Outskirts of Monolith Zone No. 17
In this world, a punch strong enough to shatter a wall isn't considered that impressive. For those from the Honkai-verse, feats of strength can go far beyond that—like splitting a cruiser in two or wielding an ancient temple pillar to crush monstrous foes.
Breaking rocks with a punch, or enduring a blow capable of smashing through solid stone, might not be remarkable among the strongest, but it certainly has a cool factor for some people.
After all, only a rare few can pull off such feats.
In the Honkai-verse, not everyone has the strength to punch through walls or the durability to withstand rock-crushing impacts. Only a select group—the "Elite"—reach that level of power.
Fortunately, Private Hua and Major Himeko were among them.
So even if they took such blows, no one would blame him since they're built for it.
"Stand tall. This much isn't nearly enough to bring back all those memories."「Als」
"Phew… don't you know girls don't like men who are this rough and hard-headed. How about letting us rest a moment—or, if you're feeling generous, help us out by surrendering."「Major Himeko」
Since their first meeting, short introductions, and quick exchanges, the red-haired Major and the man with the iron fists had traded several rounds. With their respective missions and stubborn wills, this battle was inevitable.
However the more this battle prolonged, the more problem occurred to both side.
"Don't lose! Onii-san!"「Yae Rin」
"What are you doing, Redhead?! Hit him and break a few of his teeth!"「Higokumaru」
Meanwhile the spectators, composed of Yae Rin, Higokumaru, and Moriarty watched CALMLY from the shade of the Millennium Falcon's hull, occasionally calling out encouragement to whichever side they favored.
Their enthusiastic cheers stood in sharp contrast to the Major's intense focus as she keep bracing herself against Als' relentless strikes, doing her utmost to absorb the impact and minimize injury.
"My apologies, Himeko-san, since it seems I'm not quite your type. As for surrendering—well, you'll have to earn that," Als replied, shifting his stance into the poised, claw-like sharp and composed.
"Are you going to make me?"「Als」
"That's an interesting offer," Major Himeko teased another. "Speaking of which, how's Theresa? Have you two already forgotten each other? Last I heard, you two seemed inseparable—whuaah?!"
She had barely finished speaking before Als dashed forward again, charging like a wild hare. But unlike a rabbit with its lucky feet or wind charm, his steps brought only a wind of destruction.
In a blur, his foot sliced through the air with blinding speed, making it nearly impossible to follow his movements with the naked eye. Fortunately, it landed exactly where Major Himeko had been just a moment before.
She had executed her retreat with perfect timing, or simply put Perfect Evasion.
Because despite her body's remarkable resilience—far beyond that of any ordinary civilian—she wouldn't walk away unscathed after enduring his relentless barrage. Especially when he hit like a car.
"Do I stroke a nerve?" Himeko smirked.
"I'd suggest refraining from mentioning other women who've crossed my path. I wouldn't want either of you tangled up in jealousy or... excessive affection," Als replied, casting a casual glance toward Moriarty.
Moriarty, in turn, shot them a withering look.
"Oh really... Not just Theresa and that silver-haired girl, but now this chick too? Poor Theresa, falling for someone like you. Or maybe... this is good news for her," Major Himeko said, her tone a blend of surprise and teasing.
Als looked genuinely taken aback at hearing the silver-haired stranger mentioned alongside Theresa. The idea of another woman intertwined with the past of Sakura Zeimachi in this world caught him off guard.
He glanced back at Moriarty, whose expression grew even more sour. With just her piercing gaze, the timeless girl seemed to deliver sharp, unspoken curses straight at him.
"But humor me—what happened between you and Theresa? Why did you two suddenly split? Didn't you love each other?" Major Himeko asked with a slight smirk, but still getting a good grip on her weapon.
Furthermore, she's being very persistent for this one, "My time is usually booked well in advance, but if you're interested, I might just spare you a bit of it. Just don't try to put me in the harem, alright?"
"Explaining it all would take far too long and be far too complicated. So, for simplicity's sake, let's leave it at... I'm the man you know no more," Als replied. "Besides, my spirit animal is a crocodile. I'm 'thick-skinned,' sure, but I only choose one mate in my life."
What a manly words, or so she thoughts.
For some reason though, Als's comment left Major Himeko momentarily flustered, a slight misunderstanding creeping into her thoughts.
Before she then cleared her throat with an awkward cough.
"Sweet with his words, straight with his eyes. Hah... you… you're just like what Theresa told me back then." 「Major Himeko」
"Mind your language, Himeko-san. There's a kid here." 「Als」
The exchange was lighthearted, but it carried a sense of ease and familiarity.
Deep down, the Major hoped if he's probably thinking the same thing.
The same with their current scene. They could've resolved this without the fighting, without the exhausting cycle of strikes and blocks. Just talking like this—it was surprisingly enjoyable. He was... a fun guy.
Though Major Himeko hadn't spent much time with him and she also didn't know him well, her petite friend Theresa often spoke about this man, and she'd heard plenty of good things about him.
She didn't know him personally, but if Theresa trusted him, then that was enough for Himeko to believe there was something special about him.
So why was he resisting so much now? The man Theresa had described would've leaned toward a peaceful solution, wouldn't he? He was a man of purpose, someone who fought with a reason.
That's how Theresa had always handled things ever since she worked with this man.
"(Whisper) Could it be memories problem? Or different person? Is that why..."「Major Himeko」
At least... that's how they used to.
"Pardon me... block these next."「Als」
But before she could piece or process them together, he shattered her focus.
Gadually being pushed back, Major Himeko held tightly onto her weapon, refusing to let go or let her tough exterior falter. She even managed to land a few blows, each one ripping into his skin and leaving its mark.
"By the way... where's the other one? Why can't I see her?"「Als」
But with every attack she blocked, the numbness in her hands grew. It wouldn't be long before her grip started to fail.
"Well... are you done, Hua?!"「Major Himeko」
"Yes! That's the opening I needed," Private Hua declared.
Fortunately, Private Hua, who had been waiting for the right moment, sprang into action. She followed up immediately upon seeing the opening, launching a shadow-hidden strike from both palms.
Her attack landed squarely on his chest, the force of it rippling through his body, and sending him flying a considerable distance away from the two of them.
