Trigger's expression steadied as she continued,
"Both the Defense Corps and the Falkenhayn Mercenary Troupe used to have humanoid mimic mechs, but compared to these, they're completely outclassed."
"This is a leap forward."
She turned to Zane with a faint smile.
"You deserve much of the credit. Aside from the new mechs, many weapons and functional systems in the Predator series exist because of you."
"Do you remember that Ether Substance shipment delivered through Titan Tech? It greatly supported both the Academy headquarters and this place—I only learned that afterward..."
"I see..."
Zane blinked. Back then, he had told Trigger about the black market deal, so it made sense she had paid special attention to that information.
As Trigger finished speaking, the elevator descended to the lowest level. With a pneumatic hiss, the doors slowly opened.
"Zane, we're heading that way."
"But if you'd like to look around later, they probably won't mind... After all, the leverage is in your hands."
Seeing Zane's interest in the machinery, Trigger added, pointing toward a massive mushroom-shaped structure.
The building's sleek, tech-infused shell glowed faintly, light pulsing in gentle waves. From the elevator, a few figures gliding on hoverboards could be seen, though it wasn't clear what they were doing.
Zane nodded. Curious as he was, he knew what mattered first—meeting the hosts here.
Following Trigger forward, the trio drew little attention among the steady stream of people. With such a large workforce, unless assigned to the same project, it wasn't unusual for people to go long stretches without meeting. New faces were commonplace.
Not long after, two researchers in white robes approached. After a brief exchange with Trigger, they led the group toward the building.
They were supposed to use the transport system, but Trigger, knowing Zane wanted to observe, politely declined.
The researchers raised no objection.
In fact, they were eager to deepen collaboration with Zane—things like real-time control over Ether Substance purity, manipulating Ether energy dynamics, and more. Their impatience was exactly why they had rushed to receive them.
Trigger was satisfied with their attitude. Still, if Zane weren't as powerful as he was, she would never have brought him here.
After all, this was their turf.
Nothing was absolute; accidents could happen anytime. Trigger understood that well.
...
Moments later, the three entered the building with the researchers.
After passing several scanning gates, they stepped inside. The interior was pristine and comfortable, not crowded, though the occasional researcher hurried past.
"Mr. Zane, Professor Muse has been waiting for quite some time."
At a white portal, the researcher announced this before letting the trio through without following.
Without the professor's approval, no one else underground had clearance to enter.
As the mechanical door shut swiftly behind them, Trigger stood calmly—she had met the professor before thanks to Zane. For Soldier 11, however, this was the first time.
Still, both Trigger and Soldier 11 quickly found a corner to stand aside, knowing what followed had little to do with them.
In the spacious, immaculate chamber, Zane's gaze settled on a middle-aged man at the control consoles. It was clear he was the one in charge here.
"Mr. Zane, it's an honor to finally meet you."
The man noticed Zane's look, smiled, and stepped forward.
"Professor Muse."
Zane gave a slight nod. He wasn't entirely unfamiliar with him—Fairy had shown him some information before.
After all, as the leader of a school of thought, no matter how tightly information was locked down, something always leaked.
"What brings you here personally, Mr. Zane?"
"But first, I must confirm—have you come as a Lieutenant of the Falkenhayn Mercenary Troupe, or as yourself?"
After a brief greeting, Professor Muse got straight to the point, true to his decisive yet cautious nature.
The fact that others hadn't investigated didn't mean he wouldn't. It wasn't an offense—just a way to ensure better communication.
"I represent no faction right now."
Zane answered softly. He was here simply to see what he could gain. Nothing more.
"Good. To be frank, we researchers prefer not to align with any side. While it's impossible to avoid entirely, we've done our best to keep ties shallow."
"I ask for your understanding."
"No problem."
Zane waved it off calmly. He wasn't one for needless roundabout talk either.
"Show me what you have here. You know my bargaining chip. Now it's your turn to put forth something equal."
Professor Muse nodded, then led Zane to a large circular device at the center of the hall. Raising his hand, he tapped a few times on the virtual interface hovering in the air.
Projections of facilities and countless data windows appeared above the device.
"Allow me to give you an overview."
Zane listened as Professor Muse explained.
After a while, the professor finished, having outlined the current "stakes" regarding the mechanical faction and the mechanical life faction.
Seeing Zane deep in thought, Professor Muse knew it was time for a heavier move. Smiling, he said,
"Mr. Zane, there's one more thing. It may mean little to others, but for you, I believe it's invaluable."
"It concerns the Qingyi..."
As expected, Zane lifted his gaze at that. Seeing his reaction, Professor Muse continued,
"Don't worry, I mean no threat. Please, let me explain."
"At present, New Eridu's human consciousness upload is still immature—but it already works."
"The potential is enormous. In fact... should an apocalyptic catastrophe ever strike, this could become a key means of preserving human civilization."
Professor Muse's tone remained calm, as if stating something trivial.
Zane narrowed his eyes slightly.
Crude and direct, yes—but if there was no other choice, it was indeed a viable path.