Morimens story · Main Story
East District's Enigma
23 scenes, 1,015 lines
1. Pitch-Black Dream, before the fight
46 linesYou wake in total darkness.
It feels like a confined space, small, dark, silent, cold, devoid of light, with thin air, as if trapped inside a coffin.
Fear overwhelms you. You struggle, pound, and shout, but escape seems impossible.
Gradually, a voice sings in the darkness.
Old Charlie's tabby, fat and dear,
Hello? Someone? Anyone?
One day just vanished, disappeared.
It feels familiar. Yes, you've been enveloped by this suffocating void before.
He searched the wardrobe, checked the bed,
The space grows tighter. A crushing pressure steals your breath, and your body stiffens, immobile.
Check the basement, his friend had said,
Only your eyes and throat still function. All around you, a faint, prickling pain spreads, as if insects were nibbling at your skin.
No tabby where he looked, anywhere!
Someone... please... help...
He cried and cried in deep despair,
[email protected]... Ramon@1...
, 'Til Charlie, too, was never there.
Your skin prickles as if insects gnaw at it, pain flickering faintly. A metallic taste floods your throat, silencing you, plunging the world into stillness.
...
Somewhere, sometime, you've lived this before.
The one who pulled you from the darkness last time was...
%player%! %player%, wake up!
Light erupts. Someone grabs your hand. You jolt awake, drenched in cold sweat.
What was it? Another weird dream?
...I'm not sure.
Since returning from Yakutsk, the dreams haunt you... your own, others', dreams of the past, even... glimpses of the future.
Ramona, can we go to the Keygrave together?
You and Ramona walk silently in the Keygrave until you spot an ordinary yet unique gravestone.
This is your tombstone.
Ramona...
I dreamed of the Yakutsk explosion... I dreamed of being buried under the rubble and you digging me out.
I owe my second life to you. To Mythag.
Finding you was a blessing for me and Mythag. Without you, everyone here would have been engulfed by Yakutsk's Dissolution Cataclysm.
Still can't remember what happened before that?
You shake your head.
Yakutsk's swirling dust and Ramona's anxious face mark the start of your memories. Your past life seems lost to the wasteland's explosion.
Our school physician Dr. Sylvia observed memory recovery occurs progressively. Social interaction and varied experiences may help stimulate recollection.
Have you composed yourself? William awaits our status report.
Here's your mission briefing: Infiltrate Lilian's Workhouse covertly and locate the missing Investigator Sean Anderson.
Vanguard teams detected no high-risk Cataclysm signatures outside the workhouse, but maintain operational caution. You'll be accompanied by Ramona and additional Awakeners.
I know you can link multiple Awakeners at once, but considering the physical burden... You'll be accompanied by Ogier, who's already linked with you.
Yes sir! I shall do my best!
Anything else we should know about Anderson's disappearance?
This district represents the East District's most concentrated disappearance zone, with cases spanning six months. Investigator Anderson, being an East District native, likely uncovered critical leads.
While resolving the disappearance cases would be ideal, you must keep your focus on locating the missing Investigator.
Time's critical, and Sean's survival window narrows. Now go. May the Silver Key light your path.
2. Looks Deceive, before the fight
25 linesThick humidity and decay choke you the moment you step from the car.
Dizziness strikes, your ears ringing. Blurry images flash, have you seen this before?
Is it an illusion, or is this part of your lost memory?
No road signs or signposts... and it doesn't match the map...
Londinium Fact #1: The East District's perpetual fog and convoluted alleyways routinely disorient visitors.
I'll ask for directions.
A kid in a tattered hood lounges by the road, dwarfed by their oversized cloak.
Ogier walks towards the kid and gives a slight bow.
Um...
Told you, we're closed today. I need to go inside to find my sister.
The kid doesn't even look at him.
No, I just wanted to ask... Do you know the way to Lilian's Workhouse?
...
What an oaf...
Over here, I'll show you.
Look, right around that corner. Super close.
Oh! Thank you very much.
No, thank YOU actually.
Thank me?
When Ogier turns back, the stairs are empty... the hooded figure now lurks at the street's end, clutching his stolen wallet.
Ah, my wallet...
Londinium Fact #2: The East District's most infamous greeting involves wallets vanishing without notice.
Looks like we need to help Ogier. Let's go, Keeper.
3. Looks Deceive, after the fight
17 linesThe black creature roars, then collapses into sludge.
He... What... what happened?
Early Dissolution Erosion. It shouldn't happen this early... it shouldn't happen at all.
Two voices echo through the brooch, resonating in your minds.
Looks like artificial catalysis at work.
The anomalous Dissolution patterns... potentially correlate with Investigator Anderson's disappearance. The workhouse may be targeted... possibly you as well.
I will.
You prop the guard's remains against the gate and enter.
Around the corner, a white figure flashes by.
They're... We must get back before they meet Miss Sarah. Let's sneak in through the kitchen window.
Those people can help; do not resist their arrival.
No!
Those people won't be daunted by what's happening here. I promise.
No... we can't involve more people... It's dangerous for anyone who gets close. You KNOW that...
Mr. Anderson.
4. Ghost Underground, before the fight
87 linesYour party enters the workhouse, and from a distance, you see a nun leading several children and workers, lined up to wait for you.
Good day, {Male=Lord,Female=Lady} Ashe, Miss Mary. I'm Sarah, the matron here. The workhouse demands much of us, and I'm sorry we couldn't greet you at the gate.
Irritated by the lack of echoes, she frowns and nudges a distracted girl. The girl jolts, then bows to all of you hastily.
W-Welcome! We have prepared some snacks in the canteen...
And this is...?
Ogier's presence puzzles Sarah, and she looks at you, waiting for an explanation.
This is my younger brother, Ogier, one of the heirs of the family.
Lord Ashe desires Young Master Ogier to develop a comprehensive understanding of the East District's conditions to facilitate effective reforms upon assuming control.
Ramona remains composed, delivering rehearsed lines flawlessly. Yet Ogier's face has turned completely red.
As expected of Lord Ashe's young heir, taking on such significant responsibilities at such a young age. In the workhouse, we have children around his age barely capable of serving porridge...
P-please don't say that...
Ramona clears her throat and quickly changes the subject.
Hence our longitudinal field study in the East District. Lilian Workhouse serves as our initial research site, where we expect full transparency from the matron...
Ramona briefly recounts the guard's violent outburst, omitting Dissolution.
Were you aware of that, Miss Sarah? That one of your guards just attacked us?
I can't believe it! That guard, h-he definitely isn't from our workhouse. We don't have anything worth stealing, so why hire security?
Her awkward tone betrays the lie.
But, Miss Sarah...
Sarah deters the girl with a glare, and the girl clearly panics.
Silence, Aigis. This is grown-up business.
The girl stares at her doll with pursed lips, silent.
...Fine. Have someone take care of his body. Cover him with a cloth so the rats don't gnaw on him.
Then she turns to you.
I beg your pardon. When the doctor arrives, I'll ask them to assist with the burial.
Doctor?
Um, well... you see, we have quite a few children here, and thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, we've been able to hire some doctors for regular examinations.
It's about time for the next physical check-up.
Someone just died. Shouldn't we call the police?
Alas... You see, this is the East District.
Even during the disturbing ripper case, they merely sent someone to collect the bodies with no further action taken.
For people like us, getting enough food on the plate is all we can hope for; we don't have the luxury to mind much else.
Having said that, Sarah leads you into the workhouse. Behind you, the workers quietly formed two lines, flanking you like wardens... Or jail guards.
Ramona murmurs under her breath.
Londinium Fact #3...
In the East District, human worth remains unquantifiable, for it doesn't exist.
In the silent corridor, a door with a metal nameplate slowly opens. A mouse slips through the crack, glances around, and squeaks twice into the shadows.
Squeak!
"Clear," that's exactly what you said last time! I'd have been in real trouble if it hadn't been Aigis.
Jenkin peeks around the corner, confirming the corridor is empty, then slips through the door and closes it behind them.
Squeak, squeak squeak!
Whatever you say, whatever you say. Brown's the smartest!
Squeak, squeak.
Let's see what that witch's hiding. Rings, necklaces... Are these all gold?
She wouldn't even buy Aigis candy, saying "no money," while stacking up all this shiny stuff for herself!
