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Difference between revisions of "Beasts of Slaughter"

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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 = Beasts of Slaughter
 
  | 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/1184.html 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>A story about A2, and her encounters with 2B and 9S.</onlyinclude>
  
−
== Chapter 1 ==
+
== 3-1 ==
−
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.
+
'''A2 (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.
+
'''A2 (narration):''' I am perpetually trapped ...
  
−
Only the telltale sound of desert winds remain after the fiery explosion faded away.
+
'''A2 (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.
+
'''A2 (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.
+
'''A2 (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.
+
'''A2 (narration):''' I often think about the god who blessed me with this cryptic puzzle ...
  
−
2B sheathed her sword and directed her attention behind her.
+
'''A2 (narration):''' ... and wonder if I'll ever have the chance to kill him.
  
−
“Is this all of them?”
+
'''2B (narration):''' She is A2. Attacker No. 2.
  
−
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.
+
'''2B (narration):''' A test model for YoRHa.
  
−
“Affirmative: No enemy signals detected within a 5 kilometer radius of the access point.”
+
'''A2:''' The first time I was deployed to the front lines was in the year 11941, on December 8th.
  
−
''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.
+
'''A2:''' During the 14th Machine War, in the Pearl Harbor Descent Mission.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2:''' Decisive weapons created for the sole purpose of recapturing Earth from the machines.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2:''' That was us ... That was "YoRHa".
  
−
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 (narration):''' The target of destruction was a server created by the machine lifeforms on the island of Oahu. 
  
−
“2B!”
+
'''2B (narration):''' The server was the backbone of the network encompassing the entire Pacific Ocean.
  
−
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.
+
'''2B (narration):''' And the plan, if it succeeded, would greatly influence the battle.
  
−
“Is it a message from the commander?”
+
'''A2:''' However, due to an unexpected attack from the machines, our team suffered great losses.
  
−
''Not really'', 2B answered curtly, and tried her hardest to cover up how shaken she felt.
+
'''A2:''' We joined with the area's resistance members, but one ... by one ...
  
−
“More importantly, why are you here?”
+
'''A2:''' By the time I'd reached the server room, most of my companions had been killed.
  
−
“Huh? What do you mean, 2B?”
+
'''2B (narration):''' And within that server room, A2 came to know the truth behind their mission.
  
−
“It’s not time for the mission yet.”
+
'''2B (narration):''' Every one of their battles ... had been predetermined by the Commander.
  
−
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.
+
'''2B (narration):''' Their true purpose was the collection of experimental data in order to create a more finished product.
  
−
“Well...the operator told me that 2B is in the middle of combat. So I thought…I should help out.”
+
'''2B (narration):''' Within the experimental bodies of A2 and her comrades ... bombs had been placed.
  
−
“That’s unnecessary.”
+
''(A2, in despair.)''
  
−
2B shook her head slightly, trying to rid herself of something that was neither irritation nor anxiety.
+
'''A2:''' Our bodies ... contain bombs ...
  
−
“I guess that’s true.”
+
'''A2:''' That'll explode ... when we stop showing signs of life ...?
  
−
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.
+
'''A2:''' N-No ...
  
−
“Well, now that we’ve met up with each other, we might as well head towards the destination.”
+
'''A2:''' This can't ...!
  
−
It was deja vu.
+
'''2B (narration):''' Every battle had been planned.
  
−
== Chapter 2 ==
+
'''2B (narration):''' Every death had been planned.
−
“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 (narration): '''And as A2 fell into despair, her friend called out to her.
  
−
“2B, don’t you mind?”
+
'''2B (narration):''' "Number 2 ... I'll destroy this place, so ..."
  
−
“Mind what?”
+
'''2B (narration):''' "Please ... live on."
  
−
“The fact that your shoes are filled with sand, 2B.”
+
''(A2 screams out desperately while crying.)''
  
−
“While it does feel strange, it doesn’t interfere with walking.”
+
'''A2:''' No! Number 4!
  
−
“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!”
+
'''2B (narration):''' It was the final attack ... a suicide attack.
  
−
“Emotions are prohibited.”
+
'''2B (narration):''' The server room was then enveloped in a bright flash.
  
−
“Yeah, yeah.”
+
'''A2:''' Number 4!!
  
−
''You’re one to speak'', 2B, 9S thinks to himself even as he responds.
+
''(A2 hides her face.)''
  
−
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.
+
'''2B (narration):''' ... The enemy server was destroyed.
  
−
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?
+
'''2B (narration):''' All enemies within a 250km radius went completely silent.
  
−
...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.
+
'''2B (narration):''' Their influence over the entire Pacific Ocean had been rewritten.
  
−
9S glanced over at 2B again. He saw something behind those tightly shut lips. 2B was never very good at hiding things, after all.
+
'''2B (narration):''' And ...
  
−
“Nines?”
+
''(A2 slowly raises her head.)''
  
