" "...............Don't understand."
ShuVi widely opened her round eyes and muttered out in
complaint.
"....Close, eyes...Designated [vicinity where Riku can
see]....Unable to change..." ShuVi tilted her head, insistent on
not agreeing. Then, Coron's voice came in. "Ah, right! Ehh~
Although I feel like I'm interrupting your good stuff~...."
"We didn't do any good stuff.....What do you have?"
"Ah, that? I feel it would be best if both of you were to take a
bath! Especially ShuVi, since ShuVi had some bad
experiences, this Nee-chan needs to help her clean her body
thoroughly~ like such♪"
Hearing this, Riku signaled to ShuVi using his eyes.
——[You must coordinate with her words]
Not knowing if this intention was passed on, ShuVi firmly
nodded her head and replied.
"...Riku said..ShuVi's body.....Cannot let other people see."
——as expected, I should've killed this guy off.
Riku was slowly losing his consciousness, the door however
was full of Coron's laughter, who then answered
"Ahhhh~Really♪ So you already tamed her eh? ~ If this is my
brother, it indeed is at an amazing speed❤ "
"Coron....Please. I beg you. Please shut up——"
"Then I'll leave ShuVi-chan to you then~ I already removed
everyone from the bathhouse, so this is the best opportunity
oh!?"
"——stop your hand movements!"
After Coron stretch her hands in and inserted her right index
finger into the hole created by the left hand, she ran away like
the wind.
...........
The only ones left was the intensely fatigued Riku and ShuVi
who was on his body.
"——its about time you get down from my body right?"
"...Un."
Riku started thinking while facing against ShuVi who left his
body in accordance to his instructions.
......It was useless to say anything anymore.
As a result, everyone would know that he was a lolicon[1] and
the fact that he successfully tamed a war refugee.
But——Riku felt, at least it was better than getting discovered
for bringing an Ex-Machina back.
"....You, won't you have any problems with ingestion and
bathing?"
In order to mask the fact that she was a Ex-Machina, she neede
to mimic humans at least——
".......It means, human beings...actions...?"
"————you.......You can understand my intentions at this
timing, why is...."
Riku was beginning to suspect if she was doing this on
purpose, but he felt that it must have being the difference in
thinking as she is an Ex-Machina and he was a human. Un, I
should keep the opinions to myself..[2]
".....Ingestion....Not needed. Humanity's precious
resources......No need to waste...."
Is she respecting our situation here? This is.....I really don't
understand——I shall keep my opinions to myself.
"But you'll be suspected if you don't eat. At least eat a little. It
shouldn't affect your body right?"
".....Un. Simply decompose it...Pointless..."
"I'll give part of my share to you. This way the food situation
wouldn't change
——"
Riku didn't allow ShuVi to refuse before continuing. "Against
water——"
"....No, problems....ShuVi, anti-water, anti-fire, anti-dust, antibullet,
anti- explosion, anti-demons, anti-elemental particles...."
"You really are an unreasonable race. Then just pretend to be
bathing——" "....But....Anti-fouling...No function."
"You even had anti-explosion right? Unless this is a
mechanical defect?"
"...If, usage of, elemental particles is available....Cleaning, selfcleaning
device...But, Riku, said, not to use...."
ShuVi protested, looking a bit angry.
"Damn, with things like this, just let it be wrong already.
Taking advantage of Coron's misunderstanding——"
"....Riku, help....Clean ShuVi..."
Facing ShuVi who was nodding deeply with a determined tone,
Riku hugged his head.
"Why should I.....You aren't a kid anymore, just do it yourself
ah." In a logical manner, ShuVi used her finger to point out the
problems.
"....Firstly, take advantage of the empty bathhouse... ShuVi
alone... With Riku,... don't lose opportunity."
——.
"....Secondly, ShuVi, some parts, cannot clean....Unless selfcleaning
device....Never clean before myself."
Then——
"....Thirdly, deduced....No reason....To refuse bathing together
with ShuVi. As expected, against a young majestic beauty
like——"
"Okay okay, I get it....Let's go."
Riku spurred on his heavy body that was deprived of sleep to
stand up.
——Riku understood that it was impossible to win against an ExMachina
in arguments.
Riku dropped the stone which was burnt red into the cauldron
filled with water.
The moment it was dropped in, the small bathroom got filled
up wth billowing steam. The steam was used to sweat out any
impurities in the body, which would then be rinsed off with
water. This was how humans showered.
But because ShuVi did not have sweat glands, Riku had to
wipe the dust and mud gathered on her body with a rag dipped
in warm water.
With the close observation, the finesse and complexity of
ShuVi's body awed Riku.
Riku had studied all kinds of Dwarven equipment that utilized
elemental particles, yet he couldn't make sense of the
machinery parts ShuVi was revealing.
However, because of this——Riku understood that it was one
of the more superior parts.
"....Riku.....Machinery, crazy....?"
"Why does someone like you, who is from a high-class ExMachina
race, keep having the wrong guesses...or is it because
your knowledge is all prejudice?"
Riku's voice sounded surprised, ShuVi who looked justified
replied.
".....Imanity's, thinking.....Is related to the [Heart]....Unable to
predict.....The specific point."
..........
In the silenced room, there was only the sound of dripping
water. Maybe she wanted to break the awkward silence, ShuVi
suddenly said. "....Riku, play...A game?"
"Here in the bathroom? Why?"
"............Because [Bored]....?"
ShuVi asked it in the from of a question as if she didn't
understand the meaning, prompting Riku to give a bitter smile
before replying.
"Well, I guess we could.....But the use of elemental particles is
prohibited, the chessboard——"
As if knowing that he would say these words.
——or maybe ShuVi had this intention from the start,
Taking off the hood, she retrieved a chessboard hidden inside
the hat and showed it to Riku.
"...Ha, I get it. But since I'm helping you wash your hair, there
can't be any time limits oh."
Sighing, Riku smiled bitterly and picked up the white pawn
piece——
——..........
"....Guuu.....I say, could you be more merciful, I'm busy trying
to wash your hair."
While washing ShuVi's hair with his left hand, Riku still had
think carefully, causing him to sigh.
Contrary to that, ShuVi gave a stare while muttering.
"So,rry...."
"...Why are you (Sorry)."
No, he was aware of it. But Riku felt a bit self-loathing, so he
started acting as the fool——
".....After that, a detailed investigation was carried out...."
ShuVi who was unable to understand the subtleties of the
[Heart], said self- reflecting words.
"....Unreasonable....For the assailant to question the victim's
[Heart]. Cannot, obtain correct data...."
Assailant and victim——Riku felt it was unexpected for these
words to come right out of an Ex-Machina.
At the same time, he felt a mysterious sense of disgust at
himself to hear that a [Mere Ex-Machinas] could say these kind
words. Riku then said in a perfunctory manner.
"Like this...Before this your reaction is slow eh."
"?.....Although, ShuVi....and Humans, are different......But we
have [Central connecting nerves]...."
"It's not that kind of meaning...."
Riku's bitter smile was mixed with a sigh, but ShuVi who still
looked the same seriously nodded.
"....Even, so........ShuVi doesn't, have any ideas...." "........."
"...ShuVi, really....Wants to understand, Riku's heart....No,
lies..." No——illusion, Riku strongly admitted.
The depressed ShuVi lowered her head and caused uneasy
sounds——Riku could only sigh at her.
"Don't mind it......I was just a tad bit emotional."
Even though it was a strange thing, Riku reflected that he had
not yet organised his own emotions.
All the things he had done weren't proper either. Riku was
certain about this point.
But on top of this, the grim fact that was right before him,
apologized for spreading destruction upon humanity?
It was too unreasonable. But——Riku thought. If there was no
apology, then there was nothing more irrational than this.
——in fact, he himself, was becoming abnormal.
The usual Riku would be capable of controlling himself, but
unknowingly, he couldn't control himself at that time.
It probably wasn't due to ShuVi's words right. So why——
Looking at Riku who was thinking such a thing, ShuVi blankly
asked.
"....Emotions....is not.....Capable of obtaining?"
"Yes. Emotions——for example, you were hit because of
anger, but this can't solve anything, right?"
"But, Riku, Wanted...To hit ShuVi..."
".....That was just a figure of speech. No, who knows——to be
honest I'm not so sure about it."
The dialogue was once again interrupted. The sound of water
dripping and the heat dulled Riku's mind......
Breaking the silence that continued for a while was ShuVi.
"...Riku, why.....Closed up your [Heart]....Hmm?"
"You... are you really reflecting? THIS KIND OF SMALL
PROBLEM RELATING TO ONE'S HEART——"
He shouted at ShuVi——ShuVi used those glass-like red eyes
to look back, Riku immediately stopped yelling.
The Ex-Machina that doesn't have a [Heart]——It didn't matter
whether she had a [Heart] or not——but she definitely meant
no harm.
.....This guy really wanted to understand what a [Heart] truly
means eh, Riku confirmed it in his heart.
Compared to the rational, calculative, ruthless——Riku, she
was different.
She only took the [Real Riku that has a heart]——as a valuable
object of observation.
——*kacha*
——feeling that the [Lock] has been taken down, Riku sighed.
"....By not doing this, it is impossible to survive in this kind of
world..."
Closing his eyes, the scenery outside of the cave emerged in his
eyes.
——red burning sky, green land covered with black ash, the
scene that continued even beyond the horizon.
Without a mask, walking outside the dying world would result
in certain death
——or maybe the world was already dead. "....That, because,
ShuVi and the other races....?" "....I don't know..."
In fact, Riku became clueless about it. No, from the start——
"It doesn't matter who was right and who was wrong.....The
actual problem is, Imanity has to seal their [Hearts] in order to
continue surviving, or perhaps self- degration is the only way
to survive in this world——this is too unreasonable."
"....Unreasonable......Unreasonable. What is, unreasonable....?"
————what?
Facing ShuVi's quiet muttering of words, Riku couldn't help
but want to laugh at her, but.
Ahhhh, indeed——Riku corrected his own ideas. Logically,
with a rational observation——there was nothing unreasonable
about it.
It was simply just——
"The strong survives, the weak dies. No meaning, no reasons.
This was how the
world was constructed...Feeling that it is [Unreasonable] is
probably the [Heart]....Although, I'm not very sure."
While washing ShuVi's hair, Riku's heart held the thought of
giving up. ShuVi slowly said.
"....Don't want....Riku, hurt...What, to do....?"
——?
Suddenly, feeling that there was a sense of violation with what
she said, Riku asked.
"Why should you care about me? If you only wanted to
understand the [Heart], just like yesterday, no hesitation——"
"....I, am....Sorry....."
"Ah~ I really don't want to repeat the old stuff. But what I say
isn't wrong. Taking my reasons into account——"
There is none. Was being unable to communicate with others a
reason?
So there was no need to worry about Riku, if not, perhaps
pursuing the case could lure out his [Truthful words]——
"...............I, don't know."
Riku frowned upon hearing an unclear answer from the ExMachina
girl for the first time.
"...I, don't know. But, Riku's injury....Want to avoid..."
"Oh~ allowing the other party to remain the same, otherwise
you will be unable to obtain accurate data, like so?"
Riku half-jokingly said, with an entirely logical and businesslike
tone——but. ".......Wrong....Feeling.....There is,
unidentified reason.....But..."
Unknowingly, ShuVi looked downwards and said in a
trembling voice.
——
He was convinced of the sense of violation. The speculation
when Riku first met ShuVi——was indeed correct.
This Ex-Machina girl——ShuVi—was broken. She wasn't
normal.
The proclamation before, she said [Injured] without being
conscious of it, this was obvious.
——Machinery? A self-proclaimed person who couldn't analyse
the [Heart] could get hurt?
"Hey, originally, from the cluster link....you were abandoned,
right?" "....Un."
She even said the reasons and details behind why she was
abandoned. A self- referential paradox, a failed theory that
caused a fault and so on.
Was she really herself? If she didn't have the blurry [Heart]
humans possessed, it was an extremely difficult question to
avoid.
She was abandoned——it was natural for it to happen. But—
—
"In order to return back to the cluster, you want to analyse the
[Heart] no matter what. But it is not related to harming me
right——"
"?.....No, don't want, to go back...oh?"
——un?
"Ah, if not, then you, heard a command to analyse the [Heart]
then?" "?....It was, interest.....Own judgement...."
"What interest——you, your feelings, unless you say that it
isn't the [Heart]?"
Riku who was struggling to understand what she meant said—
—suddenly, ShuVi froze.
".........?...................?......I don't know."
"Ah? What?"
".....I, don't know...Riku, positive. But, ShuVi, can't, feel,
important factor...Why?" "Eh, you are asking me?"
Being asked so seriously, Riku's expression twitched, ShuVi
continued—— "....Waiting for answer, examples——"
"...Anything is fine, Riku is fine if he is Riku, no interest, no
meaning, no relations, rejected to sync, prioritize analyzing, not
analyse but comprehend
————
<Flaw><Contradiction><Incorrect><Flaw><Contradiction>—
—" "Oi, oi. OI OI OI! THERE IS SMOKE COMING FROM
YOUR HEAD, OI!?"
Seeing the stunned ShuVi expounding smoke out, Riku
couldn't help but be strickened.
——but that was only for a few seconds. Surveying around the
area, ShuVi finally looked at Riku and nodded,
"Conclusion. Looks like......Don't want to go back." "You
really are ambiguous."
"...Basis...Can't be certain....But this may be correct." "Really
ambiguous."
Facing against Riku who had a bitter smile due to the diverging
topic that got weirder and weirder, ShuVi suddenly.
"...That, is so.....Checkmate."
——ah
"You.....Talking to me so that I become unable to concentrate
eh? One more time."
".....Un."
Looking at the Ex-Machina who was nodding her head, RIku
felt a sense of violation and a sense of restlessness.
——that little smile, could an imitation or a calculation replicate
it out?—— "....Anyways."
Putting aside the previous topic, Riku said, looking fatigued.
"You....Your hair is too long. I can't finish washing this. A little
more and I'm gonna faint from this heat."
"....If, its fine...Cut short the hair...?"
"No, no need to cut it short.....You really are elusive aren't
you...." Muttering, Riku told himself——I understand.
This guy is an Ex-Machina, something that can unintentionally
kill off humans. Similar to other races, trampling on Imanity
for too many times.
Vigilance around her cannot be slackened, His rationality
shouted. But——why.
A girl who is constantly worried about the length of her hair,
Riku didn't see the logic out of this.
Riku couldn't help but laugh softly.
How long has it been since ShuVi came into the colony?
Because there wasn't a proper calender, if an approximate
estimate was to be made, she had stayed in the colony for
[About a year] already.
Time flies, Riku felt. It was a few days, yet it felt like an
eternity to him——.... ".....I say, exactly how many people are
in the Old Deus race?"
Playing a chess game with ShuVi in a narrow bedroom, Riku
unhappily raised his face and asked.
"...In theory there is an [Unlimited] number.....The amount of
concepts, are proportional....But most of them don't meet....The
conditions to live."
Riku had a grim expression in response to ShuVi's uncertain
answer.
Riku sighed, having to face the truth that he was losing from
just a move, as Riku continued thinking of the next trick, he
continued.
"The Old Deus are mainly divided into the [God of War], the
[Forest god] and others right?"
Although the things they do are similar, in war they were
completely different. Facing the doubt in Riku's heart, ShuVi
nodded her head.
"......The former is Artosh.....The Flügel's, creator....The latter
is Cainasu...Creator of, the Elves."
But, Riku wasn't listening to ShuVi.
During the dialogue and the chess game, Riku suddenly
thought of something in the midst of thinking up tactics to win.
No matter how many times he challenged, no matter how many
times the best tactics were used——he had the feeling of being
surpassed.