Key, perfect. Now we can get in and out of other places easy. We should really thank that "sponsor"; now we can investigate this place proper.
Squeak, squeak.
Easy, Brown. We've got time.
Huh... This is... a ledger? Mac, male, 5 years old, 10 Florins; Diana, female, 23 years old, 5 Florins...
No way... Are they selling people at this workhouse?!
...
Squeak, squeak squeak!
Brown shrieks a warning as the wooden door groans.
Sarah finds an empty office.
She slides a palm-sized slip into the drawer, slams it shut, and hurries away.
Squeak, squeak.
Once she's gone, Brown darts from the potted plant's shadow.
Jenkin creeps forward and pries the drawer open.
Student ID? Sean... Anderson... Aren't these the same marks on that dandy boy's fancy wallet?
Squeak, squeak squeak!
Shhh, Brown. Stay cool... gotta keep my head straight...
I've checked it all; my sister's name isn't in that ledger.
We've got plenty of keys. I'll open every door in this place if I have to! No evidence can hide from me!
Hold on, sis.
...
...
Darn, this is the last room.
Pitch black and empty as a politician's promise. We're leaving with nothing, Brown.
Squeak, squeak squeak!
What? ...under the floor?
Jenkin hesitates for a moment but gently lights the lantern. She turns the flame down and leans closer to the ground.
A line of ants marches in an orderly formation into the wooden crack.
Jenkin pries off a few nails and lifts the plank. Underneath lies a 25-inch square iron cover.
Jenkin tries all the keys.
None of these work! Did she hide another key somewhere?
She presses her ear against the iron plate, listening for sounds from the basement.
Scrape... Scrape...
Squeak, squeak squeak!
Faint footsteps echo outside the door.
That's it, Brown. We can't handle her alone if she got a ghost in her pocket.
We need someone who scares her...
Jenkin hides in the shadows, peeking out from behind the potted plant.
In the hallway, Sarah is obsequiously introducing the financial status of the workhouse to the visitors.
...Are those the "sponsors" Aigis mentioned?
Jenkin nods thoughtfully, then slips away from the dark storage room while no one is looking.
Behind her, the partially unfastened floorboards reveal a dark fissure, silently awaiting the visitors.
5. Little Detective, before the fight
68 linesAs you can see, despite our best efforts to shelter those in need, there are simply too many! At this rate, the workhouse won't hold out much longer... I... sigh!
M-Miss Sarah works so hard every day. She even sold her favorite things to support the workhouse. Please, please help us...
The sight of their overblown act, especially Sarah's exaggerated theatrics, makes you sigh silently in frustration.
That's when a small paper ball hits your head.
And who the...
You gesture to stop Sarah's anger, and unfold the crumpled paper. It reads:
"Come to the backyard alone if you want your wallitwallet back."
...
Following the location in the note, you arrive at the backyard. Before getting close, you hear a childish voice murmuring near the base of the wall.
Remember, if the sponsor's no good, you run and bring Aigis. She's definitely sent to the Sick Madmen by that wench.
What madmen?
Whoa! Why are you here so soon? And I told you to come alone!
The mouse scurries onto the shoulder of the hooded kid, nervously twitching its whiskers at you.
That's not my wallet. I can't do this alone.
Stop acting. I see everything, White-hair's pretending to be a butler, blondie's been asking directions, and you? Just standing there with your hands in your pockets.
Think I can't tell? You're the boss. After all, there's no "young master certificate" in that purse of yours.
Jenkin's hand flicks, pulling out a wallet from nowhere. It has a familiar texture and shape, embossed with the emblem of Mythag University, Ogier's wallet.
Right, Brown?
Squeak, squeak!
Hey! My wallet!
Ogier hastily reaches for it, but Jenkin sidesteps, and the wallet vanishes like magic once again.
That's rude, blondie. Is this how Mythag boys treat girls from the streets?
Girl... you?
Very well, we agree to your terms. But in exchange, you'll take us to see those Sick Madmen you mentioned.
...Huh?
Aren't you asking us to find someone in the workhouse for you? Now, who would that be?
I haven't said anything!
But you are going to. So I suggest we be honest and skip the pretense.
You're investigating the workhouse disappearances, yes? Our objectives align. Mutual cooperation would prove beneficial.
How... how did you know?
Simple. You have nimble hands and loyal companions, which allows for a stable but illegal income.
Ramona speaks while pacing habitually in the yard.
Standard operational procedure: you execute primary actions while associates provide diversion and extraction. Profit-sharing sustains the arrangement.
Independent street life offers superior autonomy over institutional dependence. Unauthorized workhouse entry carries severe penalties.
But why? What drives you to stay in the workhouse, even at the risk of fines or imprisonment?
This pattern, combined with recent disappearances, suggests one conclusion: Someone you care about has vanished, and you suspect workhouse involvement.
The girl stares blankly at Ramona for a long moment before reacting.
We've barely talked and you're following me like we're old friends...
Including the wallet incident, we've documented sixteen interactions. Combined with field observations, this provides sufficient data for comprehensive profiling.
...Sure, fine, you're really something. Alright Brown.
Squeak!
The mouse she named Brown squeaks and leaps from the tree, tossing the wallet into Ogier's arms.
I'll show you the sick madmen and tell you what I know. But you...
will help me take down that Ghost of the Workhouse and save my sister, Mason.
You follow Jenkin through the workhouse corridors.
Sis came every Thursday to pick up laundry from this place. Probably caught that "Hysteria" disease from their dirty clothes.
Some charity doctor came by. Next thing I knew, she said she's getting treatment and then disappeared.
Jenkin looks anxious.
I don't get it, but lately... Her face began to blur in my head.
Sometimes her things help me remember, but it fades fast.
Ramona suddenly stops and nods at you.
Why'd you stop? Weren't you gonna see those sick madmen?
Regarding your sister's illness... we might have some leads.
...
After submitting an information disclosure request via comms, Ramona turns to Jenkin and begins explaining Dissolution.
Jenkin, your sister exhibits a unique Dissolution phenomenon causing progressive erasure from collective memory.
The body, identity, background, and social connections... will all disappear completely without a trace.
Those sick madmen's conditions resemble early Dissolution symptoms. Your sister has reached advanced stages; I fear, she...
Jenkin, how long has Mason... been missing?
27 days. I've been counting every single one.
Seeing Ramona's troubled expression, Jenkin sniffs.
I know it's been long enough to lose hope. But we street kids have instincts. I KNOW she's still alive out there.
So... I've got to hurry. Before I forget her face completely and walk right past her.
Don't be sad, we'll help you find your sister. And you will remember once you see her.
Ramona remains silent. Under her melancholic gaze, you recall the content Doll narrated in class:
"The elimination of existence is the final symptom of Dissolution, and the process is irreversible."
6. Malady, before the fight
34 linesJenkin leads you through the backyard, pointing to a small, shabby hut in the corner.
Through the window, you see Aigis bustling about. She carries a metal basin, hurriedly moving soiled bandages from the bedside to a pile of dirty laundry.
Hmm? Need anything?
She seems to hear someone's call. She puts down the basin, bends over, and leans by the bedside. From your angle, only her soft voice remains audible.
Grandpa Robert, please, stay down. I'll bring you the water.
Don't say that. You will definitely get better. Then we can go to Drell Park and feed the pigeons together.
"Bang!" Jenkin pushes open the cabin door. Aigis startles, almost spilling water on the patient in her panic.
Look, the sick madmen.
Jenkin! How could you... We can't bring sponsors to the ward, remember? If they see it, then...
You wink at Ramona, and she walks over to Aigis, gently inquiring.
Aigis, could you tell us why you can't allow sponsors into the ward?
Uh... I... I mean, They... they are very weak, so...
Aigis hesitates, glancing at the patients behind her and your well-dressed entourage, unsure how to respond.
Seizing the moment, you and Ogier approach the elderly man on the bed.
The old man is bound hand and foot with coarse cloth strips, secured to the bed. His body bears strange wounds like twisted stitches, unhealed flesh oozing dark, viscous fluid.
Aigis, this inspection will determine whether we will provide financial support. Surely you understand that no patron wants their money wasted on fraud.
Don't resist. They won't hurt you.
Aigis calms after a brief pause. She takes a deep breath and replies in a voice as faint as a mosquito's buzz.
Miss Sarah said if the sponsors see these patients, they'll think no sum of money will make a difference...
