Story Reader / Floating Record / ER09: Crescent Sun / Story
Hydrangea Island
Evening, June 10th - Pleasant and Dry
Intensive Care Unit - Medical Research Institute
In a private facility near the Hydrangea Medical Research District, within its bright, semi-automated compound...
Outside the ward, an exhausted Reika stands with Kouhei, who maintains a serene composure.
Kouhei, how is Yuka's recovery coming along?
The surgery was successful, with specific models of nano-machines implanted in sequence.
Currently, the activation rate in the brain's distal regions has reached 98%, exceeding our expected values.
The computer is currently locating and analyzing. The next step will be signal interference, with an estimated...
Did you not hear me? I'm asking how she's recovering.
I sincerely apologize.
The process hasn't been entirely smooth, but fortunately, there were no severe rejection symptoms.
Her vital signs are stable, though she did experience some vomiting and diarrhea after waking up...
And now?
She's still experiencing nausea and dizziness, but her condition is improving.
Yuka's heart condition isn't the best. Keep a close eye on her.
Don't worry. The ICU is staffed with two doctors and automated medical units on standby at all times.
Let her rest for now. Remember, we can't rush her recovery.
Roger.
Let's talk while we walk.
Reika turns and strides straight toward the elevator, with Kouhei quickly falling into step behind her.
Next week, I'll be leaving the island for a shareholders' meeting with those loaded fat cats.
Do you really need to be there in person?
I'm planning to start a new research project soon, and I'll need to secure additional funding.
That's why I need to be there physically—to address any questions the shareholders might have.
A new project? Do you have the capacity to take on additional research right now?
Let me guess, it's research in the field of consciousness, isn't it?
You could say that. For now, the project is still in its preliminary research phase.
I wish you all the best.
Kouhei, while I'm away, you'll be in charge of overseeing the consciousness projection experiments.
The research team will follow your direction, and you'll have full access to all my resources.
Let's get straight to the point. There are two main things I need to tell you.
First, at the beginning of next month, we need to conduct a milestone verification for our first consciousness projection experiment...
Have Yuka run simulations on the quantum computer. Focus primarily on data collection.
Once we succeed with one-on-one consciousness projection, we'll proceed with the mass influence experiments.
Therefore, I need you to simultaneously prepare for experiments in Phase II.
There's a hidden chamber behind the activity room at Mizono High—a secret space that was purposely built during construction.
Set up the signal amplifiers and pulse emission terminals in the hidden chamber. Make absolutely certain everything is in place.
Be smart about this. Don't try to get those things in there when everyone can see you.
Understood. You can count on me.
Remember to keep a low profile. I want no trouble when I'm away.
That's all. Exercise your judgment for everything else.
As Reika exits the hospital, a black luxury sedan waits for her outside.
Kouhei steps forward to open the car door, waits for Reika to get in, then bows deeply as the vehicle drives away.
By the time he straightens up, the black sedan is already far in the distance. He lets out a quiet breath.
Nearby, a man wearing dark sunglasses slowly approaches Kouhei from behind.
Did something happen?
Chief, our informant just received word...
Yoshihiro Osako's assistant has been snooping around for information about us, and I hear they've even contacted the media.
Fool doesn't know his place. What's this guy's name?
I believe his name is Sugiki.
Send some men to pay him a visit. And remember—bring him back alive.
Kouhei narrows his eyes as something crosses his mind, then suddenly breaks into a smile.
Sugiki, huh... he just might prove useful.
Prove useful... What do you mean, Chief?
It's none of your concern. Just get it done.
Yes.
Misono High
Night, June 20th
School Gate
Guys, gather 'round! The Horror Stories Club is making its grand debut at Misono High tonight!
Kishii, I thought you were recruiting new members.
Hate to say this, but it's pathetic how Itsushima and I are the only ones who got tricked into coming here.
C'mon, cut me some slack already. I've asked literally everyone I could, and now they all think I'm an idiot.
Wouldn't say they're wrong, though.
I even tried asking the super-mysterious Miss Misono. Thought I could promote our club while I was at it.
The super-mysterious Miss Misono... You mean Yuka Saotome?
Yup! But she shot me down without a second thought.
How does she manage to be so popular with the guys when she barely even talks?
See, Hasegawa? That's the thing about being mysterious. That's how she goes around capturing hearts!
Is it just me or did you just sound a little sarcastic there?
Cut it out, you two. You're driving away the ghosts and spirits with all your noise.
Don't tell me you actually want to see the ghosts. Pretty sure Kishii's just making this whole thing up.
I'm not making anything up!
They say that the sculptures from the art room run wild through the hallways on moonless nights.
