MONGIL: STAR DIVE story · Side Quest, Side Quests

Sector 3 Side Quests

12 scenes, 1,055 lines

1. A Name Left Behind

123 lines
Edgar

Augh... This is really bad. Where in the world did she go?

Your choice

(Leave.)

A Name Left Behind

Cloud

Is something wrong?

Edgar

Yes, actually. Have you happened to see an elderly lady around here? She'd be all alone and looking lost...

Cloud

I'm not sure. Nobody caught my attention, anyway?

Edgar

Oh, this is awful. I came here with my next-door neighbor, Moira, but...

She disappeared somewhere while I was haggling.

She's... older, so sometimes she gets... confused. And has difficulty remembering where she lives.

Cloud

Oh, that's not good. So you think she's gotten lost?

Edgar

I don't want to miss her if she happens to come back this way, so I can't move from the spot.

Cloud

We can take a look around for you! Could you tell us what she was wearing?

Edgar

That would be amazing. Here, I have a photo of her. Take a look at this.

Cloud

Oh, yeah. This should be enough to go by. We'll bring her to you as soon as we find her, so try to relax!

Edgar

Thank you so much for your help. My name is Edgar. Granny Moira will... probably remember me.

There might be someone at The Glitch who's seen her, so make sure to check there.

Verna

Hi. We're looking for this woman... Her name is Moira.

Barrel

Huh? Granny Moira?

Hmm... I haven't seen her today.

Verna

Hm... Okay.

Cloud

Uh, excuse me, but have you seen this elderly lady around here?

Rikel

Sorry, but I'm no use to you.

I've been out of town for a while and only just got back.

Cloud

Oh well, okay. Thank you.

Verna, let's go back to the square and keep looking there.

Chloe

Hey, guys!

Cloud

Chloe!

Chloe

What are you doing here?

Cloud

We're looking for someone, but... it's not going well.

This is her picture. Have you seen her?

Chloe

Hm? Huh?

I just gave her directions to get to the outer elevator. She said she had to find something...

Verna

Oh no... Does that mean she's left New Nirvan?

Her neighbor said she has memory trouble... Sometimes she has a hard time finding her way back home.

Chloe

No wonder... She kept calling me Hanna.

I told her over and over that my name is Chloe, but...

Verna

Let's head toward the elevator. We might be able to intercept her.

Cloud

I hope she's still somewhere nearby.

Chloe

This is... the shawl that she was wearing.

Let's head towards the barrier.

Hey, it's been a while.

T-13

Access to this elevator is... Huh? Oh, it's you guys.

What is it this time?

Chloe

Did this elderly woman pass through here?

T-13

Oh, yeah. You just missed her.

I tried to stop her, but she insisted she had to get outside the barrier.

I warned her it was dangerous... but she just kept repeating there was something she had to find.

Verna

So you let her go?! What kind of guard are you?! If you knew it was dangerous, you had a duty...

T-13

I warned her. And I'm warning you guys now...

Verna

We understand, but we need to find Mrs. Moira.

T-13

Well, if you're that hungry for death, suit yourselves.

Just know that security's gotten a lot tighter since last time you came through.

Verna

Yeah. Thanks for the concern, hmph.

Chloe

Hey, look over there!

Moira

Out of my way, you scoundrels!

Chloe

That's definitely Mrs. Moira. Let's hurry and rescue her!

Cloud

Ma'am!

Moira

Huh? Who are you?

Cloud

Are you alright? Thank goodness.

Edgar is looking for you, ma'am. He's very worried.

Come back home with us.

Moira

Who's Edgar? I don't know anybody by that name.

Chloe

If we stay here, we'll just attract more robots.

I'll carry Mrs. Moira on my back if I have to.

Moira

Huh? Hanna? Why'd you follow me here?

This place is dangerous. You and your friends should leave.

Chloe

Huh? Y-yeah. But Granny, you should come home with us.

Moira

Actually, Hanna... I lost that necklace you gave me around here.

You know, the one with the locket pendant.

It's precious to me... so I need to find it...

Verna

Chloe, how about go on ahead and take Mrs. Moira home?

I think she'll feel more at ease with you by her side.

Chloe

Okay, then you guys can look for the necklace. There's a chance the robots here took it...

Granny, let's go back together. My friends promised that they would find your necklace.

Moira

Really? Hanna's friends? Oh my, I'm so grateful. Alright, let's head back.

Cloud

I think Mrs. Moira came from that way, but... let's take a look down this way first.

Verna

They didn't have it. Let's look for some others.

Cloud

Oh! Found it! A necklace with a locket pendant. This must be it.

Moira

Huh? Who are you?

Your choice

(Hand over the necklace)

Moira

This is...

Oh my stars! This is the necklace Hanna gave me! Where ever did you find this?

If you open this, there's her portrait, too.

Cloud

Yes, we're friends of Hanna.

We heard that you lost your necklace, so we found it for you.

Moira

Oh, I don't know how to ever repay you. Thank you so much. Really, thank you.

Chloe

See, Granny. I told you my friends would find it.

Moira

Huh? Oh... yes. That's right. Wait, now that I think about it, I was in the middle of grocery shopping with Edgar...

Cloud

Yes, that's right. We'll take you to Edgar, Mrs. Moira. Let's go together.

Edgar

Goodness! I'm so glad you're okay.

Moira

I remember now. I was getting groceries with you...

But what happened...? It's all foggy after that.

Edgar

Don't worry about it. Let's head home.

Just a moment. I'll take her home and meet you back here.

Cloud

Okay. Oh, and see you later, Mrs. Moira.

Moira

Honey. Are you going to play outside for longer?

Chloe

Huh? Ah, yeah! I am.

Moira

Okay. Take care not to get hurt. Alright?

Chloe

I'll be careful, Granny. You don't need to worry.

Verna

It seems like she still thinks you're Hanna.

Chloe

Yeah... maybe.

Some time later...

Edgar

Thank you for waiting.

Thank you. I was able to get Granny Moira home safely thanks to everyone's help.

Verna

Glad to hear it. But... Mrs. Moira really doesn't seem like she can go anywhere alone anymore.

Could her granddaughter Hanna help look after her?

Edgar

Well, about that...

Verna

What about that...?

Edgar

Hanna was Granny Moira's only living relative, but she died of Void corruption.

She's never quite recovered from the shock.

Chloe

I had a feeling it was something like that.

Edgar

Honestly, all the survivors here have similar stories. I lost my parents the same way.

Granny Moira has become like family to me... I should take better care of her.

Cloud

You know, it sort of seemed like Mrs. Moira has been mistaking Chloe for her granddaughter for a while now.

What if you helped Mrs. Moira together?

Edgar

I'd be grateful for the help.

But, I think Granny Moira realizes that... Chloe isn't really Hanna.

Chloe

Yeah. It felt that way.

Edgar

But... she still responded to you like you were her real granddaughter. She must have wanted to express her gratitude somehow.

Chloe

Alright. I'll be sure to check in on Granny regularly so that she doesn't get lonely.

Would that be okay?

Edgar

Haha. That's really sweet of you.

Come by anytime. I'm sure she'll be happy to see you.

2. Lost Research Material

79 lines
Olivia

That's... That's all I need. And I can save everybody!

Your choice

(Leave.)

Lost Research Material

Verna

Excuse me... but, what do need? And who are you saving?

Olivia

People. I-I just need my research material... and I can save all of my colleagues.

Come to think of it... you guys saved us from the lab, right?

I know it's a huge ask, but do you think you could retrieve my research material from the core lab for me?

Verna

From the core lab? It'd be really dangerous for us to go back there...

Olivia

Please, I'm begging you. I'm actually a fugitive now, so it would be even more dangerous for me to go than you!

I need the research material I left behind during the escape. It's the only cure...

Verna

The only cure for what?

Olivia

For Void corruption!

Among the researchers... there are people who were exposed to Void substances for extended periods while researching animals corrupted by the Void.

