To establish a family, several vital elements must come together.
The presence of father, mother, children, and possibly a pet that truly defines a household as a cohesive unit.
Similarly, in order to establish a city where many family resides, other vital components are also needed. Such as the size of the area, patterns of relationships and rational activities, as well as a sizable population.
Furthermore, to form a country where many cities are located inside of it, other essential requirements are necessary. These may include territorial boundaries, governance, and the ability to engage with other nations.
These examples offer but a glimpse into the foundational principles of creation woven by humanity.
When creating something, it's crucial to have methods, preparatory steps, a location, support, and other planned components in place.
It's the same just as when someone establishes a family, moving to another city, or even taking a trip to another country. Over time, they'll undoubtedly witness changes unfolding in their lives as a result of their step.
Nothing happens without a reason, and nothing comes into existence without an initial cause—this is the fundamental understanding of humanity.
Those who delve deeper into this concept bring forth the term "Cause and Effect" to support this theory. When a "Cause" propels forward, the corresponding "Effect" inevitably follows.
This world operates on the same principle.
An abundance of suffering and destruction exists, yet on the other side, lies a reservoir of joy and unity that rivals it. This balance is the essence of life, maintaining harmony as all things should be.
Cause and effect continuously play out in this world, ensuring that people understand the dual nature of their existence. This way, individuals know that the world they inhabit holds both answers and questions for their uncertainties.
As well the ultimate goals they seek to achieve.
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「The Monoliths」
Among the grand constructs of our time, the Monoliths stood as monumental achievements, designed to ensure the continued prosperity of the people residing behind their shadow.
These awe-inspiring structures were not merely the product of human ingenuity, they're a harmonious blend of cutting-edge technology, natural resources, and an unfathomable rule of authority.
Their creation was guided by sacred texts, believed to be the writings of the sanctuary itself.
With a height reaching 2 kilometers, or approximately 6,600 feet, towering into the sky like a massive pillar, and a width comparable to that of a small hill, the presence of this construct was so grand that it could even be seen from the distant city of Soukai.
When viewed from the front, each Monolith resembled a towering rectangular pillar stretching into the heavens.
Together with the other Monoliths, they formed a majestic ring of colossal pillars, encircling the vast expanse of Soukai City and its surroundings.
Many people often referred to the Monoliths as "The Blackstair to Heaven" due to their towering form and imposing presence.
However, these constructs had nothing to do with either "stairs" or "heaven."
In reality, the Monoliths weren't stairways to the heavens, but rather stalwart pillars, standing sentinel to emanate a protective barrier around the inhabited realm of humanity.
Forged from a special metallic composite known as Soulium, and augmented with a rare metal called Varanium, the Monoliths stood aligned for a singular purpose.
This purpose was derived from the unique properties and field emitted by those two materials—a specialized aura capable of purifying and repelling specific entities that dared to approach their vicinity.
Among these entities, the term "Honkai" held particular significance.
Although its arrival brought significant advancements and improvements to human life, Honkai also frequently brought disasters, seemingly intent on destroying everything humanity had built.
Considering its impact, it's clear that Honkai represents one of the negative aspects of this world. Even with the Monoliths' protection, traces of Honkai still appear where humans reside.
Hence, it can be concluded that the Monoliths were created by humanity as an effort to purify and repel the Honkai and other specific entities beyond human comprehension.
All of it was crafted with the aim of ensuring their survival, striving to live peacefully shielded from whatever lay beyond the reach of those Monoliths.
And using the distinctive construct as a propeller, while harnessing an unusual ability capable of shielding them from purification, El Dust propelled himself into space, accompanied by his two hostages, Yae Rin and Higokumaru.
They pierced through the sky, embarking on their journey into the unknown expanse above.
...
....
.....
As the evening drew to a close, it marked the time when most schoolchildren returned home from their classes, heading towards the comfort of their houses.
