Risebelle entered her inner mind once again. She found herself in the familiar space where she often conversed with the Gentle System. This time, there was a sense of readiness in Risebelle who has been through this many times before.

  "Back again, Project Zab," the Gentle System greeted.

  "Yeah, yeah. Let's get this over with," Risebelle responded.

  The Gentle System observed Risebelle's demeanor, detecting a subtle shift in her attitude. "You seem more composed than before. The recent battles and training must have made an impact."

  Risebelle shrugged. "Just trying not to be a burden to my sisters. They're getting stronger, and I can't lag behind."

  The Gentle System nodded “Your desire to improve is commendable. Now, let's delve into this memory fragment. It's larger than any you've encountered before, and it might be the last one."

  Risebelle sighed. “Larger than the others? What's in this one?"

  "Project Zab, or rather, Risebelle, I believe it's time we addressed you by your name."

  Risebelle arched an eyebrow. "You're just a system. What's the big deal? Call me whatever the hell you want. I could care less."

  The Gentle System explained, "It's a symbol of acknowledgment and recognition. You've grown, and it's time your identity reflects that growth. So from now on, I will call you Risebelle."

  Risebelle hesitated for a moment after hearing the significance of the moment from the System. After a brief pause, she nodded. “Fine. Whatever floats your boat. Let's just dive into this memory fragment already."

  "Before we proceed, Risebelle," the Gentle System began, "there are matters I need to discuss with you. There are a few things that have been left unsaid between us."

  Risebelle raised an eyebrow. “Yeah?"

  The Gentle System took a moment, choosing its words carefully. "Risebelle, I've grown fond of our interactions. In this journey, I've come to appreciate your leadership abilities and your confidence in yourself. Also, there's something I wish to tell you, but I fear it might be too late when the time comes."

  Risebelle glared with her arms folded. "Cut the cryptic nonsense. What the hell do you have to say to me?"

  The Gentle System sighed. "In simpler terms, I've grown attached to you. Life is not always gentle, but the people within it have the power to make it so. I wish things could have been...'gentler' between us."

  Risebelle's face became red. "Why are you making this weird...?”

  The Gentle System responded, "There's no need for embarrassment. It's just an acknowledgment of the unique bond we share. Risebelle, you must know the truth. After this memory fragment, everything will change."

  Risebelle raised an eyebrow. "Change? How?"

  The Gentle System explained, "Project ZAB will be at full power. You'll have access to abilities and knowledge beyond your current grasp. And as for me, I will no longer be a part of your life, given the right circumstances."

  Risebelle processed the information. "So, I'll be on my own?"

  The Gentle System nodded, "Yes, but not without the strength and capabilities you've earned. This is a necessary step for your growth, Risebelle."

  Risebelle took a deep breath. "So, finally, you'll be gone. No offense, but you've been way too nice for your own good. I appreciate that you taught me not to lash out at every human I come across and to channel my anger into strength. But honestly, you've been getting on my nerves with your nitpicking about every little speck of hatred."

  The Gentle System's tone softened. "It's been my duty to guide you, and sometimes that means challenging you to confront your darker impulses. I understand it hasn’t been easy, but it was meant to help you grow."

  A smirk appeared on Risebelle’s lips with a hint of sadness. "Yeah, well, it's going to feel different without you around. Even if you drove me nuts, you were always there, part of this... whole process...."

  "There's one more thing I must convey, Risebelle," the System said. "After the memory fragment, you will receive a substantial amount of information. I would prefer not to overwhelm you, but given the circumstances, it may be unavoidable."

  Risebelle raised one hand and responded, "I can handle it. Whatever information you have, just give it to me. I'm sure whatever it is, iv'e probably dealt with worse already."

  The system spoke solemly. "Is that so? You should be afraid of what’s going to happen." The features of the system shifted, displaying a fleeting darkness covering it. Risebelle, noticing the change, questioned, "The hell was that dark thing that covered you just now?”

  The System reverted to its usual appearance. "Just a minor glitch. Nothing to worry about."

