Netherrealm walked out of the Basilicom to see Compa, IF, and Neptune. "So, what did you and Seiryū talk about?" IF asked with her hands on her hips. Netherrealm growled at her being on edge. "Can't I just talk with my little brother? I haven't seen him in six years," Netherrealm grumbled. IF had a shameful expression on her face. While Compa smiled, "he was really excited to see you Netty." Neptune nodded along, "how old is Seiryū? He looks quite young to be in the position he's in," she asked curiously. The four began to walk through the streets of Lastation. The rumbling factories and billowing smog created a disharmony with the crowded streets. "He's only two years younger than me," Netherrealm answered Neptune's question after doing the math in his head. "Kids shouldn't be having that type of responsibility. They should be playing and stuff," Neptune commented. Netherrealm scoffed at the notion. "Kids don't play in Gamindustri anymore. You work, fight, or die, that's how it goes," Netherrealm said bitterly.

"Maybe for your case, but you do know that's not true. Fighting, playing, dancing, all of those are so linked together. It's about expression Netty! It's about passion, exploration of yourself and others!" Neptune lectured and Netherrealm clenched his fists. "What do you know?! You haven't even gotten your memories back!" He hissed. "My mind doesn't remember yet, but my body does. These feelings, it's so ingrained into me. All of it feels so natural to me. That is what Gamindustri should be about. Expression of oneself and exploration of others. Fighting, being the rawest form of that," Neptune said as she smiled, looking at her hand. "Still, that might be how things are in Planeptune. But we're in Lastation now. We gotta learn the lay of the land before we go for our objective. Compa and I will find us a hotel. Netty and Nep, why don't you two go find The Guild Hall in Lastation. So we can find records of the expedition our good friend is on," IF laid out the plan. Looking around the crowd is on.

"Why am I stuck with her now?" Netherrealm asked. "Because we're the main protagonists ya silly goose. We gotta show the readers our chemistry and tensions. So they can make por-" Neptune was cut off by Netherrealm covering her mouth. "Enough out of you!" Netherrealm hissed. Neptune giggled under his hand and pulled it off of her. "This is what happens when all you care about is stupid dead cultures. You end up stilted, stuffy, and stiff," Neptune said with a giggle. Netherrealm rolled his eyes. As he and Neptune began to walk off. "Why did you really stick them together Iffy?" Compa asked. "Because, I don't know if we can really trust Netherrealm at the moment. And Nep has a strange knack for reading character. So she can determine if there is a conflict of interest," IF answered.

"Sooo… Netty, aren't you gonna thank me?" Neptune asked. Netherrealm's eyes glanced at her, hood up and facemask on. "For what?" He asked and Neptune frowned. "You should really get rid of that hood and mask first off. It's too complicated of a character design. Second off, I saved your ass from the Muspel Family," Neptune replied with her arms crossed. Netherrealm looked at her with a frown under his mask. Before clicking his tongue, "thank you," he grunted out. Neptune nodded with a smug smile of satisfaction. "Hey Netty, I know you hate CPUs and all, I don't know why. But you don't have to tell me, and you can hate me all you want. Just know that I will never hate you. Because you've stuck by my side all this time," Neptune said with a soft smile. Looking up at him with a grateful look. Much to Netherrealm's dismay, he hated how sincere she was. It'll make what he has to do all the harder.

"Still, since we're here in Lastation and all. Why don't we see some of the local attractions? Outside of factories, and stuff," Neptune suggested and Netherrealm just stared at her for a second. Knowing he has no good excuse. "Why are you hanging out with me?" Netherrealm asked as they continued to look around. Finding that Lastation has batting cages. "Because, we haven't really hung out. I wanna see you, the real you," Neptune replied as she poked his chest. "This is the real me," he grumbled. As he thought of how he was supposed to kill Neptune after he kills Black Heart. Would he have to murder everyone so he isn't hunted down? The thought of that made him sick. "Netty? Something wrong?" She asked.

