Chapter 221: Preview ends, [Inspection/Hunting] begins

"I'm sorry, I don't quite understand..."

In the operations department, Elysia looked at the people who were talking to her on the screen, with a look of confusion and puzzlement on her face.

"Shouldn't we prioritize [suppressing the Herrscher] at this time?"

The [Fourth Herrscher] had clearly appeared, the Honkai beasts were clearly still wreaking havoc, and the violent wind mixed with rain was clearly still sweeping through the town.

Why... order her to leave at this time?

"Elysia, please understand that no matter what, protecting people's lives is the top priority."

This is what the other end of the communication said.

"This time, the [Fourth Herrscher] is different from the previous ones. It is moving, wreaking havoc, and destroying land. The environmental impact it has caused is far beyond our expectations, and the area it has affected is also far beyond our expectations. If the people in the area are not evacuated, the casualties it will cause will be unimaginable."

"um..."

'But do I really need to do this?' Elysia couldn't help but think so.

You know, up to now, she is the strongest warrior among the "Fire Moths," and she has an outstanding record of "defeating two [Herrschers]"... According to the normal distribution, shouldn't she be sent to the front line to fight against the [Herrschers]?

After all, she is the only one with "experience"... and can maximize the chances of winning. By solving the "Fourth Herrscher" early, can't she solve this "Great Eruption" early?

Even if we consider that the scope of the impact of this "Great Eruption" is too large, the subsequent cleanup of the Honkai beasts and the scope will be a headache, but... no matter how you look at it, the [Herrscher] should be dealt with first, right?

"Captain of the second squad of the Fire Moths, Elysia, please obey my orders."

But Elysia's hesitation only earned them a cold response.

"......"

"Okay, Elysia, you can think about what the purpose of our 'Fire Moth' is."

Another person at the side smiled and tried to smooth things over... He was the current captain of the first team of the "Fire Moth."

"... [Protect humanity and fight against Honkai]?"

"Yes, [Protect humanity, fight against Honkai], protect humanity first, fight Honkai later... After all, no matter what, life is the most important and crucial thing."

The captain of the first team snapped his fingers and said with a smile.

"Protecting people, protecting friends and family, protecting humanity, this is why we fight."

"So no matter what, protecting the lives of others is our top priority."

"So... Elysia, go ahead and escort the people to a safe place, then come back to support us. After all, we are only responsible for the diversion mission, which is not difficult for us... Or do you not believe in our ability?"

At the end, he made a joke that was not too big.

"No, of course I believe you, but..."

Elysia hesitated... she didn't know how to express herself.

It's not that she didn't believe in her comrades' abilities, but she recalled the records she had seen about the [First Herrscher Crusade]... The cold casualties and loss figures on them were still fresh in her memory.

The difficulties of the [Second Herrscher Crusade] were also engraved in her heart, and the tragic situation of the [Third Herrscher Crusade] was even more vivid in her mind...

It's not that she didn't believe in the abilities of her comrades, she just hoped that she could play a bigger role and do what she should do at this critical moment to save the soldiers from bleeding.

"Elysia, believe us, we can do it."

"...I see."

Faced with the serious expressions of the other team captains and their determined eyes, Elysia finally nodded.

"I will complete the mission as soon as possible. When the time comes, I will lead the team back as quickly as possible... No matter what, please take care of yourselves."

"Hey, it's rare to see Elysia looking so serious..."

"Do you need me to reply again in a different tone?"

"Okay, stop your meaningless fighting and hurry up."

The person on the other end of the line spoke coldly, and then their tone softened as if they had received some kind of security guarantee, which finally put their minds at ease.

"Since no one objects, let's hurry up... The influence of the [Fourth Herrscher] is too great. If we continue..."

"Please wait a moment."

Some abrupt sounds came from the door.

"I think this kind of task arrangement is somewhat problematic."

His calm voice, which for some reason carried a hint of danger, attracted everyone's attention. The team leaders present showed some surprise, and even Elysia was no exception... because the person who came was the one that their operations department had been dreaming of recruiting.

On the screen, the people on the other end of the line… their faces froze, and their bodies trembled for no apparent reason as if they had been [marked] by something terrifying… one of them in particular, his face had turned completely pale.

"...Please tell me your suggestions, Nozomi."

After a while, the captain of the first team spoke... As a former member of the guard team for Nozomi and Mobius, he was well aware of Nozomi's combat and command capabilities, so he was willing to give him some respect.

"I hope I can also participate in the [Crusade]."

"...Why?"

"There are new weapons that require test data."

"…Is that all?"

"Do I need to say it twice?"

"......"

Nozomi glanced at them strangely, but Nozomi's action and tone... made the others stunned.

