Duet Night Abyss story · Side stories

Little Researcher

Chapter Noctoyager

4 scenes, 384 lines

1. Speak with Theo

96 lines
Theo

Where did all the rats go...?

(The boy cranes his neck, peering curiously into the dark mouth of the sewer.)

Your choice

(Greet him)

(Sneak up on him and give him a scare)

Theo

Whoa! Oh, it's you...

Hey! Fancy running into you again, Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}!

Why do you have time to hang around? Mum says most Charons spend all day and night slaving away in factories.

Vita

I'm a Phoxhunter.

Theo

Oh! My classmates told me about that! They said Phoxhunters are "idiots who'll do anything for a handful of coins."

But that's just what they say! Can you tell me what it's really like?

Your choice

(Show him your battle scars)

Theo

Whoa... so it's really dangerous work, huh...

Your choice

(Show him the money you earned)

Theo

Wow, you can make that much!?

Your choice

(Flash your weapon and try to look menacing)

Theo

Hmm? You mean... you're super strong?

Mmm... I'd love to see what a Phoxhunter's workday is really like... Ah! I've got an idea!

I'm planning to run a field study on the sewer's ecosystem! Would you come with me?

Think of it like a commission, I'll pay you properly, I promise!

Yay! Let's go!

You know, people always say rats are nasty little creatures, but honestly, I think they're really interesting!

Once, right here, I spotted this huge, impressive-looking rat. It reminded me of the "Rat Warrior" from those old legends.

The Rat Warrior was born a scrawny little mouse, but he overcame every hardship, fought bravely, and became a hero who protected his kind!

The rat I saw had tons of scars, proof of all its battles, I bet. And it was carrying this weird little bottle on its back... maybe it was some kind of special gear?

Your choice

Maybe it was a sample bottle or something used for experiments.

Theo

Hmm... you might be right. Maybe someone was using it for experiments... that's kinda creepy to think about...

But even so, it accepted its fate bravely! That's the spirit of a true hero!

Your choice

Sounds like a legend come to life. Pretty fascinating.

Theo

Hehe, I think so too!

It's just a shame you won't get to meet it anymore...

Your choice

Why not?

You make it sound like you're about to silence me...

That rat sounds like it could've eaten you whole.

Theo

Hey, that's mean! It was a good rat, it never even tried to attack me! Such a shame it's gone now...

A few days ago, I saw a beggar catch the Rat Warrior... and turn it into kebabs... waaah...

*sigh*... It's sad, but stuff like that happens in research all the time. Right now, I just want to check in on the little rats it used to take care of.

Come on, let's go! If we follow the squeaks, we should be able to find the nest!

Your choice

Alright. Stay behind me, I'll keep you safe.

Theo

Thanks! You're so reliable!

Your choice

I'm scared... you go first.

Theo

Huh!? But you were acting so brave a minute ago...

Fine, fine, stick close behind me.

Wow... the sewers are way bigger than I thought!

(A flash of grey darts past the corner, it looks like a small rat scurrying away.)

Theo

Ah! Did you see that? That little rat with the broken tail, I've seen it before! It was one of the Rat Warrior's friends!

Aww... it got away...

I guess... it doesn't remember me anymore...

(The boy frowns slightly, lost in thought.)

Theo

Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}, do you think animals have feelings? I really want to figure it out, but... I don't speak their language...

Your choice

They have feelings if you believe they do.

Theo

No, no, that's way too subjective! Real research needs solid evidence!

Maybe if we watch their behaviour closely, we can figure it out.

Your choice

Feelings aren't only shared through words. You can tell a lot just by watching what they do.

Theo

Oh! That's a good point!

Let's see... if the smaller rats really respected the Rat Warrior, then they'd act like him, brave, friendly to humans, and caring towards their friends, right?

Alright! Let's test that theory! That little one ran around the corner, come on, let's catch up!

That must be their nest!

