COINS IN RUSH II

There he is! Get him!

100 million credits!

Forget about the money—I just wanna meet him!

Next fork, go right...

Then, five meters ahead... side door on your left.

Are you okay, Coach?

Lie down. Catch your breath.

Here, drink this.

After you passed through the door, I cloaked it with optical camouflage.

At a glance, it should be imperceptible... but under thorough inspection, it will be quickly uncovered.

... Looks like they've all passed by for now.

But if they don't see Coach nearby, they'll double back and search the area again.

Just a sec,

it looks like the guests have gradually figured out the pattern.

They're expanding their search area and trying to cut off escape routes,

so calculating the route is getting more difficult.

I suppose it's because they're really enjoying the event

and are thus fully immersed in it.

Honestly, this isn't that bad,

except for that thief crashing the party and pissing me off.

There isn't much time left now.

That person is also running out of places to hide.

The guests have noticed you've disappeared.

Estimated time until their search reaches your current location is about three minutes.

Roger that.

Here, let me loosen up your leg muscles.

So, don't let me down!

... So, y'all enjoyed the start of this Événement Spécial, right?

Huh...?

Before the main event begins, let's raise les stakes with un thrilling chase event!

In this exciting spectacle, un dastardly villain is after our poor petit lapin!

We can't let that scoundrel ruin the show, n'est-ce pas?

Th-that's right!

Alors, what should we do?

Catch him!

Exactement!

Vous heard it yourselves!

Whoever catches our villain gets a magnifique récompense of 100 million credits!

Wo-wooow!

So if the villain so much as lays a hand on our poor lapin, the game is terminée!

Remember, our villain is un extrêmement compétent Commander. Alors, c'mon, everyone, let's get moving!

We must rescue our poor lapin from the clutches of this horrible villain!

Wooooooo!

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!

Le spectacle must go on!

Saaaaaaaay!

Entertainment!!!

Boss...?

... Is anyone following ANY of this?

...

M-Master.

Could you... please look around?

Um, excuse me. Are you, by any chance...?

Haha, no way. There's no way he'd get caught that easily...

... Pal, you'd better get out of here, like, right now.

Currently analyzing guests' line of sight...

Their eyes are shifting toward you, Noob.

The percentage of those in the Main Hall looking your way is...

12%... 16%... 21%...

Recommended course of action: immediate escape.

Ah, screw it. I'll catch him first and ask questions later!

Wha...?!

Isn't that him? He's running away!

I'll be your designated operator, Noob.

Commencing escape route guidance now.

Pal, we'll buy you some time. Now run for it!

Turn right at the next intersection.

Highroller is successfully avoiding capture.

Exia is still providing directions, so it looks like he won't get caught anytime soon.

Yes, but even Master has his limits.

If we do not resolve this situation promptly, or at the very least provide some assistance...

Oi, Boss. Now that you're here, explain yourself.

Were you planning this from the start?

Of course non.

I have no reason to order anyone to capturer the Commandant.

In that case...

... Just like you all, I was caught complètement off guard by this.

I had to think on my feet and act vite...

But yes, I ended up throwing le Commandant to the wolves. Désolé about that, my bad!

Wait, so even you didn't know about this?

What're you gonna do now?

Just let Pal keep running around like that all day and night?

Worry not, for I have un plan magnifique.

You must have confiance in me, I implore you!

... Tch, can't exactly say no when you put it like that.

So, what's the plan?

First off, Rouge, how's the réaction du public?

The response has been positive so far.

Most guests are excited about the new event and are actively participating.

C'est bien.

Everyone, I have une nouvelle mission for you.

Please apprehend that lapin—non, that thief, s'il vous plaît.

Looks like she's taken away your original cible as well.

You want me to go after her in this mess?

For all we know, something even crazier could happen!

Mais bien sûr! Since the situation is what it is, there's no need to stay silencieux like last time.

Non, non! This time, be loud, be extravagant!

And don't worry, there's no danger involved.

We're calling it a mission, sure, but really, this is just an événement.

...

Also, make sure the Commandant reçoive ce message:

Evade the guests' pursuit. Catch la mystérieuse thief. Retrieve the target.

...

Message relayed to Noob.

The response: "What are you talking about?"

I don't blame him.

There was no reason to start this whole damn fiasco in the first place.

You could have just told everyone, "Don't mind her, folks. Just relax and enjoy the event."

Then we just catch the thief, and bam, case closed.

... It's too late for that now, after what the thief said.

The guests just won't buy it.

Yes, I agree.

After such a public declaration, there's no way to just pretend it never happened.

Even if we could... both the guests and participants

wouldn't be able to properly focus on the event.

You're right.

Since things are already en marche, we can't just act like nothing happened.

But...

Luckily for us, it's turning into quite un véritable spectacle.

The Commandant pursues la thief, and the guests pursue le Commandant.