.....In his childhood, he would always see the person who he
couldn't win no
matter what, a teenager who had a rebellious smile.
"I say——is there a God of Games?"
——he only thought of this as a possibility. He only realized how
absurd it was after saying it out, but Riku seriously answered
back.
"....There is. But....There is not confirmation of the [Divine
marrow].....Speculation, does not fulfill the conditions for
living."
I'd really gotten accustomed to holding a conversation with
ShuVi in this year eh, Riku thought to himself while giving a
better smile.
The specific situation is unclear, that was the case.
The Old Deus is a form of concept. Since there is the concept
for games, naturally the God of Games existed.
But its [Real existence] would have to rely on whether there
was any [Divine marrow].
"Simply put....There isn't any for now right——"
Checkmated. Riku stood up, his scores to add another black
star.
"I say, I'd already told you, there is no need to use that kind of
tone when there is only the two of us."
"...Un...The central unit for processing sound while thinking,
seems....To be irreversible...."
"Un, speaking in a way where even humans can listen?" "....It
seems. Unable to return, to original."
What an ambiguous answer, to speak in such an old manner,
Riku walked out of the room with ShuVi while carrying a wry
look.
——while walking outside the room, the colony was of a
different atmosphere compared to a year ago.
Looking at ShuVi who was beside him, Riku admitted. Since
she came, there was a substantial increase in the amount of
ideas.
She took the initiative to help calculate and design even when
no one asked her. With her help, the accuracy of measuring
tools and enemy-detection items improved drastically. The
performance of Coron's telescope also improved, the efficiency
of growing livestock has also made progress.
The necessity of going out for investigations also decreased.
There was enough food to even have a [Reserve]——in
addition.
"Yo! Riku. I see you're having a leisurely time with your wife
in the room again eh."
"Didn't I say she's not my wife you baldy! Just go and spend
your lifetime with your telescope already!"
"ShuVi-chan~ Thank you always for playing with the
children~" Obviously, the number of smiles in the colony also
increased.
Because if they just stayed in the colony, humans could live
without having to face the fear of death.
But looking at this scene, Riku's expression cast a slight
shadow.
——I know. This is just a temporary peace, the calm before the
storm.
This brief moment of having [Good times], would fade away
like dust when the proclaimed Gods unintentionally stepped
onto their heads.
Forgetting about this reality and getting immersed in a moment
of calmness got be said to be a blessing.
But eventually, this kind of life would disappear. It could be
tommorow or perhaps today——or maybe even now.
Was it because the people were given too much hope? Riku
frowned when he thought of this. However, what could they do
aside from doing this?"
Pretending to not see despair, believing this place to be safe,
living until the day the war ends?
Riku considered that he might be able to achieve this——
"Oi, boss! Stop playing around with your wife's crotch, you
should come help us repair the leak from this side!"
"——un~, if you want to get pounded then just say it. I'll
gladly provide the language of the [Fist] no matter how much
of it you want."
Riku rolled up his sleeve and gave a stiff smile before heading
to the direction of the sound——leaving behind ShuVi, ShuVi
stood rooted to the ground in a daze, waiting motionlessly until
Riku came back.
"——Che~vit~chan~♪"
ShuVi wordlessly turned back when she suddenly got hugged.
A smiling Coron stood there.
"Alone~ What are you doing? ~Not going with Riku?" "...Riku,
didn't call me....To, follow..."
"Wahaaaa! ShuVi-chan, just forget about that man and marry
me!? What kind of stupid husband would leave such a
cuuu~tee wife behind right?~, rub rub rub rub——"
"....Riku, isn't....stupid..."
Seeing ShuVi who gently pouted her lips, Coron squinted her
eyes and inquired. "I say ShuVi-chan. As the older sister, when
I say these kind of words——" "....Riku said before....[Just ignore
the self-proclaiming sister]...." "Ahahaha~♪...I'll give that brat
a little something later~♪, anyways!"
Cough cough*, stopping the current topic, Coron succinctly
asked. "Which part of Riku is ShuVi-chan attracted to~?"
"....Attracted, to?...."
"Un~, I asked what part of him do you [Like]~, you
understand~❤ "
——suddenly, ShuVi discovered that she was [Nervous].
She didn't know why. It must have been the side-effect of
mimicking human behavior.
But this time, in contrast to Coron's cheerful expression——
ShuVi felt that she was being probed.
After some careful thoughts. For her who has yet to finish
analyzing the [Heart].
So naturally she had not analysed the emotion known as [Like],
she also could not define it——so——
"...I, don't know..."
Therefore, ShuVi decided to give a honest answer. "...I'm
interested,....in feelings...of Riku's....[Heart]...."
The memory of ShuVi's first meeting with Riku flashed past
her mind.
At that time, Riku's eyes, and among the things that existed—
—and what happened, the Ex-Machina should not have the
power to think.
Yet the [Cluster determined there were ethical flaws that was
dangerous], there was the power of thought that released ShuVi
from the link——
"...Oh~, un un~♪ So that's the case~♪"
Not knowing what she meant, Coron happily [Defined] it.
"That is~ which means——love at first sight right?"
——eh?
"Un un♪ Although Riku's face isn't particularly good-looking,
he is that kind of character at first glance——"
Facing the wide-eyed ShuVi whose body was stiff, Coron
nodded her head and said with a smile.
"If you seen thorough Riku's [Conscience] and fell in love with
him——un, then I can safely hand my little brother to you♪"
"........"
Love at first sight——the concepts needed to be analysed
increased again, this gave ShuVi a feeling of fatigue.
Charmed, like, love. The analysis for all three of them were
incomplete, yet there was a new [Love at first sight]——to fall
in love at the first moment, this kind of new information. 
Unless, she won't be able to understand the [Heart] for the rest
of her life——
"——oi, Coron. What kind of dubious thing are you teaching
to her again?" Settling his business, Riku came back and said
to Coron.
"Oh, how rude of you, my little brother. You really are a
failure!! When did I teach her anything dubious——"
"Teaching her that I'm a lover of big breasts and stuffing two
precious foods into her chest....Are you normal?"
"How rude, I'm obviously a normal person oh! This is a child
that will become my little sister oh? In order to not let her bore
in her sexual life I must——"
"We're leaving. Stupidity is contagious. Don't interact with her
any further." "....Intellectual level, is,
something...Contagious,....?"
Faced with staggering new facts, ShuVi's eyes widened. As if
urging her, Riku grabbed onto ShuVi's hand.
"Eh? Riku, where are you going?"
"Its about time to teach her how to collect food. I must teach
her the method of using animal traps."
——This of course was a lie. After all, if it was an Ex-Machina,
beating a Demonia empty-handed would be easy.
Moreover, ShuVi's age——the number of years since she was
manufactured, was about 210 years.
He wanted to rely on ShuVi machine power to go to a place
that he wanted to personally confirm——this was something
he couldn't say out.
"I might be coming home late, but I won't go too far."
——hearing these words, Coron smacked her right hand like a
hammer onto her left hand, revealing a meaningful smile.
"Ahhh——is it green rape[3]?❤ "
"Coron, changing your brain might be optimal."
"Oh, but since the sky is like this, shouldn't it be red rape!? In
any case, because it's cold, don't catch a cold——"
"Shut up, you are too noisy. Let's go——[ShuVi]."
Riku turned away with an unhappy look......It appeared that
Riku did not notice. Only ShuVi and Coron noticed. Especially
ShuVi——
This was the first time Riku called her using her name.
Her thinking was buried under an unknown error. ShuVi
sensed her body temperature was rising.
She attached this memory with the label of [Most important]
and carefully kept it. However, she did not know the reason
why.
After half a day he was finally on the ground. It was
surprisingly easy with ShuVi around——Riku thought.
It would take five days to travel on horse, a few months on foot
due to the constant hiding, but it took half a day for ShuVi who
held Riku.
"....So this is the destroyed city of the Elves..." This was a place
Riku frequented a year ago.
The buildings that were woven with trees had already
collapsed. Although the ugly burnt marks remained, the city
was slowly getting overshadowed by growing flowers and
plants, just like an elegant garden.
With the sky dyed a blood red and the ground getting invaded
by the black ash
——even though this world was like death, this place still
received protection from the Gods. As expected of the capital
built by the creator of elves, the God of forest. Riku
sarcastically said.
Those guys were the ones who threw the planet into hell, yet
they turned their own homes into an amusement area.
After the two walked together for a while, they finally stopped
at their destination.
In the midst of the destruction and burning ruins, there was a
building that retained it's shape. Riku asked.
"Is this...the library?"
"....Probably...Compared, to other facilities...and the degree of
murder in the city....Here, the damage was minor...."
This meant that during the attack from the Flügels, there was a
priority to defend this place.
It might have been a refuge facility, a facility that had research
materials——or it was simply a storage facility.
"....I see. It probably is a library."
Unable to find a door, the two of them slipped into the building
using the gap from the tree.
What was displayed in front of them was——
The wonderful architectural style was the same even after
going inside, it was hard to determine what was the usage of
the building from the inside.
They could make out what looked to be a bookshelf among the
other items.
However, it was emptied. It appears the books have already
been transferred away...But this was enough.
"The knowledge they don't need, might prove to be meaningful
for us...."
Saying so, Riku surveyed the area and inspected scraps of
paper as well as partially-damaged books.
"...Riku, can read Elven language...?"
*sha la sha la* Looking at Riku who was browsing through the
books, ShuVi asked.
"Dwarven, Elven, Demon, Fairy, Werebeast——what language
do you want me to reply in?"
ShuVi stared in amazement in response to Riku's nonchalant
answer. "...Why, so, many...."
"Because you can't survive without understanding. It wouldn't
be valuable to retrieve an intel that you couldn't read." With
neither hatred nor anger, Riku said that with a focused
expression.
——ShuVi knows Riku when he makes this kind of expression,
that kind of eyes.
That was the expression Riku makes when he seriously wanted
to win against ShuVi in chess.
"Men just get killed meaninglessly. But through words, notes
and the like, we are
able to understand the nature of each race, language and their
habits. This was the unspoken law that spread up till now."
With black eyes that don't reflect any light, Riku recounted
their weakness and how fragile human beings were. Humans
could only run so far. But there was something in those pair of
eyes that ShuVi desperately wanted to know, as it was
something different from words.
——Don't underestimate humans, the [Heart] that recounted this.
"....Ah.....Riku, Riku..."
Hearing ShuVi's voice who was exploring around, Riku lifted
his head——
ShuVi was cutting away a heavy stone that was on the ground,
and after using brute force to twist off a few thick iron plates,
ShuVi turned to the bewildered Riku and calmly said.
"......Underground, installed....With camouflage.....A
space..There is basement....Oh?"
Riku's expression stiffened when he saw ShuVi easily lifting
up the metal doors over her head that were almost ten times her
height.
——......
After ShuVi confirmed if there was any biological activity, the
two of them walked down the stairs. Then——
"...What is, this."
Faced with the incredible scenery displayed under the long
ladder, Riku leaked out a surprised voice.
A spacious hall, there were huge pillars erected at the center of
the hall.
There were a myriad of red patterns engraved onto the surface
of the twisted pillars.
".....One hundred and eighty....Patterns, the God Cainasu's
protection
symbols?....No."
ShuVi who instantly grasped the number of pillars tried to
analyse the carvings, but this was too much.
"....Comparing with database of the Elves...The carving,
procedure....Is completely...Different?..."
"It must either be an attempt to produce something or is a new
thing that ShuVi doesn't know. However, up till now, no matter
what these guys wanted to do, even setting the planet to
explode or something, isn't surprising. But compared to
those——"
From the perspective of a human, blowing off the planet and
destroying the mainland didn't have that much of a difference.
Riku wiped the dust off the base of the pillar and read the
nameplate on it.
"——[Number 0 Void defense•Theoretical first verification
test]...ShuVi, do you have any clue?"
"Nothing, in line....With Elven, item....Media, usage of Magic,
basically....Nothing, in match."
I see——it was incomprehensible, but Riku's [Intuition] told
him.
"No matter what, it won't be good to stay for long. Although I
don't know if there is any, check around for any paper left
behind and leave."
ShuVi nodded her head and deftly collected the rest of the
paper. Riku noticed a piece of paper among the stack.
"...Even the [Developer]'s name must be written in a code,
what exactly is it...."
Looking at the name list filled with secret codes, Riku felt his
body to be trembling.
It won't be good to stay for long, although Riku and ShuVi was
planning on retreating fast.
"Damn it....Its impossible to move inside this stuff."
When they left the library, or the mysterious institute, they met
a [Death Storm].
This was the reaction caused with the black ash and the
increased density of the ash, creating a vortex of aquamarine
phenomenon.
If encountered, no matter what kind of measures were taken,
the ash infused with Elemental bones would penetrate the
protective clothing and contaminate the human body.
The two of them could only withdrew back into the deserted
place. "Riku, at this, timing...What do you, do?"
Hiding in a small room at the highest level of the deserted
institute, ShuVi asked Riku.
"Nothing we can do. Explore caves, ruins and the like, if there
wasn't anything like that, we would dig a hole to survive."
Riku sighed while answering so. The death storm was not
something mystifying. Personal experience have shown that the
storm would last from a few hours at least to a day at most. He
had already experienced hiding in a narrow pit for a day a 
couple of times already. The problem was——was this place
safer than a cave.
"ShuVi seems to be worried, is something wrong? Did you
detect any sign of movements?"
"...Blocked, by Elemental bones....Device for distant
observation, incapable...Unable, to use..."
"Un..Then this probably means, this place is considered safe in
some ways."
Which means——thanks to the [Death Storm], it would be
difficult to get detected here.
There was no way to get out, it was also dangerous for ShuVi
to be moving at high-speed without any capabilities to detect
any enemy.
With that being the case, Riku turned towards ShuVi and
asked. "ShuVi, did you bring the chess set over?"
"........"
To bring the least amount of baggage——ShuVi who was
requested of this by Riku thought she would get blamed.
"....I'm, sorry...."
As if wanting to hide her expression, she lowered her head and
apologized. Then, she took the chessboard out with a
frightened look.
This movement, was as if the Ex-Machinas were afraid of
humans. Facing such a situation, Riku couldn't help but smile.
"I won't blame you....Since we have nothing to do before the
storm stops, why don't we play a game."
"?....Is it, okay...?"
While looking to be unexpected and yet quite happy, ShuVi set
down a pawn.
Staring at the chessboard, Riku started thinking——the records
between him and ShuVi for the past year.
——one hundred and eighty losses, zero wins. Don't think about
beating ShuVi, even a draw didn't happen.
But the situation where a surprise move forced ShuVi to
immerse into deep thought happened several times too.
In other words, she wasn't something who [Absolutely cannot
lose].
——a bold and senseless smile emerged from Riku's face,
causing ShuVi to ask.
"Riku, why....You can't win, yet...Continue to fight,?"
"Ha? What a strange question, wasn't it you who said that you
would give me the intelligence I want if I won?"
"....Liar....Riku couldn't have possibly....Not...Noticed..."
Yes, this was impossible. Riku was something that was
imperceptible. "...I...Gave..All intelligence,
Riku..Wanted....Already..."
........
With the exception of the violent noise of the wind, silence
dawned. ShuVi then said.
"...Riku....Very powerful, oh....Very hardworking." "——
comforting words are useless here."
Interestingly, Coron had said these words before, and Riku
replied using the same words.
The conversation ended here. Riku thought, but.
"....Comforting?......Wrong...This is, fact..." ShuVi retorted,
her expression bitter.
Then, as if seeing something rare, Riku widened his eyes.
It was an expression of not knowing what to say, but ShuVi
continued.