There's no moon tonight—the perfect chance for an investigation.
The moon's probably just hiding behind the clouds.
Hey, come on! Let's go!
Kishii pushes the two girls forward from behind as the three of them enter Misono's campus.
Inside the School Building
Music Room
There's nothing here, Kishii.
We just checked the art room you mentioned, and all the statues are standing right where they should be.
And now we're in the music room. What? You think those supposedly living statues decided to take music lessons?
Itsushima shines the flashlight down both sides of the corridor, and the glass windows reflect three young, innocent faces.
The school building, stripped of its daytime bustle, is so quiet that even water dripping in the bathroom echoes clearly through the halls.
All three hold their breath at once as the wind outside rattles against the windows.
It's just the bathroom leaking.
Itsushima feels her way along the wall to the door and flips the switch, but the classroom lights won't come on.
So they don't let us use lights at night. Are they worried someone's up to no good or something?
Let's head back. There's nothing out of the ordinary here anyway.
After all, these school horror stories are just "urban myths" that people keep passing around.
Stories tend to stray from the truth based on what the storyteller wants to convey.
Maybe to fill in unclear details, or simply to cover something up...
But anyhow, as these stories get passed around, they gradually take on a supernatural core.
Like that ghost light in the science classroom—it was probably just someone on cleaning duty forgetting to check the desk lamp...
And when students happened to see it while leaving school at night, that's how the rumor started.
But isn't that exactly why we have the Horror Stories Club? To investigate things like this?
You'll ruin all the fun if you explain everything away, Hasegawa.
Wait, guys, did you hear that just now?
Hear what? It's extremely quiet. Quit fooling around, Kishii.
No, wait. I think I heard something as well. Hasegawa, shush for a moment.
Itsushima lies down and presses her ear against the floor, sensing slight vibrations coming from below.
A muffled sound echoes through, like wheels dragging something heavy across the ground...
Footsteps echo from the stairwell. Kishii and Hasegawa quickly hide themselves.
A flashlight beam sweeps across from the end of the corridor, then vanishes moments later.
Is... is someone else here besides us?
They're coming! It must be those berserk statues!
Kishii rises to her feet and tiptoes toward the classroom exit.
Hey, Kishii! You idiot! I-Itsushima... what should we do now?
Let's follow her. We can't just leave her alone out there.
Argh, I swear to God!
After gently closing the classroom door, Itsushima and Hasegawa head downstairs in pursuit of Kishii.
Turning around the staircase, they find Kishii standing dumbfounded outside the activity room.
What are you doing, Kishii? Don't just run off without saying anything!
Out of breath, Hasegawa pats Kishii's shoulder, shooting her an exasperated glare.
Hasegawa, have you ever seen what's in here before?
The activity room? What? Is this a joke or...
That's not what I'm talking about...
Kishii points toward the pitch-black activity room, where the once-locked door now stands wide open.
As Itsushima pushes the door, a thin streak of light mysteriously appears on the floor.
Everyone's eyes follow the trail of light toward the wall, to where the bookshelf should be...
The bookshelf has been moved aside, revealing a crack in the wall with light seeping through from within.
While Itsushima and Hasegawa exchange bewildered looks, Kishii has already walked over and placed a hand against the wall.
With a gentle push, the hidden door concealed within the wall slides backward, sending a cloud of dust rushing forward.
Uh-hum.
As the view gradually widens, a small dark chamber reveals itself before Kishii.
What... what exactly is this?
Kishii's eyes widen at the sight of the massive machinery and advanced equipment filling the secret chamber.
Such massive machinery... I've never seen anything like it...
Looks like some kind of weapon.
But why would they hide something like this in a school?
Hey, guys! Come quick, I found something huge!
Guys...?
No one answers Kishii. An unsettling silence fills the air.
The girls, who should be right behind her, suddenly fall silent.
Kishii backs away carefully, only to spot a flashlight rolling across the floor...
The beam finally comes to rest, illuminating her ankles and casting light across half of the activity room.
Hasegawa and Itsushima lie unconscious on the floor, one on each side.
No... no... this can't be happening...
Kishii stumbles backward, her mouth opening to scream...
A hand clamps over her mouth and nose from behind. After a few seconds of struggle, she blacks out.
In reality, Kishii collapses but does not immediately lose consciousness. In her hazy state, she overhears several people talking.
How strange. What are these students doing at school this late at night?
The sharp crack of a slap rings out.
You useless idiots! I told you to keep watch! How did these rats make their way in?
Do you want all of Dr. Saotome's hard work to go to waste?
Saotome...