−
2B gave him a strange look. She’s probably wondering why he’s staring at her.
+
'''A2:''' I ... survived.
  
−
“Oh, it’s nothing...just...there’s so much sand...it’s so hot...I’d really love to take a bath right now.”
+
'''A2:''' I lost the goal I'd been fighting for, as well as betrayed the Commander I was supposed to believe in.
  
−
No. That’s not what he wanted to say.
+
'''A2:''' And yet ... my life still remained.
  
−
“We have no need for baths.”
+
'''A2:''' My comrades who lost their lives ... The YoRHa members who'd been shot down ... The resistance members ... Everyone ...
  
−
“That’s what I thought…”
+
'''A2:''' Number 21, Number 16 ... Number 4 ...
  
−
''What are you hiding? You’ve been acting strange lately. Anything on your mind? Or…?''
+
'''A2:''' I ... I'll ...!
  
−
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 (narration):''' The black box belonging to the YoRHa member known as Number 2 was still online. 
  
−
“Oh! Is that the target for this investigation?”
+
'''2B (narration):''' She was acknowledged as the holder of information for the most important, confidential YoRHa plan.
  
−
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.
+
'''2B (narration):''' In order to prevent this information from leaking ... YoRHa test unit, Attacker No.2, was to be destroyed.
  
−
“Affirmative: The large building to the front is the target of our current investigation.”
+
'''2B (narration):''' That was all.
  
−
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.
+
== 3-2 ==
 +
'''9S (narration):''' Attacker No. 2. A2.
  
−
“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 (narration):''' She actually had an obedient, kind personality.
  
−
Silence. 2B stood frozen with her mouth open.
+
'''9S (narration):''' She hated fighting more than anything else. She thought of her friends above anyone else.
  
−
“2B? What’s wrong?”
+
'''9S (narration):''' Her type of thinking didn't fit a soldier at all.
  
−
Her lips moved as if to form words. ...but 2B changed her mind at the last second before speaking again.
+
'''A2:''' ... However, during my first descent mission, I lost most of my comrades.
  
−
“No. It’s nothing.”
+
'''A2:''' The Commander had planned those battles all along.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2:''' While praying to those who died ...
  
−
“Let’s go, 2B!”
+
'''A2:''' I lost who I was.
  
−
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.
+
'''9S (narration):''' For a deserter like A2, there was no where she could return to.
  
−
No matter how he asked, 2B probably won’t give him an answer. He knew that from the very beginning.
+
'''9S (narration):''' But she couldn't just throw away the life they'd given her.
  
−
It was unbearable.
+
'''A2:''' I destroy more machine lifeforms each day.
  
−
== Chapter 3 ==
+
'''A2:''' I don't believe a day will ever come where we reach a victory over them.
−
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.”
+
'''A2:''' But ... I can never forgive them for what they did to my comrades.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2:''' So I'll continue to fight ... for myself.
  
−
“Conjecture: The remains were surrounded by a “lake” or a manmade “canal” in the past, and access was made possible by ships or bridges.”
+
'''9S (narration):''' She fought, she broke, she repaired herself ... and then she repeated it.
  
−
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.
+
'''9S (narration):''' That pain ... and that pain alone ... was proof that she was alive.
  
−
“But that doesn’t explain...this.”
+
'''9S (narration):''' But, one day.
  
−
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 (narration):''' She came face to face with an enemy she'd never imagined she would see.
  
−
“What’s the point of planting such a huge tree inside a building?”
+
''(2B speaks with a cold voice.)''
  
−
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:''' YoRHa test model, Attacker No.2. A2 ... right?
  
−
“2B, what do you think?”
+
''(A2 looks astonished.)''
  
−
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.
+
'''A2:''' You're ...
  
−
“What?”
+
'''9S (narration):''' The opponent A2 had been met with was a new, state-of-the-art YoRHa model.
  
−
“It’s a spiral staircase.”
+
'''9S (narration):''' And her face ... was exactly the same as A2's.
  
−
9S deliberately chose to not repeat himself.
+
''(A2 speaks, overcome with surprise.)''
  
−
“What...what about it…?”
+
'''A2:''' The same face ... as me ... A No.2 model ...
  
−
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.
+
'''A2:''' They can't be ... Are they mass producing new YoRHa units based on my battle data ...?
  
−
“Let’s see how far up we can make it.”
+
'''2B:''' A2, I have orders from the Council of Humanity for your termination based on the leakage of confidential information and the failure to manage said information.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2:''' Orders ... for my termination?
  
−
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.
+
'''2B:''' My name is ... 2E. No.2 Type E. I was dispatched from the Bunker to carry out your termination.
  
−
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.
+
'''2B: '''Kindly cease function and hand over control of your body immediately. Otherwise, I'll be forced to destroy you.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2:''' Hah .... Hahahahahaha ...
  