Who will claim la gloire and stand as le victor? Don't you want to find out?

...

And since this is an urgent mission,

failure is absolument okay.

I want you all to enjoy it as nothing more than an événement.

Avoid the frénétique guests, and appréhendez the thief.

Noob replied.

It's a bit long, but to summarize,

he essentially said, "Let's just get this over with."

Magnifique!

All right, then... we gotta help Pal make a clean getaway,

while we get ready to catch that thief or whatever.

I'm counting on you, mes amis.

Is this for real? Are we seriously just supposed to search around aimlessly like this?

Hey, still, isn't this better than buying a lottery ticket every week?

Plus, the odds are way higher.

I guess you're right, but still...

Analyzing line of sight and movement patterns... Analysis complete.

Target: the pillar about 5 meters ahead.

Standby...

... Now go!

Hey, I don't think he's over here.

There's nobody else around either.

Hmm... I could've sworn I sensed something.

All right, let's head over to where the crowd is.

There's gotta be some reason why so many people are there.

Sure.

On my signal, circle the pillar clockwise.

3... 2... 1... now.

Perfect stealth!

SSS rank for you!

For now, that area's relatively safe.

The commotion's happening over by the Game Zone.

The two guys are claiming to be you

and have started fighting each other.

Well...

Calling it a strategy meeting's kinda pushing it.

The plan's simple: nab the thief before you get caught.

But Exia's still got no clue where she's hiding.

It's not fair...

I've been working hard guiding him all this time.

And I found out that the broadcast from earlier was done through an internal line.

So at least up until then, she was still inside Coin Rush.

Even I could've told you that!

Aww, c'mon...

Anyway, like Exia said earlier,

the area you're in looks quiet, Coach, so rest there for a bit.

Yes, I'm there as we speak, but...

...

Apparently... the fight broke out because...

both men claimed to be you and, well...

attempted to seduce some of the other women...

Bwahaha! Are you serious?

Did those numbskulls actually think that'd work?

Oh my...

... I just don't get it.

Things escalated into a fistfight, so we had to remove both of them and are currently handling the situation.

I realize this may cause you some inconvenience, Highroller...

We can't let Pal fend for himself out there, so we'll split up and track down the thief too.

Oh, and before that,

you gotta tell us the thief's true identity.

I'm not entirely certain...

but I believe that thief may be someone I know.

No, we are not personally acquainted. However, I have heard of her.

She was once the leader of Tetra's secret squad.

You remember what the target said back during that first job, right?

About a secret agent showing up at Coin Rush?

I'm guessing this thief is that agent.

Ade was too busy enjoying her youth back then.

That's probably why she totally forgot about it and only just remembered a little while ago.

M-Miss Exia!

Yeah, I thought it was just some conspiracy crap,

but Ade says it was real.

... Yes, that squad was called Shade.

Their primary duties included wiretapping, manipulation of public opinion, abductions, and so forth.

As their name suggests,

they worked for Tetra from the shadows behind the glamorous spotlight of the entertainment world.

Though they have long since been disbanded.

Guess the rumors were true.

... At some point, Boss changed completely.

He began pursuing what he regarded as true entertainment, and it was then that he disbanded Shade.

While the past can never be undone,

I believe he is now atoning for the mistakes he made back then.

... What could the Boss be thinking?

Ordering us to go all out to capture someone who knows his past inside and out...

or rather, someone who embodies his past itself.

... Think he'd answer if we ask?

I don't think so.

I've asked him several times myself, but he would only smile softly or redirect the conversation.

Yeah, if he were going to tell us, he already would have spilled the beans.

Who knows what the hell is going on in that guy's mind anyway?

Fine. That's the best option we have right now.

Huh? Why?

Hahaha! Hey, Pal, aren't you a little too chill for someone on the run?

Hehe, yes. Hearing you say that puts my mind at ease, Master.

All right then, turn your comms back on once you're... done with your business.

My, my, you actually came alone?

Mm-hmm.

Sit down.

But you wouldn't now, would you?

Hehe. Cheers!

That I do.

All right, sit still and I'll handle the rest.

Oh? And what is your style?

Whatever you want... I can play along.

Anything for you, Commander.

Oh, right. I didn't tell you my name yet.

I'm Velvet.

Like it?

Sheesh, you're really not much of a talker, huh?

Teehee, thank you.

Well...

If it's you? Maybe.

Your love. ♥

Hmm...

A thread.

One that links me to the Ark's top Commander.

No. It has to be like this.

Don't you wanna know why?

Not gonna ask?

Nope.

...

Wanna be mine?

...

... Pfft!

Hahahaha! Hahahahahaha!

You're really fun.

Now I want you even more.

And, well... I'm kinda serious.

Listen, I called you here to lay down some rules.

Yes, rules.

The rules of the game.

Rule number one:

You give it your all to catch me.