"...Now, the planetary environment...Is deadly for
humans....But to be able to survive, is .....Abnormal."
Those were the words Riku had said when he clutched onto
Riku.
Although these words could hurt Riku, even so, ShuVi went on
while trembling.
"This anomaly——correction, exploit....Could be achieved,
because of Riku's [Heart]....Will."
Next, staring into the black eyes of Riku's that didn't shine,
ShuVi concluded. "——regardless, how did, Riku think——
this was all [Objective facts]...."
"Ha? Does that mean, that it is useful for Imanity if ExMachina-sama
keeps the winning streak against me?"
"....Ex-Machina-sama....How, I don't know...But, I judge.
But——" ShuVi seriously, with red glass-like pupils, gazed at
Riku and continued. "...Riku, you cannot accept, all of these..."
"Of course, what good is it to linger in this kind of world——"
"No...."
ShuVi refuted, interrupting Riku's words and continuing.
"....You yourself, possibly...haven't noticed it..." Staring into
Riku's eyes, ShuVi asserted.
"...Riku, regardless of who...You don't want any of, them to
die....You, pray....Regardless of who. Even if, it was the
existence that would destroy the humans——even if, I."
"————!!"
Riku's face distorted.
ShuVi was unclear as to why Riku didn't kill her from before.
She was unable to judge Riku's behavior and actions, she still
couldn't understand.
But precisely because of this, she could assert.
".....That is the [Heart]..I, speculate...Definition." "......"
Facing Riku who was silent and lowering his head, ShuVi
continued. "I assert....Riku, very powerful....But, Riku, cannot
accept."
Right, and to say why.
"...Because you don't want to accept...Because you cannot,
identify yourself...."
————
————————
In the room where the sound of the wind could be heard, a
laugh leaked out. Riku slowly lifted his head, supporting his
cheek using his hand.
——using eyes that reflected the image of ShuVi in front of him,
Riku slowly said.
"You, I'm really angry ah....For someone full of theories to be
this troublesome..." "I'm, sorry."
"...Don't apologize...This is just a fool being angry at
himself...." Yes, as if spitting out his soul, Riku admitted.
Ahhh, it literally was the meaning of [Open closed].
There was no room for rebuttal, he was having the feeling
where he didn't even feel like speaking.
The [Lock] in his heart was forced open, it was pathetic to try
and brave through things now.
"Ahh, yes, that is the case. I don't want to get recognized by
anyone, someone like me who is like dog shit..."
Continuing to escape from fate....What can that do?
However, in the end, what can I do!?....
Riku leaned onto the wall and looked up at the ceiling. He
whispered as if repenting.
"...Oi, so in the end what am I suppose to do, what can I do to
forgive myself?"
He kept giving up on winning because he was just someone
who couldn't sacrifice his own precious life to save someone
else.
To save two persons, one had to be killed, to save four persons,
two had to be killed.
Thinking that this was the only way, the form to disguise
himself.
——repeatedly doing this kind of thing, how could he be
recognized? Looking at how Riku was shamefully questioning
himself, she continued. "This is what I want to know...Riku's
[Heart], how...to answer...?" "——haha, its precisely because I
don't know that I'm asking you...." Riku lowered his gaze while
having a hollow laugh, but ShuVi continued. "No matter what
the answer is....I will...Help...."
"....Why..."
ShuVi blankly answered the question in a natural manner.
"I said once...Before I understand the [Heart]...I will,
accompany you..."
——haha....This is, really reliable.... "Having said that..."
*pata*, moving the pieces on the chessboard, ShuVi
announced. ".....Checkmate."
"ShuVi...In here, it should at least be a tie right, for the
atmosphere." ".....?....Air conditions....? What's wrong....?"
[4]."
With the similar answer as always, Riku looked out the
window while revealing a smile.
Not knowing when, the storm had stopped.
Looking downwards from the window, they saw the blooming
colorful flowers unaffected by the death storm, as if under
protectiong from the [Forest God].
Might as well say, the scene where the petals were dancing in
the room was uncomfortable, but——
"....Beautiful...."
Riku looked towards the person who stole his lines.
The Ex-Machina girl that he felt to be more human than him,
her eyes were chasing the petals dancing in the air.
The shining pair of crimson clear eyes caught everything in
sight. "——ShuVi."
Facing the girl who slowly looked back, Riku asked a question
he dismissed long ago——
"——tell me. Tell me the purpose of this war and how to end
it."
Riku and ShuVi walked together in the garden of fluttering
petals in the ruined city of the Elves.
Although the black ash were blown away by the death storm, it
was a matter of time before it got covered up again. Even
though they couldn't stroll leisurely and enjoy the situation,
Riku had to repeat it again for ShuVi to hear.
"The sole God's throne——..[Star cup]....Eh."
The title of [Sole God] bestowed unto the winner of the war
every God's throne and Elemental Gallery.
The device that had the concept of absolute control——[Star
cup].
This was the reason and purpose behind the Great war, the
implementation method is.....Really——
"Oi, ShuVi. Can you answer one of my question."
——bearing such a doubt, Riku asked.
"That....Unless no one discovered that there was another
method?" "....Other....Me,thod...?"
Seeing ShuVi's widened eyes, Riku sighed in his heart.
——I see, even ShuVi had not discovered that method yet.
No, because it was ShuVi, because she was the strong, so she
didn't notice something as simple as this?
"...Hey, ShuVi. Will I be forgiven if I was alone?" "?.....Riku,
isn't....Alone....Oh?"
"No no...I always felt like a fool to brave through things——
but." Riku smiled while wearing the dust mask.
Riku's expression couldn't be seen at all the whole time. But
ShuVi could clearly see the sparkling black eyes behind his
googles.
"But if I'm with ShuVi, I feel that I can do some interesting
things in this world
——"
"....Interesting? I don't know, joke...."
Caressing ShuVi who lowered her head in an apologetic
manner, Riku smiled.
"Its because of this that it feels extremely interesting.....ShuVi,
is it boring to be with me?"
"No."
ShuVi quickly answered in a serious manner.
"Really? You're not lying? I'm a heartless guy oh, the bored
feeling of being with me——"
"If, not interested in Riku....I won't relieve myself of the
link......And stay here." This time, his words were interrupted
by ShuVi who answered seriously.
Riku thought——
How would he accomplish it? The [Heart] inside him that
ShuVi was looking for. However, ShuVi was willing to help
regardless of his answer...Maybe.
What should he do——complying to his wishes was not a bad
idea. "....Un, this is....Hmm..."
With eyes watching Riku who was having a deep thought,
ShuVi said. "...I, am....Interested....In this kind....of Riku's
eyes..."
"Really? The things I'm thinking now might even be too much
for a kid's delusion oh."
"..This is good...No——revision..."
Repeating the thought several of times in her head, she came to
a conclusion. Nodding deeply, ShuVi——successfully defined
this feeling.
Not knowing whether it was because she was feeling happy,
ShuVi gave a radiant smile that made people forget that she is
actually a machine——
"...I guess——this is also....[Like]....?"
——in the end, even Riku didn't quite understand what she
meant. "What an ambiguous way to say it!"
——in the end, how long has it passed since he did this. He
couldn't remember. Riku hugged his stomach, laughed until his
tears started streaming out.
Then——shortly after. The destined moments finally arrived.
"Riku!! This is bad, the telescope captured 6 Dragonias and
several Dwarven fleets heading our direction!!"
Watching Simon who ran down with his face pale, he said
towards Coron.
"Their direction of travel are North and East west respectively!
If they collide, 9 miles east of the colony would be the
battlefield.
——the sound of screams resounding in the colony declared the
end of the moment of peace.
Riku instructed for the food and other luggage to be brought
out, efficiently directing the works for a full retreat.
Meanwhile, Riku, ShuVi and Coron delineated the effective
range of the battlefield.
They found 28 other places from an investigation 5 years ago,
and determined the most appropriate location for a shelter.
Completing the preparations to evacuate 8 hours before the
fighting began, the began to move, then....
————......
The colony of almost 2000 people witnessed their homes
getting engulfed by light and then disappearing.
The deceased numbered less than 200, who all died while
commanding the last evacuating people.
In the case where fighting ensued near the colony, their loss
were considerably small in number.
But seeing the colony and rock hill evaporated off, the people
on the high
platform started to cry.
——this was natural. Coron who thought of this clenched her
trembling fists. If one lost his home, then rebuild it. Although
the logic can be understood.
The telescope they desperately repaired was gone. It couldn't
be helped, they had to accept that everything happened
precisely because of this moment.
Information, map, measuring items and every other important
things were brought out——but.
The important things were not always visible. The effort and
sacrifice needed to maintain the colony, the memories of living
there, as well as their prayers and desires.
——all of these disappeared in a moment,
And that was because of a stray bullet that held no malice nor
meaning to destroy their homes.
Someone who doesn't cry would be abnormal. The person who
saw all of this is crazy.
Indeed, their lives were saved. However, what could their lives
do after this? Repeat this experience one more time?
Paying for the miserable memories of tears, sacrifice and biting
lips. And once again, disappear as if it was garbage?
In the moment where Coron couldn't hold it in anymore and
was about to start crying, Coron saw the back of the figure of
her little brother.
"Riku.....Ri, Riku!!"
Coron ran towards the figure that was hugging his own knees
and constantly trembling.
"Riku, hold it in! With so many people alive, Riku had done
his best!"
——he was at his limits.
Stop making excuses, Coron warned herself while making up
her mind.
I can no longer rely on my little brother, letting him bear all the
burden....Later on he——
"Riku, stop it, okay? Just let Nee-chan to take over——" Right
now.
"——ShuVi, recorded it?" "...No...Problems..."
Riku who cheerfully looked up, his face had a bright and
degrading smile. "——ah, th, that? Ri, Riku..?"
It was a women's sixth sense, seeing the drastic changes that
Riku underwent, Coron reflectively wanted to step back.
Won't let you escape! Caught on the wrist by Riku, Coron
couldn't help but issue out an [Ah!].
"Ju~st like that oh Coron, from now on the colony's [Elder] is
you, so a pleasure to work with you❤ "
"——ha, eh, EH?"
Handing over the map with a his face full of smiles, Riku
straightened his back and stood up.
"This is the location of the new colony. Passing through the
cave, the other side should be safe. Although it isn't
immediately habitable, once it's arranged, it is livable. Because
this place was chosen by the things we brought out."
Saying so, Riku exchanged glances with ShuVi who stood at
his side.
Then with a cheery smile, they walked away in the opposite
direction. Coron who finally had a peace of mind cried out.
"Wa, wait a moment Riku! Without you, I——the colony
will——"
No matter what, if Riku——if her little brother isn't present,
wanting to replace him is impossible.
Coron cried out, but——
"No, there won't be any problems if Coron is present——
because from now on I won't let anyone die."
"...Eh?"
"Well, rest assured. I will properly keep in touch with you. If
it's Coron, I can safely hand everyone over to you."
Coron stared blankly as Riku's figure started to fade away. "—
—hey, Riku..."
She called his name——but, the person who turned back
wasn't [Riku] anymore.
——no, incorrect. I know. This was the Riku she met the last
time.
His eyes had a bottomless enthusisam, but yet the boy chose to
seal off his heart.
Believing to pry open the [Lock] in his heart, was undoubtedly
the young girl beside him.
Coron spat out a big, yet gentle sigh.
Although he already guessed that it would be an unbelievable
answer, Coron still asked——
"Hey——what are you planning on doing——?"
Expected answer, no, the answer was more than expected. The
orginal Riku who is naive, bold and full of fiery answered.
"——just a game. A simple——child's play that is about to
begin oh!"