Given enough exposure... they become corrupted by the Void as well. I can't just watch my colleagues die.

Verna

And you know a way to cure that? Well, in that case, you definitely need your materials! We'll go for you.

Olivia

R-really? Thank you. Go into the research wing and... just grab anything with my name on it!

Wait, I haven't even told you my name! It's Olivia!

Verna

Okay, Olivia. We'll try our best to find it, so sit tight!

Cloud

Verna, it's Ortus!

Verna

I think the place Olivia wants us to go is that way.

Cloud

I don't see Olivia's name here...

Verna

It's not on this, either... Oh, let's check the data archive!

Cloud

There's nothing here, either. Maybe she dropped along the escape route?

Verna

Cloud, over there!

Cloud

Oh! Found it! It says "Olivia" on it.

Vanessa

Hey, you two! Wait.

Did I hear you say you're doing something for Olivia?

Verna

Yes, but... who are you?

Vanessa

Oh, sorry. I'm Vanessa. I worked with Olivia in the core lab.

Did Olivia, by any chance, ask you to get something for her?

Verna

Why? Is that a problem?

Vanessa

Well, uh... It's that thing. Can you get rid of it?

Verna

Huh? What do you...?

Vanessa

By the looks on your faces... Olivia must've told you that her research was really important.

Did she say it was something to save people corrupted by the Void?

Cloud

Yeah, that's right. It's why we risked our necks to come here...

Vanessa

The truth is... Olivia isn't in her right mind right now. She's. Um. Mentally corrupted. By the Void.

As a doctor, it was agonizing for her to watch people lose their lives to the Void with no way to help.

Olivia poured herself into her research. She said she'd developed a new medicine a few days before you guys showed up.

She was excited to show me what she'd been working on.

But if I'm not mistaken, the drug she synthesized contained Void substances.

Cloud

What?! How could she make something so dangerous?

Vanessa

You understand. But once Olivia became certain that she'd found a cure, no one stood a chance of convincing her otherwise.

I tried to talk to her, but it just turned into an argument. I'd have better luck talking to a wall.

Verna

...I see. We're still going to check back in with Olivia, though.

If what you say is true, we'll take responsibility for destroying this research material.

Vanessa

...Okay. Go ahead.

Olivia is probably at The Glitch. She's been drowning her sorrows in booze ever since she got to New Nirvan.

Verna

Thanks for that. Let's go, Cloud!

We're back, Olivia.

Olivia

Did you get it? Where's my research material?

Verna

Uh... So, we actually couldn't find it.

Security's really tight, and uh, Ortus might've already moved it... or disposed of it...

Olivia

B-but you still could've brought something. Anything. Do you know how important my work is?!

This can't be happening. Why? Why?!

Verna

Easy, Olivia. It's just the research material you've lost, not your mind! You figured it out once, right?

Olivia

Just the research material?! Do you even know what corruption is?!

Do you know how many people die while I reconstruct my drug molecules, if I even can without sterile laboratory conditions?!

I need my research material! Now!!!

Verna

She left...

Cloud

...I'm getting the feeling that Vanessa was right about her.

Verna

Yeah, I wouldn't call that a normal reaction.

Cloud

I think it'll be best for everyone if we dispose of this research material.

Verna

Done. The material's totally shredded.

Olivia seemed a little unstable, just like you said.

We disposed of the material like we promised, but... will Olivia be okay?

Vanessa

...She won't be. But then again, it's been a long time since any of us have been okay.

Please understand, we've done our best for her.

This is better than her worsening her colleague's corruption with her own efforts.

Verna

Being corrupted by the Void... is really scary.

Vanessa

Indeed. But, after surviving the collapse of Nirvan, sometimes it feels surreal simply being here, in this dimension, alive.

We researchers have understood the risks of Void exposure from day one. We've accepted it.

Therefore, we have no regrets. If we have time any time remaining at all, we'll make the most of it.

Cloud

...I can understand why Olivia was so upset.

If you all share the same mindset... that probably just made her even more desperate to save you.

Vanessa

Aw, shucks, you're getting me all misty eyed. Anyway, thank you for hearing me out.

All that's left is... comforting Olivia, perhaps?

Cloud

It's a good thing that Olivia has a friend like you, Vanessa.

I hope your words get through to her.

3. A Melodic Dream

169 lines
Noah

One day, I'll compose a song that everyone will like!

Your choice

(Leave.)

A Melodic Dream

Noah

Da-tta-ah...♬ Ttara♪ ttara-ah...♩ Hmm...

Verna

Is that... a song? It sounds nice.

Noah

Oh, was that out loud? Hehe. Hello! My dream is to become a singer-songwriter. Because listening to music makes people happy, right?

I want to share the joy in my heart with everyone, but my dad says my dream is pointless...

Verna

Huh? Why would your dad say that?

Noah

Well, because we're refugees right now...

He said that... we need to prioritize work that supports our lives here.

Verna

Hm... That's a tough topic.

Noah

But if people enjoy the songs I write, my dad might change his mind.

So, I was hoping... Could you ask people what they think of my songs?

Verna

Wouldn't it be better for you to ask them yourself?

Noah

I'm worried they won't give me their honest judgment if it's me asking.

I need objective feedback if I'm going to convince my dad.

Verna

You do have a point.

Noah

Take this sound cell. I filled it with the songs I've written and the feelings I want to share.

Please find out how everyone feels about my music!

Verna

You can leave it to us. Just wait here!

Cloud

But, who should we play this for?

Huh? Mr. Calus? Hello.

Calus

Huh? Oh, you're Chloe's friends, right?

You're not loitering around and getting into trouble, right?

Cloud

What? Of course we're not. Don't worry.

Calus

Alright. What's going on, then?

Cloud

Ah, well, do you happen to like music?

Calus

Hahaha! Do I like music?! You'd be hard-pressed to find anyone in New Nirvan who doesn't like music.

We're all busy just trying to survive, but in our hearts, we love the arts.

Cloud

Oh, that's perfect!

We have a few songs that we'd like your opinion on. What kind of music do you like?

Calus

Hm... Wonder if I'll ever make it back to my hometown...

Your choice

(Ask what kind of music he wants to hear.)

(Leave.)

Calus

Me? Well, I... I like powerful and exciting music the most. It's good to listen to while working.

Cloud

Oh, this should be a perfect match then!

Your choice

Genre - Archive Folk: Paper Airplanes Made from Data Fragments

Genre - Codelium Pulse: The Engine Running Faster Than Your Heart

Genre - Engine Room Rock: A Sigh from the Steel Giant

(Calus clears his throat, then listens to the music with a serious expression.)

Calus

Hm... It's an excellent song, however, I enjoy music that's a bit faster and more exciting than this...

(Calus clears his throat, then listens to the music with a serious expression.)

Calus

Listening to this puts my mind at ease. But it's really just a bit faster than my heart rate. It's not really my thing.

(Calus clears his throat, then listens to the music with a serious expression.)

Calus

Yeah, this is it! I feel like I could reach out and touch the engine making these clangs and crashes!

This track has a burning hot rock-and-roll spirit. Who recorded this? I'd listen to more of their music in a heartbeat.

Cloud

This is just a demo. They haven't released an album yet.

Calus

Hm... That's a shame. It's been a while since I've heard some good music.

Cloud

We'll be sure to let the artist know you really liked it.

Calus

You do that. I have no idea who they are, but they've got something special here.

Verna

Alright. We're one for one. Let's look for someone else!

Bianca

Huh? What are you guys doing here?

That thing you're holding... Isn't that a sound cell?

Verna

Hey, Bianca. That's right, it's a sound cell. You know what it is?

Bianca

Of course. They weren't allowed inside the labs, though.

My only pleasure in life was listening to music and unwinding with a glass of wine after work.

Verna

Well, you won't have heard these songs before. They're demo tracks from an up-and-coming singer-songwriter. But if there's a specific genre you like, we can play that for you.

