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Difference between revisions of "A Repeating Prayer"

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(Created page with "{{:Translation Message}} {{Infobox | above = Memory Thorn | label1 = Written by | data1 = Eishima Jun | label2 = Printed in | data2 = Strategy Guide | label3 = Trans...")
 
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{{:Translation Message}}
 
{{:Translation Message}}
 
{{Infobox
 
{{Infobox
  | above = Memory Thorn
+
  | above = Repeated Prayers
 
  | label1 = Written by
 
  | label1 = Written by
  | data1 = Eishima Jun
+
  | data1 = Yoko Taro
 
  | label2 = Printed in
 
  | label2 = Printed in
  | data2 = [[Strategy Guide]]
+
  | data2 = [[NieR Music Concert]]
 
  | label3 = Translated by
 
  | label3 = Translated by
  | data3 = [https://www.reddit.com/u/Merutan /u/Merutan]
+
  | data3 = [https://www.reddit.com/u/ilfans /u/ilfans]
 
  | label4 = Date of copy
 
  | label4 = Date of copy
  | data4 = 01.10.2017
+
  | data4 = 02.10.2017
 
  | label5 = Source
 
  | label5 = Source
  | data5 = [https://docs.google.com/document/d/148fzzBcSJA_loQc9KkReOImbDXNisEJ98mowLvnHkCE/edit?usp=sharing Full translation]
+
  | data5 = [https://mintychu.dreamwidth.org/1585.html#cutid1 Full translation]
 
  | label6 = Discussion
 
  | label6 = Discussion
  | data6 = [https://www.reddit.com/r/nier/comments/69kjm4/translation_memory_thorn_spoilers/ <nowiki>[Reddit post]</nowiki>]
+
  | data6 = [https://www.reddit.com/r/nier/comments/6c8tii/translation_all_5_english_automata_concert/ <nowiki>[Reddit post]</nowiki>]
}}<onlyinclude>A story about one of 2B and 9S missions together. Takes place after Memory Cage novel and before the game's events.</onlyinclude>
+
}}<onlyinclude>Several short stories about 2B and 9S taking place before the events of the game</onlyinclude>
  
== Chapter 1 ==
+
== 1-1 (December 29th) ==
In a flash, a close-quarter weapon cut through the sandstorm. It is the type 4O sword - a state-of-the-art blade bestowed to only the elites fighting at the frontlines. The blade surges with lightning, knocking away a round object in an arc.
+
'''2B (narration):''' Everything that lives is designed to end.
  
The now headless machine lifeform ceased its movements. A few seconds later, its cylindrical body toppled over on the sand and exploded. The explosion engulfed the bodies of two previously defeated machines and turned all into a shower of scrap metal.
+
'''2B (narration):''' We are perpetually trapped ...
  
Only the telltale sound of desert winds remain after the fiery explosion faded away.
+
'''2B (narration):''' ... in a never-ending spiral of life and death.
  
As the sandstorm settles, a humanoid silhouette appears. You could tell that the silhouette belonged to an adult female by the gentle slope of its shoulders, its slim and tight waistline, as well as the well-shaped legs extending from its skirt.
+
'''2B (narration):''' Is this a curse?
  
However, the silhouette is neither an ‘adult’ nor a ‘female’ in the strictest sense. She is neither a human, nor does she have a sex in a biological sense. She is a type YoRHa android number 2 B type, or 2B for short. A model optimized for battle.
+
'''2B (narration):''' Or some kind of punishment?
  
It’s been a long time since humans have left the earth. Humans had no choice but to flee for the moon in face of an alien invasion. Currently, the earth is nothing but a battlefield for the alien’s machine lifeforms and the androids tasked to destroy them.
+
'''2B (narration):''' I often think about the god who blessed us with this cryptic puzzle ...
  
2B sheathed her sword and directed her attention behind her.
+
'''2B (narration):''' ... and wonder if we'll ever have the chance to kill him.
  
“Is this all of them?”
+
''(December 29th.)''
  
In response to her question, an object floating about three meters above the ground began its descent. It is a support unit called the pod. Composed of a rectangular head and four arms of varied sized, pods spend most of their time in the air, but can be deployed underwater if need be. They’re equipped with various functions in order to support YoRHa type androids, including long-range attacks against enemy units, analysis of the situation at hand, communication, as well as first aid.
+
''(9S speaks while struggling painfully.)''
  
“Affirmative: No enemy signals detected within a 5 kilometer radius of the access point.
+
'''9S:''' Damn ...! 2B, why?! Why did you ...!
  
''I see'', 2B replied, and started to make her way to the metallic box slightly taller than her. Access points camouflage themselves as a relic of human civilization, but it is an important facility both as a method of communication with the headquarters as well as a source of information regarding surrounding lands.
+
'''Pod 153 (narration):''' A wide, white sword penetrates 9S's stomach.
  
It’s unclear whether they’re aware of that fact or not, but machine lifeforms tend to gather around access points. Be it in a corner of some ruins, or the middle of the desert. Their behavior resembles insects gathering around a fallen fruit.
+
'''Pod 153 (narration): '''As delicate, red blood drips down him.
  
Therefore, YoRHa units have to destroy nearby machine lifeforms whenever they want to check their mail or retrieve geographical information about their surroundings. This happened so often that it became procedural for them.
+
''(2B hides her pained feelings.)''
  
After going through the motions of destroying machines, 2B was finally able to accomplish her original goal. She selected the newest message from her inbox and opened it. Her eyes skimmed over the sender and the words ‘top secret’ in the title, and was just about to read its contents.
+
'''2B:''' You attempted to access highly confidential information ... therefore ...
  
“2B!”
+
'''9S:''' B-But ... 2B ... T-Trust ... me ...
  
YoRHa unit number 9 type S, or 9S for short, appeared out of nowhere. Unlike 2B, who has the form of an adult female, 9S was created after the imagine of a young boy.
+
'''Pod 153 (narration):''' 9S's vital signs begin to fade.
  
“Is it a message from the commander?”
+
'''Pod 153 (narration):''' Heart rate decreasing, body temperature declining, motor functions failing, pupils dilating.
  
''Not really'', 2B answered curtly, and tried her hardest to cover up how shaken she felt.
+
'''Pod 153 (narration):''' As every one of his parameters breaks down, he chokes out his final words.
  
“More importantly, why are you here?”
+
'''9S:''' I-It hurts ... It ... h-hurt ... s ...
  
“Huh? What do you mean, 2B?”
+
''(His heart stops, and there is the sound effect of a flatline beep.)''
  
“It’s not time for the mission yet.
+
'''2B:''' Kh ... ngh ...
  
Since the pod notified her of a new incoming message, 2B decided to make her way to the access point earlier than planned. Even though she lost some time dispatching the machine lifeforms, she still expected to be able to finish reading the message before 9S arrived.
+
''(Unable to bear it, 2B begins to cry.)''
  
“Well...the operator told me that 2B is in the middle of combat. So I thought…I should help out.”
+
'''Pod 153:''' Pod 153 to 2E.
  
“That’s unnecessary.
+
'''Pod 153:''' Proposal: Delete 9S's personal data and reinstall default personal data.
  
2B shook her head slightly, trying to rid herself of something that was neither irritation nor anxiety.
+
'''2B:''' This is ... too much ...
  
“I guess that’s true.
+
'''Pod 153:''' YoRHa unit No.2 Type E.
  