 

Chapter 2 1x1=Aimless......Okay, let's organize the current situation.My name is Riku, 18 years old, a virgin....What? Can't Ibe one!?wrong.Wrong, wrong wrong wrong, even though my mind is in amess and questions are piling up messily, but for nowcalmdown first, and organize what exactly happened.Even though I can't comprehend what is going on, but I'mcurrently in the worst situation one can expect.Firstly, prioritize my heart's questionwhat happened, whatis happening and what is going to happen, this.Confirm the state of the Lock....No problem. Regardless ofthe inexplicable things that are happening, the lock mustalways stay locked. Then, grasp the present situation in asecond, no a millionth of a second. Or else".....Investigate....Organizing current situation...."It looks like a monster resembling a naked young girl isstraddling my body. However, I have no means of escape evenif she were to do anything to me!I must accelerate my thinkingto a speed where even timeseems to have stoppedRiding on a horse, Riku headed to the ruins mapped out by thedwarves, east of the Colony.It was an Elven city destroyed by an attack from a Flgel.Information about the elves were extremely precious andimportant.However, there wasn't any loot on the battlefield, and the intelcollected was insufficient.In any case, the Flgels didn't employ any weapons on thebattlefield; they could simply cast magic without a medium torid them of their enemies.But on the way, the falling of the Black ash became moreintense, causing Riku to flee to a nearby ruin to avoiddistressthere, he came into contact with a Different race.Aside from the slight mechanical properties seen, the body wasof a normal naked young girlan Ex-Machina.One of the more violent races. But there wouldn't be anyproblems if she wasn't provoked. That was supposed to be thecase.Riku intended to ignore her and continue moving.in an instant, Riku was down on the floor.He was pressed onto the ground while the surrounding Blackash and his equipment disappeared.Although he couldn't comprehend what just happened....Rikuwas still alive.Facing against Riku whose upper body was stripped naked, theEx-Machina stuck on his body and said."Nii, I can't resist it anymore. Turn me into a woman."....Did I lose my memory?When I fell down. The possibility of me hitting my head ishigh.If I'm not mistaken, she expressionlessly said some weirdthings as if in a narration, and then, my chastitymy firstkiss was taken away.....I seemed to have grasped onto everything. That was the firstquestion, What happened.Continuing on to question twojust when I'm about to thinkabout What is happening...."Problem....In,comprehensible."The Ex-Machina who tightly clung onto Riku's body mutteredout. She was emotionless, expressionless and like a machine....Un, I'm still quite competent, Riku's heart boasted.He used his knowledge and reason to suppress his spinal reflexof wanting to open his mouth.Which means he suppressed his urge to yell out I'm the onewho is supposed to feel that this is incomprehensible right youjerk!.Ex-Machina, even among all of the Great War monsters,they were an extremely special race.Firstly, they were made out of machines. Even creatures cannotcompare against their coordination and movements as aCluster population.That meansan individual's find means the entirepopulation's find and being hostile to one means being hostileto the entire race.One of the reasons why this race was regarded as an extremelyspecial race was due to their way of fighting.After receiving an attack, they could figure out and replicatethe type of attack in less than a second, before quickly firing itback.Regardless of whether it was an Elf's magic, the attack from adwarf's weapon, or even a Dragonias's breathit can bereplicated and fired back.Their arms were constantly evolving in the long Great War. Itcould be theorized that the Ex-Machinaare the most brutalrace without any limits to their strengths.However, they had another special property.that is, Never instigating.They would retaliate if they were under attack, but theywouldn't adopt a hostile attitude when they aren't attacked.Therefore, the data that the dwarves recorded downAdangerous race not to be touched.the knowledge above, forced Riku to shut his mouth.In other words, if he was designated as an Enemytheentire human species will be destroyed.then, What exactly is happening !? "What is wrong withthis guy!!"Against such contradiction with the intel he knew, Riku criedout in his heart.Never instigating. So he was going to ignore her and moveonwhich spiralled into an awkward scene between thetwo.Even after he had organised all his information correctly, Rikustill couldn't understand the present situation and the situationwhere there was no instigation.The young mechanical girl continued while on his body."Speculationbecause the setting to fulfill this condition,is not sufficient?"This question was phrased as if a speculation has failedRiku was hesitant about the answer to that question.Human beings are dead. They cannot exist so they cannot beperceivedso should he remain silent and not respond?"....Let's not care about likes and dislikes first. On whosepermission did you obtain to take away my chastity?""No"she replied using Human language.At least, he was sure that he was identified as a human.While this fact in itself would bring shivers down a human'sspine, if he was toignore or reject her now, she would possibly declare humans asHostile. Comply to rationalityNow, talk to her.Don't act rashly before grasping the situation.She didn't answer the question directed to herself as shecontinued speaking expressionlessly with a nonchalant tone."Read Set 072I, its not like I'm doing this because Ilike you. Accident, yes this is an accident"....It was read without any sentimental feelings, just like theNii from before. This caused Riku's mind to blank out.what is with this situation.".........Confirm Person's temperature, pulse, genitals, did notreact." "Can you please stop peeking into someone'sphysiological reactions?"Riku tried to put on a calm lookwhile his heart who founda troublesome situation cried out.She was capable of reading humans' physiological response.The possibility of being deemed a hostile target after Lyingwasvery high.As if understanding Riku's heartfelt worries, the Ex-Machinagirl asked once more."Doubt Speculated that human's carnal desires wouldactivate in the present situation. Wrong speculation?""...That is so, yah. The answer would vary from differenthumans."he cannot lie. But her purpose can't be understood either. Hewas unable to comprehend the current situation.If she could read physiological responses, then Riku's fearwould've been seen through in a glance. What exactly was hermotive....?"Question Did not feel sexual excitement from thismachinebecausemachines lack Charm?"While thinkinga brave question was thrown at him,causing Riku to feel dizzy.Facing against a disaster that would bring forth genocide uponbeing deemed as a hostile target, while also being thrown aquestion that would trouble a human beingalso the factthat lying wasn't permitted.....After some determination, Riku carefully observed the ExMachinawho was straddled on his body.she looked similar to a ten-year-old human girl. In contrastwith her black hair and white body, she had ruby eyes. She wasundoubtedly a beautiful girlif not for the two cables resembling tails that were stickingout her body."From an objective point of view, I think you are very cute. Toarouse me, the best would be someone from the same race.And also you are too childish."...How was this answer. Neither lie nor denyas a virgin,this was not a perfect answer.Riku felt a sense of accomplishment, but the Ex-Machina girlimmediately questioned him again."Doubt Without experience, still want to choose theperson?" "Do you really think virgins have no right to chooseanything..."while answering, Riku's thoughts gradually stabilized and hebegan to see the current Situation.From the negotiations, Riku had a doubt in his head. Assumingthis doubt was correct"Its about time....Could you tell me Why did you look forme?"question. It was dangerous to ask this kind of imprudentquestion, but.From the available information, it could be predicted thatthere was a crisis more serious than this.The Ex-Machina girl immediately replied with an indifferenttone."Answer Want to resolve the independent language betweenhumans." "....Independent language?"Riku repeatedpraying and hoping that this was consistentwith his predictions.But the Ex-Machina girl simply nodded her head andmechanically said. "Affirmativethe independentlanguage known as Heart." "Confirm Mutual-skinshipthe independent language that requires skincontact. Speculated Ex-Machinas do not have, the behavior ofHeart. Imitating movements, judged that this machine canalso read Heart.....Wrong?"Really.It looks like the bad feeling was slowly getting fulfilled, Rikugave a bitter smile. Being wrestled like this, the intention tocommit suicide was present, butAble to speak human's language, able to speculate out human'ssexuality even though it was incorrect, and able to grasp onto ahuman's physiological responses.Facing against these facts and concerns, Riku should startfeeling self- depreciative.Humanity wasn't of a verge of being revealed, they werealready seen through long ago.we were observed. I'm afraid, we have been observed sincelong ago."yes, if skinship would allow the Heart to conveymessage, then humanity wouldn't be worried anymore."The Ex-Machina's gaze was on him as she started to displayactions akin of going into a deep thoughtRiku's ideas gradually cleared out as he thought of theconfusion from before. No matter the reason, the Ex-Machinaswere eyeing on humanitythey werespied on.It was ridiculous for them to hide themselves when in fact,their entirety was understood by the Ex-Machinas.In any case, it might either be best or worse scenerio to getspied on by the Ex- Machinas, regardless of their intentions.The race deemed as the most dangerous by the other races waswatching themthis point was enough for destruction.what should I do? Nothing, just go with the norms.It wasn't a good methodit was the best method. Nothingmore Placing my hand onto my chest, I start to chant a spell asusual.But this time, there was a slight differencesealing it. seal it up, close it, forget it all.Drive off the memory that this hateful Ex-Machina can wipeoff humanity like dust, killing us all.Whether feelings, memories, horror, shaking, anxiety, removeall of them become an undead.There were two motives. Find out all intention, and thenproceed with Induction.Proceed with deep breaths. I have a Friendly relation withthis Ex-Machina this gave me confidence.Deceive your physiological responses. Deceive your memory.Chain yourself in everythinginstall the Lock.Can it be done? Of course it can be done Rikuif it's you.Her motive was to understand the Heart, if that's the case,then she does not possess aHeart.Its easier to deceive someone without a heart than anotherhuman.Thendeceiving is just like breathing for this guy, acting asa natural human scum all along.Right?then, no, more problems*kacha*After hearing the sound of the lock that was several timesheavier than the usual, Riku opened his eyes.there, was a long black-hairedGirl.She finished her long thoughts and solemnly narrated aboutthe views of her wrong speculation."......Understood Skinship is metaphor for procreationRequest, undergo procreation with this machine""Un. I refuseit should be said like this right?"A somewhat tough rejection. It may be a statement that wouldbe considered having hostile intention.But his thoroughly sober head unconsciously made thisjudgement. No problems. Furthermore"What kind of sorrows am I going through to rely on otherspecies other than humans to have sex. And compared to that"squeeze out the information needed."The Ex-Machinas are linked together with something calledthe cluster right. I'm sorry but I don't have exhibitionism.""Negativethis machine was relieved from theCluster."yes, this was the intelligence.It was predicted beforehand that this would happen. But thesethoughts were too idealistic..."Oh, why?"respond back with a proper attitude. Confused, then ask.Even though the reason I speculated should be close."Answerthis machine tried to analyze if the ExMachinashad Heart, Self or Soul."the results can be expected. If she is an Ex-Machina."Results Failure of theories caused constant contradictingresults, this machine was released from the link andabandoned."Which means, self-referential paradox.Finally, Riku confirmed the reason why this Ex-Machina wasmaking unrelated actions.no, she is broken.For Riku, this was really great. Even though he was stilluneasy, this was slightly better than the other worsepossibilities.Come, Riku with Friend relations? The next step should beto show concern for her right?"....Oh, which means....You."Riku frowned upon the thought of saying words of worrybut the Young girl nodded her head in exaggeration."Conclusion There is no problem in desiring to ravageagainst this machine. Although there isn't, hole.""I won't! In any case, just no!"Maintaining her expressionless face, she nodded and declared."Proposal Agree to take this machine to the Colony,allowed to slowly ravage.""It's not because of this question...eh."FinishedThe colony was exposedhow good could that be.For other colonies other than the humans, they could bediscovered very easilythis in itself was obvious.Compared to those things, he wanted to confirm if she didn'thide the matter with the colony.There were only two possibilities.But regardless of which, it wouldn't turn into a problem. As aresultthe necessary intel would cobble together.It was in order to allow her to create the Role she was lookingforward to. Once again, the magical sound of a *kacha*.This was what she was looking forward toit appears tohave a Heart, but in actuality was closed off to form Riku.As if being unaware towards Riku's heart, the young girlnodded her head seriously, understanding something."Understood Because this machine's charm cannot be felt,so reproductive behavior was rejected.""Ah, you don't understand at all..."The young girl nodded again and decided to leave Riku's body.Riku who was freed straightened his body while the young girlsat down in front of him and declared."Proposalgame to be carried out." ".....What?""Opengame 001 Chess"Saying so, from the hand of the young girlno, from thepalm of her hand which faced the ground.From the void, rays appeared to form an outline of a boardit instantiated.this was instantiated, looking at Riku whose eyes werewidened as the Ex- Machina displayed magic from her arms,the young girl quietly said."victory If this machine was to win, request to bring thismachine back to colony, carrying out reproductive behavior.""then, if I win?""Answer Bring this machine back to colony, allowing theprocess of carrying out reproduction.""THERE ISN'T ANY DIFFERENCE RIGHT!?"Facing against her inorganic face that had a complacent look asif she proposed a great idea, Riku couldn't help but shout out.But at the same time, Riku thoughtthis was a goodopportunity."Hmmm, however, nevermind. I accept this challenge, but Irequire a change in the conditions."Even if it's not the best, it would be the most appropriate stepAfter a long time of having a mind associating with death, acombination of complex strategies was instantly formed.After using a move to attain loads of information, another stepwould be enough to turn the tables around and make thisprofitable.Come, to what extent can I fulfill this. It's time for you to showyour ability fraud master."If I win, I request that you release me and not follow me backto the Colony." Although he said so, Riku understood.Winning in this game was Impossible.If the rumors stand that Ex-Machinas are good with analysisand parsing having good calculation like a machine, thenthere would be no competitors for chess and the like.So, the young girl nodded and replied."Accepted No problems. As long as the victory conditionsremain the same for this machine, no change."yes, you must agree. However, the problem does not Lies inthere. "Nono, your victory conditions must change too."Reason is"If you want to understand the thing known as Heart, blindlyundergoing reproduction won't allow you to understand it.""...."In contrast to the young girl who had fallen silent, Riku's mindwas clear and thinking.There were two reasons why she would utter out Colony.To calmly state the factsor for other purposes, to cause aContainment.Although her motives were unclear, from the way she acceptedthe conditions, some things could be determined out.If she had other motives, she would definitely say that shewould change her victory conditions herself. Or else the wholeplan is ruined.Was it possible to induce a state of confusion to an ExMachina?However, the Ex-Machina maintained herexpressionless face, widened her eyes and asked."Amazed.......Question How to understand?"........Unlesswhat she really said was all true?The most desirable, overly optimistic possibility to arousesuspicion in peoplebut, if...What she said was all true, using clever deceptionseal herand use her."If you win, until the moment you understood Heart, I willallow you to stay with me.""......Question Understand Heart, possible if stay by yourside?"Allow the intellectual machine to understand, using the bestreasons, to try and form it out."Heart isn't a material." ".......""Heart is something that is difficult to express with words. Itis something only understood with mutual-understanding.Under the circumstances that you aren't discovered as an ExMachina,never leave my sideyou would understand afterspending some time, don't reject the opportunity to be able toconnect to others spiritually."".........."The Ex-Machina girl continued her silence and watched Riku'seyes.Seeing her red pupil, Riku was convincedhe was beingIdentified if he was lying.But it was useless. I didn't utter a lie out......After a deep thought, the young girl nodded. "AcceptedThen begin the game."it appears I avoided the worst situation. At least thepossibility of avoiding it is high."Ah, before that, can I add another condition." Yes, hefearlessly smiledthen."I'm almost freezing to death. You destroyed my clothes, couldyou help me replace it?"With his snot freezing, Riku pleaded while his teeth chattered.the game was simply one-sided.Unable to see his odds of winning, Riku lost on his 29th move.It was all according to plan."Damn, I lost...It can't be helped, I'll just take you to theColony to fulfill the conditions."To have a highly calculative Ex-Machina as an opponentitwas impossible for Riku who could only predict the next move.Because of thishe proposed a condition favorable for theone losing. "....."The Ex-Machina girl watched as Riku faked a smile, notforgetting to show an expression of regret.it could be said to be miraculous, for the development to goaccording to plan.Although her motives were unknown, there was no meaningfor her to play with a human using such complicated strategies.It was only her who was interested in humanswhich meantthat other Ex- Machinas didn't have a tinge of interest towardsthe human race. This meant that her race was probably noteyeing onto the humans.With that being said, since the game itself didn't have anybinding force, any negligence wasn't allowed to"Question Why do you exhibit behavior of deep regret?" "what?"For a moment, his breathing stopped.His Act of being regretful was seen through, Riku couldn'thelp but ponderthis was supposed to be impossible.Because he completely closed off his feelings, it was just aninterpretation. Up to now even Riku himself couldn'tcomprehend if those feelings were his true thoughts. However,if his True thoughts were seen through, thenThe Ex-Machina girl gazed into Riku's watchful eyesthereshould be nothing reflected in those pitch-dark eyes."Concluded Existence of person's Heart confirmed. Thereis value to continue analyzing."the meaning behind this sentence, Riku did not understand.However, the Ex-Machina girl, looked as if she showed asmileit was probably an illusion."