"Just lightheaded," he replied as Neptune placed her hands on her hips. "We should do this again sometime," she said as the two continued to walk. Netherrealm nodded silently as he walked next to Neptune. The both of them buying food from a food truck. Munching as they walked together in blissful silence. As they enjoyed each other's company. Yet there was a gnawing agony. Netherrealm thought of the favor his brother asked of him. He made his bed, and he's gonna have to lie in it. He can't, Neptune is his friend. Friend? She is a goddess! But she saved his life! So many conflicting thoughts of that nature. He was at war with himself. He could slice Neptune's throat while she's distracted. No, he can't do that. He just can't…

Soon the sun was setting as they stood at the airship port. Staring at the sun, "can't believe Lastation has no parks. Ain't that some bullshit?" Neptune asked. Netherrealm shrugged as he ate cheese fries. "Thanks for spending the day with me Netty. It was fun exploring a new place with you," she said as she gave him a pat on the arm. His other arm, on the side she can't see. His gauntlet morphed as he kunai poked out. Ready to impale Neptune's neck or use the cable as a garrote. "I know that you're struggling with something. Whenever you're ready to trust me, I'll be there. Because, you and Compa saved my life. I want you to stop thinking we'll hurt you. But as much as I want to, I can't force you. Because that's not what friends do, right?" She said. As Netherrealm could see that the port was becoming less crowded. Less witnesses, in order to enact the revenge he was owed. "Yeah…" he said. Not being able to see through the brave face Neptune is putting on.

Bond Level Increase!

Neptune: 0 - 1

Much to his utter displeasure…

Soon Neptune heard her phone buzzing. She took it out as she glanced at Netherrealm in her peripheral vision. As his kunai was being lowered from his gauntlet, the cable making a zipping sound. "Nep!" IF exclaimed in frustration as Netherrealm grabbed the cable with his other hand. Ready to make it into a garrote. "Seiryū is a fucking liar! There is no expedition into the canyons! Even if Black Heart was omitted, there is no record of a mass mobilization! Tell Netty that his little brother is a weasel whose neck I am gonna wrin-!" IF's rant was cut off by Neptune hanging up.

"Whew, she's ass mad. I guess we gotta head back to her," Neptune groaned as she looked at Netherrealm. His kunai was back in his gauntlet. Like he wasn't about to do what he was about to do. "Ah, well, come on. I'll text Compa about where the hotel is, follow me!" Neptune said as she pointed forward with her phone. Netherrealm trudged behind her as Neptune frowned in suspicion. She knew exactly what Netherrealm was thinking about doing. She heard that cable, she saw that kunai from her peripheral. The question is… why? She'll get that answer no matter what. Because she refuses to believe that Netherrealm would do this of his own free will. Eventually the two made it to the hotel. "Nep! Why the hell did you hang up on me?!" IF asked in utter fury. "Well sorry but I don't wanna get yelled at for some stupid reason. And don't worry, I got what you said. I am tired, and it's getting late. We can discuss this tomorrow," Neptune said almost immediately. Shutting down any argument they were about to have. IF sighed and handed Neptune a key card to her room. "You're my roommate Nep, if Seiryū's anything to indicate. It's best to sleep with someone else," IF explained to the three in a hushed whisper. "Netty, Compa, you two are bunking together," she said as she handed the two key cards.

Netherrealm and Compa both looked at each other. "I take the shower first," Netherrealm said. "Whatever you want Netty!" Compa said. As the four headed to their rooms to have a goodnight sleep. IF telling them not to call for room service of any kind. Netherrealm had an evening shower and laid in bed. Wearing no shirt and black pajama pants. Compa was whimpering in her sleep and Netherrealm looked at her as she tossed and turned. He frowned at the sight of her twisting face. Her worried expression and her grasping at the air while she moved. Compa has nightmares? That surprised Netherrealm, but knowing he isn't gonna get any sleep. Netherrealm got out of bed, heading over to Compa. He poked her cheek and she blinked awake with a groan. "What's up?" Netherrealm asked as Compa looked up at him. She clutched the blanket to her chest.

"Netty, what were your parents like?" Compa asked suddenly. He crossed his arms as he looked at her wide, soft eyes. "Why are you asking me that?" He asked back and Compa was silent for a second. "I just, wondered because you and brother ended up in such different places," Compa said after a moment of hesitation. Netherrealm frowned as he looked out of the window. "I never knew my real parents. My Mom apparently couldn't properly take care of my brother and I for whatever reason. So she apparently she begged my two Dads to take care of us. Seiryū was an infant at the time, I was already walking. She never came to find us," Netherrealm said. "You have two Dads?" Compa asked in surprise. Netherrealm looked at the floor. "Had, two Dads. Edward and Toby, they were murdered. I think I know who did it, because I recognized her voice at the caves," Netherrealm explained. Compa gasped and sat up before hugging him. "Who did it?" She asked much to Netherrealm's shock that she is so invested in him.