Shouldn't have listened to that woman! These sponsors will help us with the Ghost of the Workhouse. They're looking for someone too, they'll find sis...
The ward is just too dangerous!
Her raised tone cuts off abruptly. She anxiously glances at the unconscious old man, then pulls Jenkin away from the bedside.
What if you and the sponsors get infected...
Aigis clutches her teddy bear, retorting nervously to Jenkin. Her white sleeves slide down, revealing horrifying black stitch marks and two swollen red grooves.
Her slender arm is marred by a fissure like a giant centipede, its edges oozing black slime, evoking dread.
Aigis, that wound...
Aigis hurriedly pulls her sleeves together, shaking her head to avoid Ramona's gaze.
It, it was... when I accidentally fell down the stairs.
These sutures don't correspond to typical abrasion injuries.
See, they can "see." Tell them everything. They are our last hope.
They will be in danger. We can't...
Listen, Aigis. Full disclosure is essential for determining appropriate assistance.
Beside you, the old man gurgles in his throat. His emaciated arm jerks suddenly, snapping the binding cloth...
Keeper, watch out!
7. Malady, after the fight
29 linesRamona swiftly moves behind him, gripping his wrist with one hand and pressing his shoulder with the other. She twists his arm behind his back, restraining him firmly.
Ogier quickly steps forward and, with Ramona's help, binds his hands and feet with cloth strips. The man continues struggling, exposing a peculiar scar through his open collar.
A deep scar runs across his chest, barely held together by twisted stitches. Black ooze still seeps slowly from the gaps.
Rushed footsteps sound outside the ward. Sarah appears, out of breath, holding the door frame.
Seeing everything settled inside, she relaxes for a moment, then immediately frowns and turns to the girl cowering in the corner.
Aigis! Didn't I say no sponsors are allowed in the ward? Who would sponsor us if something happens to...
W-What's going on?
You turn toward the sound and find two people behind you. One you recognize: the woman in white whom Ogier once encountered.
Mr. Rogers, Dr. Fairfax! I'm sorry, please have some refreshments in the lounge while you wait. I'll come and greet you once I'm done here.
I'm n-not a stranger to this place, Miss Sarah. You don't have to. By the way, why is Little Aigis crying so sadly? Did someone bully her?
I'm fine, Mr. Rogers.
The pressure of the matron's gaze makes Aigis swallow her words. She bows to everyone, looks at you, then disappears behind the door.
I'm sorry for hiding the ward from you. I just can't risk any possible infection...
Alas, let's not dwell on that. Allow me to introduce our long-term patron, the renowned wax sculptor, Mr. Rogers.
This ward and the treatment of patients were all made possible thanks to him.
George Rogers, nice to meet you all.
He frees one hand to gently shake yours. The instant your palms touch, intense dizziness washes over you.
Everything around you seems to dissolve like melting wax; even the person in front of you twists and deforms. Beneath the face, pale skeletons intertwine like vines.
The eerie illusion vanishes in a few blinks, leaving only sharp buzzing in your ears, was it fatigue-induced? You don't know.
You only know this resembles what you experienced in the graveyard the other day.
...Every month, he personally comes to check on the patients. He is truly a great benefactor and a major supporter of our workhouse.
M-miss Sarah, you overpraise me. I'm just an ordinary person trying to do something for the world.
Speaking of which, you mentioned that you would visit with a friend...
That s-sculptor has found inspiration and r-returned to the studio.
And these young ladies and gentlemen...?
...{Male=Mr.,Female=Miss} Ashe?
Um, beg your pardon, I was distracted. Nice to meet you, Mr. Rogers. I am Ashe. This is my younger brother Ogier and our housekeeper Mary. This is Jenkin...
Huh?
Where's Jenkin?
8. Unspoken Etiquette, before the fight
84 linesDid you get hurt back in there?
I'm alright...
...Are you mad at me? For bringing those people?
Alright then.
Jenkin dramatically spreads her hands, revealing two tiny candies in her palms.
Here, one for you and one for me. Then we're good, yes?
Aigis's face pales for an instant at the sight of the candies, but she carefully accepts them anyway.
Remember when we first met?
Hmm, I'll never forget.
10 days ago, East District, Londinium Lilian's Workhouse
Darkness-shrouded East District, high night. Streetlights, moonlight, nothing penetrated the fog, leaving only blurred shadows swaying in the air.
The girl in white, clutching guilt and fear, ran through the dim, empty courtyard of the workhouse... Until she bumped into something hidden in the shadows and cried out in pain.
Ouch!
Eek!
Y-You're not Mac or Lucy! Who are you...?!
I should be asking who YOU are! Sneaking around at night scaring people.
Sorry... I thought it was...
Was what?
Was... the ghost... Yes, I thought it was the Ghost of the Workhouse...
Ghost? Nonsense. But I'll be honest with you, I'm not from this shitty place. I'm Jenkin, and this is Brown.
Squeak!
I'm here looking for my sister. Her name is Mason. Disappeared around here two weeks ago. You seen her?
There have been many newcomers at the workhouse, and I haven't recognized all of them...
Think hard. About this tall, long hair, red ribbon with square M buckle.
Comes for treatment sometimes. Never came home last time. You keeping her here to work?
P-patient? S-Sorry... I haven't seen any young female patients...
Tch, whatever. Didn't expect much anyway. But you almost got me caught, that's on you.
Then I-I'll take you to my secret base! The matron never enters the clock tower, she won't find you there.
Got lucky bumping into you, Aigis. Would've been dragged out by my hood otherwise.
Don't say that. Everyone here is super nice. They are just upset by the recent mishaps...
Aigis.
Hmm?
I know you're close with the workhouse folks... but I thought we were friends. Are we?
Of course! I really, really enjoy spending time with you, Jenkin, just like this, eating candy and chatting.
Then why do you lie to your friend? Tell me the truth, Aigis.
I... I don't understand what you're saying...
Found the ledger and student ID in that woman's office. I know she's selling people to mad doctors!
She trusts you most, even lets you handle patients. You KNOW something. Can you please tell me?
I, I, I don't know...
The girl mumbles, her voice fading. Her face is pale, as if suffering immense pain.
Mythag excels at uncovering secrets; they will soon discover the truth.
You can't live in shackles forever.
Jenkin, if what's lost remains lost... does "truth" still matter?
Of course it matters! Nothing matters more than finding sis.
I know you're afraid of that woman, why do you keep defending her? She's selling workers AND hiding the Ghost of the Workhouse.
T-the Ghost of the Workhouse?
Yeah, it's the legend you told me about. Don't wander around on foggy nights, or you'll be taken by a ghost with a knife.
Th-That was just something I made up... It's too dangerous at night. I didn't want you running around.
Stop making excuses for Sarah! I've already found the basement with the ghost and heard the sound of a knife. Is my sister inside?
As "basement" leaves Jenkin's mouth, the last trace of color drains from Aigis's face.
Don't be frightened, Aigis, as He will detect the crack in your heart.
Follow the Silver guidance, and its light will show you the way.
Jenkin, I'm sorry, I can't...
With tears in her eyes, Aigis glances at Jenkin, then turns and climbs back up the clock tower, rushing down the stairs without hesitation.
Aigis! Where are you going!
Before she notices, mist appears in the workhouse. It comes so suddenly, shrouding everything in moisture and making all indistinct.
Aigis! Damn it, how did this fog get inside?!
From the distant mist comes the sound of flesh swelling and a faint, mist-soaked song.
Old Charlie's tabby, fat and dear...
Jenkin polishes her lantern, its faint glow feeble in the thick fog.
Distant footsteps echo through the silent corridor, almost piercing.
W-who goes there? Show yourself! I'm armed, mind you!
Air doesn't flow in the hallway, yet the flame flickers as if blown by wind.
The footsteps grow closer. Brown's claws dig into Jenkin's shoulder, baring teeth and emitting a sharp hiss.
As if triggered by Brown's voice, the footsteps suddenly quicken, heading straight for Jenkin.
A dense shadow engulfs the faint light. The girl closes her eyes and screams loudly, but only feels mist rush at her face.
A hand reaches from the darkness, landing precisely on Jenkin's shoulder.
What's wrong? Why is your face so p-pale?
R-Rogers? Have you seen Aigis?
Don't worry, Aigis knows this workhouse well. She'll be fine.
