Big Hat, Big Robots
The next update starts with the decacunnies again, with Sof again showing off that she's the most "human" by whispering to Ohr "hey, don't be a dick to Ein" after Ohr is a fussy dick to Ein. Ohr says, "I mean, look" and Sof says "..."Look"?" before Ohr says ISN'T EIN'S FACE WHEN SHE CRIES SUPER CUTE!? Sof agrees and says "But still..." anyway the two end up brawling until something explodes.
After they settle down things continue with Ein talking about worker conditions, for example "helical no. 5" which is supposedly a name she herself came up with. She says its wounds have yet to heal, and Sof is like "you mean the one that had paint peeling off?" Ein cute; she says yes and peeled paint means rust susceptibility. Also she gave it a new bigass gun. Also she wants to upgrade its body. Also she goes it's FIVE when Sof accidentally refers to it as 3. She says it's not just any other "Labor-chan" (I'll just call them Labor-bots) , she insists it's special. Sof says there's tens of thousands of those wtf do you mean and Ohr swifly says Sof is a heartless girl who treats the Labor-bots as mere tools and ohh how much that must hurt poor Ein. Pot kettle black.
Ohr tells Ein that modifications like she's doing could shorten Helical no. 5's lifespan and Ein is like nyooo so Ohr offers to help, suggesting optimizations and hey, let's make it dance when it's supposed to be working. Ein protests. Sof punches Ohr in the face, knocking her out.
It's time to wake up Malkuth. Ein is nervous, but Sof says they believe in her and of the three of them she's the one who understands robots best (wait, then what ARE the decacunnies? Not quite robots?). Ein is still apprehensive and Ohr tells her, I get you, but forget about doing your best, you need to DO it. Also she mentions borrowing a forbidden power (later clarified explicitly to be "The power of the nameless gods") to do this and how she dislikes that, but the results are all that matters. Sof agrees with this, and it's revealed that they've been around since volume F, studied the Ark during it, and reverse engineered the multidimensional barrier. Ohr specifically helped the most to that end and while laughing she says "We can admit I did amazing work, right?" Sof is annoyed but says yeah. Ein apologizes for her shortcomings, but Sof says it's okay! They have different specialties. Ohr asks why Sof is so sweet only to Ein. Sof tells her please remember what you do on the daily.
Ein mentions that, come to think of it, you shouldn't use other peoples' power without their permission 'cause you'll make them angry. Ohr reminds them that they are "completely perfect". They're always blameless, and what, the priests? She says she's come across rumors of them, but who cares about people who lost in the past? Actually, they should be THANKING us. Thanks for using our stuff! Sof says you know what yeah, we're not doing anything bad, but Ein is still worried. End scene.
--
Gamers, they're gaming. After clearing what they're playing, Aris delightfully I know what this is! It's kusoge! (a shit game). This is supposedly Momoi's design, though Yuzu takes a hit from that as well. Basically, it has bullshit usual Momoi garbage design in it based off of her natural shitposter mindset (glaciers kill because IRL you need to prep or they're too cold, you need to complete a 30 minute tutorial to receive cold weather eq). Midori says regardless, you don't instantly die from glacier exposure. Momoi says PLS you've never been to one, you MIGHT. Midori says it's reasonable if it's after a hundred steps. She also asks about a CG she made that they couldn't find. Momoi says she was thinking of putting it in DLC, pissing Midori off.
Anyway, Aris calms things down by saying making and fixing games is fun, and in a parallel to the Decacunnies Midori wonders if Aris being too Soft on Momoi is a problem. She uses the same wording, and I just realized that indeed the GDD and Decacunnies are parallels a bit: 3 starters, 2 of which butt heads often and the 3rd is really shy and has speaking problems but is also the best at what they do, and the 4th is a mysterious super robot with bad parents. Anyway Momoi says she's the scenario writer, planner, and altogether producer so she's got a lot to do (Midori mutters that "producer" is self-proclaimed). Anyway she says "We want to understand glaciers? We'd better go to one!"
After Yuzu faints from the mere suggestion, Aris gets a call--from me. Aris says they haven't seen Sensei for a while, he apologizes. They chat a bit, but Aris notices that Sensei's tone of voice is different from usual (reminder: last time Sensei had a crisis of faith about putting students at risk for "the greater good"). Sensei is apprehensive about talking about "everything" in front of the rest of the GDD, but ultimately decides to do it. The reactions to "I want you to come to the polar sea" are FUCK (midori) HYPE (momoi) FUCK (yuzu) HYPE! (aris). Sensei says guys pls consider this seriously, it's very dangerous. Aris says ur my nakama sensei and Sensei says yes, thank you, BUT...and tries to explain one more time but Aris tells him no I get it. We might not be safe there. But, nonetheless, she simply asks "How do I get there?" surprising everyone (even Sensei).
Aris asks why the surprise? Naturally, you help your friends when they need it--it's "party" basics. In fact, she says that she's happy Sensei is seeking her help when he needs it, because it's proof that we're friends. Sensei asks oooone more time if it's okay, and Aris says she may be an apprentice hero, but she is a hero nonetheless who wants to make the world a better place.
Sensei asks what Aris intends to do if things DO go badly, and she says she and her friends will job change and hide. Sensei confirms that in that case, the kids will listen to him during the crisis. Aris agrees, though there's a funny where she asks "What if you make a strange request". Momoi and Midori say Sensei always says weird shit, don't worry, and Yuzu says he won't when danger is involved. Sensei tells them be sure to dress warm. End of episode.
--
Back at the arctic sea, we're waiting for Rio. Toki says she'll arrive at the exact time, and Himari says that, rarely, Rio will show a minute early. Also when Sensei asks if she's cold she's says YES!!! and jabbers a bit. She won't wait inside because she wants to see Rio when she gets there so she can complain at her face to face for everything she's done. She insists. She MUST do this. Eimi says ffs just say you want to see her again honestly. Himari says for GOD'S sake Eimi, we've been together for this long and you still misunderstand me! Eimi thinks to herself, no, it's because I understand that I said that. Toki meanwhile says Indeed, you two are close, and I only entered this partway through but...I tell you: I won't lose. Hmph. Toki as ever. She says she's been taught that you merely need guts to win against bad odds and when Eimi asks by whom, Toki says "By Momoi."
While Eimi and Himari summarize the story so far, Toki says this shit is boring and she's cold and Sensei offers to warm her up, bothering Eimi and Himari (though Eimi especially--she also asks to be warmed up (pls)). Anyway there's LOUD noises that sound like a fighter jet, then a complex vehicle opening. Toki says "She's arrived" and: Rio.
Himari asks about the vehicle, Rio says it's nothing much and still needs some work. Sensei thanks Rio for coming, and before Rio can say more than "Sensei" Toki says "Welcome, Rio-sama. We waited for you for 5 minutes."
Rio asks Toki if she's found things she wants to do yet. Toki seems to not fully understand the question (or maybe her possible answers) but Rio says looking at Toki, she can somewhat guess. She also apologizes for the burden she placed upon her, shocking everyone except Toki (who's just confused). Sensei is like "ugh, my heart" and Rio requests a lower amount of teasing.