(Shrill squeaks echo from the nest, carried by a sour, unpleasant smell. But Theo doesn't flinch, his wide eyes stay locked on the rats, studying their every move intently.)

(The little rats are brawling, snapping and biting each other over a scrap of stale bread.)

Theo

Uhh... They don't exactly seem caring towards each other.

(A few rats, startled by your presence, suddenly scatter and flee.)

Theo

And... not exactly brave, either...

(A few rats remain. Their eyes gleam dangerously, then, without warning, they charge straight at you!)

Theo

Aaaah! Why are they attacking us all of a sudden!? That's so rude!

Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}, we have to run!

Vita

You keep yourself safe. I'll handle this.

Theo

Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}, you're back! I was watching you fight from a distance, you were amazing!

"Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle} demonstrates exceptional combat ability..." Alright, I've made a note of it.

But... *sigh* I guess those little rats don't really have much feeling after all...

Your choice

Maybe they're just too young to know better.

Theo

Hmm...! You're right! Maybe once they grow up, they'll become brave and awesome, like the Rat Warrior.

Your choice

Maybe it's because they lost the mentor who used to guide them.

Theo

Yeah... you're right. That's really sad... I hope they can grow up to be strong and brave on their own.

I've recorded today's observations. Let's call it a day!

Thank you so much for staying with me, Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}! You're really smart and reliable! I guess what people say about Phoxhunters isn't true after all.

If only all Charons were as nice as you... Earlier, I tried saying hi to a lady in green outside an inn up north, but she just totally ignored me.

Vita

Maybe she just didn't see you.

Theo

Hmm? Wait... you know her?

Vita

Yeah, I do.

Theo

Whoa! You know so many people! How do you do that!? Can you teach me how to talk to people better?

Your choice

Talk to lots of different people. You'll get better with practice.

(Theo scribbles in his notebook: "Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}'s communication tip: Talk to lots of different people and learn from each conversation.")

Your choice

When words don't cut it, use your fists.

(Theo scribbles in his notebook: "Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}'s communication tip: When words don't cut it, use fists. Note: Probably not a method that suits me.")

Theo

Got it... I've made notes!

(Suddenly, you hear hurried footsteps, a well-dressed woman storms over, anger flashing across her face.)

Theo's Mother

Theo! Where have you been this time!? And just look at you, you're filthy!

Theo

Oh, hey, mum...! We were just studying the rats in the sewers.

Theo's Mother

WHAT!? Why would you waste your time on disgusting creatures like that!?

Always fooling around with weird nonsense, but when it comes to sitting in class and learning properly? No interest at all. This kid's going to be the death of me...

(After giving her boy a thorough scolding, the woman finally notices you. Her eyes narrow, and she quickly yanks Theo behind her, shielding him protectively.)

Theo's Mother

And who are you? You're the one who's been filling my boy's head with nonsense, aren't you?

Your choice

Please don't throw accusations around without any proof.

Theo's Mother

Hah! Since when do Charons deserve the benefit of the doubt?

Your choice

Bingo! Yeah, it's me. You're welcome.

Theo's Mother

You...!

2. Speak with Theo in the sewers

96 lines
Theo

Where did all the rats go...?

(The boy cranes his neck, peering curiously into the dark mouth of the sewer.)

Your choice

(Greet him)

(Sneak up on him and give him a scare)

Theo

Whoa! Oh, it's you...

Hey! Fancy running into you again, Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}!

Why do you have time to hang around? Mum says most Charons spend all day and night slaving away in factories.

Vita

I'm a Phoxhunter.

Theo

Oh! My classmates told me about that! They said Phoxhunters are "idiots who'll do anything for a handful of coins."

But that's just what they say! Can you tell me what it's really like?

Your choice

(Show him your battle scars)

Theo

Whoa... so it's really dangerous work, huh...

Your choice

(Show him the money you earned)

Theo

Wow, you can make that much!?

Your choice

(Flash your weapon and try to look menacing)

Theo

Hmm? You mean... you're super strong?