Bianca

Oh? Sounds like fun. You know... I haven't really had the time to listen to music since we left Nirvan.

Verna

I'm glad you're interested. What can we play for you?

Bianca

I haven't lost hope. I am pretty tired, though...

Your choice

(Ask what kind of music she wants to hear.)

(Leave.)

Bianca

It might not seem like it... but I like lyrical music. You know, the kind that feels like a gentle breeze across a lake. Stuff that sets your heart at ease.

Verna

Alright then, how about this?

Your choice

Genre - Void Ambient: The Color of the Void in Dreams

Genre - Synchrony Ballad: Will Your Circuits Remember My Warmth

Genre - Reality Tune: I Don't Need Frequencies to Forget My Pain

(Bianca closes her eyes and listens to the music, looking pleased.)

Bianca

This is... too subdued and simple for my taste. For some reason, it reminds me of the loneliness I felt on the Ark.

(Bianca closes her eyes and listens to the music, looking pleased.)

Bianca

Right, this is it. The lyrics tell a story, and it has a beautiful melody.

I can feel the songwriter's longing for their family. It warms my heart but also makes it ache...

Verna

Longing for family...

Bianca

This is by a new artist? They're a genius.

I'd love to hear more of their songs. Who wrote this?

Verna

We can't reveal that information, but their album will probably be out pretty soon.

Bianca

Please let them know that I'm their number one fan.

Verna

Ahaha... Yes, we'll make sure to relay the message.

(Bianca closes her eyes and listens to the music, looking pleased.)

Bianca

Hm. This is definitely nice to listen to, but the sadness is too deep. It's bringing me down.

Cloud

Everyone's a fan so far. Should we go to The Glitch next?

Wilson

What brings you in today? I assume you're here because you're craving one of my exclusive drink specials. In that case, I have a new one: the **Cool Mint and Rare Botanicals Popping Candy Smoothie...**

Verna

No thanks!

We were wondering if you might consider playing a song by an up-and-coming singer-songwriter for your customers?

Wilson

Huh? An up-and-comer? **Search History: None.**

I only play music by Mild Fever, a singer-songwriter who was on the rise back in Nirvan. The songs aren't very famous, but they're all masterpieces.

Verna

Aren't you worried your customers will get tired of the same songs all the time?

Maybe The Glitch needs new music, not new drinks?

Wilson

Alright then, what kind of music do you have in your sound cell? Who wrote the songs?

Verna

They're not famous yet, but...

Wilson

See. Playing lousy music by an unknown like that is **insulting.**

This is New Nirvan's one and only oasis. I have an obligation to provide **true rest** to my paying customers!

I need music with a soft melody that'll evoke memories of your hometown. It needs to feel like you're lying on the beach, and your whole body is being wrapped in seaweed that's being washed ashore by calm waves, but not in a gross way. Understand?

Verna

...How is that restful? Anyway, why don't you just give it a listen?

The genre is Code Gray. It's a song titled The Galaxy in a Broken Bottle

Wilson

Hm... Let's see...

(Wilson listens to the music, looking pretty serious.)

Wilson

**Unbelievable.**

Th-this is like... Mild Fever... No, it's even better. This is a new artist?

Verna

Yes. This is just a demo track ahead of the full album.

We'll be sure to share your thoughts with the artist.

Wilson

Alright. Please let them know that I'd like to hear their album once it's out.

Cloud

Everybody gave it a great reception! Let's head back to Noah.

Noah

Oh, you're already back? Uh... and the music...?

Cloud

It went great. Everybody was shocked by how much they liked it.

They were all excited to hear more of your songs.

Noah

Wow, that's such a relief!

Cloud

Yep, so I think you can be a bit more confident now.

Noah

Yeah... but my dad...

Could... could you do me one more favor?

Cloud

Huh? What's that?

Noah

I'd like to know... what my dad thinks of my music.

Cloud

Hm... Right, because the person you want to believe in you the most is actually your dad.

Noah

He mentioned that he was repairing a transport vehicle near the control center by himself today... and it's almost time for him to return.

...If my dad likes my music as much everyone else does... do you think he'll let me pursue it?

Cloud

Yeah. Don't worry. I'm sure he'll like it.

We'll go talk to your dad.

Noah

Really? Thank you. Please, I'm counting on you.

Cloud

Hi. Sorry to bother you, but could we impose for just a second?

Leonard

What is it? I'm just finishing up my work here.

Cloud

Ah, yeah, do you like music, by any chance?

Leonard

Music?

Cloud

Yeah. Maybe listening to music energizes you, or... something like that?

Leonard

Yes, I guess so. I do... quite enjoy music.

Cloud

That's perfect. Will you listen to this song and give us your thoughts on it?

Leonard

My thoughts? Who exactly wrote this song?

Cloud

They're still an unknown songwriter, but...

Leonard

Good grief. Who can think of a think like songwriting in a place like this?

We're busy just trying to get by.

Cloud

Still, everybody we talked to today praised this artist's music.

Leonard

Alright. Well, I guess I can give it a listen.

Hm...

This is...

Did you two... meet Noah?

Cloud

Huh, how did you know?

Leonard

It's impossible for me not to know. This is one of the melodies Noah used to hum all night. But, why do you two have this?

Cloud

Oh, so... we just... wanted to tell you that many people enjoyed Noah's music.

Wilson even said it was better than the songs by Mild Fever, his favorite musician.

Leonard

...I suppose so. That kid was born with a gift, so it's only natural for him to be better... than me.

Cloud

What? What do you mean?! Better than... you? Are you... Mild Fever?

Leonard

The moment I boarded the Ark, I knew music was completely meaningless.

My meager fame couldn't... cure my wife Rie's illness.

I watched the Void consume my wife with every passing moment... and the only thing I could do was sing to help her fall asleep.

Cloud

Is that why... you don't support Noah's dream?

Leonard

This dimension isn't ours, and it's long since we've abandoned the dream of returning to home.

I want my son to pursue a more practical dream.. so that he can survive here.

Verna

But don't you think your music mattered to your wife?

Leonard

What?

Verna

Because you sang to her, until her very final moments.

Maybe Noah wants to become someone who can gift that kind of happiness to people?

Leonard

Someone who gifts happiness...?

Verna

And the person Noah probably wants to gift happiness to first is you, his dad.

Leonard

...Well how about that. You win. Guess I'd better start cheering Noah on and supporting his dream. Better late than never.

Verna

Good. I'm sure Noah will be thrilled.

Noah! You don't need to worry anymore. Your dad's come around, and he supports you chasing your dream.

Noah

What? Really? No way...

Verna

He recognized your song as soon as he heard it.

He remembered the melody you always hummed.

Noah

He was so opposed to it, but...

Verna

I think... letting go of your mom left a mark on your dad that never quite went away.

That's why he's been so focused on your survival, even under these poor conditions.

Noah

I had a feeling.

But... the harder the times, the more important it is to provide comfort.

My mom only found sleep when Dad sang to her. His voice quieted the pain.

Cloud

Uh... Just how old are you?

I think I can understand why people feel comforted by your music.

Noah

Alright then, all that's left is to share my music with everyone!

Thank you for your help!

Cloud

Yeah, you've got this! We'll be cheering you on.

4. A Novel Business Idea

68 lines
Wilson

What should I get for you today? The usual?

Your choice

(Leave.)

A Novel Business Idea

Wilson

There's really no other way for me to express this. I'm in a **tricky** situation.

Cloud

What is it, Wilson?

Wilson

Well, it's really nothing. Although, depending on the circumstances, it might be something, but it might also be nothing. That's what is it.

Cloud

I see... Well, I'm going head out...

Wilson

Wait. 38 days, 4 hours, and 17 minutes ago, I found an Ortus deserter at the entrance of the undersea tunnel. A fellow named Goebel.

