Software Profile: Unreal Engine

 

"If you played a video game from the past decade or so, you've probably seen this logo."

-TvTropes.org

 

"The name 'Unreal' is ironic, as 'Unreal' engine made things that are unreal.... real..."

-John Archer.

 

PUBG (2017-present), an example of a game developed by Unreal Engine 4.

Fortnite Battle Royale (2017-present), another example of a game developed by Unreal Engine 4

Assetto Corsa Competizione, an example of a drasticly different kind of game / simulation software developed by Unreal Engine 4.

Bell Archer programming with Unreal Engine 5, installing Battle Song to the chosen Sage candidates.

Unreal Engine is the most powerful, most versatile, most widely used 3D programming engine ever existed. It is made by Epic Games, based on Maryland and North Carolina.

The first and second iteration were used for numerous video games, including the long lost Unreal (a first person shooter about escaping a hostile, alien planet) and Unreal Tournament (an intergalactic combat tournament based first person shooter) series, but apart from its openness for user-driven modification, it was criticized for its unwieldy middlewares. However...

In its third and fourth iteration, thanks to multiple graphical, feature, and hardware upgrades, the 3D programming engine sought use in many software and videogames of various genres, with platforms ranging from home personal computer, game consoles, VR powered devices, along with movie making and professional simulation devices.

 The Blueprint feature is noted to be very helpful for users, beginners and experts alike, allowing a flowchart of features to be planned and added.

Now the engine have reached its fifth iteration, and by the fourth iteration, the engine is available for everyone to use (for free for common users, for a regular fee for professionals and corporate use, including corporate software developers) with a generous royalty of a mere 5% of total accumulated profit per year that is only effective after a million dollar of gross royalty is accumulated.

Bell Archer managed to combine arcane magickry, the Bethesda Creation Engine*, and Unreal Engine 5 to apply Unreal Engine and Creation Engine powers in the realm of the living instead of merely "in the screen". The Sage Candidates chosen by Bell could use the Unreal Engine powered abilities to make Unreal.... Real.

*It is possible to combine two different engine, as happened to Grand Theft Auto The Trilogy The Definitive Edition, which combines the original's Renderware-based "GTA Engine" to the modernized processing of Unreal Engine 4.

Chapter 5TJ - Subject of Interest

 It's been 4 AM, and John has been slithering around on his queen-sized bed.

 

Bell, meanwhile, is deep on her sleep.

And John... looked at Bell and say,

John: Don't mind me, want to take some walks.

So, here's the cafeteria. It's so good that the famous Karathrace* Coffee shops are forced to relocate or having its staff quit due to how better the Persica Tower Cafe's offerings are.

*the Mobius equivalent of Starbucks, if you don't catch the joke.

Which, thanks to Bell attending the Tower Cafe every weekends up to the dawn of Monday... who wants to refuse?

I mean, sure, we're married couple but Bell just loves to have talks with customers, usually brothers and sisters in arms, basically advising them to have and be loving couples...

And yeah, no matter if it's chestnut as a bartender, silvery as a maid, and gold as a sun light for her as a swordsman and her true form...

I love her.

After getting the food from the automatic vending machine (because there is no attendant today) i came across a soldier.

O'Brien, as i look on his nametags.

He seems just as troubled as me.

I managed to sit beside him.

O'Brien: Oh.... oh.... sir!

John: Cut the formality. We're off duty.

John: So... anything troubles you?

O'Brien: Yeah, like, we're sent out from Da Silva because of a messy conflict there. And then epicenter, those two...

John: No need for details. They escaped, right?

O'Brien: Yeah.

John: Well, in times like this, losses are inevitable, and... having any nightmares or uneasy feelings lately?

O'Brien: Yeah, heard Logistics personnel were demoralized to various extent either. 

I can't blame anybody or anyone for this. It's just how the world runs.

I just wish "those two" to be turned back.

O'Brien: Hey... about Taylor... I'm sorry.

John: Sorry for what? It's never your fault. It's never the Logistics fault!

O'Brien: Nevertheless, if you're interested with the situation, you might arrange a secure call to Luca. You contracted her, right?

Well, it's my wife's idea, given my wife personally knew Luca some time before, to turn the attention from Logistics' military personnel to others, but...

John: Yeah, i'm thinking of it. Live on, brother!

I immediately left the premise after doing some clean-ups, and O'Brien follows.

Given what happened to Taylor... how that.... thing, can kill from distance, especially with the help of unknown personnel... 

Perhaps it is a good idea to have another immortal, one who have an actual leadership experience, to take over.

Don't really want to see another brothers or sisters in arms dying like flies.

Luca's a good woman, and if she's off duty i wish to spend more time with her.

She even made a facsimile of me called "Romanov" to show how much she loves me.

Of course both Luca and myself understand that i already married, and Bell did understand as well.

Later...

Well, that's it. Supposed to be bad news, but i'm fine with that.

Basically every single Archer Logistics personnel with the exception of select few under Luca's command are recalled into Inner Persica and Tower District.

Which means... defensive manuevers.

Well, retreat is not always bad. Especially how the enemy we encounter have powers beyond imagination... like baddies just drop dead with a single shot or something.

Brothers and Sisters in arms, especially the ones with no or light magical talents and those who below 30... were demoralized and depressed.

And that even my beloved Bell, with her carefree facade, hid genuine sense of concern towards my life and she didn't just wants me to be safe, but also wants me to be as happy as usual.

Recently i wasn't felt doing my best to Bell at night because of the haunting thoughts and being really, really anxious, but she reassured me that i'm still doing my best.

But i try to live on. No. We try to live on. Hold as much ground as we can, and then when the time comes, either confront the two or just gave in to their demands. Which, i think, not much. All they want seemingly is to go home. Maybe a clerical mistake or being subject of interest, but...

I try not to think about that much as i wanted to boot on Esteem and playing Ravenfield again.

Meanwhile...

Dani, Jon, and Mackie managed to leave the city. Dani's inherent military experience allow her to drive the MRAP out of San Da Silva.

Dani: Jon.... You're a man, you should be the one who drives!

Mackie: Oh no.... he's soundly asleep...

Mackie: And you... as a Tammison, you have an innate military experience!

Dani: Eh... Eh? I just play some videogames, but yet...

Dani: Well, this one isn't a stick, typical American car... (although this is an MRAP)

Meanwhile.... flashback to Jonathan's past...

Jon: They call me... "Alpha & Omega. Beginning and the end..."

Allison: Revelation 21:6, is it?

Allison: No, that would be intimidating for you.

Allison: How about... Jonathan?

Jon: Then... Jonathan Torrington, taking from Mom, Allison Torrington?

Allison Torrington isn't really Jonathan's mother-by-birth, as Allison is a single woman. However she has sympathy toward Jonathan, who is treated as a dangerous weapon to be used by unscrupulous shadow organizations.

Allison: Well... let's shake hands...

Press X to shake hands.

Allison: Nice to meet you, Jon.

Flashback end.

Dani: Mr. Tory, wake up!