"Major, take a moment to catch your breath. I'll take him down."「Private Hua」
"You're welcome to try. And... what's wrong with your hair? It's glowing red..."「Major Himeko」
What Major Himeko said was true—Private Hua's normally gray hair had shifted, now streaked with strands of white and red. It resembled the pinion feathers of a legendary bird, and her eyes mirrored that same fierce crimson hue.
"..."「Als」
But as quickly as it appeared, it vanished, leaving behind only a lingering sense of strange illusion. The Private herself showed little interest in it, as though the explanation behind it was something she already expected.
Much like the aura of a familiar item she had sensed on that man—the unmistakable presence of a Feather, one that should have belonged solely to her, and no one else.
"Oh, it returned again. Never know you could change your hair, Hua."「Major Himeko」
"These… they're probably connected to him somehow. Now then, be mindful of the other side." With a slight nod, she launched herself forward like a crashing wave, closing the distance between herself and the man with deadly steps.
At times, Private Hua's form would flicker back into her blazing red glory, empowering her while delivering a shock therapy of sorts to the man. Yet, the transformation was fleeting, coming and going like a flashlight being switched on and off.
It was a different sensation for her, but far from unwelcome.
In fact, she used it to her advantage, synchronizing the bursts of energy with her punches, making each strike hit harder and faster than before.
Seizing the opportunity, she grappled with the man and hurled him backward repeatedly, carving out the much-needed distance her partner, Major Himeko required to stretch her fingers
However, as she continued to employ her grappling techniques, she was caught off guard when he quickly overpowered her with sheer strength. He deflected her powerful punch with effortless ease, leaving her momentarily stunned and off balance.
"As expected... this feeling. You hold the same thing as I do."「Private Hua」
"You caught on fast. Then, let's talk through that, it'll be more flexible that way."「Als」
Their close-quarters combat escalated from there… along with unspoken tensions simmering just below the surface—a setup Als had meticulously planned for this unexpected encounter with the Private.
"Those hits really sting... just what did he eat to hit that hard? He's almost as good as Hua... no wait, is he overpowering her?" Major Himeko muttered, her voice tinged with a mix of disbelief and concern.
Meanwhile as she watched the two melee fighters grapple and tear through the barrier of wind with their strikes atop the Monolith, she couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the raw power they were exchanging.
But the sight of Hua being pushed back—despite her own formidable strength—was unsettling.
This isn't the time to enjoy the show, Major Himeko thought. It's not the time to enjoy the show like those three under the Millennium Falcon are. With that thought in mind, Major Himeko immediately reached for her communicator.
Then she faced several option.
First, she could try to contact Central Operators again.
The chance to coordinate reinforcements might tip the scales in their favor, but there's no guarantee they'd respond in time—her recent failed attempts had proven that.
Second, she could take the tranquilizer she kept hidden in her belt kit.
A quick dose could potentially turn the tide by weakening the man, but there was a risk involved—she wasn't certain how it would affect him, especially considering his unnatural strength and resilience.
Or third, she could throw herself into the battle alongside Private Hua, using her full force to defeat the man. This one sounded the most practical. After all, despite being a hard hitter, the man seemed to be holding back, not unleashing the full force of his punches.
They could use this arrogance or whatever within him to turn the tide and subdue him.
However...
At the same time, Major Himeko also felt another idea stirring in her mind—one that revolved around the question of what might happen if she contacted Theresa, the little friend she had been discussing with the man during their clash.
"..."「Major Himeko」
Perhaps by reaching out to her, they could resolve this entire conflict without further armed confrontation—settle it over coffee rather than risk injuring each other any further.
The red-haired Major was still determined to find a peaceful solution, as long as a path to it remained. Such was the nature of Major Himeko in this world—a woman who preferred to negotiate, to talk things out, rather than let fists decide everything.
She had fought too many battles, and seen too much bloodshed to let it all spiral into another senseless conflict. No more young, bright futures should be the cost of needless selfishness.
But also a a small bonus, she's a bit curious to see what might happen if those two talked again, given the state of their current relationship. Maybe, just maybe, their conversation could lead to more than just a truce.
Could it lead to some kind of reconciliation, or even something deeper?
Major Himeko had to admit it: she was a sucker for love talks.
There was something oddly comforting in seeing people, even the strongest and most hardened of them, come to terms with their emotions. It gave her hope in a world that often felt defined by conflict.
"Who knows if it'll work, but hopefully, this will at least lower his guard," Major Himeko murmured as she dialed the correct number on another device she kept in her pocket. "The call went through... I thought it would be rejected."
It didn't take long before the call connected, and a voice reminiscent of a child came through. It was Theresa's voice, which, despite sounding youthful, carried the wisdom of someone far older... or so it's supposed to be.
"[Hello? Himeko, didn't I tell you not to call this number during duty hours?! I'm very busy right now, so please make it quick!]"
"Hoho, I'm glad you're not drown in another messy work place, old friend. You'll definitely regret it if you miss this call," Major Himeko said, a teasing lilt in her voice.
After successfully preventing Theresa from hanging up and capturing her full attention, the red-haired Major began to speak animatedly, her words spilling forth. Theresa, however, remained silent, listening intently without interrupting.
"It's your hubby—he's here right now, acting like a criminal. Unfortunately, we have to apprehend him. So… how about you talk to him for a bit? He's certainly putting up quite a fight," Major Himeko continued, still with a playful smirk on her face.
"[My what?!]"
"What? You're not?"「Major Himeko」
"[I-It's not like that! Argh, whatever! Is he really there right now?!]"
As their conversation continued, Moriarty observed the exchange with keen interest.
She could even hear every word as clearly as if birds were chirping nearby.
And if she heightened her awareness even further—she could even sense Theresa's location effortlessly. All it took was closing her eyes, and she could picture Theresa standing in the front yard of her niece's house at that very moment.
Yet, as their words unraveled, an unsettling weight began to press against Moriarty's chest. Thoughts surged and faded, swirling and shifting like restless tides, challenging the timeless girl's grasp of both knowledge and reality.
The thought loomed in her mind like a gathering storm cloud—ominous, heavy, and unrelenting.
[Hn, it'll be much weirder for him to know me alone.]
He had traveled so far, reaching places she'd never known and accomplishing feats beyond her sight. It was no wonder if he had he had encountered countless faces, or if whatever feelings he once held had long since vanished.
