Vivian: Collector of Desires

Mm...

Hmm...

Ugh, seriously! What is taking Daisy so long?!

Ugh! She said she'd come right back after giving the goblins some mushrooms!

I knew I shouldn't have let her go alone.

But it wouldn't have made sense to just leave that ore vein I found. It was worth so much money!

...Could she have gotten sidetracked by curry again?

No way. Even Daisy's sense of time isn't that bad...

...Actually, no. It is that bad.

Ah, I guess it's all up to me to go and fetch her.

Ugh. I can't take my eyes off her for even a second.

Hold on... These guys don't look right.

*Sigh* ...Hehehe... Hehe...

Hehehe... Hehe...

Ugh. What's wrong with them?

Hey, snap out of it. Have you seen Daisy?

Daisy...? Like the flower...?

Bunny.... Bun bun bun...

No, not the flower! Daisy the kid you fed curry to for five years!

And what about a bunny? What did the bunny do?

I've finally found...

True love... Woohoo...

Ugh, they're not making any sense. Did they eat some bad mushrooms?

Wait, then Daisy might be...!

What the...? This tent wasn't here before.

Hehehe! You're the best, Vivian!

...Daisy?!

Put your hands together! Let's hear your applause! Don't leave me waiting now!

Eeheehee! Me too... I wanna be a fluffy bunny just like you...

Come here!

Hey. Snap out of it.

It's one thing to miss the curtain time...

but interrupting the show is just gauche!

Why don't you come with me? Just for you, I've got a special tail.

I want a tail... I wanna go with you... Hehe...

Haha! But of course, a cute baby bunny like you is always welcome here. *Giggle*

Who are you calling a baby bunny?! Just who are you?!

Hmm, oh dear... It would be a shame to just let her go.

Alright, how about this?

Hehehe... Bunny's the best!!! Hehe!

Ugh, what now...?!

Now... Are you quite done being a killjoy?

Ugh! All of you, snap out of it!

Really, so aggressive.

I'm a lover, not a fighter. Are you sure you don't want to come with me?

What are you talking about?

Oh, I see! You have a very deep-seated desire in your heart, don't you?

A desire for... Gold and riches. It's common but powerful.

Huh? H-how...? What did you...?

Reading and fulfilling people's desires is my specialty.

If you don't want your friend to go alone, then you could also join my troupe.

You'll make more money than you could possibly imagine.

Our audiences always pay well.

I can make money? ...How much are we talking?

Roughly... a million Gold per performance.

A... a million Gold?!

Desire sells, after all. We'll just have to find a tail that suits you.

I...

I've never met anyone who promised that kind of money and wasn't a scammer!

A million Gold, seriously?! *Scoff* I wasn't born yesterday!

Hahaha. You're fun! How many times have you been taken advantage of to be so untrusting?

But, I wasn't lying when I said I would lift you out of poverty.

What?! Poverty?!

Hm. Such a shame, but I can't stand obsessing over things.

And I have a feeling I'll be late if I don't start heading towards the port.

Hey! Where do you think you're...!

She disappeared...?

Mm... Bunny...

Daisy is a bunny... So I'll only eat carrot curry...

Hey, Daisy! Snap out of it!

Aghh... That woman... What did she do to Daisy?

Mm... Penny...?

Ah...! Daisy! Are you with me?

Hehe. Penny...

Be a bunny with me, Penny...

...Ugh. Seriously! Come on!

Mmm...

Yum, yum... I want carrot curry... No more mushroom curry...

Ugh....

That woman... Vivian...? There's something about her...

...Let's head back to Python. I should let the guild know about this.

Branch Master! ...Huh?

Oh? It's been a minute, Amethyst Witch.

Oh, Penny and Daisy. What brings you here?

I can see Daisy is starting to look like a proper adven...

Hehe. Fluffy, fluffy... It's a bunny, a bunny...

Not at all like a proper adventurer! What happened, Penny?

Incorrect. Branch Master Miller's not a bunny, he's a grown man. And he isn't fluffy either.

What's going on here? Is this some kind of elaborate prank?

Does it look like I'm joking? We're in big trouble.

We met a suspicious woman in Delica Plain, and Daisy's been like this ever since.

What? ...She doesn't seem that different from usual, though...

What are you talking about?! The goblins were acting like they'd been enchanted, too.

Tell me more about this woman. What was she like?

A bunny showgirl called Vivian and a troupe of bunny followers...

Judging by Daisy here... Something is definitely amiss.