9S gave an exaggerated shrug. 2B finally understood what she was trying to rid herself of. It was something borne from her piled up memories of past conversations and past actions.
+
'''Pod 153: '''Unit 9S's actions of obtaining sensitive information from the Bunker were within the predictions.
  
“Well, now that we’ve met up with each other, we might as well head towards the destination.
+
'''Pod 153:''' Model No.2 Type E's duties include the punishment of such actions. 
  
It was deja vu.
+
'''Pod 153:''' No.2 Type E should have understood that this mission's outcome was already determined, and acted accordingly.
  
== Chapter 2 ==
+
'''Pod 153:''' Question: Requesting current status of unit No.2 Type E, who, despite the predicted events, has yet to complete the given mission.
“Urgh, sand in my shoes again?”
 
  
He just couldn’t bring himself to like the desert, and it’s all because of the sand. It’s annoying when the wind blows and makes things hard to see, and his shoes are just full of sand as he walks. It’s pretty fun to slide on the sand slopes, but walking on anywhere but the slopes is a pain in the ass. 9S scowled, and glanced at 2B. However, 2B walked on without any change in her expression.
+
'''2B:''' Shut up already ...
  
“2B, don’t you mind?”
+
'''Pod 153:''' In addition, emotions are prohibited for YoRHa units.
  
“Mind what?”
+
'''Pod 153:''' Proposal: Halt the expression of emotions, terminate unit 9S's current personal data, and reinstall —
  
“The fact that your shoes are filled with sand, 2B.”
+
'''2B:''' I told you to shut up!
  
“While it does feel strange, it doesn’t interfere with walking.
+
''(2B becomes enraged.)''
  
“Don’t you hate it when the sand sloshes around in your shoes? Sure, it’s not a hindrance, but it’s a matter of feeling!”
+
''(While breathing heavily, 2B murmurs.)''
  
“Emotions are prohibited.
+
'''2B:''' 9 ... S ...
  
“Yeah, yeah.
+
== 1-2 (April 6th) ==
 +
''(9S and 2B's respective monologues.)''
  
''You’re one to speak'', 2B, 9S thinks to himself even as he responds.
+
''(9S speaks in his usual, cheery tone.)''
  
2B isn’t as good at holding back her emotions as she thinks. At least, that’s how it appeared to 9S. It’s just a guess, but 9S thinks that her spiel about emotions being prohibited is more directed to herself than to 9S. She’s scolding herself by saying it out loud. It’s definitely a very 2B-ish thing to do.
+
'''9S:''' My name's 9S ... YoRHa unit No.9 Type S.
  
9S thinks that she doesn’t have to try so hard. She doesn’t exactly have to walk the talk. Just how many YoRHa units actually follow the clause of not having emotions, anyways?
+
'''9S: '''Us Scanner models make use of our abilities in order to gather information on certain areas, as well as obtain data on our enemies, the machine lifeforms.
  
...but even if he says that out loud, 2B won’t change the way she is. 2B isn’t skilled enough to untangle her true feelings from how she acts on the surface.
+
'''9S: '''Sometimes we make use of our hacking abilities, too, but combat's never really been our forte.
  
9S glanced over at 2B again. He saw something behind those tightly shut lips. 2B was never very good at hiding things, after all.
+
'''9S: '''We usually work alone, though.
  
“Nines?”
+
'''9S:''' But even so, we're able to be useful to the rest of our fellow YoRHa units ...
  
2B gave him a strange look. She’s probably wondering why he’s staring at her.
+
'''9S:''' Or, that's what I like to think.
  
“Oh, it’s nothing...just...there’s so much sand...it’s so hot...I’d really love to take a bath right now.
+
''(2B speaks with a cold tone.)''
  
No. That’s not what he wanted to say.
+
'''2B:''' My name is 2B. YoRHa unit No.2 Type B ... is the name I'm operating under.
  
“We have no need for baths.
+
'''2B:''' Type-B models specialize in combat. We're a type of unit deployed to the front lines whenever an intense battle breaks out.
  
“That’s what I thought…”
+
'''2B:''' As a result, we feel nothing at the thought of throwing our lives away. That's ... just how we were created.
  
''What are you hiding? You’ve been acting strange lately. Anything on your mind? Or…?''
+
'''2B:''' ... I wouldn't hesitate for even a moment to give my life in battle.
  
9S knew that he won’t get an answer even if he asked those questions. They’ve been working on missions together for months, after all. Instead, 9S simply raised his voice.
+
'''2B:''' But ... After meeting, you, 9S ... I ...
  
“Oh! Is that the target for this investigation?”
+
'''9S:''' After being partnered with 2B, I've had to fight a lot more often than I used to.
  
He saw the hulking form of what appeared to be a huge building beyond the sandstorm. They’re very close to the desert’s end.
+
'''9S:''' She just gets into more and more dangerous situations all the time!
  
“Affirmative: The large building to the front is the target of our current investigation.”
+
'''9S:''' Just ''watching'' her makes me nervous!
  
The pod beside him answered. It is pod 153, 9S’s personal support pod. 2B’s support pod, 042 simply floated behind her in silence.
+
'''9S:''' As a Scanner model, I'm only able to equip one type of weapon at a time, so it's not easy for me.
  
“They call this building a temple. I think the official name is the “Stone Temple”? Something of great importance was transported here - I guess like a god’s statue or something? And they’ve used this as a temple ever since.”
+
''(9S begins to look a little happy.)''
  
Silence. 2B stood frozen with her mouth open.
+
'''9S:''' ... But even if it's hard, I'm just happy to be by her side.
  
“2B? What’s wrong?”
+
'''9S:''' I'm ... not alone anymore.
  
Her lips moved as if to form words. ...but 2B changed her mind at the last second before speaking again.
+
'''9S:''' It almost feels like ... I have a family.
  
“No. It’s nothing.”
+
'''2B:''' They knew even from the design stages that the 9S model's observational skills would be exceptionally high.
  
Of course it’s not nothing. She clearly struggled to come up with an answer. But 2B had no intention to tell 9S why. Even though she addresses him as “Nines” now, he still feels an insurmountable distance between them.
+
'''2B:''' So they had already foreseen that he'd someday attempt access to Project YoRHa's confidential data.
  
“Let’s go, 2B!”
+
'''2B:''' My official designation is ... 2E. No.2 Type E.
  
9S made himself sound more cheerful than he’d liked. He took off right away, making it seem like he was excited about the prospect of an investigation.
+
'''2B:''' From the moment 9S gains illegal access within the Bunker, it becomes my duty to carry out his execution.
  
No matter how he asked, 2B probably won’t give him an answer. He knew that from the very beginning.
+
'''2B: '''It's a duty that I must repeat ... over, and over ... without end.
  
It was unbearable.
+
''(9S's voice becomes calmer.)''
  
== Chapter 3 ==
+
'''9S: '''I'd be lying if I said I didn't feel something special towards 2B.
The Stone Temple was built in a deep valley. Because it was surrounded by steep cliffs, it took quite a bit of time and effort to reach the temple.
 
  
“Of all places they could’ve built a temple in...why here? I don’t get it.”
+
'''9S: '''But that sort of thing isn't allowed for us YoRHa troops.
  
Reaching the temple was no easy task, as they had to descend to the very bottom of the gorge, cover a significant amount of ground, and then climb up the cliffs just to get to the entrance. 9S is completely within his rights to complain.
+
''(2B, with a hint of pain in her voice.)''
  
“Conjecture: The remains were surrounded by a “lake” or a manmade “canal” in the past, and access was made possible by ships or bridges.
+
'''2B:''' Over and over ... I continue to kill 9S with my own hands.
  