"Arfoire… it had to be her. I could never put a name to her, and she hid her face under a hood, but I never forgot her voice. She's the only one who could've," Netherrealm said as Compa held his head against her chest. "Why would she kill your parents?" She asked. "That's a story for another time," Netherrealm said, not wanting to talk about it any further. Compa nodded, "I am glad you had good parents. I have my Grandpa and my Dad. My Mom, she wasn't the best person. Yet there i things I am grateful for," Compa shared and Netherrealm just pulled himself from her chest "Is your Mom the reason you have nightmares?" Netherrealm bluntly asked. Compa was silent as she looked at the covers. "Alright, hope you have a good sleep," Netherrealm said coldly, feeling like he overstepped and wanting to retreat. "Netty? Can you stay with me in my bed?" Compa requested. Netherrealm nodded and he crawled into bed next to her. The both of them awkwardly turned around so their backs are facing each other. Compa's face was red and hot. Yet she had a smile on her face. Because she knows someone is there with her. "Goodnight Netty," she whispered. "Hrmm," he grunted back and Compa took it as a good night.

There was peaceful dreams that night.

Bond Level Up!

Compa: 1 - 3

It was a nice morning in the penthouse of the Lastation Basilicom. Seiryū, Chairman of Avenir woke up to do his morning routine. He passed by a picture of four people. It was of himself, a man named Ganache, a man named Singe, and a woman named Chian. He stood in front of his toilet as he took a leak. Once he finished that, he went to the kitchen. Wearing only his tight, white underwear. His back had a tattoo on it. A green, detailed, serpentine dragon staring to the left. It was much more extravagant than his older brother's tattoo. He opened the freezer and took out an ice pack/mask. As he began his morning exercises.

First were stomach crunches, push-ups, sit-ups, doing one hundred each. Then he began hitting a punching bag. The ice mask was still on his face as his fists flew and slammed against the bag. Once he landed a kick from his toned legs. His decently muscular body was sweaty, as such it was time for a shower. The ice mask was removed as he entered the bathroom. Turning on the water so it can heat up while he takes care of his hair. He began to brush his long hair first, so he can untangle it for easier washing. Then he combed it right after to get all the little things. Before he entered the shower. In the shower, he used a deep pore cleanser lotion while in the shower. It was a water activated gel cleanser to be specific. He then used a honey almond body scrub, and for the face, an exfoliating gel scrub.

Once he was out of the shower, he stared into the mirror while applying an herb mint facial mask. Which is left on for ten minutes as he prepares the rest of his routine. His long black hair down at his lower neck. He then opened the cabinet the mirror was hiding. As he used an aftershave lotion with little to no alcohol. As alcohol dries your skin out and makes you look older. He then used moisturizer, an anti-aging eye balm followed by a final moisturizing protective lotion. Then with a cold gaze into the mirror. As winter wind begins to pick up in his ears. He began to peel off the mask. As in the mirror was an eleven year old boy version of him. With a horrified look on his face. The fluttering snow beginning to pick up as it became a howling blizzard as the boy mimicked Seiryū's movements. Peeling off his face, his meat and skin becoming infected, decayed as it is exposed to the elements. Blood with frost laden inside the stream fell to the snow below him. Leaving a skull with blackened, frozen meat stuck to him. Until the last bit of the mask and skin were peeled off.

Seiryū then started to slick his hair back, then tie it up into a gentle ponytail. He smiled in satisfaction before heading out to eat his breakfast. Counting calories as he laid out a balanced breakfast of fruits, a yogurt for a light dessert, and a turkey sausage for protein. Along with a glass of milk for calcium. Once he finished his breakfast, eating slow to savor, digest, and process his food. He began to get dressed. First was a black dress shirt. He folded the collar nice and neatly before changing his underwear for a fresh pair. Then he pulled on black suit pants and once that was on snugly. He put on a belt tucking in his shirt. He put on white socks and recently shined black dress shoes. Before tying a bright red tie around his collar. Pulling up to tighten it just right before putting on a slick, black suit jacket. Once he was all dressed he began to grab his items. He grabbed a suitcase with all of his papers, extra clothes in case someone spills a drink on him, everything he needs. Placing his keys and wallet in his pockets. Finally grabbing a handgun and putting in his suit jacket pocket for a good concealed carry. He was off to go about his business of managing Lastation.