And of course, I'll give it my all to slip right through your fingers. ♥

That's all.

Mustang already told you everything else, right?

Like... make it as loud and flashy as possible, or something along those lines?

Hahaha! Did I surprise you?

Your eyes got so big! They're so cute! ♥

Oh, and one more thing.

I was worried that just stating the rules wouldn't be convincing enough. So this is my insurance. ♥

If you don't give it your all, I'm not giving him back.

Guess it's a quirk of mine... You know what I mean, right?

I'm not the kind of girl who tires you out. ♥

All right, then...

... Nope, I just can't hold back.

Oh my.

...

Are you unharmed, Master?

That woman... didn't do anything to you, did she?

*Sigh*... If only you'd shown up a little later.

Now I've gotta hold it in even longer.

You...

Hey there, nice seeing you in person for once.

I'm Velvet, former leader of Shade.

And you're Ade, right?

... Yes.

Wow, never imagined we'd actually meet, what with us coming from totally different worlds and all.

... What prompted you to reveal yourself like this?

Oh, it's nothing big.

I just made one rule:

Let's both do our best! ♥

...

Well, I'm off then.

You can chase me if you want, but it might be a bit tough for you to do it alone.

Mhm, wise choice.

Even if I've been retired for ages, I'm not about to get caught by a maid.

Catch ya later. ♥

... Forgive me, Master.

I was simply not strong enough on my own.

You made the right decision. Had you attempted to detain that woman...

there's no telling what she might have done.

I take it she is the reason you have not reestablished your ComLink?

Hehe, no need to apologize.

On the contrary, that's how we were able to trace her.

Had she sensed even the slightest suspicion, Velvet would never have appeared.

Just now, I confirmed Velvet's appearance on the CCTV footage from the Drink Zone.

Not at all.

She's probably mapped out all the CCTV locations and seems to move only through the blind spots.

What are you talking about? At least we know she's hiding in the blind spots,

and what she looks like.

So if we corner her or she slips up and appears on camera, we can track her.

It seems the guests are returning.

Before you go, would you kindly stop by the base for a moment?

There's something we've prepared for you.

Yo, Pal. You did good out there.

This is the equipment that Boss kindly provided to me when I was assigned this mission.

Hmm... You may think of them as a... tactical loadout of sorts.

Hehe, I was actually planning to show this to her later.

Dang, there's all sorts of stuff here,

but this is what we're gonna use.

It's a kind of 3D printer.

Masks.

They're designed to blend almost perfectly with the skin, leaving no visible trace to the naked eye.

All right then, since Noob's here too, shall we get started?

First, I'll scan Noob's face.

Now, with this data... it'll create a mask that fits your face perfectly.

There are a few presets

but I'll go with the most handsome one, just for you.

To be honest, I haven't completely mastered how to use these devices yet.

If Miss Exia hadn't been here, we would have been in serious trouble.

Hehe.

Oh, Coach, I found this in the storage as well.

This'll do the trick as a disguise. It'd make your build look a bit different too.

... Well, that's true.

Still, I'm not sure this is going to work.

The guests... all seem really worked up.

Some of them are just charging at any young guy they think might be Coach.

Well... guess we gotta just wing it and scrape through, or bust our asses running again.

Right, Pal?

Don't jinx it...

...

...

Er... how should I put this...?

You look like some business magnate's spoiled rich kid.

... Yes, that's what I was gonna say.

Still, you look completely different on the surface.

That should be enough to avoid most suspicion.

Honestly, with a face like that, I doubt anyone's gonna want to come talk to you.

Anyway, there's nothing left to wait for, right? Let's go.

Didn't you two make some stupid rule about going all out in a cat and mouse game?

Then I'll catch her right away and beat her to a pulp.

What's the matter? Did you see a ghost or something?

??

What the heck is wrong with you?

...

... We're in deep trouble.

This is the CCTV footage from the corridor outside the storeroom unit.

No way, they're already sniffing around this far in?

After Highroller disappeared from sight,

it seems they changed tactics—from chasing aimlessly to splitting up and conducting a methodical search.

... Exia, can you hear what's going on outside right now?

Afraid not. There aren't any audio devices in this corridor.

Allow me to try this.

Is that one of the gadgets Boss gave you?

Yes. If I slide it through this narrow gap...

we should be able to pick up their voices.

Miss Exia, would you be so kind as to connect this to the computer?

And might I trouble you to do the same for the video feed as well?

On it.

Hey, this area's off-limits to unauthorized personnel.

Don't worry, as long as we don't get caught, we're good.

Besides, you gotta think outside the box to succeed, right?

Anyone can talk big, right?

... But hey,

do you really think they'll pay if we catch that Commander guy?

I mean, it's 100 million credits, you know.

I think so.

After all, this event was organized by Mustang himself,

and he's never messed around with the prizes before.