This world, the one she now inhabited, was but a fragment of his journey—a place that had been born from the echoes of his past, a piece of his mind that she had never been part of.
Everybody need to keep moving on.
In here, she's nothing more than a shadow of his travels.
Her sadness deepened, not because he had forgotten, but because she remembered.
Realizing this, Moriarty's heart tightened. She couldn't shake the sense that he had forgotten the world that had once held the beginnings of their bond. A place only they seemed to remember, a place that existed in the depths of their shared past
"Just a little bit more."「Als」
Seeing Moriarty lost in her turmoil, Als cast a brief glance her way before returning his focus to the fight. He knew better than to turn his back during such a critical battle—there was someone in front of him who needed his full attention.
Private Hua, ever the resourceful fighter, wasn't about to give up so easily.
In the blink of an eye, she seized an opening, slipping behind Als with the fluidity of a trained expert. Locking his shoulders in a firm grip, prepared to throw him to the ground with the skill she had honed over years of training.
For a brief moment, it seemed like victory was within her grasp,
But that confidence was short-lived. Als broke free from her hold with startling ease, and with a swift, nearly invisible motion, he countered—his strength and speed merging into one powerful, devastating response.
Private Hua, unable to brace herself in time, was sent flying back.
"Just now... I see. Even if it's you I won't let you disturb my moment with them. Sengoku, it's not your turn so yield of what about to happen."「Als」
An internal conflict stirred within him—a clash of wills among the Personas he carried within. Even if faint, there was a palpable tension as he wrestled with Sengoku, asserting control.
While on the other side, Major Himeko was still speaking into her device, carefully choosing each word to relay crucial details to Theresa and keep their coordination intact.
Her speech however, was abruptly cut short by a sudden blur at the edge of her vision—Private Hua, hurtling toward her with startling speed, like a body pillow tossed recklessly across a chaotic room.
"Ghuuh!"「Private Hua」
"You starting to believe can fly, Hua?"「Major Himeko」
Reacting instinctively, Major Himeko shot out her arms just in time, catching the teenage soldier mid-air. Had she missed, Private Hua might have plummeted from the peak of the Monolith, or worse, ended up with shattered glasses that would need replacing.
"You saved me, Major. Thank you."「Private Hua」
"You good?"「Major Himeko」
"I can keep going, but this man... despite showing zero Honkai reaction, he's got a formidable resilience and endurance. The Monolith's field isn't affecting him much either. Just who is he, Major? You know him, don't you?"「Private Hua」
A bead of cold sweat formed on Major Himeko's forehead as she felt the weight of Private Hua's piercing gaze. Her eyes shifted to the figure standing menacingly in the distance, unmoved and almost defiant.
To say if she knew about him, then it was true—she did know him, but if asked for details about his true identity, even she would have to admit she wasn't entirely sure who, or even what, he truly was.
"Himeko-san... you said I wasn't your type."「Als」
"Don't test your luck," Major Himeko replied, sharp but amusemed.
When she'd once tried to investigate the mystery fiancé Theresa had mentioned in the past, she found much of his data either erased or deliberately hidden. It was as if someone had gone to great lengths to keep his existence out of public knowledge.
Perhaps someone with considerable power.
However, she did know one thing: the man was from beyond the borders of Soukai City. Theresa had let that much slip, and while it wasn't much to go on, it explained the obscurity surrounding his identity, especially his past.
Those who managed to arrive from beyond Soukai's borders were enigmas in their own right—not only had they crossed the vast seas to reach the city, but they had also somehow survived in the world beyond, relying on methods belonged to them.
"[Himeko! Don't leave me hanging here! What do you mean that that man, Machi is there?! Himeko! Himeko?! You'd better have a good explanation if this turns out to be just another drunken call!!!]"
Major Himeko knew one other thing: Theresa had once cared deeply for this man—enough that they had nearly taken their relationship to the altar of never-ending cruelty, known as marriage.
When Himeko first heard about it, she'd felt an unexpected surge of envy, as if Theresa had stepped ahead in life's milestones, leaving her behind. But then... something had stopped the wedding from happening.
Strangely, though, whenever she tried to recall the reason, her mind seemed to wander in circles, enveloped in a dense fog that muddied the details. No matter how hard she focused, she couldn't retrieve the memory.
It was unsettling, as if something—or someone—was deliberately keeping her from that part of her thoughts. Adding to her headache was Theresa's voice, practically shouting beside her ear.
"[But if it's true...If he's really there, connect me to him right now. Tell him to come home immediately—it's too dangerous out there! Please, I need to talk to him. Just a few seconds is fine! Just a few... seconds...]"
"Uhh… got it. Just hold on, it'll take a minute," Major Himeko muttered, before calling out to Als. "Hey, Machi boy! You've got a call! Catch!" She tossed her personal device, aiming it with such precision that it was set to land right on his head.
"No."「Als」
But Als with a quick flick of his wrist, swatted the device in return.
"What are you doing?! That's brand new!"「Major Himeko」
"My apologies. I'll replace it later, but right now, I have neither the right nor the obligation to speak with her. I do feel bad for Theresa-san... however that's just how it is right now."「Als」
Standing with his hands at the ready, his stance radiated determination.
In this moment, all he wanted was to reclaim a sense of something lost—a faint echo of distant memories brought back to life alongside Major Himeko and Private Hua. Nothing else mattered.
This moment was his alone, and in his mind, Theresa's presence had no place here.
"Please don't look at me like that, Himeko-san."「Als」
Himeko's eyes narrowed, sharp as her words, "You... are you saying this without understanding the consequences, or are you saying it to push Theresa away? No, you should know better exactly the impact of those words."
"I don't understand what you mean. I've already said I don't wish to speak with her, but if my words reach her anyway… it can't be helped. Our connection has always been strained. What harm is there in letting it worsen?" he replied.
He saw himself as nothing more than a stale pepperoni—a remnant from a past life that had long since lost its warmth and vibrance, hardened and dried with the passage of time, far from what Theresa or anyone in this world sought.
"A relationship built on a hollow foundation," he added, his voice hardened. "A give-and-take tainted by duty more than anything else. I never expected something so empty to endure—nor did I ever care if it did."
He knew he wasn't the one Theresa longed for, and he hoped his indifference made that perfectly clear. This wasn't the person who had once shared her memories, nor the figure she had once loved.