Sensei switches gears and says there's something important to tell Rio. Rio wonders, is it about the world potentially ending tomorrow? Sensei says, no, the GDD is gonne be here soon. Rio pauses, and says the world being destroyed would've been better, and she tries to make a (very slow sounding, lol) escape. Himari says Eimi, Toki! And the two catch her (Toki using her super robot for it) while Rio whines. She gets steadily brattier, saying "Toki! You're standing against me?" and "I heard they were coming TOMORROW" and "I need to prepare my hear, why'd you change the schedule!" "Himari ffs stop talking about horoscopes, that stuff is nonsense!" (himari explains why astrology is valid, actually) -> "GOD SHUT UP"
She really THRASHES throughout this, FULL tantrum and the sound effect indicate she isn't going down without a fight (no shooting, but she seems to be breaking things).
After she's tired out, Rio is NOT happy. Sensei asks her, while she's panting, "Are you okay?" and she asks "Oh, do I look okay?" She says she expected to apologize and everything, but she abhors her treatment today and absolutely SCOWLS at Sensei (リオに恨めしい視線を向けられた). Shortly after this, the GDD arrives by heli (who's piloting??? taxi heli??)
When they land, Aris dives into Sensei immediately. Toki says "It's been a while, Cute Aris" (still that huh, so is Momoi still Noisy Momoi?). Chatting happens, Aris is polite and cute, Midori mentions that she was looking forward to the trip here, but it ended up having a lot of train transfers and she's not happy to have used a helicopter. Also, it took an unexpected three entire days (fuck, dude). After Sensei comments on their clothes, Aris says they're like in the game they're making, and Momoi says it's a game that's an action RPG puzzle adventure turn based STG with a glacial setting. Sensei gives her a /SQUINT
Meanwhile, as everyone was distracted...Rio vanished. However, a small AMAS AI robot is here to assist at the base! How convenient.
Toki, Eimi, and Himari all give this a deadpan stare. Momoi is worried that AI are usually villains in games, trying to destroy all humans (Momoi, jesus, stop being racist). The robot assures them it's here to help and Aris says OMG RIO-SENPAI HI shocking Rio and the other gamers. Rio still tries to deny it but Aris ignores her BS and asks how she's doing, saying she'd rather see her face (even if it's a video call). She's accomodating, and doesn't force it, but says it's a shame since she thought she'd meet Rio here. Rio is shocked again, and Sensei steps in to say stop sttoooop!
Sensei rushes to the inside of the base to ask Rio to come out. She reluctantly agrees to Sensei's urging, but you still end up leading her out by hand. When she's out, the gamers greet her (except Momoi who's like Whoa! It's President Rio!) and Aris rushes up to her, very happy. Toki says "Look at that, Rio-sama. You've gotten lucky. You now have the chance to pat Cute Aris's head." Rio's like Hm, really...? And when Momoi asks about that name "Cute Aris" Toki confirms that she's still calling Momoi "noisy Momoi".
Back in base, Momoi gets real for a second and fires the trolley problem at Rio. She says only heard about that problem after the fact (she was in a coma at the time) so she wants to bring it up again. Specifically, she asks "If you need to make a sacrifice (of a person) to save the world, how would you handle it now?"
She also brings up wait a minute, that's right, wasn't it Aris who knocked me out? Or was it Kei? Aris apologizes, saying "It was all Aris's fault!" Yuzu tells her it's alright, and everyone's together again. Momoi continues, saying in most games when someone's willing to "make" that sacrifice, they run away if THEY have to die for it. However, in their last story, Rio did the opposite and attempted to stay and save the others when things went south. Rio says "Sometimes you feel you simply must do that, even if you're the one who'll be lost in the end". Momoi says yeah, that, so now I want to hear what you think again (and she notes: this is important to understand). Rio says she thinks she should sacrifice herself if it's needed to save the world, but if it's someone else she'll try to find another way.
After a little time passes, Rio admits to having made mistakes, requests that everyone else let her know if she's making another, and says she will do her best should a mistake happen. Eimi thinks Rio's clearly already doing "her best", and Himari thinks "Wow, Rio really has grown a huge amount"
Aris asks alright, so, why ARE we here? And Himari basically says buckle up this is going to take a while. She also goes full grandma mode and offers them candy during the wait, and Momoi whispers like "the fuuuck". Midori tells her to be quiet and accept the candy.
--
The gamers are in disbelief at the situation at hand, but everyone assures them this is happening. Momoi says it's fine! when Sensei apologizes/says he'll make up for it, saying that they've basically got no choice but to help in a situation like this. Midori agrees and also begs Sensei to stop looking so glum (apparently he's dropping his head).
Aris confirms as well, saying she'd do anything for Sensei (let us remember this: "anything!"), but is a little apprehensive. Not worried, but like she needs to consider something. Ultimately, she says things will definitely turn out well, somehow, because magic and miracles exist. Toki is like wut, and Aris notes that she's willing to help, but she alone isn't enough. Right, right--Aris needs "Kei" to wield the "Blessed" Sword of Light and destroy multidimensional barriers. The others realize "Oh, Kei must've heard Aris's request" and Aris says yes, but she doesn't know why she was left alone and Kei disappeared--only that she needs Kei's help to storm the castle of the Demon King.
Rio is troubled, because that means they have to figure something else out. Eimi, however, whispers to Himari like "...pres". Himari whispers "Yes, I know" and Toki joins on the whispering. Himari says this is an ethics issue now...but she ultimately says they can't just pretend that what they've got doesn't exist. She tells Rio: they still have "Kei", as 2KB save data on a USB drive. Rio immediately understands what to do.
Aris immediately asks if she can meet Kei again, though Himari says they can't say that for sure. Rio says it's not a guarantee to "recover" Kei, but a 50/50 chance (maybe worse odds than that--a gamble) and there's also a chance that if they mess up, they'll lose that data. Aris is obviously very upset by that possibility...Rio leaves the decision to her. In turn, she looks to Sensei, her eyes filling with tears.
Sensei asks what Aris wants to do, as this isn't really something "they all" can decide. Rather, only Aris has the right to make this choice--nobody else. Aris toughens up, and after a short think, says she wants to meet Kei again. She says she doesn't know what Kei would want. Perhaps, even, Kei would prefer to stay gone, but knowing that "Aris" remains, she wants to see Kei again, talk to her, spend time with her, and be her friend. She says even if Kei would object, she's choosing this, and if it all goes badly and Kei is gone for good, she won't blame Rio. Rather, she will herself be lose her "hero" status and won't ever be one.
She says this is selfish, and she's putting pressure on Rio, and she apologizes to Rio (and to Sensei, saying she's sorry for just wanting to get whatever she wants, calling herself greedy). She brings out "Kei" and hands her to Rio, entrusting her. Himari says AIGHT LET'S GO, AT OUR CUTE KOUHAI'S REQUEST and Rio says hey, the chances aren't great before Himari rolls up to her in her chair and says WE DO IT, no maybes. DEFINITES. Don't say it can't work.
Aris asks if she can help with anything. Rio is like oh...no, this is pretty dangerous so...I couldn't allow that. Himari looks at Sensei, who picks up on what she wants after a second. He suggests to the GDD hey, let's have a snowball fight. Momoi takes up the chain of "Oh, I get it" next and says yeah Aris and I will head out first! Yuzu and Midori are a bit confused, and Aris too of course. But, Momoi promptly grabs Aris and Midori and pulls them away.