Yet, for the workers who toiled for sustenance, wealth, and dignity, their duties still demanded their time and attention. Such was the case for two uniformed officers diligently executing their tasks.
["We've detected a foreign object exiting the atmosphere in the vicinity of Monolith serial 17's Veil Sector. Mayor Himeko and Private Fu Hua have been dispatched to investigate any anomalies at the Monolith."]
Far removed from the urban clamor and stretching across vast expanses of human settlements, there lies a designated haven for the Monoliths—a containment domain known as the Veil Sector.
Based from common folks' view, there're numerous theories often arise when discussing this place.
Tales abound regarding this enigmatic area, from whispers of hiding the remain of Alien or being of space, to forbidden sanctuaries that will upon the end of the world.
Such theories could be found or heard slipped beneath chats and talk, which Made the Veil Sector to be more bizarre.
This area bears a striking resemblance to the infamous meme of Area 51, perhaps The Will of the World indeed draws inspiration from Zeimachi's memorie regarding this Meme.
But who knows.
The Veil Sector is under constant surveillance around the clock, with at least two individuals assigned to each Watchtower bearing serial numbers corresponding to the Monolith they are tasked to monitor.
But don't be worried, as both the personnel and their Watchtowers are equipped with state-of-the-art technology reminiscent of a 22nd-century fortress.
Their capabilities extend far beyond mere surveillance, boasting advanced detection systems, threat-neutralizing protocols, and fortified defenses, all meticulously upgraded and rigorously trained to ensure the sector's security.
"Roger."
And one of them, is a red-haired officers who switched off her transmitter.
She exuded assurance upon having received confirmation of her observation, unlike her colleague who remained silent, processing the same information.
"See? I'm not imagining things. There really is someone climbing that towering structure. How could you even thought if I'm high..." 「Major Himeko」
"Then care to explain that opened can?" 「Private Hua」
One might wonder what is happening between them, but Private Hua's suspicion wasn't unfounded.
Especially upon seeing a can of alcoholic beverage nearby that Major's hand.
It was easy for the mind to be deceived when under the influence of such liquids after all.
"...Uhh." 「Major Himeko」
Despite having an appearance akin to a temptation for a man's heart, her frustation slowly pent up whenever Private Hua saw this behavior of hers.
"T-This is, uh... I mean, just a little won't hurt, right? Can I, Hua? Pretty please? Allow your dear Mayor to indulge just a tad~" 「Major Himeko」
"Your authority trumps mine, Major," Private Fu Hua replied firmly.
Receiving cold shoulder, Major Himeko leaned against the rail of the tower she was currently stationed at.
"Hehe, it seems you're still the same as always. Well, I'll keep this chilled for later. Just make sure not to touch it, alright?" and with that, she placed the open can on the chair she had previously occupied.
Transitioning from her playful and teasing demeanor, the Major deftly tied back her vibrant red hair before retrieving essential items from the locker inside the Watchtower.
With their orders received, they swiftly prepared to act and it's the end of playing around.
In sync with the red-haired Major, the stoic teenager with bluish-purplish hair and glasses, also swiftly readied herself for the impending mission.
"When are we going to the Monolith?" 「Private Hua」
"Pronto." 「Major Himeko」
"Yes!" 「Private Hua」
After reporting their discovery to their organization's operator, they would now proceed to investigate the anomaly that had breached the forbidden territory to ordinary individuals.
It's part of their job, and also the duty they received from their organization.
Concerning the organization they were now part of, it operated within the hidden depths of Soukai City. Details about them remained scarce, except for the Mark they're using.
Their symbol depicted an insect, reminiscent of a moth consumed by fire. It bore a striking resemblance to a Fire Moth... or perhaps "Fire Moth" was indeed their name?
"Did the badge perform its function? It's surprising to see our trainee utilizing it so quickly. Let's hear your thoughts!" 「Major Himeko」
"The badge's function and battle suit are satisfactory. I'm ready to advance whenever needed," Private Fu Hua responded confidently.