−
The commander’s orders...must be to eliminate 9S. Me. Right, 2B?
+
''(A2 begins laughing, with anger in her voice.)''
  
−
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.
+
'''A2: '''You were dispatched from the Bunker, were you?
  
−
So...maybe there’s another reason for 2B unnatural behavior. A reason unrelated to 9S’s illegal accesses.
+
'''A2:''' To terminate me? You said you were an Execution model?
  
−
2B, who was walking in front of him, suddenly lost her balance.
+
'''A2:''' So they created a YoRHa unit with the same face as me, and then sent her to kill me ... 
  
−
“Watch out!”
+
'''A2:''' ... just so they could cover up their sins?
  
−
9S reached out hurriedly and caught 2B with his arms.
+
'''A2:''' Hah ... Hahahahaha!
  
−
“What’s wrong? I’ve never seen 2B trip on a staircase.”
+
'''2B:''' A2. I don't have the time to listen to your ...
  
−
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.
+
'''A2:''' Shut up!
  
−
“Are you alright?”
+
''(A2 suddenly becomes enraged.)''
  
−
“Ah….yes.”
+
'''A2:''' If you people really are going to try to kill me ...
  
−
She replied absentmindedly.
+
'''A2:''' If you're truly going to hide the truth ...
  
−
“I guess we’re lucky there aren’t any enemies around here. That could’ve been fatal if machine lifeforms attacked.”
+
'''A2:''' Then so be it. I won't show any mercy either.
  
−
“It could’ve...been fatal…?”
+
'''A2:''' Machine lifeforms, the Bunker, the Commander, even the humans on the moon ... I'll kill them all.
  
−
9S doubted his eyes. 2B was smiling. Her lips were curled unnaturally in a very strange smile. There’s clearly something wrong.
+
'''9S (narration): '''In her hand, she gripped a sword which was meant to kill machine lifeforms.
  
−
“What’s happening? Are you feeling unwell?”
+
'''9S (narration):''' In her eyes, the light of her old self was gone.
  
−
“No...I’m..I’m fine…”
+
'''9S (narration):''' Suffering from her loneliness, focused only on revenge ...
  
−
2B wobbled as she tried to stand. Seems like she couldn’t control her strength very well.
+
'''9S (narration): '''She gazed quietly at her new "enemy".
  
−
“Do you hear what you’re saying!? You’re clearly not fine!”
+
== 3-3 ==
 +
'''2B (narration):''' Fearing a leak of confidential YoRHa information, an order was issued to terminate A2.
  
−
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.
+
'''2B (narration):''' However, she was able to shake off pursuers, and survive countless battles with machines.
  
−
“Let’s retreat for now.”
+
'''2B (narration):''' To her, everything had become an enemy, and she truly had no where she could run.
  
−
However, 2B ignored 9S’s words and began making her way up the stairs again.
+
'''A2:''' Dammit! Sit still, would you!
  
−
“2B!”
+
'''9S:''' Hahah! Just throwing out random attacks like that isn't gonna work, you know.
  
−
9S raise his voice and grabbed 2B’s arm.
+
'''A2:''' Then fight me head-on like a man!
  
−
“Warning: Enemy signals detected above.”
+
'''9S:''' Well what do you expect? I'm a Scanner! Combat was never meant to be my forte!
  
−
“Warning: Multiple signals at 2 o’clock.”
+
'''A2:''' Geez, you talk way too much!
  
−
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:''' And if you keep getting distracted like that, you're gonna show your weak point!
  
−
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…
+
'''A2:''' Quit screwing around, dammit — auugh!
  
−
“Dammit.”
+
'''2B (narration):''' 9S managed to hack into A2.
  
−
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.
+
'''2B (narration):''' He broke through her logic barriers, and ended up in her personal data.
  
−
“Nines! Get back!”
+
'''2B (narration):''' All around her was nothing but white walls, closing her in.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2: '''Th-This is ...?!
  
−
“I’ll provide support!”
+
'''9S:''' Hacking space. I've sealed your personal data inside your head.
  
−
Then the only thing left for him is to provide support as usual.
+
'''9S:''' Okay then. Let's see here ... YoRHa test model A2. Attacker No.2 ...
  
−
“Pod! Analyze enemy units’ flight patterns!”
+
'''9S:''' Due to the possibility of confidential information being leaked, the Council of Humanity has ordered your termination.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2:''' Heh. So you're one of the Commander's little dogs, huh.
  
−
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.
+
'''9S:''' Man, you don't pull any punches.
  
−
Just when 9S thought they had a chance, the two pods again issued their warnings in unison.
+
'''9S:''' But it doesn't matter how much you shout in here, you're not gonna run away from me.
  
−
“Warning: Enemy signals detected in overhead corridor.”
+
'''2B (narration):''' A black fog began to wind around A2.
  