...Ah, speaking of which, I haven't introduce myself yet."Riku only thought of it now. Because of the emergencies hefaced in succession, he had completely forgotten about it."That, my name is Riku. How about you?" "Answerc207Pr4f57t9""...Ah? Uh, what? Is that...A name?""Correct This machine's individual identification numberis it not synonymous with Name?""...No, if you want to understand a human's heart in the colony,you should have a more human-like name"This sentence caused the little girl to be shrouded in a deepthought. "Question Can name be freely set by saidindividual?" "Wellthere is such a thing."Then, the girl wrapped herself in deep thoughts.Suddenly, she wrapped her fingers in her hair and announcedher name."AnswerShuwaruvi""Too long, it confuses people, and it doesn't seem like a name.Dismissed with the above three reasonscalling yourselfShuVi would do though."Riku readily rejected her proposal. But, it seemed to be anillusion"....Puzzled Said free to choose yet revised....RebuttalShould call me yourself from the start."Riku always wondered, the girl looked as if she was protestingin a fit of anger.it must be my illusion, Riku once again came down with thisjudgement."Okay, I'll tidy up for a while then I'll take you to the colonybut before that, there are a few precautions."Bending one of his finger, he said."The Ex-Machinas are unable to have a mutual-understandingheart. Is because they fear it, they are scared of having mutualunderstanding.""........Correct"Seeing the Ex-Machina who was named ShuVi nod her head,Riku continued."So aside from changing the name, could you change the toneof your voice that instantly determines the fact that you are anEx-Machina?""Read Simulated personality 1610"ShuVi's gaze rose, and she started to have an expression as ifpondering. "hey hey, then~ Onii-chan Will this do?""You're kidding, rejected."Expressionless, without any undulating sound, on top of that, toadd unnecessary tone. Riku flat out rejected this.".....Paradox I have carefully reviewed over....""I already have a sister, so this setting cannot be accepted."".....Request Please provide me with the best setting thatsuits the situation."Riku ignored ShuVi who looked like she was still angry andbegan to seriously think.To be honest, he left alone and forced Coron to watch his homefor five days. Under these circumstances, Riku brought a girlback home.the best setting would be"......Then, pretend you are a survivor who was dragged into thewar." ".........""You're timid, quiet. It would mean trouble if you were foundout, so don't say too much. And stop using the speech patternthat instantly denotes you as an Ex- Machinais that fine?"ShuVi intently paid attention to what Riku said with her heart.".............Un."Just a full 10 seconds.After some careful considerations, the Ex-Machina girlShuVi, nodded.ThenIn her originally inorganic expressionless face, shadows startedto cover her face.She quietlyopened her mouth."....I, understand....Is this......Okay?"She even had a corresponding expressionbecause of howit resembled a genuine human, Riku was momentarily stunned."....This is, an actright?"It was as if there was a new person.If not for the exposed machinery parts, even Riku would'vebeen fooled thinking that she was human.It would have been better if it was simply unnatural, weird andmade no sensethis was what Riku had expected But ShuVi shook herhead and replied."....Acting? No....Imitated the proposed setting,.....Bytracing....People.." Riku didn't understand the meaning behindthose words.But in that case she wouldn't be recognized as an Ex-Machina.The next step was"Okay, firstly, you need to put on some appropriate clothes."yes, no matter how skillful the facial expressions andlanguage are disguised, a human girl wouldn't walk outsidestark naked."Hide the machinery parts up. A hood would be enough tocover the head listen carefully, absolutely never allowanyone to see your body oh?"ShuVi nodded in response.".....Un. Absolutely, only allow Riku....."........."Although I have a subtle feeling that something is wrong,wellnevermind. I'llcount on you then."Looking from a wider range of view, Riku was expecting lotsof commotion when he returns home.Despite the anxiety welling in his heart, Riku decided to givethe thought and started the return trip back to the colony.He also brought along an extremely troublesome gift"....Riku, are we, there yet...?" "Ahhh. Really. I can't believeyou."the one brought back was Riku.The distance it took for a horse to run for five days, ShuVi didit in a few hourswhile carrying Riku.Arriving near the colony, ShuVi placed Riku down.Riku was at a point where he was beyond shocked, he wasstunned by this unreasonable race."Your movements...Really don't require any Elementalparticles?""Not, required. ShuVi's Body....Is below...Average, comparedto...Ex- Machinas."this feat was considered below average....Eh. Furthermore, itwas done without using any armament."If armament, is used....A few minutes....Enough.."but first, place the extra-dimensional speech aside .The problem comes after that. Riku once again re-examinedShuVi's appearance.ShuVi was wearing an XL hooded robe, he at least managed tohide the non- removable ears and head from being exposed.But..."The problem is the tail that is protruding out, right.""....No, tail.....Suspected to be nerve connecting to ElementalGallery...." "Well, regardless of that, can you roll it into a balland hide it?"ShuVi was unsupportive of that action, but those two livelycables looked like tails no matter the situation.".....No....This....ShuVi's....Power source....This explanation, issecond time..." Ahhh, I know that, Riku started to sigh.Initially, it was intended for ShuVi to dress-up as a human, theElves camouflage magic could efficiently complete thistask.But the problem would be the detection of the Elementalparticles within the colony.So, as a desperate measure, they thought of a way to forcefullyhide it....This tailwas supposed to be a nerve that connected to theElemental GalleryShuVi was moving because of it.It was similar to when a human eats food, the behavior ofIngesting instead of using Elemental particles.Therefore, there wouldn't be any Elemental particles readingbut the tail in this case was exposed.Scratching his head, Riku said with low self-esteem."...No matter, at this point, we'll just insist that it is aDecoration. I'll repeat this one more time, if you are exposed,it will be impossible to understand the Heart ok? Resolveyourself to play as a human.""....Un, understood....."Renewing their determination, the two of them entered the cavethrough a narrow tunnel.Until they met the young door guard "Ah, Ri"He was going to greet Riku loudly, but Riku's panicky handgestures stopped him."It, it's been tough on you.....Everyone was worried about you,ah."The young guard who quietened down his face, noticed ShuVibeside Riku and had a suspicious look.Hush, Riku once again used the same gestures to shut him up,before going through the door.Seeing how Riku erased his breathing and slowly crept up thestairs, ShuVi inquired."...Riku, is afraid....Because of ShuVi?""Ahh, of course there is this reason. But compared to that"Riku was going to say it out when he suddenly stopped. Toescape or to not escape, he started to cover his head"Riku!"At the same time as the shout came.Directing the attack to Riku's headno, his abdomen.Coron who appeared in front of Riku, gave him a maliciousknee kick.Riku who didn't have time to moan collapsed onto the ground,and as if not easily letting him off.Coron continued by pulling the chest area of Riku's shirt andstarted scolding."YOUUUUU!! Are you satisfied for leaving home for fivedays and making everyone worried"Riku started foaming at his mouth due to Coron's intenseshaking and roaring.at this time.Suddenly, the moment Coron stopped her actions,"WHY IS THIS CHILD SO CUTEEEE"She tossed Riku aside and hugged ShuVi.Afterwards, she started laughing and sent her gaze over to Rikuwho was coughing vigorously."Hey Riku, wouldn't it be fine if you've just said you were offto pick up a new bride ""Coron, is your head okay. Who would try and find a bride inthis troubled world for five days"Hearing the answer from Riku whose eyes were semi-opened,Coron attacked with her elbow and continued."Really now~ don't be shy~~ In this day and age, the firstthing is life, the second is food! Third fourth and fifth are lifetoo yo!"then what about you!Riku almost blurted out the words he was thinking but heswallowed it back."But Riku didn't have that meaning, so I was worried oh? Iabsolutely won't hinder you too, so both of you enjoy yourbaths and have an intimate relation~""....Stop your hand movements first!"Riku hugged his head upon seeing how Coron placed herthumb and forefinger before inserting the gap with her middlefinger."Hey, I say...Did you not normally think that she would be asurvivor of a destroyed colony?"then, as if regaining her rationality, Coron finally stopped.She suddenly asked with a mysterious look."....is that so?"Finishing his words, Riku felt that the situation was a bit badhe has nochoice.Since he started it already, he was determined and said.".....After interpreting the Dwarves' map, you should know thatthere was a battle in the place that needed two and a half daysfor a horse to travel. There was a small colony near that areaI went there to confirm it."not lying.According to the map, there was a colony that disappeared dueto the exchange with the Demonia and the Dwarves.But that wasa matter Two years ago.But in this colony, the only person who knows Dwarvenlanguage was Riku so there won't be any flaws.But Coron possibly couldn't agree just because of this"Even so, there was no need for you alone to go right."Riku expected that the refute would be this, he shook his headand said."There would be more risks if there were more people. But if Itell that I will go alone""Getting prohibited would of course be natural!! This kind ofthings, although it's very Riku-like....Hey, you should givesome consideration to your sister and allow me to give yourstomach some new holes right?"Coron looked at Riku with dependent eyes.Noticing her red and swollen eyes, Riku's mood becameheavier than before.Riku apologized deep in his heart to her sister that got worriedfor himeven so, he couldn't tell the truth.As if giving up, Coron sighed and turned around, gentlyinquiring ShuVi."Sorry bout thatit seems like you encountered alot ofmisfortune....What's your name?""....ShuVi...."According to plan, according to the setting.As if extremely timid, ShuVi hid behind Riku and replied.Unun, Coron nodded her head while smiling and replied."But, rest assured, this is safe because there is Riku. So howdid you get to know Riku "Riku thoughtthere shouldn't be any malice in thisquestion.It was only a question formed with purely interest. Or maybe, itwas to comfort ShuVi who lost her colony, a feeling akin tosmall doubtFor ShuVi who did not follow up with the conversation, Rikuinstructed her with his eyes to Continue the interaction.Butas an Ex-Machina, she couldn't interpret this kind ofhint."....ShuVi..Kissed with Riku....Then stronglyrequested.....Reproduction behavior."okay, here comes the problem.From this statement, it could be determined that it was ShuViwho approached Riku for reproduction behavior.At this time, Coron started marching with unusually heavyfootsteps. "That kind of thing"The cave started shaking as Riku got bombarded with punchesthat could potentially pierce through his heart."Can only be done after determining it's safe, after the successthen it should be done!"Riku's consciousness was easily erased.Riku and the young survivor of a destroyed colony, recentlymet and had already requested sex.The speed this rumor traveled was even faster than the speed ofsoundthe whole colony was buzzing around intensely."No, Riku is correct. When it can be done, it must be done.""No, Riku should seek mutual-consent before doing that first.""No wait, you are saying as if he hasn't gained the other party'sconsent yet right?""Forcing it is similar to commitment right? What else is thereto discuss?".........."Strange."The debate was strange. Reason being was the fact that no onementioned about how young ShuVi was.Everything was strange. Or was it himself who was strange?Perhaps driven to insanity by this war, it appears that thepeople in this colony can't take it anymore....Accepting all looks and words of contempt or respect, Rikuwent through the colony into his room.Then, using a barely audible voice, he complained to ShuViwho was strolling beside him."I say, can't you give me a break....?" ".....What?"Not understanding what she did wrong, ShuVi tilted her headin confusion."Speaking of which, you want to understand my Heart right?Which means you want to seduce me, right?"He suddenly got reminded of the time when he was calledNii. "Can't you have an appearance of someone older?"If that was the case, this situation wouldn't have happened.Riku was unsatisfied with the results, while ShuVi repliedblankly."....This is a look....The human males.....Including Riku...like.""Why don't you just say that I'm a lolicon. I love fascinating" "Liar."Swiftly interrupting his words, ShuVi continued."...Then, with the human called Coron, the reason for noreproductive behavior....None."AiyaRiku thought.Because of an Ex-Machina's judgement, he got identified as alolicon.And including the matter about Coron citing the evidence out,it confirmed it. "....Probably, all human males, like, younggirl.""Are you kidding, don't generalize, every individual has theirown personal preference""....Deny....Biologically speaking, if you are fertile....Beneficialfor a young body, no room for discussions."this guy.The Ex-Machina who wasn't supposed to have emotions,displayed an astonished look to Riku while explaining. It wasprobably an illusion."....Ex-Machina, don't have an ambiguous subject....Humans,like to breed with younger girls....just, facts.""...You, are making things difficult...."Burdened with all kinds of stares directing at his direction,Riku had a disappointed expression as he returned back to hisroom......Just one day, it made someone feel so distant, this wasprobably an illusion to Riku too.this was a really.....really long day.Risking one's life to search for something, and the result was "....This, is....Riku's....Room?"Giving a strange look towards Riku's room, an Ex-Machina girlwhose intentions were unknown."Are you scared of it because it's too shabby?" "....Itsvery......Scary."Even an Ex-Machina can say flattery and ironic words, Rikujokingly exclaimed to himself.Probably prepared by CoronRiku reached out for the foodplaced on the cushioned bed that was on the floor.Right now, all Riku wanted was to finish his meal and sleeplike a log. "...Doing, what....?""Although its not important to Ex-Machina-sama, humanswould die if we don't eat oh."Riku casually said while tiredly eating the food with his fork."So, I'll lie down after eating this....You just do somethingproperly, I guess." "....Un, I understand......Do, somethingproperly..."After the girl confirmed Riku's map, measuring tools andothersshe suddenly proposed something.".....Riku, play a game together......Okay?" "why?"Looking at Riku who stopped moving his fork, ShuVi silentlypointed at the bookshelf.What she pointed to wasthe chessboard Riku took awaywhen his home was destroyed.Using the gloomiest expression he had to look at the board, hereplied with disgust."I refuse. That time, the fight was forced. All these games, areonly used by bored kids to play."".....?..Why...?""Because reality is not as simple as games." Without rules,there would be no winner.Alive, or dead. Nothing more. In this world"Games are just child's play, we can't waste time unnessecarily,and we don't have the energy to do this.""....If it, wasn't meaningless, then?"Unconsciously, ShuVi had already placed the chess pieces onthe board and continued.".....If you beat ShuVi....Then I'll give....The intel Riku wants.""what?""....Such as the origins of the Great war, the reasons...Thefactors to end it...And the like..."On the spot, Riku rejected this suggestion. "Ha... this isboring."The reason why the Great war started? The factors to end it?I don't care. Endless war. No matter the reason, how canknowing the truth about the Greatwar change anything?Moreover, the factors to end it? If it could be achieved, then itwould have been realized long ago.If those people who destroyed the world can't accomplish it,then as humans, it was definitely impossible.SoRiku refused. It was useless even if he knew. Futilehopes, would lead to an even deeper despair.The Great War would end someday, because there wasn't anyproof that stated it won'tso people can't deny the fact thatthere was Hope.But if the proof was given, and if humans were to live in denialwith those wordswhat's left of the humans would be a deserted, barren,damaged and destroyed world.It was enough just barely surviving as humans that could bewiped with a blow. So"No interest, no reason to be. If it was something I want toknow" Pointing his fork at ShuVi, Riku squinted his eyesand said."It would be means of surviving, nothing more."one of the guys who pushed humans to the brink ofextinction."The Ex-Machinas' knowledge, mathematics, designtechnologyif I win, you have to give all these to me."All these strengths would be used for humans. In order tosurvive, it would be for tomorrownot for Today."