Arknights: Mobile City

At the same moment, in Babel Tower.

Morning sunlight filtered through the leaves, scattering mottled shadows across the windowsill. Behind the window, Theresa rested her chin on her folded hands atop the table, her eyes drifting upward, watching absent-mindedly as sparrows hopped among the branches outside.

"Your Highness? What are you thinking about this time?"

At that moment, Kal'tsit opened the door behind Theresa and entered, gently asking the question.

Theresa didn't immediately reply. After a quiet pause, she finally spoke:

"…I was thinking about that transaction involving K Corp."

"Did the information the Doctor brought back interest you that much?" Kal'tsit sighed softly in mild resignation as she spoke, sitting down next to Theresa. At this, Theresa straightened up, no longer staring at the sparrows outside.

"I admit, I'm curious... I wanted to ask the Doctor about what kind of person The City's leader was—but unfortunately, even she never actually met this 'Speaker'."

Theresa exhaled softly, smiling with a faint hint of frustration. Kal'tsit fell into thoughtful silence. Eventually, she quietly said:

"Then, your plan is…?"

"To be honest, I'd like to visit The City myself."

Theresa's eyes flickered with determination as she suddenly voiced this intention to Kal'tsit.

"…You always leave me wondering whether I should try talking you out of these reckless ideas."

"It'll be fine, Kal'tsit," Theresa assured her gently, still smiling.

"Besides, it's not that dangerous. The City's population is largely composed of Sarkaz. They're currently active near Kazdel, and we're even cooperating indirectly through trade. If we visit directly, they have no reason to harm us..."

"But they've also traded with Theresis," Kal'tsit reminded her pointedly.

To this, Theresa merely chuckled softly:

"And yet the Doctor visited, didn't she? Nothing happened. We've survived far worse; it makes no sense to be afraid now. Besides, from what we've observed, The City seems more neutral than anything."

Faced with Theresa's reasoning, Kal'tsit fell silent again.

She said nothing for a moment, then sighed lightly, finally speaking with resignation:

"You feel that The City's recent development has been too rapid, and you want to confirm their intentions in person, don't you, Your Highness?"

Theresa nodded.

"I really can't hide anything from you."

"…Then, if your mind is made up, my attempts to dissuade you probably won't make much difference."

Kal'tsit raised her head, meeting Theresa's gaze. Theresa flashed a victorious smile, though it soon gave way to mild anxiety.

Just what exactly was The City's current stance?

She couldn't help but ponder this crucial question.

Thus far, they'd only dealt directly with K Corp—a mere offshoot of The City. But The City's own alignment was undoubtedly critical.

Neutrality was preferable. Otherwise, future developments might become dangerously complicated.

In fact, if possible, Theresa quietly hoped that, in certain matters, The City might lean more toward their side…

Sighing softly at the thought, Theresa stood up decisively.

"Come along, Kal'tsit. Let's make preparations. It's time we paid a visit to The City."

---

Meanwhile, elsewhere in The City, Da'at was still guiding Skadi through the bustling streets.

"Where exactly are we going?" Skadi asked, looking up at Da'at, who simply smiled and replied:

"A place called Lobotomy Corporation… Ah, I haven't given you a proper introduction yet, have I?"

"I'm a representative of Lobotomy Corporation, a company specializing in energy production. Naturally, the place I want to take you is our own facility. But since we're just starting up, we can only offer very basic accommodation and employment..."

As Da'at spoke, an apologetic smile appeared on her face. Skadi watched quietly, suddenly feeling a surprising urge to soothe Da'at's troubled expression…

"…Even basic amenities are good enough," Skadi eventually mumbled somewhat awkwardly. Unfortunately, due to her own limited social skills, her attempt at reassurance lacked convincing warmth.

"Hmm… Then, for the time being, you'll be working with Lobotomy Corp. We'll guarantee your basic needs, and I'll help you find that Miss Laurentina afterward. Would that be alright?"

Da'at quickly regained her cheerful composure, counting each point off on her fingers as she asked. Skadi promptly nodded enthusiastically.

"Good, that's settled then… Come along, let's go!"

Feeling relieved, Da'at turned around briskly, leading the way toward Lobotomy Corporation's facilities.

Skadi quietly trailed behind her until the buildings came clearly into view.

"The staff dormitories are right over there—they're mostly empty right now. Come on, let's head inside. I'll introduce you to your new coworkers."

Da'at pointed out various locations as she spoke, then eagerly quickened her pace, practically skipping toward the Extraction Facility entrance. Skadi hesitated for a moment before quickly following Da'at inside.

"X, I'm back!"

Da'at announced cheerfully. Immediately, a weary voice responded from a corner of the room:

"You brought someone back?"

Da'at laughed sheepishly. At the same moment, Skadi's gaze fell upon the black-haired, golden-eyed man slowly raising his head from his desk. His face was calm, but heavy dark circles framed his eyes, as if he'd been deprived of sleep by days of ceaseless overtime.

"I met her on the road. She's facing some difficulties, and since our company desperately needs staff, I figured I'd bring her over to meet you…"

"Not everyone has the ability to do this kind of work," X sighed deeply, seemingly exasperated by Da'at's casual attitude. Slowly, his tired gaze shifted toward Skadi, making her unconsciously stand straighter.

She didn't know why, but she felt instinctively wary.

If I appear too casual in front of this man, something bad might happen...

"…Do you have any interest in extracting [EGO]?"

After silently observing Skadi for several seconds, X tilted his head slightly, finally asking her this simple yet crucial question.