−
“Conjecture: Multiple non-aerial units. Enemy form and numbers remain unknown.”
+
'''2B (narration):''' It was a trap designed to restrict her personal data.
  
−
The aerial units are interfering with the pods’ ability to obtain enemy data. That’s something that needs to be taken care of first.
+
'''9S:''' That barrier's an installation type, but it faces inward.
  
−
“2B! Go on ahead! I’ll take care of the aerial units!”
+
'''9S: '''So no matter how much you thrash about, you're not getting out.
  
−
Type B units are better at dealing with with non-aerial types due to their strength in close-quarters combat.
+
'''A2:''' Dammit ...!
  
−
“Understood. I leave this to you.”
+
'''9S:''' Don't you think you say that a little too much?
  
−
2B jumped over the handrail, took ahold of 042’s arm and glided towards the corridor. There was no hesitation in her movements.
+
'''A2:''' What the hell did the Commander tell you ...?
  
−
“Pod! I’ll be hacking to take control of the enemy!”
+
'''9S:''' I just told you, didn't I? You deserted, so there's an order for your termination.
  
−
“Understood: Providing support.”
+
'''9S:''' But playing rough's not really my thing, so I'm thinking I'll send you back like this.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2:''' That's all, huh ...
  
−
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.
+
'''9S:''' Hm?
  
−
Having found the control unit, 9S overwrote the system settings. As long as he gained control of one unit, the rest was easy.
+
'''A2:''' You couldn't get more information than just that? You Scanner models are always curious, after all.
  
−
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.
+
''(9S's voice becomes cold.)''
  
−
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.
+
'''9S:''' Are you ... taunting me?
  
−
“I guess you’re all done here.”
+
'''9S:''' I prepared that barrier so I could detain you, but ...
  
−
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.
+
'''9S:''' I think I've changed my mind.
  
−
“Are you hurt?”
+
'''9S:''' I'll be destroying your personal data here, like I was ordered.
  
−
“I’m fine.”
+
''(9S holds his hand out.)''
  
−
Before he could even relax from hearing that, 2B abruptly dropped her sword. 9S ran towards her. He had a bad feeling.
+
'''9S:''' I'm going to make you regret talking to me like that.
  
−
“2B!”
+
'''2B (narration):''' 9S issued a command for A2's erasure.
  
−
“Don’t worry. My hand...just slipped…”
+
'''2B (narration):''' However, the black fog surrounding A2 wouldn't react beyond a certain point.
  
−
Strange noises accompanied her voice. Her hands, shaking uncontrollably, scratched at her own neck.
+
'''2B (narration):''' On the contrary, something began to happen to 9S's body instead.
  
−
“Logic virus!?”
+
'''2B (narration):''' He suddenly realized multiple black snake-like bits of data wrapping themselves around him.
  
−
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.
+
'''9S:''' N-No way ... It can't be ...!
  
−
“I’ll remove the virus through hacking!”
+
'''9S:''' A counterattack-type logic barrier?!
  
−
“Wait….don’t…”
+
'''9S:''' H-How did you ...?!
  
−
2B shook her head in pain.
+
''(A2 speaks, as she recovers from her damage.)''
  
−
“What are you saying? We have to remove the virus now!”
+
'''A2:''' To put it simply ...
  
−
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.
+
'''A2:''' I got it from you.
  
−
== Chapter 4 ==
+
'''9S:''' From ... me?!
−
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 (narration):''' Those bits of data wrapped further around 9S, slowly eliminating any possible chances of escape.
  
−
“I have to hurry…”
+
'''A2:''' YoRHa No.9 Type S ...
  
−
Luckily, 9S has seen this type of virus before. He had already succeeded in combating this virus in the past.
+
'''A2:''' This is the fourth time I've met that model.
  
−
“But the infection is progressing too fast. Plus…”
+
'''A2:''' You were rather difficult to fight in the beginning.
  
−
An orange light whizzed past 9S’s personality data. It was an attack from the virus.
+
'''A2:''' But ... after fighting you so many times, I became increasingly aware of a Scanner's habits.
  
−
“Such a pain.”
+
'''A2:''' The others before you were the same ... They fought with various patterns, but ...
  
−
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.
+
'''A2:''' You always end up trying to detain me with that damn hacking.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2:''' It was a pretty close call the first time, but after the second time, I learned to block it with a barrier.
  
−
“Huh? This is weird.”
+
'''A2: '''This program was made just for you. A form of insurance.
  
−
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 speaks up as he suffers.)''
  
−
“Is this an aftereffect of the virus?”
+
'''9S:''' No ... No! Dammit, I have to ... release the barrier ...
  
−
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.
+
''(A2 responds coldly.)''
  
−
''“You are ordered to terminate 9S.”''
+
'''A2:''' It's no use. That barrier was made in order to collapse your own personal data.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2:''' You're not getting out of that no matter what you do. That's how you made it to be, isn't it?
  
