The Melancholy of Violetta

A moment of your time, fair lady!

Ah... how does one even begin to capture your beauty?

A mute tanuki pens sonnets in your name; the verdant moon casts gold across your form. A sea hare crowns you with palmfruit jewels... while I, by a forgotten bin, sing your name to the stars...

Even if my words fall short of your splendour, I beg you... I implore you...

Ah! Such poise, such presence! You must be the illustrious Phoxhunter, Miss Vita!

(Am I actually that well-known around here...? No, this is definitely heading somewhere strange...)

A pleasure to meet you, I'm Fane. My teacher has been awaiting your arrival. This way, please.

Teacher?

Oh, right... She asked me not to call her that in public. But I doubt she'll mind if it's you. Still... I'd appreciate it if you kept it just between us.

Ms Violetta, I've brought Vita.

You've come, young Phoxhunter.

Ah... such a darling child. Your beauty reminds me of Icelake's first snow, that flawless glisten... and those garnets scattered across it, red as pigeon blood... so tender, one's hand longs to...

Wait, don't come any closer!

Hehe, not a fan of warm greetings, I see. My apologies, this must all seem terribly dubious. Allow me to introduce myself properly.

I'm Violetta, an opera singer.

(Why do you opera singers talk like that...?)

If I seem familiar, perhaps you've seen me on stage... or glimpsed one of my posters nearby.

I remember now..."A dream-born voice from Luca, a visage that shifts like mist." That's what the posters said, right?

"A dream-born voice from Luca, a visage that shifts like mist" that's her. Ms Violetta is the most sought-after diva in Icelake. You'll find her posters all over the Galea Theatre.

So that's what they say about me. A bit extravagant... but I rather like the sound of it.

I love the applause, and the chatter my performances stir in every corner of the city.

Every role I play, every off-script whim... they ignite the gossip columns for weeks. I thrive on that kind of attention.

Sorry to interrupt... but what's the job, exactly?

Ah, forgive me, I've let my flourishes run away with me again.

Truth is, while I do enjoy being the centre of attention, and have grown quite used to it, there are... certain situations even I find troublesome.

Here, take a look at this.

A love letter? Looks like it's from one of your fans.

Popularity can be a heavy crown. I understand their affection, and while I can't reciprocate those feelings, I do my best to respond with kindness.

I've received such letters before, many, in fact, and I've replied where I could. But this time, I've been sent an entire box.

An entire box of letters...!?

Yes, all from the same admirer. It began with the mailbox... then my carriage, then the doorframe, flowerpots, windowsills...

They slip them in wherever they can, whenever my back is turned.

Shouldn't this be something for the Escort to deal with?

That was my first thought as well. But public figures... walk a fine line.

A bit of harmless gossip might make me the talk of teatimes... but as a performer, I'd rather the town whisper about my stagecraft, not my romances.

Fair enough. Do you have any clues about the sender?

Ah, yes, I forgot to mention. I actually do know where he lives. The letters are unsigned, but he's made no real effort to hide his identity.

If one must hide even their name in a love letter... what hope is there for a reply?

I only ask that you find him... and deliver a gentle "warning."

How reassuring. I knew you were the right one to ask.

You see, someone like that... even a moment of attention might feel like victory. And that can turn dangerous.

I see. That makes sense.

Then I'll leave it in your hands.

Oh, and before you go, take this. It may come in handy.

This ribbon...

Is something wrong?

No... it's nothing. I'll be back soon.

This is the address Ms Violetta gave me. Doesn't exactly look like a residential area, though...

There's a guard nearby, maybe he'll know something.

Hey, mind if I ask you something?

Bit tied up right now, can it wait? ...Huh, that's odd. What's up with this phonograph?

Is it broken?

Not broken, exactly... just old. Sometimes it acts up. I swear a good smack used to fix it...

You know how to work these? Alright, fix it for me, and I'll answer whatever you need.

Deal.

There, that should do it.

Not bad! Now I can finally enjoy my tapes again... Ahh, Ms Violetta's voice, it's just...

Wait, you know Violetta?

Who in Icelake doesn't? Her debut album's a collector's item! I've been saving for three months and still can't afford one... Guess these budget tapes will have to do for now.

Perfect. Because what I wanted to ask is actually about Ms Violetta.