Dani: A boulder!

Dani: And you, you could really sleep on a winding mountain path, WHERE I AM SPEEDING MY WAY IN!?

Jon: Actually, i'm way past doing over my cooldown times of using my Dead Eye ability, so...

Dani: Hey, don't fell asleep again!

Mackie: There is an AT4 in the backseat, if you wish...

Dani: Even with my suit, it would be heavy, besides... i fear backblast...

Jon: By the way, did you really know the way into Inner Persica?

Jon: May we remind us to our goal... find the Sage, Bell... ask for her how we could find our way back home...

Dani: Yeah, but i'm not pressing main quest button here, we already know that and we're not doing sidequests!

Jon: Maybe we should ask those Logistics guy nicely...

Dani: They aren't looking friendly so far...

Mackie: It is better that we should find another way to traverse...

Dani hit the reverse gear, and then...

Dragon.

Jon: Oh.... (fires shotgun)

Dani: Mr. Tory, there's more of them!

Jon: Uhhh... we're in too deep here!

Mackie: There's an M249 here in the trunk! Do what you do best!

Jon: Yeah...

Jon then fires all of the Dead Eye imbued bullets to the dragon. Far before the box cartridge is emptied, all the dragons are dead.

But of course, both Dani and Jon are not Dragonborn, so they can't absorb those dragon souls.

Jon: Well, i think just Dead Eye and your apparent military training skills are enough, Dani.

Dani: Thanks, but...

Dani: THERE'S A LARGE GOLDEN THUNDER DRAGON ONE!!!!!! WHAT THE!!!!!

Dani: And we're running out here!

However, Jon holds his fire.

Jon: But i didn't sense a killing intent from it.

Dragon: You passed.

Dani: And it's leaving.

Jon: WAITAMINUTE! I'M ASKING SOMETHING!

Jon: NOW ANSWER ME OR...

Then the golden thunder dragon turns into a girl.

Jon: So....

Dragonkid: I actually want to see how if you're worthy for the Swordmaster's Challenge!

Jon: Where we could attend that?

Dragonkid: Well, if you're heading here, then you're going to visit the Swordmaster's Challenge!

Dragonkid: Like the "Good People of the Imperial City, Welcome, to the Arena!" thing!

While parting ways with the dragonkid, with no intent of harming, Jon and Dani soon met another fellow adventurers seeking to find whatever the challenge tower facing...

Richard: I'm Richard.

Lynel: I'm Lynel Christopher.

Frederica: Here's Frederica.

Jon: Thanks for the accompaniment, but... i think separate ways would be safer.

Dani: Jon, we'll be safer if we travel together...

Company Profile: Hololive

 

 

Hololive is an Amelion (headquarters in United States and Far East) based talent agency meant to hire potential "hero-for-hire" who moonlights as a celebrity. Like the Sage candidates, they will be trained and destined to protect and save the world. Or becoming a regular member of Archer Logistics.

Outside Amelion, it has a branch on the Archipelagia Archipelago as well at the South Eastern Hemisphere. It is the only known contact between Amelion territories and Archipelagia for the time being.

Its leader are the commonly unseen (due to his shy demeanor) yet kindhearted Motoaki Tanigo, known as Yagoo. Its spokesperson are A-chan.

"A-chan exists for all Talents"

 

Current active members as of 2023.

Hololive isn't just for show - they're chosen from the best of the best - whenever they're set to protect the world, or bring joy to the masses to uplift their spirits... they have talent inside them and each and every one of them are unique.

Hololive and Archer Logistics have close ties towards each other, not just for business, but also camaraderie. Many of its talents - including but not limited to Shishiro Botan, Usada Pekora, Moona Hoshinova, Mori Calliope, Kiara Takanashi, Gawr Gura, and Amelia Watson in particular - spoke highly of the Logistics top brass, including the current representative and founder John Archer.

"If i'm not busy enough, i would become a Hololive talent too!"

-Bell Archer

"Sorry for not having enough time to watch 'em all, but best wishes to you all"

-John Archer

"If you want to gush over me, no, please gush over Regis* there. I'm just a kiddy.**"

-John Archer 

*Considered John Archer's "bright mirror", despite the different color scheme, their attitudes are similar, though Regis is (known to be) single. Regis also dote to fellow talent Kobo Kanaeru the same way as John dotes on his sister-in-law Thea Archer, though Kobo and Thea were wild opposites in terms of personality.

**actually 33 years old but look younger than he should be

Character Profile: MacKeigh "Mackie" Tammison

 

Voiced by: Tomoko Kaneda (Japanese) Jamie Marchi (English)

An ancient Celtic spirit, ancestor of Tammison Bloodline, protector of Tammison Bloodline.
As an immortal spirit that maintain the survival and existence of Tammison Bloodline, she embeds herself to Daniella Tammison since her birth, awakening when great event occurs.

She is knowledgeable about events here and there, and despite her wacky tone and demeanor, she has deep insights over... everything.

Despite Daniella's constant annoyance over everything, she deeply cares for Daniella's wellbeing, and even pledged to be the "best woman" when it's time for Daniella and Jonathan to marry.

Character Profile: Usada Pekora

 Voiced by: Herself

Current Spokesperson and Consultant for Archer Logistics. Double Duty as the CEO of Usada Construction. Hearing good words about the couple John and Bell Archer, she volunteered, as representative from a talent agency called Hololive, to partake with the vacant position as the consultant and recruitment after Howard Haroldson, the former consultant, volunteered himself out of loyalty to be the part of CADAVER Unit designated specifically to hunt and neutralize Jonathan Torrington.

Pekora is to be kept in the dark about the situation regarding "Jonathan" to prevent another mental duress like what just happened to Vestia Zeta as she tried to analyze Jonathan Torrington and had to have months-long rest just to recover.

As she is known to be lonely before, she quickly dotes on John and Bell like both are her parents. To Pekora herself, Bell is what Pekora imagined to be when she will grow up later (also Pekora aged very, very slowly compared to normal humans, by age 111 she has the look and the mentality of a 14-year old.)

 

"AH↓HA↑HA↑HA↑HA↑"

-Usada Pekora

Not only known for being cheerful and kind, she has a unique laugh as well.

For complete information regarding her profile, check: 

https://hololive.hololivepro.com/en/talents/usada-pekora/

Chapter 8TJ - Verdict Day

[NOTE: The flashback scenes with Allison Torrington will be contained in one side chapter].

 "God wanted to save mankind, and so he reached out to help. But there were some who did not accept God's offering. They intended to destroy the order that God sought to create for mankind. God was confused. Why did man not want to be saved?""

"They say it was called the Alpha and Omega. The beginning and the end. A harbinger of death that left a trail of destruction."

Mackie looks at how a looker Jonathan Torrington is...

Mackie: Well, now, now, he's a looker, ain't it?

Mackie: Want to use him to continue the Tammison bloodline?

Dani: NOW'S NOT THE TIME! NO! NO! NOOO!

Mackie: So, my dear Daniella, do you fancy somebody else?