Mmm... I'd love to see what a Phoxhunter's workday is really like... Ah! I've got an idea!

I'm planning to run a field study on the sewer's ecosystem! Would you come with me?

Think of it like a commission, I'll pay you properly, I promise!

Yay! Let's go!

You know, people always say rats are nasty little creatures, but honestly, I think they're really interesting!

Once, right here, I spotted this huge, impressive-looking rat. It reminded me of the "Rat Warrior" from those old legends.

The Rat Warrior was born a scrawny little mouse, but he overcame every hardship, fought bravely, and became a hero who protected his kind!

The rat I saw had tons of scars, proof of all its battles, I bet. And it was carrying this weird little bottle on its back... maybe it was some kind of special gear?

Your choice

Maybe it was a sample bottle or something used for experiments.

Theo

Hmm... you might be right. Maybe someone was using it for experiments... that's kinda creepy to think about...

But even so, it accepted its fate bravely! That's the spirit of a true hero!

Your choice

Sounds like a legend come to life. Pretty fascinating.

Theo

Hehe, I think so too!

It's just a shame you won't get to meet it anymore...

Your choice

Why not?

You make it sound like you're about to silence me...

That rat sounds like it could've eaten you whole.

Theo

Hey, that's mean! It was a good rat, it never even tried to attack me! Such a shame it's gone now...

A few days ago, I saw a beggar catch the Rat Warrior... and turn it into kebabs... waaah...

*sigh*... It's sad, but stuff like that happens in research all the time. Right now, I just want to check in on the little rats it used to take care of.

Come on, let's go! If we follow the squeaks, we should be able to find the nest!

Your choice

Alright. Stay behind me, I'll keep you safe.

Theo

Thanks! You're so reliable!

Your choice

I'm scared... you go first.

Theo

Huh!? But you were acting so brave a minute ago...

Fine, fine, stick close behind me.

Wow... the sewers are way bigger than I thought!

(A flash of grey darts past the corner, it looks like a small rat scurrying away.)

Theo

Ah! Did you see that? That little rat with the broken tail, I've seen it before! It was one of the Rat Warrior's friends!

Aww... it got away...

I guess... it doesn't remember me anymore...

(The boy frowns slightly, lost in thought.)

Theo

Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}, do you think animals have feelings? I really want to figure it out, but... I don't speak their language...

Your choice

They have feelings if you believe they do.

Theo

No, no, that's way too subjective! Real research needs solid evidence!

Maybe if we watch their behaviour closely, we can figure it out.

Your choice

Feelings aren't only shared through words. You can tell a lot just by watching what they do.

Theo

Oh! That's a good point!

Let's see... if the smaller rats really respected the Rat Warrior, then they'd act like him, brave, friendly to humans, and caring towards their friends, right?

Alright! Let's test that theory! That little one ran around the corner, come on, let's catch up!

That must be their nest!

(Shrill squeaks echo from the nest, carried by a sour, unpleasant smell. But Theo doesn't flinch, his wide eyes stay locked on the rats, studying their every move intently.)

(The little rats are brawling, snapping and biting each other over a scrap of stale bread.)

Theo

Uhh... They don't exactly seem caring towards each other.

(A few rats, startled by your presence, suddenly scatter and flee.)

Theo

And... not exactly brave, either...

(A few rats remain. Their eyes gleam dangerously, then, without warning, they charge straight at you!)

Theo

Aaaah! Why are they attacking us all of a sudden!? That's so rude!

Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}, we have to run!

Vita

You keep yourself safe. I'll handle this.

Theo

Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}, you're back! I was watching you fight from a distance, you were amazing!

"Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle} demonstrates exceptional combat ability..." Alright, I've made a note of it.

But... *sigh* I guess those little rats don't really have much feeling after all...

Your choice

Maybe they're just too young to know better.

Theo

Hmm...! You're right! Maybe once they grow up, they'll become brave and awesome, like the Rat Warrior.