Seiryū walked through the hallways. Employees of Avenir said hi to him or waved as he passed by. "Chairman," a man was fast walking behind Seiryū. The boy's face briefly turned into a sneer before becoming professional. The man had messy brown hair, wearing a purple suit and was bespectacled. "Seiryū…" he said more informally and tenderly. Seiryū turned around and stared at the man. "Ganache, aren't you supposed to be overseeing our organization of the Expo?" Seiryū asked with narrowed eyes. Ganache shuffled his feet. "Have you seen Lady White Heart around? I wanted to give her a gift," he asked as he held a heart shaped box. "Ganache…" Seiryū pinched the bridge of his nose. "Chairman Seiryū, Mr. Ganache," Kei Jinguji interjected as she walked over to the two men. "The board has arrived," she said. "Well, let's go greet our friends, shall we?" Ganache asked with a smile. Seiryū gave him a deadpan look and Ganache chuckled bashfully. The two men walked next to each other. Ganache being a head taller than Seiryū, around Netherrealm's height. Though he was clearly of lithe, lanky frame instead of the muscular warrior that is Seiryū's brother.

Flash!

Netherrealm was thinking, "I have never killed a person before, and a goddess being my first kill? I… I don't know if I can do it," Netherrealm admitted. Shaking at the prospect of fighting and killing a CPU. "You can do it, this will be our moment, humanity's moment to shake off our masters. I will kill White Heart, and you will kill Black Heart. So don't worry, you are not alone in this. I will be right by your side, every step of the way," Seiryū assured Netherrealm. Who looked into his brother's eyes. He then hugged Seiryū tightly. He hugged back, patting Netherrealm on the back. There was a small little thing stuck to the back of Netherrealm's armored torso. When Netherrealm got back to the hotel after spending the day with Neptune. The little thing became a robotic spider. That began to survey the room and get into the corner.

Flash!

Seiryū had a somber air about him as he and Ganache entered the boardroom. A tight, weighty feeling in his chest as he thought about Netherrealm having to assassinate Black Heart. He put his own brother at risk of death or worse. A part of him just wants to call Netherrrealm, telling him to call off that mission. So he can be guaranteed to have a family member still alive. However, the burning, furious feeling of White Heart, Black Heart, Green Heart, and Purple Heart strung up on crosses and gutted for the world to see is tantalizing. The thought of the divine rule collapsing kept him going. Ten men in suits all sat at the roundtable. Seiryū, and Ganache sat in two of the three empty seats. "Singe isn't showing up again?" A board member asked Seiryū. "Yes sir, I apologize, but he has sent his reports in," Seiryū said calmly as he brought out papers, from his suitcase. Handing them to Ganache.

"Singe, Ganache, and I make up Avenir's Triumvirate. Singe is working on our products and maintains a vested interest. However he has no eye for business, and isn't representative of Avenir. He is an invaluable member, but do not find his absence to be disrespectful. Despite having misanthropic tendencies, his work at designing Avenir's products is a tireless, and thankless job. As such meetings of this nature are not his forte. Expecting perfection brings inevitable failure as the Elder Dragon Odysseus said in his transcribed works," Seiryū began as he stood from his seat. Pacing as pressed a remote button. Showing Avenir's stocks, and the current Share Markets. "As you can see, there is an obvious discrepancy? The level of faith in the supposed goddess and our current value. We act independently, we do things our way and achieve results greater than any. We have recently achieved 90% of the market in the field of Lastation's engineering. We spend no extra expense on importing parts as everything is crafted here in Lastation. Suffice to say our nation is the most productive in terms of industrialization," Seiryū paused to allow them to process the statements, to read the profits.