Well... I suppose that's true.

And honestly, even without the prize, this kind of event is just so much fun,

don't you think?

This really isn't my thing.

I wouldn't be at this event if you hadn't dragged me here.

Pfft. Come on,

how many times have I seen you pretend not to care, only to get totally obsessed?

Whatever. Since we're here, we might as well enjoy ourselves.

If we win something, that's just a nice bonus.

... Oh, and you know what?

What?

That Commander we've been chasing... he's a real cutie.

Think we can get his number if we manage to catch him?

Are you for real?

Hey, you never know when fate will strike!

...

I-I'll think it over.

It's the same elsewhere too.

The level of participation has far exceeded our expectations.

I-I believe so...

What'll you do if it's not okay? You planning on staying holed up in here forever?

We need to get back out there and look for the thief. Am I right, or am I right?

Still... it seems risky to head out right now.

Let's at least wait until they're gone first.

All right, I'm gonna go kick them out—wait, hold on.

Check that out.

Hey! Excuse me!

You there! Mister!

Got you! This is the right person, isn't it!?

That 100 million credits are mine!

And while we're at it, I'll take your number—

What's going on here?

Huh...? Wait, are you not the guy?

No, I'm a security guard...

No, actually, more importantly—

Ugh, today's just not my day.

... Are you not aware this area is off-limits to unauthorized personnel?

Er... uh... well, the thing is...

Please come with me.

That means you three over there as well! Don't even think about running!

That guy's really been through a lot today...

I shall have to offer him my apologies later...

Look, Pal, I'm not letting you wander alone.

Who knows what kind of crap that Velvet chick's cooking up?

Just earlier, she was practically drooling all over you!

Yes, I agree. I don't think you should go alone.

At the very least, with Milk and me by your side, we should be able to subdue Velvet should we encounter her again.

That's right, but I'm not much help when it comes to fighting.

Me too.

Let's split up and search again, like we did at the beginning.

Rather than that...

It appears that although people are looking, they hesitate to come closer to confirm.

It is because of the aura and image you project, Master.

Analysis complete.

Approximately 68% of the people in the Drink Zone are currently staring at Noob.

... This is starting to feel dangerous.

Be ready to make a run for it if you have to, Pal.

... How about this?

Since it's come to this, let's put on an act so no one even thinks about coming near.

... That sounds like a good idea.

Even the guests who haven't seen your photo yet are starting to get the information.

Word seems to have spread outside the venue as well, and new guests are pouring in.

Going forward, the likelihood of you being discovered will only increase.

So, if you act in a way that a commander never would, I believe it'll be safer.

After all, the fact that you're a Commander is the most easily identifiable detail about you.

Hmm...

... Maybe you should try acting like a total jerk. Y'know, lay on the swagger.

It may be best if you treated us harshly as well, Master.

An indifferent attitude and a tendency to snap at every little thing.

Cussing someone out? Hitting people?

All of this is technically a compliment, but it does feel kinda weird still, doesn't it, Noob?

I think it's fine.

The real question is, can you even pull it off?

You're way too Mr. Nice Guy for all that.

Huh? Er... you're not mad, are you? I was only kiddi—Aah?!

?!

Wh-what are you doing, Pal?!

Eh? Ah...?

Y-you're really pissed? S-sorry—ugh!

Stop wiggling your fingers...!

...?!

St-stop moving your hand upwards, got it!?

A-aaah...

Hey, get a load of that guy.

A bunny girl on each arm. Now that's a dude who's living the dream.

Is he famous? Or just loaded?

Do you know who he is?

Nah, never seen him before...

Oh crap! He looked right at me!

Hey, look away.

He's got that criminal vibe. So if you mess with him, you're in deep trouble.

...

...

No...

"Are you okay?"

What do you think?!

You started groping me like a piece of meat in a public place! In what world is that okay?!

I have to admit, the effect is remarkable.

Only 6% of the people there are looking at you, Noob.

I guess there's a reason spies in movies

always evade capture by kissing the girl.

Ki—

M-Master...?

!!!

...

I'm sorry, Miss Sugar. You can come inside, but...

your bike has to stay outside!

... Excuse me?

The bike is a participant? What are you talking about?

Either way, it's not allowed!

It's because of you that we instituted a new rule in Coin Rush: no bikes allowed on the premises!

In case you forgot, you were racing through all of Coin Rush during our last event.

Huuuuh...?

I could've sworn you were Master...

Um... hello...?

Are you... Master, by any chance?

The way you walk and shake your head are just like Master's...

Oh then, by any chance, have you seen our Master around here?

He's being chased around, and I really wanna help him!

If you happen to see Master, could you tell him that my friends and I wanna lend him a hand?

Hehe, thank you!

Master. I've found Velvet.

Yeah, a camera caught her leaving the VIP lounge.

Exia's already on her tail.