He made sure his voice was loud enough to reach Theresa on the other end of the call, delivering each word with a finality that would echo long after the line went silent.
Whatever emotions the petite lady might have felt, she gave no reply—just an eerie, wordless silence before the connection cut off. There're no cries or tears, only the faint of static as the call ended.
"You're dead."「Major Himeko」
"Hello, I'm dead. And who are you, cupcake?" Als replied, a smirk breaking through.
Though he knew his words may have hurt Theresa, Als showed no trace of remorse. He stood his ground, vigilant, fully aware that Private Hua's watchful eyes would catch any opening.
Whether he was truly indifferent to Theresa or a practiced mask, Als let none of it show. And unbeknownst to him, someone else felt a faint thrill in response to his cold dismissal—a secret satisfaction tugged at her lips as she closed her eyes.
[...Did I just… feel happy?]
There was a small, hidden thrill in Moriarty's heart as she sensed Als's clear rejection of his bond with Theresa—a flicker of hope that rekindled her own quiet wishes.
Initially, jealousy had simmered within her, especially when Major Himeko and Private Hua keep hogging all of his attention. But now, that jealousy began to fade, replaced by a delicate, bittersweet joy she dared not voice.
Even now Moriarty still yearned for a moment with him, just as those two soldiers had—a chance to spar, to tease and challenge each other, to feel the closeness of their rivalry.
She imagined trading light-hearted jabs, holding his gaze with a playful smirk, throwing pillows at each other, matching each other move for move as if in a private dance only they understood.
[What a wonderful scenery.]
What a wonderful scenery x2.
"Now… fight me more seriously," Als challenged again, his tone resolute. "It doesn't matter what tricks or hidden cards you throw at me—I'll take every single one. As you know, my time here is limited, Fuka-san."
Back again to typical Als, always the hardheaded fighter, dead set on pushing his limits.
"Hmm? Wait a second... what exactly are you two talking about?"「Major Himeko」
But soon Major Himeko's brows knit in confusion, especially as she noticed a peculiar chemistry beginning to form between the two combatants. Because from her perspective, all she saw was an intense exchange of punches and kicks between the two, with not a word spoken.
"Nothing."「Als/Private Hua」
There should be no chance for him to woo her, right?
Unbeknownst to Major Himeko, hidden within their bout it turned out Als and Private Hua were indeed in communication, through a silent exchange. From the moment their fist bumped, they've been in fact conversing to each other without speaking.
And this link, connection or relation have become possible, due to the mystical power of the Fenghuang Down feathers—a rare, magical item shared only by the two of them.
"...Here I come."「Private Hua」
"I'll be joining your room, don't mind me in assisting?"「Major Himeko」
"Of course! Having the Major as my backup is so reassuring!"「Private Hua」
It was these feathers that created an invisible bridge, one that allowed their thoughts, their intentions, and their emotions to flow seamlessly between them as they fought.
Each strike, each movement, carried more than just physical force—it was a conversation in its purest form, one that only they could understand, shared without a single word uttered. Thereby why each of them could match each other move.
"Then show it to me again, Fuka-san, Himeko-san. Show me just how strong your determination really are."「Als」
For Als, to wield these feathers once again, side by side with his cherished idol and guiding light, was more than just a dream—it was the deepest desire he'd carried into this world.
That determination was a resolve that would never fade, always rekindling whenever the darkness threatened to consume him. At times, it felt like a curse, an unyielding weight upon his soul.
But it was this very curse that had pushed him forward, driving him to this moment.
And now, at last, he had made it.
Finally, he had made it back home to where he belong.
...
....
.....
Soukai City, the three sister's house
As previously mentioned, or whenever one may view it, this world held countless mysteries—even for him—a Persona of creation—the same just as much for those who inhabited it in this present era.
Driven by their desires, the Personas had infused this world with diverse, conflicting elements. Only Moriarty, the Guardian bound directly to the world's will, could fully comprehend all that lay within its depths.
The same for the history of a certain girl within it.
As a mortal being living in this world, Theresa had her own past. From then until now, many moments had come to shape her life, each carrying its own weight.
Some were deeply meaningful, while others were best left forgotten. Some were solitary struggles, while others were shared with others—whether colleagues, friends, nieces, or loved ones.
Those moments with her loved ones held an even deeper significance within her heart.
Although she wasn't particularly romantic with her partner—hardly what anyone would call a "lovebird"—Theresa deeply cared for and valued those who had carved out places in her heart.
Even more so when that loved one was someone truly special, standing out among all others.
Someone who had cared for her when she was sick, someone who had become both a friend and family—bound not by blood, but by choice. Someone who had become a figure she wanted to hold onto.
Because of this, harsh words directed at her could still cut deeply.
Especially when those words came from that certain someone.
"Hey... what's wrong with aunty? She doesn't usually look like that," Kiana whispered, her eyes fixed on the distant figure below.
"Shh! Keep your voice down, or they'll hear us," Sirin hissed, glancing over her shoulder. "But yeah… this is the first time I've ever seen Aunt Theresa look so… I don't know, defeated? She didn't even want her bitter melon juice."
From their home sweet home, perched at the top of the stairs near their bedroom, Kiana and Sirin watched the scene unfolding in the living room below.
Still in their school uniforms, since they hadn't had time to freshen up, the two leaned over the banister, peeking down at their aunt lying motionless on the couch, an unusual emptiness in her gaze that left her vibrant spirit dimmed.
From their vantage point, they could also see Bianca below, her usual confidence softened by worry as she tried everything she could think of to lift Theresa's spirits. The blonde had even brought along a glass of Theresa's favorite green juice.
A gesture that would usually earn a smile.
But their little auntie didn't even glance at the glass.
She lay motionless, eyes fixed on the ceiling, her expression blank and distant. Occasionally, her lips would part, softly murmuring their older brother's name, as though caught in a quiet loop of despair that seemed to drain the warmth from the room.
"...Theresa-san..."「Theresa」
Is she chanting a sutra?
Kiana and Sirin exchanged a worried look, their curiosity mingling with concern as they watched from above. Aunt Theresa's gloom filled the space below, wrapping them all in a shared unease and making them wonder what could have troubled her so deeply.
"Psst! Over here~" Kiana whispered, beckoning to Bianca, who had noticed the two sisters peeking from the staircase. "What's happening? Did you mess with her drink? Last time, I gave her broccoli juice because it's both green, and she wouldn't drink it either."
