BLUEWATER ISLAND I

Hello.

We are currently in the midst of a crisis,

so an emergency meeting has been convened requesting the presence of the Big Three CEOs and two Deputy Chiefs.

Another crisis?

Missilis has been doing all the heavy lifting as of late,

and now you're telling me there's more to deal with?

Yes.

The item on today's agenda pertains to the issue of resource depletion.

...

Are you pulling my leg?

The Ark has been in the red from the moment it was built.

Has there ever been a time when our resources weren't depleted?

... Enikk, could you provide some additional information, please?

Certainly.

During the past year, several incidents both inside and outside the Ark have resulted in unforeseen amounts of damage.

Approximately 47% of our resource reserves were expended to ameliorate these damages.

Until recently, this shortfall has been covered through the use of mass-produced mining units.

The reserves at these mines, however, have been gradually depleting.

The mining units have had to move to increasingly more dangerous areas in search of new mines,

and this has dramatically reduced their survival rate.

As a result, the Ark is operating at a deficit in nearly every area: minerals, energy, food, etc.

There is a paucity of nearly every resource, and output is far behind citizens' demand.

...

I knew this day would come,

but not this soon.

If this trend continues unabated,

a major economic depression will occur within 3 years

due to soaring prices of food and other raw materials.

Should that state of affairs last for 10 years or more,

the Ark will no longer be capable of supporting its current population.

Around 32% of its citizens will be forced to relocate to the Outer Rim.

Non. We cannot have that.

The Outer Rim is already overfilled as is.

If any more personnel are added to it, it will become a power keg that could go off at any moment.

I don't see why we're making this so complicated.

What's the problem? We've just gotta find a new mining location, right?

I've got your solution. I'll send out Matis.

Don't be a fool.

Even if you do find something, the entire point is that it will almost certainly be in a dangerous area.

Are you planning on having Matis stationed there permanently?

Of course not, why would I?

Matis are heroes.

Why waste perfectly good heroes by letting them rot out in the wastelands?

...

Are there any other options?

... I-I have an idea.

According to records from the first invasion,

there's one location where the Rapture distribution is less than ha-half that of other areas.

If we send someone with the requisite technical skills, they could ostensibly mine there indefinitely.

But we would have to do some pre-preliminary research.

The re-records are old, and we don't have conclusive evidence as to their veracity.

Excuse me, Deputy Commander, but

could you share the source of this information?

It's a written document that's been pa-passed down in my family.

It's a record left by someone that worked as a secretary of the Central Government,

so the information contained within at least comes from a place of authority.

Hmm...

If it's coming from you, then I trust it.

Unless anybody has any other ideas, I say we proceed with the preliminary research Buringum mentioned.

Alors, where is this supposed Elysium?

I-it's...

Say that again? We're going to the seaside?

That all sounds good to me, but

how come they want to send us of all people to an area by the ocean?

They should send someone more appropriate. Despite being experts, someone who have never been to the ocean before.

Exactly.

They're the ones who have been so gung-ho about seeing the ocean anyway.

They should have sent them. Why us?

Exactly.

They build a top-class warship, and they let it float in a swimming pool collecting rust.

Why aren't they using it for this?

They claim it has to do with matters of cost.

What do you mean?

Deploying a warship is a costly proposition.

The amount of money required to move it would be astronomical.

On top of that, the Admire is the only battleship in the entire Ark.

They wouldn't want to send something so valuable just to potentially provide backup.

They're so intent on 'saving' that ship, that it's just gonna go to waste.

...

I see.

There's one thing I still don't get, though.

If this job requires us to locate resources at coordinates near the sea, then someone's gonna have to go diving.

Who's gonna be the one who takes the plunge?

...

...

Huh?

Sorry?

I wouldn't recommend that.

Even setting the matter of Raptures aside, there are many deadly forms of marine life.

It's the sad truth.

If we fall in just once, we'll never be able to work our way back up.

... Tsk tsk.

You guys have no imagination.

Humans are all about inventing technology to allow them to do things they previously thought impossible.

It's a detection device.

Syuen harassed M.M.R. so many times, that they eventually caved and made it for her.

This can detect whether or not there are any useful resources buried at those coordinates,

along with the density of the Rapture distribution over there.

It then relays all that information back to the Ark.

Hmm...

If it's made by M.M.R., then the quality will be second-to-none.

Not only that, we've got the leader of Mighty Tools installing it for us, so there'll be no problems in the installation process.

Actually, I won't be doing the installation myself.

What? Who then?