Dani: Ummm... no... not really...

Dani: If it's about love, it's his choice.

But as usual, Jonathan sleeps very, very soundly, as if sleeping really, really well helps with the cooldown. It helps that the "instant death" response works to anyone with a killing intent toward him, so when he sleeps, he can kill too.

Jonathan: There's quiet before you two speaking things...

Dani: Nevermind.

Dani: By the way...

Dani: We're approaching... Los Suenos.

Dani: Looks like here we are.

Dani: Persica seems large, ain't it? Outer regions, San Da Silva, Los Suenos... 

Dani: We've just passed the massive outer region, and now... here we are... Maybe... The inner region.

Dani: It seems it's just as massive as the outer region, but now i've seen skyscrapers and buildings as far as i can see.

Dani: Another checkpoint.... what do we gonna do?

Dani: Like yesterday we got the President of the United States with us, and now we're getting back to our MRAP because splitting up would be safe not just for us but the POTUS as well.

Mackie: I feel like... we're being surrounded....

A bunch of people in military gear surround the unmarked MRAP.

What appears the leader approach the vehicle.

Cole: Please, unknown vehicle occupant, get out of the car!

Cole: I'm Cole Phelps, Detective, working in co-operation with the Homeland Security assigned to Inner Persica.

Cole: We're assigned here because there's too many instances and reports of heated conflict around the region.

Cole: Also... the color scheme... the MRAP belongs to the Hamlin Battalion!

Jonathan: We're not part of the Hamlin Battalion. We got this from the Mayor of San Da Silva.

Cole: (X) Doubt

Jonathan: Oh... oh... actually... We're part of Sage Candidate initiated by Bell of Archer Logistics...

Cole: (X) Doubt

Cole: Okay, you need to appraise your gifts. Digital devices, consoles, or whatever.

Dani: F<expletive not shown>!

Jonathan: Trust in Elizabeth Conway. She's a JSOC. An Amelion. 

Cole: (X) Doubt 

Cole: Didn't see any signatures within you. So nope.

Jonathan: Hmmm... waitaminute...

FLASHBACK A BIT...

President Michael Wilson: If you need any safe passes, here's a badge of authority!

Dani: But we... we don't do anything.

Michael: Trust me. You're going to need it. Heard that you just want to go home, right?

Michael: I can grant you that, but...

Jon: Actually, we need questions... and our home is...

Jon: Another dimension, like one day we're in a bus trip to Yokohama and then suddenly meadows and then dragon. 

Michael: Well, UFOs or something... not really my business even if i recall seeing one.

Michael: Plus, you guys don't seem look like a threat. I mean... 

Michael: Nevermind... 

Michael: But if you have any difficulty, just refer to this badge of authority!

Michael: Well, i guess this is it.

Michael: Sorry to say, but...

Michael: Travelling together with odd-looking fella... and a ghost...

Michael: Would be suspicious, especially for a President like me.

Michael: So yeah, we'll part ways from here. Hope you see your home soon.

Dani: Hey Michael, why are you so keen on helping a stranger? 

Michael: The reason is because i am the president of the Great United States of Amelion! 

Michael: Well actually because not only you guys seemingly just several confused fellow, but especially you, Dani, you remind me of my secretary Jodie. 

Michael then left with his combat suit armor.

Dani: Well, the President thought we're aliens. 

Jon: Technically, we are, right?

Dani: But then he told me he reminds myself of his secretary. 

FLASHBACK END

Jon: (Flashes badge) here.

Cole: Sorry, didn't expect that you're a...

 Another high-ranking looking person that goes by the name of David, appears.

David: Sorry everyone. David Beaumont. LSPD. 

David: That badge...

David: It shows that you're either a Secret Service, or the member of the 44th Battalion.

David: Well, by default, you're either both.

David: But that doesn't mean you'll do things as you please like committing crimes or such, for I'm the Judge, and the field commander of LSPD SWAT. 

Cole: David, don't be rude!

David: Since Richard.... well, to put it, MIA.... it's time to took his place, then.

David: (X) Doubt

David: Do you have proof of being Richard Hawk's brother in arms?

Dani: So that Rick fella we met back in the tower was Richard Hawk?

FLASHBACK AGAIN

Theodyce: Vice President, said to be ousted years ago for planning insurrection. That he planned to use the tower to steal the Goddess power for himself by sealing her couple as a bargaining...

Theodyce: Good thing i prevented it, though the Goddess had to be put to rest to prevent further damage to the world...

FLASHBACK END

Chapter 7TJ - Breakdown

After the swift and unfair fight, courtesy of Jonathan Torrington, the mysterious swordsman introduces herself.

 Mysterious Swordsman: I'm Theodyce... I'm looking for my missing younger sister.

Theodyce: I'm here because i heard my kinsfolk has been trapped here.

Dani: Well, we're on the same path here...

Jon: Any clues to look for?

Theodyce: Going down. I can sense my kinsfolk... and to the underground, the senses are stronger.

The third group follows from the back.

Richard, Lynel, and Frederica...

Frederica: Is that a toy? That boxy gun thing could barely kills monsters! You have to reload multiple times and sending supply drops...

Lynel: But that's a Deepcore GK2!

Richard: Calm down you two.

Dani: Richard!

Richard: Nice to see that you're okay, Ms. Daniella.

Dani: And Mr. Lynel here...

Lynel: Thanks to my Deepcore GK2...

Frederica: Brother, that's a toy... Let me test it!

Lynel: Ow!

Frederica: See? It didn't even made you bleed and you look fragile enough!

Suddenly an earthquake happened.

The upper structure collapsed, bringing into view a large, purplish sphere with dragons, and dark skies...

Attendant: Barrier dissipated...

Attendant: The first...

Attendant: The second.

The attendant, now in clear view, warns the group.

Winged Men: Blow the towers, bit by bit, then the barrier would disappear.

Richard: I'll took the fight with Grand Master here...

And you...

Theodyce: Split up in two. We go underground.

Jon: Yeah, i agree.

Dani: There'a HUMANITY-LEVEL THREAT and you're not going to do anything about this?

Jon: Well, if i straight up kill the thing, the Grand Master would appoint me to his order, and then instead of going home, we'll be saddled with tedious tasks! Mommy!

Meanwhile...

A normal looking but squeaky man appears from the back of the winged men.

Lute: This winged brother is Orgain...

Lute: And i'm Lute!

Nice to meet ya!

Frederica: You...! (attacks)

Lute: (dispel) Why don't you analyze my level first? Isn't the HUD, UI, or whatever shows the level or resistance i have?

Frederica: Gasp!

Frederica: Aaaaaahhhhh!

 

Lute: Here, a staff-shaped chicken nugget! With an extra Frederica arm! You and your friends must be hungry!

Richard: (attacks)

Lute: Hey, careful, brother!

Frederica: (cries in pain)

Richard: You, take care of Frederica, i'll handle this pipsqueak!

Lynel: Okay!

Suddenly...

Lynel's UI has a notification.