"Peeking like that isn't very polite, Kiana. And you too, little Sirin," Bianca chided, her voice firm but not unkind. "If you have questions, just ask Aunt Theresa directly. Though... right now might not be the best time."
The blonde girl shifted her weight from one foot to the other, a habit she had when she was uneasy, her eyes scanning Aunt Theresa's unmoving figure. And yup, she's still there... being vegetative.
"So he decided to use that calling again... Theresa-san..."「Theresa」
Looks like she's still chanting something as well.
The sisters couldn't quite make out the words, but the occasional mention of "He" made it clear who Theresa was referring to—their brother.
They exchanged uneasy glances. While they didn't fully understand the nature of the bond between their brother and their aunt, they each held fragments of the story.
For Kiana, her knowledge was simple: she remembered how they used to bathe together and date together, though their meetings had become rare over the years now.
Sirin, on the other hand, knew more than she let on. She'd stumbled upon hidden details about their arranged marriage, and it left her with lingering doubts about Theresa's intentions.
As for Bianca, she understood the logical and visible aspects of their relationship. But when it came to their feelings, she knew little—and chose to stay silent about the truths she did know, as instructed by their parents.
Nevertheless, their curiosity doesn't simply disappear.
"Let me see it too!" Kiana whispered, her tone insistent. "Is she about to blow up?"
"S-Stop pushing your meat on my face!" Sirin hissed, struggling to reclaim her space.
The two jostled and fumbled, piling atop each other in their attempt to stay hidden while catching a glimpse of Theresa's expression. Meanwhile, Bianca, who had taken the topmost position in their impromptu stack, quietly observed without uttering a single word.
But soon after, their antics came to an abrupt halt when Theresa's soft voice broke through the quiet.
"...I wonder if I could become his sister too," she murmured, her words carrying just enough clarity to send a jolt through the trio. "Maybe I should've done that from the beginning... hmnh, my throat feels so thirsty."
They froze.
For a brief moment, the chaos of their thoughts was mirrored in their stunned silence. The sheer unexpectedness of her statement left them unable to process what it meant—or what they should do next.
Bianca's brow furrowed as her instincts told her to stay cautious. Kiana's jaw dropped, her mind swirling with a mixture of disbelief and concern. And Sirin? She clamped a hand over Kiana's mouth to keep her from blurting out whatever impulsive reaction was brewing.
"This can't be allowed."「Bianca」
"You're right, we can't let Onii's attention be divided any further by adding more sister."「Sirin」
"Hey, if that's the case, then… what should we call her?"「Kiana」
As expected of Kiana, with her brain capacity she could always caught the most crucial thing.
———————————————
Back atop Monolith 17, where Private Hua faced off against Als in an intense battle.
Fists clashed against fists, and sharp kicks collided with powerful swings from their legs. A palm struck firmly against a chest, while a knee delivered a crushing blow to another's torso.
The two continued to fight relentlessly, each utilizing their distinct martial arts techniques. Attack met defense, retreat transitioned into leaps, dodges turned into counters—all in a seamless rhythm of combat that refused to let up.
"That side!" Major Himeko commanded sharply.
"Yes, ma'am!" Private Hua responded, adjusting his stance.
Though Major Himeko occasionally assisted her protégé, she found herself increasingly overwhelmed by the variety and unpredictability of Als' attacks. It was as if she was constantly being kept at bay, unable to intervene in the flurry of physical contact between the two.
The battle between the two had already become the focus of everyone watching from atop the Monolith, but now, with Major Himeko involved, their eyes were even more fixed on the clash unfolding before them.
Even those beneath the shadow of the spaceship felt the weight of the battle.
"Somehow... are they mimicking each other?" 「Higokumaru」
The longer they observed, the clearer it became.
Als' movements mirrored the martial arts style that Private Hua had been using. The resemblance was striking, almost as though they shared the same discipline—or perhaps had trained under the same master.
The similarity grew more apparent each time Major Himeko found herself caught between them.
"Who knows? But I do think he's smiling for a different reason than before," Yae Rin remarked, remembering the smile Als had worn when he was still El Dust. She hesitated for a moment before speaking up.
But as Major Himeko began to disrupt his rhythm, Als shifted tactics. With a sharp burst of power, he sent the red-haired woman flying, breaking her stance and forcing her away from him and Private Hua.
While he didn't mind the challenge of facing two soldiers, it was clear that Als was in the mood for something else—a focused, exhilarating fight with the Private.
"Get ready!" 「Major Himeko」
"...Yes, understood!" 「Private Hua」
However, what Als didn't realize was that the further he distanced her, the more it played into her advantage. For Major Himeko, the man in front of her had never been her true objective.
Her real target was the other group, beneath the unknown aircraft.
"Hmm..." 「Als」
With that, the smoke bomb erupted right on cue, engulfing the battlefield and obscuring everyone's vision in thick, swirling clouds. Seizing the moment, Major Himeko moved swiftly, slipping into the haze.
"Smoke screen..." 「Als」
"From the start, it's me who was meant to face you. Don't worry, Major wouldn't do any necessary harm against them." 「Private Hua」
"Haha, that's all I wanted," Als chuckled darkly.
She left Als and Private Hua to continue their intense battle, now hidden by the thickening smoke, where sight no longer offered them an advantage.
The red-haired Major moved with precision, slipping into the spaceship's blind spot. She positioned herself carefully, approaching from behind Yae Rin and Higokumaru, who were lost in a leisurely conversation, seemingly oblivious to her presence.
Or so she thought.
What Major Himeko didn't account for was Moriarty's unique ability. She assumed that by masking her movements and staying out of sight, she could slip past unnoticed.
But in reality, she was gravely mistaken.
[...Stay, don't come closer to us.]
Even with just those words, Moriarty had not only stopped the spread of smoke from encroaching on their position but also immobilized Major Himeko's stealthy approach.
The red-haired Major felt the weight of Moriarty's voice, almost tangible in its authority.
"Just from her words alone?! That's crazy…" the red-haired Major muttered under her breath, momentarily stunned by the sheer authority in Moriarty's tone. "I can't... move..."
Her entire body felt suspended in midair, frozen as if bound by unseen chains.