I'm the only one from Mighty Tools being sent out, so I'm afraid you guys will have to pitch in.

What?

Then where are they?

Aren't we supposed to be leaving today?

...

Summer vacation. Leave?

I've brought enough sugar cubes.

Nothing beats a cool cup of iced coffee in the summer.

I'm actually going to the sea with the Commander! I couldn't sleep at all last night!

Pepper, I've already told you this trip isn't for pleasure.

But aren't we going up to the surface? To the ocean? In summertime?

How could we not have a little fun in the sun while we're up there?

...

Hmm...

I still think I'm gonna need your guys' help with the installation.

The way I see it, those guys are going on a different operation than us.

The Ark is experiencing a predicament with its resource,

and you guys are being sent to find a solution, yet all I keep hearing is 'Summer vacation'.

Woof! Woof!

...!!

Vo-Volt!

You're looking forward to running on the sandy beach as well?

Woof woof!

Not you too, Greenhorn!

...

So we're all in agreement?

The motto for this operation will be half work, half play.

Oooh, I like that!

Hahaha.

Everyone probably thinks of me as a firepower addict who doesn't care about anything else, but

I have a hidden secret.

From now on, you can call me a master of waterpower! Waterpower, waterpower!

Everyone has lost their minds...

Well, the crowd has spoken. Who am I to try and stop it?

It's about time you showed up.

I was bored stiff waiting.

No.

At least, not officially.

Word is that you all are going treasure hunting?

??

No.

You can phrase it however you want.

You're still going to check whether the Ark can yield a profit from that area.

They want to know if any valuable resources are located there.

When you follow the Ark's economy as closely as I do,

information has a way of finding you.

Anyway,

I'm thinking of joining in.

And I came bearing gifts.

No way!

What is this?

Judging by the patterns, it looks like clothes to me.

Those aren't like any clothes I've ever seen.

Knowing her, she probably stripped off 90% of the fabric and pawned it somewhere.

Pretty, aren't they?

Swimsuits. The latest fashion, is all the rage this summer.

They may look nice, but I don't see how they'll be very practical.

Yeah, it's not like the more skin you bare, the higher defense you have.

We don't want them.

Did I ask you guys? I'm talking to Rookie.

They're quite pleasing to the eye, wouldn't you say?

All are custom-tailored as well.

Contour to the body perfectly. One-size-fits-all, this is not.

It covers the areas that need covering, and shows the ones that can be shown.

It's a hot new item with a bold design.

I'd say.

...

There's a difference in the way men and women view certain things.

...

When are you all ever going to get another opportunity to go see the ocean?

...

Live a little, and get dolled up for the man of your dreams.

...

You're going to be spending all that time at the ocean; Why not look good while doing it?

...

As for the price... if I wanted my money's worth, we'd be talking a couple of thousand credits.

But credits aren't what I'm after here.

Grant Talentum access to some of the resource distribution rights, and the swimsuits are all yours.

Free exchanges and repairs are included.

Well, what do you think? Still not interested?

I'll do it.

I said I'll do it.

What's so impulsive about it?

I've wanted to show you this side of me for a while now.

Hehe...

If I can get to see Pepper looking all adorable in a swimsuit, I'll be a happy camper.

M-Mary!

So, do we have a deal?

Mmm.

Comfortable.

3 seconds, can sleep. No problem.

It's definitely easier to move around in this.

The elasticity definitely feels a bit tight though...

That's the entire point of a swimsuit, you dork.

Uh...

Are you sure this is okay?

This is awfully revealing...

Haha, so what?

It's not every day you get to dress like this.

Wow!

You look so elegant, Mary! Like a goddess...

But as for me, I think I'd like something a bit more conservative.

Oh no! I'd be devastated if that happened.

What a shame it would be to hide all your wonderful developments.

Hold on a sec, are you and I the same height, Pepper?

I wasn't talking about her height, Neon.

... I think that's enough of that for now. In case you forgot, the Commander's right here.

Wow.

I've never seen someone's face turn so red.

My goodness, whatever's wrong, Commander?

I'm not sure I do. Do you mean that you think Pepper is—

Ahem! If you don't mind, could you have this discussion when I'm not around?

I can't!

Oh dear, that's too bad.

She's just as cute as a button, isn't she, Commander?

Hey, what are you two talking about? Let me in on the conversation!

If you're still going on about Pepper's 'developments',

then I've made some developments of my own thanks to this wardrobe change.

For example, my waterpower makes me...

Huh? Cuter?

Huh? More girly?