What!? That's outrageous! If that creep's squatting on my beat, I'll drag him out myself, give him a piece of my mind!

That... won't be necessary.

Sure it is! I can't stand lowlifes who disrupt public peace. I know every face on this block, just give me something to go on, and I'll smoke him out.

I've got this letter here... See if anything jumps out?

A letter? Alright, let's take a look.

...

...

What's with the sudden silence?

No... no way. This letter, it's heartfelt and... sincere! How could this be harassment?

Looks like we've found our guy. Weren't you just going on about giving someone a piece of your mind?

This is all a huge misunderstanding! It was all from the heart! I swear, my feelings for Ms Violetta are real! Ms Violetta adores bold declarations of love, why would she see this as anything but romantic!?

Wait a sec... was I tricked by that Phoxhunter...?

Oh, I get it now, it's you! You're not here on Ms Violetta's behalf, you're trying to drive a wedge between us!

Got any proof she sent you? I bet you're just here to stir the pot!

Trying to poison the sacred bond between Ms Violetta and her loyal fans!? Not on my watch, I'll make you regret it!

What's your problem...?

(Alright. Best calm this delusional man down first.)

Ms Violetta... I'm sorry... I was just... not strong enough to protect you...

Are you done? Here. Take a look at this.

This... this is her ribbon. She's worn it since her debut, over ten years ago...

You recognised it that quickly?

Of course I did... Ugh. Why am I even wasting my breath?

If she gave you this... then I guess I've got no chance. I won't bother her again. Hope you two are happy together.

Say no more. Let a broken heart weep alone in the dark...

(He won't say another word... just keeps sobbing. Best to give him some space.)

Ms Violetta, I'm back.

Thank you. I take it the matter's been settled?

Yeah. He won't be bothering you again. Here's your ribbon, I doubt it would've gone so smoothly without it.

I heard you've worn this since your debut... over a decade ago?

Yes. It was a keepsake from a dear friend of mine. She was brilliant, yet ill-favoured by fate...

She never got the chance to realise her dream... but I did. I only hoped to share the spotlight with her.

When I debuted, I designed my own poster, black and white, save for one vivid streak of violet.

You've likely heard the name "Violetta of a Thousand Faces." With my skills in makeup, I can become anyone for the stage, taking on a different face for every role I play.

But one thing never changes: this ribbon. I wear it every time. It's become my signature.

I see...

Ms Violetta!

Fane, have I not taught you to mind your volume?

A moment of your time, fair lady!

Ah... how does one even begin to capture your beauty?

A mute tanuki pens sonnets in your name; the verdant moon casts gold across your form. A sea hare crowns you with palmfruit jewels... while I, by a forgotten bin, sing your name to the stars...

Even if my words fall short of your splendour, I beg you... I implore you...

Ah! Such poise, such presence! You must be the illustrious Phoxhunter, Miss Vita!

(Am I actually that well-known around here...? No, this is definitely heading somewhere strange...)

A pleasure to meet you, I'm Fane. My teacher has been awaiting your arrival. This way, please.

Teacher?

Oh, right... She asked me not to call her that in public. But I doubt she'll mind if it's you. Still... I'd appreciate it if you kept it just between us.

Ms Violetta, I've brought Vita.

You've come, young Phoxhunter.

Ah... such a darling child. Your beauty reminds me of Icelake's first snow, that flawless glisten... and those garnets scattered across it, red as pigeon blood... so tender, one's hand longs to...

Wait, don't come any closer!

Hehe, not a fan of warm greetings, I see. My apologies, this must all seem terribly dubious. Allow me to introduce myself properly.

I'm Violetta, an opera singer.

(Why do you opera singers talk like that...?)

If I seem familiar, perhaps you've seen me on stage... or glimpsed one of my posters nearby.

I remember now..."A dream-born voice from Luca, a visage that shifts like mist." That's what the posters said, right?

"A dream-born voice from Luca, a visage that shifts like mist" that's her. Ms Violetta is the most sought-after diva in Icelake. You'll find her posters all over the Galea Theatre.

So that's what they say about me. A bit extravagant... but I rather like the sound of it.

I love the applause, and the chatter my performances stir in every corner of the city.

