Closing the Case

As the investigators meticulously reviewed the CCTV footage, a skilled technician analyzed the footage to extract crucial information. They played back the match video and projected it into the arena's huge hologram screen, visible to the citizens of Neo Arcadia.

The video clearly showed Maverock initiating the attack on Noa with a knife, a clear violation of the rules that warranted disqualification. In response, Noa's AI companion responded to the threat to his owner by flying and firing the laser.

Noa didn't explicitly command the counterattack, but it still broke the rule. However, it was evident that it occurred after Maverock had already surrendered and the battle had been over by the time Cloud acted.

Hence, it was concluded that the attack was outside the boundaries of the battle and did not infringe upon the rules.

Korneli Bolkvad, the imposing figure in body armor, stood silently as his accusations earlier were debunked.

"Do you see, officer? I have not committed any fraudulent acts or broken any rules," Noa asserted firmly, seemingly offended.

The officer nodded solemnly, his expression serious. "Indeed, after careful examination, we have determined that the attack was outside the scope of the battle and did not breach any regulations. You have been fully cleared of charges."

"I apologize. Case closed," the office added. This hadn't been their first unpleasant encounter.

"It's alright." Noa sighed, feeling an immense sense of relief washing over him. Although he had clearly known that he had done nothing wrong, the weight of false accusations had burdened him. With his name cleared, he felt as though a heavy burden had been lifted from his shoulders.

A moment later, Noa winced. Amidst the hysteria of the winner announcement and the investigation of false accusations, he had momentarily forgotten about the wound on his back.

After replenishing his body with nutrients, his strength slowly returned, but the lingering pain persisted.

"Noa, let me tend to your wound," a woman's voice caught Noa's attention.

He turned around to find Venus 88 standing beside him.

"Oh, I think I'm fine. Don't worry," Noa replied.

"But your wound needs to be cleaned to prevent infection and aid in a speedy recovery. I'll take good care of you," she insisted.

"She's right, Noa. Just go with her," So-Rin interjected.

"Alright then," Noa eventually agreed to receive treatment.

"Excuse me," Venus 88 said as she gently guided Noa to a nearby bench.

Noa sat down and observed as Venus 88 unpacked her medical kit. With a calm and methodical demeanor, she cleaned and dressed his wound, her hands moving skillfully, a testament to years of experience.

"Is it still painful?" Venus 88 asked.

"No, not really," Noa shook his head.

"You've grown into a great man," Venus 88 giggled. "I remember when I treated your wounds after you fell from your bike."

"I don't really remember it. My memories of the past are gone now," Noa sighed. "So, what happened?" he inquired.

"After you fell, your father performed a procedure that shouldn't have been done," Venus 88 said, taking a medical injection and administering it to Noa.

"Oh, I read about that on the memo device. After that, I got the alien hand syndrome. I've been through a lot," Noa replied.

Venus 88 nodded, her eyes filled with understanding. "Sometimes, the most difficult experiences can lead us down unexpected paths. It's up to us to decide how we'll react to them."

"I know, right! I've decided to go with the flow and do my best. With my memories gone, I have one purpose left that I want to achieve."

"What is it?" Venus 88 asked as she took a roll of bandage and wrapped it around the wound on Noa's back near his right shoulder.

"To get back at those who ruined my life and devastated the world," Noa voiced firmly.

Venus 88's expression shifted from understanding to concern. "I can understand how you feel, but going against… It may not be the best approach. It might only lead you to more suffering."

Noa looked at Venus 88 and paused, contemplating her words. "You're right. But I don't care anymore. It made me lose everything. I don't believe it's just me. Humans are known to be corrupted, yet somehow, it's worse now. That's why… I want to put everything back in place."

Venus 88 nodded. "I understand. I just wish there was another way to handle the situation. Something that won't harm you."

"Don't worry about me. I'll work smarter. I won't let anger consume me. Instead, I'll strategize and take step-by-step actions to destroy my enemies at the right moment."

"Great," Venus 88 smiled. "I have no doubt that you will. Remember, every obstacle is an opportunity for growth. Keep pushing forward and never give up on yourself."

Noa smiled back. "I won't. Thank you for your encouragement and the medical treatment. You've been a great help."

When she finished, Venus 88 smiled at Noa and gave him a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "You'll be just fine," she said warmly, and then she left him alone.

Feeling better, Noa stood up and looked around for his friends.

Scanning the tournament area, Noa searched for Eden and So-Rin in the crowd. He spotted them sitting in chairs across the park, waving at him. Noa smiled and made his way over to them.

As he sat down, Eden asked, "How was it?"

Noa took a deep breath and replied, "Venus 88 treated me well." He showed them his well-bandaged back.

So-Rin smiled and said, "Oh, that's great. I hope you'll recover soon."

Noa nodded, grateful for So-Rin's concern. "Thanks, I'm sure I will," he replied.

Feeling a renewed sense of energy, Noa stood up from the chair and said, "So, do you guys have any plans after this tournament? Anyone want to join me?"

Eden and So-Rin both nodded, and Eden even said, "Of course, man. I'll go with you to the end of the world."

Hearing that, Noa heartily laughed. It was a weird contrast against Eden's emotionless voice.