I understand. Foggy nights c-can be scary.
Rogers pushes the door open, and warm light pours out, dispelling the hallway's deep shadows.
He picks up a finely crafted doll from the bed and smiles at the girl.
How about a touch? You'll feel much better. And George will be happy.
The doll's inorganic eyes reflect the lamp's yellow light, silently pleading: Touch me, please. Just one touch will do.
Touch me, and...
become my loyal companion.
With a "squeak," Brown's scream jolts Jenkin out of her daze.
No, no thanks! I don't need fancy artists like you.
Oh, my naive little mouse. In fact, beauty and art never differentiate be-between rich and poor, noble and humble. Encapsulating suffering within beauty is tru-truly wonderful.
Rogers gazes at the cautious girl and the gray mouse peeking from her hood, his eyes burning with irresistible desire.
Maybe one day, I'll turn you both into wax statues as well. How about naming it "Brown and Jenkin"?
9. Who Killed Cock Robin, before the fight
36 linesPer Jenkin's account, the Ghost of the Workhouse haunts the courtyard during fog nights, abducting victims. Investigator Anderson may be among them.
No time to waste then; let's head to the basement Jenkin mentioned now.
Don't be rash, the entrance is near the matron's office.
We'll wait deeper into the night and take action when Sarah is asleep. Before that, let's rest and regain some strength.
Huh? It's getting foggy?
An unusually thick fog spreads around the area just as you speak. The mist, which should be light and floating, now clings to you like a heavy, sticky weight.
In the thick fog, you hear singing.
Old Charlie's tabby, fat and dear...
You recognize this song from a dream.
Your body gradually stiffens, bones cracking with every movement. Each motion feels like forcing rusty gears in a mechanical puppet. Fine powder falls within your joints.
One day just vanished, disappeared.
Your eyelids feel leaden, forcing them shut. In the dark world, only thick fog swirls.
No tabby where he looked, anywhere!
In the dark void, you stand alone. Above boundless skies, honey-colored eyes shed syrupy tears, gazing down.
He cried and cried in deep despair,
You remember the dying old man's struggle and the thick black tear at the corner of his eyes.
, 'Til Charlie, too, was never there.
Following instinct, you look up and softly ask the sky-eyes that seem to speak.
This isn't what you'd like to see, is it?
The honey-colored eyes tremble and blink. Tears fall, landing on your cheek with a strong sweet scent.
In an instant, the singing stops and the darkness fades. You come back to your senses once more. You find the fog has grown somewhat thinner while you were lost.
WOAH!
The girl rushes over, recognizes you at close distance, and nervously clutches her teddy bear.
S-sponsor, why are you here?
We appreciate your hospitality. We're merely taking in the evening air. Is there an issue?
Foggy nights are dangerous, and you should not wander outside, or...
Or... what?
Let me guess... or we'll be taken, right? You know who the victims are and where they went, don't you?
Aigis stands thunderstruck, trembling and shaking her head, speechless.
Aigis, you're a good kid. Good kids shouldn't tell lies.
I...
Answer me, Aigis! You said we shouldn't wander around in the fog, so why are you here?
The girl's hands clasp tightly together.
Please... ask no more...
Ramona, the fog has thickened again.
In the fog, pairs of scarlet eyes light up, staring with no escape.
10. Who Killed Cock Robin, after the fight
33 linesThe situation is contained.
Ramona turns to the terrified girl, who trembles too much to speak.
She gently rolls up Aigis's sleeve, revealing shocking stitches stark against her fair wrist.
Aigis, they conducted the same experiments on you. They bound you and forcibly performed surgery, implanting some... foreign objects, right?
The intense light made it hard to keep her eyes open. Aigis tried but failed to control her eyelids.
Cold metal immobilized the muscles around her eyes. She watched helplessly as the white-robed man approached, scalpel in hand.
No, NO! Miss Sarah, MISS SARAH!
The blade leaves a silver trail as the hand moves.
Miss Sarah! T'yog! Help! Help me! NOOO!!
The blade drew nearer until it consumed her vision. In that instant...
AAAAAHHH!
Aigis trembles, a shuddering scream of terror rising from her throat.
As if summoned, the mysterious psychologist appears silently behind her.
Something troubles you, little Aigis? Wanna tell Doctor Clementine?
Doctor Clementine?!
Midnight workhouse visits hardly constitute standard medical practice. Explain your presence.
Don't be alarmed. There has been some unrest in the workhouse, and Mr. Rogers is concerned about the workers' and children's mental state, so he hired me to help.
I occasionally spend the night in the workhouse, just in a room near the children's.
Aigis, do you know this lady?
Clementine's arrival pulls the girl from her memories. She nods an affirmative response.
She's been my little guest since my first day here in the workhouse.
Sharing your troubles is one way to heal the mind, and I happen to be a very professional listener.
The scrutinizing gaze sweeps over everyone's faces before fixing on you.
No thanks, we have other matters to attend to.
What a shame. If you change your mind, you're always welcome to our journey of self-discovery. Let's go, Aigis.
Aigis holds Clementine's hand and walks silently away.
Aigis! Where are you going?!
Sorry... Doctor Clementine can help me...
Saying that, the girl tugs Clementine's sleeve, something she rarely did. With the silent urging, they disappear through the workhouse door.
Aigis... I wonder what secret she's hiding.
The fog is dissipating; we should rest before we delve into the basement with Jenkin.
11. Inner Peril, before the fight
6 linesClang, clang...
You realize you're dreaming.
Someone approaches, stepping on sewer pipes.
In the blur, a familiar figure runs toward you. She grabs your hand and pulls urgently, calling out.
Run, Jenkin, run!
Behind you, countless sticky black monsters give chase.
12. Inner Peril, after the fight
47 linesOgier and Ramona pin down the resisting Jenkin from both sides.
Is she... hysterical...?
No. %player%, her spirit is restless. The mental power of the Silver Key might have a calming effect.
Activate your Silver Key
You stand in pure blackness, where glowing silver dots form rippling connections, moving inscrutably.
You're part of this yet separate. You belong but feel misplaced. You don't know what they are; only that you're here to find someone.
"Sis... Sis..."
You look toward the sound, a dim light flickers among the stars, entangled and immobilized by black threads with an eerie metallic sheen.
A cheerful melody emerges from the black threads, like a children's nursery rhyme.
Old Charlie's tabby, fat and dear...
"Sis... don't go..."
Jenkin's voice emerges from the light. It tries reaching out to you, but is held back by the black threads, like a puppet.
You realize something, or someone, is controlling her. As you move to help, the threads thin and vanish.
"No... Aigis...?"
The light retreats, the black space dissipating rapidly.
You open your eyes to meet a bewildered Jenkin's gaze.
%player%...? What happened? Something's wrong?
SQUEAK SQUEAK!
Jenkin blinks her dry eyes and tries sitting up, only to find herself tied up.
What the?! Who did this? Let me go!
You nod at Ramona. She steps forward and cuts Jenkin's bonds swiftly with her sword.
Sorry, something went wrong and we had to take some protective measures. Do you... remember what you just did?
What I did? We were going to break into that woman's basement, no? Brown and I hid in Aigis' room waiting, must've fallen asleep and had a weird dream...
Wait, this isn't Aigis' room. How'd I get here? What's your plan? Gonna make me disappear now?
You did come as promised, but something was terribly wrong about you, as if...
As if you were possessed by something. In other words, you may have been hypnotized.
Hypnosis... Ah! Could it be the psychologist who took Aigis?
That's quite rude. Psychotherapy is a science, not some superpower to control minds... Ah, science, similar to what those Pygmalions pursue.
Ramona's sword flashes out. The silver blade hovers at Clementine's neck, but she shows no fear, deflecting the rapier with two fingers.
You watch warily, doors and windows closed, yet she appeared like a ghost.
Are you with the Sculptors' Association?
I'm just a helpful third party, though I do have some personal interest. You intrigue me, special Investigator.
She smiles, gaze carrying a strange zeal.
...Why?
Clementine steps back with a mysterious smile, bowing slightly.
I've said enough tonight, enough to make my silver heart tremble with excitement.
A silver heart... Are you an Awakener?!
In that case, Clementine, you are NOT leaving.
Wouldn't it be boring if our story ended today?