No, I'm currently at the Game Zone...

Bonjour, everyone! Are you enjoying the chase event so far?

To make things more entertaining for you, we've préparé something spécial to assist you.

Starting now till the event's finale,

the villain's current location will be marqué on the display in the Main Hall!

Noob, watch out!

Run, Master!

There he is!!

...

Ah, it has been quite some time,

... ma chérie Velvet.

Mhm.

... It's been forever.

And what, may I ask, do I owe the pleasure of this unexpected visite?

Right before the start of the grand événement, no less.

This way, Mustang, you've got nowhere to run.

Heard you've been totally hooked on entertainment lately?

Hmm...

That's not une question I asked.

...

I'm tired.

Of running. Of hiding.

... I need somewhere to rest.

I had a pressentiment...

So that's why you made such a remarquée entrance.

You wanted to be seen, non? It was as if you were waiting—no, implorant—to be caught.

...

Cutting off mon escape route was une excellente stratégie, I must admit.

Though I would have been most appreciative if you'd given me a heads-up.

Now, the preparations are un désastre.

...

You know better than anyone that

once something's arrivé and the words are prononcés, there's no turning back.

Cependant...

Fortunately for you, ma chérie Velvet, you're not too late.

...

Now then, let's parler about les conditions.

What's it gonna be? Chances are I'll say yes.

This is all, of course, only nécessaire because you made a mess of my work.

But of course, that was all part du plan as well, wasn't it?

After all, Commandant is right here.

Yeah, I heard he's a good guy.

Good enough to take someone like me in.

That is très correct.

Sooo, voici the deal:

if you successfully remplir this condition,

I shall personnellement guarantee your safety.

...

But why are you doing this?

Because je suis the CEO.

...?

And a CEO, naturellement, bears responsibility for everything.

One tiny erreur by moi, and countless personnes working for moi could end up unemployed.

That is why this événement must be a resounding succès, sans exception.

Well, sorry about that, but a girl's gotta eat.

Besides, you owe me one from before, remember?

Oui, I suppose you could say that.

Are you sure you're okay with this?

We are deceiving him, you know.

It will be to the Commandant's benefit as well, I'm convaincu.

I trust he'll act just as expected,

and he trusts me in retour.

Let's say it's a delightful, entertainment-driven partenariat, born from a foundation of confiance mutuelle, oui?

Pfft! What kind of warped logic is that?

Ah, I don't follow at all.

Even if you do not fully comprendre, it is not un problème.

In case you forgot,

I'm the bad guy, d'accord?

... Mm-hmm.

Alors... Since le time is running out,

let us move to le climax!

Are you ready, ma chérie Velvet?

Going straight to the climax, are we...?

... I love it. ♥

Turn right at the next intersection—wait, no, left.

Aah! No, that's not gonna work.

Go back.

Even so, that route has the fewest hostiles.

There he is! Get him!

Have you been this gullible your whole life?

Hm?

If anything, shouldn't you be praising me

for finding a way out?

Zero.

Master! Put this on!

Now... please run straight ahead!

Wh-what's this?

My nose... it tickles... Ah-choo!

Achoo! Ah-ah-choo!!

Master!

Ohoho! Things are vraiment heating up!

But it wouldn't be très fair to leave it like this, n'est-ce pas?

For our vaillant villain fighting tooth and nail, I'll also reveal the lapin's current location!

Of course...

it's quite possible some of our cher guests are hiding nearby, non?

HAHAHAHAHA!

Pal, did you hear that?

We're moving toward Velvet now!

Many of the guests are moving toward Velvet as well.

Just as Boss warned, they're lying in wait to capture you.

... Well, we've got no choice. We have to go after her.

Recalculating route based on Velvet's current location.

Velvet is currently... on the second floor.

Stairwell on the east side of Main Hall.

Master! Take my hand!

Hold on tight!

Let's go, Master!

Okay, we've blocked the exit—Whoa!?

We've got company!

More of those muscleheads in black suits...!

Oh, c'est my mistake.

The villain has such loyal compagnons,

but now, it looks like our little lapin has gained some d'adorables alliés of her own!

I've had enough of that "cute" nonsense!

What in the world is Boss thinking...!?

Pal! Ade! Get your butts over here!

Bay and Rouge are useless in a figh—

Aaaah! Get off me, damn you!

Th-the bodyguards just ganged up on Milk and...!

Ahhhhhhhh!

Th-they threw her...

I'm fine! Just go!

These bastards are just stalling for time!

Time waits for no one, tu sais!

The main événement kicks off in one hour. If our darling lapin isn't caught by then,

victoire shall be hers!

Seriously, this guy's totally lost it!

Velvet's on the move.

But now, a formidable wall of muscle

blocks the path.

You're not getting through here!

Can we even get through that...?

If you don't go through here, you'll have to take the long way around the entire second floor of the Main Hall.