With a badge bearing the emblem of a fiery insect now serving as their "Safety Kit," the two soldiers wasted no time in setting out for the scene.
In regards to their badges, they were integral tools provided to every Monolith guard, each customized with unique features tailored to the individual user.
Essentially serving as their ID, the badge was crucial for their recognition and access within the complex.
Without the functions of their badges, they risked being identified as foreign personnel, triggering the Watch Tower's defense system to lock them out.
Conversely with their badges active, the guards could seamlessly navigate through the Veil Sector of the Monoliths, advancing closer to the Monolith itself without hindrance.
"...You don't sound worried at all," Major Himeko remarked with a sigh. "I thought I could sense a bit of nerves from you."
"I'd be lying if I said I wasn't nervous, but why should I be?" Private Fu Hua replied. "It's my first time going to the Monolith, but I have a dependable major to lead me, don't I?"
"You and your words! But at least you know we're not going to dilly-dally," Major Himeko chuckled.
"I thought I might see another side of your cuteness. But as expected of our little Hua! Alright, enough mood lifting. Follow my lead, Private." 「Major Himeko」
The Private responded with a firm answer, her sense of duty slowly intertwining with her fear and resolve as she tightened her grip.
This determination, would lead her to a place of immense significance, a place where the future of those she knew and cared for would be decided.
...
....
.....
Still together with the red-haired Major and the glasses Private.
Not long after they continued their journey for several minutes, they've now arrived at the first rendezvous point, previously designated in their plan.
This location was none other than the southern outskirts of the Veil Sector, Monolith Series 17.
"We've reached the Veil Sector. Nothing unusual or anyone in sight, as usual." 「Major Himeko」
["Proceed to the next checkpoint."]
"Understood." 「Major Himeko」
Each Veil Sector of the Monolith varies significantly from one another.
But for the area encompassing the Veil Sector of Series 17 is essentially an abandoned district, evacuated due to its proximity to the Monolith.
Numerous buildings and public infrastructures have been deserted and lie in ruins within this sector.
Vehicles are ineffective in navigating the terrain of Veil Sector Series 17 because of the extensive destruction, including irreparably damaged asphalt roads.
Consequently, after reaching the farthest point accessible by vehicle, they continued on foot to reach the Monolith itself.
"It's indeed huge...." 「Private Hua」
"And it's just the seventeenth among the 64 surrounding this city. But well... it's also why we can't see the sun from this side. Let's hurry before it gets dark," Major Himeko replied, giving a reassuring pat on the private's shoulder.
The Monolith loomed over them, its shadow stretching far across the desolate landscape. The thought of 63 more of these massive structures encircling the city was both daunting and impressive.
"Alright, but... excuse me, Major, is there any additional information from the operator?" Private Hua asked hesitantly, her brow furrowing with concern.
Sensing the Private's uncertainty, Major Himeko decided to contact the operator again through their communication device. The cool evening air was beginning to settle in, and they needed to be sure of their next steps.
But more than that, what kind of additional information was the Private thinking about?
"Anything else? Hmm, as far as I know, there wasn't any... but let me check with the operator again for a moment," Major Himeko said, her voice calm yet authoritative. he lifted the communicator to her ear, waiting for a response.
["Affirmative, you've been granted permission to investigate anomalies within Monolith Series 17. Your badges will allow you to remain in the area for only 2 hours. If you feel any physical discomfort, leave immediately."]
"Thank you, comms. By the way... it's just my intuition, but are there any other orders or messages we should be aware of? Even rumors are fine~" Major Himeko added with a teasing tone.
The operator hesitated before responding.
["...This might be related, but some time ago we received a strange signal from the direction of Tower 18. There have been no orders to investigate that area yet because it seems one of the doctors from Cocoon's Lab has already moved to Tower 18."]