The community watch arrested him and used a memory projection device on him. Fortunately, he wasn't a dangerous person.

14 hours later, he was registered as a resident of New Nirvan, like you two.

I didn't expect that to be the start of my trouble.

Cloud

Is Ortus looking for the deserter?

Wilson

No, no. But he would pester me with questions about The Glitch's sales figures, or spend the entire day scribbling away in that corner over there. Every! Single! Day!

But lately, I haven't seen him. He's been **away for 12 days and 3 hours.**

Instead, I've heard rumors that he's been looking all around New Nirvan for something. And his most recent destination was... the residential area.

Cloud

Why is that a problem?

Wilson

That's what makes this tricky. Even though he's a deserter, he's still from Ortus.

I'm sure he's hatching a dangerous scheme. What do you think? This isn't **speculation** but **reasonable suspicion.**

Cloud

So you want us to look into what he's doing?

Wilson

That's it! Finally, my intentions have been clearly conveyed.

Cloud

Hm... Okay. We'll see what we can find out. And um! Maybe keep your explanation shorter next time.

Verna

Huh? Cloud. That must be him!

Goebel

Just wait. Once I get that stuff... I'll soon be rich!

Your choice

(Leave.)

(Hand over the sleeping bags and MREs.)

Verna

Hey, excuse me! What are you doing here?

Your military uniform is making people nervous, you know?

Goebel

N-no. I'm a resident of New Nirvan, like you...

Th-the uniform is just comfortable, and... I'm just constructing a business plan.

Verna

What? A business plan?

Goebel

Yeah! You see, I joined Ortus because I heard that you could make a lot of money, but...

The pay was lousy, and there was tons of overtime. I had no choice but to cut my losses and bail.

But this time, I have a brilliant business idea! I just need to get my hands on the stuff, and I can put life on the streets behind me!

Verna

What stuff?

Goebel

Oh, it's... military supplies. I need the sleeping bags and MREs issued to Ortus.

Verna

Huh? What do you mean? How would you...?

Goebel

That's a trade secret! But if everything goes according to plan, I'm certain it'll be a lucrative venture.

But I'm dead meat if I get caught, so it can't be me.

Could you possibly retrieve the goods for me? Look here, it should all be stored in this spot I've marked on the map.

Verna

So... It's too dangerous for you to go, so you're asking us to do it?

Goebel

I mean, yes, but please! You've gotta help me. I'm so confident this'll work that I'll give you a cut of my profits... once I've made them.

Verna

Hazard pay, too.

Goebel

Of course! Whatever you want! Please, I'm counting on you!

Cloud

Hm... I really don't like this...

Verna

Let's grab the sleeping bag first.

Good, this is it. Next is over there!

Cloud

As expected, it wasn't easy. Be careful!

Verna

Done. Let's go deliver these so we can be done with this.

Goebel

Huh? Are you back already?

Oh! Yes. These are exactly what I wanted. You're amazing!

Cloud

Now, tell us. What are you going to do with this stuff?

Goebel

The thing is... I'm not the only Ortus deserter.

Look around carefully, and you'll spot a lot of people with nowhere to go.

I'm going to lend them sleeping bags and charge money. It'll be like a lodging fee.

Cloud

*Sigh...* What...?

Goebel

And if they pay a little more on top of that, I can provide them food, too.

These MREs taste pretty good, and they come in a bunch of different varieties.

Cloud

People would... buy that stuff?

Goebel

Of course. Ortus might be a terrible employer, but the kit's the one bright spot.

I even considered sticking it out just for my sleeping bag and to keep eating these MREs!

If I set daily rent at around three times the price of a bag and mark up the MREs times five... I knew it! Getting rich is a piece of cake!

Verna

You won't get a single customer with those prices!

Goebel

Hahaha. I can see why you might think that. Entrepreneurship isn't for everyone!

Verna

...I'm beginning to see what Wilson was going on about.

Goebel

I just need a few days. Please drop by for a visit.

I'll be sure to pay you interest on your investment! I won't let you down!

Verna

Yeah, yeah. I hope you get rich.

Gosh. I've never seen such a foolish business plan.

5. The Line Between Monster and Machine

60 lines
Jeannie

If I could just confirm my hypothesis somehow...

Your choice

(Leave.)

(Hand over the sludge monsterling.)

(Hand over the new monsterling.)

The Line Between Monster and Machine

Jeannie

That thing! That's a monsterling, isn't it?

Cloud

Oh, yes. That's right. How did you...?

Jeannie

In that case, you two must be monster collectors.

Oh, sorry if I scared you. My name is Jeannie. I'm a biotechnologist.

I used to be in charge of researching Belana's ecosystem back at KrypTiiK.

Cloud

We know about KrypTiiK's experiments on monsters. They had them locked in tiny cages...

Jeannie

Yes... that's right. I left KrypTiiK because I didn't want to take part in such unethical research.

Please. My primary academic interest is in the origination of new monsters.

Cloud

New monsters?!

Jeannie

Yes, I have a hypothesis I would like to confirm. Although, it'll be quite difficult with the equipment I have on hand...

But first, I need to figure out a way into KrypTiiK's research wing.

Verna

Why do you need to go back to a place you already left?

Jeannie

There's something I really need there. A sludge monsterling.

Verna

...Sludge?

Jeannie

It's a monster I created around an artificial core.

It's an early-stage prototype, but it's the most suitable candidate for fusion reactions due to cellular softening.

Verna

Artificial core... fusion reactions... I'm lost.

Cloud

...Anyway, you said you were researching the creation of new monsters?

Jeannie

Yes! So I was hoping... Could you retrieve my sludge monsterling for me? It looks like this.

Cloud

Alright. I'd be happy to help with something like that. Let's go, Verna!

Verna

*Sigh...* Typical...

Jeannie

Thank you. I'll prepare the rest of the experiment while I wait. I appreciate it!

Cloud

Alrigt, let's head further into the research wing.

Verna

Cloud! It's this guy!

Cloud

$CAT_NAME$, it's up to you!

Alright! We've got the monsterling!

Jeannie

You're back. Do you have the monsterling?

Wow! Thank you, seriously.

Now, I just need to synthesize a solution to combine it with this slimelet monsterling I've prepared.

If I take samples from both sides and wait around a week...

The fusion reaction may combine the two monsters!

Cloud

Combine them? If that's the case... Hold on! Could I borrow your slimelet monsterling for a second?

Jeannie

Huh? What are you going to do? I only have the one!

Cloud

It's okay, just trust me. It'll only take a second!

$CAT_NAME$

Nya?! Nyan!

Your choice

(Leave.)

(Hand over Jeannie's monsterlings.)

Cloud

$CAT_NAME$! Can you combine these two monsterlings, please?

$CAT_NAME$

Nyan... Meow!

Cloud

Alright! Ta-da!

Jeannie

What about my sludge? And where did the slimelet monsterling go?

Is this...?! Is this the result of my sludge and slimelet combining?

Cloud

Yup. That's exactly right.

Jeannie

It really worked. To think, sludge can be combined with monsters from Belana...

Cloud

See. I told you to trust me.

Jeannie

By the way, I've never seen another cat with abilities like this one's before...

Cloud

Haha. Yeah. When it comes to things related to monsters, it can do pretty much anything.

Jeannie

If it can combine monsters with artificial cores and pass down the traits to the resulting offspring...

I can prove my hypothesis now!

Cloud

But this little guy... I don't think it's a new species.

Jeannie

Oh, that's okay. The fact that an artificial core combined with a monster's core is a big win in itself.

Cloud

I see. Well, that's a relief.

Jeannie

If I study this guy, I should be able to observe how inherited traits affect new monsters.

You've been a huge help. Thank you so much!

Cloud

No problem! When it comes to anything monsters, I'm your guy!

6. Skill Demonstration

61 lines
B0-0M

Refine the thermal energy source detection device. Review sensor errors. Cool, heat. Cool, heat.