Himari thanks Sensei for that, and Sensei says hey, you can count on me anytime for at least this much. He heads out, though Toki says "don't catch a cold...actually, if you catch one, I can take care of you all day...That's not bad." When Eimi asks wtf Toki says she doesn't get this feeling either.
Momoi immediately starts the snowball fight, with Midori being the first victim. Aris meanwhile is still confused, because she was pulled out of a serious moment. Sensei tells her doing something fun like this, wouldn't Kei want to see it? That's why we're doing it. Aris ultimately takes in the wonder of the place, and after Sensei reminds her that she's SURE and believes that Kei will come back, Aris agrees to have fun so she can so Kei once she's back.
Midori gets Aris while she's getting ready, and Aris strikes back with her snow boulder. The fight gets going proper, and Yuzu hides in her box. Sensei is now ready, and get everyone (including boxed Yuzu). Sensei gives a mini villain speech, and the rest are motivated to strike back--including Yuzu. The fight continues, and while it's at peak fun Sensei sneakily returns to the base.
--
Back to the decacunnies. Sof breathes in deep and yells "THE TIME HAS COME!" Ohr says yes, failure is not an option from now on. Funnily, when Ein quietly says "Y-Yeah...because it's finally time to wake up Onee-sama!" Sof yells "EIN, YOU'VE GOTTA CALM DOWN!" scaring her. Ohr Hm, true, as tension can make you slip up. Ein, more calmly (basically, no exclamation point) says she'll work hard.
Side note, Ohr directs all energy to the ソーハルの依代 while having Sof drop the multidimensional barrier briefly, but wtf is that? ソーハルの依代. "Divine Object for summoning (Yorishiro) Sohal". I have no idea what that is and googling doesn't help at all. I assume it's another Jewish concept that Katakana is mucking up on? Anyway, it's go-time. New BGM starts after an alarm and the room turning red.
During the startup, they note "nerve" connections. Huh. Speaking of jew stuff (maybe, at least some of this): 3 "consciousness"es are brought up: Peshat https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peshat Remez https://www.britannica.com/topic/remez and Derash https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/derash -- Peshat and Remes ("Cortical" and "Quality") work fine, but the inner nuclear Derash has an abnormality. Ein panics, but Sof says it's fine and Ohr says they're at the point where there's nothing they can do about it.
A 4th realm of consciousness, Sod is confirmed. https://vision.org.au/foundations-associated-blog/pardes-jewish-exegesis-pt-4-sod-2/ and at this point I found this thing that I suppose is pertinent https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/312116/jewish/The-Five-Levels-of-Interpretation.htm "The Five levels of Interpretation". They now have to wait, and in the meantime Ein asks what they should do. After a moment, Sof smiles and says they should probably pray. Ohr agrees, for this existence was their purpose. Ein prays that it works out, and they all pray for Malkuth.
We return to the cripple elf and the girl with crippling autism. It's the usual thing with the techno stuff. Here Himari is asking Rio what she plans to do, as Himari herself couldn't figure anything out from her own analysis. Rio ends up asking whether Himari used techniques associated with the nameless gods. Rio says "basically, we need an environment amenable to the nameless gods' tech to work with nameless gods' tech". The interesting part is Rio explains everything to Himari in a cut, and on return Himari concludes that this data "is alive". Rio says "I wouldn't have said that before, but yes Himari. Although 'life' can be defined in certain ways, in this case you can interpret some of this data in such a way as well". This babying, or perhaps backpedaling? pisses Himari off a bit.
Sensei says Toki, Eimi, you get all this talk right? Cause I'm totally lost. Toki says worry not Sensei, for I have no idea whatsoever either. V. She then jabbers saying she only knows as much as she sees while watching Rio and actually, she has nothing to do right now and was hoping to play with Sensei. Eimi yanks Toki away for this, saying if she's "free", well no, Sensei is busy and there ARE things you can do. Before being fully removed, she says Sensei has promised to play when they're next alone, and to not forget (I never promised that, Toki). Sensei does say "O-Okay" though.
Everything's worked out by now, so it seems like it's time to transfer "Kei". If something goes wrong, Eimi and Toki wonder if they should destroy the storage device holding her. Rio is like Yeah...but looks at Himari who says why are you looking at me!? Rio figures Himari would have objected to destroying Kei no matter what, but Himari says she has no familiarity with the nameless gods, so she can't make a call about this. Eimi does hope, though, that it won't come to that.
We get a little basic command line UI type animation for copying Kei. As the process begins, we parallel the decacunnies scene, with the same exact BGM and with Himari and Rio monitoring the process and talking between each other as stages complete. The process isn't smooth, but eventually an unknown voice says:
Consciousness is thrown into the world. For most, being born is not their will. We're merely small crafts upon the sea, or travelers walking a moonless night. Because of this, conflict grows, hate grows, and we commits sins against one another.
And we return to the decacunnies, muddying who it even was who said this (Though it does seem like it's Malkuth, Kei had similar issues with "existing"). Ohr is shocked. They got a signal. The voice continues:
And birth is, simply a curse--you all must change that. To be given form, to be born, means that what was "infinite" sinks into the "finite". And so, birth--it is accompanied by destruction.
The final line is "And now--the bird that has broken from its cage, takes flight toward God."
Ein starts to cry, saying they've finally gotten to meet her, and that all their work wasn't for nothing. Sof tells her not to cry, because this is the best day ever. Ohr notes that Sof looks to be holding back her own tears, and Sof tells her to shut her mouth.
Malkuth continues with "Reach to the ends of the world, and bear witness. To the place that brought in sin, grant it life and see it once more. For the righteous, song; for the unrighteous, silence. Grant dawn to the darkened night, and bless wounds that have not healed."
Ein says "Good morning, Onee-sama. And--welcome back". So, I guess Malkuth truly "is" Decagrammaton as well. Sof says they've been waiting forever, and Ohr says that even in a world like this (reminder: Ohr thinks this world is shit), just having Onee-sama here makes it a valuable place.
Malkuth responds: "Let's speak out the oldest words of the oldest being, let there be light. Your name is the kingdom. Now rise, and prove yourself. And we should ask--"who" is this? I am the one made under that flag. The the pilgrim of a kingdom that reached the world's end. I am--Malkuth.
We go back to Rio and Himari, where Himari just noticed a form/shape she recognizes (I guess in waveforms or something, as they later mention a "signal"--again just like with Malkuth). Rio faints. We hear bubbles like with Malkuth, and hear a heartbeat after. Then there's an auto sequence of static and corrupted memories, getting uncorrupted. Starts with a shape of Kei/Aris, and then we go through a sequence of pieceing together fractured data until we return to that old like of "My precious Aris".
Finally, we see Kei again, in the same void we saw Malkuth's text, and she's quite spooked/scared. We go back to "reality", and Rio says to bring the signal they caught up on a monitor. They all stare at what they've got, not sure what to do now, but indeed: Kei is back.
Kei is still spooked and confused. They give her audio output, and watch, and after a bit of corruption she demands to know "WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO ME!?" (end of episode)
--
Kei is brought up to speed at least for "when you disappeared, and how you were recovered", and Toki praises Rio-sama for an amazing job well done, and then praises herself as the 2nd hardest worker here while following Rio's orders. Himari chastises her a bit, but Rio says "What Toki said is completely correct, though?" Kei says it seems everyone here has hardly changed.