9S thought pod 153’s answer made sense. He knew that buildings which contained important people or objects were often surrounded by water. Perhaps that would explain the temple’s cylindrical shape as well - it was trying to get as much space as possible from its limited land mass.
+
'''2B:''' And every time, it feels like a void within me deepens.
  
“But that doesn’t explain...this.
+
'''2B:''' I wonder ... if it's okay for me to hope ...
  
9S looked up at the huge tree in front of him. Clearly, it had withered a while ago, and its blackened trunk leaned powerlessly against the spiral staircase.
+
'''9S: '''For the day ...
  
“What’s the point of planting such a huge tree inside a building?”
+
'''2B:''' For the day ...
  
The cylindrical building had an open ceiling, and the spiral staircase that extended all the way from the first floor crumbled away right before the topmost floor. Perhaps the staircase had once connected all the floors, but it’s hard to tell from its current sorry state.
+
'''2B and 9S:''' When my sins can be forgiven.
  
“2B, what do you think?”
+
''(The sound of a heartbeat stopping, and a flatline beeping.)''
  
No reply. She didn’t even realize that 9S was talking to her until 9S turned to face her. Startled out of whatever daze she was in, she blurted out a response.
+
'''Pod 153:''' Unit 9S's death and deletion of current personal data confirmed.
  
“What?”
+
'''Pod 153:''' Memory banks completely eliminated. Beginning installation of default personal data ...
  
“It’s a spiral staircase.
+
== 1-3 (January 18th) ==
 +
''(9S is seen investigating something.)''
  
9S deliberately chose to not repeat himself.
+
'''9S: '''So, uh ... I guess this is the commercial facility.
  
“What...what about it…?”
+
'''2B:''' Yeah.
  
As expected, she wasn’t listening at all. If she even caught a bit of what 9S said before, she would’ve probably replied with something like “But that’s not what you said”. The only reason she didn’t do so was because she wasn’t listening.
+
'''9S:''' Seems like the people of the old world were able to get a lot of shopping done here.
  
“Let’s see how far up we can make it.
+
'''9S:''' And even if they didn't buy anything, they still had a good time just looking at everything.
  
Deciding to not point out their failed communication, 9S made his way towards the spiral staircase. 2B followed in silence. Something is wrong. It’s not like 2B at all.
+
'''9S: '''According to the records, they referred to that as "window shopping".
  
2B is tasked with a mission, so why is she acting like this? Or is her mission the reason behind her current behavior? 2B has been acting strange lately, and 9S decided to stay silent on the matter ever since he figured out why. He pretended that he was none the wiser, and interacted with 2B the same way as before. Contrary to 2B who can’t seem to keep a secret, 9S found it pretty easy to keep up the masquerade. Otherwise, he wouldn’t try to access the main server illegally. Not even once, but multiple times.
+
'''9S:''' Man, humans sure are weird creatures.
  
Well, enough about himself. He’s going to be disposed of soon enough, anyways. He knew that. And he knew that 2B will be the one to do the job.
+
'''9S:''' Hey, why don't we try it someday? Window shopping.
  
He knew that ever since he received orders for the current mission. The investigation is just a farce, and there’s no doubt that 2B had been given a separate mission.
+
'''2B:''' We're soldiers created solely for the purpose of fighting. We don't need useless things like shopping.
  
The commander’s orders...must be to eliminate 9S. Me. Right, 2B?
+
'''9S: '''Once we eradicate the machine lifeforms, us soldiers won't have anything left to do. We'll enter a new age of peace.
  
But even then, 2B’s actions just seem...off. She’s so distracted, and 9S doesn’t feel a shred of tension from her. He didn’t think 2B could undertake a top secret mission with such a lackluster attitude. S types can’t match B types in close-quarter combat, but they can and will counterattack, and they can let their pods provide long range support as well.
+
'''9S:''' I'm talking about for when that happens.
  
So...maybe there’s another reason for 2B unnatural behavior. A reason unrelated to 9S’s illegal accesses.
+
'''9S: '''I bet it'll be fun!
  
2B, who was walking in front of him, suddenly lost her balance.
+
'''2B:''' Hmm... When that day comes ... I'm all for it.
  
“Watch out!”
+
'''9S (narration): '''That's what she said, as she turned her back to me and began walking.
  
9S reached out hurriedly and caught 2B with his arms.
+
'''9S (narration): '''Almost like she was embarrassed or something.
  
“What’s wrong? I’ve never seen 2B trip on a staircase.
+
'''9S (narration): '''Almost ... like she was sad.
  
It’s true, the quality of the spiral staircase left much to be desired, years of wear and tear leaving holes and bumps. But there’s no way that 2B, with all her athletic ability, would let herself be caught off guard.
+
'''9S (narration): '''Later, we spent a day fishing together in the Flooded City.
  
“Are you alright?”
+
'''9S (narration): '''Well, we were actually investigating some marine resources, but we couldn't manage to catch the fish we needed.
  
“Ah….yes.
+
'''9S (narration): '''There wasn't a lot of talking. We just ... spent the day fishing, watching the gentle waves in front of us.
  
She replied absentmindedly.
+
'''9S (narration): '''The salty, humid wind blew against us.
  
“I guess we’re lucky there aren’t any enemies around here. That could’ve been fatal if machine lifeforms attacked.”
+
'''9S (narration): '''The surface of the water sparkled brilliantly.
  
“It could’ve...been fatal…?”
+
'''9S (narration): '''I remember all those little details, even now.
  
9S doubted his eyes. 2B was smiling. Her lips were curled unnaturally in a very strange smile. There’s clearly something wrong.
+
'''9S (narration):''' But the memory that sticks out to me the most happened in the City Ruins.
  
“What’s happening? Are you feeling unwell?”
+
'''9S (narration): '''It was right after we'd finished our current mission. 
  
“No...I’m..I’m fine…”
+
'''9S (narration): '''I went and provoked a wild boar, and it ended up chasing the two of us around the whole rest of the day.
  
2B wobbled as she tried to stand. Seems like she couldn’t control her strength very well.
+
'''9S (narration): '''We didn't have any information on creatures that were more powerful than the machine lifeforms we were always fighting, so we had to retreat to the top of a building to get away from it.
  
“Do you hear what you’re saying!? You’re clearly not fine!”
+
'''9S (narration):''' And while we talked about whether the collection of data for wild boars should take priority over the collection of data for machine lifeforms,
  
Why didn’t he catch the signs of her worsening condition? But no, all her checks were green before the mission.. 9S was responsible for 2B’s maintenance, so he would’ve requested to cancel the mission if he found anything wrong.
+
'''9S (narration): '''we sat atop that ruined building, covered in plant life, 
  
“Let’s retreat for now.
+
'''9S (narration): '''looking out over the rest of the city.
  
However, 2B ignored 9S’s words and began making her way up the stairs again.
+
'''9S (narration): '''Plant and animal life has increased since the Old World.
  
“2B!”
+
'''9S (narration): '''But some things haven't changed at all, like the smell of crisp air, or the sound of rain.
  
9S raise his voice and grabbed 2B’s arm.
+
'''9S (narration):''' But those are all just a part of my ... most precious memory.
  
“Warning: Enemy signals detected above.
+
'''9S (narration):''' We went around to a whole bunch of places together.
  
“Warning: Multiple signals at 2 o’clock.
+
'''9S (narration):''' Er, for our missions, of course. Not for fun.
  