Your choice

(Leave.)

(Participate in the cryogenic sensor response experiment.)

(Participate in the thermogenic sensor response experiment.)

Skill Demonstration

B0-0M

Possesses a thermogenic weapon. Female, human. Possesses a cryogenic projectile weapon. Male, human.

Experiment on hold pending cooperation.

Verna

Cloud. I think he's talking about us.

B0-0M

Sender: M.A.D. Message: Standing by for temperature-sensitive detonator experiment.

Cooperation required. Cooperation required.

Verna

M.A.D.? I can't really understand what you're saying, but you need help, right?

B0-0M

Low-temperature reactivity test. High-temperature reactivity test. Conduct sequentially.

Request: required element attack input. Cool, heat, cool, heat.

Verna

What in the world is M.A.D. trying to test?

Cloud

I'm not sure. But it seem like it'll be fun! B0-0M, count us in!

B0-0M

Two participants. Physical response test. Normal.

Attack until energy requirements are met! Attack, attack!

Cloud

Phew, that was a workout.

B0-0M

Analyzing experiment results.

Cryogenic energy attack complete. Recovery rate: 97.4%

Test complete. Positive results.

Cloud

Oh, that's good!

B0-0M

Critical point breakthrough attempt. Results report.

Energy requirements not met. Mismatch with expected results.

Cloud

Huh? What?

B0-0M

Cryogenic sensor response experiment complete. Test complete.

Cloud

Hm. So, was it a success or a failure...?

Verna

I'm not sure. Anyway, I think it's my turn next.

Ack!

M.A.D.

It worked! It's a success!

Verna

I'm sorry, M.A.D. I didn't mean to...

M.A.D.

Huh? About what?

Verna

I didn't mean to destroy it. I just did what I usually do, but it...

M.A.D.

Oh, it's okay. All that was according to calculations. That was a good explosion!

Verna

What? Does that mean you structured the experiment knowing it would explode? That's dangerous!

M.A.D.

Amazing! Now that's what I call an explosion!

With these results... I've got something to look forward to.

Verna

Huh? What are you talking about?

M.A.D.

I have a great idea!

I need to run an experiment with kinetic energy response sensors, so help me with that, too.

Verna

No. We decline to participate in anything dangerous.

M.A.D.

Ready, go!

Cloud

M.A.D.! You can't just throw us into a fight...

M.A.D.

It... e-exploded!

It worked! I've finally found the critical point!

It's a success!

Verna

My goodness... There's just no stopping you.

Where's M.A.D.? We clearly declined.

And the explosion was really dangerous this time! You should've warned us sooner!

B0-0M

M.A.D. location information. New Nirvan.

Large-scale gas explosion experiment success.

100% target achievement rate.

Verna

Hey! Don't startle me like that!

B0-0M

M.A.D. message delivery request. Voice information conversion. Output.

Thank you. I'll be counting on you next time as well!

Message delivery complete.

Cloud

C'mon, Verna. The experiment was a success! And M.A.D.'s grateful for us!

Hmm... Alright. I guess I did have some fun.

B0-0M

Thank you, thank you.

Verna

Yeah, you've been through a lot, too. But still, I have a message for M.A.D.

Next time, we won't be tricked!

7. Someone I Miss

71 lines
Exley

I need to see him... So I can ask him.

Your choice

(Leave.)

Someone I Miss

Cloud

Hey, kid. Why are you out here all alone? Are you waiting for someone?

Exley

Oh. Today's the anniversary of my mom's death.

So I'm just looking at the ocean and thinking about her.

Cloud

Oh... I see.

Still, it's dangerous out here alone. Want to come back to New Nirvan with us?

Exley

It's okay. I can get back on my own.

But I came out here planning to tidy up my mom's grave... So maybe you could help me?

Cloud

Sure. Just say the word and count us in.

Exley

I need a log, a chunk of scrap metal, and um... a high-efficiency combustion device.

Cloud

Seriously? You need all that to tidy up a grave?

Exley

Yes, seriously.

Verna

Cloud. Let's help him. Is that all you need?

Exley

Yes. That's all. For the log, the longer and sturdier, the better.

And one of the robots around here's probably got a combustion device.

Verna

So you're saying... we need to destroy robots. Got it. Okay! We'll help you.

Exley

Really? Thank you so much. You'll probably find a good chunk of scrap metal if you go over that way.

If you get the stuff I need, I can do the rest myself.

Verna

Alright, we'll be back soon.

Cloud

Verna, look over there.

Alright. This is enough.

Verna

Cloud. Uh... I feel like someone is watching us.

Cloud

Nah, it's probably just a weird shadow.

Aspe

Hey, what are you doing?!

You bastards! What are you doing with this stuff?

Are you trying to build a bomb?!

Cloud

N-no! I think there's been a misunderstanding.

Verna

Yeah. Some kid asked us for help...

He asked us to get some things to tidy up his mom's grave.

Aspe

Alright then, hand them over! Let me take a look at what you've got.

Verna

Okay. Take a look.

Aspe

Alright then, hand them over! Let me take a look at what you've got.

Your choice

(Show him the collected materials.)

Cloud

Give them back! You can't just take them like that!

Aspe

No, I can see that these aren't for a bomb, but I can't return them to you!

Cloud

Why not?

Aspe

You must've met a kid standing on the beach.

His name is Exley. And these items have nothing to do with tidying up a grave.

Verna

But then, why did he ask us to get these things for him?

Aspe

He's trying to get to the inner sector to see his dad. I'm sure.

He's probably planning to build raft with these things. I taught him how to make one in case he ever needed to escape in an emergency. I can't believe he's using it for this nonsense.

Verna

Hm... I would've never thought that was his plan.

Aspe

The kid's father is a Void researcher. He became obsessed with the hopeless dream of restoring Nirvan... and abandoned his family.

But he's still that kid's dad... so I guess it's only natural he wants to find him.

Cloud

So that's the story...

Aspe

Today is the anniversary of his mom's death. I've gone to visit her grave with him every year... so he's probably waiting for me.

I assume he planned to build a raft on his own and head to the inner sector afterwards.

*Sigh...* I can't believe he asked strangers for help with something like this.

Cloud

Would it be alright if we joined you? Maybe we can help comfort Exley.

Aspe

Sure, thank you. Let's go together.

Exley! You rascal!

Exley

G-gramps?! H-how've you been?

Aspe

You little...! Were you going to sail to the inner sector alone on a makeshift raft? If I've told you once, I've told you a million times, it's dangerous!

Forget about your dad! And let go of your resentment, too!

Cloud

Yeah. We've been shipwrecked before... Heading out to sea alone is reckless.

Exley

But I need to see him! I need to ask him why... why he abandoned us.

What could've been more important than us...? It was so hard for mom...

Aspe

Exley... Sometimes, even if you're family, there are things you can't understand.

Asking him might hurt you even more.

...From now on, you're living with me.

I don't know if your father will ever come to his senses and return home, but...

Until then, we've got each other.

Verna

Yeah. Exley, how about you stay with your Grandpa?

Exley

...I'd like that, but... will my dad... come to find me?

Aspe

Well, once you get a bit older... one day, you might be able to go see him yourself, even if he doesn't come to see you.

Verna

That's right. I'm so glad that you've got your grandfather to look out for you.

Exley

Okay... Thank you. Sorry for putting you through all that trouble.

Cloud

It's okay. You don't need to worry about us.

Aspe

You're very nice kids. Thank you.

8. Wrongdoings

78 lines
Grace

Help me! Please!

Craig

Arrest everyone who's stealing monsters!

Your choice

(Leave.)

Wrongdoings

Craig

Who the heck are you? You're dead!

Wait, that's an intruder? Arrest them too!

Verna

Are you okay? Are you hurt anywhere?

Grace

Thank you for saving me. That was really close.

Verna

But... what's going on? You're also a member of Ortus.

Grace

It's because I stole some monsters...