"I see, but it wasn't a distress call or anything like that, right?" Major Himeko asked again. The operator confirmed that the signal was not as the Major had thought, but Himeko sensed the operator might be withholding something.
However, with their business concluded, the communication was terminated.
"Hua, who's current Operator in shift?" 「Major Himeko」
"I think it's John Seok from the Department of Technology and Communications. Is there something wrong with him?" Private Fu Hua responded.
She also noticed Major Himeko nodding and smiling as she answered.
"No it's just, I think there's a snake yang moving around again. Now then... before we went on, let me tell you of few details you need to know." 「Major Himeko」
Briefly, the pony-tailed Major shared the information she had just received from the operator.
She was careful to filter out any details that might be too burdensome for the young Private, aiming to keep her focused on the task at hand.
And she's right.
Upon hearing the information, Private Hua immediately offered to go check on Watch Tower 18 by herself. Unfortunately, their current orders were to head towards the Monolith before them.
"(Whisper) Could it be, that Doctor?" 「Private Hua」
"Hua! Stop dozing around and follow me already," Major Himeko called out, her tone commanding.
Despite her concern, Private Hua had to comply with the orders. She cast one last look towards the direction of Watch Tower 18, then hurried after Major Himeko. Her unease lingered, but she knew the mission was paramount.
Entering an area aptly described as a ghost town, the two soldiers passed numerous abandoned shops and cracked asphalt roads. The silence was almost deafening, punctuated only by the occasional sound of debris shifting in the wind.
Eventually, finished with moving through the southern area of the Veil Sector of the Monolith, they've now finally reaching the center area, where the huge, tall, and black Monolith towered into the sky.
"This is the combination of Soul Steel and Varanium..." 「Private Hua」
"Don't touch it, alright? Some of my old squad joked that they felt a shock through their entire body as soon as they touched this thing. Even though this badge could offer some protection, but safety first," Major Himeko cautioned, pointing to where Private Hua had placed her badge.
"Yes Major, thank you. I already know that much." 「Private Hua」
"Then all good." 「Major Himeko」
Upon closer inspection, the Monolith appeared like a dark and shiny mural, akin to a massive pillar adorned with intricate and unique carvings on its surface. She had never seen something like this, except for during that time, when she met a young and mysterious painter.
As Private Hua examined the engravings that resembled paintings, her interest was piqued.
Meanwhile, Major Himeko had already taken action with a control panel she discovered near the Monolith.
[Access confirmed]
"Hua, put your ID here." 「Major Himeko」
"Got it." 「Private Hua」
[Constructing side passage]
After placing their IDs to be scanned through another unique panel, something remarkable began happening with the Monolith.
Like a fortress fortified with iron braces, the unique metal of the Monolith began to shift and reconstruct its sides, gradually revealing a staircase with guardrails that spiraled upwards toward its summit.
Without needing further direction, the two of them immediately ascended the stairs. However, climbing the stairs alone proved to be rather tedious, so they chose to pass the time with conversation along the way.
"By the way Hua, are you really going to continue in this work for a while?" 「Major Himeko」
"Where is this came from?" the Private replied with a straight face.
The Private was clearly surprised by the question she had to answer.
Not only was it indeed out of nowhere, but compared to Major Himeko, Private Hua was still relatively new to the job as a guard of the Watchtower of the Monoliths.
Therefore, she hadn't yet made solid plans for this job in the future.
"Nothing much of a news but... maybe, it's still just my plan for later, but I think I'll quit this job and retire eventually." 「Major Himeko」
"...Can you tell me the reason?" 「Private Hua」
As they ascended further away from the ground, the Private momentarily glanced down at the scenery below. However, upon hearing more than just casual news, Private Hua fell silent.
Her reaction was akin to a chick peering up with its head tilted, or so Himeko thought as she observed the glasses girl.
