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???: "So, Lady 'G.A.I.A.', do we intend to maintain our silence regarding your initial encounter with Aera and your involvement with the Nexus tampering—"

I promptly raised a hand to quell the hovering entity in the cave illuminated by crystals.

I sighed and leaned back in my seat, regarding EliTa with a contemplative gaze. This was not the first time that this particular Tactifloat had spoken out of turn.

Despite such an occurrence, I still find immense value in their presence. This is because the Tactifloats, unlike any programmed algorithm, embody the utmost level of intellect within Zeldritzon. Their sophistication and cognitive abilities far exceed any other technological creation, with the exception of the enigma known as the Nexus.

The capacity of the Tactifloats to amass, assimilate, and retain information is nothing short of astonishing. These jellyfish-like creatures serve as the perfect companions, a rationale in itself to retain their presence.

In spite of that, Tactifloats are, by and large, creatures of monotony. However, EliTa, in particular, defied this trend, being a somewhat challenging associate, if I were to employ a single descriptor.

Nonetheless, EliTa has proven to be an exceptional subordinate ever since our 'connection' was established.

The [D:Rank] jellyfish-like creature traversed the air with a buoyant disposition. Amidst the dimly illuminated cave that enveloped us, numerous other, less sophisticated Tactifloats levitated about, interfacing with holographic screens generated by their [Data-Project] technique.

Due to the agreement I made with the {Specter Fox}, I have been granted the exclusive privilege to acquire this personal domain.

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With a careful negotiation and a calculated risk, I secured this realm for my endeavors in the shadows. The deal was made, staking Aera as a means to establish the foundation of this arrangement.

Aera possessed qualities that intrigued the Specter Fox. Knowing the value this character held, I delicately maneuvered the pieces on the board.

The Specter Fox believed Aera—the Merecritt who claimed to be a creature called a human—would go berserk and experience a meltdown once the Nexus was truly activated.

In spite of my initial hesitation, I ultimately made the decision to have faith in Aera. I took a gamble on her ability to maintain control over herself and successfully endure the synchronization process, all while preserving her own identity. It was with this mindset that I recognized the sacrifice of the Doervus as something necessary, although it remained intriguing in its own right that the creature managed to survive.

EliTa's probing into my intentions was evident, yet I was wise enough not to divulge too much information to this cunning creature. In my line of work, preserving an air of mystery was of utmost importance, especially when it came to handling the Tactifloats.

"I appreciate your concern, EliTa," I replied smoothly, my fan pointed at the creature. "But as the orchestrator of this dainty web of events, I assure you that my silence on these matters is a calculated choice. The less information that is divulged, the better our position remains."

EliTa's luminescent form pulsated slightly, an indication of its curiosity. It seemed almost impossible to hide anything from the Tactifloats, their ability to analyze and process information surpassing even my own... for now. But I had become adept at using their natural analytical tendencies to my advantage.

"Involving Aera was a strategic move," I continued, my words carefully chosen. "She possesses a unique quality, a strength of character that I believe will serve us well. And I have every confidence that she will rise to the occasion."

The cave's holographic screens flickered, displaying snippets of critical data pertaining to Aera, the Nexus, as well as extensive information regarding Zeldritzon. The Tactifloats, always hungry for knowledge, absorbed the data with an almost insatiable thirst. Their inquisitiveness was both fascinating and frightening, a flimsy equilibrium I had to constantly maintain.

Furthermore, in addition to considering the Tactifloats, I found myself increasingly drawn to analyzing the occurrences that took place surrounding the Mournfoombo.

As I pondered the anomaly of the Mournfoombo's presence within the [Zone 1] region of the UvoSath, my mind whirred with calculations and possibilities. The Specter Fox, a being known for its inability to lie under oath, had explicitly stated that it was not to blame for this disconcerting occurrence.