Every role I play, every off-script whim... they ignite the gossip columns for weeks. I thrive on that kind of attention.

Sorry to interrupt... but what's the job, exactly?

Ah, forgive me, I've let my flourishes run away with me again.

Truth is, while I do enjoy being the centre of attention, and have grown quite used to it, there are... certain situations even I find troublesome.

Here, take a look at this.

A love letter? Looks like it's from one of your fans.

Popularity can be a heavy crown. I understand their affection, and while I can't reciprocate those feelings, I do my best to respond with kindness.

I've received such letters before, many, in fact, and I've replied where I could. But this time, I've been sent an entire box.

An entire box of letters...!?

Yes, all from the same admirer. It began with the mailbox... then my carriage, then the doorframe, flowerpots, windowsills...

They slip them in wherever they can, whenever my back is turned.

Shouldn't this be something for the Escort to deal with?

That was my first thought as well. But public figures... walk a fine line.

A bit of harmless gossip might make me the talk of teatimes... but as a performer, I'd rather the town whisper about my stagecraft, not my romances.

Fair enough. Do you have any clues about the sender?

Ah, yes, I forgot to mention. I actually do know where he lives. The letters are unsigned, but he's made no real effort to hide his identity.

If one must hide even their name in a love letter... what hope is there for a reply?

I only ask that you find him... and deliver a gentle "warning."

How reassuring. I knew you were the right one to ask.

You see, someone like that... even a moment of attention might feel like victory. And that can turn dangerous.

I see. That makes sense.

Then I'll leave it in your hands.

Oh, and before you go, take this. It may come in handy.

This ribbon...

Is something wrong?

No... it's nothing. I'll be back soon.

This is the address Ms Violetta gave me. Doesn't exactly look like a residential area, though...

There's a guard nearby, maybe he'll know something.

Hey, mind if I ask you something?

Bit tied up right now, can it wait? ...Huh, that's odd. What's up with this phonograph?

Is it broken?

Not broken, exactly... just old. Sometimes it acts up. I swear a good smack used to fix it...

You know how to work these? Alright, fix it for me, and I'll answer whatever you need.

Deal.

There, that should do it.

Not bad! Now I can finally enjoy my tapes again... Ahh, Ms Violetta's voice, it's just...

Wait, you know Violetta?

Who in Icelake doesn't? Her debut album's a collector's item! I've been saving for three months and still can't afford one... Guess these budget tapes will have to do for now.

Perfect. Because what I wanted to ask is actually about Ms Violetta.

What!? That's outrageous! If that creep's squatting on my beat, I'll drag him out myself, give him a piece of my mind!

That... won't be necessary.

Sure it is! I can't stand lowlifes who disrupt public peace. I know every face on this block, just give me something to go on, and I'll smoke him out.

I've got this letter here... See if anything jumps out?

A letter? Alright, let's take a look.

...

...

What's with the sudden silence?

No... no way. This letter, it's heartfelt and... sincere! How could this be harassment?

Looks like we've found our guy. Weren't you just going on about giving someone a piece of your mind?

This is all a huge misunderstanding! It was all from the heart! I swear, my feelings for Ms Violetta are real! Ms Violetta adores bold declarations of love, why would she see this as anything but romantic!?

Wait a sec... was I tricked by that Phoxhunter...?

Oh, I get it now, it's you! You're not here on Ms Violetta's behalf, you're trying to drive a wedge between us!

Got any proof she sent you? I bet you're just here to stir the pot!

Trying to poison the sacred bond between Ms Violetta and her loyal fans!? Not on my watch, I'll make you regret it!

What's your problem...?

(Alright. Best calm this delusional man down first.)

Ms Violetta... I'm sorry... I was just... not strong enough to protect you...

Are you done? Here. Take a look at this.

This... this is her ribbon. She's worn it since her debut, over ten years ago...

You recognised it that quickly?

Of course I did... Ugh. Why am I even wasting my breath?

If she gave you this... then I guess I've got no chance. I won't bother her again. Hope you two are happy together.

Say no more. Let a broken heart weep alone in the dark...

(He won't say another word... just keeps sobbing. Best to give him some space.)

Ms Violetta, I'm back.

Thank you. I take it the matter's been settled?

Yeah. He won't be bothering you again. Here's your ribbon, I doubt it would've gone so smoothly without it.