And that means—

... That means we'll have to face the guests.

Ade, do you have any device capable of delivering an electric shock?

Yes, I do, but it's intended for single-person use only...!

That should be sufficient.

Exia, please activate that.

Roger that.

Mind your power output.

Understood...!

What the heck?!

You think this is enough to defeat us? Think again!

Everyone, please step back.

And... I humbly apologize...

Graaaaah!

Analyzing...

No signs of life-threatening injuries...

Just a few new spiky hairdos...

You all go on ahead. I'll take care of these guys.

I'm not much of a help anyway.

She's about to hit the third floor.

You're about to catch up to her, though.

I knew it! This is the right choice!

Totally man.

We didn't have to run around like idiots.

All we did was wait for him to come to us on his own. Easy peasy!

... I'm going to break through. Stay behind me, and stay close, Master.

Hold on a moment.

This time... it looks like it's my turn.

The reinforcements have just arrived too.

Thank goodness...

With this... it looks like the numbers will be pretty even.

This might be somewhat beyond my authority, but...

... Since no one's saying anything, I'll assume this counts as entertainment.

... And also,

I want to be of real help to you, Highroller.

As a Game Master, it's been bothering me that I haven't done much.

...

All right, leave this to me and please go on ahead.

And...

if possible, try not to look back.

...

Our staff members aren't in the best of moods today.

Ah, finally caught up... Wh-what the heck are those guys?

They're freaking beasts!

They're staff members Miss Rouge called in for assistance.

We should get ready as well.

Hold up, before that...

Pal, take this.

A key fob for Black Typhoon.

You could say I... borrowed it from Sugar.

Heh, who else but me could've pulled that off?

Push the middle button.

Apparently, it's been upgraded.

...!

...

...

Th-the hell is this?! A freaking horror flick?!

Please remain calm, everyone. This is not your fault.

And... the responsible parties will fully compensate for the damages. Isn't that right?

...

... Pal.

Black Typhoon belongs to Sugar, doesn't it?

Then it's only fair that Sugar pays for all that, right?

Haha! You and I really do click well, Pal.

So, make sure you remember the name "Sugar" really well!

Su... gar...!!

... Understood.

Everyone, from this moment on, this staircase is off-limits to anyone except authorized personnel.

Only these three here are allowed to pass.

I trust that makes things clear.

Access... restricted...

Rules... must be followed...!

Wh-what's with these guys?!

Their eyes look so freaky!

Aaaaaugh!

Master!

All right, let's roll, Pal!

Hahahaha! Chasing me on a bike indoors? You're a wild bunch!

You're gonna wreck the place!

Then just get caught already, you punk!

Hyah!

Oh, what's this now? Things are getting serious, I see!

Oh? These aren't the ones we used before, huh?

All right, playtime's over.

I've had enough of you slipping away like some damn eel... Urgh!

Whoa! Were you always this strong?

That's not what the intel said!

You're really starting to piss me off!

Hmm... that shakes things up a bit.

Guess I'll do it like this then.

Hahaha! ♥

I shall follow her!

You gutless jellyfish!

Haha, let's see you dodge thi—urgh?!

Y-you're way stronger than the data led me to believe!

What's going on with you two? You get some upgrades or something?

That was... most uncalled-for!

*Hup!*

Oww! Stop hitting me! That hurts!

Surrender peacefully, and I'll stop.

Sorry, but that's not gonna happen. ♥

How can you... even in a situation like this?!

Why would I? Personally, I think things are going my way.

Take a look behind you.

...!

Wh-what the...?! When did they—?!

Looks like... I've won. ♥

You've gotta be kidding me...!

Pal! I'll hold them off!

What are you doing, Pal!? Hurry up and go after them!

...

I-I'll be fine, yeah.

After all, it's just an event, right?

The événement is racing toward its climax!

Both the villain and the guests are un step away from their objectifs!

Tout le monde, give it your all until the very end!

Graaaaaaah!

...

Ah, whatever. Doesn't change the fact we gotta complete the mission.

I know the Boss said it's fine to fail, but that's not how I roll.

... You know how I get about mission success rates.

Yeah. Just leave it to me!

Okay then...

Raaaaaghhh!!

...

... On second thought, maybe I should bail.

Heh, still haven't quite gotten the hang of that, have you?

*Huff... huff...*

I'm still... only an apprentice...

Ah, right!

You were a maid, weren't you?

You fought so well that I completely forgot! ♥

You've got talent, you know that?

Why not consider a career change? Being a secret agent suits you way better than being a maid.

I take great pride in my work.

I overcame such hesitation long ago.

Hmmm...

I see.

Okay, I've seen all I need.

Sorry. Like I said, old habits from the job and all.

You get it, right? I used to live in a world where one wrong move could get you killed.

... I see you're stalling for time.