Oh! I know that!

Didn't Anis say that our defense goes up if we wear a swimsuit?

I'd totally forgotten about it... thanks for reminding me!

I see I've got a long way to go before I reach your level of brilliance.

...

Any chance you've got any spare compliments for me?

It'd be nice.

I'm a medical professional who has to treat my patients.

I feel a bit uneasy wearing something like this.

It'd be a bit of a letdown to only be complimented by Pepper.

But, if you're not a fan of this look, I can change back into my regular clothes.

Really?

I'm with the Commander on this one.

I'm not into chicks, but you're smokin' in that swimsuit.

Oh jeez...

Thank you so much, both of you.

I think my self-confidence has been safely restored.

...

Maybe I should change...

Dang it, why did I have to say that out loud...

It's just that...

I feel these swimsuits should be a victory outfit.

If you wear them all the time, they lose their significance. You should only wear it on special occasions.

Argh... this is why I didn't want to say anything.

Why are you all just standing around?

I was already miles out thanks to Black Typhoon.

We've been having something of a fashion show.

... Uh-huh. Are you about finished?

Yeah, I think so.

Then let's kick it into high gear. The sea is waiting.

*Vrooom*

She's certainly a "full speed ahead" type of gal.

We're about 1km out from the destination.

Sounds nice and close, but that's 1km of water in front of us, not land.

Huh?

Cutting straight through the ocean?

!!

You weren't kidding!

It's super narrow, but I can definitely see it.

Fascinating... It's like Moses parting the Red Sea.

You guys aren't really going to cross using that road, are you?

It looks like it would crack the moment one of you takes a step on it.

Instead of us all charging along at once,

wouldn't it be safer for us to go one by one?

Hmm...

All right, then who's up first?

Nope.

No way.

It's too dangerous.

Perhaps I should go first?

I think the doctor should stay behind at first.

We'll need someone to perform first aid if anyone falls in the water.

Then that eliminates Pepper as well.

...

*Sigh* I should've figured.

Looks like I'm up first.

Just look at me.

I'm easily the lightest of anyone here.

Plus, have you seen the swim ring around my waist?

If I do end up taking a tumble, I'll probably be able to float in the water.

So, I'll give it a go!

Um...

That swim ring is just for decoration.

Only humans are light enough to float on those things.

As for a Nikke...

I'd say she gets 5 seconds on it, tops.

Hey everyone!

This road is awesome!

There's the sea all around me! Hurry up and check it out!

...

...

...

I'm still worried about that swim ring. How about I go next?

I go. Want sleep.

Pepper and I will go next.

W-wait! I'm not ready!

...

Go ahead, Commander.

I'll go last.

I'd feel weird being sandwiched in-between everyone else wearing swimsuits.

Well, I do.

I don't want to be compared to anyone before I unleash the special outfit.

I'm tired of explaining! Just hurry and go already!

Master!

Isn't this road fascinating?

It's so soft! And look at all these bits and bobs... they're shaped like stars.

They're red as well... I wonder if they'd help my firepower...

Neon, don't get distracted, or you may fall.

You should look straight ahead when crossing a narrow path.

Oh, good point!

I'll just turn around and walk backward then.

You idiot, that's even more dangerous!

Hehe, you two are adorable.

Wowee!

Look over there! The water is all sorts of different colors!

I can see my reflection in it too. This water must be super clean.

Did this place used to be a resort of some kind?

It's gorgeous.

*Bark*

Ha, you like it too, don't ya, Volt?

Sorry, but you can't lie down just yet.

You'll have to wait until we find some proper shelter to rest.

Between installing the detection device and searching purely visually,

we've got two or three solid days of work ahead of us.

With that amount of camping,

there's no way this group could hack it.

I saw a small hydroelectric plant on the way in here.

While we're making a shelter, I'll see if I can get that facility running and get us some electricity.

The only thing is, I might kick up a fair bit of noise in the process.

Exactly.

Someone should set up some decoys.

...

I don't know why I even bother.

Whoever brings up an issue is always the first to deal with it.

Is there at least one other person that wants to tag along?

I'll go.

I haven't changed into my swimsuit yet anyway.

I've been itching to cruise along that sea road with Black Typhoon.

Wait, you're going to ride your bike?

Of course.

Won't that muffler attract more Rapture?

It's fine. I can always just run them over.

...

That actually sounds pretty awesome.

Got room for one more in the back?

You know it. Hop on.

Kids these days. They never think about the consequences.

I must admit,

this is pretty okay, considering we made it all in one afternoon.