I heard you've worn this since your debut... over a decade ago?

Yes. It was a keepsake from a dear friend of mine. She was brilliant, yet ill-favoured by fate...

She never got the chance to realise her dream... but I did. I only hoped to share the spotlight with her.

When I debuted, I designed my own poster, black and white, save for one vivid streak of violet.

You've likely heard the name "Violetta of a Thousand Faces." With my skills in makeup, I can become anyone for the stage, taking on a different face for every role I play.

But one thing never changes: this ribbon. I wear it every time. It's become my signature.

I see...

Ms Violetta!

Fane, have I not taught you to mind your volume?

A moment of your time, fair lady!

Ah... how does one even begin to capture your beauty?

A mute tanuki pens sonnets in your name; the verdant moon casts gold across your form. A sea hare crowns you with palmfruit jewels... while I, by a forgotten bin, sing your name to the stars...

Even if my words fall short of your splendour, I beg you... I implore you...

Ah! Such poise, such presence! You must be the illustrious Phoxhunter, Miss Vita!

(Am I actually that well-known around here...? No, this is definitely heading somewhere strange...)

A pleasure to meet you, I'm Fane. My teacher has been awaiting your arrival. This way, please.

Teacher?

Oh, right... She asked me not to call her that in public. But I doubt she'll mind if it's you. Still... I'd appreciate it if you kept it just between us.

Ms Violetta, I've brought Vita.

You've come, young Phoxhunter.

Ah... such a darling child. Your beauty reminds me of Icelake's first snow, that flawless glisten... and those garnets scattered across it, red as pigeon blood... so tender, one's hand longs to...

Wait, don't come any closer!

Hehe, not a fan of warm greetings, I see. My apologies, this must all seem terribly dubious. Allow me to introduce myself properly.

I'm Violetta, an opera singer.

(Why do you opera singers talk like that...?)

If I seem familiar, perhaps you've seen me on stage... or glimpsed one of my posters nearby.

I remember now..."A dream-born voice from Luca, a visage that shifts like mist." That's what the posters said, right?

"A dream-born voice from Luca, a visage that shifts like mist" that's her. Ms Violetta is the most sought-after diva in Icelake. You'll find her posters all over the Galea Theatre.

So that's what they say about me. A bit extravagant... but I rather like the sound of it.

I love the applause, and the chatter my performances stir in every corner of the city.

Every role I play, every off-script whim... they ignite the gossip columns for weeks. I thrive on that kind of attention.

Sorry to interrupt... but what's the job, exactly?

Ah, forgive me, I've let my flourishes run away with me again.

Truth is, while I do enjoy being the centre of attention, and have grown quite used to it, there are... certain situations even I find troublesome.

Here, take a look at this.

A love letter? Looks like it's from one of your fans.

Popularity can be a heavy crown. I understand their affection, and while I can't reciprocate those feelings, I do my best to respond with kindness.

I've received such letters before, many, in fact, and I've replied where I could. But this time, I've been sent an entire box.

An entire box of letters...!?

Yes, all from the same admirer. It began with the mailbox... then my carriage, then the doorframe, flowerpots, windowsills...

They slip them in wherever they can, whenever my back is turned.

Shouldn't this be something for the Escort to deal with?

That was my first thought as well. But public figures... walk a fine line.

A bit of harmless gossip might make me the talk of teatimes... but as a performer, I'd rather the town whisper about my stagecraft, not my romances.

Fair enough. Do you have any clues about the sender?

Ah, yes, I forgot to mention. I actually do know where he lives. The letters are unsigned, but he's made no real effort to hide his identity.

If one must hide even their name in a love letter... what hope is there for a reply?

I only ask that you find him... and deliver a gentle "warning."

How reassuring. I knew you were the right one to ask.

You see, someone like that... even a moment of attention might feel like victory. And that can turn dangerous.

I see. That makes sense.

Then I'll leave it in your hands.

Oh, and before you go, take this. It may come in handy.

This ribbon...

Is something wrong?

No... it's nothing. I'll be back soon.

This is the address Ms Violetta gave me. Doesn't exactly look like a residential area, though...

There's a guard nearby, maybe he'll know something.

Hey, mind if I ask you something?