−
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, still suffering, collapses.)''
  
−
“...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:''' G-Guaaaah ...!! Damn ... Dammit!!!
  
−
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:''' A2!!!!
  
−
''“Therefore, you are ordered to terminate 9S.”''
+
''(Once his screams die out, A2 begins speaking quietly.)''
  
−
2B refused to have her virus removed because she didn’t want him to see this memory.
+
'''A2:''' This is the fourth time ... I've heard you scream like that.
  
−
“You shouldn’t even let that bother you. I knew that you were an assassin sent by the commander.”
+
'''A2:''' You should pray that we don't meet again.
  
−
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…
+
== 3-4 ==
 +
'''9S (narration):''' We were wandering around a place known as the "Forest Kingdom".
  
−
''“Destruction of the head.”''
+
'''9S (narration):''' Looking for the leader of the area's weirdly aggressive machine lifeforms, the "Forest King".
  
−
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.
+
'''9S (narration):''' And we finally found it within a broken down castle. It was ...
  
−
“This is 2B. I have accomplished my mission.”
+
'''9S (narration):''' It was almost like a baby, in appearance.
  
−
It’s the same voice. If the previous words were from 2B as well, whose head did she destroy?
+
'''2B (narration):''' We were caught off guard. 
  
−
9S approached the scattered memory fragments.
+
'''2B (narration):''' It couldn't even walk on its own, much less carry a weapon.
  
−
“What...is this?”
+
'''2B (narration): '''This thing ... was the Forest King?
  
−
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.
+
'''2B (narration):''' And as if sensing our hesitation, ''she'' came ...
  
−
They were full of thorns, they were disfigured, they were intermingled...they were 2B’s memories.
+
'''A2 (narration):''' I was only there by chance.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2 (narration):''' I had been disposing of machine lifeforms in the area, and their leader only happened to be there.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2 (narration):''' The machine looked so small and weak.
  
−
''“But there’s no way an S type can win against a B type.”''
+
'''A2 (narration):''' But I didn't hesitate to run it through with my sword.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2 (narration):''' Its cries of death rang from its core to my sword.
  
−
By whom? For what?
+
'''A2 (narration): '''This is the enemy. This is the enemy. This is ... the enemy.
  
−
Seeking for answers, 9S accessed another piece of memory.
+
'''A2 (narration):''' I repeated that over and over to myself.
  
−
''“Goodbye, 2B.”''
+
'''2B (narration):''' The android that had just dropped down before us ... had the same face as me.
  
−
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 (narration):''' YoRHa model No.2.
  
−
''“Goodbye, 2B.”''
+
'''2B (narration):''' Her eyes gazed in my direction.
  
−
''“Goodbye, 2B.”''
+
'''2B (narration):''' With a look of utter resignation.
  
−
''“Goodbye, 2B.”''
+
'''9S:''' 2B! That's ... an android!
  
−
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.
+
'''9S:''' A YoRHa-type android!
  
−
But when and where did he say that?
+
'''A2 (narration):''' I knew exactly who they were.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2 (narration): '''Because I'd already killed them countless times.
  
−
Those were 9S’s parting words, right before he was about to be annihilated in 2B’s hacking space…
+
'''A2 (narration):''' And just like always, I knew the order would once again be given to terminate me.
  
−
“2B has killed me before.”
+
'''2B (narration):''' I had no memories of ever encountering her before.
  
−
That makes sense, he thought to himself. It certainly explained the sense of wrongness felt all along.
+
'''2B (narration):''' But for some reason ... I could feel a deep discomfort rise up from within me.
  
−
He attempted to access the next fragment. Again, he felt pain, but there’s no way he could stop now.
+
'''9S (narration):''' Although she was a deserter, we were ordered to kill one of our own ... A YoRHa android.
  
−
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.
+
'''9S (narration):''' Doubts began to sprout in my heart.
  
−
Sometimes she executed him after undertaking missions together. Sometimes she attacked and executed him while they were “total strangers”.
+
'''9S (narration): '''Was the YoRHa unit standing before us really our "enemy"?
  
−
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.
+
'''A2 (narration): '''No.9 Type S ... No. 2 Type B. The YoRHa units I should've already killed so many times before.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2 (narration):''' When I met them that time ... they were completely different from how they'd been in the past.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2 (narration):''' I don't know why, but ...
  
−
“So that’s how it was…”
+
'''A2 (narration):''' It seemed like they saw each other as old friends.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2 (narration):''' ...
  
−
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”.
+
'''A2 (narration):''' It could've been some kind of premonition.
  
−
''“That could’ve been fatal if machine lifeforms attacked.”''
+
'''A2 (narration): '''That this was the end ... or maybe even the beginning of something.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2 (narration): '''Number 21, Number 16 ... Number 4.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2 (narration):''' If I die ... I'll be joining all of you.
  
