A signal!
The bridge fell silent in an instant. Even Lucretia, who was usually cool and composed, widened her eyes slightly—out here, beyond the Six Nautical Mile Threshold Line, a "signal" had appeared. No one could possibly remain calm, especially when they were already lost!
How could there be a signal here? Who had sent it? Was it a real "event," or... another vicious trap created by this dense fog for its unwelcome visitors?
"Prepare defenses!" Lucretia spoke at once. In a flash, she was beside the control console, pulling a lever between the devices. Luni beside her reacted immediately as well. The clockwork doll rapidly pressed several buttons on the platform, then stepped back, grasped the key in her back, pulled it out slightly, and turned it backward three times.
With a faint series of clicks, exquisite seams suddenly split open along Luni's arms, legs, and neck. Runes beneath her skin gradually lit up, while her eyes began to glow a dim crimson. At the same time, machinery began operating throughout the bridge. Numerous grates and pipe vents that had been concealed emerged from the floors and walls, and the scent of incense and a strange, low hum enveloped everyone.
Shirley stared at the sight, dumbfounded. After a moment, she finally cried out in belated surprise, "...Whoa... You had something this awesome?!"
Nina could not help staring as well, her eyes wide as she looked at the clockwork doll in some kind of defensive state. "...How did you transform just now?"
Luni shuddered beneath Nina's seemingly scorching gaze—or perhaps it was not merely seeming. The sound of parts knocking together came from inside her. "Mistress doesn't let outsiders take me apart..."
"After exploring the border for years, one had to be prepared for unexpected situations," Lucretia said with a