Because Nozomi's glance over there... gave them a very obvious feeling of coldness and threat, as if they were being looked at by some extremely dangerous creature.

Even Nozomi's tone was not right. Compared with his usual calmness and occasional brisk intonation, Nozomi's tone at this moment seemed particularly "aggressive"... and they didn't know if it was their illusion, but they always felt that the scarlet color on the outer outline of Nozomi's three-color pupils was too conspicuous?

"I just need to participate in the battle. I don't have any big opinions on other arrangements... Elysia, just go and help them. It doesn't matter."

"Are you sure, Nozomi? Although I believe in your ability, the situation of the Herrscher Subjugation War is different from the usual battles with Honkai Beasts, you know?"

Elysia reminded seriously.

"You don't need to say anything more, just go... and the rest of you."

Nozomi didn't seem to want to get too entangled with Elysia, or rather, Nozomi knew very well that the people on the other end of the communication were the ones who were truly qualified to give orders, so Nozomi also directed his spearhead at them.

"Don't think I don't know what you are thinking... Haha, you really value your feathers and lives... How disgusting."

"Nozomi, please be careful with your words."

"I've been very kind by not exposing your true intentions directly."

Nozomi's tone was so cold that it made people feel surprised... What was wrong with Nozomi today? Why were his words so targeted?

"And... you."

Nozomi looked at the pale-faced person on the screen.

"I remember your voice... it was you who was called by the doctor, right?"

"…Is there anything wrong, Nozomi?"

His hands and feet were cold, and breathing had somehow become difficult, but after adjusting several times, he still managed a smile with a pale face and extremely unstable breathing, and asked in a polite tone.

"…Nothing, I just sigh that you are so lucky."

Nozomi looked at him and responded casually.

As for his frightened and weak appearance, Nozomi didn't seem surprised at all.

Haha... As it should be. After all, he was the only one present who was [Marked] a second time... Never mind. After this time, he won't have to endure this kind of pain anymore.

After all… the rain will fall, the breeze will blow, the sea will flow, and then… he, they, will get the ending they deserve.

"That's all I ask for, and I've got the doctor's permission. In other words, everything I say here is equivalent to what the doctor said."

Nozomi raised his hand slightly and gestured to them with the badge in his hand representing Dr. Mobius, which directly shut up everyone else.

"If you have any opinions, tell the doctor, understand?"

"...Nozomi, I still hope you can reconsider it."

"Ha... Elysia, what you just said sounded a bit like a joke."

Nozomi said with a smile after all... who made his name pronounced the same as "Hope"?

"But... please don't worry. I will tell you that you are not the only one who can defeat the Herrscher."

"So, any questions?"

Nozomi's tone returned to calm, but although his words were inquiring, the aura he exuded was so extremely dangerous that it made the people present afraid to speak... or rather, they didn't know how to respond.

Strange, this is too strange. Although they know that Nozomi can sometimes become very strong, so strong that people dare not resist, but that should only be limited to issues of physical health. At other times, Nozomi's responses are very calm, and can even be said to be pleasant.

So why at this time...

"If there are no problems, let's get going. The new equipment has already left the engineering department and is being moved to the airport to participate in the [Herrscher Suppression War]... Oh no, the team for the [Herrscher Containment War] should move quickly."

"And Elysia, go and lead your team and contact the other teams that are also responsible for the escort mission. Hurry up and complete it... Why don't you move? The faster you move, the faster you can complete the mission, and the faster you can come to support us... If you are really worried about the problem, then move quickly!"

"And you guys, really... I have no intention of judging your choices, but you'd better know where your actions will lead to in the end... Humph!"

Before leaving, Nozomi glared fiercely at the people on the other side of the screen, as if he had marked them in some way.

The terrifying feeling made them shiver again, and they looked at Nozomi with some suspicion and fear in their eyes, but in the end, it turned into... anger.

'Haha... so boring.'

Nozomi withdrew his gaze indifferently and left quickly. Judging from the direction... he should be heading to the airport.

"...Then let's begin the battle."

The people on the screen said something angrily and then hung up the phone... Obviously, Nozomi's attitude just now made them very unhappy.

'Humph... Since Nozomi said that all this was Mobius's idea... In that case, they might as well point the finger at Mobius, hehe... It just so happens that Mobius's problem should indeed be dealt with.'

'In that case, let's take action after this "Great Eruption" is resolved' - that's what they planned.

But... it's a pity ~ they don't have that chance ~

After all... this guy was especially [marked] by her most beloved [child]... As a [mother], she would never let them go.

...Okay, let's turn our attention back.

"I now understand why the higher-ups want to recruit Nozomi so much... With this kind of momentum, which new recruit can withstand it? As long as he leads the soldiers, there will definitely not be a single troublemaker."