The two pods simultaneously warned them of danger. The chances of running into machine lifeforms were supposed to be close to zero according to the headquarter’s prebrief.
+
'''9S (narration):''' We were always running into ''some'' sort of trouble, like intense fights with huge machine lifeforms.
  
Yet here they are, six aerial units approaching them from above. Their shapes resemble what 9S liked to call ‘small fry’, but they seem to possess the ability to emit jamming signals. That’s how they were able to avoid detection until they came within range…
+
'''9S (narration): '''But for me, the memories that stuck with me the most weren't the ones having to do with those battles, but instead ... they were just the ones where 2B and I spent our time doing insignificant things.
  
“Dammit.
+
''(9S looks a bit lonely.)''
  
They were certainly opportunists, choosing to attack when 2B wasn’t at her best. Retreating is made difficult by the fact that there is an open ceiling above the spiral staircase - 9S and 2B would always be in the machine’s range of fire.
+
'''9S (narration):''' Those memories ... are going to disappear soon, like all the rest.
  
“Nines! Get back!”
+
'''9S (narration):''' Along with my personal data.
  
A sharp cry. 2B ran up the stairs as if a switch flipped inside her. Unlike the past few moments, her movements were smooth. She’s back to the usual 2B.
+
'''9S (narration):''' But "this" me ... is just happy to have gotten to spend those days with you.
  
“I’ll provide support!”
+
'''9S (narration): '''Goodbye ... 2B.
  
Then the only thing left for him is to provide support as usual.
+
''(The sound of a heartbeat stopping, and a flatline's beep.)''
  
“Pod! Analyze enemy units’ flight patterns!”
+
''(January 18th.)''
  
Careful to not get in the way of 2B’s personal pod 042, 9S issued a command to 153. Machine lifeforms generally move in patterns specific to their overall shape. If those patterns can be predicted, then 9S could inflict the most amount of damage while sustaining the least amount of injuries.
+
'''Pod 153:''' Unit 9S's death and deletion of current personal data confirmed.
  
153 used its long range attacks to strike down a machine that was trying to approach 2B from the back. The machines weren’t that fast.
+
'''Pod 153:''' Memory banks completely eliminated. Beginning installation of default personal data.
  
Just when 9S thought they had a chance, the two pods again issued their warnings in unison.
+
'''2B:''' I see ...
  
“Warning: Enemy signals detected in overhead corridor.
+
''(There's a small pause.)''
  
“Conjecture: Multiple non-aerial units. Enemy form and numbers remain unknown.”
+
'''Pod 153:''' Because unit 9S continuously carries out illegal access to confidential data, he must be terminated repeatedly.
  
The aerial units are interfering with the pods’ ability to obtain enemy data. That’s something that needs to be taken care of first.
+
'''Pod 153:''' However, during this confrontation, there was little resistance detected from unit 9S.
  
“2B! Go on ahead! I’ll take care of the aerial units!”
+
'''Pod 153:''' Further, according to his memory banks, he was aware of unit 2B's true designation as an Executioner model.
  
Type B units are better at dealing with with non-aerial types due to their strength in close-quarters combat.
+
'''Pod 153:''' Question: Why did unit 9S not resist?
  
“Understood. I leave this to you.
+
'''2B:''' 9S ... knew that I was ... an Executioner model?
  
2B jumped over the handrail, took ahold of 042’s arm and glided towards the corridor. There was no hesitation in her movements.
+
''(2B laughs, though it's full of sorrow.)''
  
“Pod! I’ll be hacking to take control of the enemy!”
+
'''2B: '''Hah ... hahahah ...
  
“Understood: Providing support.
+
'''2B: '''Pod 153, you ...
  
9S rushed up the stairs and closed the distance between him and the enemy. Luckily, the enemy was slow to react and 9S managed to launch his invasion in no time.
+
'''2B: '''You could never understand 9S ...
  
Once he’s in, machine lifeforms are often left defenceless. They’ve picked up a great variety of physical attacks, but they haven’t quite learned how to deal with hacking internally.
+
'''Pod 153:''' Negative: This is the tactical support unit assigned to unit 9S.
  
Having found the control unit, 9S overwrote the system settings. As long as he gained control of one unit, the rest was easy.
+
'''Pod 153:''' This unit is with him during operational hours, as well as during maintenance.
  
9S used his controlled unit to attack the remaining five aerial units. None of the aerial units responded in kind when attacked. Maybe the machine lifeforms don’t have a concept of friendly fire - because even when 9S approached them with his controlled unit, they did not evade and were shot down immediately.
+
'''Pod 153:''' This unit is also responsible for reporting when he accesses the Bunker's data illegally.
  
Having destroyed all five units, 9S activated self-destruction on his controlled unit and returned to the physical world. He ran up the spiral staircase, aiming for the corridor that 2B was fighting in. He thought he could provide some support, but it was clear that it was no longer needed.
+
'''Pod 153:''' It can be inferred that this unit is aware of all information regarding unit 9S.
  
“I guess you’re all done here.
+
'''Pod 153:''' Therefore, the claim that this unit "could never understand 9S" is inappropriate.
  
2B was surrounded with various pieces of scrap metal - what remained of the non-aerial units. They couldn’t let their guard down completely because there might be enemy units in the floors above, but they’ve certainly cleared out their immediate surroundings.
+
'''2B:''' You don't know a single thing about 9S.
  
“Are you hurt?”
+
'''2B:''' You ...
  
“I’m fine.
+
''(2B speaks with a lonely tone.)''
  
Before he could even relax from hearing that, 2B abruptly dropped her sword. 9S ran towards her. He had a bad feeling.
+
'''2B: '''And me both ...
  
“2B!”
+
== 1-4 (February 4th) ==
 +
''(2B is crying, in pain.)''
  
“Don’t worry. My hand...just slipped…”
+
'''2B:''' No ... Enough already ...
  
Strange noises accompanied her voice. Her hands, shaking uncontrollably, scratched at her own neck.
+
'''Pod 153:''' Proposal: Unit 2B should carry out her assignment.
  
“Logic virus!?”
+
''(The sound of a heartbeat stopping, and a flatline's beep.)''
  
2B fell down on her knees. 9S tore off 2B’s goggles - 2B’s eyes were shining a bright crimson. No doubt. She was infected by an enemy unit.
+
'''2B:''' I don't want to kill him anymore ...
  
“I’ll remove the virus through hacking!”
+
'''Pod 153: '''Negative: Unit 2B's assignment is still in effect.
  
“Wait….don’t…”
+
'''Pod 153: '''The Commander has already denied the mission cancellation request submitted 64 hours ago.
  
2B shook her head in pain.
+
''(The sound of a heartbeat stopping, and a flatline's beep.)''
  
“What are you saying? We have to remove the virus now!”
+
'''2B: '''Why ... do I have to ...
  
He can’t afford to waste any second. Once the infection reaches her personality data, there’d be nothing that he could do. 9S laid down 2B on her back, and forcibly hacked into her despite her still shaking head.
+
'''Pod 153:''' Report: Unit 2B was modeled after a YoRHa test model who was the last surviving member of her group.
  
== Chapter 4 ==
+
'''Pod 153:''' Unit 2B was chosen due to her ability to adapt to harsh environments as well as her combat capabilities.
What used to be a pure white hacking region was stained black at various parts. A classic effect of the logic virus.
 
  
A logic virus takes over an android’s memory area and logic circuits, effectively taking control of their personality and body. If left to its own devices, the infected android will destroy its surroundings and even attack its comrades.
+
'''2B:''' I'm not suited for this mission at all ...
  