Lying on the ground with unfocused eyes, Kishii mumbles.
You'll all be as good as dead if anything goes wrong!
Sorry, boss...
Sorry, boss.
After struggling to stay awake and failing, Kishii's eyelids finally close as she slips into unconsciousness.
By the way, boss, what should we do with the girls?
Should we take them upstairs and throw them off?
Another resounding slap.
You idiot, you think people are just gonna believe that these three just committed triple suicide?
This kind of incident might go unnoticed elsewhere, but at Misono High...
It's bound to bring unwanted attention. Do you want people outside of this high school to find out about what happened tonight?
Those reporters from "Misono Bunshun" have been such a pain lately.
What should we do then?
Take them to the infirmary. I'll call the school nurse right away.
The next morning, Kishii, Itsushima, and Hasegawa quietly wake up in the infirmary.
The school nurse informs them that there was a gas leak in the school kitchen last night, and they suffered from carbon monoxide poisoning...
...which caused them all to have hallucinations, but fortunately they were found in time by patrolling security guards.
Regarding their serious violation of school regulations, in consideration of their well-being, the school decides not to impose any disciplinary action.
Meanwhile, a night curfew is implemented, and evening security patrols are increased.
Kishii, Hasegawa, and Itsushima must undergo weekly psychological evaluations... and they each must submit a written account of the incident.
The student activity room will be closed for two weeks for utilities maintenance and wall repairs.
And so, daylight saving time officially starts for Misono High.
Hydrangea Island
Afternoon, July 5th - Indoors
Quantum Computing Lab - Neuroscience Research Institute
Good afternoon, Yuka.
...
Today, we'll be conducting our first one-on-one consciousness projection feasibility test...
It's just a simulation. The scenarios you'll experience are all computer-generated in real-time.
I shared the documentation with you earlier through email. Do you remember?
Is it going to... hurt?
Hurt?
You should've thought of that when you decided to participate in this experiment.
I'll do my best to minimize your discomfort, but I'm afraid we can't rule out unexpected complications.
Dr. Saotome is going to be really disappointed in me if I can't stand the pain, isn't she?
So that's what this is about... But your concerns are unnecessary.
If the experiment fails, I'm the one who's going to feel the heat from Dr. Saotome, not you.
Our mission today isn't complicated, it's just a one-on-one simulation.
Don't stress yourself out. Just take it easy and go with the flow.
Now then, we can start whenever you're ready.
I'm ready.
Yuka walks forward alone, removes her clothing, and enters the sterile laboratory barefoot.
Behind the one-way glass, Kouhei stands with his hands behind his back, calmly awaiting with anticipation.
The mechanical appendages extending from the massive machine pierce Yuka's spine with their thin needles.
Despite covering her mouth, Yuka cannot suppress her quiet moans of pain.
This pain, however, is not within her control.
Yuka is no stranger to pain, and yet she cannot find even a trace of love within it.
Pain is a peculiar gift—endured in the name of love, yet offering no love in return.
Her frail body trembles as her pale lips move wordlessly, trying to form speech.
Finally, she lowers her head and swallows back the words she meant to say.
On her tear-stained face remains only a feeble smile.
Dr. Saotome... am I Prometheus now?
As Yuka whispers these words, her pale lips quickly stain with blood.
It starts as a trickle, then turns into a constant stream of blood.
The researchers rush forward to check on her, but Kouhei immediately stops them at the main console.
Leave it. This is all normal.
Kouhei speaks calmly into the microphone, his eyes devoid of any sympathy.
Just a little more, Yuka. Everything hinges on this moment.
After giving the research assistant a meaningful glance, Kouhei turns around...
The massive machinery connected to Yuka's body begins operating at full power.
Meanwhile, the quantum computer's mainframe begins tracking signals transmitted from the nanomachines in Yuka's cranium.
Brain wave capture in progress. All nodal nanomachines positioned... Signal transmission initiated.
Activation successful. Initiating synchronization... Synchronization in progress...
Synchronization rate exceeding 80%. Consciousness field space established. Environment rendering in progress.
Chief, the virtual consciousness environment has been established. Yuka's consciousness copy is complete.
Good. Activate the amplifier and projector. Proceed to the next phase.
Consciousness projection ready, Chief. Please equip your jamming device.
One by one, Kouhei and everyone in the control room put on their electromagnetic shield devices for protection against field effects.
Let's get started.
Initiating first consciousness projection. Deploying interference field.
As the quantum computer powers up, readings on the main control panel begin to fluctuate.
In the laboratory, Yuka's head jerks up as if shocked by electricity. Before her eyes, the surrounding scenery begins to fade away.