The captain of the first team shook his head with amusement, and then took the initiative to greet the others.

"Alright, comrades, it's time to set off. Our actions are already much slower than his. Don't let Nozomi, that guy who's not from the Operations Department, look down on us!"

"Yes!"

"Elysia... Elysia?"

"Ah? Sorry, I was just thinking about something."

"Are you worried about Nozomi? It doesn't matter. His combat capability is higher than you think. If he comes to the Operations Department, he will definitely be the captain."

"No, I just..."

Elysia hesitated for a while but finally shook her head.

"Nothing."

Elysia took the initiative to step forward and ran towards the team's assembly point.

However, the aura she felt from Nozomi just now has been lingering in her mind... Just now, she vaguely felt a breath similar to that of a [companion] from Nozomi.

'No way... is this possible?'

Elysia's thoughts suddenly became a little complicated, but after arriving at the assembly point and meeting up with her team members, Elysia temporarily suppressed her doubts.

No matter what, the mission takes priority, and solving the "Great Eruption" takes priority.

......

"Everyone, don't use the previous one for team communications. The rescue team led by Hen has lost contact. The strong storm has hindered communications... Use this one, which Vill-V has temporarily researched. The strong signal within the range can allow us to maintain communication during combat."

"Good."

"There is also this new combat uniform, made of 'Soulium.' You can put it on directly. Remember to wear the mask to avoid any unexpected situations caused by strong winds..."

"Powerful."

"There is a hidden groove on each side of the combat suit's legs, which contains the medicines developed by the doctor and me."

"The one on the left is provided by the doctor. It is a mixture of nutrients and stimulants. It can increase your comprehensive combat capabilities for a certain period of time, and the side effects afterward are also very small. So use it when necessary. Do you understand?"

"The one on the right is mine. If you find any signs of Honkai erosion on your body, quickly find a hidden place to hide and get an injection. It can save your life."

"In addition, considering the urgency of the war, we will not allow you to use the prototype weapons under development, so as to save you the time to adapt... Therefore, we have only modified your commonly used weapons, which are more powerful than before, so use them with caution."

"…Awesome."

What else can they say? Look at the new equipment! Look at the new equipment!

Awesome!

It turned out to be the right thing to do to establish a good relationship with Nozomi!

Only...

"Uh... but Nozomi, your clothes... and what you are carrying on your back..."

"I know, it looks like a coffin, but if you dare to say it, I will dislocate your hands right now."

"...Ahem, I don't mean that."

"Then, let's get going."

…

......

The subsequent operations seemed particularly smooth. With the support of new equipment and the cooperation of several teams, the diversionary operation against the [Fourth Herrscher] also went smoothly... On the way, the first team also rescued a passionate young man named Kosma.

As for Nozomi? He was silently recording something during the battle. Apart from occasionally blocking an attack once or twice at a critical moment, or using the "box" he carried to resist the attack of the Herrscher to save his comrades, he didn't seem to do anything, as if he really just came here to record data.

This situation continued until... the [Fourth Herrscher] became impatient and began to try to snipe the team members at specific locations.

......

Crash——

It was the sound of heavy rain, mixed with the roar of strong wind. The sky was blocked by rain clouds, making everything look dark.

Boom!

The wind ball used by the [Fourth Herrscher] to attack came again but was blocked by the "box" unfolded by Nozomi... This barely safe area was where everyone could catch their breath.

The Herrscher is indeed the Herrscher. Even if everyone has updated their equipment, it will still be very difficult to defeat it if they don't find an opportunity or a method...

However, the diversionary tactics have been very successful. The next step is to continue to hold on and wait for the "experienced" Elysia to deal with it.

"Huh... almost done."

However, at this moment, Nozomi, who was supporting the "box," murmured something in a low voice.

"What?"

Other people's questions came from the team's communication.

"Who is the most physically fit person here?"

Nozomi asked quickly.

"Nozomi, do you have a solution?"

"Hurry up and tell me."

"…Kevin!"

"I am here!"

A young man with white hair crouched to prevent himself from being locked by the [Fourth Herrscher], and quickly moved to Nozomi and his captain.

"Kevin... ah, that's true."

There was a hint of a smile in Nozomi's tone.

"Are you interested in taking an honor?"

"Um?"

"Nozomi, what do you mean?!"

Kevin was still a little confused, but his captain already understood Nozomi's subtext.

However, although he was very excited, he did not lose his mind.

"Nozomi, there's no need to take such risks. We just need to continue delaying."

"It's not a risk. I have confidence. Believe me."

Nozomi quickly input a series of commands into the "box" and took out a set of... "combat uniform" from the inside of the "box"?

