Volume 1 Chapter 56: Explanation And Is Pepper Guilty Or Not Guilty
There are two distinct methods of sharing memories among the clones in the game. The first method involves a passive viewing experience where the memories are observed like watching a movie. The second method, the one Carmilla utilized, allows for a more immersive transfer of memories. This immersive method enabled her to rapidly acquire the knowledge and skills associated with the [Bat Transformation] skill.
However, this more intensive memory transfer method does come with consequences. Carmilla experienced occasional headaches and dizziness, particularly depending on the duration of the memories absorbed. The intense nature of reliving the actions and sensations of her clones in a condensed timeframe required her to adapt swiftly to the new abilities and experiences she absorbed.
Initially, Carmilla faced challenges and struggled with flying, as the acquired memories needed to be assimilated and integrated into her own sense of self. However, due to the accelerated learning provided by the immersive memory transfer method, she quickly grasped the intricacies of flying like a bat. With practice and adaptation, Carmilla became proficient, as if she had possessed the natural ability to fly from the very beginning.
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The downside of the first method is that you can only watch, without actively participating. However, it still offers the advantage of gaining valuable information. For me, that was a definite plus. On the other hand, the second method allows you to personally experience the memory, immersing yourself in it. The catch is that the information obtained through this method is somewhat limited. Due to the large amount of memory being transferred within a short span of time, it can result in a headache. Fortunately, Carmilla consistently opts for memory transfers from Eve, who is known for her responsible approach and meticulous attention to details. In contrast to Pepper who occasionally takes pauses before resuming her tasks, making her a less reliable source for transferring memories.
In the case of canceling the skill [Bat Transformation], all the necessary memories are quite concise. The specific information that needs to be transferred to Carmilla revolves around Eve's practice sessions and successful attempts at canceling the transformation. Although these memories are brief, they still manage to convey the required knowledge to Carmilla. However, it's important to note that even this short transfer does cause Carmilla a slight headache, which fortunately fades away after a few seconds.
Okay, enough with the effects of the memory transfer. Let's refocus on the exploration of the cave.
After searching around for five minutes, they found nothing, leading them to conclude that this particular entrance was a dead end. In response, the trio decided to transform into bats and took to the air, flying towards the exit.
As they approached the exit, they mutually agreed to cancel their bat transformations. Following the pattern they had established with the previous entrances, they marked this particular one by inscribing the number "13th" on its side is a - sign.
Eve asked.
Eve: "Master, now that we've finished exploring all the entrances on the left side of the cave, should we continue exploring or take a break?"
Upon hearing what Eve said, Carmilla didn't hesitate and quickly replied.
Carmilla responded.
Carmilla: "Absolutely, we will continue. This is just the first entrance we've explored today, and I'm already eager to leave this cave."
Pepper asked with a puzzled tone
Pepper: "Master, if you're already eager to leave the cave, why don't we stop exploring and head outside?"
Surprised by the proper question from Pepper, as I had come to expect her playful nature, I composed myself and replied to her.
Carmilla responded.
Carmilla: "Pepper, your suggestion is quite tempting and I'm eager to leave this mundane cave already and explore other places as well. However, it would be a shame if we simply abandoned our exploration here without completing it. Who knows, we might stumble upon something valuable or significant if we continue to explore all the remaining entrances. Let's make sure we leave no stone unturned before we move on."
After expressing her thoughts, Carmilla fell silent, her gaze shifting towards the right side of the cave. After a moment, she turned her attention back to Pepper to continue their conversation.
Carmilla spoke up.
Carmilla: "If I recall correctly, we have already finished exploring all the entrances on the left side of the cave, and we've made some progress on the right side as well. I believe we have around 5 or 7 entrances left to explore to complete our exploration. However, I apologize if my memory is not entirely accurate. Does either of you happen to remember the exact number of remaining entrances?"
Pepper responded.
Pepper: "I'm sorry, Master, but I also have no idea about the exact number of remaining entrances to explore."
Eve chimed in, providing the correct information.
Eve: "Master, you are indeed correct. We still need to explore five entrances on the right side of the cave. The ones we have already finished exploring are the 1st, 3rd, and 6th entrances."
Carmilla expressed her gratitude to Eve, saying.
Carmilla: "Thank you, Eve, for the explanation. Unlike a certain someone here"
She added mischievously, casting a playful glance at Pepper.
As Carmilla's playful remark landed, an invisible arrow of banter seemed to hit Pepper once more, eliciting a lighthearted reaction from her.
Pepper:" Ugh!"
Pepper, in a playful manner, pretended to clutch her chest where her heart should be, dramatically emphasizing the playful banter between her and Carmilla.
Pepper quickly responded with a playful tone.
Pepper: "In my defense, I was born here, so I never bothered keeping track of the number of entrances. Plus, I lost count after encountering several dead ends."
As Pepper's words sparked a funny idea in Carmilla's mind, she realized they still had plenty of time before reaching the second entrance on the right side of the cave. With excitement building, in Carmilla's mind 'You know what? Since we have some extra time and the first entrance is already explored, why don't we play a game while we make our way to the second entrance? '
Carmilla, adopting a playful tone while talking.
Carmilla: "Defendant Pepper, your plea?"
She raised an eyebrow, waiting for Pepper's response with an amused expression.
Pepper, initially confused about Carmilla's intentions, couldn't resist the mischievous look and playful tone. With a hint of curiosity, she decided to join in on the fun.
Pepper chimed in with a mixture of innocence and playfulness.
Pepper: "Master, I must admit, I have no idea where you're going with this, but sure, I'm game! Honestly, I couldn't keep track of the number of entrances here. Being summoned to this place, I simply picked a few that turned out to be dead ends. You even started calling me the 'black cat' after that mishap. So, you see, it's not entirely my fault for not knowing the number of entrances explored on the right side of the cave or how many caves we still need to explore."
Pepper playfully shrugged, adding a touch of whimsy to her defense. Pepper's expression also look very justified from what she said.
Carmilla, adopting a solemn tone, declared.
Carmilla: "Judge! The defendant, Pepper, is deemed guilty!"
Her words were delivered with a touch of playful drama, heightening the light-hearted atmosphere of their game.
Pepper, in an exaggerated tone, responded.
Pepper: "Why? How could this be? I demand a fair trial, Your Honor! What is the charge against me, and where is the evidence? I implore you to reconsider!"
She added a touch of theatrical flair to her plea, enhancing the playful nature of their game.
Carmilla, playing along with the game, maintained a serious demeanor.
Carmilla: "For your egregious ignorance of the situation, you shall be sentenced to a lifetime imprisonment, Pepper. However, as a lenient judge, I offer you an alternative: you may pay a fine of 1 Bronze Coin instead."
She kept a straight face, emphasizing the playful nature of their role-playing game.
As Carmilla and Pepper burst into laughter, their amusement echoed through the cave, filling the air with contagious joy. Eve, on the other hand, remained perplexed, unable to grasp the humorous aspect of the skit. Her confusion deepened, wondering what she had missed that made Carmilla and Pepper find it so amusing.