Sensei says hullo Kei-chan and Kei does NOT like that, but rather than digging into that asks why they're in this unusual place in Kivotos (and she is told they'll get to that later). Toki chimes in to say nice to meet you, I'm Asuma Toki, I kidnapped you and Aris. Peace, peace. Kei tsukkomi's that, and Eimi introduces herself normally. Kei also introduces herself normally as Kei, though shyly. She also mumbles to herself that that isn't REALLY her name (I guess she hasn't exactly fully accepted it? she did arbitrarily accept it before). She mutters that the princess does call her that, though.
Momoi says gang! Time to head back inside. Midori and Aris complain, since they both want to play more. Yuzu, however, is in fact already tuckered out. Momoi says look! Yuzu's saying she's tired, right? And if we head back Sensei said he'd make us cocoa! Aris is happy about that (wait, has Aris ever eaten or drank anything in canon before...?), and she and Momoi hurry back. Yuzu and Midori lag, with Midori complaining about Momoi being too fast. When they get back, Yuzu observes that I'm drinking coffee, which is bullshit because I fucking hate coffee.
While they're drinking, Momoi tugs Aris's arm and tells her to head properly into the base first. When Aris asks why, Momoi says she thinks Aris is the one who's best fits to meet her again first. The gamers realize what's going on, and Aris says "C-Could it be...!" to which Sensei says "Maybe it could". Aris asks Sensei to come too, and for him to hold her hand tight. Tearing up, she says she's shaking and can't quite stand up straight. When they meet, after initial disbelief and confirmation, it seems like Aris hugs the monitor Kei is displayed on, telling her "Never ever tell me again that you should disappear" (they don't flashback to that line, but it's the reasoning Kei gave before sacrificing herself--although Aris was unconscious at the time). And I mean, it's a nice moment. Very sweet and sad, Aris begging her not to be self-sacrificial, not caring about right or wrong, thanking her, happy for her being back. In the end, she starts to cry. Kei says she won't ever say that again, and says she's alright.
Aris thanks Rio and Himari. Himari says she is satisfied with Aris's happiness. Rio says she is satisfied that by Kei existing like this as it proved her theory was correct. Himari is like Rio for the love of god, and Rio is like "What?" Then Momoi literally bursts onto the fucking scene saying "TADAAAA! MOMOI APPEARS!"
Kei recognizes her, Midori complains, and Yuzu apologizes--saying they couldn't stop the 'moi. Momoi says HEY, YOU SURE DID A GOOD JOB DEFEATING ME LAST TIME, HUH? YOU THINK I FORGOT!? Kei says right, I should probably apologize now. Just, to you...it's a bit aggravating to do so. Saiba Momoi. Sensei and Aris are shocked at her rudeness. Momoi says "Ohhooo, and why do you feel that way?" Kei says "Because you are a bad influence on the princess!" Sensei...seems to agree, but he doesn't want to say it. Midori as well. Getting angry, Kei says "You have the princess game all night and sleep late!" and Momoi says well we're the game dev department...! Kei next says "You let her drink cola and skip brushing her teeth!" Midori says there that "Aw man, not even if it's Zero Calories?" Now fuming, Kei says, "And WHAT is her diet all about!? Huh? You aren't considering her health at all, are you!?" Robot health!? Yuzu says she/they don't like veggies much. Kei tells them "Please, for your own sakes, get better lifestyle habits! Take better care of your bodies! Please! Seriously, UGH...!" and she pants, exhausted.
Rio chimes in. She says "I'm not sure why you're panting, you shouldn't need to breathe...should we turn up the cooling?" and Kei snaps saying "How YOU talk! You've got less delicacy than me even though I'm mere data, huh! That's what YOU'RE about, Tsukatsuki Rio!"
Aris apologizes for Kei's words and behavior, saying she means nothing wrong and saying this is all her bad, begging Rio to not get mad. Kei's a bit taken aback, and Rio says it's fine. There's noise in Kei's thought processing, so she'll try to figure out what's causing it. After this, things settle down.
Kei asks why they called her. Rio says "Let's cut to the chase: to destroy a multi-dimensional barrier" and Himari says Rio! She needs to know more than THAT! Kei is naturally confused, so Sensei explains for now. Toki says Understood, Sensei. I'll be sleeping, call me when you're done. Eimi tells her...stay awake, but Toki says no, it's fine, Sensei and I are close, there's no problem. Midori gets shocked and asks what Toki means by "close", but we fade out without an answer for that.
Summary complete, Rio repeats her request, but Kei cuts her off with "I refuse". Toki proceeds to...approach Kei, lick the monitor, and say "This taste, it's the taste of a liar, Kei" (not really, it's not so exact, exactly it's: "This, it tastes like you're leaving something out, huh?") It is, afaik, absolutely a Jojo reference to part 5's "taste of a liar" bit https://files.catbox.moe/jd1jb6.jpg Kei backs away on screen and asks why she's suddenly talking about taste. Toki says she picked this up from "materials" kept in the C&C club room. In other words, manga. In other words, Jojo is, like Monty Python, confirmed real in Kivotos. Kei is just perplexed.
Kei gets back on track, and says that there's a huge risk of failure to this, and Aris's survival was lucky last time--just came to pass because Kei sacrificed herself. The rest of the GDD is shocked, Yuzu saying "Kei-chan" during that and Kei going "Oh, so even you're calling me Kei-chan..." Rio asks for details, which Kei gives.
After hearing the story, the GDD starts crying. Momoi says she's sorry (for Aris having gone through that). Himari also apologizes, saying it was thoughtless to have asked her and that, if they'd known, the question would've have been on the table. Kei says it's fine, but then turns to Aris and, getting sad, asks her why she agreed to this. Aris says she did know, but she didn't want anyone to worry, and besides: with courage and friendship everything works out. Oh Aris. You're so lucky you live in this iteration of Kivotos.
Kei wants to protest, but relents, saying the princess has done nothing wrong. No, she has come to her conclusion: SENSEI is responsible for all of this! When Sensei naturally says Why!? Kei angrily tells him he gave the princess too much hope. She explosively declares: anything that would hurt the princess is a completely bad thing! Kei hurriedly tells her to calm down.
Now truly back to square one, they wonder what to do about that damn barrier. Kei asks, however, "...Why are this and the prophets a problem at all, exactly? Himari is like "...Hm. Right. Why?" and Rio is a bit flummoxed by that question herself. Kei is like right, they're not actually DOING anything. They're in that little shell of their, but they may as well not be in Kivotos like that (Momoi says like a snail, or a turtle? And Kei says yeah like that, that makes sense well). She advises...doing nothing, other than watching for what THEY do.
Imean, the prophets are definitely dangerous in general, and last update the Decacunnies expressed a desire to kill, so that's bad, but we DID enter THEIR territory. Of course, as readers we know Malkuth's intentions are VERY bad and Ohr and Sof and Ein all expect to rule over humanity...but the characters on Sensei's side don't know all that. Anyway, Eimi says this makes sense: waiting, and Kei acknowledges that the last time a multidimensional barrier showed up it was NOT good so she does understand the concern--saying that people are being which pick things up and grow from what they've gone through in the past.