“I have to hurry…”
+
'''Pod 153:''' Negative.
  
Luckily, 9S has seen this type of virus before. He had already succeeded in combating this virus in the past.
+
'''2B: '''Someone ... help me ...
  
“But the infection is progressing too fast. Plus…”
+
''(Pod 153 begins repeating itself as if it's broken.)''
  
An orange light whizzed past 9S’s personality data. It was an attack from the virus.
+
''(Behind the pod's voice, the sound of a flatline beep can be heard.)''
  
“Such a pain.
+
'''Pod 153:''' Negative ... Report: Proposal: Destruction: Order: Punishment: Humanity: Moon: Fiction: Machine: Boy: Conviction ...
  
But since the virus didn’t appear to be irregular, its attack patterns remained the same as before. 9S had no problem tackling the virus while avoiding its attacks.
+
''(2B shouts as though to block out the pod's voice.)''
  
It didn’t take long before he removed all traces of the virus. All he needed to do was to make sure that no viruses were hibernating inside 2B’s logical circuits. As simple as performing a quick scan.
+
'''2B:''' ''Nines''!!
  
“Huh? This is weird.
+
''(There is a long pause.)''
  
As he was scanning over her logical circuits, he discovered cracks in 2B’s personality data. In general, hacking regions appear as ‘pure white walls without a single crack’, but what he saw in front of him resembled the cracked walls of an abandoned building. He just didn’t see it before when the virus’s black color covered up the cracks.
+
'''9S (narration):''' Us YoRHa units ... only exist to be destroyed.
  
“Is this an aftereffect of the virus?”
+
'''9S (narration):''' Over and over, we die, and we're just reborn again.
  
He had to find out more. He began a deep search, and was immediately met with the sound of rushing wind. Words filled his entire field of vision.
+
'''9S (narration):''' A lot like cycle of life and death that living creatures have.
  
''“You are ordered to terminate 9S.''
+
''(9S now speaks with some worry in his voice.)''
  
It was a fragment of 2B’s memories. These words were probably part of a mail’s contents. The sound of the wind is probably reflective of the location itself - the desert. 9S remembered the sight of 2B receiving mail in front of the access point. That wasn’t too long ago.
+
'''9S (narration):''' ... But, why does my chest always feel so heavy?
  
9S paused his scanning activity and accessed the memory at hand. He felt a pang of guilt, but since his own name was mentioned, he should probably be privy to its contents.
+
'''9S (narration):''' How come every time I lose my life, I end up feeling like something important was taken from me?
  
...has attempted illegal access to the main server multiple times. We found traces of him having accessed the most confidential layer in the past few days.”
+
'''9S (narration):''' Hey, 2B ... Will I ever be able to see you again?
  
The words are wavering. The sounds of the wind are no more. It seems like 2B was shaken to the core during this memory.
+
'''9S (narration):''' Why does losing my current self ...
  
''“Therefore, you are ordered to terminate 9S.”''
+
'''9S (narration):''' ... make me feel so lonely?
  
2B refused to have her virus removed because she didn’t want him to see this memory.
+
''(There's a long pause.)''
  
“You shouldn’t even let that bother you. I knew that you were an assassin sent by the commander.
+
'''2B (narration):''' Us YoRHa units ... only exist to destroy.
  
The only thing he didn’t know was the when. But he knew it from the moment he met up with her at the desert’s access point. He felt something from 2B as she read her mail with her back turned towards him. The final nail in the coffin was how she didn’t even realize 9S was approaching until he called out to her…
+
'''2B (narration): '''In order to recapture Earth and restore humanity, I'll harbor no regrets.
  
''“Destruction of the head.”''
+
'''2B (narration): '''Even if ... I must kill my fellow androids.
  
The sound startled 9S. Fragments from a different time were intermingled with the memories of 2B reading the mail. It was a low, emotionless voice. But since it sounded so much like 2B’s voice, 9S couldn’t help but follow that voice.
+
''(2B now speaks with some worry in her voice.)''
  
“This is 2B. I have accomplished my mission.
+
'''2B (narration): '''But killing 9S like this, over and over ...
  
It’s the same voice. If the previous words were from 2B as well, whose head did she destroy?
+
'''2B (narration):''' It feels like I just keep staining my heart with more and more dirtied blood ...
  
9S approached the scattered memory fragments.
+
'''2B (narration): '''And no matter how much I try to wipe it off, it won't disappear.
  
“What...is this?”
+
'''2B (narration): '''The heaviness of 9S's words just keeps getting worse ...!
  
Upon first glance, these fragments appear to be scattered, but they were actually bent and connected in unnatural ways. What’s more, every single fragment had thorns protruding from them. 9S had never seen memory data like this.
+
''(Despite how much she wants to speak with honesty, she shuts her feelings inside herself.)''
  
They were full of thorns, they were disfigured, they were intermingled...they were 2B’s memories.
+
'''2B (narration):''' ...
  
Maybe he shouldn’t see them. Maybe ignorance is bliss. Logically, he knew that, but couldn’t stop himself anyways. He was slightly resentful of his natural curiosity as an S type.
+
'''2B (narration):''' ......
  
He touched one of the fragments and was immediately wracked with pain. But the pain helped him make up his mind - he needed to see this.
+
'''2B (narration):''' Hey ... 9S ...
  
''“But there’s no way an S type can win against a B type.”''
+
'''2B (narration):''' I wonder ... Were the choices I made wrong ...?
  
This voice belonged to no other than himself. Since this is 2B’s memory, he must’ve said those words to her at some point. But he couldn’t recall anything like that. His memories were erased at some point.
+
''(February 4th.)''
  
By whom? For what?
+
''(The continuous beeping sound of an error.)''
  
Seeking for answers, 9S accessed another piece of memory.
+
'''9S:''' Gah ... Ahhhh!
  
''“Goodbye, 2B.''
+
''(9S appears to be suffering, on the verge of death.)''
  
His own voice again. Hearing such a frail voice, 2B tried her hardest to keep her emotions in check. 9S didn’t get any visual information, probably because 2B had shut her eyes tightly at this point.
+
'''2B:''' 9S ... ''Nines''!
  
''“Goodbye, 2B.''
+
''(Still suffering, his breathing becomes rough.)''
  
''“Goodbye, 2B.”''
+
'''9S:''' Hah ... hahaha ...
  
''“Goodbye, 2B.”''
+
'''9S:''' So you ... finally called me Nines ... at the very end, huh ...
  
These same words repeated themselves. When 2B read the message from the commander at the desert access points, these were the words that she heard in her mind.
+
'''2B:''' Why ... Why did you activate your own self-destruction ...?! If you do that, your personal data will ...
  
But when and where did he say that?
+
'''Pod 153 (narration):''' Due to a self-administered physical virus, 9S's body began to collapse on itself. 
  
Another piece of memory began its playback at that point. It took place during the mission at the so-called Sand Temple. It was the first time 2B executed 9S. She trapped 9S in her hacking space, cut off his escape routes via a wall created by a self-closing algorithm and erased his data.
+
'''Pod 153 (narration): '''His hair, his fingertips, his arms ... They all felt the intense pain of decomposition.
  
Those were 9S’s parting words, right before he was about to be annihilated in 2B’s hacking space…
+
'''9S:''' ... It's okay ... 2B ... You were assigned to — to kill me ... weren't you ...?
  