Bit tied up right now, can it wait? ...Huh, that's odd. What's up with this phonograph?

Is it broken?

Not broken, exactly... just old. Sometimes it acts up. I swear a good smack used to fix it...

You know how to work these? Alright, fix it for me, and I'll answer whatever you need.

Deal.

There, that should do it.

Not bad! Now I can finally enjoy my tapes again... Ahh, Ms Violetta's voice, it's just...

Wait, you know Violetta?

Who in Icelake doesn't? Her debut album's a collector's item! I've been saving for three months and still can't afford one... Guess these budget tapes will have to do for now.

Perfect. Because what I wanted to ask is actually about Ms Violetta.

What!? That's outrageous! If that creep's squatting on my beat, I'll drag him out myself, give him a piece of my mind!

That... won't be necessary.

Sure it is! I can't stand lowlifes who disrupt public peace. I know every face on this block, just give me something to go on, and I'll smoke him out.

I've got this letter here... See if anything jumps out?

A letter? Alright, let's take a look.

...

...

What's with the sudden silence?

No... no way. This letter, it's heartfelt and... sincere! How could this be harassment?

Looks like we've found our guy. Weren't you just going on about giving someone a piece of your mind?

This is all a huge misunderstanding! It was all from the heart! I swear, my feelings for Ms Violetta are real! Ms Violetta adores bold declarations of love, why would she see this as anything but romantic!?

Wait a sec... was I tricked by that Phoxhunter...?

Oh, I get it now, it's you! You're not here on Ms Violetta's behalf, you're trying to drive a wedge between us!

Got any proof she sent you? I bet you're just here to stir the pot!

Trying to poison the sacred bond between Ms Violetta and her loyal fans!? Not on my watch, I'll make you regret it!

What's your problem...?

(Alright. Best calm this delusional man down first.)

Ms Violetta... I'm sorry... I was just... not strong enough to protect you...

Are you done? Here. Take a look at this.

This... this is her ribbon. She's worn it since her debut, over ten years ago...

You recognised it that quickly?

Of course I did... Ugh. Why am I even wasting my breath?

If she gave you this... then I guess I've got no chance. I won't bother her again. Hope you two are happy together.

Say no more. Let a broken heart weep alone in the dark...

(He won't say another word... just keeps sobbing. Best to give him some space.)

Ms Violetta, I'm back.

Thank you. I take it the matter's been settled?

Yeah. He won't be bothering you again. Here's your ribbon, I doubt it would've gone so smoothly without it.

I heard you've worn this since your debut... over a decade ago?

Yes. It was a keepsake from a dear friend of mine. She was brilliant, yet ill-favoured by fate...

She never got the chance to realise her dream... but I did. I only hoped to share the spotlight with her.

When I debuted, I designed my own poster, black and white, save for one vivid streak of violet.

You've likely heard the name "Violetta of a Thousand Faces." With my skills in makeup, I can become anyone for the stage, taking on a different face for every role I play.

But one thing never changes: this ribbon. I wear it every time. It's become my signature.

I see...

Ms Violetta!

Fane, have I not taught you to mind your volume?

A moment of your time, fair lady!

Ah... how does one even begin to capture your beauty?

A mute tanuki pens sonnets in your name; the verdant moon casts gold across your form. A sea hare crowns you with palmfruit jewels... while I, by a forgotten bin, sing your name to the stars...

Even if my words fall short of your splendour, I beg you... I implore you...

Ah! Such poise, such presence! You must be the illustrious Phoxhunter, Miss Vita!

(Am I actually that well-known around here...? No, this is definitely heading somewhere strange...)

A pleasure to meet you, I'm Fane. My teacher has been awaiting your arrival. This way, please.

Teacher?

Oh, right... She asked me not to call her that in public. But I doubt she'll mind if it's you. Still... I'd appreciate it if you kept it just between us.

Ms Violetta, I've brought Vita.

You've come, young Phoxhunter.

Ah... such a darling child. Your beauty reminds me of Icelake's first snow, that flawless glisten... and those garnets scattered across it, red as pigeon blood... so tender, one's hand longs to...

Wait, don't come any closer!

Hehe, not a fan of warm greetings, I see. My apologies, this must all seem terribly dubious. Allow me to introduce myself properly.