"Moreover, every second that the Herrscher exists, the more damage it causes... We should resolve it as quickly as possible."

As Nozomi spoke, he put the "combat uniform" in his hand directly on Kevin... This "combat uniform" was also made of "Soulium," so after it was put on, it naturally fit Kevin's body shape.

In this way, Kevin now has two "combat suits" on his body, but Kevin does not feel that his movements are affected or hindered... It seems that the "combat suit" has the additional effect of assisting movement?

"But..."

"Don't worry, this extra 'combat uniform' is not only a protection for him but also a weapon for victory... The worst result is just returning to the current situation; there will be no loss."

Nozomi said quickly.

"If something goes wrong, I will take the blame."

"...you say!"

The captain of the first team gritted his teeth and finally agreed... What Nozomi said was still very important and worthy of his trust.

"Very good, next... Kevin, you are the [Soldier]."

Nozomi instructed seriously.

"Your mission is to reach the bottom of the [chessboard] and become the [queen] of the final victory. Do you understand?"

"I will report the rest of the instructions to you on the spot, but you will not have any other tasks until you reach the bottom of the [chessboard]. Do you understand?"

"...Roger."

Although what Nozomi said was a little strange, Kevin still nodded to show that he understood... In short, he just had to obey orders.

"...swish."

"Nozomi?!"

Everyone looked at Nozomi in amazement as he took off the mask and exposed his face to the storm.

And under the cover of rain... the scarlet circle around Nozomi's pupils seemed even more conspicuous.

"Fine."

Nozomi waved his hand, indicating that they didn't need to worry... On the contrary, he liked this environment very much.

There is water and wind, ah... it really can't be better.

Nozomi could feel the distinct joy coming from the rain.

Nozomi also closed his eyes gently and imagined the upcoming battle in his mind.

First, the rear is in fourth, the rook is in third…

The pawn moves forward one, the queen moves forward two, the elephant moves forward three...

The pawn moves forward one, the queen moves forward six, the rook moves forward two...

The pawn advances one, the queen advances two...

He was not worried about his deduction going wrong. If he had to explain why...

The rain will protect everything for him, and the breeze will bring him messages. As a being who once mastered these two powers, the degree of control over this power by the [Fourth Herrscher] seems somewhat immature in front of Nozomi.

Well, but this can only be achieved thanks to the rainy day today, otherwise, Nozomi really couldn't do it... Oh, no, judging from the power of the [Fourth Herrscher], its appearance must be accompanied by wind and rain, after all, it is these two forces that bring destruction.

That's really a pity~ It met Nozomi at this moment, a guy who was extremely dangerous to it.

"sigh..."

Nozomi adjusted his breathing slightly and slowly opened his eyes.

Enter the command into the "box," then take out a special sniper rifle and a special "magazine."

On the way, he also saw the badge belonging to Mobius placed inside the box... The situation was urgent before, so Nozomi did not return it but took it directly to the battlefield. Considering safety issues, Nozomi kept it inside the "box."

When seeing this badge, Nozomi couldn't help but think of the changes that Mobius had undergone after "that day"... especially the change in her attitude towards himself. That overly obvious "hint" was somewhat overwhelming.

And afterward, the trust that Mobius showed in him was a little too outrageous... Even before, after knowing what Nozomi was going to do, she handed the badge to him without any psychological burden. Apart from asking him to record some data and try to ensure the integrity of the body of the [Herrscher] so that she could come back for research, she didn't ask much.

She didn't even say to Nozomi, "You must come back alive"... Oh no, that wouldn't be a good thing.

In short, after knowing what Nozomi was going to do, Mobius did not seem to be worried about Nozomi's life safety, as if she was sure that he would come back alive, or even... triumphantly.

However... this is indeed the case.

"Oh..."

Nozomi raised the corner of his mouth slightly, took the badge out of the "box" and put it in the pocket inside his combat uniform... There was no other way. Considering the battle in a while, Nozomi could hardly guarantee whether the badge could be protected by the "box."

Of course, it was not affected by the attack of the Herrscher, but a problem with the "box" itself.

"sigh…"

Nozomi took a breath again and connected the "magazine" in his hand to the sniper rifle.

Crash——

The heavy rain was still falling, bringing the care and joy that belonged to the rain.

Nozomi, on the other hand, put his mask back on slowly with a smile and resumed communication with others.

"Everyone, please listen to my orders from now on."

"I will lead you to complete the [Subjugation] without any casualties or injuries."

"Maybe you will think I am bragging, but... I will tell you the truth."

"So... next..."

"The rehearsal is over, and the [hunting]... begins."

Nozomi raised the sniper rifle in his hand, quickly aimed at the [Fourth Herrscher] that was still in the air, and then... pulled the trigger!

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