...Un...I, understand..."ShuVi nodded with an expression of slight regret, Rikucontinued. "Then what if I lost ?"As machines that are full of calculations, there must besomething the Ex- Machinas would want.ShuVi bluntly replied in response to Riku's wry smile andwords. "...Exchange...."ShuVi continued while gazing straight into Riku's black eyes."...I want to understand the Heart....I need theintelligence....of Riku's understanding of the Heart."You want to understand something that is difficult to expresswith rights, this must be what you mean right?""....Un, so, I request...Difficult to express with words...Irequire..Effort to have mutual-understanding with ShuVi....."".....Okay."Saying this, Riku placed his food aside, and sat in front of thechessboard and prepared to start the game.......He stared at the board. When was the last time he seriouslythought about a question, Riku's heart couldn't help but think.Faced against the computing power the Ex-Machinas possessesand to calculate the best way in a chess game to win?impossible.But ShuVi's actions so far, was being clueless about the humanheart, leading to these feelings of failure.This showed that there was the existence that There werefactors that computing can't solve.Just by looking at the board, winning was impossible.However, psychological factors and strategiestheeffectiveness of these were high."check."Riku who believed all of these, setted up a simple trap; ShuViwho was easily caught in it was checked.".....Check."But ShuVi who discovered the mistake immediately tookmeasures to correct it.The same trap wouldn't work the second timeit was as ifthis fact was told to Riku. No, this was a specialty of being ahuman.What should he do?simple. Use a different measure bychanging strategies.The number of psychological guidance, baits or strategies thatcould be utilized wasUnlimited.If you can calculate the unlimitedthen try to calculate it,Ex-Machina!!Riku didn't remember when his fatigue disappeared, his moodwas extremely intense, suddenly".....Riku, is laughing..." "wh,at?"Surprised by what ShuVi suddenly uttered out, Riku widenedhis eyes and gently touched his mouth.because he confirmed that his mouth corresponded to thefact, Riku's eyes widened even further.As if unable to perceive Riku's frozen state, ShuVi continuedthe chess game. "...Riku, in games...Isn't isolated...eh..."shut up. Don't ask, don't listen, turn a deaf earRikushouted all these out in his mind, but"what, are you saying..." "........Heart....."*ka*."...In this world, humans being able to survive..To say it from abiological point of view...Is unusual..".................*Cha*."....That reason....I want to know....Riku's Heart..." "hahh."somewhere inRiku's body.something, was sounding out. "Ar, are youkidding me?"broken.Riku suddenly lost control. When he regained control, he waslifting ShuVi's head up with his fingers using a crushing force.But to the Ex-Machina, this was nothing to them. ShuViwatched Riku with her crystal-like eyes.her crystal-like eyes reflected the figure of Riku. "....Unless,you, are not aware of your position?" Until now, Riku finallyunderstoodah, I see.Before meeting up with this killing machine, he tangled hischains, hung up the lock, and sealed his countless feelings andmemories.Things such as anger, antipathy, taboo, resentment, disgust,hatred hatred hatred hatred hatred hatred hatred pain, etcthe built-up emotions that were unlimited.He hung up the Lock, towards his forcefulness, his chaoticheart, his memories and his feelings.finally, because of being overwhelmed, the sound of thingsbreaking came.A rational questioningwhat is this? Ahh, it was one of theguys that want to destroy humanity.Feelings were also questionedin the face of this thing, howcould one remain calm?Ahhh yeshahahow can one calmly think when in thissituation."Blindly killing us, taking away my everything, continuouslyrepeating such a thing, I thought you would say.....Hey hey,what kind of mood are humans? Haha, a human's Heart,ahhh let me tell you.""YOU ALL CAN GO TO HELL!!"the bones in Riku's hands cried out. At this rate, his fingermight shatter.Somewhere in his mind, someone questionedwhat kind ofresults would one gain from doing this.However, regardless of rationality of feelings, you are allto shut up. "HA,HAHAHA,HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"How can one not laugh in this situation. Because this was thefirst time rationality and emotions came to a consensus!!Like this, concerns are not needed. Even if his fingers break,RIku still growled towards ShuVi."Because of your reasons, how many people died, do youunderstand!! HOW MANY PEOPLE WERE KILLED!? HOWMANY PEOPLE"Were killed by my hands "....So, rry..."ShuVi softly comforted, in contrast to Riku's shouting.Could an apology solve this problemwhen Riku was aboutto retort this out, ShuVi started stroking Riku's cheek and said."....To let Riku, cry....Then, ShuVi, must've said somethinghorrible, then, speculation...".....Wh,at?Riku glared at ShuVi who was stroking his cheek, her handswere stained with tears."Grasping....Riku's....Heart.....Want to kill ShuVi...." ShuVi'snext words brought Riku's mind to a blank. "....ShuVi,was.....removed from the link..."In the dark, she told Riku that it wasn't necessary to worryabout the other Ex- Machinas knowing.ShuVi opened her chest and pointed to the mechanicallycomplex packaged, light-emitting part"....Use that fork, stab here, this way... ShuVi... will die."Perhaps she was aware that there was some sense of violationwith her words, she revised with a dazed expression."?....Die.....Not, biological.....Permanently stoprepair,impossible.....Everything destroyed?"She was overly specific. Naturally, she continued."....ShuVi..Want to be like Riku.....Have the sameHeart.....So.....Ca,n oh....." ShuVi talked, as if it was natural.Facing against those black eyes that reflected her own body,the teenager thatpossessed a Heartshe Requested.".....Complying with inner thoughts...To kill off.....ShuVi?"haha.....this isn't right, Riku.To want to shirk your responsibility at this timein the end,how low of a jerk do you want to stoop to.Talking about the root of this, it was because of this guys thatignited the Great war.But the passing of 48 peopleChaden, Anton, Elma, Kerry,Dilo, Sirius, Addo, Daler, Deven, Lucus, Wayne, Eric, Charlie,Tommy, Sindt, Yarn, Za Za, Zelge, Morey, Golovin, Pita,Arthur, Morton, Kimi, Dutton, Cilson, Sandy, Wally, Kay,Sabrile, Rirai, Bo Bo, Cotton, Luke, Samuel, Simon, Wolf,Ben, Yale, Kelvin, Ahmad, Bell, Harrod, Berrod, Mariah,Melissa, Karim....and also, Ivan.They were people told to die, Regardless of any excuses.It was none other thanRiku!!*peng*.....Riku loosened his hands and ShuVi sat down on the floor.Unable to continue looking at ShuVi's crystal-like eyes, Rikuturned his body. ".....Time to sleep."Saying that, he lied down on the bed weaved with straw."....Why...Didn't you kill me...?" Came ShuVi's doubtful yetincredible voice. "how would I know, I don'tunderstand, asshole!! SO CAN YOUPLEASE SHUT UP!!"Why didn't I kill you? There were reasons.like how can you compare me with you guys.like how the dead can't be revived.like how this could solve any problem.He could list all these rhetorical arguments if he wanted to.But Riku would feel that this would be disgusting of him to doso. He does not possess the rights to talk about the dead.Because, although Riku could tell the words to send someoneto their death. But personally, he didn't kill anyone. He was thismuch of a coward."....I'm sorry...."Did she do something wrongperhaps, she might havemisunderstood Riku's intentions.ShuVi's voice seemed apologetic.Riku was once again struck by a deep feeling of self-loathing.can't, cope with it anymore.....I don't understand...Lots ofthings are happening...."...Don't leave from my sight. If you want to harm the others inthe colony...." "...Un....I know...."ShuVi candidly agreed in a relaxed tone, Riku felt the pressureweighing down on him even more.".....What, do I want to do in the end...."Although he tried to ask these questions, Riku felt that hehimself already knewthe answer.he was already broken.Regardless of the intentions, Riku had one of the Ex-Machinaswho pushed humanity to the brink of extinction as a company.since he successfully suggested that he had Friendlyrelations with herthen, he himself wasn't a human anymore right.Compared to the Ex-Machina who was bothered because shewas worried, he himself felt thathe was the one who wasmore machine.Currently, he was continuously Calculating her.using rational thinking, killing her would be best.but there were too much uncertain factors. It cannot bebelieved that she was relieved from the link.up till the end, could she be killed. A lie was there thepossibility of being tricked by her?But, Riku asked himself.Thinking till this extent, I should let it go.No. Onlyhe felt something wasn't right. However, hedidn't know what was wrong.If he had to say itit was everything. Whatever he felt, waswrong."You say the human Heart?.....That kind of thing, I'm the onewho wants to know.....Damn.....""?.....Riku....?"Closing his eyes, he seemed to hear ShuVi's uncertain voice.Fatigued, the sleep demon easily snatched Riku'sconsciousness and dragged him into the dark....*bang bang*, the knocking on the door brough awareness toRiku's eyes. "Riku~ I'm so sorry for doing this while you aretired"As the sound continued, the door was slightly opened"Ohhhya So sorry! Nee-chan is too dense, so pleasetake your time oh~"Immediately afterwards the door was closed, and the sound ofher leaving footsteps *pata pata* resounded.what happened?Acknowledging the fact that he needed to know what wasgoing on, Riku made an effort to open his heavy eyelids."........""........"Underneath the blanket, Riku and ShuVi gazed into eachother's eyes, with ShuVi on his body."...Why are you, riding on my body, may I hear anexplanation?"from the time when he fell asleep, a few hours had passedalreadyno, the few hours was fine.They were in a dispute of life and death awhile ago, so whatwas this guy planning on doing"...Riku said, be in....vicinity where Riku can see...ButRiku...Closed his eyes...." So. ShuVi while looking a bitpridefulthis may be an illusion Riku was sayingsaid."...Vicinity where Riku can see.....Unable to express usingwords, presumably......Speculated, vicinity where one Riku isaware.""oh? And then?""....Contact, even sleeping.....Can detect, usage.....Thereforejudged as Aware of...."This was her own judgement, she must feel confident.ShuVi who didn't have a Heart had a look as if asking Riku topraise her for studying the abstract intentions of humans.Riku frowned and replied."Do not go out of this roomthis is the meaning. Youunderstand?" "...............Don't understand."ShuVi widely opened her round eyes and muttered out incomplaint."....Close, eyes...Designated vicinity where Riku cansee....Unable to change..." ShuVi tilted her head, insistent onnot agreeing. Then, Coron's voice came in. "Ah, right! Ehh~Although I feel like I'm interrupting your good stuff~....""We didn't do any good stuff.....What do you have?""Ah, that? I feel it would be best if both of you were to take abath! Especially ShuVi, since ShuVi had some badexperiences, this Nee-chan needs to help her clean her bodythoroughly~ like such"Hearing this, Riku signaled to ShuVi using his eyes.You must coordinate with her wordsNot knowing if this intention was passed on, ShuVi firmlynodded her head and replied."...Riku said..ShuVi's body.....Cannot let other people see."as expected, I should've killed this guy off.Riku was slowly losing his consciousness, the door howeverwas full of Coron's laughter, who then answered"Ahhhh~Really So you already tamed her eh? ~ If this is mybrother, it indeed is at an amazing speed ""Coron....Please. I beg you. Please shut up""Then I'll leave ShuVi-chan to you then~ I already removedeveryone from the bathhouse, so this is the best opportunityoh!?""stop your hand movements!"After Coron stretch her hands in and inserted her right indexfinger into the hole created by the left hand, she ran away likethe wind............The only ones left was the intensely fatigued Riku and ShuViwho was on his body."its about time you get down from my body right?""...Un."Riku started thinking while facing against ShuVi who left hisbody in accordance to his instructions.......It was useless to say anything anymore.As a result, everyone would know that he was a lolicon1 andthe fact that he successfully tamed a war refugee.ButRiku felt, at least it was better than getting discoveredfor bringing an Ex-Machina back."....You, won't you have any problems with ingestion andbathing?"In order to mask the fact that she was a Ex-Machina, she needeto mimic humans at least".......It means, human beings...actions...?""you.......You can understand my intentions at thistiming, why is...."Riku was beginning to suspect if she was doing this onpurpose, but he felt that it must have being the difference inthinking as she is an Ex-Machina and he was a human. Un, Ishould keep the opinions to myself..2".....Ingestion....Not needed. Humanity's preciousresources......No need to waste...."Is she respecting our situation here? This is.....I really don'tunderstandI shall keep my opinions to myself."But you'll be suspected if you don't eat. At least eat a little. Itshouldn't affect your body right?"".....Un. Simply decompose it...Pointless...""I'll give part of my share to you. This way the food situationwouldn't change"Riku didn't allow ShuVi to refuse before continuing. "Againstwater""....No, problems....ShuVi, anti-water, anti-fire, anti-dust, antibullet,anti- explosion, anti-demons, anti-elemental particles....""You really are an unreasonable race. Then just pretend to bebathing" "....But....Anti-fouling...No function.""You even had anti-explosion right? Unless this is amechanical defect?""...If, usage of, elemental particles is available....Cleaning, selfcleaningdevice...But, Riku, said, not to use...."ShuVi protested, looking a bit angry."Damn, with things like this, just let it be wrong already.Taking advantage of Coron's misunderstanding""....Riku, help....Clean ShuVi..."Facing ShuVi who was nodding deeply with a determined tone,Riku hugged his head."Why should I.....You aren't a kid anymore, just do it yourselfah." In a logical manner, ShuVi used her finger to point out theproblems."....Firstly, take advantage of the empty bathhouse... ShuVialone... With Riku,... don't lose opportunity."."....Secondly, ShuVi, some parts, cannot clean....Unless selfcleaningdevice....Never clean before myself."Then"....Thirdly, deduced....No reason....To refuse bathing togetherwith ShuVi. As expected, against a young majestic beautylike""Okay okay, I get it....Let's go."Riku spurred on his heavy body that was deprived of sleep tostand up.Riku understood that it was impossible to win against an ExMachinain arguments.Riku dropped the stone which was burnt red into the cauldronfilled with water.The moment it was dropped in, the small bathroom got filledup wth billowing steam. The steam was used to sweat out anyimpurities in the body, which would then be rinsed off withwater. This was how humans showered.But because ShuVi did not have sweat glands, Riku had towipe the dust and mud gathered on her body with a rag dippedin warm water.With the close observation, the finesse and complexity ofShuVi's body awed Riku.Riku had studied all kinds of Dwarven equipment that utilizedelemental particles, yet he couldn't make sense of themachinery parts ShuVi was revealing.However, because of thisRiku understood that it was oneof the more superior parts."....Riku.....Machinery, crazy....?""Why does someone like you, who is from a high-class ExMachinarace, keep having the wrong guesses...or is it becauseyour knowledge is all prejudice?"Riku's voice sounded surprised, ShuVi who looked justifiedreplied.".....Imanity's, thinking.....Is related to the Heart....Unable topredict.....The specific point."..........In the silenced room, there was only the sound of drippingwater. Maybe she wanted to break the awkward silence, ShuVisuddenly said. "....Riku, play...A game?""Here in the bathroom? Why?""............Because Bored....?"ShuVi asked it in the from of a question as if she didn'tunderstand the meaning, prompting Riku to give a bitter smilebefore replying."Well, I guess we could.....But the use of elemental particles isprohibited, the chessboard"As if knowing that he would say these words.or maybe ShuVi had this intention from the start,Taking off the hood, she retrieved a chessboard hidden insidethe hat and showed it to Riku."...Ha, I get it. But since I'm helping you wash your hair, therecan't be any time limits oh."Sighing, Riku smiled bitterly and picked up the white pawnpiece.........."....Guuu.....I say, could you be more merciful, I'm busy tryingto wash your hair."While washing ShuVi's hair with his left hand, Riku still hadthink carefully, causing him to sigh.Contrary to that, ShuVi gave a stare while muttering."So,rry....""...Why are you Sorry."No, he was aware of it. But Riku felt a bit self-loathing, so hestarted acting as the fool".....After that, a detailed investigation was carried out...."ShuVi who was unable to understand the subtleties of theHeart, said self- reflecting words."....Unreasonable....For the assailant to question the victim'sHeart. Cannot, obtain correct data...."Assailant and victimRiku felt it was unexpected for thesewords to come right out of an Ex-Machina.At the same time, he felt a mysterious sense of disgust athimself to hear that a Mere Ex-Machinas could say these kindwords. Riku then said in a perfunctory manner."Like this...Before this your reaction is slow eh.""?.....Although, ShuVi....and Humans, are different......But wehave Central connecting nerves....""It's not that kind of meaning...."Riku's bitter smile was mixed with a sigh, but ShuVi who stilllooked the same seriously nodded."....Even, so........ShuVi doesn't, have any ideas...." ".........""...ShuVi, really....Wants to understand, Riku's heart....No,lies..." Noillusion, Riku strongly admitted.The depressed ShuVi lowered her head and caused uneasysoundsRiku could only sigh at her."Don't mind it......I was just a tad bit emotional."Even though it was a strange thing, Riku reflected that he hadnot yet organised his own emotions.All the things he had done weren't proper either. Riku wascertain about this point.But on top of this, the grim fact that was right before him,apologized for spreading destruction upon humanity?It was too unreasonable. ButRiku thought. If there was noapology, then there was nothing more irrational than this.in fact, he himself, was becoming abnormal.The usual Riku would be capable of controlling himself, butunknowingly, he couldn't control himself at that time.It probably wasn't due to ShuVi's words right. So whyLooking at Riku who was thinking such a thing, ShuVi blanklyasked."