I'm Violetta, an opera singer.

(Why do you opera singers talk like that...?)

If I seem familiar, perhaps you've seen me on stage... or glimpsed one of my posters nearby.

I remember now..."A dream-born voice from Luca, a visage that shifts like mist." That's what the posters said, right?

"A dream-born voice from Luca, a visage that shifts like mist" that's her. Ms Violetta is the most sought-after diva in Icelake. You'll find her posters all over the Galea Theatre.

So that's what they say about me. A bit extravagant... but I rather like the sound of it.

I love the applause, and the chatter my performances stir in every corner of the city.

Every role I play, every off-script whim... they ignite the gossip columns for weeks. I thrive on that kind of attention.

Sorry to interrupt... but what's the job, exactly?

Ah, forgive me, I've let my flourishes run away with me again.

Truth is, while I do enjoy being the centre of attention, and have grown quite used to it, there are... certain situations even I find troublesome.

Here, take a look at this.

A love letter? Looks like it's from one of your fans.

Popularity can be a heavy crown. I understand their affection, and while I can't reciprocate those feelings, I do my best to respond with kindness.

I've received such letters before, many, in fact, and I've replied where I could. But this time, I've been sent an entire box.

An entire box of letters...!?

Yes, all from the same admirer. It began with the mailbox... then my carriage, then the doorframe, flowerpots, windowsills...

They slip them in wherever they can, whenever my back is turned.

Shouldn't this be something for the Escort to deal with?

That was my first thought as well. But public figures... walk a fine line.

A bit of harmless gossip might make me the talk of teatimes... but as a performer, I'd rather the town whisper about my stagecraft, not my romances.

Fair enough. Do you have any clues about the sender?

Ah, yes, I forgot to mention. I actually do know where he lives. The letters are unsigned, but he's made no real effort to hide his identity.

If one must hide even their name in a love letter... what hope is there for a reply?

I only ask that you find him... and deliver a gentle "warning."

How reassuring. I knew you were the right one to ask.

You see, someone like that... even a moment of attention might feel like victory. And that can turn dangerous.

I see. That makes sense.

Then I'll leave it in your hands.

Oh, and before you go, take this. It may come in handy.

This ribbon...

Is something wrong?

No... it's nothing. I'll be back soon.

This is the address Ms Violetta gave me. Doesn't exactly look like a residential area, though...

There's a guard nearby, maybe he'll know something.

Hey, mind if I ask you something?

Bit tied up right now, can it wait? ...Huh, that's odd. What's up with this phonograph?

Is it broken?

Not broken, exactly... just old. Sometimes it acts up. I swear a good smack used to fix it...

You know how to work these? Alright, fix it for me, and I'll answer whatever you need.

Deal.

There, that should do it.

Not bad! Now I can finally enjoy my tapes again... Ahh, Ms Violetta's voice, it's just...

Wait, you know Violetta?

Who in Icelake doesn't? Her debut album's a collector's item! I've been saving for three months and still can't afford one... Guess these budget tapes will have to do for now.

Perfect. Because what I wanted to ask is actually about Ms Violetta.

What!? That's outrageous! If that creep's squatting on my beat, I'll drag him out myself, give him a piece of my mind!

That... won't be necessary.

Sure it is! I can't stand lowlifes who disrupt public peace. I know every face on this block, just give me something to go on, and I'll smoke him out.

I've got this letter here... See if anything jumps out?

A letter? Alright, let's take a look.

...

...

What's with the sudden silence?

No... no way. This letter, it's heartfelt and... sincere! How could this be harassment?

Looks like we've found our guy. Weren't you just going on about giving someone a piece of your mind?

This is all a huge misunderstanding! It was all from the heart! I swear, my feelings for Ms Violetta are real! Ms Violetta adores bold declarations of love, why would she see this as anything but romantic!?

Wait a sec... was I tricked by that Phoxhunter...?

Oh, I get it now, it's you! You're not here on Ms Violetta's behalf, you're trying to drive a wedge between us!

Got any proof she sent you? I bet you're just here to stir the pot!

Trying to poison the sacred bond between Ms Violetta and her loyal fans!? Not on my watch, I'll make you regret it!

What's your problem...?

(Alright. Best calm this delusional man down first.)