−
''“I won’t apologize, because this is my mission. I won’t feel any guilt. Not now. Not ever.”''
+
''(A2 looks forward.)''
  
−
9S looked over 2B’s personality data again. It was pure white, but looked like it could crumble to dust at any moment…
+
'''A2 (narration):''' So just ... wait for me, okay?
  
−
== Chapter 5 ==
+
'''2B (narration):''' We YoRHa are weapons created to fight.
−
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…?”
+
'''9S (narration):''' We YoRHa are a madness created to kill.
  
−
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.
+
'''A2 (narration):''' This world is full of curses.
  
−
“I have removed the virus.”
+
'''A2 (narration):''' And we are all links in a chain of killing one another.
  
−
She didn’t manage to stop him. 9S forcibly hacked her and dove into her memory regions.
+
'''2B (narration):''' Even so, we have to keep fighting.
  
−
“So...you’ve seen it all, huh?”
+
'''9S (narration):''' That's why, we have to keep killing.
  
−
9S nodded silently.
+
'''A2 (narration):''' Even if our fates are wrong, we can't stop.
  
−
“I see…”
+
'''All three (narration): '''Because that is the meaning of our existence.
  
−
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.
 
−
 
−
“2B wasn’t your actual name, huh.”
 
−
 
−
But this scenario had never happened before.
 
−
 
−
“2E.”
 
−
 
−
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 drew her sword. 9S’s shoulders were shaking. He knew that 2B had killed him countless times before.
 
−
 
−
“I don’t intend to kill you anymore.”
 
−
 
−
She pointed the tip of the blade towards herself and gave the handle to 9S.
 
−
 
−
“So kill me.”
 
−
 
−
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.
 
−
 
−
“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 13:45, 2 October 2017

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Beasts of Slaughter
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]
A story about A2, and her encounters with 2B and 9S.

3-1

A2 (narration): Everything that lives is designed to end.

A2 (narration): I am perpetually trapped ...

A2 (narration): ... in a never-ending spiral of life and death.

A2 (narration): Is this a curse?

A2 (narration): Or some kind of punishment?

A2 (narration): I often think about the god who blessed me with this cryptic puzzle ...

A2 (narration): ... and wonder if I'll ever have the chance to kill him.

2B (narration): She is A2. Attacker No. 2.

2B (narration): A test model for YoRHa.

A2: The first time I was deployed to the front lines was in the year 11941, on December 8th.

A2: During the 14th Machine War, in the Pearl Harbor Descent Mission.

A2: Decisive weapons created for the sole purpose of recapturing Earth from the machines.

A2: That was us ... That was "YoRHa".

2B (narration): The target of destruction was a server created by the machine lifeforms on the island of Oahu. 

2B (narration): The server was the backbone of the network encompassing the entire Pacific Ocean.

2B (narration): And the plan, if it succeeded, would greatly influence the battle.

A2: However, due to an unexpected attack from the machines, our team suffered great losses.

A2: We joined with the area's resistance members, but one ... by one ...

A2: By the time I'd reached the server room, most of my companions had been killed.

2B (narration): And within that server room, A2 came to know the truth behind their mission.

2B (narration): Every one of their battles ... had been predetermined by the Commander.

2B (narration): Their true purpose was the collection of experimental data in order to create a more finished product.

2B (narration): Within the experimental bodies of A2 and her comrades ... bombs had been placed.

(A2, in despair.)

A2: Our bodies ... contain bombs ...

A2: That'll explode ... when we stop showing signs of life ...?

A2: N-No ...

A2: This can't ...!

2B (narration): Every battle had been planned.

2B (narration): Every death had been planned.

2B (narration): And as A2 fell into despair, her friend called out to her.

2B (narration): "Number 2 ... I'll destroy this place, so ..."

2B (narration): "Please ... live on."

(A2 screams out desperately while crying.)

A2: No! Number 4!

2B (narration): It was the final attack ... a suicide attack.

2B (narration): The server room was then enveloped in a bright flash.

A2: Number 4!!

(A2 hides her face.)

2B (narration): ... The enemy server was destroyed.

2B (narration): All enemies within a 250km radius went completely silent.

2B (narration): Their influence over the entire Pacific Ocean had been rewritten.

2B (narration): And ...

(A2 slowly raises her head.)

A2: I ... survived.

A2: I lost the goal I'd been fighting for, as well as betrayed the Commander I was supposed to believe in.

A2: And yet ... my life still remained.

A2: My comrades who lost their lives ... The YoRHa members who'd been shot down ... The resistance members ... Everyone ...

A2: Number 21, Number 16 ... Number 4 ...

A2: I ... I'll ...!

2B (narration): The black box belonging to the YoRHa member known as Number 2 was still online. 

2B (narration): She was acknowledged as the holder of information for the most important, confidential YoRHa plan.