"We have combined the means of production with the state. Achieving something far greater than anything Gamindustri has seen. And as such, if you wish to continue to gain nothing but profits. An absentee member of the Triumvirate shouldn't really matter to us if he is doing invaluable work. Now let us continue the meeting, the reason why you're here. Your continued investment into us," Seiryū finished his point as he sat back down. "It is about respect, Chairman! Clearly Singe has no respect for you, nor the board! Why continue to give him a seat he will not sit in?" A loud mouthed man said as he banged his fist on the table. As the members of the board began to agree amongst themselves. Completely ignoring what Seiryū had just said. "Mr. Erikson, what are you implying?" Seiryū asked with a false smile.

"I am saying, that Singe doesn't show up! And Black Heart has returned from Celestia has she not?! So give her the seat at the Board! We are servants of Black Heart, and her word is law! So let her have a seat on the board and remove Singe!" Erikson boisterously suggested. To Seiryū's horror, everyone was agreeing on it. "That is the Board's decision, Singe shall be removed from his seat and let go. When Lady Black Heart returns. She shall have his seat," another CPU fearing man relayed more calmly. "And if you get smart with us, consider Avenir gone from you Triumvirate. The means of production and the state are combined. As such, Avenir is Lady Black Heart's divine instrument," another sycophantic board member said. As they all began to fawn over Black Heart's beauty and grace.

"With all the profits staying the same as they were. I believe this meeting has no reason to continue anymore," another member said as Seiryū watched as they left the room so quickly. The meeting was so snappy yet disastrous. He looked at the seat Singe is supposed to be at, his face contorting into one of fury. "Fuck, they just fired him? Just like that?" Ganache asked in shock. "Not on my watch," Seiryū growled and Ganache was scared at the sheer contempt that was on his friend's face. "Seiryū, they could just as easily fire you as well, they're all stubborn old Black Heart fearing bastards. They all desire her," Ganache warned Seiryū. "Avenir becoming a corporation was a mistake. They shall not be its downfall," Seiryū said with no emotion in his voice. It was disturbing for Ganache to see a young boy with this type of resentment. "Whatever you're going to do, be careful, may Lady White Heart bless you," Ganache said before he left Seiryū alone. As Seiryū fully believed he is surrounded by nothing but religious sycophants. He needed a breath of fresh air. He took out his phone and began to dial Netherrealm's number. He needed to be with someone who he can fully trust.

During the time of Seiryū's morning, the Quartet were all gathered in Netherrealm and Compa's room. IF had some papers laid out on the floor. All of them were sitting in a circle. "So… no records of the goddess leading an expedition eh?" Neptune asked as IF nodded. "In fact, there hasn't been a single expedition in recent times," IF elaborated. "So what does this mean Iffy?" Compa asked as IF sighed in frustration. "Netty, do you have any ideas why Seiryū would lie to us?" IF asked the big guy. Netherrealm was silent throughout this entire time. "...Seiryū means well, I know he does. He cares about the people of Gamindustri," Netherrealm answered. "So he lied to protect Black Heart?" Neptune asked, hoping for Netherrealm to say that. "I mean, it makes the most logical sense, right? The Public Share Markets indicate that Lastation is the lowest. Trailing behind Leanbox, Lowee, with Planeptune at the top thanks to making a big show about saving Netty. So Black Heart probably doesn't wanna get assassinated," Neptune explained.

IF considered that reason. "Still, the only people holding out faith are real ride or die zealots. So if she sticks with them she'll be more or less safe. The canyons, that's a specific location to give out. Don't you think? You'd think he'd be more vague, wouldn't you agree Netty?" IF pressed further against Netherrealm. Who was still stock silent. Then at that moment, Netherrealm's phone rang. "Hello?" Netherrealm asked and Seiryū smiled at hearing his older brother's voice. "Netherrealm? Would you like to hang out?" He asked casually and Netherrealm nodded, "yeah, I would, where do you wanna meet up?" Seiryū told him where to go and then Netherrealm said goodbye to him. "Where do you think you're going?" IF asked Netherrealm as he stood up. "To hang out with Seiryū," he replied simply as he walked to the door. He opened it and walked out. "Netty! We need to plan! Don't you fucking-!" IF was cut off by Netherrealm slamming the door behind him.