I have no choice but to go and check this out myself... But personally, with my own two eyes.

Heh. Is that so?

Ahem. What do you think, Ophelia? This seems related to the case in Breezeville.

Yes. It matches the villagers' testimony about the strange tent as well.

Breezeville? That woman went to Breezeville too?

Hmm. We can't be sure yet, but...

A few days ago, I received a request to investigate a missing person case in Breezeville.

A young woman named Cecile disappeared without a trace on the eve of her wedding.

There were no issues between her and her fiancé, so I thought it was unlikely that she'd left of her own accord.

Hmm... They were wearing masks, so I couldn't see their faces, but... there were a lot of girls.

She said something about the port, so... Maybe you can catch up to her in Port Vellum.

Heeheehee... Daisy's going to be the fluffy queen of the bunny-elves...

I'd go with you, but... uh, I can't leave Daisy like this, you know?

Will you be able to find your way there?

Hm! Don't worry. I've mastered finding my way around.

The atmosphere here is definitely unusual.

S-such an insolent flyer...!

I can't see their faces, but... I'm sure they said Cecile has a burn scar on the back of her hand.

Tonight only! The Fluffy Tail Troupe will dazzle and amaze!

"The Fluffy Tail Troupe's Moonlight Bunny Show..."

"A one-of-a-kind extravaganza to entice the senses and ignite the heart..."?

You read that right! It'll make even YOUR frozen heart beat red-hot!

Free admission for new audience members! Don't miss it!

...My heart is beating just fine now. Ahem.

I'm investigating a missing persons case. Can I ask you some questions?

Missing! Something so scary would NEVER grace Lady Vivian's stage!

Why worry about such serious business when you could come enjoy a whole troupe of cute bunnies?

...She's changing the topic. I should press.

Oh! You're looking for a troupe member named Cecile!

Unfortunately, the names of our bunny showgirls are top secret!

Lady Vivian's bunny showgirls don't need a name off the stage!

Oh! Are you disappointed to have missed our previous show?

Don't worry! Tonight, our greatest performance yet will take the stage right here in Port Vellum!

You're asking about new members?

Oh, I see! You want to join the Fluffy Tail Troupe!

We always welcome new members! Try talking to Lady Vivian, our troupe director!

...There's something off about her responses. This is definitely suspicious.

Do I have no choice but to conduct a search myself...?

Wait, that scar...

Could it be...?

Hey, stop right there...!

Mm mm. Back stage is strictly cast and crew only.

Audience members are prohibited from entering, so please wait until the show begins!

...There's someone I'd like to talk to in private.

Can you call over the bunny showgirl with a burn scar on the back of her hand?

A bunny showgirl with a burn scar on the back of her hand?

Aha! You're a devoted fan who's in love with one of our bunny showgirls!

Uh uh? Wh-wha- Huh?

Hmm... Private fan meetings are technically against policy, but...

For the sake of your burning desire...!

N-no, no...! You've misunderstood my intentions! I-

I'll inform Lady Vivian that one of our audience members is requesting a private meeting!

Wait just a minute!

No, that's not what I...! Uhh...

Did you bring the right stuff? Something that'll... satisfy... me?

...Well, that sounds... suspicious...

Indeed... It's great quality.

This is enough to make anyone... heated up. *Ahem*

Oh, such pristine purity, as if untouched by any... What a splendid prize!

Ooo... Could I... Could I touch it once?

Those fiends...!

Enough! Freeze!

Ahhh!! Aha! Wh-what in the...?!

You immoral, despicable kidnappers, I...

Wh-what?!

...It's just the two of them?

Lady V-Vivian. I'll be off now!

Who are you?

Are you Vivian? I've received allegations of kidnapping and human trafficking...

I recommend you comply with my investigation.

What? Kidnapping? Human trafficking?

I haven't the faintest idea what you're on about.

...I'm searching for a young woman who went missing from Breezeville a few days ago.

And you have a member of your troupe who matches her description.

I'll need to confirm that woman's identity. If you do not cooperate...

Breezeville...? Do you mean Cecile?

I don't know what kind of misunderstanding there's been, but... I think it'd be quicker if you just talked to her yourself.

Follow me. I'll summon Cecile for you.

Hello! You wanted to see me?

I heard that you were a really big fan of mine.

It's only been a few days since I joined the troupe, and I already have a fan... Ah, I'm so happy!

No, it's not that. Your fiancé asked me to look for you.

He's... looking for me?