They wonder what they should do in the meantime, and Aris says "...Play Tales of Chronicle?" Kei says "I would rather DIE!" but Aris says aw come on it might seem better if you give it another try. Kei says there is NO way that's true, and the princess knows it better than anyone. Aris reluctantly agree. Rio meanwhile says we do need to decide on what to do. Right...for now how about we make Kei's body? Kei and Aris both say wut?
Rio says that you can't simply be a being of thought because the stress will build up too much with no way to vent it. A body is essential for this. I guess this, and Rio's earlier tantrum, confirms that in the 4th anni event the reason several of Rio's monitors are cracked/destroyed is that Rio was venting and wrecked her own pad. Anyway Rio also says without this they're not getting anywhere conversing.
Himari...agrees! She says that if Kei gets all emotional indeed they can't converse. True, Rio. Sensei also agrees with all this, and Rio says thanks, great, we all understand then. Kei says wait for my permission please...And also, uh, I don't really trust Rio...Himari says how should we make the body? And Rio says she's got AMAS bots with her they can make something with. She can handle it. Kei meanwhile says PLEASE LISTEN TO ME! Eimi asks which AMAS they'll use as a base model, and Toki says "Trust Rio-sama's unique tastes". Kei does not like that: "unique tastes", asking "Doesn't that sometimes mean something bad?" But no one is listening, not even Aris who just asks you're really gonna make one? Aris can be with Kei for real? Kei is like Princess!? And Rio says it may be worrying...but trust me Aris :) and Aris says thank you so much! Rio-senpai! Himari-senpai! Kei, getting pissed says I am BEGGING you to help me here! Sensei says that's what they're doing, and Kei says maaaybe you want to listen to the opinion of the one being helped!? She asks that at least she not be subjected to "rational" aesthetics, and cries as the scene comes to an end and Sensei tells her, don't move around much.
--
Big Hat, Big Robots
Malkuth has risen, and in another parallel Ein collapses like Rio did from the success. Malkuth opens her eyes and we see each little engineer one at a time. Malkuth's first words are "Hello, Ein." She greets the others as well, "And then, Sof. And finally, Ohr."
The dramatic music ends and happy music starts to play as the 3 all toward her. They're very happy that Malkuth remembers them (so, as Decagrammaton, was the "voice" that...she(?) heard one of the engineers? and they were helping out while still in vending machine mode?). Anyway, Malkuth asks them what she should do. The 3 tell her you don't have to do a thing, you just being here is enough. Sof also calls them "The best engineer, scientist, and jack of all trades" (it's unclear who is who other than Ein given something Ohr says in a bit, but I'm ASSUMING Sof is the "all around" one and Ohr is the scientist based on what we've learned so far). They say, leave everything to us.
The 3 introduce themselves properly now. Ein says she's the engineer/mechanic, asking if Malkuth likes machines (and, giggling, saying she loves them herself). Sof says she's the weapons girl, and essentially says "I tsukkomi for free". Ohr says she's basically the manager, and chuckling says she will make sure nobody can touch Onee-sama, and not to worry.
The 3 then clam up a bit, get a bit hesitant. They want Malkuth to introduce herself as well (though Malkuth says "You should all know me, right?"). They want to hear it from her, herself. After a pause, Malkuth agrees (although she says she doesn't get it). She says "Again--I am Malkuth. The 10th prophet of Decagrammaton." and the whole pilgrim thing again (+"last sephira" and "a wish"). All 3 are super hype about Malkuth, and eventually Ohr can't contain herself and rushes to Malkuth's side. Malkuth is confused, but it seems Ohr wants headpats.
Sof also demands headpats, Ein is too shy to ask. Eventually, Malkuth leaves the other 2 and steps to Ein, beckoning her for pats and delivering them. The other 2 get jealous, and Malkuth addresses them. Ohr gets ready for affection, but Malkuth tells them "You're troubling Ein. Bad, okay?" and Ohr is aghast. Malkuth, surprisingly, sweats and is basically like "jeez it's not that big a deal". As things settle down, they wonder what to do next. Sof says well of course: declare war!
The rest including Malkuth don't get it, Ohr telling her "She's doing meaningless human things again". Sof insists that you have to do this properly, like with treaties, but Ohr says that's also meaningless. Ein does think it'd be fine to make a declaration though (Ohr seethes about that). Ein says that while this act is meaningless, to the other side it may have meaning (she's still a bit scared of talking with humans, though). Malkuth says if Ein's in agreement, why not? And Ohr relents, Ein says Sof seems to know the most about this so she ought to handle it, and Sof assures them she knows what she's doing.
Scene changes, back to the snow base. They're finished with Kei's body, and are generally relieved. Himari's a bit apprehensive, but Eimi thinks a unique design is a good thing. She asks Rio to deliver a word, as the designer. Rio, very happily, says she thinks an avant-garde style is good. You've all seen it by now, but this is where Kei's body is revealed, and she's not happy about it. Sensei hesitantly asks for her opinion on it, and she promptly request to be turned back into data.
Eimi THWACKS Kei like a car salesman, telling her she's well made and everyone helped to make her, so don't be like that. Eimi really likes the wheel, saying that bipeds aren't near as efficient. Rio also apparently installed a rocket(? I assume) boost so Kei can fly (though, it's an emergency feature)--Eimi praises that too. Kei starts getting mad. She asks Himari wtf, but Himari politely flees without explaining why she and the others allowed this to happen. Rio is beside herself with happiness, and once more calls Kei's body avant-garde (though now in kanji, 前衛的). Sensei tries to calm Kei down, and Kei says all of this is his fault (she doesn't explain how/why).
Now it's time to see Aris. Kei really does not want to, but Toki says that "Cuter-than-anyone-else Aris would be sad" (the nickname leveled up).
We switch to the GDD now. Supposedly they were doing cartography for the area around the base (and they finished). The rest want to head back, but Momoi says that it's best to wait for Kei's body to be completed. When she does get the call that it's done, though, she asks if Aris is ready before they head in.
After a short chat, they show off Kei. Momoi is shocked. Midori is happy to see it. Yuzu is happy to see it. Momoi, ultimately, sputters with laughter, losing it over the ridiculous design. Kei suffers from that. Midori...TRIES to stop her, but she laughs too (she does say sorry, at least). Yuzu pays an empty compliment ("it's certainly unique"). Kei addresses Sensei, and says "Please, kill me already." (Sensei, of course, tries to calm her down)
Aris finally lays eyes on Kei, and Kei apologizes for the shape she's taken being the one Aris had to meet. Aris, of course, is just happy to meet Kei "for real" no matter how she looks. She welcomes Kei back. Kei replies Yes, princess...I'm back. Aris now requests, if Kei is willing, that Kei call her Aris. Kei resists, but Aris says even just trying it now and then would be fine. Kei relents and calls her Aris.
Himari and Rio are peeking from another room. Himari teases Rio, saying "Don't you usually say 'I ran the simulation and it worked, so I don't need to watch'"? Himari then says she'll say this just once: "This is all thanks to you." Himari says "Get this right, there is no one more brilliant than me, and I will never see you as my better. That isn't to say I think little of your accomplishment, however. A scholar should never." She does have some things she could say about the design for Kei but ultimately, this is all Rio. Himari coughs after this, done paying compliments. She tells the other girls that a bath is drawn, and to take turns.
