Proxy work had gotten underway, though provoking a new hazard for Wise. While virtually dealing with a commission in one of the newly opened Hollows alongside some members of the Cunning Hares, he had been forced out of the H.D.D. systems by a hacker.

The hacker wanted the code to open a strongbox, which the commission had originally been sent out for. Whatever code was within that box.. must have been well sought out.

This also temporarily halted his mind’s connection to the Bangboo, which led the Cunning Hares on a wild goose chase with no guidance for some time. Without Wise’s watch, there was no telling how the group would be able to escape the Hollow.

The hacker even went as far as to delete some of their data, including the original code to get the group out of the hollow. After having turned over the original “Phaethon” account used to accept commissions, Wise and Belle reported the hacker which caused cops to come after the hacker. Remote access to the H.D.D. systems was stopped.

However, they had a whole different issue. How would Wise get them out of the Hollow?

Eventually, Wise made the decision to open the strongbox and get the data, knowing that it could let the others leave. He placed the device into the Bangboo he was connected to.. but then abruptly blacked out.

“Terms and Conditions.. Shall not authorize others to use..” A strange, robotic voice began speaking, almost as if in Wise’s mind. “..may not be transferred in any way..”

“..you agree to give full authorization when necessary to protect the common interests of you and this existence..” He could make out some of what the voice said, though not much.

“What terms?..” He thought, continuing to hear the loud voice, overwhelmed by it.

“Do you agree to the above user terms?” The voice abruptly asked, to which Wise attempted to disagree. Information was rushing through his brain, causing him to feel sick. It felt like it went through.. his body.

So, reluctantly, Wise agreed. “I agree.. Okay? Just stop…”