Verna

And this is a place that experiments on monsters, so... just what are you planning to do with the stolen monsters?!

Grace

No! I'm not like those people! I've changed.

Those people... they ruthlessly "dispose" of any monsters that have outlived their usefulness.

But the monsters haven't done anything wrong... I feel so bad for them.

Cloud

Do you mean that you're rescuing the monsters?

Grace

That's right. My friend Teresa and I were planning on hiding the monsters on the outskirts of the barrier. I even procured a container for us to keep them in.

Cloud

But, I guess our plan failed.

Grace

Wait! If they came looking for me, that means Teresa is in danger too...

Please, help me! We need to save Teresa before it's too late!

Verna

I don't know if we can trust you. Is this all a trap?

Grace

No. We were really trying to save the monsters...

Cloud

Verna. Let's save first, think later.

Grace

I'm telling the truth. Please, believe me.

Cloud

...If I find out you're lying, you'd better watch out. Now, lead the way.

Grace

Ack! There are Hak-yus everywhere. Teresa! Where are you?

She should've been waiting for me here... I'm sure there will be signs of Teresa around here.

Look here! Someone moved cargo in a hurry. She must have gone that way. Let's go!

This... This must be a message from Teresa!

This is a code we made up when we were kids.

Cloud

You guys must be very close friends.

Grace

Yes... Teresa was the whole reason I joined Ortus. She said I should.

I believed completely in Ortus's original mission: ensuring the safety of KrypTiiK until Code could restore Nirvan.

But as time went on, I couldn't shake the feeling that our mission was changing... We were becoming more focused on gathering data about this world, wreaking havoc... and controlling people.

Verna

Right. That's why we have no choice but to be suspicious about you.

It's hard to believe that anyone from Ortus would want to do anything good.

Grace

Yes... I understand. I guess it's only natural you'd feel that way.

This means "Area G-7." I think Teresa probably headed towards the production wing.

Cloud

Let's hurry. We need to save your friend and the monsters.

Grace

We're here! Hurry and look for the container.

Cloud

There aren't any monsters here.

Verna

There are no monsters here either.

Grace

This is the last place. Please...

Cloud

Huh? The monsters are... machines?

Grace

It's okay, guys. Don't worry. It's okay now...

Teresa

Grace!

Grace

Teresa! Oh, you're okay! I'm so relieved!

Cloud

I'm glad you're okay.

But... are these monsters all machines?

Teresa

Yes, that's right. They were created using artificial cores containing genetic information of the monsters native to Belana.

But they're meant to be used as weapons and then discarded... And no being should be treated as disposable.

Cloud

That's really awful.

Grace

We managed to rescue them, but... what do we do with them now? We're not out of this yet.

Teresa

Grace! Don't lose hope. We can still find a solution.

Verna

Hm... How about we do this?

We know a place where you can all stay. We'll help.

Teresa

Really? If you could do that for us, we would be so grateful.

Cloud

Verna. Are you thinking...?

Verna

However, it won't be free.

The person I'm about to introduce to you will likely ask both of you for inside information about Ortus.

Teresa

We will tell them everything we know if it means we can stay with these guys.

Verna

Alright. We'll be back.

Teresa

That'll take too much time.

If you use this older model communicator, you can avoid being monitored by headquarters. Please give this to your contact.

We'll try to get there on our own.

Cloud

That's a good idea. Verna, let's go. We need to hurry.

Verna

Uh... Wilson. Do you happen to need more information about Ortus?

Wilson

Ortus? I already possess enough knowledge about that group. Out of everyone in New Nirvan, I'm probably...

Verna

C'mon. It's fresh new information from people in Ortus, hot out of the oven.

Wilson

My most recent update was seven days, eight hours, and fourteen minutes ago.

The probability that this information is **free** converges to 0%. What are your conditions?

Verna

All you need to do is make room for the people with that information to live here. Oh, and please register one shipment container as well.

Wilson

Oh? That's quite simple. But just know... the background check process for members of KrypTiiK, and especially of Ortus, is very strict.

Verna

Here. I think you should confirm those details yourself.

Wilson

This is an extremely outdated model of communicator. Compared to the latest sound cells, it's practically unintelligible. I'm surprised Ortus is still using this **scrap.**

However, I cannot deny the thrill of subterfuge. 642 days and sixteen hours ago a deserter was also...

Verna

Yes, thank you, Wilson. We knew we could leave this one to you!

Cloud

Verna, isn't Wilson incredible? He just keeps talking and he never runs out of things to say.

Verna

He sure does. Just like someone else I know.

9. For Rion

50 lines
Erna

There's no time...

Your choice

(Leave.)

(Turn in the improved cylinders.)

For Rion

Erna

Ugh...

Cloud

What happened? It looks like you're hurt pretty bad.

Erna

I was trying to get a Hak-yu part and...

Cloud

By Hak-yu... Do you mean the robots that are around here?

Verna

If you're only looking for a part, isn't it available in New Nirvan? I feel like they'd sell it there.

Erna

It's... expensive. I don't have a way to make money, so...

Verna

Which part do you need?

Erna

A-are you going to help me?

Verna

Yes. So tell us what you need.

Erna

A cylinder. The fluid inside the cylinder, to be exact.

I need to hurry and get it to my little sister... Rion. There isn't much time!

Cloud

We'll get it for you! Wait just a moment.

Erna

Thank you! Thank you!

Cloud

Ugh, it smells nasty... Do you think this is enough?

Verna

Let's collect extra, just to be safe.

Cloud

Verna, it's so heavy...

Verna

Hm, okay. We can go now.

Erna

Rion... Please, wait just a little longer.

Verna

Is this enough?

Erna

S-so many...?!

Thank you. This'll last us for months!

I don't know how to repay you... I don't have any money...

Verna

It's fine. We wouldn't be able to stand just leaving someone to suffer, so we wanted to help.

More importantly, I thought you were in a hurry. Shouldn't you get going?

Erna

Oh, yes!

Cloud

We'll go with you. Since we helped, we should at least say hi.

Erna

Rion!

Rion

Big sis!

Rion takes the cylinder Erna hands her and downs the resonance fluid inside in one gulp.

Cloud

That resonance... stuff. It's like motor oil. Is it okay for her to just drink it like that?

Erna

It's okay... More than half of Rion's organs are mechanical.

Cloud

Mechanical...?

Erna

Before we came here from Nirvan, Rion survived corruption.

It wasn't deadly, but most of her organs were damaged during treatment.

Verna

So they were replaced with machinery?

Erna

Yes, and since we didn't have any money or time, we had to go with black market parts and a black market surgeon. And we barely managed that.

If she'd just gotten the transplant done properly, she wouldn't even need resonance fluid!

...Sorry. I don't mean to get loud, I just don't have anyone to vent to.

How long are you planning on staying in New Nirvan?

Verna

We're not sure. We have someone to find.

Erna

I see... If you need help with anything, please just ask.

Even if it's illegal or involves risking life or limb...

Cloud

No, no. We weren't expecting anything in return.

Erna

It can be anything. Please, give me a chance to repay this favor.

Sorry, but we'd better get going now.

I need to make money before the resonance fluid you brought me runs out.

10. Rion's Concern

113 lines
Rion

What should I do...

Your choice

(Leave.)

Rion's Concern

Rion

Do you have a moment?

I have a favor to ask.

Cloud

A favor? What is it?

Rion

Lately, my head's been hurting. I haven't told my sister because I don't want her to worry, but...

It also seems like I've become more forgetful. I've even forgotten things my sister told me, which has caused some trouble.

Verna

Shouldn't you tell your sister? I think it would hurt her more if you hid this from her.

Rion

I know, but I don't want to add to her worries.

She's already struggling just to keep me alive.

Verna

Alright. I understand that. So? What can we do for you?

Rion

Can you tell Dr. Brahms about my condition? I want to know what's wrong with me.