Ms Violetta... I'm sorry... I was just... not strong enough to protect you...

Are you done? Here. Take a look at this.

This... this is her ribbon. She's worn it since her debut, over ten years ago...

You recognised it that quickly?

Of course I did... Ugh. Why am I even wasting my breath?

If she gave you this... then I guess I've got no chance. I won't bother her again. Hope you two are happy together.

Say no more. Let a broken heart weep alone in the dark...

(He won't say another word... just keeps sobbing. Best to give him some space.)

Ms Violetta, I'm back.

Thank you. I take it the matter's been settled?

Yeah. He won't be bothering you again. Here's your ribbon, I doubt it would've gone so smoothly without it.

I heard you've worn this since your debut... over a decade ago?

Yes. It was a keepsake from a dear friend of mine. She was brilliant, yet ill-favoured by fate...

She never got the chance to realise her dream... but I did. I only hoped to share the spotlight with her.

When I debuted, I designed my own poster, black and white, save for one vivid streak of violet.

You've likely heard the name "Violetta of a Thousand Faces." With my skills in makeup, I can become anyone for the stage, taking on a different face for every role I play.

But one thing never changes: this ribbon. I wear it every time. It's become my signature.

I see...

Ms Violetta!

Fane, have I not taught you to mind your volume?

A moment of your time, fair lady!

Ah... how does one even begin to capture your beauty?

A mute tanuki pens sonnets in your name; the verdant moon casts gold across your form. A sea hare crowns you with palmfruit jewels... while I, by a forgotten bin, sing your name to the stars...

Even if my words fall short of your splendour, I beg you... I implore you...

Ah! Such poise, such presence! You must be the illustrious Phoxhunter, Miss Vita!

(Am I actually that well-known around here...? No, this is definitely heading somewhere strange...)

A pleasure to meet you, I'm Fane. My teacher has been awaiting your arrival. This way, please.

Teacher?

Oh, right... She asked me not to call her that in public. But I doubt she'll mind if it's you. Still... I'd appreciate it if you kept it just between us.

Ms Violetta, I've brought Vita.

You've come, young Phoxhunter.

Ah... such a darling child. Your beauty reminds me of Icelake's first snow, that flawless glisten... and those garnets scattered across it, red as pigeon blood... so tender, one's hand longs to...

Wait, don't come any closer!

Hehe, not a fan of warm greetings, I see. My apologies, this must all seem terribly dubious. Allow me to introduce myself properly.

I'm Violetta, an opera singer.

(Why do you opera singers talk like that...?)

If I seem familiar, perhaps you've seen me on stage... or glimpsed one of my posters nearby.

I remember now..."A dream-born voice from Luca, a visage that shifts like mist." That's what the posters said, right?

"A dream-born voice from Luca, a visage that shifts like mist" that's her. Ms Violetta is the most sought-after diva in Icelake. You'll find her posters all over the Galea Theatre.

So that's what they say about me. A bit extravagant... but I rather like the sound of it.

I love the applause, and the chatter my performances stir in every corner of the city.

Every role I play, every off-script whim... they ignite the gossip columns for weeks. I thrive on that kind of attention.

Sorry to interrupt... but what's the job, exactly?

Ah, forgive me, I've let my flourishes run away with me again.

Truth is, while I do enjoy being the centre of attention, and have grown quite used to it, there are... certain situations even I find troublesome.

Here, take a look at this.

A love letter? Looks like it's from one of your fans.

Popularity can be a heavy crown. I understand their affection, and while I can't reciprocate those feelings, I do my best to respond with kindness.

I've received such letters before, many, in fact, and I've replied where I could. But this time, I've been sent an entire box.

An entire box of letters...!?

Yes, all from the same admirer. It began with the mailbox... then my carriage, then the doorframe, flowerpots, windowsills...

They slip them in wherever they can, whenever my back is turned.

Shouldn't this be something for the Escort to deal with?

That was my first thought as well. But public figures... walk a fine line.

A bit of harmless gossip might make me the talk of teatimes... but as a performer, I'd rather the town whisper about my stagecraft, not my romances.

Fair enough. Do you have any clues about the sender?

Ah, yes, I forgot to mention. I actually do know where he lives. The letters are unsigned, but he's made no real effort to hide his identity.