She produces a strange pendant from nowhere. Overwhelming fatigue hits, forcing you against the table just to stay upright.
Ramona's rapier droops, head swaying, eyes barely open. Jenkin lies motionless, seemingly asleep.
What... have you done...
Just a small trick to get away. You're good, and I believe you'll be fine soon enough.
Goodbye, Pale Pupilless Eye. Our paths... will cross again.
She bows and exits. You collapse into the chair, unable to hold on.
Clementine shuts the door, humming cheerfully. She waves down the hallway, then leaves.
In darkness, the dress-clad girl stands statue-still. Head hung low, she clutches a white blindfold tightly.
13. Our Secret, before the fight
20 linesAfter a night's turmoil, dawn approaches.
Ogier stays behind to handle Sarah. You and Ramona follow Jenkin to the "Ghost of the Workhouse" basement.
Quiet, before Sarah hears. She'll send her goons after us.
Ogier is keeping an eye on Sarah's movements. With him there, we'll be fine. Tell me again what you discovered in Sarah's office last time.
Ugh, how many times do I have to say it?!
That nasty woman sells workhouse folks to mad doctors for experiments! Buys jewelry with the money! I found them in her drawer!
I've already shown you your friend's student ID. What more do you want?
Alright, this room. Last one in closes the door.
Team order: Jenkin, Ramona, you.
Behind you, Brown squeaks and pushes the wooden door shut.
...
Sis and your student friend have got to be down there with that so-called ghost.
Matches, where are those matches...
Hey, you feel that itch?
Her reminder makes you notice an inexplicable tingling spreading from your toes to your ankles, and up your back...
Jenkin finally polishes the lantern, lowering it to illuminate a small patch of ground.
At that very moment...
Your retina is hit with a harrowing sight.
Countless ants converge into a dense, restless swarm.
They surge, gather, swirl, merging into pitch-black abyss.
14. Our Secret, after the fight
54 linesOgier faces several doctors fearlessly, dodging and neutralizing their force skillfully for fifteen minutes.
Enough.
We won't force Aigis if she's not willing. We'll take the other selected patients back to the clinic for treatment and return them after the therapy is complete.
Good day, Miss Sarah.
Vick gives Aigis one last glance before leaving with the others.
Sarah sees the doctors out with a forced smile, but her expression turns stern as she faces Aigis.
Aigis, why are you so disobedient?
Miss Sarah, I...
They only came because of Mr. Rogers. Now you've driven them away. How am I supposed to explain this to Mr. Rogers?
Now hurry up and get ready. I'll personally take you to the clinic... and little Mac as well; it's been a while since his last check-up.
I hope Mr. Rogers is willing to tell me their address.
No! Please, Miss Sarah, we don't want the treatment.
Aigis gives Mac a push, who looks confused but ultimately runs back to the room.
Little Mac! Come back!
Aigis grabs Sarah's sleeve urgently, allowing Mac to escape.
If... if we have to, just take me alone...
Miss Sarah.
What's the matter, Young Master Ashe?
Sarah immediately dons a fawning mask again.
In the name of Ogier, the Grand Duke's knight, I forbid you to force Aigis's "treatment."
K-knight?
Ogier realizes his slip, face instantly reddening. He continues haltingly.
Y-Yes, the youngest son of our house is always knighted. Anyway, I need to take Aigis, and wait for {Male=my brother,Female=my sister} and the housekeeper. Don't make things harder for her.
Speaking, Ogier grabs Aigis's hand and runs back to the room. The girl keeps her head down, seemingly sobbing.
Alright, that should stop Miss Sarah.
Aigis, could you tell me why you refuse the treatment for yourself and the others?
Aigis's lips press tight, a suppressed whimper escaping.
Ogier stammers, trying for solemnity. Aigis looks at him, hesitates, then bursts into laughter.
Stop it, Ogier. I've read in the books that knights always protect princesses. Just look at me. Do I look like a princess?
Aigis gently touches her skirt's patch, speaking softly.
Then those books aren't telling the truth. Knights don't just protect princesses; they protect commoners as well. They protect everyone.
Aigis tries to figure Ogier out.
Are you truly a knight?
He pats his chest, gauntlet clinking, his expression twisting briefly.
Yes, I am! I was personally knighted by a royal family. It's my duty to protect everyone.
I admire your bravery... even standing up for someone you've just met.
A shame I'm not a knight, nor a princess, not even a commoner. I'm just a miserable...
She didn't finish the sentence.
Ogier stands tall and resolute:
Knights do not protect criminals. Because knights punish criminals and protect people from them.
I knew it...
Not catching Aigis's sigh, he continues speaking.
That's because knights are not almighty.
After the sanction, knights will turn the penitent over to the priests.
Merciful priests aid every penitent... but whether their souls can ultimately be redeemed depends on themselves.
Depends on... themselves...
Yes, it's not too late.
It's all about you@4...
Aigis pauses, savoring his words. Hesitant, she begins speaking slowly.
I trust you, Ogier. I am willing to give it another shot. So, I will tell you... the truth about those treatments.
15. Saccharine Art, before the fight
14 linesYou finally pry open the iron door of the basement. An overwhelmingly thick, sickly-sweet aroma of syrup immediately assaults your senses.
More shocking than the stench is the horrific scene inside: several human bodies, coated in syrup, lie scattered haphazardly across the floor.
These distorted, non-human shapes writhe and struggle, dragging messy smears of syrup behind them.
Dense ant swarms crawl around, greedily sipping and transporting syrup with antennae, as if facing the world's most precious treasure.
Yet these aren't the true surprise.
Several reddish-brown statues stand displayed. Each graceful, with a weary expression. One glance evokes awe and sanctity.
Among them sits the Ghost of the Workhouse.
Clearly the Ghost, her stone-colored body lightly holds a chisel, carving terrified expressions onto statues with spine-chilling scrapes.
Your arrival doesn't interrupt her work. She examines the statue, adjusts the chisel's position, and continues carving.
That's got to be the Ghost of the Workhouse... Where's my sis? Where'd you hide her?!
The ghost notices you, but doesn't respond.
Ramona draws her weapon, locks eyes with you, then advances.
Please be patient, and do not disturb the contemplation of art...
As she speaks, countless monsters screech from basement shadows, crashing through writhing bodies to attack.
16. Saccharine Art, after the fight
54 linesSilently, the monsters dissipate into black smoke.
Phew...
The ghost exhales gently, dispersing sugar powder from her carving knife.
Done. But once again, not good enough.
She sets down the knife, half-turning toward you.
Now, my dear guests, what brings you here? What is your business with me?
You... you monster!
Monster? I'd rather you call me "Sanga."
Sanga brushes dust from the sugar sculpture's surface, noncommittal.
If you call me a monster, what would you call that one?
She caresses the statue's chin in response, then lightly touches your hand's back.
You are caught in an illusion of the sea.
A grand city constructed from green, monstrous stones that completely defies Euclidean geometry. The ornate yet unclean reliefs dazzle beautifully and eerily under the sea's refracted light.
A suffocating feeling envelops you. Precious air is squeezed from your lungs and flows out through your mouth.
Then, someone grabs you, breaking the illusion.
Keeper!
Don't worry, it's just an illusion.
What are you trying to tell me by showing me that?
Sanga lowers her eyes and does not respond.
You recall what you learned from the Awakening Studies preparatory courses.
Aequor, Caro, and Ultra are the mainstream classifications of Awakener Realms in academia. Additionally, there are some realms that have been less studied due to a lack of subjects, such as Occult and Ether...
Usually, the Realms are mutually exclusive, but some Awakeners possess the ability to adapt to other realms, and they are classified as the Realm of Chaos.
Jenkin's choked voice interrupts your thoughts. She darts among the basement sugar sculptures like a helpless mouse.
Ramona ends the communication with the school, her ice-cold voice cutting through your thoughts.
Confirmed unregistered Awakener. Per Mystia Treaty Article 12, we must call the Treaty Committee for containment.
Prior to their arrival, please disclose all missing persons' locations, including Sean Anderson, the Mythag Investigator and Mason the Weaver, plus your connections to the Sculptors' Association.
Hold on, Ramona, Jenkin.
You wave off their questions and turn to Sanga, who wears a knowing smile.
The one who turned these people into this... it wasn't you, right?
%player%?
You showed me an illusion, a scene composed of the underwater world and coral carvings... That is the power from seas and dreams, the power of the Aequor Realm.