No matter how hard she fought against it, her limbs refused to obey. Meanwhile, Yae Rin and Higokumaru remained entirely unaffected, chatting casually as if nothing unusual had occurred.
"Hold on, wait… uhm, let me put it into words. So… Onii-san likes that girl, but looking at them right now, I don't see how the girl with glasses feels the same way about Onii-san..." 「Yae Rin」
Moriarty nodded nonchalantly, her expression unreadable.
"You like him, but his feelings… are still unclear. And then, I heard he also has a connection with a woman named Theresa? ...Aren't that pretty bad?" Higokumaru added hesitantly, "Bad karma will cover all over his face."
[Probably.]
"Hoohoo... I see, so that's why both of you got into another little fight."「Yae Rin」
Like a casual girls' talk session, the three of them continued chatting about trivial matters. However, the moment a thunderous sound erupted from the direction of the thick smoke, their attention snapped back toward it.
Though the combatants had been relying solely on their bodies, the force of the sound was immense—like the crack of a whip or the impact of a massive sledgehammer striking the earth.
"That's... one loud noise," thanks to that, her ears still ringing slightly from the shock. With a hint of worry, Yae Rin added, "They're not going to destroy this building, right?"
[They won't. Both of them know how crucial this piece is for the survival of the city behind them. But... what is this strange feeling I've been sensing all this time?]
A sudden sensation, appeared and surged through Moriarty's awareness.
Lost in her musings, Moriarty closed her eyes once more, hoping to better focus on the unease creeping in from a corner of this world. The others, however, could only watch her in confusion—especially Major Himeko, who remained frozen in place.
"Something wrong? Your serious face is starting to put me on edge too." 「Higokumaru」
Initially, the timeless girl didn't say a word. But then, as if seeing something hard to see for others—something approaching, flying closer, and obliterating its path—she felt compelled to speak.
[There...]
"What was that?" 「Higokumaru」
"What do you mean? Is there something?" 「Yae Rin」
[From there...] Moriarty turned her gaze toward a distant region, one unprotected by any Monolith, across the distant sea. [From there... something and someone has marked me. A Catastrophe... along with a... strange person. She's from... no, she hasn't joined MOTH yet...]
"You… you know a lot of dangerous things. Catastrophes, MOTH, and even what's beyond the sea," Major Himeko said with suspicion. Could it be she's also someone from different shore? She thought endlessly.
[I know many things...] Moriarty responded without meeting her gaze, [But not the things I truly want to understand. Strange, though... isn't that supposed to be the middle boss of a later scenario? Why is it targeting this city now?]
As a precaution, Moriarty glanced toward the swirling smoke where Als was still engaged in battle. His figure was hard to discern through the haze, but one thing stood out clearly—a faint, confident smile directed on her.
It was as if Als knew exactly what was happening. Much different from Yae Rin and Higokumaru.
"Whoaa?! Rin! When did that red hair get there?!" Higokumaru exclaimed, noticing a figure behind them.
But despite her surprise, Yae Rin's attention was drawn elsewhere. "...Umm, the soldier behind us is important, but what is that flying thing..." Something about the distant object seemed far more troubling.
"Whoaa?! It looks like a freak..." Higokumaru added, her eyes widening.
Their gaze was drawn to the sky, where a bizarre object soared in the distance.
It came from the outer regions—an area well beyond the range of Monolith's Unique Field.
At first glance, the object resembled a drone.
It featured four or more propeller engines, with wing-like extensions and angular fins for stability and control. A reinforced central fuselage likely housed its core systems, while mechanical appendages dangled ominously beneath.
Though it appeared small at a glance, its true size was questionable.
Could it truly be that small, or was this merely a trick of distance? Much like a whale seems no larger than a sardine from afar, the drone might very well dwarf the Millennium Falcon if seen up close.
The airborne machine moved steadily closer, its pace deliberate, before coming to a stop mid-air.
It hovered just beyond the reach of the Monolith's automatic defenses, its behavior unnervingly precise—almost as if it were aware of their presence and knew exactly where it needed to be.
"It stopped right before entering shooting range of Monolith's. Looks like whoever's controlling it knows plenty," Major Himeko remarked, her tone sharp despite her immobilized state. Still unable to move, she added, "But why can't I—huh?"
Suddenly, the invisible restraint on her body vanished.
She blinked in surprise and flexed her fingers, testing her regained mobility.
"What just happened?" she murmured, looking toward Moriarty for answers.
Her gaze landed on Private Hua, now standing next to Moriarty. The Private's fist hovered mere inches from the shorter girl's head, carrying an unspoken warning that needed no words. While Moriarty remained calm and unfazed.
"...A good choice," Hua said, her voice calm but edged with authority. "You should go to him."
It seemed that while everyone else had been distracted by the ominous flying entity, the clash between Moriarty and Hua had reached its conclusion. And judging by the outcome, the four-eyed Private had emerged victorious.
[...]
While Private Hua hurried toward Himeko, Moriarty moved with her usual deliberate pace. She approached the man sprawled out on the ground, his gaze fixed on the peculiar sky above.
Despite her curiosity about how he had been bested by Private Hua, Moriarty maintained her calm demeanor. Lowering herself silently, she sat beside him with her characteristic way of seating.
And without a word, she ran her fingers through his unkempt hair.
It was rough and untamed, with no discernible style to speak of. This lack of order urged her to work with quiet diligence, smoothing and arranging it as best she could, her fingers moving with a calm, focused rhythm.
Her touch, though cold, held an odd tenderness.
"Ahaha, yours are much prettier! No need to fuss over mine." 「Als」
[...]
"Are you... styling my hair?" he asked, laughing lightly. "Haha, there's no need for that. It'll just get messed up again. Besides, you should think about yourself, Moriarty. Our feet just tread across this place, and your knee is already dirtied from sitting here."
[...]
Receiving only silence in return, Als let out a soft sigh, his gaze softening as he turned toward her. "If you don't say anything, then I won't understand a thing, Moriarty. I'm pretty much an idiot, so please... don't leave this idiot alone with his stupidity."
[...]
Her hand paused briefly, the faintest hint of emotion flickering across her usually unreadable face.
How should she say it? That she liked his hair? That she remembered his old hairstyle? There had been a time when he looked so prim and proper, like an honor student straight out of a storybook. But the words escaped her.