While night is approaching Himari is being a Mom and telling everyone to be careful outside as the dark falls and things get colder. Even Eimi says she gets cold at night out here, and Himari's like damn really? I didn't think you COULD get cold. Things are winding down but suddenly there's a dangerous-sounding loud noise.
Rio and Himari confirm: a new prophet has appeared within the multidimensional barrier: MALno it's not Malkuth it's Netzach, the 7th Sephiroth/Decagrammaton. Huh! The Decacunnies send out a communication, with Ohr saying "We were looking around wondering what you were up to, and you were here eh?"
As things start up, Kei takes Aris aside, saying she has a feeling that the two of them shouldn't show themselves in front of these girls. Ein speaks up next. She greets us, tells us to be careful, and says they're gonna do something super duper scary now. Ohr is like this is dumb, whatever, take it away, and Sof says "We're declaring war!" Toki and Eimi repeat the same disbelief of "Declare? War?" that Malkuth and Ein did earlier. Himari says right, because you've finally completed Netzach.
All 3 are like ???? NO! Ein says nuh uh, Netzach-chan's been done forever. Sof says they just kept Netzach hidden until it could become a "Steel Continent". Ohr pities us for not understanding how amazing that is. Sof compliments Ein for a job well done (Ein is, of course, giddy about it) and Sof asks her to explain: "Steel Continent" is the evolved form of Netzach-chan. It uses "forbidden power" (nameless gods? --yes, confirmed) to transform matter and expand territory (explained further: it converts surrounding "stuff" into "itself"). Ohr and Ein warn that if you even step onto the continent thoughtlessly, you will turn into another part of Netzach instantaneously.
Someone chimes in and asks if they'd like her help with this. They of course insist that their Onee-sama just sit pretty and leave everything to them. Anyway, they say that they don't know Netzach's limits, and it's possible it will consume all of Kivotos. Sensei wants to ask a question, which Sof grants as a special favor. Sensei says why make Kivotos into that--is it in an effort to revive Decagrammaton now that it's gone? Sof gets PISSED and says take the holy one's name out your fucking heathen-ass mouth. Don't speak it lightly! Ohr is like jeez Sensei, you really are something, and Ein gets a bit serious to say that the time will come when no one can take the lord's name in vain like that. To finish their message, they tell us that according to their calculations in 3 days Kivotos will be completely consumed.
In the wake of that, they're pretty shook, but Kei notes "You should all be fine, because the steel continent can only process inorganic matter." Himari asks where she went off to, and she admits that if they'd seen her it would've been a problem in a lot of ways. Anyway, she talks shit about this: she says it's just a knockoff of the nameless gods' power (aside: I like that, that she still has some sort of respect for the work behind her). Momoi chimes in that it's great when you have an enemy turn ally, but Kei ain't havin' it. She does get flustered when Yuzu compliments her though.
According to Kei, the nameless gods' most defining power is matter reconstruction. Rio says it was the say with ATRAHASIS. They techno babble a little, and Kei says Netzach is babby stuff compared to the ATRAHASIS, but, regardless, it is still a threat for sure at that scale. She also agrees with Eimi's assessment that they can't do a thing about it. A bit later while they're still discussing, Midori goes wait, this means we can't bring clothes or weapons on our approach and Momoi's like NUDE?? Midori is flustered, but Momoi's right isn't she? Eimi asks "Is there a problem with being naked?" and Himari is amazed as ever. Yuzu, meanwhile, is so put off by the mere thought that she flees.
...Toki says, "So this is a chance to show off my Perfect Maid Body. Look forward to it. glance (at Sensei)" jesus. Toki does admit though that she only wants Sensei to see, and so this is a big problem (Rio is, again, very concerned and confused). Himari moves the convo along: they still have that multidimensional barrier to worry about. Aris mentions that in games, you can usually use an exploit or broken item and that catches Yuzu's thoughts--"exploit". She has a Yuzu moment and asks whether there's a "back door" to use here (in coding/hacking, something left in code that allows for easier outside interference/access).
Himari asks, like in hacking? But Yuzu says there should be a real one--like a "back entrance"? Rio asks for details but Yuzu, still shy toward Rio, yelps and backs toward Himari. She does answer though: (she doesn't say this, but it's like how they found Rio's hideout)--they're collecting resources, so...?? There must be a way in FOR those resources. They also know that Netzach's location is a destination for those resources, and Himari says there shouldn't even be a need for such a thing if it can just transform matter. The theory: to achieve that "evolution" Ein mentioned, they probably needed those materials.
Momoi summarizes: find a shortcut to Netzach. That it? Toki says "Correct, Wise Momoi" <-- a new nickname again! And a compliment! Wow. Momoi is pleased, saying when she gets serious she can do at least this much. Toki corrects the name to "Wise, yet Sorry Momoi" (「賢い残念なモモイ」), with Momoi going wait, is this like earning titles?
Eimi asks about calling for support, but Rio says they need to consider the time limit seriously (reminder: it takes 3 days to even GET here on average) and they WOULD want to evaluate potential help carefully. It's just out of the question. It's gotta just be them. Rio says "Us, we have to save the world." Aris asks, that includes you right Rio-senpai? Rio has an Aru moment of talking to herself, asking "What am I supposed to say here?" She decides on "Yes, that's right." Aris goes Panpakapaaan, Rio-senpai has officially become Aris's nakama (well, let's just TL it as comrade, though in the old days there was a whole thing about "nakama"). Rio is like phew, thank god I didn't screw that up.
Eimi asks Himari for a Rio evaluation for that maneuver. Himari gives it 70 points with the remark: for Rio, that was well done.
Meanwhile Sensei says let's get GOING! Don't forget snacks, okay? Rio says this isn't a picnic. The rest are okay with picnic vibes though, with Toki saying a hero who saves the world like she's on a picnic is alright and Momoi saying heroes start off doing dull stuff like yanking weeds or room cleaning. Midori takes the opportunity to ask Momoi to actually do that (clean their room). There's some banter and lighthearted complaint, with Aris noting she vacuumed for Momoi when Momoi forgot. Midori says again, Aris is too soft on Momoi, so Aris asks if she did bad. Kei says other than Aris, all of you are bad. Yuzu, aghast, asks if that really includes her. Kei says she can give Yuzu a pass. When Yuzu says "Thank you Kei-chan...ehehe" Kei is concerned about the number of "Kei-chan"s she keeps hearing, as it seems to be going up.
Sensei then says Kei-chan twice: "Because Kei-chan is Kei-chan!" What a piece of shit. Kei yells at him, telling him to PLEASE shut up.
They start boarding Rio's ship, which is a bit cramped according to Rio. Eimi says she'll take Himari's wheelchair, and Himari says oho <3 in that case I'll ask Sensei for a piggyback ride. It is VERY brief, but you can catch Eimi giving a deadpan stare before she moves off the screen. Himari says she will also accept a princess carry because she is pure and beautiful and that's fine. Sensei stays put, and she tells him not to keep a lady waiting.
Rio says Toki, carry Himari.
Himari protests, saying I didn't ask you two! Toki says we've got to help one another in times like these, but Toki saying something that isn't silly is a bad sign to Himari. Nonetheless, Toki drags her off while Himari whines. That was mean, Sensei.