....Emotions....is not.....Capable of obtaining?""Yes. Emotionsfor example, you were hit because ofanger, but this can't solve anything, right?""But, Riku, Wanted...To hit ShuVi..."".....That was just a figure of speech. No, who knowsto behonest I'm not so sure about it."The dialogue was once again interrupted. The sound of waterdripping and the heat dulled Riku's mind......Breaking the silence that continued for a while was ShuVi."...Riku, why.....Closed up your Heart....Hmm?""You... are you really reflecting? THIS KIND OF SMALLPROBLEM RELATING TO ONE'S HEART"He shouted at ShuViShuVi used those glass-like red eyesto look back, Riku immediately stopped yelling.The Ex-Machina that doesn't have a HeartIt didn't matterwhether she had a Heart or notbut she definitely meantno harm......This guy really wanted to understand what a Heart trulymeans eh, Riku confirmed it in his heart.Compared to the rational, calculative, ruthlessRiku, shewas different.She only took the Real Riku that has a heartas a valuableobject of observation.*kacha*feeling that the Lock has been taken down, Riku sighed."....By not doing this, it is impossible to survive in this kind ofworld..."Closing his eyes, the scenery outside of the cave emerged in hiseyes.red burning sky, green land covered with black ash, thescene that continued even beyond the horizon.Without a mask, walking outside the dying world would resultin certain deathor maybe the world was already dead. "....That, because,ShuVi and the other races....?" "....I don't know..."In fact, Riku became clueless about it. No, from the start"It doesn't matter who was right and who was wrong.....Theactual problem is, Imanity has to seal their Hearts in order tocontinue surviving, or perhaps self- degration is the only wayto survive in this worldthis is too unreasonable.""....Unreasonable......Unreasonable. What is, unreasonable....?"what?Facing ShuVi's quiet muttering of words, Riku couldn't helpbut want to laugh at her, but.Ahhhh, indeedRiku corrected his own ideas. Logically,with a rational observationthere was nothing unreasonableabout it.It was simply just"The strong survives, the weak dies. No meaning, no reasons.This was how theworld was constructed...Feeling that it is Unreasonable isprobably the Heart....Although, I'm not very sure."While washing ShuVi's hair, Riku's heart held the thought ofgiving up. ShuVi slowly said."....Don't want....Riku, hurt...What, to do....?"?Suddenly, feeling that there was a sense of violation with whatshe said, Riku asked."Why should you care about me? If you only wanted tounderstand the Heart, just like yesterday, no hesitation""....I, am....Sorry.....""Ah~ I really don't want to repeat the old stuff. But what I sayisn't wrong. Taking my reasons into account"There is none. Was being unable to communicate with others areason?So there was no need to worry about Riku, if not, perhapspursuing the case could lure out his Truthful words"...............I, don't know."Riku frowned upon hearing an unclear answer from the ExMachinagirl for the first time."...I, don't know. But, Riku's injury....Want to avoid...""Oh~ allowing the other party to remain the same, otherwiseyou will be unable to obtain accurate data, like so?"Riku half-jokingly said, with an entirely logical and businessliketonebut. ".......Wrong....Feeling.....There is,unidentified reason.....But..."Unknowingly, ShuVi looked downwards and said in atrembling voice.He was convinced of the sense of violation. The speculationwhen Riku first met ShuViwas indeed correct.This Ex-Machina girlShuViwas broken. She wasn'tnormal.The proclamation before, she said Injured without beingconscious of it, this was obvious.Machinery? A self-proclaimed person who couldn't analysethe Heart could get hurt?"Hey, originally, from the cluster link....you were abandoned,right?" "....Un."She even said the reasons and details behind why she wasabandoned. A self- referential paradox, a failed theory thatcaused a fault and so on.Was she really herself? If she didn't have the blurry Hearthumans possessed, it was an extremely difficult question toavoid.She was abandonedit was natural for it to happen. But"In order to return back to the cluster, you want to analyse theHeart no matter what. But it is not related to harming meright""?.....No, don't want, to go back...oh?"un?"Ah, if not, then you, heard a command to analyse the Heartthen?" "?....It was, interest.....Own judgement....""What interestyou, your feelings, unless you say that itisn't the Heart?"Riku who was struggling to understand what she meant saidsuddenly, ShuVi froze.".........?...................?......I don't know.""Ah? What?"".....I, don't know...Riku, positive. But, ShuVi, can't, feel,important factor...Why?" "Eh, you are asking me?"Being asked so seriously, Riku's expression twitched, ShuVicontinued "....Waiting for answer, examples""...Anything is fine, Riku is fine if he is Riku, no interest, nomeaning, no relations, rejected to sync, prioritize analyzing, notanalyse but comprehendFlawContradictionIncorrectFlawContradiction" "Oi, oi. OI OI OI! THERE IS SMOKE COMING FROMYOUR HEAD, OI!?"Seeing the stunned ShuVi expounding smoke out, Rikucouldn't help but be strickened.but that was only for a few seconds. Surveying around thearea, ShuVi finally looked at Riku and nodded,"Conclusion. Looks like......Don't want to go back." "Youreally are ambiguous.""...Basis...Can't be certain....But this may be correct." "Reallyambiguous."Facing against Riku who had a bitter smile due to the divergingtopic that got weirder and weirder, ShuVi suddenly."...That, is so.....Checkmate."ah"You.....Talking to me so that I become unable to concentrateeh? One more time."".....Un."Looking at the Ex-Machina who was nodding her head, RIkufelt a sense of violation and a sense of restlessness.that little smile, could an imitation or a calculation replicateit out? "....Anyways."Putting aside the previous topic, Riku said, looking fatigued."You....Your hair is too long. I can't finish washing this. A littlemore and I'm gonna faint from this heat.""....If, its fine...Cut short the hair...?""No, no need to cut it short.....You really are elusive aren'tyou...." Muttering, Riku told himselfI understand.This guy is an Ex-Machina, something that can unintentionallykill off humans. Similar to other races, trampling on Imanityfor too many times.Vigilance around her cannot be slackened, His rationalityshouted. Butwhy.A girl who is constantly worried about the length of her hair,Riku didn't see the logic out of this.Riku couldn't help but laugh softly.How long has it been since ShuVi came into the colony?Because there wasn't a proper calender, if an approximateestimate was to be made, she had stayed in the colony forAbout a year already.Time flies, Riku felt. It was a few days, yet it felt like aneternity to him.... ".....I say, exactly how many people arein the Old Deus race?"Playing a chess game with ShuVi in a narrow bedroom, Rikuunhappily raised his face and asked."...In theory there is an Unlimited number.....The amount ofconcepts, are proportional....But most of them don't meet....Theconditions to live."Riku had a grim expression in response to ShuVi's uncertainanswer.Riku sighed, having to face the truth that he was losing fromjust a move, as Riku continued thinking of the next trick, hecontinued."The Old Deus are mainly divided into the God of War, theForest god and others right?"Although the things they do are similar, in war they werecompletely different. Facing the doubt in Riku's heart, ShuVinodded her head."......The former is Artosh.....The Flgel's, creator....The latteris Cainasu...Creator of, the Elves."But, Riku wasn't listening to ShuVi.During the dialogue and the chess game, Riku suddenlythought of something in the midst of thinking up tactics to win.No matter how many times he challenged, no matter how manytimes the best tactics were usedhe had the feeling of beingsurpassed......In his childhood, he would always see the person who hecouldn't win nomatter what, a teenager who had a rebellious smile."I sayis there a God of Games?"he only thought of this as a possibility. He only realized howabsurd it was after saying it out, but Riku seriously answeredback."....There is. But....There is not confirmation of the Divinemarrow.....Speculation, does not fulfill the conditions forliving."I'd really gotten accustomed to holding a conversation withShuVi in this year eh, Riku thought to himself while giving abetter smile.The specific situation is unclear, that was the case.The Old Deus is a form of concept. Since there is the conceptfor games, naturally the God of Games existed.But its Real existence would have to rely on whether therewas any Divine marrow."Simply put....There isn't any for now right"Checkmated. Riku stood up, his scores to add another blackstar."I say, I'd already told you, there is no need to use that kind oftone when there is only the two of us.""...Un...The central unit for processing sound while thinking,seems....To be irreversible....""Un, speaking in a way where even humans can listen?" "....Itseems. Unable to return, to original."What an ambiguous answer, to speak in such an old manner,Riku walked out of the room with ShuVi while carrying a wrylook.while walking outside the room, the colony was of adifferent atmosphere compared to a year ago.Looking at ShuVi who was beside him, Riku admitted. Sinceshe came, there was a substantial increase in the amount ofideas.She took the initiative to help calculate and design even whenno one asked her. With her help, the accuracy of measuringtools and enemy-detection items improved drastically. Theperformance of Coron's telescope also improved, the efficiencyof growing livestock has also made progress.The necessity of going out for investigations also decreased.There was enough food to even have a Reserveinaddition."Yo! Riku. I see you're having a leisurely time with your wifein the room again eh.""Didn't I say she's not my wife you baldy! Just go and spendyour lifetime with your telescope already!""ShuVi-chan~ Thank you always for playing with thechildren~" Obviously, the number of smiles in the colony alsoincreased.Because if they just stayed in the colony, humans could livewithout having to face the fear of death.But looking at this scene, Riku's expression cast a slightshadow.I know. This is just a temporary peace, the calm before thestorm.This brief moment of having Good times, would fade awaylike dust when the proclaimed Gods unintentionally steppedonto their heads.Forgetting about this reality and getting immersed in a momentof calmness got be said to be a blessing.But eventually, this kind of life would disappear. It could betommorow or perhaps todayor maybe even now.Was it because the people were given too much hope? Rikufrowned when he thought of this. However, what could they doaside from doing this?"Pretending to not see despair, believing this place to be safe,living until the day the war ends?Riku considered that he might be able to achieve this"Oi, boss! Stop playing around with your wife's crotch, youshould come help us repair the leak from this side!""un~, if you want to get pounded then just say it. I'llgladly provide the language of the Fist no matter how muchof it you want."Riku rolled up his sleeve and gave a stiff smile before headingto the direction of the soundleaving behind ShuVi, ShuVistood rooted to the ground in a daze, waiting motionlessly untilRiku came back."Che~vit~chan~"ShuVi wordlessly turned back when she suddenly got hugged.A smiling Coron stood there."Alone~ What are you doing? ~Not going with Riku?" "...Riku,didn't call me....To, follow...""Wahaaaa! ShuVi-chan, just forget about that man and marryme!? What kind of stupid husband would leave such acuuu~tee wife behind right?~, rub rub rub rub""....Riku, isn't....stupid..."Seeing ShuVi who gently pouted her lips, Coron squinted hereyes and inquired. "I say ShuVi-chan. As the older sister, whenI say these kind of words" "....Riku said before....Just ignorethe self-proclaiming sister...." "Ahahaha~...I'll give that brata little something later~, anyways!"Cough cough*, stopping the current topic, Coron succinctlyasked. "Which part of Riku is ShuVi-chan attracted to~?""....Attracted, to?....""Un~, I asked what part of him do you Like~, youunderstand~ "suddenly, ShuVi discovered that she was Nervous.She didn't know why. It must have been the side-effect ofmimicking human behavior.But this time, in contrast to Coron's cheerful expressionShuVi felt that she was being probed.After some careful thoughts. For her who has yet to finishanalyzing the Heart.So naturally she had not analysed the emotion known as Like,she also could not define itso"...I, don't know..."Therefore, ShuVi decided to give a honest answer. "...I'minterested,....in feelings...of Riku's....Heart...."The memory of ShuVi's first meeting with Riku flashed pasther mind.At that time, Riku's eyes, and among the things that existedand what happened, the Ex-Machina should not have thepower to think.Yet the Cluster determined there were ethical flaws that wasdangerous, there was the power of thought that released ShuVifrom the link"...Oh~, un un~ So that's the case~"Not knowing what she meant, Coron happily Defined it."That is~ which meanslove at first sight right?"eh?"Un un Although Riku's face isn't particularly good-looking,he is that kind of character at first glance"Facing the wide-eyed ShuVi whose body was stiff, Coronnodded her head and said with a smile."If you seen thorough Riku's Conscience and fell in love withhimun, then I can safely hand my little brother to you""........"Love at first sightthe concepts needed to be analysedincreased again, this gave ShuVi a feeling of fatigue.Charmed, like, love. The analysis for all three of them wereincomplete, yet there was a new Love at first sightto fallin love at the first moment, this kind of new information.Unless, she won't be able to understand the Heart for the restof her life"oi, Coron. What kind of dubious thing are you teachingto her again?" Settling his business, Riku came back and saidto Coron."Oh, how rude of you, my little brother. You really are afailure!! When did I teach her anything dubious""Teaching her that I'm a lover of big breasts and stuffing twoprecious foods into her chest....Are you normal?""How rude, I'm obviously a normal person oh! This is a childthat will become my little sister oh? In order to not let her borein her sexual life I must""We're leaving. Stupidity is contagious. Don't interact with herany further." "....Intellectual level, is,something...Contagious,....?"Faced with staggering new facts, ShuVi's eyes widened. As ifurging her, Riku grabbed onto ShuVi's hand."Eh? Riku, where are you going?""Its about time to teach her how to collect food. I must teachher the method of using animal traps."This of course was a lie. After all, if it was an Ex-Machina,beating a Demonia empty-handed would be easy.Moreover, ShuVi's agethe number of years since she wasmanufactured, was about 210 years.He wanted to rely on ShuVi machine power to go to a placethat he wanted to personally confirmthis was somethinghe couldn't say out."I might be coming home late, but I won't go too far."hearing these words, Coron smacked her right hand like ahammer onto her left hand, revealing a meaningful smile."Ahhhis it green rape3? ""Coron, changing your brain might be optimal.""Oh, but since the sky is like this, shouldn't it be red rape!? Inany case, because it's cold, don't catch a cold""Shut up, you are too noisy. Let's goShuVi."Riku turned away with an unhappy look......It appeared thatRiku did not notice. Only ShuVi and Coron noticed. EspeciallyShuViThis was the first time Riku called her using her name.Her thinking was buried under an unknown error. ShuVisensed her body temperature was rising.She attached this memory with the label of Most importantand carefully kept it. However, she did not know the reasonwhy.After half a day he was finally on the ground. It wassurprisingly easy with ShuVi aroundRiku thought.It would take five days to travel on horse, a few months on footdue to the constant hiding, but it took half a day for ShuVi whoheld Riku."....So this is the destroyed city of the Elves..." This was a placeRiku frequented a year ago.The buildings that were woven with trees had alreadycollapsed. Although the ugly burnt marks remained, the citywas slowly getting overshadowed by growing flowers andplants, just like an elegant garden.With the sky dyed a blood red and the ground getting invadedby the black asheven though this world was like death, this place stillreceived protection from the Gods. As expected of the capitalbuilt by the creator of elves, the God of forest. Rikusarcastically said.Those guys were the ones who threw the planet into hell, yetthey turned their own homes into an amusement area.After the two walked together for a while, they finally stoppedat their destination.In the midst of the destruction and burning ruins, there was abuilding that retained it's shape. Riku asked."Is this...the library?""....Probably...Compared, to other facilities...and the degree ofmurder in the city....Here, the damage was minor...."This meant that during the attack from the Flgels, there was apriority to defend this place.It might have been a refuge facility, a facility that had researchmaterialsor it was simply a storage facility."....I see. It probably is a library."Unable to find a door, the two of them slipped into the buildingusing the gap from the tree.What was displayed in front of them wasThe wonderful architectural style was the same even aftergoing inside, it was hard to determine what was the usage ofthe building from the inside.They could make out what looked to be a bookshelf among theother items.However, it was emptied. It appears the books have alreadybeen transferred away...But this was enough."The knowledge they don't need, might prove to be meaningfulfor us...."Saying so, Riku surveyed the area and inspected scraps ofpaper as well as partially-damaged books."...Riku, can read Elven language...?"