Mission Control: Management is pleased with your progress. Now you have an extra Overclock Core to be applied to your weapon! This is thanks to your effort in completing the Deep Dive Elite. Rock and Stone!

Lynel: Thanks John!

John (in Lynel's mind): No, i thank you!

Without him i wouldn't complete Deep Dive Elite. The Overclock Core is such an opportunity in this moment.

Lynel: No other option then...

Lynel: FORGE!!!!

Lynel: My hands are shaking...

Lynel: My hearts are beating...

Then... somebody familiar appears...

Vythri: Welcome!

Vythri: Why the look? I'm your older cousin, remember?

Vythri: By the way...?

Vythri: That's the spawn of the Dark God?

Vythri: I can handle them as easy peasy as a lemon squeezy, you know?

Lynel: So....?

Vythri: Now stand here, be a good little brother and let your older sister cousin Vythri here taking care of things, sweetie?

Richard: This is?

Lynel: Yeah, i summoned my older sis.... cousin.... no.... The Goddess!

Orgain: (prostated) Your Highness Vythri...

Orgain: This one underling of you are really grateful to see how you would come all the way here.

Lute: Master Vythri! (hugs Vythri)

Lynel: Wait... wait... what's going on?

Vythri: Well, well, actually, meeting me was the unluckiest thing...

Vythri: Because we'll going to wipe out everyone within 150 miles radius here!

Lynel: Eeeeeeeeeehhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh?

Meanwhile again:

Theodyce, Jonathan, and Daniella reaches the underground from an emergency maintenance access.

Theodyce surprised and shocked seeing tubes filled with things that are vaguely human.

Jonathan: Dani, please, don't look, stand behind me.

Jonathan: It's for your good.

Dani: Ummm... i understand (Unusual how Jonathan take this really, really seriously)

Theodyce then got close to the tubes... Jonathan approaches, and...

Jonathan: So...?

Theodyce: Yes...

Jonathan: The mana extraction chamber. I heard back in the beginning those that are incapable or not wanting to use their mana powers....

Jonathan: Will end up here.

Jonathan: Drained by virtual reality simulation...

Jonathan: Until their death by soul draining. While the occupants doesn't feel anything due to the senses being distracted by VR...

Theodyce: N....no.... this is.... really, really, bad.

Jonathan: I understand.

Theodyce: Let me send them to the afterlife. They don't deserve this... all of them.

Theodyce: The sages... how dare they?

Theodyce: Stand back, Jonathan, for this is my kinsfolk, it's my responsibility to peacefully end their suffering....

Dani: I heard what you two said...

Jonathan: Yeah.

Dani: So... what'll be do now?

Jonathan: We got to return, the crisis is far from over...

Jonathan: What about you, Theodyce?

Theodyce: It's personal...

Theodyce: The Tower Master... will be my last bounty!

Jonathan: Let's go.

Back to the top...

Lynel: Why are you casually talking with the enemy?

Vythri: Well, well...

Vythri: Should i tell you?

Vythri: Actually... i am taken...

Vythri: And... you know...

Lynel: Wait... you already...

Vythri: Yeah, i can sense my darling around here.

Vythri: Inside the core...

Vythri: Sealed by...

Vythri: BARRIER SMASH!

The barrier got smashed, the core broken...

However, the so-called "Vythri's darling" just fell apart.

Jonathan and Dani approaches:

Jonathan: Well, remember the bit about C4?

Dani: Yeah.

Dani: You sensed evil, and you just blew the evil god up! 

Theodyce: RICHAAAAAAAAAAAAARD!

President Michael Wilson: That supposed to be my line!

Theodyce then assassinated Richard, knowing that Richard is responsible for his kinsfolk being turned into living battery.

At the same time, a steel suit armor with the markings of the President of the United States of Amelion appears. 

President Michael Wilson: Well, beats me to it. 

President Michael Wilson: Wait, what is that?

President: Lady...?

Michael has soft spot to ladies even though he's already taken with Jodie back in the Ivory Palace. However...

Vythri, thanks to her husband, a dark god, were (unintentionally due to bad miasma) killed by Jonathan, loses it... 

Vythri: D-darling.... No... 

Vythri: THE WORLD IS MEANINGLESS WITHOUT HIM! NOW ANNIHILATE! DESTROY! 

Vythri then breaks down. Still, Jonathan and Dani doesn't feel any killing intent.

Dani: Mr... President... 

President Michael Wilson: Just call me Michael... Let's get out of here. Things became really, really mad here!

Michael: I got an idea... 

Jonathan, Dani, and Theodyce then drives out by riding on the top of the Metal Wolf, Michael Wilson's armored suit.

Michael: Lady, I'm sorry you have to go like this... 

Michael: HOW DO YOU LIKE ME NOW!

Jon and Dani stood back as Michael countered Vythri's attacks with the Metal Wolf.

The burst strike neutralizes the tower, including Vythri, Lynel, Frederica, Orgain, and Lute, bringing back the clear weather as the group headed to the capital and leaving a crater where the tower was.

The sky became blue again.

Dani: Uhhhh... That was scary... 

Dani: But thank you, Mr. President. 

Michael: As i said, don't call me President. Call me Michael. 

Michael: And... The boy?

Dani: Jonathan. We two just wanted to go home. 

Dani and Jonathan then tell his stories to Michael. Only to be called an "alien" in return.

That's said, Michael wish them a way home.

Dani: That's it! Let's storm off! Good thing the MRAP's still functional! 

Jon: Well, 

As they proceed further to the Inner Persica area... Specifically the border... 

Hold there, a checkpoint.

A gray haired woman approaches.

Vestia Zeta: (speaking toward an unseen officer) Jonathan Torrington.... He's here. 

Vestia Zeta: Sorry, we need to scan each visitors entering Archer Logistics security area. The inner capital of Los Suenos is ahead. 

Vestia Zeta: Mr. President, you're clear.

Vestia Zeta: Girl.... uhhhh.... Daniella Tammison, you're clear.

Vestia Zeta: Men...uhhhh.... Jonathan Torrington, you're....

Vestia: Uhhhhh..... 

Vestia: Tidak.... 

Vestia: Kenapa.... 

Vestia: Makhluk macam apa Jonathan Torrington itu...

Vestia: Dengan mudah nya bisa membuat siapapun dan apapun mati...

Vestia: All right, you're clear. Just...

Vestia: Please, keep him away from me!!!! KEEP HIM AWAY FROM ME!!!!!

Vestia: Jangan... Jauhkan saya dari Jonathan....! 

The metallic engine marches on slowly.

Jonathan: Eh? What a weirdo...

Meanwhile....

Archer Logistics Tower

Private Room

Sasha: Vestia Zeta. She... Suddenly fell ill. 

John: Uhhh... Uhhh...

John worried about how he will report to A-chan.

Both he and his wife can't bear losing a talent.

Bell: Well, normally, this is a "grown up matter" but...

Bell: I need your help a bit. You'll represent the Logistics here.

Bell: I've got an idea...

Bell: What if...

Bell: I summon somebody who knew Jonathan Torrington personally?