If one must hide even their name in a love letter... what hope is there for a reply?

I only ask that you find him... and deliver a gentle "warning."

How reassuring. I knew you were the right one to ask.

You see, someone like that... even a moment of attention might feel like victory. And that can turn dangerous.

I see. That makes sense.

Then I'll leave it in your hands.

Oh, and before you go, take this. It may come in handy.

This ribbon...

Is something wrong?

No... it's nothing. I'll be back soon.

This is the address Ms Violetta gave me. Doesn't exactly look like a residential area, though...

There's a guard nearby, maybe he'll know something.

Hey, mind if I ask you something?

Bit tied up right now, can it wait? ...Huh, that's odd. What's up with this phonograph?

Is it broken?

Not broken, exactly... just old. Sometimes it acts up. I swear a good smack used to fix it...

You know how to work these? Alright, fix it for me, and I'll answer whatever you need.

Deal.

There, that should do it.

Not bad! Now I can finally enjoy my tapes again... Ahh, Ms Violetta's voice, it's just...

Wait, you know Violetta?

Who in Icelake doesn't? Her debut album's a collector's item! I've been saving for three months and still can't afford one... Guess these budget tapes will have to do for now.

Perfect. Because what I wanted to ask is actually about Ms Violetta.

What!? That's outrageous! If that creep's squatting on my beat, I'll drag him out myself, give him a piece of my mind!

That... won't be necessary.

Sure it is! I can't stand lowlifes who disrupt public peace. I know every face on this block, just give me something to go on, and I'll smoke him out.

I've got this letter here... See if anything jumps out?

A letter? Alright, let's take a look.

...

...

What's with the sudden silence?

No... no way. This letter, it's heartfelt and... sincere! How could this be harassment?

Looks like we've found our guy. Weren't you just going on about giving someone a piece of your mind?

This is all a huge misunderstanding! It was all from the heart! I swear, my feelings for Ms Violetta are real! Ms Violetta adores bold declarations of love, why would she see this as anything but romantic!?

Wait a sec... was I tricked by that Phoxhunter...?

Oh, I get it now, it's you! You're not here on Ms Violetta's behalf, you're trying to drive a wedge between us!

Got any proof she sent you? I bet you're just here to stir the pot!

Trying to poison the sacred bond between Ms Violetta and her loyal fans!? Not on my watch, I'll make you regret it!

What's your problem...?

(Alright. Best calm this delusional man down first.)

Ms Violetta... I'm sorry... I was just... not strong enough to protect you...

Are you done? Here. Take a look at this.

This... this is her ribbon. She's worn it since her debut, over ten years ago...

You recognised it that quickly?

Of course I did... Ugh. Why am I even wasting my breath?

If she gave you this... then I guess I've got no chance. I won't bother her again. Hope you two are happy together.

Say no more. Let a broken heart weep alone in the dark...

(He won't say another word... just keeps sobbing. Best to give him some space.)

Ms Violetta, I'm back.

Thank you. I take it the matter's been settled?

Yeah. He won't be bothering you again. Here's your ribbon, I doubt it would've gone so smoothly without it.

I heard you've worn this since your debut... over a decade ago?

Yes. It was a keepsake from a dear friend of mine. She was brilliant, yet ill-favoured by fate...

She never got the chance to realise her dream... but I did. I only hoped to share the spotlight with her.

When I debuted, I designed my own poster, black and white, save for one vivid streak of violet.

You've likely heard the name "Violetta of a Thousand Faces." With my skills in makeup, I can become anyone for the stage, taking on a different face for every role I play.

But one thing never changes: this ribbon. I wear it every time. It's become my signature.

I see...

Ms Violetta!

Fane, have I not taught you to mind your volume?

Sorry... but you have to see this!

Another letter? I thought I'd already scared him off...

...

Ms Violetta?

I didn't realise it's been sixteen years... But why? Why hurt someone who had nothing to do with it...?

You look pale... are you alright?

Forgive me... I was naive. I thought I could avoid causing a stir, but things have escalated beyond my control. I'll have to turn to the Escort.

What happened?

You can see for yourself.

...

So the earlier letters were just a smokescreen. I let my guard down.

Forgive me, but I must go. Your part is done, here's the reward, as promised.