2B (narration): In order to prevent this information from leaking ... YoRHa test unit, Attacker No.2, was to be destroyed.

2B (narration): That was all.

3-2

9S (narration): Attacker No. 2. A2.

9S (narration): She actually had an obedient, kind personality.

9S (narration): She hated fighting more than anything else. She thought of her friends above anyone else.

9S (narration): Her type of thinking didn't fit a soldier at all.

A2: ... However, during my first descent mission, I lost most of my comrades.

A2: The Commander had planned those battles all along.

A2: While praying to those who died ...

A2: I lost who I was.

9S (narration): For a deserter like A2, there was no where she could return to.

9S (narration): But she couldn't just throw away the life they'd given her.

A2: I destroy more machine lifeforms each day.

A2: I don't believe a day will ever come where we reach a victory over them.

A2: But ... I can never forgive them for what they did to my comrades.

A2: So I'll continue to fight ... for myself.

9S (narration): She fought, she broke, she repaired herself ... and then she repeated it.

9S (narration): That pain ... and that pain alone ... was proof that she was alive.

9S (narration): But, one day.

9S (narration): She came face to face with an enemy she'd never imagined she would see.

(2B speaks with a cold voice.)

2B: YoRHa test model, Attacker No.2. A2 ... right?

(A2 looks astonished.)

A2: You're ...

9S (narration): The opponent A2 had been met with was a new, state-of-the-art YoRHa model.

9S (narration): And her face ... was exactly the same as A2's.

(A2 speaks, overcome with surprise.)

A2: The same face ... as me ... A No.2 model ...

A2: They can't be ... Are they mass producing new YoRHa units based on my battle data ...?

2B: A2, I have orders from the Council of Humanity for your termination based on the leakage of confidential information and the failure to manage said information.

A2: Orders ... for my termination?

2B: My name is ... 2E. No.2 Type E. I was dispatched from the Bunker to carry out your termination.

2B: Kindly cease function and hand over control of your body immediately. Otherwise, I'll be forced to destroy you.

A2: Hah .... Hahahahahaha ...

(A2 begins laughing, with anger in her voice.)

A2: You were dispatched from the Bunker, were you?

A2: To terminate me? You said you were an Execution model?

A2: So they created a YoRHa unit with the same face as me, and then sent her to kill me ... 

A2: ... just so they could cover up their sins?

A2: Hah ... Hahahahaha!

2B: A2. I don't have the time to listen to your ...

A2: Shut up!

(A2 suddenly becomes enraged.)

A2: If you people really are going to try to kill me ...

A2: If you're truly going to hide the truth ...

A2: Then so be it. I won't show any mercy either.

A2: Machine lifeforms, the Bunker, the Commander, even the humans on the moon ... I'll kill them all.

9S (narration): In her hand, she gripped a sword which was meant to kill machine lifeforms.

9S (narration): In her eyes, the light of her old self was gone.

9S (narration): Suffering from her loneliness, focused only on revenge ...

9S (narration): She gazed quietly at her new "enemy".

3-3

2B (narration): Fearing a leak of confidential YoRHa information, an order was issued to terminate A2.

2B (narration): However, she was able to shake off pursuers, and survive countless battles with machines.

2B (narration): To her, everything had become an enemy, and she truly had no where she could run.

A2: Dammit! Sit still, would you!

9S: Hahah! Just throwing out random attacks like that isn't gonna work, you know.

A2: Then fight me head-on like a man!

9S: Well what do you expect? I'm a Scanner! Combat was never meant to be my forte!

A2: Geez, you talk way too much!

9S: And if you keep getting distracted like that, you're gonna show your weak point!

A2: Quit screwing around, dammit — auugh!

2B (narration): 9S managed to hack into A2.

2B (narration): He broke through her logic barriers, and ended up in her personal data.

2B (narration): All around her was nothing but white walls, closing her in.

A2: Th-This is ...?!

9S: Hacking space. I've sealed your personal data inside your head.

9S: Okay then. Let's see here ... YoRHa test model A2. Attacker No.2 ...

9S: Due to the possibility of confidential information being leaked, the Council of Humanity has ordered your termination.

A2: Heh. So you're one of the Commander's little dogs, huh.

9S: Man, you don't pull any punches.

9S: But it doesn't matter how much you shout in here, you're not gonna run away from me.

2B (narration): A black fog began to wind around A2.

2B (narration): It was a trap designed to restrict her personal data.

9S: That barrier's an installation type, but it faces inward.

9S: So no matter how much you thrash about, you're not getting out.

A2: Dammit ...!

9S: Don't you think you say that a little too much?

A2: What the hell did the Commander tell you ...?

9S: I just told you, didn't I? You deserted, so there's an order for your termination.

9S: But playing rough's not really my thing, so I'm thinking I'll send you back like this.

A2: That's all, huh ...

9S: Hm?