She didn't know how to put them together, not in a way that wouldn't sound... strange.
She simply wanted to keep tending to his hair, not allowing herself to think about all the things she should say to him. But as if he understood, Als let out another smile, gently placing his hand on the arm that had been brushing through his hair.
"You seem so lost... So it's alright to take it slow. Let's start with what you really want to say right now. The thing you most need to express. Stuff which passed across your head, and finished in the first place." 「Als」
His words pierced through the fog in Moriarty's mind, clearing it almost immediately. If that's the case, she wouldn't hold herself back anymore.
Without a second thought, she opened her mouth to speak.
[I hate you.]
"E-Eeh...?" Als blinked, clearly caught off guard.
[I hate, hate, hate really hate you...]
"T-That's much?! Well... I'm really sorry if I upset you. My friends used to say I'm good at making people angry... but to think it was this much. Ouche?!" 「Als」
Her fist though not hard or forceful, still managed to send a sting through him
[I really hate you...]
For a moment the girl tugged gently at his hair, her fingers brushing through the strands with a strange tenderness before she resumed softly stroking his head. The man remained still, accepting the weight and pain, as though it were part of the exchange between them.
Carefully, Moriarty lifted his head, placing it on her lap.
Their eyes met—his gaze searching, while hers steady, slightly watery in return.
[I hate you, so… do you hate me in return? Will you... respond to my feelings?]
In that moment, he saw it—those were the eyes of someone he could meet only a few times in a lifetime—a gaze so sincere and honest, revealing emotions she had long kept hidden. Something a liar could never achieve.
Her feelings were laid bare before him, raw and unguarded. He could destroy them. He could discard them. It was up to him whatever he's about to do with her, which of course...
"Of course... I will do what I could." 「Als」
Continuing their moment, it felt as if the world belonged to just the two of them once again. It didn't matter if there was a drone watching them with unclear intentions, or if there were others keeping an eye on their movements.
"One is calm, and the other doesn't seem to want to fight... but just to be safe, keep an eye on them, Hua," Major Himeko's gaze shifted towards Yae Rin and Higokumaru. "Oh, and don't forget to keep an eye on those two as well. I'm sure I've seen that pink hair somewhere..."
Feeling like the situation was finally under control, Major Himeko returned to her communicator, which, to her relief, was functioning once more. Without hesitation, she made contact with her superior, ready to report, but she was met with a string of frustrated reprimands.
The unexpected scolding echoed in her ear as she rolled her eyes, muttering under her breath, "Well, that was worth the wait. Someone's coming when everything just about to over."
"No way... onii-san lost?" 「Yae Rin」
"Rin, not like we know if he's strong or something right?" 「Higokumaru」
"From the way you're talking, it sounds like both of you barely met him."「Major Himeko」
"That's pretty much right though. We were kidnapped! Come on, Rin, you say it too. We might end up grouped with them later and got dumped to the jail!" 「Higokumaru」
"Ehh but..." 「Yae Rin」
Soon after, it was time for Yae Rin to face some interrogation.
However, her response only added to the tension—she claimed that she was on the side of the man who had kidnapped them. This revelation understandably frustrated Higokumaru, who couldn't hide her irritation.
A moment of lighthearted banter fell between them again, a rare and fleeting calm in the midst of the chaos. These moments were the ones to cherish, for no one ever knew when it would all come to an end—or when it might repeat itself.
The same as now, when a strange sound pierced the air, coming from the ominous drone.
The melody—a dissonant, eerie symphony—seemed to resonate with something darker, more threatening. As the unsettling notes lingered in the air, the sense of peace was shattered, replaced by an undeniable tension.
Something was coming.
Something they weren't yet ready for.
"To the sky, to the space, to the ship, to the place where I'm working again... yeah..."「Major Himeko」
"Major, I heard something..." Private Hua spoke up, his tone a little more serious.
"...Now that you say it," Major Himeko replied, her expression shifting.
At first, it was barely a whisper—faint, almost imperceptible. But as the sound grew, it became unmistakable. A melody, haunting and unsettling. A symphony, layered with an elegy of sorts, echoing from deep within the mysterious object.
[Tegrat... dnouf...]
[Ecnemmoc... Snoitarepo.]
(Thomas the Tank engine theme-playing in the background.)
The sound was surreal, as not only it sounds goofy for the ears, but also eerie when being playing in the current situation. It wasn't tense and blood pumping for a battle, it's also not cozy enough for a casual mood.
[All of this... what for?]
"My own wish." 「Als」
[Is your wish... to destroy what you've created?]
"It's different from destruction but... not much different than selfishness in the end." 「Als」
From Moriarty's perspective, the sound they were hearing was the mark of a Catastrophe. A term used for anything with the potential to destroy civilization, an obstacle that would eventually be faced by the movers of the world, the so-called World Initiators.
Honkai was one such Catastrophe, but its level of danger and mystery was far greater, akin to the Big Boss or Last Boss. For this one, this was a different kind of Catastrophe.
(Thomas the Tank engine theme-playing in the background.)
"This melody, could it be... Thomas?!" 「Private Hua」
"Thomas? Are you talking about that patrol robot?" Major Himeko responded, however her brow furrowing. "But... considering your rank, you shouldn't even know about that, Hua. For whatever reason, why do so many secrets end up being common knowledge..."
Realizing his slip-up, Private Hua fell silent, his lips sealed. Major Himeko, on the other hand, felt a headache forming, frustrated by how many people seemed to know things they shouldn't at their age.
It made her wonder about the strange lives they had all led.
"Now then, you two... you better start talking if you don't want me to separate you by force," Major Himeko said, directing her words at Moriarty and the man lying on her lap. "...But before that, I need to ask, will this thing work?"
"Falcon? Of course it will. Are you planning to use it against them?" 「Als」
"If the worst happens, yes. But if not... we'll likely seize it. At the same time, you might face punishment and imprisonment, or maybe... be expected to become one of our space monkeys," Major Himeko warned.
"Haha! Don't worry, I've survived more tests than you could ever believe." 「Als」
The man seemed so calm, as if this whole situation wouldn't threaten his future at all. Don't he know what'll happen if he bumped with the MOTH. Responding to his carefree attitude, Major Himeko felt a growing frustration.
There was, however, one question she was late to ask.