John: Wait, you know somebody?

Bell: Ufufu, you're suddenly becoming calm in situation like this.

John: Darling, you're unusually cheerful. Can't wait to play with me later as usual? 

A summoning circle is created.

A scientist appeared.

Bell: I'm Bell Archer the Sage, the one behind me is Sasha of Archer Logistics, and the one besides me is John Archer, leader of Archer Logistics.

Scientist: Bell... Sage... Archer... Logistics?

Scientist: Well, I'm Jenkins from... Uhh... Need to know basis only. Sorry, classified. 

John: Archer Logistics. United States. Don't worry, eyes only.

Jenkins: Eh? This is the United States too?

Jenkins: Okay. Okay. Blackrock Institution. 

John: Just want to... well, do you know somebody called Jonathan Torrington?

John: Obey and tell us, and you'll have a blind date ticket in Persica! 

Jenkins: Summoned.... did you say that....

Jenkins: Wait... dunno about Jonathan, but we got Allison Torrington...

Jenkins: Assigned to...

Jenkins: Alpha and Omega...

Jenkins: Clearance restricted... doesn't matter, that Johnny boy is cute...

John: Don't call me Johnny! And i'm taken!

Jenkins: Wait, i'm pinging his signal...

Jenkins: I want to thank you...

Jenkins: For you summoning him to this... Universe... Dimension... 

Jenkins: For saving our world!

Jenkins: So... wait... i could just put it here... and here.... i can trace it.

Jenkins: Wait... no.... no....

Jonathan (in other place): Yes please.

Unknown Voice: Measure not accepted. Subject in violation of measure number 444.

Unknown Voice: Safety protocols initiated. Implant marked subject Leroy Jenkins for termination. Any other living beings within 3 miles are urged to evacuate.

Jenkins: No... No.... Nooooo! 

Unknown Voice: Termination of Breach subject via demolition implants in... 5...4...3...2...1...

The scientist suddenly exploded, like what John remembered from the movie Kingsman.

John collapsed in shock, right on top of the scientist's bloodied body, his body dirtied by the bile and blood. 

John became terrified seeing somebody combusted in front of his eye, spilling guts and blood not just in front of John, but also his dear Bell and brother Sasha as well. 

John: (unintelligible grumbling)

Sasha: John, brother, please, don't look...

Bell: That... Jonathan Torrington, just what the hell is that thing?

John: (cries)

Everyone involved in the private room was terrified. 

Sasha: Please, John, here, look at me... It's me, Sasha.

Sasha: Calm down. 

John: <cries>

Sasha: Bell, i will clean up the mess. The incinerator would be good.

Sasha: Please, take care of your beloved here.

Bell: Yes.

John: <didn't stop crying yet>

Bell: Dearie, you'll going to be alright...

After the whole mess Bell decided, along with John, to bathe together.

Poor John, he's been shell-shocked after that thing... Just...

Bell: Hey, dearie... (hugs John as both of them bathe)

Usually i would hug John passionately in event of bathing together. 

But John... he's just unresponsive.

I look at his eyes... his eyes seems... empty.

I try to stimulate his brain a bit...

Normally, it wouldn't be hard because... we bathed together.

I put on a sleepwear to him... 

I try to seduce him...

I charm him into a deep sleep. That would make him think that this is a nightmare.

The man that could punch demons like it's a morning routine, take on world-destroying threats half asleep, cross hell himself (well, part of them actually) like it's a road trip, fights wars like its a morning walk, collect artifacts like buying milk, and return smiling... 

The man... that i loved so much in this world.

The man... which his resourcefulness is the most valuable thing in this world.

I can't let him face something that can kill with thought alone.

Bell: John...? Honey... Dearie...?

John only able to speechlessly smile.

John then pours a lot of milk.

There is no alcohol. At all. At any time.

Then there's also... 

He lost his Pelagius Force gathering party, whom Jonathan effortlessly kill, basically losing his entire E-Sports crew he assembled...

He lost his Deep Rock Galactic co-op buddy. 

And then after i trying to dig in the details about Jonathan Torrington from one of the scientists that managed to contain him back in the day...

After John is finished with the meal, Bell puts him to bed like it's her children (a reminder: she cannot conceive due to well past human reproductive cycle age)

Sasha: Is it okay now?

Bell: I believe that John's a strong man. He would recover sooner or later...

Bell: However...

Bell (a bit teary): I would never let John loose from Tower District. Never! Until whole thing about this mess is done.

Sasha: Well, you spend your time with your dearest-of-all John as usual. In the meantime, i keep on a night watch. 

Bell then tries to cast a calming spell on John, putting him in what appears to be a dream state where he is together with Bell.

Bell: My dear, it's okay now. Calm down, my sweet. Peppermint pie.

Good thing Sasha cleans the place really well.

Sasha's just as sweet as John himself, and he's my number 2 of the most beloved person in the world.

Sasha chose to sleep alone. He just as always afraid to charm or to be charmed by Bell like that day (John isn't jealous, but still) 

John then sleeps soundly and began to smile.

Bell, on the other hand, tries to stimulate him while he's asleep, helping to clear out the worry.

Later that night...

John awakened, feel like a bit better but still haunted by what's happening.

John looked at the moon with a sullen look, knowing that in the coming weeks, the moon will be the last.

Nobody ever knew that her wife would bring that... thing in our universe.

The herald of an end.

The one where people only managed to seal or put it to sleep not without casualties.

The fact that i already lost new kids and the entire e-sports team i scheduled to coach later during the summer of '24.

Even though it's not his fault, John began to cry, knowing that there is always something beyond his power. Not that he seeks power though, he just wanted a calm, happy life.

In Persica, or Mobius, it's acceptable for men to cry.

From the behind, Bell approaches.

Bell: Dearie...

John: My beloved one...

Bell: I'm sorry... (hugs John as John calm him down)

Bell: I'm really, really sorry for bringing Jonathan Torrington to Persica!

Bell: If you want to kill me to punish me, then do it!

John was hard to forgive people, as is usual for him. Even he can't forgive the nobility in which he was part of, for ordering the assassination of her beloved (as a sister) Thea, despite it's merely a codeword of "make her look like she's dead but she isn't".

But for Bell, who unknowingly brought a death delivering monstrosity... 

John loved her so much more than everything else given not just her beauty but her kindness, and John would learn a lot to be helpful, kind, and be a reason why somebody smiled. 

She's kind. Period. 

John: No, it's not your fault!

John: And even if it is, killing you won't solve the problem. That would make me even sadder. 

John: It's just fate itself playing the strings.

John: What are we, but cruel machinations of fate? 

Bell: John....

Bell was surprised on how easy John forgiving her.

John: People made mistakes, right?

John: Sometimes, i got myself clouded by regrets of my past, previous, before rebirth life...

John: And do you remember like when i was crying, uncertain of myself, you tell me...

Bell: The story about an ugly duckling who became a swan...

Bell: And that swan is you...

John: We both swans, right?

Bell: Ufufu...

John: Ehehe...