Oh, also! Please keep this a secret. I can't have my sister finding out.

Verna

Hello, Dr. Brahms.

Dr. Brahms

Hm? You don't really look particularly ill... What brings you here?

We're here as a favor for a patient of yours. She wanted us to discuss something with you.

...Go on.

Verna shares Rion's story with Dr. Brahms...

Dr. Brahms

Hm...

Verna

She wanted us to keep her identity a secret, so I'm worried I've said too much.

Dr. Brahms

Tch, that's no secret... You're here because Rion sent you.

You think I wouldn't know my own patient?

Terrible headaches... Indeed, it's about time that happened. It was strange that it wasn't a problem until now.

Verna

Do you know what the issue is?

Dr. Brahms

What would you expect when a human is regularly drinking machine oil?

Verna

Do you mean her headaches are because of the resonance fluid? If that's the side effect, then why...

Dr. Brahms

Well, it was never my preferred line of treatment.

When performing a Void Implant procedure, you have to take even the immune response into account.

But unlicensed surgeons don't care about that. They only care about keeping you alive in the short term.

So Rion takes the resonance fluid to suppress her body's immune response. Understand?

But naturally, resonance fluid is harmful to the body. It's especially devastating to the brain.

Right now, it's just headaches... But if allowed to progress, she will die.

Verna

Then, what does Rion need to do?

Dr. Brahms

The easiest solution is to replace her brain with a mechanical transplant as well, but...

Rion is still young. You can't digitize a child's brain.

I'll need to implant a resonance-blocking device in her brainstem to minimize the resonance fluid's effects on her brain. That's the best we can do.

Verna

Should we bring Rion? So she can have the surgery right away?

Dr. Brahms

We need to prepare the blocking device first. I can do the surgery, but I'm not an engineer.

Check with M.A.D. Just tell her to make you a resonance-blocking device. She should know what you're talking about.

Cloud

Should we check in with Rion before going?

Verna

Let's get everything prepared first. The doctor said she'd die if nothing's done.

M.A.D.

Hm... I just need propulsion devices, and it'll be complete.

Urgh! I can't stand this! Should I just go myself? No... If I get caught this time...

Verna

M.A.D.!

M.A.D.

Wha? Huh, when did you get here?

Do you need one of my masterpieces? Just lead the way, I have a loads of things to detonate!

Verna

Don't get your hopes up, we're not here to detonate anything.

M.A.D.

Bummer. Okay then, why are you here?

Verna

We need a resonance-blocking device.

M.A.D.

Huh? A resonance-blocking device?

Uh, I don't know what that is. Go away. Why are you asking me for something that doesn't even explode?

Verna

Why are you lying to us after all we've been through together?

M.A.D.

Ugh... but it's seriously no fun.

Verna

Earlier, when we came in, didn't you say you needed propulsion devices?

M.A.D.

...You heard that?

Verna

We'll get them for you.

M.A.D.

Oh?

Verna

How's that sound?

M.A.D.

Alright, I'll take it.

The propulsion devices used by Crushers are the best. Strip some off of them, and make sure you get plenty.

In the meantime, I'll get to work on a fresh resonance-blocking device.

Too weak... The explosive power is way too weak!

Your choice

(Turn in the propulsion devices.)

M.A.D.

Oh, wow! You've got a great eye for quality, these are perfect!

Cloud

And what about your end of the deal?

M.A.D.

You're talking about the resonance-blocking device, right?

Here you go.

Just so you know, I used a lot of precious materials for this to make it body-safe.

Cloud

We appreciate it. Thank you.

M.A.D.

Oh, you'd better be thankful. I had a really tough time stopping myself from installing a explosion sequence.

Also, try to get that installed ASAP. There'll be fewer side effects that way.

Cloud

Side effects? What kind of side effects?

M.A.D.

Huh? Dr. Brahms didn't tell you anything?

Um... Just go ask him. It's not really my area of expertise.

Hurry, go! I've got fun to have!

Erna

What do you mean, Doctor? She'll lose her memories?

Cloud

What's going on?

Dr. Brahms

Ah, you're back. And the resonance-blocking device?

Your choice

(Hand over the resonance-blocking device.)

Dr. Brahms

This is quite nicely build. M.A.D. put some real effort into this.

Erna

This is all my fault.

Rion wouldn't have gotten sick if I'd just been a bit more capable, and...

Dr. Brahms

Nonsense. If it wasn't for you, that girl would already be dead.

Erna

But if she loses her memories, it'll be no different than being dead.

This is all because I'm not good enough...

Dr. Brahms

Hm. With Erna in this state... I think you'll have to go and bring Rion here.

Cloud

She'll lose her memories? What do you mean? Is that what M.A.D. meant by side effects?

Dr. Brahms

It is a surgery that involves the brain, after all.

She won't be losing all of her memories, but... to Erna, this is a tragedy.

This isn't the kind of discussion I enjoy having with my patients' families, of course.

But let's leave it at that for now. Please bring Rion here, quickly. It's ultimately her decision whether or not she'll undergo the procedure.

Rion

You're back. Did you speak to Dr. Brahms?

Verna

Yeah. And we tried to keep it a secret, but... he already knew it was about you.

I think your sister knows too. She went to see Dr. Brahms.

Rion

Oh... I see. I've caused my sister to worry again.

Verna

We learned what's causing your headaches, too.

Cloud and Verna tell Rion about the resonance-blocking device.

Rion

Is that the... only way?

What about Erna? Did she agree to it? To me having the surgery?

Verna

Not yet...

Rion

...

Verna

Rion?

Rion

...Will you tell Dr. Brahms that I'll be there soon?

I have something to take care of.

Verna

Okay.

Rion

I really should repay you with something...

Verna

No. It's okay.

Rion

Thank you for you help.

Dr. Brahms

Why is it just you two? Where's Rion?

Cloud

She had something to take care of. She wanted us to tell you that she'll be coming soon.

Dr. Brahms

...Okay, I assume she needs time to ready herself.

The poor darling, this must be so hard...

11. Rion's Disappearance

131 lines
Erna

It's my fault...

Your choice

(Leave.)

Rion's Disappearance

Erna

If I'd just gotten her the proper surgery...

Verna

Are you okay?

Erna

If I'd just had a little more money...

Verna

Hey!

Erna

Huh, what?!

Verna

How does spiraling about the past help your sister?

Erna

It... You're right. I can't be like this.

I'd better go get Rion. She's probably nervous.

Cloud

Should we go with her? I'm worried.

Verna

What are you doing? Hurry up!

Cloud

Oh, I'm coming!

Erna

Rion! Are you in here?

The sounds of Erna's desperate search for Rion can be heard from inside the house.

Erna

Rion... is gone... Where... where did she...?

Verna

Are you okay...? Forget I asked. You're obviously not okay.

Rion must not be home. We should've paid more attention when she told us to go on ahead.

Cloud

We'll look for her. She can't have gotten far.

Erna

Please, I'm begging you. If anything happens to Rion... I can't...!

Verna

First, please go tell Dr. Brahms that we need to find Rion.

Erna

N-no, I'm going with you!

Verna

Trust us with finding Rion. We'll let you know the moment we find her.

Erna

Okay...

Cloud

Are you sure we can do this alone? I think we need to find her fast.

Verna

Let's go to Isabella. I bet she'll have an idea.

Cloud

Oh, so you didn't really have a plan either.

Verna

This is my plan.

Isabella

Hm? What's got you two in such a rush?

Verna

We're looking for a little girl.

Isabella

A girl? And...?

Verna

I was hoping you would know what to do, Isabella. I don't think she would've left New Nirvan...

Isabella

And...? *Sigh.* Do I look like a private detective to you?

Verna

It'll take too long for us to search all of New Nirvan. Is there any other way?

Isabella

Physical description.

Verna

What?

Isabella

If you want me to find her, you need to tell me what she looks like. Oh, and I also need to know when she went missing.