Yes, he is. He told me you would never leave him without saying a word.

Has this Vivian woman kidnapped you or forced you to join the troupe against your will...?

What?! No! Kidnapped? No, I...

I joined Lady Vivian's troupe because I wanted to.

I watched Lady Vivian's show and realized what I truly desired.

...You really joined the troupe of your own free will?

Yes, I did. I'm very happy being a bunny showgirl like Lady Vivian.

But, there are people waiting for you...

I can't give up my dream. Please tell him... that I'm sorry.

She sounds honest, but something's off...

You look down. Sad that your little detective act fell flat? Hm.

...One more question. What deal did you make with that man who bolted?

If you're truly innocent, you'll have nothing to hide.

I don't owe you an answer... But I'll do you a special favor.

Here, see for yourself.

Th-this is...

It's a custom-made tail of real white fox fur.

Despite his unscrupulous appearance, that man has top quality products.

He wouldn't sell for money, so I made a trade with one of my favorite bunny tails. It's how collectors do things.

So, why would you want something like this...? What is it for...?

Oh, have I piqued your interest? Perhaps there's more to you than meets the eye.

You see, my show is one that stimulates people's most intimate desires.

Here, do you want to touch it?

Give it a pet, and I bet... You'll realize what deep hidden desires you've been repressing.

This isn't just a tail... No, no, no... It's desire itself. The desires hidden deep within your heart.

Of course, I prefer being pet more. Mhm.

Wh-what are you talking about?!

I wonder what you'll prefer.

Don't you think this tail will suit you well?

Just imagine.

You, wearing a tight leotard and a fluffy tail... *Giggle*

S-stop... Stop!

If you insult me any further, there will be consequences.

Oh dear, insult you? I was being sincere. Really, consider it.

Anyway, if you don't want us to perform, then I have no intention of insisting.

Listen up, crew! Scratch your preparations and strike the set. We're heading straight to our next tour stop.

How's that? There's no problem now, right?

Tch...

Don't forget. I'm not allowing you to leave because I trust you.

Alright, I'll keep that in mind. In return...

I'll make you a promise, my gorgeous knight...

You will, one day, be one of my bunnies.

You did well, Cecile.

Huh? I was just being honest.

I know. As a reward, I'll give your tail special attention tonight.

Really?! I'm honored, Lady Vivian!

Now then, shall we set off to Naksan?

I don't know what you're planning... but it won't go your way.

No matter how hard you struggle, you're just playing into my script.

When will you learn?

I just hope my lovely bunnies will fetch me something useful.

Oh wow...! Is this heaven?

There are so many real, live tails!

Oh, wow, hahaha, I'm overwhelmed.

Hello. Can I ask you something?

Ahhh! Goodness! Where's the rest of your outfit?!

Huh? Oh, look! I have a tail! Wanna touch it?

A t-tail...? What in the...?!

That sound...

That's right. Good girl. Just answer my questions, and I'll give you a special treat.

Yes, Lady Vivian...

I heard there was a big uproar here a while ago. Is that right?

An uproar... Ah, that's right. The Divine Maiden... Mina, the Divine Maiden... was kidnapped during the Sacred Soul Ritual.

The Divine Maiden...? Go on. Tell me everything you know about her.

The Divine Maiden looks after all the people of Baek-Ah.

She's very important... I've only met her once, during a greeting ceremony...

Whoever would kidnap such a treasured individual...

They'll be punished by the heavens.

Mmm... hehehe! I agree with that part.

I heard the Small Divine Maiden is fulfilling her duties now...

The... Small Divine Maiden? There's another Divine Maiden?

Yes, there's the younger sister, Divine Maiden Narae.

Huh, really? Where's that younger sister right now?

That, I don't...

I suppose with only one left, you'd be sure to keep her someplace safe.

That's enough. You can go.

Acting carelessly and making a mess... Things haven't changed.

Hmm. That's that, but this Small Divine Maiden... Should I go see her?

Ah... Your clothes! I mean, ah, ahem. State you business!

Who are you to ask such a sensitive question at a time like this, outsider? Reveal who you are first!

Hmm... So you do know where she is...

Ahh... I wonder what I need to do to get you talking?

D-don't come any closer! Your tricks won't work on me!

Hmm... Did you know...? The most sensitive part of a rabbit is its ears.

Ears...? Wh-what are you talking about?!

I'd like you to imagine whispering the secret you know right into my ear.

Ohhh... Oh, just thinking about it makes me...

I feel...