"...Wait, what do you mean 'against them'—"「Major Himeko」
Just then, a loud explosion rang out from the outer side of the Monolith, cutting off the conversation. Along with it, the ominous BGM of the Catastrophe continued to reverberate through the air, adding a layer of unease to the already tense atmosphere.
(Thomas the Tank engine theme-playing in the background.)
———————————————
Soukai City, shopping district
As destruction slowly crept closer, Soukai City remained bustling and peaceful as usual. People wandered through the streets as dusk approached, passing by the many shops scattered throughout the city.
This reality was partly true for a young silver-haired woman within its midst.
Among the many stores, one stood out to the residents of Soukai City—a popular eatery known as Homu Diner. The establishment was famed for its signature yellow mascot, adored by many.
Not only was the mascot, Homu, featured in various creative ways and backstories, but rumors circulated that its creator was a high schooler reputed to be both incredibly cute and charming.
This rumor ignited the hopes of many, who dreamed of meeting her in person.
"...I thought the prices would've gone up, but they're still not too different."「Agent Bronya」
The place was also a favorite spot for many others, and naturally, it was no exception for her, as she had stopped there earlier. For Agent Bronya, Homu Diner was one of the places that held great meaning for her, both from her childhood and into her adult self.
Ever since she became familiar with technology, Bronya had created many works related to Homu—whether it was fiction, such as games or visual novel stories.
But setting aside the data and details about the history of the diner and its yellow mascot, let's take a look at what kind of menu Agent Bronya had ordered for her takeout.
Order listed
1. Two Special Homu Drinks
- One with extra cream
- One with extra choco powder
2. One Homu Happy Meals
3. One Package Version. 2 of Homu Deluxe Set
4. Special commemorative toy added
It was enough for two to three people. That was the order carried by the silver-haired agent, and she seemed quite pleased with it.
"I didn't realize it was this late. I got so caught up in the moment that I lost track of time," the agent remarked, glancing at the sky, "This should be the time Bronie gets off school, but... I think she can manage on her own."
Walking away, the streetlights flickered on one by one.
Sipping her drink through a straw, Agent Bronya continued on her way, accompanied by a drone shaped like a small aircraft that had begun to follow her. Its size no larger than her head, with design closely resembling a miniature airplane.
The small flying object hovered silently behind her, disappearing and blending into the crowd whenever it wasn't needed. It was much like a personal robot for her use—less than a pet but more than a servant.
And this too, was another one of her treasures.
"0019, record today calorie intake." 「Agent Bronya」
The silver-haired woman allowed the drone to carry one of her food bags before continuing her stride toward the city's border. Her destination: Monolith 17.
That's where the target she had to retrieve awaited.
———————————————
「The Orario City」
In the Hestia Familia headquarters, a cozy room was filled with neatly stacked cakes, each one carefully arranged for later. Taking a break for the night, Cera and Hylia relaxed within its warmth.
Hylia, with her feasty hair spilling across the bed, slept soundly while hugging her Fuwa the furball friend on her chest. While across the room, Cera sat before a mirror, adjusting a few stray hairs in her reflection.
"Somehow, everything turned into chaos, ahahaha. I feel a bit bad for Theresa, but that's just how Als is. He only ever focuses on Fu Hua whenever she's around," Cera said with a chuckle.
Cera usually wore her hair in a twist-bun—a style that gathered her oxblood-colored hair into a neat bun at the back of her head. But tonight, she let it fall freely, as unbound as her thoughts and spirit in this moment.
With her glasses set aside and her mismatched eyes fully visible, along with her new sleepwear complementing her tanned skin, Cera's unique and striking appearance stood out even more. In this light, Cera could perhaps truly be called as a captivating figure.
"Hey ▀▀▀▀, is it just me, or are you adding more fan-service for me? Stop that—I'm not creating my appearance to be praised. Anyway, you're going to explain that archive about Theresa from earlier, right?" (Cera)
Then stop reading the narration, and don't shift the spotlight as to however you will.
"And like I said, don't ask the impossible. There's no way I'd ignore something important about him. Besides, the story woven by The Will of that World is pretty entertaining. I'm just a little curious."" (Cera)
Using a comb, Cera started brushing her own hair, her reflection in the mirror capturing the soft glow of her mismatched blue and black eyes, along with her relaxed expression. She looked just like any other girl ready to crash for the night.
"Eeexcuse meee?" (Cera)
Whatever your desires or opinions, none of them will affect the writing of this story. Besides, Theresa's Archive is just filler created by The Will of the World to fulfill Sakura Zeimachi's intentions when he shaped that world.
Fillers aren't exactly the most enjoyable reads, especially if it's a fabricated past.
"...Sakura Zeimachi... so you finally—ehehe! You finally said it," Cera's grin widened with a glint in her eye. "But, what's with you saying there's nothing interesting to read? Isn't there someone right here who just admitted she enjoyed the story?"
Cera pointed to herself with a playful smirk before settling into the empty space on the bed. She moved quietly, careful not to wake Hylia, and lay down just behind the feasty-haired girl's small head.
"Hey, c'mon... I'm sure there's some spicy stuff going on in those archives, right? Are there any seggs scenes in there?" (Cera)
The current story is already messy enough as it is, so let's not introduce new information that mixes truth with a bit of fabrication. Watching people enjoy something fake will only offend those who hold the real thing.
Her relationship with Theresa is just one of many fabricated records created to support the background story of that world. It doesn't have much importance.
"I don't care! Who gives a damn about your ideology! I want Zei's seggs scene! Give me Zei's seggs scene! I WANNA SEGGGS SCENE! SEEGGS SCENE!!! I wanna, I wanna, I wanna, I wanna!" (Cera)
She began flailing dramatically on the bed, kicking her legs and pounding her fists like a child in the midst of a tantrum. Strangely enough, Hylia, lying right beside her, remained completely undisturbed.
Pathetic. Truly pathetic, Cera. For someone on par with a deity, to whine and beg like this—is there some kind of malfunction in that head of yours?
"Say that to Hestia! Now give me my erotic CG recollections!" (Cera)
Forget it. You're not getting anything by whining like a child who didn't get their toy. Why don't you go join Hestia and do something ridiculous together, it'll be much more interesting.
And she really needed to keep her voice down—while Cera seemed undisturbed by all her flailing, the noisy chatter was more than enough to wake the feasty-haired girl.
———————————————