Verna

She's a young girl... short brown hair... around this tall... and she disappeared in the residential area around thirty minutes ago.

Isabella

That's not enough information. Anything else?

Cloud

She has a breathing support device! You know, the kind that makes a hissing sound each time you breathe.

Isabella

Okay, I guess that's enough. Now, be quiet and wait. I need to focus.

Isabella begins skillfully manipulating her monitor.

Isabella

Come take a look. I think I found her.

Female. The height is about right, too... She has short brown hair and a breathing support device. She's the only match.

Her name is Rion. Ten years...

Cloud

That's her! How'd you find her?

Isabella

What? I thought you came to me because you knew about this.

Verna

We just came hoping you could help us somehow.

Isabella

...I've installed surveillance bots everywhere. We get a lot of incidents, after all.

Verna

Where is she right now?

Isabella

Head to the scrapyard. You know, behind the control center.

T-11

Sort your recycling correctly. I'm watching.

Verna

Excuse me, but did a little girl come by here?

T-11

Yes. She just left.

She discarded a valuable item in Collection Bin No. 2.

Verna

A valuable item?

T-11

A compressed block of organic plant fibers! They're rare!

Cloud

A journal? This is valuable?

Verna

Organic plant... What was it? Anyway, I guess that's paper.

If you don't have any trees to make paper, I guess you could consider it valuable...

Isabella

Ah, ah... Can you hear me?

I think you guys should get moving.

I just confirmed your girl leaving through the Scrap Metal Barrier.

Cloud

This journal... It's filled with writing to the very last page. Rion's entries begin with the dimensional migration... right after settling into New Nirvan.

She wrote about receiving her transplants, too...

Verna

Did a young girl just pass by here?

T-200

Yes, yes. I saw her clearly with my state-of-the-art visual sensors!

Verna

Where did she go?

T-200

She went that way. I think she was heading to the Grave.

Verna

The Grave...?

T-200

Our memorial to the lives lost during the dimensional migration.

We left all our keepsakes in a pile there!

Although it may just look like a mountain of miscellaneous things now, officially it's...

Verna

Got it. Thank you!

T-200

Hey, are you leaving already?!

Verna

She's over there!

Cloud

Rion!

Rion

Huh...? Did you come here looking for me?

Cloud

You shouldn't have just disappeared like that. Your sister is worried about you.

Rion

...I don't know what to do.

What's the point of living... without any memories?

I would be a different person...

Cloud

But if you don't get the surgery...

Rion

I don't want to die like this either.

But, I hate that I'll forget about my sister equally as much.

Your choice

(Give Rion the journal.)

Verna

This, it's yours, right?

Rion

Yes...

Verna

You wrote a lot about you and your sister.

I also read... the story of your parents passing away before you left Nirvan.

Sorry for snooping without permission.

Rion

That journal, it's my treasure.

My mom started writing in it when I was young, and she gave it to me before she passed away.

She told me to write in it... and that I wouldn't ever need to worry it might get deleted like a data chip.

She said it would be my friend and never leave me.

Verna

That's very special. Why would you...?

Rion

After I have the surgery and lose my memories... my sister will be alone.

If my sister reads my journal... It would only make her sadder that I'm gone.

Verna

But, you can keep writing.

Rion

Huh...?

Verna

This journal holds your memories.

You won't be losing them. You'll just be storing them here for safe keeping.

Rion

Storing them for safe keeping...

You're right. My memories are here...

Mom... Dad... I'll be back after my surgery.

And afterwards, I promise to remember our family again.

I'll write everything down in my journal.

How much my family loved me... and why I must remember that...

Erna

Rion!

Rion

E-Erna! *Sob...*

Erna

I'm sorry, Rion. I'm sorry for everything...

Rion

No, no. You have nothing to be sorry about. I was... I was just scared...

Erna

Your memories... I'll help you remember them again. I'll keep reminding you, even if it takes hundreds or thousands of times.

Rion

...Hold onto my journal for me.

Erna

Your... journal...? W-wasn't this mom's?

Rion

I kept writing in it. What I went through, stories about you and me, and stories about mom and dad... I wrote it all down.

I couldn't show it to you because I thought you might think it was... me saying goodbye.

Erna

Oh... This is... perfect!

Rion

Huh...?

Erna

Dr. Brahms told me to bring anything that might have memories attached.

He said it would help preserve your memories.

I didn't think we had anything like that, but...

Rion

D-does that mean...?

Erna

Let's take this. This journal... Mom will protect your memories.

Thank you so much. For looking into our surgical options... finding my sister... and just everything.

Verna

I hope Rion doesn't lose her memories, and you have long and healthy lives together.

Erna

She will. I'll be right beside her, protecting her.

I hope the day will come when I can repay this kindness!

Verna

If Rion becomes healthy, that'll be good enough.

Erna

Thank you... Really, thank you so much!

12. The Request System

52 lines
Your choice

The Request System

Jenna

You have travel registrations, right?

Verna

Yes, that's right.

Jenna

In that case, you can now use New Nirvan's Request Systemas well!

Verna

Request System...?

Jenna

You're outsiders here, aren't you?

Honestly, everybody who arrives in New Nirvan has similar stories.

Anyway, my point is, this place is just like any other major settlement.

Verna

I'm getting deja vu...

Jenna

The Glitch is New Nirvan's one and only bar, but...

It also serves as the Errand Center!

We handle various types of requests for people.

I mean, you have to make a living, don't you?

Verna

Th-that is true. I wasn't even thinking about that...

Jenna

This is the first time Rue has approved people for the Request System so quickly.

Verna

...Really? Why?

Rue

No special reason. You just ought to be earning your keep.

Verna

...Well, in that case, I still feel like we're being singled out.

Rue

Well then. You defeated the Scrap Horde, right? And that was with Chloe, who was dead meat and dead weight.

That's more than enough to deserve special treatment. Truly excellent. Superb. In fact, you don't even have to use formal language with me. Well then, bye.

Verna

What are you talking about? What do you mean by "formal language"?!

Cloud

She left...

Jenna

Haha... Don't mind her. She's always so busy...

Oh, do you happen to have proof of defeating the Scrap Horde?

Verna

We don't have anything like that.

Jenna

Rue told me to collect data that'll prove your skills, and it is standard procedure...

It can really be anything, so can you bring me proof of defeating the Scrap Horde?

Verna

Do we really need to do this?

Jenna

Nope, you do not! Except, I received strict orders from Rue to not to sell to you until you've completed a new request, even if you're starving to death.

Verna

...Let's go, Cloud.

Is this enough?

Jenna

This is more than enough!

Verna

Okay then, you're going to feed us, right?

Rue

Of course. I handle distribution myself. My prices will be reasonable... but I refuse to operate at a loss.

Verna

Are you sure we can trust you?

Rue

And what other choice do you have?

Verna

Uh... I don't know what to say.

Rue

Don't worry. My business strategies aren't aimed at maximizing profits. Unlike Wilson.

Verna

Well, when you put it that way...

Cloud

Thank you, Rue. Whatever the case, you're helping arrange things to help us live here.

Rue

We've also adopted an interface similar to the Request system used by the Monster Tamers organization you are affiliated with.

Cloud

Huh? How do you know about stuff like that?

Rue

KrypTiiK has analyzed a great deal about this world, including Monster Tamers.

Hometown-style service... Just one of the ways you're receiving special treatment.

Cloud

I feel like you're buttering us up for something. What's your angle?

Rue

It's no secret that Chloe, our dead girl walking, is a wildcard who could do anything at any moment, so she requires supervision.

If you accompany Chloe, we should be able to anticipate her radius of activity.

Cloud

...So you're worried about Chloe?

Rue

Updating data. Has an overactive imagination.

Cloud

You're just shy, aren't you, Rue?

Rue

...Please, get out my sight. Now.

Jenna

Hehe. We'll see you back at The Glitch again soon!