Your choice

Maybe it's because they lost the mentor who used to guide them.

Theo

Yeah... you're right. That's really sad... I hope they can grow up to be strong and brave on their own.

I've recorded today's observations. Let's call it a day!

Thank you so much for staying with me, Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}! You're really smart and reliable! I guess what people say about Phoxhunters isn't true after all.

If only all Charons were as nice as you... Earlier, I tried saying hi to a lady in green outside an inn up north, but she just totally ignored me.

Vita

Maybe she just didn't see you.

Theo

Hmm? Wait... you know her?

Vita

Yeah, I do.

Theo

Whoa! You know so many people! How do you do that!? Can you teach me how to talk to people better?

Your choice

Talk to lots of different people. You'll get better with practice.

(Theo scribbles in his notebook: "Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}'s communication tip: Talk to lots of different people and learn from each conversation.")

Your choice

When words don't cut it, use your fists.

(Theo scribbles in his notebook: "Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}'s communication tip: When words don't cut it, use fists. Note: Probably not a method that suits me.")

Theo

Got it... I've made notes!

(Suddenly, you hear hurried footsteps, a well-dressed woman storms over, anger flashing across her face.)

Theo's Mother

Theo! Where have you been this time!? And just look at you, you're filthy!

Theo

Oh, hey, mum...! We were just studying the rats in the sewers.

Theo's Mother

WHAT!? Why would you waste your time on disgusting creatures like that!?

Always fooling around with weird nonsense, but when it comes to sitting in class and learning properly? No interest at all. This kid's going to be the death of me...

(After giving her boy a thorough scolding, the woman finally notices you. Her eyes narrow, and she quickly yanks Theo behind her, shielding him protectively.)

Theo's Mother

And who are you? You're the one who's been filling my boy's head with nonsense, aren't you?

Your choice

Please don't throw accusations around without any proof.

Theo's Mother

Hah! Since when do Charons deserve the benefit of the doubt?

Your choice

Bingo! Yeah, it's me. You're welcome.

Theo's Mother

You...!

3. Speak with Theo again

96 lines
Theo

Where did all the rats go...?

(The boy cranes his neck, peering curiously into the dark mouth of the sewer.)

Your choice

(Greet him)

(Sneak up on him and give him a scare)

Theo

Whoa! Oh, it's you...

Hey! Fancy running into you again, Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}!

Why do you have time to hang around? Mum says most Charons spend all day and night slaving away in factories.

Vita

I'm a Phoxhunter.

Theo

Oh! My classmates told me about that! They said Phoxhunters are "idiots who'll do anything for a handful of coins."

But that's just what they say! Can you tell me what it's really like?

Your choice

(Show him your battle scars)

Theo

Whoa... so it's really dangerous work, huh...

Your choice

(Show him the money you earned)

Theo

Wow, you can make that much!?

Your choice

(Flash your weapon and try to look menacing)

Theo

Hmm? You mean... you're super strong?

Mmm... I'd love to see what a Phoxhunter's workday is really like... Ah! I've got an idea!

I'm planning to run a field study on the sewer's ecosystem! Would you come with me?

Think of it like a commission, I'll pay you properly, I promise!

Yay! Let's go!

You know, people always say rats are nasty little creatures, but honestly, I think they're really interesting!

Once, right here, I spotted this huge, impressive-looking rat. It reminded me of the "Rat Warrior" from those old legends.

The Rat Warrior was born a scrawny little mouse, but he overcame every hardship, fought bravely, and became a hero who protected his kind!

The rat I saw had tons of scars, proof of all its battles, I bet. And it was carrying this weird little bottle on its back... maybe it was some kind of special gear?

Your choice

Maybe it was a sample bottle or something used for experiments.

Theo

Hmm... you might be right. Maybe someone was using it for experiments... that's kinda creepy to think about...

But even so, it accepted its fate bravely! That's the spirit of a true hero!

Your choice

Sounds like a legend come to life. Pretty fascinating.