I'd say it's better than okay.

It looks like the kind of resort you see in a brochure!

Woof!

I think Volt wants to see what it looks like inside as well.

Should we check it out, Commander?

Oh jeez, I totally forgot!

Sorry, guess I got a bit too excited.

Hehe, there's no need to be in a hurry, Pepper.

There are plenty of things to do while we wait.

Like what?

Look behind you.

!!

!!

... Master.

After all that hard work building this place, I say we owe it to ourselves to go check out the sunset.

Last one there is a rotten egg!

Hey, wait for me! I wanna take some pictures.

I just can't get enough of those two and their antics.

What do you say, Commander? Should we join them?

It's nice to relax every once in a while.

Pepper and I are usually so busy at the Repair Center.

We don't get many opportunities to see something this beautiful.

I'm glad I get to see Pepper be so happy and carefree.

Hehe.

To be honest, Pepper was pretty scared before coming here.

The sea is totally unfamiliar to her.

There aren't as many Raptures as there are on the rest of the surface.

That means there's greater biodiversity, which means more poisons, bacteria, and viruses that we don't know about.

Obviously, if we were to drag any of that back into the Ark, we'd be in big trouble.

That's why Pepper and I were dispatched here together,

but still, it's not easy for us either to be sent somewhere unfamiliar.

Yes and no.

We're not scared for ourselves.

We're more concerned that

we won't be able to help any patients

who end up contracting an unfamiliar disease.

Are you trying to make me feel better?

I appreciate that, hehe.

To show my appreciation,

you're always free to stop by our clinic and rest whenever you're feeling tired.

As long as we have a spare bed available, that is.

Yes.

Liter helped us build one after the house was finished.

We set it up on a nice spot on the beach under a palm tree.

We also set up a parasol, so there's plenty of shade.

Would you like a tour?

Of course.

Sure!

We don't have any patients right now, so it's a perfect time.

...

... mmander. You have to wake...

A bit sting... ing...?

Sting.

Hello? Can you hear me?

Oh, that? It's just that it's getting fairly late in the day, and it didn't look like you were going to wake up anytime soon.

So, I pretended that I was going to give you a shot.

I wouldn't do that to you.

Maybe to a patient, but not to you.

Hmm, I'm not entirely sure myself.

About 2 hours, maybe?

I believe so.

Well, this little tour was helpful after all.

It proves beyond a doubt that our beds are comfy enough, hehe.

Don't worry about it.

I'm used to accompanying people who are asleep.

I'm afraid not.

Pepper and Neon have been keeping a lookout, but

there haven't been any new developments.

Commander!

We're in trouble!

It's the sea road!

I think it's gonna collapse!

How can a wave reach all the way up here?

Yes.

To be honest, I'm more worried about the sea road at the moment.

From what I can see, it's the only passageway connecting us to the mainland.

If it's destroyed...

Hehehe.

Don't worry about that.

As long as we've got my waterpower and my unwavering resolve,

we can forge another path, no prob... *gurgle*

Neon, I found your glasses! They're over here!

Pllflff... Can you grab them for me?

Sure, I'll go get th—Eek!

We need to gather everyone together.

...!!

Would you look at that.

The road is gone.

Nice. What was once an outcropping is now an island.

Who cares about that?!

This means we can't meet up with the Commander.

Sure we can.

Nothing is impossible for Black Typhoon.

Don't tell me this thing runs on top of water?

No.

But if I redline it,

it should be able to float on water.

...

Theoretically speaking, that is.

I don't think it's possible from any angle.

If you say so.

I'm just saying, the only way to test a theory is to put it into practice.

So...

Let's hit it! Vroooom!

Are you insane?! Stop!!!

Wow.

We're completely stranded.

I suppose the same goes for Anis and Sugar.

They'll be fine. Worst comes to worst, they can still go back to the Ark.

We're the ones who are in deep trouble.

The only pathway connecting us to the mainland has been destroyed.

Nikkes are far too heavy to swim, so we can forget that, and we're not exactly buoyant either, so floating across is out.

Even if we made a raft, we're all so heavy that it'd just end up sinking.

We're really up the creek without a paddle.

It was decent when we first arrived,

but about three hours ago, the Alva particle concentration suddenly spiked.

All communications are down at the moment.

...

Hmm...

Maybe Anis and Sugar will go back to the Ark,

and come back with the Admire in tow.

I doubt that.

The Admire only moves with the deputy commander's approval.