“2B has killed me before.
+
'''9S:''' I-I knew ... How much it hurt you ... to have to do this ...
  
That makes sense, he thought to himself. It certainly explained the sense of wrongness felt all along.
+
'''Pod 153 (narration):''' The hand he was attempting to stroke 2B's cheek with no longer existed.
  
He attempted to access the next fragment. Again, he felt pain, but there’s no way he could stop now.
+
'''9S:''' I-If it's for you, 2B ... I — I'd easily ... throw my life away ...
  
That particular execution happened in outer space. 2B destroyed 9S during their descent to earth. Another execution happened at the Sand Temple. Having learned from her previous mistake, 2B immediately killed 9S with a flash of her sword once they stepped into the temple. A few of the executions also happened right here, in the Stone Temple.
+
'''Pod 153 (narration):''' He attempted to squeeze even the smallest bit of hope out of his collapsing body.
  
Sometimes she executed him after undertaking missions together. Sometimes she attacked and executed him while they were “total strangers”.
+
'''2B:''' Nines ... How could you ...
  
No matter how many times he’s executed or how many times his memory got wiped, 9S will always reach the same conclusion - that the commander is hiding something. And to sate his curiosity, he will always attempt to access the main server.
+
''(9S, in immense pain, attempts to tell 2B his final words.)''
  
2B tried to stop him. Multiple times. When she got the chance to work with 9S, she tried her hardest persuade him to not suspect the commander. When she had to execute him without a chance to interact with him, she erased his memories and tried to nip his suspicions in the bud.
+
'''9S: '''2B, I ... N-No ... YoRHa unit No.9 Type S ...
  
But all of her efforts were fruitless. No matter what she did, she couldn’t change the end result. It didn’t matter if she treated 9S with affection or indifference. It didn’t matter whether she called him “Nines” or not. At the very end, 2B will always receive orders to kill 9S.
+
'''9S: '''... h-has been truly honored to fight by the side ... of unit No.2 Type B.
  
“So that’s how it was…”
+
'''9S:''' M-May your future battles shine brightly ...
  
He’s been wondering about this ever since he first met 2B. 2B sometimes seemed like she was talking to someone else while they were alone. Back then, he concluded that 2B must’ve worked with other S types in the past.
+
'''2B:''' Ni ... ne ...
  
His conclusion wasn’t completely right, nor was it completely wrong. 2B didn’t work with another S type - she worked with 9S. But not the “current 9S”.
+
''(2B can't even form words.)''
  
''“That could’ve been fatal if machine lifeforms attacked.”''
+
'''9S:''' 2B, I — I have ... a final request ...
  
He now knew the reason behind 2B’s peculiar actions after he said those words. Because a previous 9S said the exact same words in the exact same location in the past. He was killed by 2B right after that. His words triggered 2B’s memories of that time and caused her suffering.
+
'''9S: '''If you and I meet again, I ... I want you to kill me. P-Promise?
  
And not just this once. Every memory she had of 9S brought great pain to her. So much that her own personality data is in tatters.
+
''(2B can only let out sounds of agony.)''
  
''“I won’t apologize, because this is my mission. I won’t feel any guilt. Not now. Not ever.”''
+
'''9S:''' Hahah ... You sure are kind ... 2B ...
  
9S looked over 2B’s personality data again. It was pure white, but looked like it could crumble to dust at any moment…
+
'''Pod 153 (narration): '''9S's voice began to fade.
  
== Chapter 5 ==
+
'''9S: '''The towns, amusement parks, and oceans ... we saw together ... I'll never forget them ...
Her consciousness surfaced from the darkness. She blinked, and saw 9S’s face close to her. He had a downcast expression. Or did she imagine it? 2B blinked and looked at him again.
 
  
“Nines…?”
+
'''Pod 153 (narration):''' His eyes no longer hold any light within them.
  
That’s right, they were attacked by machine lifeforms. She fought them but became infected with the logic virus. Her last memory was of her trying desperately to stop 9S.
+
'''9S:''' Thank you ... for being with me, 2B ...
  
“I have removed the virus.
+
''(The sound of a heartbeat stopping, and a flatline's beep.)''
  
She didn’t manage to stop him. 9S forcibly hacked her and dove into her memory regions.
+
''(9S breathes his final breath.)''
  
“So...you’ve seen it all, huh?”
+
''(2B moans in grief.)''
  
9S nodded silently.
+
'''2B:''' I ... I ...
  
“I see…”
+
'''2B:''' Nines ... I'm sorry ... I'm so sorry ...
  
She wasn’t surprised. She knew that this day was coming. S types are very insightful. 9S has already seen through her secret mission multiple times.
+
''(Everyone raises their heads.)''
  
“2B wasn’t your actual name, huh.
+
'''Pod 153 (narration): '''Everything that lives is designed to end.
  
But this scenario had never happened before.
+
'''Pod 153 (narration): '''"They" are perpetually trapped ...
  
“2E.
+
'''Pod 153 (narration): '''... in a never-ending spiral of life and death.
  
This was the first time 9S called her by her real name. E type number 2. Tasked with pursuing and executing deserters or rebels, as well as finishing off fellow androids that could no longer function on the battlefield. She is a YoRHa type android specializing in such dirty jobs.
+
'''2B (narration):''' Even if the pain of killing 9S is the sin I must bear.
  
2B drew her sword. 9S’s shoulders were shaking. He knew that 2B had killed him countless times before.
+
'''9S (narration): '''Even if the joy of meeting 2B is my reason to live.
  
“I don’t intend to kill you anymore.
+
'''2B (narration):''' I'll still resist.
  
She pointed the tip of the blade towards herself and gave the handle to 9S.
+
'''9S (narration): '''I'll keep fighting.
  
“So kill me.
+
'''2B and 9S (narration): '''Even if that means ...
  
Her mission ended in failure. She failed as an E type. She’s now a defective product that can’t even justify her own operating costs.
+
'''2B and 9S (narration): '''Going against God.
  
“At the very least, I want to die by your hands…”
 
 
She had no illusions about this being any form of atonement. But if she could even give back a sliver of what she’d taken from 9S...there’s nothing much left for her to give. This is the only thing that she had to offer.
 
 
She saw 9S tighten his grip on the sword handle. She smiled and awaited her last moments.
 
 
The sword flashed. However, the blade was not aimed at 2B.
 
 
“Nines!?”
 
 
2B widened her eyes in shock, her head covered in a shower of blood. 9S, having sliced his own throat, slowly fell over. She cradled his body in her arms, her own screams of ‘Why?!’ sounding distant to even herself.
 
 
“Because...I had fun.”
 
 
She doubted her ears. He had fun? That’s impossible. There’s no way that’s true.
 
 
“I really enjoyed the time we had together. I think...that goes for all my previous selves as well.”
 
 
“Nines…”
 
 
''I’m sorry'', she wanted to say, but 9S interrupted her unspoken apology.
 
 
“Don’t apologize. Instead…”
 
 
Even with his rough breathing, 9S was smiling.
 
 
“Next time...don’t hesitate...to kill me. Because we….will meet again.”
 
 
As long as he wipes his memory regions and re-installs his personality data, he will get to meet 2B again. Even if he won’t be his current self anymore.
 
 
“I want….to see you...again…”
 
 
Even if their next meeting is nothing but a preface to another execution.
 
 
“I understand.”
 
 
Her vision blurred, and she couldn’t discern 9S’s last expression.
 
 
The body in her arms became heavier. The hand touching her cheek fell limply to his side. His black box signal was weakening by the moment. It would be cruel to let this drag out any longer.
 