You glance at the grotesque, writhing candy figures. A deep breath brings overwhelming sweetness that assaults your senses once more.
These bodies were melted into syrup and then solidified into statues... This ability is more like the work of a Caro Realm Awakener, who are often more skilled in transforming flesh.
You may be involved, but the true culprit is someone else.
Talking to smart people is truly delightful.
Indeed, a friend told me about the unique materials here, and I just wanted to borrow some to shape my "God".
Sanga speaks casually while packing carving knives into her bag.
Let's go, aren't you taking me to some committee? Can you help me pack up these statues as well?
And...
She taps the stone seat beneath her.
You see, I'm not good on walking. Maybe you have a car at your disposal?
You grab her wrist.
Who turned them into this?
Are you asking me?
Sanga lets out a soft sigh.
I feel generous today, lucky you. Go ask the matron and those doctors.
Sarah! I knew that woman was behind this! Just wait, I'll... I'll...
Jenkin's fierceness soon becomes despondency.
You step forward gently and pat her shoulder.
No news is good news. As long as... there's still hope.
We don't need to disguise anymore. Ramona, call the Committee. Jenkin, bring Sarah here.
And her ledger.
17. Burden of Conscience, before the fight
53 linesRushed footsteps ring out. Sarah appears, face full of anger, followed by a worried Aigis and a righteous Ogier.
How could you...
Eeek!
Before she can finish, the twisted sugar figure on the ground lets out a horrifying scream.
"How could you?" That's for us to say. Wasn't it you who hid the Ghost of the Workhouse in this basement? She told us everything.
As if drawn by Sarah's scream, the semi-sugarized humanoid wriggles and crawls toward her.
Listen, Miss Sarah, you can't hide this anymore.
Please tell us the contact information of the Sculptors' Association, as well as the whereabouts of Investigator Sean Anderson.
Stop fooling around! We know about your deals with that evil doctor! Give me back my sister!
I didn't... and these...
Sarah glances at those creatures, unsure if they can still be called human, and continues haltingly.
I really don't know!
We saw your big ledger!
...?
You pick up the ledger, open it, and gesture to Sarah.
Mac, male, 5 years old, 10 Florins; Diana, female, 23 years old, 5 Florins; Aigis... female, 8 years old, 40 Florins.
...Should I continue?
No, it's not like that. I...
No excuses! You're using workhouse people for that mad doctor's experiments and buying jewelry with the money!
Aigis, you've been to the treatments. You know that the money was...
Yes... the laboratory provides 5 Florins per person as a nutritional subsidy during treatment sessions, as agreed.
Miss Sarah used all of this money to buy food for everyone.
I didn't keep a single penny of that money! As for the jewelry she mentioned, it's utter nonsense. Please, {Male=Lord,Female=Lady} Ashe, believe me!
Stop lying!
Jenkin pulls two silver rings from her satchel's depths.
If you didn't do it, who put these in the office drawer? You think they magically appeared there?
How could you take them? Give them back! They are gifts from another sponsor!
Trust me, I keep them for workhouse emergency! H-How could I possibly harm the children here for these things?
If you have nothing to do with this, then how do you explain these... children?
Ramona points at the crawling monster on the ground.
...Children? You mean...
Realizing something, Sarah stiffly turns her head to examine the monsters closely.
Are these the missing workers and children from the workhouse?
No, it can't be...
She pushes the newly completed statue before Sarah.
It is a child statue, its lifelike features preserved beneath a cloudy sugar shell.
That's... That's... Little... Willy...
The statue's eyeball suddenly twitches.
Eek, Eeek, AAAAHHHHHHH,
Sarah lets out a sickly scream.
She curls up, hugging her head. Her sorrowful whispers turn hoarse and chaotic, becoming indistinguishable.
I'm useless, I'm disgusting, I'm not a good matron, I can't protect anyone, I can't protect the children...
Miss Sarah, please... We all understand. You've done your best.
Sorry, little Aigis; sorry, little Lucy; sorry, Jenkin, Henry, Diana...
Sarah raises her head, features completely distorted. Her eyes and lips twist into inhuman, dance-like contortions.
Miss Sarah...?
As if submerged underwater, the surroundings plunge into cold silence. An invisible pressure strikes unexpectedly, making you gasp as you realize something is wrong.
No! Ramona! Get everyone else out of here!
Too late. The young matron's head splits open like a flower, spraying black goo onto the ground.
M-miss Sarah!!
She releases a high-pitched screech. The twisted bodies around her respond with wolf-like howls, rapidly mutating into Dissolution-infected monsters.
18. Burden of Conscience, after the fight
44 lines%player%!
As Ramona keeps Sarah at bay, you quickly focus and immerse yourself in the black space, the one you are getting familiar with.
The Silver Key buzzes intensely. The darkness before you shifts, brightening from your vision's edges.
Miss Sarah, I'm so hungry.
I regret to tell you this, but we can no longer continue to fund you, Miss Sarah.
Miss Sarah, did I make mommy hate me?
Black and white lights flash by like multiple movies projected on a single screen. You can't discern details no matter how hard you try.
Miss Sarah, my mom said I'm useless... Can I really help you with that?
Miss Sarah, mommy threw me out... Will you... will you throw me out, too?
Miss Sarah, I'm so scared, please... please don't go...
Miss Sarah...
What's wrong, Aigis?
Miss Sarah, could you please sing that song again, just one more time? I mean, if it's not too much trouble...
Listen, dear Aigis: You are the most well-behaved and sensible child in the entire workhouse. Everyone loves you.
You don't have to be overcautious all the time. It's okay to be a bit willful once in a while, got it?
Then I... I want to hear Miss Sarah sing the nursery rhyme again.
No problem. Old Charlie's tabby, fat and dear...
You suddenly open your eyes to a vibrant real world.
%player%, are you alright?
You nod despite dizziness. From the corner of your eye, you catch a white figure. Aigis has slipped past you into the fray.
Aigis, come back! It's too dangerous!
Aigis stares blankly at the fallen Sarah. Slime keeps gushing out from the gaping wound, forming a black stream.
Then she wades into the pitch-black pool and sits in the slime, letting Sarah lie on her lap and patting her back skillfully.
Just like what Matron Sarah used to do when putting her to sleep.
Miss Sarah... It's all right, it's all right... Just a nightmare...
The faint glow in her eyes pierces through the blindfold fleetingly. Without the gnosis shock, you might mistake it for unshed sorrow.
Sarah's fragmented face trembles uneasily. After the soft light passes over her, she lies still as if in deep sleep.
Miss Sarah hasn't had a good night's sleep for a long time.
She's always been on the run, meeting wealthy lords and ladies in the castle, just to keep the workhouse together. She didn't even have time to eat or rest.
When she returned in the evening, she'd light a candle in the office and keep calculating, trying to make ends meet with what little alms the nobility gave.
Trying to figure out what the jewelry those ladies gave her can sell for.
They all laughed at her and said mean things, but Miss Sarah is never upset. She even consoled me and sang for us.
She treats us well, really. She treats me very well too.
I was a burden to my mom, and she abandoned me. The previous director refused to take me in, but Miss Sarah said she would work two jobs to bring me here.
Since then, I vowed to be no burden to Miss Sarah, but a useful child.
I'm sorry, Miss Sarah. I've tried my best, but things keep going awry... I couldn't protect everyone, and I couldn't protect you. I'm sorry.
Aigis gently touches Sarah's no-longer-human cheek, then turns to you.
Aren't you looking for Investigator Sean Anderson?
Aigis, you...
The girl forces a smile barely recognizable as joy.
Aigis slowly removes her eyepatch, revealing a pale stone-colored eye.
In my eye.
19. Chromatic Nightmare, before the fight
79 linesAt first, they said they came to offer help.
Not sure when it started. A strange sickness spread in the workhouse. Those infected got angry fast, with black triangle marks on their heads, hands, feet.
Miss Sarah sent them to the clinic. The marks didn't go away. More appeared...
I told Miss Sarah about this, but she said...
Aigis, your hallucinations are getting worse. There's no black mark here at all.
No, Miss Sarah, I can see it. I really can!
Don't worry. It's not real, honey. Don't believe me? Ask Little Mac. He's only five years old. He won't lie.