There's no way Nikkes without a commander

will be able to convince them to allow the usage of the ship.

That's if the deputy commander even agrees to see them in the first place.

Well, that's just great.

In other words, there's absolutely nothing we can do.

Surely, the situation isn't that dire just yet?

We still have the mission.

Let's install the detection device,

and search what areas we can for the time being.

While we work on that,

the sea road may become traversable again.

You sound like a bum hoping to hit the jackpot on a scratch-off.

...

Well, at least I'm trying to be helpful...

??

the sea road wasn't underwater at the time?

...

So are you saying...

the sea road comes and goes as it wishes?

In a way, yes. In layman's terms, it's often referred to as a "recurrent phenomenon".

Oh yeah! That's what I meant to say.

Now that you mention it,

I think I've heard of that term as well.

In this case, it has to do with the rise and fall of the tide.

What? If you knew, why didn't you pipe up?

I hadn't made the connection.

Back in the old days, it was a widely known phenomenon.

Now, however, it's fallen out of common usage and been relegated to the realm of texts about ancient times.

...

So, in other words,

if we just sit tight,

the sea level will pneuma... whatever, and the sea road will open up again?

...

...

...

Then I want to practice my waterpower in the sea!

I'll set up a nice little stall and make some fresh fruit juice.

You guys!

We've still got a mission to do! Work first, play later!

We haven't forgotten.

We'll finish the mission in the morning, and then we can have fun afterward!

... It's just my luck getting stranded on an island with you goobers.

*Sigh* Kids these days... all they think about is horsing around.

Having said that...

I can't let these young whippersnappers leave me in the dust!

Volt, let's take a frisbee with us when we go out tomorrow.

*Bark*

Haha, it's nice seeing everyone so full of verve.

Isn't it obvious?

I'll be at the clinic.

If the doctor decides to take a siesta,

who will take care of anyone if they get injured?

No can do.

An emergency could occur at any time.

There's always someone getting hurt, or fainting, like the Commander.

Haha, don't worry.

The clinic is on the beach anyway,

so I can watch everyone while they enjoy themselves.

Stop for a second.

The bottom doesn't look level to me.

Try lowering the right corner a bit.

Hmm...

It may be better to shave off the bottom instead.

Move aside.

...

That should do it. Try setting up the machine again.

Perfect.

Now we just have to fix it in place.

I spotted what looked like small particles on the west coast, so I went to have a closer look.

I can confirm that they do have a close resemblance to gold particles.

The plan is to search the island for the main stream which contains the mineral vein.

It hasn't been confirmed yet.

Once we're 100% certain, I'll report back.

...

There are also a lot of remnants the previous inhabitants left behind.

During our search, we saw structures that looked like docks,

and we also found a few houses centered around them.

I agree.

There might be some records of some kind that could help us with our mission.

If the people who resided there were mineral miners,

then there is a possibility that we could pinpoint the mining points on this island.

??

...

Well, first off, I'm not alone, but...

Hnnnff.

If I need any help, I'll be sure to ask for it.

Woof!

...??

Woof woof!

He's certainly a go-getter. I like that.

Hmm...

Do you think we can eat this?

*Munch*

What are you guys doing?

We're supposed to be conducting research, aren't we?

Doesn't food count as a resource?

Well... that may be true,

but it's not smart to be putting raw foods in your mouth.

We know what we're doing.

In the old encyclopedias I read,

they talk about how people back then would catch fish and eat it straight up.

Apparently, it was out of this world.

And it looks like this place is teeming with fish,

so it might broaden our culinary horizons a little bit.

Who knows, it could even be the key to solving the longstanding food shortage in the Ark!

You're quite the brainiac when it comes to food, apparently.

... Anyway.

Are you ready, Master?

*Munch*

...

...

Yuck!

Oh dear, it looks like we've got our first two patients.

What seems to be the issue?

...

Blaaaaargh.

You really shouldn't be eating things indiscriminately in unfamiliar surroundings.

First, let me take your temperatures. Can you come closer?

...

38.5 Celsius. Very high.

You should stay in bed for the rest of the day.

We'll take another look at you tomorrow and see if you need more rest then.

Doctor's orders.

You're not leaving this clinic until you're feeling better.

No, please!

I just finished all my work! I was finally going to enjoy my free time!

I won't let a small bit of food poisoning stop m... sto... blaaarrgh!

*Weep*

Master...

When I get better, I'm gonna make extra sure my free time doesn't go to waste.

I've gotta pray to the gods of firepow... no, I mean waterpower... ugh...