I feel... good...

Hahaha... So obedient. How adorable.

Let me ask again. Where can I meet the Small Divine Maiden?

Kumiho Divine Maidens, for generations... have lived at the Shrine of Nine Fates.

Wait... What? Kumiho?

Nine-tailed foxes. They live in the Shrine of Nine Fates.

Is that so...?

A fox... with n-nine tails?

Aha! *Ahem* Um, I will have to see this for myself.

There's a barrier around the Shrine of Nine Fates, so not just anyone can enter.

But, I've heard the Small Divine Maiden frequents Dohwa Garden in Wolha Village, so you should try there.

Dohwa Garden...

Okay, well. Thanks. Have a nice nap here, okay?

Fine by me! I owe that place a visit anyway.

Hello. Can I ask you something?

Ah! Are you alright?! Did someone steal the rest of your clothes?!

Oh, come on, not this again.

Hey, look. This is my entire outfit. You and I are both bunnies, right?

B-bunnies...? Then, are you also a beastkin?

Beastkin? Oh, I'm not a beastkin.

I'm just a human wearing fake ears and a tail.

I just love cute bunnies like you.

C-cute bunnies...?

If you have something to ask, then get on with it!

Haha. You're so shy. I was going to ask for directions to Dohwa Garden.

I'm not shy. You're just shameless!

Dohwa Garden is that way!

I see. Thanks. Anyway, there's one more thing I have to ask.

Your tail... Is it all natural?

Wh-what?

Your tail. It's much more luscious than other bunnies.

Just the right amount of shine, full and fluffy, and its round shape... Haha! It's really a perfect tail.

Wh-wh-what are you saying...?!

Really... I would love to touch it.

As long as you're okay with it, I would love to just... *gulp* give it a brush. What do you think?

I'm sure... it'll feel good.

Y-you... you...!

Unbelievable!

Oh... She left. Such a shame...

Stop right there!

Is this her?

Yes, that's her, officer!

Th-that half-naked woman... stared at my tail and...

She said my tail was sh-shiny, full, and round...!

And... that she wanted to brush my tail!

What...?! To commit such a heinous crime as teasing a woman's tail!

Huh? A heinous crime? But I kept my hands to myself and I only looked!

Y-you...! You're disgraceful and shameless!

Get her!

People here are awfully uptight...

Should I hurry this up?

I should get things over with before I catch more heat.

Come out, come out!

And who might you be?

Who is it?

Hm? Are you the... Small Divine Maiden?

Stay behind me, Narae.

Ah! What an incredible tail! I simply have to have it.

Uh, what?!

...But, there's only one.

Hup!

Haha! Judging by your reaction, I must be right.

I expected more, though. Does the one they call Mina have nine tails?

What was that?!

Hmm... What was so special about her that you kidnapped her...?

Eleanor.

You! Do you know the person that kidnapped my sister?

Leave this to me, Narae.

C'mon, you can't let just the two of us spend some time together?

Ergh...!

Master!

Oh, curses. I feel like I'm the bad guy.

Not another move.

A little bird told me

we have an unwelcome guest in our garden.

Headmistress!

Oh, c'mon. You're treating me like an intruder?

You're on the same side as that Eleanor person, right?!

...Me and that two-bit clown?

Wow, I'm a little bit... wounded.

I just came here to see you.

Me...? Why?

Hmm... You're...

Not a real Divine Maiden,

Just a shell with a big title. Hm.

What?

Sorrow, loneliness, nerves...

And the finishing touch...

Anger.

N-no... I... I'm not...

Don't listen to her!

She has a bewitching voice that stirs the heart.

You're all so chronically repressed.

It's alright to just do what you want, at least a bit.

Chae-Ah!

Gabi?!

See you. Mwah.

That was nearly dangerous. Especially the headmistress...

...Still, she's just a side character.

Haha, it's a cute invitation.

Now, should I go see what my bunny caught for me?

Lady Vivian, ahh, I so looked forward to your visit!

Ah, How I've longed to feel your touch on my tail once more... *giggle*

Yes, yes. I'll pet it all you want, but...

First, will you make me happy?

I'm about ready to cut back to the main plot.

Yes, I'll tell you everything I've learned in Baek-Ah.

Your ear, please...

...Uh-huh. Okay... Aha.

...Haha, ah, so I see.

Thank you. That was useful. You can go.

The Maleficent Sea...

Eleanor.

I don't know what you're up to, but...

If you harm even a single hair...

I will kill you.