Bell embraces John from behind.

John: We're in this together. So if you go down...

Bell: Then i will go down as well. 

Both smiled, facing each other, and kissed then embraced, as if their bodies become one. 

Due to the massive anxiety, John produces fewer mana than usual.

Regardless, Bell walks along with John to the bed, where they, as wife and husband, getting some rest.

Later...

John assembled the entire Logistics. It was broadcasted as an emergency broadcast.

John: I see... I hope you reconsider. We're not here in this world to fight. We're here to stand the ground. If you face him... no... that thing directly, you're going to... just die. Leaving your loved ones just like how i lost my loved ones.

John: So here, as the Lieutenant Colonel and Field Commander of Archer Logistics... i order you to stand ground in around Inner Persica. Again i say, we're not here to fight.

Soldiers: murmurs...

John: Thank you and farewell...

He does have something in mind... remove "killing intent"... But how?

Jonathan Torrington has a small army of renegade US Army elements behind him. And sure as hell they're approaching us.

But one that he worry most is his wife, Bell. She's surely immortal and he himself is borderline immortal. 

But firsthand accounts said that thing can bypass immortality... 

They want...

The Sage Bell...

For questions...

My wife...

Since i have like all the mana, all i can do is to send them home...

But...

He's accountable for the deaths of people under my commands and my friends as well...

I need to consider.

Concept: Perseverance Made Spirit

 You know the guy?
You know everyone?

Everyone who pick up gamepad, put the WASD or movement stance and the PC mouse on their other hand...

The ones that handles VR analog grips...

The ones that control the character fighting for their goals?

The ones that would never stop until the character won or finished?

That... is the concept of Perseverance Made Spirit.

Those who are chosen by The Higher Power (higher than the beings some consider gods and goddesses) to be granted Perseverance will be destined to do great things, change the world, fight for the ones they love, and other determined goals.

Even if sometimes they could fail and leave, many of them are moved to success.

The spirit with Perseverance in it often can't really "die". Whenever they are killed or failed, for them, time would seem to rewind itself to present true conclusion. In truth, the universe collapsed and rewritten in order to set the goals of the Perseverance to happen.

The end could be good, as the spirit would reach their goal. Or it could be bittersweet, as in not without sacrifice or adverse change to the nature. Also it can be bad, as in the death of the spirit. The Higher Power knows best.

This is why sometimes people have dreams. Have nightmares. Some of them are either premonition or leftover fragments from worlds or reality branches where Perseverance fails. Some of them worked like hints on loading screen... it might be a premonition for days to come.

Planetary Profile: Hoxxes IV

 

"The richest mine ever discovered in the universe..."

"Just happened to be in the galaxy's most dangerous edge"

"It's also where the Dwarves work"

A tidally-locked and scorched planet orbiting the blue star Creus, the planet is known to be unique compared to the other planets of the Solar System (in the Omega Universe) for its massively rich precious mineral deposits. Such minerals are often used to power electronical hardwares from semiconductors of computers to robotics, medical assistance tools such as pacemakers and artificial organs, and biologically ingestible materials that is tested and proven to prolong known human lives, with varying side effects.

Despite the lack of known sky-based atmosphere, plant life and rain are prevalent, especially in the jungly sectors.

Side effects may include dwarfism, which is accounted for around 99% of Deep Rock Galactic's workforce. 

It's also infamous for its hostile environment, where only Deep Rock Galactic, formerly known as Archer Logistics, and existed for around 2422 years, is a known, registered entity that is (perceived to be) stubborn enough to continue mining in this sector.

Various forms of insects, from Glyphids to Macteras to Rockpoxes that mutate the former two lived inside the planet.

As stated, the field expeditionary team of dwarves pledged their lives to the Deep Rock Galactic thanks to their Barley Bulb and Red Sugar powered immortality, both of which are confirmed to be only available in Deep Rock Galactic.

The folklore or myth behind Hoxxes IV is that the Goddess Vythri (also known as Vahanato in another language) is formerly a woman called Nikki Le Mercier, broken by the cruelty of the world, became a goddess like figure after finding an artifact of power. That herself as a goddess is also broken due to the death of her lover. The longing of her (mortal) husband, Livius I, became the star of Creus, while the Goddess itself became Hoxxes IV.

Character Profile: John Archer (Abridged Profile)

 

Age: 33 (by the time Jonathan Torrington ran loose across Persica)

Rank: Lieutenant Colonel (Honorary)

Position: Founder, Representative, and Lead Military Instructor of Archer Logistics.

Voiced by: 

Miyu Irino (Japanese) Ray Chase (English) (Type A)

Junya Enoki (Japanese) Zach Aguilar (English) (Type B)

Kenichi Suzumura (Japanese) Brian Bloom (English) (Type C)

Marina Inoue (Japanese) Amber Lee Connors (English) (Type D)

Reincarnated from Alpha Universe, John Archer was the member of a nobility in Alvarn known as Tuatha De. He was born in Omega Universe as John Archer to dissociate his name from the nobility in order to provide cover or shell endeavors.

After successfully closed a demonic incursion and helping establishing Persica (as a replacement for the razed Viekone/Swoigel), John Archer was recruited by General Thorns, US Army, to establish a private security and military contractor force called the Archer Logistics. He's also given honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

In addition, he seemingly left the nobility due to the often cold relation between them.

The Logistics also help building Persica as the largest, most prosperous state in the western coast of the United States of Amelion due to their efforts of mining and studying the magick/aetherium.

John and Bell. Wedding Anniversary. Done each year, with this being the first.

But the most important thing for John is that he could have his seemingly endless honeymoon with his most beloved person, Bell Archer.

After 3 years have passed, Bell got a bright idea, seeing John's successful tour of duties...

That she could empower everybody she and John wants.

That they could bring people from a miserable, resource drained world that John had lived there before and they could gave them a "video-game like life" in the world of Mobius/Omega Universe.

Thus the idea of "Battle Song" and "Sage Candidate" were born, with how Bell managed to combine pieces of software development engine such as Unreal Engine and Creation Engine to affect the world.

John has a straightforward "military man" personality, though he can be random at times off duty. He can be child-like. He can be cat-like. He can be whatever on his whim. Due to his unusually high charisma stat (the same applies to his wife), most people don't mind on how John acts.

He was born with an unusually high amount of mana that can be buffed with his adrenaline. The more he's challenging himself, the more mana can be generated. He doesn't keen on using magical abilities apart from steadying aim, additional sprint speed, increased instincts, and...

The ability of mind-link (ranging from mind reading and also like mind control but consensual) with anybody who has a close relation to him.

The use of such ability only consume a negligible amount of mana, which is why, almost every night, he's almost always ready to transfer his mana to Bell through the same method humans use to conceive... as Bell, due to her age past beyond human fertility age, are unable to conceive or bear children.

 Currently he's set by Bell to be sheltered inside the Archer estate, now made to float up above the skies of the actual Tower District of the Inner Central Persica.