Theo

Hehe, I think so too!

It's just a shame you won't get to meet it anymore...

Your choice

Why not?

You make it sound like you're about to silence me...

That rat sounds like it could've eaten you whole.

Theo

Hey, that's mean! It was a good rat, it never even tried to attack me! Such a shame it's gone now...

A few days ago, I saw a beggar catch the Rat Warrior... and turn it into kebabs... waaah...

*sigh*... It's sad, but stuff like that happens in research all the time. Right now, I just want to check in on the little rats it used to take care of.

Come on, let's go! If we follow the squeaks, we should be able to find the nest!

Your choice

Alright. Stay behind me, I'll keep you safe.

Theo

Thanks! You're so reliable!

Your choice

I'm scared... you go first.

Theo

Huh!? But you were acting so brave a minute ago...

Fine, fine, stick close behind me.

Wow... the sewers are way bigger than I thought!

(A flash of grey darts past the corner, it looks like a small rat scurrying away.)

Theo

Ah! Did you see that? That little rat with the broken tail, I've seen it before! It was one of the Rat Warrior's friends!

Aww... it got away...

I guess... it doesn't remember me anymore...

(The boy frowns slightly, lost in thought.)

Theo

Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}, do you think animals have feelings? I really want to figure it out, but... I don't speak their language...

Your choice

They have feelings if you believe they do.

Theo

No, no, that's way too subjective! Real research needs solid evidence!

Maybe if we watch their behaviour closely, we can figure it out.

Your choice

Feelings aren't only shared through words. You can tell a lot just by watching what they do.

Theo

Oh! That's a good point!

Let's see... if the smaller rats really respected the Rat Warrior, then they'd act like him, brave, friendly to humans, and caring towards their friends, right?

Alright! Let's test that theory! That little one ran around the corner, come on, let's catch up!

That must be their nest!

(Shrill squeaks echo from the nest, carried by a sour, unpleasant smell. But Theo doesn't flinch, his wide eyes stay locked on the rats, studying their every move intently.)

(The little rats are brawling, snapping and biting each other over a scrap of stale bread.)

Theo

Uhh... They don't exactly seem caring towards each other.

(A few rats, startled by your presence, suddenly scatter and flee.)

Theo

And... not exactly brave, either...

(A few rats remain. Their eyes gleam dangerously, then, without warning, they charge straight at you!)

Theo

Aaaah! Why are they attacking us all of a sudden!? That's so rude!

Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}, we have to run!

Vita

You keep yourself safe. I'll handle this.

Theo

Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}, you're back! I was watching you fight from a distance, you were amazing!

"Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle} demonstrates exceptional combat ability..." Alright, I've made a note of it.

But... *sigh* I guess those little rats don't really have much feeling after all...

Your choice

Maybe they're just too young to know better.

Theo

Hmm...! You're right! Maybe once they grow up, they'll become brave and awesome, like the Rat Warrior.

Your choice

Maybe it's because they lost the mentor who used to guide them.

Theo

Yeah... you're right. That's really sad... I hope they can grow up to be strong and brave on their own.

I've recorded today's observations. Let's call it a day!

Thank you so much for staying with me, Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}! You're really smart and reliable! I guess what people say about Phoxhunters isn't true after all.

If only all Charons were as nice as you... Earlier, I tried saying hi to a lady in green outside an inn up north, but she just totally ignored me.

Vita

Maybe she just didn't see you.

Theo

Hmm? Wait... you know her?

Vita

Yeah, I do.

Theo

Whoa! You know so many people! How do you do that!? Can you teach me how to talk to people better?

Your choice

Talk to lots of different people. You'll get better with practice.

(Theo scribbles in his notebook: "Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}'s communication tip: Talk to lots of different people and learn from each conversation.")

Your choice

When words don't cut it, use your fists.

(Theo scribbles in his notebook: "Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}'s communication tip: When words don't cut it, use fists. Note: Probably not a method that suits me.")

Theo

Got it... I've made notes!