We turn back to the Deca side, where Malkuth is reading fairy tales to the 3, we come back at an "And they all lived happily ever after". Though, Ein asks WHAT happens after? Malkuth, sweatdropping, tells her that's where the story ends, Ein. Ein says "No way..."
Sof says hey, fairy tales are like that: they have to end. She also notes that Ein is looking ready to cry. Ohr says doesn't SOF actually look about the same, and ready to cry? Sof protests, and Ohr says that indeed, these things must have endings. And thus, a happy ending is best.
Ein agrees, laughing peacefully. She adds that Onee-sama's voice is nice, too. Sof hurriedly asks which story's next. Malkuth notes: "You seem to like really fairy tales, Ein, Sof, Ohr." Ein excitedly says yes, and that Onee-sama reading to them makes her love them even more. Sof says it's a great way to collect information about reality at the same time. Ohr, though, says human stories are uninteresting; she just likes hearing their Onee-sama's voice.
Malkuth then talks about a few possible stories they could read. First is "the story of the proletariat crane who overthrew the wicked capitalist fox." Second is "a story of the Sun and the Northern wind trying to snatch the coat of an unfortunate traveler"? The second sounds like it could be real, though the first sounds made up. Anyone familiar? Before Ein can make her suggestion, alarms go off.
The alert is for us. Ohr chastises Sof, saying see, making a declaration of war was pointless: now look what's happening? Sof can't respond to that and Ohr says actually, this is fine. After all, it gave her a reason to make fun of Sof. Sof snaps at her for that.
Ohr says they way we're headed has a lot of obstacles in the way, but Sof notes there's more people than before. They decide to observe things once again. Evaluations:
Ohr on Saiba Momoi: Scenario writer. Nothing else to note. No matter what, harmless.
Sof on Saiba Midori: Saiba Momoi's twin. Amateur illustrator. Other than that, othing else to note. Same.
Ein on Hanaoka Yuzu: Was she a, erm, programmer was it...? Well, she's also probably got nothing else notable...
Malkuth notes that they found 2 other signals, but after catching them they vanished.
Ein and Sof panic, telling Onee-sama to leave this to them, and her power is best for something else. Malkuth lightly protests, and says she wants to help them. Sparkling, she says isn't it natural that an older sister look after her little sisters? The 3 are in awe, but Ohr gets it together and tells her that it's probably just noise, nothing to be worried about. All 3 assure her that she can trust their evaluation, with Ein saying we are, after all, Onee-sama's proud younger sisters. Malkuth looks at 'em, then allows it. However, she asks them to promise to ask for her straight away if there's anything she can help with. They enthusiastically agree.
When Malkuth steps away they immediately show that they're pretty much at a loss to what to do. Ohr ultimately says "Eh, ignore it?". They determine they shouldn't waste their strength on this. They mention also, Tipheret is in the way and they're not making it past that (Ein calls her Tipha-chan, btw). When Sof says even if the gatekeeper is brought down they've still got more, Ein snaps at her that that WON'T happen. Sof quickly apologizes, but says hey, you've got to think of everything. Ein also says sorry.
Ohr notes that really, they just really need to avoid letting their Onee-sama head out. Still thinking of what to do, Sof comes up with an idea: she asks if Ohr would like to play a prank. Ohr notes that that's unusual, coming from Sof. We don't hear the prank, but get the reactions, with Ein being shocked, Sof excited, and Ohr like well WELL, Sof, you understand me DANG well now don't you! Ohr is all in on whatever this is. She rushes off to prepare once it's decided.
Back to us. There's some talk about taking a break since night it falling, but there's really no time. The real problem is there's no more tracks to follow now. Kei chimes in to say there's another bit of bad news (when Yuzu says you're joking right? Kei says she was hoping this was a joke). Their GPS signal got lost a while back. Rio is shocked, noting "Even though it was my personal satellite, even..." Sensei is like your WHAT. Kei suddenly shouts that everyone needs to get down. We get a quick cut to the Decacunnies. Ein's drones were sent out equipped with forbidden power to essentially bring about an EMP strike. Also, she calls her drones "Flywheel-chan"s and says they always do their best.
Back to us, that shut down everything--Kei included...or, they assume. She chimes in to tell Aris she's fine (calls her princess first before switching). She explains she knows how to deal with this and when Aris asks really...? she tells Aris to look into her eyes. She makes pic related face and says "With that (you looking me in the eyes) I'm good to go.". She says they need to teach the little kids a lesson now. She adds "Just who do they think they're picking a fight with!?" and the episode closes out there. There's more, that's not the end of the update.
This episode is titles "The Last Responsibility". I usually ignore titles, but every once in a while they're seemingly pretty important. We heard a small "boom" last time. We return now to Aris again, but everyone's just a shadow silhuoette. She's confused, and suddenly aurora borealis kicks up in the sky. She notices, but she's just scared and shouts for help. Kei answers, telling her there's nothing to be afraid of. Aris is relieved Kei is okay, and Kei starts to explain what's going on.
The aurora in the sky is actually a manifestation of the nameless gods' power. Earlier there was a large burst of energy and basically, it's a unique opportunity to be immersed in this power. As a note: the music here is pretty, so this isn't a dark moment. The aurora is something only visible to Kei and Aris, and with this vast amount of power they can pretty much do anything--including speaking via consciousness. Aris says "...I understand!" but Kei doesn't really believe her. She asks, and Aris says yeah! I don't get it! To explain it, Kei thinks for a moment how to put it in Princess-understandable terms, and then says "We're in a place full of magic, and you can think of this as a magic point only we can use". Aris immediately understands.
Aris also tells her she doesn't really like being called princess. She says she wants to stand on equal footing with Kei, hand in hand, stride by stride. Kei says she gets that, and that's why she's calling Aris princess--this will probably be her last chance to do call her by that title.
Kei says let's talk about destiny: the idea of being born to do one specific thing, and that will happen no matter what. She also says maybe you could call it the "lineage of heroes". Kei then starts talking like it's MGS1, and how fate is thought to be determined by ones genes--and there are things we can't move past. New bgm starts as Kei brings up the sight of Eridu, the city Rio built where their own fates changed. They come down the the city's streets and continue to talk. But, Kei's talk about their destinies starts getting interrupted by static/someone calling out. It's quotes of Aris, saying "everyone, wait for me" and "listen to Aris's words" and--this struck me as different: "What you want to be--you can decide".
That was what Sensei had said, although Kei was talking about remembering Aris's words. She gets very frustrated by this, and collapses. When she gets back up, she says she wanted to focus on the Princess, because that was everything to her, but she ended up remembering Sensei's words instead. She hates this, but Aris says of course, because Sensei is Sensei! Kei screams in frustration. Aris is happy that Sensei is important to Kei as well, but Kei says she refuses to believe that and won't admit it. Aris asks her to not get mad, but Kei says no, I'm mad.
She says that the princess will always overcome her obstacles, smile with everyone, be the hero, but she's different. She will struggle, struggle against any wrongs, never giving up even if she gets muddied and falls on the way--because life is a FIGHT. She says SOMEONE has to say no/complain and she changes to her robot shape and says LOOK AT ME! ISN'T IT FINE TO GET MAD ABOUT THIS? Aris tries to reassure her again, and Kei says I don't LIKE it!