"There's a little friend of mine who runs a school, you see. She once offered me a position as a teacher at her school in Soukai City. After this mission is over, I might talk to her about that promise." 「Major Himeko」
Ascending hundreds of steps, Hua could see her superior expressing her words with a smile.
Occasionally, gusts of wind carried cold air, seemingly attempting to dim the redhead's smile, yet her warmth persisted.
The woman appeared to have been anticipating moments like this, where she could speak with the Private whom she now regarded as a close friend, while also opening her heart to this young girl who had her own troubles.
"I see... that's good to hear... I'm glad for you," Private Hua replied with a smile she could muster, expressing her gratitude for Major Himeko's decision.
She's being conflicted with this choice.
Major Himeko had been not just a colleague, superior, and senior, but also a friend whom she could trust from the moment she joined the organization until now.
There weren't many Privates close to her age, let alone a Major who despite her higher rank, had managed to befriend an uptight girl like herself. Thus, Major Himeko was indeed a one-of-a-kind person in her life.
"Fufu, thank you. Then, how about you?" 「Major Himeko」
Amidst the Private's contemplation, it was now Himeko's turn to inquire about what the Private wanted to do, "...Me?" which made her caught off guard by the question.
"You still haven't told me what you'll do, right? Considering your age, I think you'd be better off going to school rather than being a soldier—" Major Himeko started to say, but then she caught herself upon realizing the Private's situation.
"Well... I know a bit about your family situation, but still, I think you should use your time as you see fit, Hua," Major Himeko corrected herself.
"School..." 「Private Hua」
Just for a moment, her story flashed back in her mind.
In that world, Hua was born into a family living in a slum area known as Dumpsire. It was a district predominantly inhabited by lower to middle-class families, a stark contrast to the bustling center of Soukai City.
In her family, she had a father, a mother, and a younger sister. Her father worked at his own dojo, while her mother was often employed in Soukai City as an office-worker.
Their family and finances seemed sufficient to afford Hua and her sister's education, but everything changed when their mother passed away and their father fell ill.
Since then, she and her sister have been doing their utmost to gather money to restore what they once had. This effort was directed towards their father's health, the family dojo, and restoring their home to its former state.
"I... don't remember much about my brief time in school." 「Private Hua」
"Haha, what about your wild little sister?" 「Major Himeko」
"She... she's not very open with me." 「Private Hua」
Due to financial constraints, Hua sacrificed her own education so that her younger sister could attend the prestigious St. Freya Academy in Soukai City. Her sister was notably bright and adept at trading, often sending money home despite keeping the sources of her income hidden.
However, Hua's path was not that good in it.
Long after short, after seizing an opportunity, Hua decided to join the organization she was currently in, a decision that led her to cross paths with Major Himeko in this job.
To her, Major Himeko had become a pivotal figure in her current life.
Therefore, when she realized her close colleague and mentor would retire, Hua found herself in a dilemma, unsure whether to feel happy or sad about it.
"Think it through, Hua. Especially when it comes to your future and your own desires. You have responsibilities to shoulder, I know that, but it doesn't mean you can't find happiness in your current life," Major Himeko advised.
"...Yes." 「Private Hua」
"You're a clever and smart girl. I'm sure you'll make some unique friends at school," Major Himeko added with a chuckle.
Observing the young girl's thoughtful response as she contemplated her choices, Major Himeko then let out her trademark laugh.
It was a soft and charming laugh, though there was no one around to witness it.
"You'll find it soon, Hua. Together with something that you'll do only for yourself." 「Major Himeko」
Their conversation carried a weighty tone, yet it held deep significance for only both of them as the one who know it.
Continuing to ascend towards the peak of the Monolith, battling against the increasingly strong gusts of wind, Himeko and Hua drew nearer to the figure of the architect who had shaped their world.
Which in other words, they're now getting closer to the top.
"But Huft then Huft again Huft ...just why are there so many stairs to climb?! Can't they install a lift or something, jeez!? My thighs are going to get huge!" Major Himeko complained.