Bizarre, kaleidoscopic lights flash past. When awareness returns, she finds herself standing barefoot in a vast sea of grey.
However, her hearing and awareness of the outside world remain intact, and Yuka maintains her clarity of mind.
Yuka, how are you holding up?
Where am I...
What you're seeing should be the materialized space of the collective unconscious network.
To be honest, even I don't know what you're seeing. Why don't you tell me about it?
I see a sea... A completely still sea.
A sea? So this is what the consciousness domain space looks like... A sea of consciousness.
Besides that, what else do you see?
Stars twinkle where the sky meets the sea in the distance, but they remain just out of reach.
But there's this similar glowing object nearby too.
It's like human thoughts, human voices...
Good. Try to touch that marker point, then await further instructions.
Kouhei holds the microphone firmly and turns around to gesture at the researcher, who nods in understanding.
In the virtual "sea of consciousness", Yuka carefully reaches out to touch the speck of light.
Her consciousness merges with someone else's perspective and, with it, her surroundings transform into white walls.
I can feel the fear and pain... and above all, an inescapable despair.
Why... why is this person in such agony? Their suffering is even greater than mine...
Yuka, you've entered the target's consciousness. Now, try to take control of their body.
What do I need to do?
There's a gun to his right. Pick it up and put him out of his misery.
What...? I'm sorry, but I can't do something like that.
This is just a computer simulation, not a real person. What are you so afraid of?!
If you can't even do this much, our experiment will be deemed a failure.
Still...
Yuka, do it.
The words leave Kouhei's lips like ice, each syllable carrying the weight of a command and the edge of a threat.
After a brief moment of hesitation, Yuka takes control of the trembling hand, slowly raising the gun to press it against the target's temple.
And she pulls the trigger.
In the wake of the deafening gunshot, Yuka's M.I.N.D. is flooded with crimson.
She collapses into the crimson sea, letting the waves wash away what little sanity remains.
Sinking deeper and deeper into the bottomless abyss...
Chief, Yuka has lost consciousness.
Medical team, move in and assist. Let her rest for a few days.
Then, Kouhei takes a deep breath.
I hereby declare the first one-on-one consciousness projection experiment a success.
Almost immediately, applause erupts from the main console as the scientists rise one by one to celebrate.
Kouhei waves for everyone to settle down, then takes his leave amid their respectful farewells.
Outside, a figure in black is already waiting. Together, they proceed to the adjacent room.
As the door opens, a man bound to a chair hangs his head low, blood streaming from the wound on his scalp.
Kouhei's lips curl into a satisfied smile as he picks up the gun from the floor and unloads its ammunition.
Sugiki, this is what happens when you stand against us.
Dying like a dog... Now you can reunite with Mr. Osako.
At least you made some contribution to science. Be grateful for that.
Hey, dispose of the body.
Yes.
Oh, and one more thing—there's no need to tell Dr. Saotome about using human test subjects.
Roger.
July 5th. The first consciousness projection experiment is declared a success.
The Saotome team rushes to complete human trials despite unclear theoretical foundations.
Dr. Reika Saotome's career-risking gamble earns her significant acclaim at the shareholders' meeting.
Anonymous invitations from major research institutions start pouring in, followed by venture capital funds catching wind of the opportunity...
The experimental details remain undisclosed, citing sensitive technology still under development.
Regarding this matter, Dr. Saotome makes the following statement in an interview—
The entire consciousness projection experiment process is safe, humane, and follows objective scientific principles.
August. Building on the successful verification of one-on-one consciousness projection technology...
Preparations for mass consciousness projection experiments are conducted at a fevered pace.
Kouhei plans to conduct the experiment during the track and field team's victory celebration on August 16th.
The participating students are not informed of the experiment—a unilateral decision made by Kouhei.
Yata, have you heard? There's this rumor going around...
Rumor? I'm not really interested.
You know, that one... The eighth mystery of Misono High—"The Eternal Night Fog".
The Eternal Night Fog?
Legend says that on moonless nights, a blood-red fog rises within Misono's campus.
The fog lingers until dawn, drifting through every corner of the school grounds.
If you're not gone by dusk and the fog catches up to you...
You might get lost in the fog, or worse—you could be spirited away forever!
Hey, that's scary... Don't turn this into some horror story all of a sudden!
I heard someone encountered it after their club activities. They weren't found until the next day, unconscious in the hallway.
You know that campus curfew that just came into effect recently?
That's exactly what the curfew is for!
Come on, it's probably just another recycled urban legend.
The thing about school horror stories...
...is that they're nothing more than "urban myths" that people keep passing around...