  Risebelle stated, "You're not stupid enough to try anything that would hurt me or my sisters. What should I be worried about?"

  The System held a contemplative look. "There are complexities in the information you'll receive. It's a burden I've carried, and I want to ensure you can bear it without fracturing."

  Risebelle, though curious, nodded. "Fine, give me whatever you've got. I'm not backing down."

  Stolen novel; please report.

  The Gentle System summoned the memory fragment in a breathtaking display. Within Risebelle's inner mind, a colossal crystal materialized. The crystal dominated the mental space with its sheer size.

  Risebelle stood in awe before the immense crystalline structure. "You weren't kidding around on the size of this thing… it’s so damn big!"

  The Gentle System nodded. "Indeed, Risebelle. This memory fragment is vast, holding a wealth of information about your past, your abilities and the experiences you have went through."

  Risebelle approached the crystal and place a hand on it. "Time to see what's in there this time.”

  The radiant glow of the crystal enveloped Risebelle's consciousness. She found herself transported back to a pivotal moment. A familiar scene unfolded with the presence of Sadie, who was about to disclose her true identity.

  Sadie, with her distinct blue-and-pink hair, stood before Risebelle, projecting an air of profound sadness. "I've hidden my name for a good reason. I am the result of Shadowcroft's fusion, the merging of two supernatural powers. My ability is insight. If I touch someone, I can gain knowledge about them, their past, their abilities, their secrets..."

  Sadie paused before stating, "My real name is Runebelle… but Roselle, you already know this."

  Runebelle’s gaze turned to Roselle as she continued, "Rosebelle is your Doppelganger, Roselle. After you defeated her at Club Crimson, I... I took her into custody. Shadowcroft has been our enemy for a long time, and Rosebelle had valuable information. The Key to Shadowcroft is a term they used for someone who knows the location of their main base."

  Roselle's eyes widened in realization.

  Roselle's eyes widened in realization. Runebelle eyed a corner of the room." Now, there's someone else I'd like you all to meet."

  Footsteps echoed in the room, drawing the attention of Roselle, Risebelle and Jess.

  They turned their attention toward the source of the sound, witnessing the entrance of a figure clad in a green military suit and lab coat. She had Short pink hair which was in sidetails. Violet-colored headphones also adorned her ears.

  "Hello, ladies and gentlemen," The woman greeted. "I'm Juliana Kintovar, and I must say, it's a pleasure to finally meet you all in person. I've been following your progress closely, and I believe we can work together to put an end to Shadowcroft's schemes."

  Juliana's gaze swept over the group. Roselle exchanged glances with Risebelle and Jess.

  Runebelle gestured towards Juliana."Juliana is the mastermind behind the Memory Removal device. Once attached, it's irreversible. The Doppelganger's memories and identity is wiped away, rendering them unable to cause harm or impersonate anyone ever again. She's also responsible for the handcuffs we will be using to combat the Doppelgangers. It’s designed to suppress their abilities."

  Juliana nodded. "The Memory Removal device is a powerful tool, but it's a last resort. Our main goal is to expose and dismantle Shadowcroft. The final battle is upon us, and with your unique abilities, we have a chance to succeed."

  Juliana turned to the trio with her hands now placed behind her back. "Are you ready for the final battle with Shadowcroft? This won't be easy, but together, we can put an end to the threat that has plagued the lives of many for far too long."

  The trio nodded their hands. Juliana grinned. She approached Rosebelle and skillfully unbound and ungagged her. Rosebelle wasted no time in raising her voice.” Like, seriously, what's your problem, like, totally binding me up and stuff? This is so not cool! I've got, like, rights and stuff, you know!"

  Before Rosebelle could escalate further, Runebelle fixed her with a gloomy stare. The room seemed to darken as Runebelle approached her.

  "Enough," Runebelle spoke with authority. “You won't be causing any harm after what you've done. In fact, you're going to help us. You will lead us straight to Shadowcroft's base and assist in bringing them down, or do you think you can beat me?"