Pepper, can you prepare some fluids for our patients?

Right away!

We'll give you both some water from our icebox.

If you have food poisoning, you have to be sure to stay hydrated.

Yeah, thanks.

It's not a problem.

Just don't let me see you come back with the same ailment!

Space?

Yes, we have beds available. What seems to be the issue?

Hammock fell.

Head bumped.

Let's take a look.

...

I don't see any major issues...

Admitted. Can I?

I'm sorry,

but I'm afraid there aren't any beds in this clinic for malingerers.

I would suggest you go back and re-install a better hammock.

...

I sprained my foot while out searching.

My mobility is a bit limited. Do you have any replacement parts?

Rapi,

you shouldn't be so blasé about having parts replaced.

If you always think every problem can be resolved

just by switching out for new parts,

then you won't take proper care of yourself.

... Okay.

Why don't you lie down first?

We'll try everything we can to see whether you can keep your original part.

If that doesn't work, then we'll replace it. Sound good?

Okay.

...

Hehe, finally, some new company.

Do you think we should put her to work?

We've been cooped up in here all day, and can't even enjoy our vacation properly.

What's the harm in having a little fun?

I know. I just wanted to do it because it's Rapi.

Hey, Rapi, did you hear that?

And bring some ice while you're at it.

... Do you really want me to bring it?

Anyways, this island is so peaceful.

Way more than the rest of the surface, so I thought for sure the clinic would be empty.

Turns out Mary barely has any time to rest with all the people coming in and out.

"Just by seeing Pepper have a chance to relax, my heart feels at ease."

With these words, Mary let Pepper go.

Unfortunately, it was only after Pepper left that it got really busy.

Hmmm...

Kinda makes you a bit sad, doesn't it?

She may seem like a superhero, but underneath all that, there's still a person.

...

It's nice to see that someone else feels the way I do.

It's me. Hehe.

To be honest, I couldn't rest thinking about how hard Mary must be working.

I was watching the whole thing from a distance.

...

Mary is so kind and skilled.

She's like an angel.

Especially when it comes to her devotion to her patients. No one can beat her.

But she's only one person.

She always takes care of others, even when it's to her own detriment.

Really!?

It's always bummed me out.

Sooo... with that being said,

could I possibly ask you two for a favor?

I'll find a way to make it up to you, I promise. Even if I have to scrounge up credits for some Nutrium.

Hmm...

Don't worry about compensation.

This clinic has already done so much for us.

...!! Thank you.

Then...

Pepper? What are you doing over there?

Uh-oh, Mary's coming this way.

About what I just told you... I'm leaving it in your hands, Commander.

I'll oversee the clinic, so don't worry about that.

Pepper, have you ever told this to Mary yourself?

She's always looking after you,

so I'm sure she'd be willing to listen to you about something like this.

I have,

but she always pretends not to hear me.

Maybe it's because it's coming from someone from the same line of work.

I'm not sure what she is thinking.

... Pepper!

I told you to go and rest. Why are you here?

Oh, er... I thought I could be of some help. Hehe.

If you don't get out of here right this instant, I really will find some work for you to do.

So you've got work for me? I'll do it!

...

Hehe, you're incorrigible sometimes.

Very well. You can help me clean up the clinic later tonight.

Three.

Two.

One.

... Action!

Master!

I'm gonna toss the ball!

Be sure to catch it!

Magical water toss!

Huh? What was that?

Oh no! Whatever should I do?

The ball landed right near the clinic.

If only some kindly doctor would pick the ball up for me.

...??

I'll throw it back. Here.

Wow!

I didn't know we had a secret volleyball master in our midst!

Why don't you join us?

Sorry, but there's a patient inside.

I'm gonna toss the ball!

Hehe...

Oh, well...

then it shouldn't be a problem.

Pepper can play beach volleyball with the two of you.

What?

You all have fun, and I'll stay and watch the clinic.

Uh...

We should have known that plan wouldn't work.

It was way too simple.

We should proceed with my method.

Hydro-power transfer to magazine complete.

The weather's good, and the agent is feelin' good.

What's the latest with that extra squirt gun I asked for?

Good.

Once I blast our target with this, she'll be so angry that she'll end up shooting back with the other gun.

Before you know it, she'll be enjoying herself and having a wet and wild water gunfight with me.

All right,

Agent B is off!

Waterpower! Bang Bang!

...

...

Um... Aren't you going to attack back?

If you don't, it kinda just looks like I'm picking on you.

Sorry, what was that? I didn't hear you.

Huh?

