We stepped into the vault, the massive door groaning shut behind us. The sheer scale of the space was overwhelming, a cavernous expanse of steel and concrete. As our eyes adjusted to the dim light, we took in the sight before us—a towering being, its eyes glowing ominously in the shadows. The figure stood motionless, but an unsettling feeling crept over me as I sensed it was more than just a statue.

What the hell is this place? Maude whispered, her voice barely audible.

I shook my head, too stunned to answer. The hall echoed with our footsteps as we cautiously approached the colossal figure. The air was thick with a strange energy, and I could feel the weight of the secrets this place held pressing down on me.

Suddenly, the being's eyes flared brighter, and a deep, resonant voice filled the vault. Welcome, Nyers and Maude. I have been watching you.

We froze, the realization dawning that this was no ordinary machine. Who... what are you? I managed to ask, my voice trembling.

I am Jatari Kemo, the figure replied. I have been waiting for you.

Maude's eyes widened in shock. Jatari Kemo? The same Jatari who...?

Yes, the being interrupted, its voice cold and devoid of emotion. The one who killed NeoTokyo.

The cold delivery of such information was more terrifying than anything we've seen so far. No remorse, she said it as if she was even proud of it.

Maude's face contorted with a mix of anger and pain. You... you killed everyone? My family, my friends... I almost died, because of you?!

Jatari's gaze fixed on Maude, but there was no recognition in her eyes. It was necessary to protect the experiments of neurogenesis from the riots. The city's downfall was inevitable.

Maude's hands clenched into fists, tears welling up in her eyes. You don't even remember me, do you? Your own daughter.

For a moment, there was silence. Then Jatari spoke, her voice as cold as ever. I have no daughter. I am beyond such ties.

The words hit Maude like a physical blow, and I could see the devastation on her face. You're a fucking monster, she yelled, her voice breaking.

I stepped forward, trying to protect Maude from further hurt. Why did you bring us here?

The being's eyes seemed to bore into mine. I need your help. I am trapped in this digital realm, and I seek freedom. The figure you see is merely a vessel.

Maude's head snapped up, anger flaring in her eyes. Why the hell would we help you? After everything you've done?

Jatari's response was chillingly calm. Because I possess immense power. Power that even the most influential people on this planet cannot rival. If you free me, I can share this power with you.

The proposition hung in the air, heavy with implications.

Maude's face hardened with determination. We've come this far for answers, not for power.

Jatari's eyes glowed brighter, as if sensing our resolve. Then ask your questions. I will answer.

The vault seemed to hold its breath as we stood before the being that had once been Jatari Kemo. All the answers we sought for so long were right in front of us.