He's sheltered because, despite Bell's immense power as a Sage, other Sage and candidates have dropped dead due to Jonathan Torrington's strange ability and Bell, despite the cheery facade, attempts to shelter John inside.

John along with Bell playing and enjoying PC games.

Nevertheless, he loves to enjoy life's pleasures to tell his worry part of the brain off, helped by how Bell encourages him to have fun and try not to waste days worrying while he's still breathing.

As such, he's known for his (exceptional, but all of them are covers) singing ability, his surprising talent as a DJ, and of course, a gamer, either PC, consoles, or VR.

He even did contract job for Persica Police Department as the SWAT leader to train new SWAT Team recruits, along with suppressing his killing intent.

It works to an extent. However, John recognized one of his new friends, Cameron Taylor, being killed and personally attending his funeral, also, John made contact with somebody in close proximity to Jonathan, which is Lynel Christopher, through online game link.

John is not allowed to use remote bodies and automated defense system to strike back against Jonathan either, knowing that Taylor was killed via hacking link through the Terror Bites that Taylor controlled.

"But what if Jonathan reaches Inner Persica?" He wondered.

He prepares a contingency should that happened:

"To each of us falls a task, and when the time's come, we as a soldier, we will stand the line, and we die fighting. Otherwise, It is what we do best: We die standing."

Character Profile: Nikita "Niki" Le Mercier - Levya N'oore Vythri

 

As Nikita Le Mercier

Voiced by: Rena Maeda (Japanese) Alexis Tipton (English)

The youngest heir of the Rain Dukedom, she was sent away due to her lack of apparent ability to bring forth the rain as the Rain Dukedom is known for its weather-manipulating spells and incantations.

She was sent away to the Sun Kingdom in an apparent arranged marriage sham with Livius I, the heir and soon the emperor of Sun Kingdom.

Despite being arranged, the set up is neatly set, as Niki proved her worth surviving in the harsh, lonely, and underfunded condition of living in Sun Kingdom as an immigrant. Her pure heart and sense of love awakens her innate ability and strength.

It is also confirmed that she is one of the Perseverance Made Spirit thanks to her determination to find true love and hone her innate strength to control water and rain. She eventually managed to marry and awaken her powers. However, not every story ends with a happily ever after...

Livius I (left) and Niki (right)

Upon marriage with Livius I, the Sun Kingdom's heir became the Emperor, and as the hardships of their lives continue due to hostile parties wanting their powers, one of the couple's expedition grant them an artifact that allow them to ascend to divinehood. In particular, Niki ascended, leaving the universe where Livius I existed, and soon...

As Vythri

 ...and become the goddess Vythri.

Separate and parallel to the Sage's efforts to bring forth useful manpower to Mobius, Vythri has her own ways to bring people to her cause.

Livius I, turned into a being of darkness in his attempt to look after Vythri, managed to be reunited. However both couples become unrecognizably different due to their pursuance of ideal forms.

Company Profile: Deep Rock Galactic

 

Corporate Logo and Insignia

"Together, We Forge Tomorrow"

Deep Rock Galactic, formerly Archer Logistics before it went intergalactic, is an intergalactic mining corporation that is established in year 4444 to conduct off-planet mining operations, especially around giant asteroids.

They have military grade hardwares and R&D division, which was proven to be useful during the incursion of Hoxxes IV, which is filled by insectoid creatures known as Glyphids, along with the Rival Corporation.

Formerly, they use spaceships to mine, but after the discovery of mineral-rich planet Hoxxes IV, which is the richest known uninhabitable planet full of valuable resources, they send evolved human variants known as "dwarves" due to the resemblance to the mythical dwarves, in order to mine.

It is not exactly known how dwarves came to be, but one speculation is that Deep Rock Galactic's experiment in immortality, fueled by the Hoxxes IV minerals, turn regular human miners into dwarves.

The Deep Rock Galactic affiliated dwarves revere a legendary miner known as "Karl" (which may or may not be John Archer or his descendant - unlikely for descendant because he chose to mate with somebody who cannot conceive) to the point that emulating Karl's looks (particularly his "looker" look, being slim, and lacking facial hair) are discouraged, if not outright forbidden.

The Space Rig around Hoxxes IV is known for housing only around 5 members - four dwarves and a mission control.  

Software Profile: Deep Rock Galactic

"Danger. Darkness. Dwarves."

Deep Rock Galactic is a co-operative first person shooter videogame developed by Ghost Ship Games of Alvarn (Denmark in Mobius) and published by Coffee Stain Publishing and available for popular game consoles and PC. Players take the role as space dwarves from the Deep Rock Galactic mining corporation where they live in a "Space Rig", accepting contracts and missions, and be sent to the resource-rich Hoxxes IV to carry out the mining mission carefully and help with the prosperity of the galaxy.

The game is powered by Unreal Engine 4, presenting dark, imposing, and beautifully designed environments to fight in.

 Exclusive to Mobius, the game is titled "Deep Rock Galactic - Grand Order" and playing them will grant so-called "Apology Stones" that can be spend for real life Gacha.

It is the favorite game of John Archer and Lynel Christopher, in which they met and befriend each other. 

In this universe the "Ghost Ship Games" moniker turns out to be a gathering admiring the goddess Vythri with the goals to tempt players into giving their spirit and eventually became their follower. Given that the game is a partial projection of (in Omega Universe) future event concerning the expedition of Hoxxes IV, it made sense.

Chapter 6TJ - Ghost Tower, Part II

Jon: That sphere, which seems like a sun but purple? Gave an uneasy feel. I feel... queasy... 

Jon: Fine then.

Jon: Blah blah blah C4 blah blah blah.

Dani: Sounds... explosive, but i agree.

Jon launches the C4 to the center of the "purple sun", blowing it up. While the purple sun is still intact, the uneasiness subsides.

Jon: Well, let's march on, we have no need to be here anymore.

Frederica: Hey... hey... wait... Give me your mana!

Lynel: Uhhh... here, of all places?

Frederica: You.....! WHY ARE YOU SLOWING DOWN ME?!

Frederica then leaves the rest of the group

Lynel: Uuuuhhhh.... shall we follow the rest?

Richard: Thanks to them, the enemies are all dead.

Richard: Just...

Richard: Be aware of the traps.

Lynel: Then i just go....

A spear trap hits him.

Lynel: Aaagh!

Lynel crushes the so-called "Apology Stones" which looks like a Saint Quartz. It healed him.

Lynel: Well, it heals.

Lynel: Then, shall i proceed!

Lynel then goes inside.

Gunfire and Lynel's scream heard.

Richard: Private!

The team enters the dungeon.

Richard: Teresa!

Richard: You...!

Richard: What the hell is all of this... massacre... thing?

Teresa: Well... EXP... experience... perks... levels... all that thing...

Richard: You... and me... as members of the Divine Knights...

Teresa: Well, all of this are quite beautiful amount of body count, right?

Richard: You all, back down!

Dani: No, we won't!

Dani: Thermal vision.

Dani: I can see lots of wire traps!

Teresa: My, you've got good eyes.

