Author’s note: Some actual news this time! Charlotte Tapp, the lovely illustrator for this project, has declared she is willing to take art requests for content that has to do with the NAUTILUS story. If you wish to see anything in particular, leave a comment below. This is a continuation of last week’s article, which was the eighth installment of this story. Any comments are welcome. This is an episodic story, which means you the audience have an opportunity to influence some things. If there are any events you want to happen or prefer to avoid, do say so. This tale may just go in that direction. Now, back to the story.

As they waited for the monorail to arrive, they did visit Kiot’s Place. Vise ordered a roasted fowl with six wings. Whole, minus the head and feet. Kyumi on the other hand simply requested a gallon of water. Both parties looked at the each other in confusion. So, without speaking to each other and carrying their respective meals, they stood patiently; hoping for the train to be on time and end their silence. After boarding and taking their seats, Kyumi gazes out the window once more.

Passing the grove a second time, Kyumi has developed an even greater appreciation for it in less than an hour. Once in Lesser Swiolf, the smaller of the two business districts, things take a turn. The buildings appear to be recently constructed, yet have already fallen into some state of disrepair. Stores and restaurants seem to be open, yet no one is inside. Or wishes to enter.

Realizing Kyumi’s confusion, Vise speaks up. “This was an attempt at reviving certain aspects of civilization. You know, stores, dining areas, social shit. People moved in, got stranded when things fell apart, and now only the husks remain.”

With a small bow, Kyumi replies, “Unfortunate. Much loss. Nothing here good?”

“Well, there are good things here. It’s just harder to see them.”

The pair gets off at the last stop, taking their food with them as they make their way to the Quarantine District. On the walls surrounding them are intricate and beautiful murals, likely painted by the people who are desperate to find some joy in this place. The closer and closer they got to their destination, the more decrepit everything became. No one wants to be near quarantine.

At that moment, Kyumi hears the pitter-patter of footsteps and sees movement. As he reacts, a gun goes off. The bullet hits Kyumi’s leg as he shifts his position, ricocheting off the plating, as he raises his left arm. The armor rearranges itself to reveal a sonic carbine, which overlays itself on his hand. A bone-shaking, shrieking sound fills the air as he fires it upward in a bid to scare off anyone dumb enough to test his patience. Silence falls upon them as the chaotic tone fades into the distance.

“Son of bitch!” Vise yells out, gripping his thigh as he lay on the ground next to Kyumi. The bullet intended for Kyumi had struck him instead. Blood already seeping into his pant leg, he tries his best to stop the flow. Realizing that Vise is need of help he cannot provide, Kyumi lifts him up off the ground despite the cries of pain.

Quarantine. Doctor there is. Should be. Must find. Will find.

Author’s end note: Part nine is now completed. Another show of appreciation to Charlotte Tapp and all the work she has put into this project. Again, criticism and comments are encouraged. Next week will be part ten, stay tuned!