Netherrealm sucked in through his teeth as he looked at the Lastation Basilicom in the distance. He looked at his phone and he got a text from Seiryū with the address of their meeting place. Netherrealm punched in the directions on his map app. Then he started heading towards Craftworld Diner. He used his wired kunai to stick to a building and rappel himself up. He began running on rooftops. Hootin' and hollerin' as he jumped from building to building. Practicing swinging with his wired kunai. Overall having a good time. It was a good way to get exercise and get around town. Soon he spotted the destination and jumped off a rooftop. His wires wrapping around a street lamp. He swung down and landed with a drag on his feet. He heard slow clapping next to him. Netherrealm turned to see Seiryū with a smirk on his face. "Damage property on the way here?" He asked as he looked at Netherrealm's gauntlets. "You a snitch now?" Netherrealm asked with a raised eyebrow. "I am the Chairman of Avenir and I should report it… but I don't think I saw anything," Seiryū replied with a shrug. "You do realize that's nepotism right?" Netherrealm asked as he frowned. "And?" Seiryū asked back as the two laughed before entering the diner.

It looked like less of a diner and more of a kid's art classroom. With all the paintings, origami, sculptures, the tables looking like painting tables. Seiryū and Netherrealm sat down at the bar right next to each other. A humanoid the size of a small child hopped up on a booster to look at the two. It was completely made of burlap sack. Netherrealm looked around and saw the entire staff was made out of Sack People. "Nice atmosphere," Netherrealm commented as Seiryū ordered them drinks. "We're both not of drinking age," Netherrealm scolded. Seiryū rolled his eyes, "since when did you care about that again? And besides, legislation's my bitch anyway." "You're certainly living it up like a CPU," Netherrealm snarked and Seiryū sarcastically laughed. As the mood became more dower. Seiryū looked down at the soda he was given. "What happened to us?" Seiryū asked and Netherrealm looked down at the bar. "I don't know," Netherrealm replied dryly. "Seiryū… Will your plan make things better?" Netherrealm asked as Seiryū had a hurt look on his face. Conflict surged like stormy waters in his violet eyes. "Why wouldn't it?" Seiryū asked, his voice barely above a whisper. Netherrealm chuckled with a bitter smile. "Look at me, thinking I can be a big brother now. I lost that right six years ago," Netherrealm said with a nostalgic sigh. "You never lost that right," Seiryū muttered.

The two were awkwardly silent. "Netherrealm, I always wanted to be like you. You always are so determined and tenacious. I never would've survived without you. I am sorry for always holding you back," Seiryū apologized. "Please, trust in me for once. Just like I trusted you," he pleaded and Netherrealm looked Seiryū in the eyes, before nodding reluctantly. Seiryū smiled brightly and raised his glass of soda. "Cheers bro," Seiryū said and Netherrealm smirked, clinking his glass with Seiryū. The two downed their glass at the same time. Soon after paying, the brothers left the diner. "You got Sack People in Lastation?" Netherrealm asked. Seiryū just shrugged, "who knows? They just sort of showed up one day and made a diner. Food is good so no one complains." Netherrealm nodded as the two walked over to a slick black car. "This your ride?" Netherrealm asked and Seiryū nodded before frowning. He looked over his shoulder before signaling Netherrealm to get into the car. Netherrealm got in the passengers seat.

"Look, just be careful about what you're doing. Okay?" Seiryū requested and Netherrealm nodded. As Seiryū drove off with Netherrealm in tow. "I didn't think you'd of all people would team up with agents of Purple Heart. What happened there?" Seiryū asked curiously and Netherrealm chuckled as he thought back to meeting Neptune. Rubbing his neck unconsciously. "Well, basically I did some shit, something Mr. Straight Laced probably shouldn't know about," Netherrealm said with a teasing smile. "Shut it, I am not a snitch," Seiryū rebutted with a sideways glance, taking a finger off the steering wheel to emphasize his point. Netherrealm began to explain to Seiryū about what led him up to that point. His tenure as an underground fighter, fighting the Vanir Family and Muspeil Family, and he said that the goddess would clear his debts if he did this job for her.