Richard: Let me protect you and your boyfriend there!

Teresa: I WON'T LET YOU ALL SURVIVE! YOU SMELL LOTS OF EXPERIENCE POINTS!!!

Teresa prepares her Monowire Arms.

Jon: Die, Teresa. (aiming and shooting a Desert Eagle)

Teresa drops down dead, and the floor boss is considered defeated.

There is a double door at the end of the boss arena, which leads to a....

Hotel?

Complete with free wifi, and they loaned laptops too!

Attendant: Thanks for achieving 98th Floor. Here now is a "safe zone". You can rest, recuperate, heal, and...

Dani: Yeah... yeah, thanks.

Dani: Is this tower the so-called "Killing Floor"?

Jon: (to Lynel and Richard) Thanks for the help, i think, you two can hold by yourselves on your own, right?

Richard: Yeah, sure. But i think we're be safer together.

Lynel: But now... let's book rooms for each.

Attendant: (to Jon and Dani) I think we've got the right room just for pair like you...

Dani: Well, Mackie is watching... so, if you've got any funny ideas...

Mackie: Don't worry, i'll be staying out of sight!

Dani: Eh, Jonathan.... dearie?

Jonathan then just strips.

Change into a pair of newly-awarded pajamas...

And then went to sleep. With Dani follows.

The Next Day

Jon: Dani....

Dani: Eh?

Jon: I think from now on... we already seen how the threats are escalating around the two of us...

Jon: That we might've increase our lethal measures...

Dani: Isn't "lethal measures" are the thing you always do whenever you encounter a perceived threat?

Jon: Actually... i've tried to hold myself back...

Jon: But here we are, not only candidates and participants are willing to draw blood...

Jon: But most denizens here too. The police, the military... heck, we lost contact with the JSOC for the time being, the only ones that are friendly to us besides you and granny Mackie there.

Dani: Well.... (prepares her twin M9s) Lock and Load, then!

Dani: We'll always have each others backs!

Dani: Like Salem and Rios!

Jon: Wow, you remember that title...!

Mackie: Yeah! Back to Back! I wish i could play games but watching you do it feels like i'm playing it too!

Meanwhile:

"Showcase" by Cosmograph plays as the "Drop Pod" launches towards the depth of an asteroid planet.

A scene of space dwarves shooting their way through an insect infested caves of Hoxxes IV, a planet in the outer rim that houses valuable materials. There is a company of mercenaries called Deep Rock Galactic, which seeks to mine Hoxxes IV that is abundant of those valuable minerals.

After a successful Aquarq carrying mission (despite multiple fails because Rainer is just that bad of a player)...

Lynel: See you, John27!

John27 (through chat): See you too, Kuroyanagi! (Kuroyanagi is Lynel's nickname) 

Announcer: ...and here it is! Thanks for choosing Deep Rock Galactic! Now we are introducing an update for the Rogue Core module, and...

Announcer: We've announced an update that would make sure bring appeal to more players! On behalf of Ghost Ship Games, we will say thanks to all the miners who participated from the beginning. Rock and Stone, everyone!

Lynel stood still, trying to trade off his so-called "apology stones" given that he's just a man outside it all. Like that one cute military guy, he prefer videogames over others. Especially when others are jerks.

After a successful Deep Rock expedition with that one cute military guy over the online connection, Lynel cashed in...

And then...

A beautiful woman, straight out of Sarasaria, wearing something a belly dancer or a high-class beachgoer usually wear, with gold bikini and bangs, appear.

Lynel: What the...? I expect more Rock and Stone, but...

Lynel: I remember you..

Woman: Yeah. You may call me Vythri. Did that name ring a bell for you?

Lynel can't help but thinking that "Vythri" was his older cousin. Who turned into a really, really hot goddess.

Lynel: Will you be... my partner?

Vythri: Terrain scanner just got updated with a new location.

Vythri: Also....

Vythri then decide to lay down on Lynel's bed.

Vythri: Every time you sleep somewhere, you'll update your save point.

Vythri: So... you'll respawn in the last place you sleep.

Vythri: My.... my....

Vythri: You seemed healthy.

Vythri: Heard that Deep Rock Galactic will have an open-world entry....

Vythri: By the way, on behalf of Ghost Ship Games, i wish you for a nice journey onwards!!!

The extremely attractive goddess known as Vythri then left by teleportation, leaving Lynel confused and heartbroken like in the true end of Tsukihime's Arcueid route.

Lynel: Hey, wait?!

Lynel then checks his Esteem client. 

He got a gift.

It's Palworld.

Lynel left content but confused.

He's unable to do the deed with the one that looks like his beloved older sister, but otherwise got a fancy new game everyone played.

Meanwhile

Jon and Dani continues in, easily killing any adversary that stands in their way. Along the way they also blow up walls in order to proceed easily.

Jon: I actually felt sorry for all i killed.

Dani: You didn't look and feel like it.

Then suddenly a gold armored man teleports in.

He identifies itself as Tower Master.

Tower Master: Isn't cheating is bad? Such one-hit-kill attacks...

Tower Master: I'm the master. So i can appear everywhere.

Tower Master: Banhammer will commence in...

Dani: Waitttt.....

Tower Master: Accepted. What do you want to say in the matter...

Jon: Both of us only wants to leave.

Tower Master: Haha no.

Tower Master: I made this tower not just for potential heroes to become heroes, but...

Tower Master: They'll also maintain the seal that held an apocalyptic entity downwards.

Tower Master: They keep producing monsters at an alarming rate.

Tower Master: Blew up the tower... and... you'll release the entity itself, dooming the surface world.

Jon: Just let me out of this place okay? We won't wreck things further anymore if we did.

Tower Master: And you expect me to believe...THAT?

Tower Master: With the body count you racked... i can only see you as a monster.

Tower Master: Now, and just now... i reveal my true name. Julio Iglesias (no relation to actual real world or Alpha Universe person).

Julio: The high wizard. The tower master. Or whatever...

(shotgun blasts)

Julio fell down dead.

Dani: Wait... He seems to be an important people of this tower... and you killed him?

Dani: That would add more enemies to us!

Jon: He seems like a threat...

Jon: We need to keep moving.

Dani: What?

Both then proceed walking further...

Dani: Is this the colosseum? But this is indoors!

Both sees a fight, a bunny suit wearing knight fighting a veiled knight.

The bunny suit wearing knight seems to be coached by what appears to be an emperor.

Mackie: So.... what will we do?

Jon: It's not our matter... we should keep moving. 

Jon: Either around this place or another path. Just don't cause any structural damage to the tower anymore!

Dani: Look!

Behind the throne there's a large doorway. Maybe that's the exit.

The throne has a name to it.

"Maximus Benedictus"

The bunny knight apparently lost after an ultimate forward vertical slash...

But....

She jumped and dashed. Then strikes back at the knight.

Bunny Knight: Nah, i'm just holding back. Sword isn't my forte. I could just beat you down with my fists!

Jon: Heyyyyyyy! We're just passing through! We want to get out of this place!