??

Are you watering down the clinic because it's getting overheated?

How thoughtful of you. How did you know? I was just about to drink some iced water, hehe.

That's okay.

I'm already in my swimsuit, anyway. I'll dry off soon enough.

...

Was there anything else you guys needed me for?

If not, I should go back and organize the clinic supplies.

I say we go for an all-out assault.

I'm sure you've seen all those pretty shells on the beach.

We can collect some, put 'em in a bottle, and use them to decorate the clinic.

I'm sure Mary will be happy with that, as it'll please the patients.

I think so!

Best of all, it's already sunset, so there won't be many patients.

This is gonna work, I can feel it in my bones.

Shell, shell, shell...

Ah, found one!

Check this out, Master.

Doesn't this look like an M32?

Hehe, it's just as I thought. The gods of fire...

Er... I mean, waterpower also resides on the beaches.

Anyhoo, how many did you find?

Hmm... I'm not quite sure how to say this...

They're not pretty, and they're not especially ugly.

They're just a little... plain, that's all.

Here, we can combine them with mine.

... Ah!

Ha, I can't believe I surpassed you so easily!

Guess I've got a knack for shell collecting.

Huh? Did you want some?

Oh, wow!

I never imagined a master would be jealous of his disciple's shells!

Just kidding. I was going to gather some for you separately.

When we started, about 10 minutes ago.

...

Okay, that may be a slight exaggeration.

To be honest, I've been collecting since this afternoon.

I figured that since we've been separated from Anis for so long,

she must be feeling pretty down in the dumps.

So, I wanted to surprise her with these when we meet again.

Always have been!

Hehe.

Well, since my collection appears to be in such high demand,

I better get one more round in before the sun sets.

Mary, I'm here!

Pepper?

Why aren't you out enjoying your time off?

I promised you before, didn't I? I'm gonna help you clean up.

Oh, that? I wasn't actually going to hold you to that...

Well, since you're here, can you gather up all the bedding and put it in one place?

Sure thing! Is there anything e...

Did you hear that?

??

What is that?

Hmm...

Do you think there are some squirrels nearby, dropping acorns?

There it is again!

...?

What are these pebbles doing here?

Who could have done this...?

Hold on a sec, here's a glass bottle.

... I'm not sure exactly what is going on, but this is really pretty.

It's like the sea itself is contained within this bottle.

...

Pepper.

Could you give me a moment?

I'm not sure why they've given me this gift.

I think I need to have a talk with them.

Oh, sure! Of course.

I'll just take a walk in the area, so let me know when you're done.

...

You can both come out now.

...!!

I knew it would be you two.

How could I not?

You two have been butting into my affairs since this morning.

...

So what exactly is the meaning behind this?

Isn't it really pretty?

Come again?

You see all those shells inside the bottle? Aren't they pretty?

They certainly are.

Don't you think it could lift the spirits of any patients in here?

... I'm sure it will.

But there are a lot of bedstands and tables here.

I'm not sure if we could make enough glass bottles for all of them.

However,

I think if a certain doctor lent a helping hand, we just might be able to do it.

...

No.

First, we can gather up enough empty bottles.

Then, we can pour what's in this one bottle evenly into the rest of the empty bottles,

then add some sand and seawater, so that they don't look empty.

Hey, that's a great idea!

...

Why are you two

doing this?

You've been pestering me all day to leave the clinic,

despite you knowing perfectly well how I feel about that.

Did Pepper put you up to this?

Yes,

but that's not what's important.

We've wanted to hang out with you well before that.

Why?

Uh... we like you?

You do?

You're like our guardian angel.

Isn't that right, Master?

...

Is that so...

Well, I'm very grateful.

You're both lovely people.

But as I've mentioned before, I can't leave the clinic.

An accident could occur at any moment, and

if a doctor isn't present, the patients will...

Ugh...

Don't worry about that!

That's what I'm here for.

... Pepper? I thought you went for a walk.

I didn't.

I was too upset to.

At the Repair Center, you've never taken a single day off.

And now, even though we're at this gorgeous deserted island, you're still intent on remaining in the clinic!

Pepper, I...

One day. For just one day, consider yourself on vacation.

I always thought of you as a role model, but

whenever I think of the fact that if I ever end up getting into your position,

I may end up working 365 days a year without any rest,

my future feels so bleak.

Oh, you mustn't be so concerned!

Even a doctor with my seniority can always take breaks...

You see? You said it yourself!

... What?

You said it!

Even in your position, you can always take time to rest.