"Purple Heart's back, huh?" Seiryū asked and Netherrealm nodded in confusion, "yeah? Didn't we already tell you that?" "Yes, I was told that, but it was hard to believe and I hoped a private setting would allow us to converse like this," Seiryū elaborated. The brothers gave mirrored smiles. Netherrealm then frowned as he looked at Seiryū. "I know who killed our parents…" Netherrealm said bluntly as Seiryū gripped the steering wheel tightly. His eyes became sharp and focused. "Who?" He asked through a growl. Netherrealm crossed his arms and took a deep breath. "The traitor we're after, Arfoire… She killed our Dads. She… told me," Netherrealm half lied that time. Almost everything he said was true. Though Seiryū had a frown on his face. "I see..." he said looking ahead with an unreadable expression.

"Don't worry, I have some crucial information. Arfoire sought asylum in Lastation before you arrived. And I know where she's skulking about. I'll let you know when you get back from the canyons," Seiryū immediately offered and Netherrealm agreed to the deal without hesitation or consultation from anyone. Their mood lightened up as the brothers thought of vengeance for their fathers. As they gave some small talk as Seiryū pulled up to the hotel thanks to Netherrealm's directions. "Hey, you got this. I wouldn't trust anyone other than you with this job," Seiryū encouraged Netherrealm. As he nodded with a frown before leaving the car. Seiryū then backed up and pulled away from the hotel. Heading back to the Basilicom. He parked in his private spot. Leaving the car and heading into Avenir's headquarters. The once home of Black Heart. Men nodded and said hello to Seiryū as he passed. He soon entered an elevator, heading down to the private workshop he, Ganache, and Singe use. He enters and sees an old man with a red suit, tinkering with gears. "Did you hear the news?" Seiryū asked the old man with a cold gaze. "I told him, Chairman," Ganache piped up as he walked into Seiryū's line of sight.

"Singe, you have to pack up, the board says so," Ganache asked the old man who glared at Ganache. Seiryū clenched his fists as Singe began to gather his things. Yet Seiryū walked over, saying not a word as he instead began to help Singe put his tools back down. "Seiryū?! What are you doing?" Ganache asked as Seiryū turned to look at Ganache. "Doing what is right, we are the Triumvirate! Are we just gonna let investors boss us around?!" Seiryū began to speak with a strong intensity. "We control Lastation, and we have gotten too complacent in our own golden cages. As such, we now act on our control. As thanks to a little help from a foreign client, we now have the means to realize our dreams, YingLong!" Seiryū declared as he slapped down a glowing metal fragment on the table. Singe and Ganache look at him in utter shock.

"Arfoire… she came through for us after all…" Ganache gasped in awe at the fragment. Singe was looking at the readings on his phone. "This thing, it will certainly power YingLong. We no longer have to drain all of Lastation to accomplish this…" Singe said with a wheezing chuckle. Singe then frowned as he looked at the two youths. "Seiryū, Arfoire provided this, right? How did she get such a thing?" Singe asked. "Apparently it's the power fragment of a seal. That's what she said anyway, it all makes sense now. No wonder why Planeptune came calling. It seems Arfoire is up to something, they can have her. Her usefulness has been outlived…" Seiryū put together with a frown. He still needs Arfoire, regardless of who she killed. He looked at Singe and Ganache, he knows that they're not in alignment with him. They intend to take YingLong and Avenir in their own coups, all according to his source. All he can do is trust Netherrealm.

"But what about the board?" Ganache asked and Seiryū looked at him like he was stupid for a second before patting his friend on the shoulder with a smile on his face. "Ganache, your business skills are brilliant, but sometimes you get a bit… overwhelmed with regulations. A bit afraid to get outside the box in terms of legality. Don't worry about it, I can handle it. Their assets will be seized and they will be arrested on high treason and conspiracy. No need to say anything, you never heard this from me. Okay? Let the guy who has the Judiciary by the balls do what's needed. After all that, their seats will be divided between us three, the Triumvirate. That's it, then everything is squared away. Just focus on the dough, ya following me?" Seiryū assured his friend as he held out a fist bump. The two nodded and placed their fists together.

Seiryū smiled as he ordered Singe to resume construction on YingLong. As he headed over to the elevator. Stopping to look at a picture of four people. A boy about thirteen, a girl around eighteen, a man in his twenties, and a man in his seventies. All of them in front of the first location of Avenir. Before it became the competitor known as Passe. Seiryū had a nostalgic look in his eyes before heading over to the elevator. To finally start the wheels that have been waiting for so long. To take the Goddesses out.