*sha la sha la* Looking at Riku who was browsing through thebooks, ShuVi asked."Dwarven, Elven, Demon, Fairy, Werebeastwhat languagedo you want me to reply in?"ShuVi stared in amazement in response to Riku's nonchalantanswer. "...Why, so, many....""Because you can't survive without understanding. It wouldn'tbe valuable to retrieve an intel that you couldn't read." Withneither hatred nor anger, Riku said that with a focusedexpression.ShuVi knows Riku when he makes this kind of expression,that kind of eyes.That was the expression Riku makes when he seriously wantedto win against ShuVi in chess."Men just get killed meaninglessly. But through words, notesand the like, we areable to understand the nature of each race, language and theirhabits. This was the unspoken law that spread up till now."With black eyes that don't reflect any light, Riku recountedtheir weakness and how fragile human beings were. Humanscould only run so far. But there was something in those pair ofeyes that ShuVi desperately wanted to know, as it wassomething different from words.Don't underestimate humans, the Heart that recounted this."....Ah.....Riku, Riku..."Hearing ShuVi's voice who was exploring around, Riku liftedhis headShuVi was cutting away a heavy stone that was on the ground,and after using brute force to twist off a few thick iron plates,ShuVi turned to the bewildered Riku and calmly said."......Underground, installed....With camouflage.....Aspace..There is basement....Oh?"Riku's expression stiffened when he saw ShuVi easily liftingup the metal doors over her head that were almost ten times herheight.......After ShuVi confirmed if there was any biological activity, thetwo of them walked down the stairs. Then"...What is, this."Faced with the incredible scenery displayed under the longladder, Riku leaked out a surprised voice.A spacious hall, there were huge pillars erected at the center ofthe hall.There were a myriad of red patterns engraved onto the surfaceof the twisted pillars.".....One hundred and eighty....Patterns, the God Cainasu'sprotectionsymbols?....No."ShuVi who instantly grasped the number of pillars tried toanalyse the carvings, but this was too much."....Comparing with database of the Elves...The carving,procedure....Is completely...Different?...""It must either be an attempt to produce something or is a newthing that ShuVi doesn't know. However, up till now, no matterwhat these guys wanted to do, even setting the planet toexplode or something, isn't surprising. But compared tothose"From the perspective of a human, blowing off the planet anddestroying the mainland didn't have that much of a difference.Riku wiped the dust off the base of the pillar and read thenameplate on it."Number 0 Void defenseTheoretical first verificationtest...ShuVi, do you have any clue?""Nothing, in line....With Elven, item....Media, usage of Magic,basically....Nothing, in match."I seeit was incomprehensible, but Riku's Intuition toldhim."No matter what, it won't be good to stay for long. Although Idon't know if there is any, check around for any paper leftbehind and leave."ShuVi nodded her head and deftly collected the rest of thepaper. Riku noticed a piece of paper among the stack."...Even the Developer's name must be written in a code,what exactly is it...."Looking at the name list filled with secret codes, Riku felt hisbody to be trembling.It won't be good to stay for long, although Riku and ShuVi wasplanning on retreating fast."Damn it....Its impossible to move inside this stuff."When they left the library, or the mysterious institute, they meta Death Storm.This was the reaction caused with the black ash and theincreased density of the ash, creating a vortex of aquamarinephenomenon.If encountered, no matter what kind of measures were taken,the ash infused with Elemental bones would penetrate theprotective clothing and contaminate the human body.The two of them could only withdrew back into the desertedplace. "Riku, at this, timing...What do you, do?"Hiding in a small room at the highest level of the desertedinstitute, ShuVi asked Riku."Nothing we can do. Explore caves, ruins and the like, if therewasn't anything like that, we would dig a hole to survive."Riku sighed while answering so. The death storm was notsomething mystifying. Personal experience have shown that thestorm would last from a few hours at least to a day at most. Hehad already experienced hiding in a narrow pit for a day acouple of times already. The problem waswas this placesafer than a cave."ShuVi seems to be worried, is something wrong? Did youdetect any sign of movements?""...Blocked, by Elemental bones....Device for distantobservation, incapable...Unable, to use...""Un..Then this probably means, this place is considered safe insome ways."Which meansthanks to the Death Storm, it would bedifficult to get detected here.There was no way to get out, it was also dangerous for ShuVito be moving at high-speed without any capabilities to detectany enemy.With that being the case, Riku turned towards ShuVi andasked. "ShuVi, did you bring the chess set over?""........"To bring the least amount of baggageShuVi who wasrequested of this by Riku thought she would get blamed."....I'm, sorry...."As if wanting to hide her expression, she lowered her head andapologized. Then, she took the chessboard out with afrightened look.This movement, was as if the Ex-Machinas were afraid ofhumans. Facing such a situation, Riku couldn't help but smile."I won't blame you....Since we have nothing to do before thestorm stops, why don't we play a game.""?....Is it, okay...?"While looking to be unexpected and yet quite happy, ShuVi setdown a pawn.Staring at the chessboard, Riku started thinkingthe recordsbetween him and ShuVi for the past year.one hundred and eighty losses, zero wins. Don't think aboutbeating ShuVi, even a draw didn't happen.But the situation where a surprise move forced ShuVi toimmerse into deep thought happened several times too.In other words, she wasn't something who Absolutely cannotlose.a bold and senseless smile emerged from Riku's face,causing ShuVi to ask."Riku, why....You can't win, yet...Continue to fight,?""Ha? What a strange question, wasn't it you who said that youwould give me the intelligence I want if I won?""....Liar....Riku couldn't have possibly....Not...Noticed..."Yes, this was impossible. Riku was something that wasimperceptible. "...I...Gave..All intelligence,Riku..Wanted....Already..."........With the exception of the violent noise of the wind, silencedawned. ShuVi then said."...Riku....Very powerful, oh....Very hardworking." "comforting words are useless here."Interestingly, Coron had said these words before, and Rikureplied using the same words.The conversation ended here. Riku thought, but."....Comforting?......Wrong...This is, fact..." ShuVi retorted,her expression bitter.Then, as if seeing something rare, Riku widened his eyes.It was an expression of not knowing what to say, but ShuVicontinued."...Now, the planetary environment...Is deadly forhumans....But to be able to survive, is .....Abnormal."Those were the words Riku had said when he clutched ontoRiku.Although these words could hurt Riku, even so, ShuVi went onwhile trembling."This anomalycorrection, exploit....Could be achieved,because of Riku's Heart....Will."Next, staring into the black eyes of Riku's that didn't shine,ShuVi concluded. "regardless, how did, Riku thinkthis was all Objective facts....""Ha? Does that mean, that it is useful for Imanity if ExMachina-samakeeps the winning streak against me?""....Ex-Machina-sama....How, I don't know...But, I judge.But" ShuVi seriously, with red glass-like pupils, gazed atRiku and continued. "...Riku, you cannot accept, all of these...""Of course, what good is it to linger in this kind of world""No...."ShuVi refuted, interrupting Riku's words and continuing."....You yourself, possibly...haven't noticed it..." Staring intoRiku's eyes, ShuVi asserted."...Riku, regardless of who...You don't want any of, them todie....You, pray....Regardless of who. Even if, it was theexistence that would destroy the humanseven if, I.""!!"Riku's face distorted.ShuVi was unclear as to why Riku didn't kill her from before.She was unable to judge Riku's behavior and actions, she stillcouldn't understand.But precisely because of this, she could assert.".....That is the Heart..I, speculate...Definition." "......"Facing Riku who was silent and lowering his head, ShuVicontinued. "I assert....Riku, very powerful....But, Riku, cannotaccept."Right, and to say why."...Because you don't want to accept...Because you cannot,identify yourself...."In the room where the sound of the wind could be heard, alaugh leaked out. Riku slowly lifted his head, supporting hischeek using his hand.using eyes that reflected the image of ShuVi in front of him,Riku slowly said."You, I'm really angry ah....For someone full of theories to bethis troublesome..." "I'm, sorry.""...Don't apologize...This is just a fool being angry athimself...." Yes, as if spitting out his soul, Riku admitted.Ahhh, it literally was the meaning of Open closed.There was no room for rebuttal, he was having the feelingwhere he didn't even feel like speaking.The Lock in his heart was forced open, it was pathetic to tryand brave through things now."Ahh, yes, that is the case. I don't want to get recognized byanyone, someone like me who is like dog shit..."Continuing to escape from fate....What can that do?However, in the end, what can I do!?....Riku leaned onto the wall and looked up at the ceiling. Hewhispered as if repenting."...Oi, so in the end what am I suppose to do, what can I do toforgive myself?"He kept giving up on winning because he was just someonewho couldn't sacrifice his own precious life to save someoneelse.To save two persons, one had to be killed, to save four persons,two had to be killed.Thinking that this was the only way, the form to disguisehimself.repeatedly doing this kind of thing, how could he berecognized? Looking at how Riku was shamefully questioninghimself, she continued. "This is what I want to know...Riku'sHeart, how...to answer...?" "haha, its precisely because Idon't know that I'm asking you...." Riku lowered his gaze whilehaving a hollow laugh, but ShuVi continued. "No matter whatthe answer is....I will...Help....""....Why..."ShuVi blankly answered the question in a natural manner."I said once...Before I understand the Heart...I will,accompany you..."haha....This is, really reliable.... "Having said that..."*pata*, moving the pieces on the chessboard, ShuViannounced. ".....Checkmate.""ShuVi...In here, it should at least be a tie right, for theatmosphere." ".....?....Air conditions....? What's wrong....?"4."With the similar answer as always, Riku looked out thewindow while revealing a smile.Not knowing when, the storm had stopped.Looking downwards from the window, they saw the bloomingcolorful flowers unaffected by the death storm, as if underprotectiong from the Forest God.Might as well say, the scene where the petals were dancing inthe room was uncomfortable, but"....Beautiful...."Riku looked towards the person who stole his lines.The Ex-Machina girl that he felt to be more human than him,her eyes were chasing the petals dancing in the air.The shining pair of crimson clear eyes caught everything insight. "ShuVi."Facing the girl who slowly looked back, Riku asked a questionhe dismissed long ago"tell me. Tell me the purpose of this war and how to endit."Riku and ShuVi walked together in the garden of flutteringpetals in the ruined city of the Elves.Although the black ash were blown away by the death storm, itwas a matter of time before it got covered up again. Eventhough they couldn't stroll leisurely and enjoy the situation,Riku had to repeat it again for ShuVi to hear."The sole God's throne..Star cup....Eh."The title of Sole God bestowed unto the winner of the warevery God's throne and Elemental Gallery.The device that had the concept of absolute controlStarcup.This was the reason and purpose behind the Great war, theimplementation method is.....Really"Oi, ShuVi. Can you answer one of my question."bearing such a doubt, Riku asked."That....Unless no one discovered that there was anothermethod?" "....Other....Me,thod...?"Seeing ShuVi's widened eyes, Riku sighed in his heart.I see, even ShuVi had not discovered that method yet.No, because it was ShuVi, because she was the strong, so shedidn't notice something as simple as this?"...Hey, ShuVi. Will I be forgiven if I was alone?" "?.....Riku,isn't....Alone....Oh?""No no...I always felt like a fool to brave through thingsbut." Riku smiled while wearing the dust mask.Riku's expression couldn't be seen at all the whole time. ButShuVi could clearly see the sparkling black eyes behind hisgoogles."But if I'm with ShuVi, I feel that I can do some interestingthings in this world""....Interesting? I don't know, joke...."Caressing ShuVi who lowered her head in an apologeticmanner, Riku smiled."Its because of this that it feels extremely interesting.....ShuVi,is it boring to be with me?""No."ShuVi quickly answered in a serious manner."Really? You're not lying? I'm a heartless guy oh, the boredfeeling of being with me""If, not interested in Riku....I won't relieve myself of thelink......And stay here." This time, his words were interruptedby ShuVi who answered seriously.Riku thoughtHow would he accomplish it? The Heart inside him thatShuVi was looking for. However, ShuVi was willing to helpregardless of his answer...Maybe.What should he docomplying to his wishes was not a badidea. "....Un, this is....Hmm..."With eyes watching Riku who was having a deep thought,ShuVi said. "...I, am....Interested....In this kind....of Riku'seyes...""Really? The things I'm thinking now might even be too muchfor a kid's delusion oh.""..This is good...Norevision..."Repeating the thought several of times in her head, she came toa conclusion. Nodding deeply, ShuVisuccessfully definedthis feeling.Not knowing whether it was because she was feeling happy,ShuVi gave a radiant smile that made people forget that she isactually a machine"...I guessthis is also....Like....?"in the end, even Riku didn't quite understand what shemeant. "What an ambiguous way to say it!"in the end, how long has it passed since he did this. Hecouldn't remember. Riku hugged his stomach, laughed until histears started streaming out.Thenshortly after. The destined moments finally arrived."Riku!! This is bad, the telescope captured 6 Dragonias andseveral Dwarven fleets heading our direction!!"Watching Simon who ran down with his face pale, he saidtowards Coron."Their direction of travel are North and East west respectively!If they collide, 9 miles east of the colony would be thebattlefield.the sound of screams resounding in the colony declared theend of the moment of peace.Riku instructed for the food and other luggage to be broughtout, efficiently directing the works for a full retreat.Meanwhile, Riku, ShuVi and Coron delineated the effectiverange of the battlefield.They found 28 other places from an investigation 5 years ago,and determined the most appropriate location for a shelter.Completing the preparations to evacuate 8 hours before thefighting began, the began to move, then..........The colony of almost 2000 people witnessed their homesgetting engulfed by light and then disappearing.The deceased numbered less than 200, who all died whilecommanding the last evacuating people.In the case where fighting ensued near the colony, their losswere considerably small in number.But seeing the colony and rock hill evaporated off, the peopleon the highplatform started to cry.this was natural. Coron who thought of this clenched hertrembling fists. If one lost his home, then rebuild it. Althoughthe logic can be understood.The telescope they desperately repaired was gone. It couldn'tbe helped, they had to accept that everything happenedprecisely because of this moment.Information, map, measuring items and every other importantthings were brought outbut.The important things were not always visible. The effort andsacrifice needed to maintain the colony, the memories of livingthere, as well as their prayers and desires.all of these disappeared in a moment,And that was because of a stray bullet that held no malice normeaning to destroy their homes.Someone who doesn't cry would be abnormal. The person whosaw all of this is crazy.Indeed, their lives were saved. However, what could their livesdo after this? Repeat this experience one more time?Paying for the miserable memories of tears, sacrifice and bitinglips. And once again, disappear as if it was garbage?In the moment where Coron couldn't hold it in anymore andwas about to start crying, Coron saw the back of the figure ofher little brother."Riku.....Ri, Riku!!"Coron ran towards the figure that was hugging his own kneesand constantly trembling."Riku, hold it in! With so many people alive, Riku had donehis best!"he was at his limits.Stop making excuses, Coron warned herself while making upher mind.I can no longer rely on my little brother, letting him bear all theburden....Later on he"Riku, stop it, okay? Just let Nee-chan to take over" Rightnow."ShuVi, recorded it?" "...No...Problems..."Riku who cheerfully looked up, his face had a bright anddegrading smile. "ah, th, that? Ri, Riku..?"It was a women's sixth sense, seeing the drastic changes thatRiku underwent, Coron reflectively wanted to step back.Won't let you escape! Caught on the wrist by Riku, Coroncouldn't help but issue out an Ah!."Ju~st like that oh Coron, from now on the colony's Elder isyou, so a pleasure to work with you ""ha, eh, EH?"Handing over the map with a his face full of smiles, Rikustraightened his back and stood up."This is the location of the new colony. Passing through thecave, the other side should be safe. Although it isn'timmediately habitable, once it's arranged, it is livable. Becausethis place was chosen by the things we brought out."Saying so, Riku exchanged glances with ShuVi who stood athis side.Then with a cheery smile, they walked away in the oppositedirection. Coron who finally had a peace of mind cried out."Wa, wait a moment Riku! Without you, Ithe colonywill"No matter what, if Rikuif her little brother isn't present,wanting to replace him is impossible.Coron cried out, but"No, there won't be any problems if Coron is presentbecause from now on I won't let anyone die.""...Eh?""Well, rest assured. I will properly keep in touch with you. Ifit's Coron, I can safely hand everyone over to you."Coron stared blankly as Riku's figure started to fade away. "hey, Riku..."She called his namebut, the person who turned backwasn't Riku anymore.no, incorrect. I know. This was the Riku she met the lasttime.His eyes had a bottomless enthusisam, but yet the boy chose toseal off his heart.Believing to pry open the Lock in his heart, was undoubtedlythe young girl beside him.Coron spat out a big, yet gentle sigh.Although he already guessed that it would be an unbelievableanswer, Coron still asked"Heywhat are you planning on doing?"Expected answer, no, the answer was more than expected. Theorginal Riku who is naive, bold and full of fiery answered."just a game. A simplechild's play that is about tobegin oh!"