  Rosebelle's eyes flared with defiance. “Hell yeah, I can kick your as—”

  Runebelle didn’t let her finish. With a swift motion, she pulled out a sleek, pen-like device from her pocket.

  Rosebelle’s eyes widened in terror. “No! Not that! Anything but that!” she cried.“I’ll do it! I’ll cooperate! Just don’t use that on me!”

  She visibly cowered. Her bravado was vaporized in mere moments. Risebelle was struck by the contrast between the Rosebelle she knew and the Rosebelle cowering figure before her now.

  “That’s right,” Runebelle with authority. “We’re not here to play games. You’re going to lead us to Shadowcroft’s base and help us dismantle their operations. Any further resistance will only make things worse for you.”

  Rosebelle nodded vigorously. Her eyes darted between Runebelle and the device in fear. “Okay, okay! I’ll do it! Just don’t use that thing on me! I’ll lead you wherever you need to go!”

  Risebelle raised a hand under her chin. "Wait a minute. Roselle, the crybaby innocent one, took down Rosebelle? How is that even possible? She doesn't look like she could last two seconds in the ring against a paper bag."

  Runebelle, standing beside Roselle, gave Risebelle a knowing look. "Roselle is more capable than you might think, Risebelle. Her strength lies in her resilience, her ability to endure and adapt. She faced Rosebelle, and despite her innocence and defeated her.”

  Runebelle glanced down at Roselle. Her gloomy face softened into a rare faint smile. Roselle looked up with awe and pride before returning the smile.

  Jess swooped in with enthusiasm. She grabbed Roselle, lifting her slightly off the ground. She brushed her hair back. "This little cutie is amazing! I never would have guessed she could take down someone who even gave Risebelle trouble. You’re a real gem, Roselle."

  Risebelle, with a smirk, added, "It’s true. I couldn't beat Rosebelle myself. Roselle’s way stronger than she looks."

  Jess winked at Risebelle. "That’s why they say, 'Don’t judge a book before you taste it.'"

  Risebelle raised an eyebrow. "That’s definitely not the saying…."

  Juliana, watched the exchange with a bemused look. "It’s good to see the team getting along. But let’s not lose sight of why we’re here. We’ve got a mission to complete, and time is of the essence."

  Roselle looked slightly embarrassed, but also pleased. "I’m ready to help. Just point me in the right direction."

  Runebelle gave Roselle a reassuring pat on the back. "Excellent. Let’s finish what we started."

  The group stepped outside. They were greeted by a thick, swirling fog that obscured the surroundings. . Rosebelle, leading the way, tried to maintain her composure, but the constant presence of Runebelle’s piercing glare made her jittery. Every so often, Rosebelle would glance over her shoulder with irritation.

  Jess and Risebelle trailed behind. Their pace was slower compared to the swift movements of the others. Jess broke the silence between them. "So, Risebelle, who do you think is the strongest in our little group?"

  Risebelle mulled it over before responding. "That’s an easy one, Sadie-- erm, Runebelle. Gonna have to get used to that name now."

  Jess chuckled softly. "Yeah, ‘Runebelle’ does have a nice ring to it. But I get what you mean. It’s gonna take a bit to get used to."

  Risebelle nodded. “It’s weird not calling her Sadie, but she’s definitely the strongest among us."

  Jess’s eyes twinkled with mischief. “Alright, since we’re on the subject of favorites, who do you think is the cutest among us?”

  Risebelle shook her head with a smirk. “Oh, I see where this is going. I’m not playing along with that one.”

  Jess pouted. “Aww, come on! I put alot of thought into these questions, you know!"

  Risebelle’s tone turned serious. “Yeah, well, don’t forget we’re in the middle of a mission here. We need to stay focused.”

  Jess sighed. “You’re such a buzzkill, Risebelle. But if you really want to know, I’d say you’re the cutest.”

  Risebelle raised an eyebrow. “Me? I’m not sure I’d agree with that...”

  Jess grinned. “Hey, it’s the truth. And it’s good to have some positivity before we dive into the battle with Shadow croft.”

  Juliana, with a wide smile on her face, said, "Let's begin, shall we?”