Volume 5, Chapter 13: Sirin's Time to Shine ☆~ Finally, It's My Turn to Triumph
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Despite Einstein stating that all essential components for success were now available, implementing these plans would not be easy.
The task at hand went beyond defeating an enemy; it involved reshaping a fundamental concept.
Decoupling civilization from Honkai was beyond even the authority of a Herrscher. At least, none of the known Herrschers possessed such power.
This challenge transcended mere difficulty at the outset; they genuinely had no idea how to begin.
Although Einstein spoke confidently, she fully understood that reshaping concepts was far more challenging than achieving breakthroughs in materials science. In fact, to reshape this particular concept, external human assistance would likely be required.
Currently, humanity's only exposure to higher-dimensional forces came from the God of Honkai, which Otto had once communicated with.
To contact the God of Honkai again, they would need Sirin's assistance...
"Kiana, I have a task for you," Einstein said. "You must reconcile with the Herrscher consciousness within you as soon as possible; it could be the key to our victory."
Both Kiana and the Sirin consciousness inside her were manifestations derived from Sirin herself.
In the past, Sirin confronted 'God' directly, implying that both Kiana and the Herrscher consciousness are indispensable.
Kiana remained silent, now understanding why Sirin mentioned needing her help someday. Was this moment what she foresaw all along?
Nevertheless, she did not refuse.
As Einstein previously stated, their success might just hinge on one crucial step.
With no other choice, Kiana began engaging in dialogue with Sirin.
"Let's discuss a deal."
In a private room arranged by Schicksal, she had prepared numerous snacks—mostly sweets and instant noodles that both Kiana and Sirin enjoyed.
"What would it take for you to cooperate?"
"Hmph, why should I agree?" Sirin relished her newfound leverage over Kiana, sounding slightly smug. "No matter what you say, it's useless unless..."
"Unless what?"
"Unless you beat up Xia Chen first, ☆~"
Kiana was momentarily speechless.
Alright, she understood there was significant tension between Sirin and Xia Chen. After all, those past 'dreams' represented an alternate future where Sirin continuously faced setbacks.
Hesitantly, Kiana asked, "But didn't you kill Xia Chen initially yourself?"
"Then I guess we have nothing to discuss, ☆~"
Sirin remained unfazed by Kiana's refusal; now, she held the upper hand.
"You're really acting like someone who just got their way," Kiana remarked, somewhat exasperated.
"Mm-hmm."
Sirin couldn't care less about such comments.
Feeling helpless, Kiana knew she had no choice.
Kiana could never agree to Sirin's demands; it wasn't solely because of Xia Chen but rather her understanding that even if she complied, Sirin would have complete control over her until death.
If Sirin asked her to beat up Xia Chen today, tomorrow might be about Auntie, and the day after, possibly Durandal. Having experienced life as a wanderer, Kiana knew well that blindly seeking help from others leaves one vulnerable to manipulation.
Thus, she wouldn't naively accept Sirin's proposition without exploring other options.
She sought advice from both Raiden Mei and Bronya.
Raiden Mei couldn't provide any effective suggestions, but surprisingly, Bronya had a new idea.
"Kiana, since Sirin exists as pure consciousness, why not find a way to manifest her physically?" she proposed. "Doesn't Schicksal possess the Jizo Mitama? Using it to materialize Sirin, regardless of what happens afterward, at least you'd have some means to deal with her."
Kiana's perspective broadened instantly.
"You're right! How did I not think of this before?"
The reason Sirin could make demands on Kiana was simply because Kiana felt powerless against her.
But if Sirin were to appear in this world, would Kiana truly have no means to deal with her?
"Bronya, you're truly a genius."
"Of course I am," Bronya replied confidently.
"You think I can't hear your discussions?" Sirin interjected, sounding indignant. "No matter what you do to me, I won't agree."
"Hmph, that's not entirely up to you." Kiana paused briefly before adding, "Oh right, you must miss Bella dearly, don't you?"
"Bellana, that foolish dragon?"
"Mm-hmm, she misses you too, you know."
Since awakening in Siberia, Benares had been cared for by Schicksal. After Kiana joined them, Xia Chen took her to meet Benares.
Currently transformed into human form, the former Archon Honkai Beast enjoyed a life of luxury and leisure, reminiscent of someone contentedly oblivious to their true potential.
When Sirin, through Kiana's perspective, saw Bella engrossed in watching human television dramas, it infuriated her.
You're supposed to be a destructive demonic dragon! How could you fall so low?
"Just wait until you arrive in this world. I'll corrupt you with all sorts of delicious food and entertainment. Once you become addicted, I'll abruptly cut it off, leaving you in unbearable torment."
At that moment, Kiana resembled a true devil.
Meanwhile, Xia Chen accompanied Einstein to Babylon Tower.
Einstein needed to verify certain matters with Ella and was curious about the Holy Mark Terminal's true nature. Despite understanding its purpose, the design itself seemed impossible for humans to create, harboring numerous unsolved mysteries within it.
Admitting her keen interest, Einstein acknowledged this mystery.
Xia Chen did not consider the Holy Mark Terminal as his exclusive possession. Moreover, every additional intellect increased the chances of overcoming Honkai, so he readily brought Einstein along.
Throughout their journey, neither engaged in any meaningful conversation.
Xia Chen's mind was filled with thoughts and uncertainties, while Einstein had numerous questions herself.
As they approached Babylon Tower, Einstein finally spoke up, "Actually, there is something I didn't mention during the meeting."
"What is it?"
"It concerns Mobius. She has also arrived at Anti-Entropy."
Einstein paused before continuing, "Most of the data I compiled was based on Dr. Tesla's plausible conjectures, but it was Mobius who reached the final conclusion. Additionally, she revealed something to me."
"Finality is not an end, but merely a beginning."
Xia Chen pondered for a moment and shook his head. "I don't understand."
"It's normal; neither did I at first," Einstein responded after a brief pause. "It might suggest the existence of higher-dimensional beings orchestrating these events."
"The execution of Project Stigma must continue inevitably. For now, our only task is to provide sufficient time," Einstein said. "And you, my dear, carry the hope."