Ding ding! We have a winner! ♥

So, what now? We've got about twenty minutes left.

I'm cool with whatever.

We can just keep chatting like this... or maybe have one last chase before it's all over...

... Huh?

Wow, seriously?

... Wait, now I remember.

You shocked those bodyguards earlier with your shoes, right?

And you've been aiming for my legs this whole time?

Yes, your lower-body control appears to be temporarily disabled.

I'm asking you once more to surrender. Victory belongs to Master.

...

Oh... how embarrassing...

... Pardon?

Seriously, this is ridiculous.

Even though I'm retired, I was the leader of Shade! And I'm losing to a maid who only had a bit of basic special training?

If my old squad saw this, they'd probably faint.

...

... Still, I gotta admit you were great.

You beat me fair and square.

... Or did you?

You...!

You shouldn't underestimate a special agent, even if they're retired.

I've been through way worse missions than this. ♥

...

Hey, don't be like that. Ending things like this would be way too boring...

Actually, scratch that, it wouldn't be entertaining at all, right?

We gotta finish this properly.

And look at that, your little friend's just showing up behind you.

All good.

Your bunny friends came to help.

They're keeping the mob at bay, so I was able to make it up here.

Soda showed up with some friends.

This works out perfectly...

Time to beat that punk into the ground!

Aaaah...

Ah, not again...!

Hey, you! That's cheating!

Hahahaha! You can do it too, you know?

Don't get too mad.

We're just moving to the stage to finish things off with a bang.

Well then, I'll go ahead first.

You'd better hurry, okay? The clock's ticking.

Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock. ♥

Wow... seriously...

Never thought I'd meet someone more infuriating than Sugar and Frima.

... Master.

You're here.

Hey, Commander, how about you take off that mask already?

What's the point of hiding such a handsome face?

Ah, so much better! ♥

Cut the crap and bring it on!

Oh, I was actually just about to do that.

You know how it is, right? Like in spy movies...

The finales always end with a big action scene between the hero and the villain.

Though, honestly, right now it feels more like the heroes are ganging up on me. That's kinda cheap, don't you think?

Is that all you have to say?

So be a good little villain and go down!

... Why would you allow yourself to be captured?

Hmm?

There were some inconsistencies in the way the Boss spoke earlier.

I initially chalked it up to his usual unpredictability,

but your behavior now is quite perplexing.

You could easily escape if you wished to. And your legs ought to be functioning properly by this point.

... Hmm, I wondered what you'd say.

Anyway...

!!!

Is now really the time for chit-chat?

She's right. Now's not the time for small talk.

Let's beat her senseless, catch her,

and ask questions after.

... Very well.

I get it too. ♥

Hyah!

...!

Hehe. It seems wherever I turn, you're already there, Commander.

Are you good at finding openings, or reading the flow of battle?

So that's how it was—Geez!

Oh dear.

Heh, looks like there's nowhere left to run.

One more step and I'll be taking a straight plunge into the Main Hall.

Approximately five minutes left.

You guys work really well together.

Have you been through joint combat training or something?

No way, that's not it. We just trust each other, that's all.

Once you do that, everything falls into place. You know exactly where to strike, and how to back each other up.

...

...

Wh-what?! You got a problem with that?

Hmm. So that's how it is...

Fine, I surrender. For real this time.

Let's say that dastardly villain was finally brought to their knees by the power of friendship, or something like that.

I really can't stand you, even now...

I shall restrain her.

But hey, you know... villains come in all sorts, right?

Some turn over a new leaf at the end,

while others stick to their own beliefs, no matter what. And then...

there are those who just keep kicking and screaming till the very last moment. ♥

Bye-bye now. ♥

!!!

Shit, Ade!

On it!

It's too late. ♥

It's too late. ♥

Ohhhhhhhhh!!

What a shame, mes chers guests!

The pauvre lapin has been caught by the villain!

Nooo...!

My 100 million credits!

... Bah, it never made sense from the start.

I saw that Commander earlier, and he's totally superhuman!

Huh...?

What is this...?

Initially, there should be no prix when the villain wins.

Wait, could it be...?!

... But your enthousiasme has touché my heart!

So, while it's not worth 100 millions de crédits... a special gift I shall give to each and every guest!

Whooooooo!

Mustang! Mustang! Mustang!

Entertainment!!!

And of course...

For the sake of the grand event, le Commandant took on the role of the villain!

And, if I may say, he gave us une performance bravoure! Truly magnifique!

Let's give a thunderous applaudissements for him, Milk, and Ade!

Whooooooo!

It was awesome!

Aaaaaaand!

Yay!

Let's not forget the loyal partenaires-in-crime!

Give it up for Bay, Rouge, and Exia, allez!

Coach...?

What in the world is going on?

Well then, what did everyone think of our petite chase événement?

A lovely prélude before the main événement, wouldn't you say?