Kei's face goes through some glitching, and panting she retuns to her Aris form. As a note, Kei's eyes are sometimes blue in this scene. They were briefly blue after they "went" to Eridu, and here they're more consistently blue (also she's smiling! whoa!). Aris says she's just happy they can help one another now, and Kei slowly moves on. She says a-anyway, I think about what our fate was now and then. What would the princess have looked like in the future? What about me? There were surely many possibilities--even the possibility of surpassing the light above them now. She also shows the bad ending from PV4 and says "hey, this could've happened too" and Aris goes No! I don't want that one! And Kei says right, because you're a hero.
Aris asks if Kei knows what a hero is, but Kei admits she doesn't really. So, Aris explains: there are many different classes, each with specializations (I'm summarizing, but she lists several with examples) but the thing of a hero is simply that they can do nothing alone. Kei asks then why be a hero...? Aris says to be with others, and take the courageous first steps forward every time. She thus asks for Kei to please always stay with her. It's her request. Kei thanks the princess, and says she will thusly do her final task as guide. Aris asks what that could mean.
Kei says her role as, let's say, lady in waiting was to navigate Aris through life. And, to nag her when she makes mistakes (Aris doesn't like that note). Kei says Aris was born as the princess of the nameless gods. She says even if they abandon their roles, that is an unchangeable fact. That they can see these lights is proof of it. Kei directs her attention to them, and says they're beautiful, right? Those lights were possibilities, and now they will become her power. The little kids (it seems, the decacunnies) aren't able to see them because Kei's interfering and they don't have a true grasp on the power of the nameless gods.
Kei tells her to take the power waiting for her. She is its rightful master, and she should proudly declare that. How to use it will be her choice, whether to be a hero or to right wrongs. No god will be able to stop her. Kei will follow, and fulfill her last responsibility. She talks a buncha mumbojumbo about time not really being a thing, and tells Aris to close her eyes for now, with I assume one final "My precious Aris/Princess".
Aris comes back to us (Momoi says "why are you two spacing out"), but apparently it was only for like 2 seconds. Aris is like "Ah, this is what you meant Kei" and Kei says "that's right, Aris" and she's all smiles. Aris asks Rio for the situation details, gets them, and says she'll light the way. Rio asks if Aris figured something out, but Aris says it's hard to explain and to just believe in her and Kei. Sensei says, always, and that gives Aris courage. Aris asks Kei to help out, and Kei explains the whole nameless gods EMP thing, and that they can utilize it.
Toki asks if they even can do that, and Kei says she and Aris can. Kei asks if Aris can still see what's in the sky and she says she can, and she wants to show Sensei the sight as well. Kei adjusts the energy output to allow me to see the lights and says Aris just needs to prove herself as the real master of this power. We hear a TREMENDOUS sound and Aris goes HIKARI YO! and the narration says: she split the night sky with the sword of light. We then get a CG of the sight: Aris's attack bursting through the sky and revealing the aurora (with more new BGM). Everyone's in awe.
Electronics are back online. Rio says this must be thanks to Aris, who says yes, because I'm a hero and heroes light the way forward. Sensei asks why there's an aurora, and Aris says she can answer: the light is their possibilites, manifested.
We turn to the decacunnies going what the FUCK. Ein is now crying because a lot of bots just got exploded. Sof tries to cheer her up, saying hey, we get, uh, what was it...right, revenge! Ohr is analyzing and says she's found something interesting (then corrects herself to "troubling"). There's evidence that someone on their side can freely manipulate the forbidden power. Sof is like WHO, there's no one in the data who fits! Ohr notes the power was completely insane: it cut into the ionosphere. That produced the Aurora (Ein chimes in to say Aurora? It's so pretty! and she giggle and Sof is like ah, yeahhh...it's beautiful--(awkwardky)). Ohr ultimately concludes that they must investigate because this runs counter to their data--though she whispers to the others that they should keep this from their Onee-sama. Ein's starting to worry about Sensei keeping up, and what might happen to Tipha-chan (who, supposedly, is mainly Ohr's responsibility). Ohr is pretty calm, and they're ready to get going.
As the episode ends, Sof is thinking about how she can't stop feeling anxious about this. She determines that if the near impossible happens and something goes wrong, she'll turn to their Onee-sama.
Back to us. The aurora has vanished by now and they're talking about it a little. After Rio says something, Momoi remarks "You know, President, I used to think you were scary but...are you actually a really nice person?" Rio is a bit shook by that, but it's nothing crazy.
Kei next rolls up on Kei and Rio asks her if she's ready. Kei sighs and says yeah, this body doesn't need preparation or sleep at all (she doesn't seem happy about that, though). Rio says of course, she made it to respond in any situation. Kei is like "This bitch..." but she starts tryyyying to open an honest dialogue. Sensei, noticing this, decides to pull both of them away from the rest of the group (Kei saying quit it, I only have 1 wheel for balance!) under the guise of having forgotten something. Himari at first thinks that's for real, but realizing what Sensei's up to she figures things should work out.
Kei asks if you wanted to talk about something, and Rio is like "Sensei lost something, he said that right". Kei can't believe Rio believed that, and tells her to be careful around scams. Rio is like oh. It was a lie. Sensei says alright, time for you two to talk, but Kei asks where he got the idea she wanted to. To that, Sensei calls her a tsundere and Kei fumes, saying "God, this adult!" Ultimately, she sighs and says fine.
Rio, meanwhile, wonders what Kei could want to talk with her about.
Kei says it's probably too late to say this...but...(she thinks about Aris being so happy to actually be with her)
She says "I would like to thank you." and Rio says "you hate me, right?" about at the same time. They both go "Huh?" and Kei's like why tf would I hate you and Rio says no, why would YOU thank me...? And Sensei thinks "man, I should've brought popcorn" (yes, really, he thinks that). Kei rages at Rio's emotional ineptitude, asking "You think I can't be grateful?" but Rio says many people have hated her for a long time. Kei says please, stop lying! But doesn't dig deeper, and simply thanks her for reviving her. Rio's surprised, and Kei goes on to say just a LITTLE to this next bit, just a BIT I'm thankful I can see/touch/move etc, though the body is what it is.
Rio asks, "Wait, have I angered you in some way?"
Kei is like oh my GOD, you...!
She gives up, knowing she has to be absolutely straight with Rio (who says she's sorry, but is still confused). Sensei tells Kei-chan to calm a bit, and she yells HOW MANY TIMES DO I HAVE TO SAY IT BEFORE YOU GET IT: I AM NOT KEI-CHAN!
Meanwhile, Rio offers an apology. Kei asks "...Why's that?" and Rio alludes to the whole attempted murder thing. Kei says that's already whatever, and explains Aris forgave her already so that's that. Kei says she just wanted to be done with any awkwardness or talking around of things, and hopes that they can talk straight from now on. Rio says got it, and thank you. Before Kei heads back, she addresses Rio one more time to say another thanks for granting her life.
After Kei leaves, Rio stands still, with Sensei still staying behind. She's like that for a while, and he walks over. She asks that he not look at her, and asks for some time, but Sensei just gives her a handkerchief and waits for her to calm down.
The last bit is short. The Decacunnies are talking about other potential options, and they admit that these humans ain't half bad, with Ohr saying you're better than the lot at least. She also says get ready for the welcome party, which Sof said is going to be spectacular.