Chapter 22: Connie and Rim
The Year 2530, Kelly's Laboratory
From the outside, Kelly's laboratory looked more like a mansion than a research facility. Despite the tall fences, an imposing gate, and electronic signs at the entrance flashing "Keep Out," the overall ambiance felt more like a luxurious vacation home with a swimming pool and tennis court. The interior design mirrored this impression, with the feel of a lavish villa. The only indicators of scientific purpose were a few display cases in the hallways showcasing various items. Only upon descending into the basement did the laboratory's true nature come to light, with its white walls etched with circuit-like patterns leading to a solid metal door.
Doraemon's group stopped in front of the door as Kelly stepped forward, placing her hand on a digital scanner. A slot opened on the door, scanning Kelly's eyes. When the verification process was complete, Kelly struck a triumphant pose and loudly declared, "The greatest scientist of all time, Kelly-sama, is here to conduct an experiment!"
A cheerful "Ding!" followed as a mechanical voice from the door replied, "Welcome back, Kelly!" With a click and whir, the door began to open.
"Wow, Doraemon! This place is incredible. The upper floors look like a massive villa, and the basement feels like a cutting-edge science facility!" Nobita's eyes sparkled with excitement. This was exactly the kind of secret base he'd always dreamed about.
"Though… the password for access seems a bit narcissistic," Doraemon teased lightly, smirking at Kelly.
Karen couldn't suppress a giggle, covering her mouth as Kelly's cheeks turned slightly red. Despite her embarrassment, Kelly puffed up her chest and retorted proudly, "Well, it's true—I am the greatest scientist!"
The door fully opened as Kelly cleared her throat and motioned for everyone to follow her. "Let's go in!" she said. The group passed through a white corridor, where an increasing number of screens covered the walls. By the time they reached the end of the hallway, they entered a room where countless electronic screens formed the walls, floor, and ceiling—there were no visible exits or pathways, just a world of glowing displays.
"This is the control and observation room," Karen explained to Nobita and Doraemon. "From here, we can access other areas using voice commands."
While Nobita marveled at the room, Kelly moved to its center. Some screens on the floor and ceiling detached and aligned to form a larger display in front of her. She commanded, "B2!" The display briefly showed the words "Processing…" before returning to its original configuration. Meanwhile, the screens on the left side of the room slid apart, revealing a pathway.
***
On B2, a large white chamber awaited them. The room was well-equipped with amenities, but the area ahead was blocked by a glowing energy barrier. Behind the barrier were two young women. One appeared to be around 10 years old, with blonde hair tied in a ponytail, dressed in a cowboy outfit. The other looked about 20, with chestnut-brown hair and a red dress. Both lay sprawled on a bed, looking bored and listless.
"Do you think Kelly and Karen can really pull off their plan, Connie?" the older woman asked the younger one.
You've already asked me that dozens of times, Rim!" Connie snapped, shooting an annoyed look at Rim before rolling over and pulling a pillow over her head.
"Ugh… How did things end up like this…" Rim sighed heavily. She reflected on their past—how happy they had all been working together. Late nights, endless hours of research, and shared determination had bonded the four of them like a family. Despite losing their real families, they had found a new one in each other. Their greatest achievement—the time machine—had been a culmination of all their effort and passion. But that moment of triumph marked the beginning of their rift. Kelly's ambitions to become a savior of humanity had fractured the group, with Karen supporting her. Rim and Connie had opposed them vehemently, shattering their unity and turning former friends into rivals.
Lost in thought, Rim suddenly noticed Kelly standing at the barrier. Sitting up in surprise, she nudged Connie, pulling the pillow off her face.
Annoyed, Connie grumbled, "Can't you leave me alone—" But she froze mid-sentence when she saw Kelly. "Look who's returned—the almighty savior." Connie said sarcastically, while Rim silently glared at Kelly, questioning her motives.
Kelly remained calm, her gaze steady. "We need your help."
"Help? Are you out of your mind? There's no way we'd ever help you!" Connie stormed up to the barrier, slamming her hand against it in frustration.
"I won't help you, Kelly," Rim stated coldly, her tone more restrained but equally firm.
Kelly sighed, massaging her temples. "Could you at least let me finish speaking? Karen, bring Nobita and Doraemon in. I'm too tired to deal with this."
"Wait, Nobita and Doraemon? What did you do to them?" Connie shouted, her voice filled with anger and suspicion.
At that moment, Nobita and Doraemon entered the room with Karen. Nobita scratched his cheek, torn between curiosity and nervousness as he stared at the two women behind the barrier. Are they really the ones behind Jaian and Suneo? he wondered.
Kelly calmly walked over and deactivated the energy barrier, allowing Connie and Rim to step out. Both girls were visibly confused, their eyes darting between Kelly, Karen, Doraemon, and Nobita, trying to make sense of the situation.
Karen broke the silence. "It's a long story," he said, walking toward a table in the room. She gestured for everyone to sit down before continuing, "We'll explain everything."
Kelly took a seat, with Doraemon and Nobita following suit. Connie and Rim remained frozen for a moment, uncertainty written across their faces. Nobita noticed and turned to them. Despite his nervousness about the two girls, he gave them a reassuring nod and said, "It's okay. Sister Kelly and Karen don't mean any harm!"
Hearing Nobita's words, Connie and Rim still hesitated for a moment but eventually moved to join the group. Their curiosity had taken hold—they needed to know what was going on.