A2: You couldn't get more information than just that? You Scanner models are always curious, after all.

(9S's voice becomes cold.)

9S: Are you ... taunting me?

9S: I prepared that barrier so I could detain you, but ...

9S: I think I've changed my mind.

9S: I'll be destroying your personal data here, like I was ordered.

(9S holds his hand out.)

9S: I'm going to make you regret talking to me like that.

2B (narration): 9S issued a command for A2's erasure.

2B (narration): However, the black fog surrounding A2 wouldn't react beyond a certain point.

2B (narration): On the contrary, something began to happen to 9S's body instead.

2B (narration): He suddenly realized multiple black snake-like bits of data wrapping themselves around him.

9S: N-No way ... It can't be ...!

9S: A counterattack-type logic barrier?!

9S: H-How did you ...?!

(A2 speaks, as she recovers from her damage.)

A2: To put it simply ...

A2: I got it from you.

9S: From ... me?!

2B (narration): Those bits of data wrapped further around 9S, slowly eliminating any possible chances of escape.

A2: YoRHa No.9 Type S ...

A2: This is the fourth time I've met that model.

A2: You were rather difficult to fight in the beginning.

A2: But ... after fighting you so many times, I became increasingly aware of a Scanner's habits.

A2: The others before you were the same ... They fought with various patterns, but ...

A2: You always end up trying to detain me with that damn hacking.

A2: It was a pretty close call the first time, but after the second time, I learned to block it with a barrier.

A2: This program was made just for you. A form of insurance.

(9S speaks up as he suffers.)

9S: No ... No! Dammit, I have to ... release the barrier ...

(A2 responds coldly.)

A2: It's no use. That barrier was made in order to collapse your own personal data.

A2: You're not getting out of that no matter what you do. That's how you made it to be, isn't it?

(9S, still suffering, collapses.)

9S: G-Guaaaah ...!! Damn ... Dammit!!!

9S: A2!!!!

(Once his screams die out, A2 begins speaking quietly.)

A2: This is the fourth time ... I've heard you scream like that.

A2: You should pray that we don't meet again.

3-4

9S (narration): We were wandering around a place known as the "Forest Kingdom".

9S (narration): Looking for the leader of the area's weirdly aggressive machine lifeforms, the "Forest King".

9S (narration): And we finally found it within a broken down castle. It was ...

9S (narration): It was almost like a baby, in appearance.

2B (narration): We were caught off guard. 

2B (narration): It couldn't even walk on its own, much less carry a weapon.

2B (narration): This thing ... was the Forest King?

2B (narration): And as if sensing our hesitation, she came ...

A2 (narration): I was only there by chance.

A2 (narration): I had been disposing of machine lifeforms in the area, and their leader only happened to be there.

A2 (narration): The machine looked so small and weak.

A2 (narration): But I didn't hesitate to run it through with my sword.

A2 (narration): Its cries of death rang from its core to my sword.

A2 (narration): This is the enemy. This is the enemy. This is ... the enemy.

A2 (narration): I repeated that over and over to myself.

2B (narration): The android that had just dropped down before us ... had the same face as me.

2B (narration): YoRHa model No.2.

2B (narration): Her eyes gazed in my direction.

2B (narration): With a look of utter resignation.

9S: 2B! That's ... an android!

9S: A YoRHa-type android!

A2 (narration): I knew exactly who they were.

A2 (narration): Because I'd already killed them countless times.

A2 (narration): And just like always, I knew the order would once again be given to terminate me.

2B (narration): I had no memories of ever encountering her before.

2B (narration): But for some reason ... I could feel a deep discomfort rise up from within me.

9S (narration): Although she was a deserter, we were ordered to kill one of our own ... A YoRHa android.

9S (narration): Doubts began to sprout in my heart.

9S (narration): Was the YoRHa unit standing before us really our "enemy"?

A2 (narration): No.9 Type S ... No. 2 Type B. The YoRHa units I should've already killed so many times before.

A2 (narration): When I met them that time ... they were completely different from how they'd been in the past.

A2 (narration): I don't know why, but ...

A2 (narration): It seemed like they saw each other as old friends.

A2 (narration): ...

A2 (narration): It could've been some kind of premonition.

A2 (narration): That this was the end ... or maybe even the beginning of something.

A2 (narration): Number 21, Number 16 ... Number 4.

A2 (narration): If I die ... I'll be joining all of you.

(A2 looks forward.)

A2 (narration): So just ... wait for me, okay?

2B (narration): We YoRHa are weapons created to fight.

9S (narration): We YoRHa are a madness created to kill.

A2 (narration): This world is full of curses.

A2 (narration): And we are all links in a chain of killing one another.

2B (narration): Even so, we have to keep fighting.

9S (narration): That's why, we have to keep killing.

A2 (narration): Even if our fates are wrong, we can't stop.

All three (narration): Because that is the meaning of our existence.

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