Yeah, Aigis, we should be good and listen to the doctor when we're sick. That's what you told me when I had that fever!
We lined up, waiting for the doctor's selection. I felt weightless. Like air. Like nothing.
Let's choose this girl. Her condition is quite complex, and we failed to cure her last time.
No... I don't want to go... I've already been there once, and I don't want to...
I'll go, sir.
...Are you feeling unwell?
I don't feel unwell; I can run and jump, perfectly healthy! But I can see things.
Oh? What can you see?
Like Aigis, I also see black things. Could you please help me?
Interesting. I'll take you, then.
T'yog...
Don't be afraid, Aigis.
I'll be back soon.
T'yog never came back.
They told Miss Sarah his sickness was bad, but a nice gentleman would take him. Paid for the surgery and everything.
They were lying, even I could tell. But Miss Sarah believed them. She thanked them again and again.
Why, why did it come to this...
I walked the hallway, feeling dizzy. Bumped into someone tall.
Hello, little one. Could you tell me how to get to the new ward?
More sick people came. Miss Sarah moved the ward to the east building. More space. More makeshift beds.
C-could you please not go there? It's... it's really dangerous...
Oh? Why do you say that?
I don't know, I-I'm really sorry... The ward is to the east.
Thank you. You seem to have a lot on your mind. If you feel like talking, I'm all ears.
I have a little sister who is about your age...
She walked east, her eye-catching red ribbon swaying in the air.
That was the last time I saw Jenkin's sister. She was gone after that day.
I knew they saw everything through my eye.
So I covered it with an eye patch. It was the bad eye.
But that didn't stop the nightmares.
Ugh... This is...
The light made me want to close my eyes. I tried to blink but couldn't.
Something was holding my eyelids open.
A white coat man came, knife in hand. He slowly approached me...
The blade came closer until it consumed my vision. And then, and then...
AAAAAHHH!
Dark. Cold. Like drowning in the Aethis River in December. I wanted to get up, but couldn't.
It hurts... That eye hurts so bad...
Doctor stuffed something in my eye, and then I saw colors. Colors blending together, like Little Mac's spilled palette.
Miss Sarah... T'yog... It hurts... It hurts so, so much... I can't anymore...
They were moving... the colors were shifting! Crawling into my eye like bugs. I couldn't see anything. Only colors.
I was wrong. I shouldn't have asked for help...
Colors filled my head. I was losing myself...
Please... anyone... help...
I was almost gone when they put something else in. Then Silver light ate the colors.
Don't be afraid, little one. I'm here to help.
Who... are you...?
...
Who I am doesn't matter. Now, follow my pace. Together we'll resist the control of that foreign thing.
With that voice's help, I felt less sick. I could think again.
I lost count of how long it had been. It felt so long, my skin went numb. Then I heard the doctor's voice again.
An eye that can see @2... This is the best research subject I've ever found. I would have sourced her for experiments long ago if not for that stupid boy.
It's not too late, Doctor. A successfully xenografted Silver Core implantation! It calls for a celebration!
The fusion of @4's consciousness and receptor was successful. The petrification effect falls outside predicted parameters, but as long as we continue to suppress the receptor's consciousness...
We should thank that foolish Investigator for showing up at our doorstep. His top-tier Silver Core reduced the rejection.
Those researchers crowded me, talking loudly. They seemed so excited. Receptor? Rejection? Investigator? Words I didn't know.
How about it, kid? Come on, give it a try. With just one look, your best friend will stay with you forever... as your favorite sweet treat.
They tightened the thing keeping my eyelids in place. Blink, and the hooks would cut.
They brought a chair. Tied to it was my best friend...
T-T'yog...?
T'yog startled awake. He looked at me, then looked around.
Aigis?! Hands off me! Don't touch her!
No! Don't move! T'YOG! DON'T LOOK AT ME!!
T'yog cried and struggled, but it didn't help. He moved slower and slower, like a broken clock.
As if accepting fate, he quietly looked at me. Our eyes met, and then...
He began to fade like Miss Sarah's old dress. Sweet syrup leaked from his skin, covering his stone-hard body.
My eye watched. They kept me watching, until it, he, took his last breath.
Ai... gis...
T'YOG!!
20. Birdless Night, before the fight
12 linesThis is my... crime. My sin.
Aigis pauses for a moment and closes her eyes.
I am the one who killed T'yog and turned Little Willy into a candy man. I am the true Ghost of the Workhouse.
From that day on, something has been trying to seize my body. Luckily, Mr. Anderson helped me. He lived in my eye, teaching me how to resist the darkness.
But his voice grew weaker over time. Eventually, I'd lost it on every foggy night... It's all my fault, all my fault.
I've tried wearing an eye mask, tried tying myself to the bed, but nothing worked. The strips that held me fast during daytime were easily broken by that force at night.
Aigis gently caresses her wrist, rubbed red from struggle.
Miss Sarah must have noticed something, I guess? That's why she's so desperate, so eager to have the doctor cure me.
I won't stay stagnant any longer.
I won't let Miss Sarah, Little Mac, Jenkin, or any of you... I won't let people I know turn into motionless stones like T'yog.
Choking back tears, Aigis turns and runs toward the basement exit.
Stop her!
21. Birdless Night, after the fight
63 linesThe Silver Key flickers intensely as the girl props up her body. You hear something faintly, something being torn apart.
The blindfold drifts down, writhing colors replace darkness, and a massive pale eye appears beneath her, as if watching her for ages.
You are... an eye? My eye?
No, it's not! This feeling is...! It's Mr. @2!
You will lend me your strength? But what about you?
Thank you... I know it'll be brief, but I... have something to say to them.
Aigis, Aigis!
Aigis stirs and truly opens her eyes.
After a piercing wail, the monster's massive body dissolves into black slime and collapses. The slime turns to dust, rising to darken the wooden beams.
You collapse weakly to the ground, struggling to endure a throbbing headache and nausea.
%player%!
Have you overused your mental power? You won't live long enough to witness Mythag's future like that. Sit down and rest. Overusing your mental power will affect your perception ability.
Don't mind me, check on Aigis.
The sound of evaporating liquid weakens and vanishes. On the slime-stained floor, the girl sits quietly, covering one eye.
Miss Ramona... and... {Male=Mr.,Female=Miss} %player%. I'm so glad you're all right.
Aigis...
Come to Mythag with us. We'll find a way to cure your eyes.
You reach out to Aigis.
Gently, Aigis places her hand on yours. Her fingertips are cold as stone, yet in that moment, they feel as warm as the golden sunset outside.
Jenkin told me. What you are researching, and what the doctors experimented on us, is a phenomenon called "Dissolution." It would erase one's existence, even related memories.
If that's true... I have a wish.
Aigis pauses, suppressing faint sobs.
I hope everyone at the workhouse forgets about me and the pain I've brought.
She raises her head and stares at you with her cold, stone-colored eye.
You feel immobilized in that instant.
Seizing the opportunity, she turns and vanishes into the gloom, climbing to the clock tower platform.
Golden sunset rays pierce the giant transparent clock face, bathing the girl in light.
Aigis turns sideways, placing one hand on the long-unwashed glass, squinting into warm sunlight.
The sun's out today...
Perhaps invigorated by the rare sunny day, she wobbles to a cleaner piece of glass.
Her blurry vision clears. Gazing at familiar and unfamiliar streets, someone seems to whisper in her ear.
"Look," that voice says, "I told you. There's gonna be beautiful stars tonight."
In the past, after each sunny day, T'yog would sneak me up here.
Miss Sarah always forbade us to come here. She said it's too dangerous, and we could get hurt.
But T'yog never listened. Every time, he'd sneak me upstairs in the dark once Miss Sarah has finished her bedtime rounds.
He's clever and brave, just like Jenkin. Always knowing hidden paths and shortcuts that others don't.
As long as he's with me, Miss Sarah would never find us.
As long as he's with me, this place would always be our secret hideout.
He told me I need to embrace the stars to strengthen my magic, although we couldn't see a single star here.
He was the only one who believed me back then. He believed I could see those black things and told me it was a witch's gift.
But he was taken, just to protect me...
If I were as smart as him and as brave as Jenkin, I would have uncovered the truth. But I'm no witch; I'm just a coward, a monster.
A... murderer.
Aigis, you are a good child. You were controlled; this is not your fault.
Do you know how many people I've turned into statues?