...!!

As a bonus, we'll help you enjoy your vacation as much as possible.

...

Sigh...

I suppose I can't win.

Commander, Neon, and Pepper...

...

Very well. I'll enjoy my vacation.

But just for one day.

I'll leave the clinic to Pepper for just one day.

After this though, I don't want you asking me for any more favors, okay?

Woohoo! We did it!

Group hug!

In order to get the most out of your vacation, you'll have to wake up early.

Since we're by the ocean, we can't go without taking in a sunrise.

That works. I can handle waking up early for one day.

Are you sure? Don't push yourself too hard for my sake.

I've got you to take a vacation! Compared to that, waking up early is nothing.

... Could we maybe catch a sunset instead?

What?

You said you were going to teach Mary how to enjoy her vacation!

No, I didn't! That was Master...

Device installation is complete.

With Greenhorn's help, we confirmed that the devices are all fully operational.

Through the use of the said device, we've discovered deposits of methane hydrate in these waters.

As for Rapture distribution in the water...

initial reports are showing zero.

The sea may well be the answer to the Ark's resource problem.

I'll go next.

Our searches around the island have turned up a mineral mine in the 10 o'clock direction of us.

However, it appears that the minerals found there consist primarily of copper and silver rather than gold.

We'll have to examine the components of the samples we took to be certain.

We have Volt to thank for that.

Woof!

We also searched the houses around the harbor,

but were unable to turn up any useful information.

Proceeding northward through the palm grove, however, we found records stating that there was a seaside hotel.

We intend to head there tomorrow to continue our search.

Good job.

Hmm...

Neon and I were searching for food supplies to take to the Ark, and

there was this weird-looking grain.

It wasn't corn, and it wasn't rice.

It seems to be a new strain that only came into being after the Raptures appeared.

The taste was similar to corn, though.

True.

Anyways, since it was growing in a humid climate,

there's a high probability it'd be conducive to harvesting in the Ark.

It could be worth taking a few samples to the Department of Plant Control.

We already packed a bunch of 'em.

What, you think I plan on keeping some for myself?

If there's any chance to sell something, you'll take it.

You all need to have more faith in me.

As for us...

... What?

Everyone knows perfectly well what you two have been doing.

Pretty much all of us have had to pay a visit to the clinic for one reason or another.

??

Where's that light coming from...?

!!

Hey everyone, check it out!

It's time for the sunrise!

Wow, just when our reports were finished. Do you think the sun was waiting for us?

Yeah!

Whoaaa...

Sunrises are just like sunsets in reverse.

Very poetic way of putting it, Greenhorn.

Hey, Mary, isn't it nice seeing this together as a group?

...

... Yes.

I've seen this view a couple of times already from the clinic,

but seeing it with you all is... how should I put it...

I feel that this is a memory that I should hold fast to, and treasure.

I agree.

I don't.

We're only just starting to create memories for you.

Ahhh!

Memories begin and end with strong emotions.

To me, that's the true meaning of a good vacation, and one I wanted to share with you.

But...

if you play around in the water too aggressively, someone might g...

...

Fine.

I did promise myself that I would have fun today.

So, if it'll make you all happy, I'll fight back.

Agh!

Why are you splashing me?!

Whoops, sorry!

I just wanted you to be a part of the fun.

If that's what you want...!

Agh, time out, time out! Eyes in water!

No!

My glasses fell into the water!

Woof woof!

Ah, Volt brought you back your glasses, Neon.

What a good little doggie!

Thanks a bunch. I'm blind as a bat without my glasses.

So... that means we can start again! My turn!

Whoa...

Are you drenched from that one splash, Commander?

Not sure, but it seems everyone's set their sights on the Commander.

Then I'll balance out the scales.

Yikes!

Now Pepper's as soaked as you are, Master.

Yeeeeeya!

...

Isn't pushing a bit dangerous?

What do you mean? Look how soft the sand is.

I've walked this beach up and down countless times, and there aren't any rocks in sight.

Here, feel for yourself how soft it is.

Pepper, wait...!

...

... Ah.

Hehehe.

You weren't lying. This sand is super soft.

Wait, I feel something in my hand...a pebble?

Is this what Commander and Neon were collecting yesterday? It's really prett...

...

... Pepper, are you listening?

What's wrong? You've gone quiet all of a sudden.

Gah!

How could you? Selling a patient's...

Say something!

Ah... Ahah...

Pepper, are you okay?

I trusted you!

I trusted!

You hypocrite!

AAAAHHHHH!!