(Suddenly, you hear hurried footsteps, a well-dressed woman storms over, anger flashing across her face.)

Theo's Mother

Theo! Where have you been this time!? And just look at you, you're filthy!

Theo

Oh, hey, mum...! We were just studying the rats in the sewers.

Theo's Mother

WHAT!? Why would you waste your time on disgusting creatures like that!?

Always fooling around with weird nonsense, but when it comes to sitting in class and learning properly? No interest at all. This kid's going to be the death of me...

(After giving her boy a thorough scolding, the woman finally notices you. Her eyes narrow, and she quickly yanks Theo behind her, shielding him protectively.)

Theo's Mother

And who are you? You're the one who's been filling my boy's head with nonsense, aren't you?

Your choice

Please don't throw accusations around without any proof.

Theo's Mother

Hah! Since when do Charons deserve the benefit of the doubt?

Your choice

Bingo! Yeah, it's me. You're welcome.

Theo's Mother

You...!

4. Speak with Theo

96 lines
Theo

Where did all the rats go...?

(The boy cranes his neck, peering curiously into the dark mouth of the sewer.)

Your choice

(Greet him)

(Sneak up on him and give him a scare)

Theo

Whoa! Oh, it's you...

Hey! Fancy running into you again, Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}!

Why do you have time to hang around? Mum says most Charons spend all day and night slaving away in factories.

Vita

I'm a Phoxhunter.

Theo

Oh! My classmates told me about that! They said Phoxhunters are "idiots who'll do anything for a handful of coins."

But that's just what they say! Can you tell me what it's really like?

Your choice

(Show him your battle scars)

Theo

Whoa... so it's really dangerous work, huh...

Your choice

(Show him the money you earned)

Theo

Wow, you can make that much!?

Your choice

(Flash your weapon and try to look menacing)

Theo

Hmm? You mean... you're super strong?

Mmm... I'd love to see what a Phoxhunter's workday is really like... Ah! I've got an idea!

I'm planning to run a field study on the sewer's ecosystem! Would you come with me?

Think of it like a commission, I'll pay you properly, I promise!

Yay! Let's go!

You know, people always say rats are nasty little creatures, but honestly, I think they're really interesting!

Once, right here, I spotted this huge, impressive-looking rat. It reminded me of the "Rat Warrior" from those old legends.

The Rat Warrior was born a scrawny little mouse, but he overcame every hardship, fought bravely, and became a hero who protected his kind!

The rat I saw had tons of scars, proof of all its battles, I bet. And it was carrying this weird little bottle on its back... maybe it was some kind of special gear?

Your choice

Maybe it was a sample bottle or something used for experiments.

Theo

Hmm... you might be right. Maybe someone was using it for experiments... that's kinda creepy to think about...

But even so, it accepted its fate bravely! That's the spirit of a true hero!

Your choice

Sounds like a legend come to life. Pretty fascinating.

Theo

Hehe, I think so too!

It's just a shame you won't get to meet it anymore...

Your choice

Why not?

You make it sound like you're about to silence me...

That rat sounds like it could've eaten you whole.

Theo

Hey, that's mean! It was a good rat, it never even tried to attack me! Such a shame it's gone now...

A few days ago, I saw a beggar catch the Rat Warrior... and turn it into kebabs... waaah...

*sigh*... It's sad, but stuff like that happens in research all the time. Right now, I just want to check in on the little rats it used to take care of.

Come on, let's go! If we follow the squeaks, we should be able to find the nest!

Your choice

Alright. Stay behind me, I'll keep you safe.

Theo

Thanks! You're so reliable!

Your choice

I'm scared... you go first.

Theo

Huh!? But you were acting so brave a minute ago...

Fine, fine, stick close behind me.

Wow... the sewers are way bigger than I thought!

(A flash of grey darts past the corner, it looks like a small rat scurrying away.)

Theo

Ah! Did you see that? That little rat with the broken tail, I've seen it before! It was one of the Rat Warrior's friends!