 
She laid down 9S’s body and thrust her sword through his chest. His black box signal disappeared completely.
 
 
“I promise you.”
 
 
''That I won’t hesitate to kill you.'' The next time, or the time after that. Not because of her mission, but because that’s what 9S wanted. To grant his wish of meeting again...she’ll kill him.
 
 
2B silently withdrew her sword from 9S’s chest.
 
 
[[Category:Translations]]
 
[[Category:Translations]]

Revision as of 13:24, 2 October 2017

Pod 042 to Player
Query: The content of this page is posted with author's permission. All of the information is in the infobox. Proposal: Please visit source link to support the author.
Repeated Prayers
Written by Yoko Taro
Printed in NieR Music Concert
Translated by /u/ilfans
Date of copy 02.10.2017
Source Full translation
Discussion [Reddit post]
Several short stories about 2B and 9S taking place before the events of the game

1-1 (December 29th)

2B (narration): Everything that lives is designed to end.

2B (narration): We are perpetually trapped ...

2B (narration): ... in a never-ending spiral of life and death.

2B (narration): Is this a curse?

2B (narration): Or some kind of punishment?

2B (narration): I often think about the god who blessed us with this cryptic puzzle ...

2B (narration): ... and wonder if we'll ever have the chance to kill him.

(December 29th.)

(9S speaks while struggling painfully.)

9S: Damn ...! 2B, why?! Why did you ...!

Pod 153 (narration): A wide, white sword penetrates 9S's stomach.

Pod 153 (narration): As delicate, red blood drips down him.

(2B hides her pained feelings.)

2B: You attempted to access highly confidential information ... therefore ...

9S: B-But ... 2B ... T-Trust ... me ...

Pod 153 (narration): 9S's vital signs begin to fade.

Pod 153 (narration): Heart rate decreasing, body temperature declining, motor functions failing, pupils dilating.

Pod 153 (narration): As every one of his parameters breaks down, he chokes out his final words.

9S: I-It hurts ... It ... h-hurt ... s ...

(His heart stops, and there is the sound effect of a flatline beep.)

2B: Kh ... ngh ...

(Unable to bear it, 2B begins to cry.)

Pod 153: Pod 153 to 2E.

Pod 153: Proposal: Delete 9S's personal data and reinstall default personal data.

2B: This is ... too much ...

Pod 153: YoRHa unit No.2 Type E.

Pod 153: Unit 9S's actions of obtaining sensitive information from the Bunker were within the predictions.

Pod 153: Model No.2 Type E's duties include the punishment of such actions. 

Pod 153: No.2 Type E should have understood that this mission's outcome was already determined, and acted accordingly.

Pod 153: Question: Requesting current status of unit No.2 Type E, who, despite the predicted events, has yet to complete the given mission.

2B: Shut up already ...

Pod 153: In addition, emotions are prohibited for YoRHa units.

Pod 153: Proposal: Halt the expression of emotions, terminate unit 9S's current personal data, and reinstall —

2B: I told you to shut up!

(2B becomes enraged.)

(While breathing heavily, 2B murmurs.)

2B: 9 ... S ...

1-2 (April 6th)

(9S and 2B's respective monologues.)

(9S speaks in his usual, cheery tone.)

9S: My name's 9S ... YoRHa unit No.9 Type S.

9S: Us Scanner models make use of our abilities in order to gather information on certain areas, as well as obtain data on our enemies, the machine lifeforms.

9S: Sometimes we make use of our hacking abilities, too, but combat's never really been our forte.

9S: We usually work alone, though.

9S: But even so, we're able to be useful to the rest of our fellow YoRHa units ...

9S: Or, that's what I like to think.

(2B speaks with a cold tone.)

2B: My name is 2B. YoRHa unit No.2 Type B ... is the name I'm operating under.

2B: Type-B models specialize in combat. We're a type of unit deployed to the front lines whenever an intense battle breaks out.

2B: As a result, we feel nothing at the thought of throwing our lives away. That's ... just how we were created.

2B: ... I wouldn't hesitate for even a moment to give my life in battle.

2B: But ... After meeting, you, 9S ... I ...

9S: After being partnered with 2B, I've had to fight a lot more often than I used to.

9S: She just gets into more and more dangerous situations all the time!

9S: Just watching her makes me nervous!

9S: As a Scanner model, I'm only able to equip one type of weapon at a time, so it's not easy for me.

(9S begins to look a little happy.)

9S: ... But even if it's hard, I'm just happy to be by her side.

9S: I'm ... not alone anymore.

9S: It almost feels like ... I have a family.

2B: They knew even from the design stages that the 9S model's observational skills would be exceptionally high.

2B: So they had already foreseen that he'd someday attempt access to Project YoRHa's confidential data.

2B: My official designation is ... 2E. No.2 Type E.

2B: From the moment 9S gains illegal access within the Bunker, it becomes my duty to carry out his execution.

2B: It's a duty that I must repeat ... over, and over ... without end.

(9S's voice becomes calmer.)

9S: I'd be lying if I said I didn't feel something special towards 2B.

9S: But that sort of thing isn't allowed for us YoRHa troops.

(2B, with a hint of pain in her voice.)

2B: Over and over ... I continue to kill 9S with my own hands.

2B: And every time, it feels like a void within me deepens.

2B: I wonder ... if it's okay for me to hope ...

9S: For the day ...

2B: For the day ...

2B and 9S: When my sins can be forgiven.

(The sound of a heartbeat stopping, and a flatline beeping.)

Pod 153: Unit 9S's death and deletion of current personal data confirmed.

Pod 153: Memory banks completely eliminated. Beginning installation of default personal data ...

1-3 (January 18th)

(9S is seen investigating something.)

9S: So, uh ... I guess this is the commercial facility.

2B: Yeah.

9S: Seems like the people of the old world were able to get a lot of shopping done here.

9S: And even if they didn't buy anything, they still had a good time just looking at everything.

9S: According to the records, they referred to that as "window shopping".

9S: Man, humans sure are weird creatures.

9S: Hey, why don't we try it someday? Window shopping.

2B: We're soldiers created solely for the purpose of fighting. We don't need useless things like shopping.

9S: Once we eradicate the machine lifeforms, us soldiers won't have anything left to do. We'll enter a new age of peace.

9S: I'm talking about for when that happens.

9S: I bet it'll be fun!

2B: Hmm... When that day comes ... I'm all for it.

9S (narration): That's what she said, as she turned her back to me and began walking.

9S (narration): Almost like she was embarrassed or something.

9S (narration): Almost ... like she was sad.

9S (narration): Later, we spent a day fishing together in the Flooded City.

9S (narration): Well, we were actually investigating some marine resources, but we couldn't manage to catch the fish we needed.

9S (narration): There wasn't a lot of talking. We just ... spent the day fishing, watching the gentle waves in front of us.

9S (narration): The salty, humid wind blew against us.

9S (narration): The surface of the water sparkled brilliantly.

9S (narration): I remember all those little details, even now.

9S (narration): But the memory that sticks out to me the most happened in the City Ruins.

9S (narration): It was right after we'd finished our current mission. 

9S (narration): I went and provoked a wild boar, and it ended up chasing the two of us around the whole rest of the day.

9S (narration): We didn't have any information on creatures that were more powerful than the machine lifeforms we were always fighting, so we had to retreat to the top of a building to get away from it.