Did you all have fun? Was it assez entertaining?

Yeeeahhhh!

Excellente! That's what I love to hear!

Now it's time for the awards cérémonie for our splendid winners!

And of course, the spectaculaire main event is still to come!

Wait, so they're really giving away 100 million credits?!

... Huh? Why are there so many cards?

Are we each getting 100 million credits...?

But of course! I made une promesse, did I not?

B-but, Boss... this is an enormous amount of money.

And you also said you would be giving gifts to the guests, didn't you?

Do not fret, ma chérie Ade.

Yes, that chase was sudden and totally chaotique, but the réaction? Simply formidable!

Not a single loss to speak of!

Yes, I suppose we've essentially just held another main event...

... Actually, no, thanks to this event, expectations and interest for the main event will only increase.

So, I'd say the actual impact is much greater than anything we've done before.

Précisément!

So please, don't be timide, and acceptez your prizes.

In that case...

Hehe, thank you. This will really improve things at the Maid Cafe.

Holy moly, we hit pay dirt!

You know how many jobs I'd have to take to earn this much?!

I should call Clay right away.

I'd like a bank transfer, please.

How do you intend on using your credits, Highroller?

Would you get a load of that?

I knew something was up.

Still, I don't think he meant any harm.

... After all, this is Boss we're talking about.

I figured as much...

But I'm still mighty peeved, though. What do you say we get a little payback?

Anyone know what happens if you punch the Boss?

I looked it up. There's no rules against it, so we're good.

Go give him hell, Milk.

Hmph, forget it. I got 100 million in hush money out of it...

... and hell, it was way more fun than I thought it'd be.

Yes, I had a lovely time.

All right! Before we commencer the main événement,

we're presenting a wild card to les winners of le chase événement!

Guests, don't you wanna see what your champs will pull off next?

Yeeeah!

Geez, look at him. He's really milking this for all its worth, huh?

Excellente! This year's événement is shaping up to be quite the fierce bataille, indeed!

Now then!

Let's keep that énergie going, and...

Let the main événement BEGINNNNNN!

Whooooooo!

I wish to participate.

If we win both events, I believe it would greatly promote the Maid Cafe.

And more than anything, I think it would be quite enjoyable.

Yeah. Thinking about how Frima crashed out by sleeping through the last event still makes my blood boil.

I've gotta win this one to make up for that disaster.

Hehe, I shall do my utmost as well.

Clay and I will cheer for you all.

So good luck out there, guys!

I need to get back to my duties as Game Master...

but I'll be cheering you on, Highroller.

She is no longer on the comms channel.

Might she have already... returned home...?

Hahahaha! She really took the money and ran home?

Master...!

Aww, we're on different teams this time...?

Hey, Soda.

You remember we agreed on a rematch last time, right?

O-of course...!

I won't hold back...!

Well well, don't get too big for your britches now. You think I'll go easy on you?

*Gulp*

Come on, it's about time to enter.

Let's go, Master.

Let's get going, Pal.

Yeah, I swear, it was ridiculous.

He was like,

"From the Commandant's point of view, nothing vraiment changes, right?

And I gotta say, it was tellement entertaining too!"

Although he had already made a request with us before speaking to Velvet...

... we were completely deceived.

He keeps going on about "Entertainment," "Trust" and how he has faith in you all along.

Hahaha, I know what you mean.

Anyway, now that the message is delivered, I'm outta here.

Needa get out of this bunny girl outfit.

... Sh-shut up!

I ended up having to change out earlier than expected...

since... I was eliminated quite quickly in the main event...

Hahaha. Bet no one saw the wild cards getting eliminated that fast.

And even fewer expected Ade to be such a total klutz.

...

Th-that's because I trained really hard...

Ugh...

Just hearing her name gets me riled up.

How long's she gonna keep hanging around?

I've been trying to ignore her, but she's acting like she owns the place or something.

I'm not going anywhere.

*Sigh*

If you're not gonna scram,

I'll make you!

I'm sorry.

I'd love to, but I've got no choice but to stick around.

Boss Mustang's orders.

... Huh?

Come again...?

Check your email. ♥

... What'd the Boss say?

...

...

...

Really...?!

Hahahaha, did that really surprise you?

A retired special agent maid, huh? That's kind of a big deal, don't you think?

Oh, come on, this is absurd!

... I should've decked the Boss when I had the chance.

Looking forward to working with you...

Ma.s.ter. ♥

Sorry, Pal.

I'm going to jail, so you won't see me for a while. Make sure to send me plenty of snacks.

...!!

M-Miss Milk! Now is neither the time nor the place for that!

Hahahaha! You guys seriously crack me up!

Let go! I said let go!

Damn it, Ade! Why are you so strong?!

Because I trained for this...!

Hahahaha! Aren't you just too weak, Milk?

You shut up!