I'm terrified of what I'm about to become...
...and what I have already become.
But none of this matters anymore.
I will no longer be controlled, harm anyone, or let my friends die because of me.
Damn it, they were supposed to wait in the room, but now no one knows where they've gone.
Wait, is that...
Aigis?! Aigis!
Jenkin's voice suddenly calls from below, anxiously shouting Aigis's name, arms raised toward the sky.
A bird flies across the night sky, vanishing into the thick fog without a trace.
The ribbon tied to her hand comes loose and flutters away. The girl's small body falls, disappearing forever from the night.
The empty white dress and scattered paper squares land gently in Jenkin's hand.
Not even a trace of warmth remains.
Ai... Aigis...?
On the paper is a golden butterfly, its crinkled edges carefully pressed flat. It still carries a hint of candy sweetness.
How... how could this be...
The crimson ribbon and candy wrapper fall into Jenkin's hand, brushing her fingertips like tender comfort.
She blinks, tears blurring vision and dripping from lashes, silently caught by that vivid red.
Aigis...
22. Business as Usual, before the fight
55 linesLater...
A unit sent by the Committee arrived at Lilian's Workhouse to escort Sanga from the basement.
As she rode the Committee stretcher, she looked at you with a half-smile. You read her words through lip movements.
You do understand, right?
The bishop of Londinium Cathedral arrived at the workhouse. After reaching an agreement with the Committee, Sarah, undergoing irreversible transformation, was housed temporarily in the cathedral under guard.
Following the children's faint recollections, you located Dr. Miller's abandoned laboratory.
The place stood deserted.
William assigned an investigation team to track his whereabouts and coordinate with the Committee for a full-scale search of the Sculptors' bases.
Rogers the sponsor vanished, leaving the workhouse's future uncertain. In time, Lord Dexter generously provided funding and arranged the workhouse's takeover.
On the day Lord Dexter takes over Lilian's Workhouse, you and Ramona return.
A nun directs workers to move a small bed from the medical area.
But that's not the Sarah you remember.
That's strange. We've never had any sick children here, so why is this bed here...?
On the iron bedframe's corner, a few torn cloth strips remain tied.
As if answering Aigis's wish, memory of her vanishes from workhouse minds within two weeks.
The old order breaks, and a new one rapidly forms.
Some left, some disappeared. Some nightmares ended, some conditions persisted. But life goes on, giving no break.
Sarah lies quietly on a small bed. Her head remains cracked, limbs bound in chains.
Can I have the key for a moment?
The accompanying Committee Captain frowns and places the key on the nightstand.
I'll go check the perimeter. You guys keep an eye on things.
You and Ramona quietly unlock the chains.
Miss Sarah, do you... still remember us?
The silent monster shakes its head, if that oozing black mass can still be called a head.
Do you remember... Aigis?
As if confused, Sarah repeats your words.
Ai... gis...?
Her vocal organs gurgle, trembling with chaotic tones.
After a long silence, Sarah extends a clenched hand.
Are you... giving me something?
You open your palm.
A small Silver Core falls into it.
Ai... gis...
Is this... her?
Pieces of memories converge.
As Aigis fell like a bird into night, you all rushed toward her.
Jenkin caught a ribbon, you picked up a candy wrapper, and the already insane Sarah... Following instinct, she touched what remained of the girl's soul.
Give it to the Silver Lab. Maybe one day, we can Awaken that girl and the power within her.
Should we tell Jenkin?
...Initial Awakening phases induce memory fragmentation. Some experience complete amnesia, others retain only emotionally charged fragments requiring reconstruction.
Aigis was modified, and her Silver Core structure is unstable. Even if we succeed in Awakening her, she might not recognize Jenkin...
I think we should tell her after things settle down.
You close your hand, feeling the Silver Core's warmth, recalling the girl who always followed, nearly invisible.
When you first met, she followed Sarah and greeted you with a timid welcome;
When Jenkin took you to the ward, she hid behind Jenkin in fear.
Only that final moment of bravery transformed her into a falling star, blazing bright against twilight.
Investigator Sean Anderson... The Sculptors forcibly extracted his Silver Core after murdering him, yet he used up his remaining consciousness to assist Aigis.
We couldn't even collect his remains.
Ramona, can we really save anything? Can we really change anything?
This is what it takes to face Dissolution.
Keeper, you are special. That's why you cannot stop here.
We must do something. Save people. Bring change. But, even if nothing is achieved in the end...
Before the arrival of that dark night when all is forgotten, let your memory be the final witness to everything that has transpired.
23. Botticelli's Primavera, before the fight
55 lines13:20, Londinium Mythag University
As you and Ramona approach the main entrance, a commotion draws your eyes. Jenkin and a uniformed student are locked in a messy fistfight right on the pavement.
...
...
Our mouse's fighting the ferret.
Woah, I'm witnessing a spectacle.
Huh?
A spectacle of what?
The mouse attacks the ferret.
Who are you calling a mouse?!
Who are you calling a ferret?!
Hannah? Jenkin? What are you...
It's not my fault! She started it! She called the guards first!
Oh, come on! It was just a joke! Life isn't fun if you take everything so seriously.
So, you came looking for them, didn't you? Where did you guys meet, at the Workhouse? Ah! You must be that little Jenkin they've been talking about!
No wonder you're the top ferret in the Kingdom of Leonia. Are you collecting material for tomorrow's school newspaper?
It's more than that. Ramona, you know me, information is my life.
So, what deep-seated secret drove a pitiable orphan into the shadows of the forest in broad daylight?
Will the object of her obsession illuminate the truth, or drag her deeper into the dark? Frontline reporter Hannah Peaslee is about to break the story!
Hannah suddenly pulls out a notebook, from where, you don't know, and looks at you expectantly, pen poised to capture your every word and action.
...I get it now. None of you from this something something university speak like normal people.
Aw, I beg you to leave me out of this.
Please don't mind her. Hannah's just being Hannah again. What can we help you with, Jenkin?
Jenkin rummages in her bag, producing a stack of crumpled newspapers, and hands them to you and Ramona.
We had an agreement: you promised to help me find my sister. Now, it's time for you to keep your promise.
She quickly smooths one out, pointing to a local oddity: "Three-Dimensional Paintings".
The accompanying article, written in a dramatic, documentary style, details an astonishing new exhibit at the wax museum on 44 Southwark Street: Rogers' latest work, "Primavera."
A serious-looking photo is attached for credibility.
It's a wax sculpture group modeled after Botticelli's famous painting. The central female figure has comical makeup and a clearly pained expression.
This sculpture in the middle... I don't know why, but she reminds me of my older sister.
Rogers... It was Dr. Miller who introduced him to Sarah. After the Workhouse incident, he mysteriously disappeared.
So, he is the one who killed my sister... and... Aigis...
I can't wait. When are we gonna go get him?
Since he's probably highly dangerous, I'm going to have to ask that you stay behind while we resolve the issue. Though, I'm sure you have other ideas.
That's my sister. I have to go! Besides, you might need me to crawl through vents at some point!
I'm sure your only skill will prove very useful in battle.
Looks like I need to submit an urgent fieldwork application.
I'm about to go talk to Professor Alistair. Hopefully he'll be willing to give us an override.
I'm sure he will, since it's your request. On top of that, more importantly, we need to get Senior William to give us an extension on our field reports.
Oh, you don't need to worry about that now.
?
About an hour ago, William left the school with a fieldwork permit.
I tried to follow him to dig up some news, but I lost him along the way. It seemed like he was heading to the West District.
Southwark Street is in the West District. It seems that this time, we will have the chance to witness the renowned Investigator William in action.
Even William has to go, huh...
18:24, Londinium West Southwark Street
Thank you for your cooperation. I can take it from here.
This won't do, sir. The orders are clear: we must accompany you in the investigation. Besides, Rogers is also our suspect; we can't let you handle it alone.
And you can better hide your real identity with our resources.
...
Don't worry, sir. We have guns and we run fast. We won't hold you back.
I see. Maintain condition red. If compromised, prioritize your own life over mission completion.
Status update: Reached target location, 44 Southwark Street, Rogers Wax Museum. Primary objective: Confirm potential ties between museum proprietor Rogers and the Sculptors' Association.
Location confirmed, investigation target identified. May the Silver Key light your path.
May the Silver Key guide us.