Aww... it got away...

I guess... it doesn't remember me anymore...

(The boy frowns slightly, lost in thought.)

Theo

Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}, do you think animals have feelings? I really want to figure it out, but... I don't speak their language...

Your choice

They have feelings if you believe they do.

Theo

No, no, that's way too subjective! Real research needs solid evidence!

Maybe if we watch their behaviour closely, we can figure it out.

Your choice

Feelings aren't only shared through words. You can tell a lot just by watching what they do.

Theo

Oh! That's a good point!

Let's see... if the smaller rats really respected the Rat Warrior, then they'd act like him, brave, friendly to humans, and caring towards their friends, right?

Alright! Let's test that theory! That little one ran around the corner, come on, let's catch up!

That must be their nest!

(Shrill squeaks echo from the nest, carried by a sour, unpleasant smell. But Theo doesn't flinch, his wide eyes stay locked on the rats, studying their every move intently.)

(The little rats are brawling, snapping and biting each other over a scrap of stale bread.)

Theo

Uhh... They don't exactly seem caring towards each other.

(A few rats, startled by your presence, suddenly scatter and flee.)

Theo

And... not exactly brave, either...

(A few rats remain. Their eyes gleam dangerously, then, without warning, they charge straight at you!)

Theo

Aaaah! Why are they attacking us all of a sudden!? That's so rude!

Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}, we have to run!

Vita

You keep yourself safe. I'll handle this.

Theo

Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}, you're back! I was watching you fight from a distance, you were amazing!

"Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle} demonstrates exceptional combat ability..." Alright, I've made a note of it.

But... *sigh* I guess those little rats don't really have much feeling after all...

Your choice

Maybe they're just too young to know better.

Theo

Hmm...! You're right! Maybe once they grow up, they'll become brave and awesome, like the Rat Warrior.

Your choice

Maybe it's because they lost the mentor who used to guide them.

Theo

Yeah... you're right. That's really sad... I hope they can grow up to be strong and brave on their own.

I've recorded today's observations. Let's call it a day!

Thank you so much for staying with me, Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}! You're really smart and reliable! I guess what people say about Phoxhunters isn't true after all.

If only all Charons were as nice as you... Earlier, I tried saying hi to a lady in green outside an inn up north, but she just totally ignored me.

Vita

Maybe she just didn't see you.

Theo

Hmm? Wait... you know her?

Vita

Yeah, I do.

Theo

Whoa! You know so many people! How do you do that!? Can you teach me how to talk to people better?

Your choice

Talk to lots of different people. You'll get better with practice.

(Theo scribbles in his notebook: "Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}'s communication tip: Talk to lots of different people and learn from each conversation.")

Your choice

When words don't cut it, use your fists.

(Theo scribbles in his notebook: "Miss {$XiAoTag(Value_1,Value_2)$|Purr:Sibylle}'s communication tip: When words don't cut it, use fists. Note: Probably not a method that suits me.")

Theo

Got it... I've made notes!

(Suddenly, you hear hurried footsteps, a well-dressed woman storms over, anger flashing across her face.)

Theo's Mother

Theo! Where have you been this time!? And just look at you, you're filthy!

Theo

Oh, hey, mum...! We were just studying the rats in the sewers.

Theo's Mother

WHAT!? Why would you waste your time on disgusting creatures like that!?

Always fooling around with weird nonsense, but when it comes to sitting in class and learning properly? No interest at all. This kid's going to be the death of me...

(After giving her boy a thorough scolding, the woman finally notices you. Her eyes narrow, and she quickly yanks Theo behind her, shielding him protectively.)

Theo's Mother

And who are you? You're the one who's been filling my boy's head with nonsense, aren't you?

Your choice

Please don't throw accusations around without any proof.

Theo's Mother

Hah! Since when do Charons deserve the benefit of the doubt?

Your choice

Bingo! Yeah, it's me. You're welcome.

Theo's Mother

You...!