9S (narration): And while we talked about whether the collection of data for wild boars should take priority over the collection of data for machine lifeforms,

9S (narration): we sat atop that ruined building, covered in plant life, 

9S (narration): looking out over the rest of the city.

9S (narration): Plant and animal life has increased since the Old World.

9S (narration): But some things haven't changed at all, like the smell of crisp air, or the sound of rain.

9S (narration): But those are all just a part of my ... most precious memory.

9S (narration): We went around to a whole bunch of places together.

9S (narration): Er, for our missions, of course. Not for fun.

9S (narration): We were always running into some sort of trouble, like intense fights with huge machine lifeforms.

9S (narration): But for me, the memories that stuck with me the most weren't the ones having to do with those battles, but instead ... they were just the ones where 2B and I spent our time doing insignificant things.

(9S looks a bit lonely.)

9S (narration): Those memories ... are going to disappear soon, like all the rest.

9S (narration): Along with my personal data.

9S (narration): But "this" me ... is just happy to have gotten to spend those days with you.

9S (narration): Goodbye ... 2B.

(The sound of a heartbeat stopping, and a flatline's beep.)

(January 18th.)

Pod 153: Unit 9S's death and deletion of current personal data confirmed.

Pod 153: Memory banks completely eliminated. Beginning installation of default personal data.

2B: I see ...

(There's a small pause.)

Pod 153: Because unit 9S continuously carries out illegal access to confidential data, he must be terminated repeatedly.

Pod 153: However, during this confrontation, there was little resistance detected from unit 9S.

Pod 153: Further, according to his memory banks, he was aware of unit 2B's true designation as an Executioner model.

Pod 153: Question: Why did unit 9S not resist?

2B: 9S ... knew that I was ... an Executioner model?

(2B laughs, though it's full of sorrow.)

2B: Hah ... hahahah ...

2B: Pod 153, you ...

2B: You could never understand 9S ...

Pod 153: Negative: This is the tactical support unit assigned to unit 9S.

Pod 153: This unit is with him during operational hours, as well as during maintenance.

Pod 153: This unit is also responsible for reporting when he accesses the Bunker's data illegally.

Pod 153: It can be inferred that this unit is aware of all information regarding unit 9S.

Pod 153: Therefore, the claim that this unit "could never understand 9S" is inappropriate.

2B: You don't know a single thing about 9S.

2B: You ...

(2B speaks with a lonely tone.)

2B: And me both ...

1-4 (February 4th)

(2B is crying, in pain.)

2B: No ... Enough already ...

Pod 153: Proposal: Unit 2B should carry out her assignment.

(The sound of a heartbeat stopping, and a flatline's beep.)

2B: I don't want to kill him anymore ...

Pod 153: Negative: Unit 2B's assignment is still in effect.

Pod 153: The Commander has already denied the mission cancellation request submitted 64 hours ago.

(The sound of a heartbeat stopping, and a flatline's beep.)

2B: Why ... do I have to ...

Pod 153: Report: Unit 2B was modeled after a YoRHa test model who was the last surviving member of her group.

Pod 153: Unit 2B was chosen due to her ability to adapt to harsh environments as well as her combat capabilities.

2B: I'm not suited for this mission at all ...

Pod 153: Negative.

2B: Someone ... help me ...

(Pod 153 begins repeating itself as if it's broken.)

(Behind the pod's voice, the sound of a flatline beep can be heard.)

Pod 153: Negative ... Report: Proposal: Destruction: Order: Punishment: Humanity: Moon: Fiction: Machine: Boy: Conviction ...

(2B shouts as though to block out the pod's voice.)

2B: Nines!!

(There is a long pause.)

9S (narration): Us YoRHa units ... only exist to be destroyed.

9S (narration): Over and over, we die, and we're just reborn again.

9S (narration): A lot like cycle of life and death that living creatures have.

(9S now speaks with some worry in his voice.)

9S (narration): ... But, why does my chest always feel so heavy?

9S (narration): How come every time I lose my life, I end up feeling like something important was taken from me?

9S (narration): Hey, 2B ... Will I ever be able to see you again?

9S (narration): Why does losing my current self ...

9S (narration): ... make me feel so lonely?

(There's a long pause.)

2B (narration): Us YoRHa units ... only exist to destroy.

2B (narration): In order to recapture Earth and restore humanity, I'll harbor no regrets.

2B (narration): Even if ... I must kill my fellow androids.

(2B now speaks with some worry in her voice.)

2B (narration): But killing 9S like this, over and over ...

2B (narration): It feels like I just keep staining my heart with more and more dirtied blood ...

2B (narration): And no matter how much I try to wipe it off, it won't disappear.

2B (narration): The heaviness of 9S's words just keeps getting worse ...!

(Despite how much she wants to speak with honesty, she shuts her feelings inside herself.)

2B (narration): ...

2B (narration): ......

2B (narration): Hey ... 9S ...

2B (narration): I wonder ... Were the choices I made wrong ...?

(February 4th.)

(The continuous beeping sound of an error.)

9S: Gah ... Ahhhh!

(9S appears to be suffering, on the verge of death.)

2B: 9S ... Nines!

(Still suffering, his breathing becomes rough.)

9S: Hah ... hahaha ...

9S: So you ... finally called me Nines ... at the very end, huh ...

2B: Why ... Why did you activate your own self-destruction ...?! If you do that, your personal data will ...

Pod 153 (narration): Due to a self-administered physical virus, 9S's body began to collapse on itself. 

Pod 153 (narration): His hair, his fingertips, his arms ... They all felt the intense pain of decomposition.

9S: ... It's okay ... 2B ... You were assigned to — to kill me ... weren't you ...?

9S: I-I knew ... How much it hurt you ... to have to do this ...

Pod 153 (narration): The hand he was attempting to stroke 2B's cheek with no longer existed.

9S: I-If it's for you, 2B ... I — I'd easily ... throw my life away ...

Pod 153 (narration): He attempted to squeeze even the smallest bit of hope out of his collapsing body.

2B: Nines ... How could you ...

(9S, in immense pain, attempts to tell 2B his final words.)

9S: 2B, I ... N-No ... YoRHa unit No.9 Type S ...

9S: ... h-has been truly honored to fight by the side ... of unit No.2 Type B.

9S: M-May your future battles shine brightly ...

2B: Ni ... ne ...

(2B can't even form words.)

9S: 2B, I — I have ... a final request ...

9S: If you and I meet again, I ... I want you to kill me. P-Promise?

(2B can only let out sounds of agony.)

9S: Hahah ... You sure are kind ... 2B ...

Pod 153 (narration): 9S's voice began to fade.

9S: The towns, amusement parks, and oceans ... we saw together ... I'll never forget them ...

Pod 153 (narration): His eyes no longer hold any light within them.

9S: Thank you ... for being with me, 2B ...

(The sound of a heartbeat stopping, and a flatline's beep.)

(9S breathes his final breath.)

(2B moans in grief.)

2B: I ... I ...

2B: Nines ... I'm sorry ... I'm so sorry ...

(Everyone raises their heads.)

Pod 153 (narration): Everything that lives is designed to end.

Pod 153 (narration): "They" are perpetually trapped ...

Pod 153 (narration): ... in a never-ending spiral of life and death.

2B (narration): Even if the pain of killing 9S is the sin I must bear.

9S (narration): Even if the joy of meeting 2B is my reason to live.

2B (narration): I'll still resist.

9S (narration): I'll keep fighting.

2B and 9S (narration): Even if that means ...

2B and 9S (narration): Going against God.