Goddess of Victory

Please... wait...

I need... some food...

Anything... that provides energy... is fine...

Huh... I'm alive.

My body is a machine, but my brain is still human.

It needs a lot of energy to run.

That's why I sometimes get groggy.

This time I was lucky. My instincts led me to you.

I can't call it a thank-you gift...

but I want to tell you an interesting story about this bronze statue.

You know what, Commander.

Since I fainted last night, this statue has moved about 5cm from where it was.

I didn't want to believe it at first.

But my eyes don't lie.

The statue's waist was straight.

Now, it tilts a little towards where I was lying.

It's as if it was staring at me while I was lying on the ground...

Do you like ghost stories?

How about experiencing one yourself tonight?

You don't believe me?

How about we come back tonight and check it again?

Just remember how the statue looks right now.

Let's come back tomorrow to see if we can notice any changes.

Well, let's pretend to be dead, shall we?

It looks like you are unfamiliar with ghost stories.

As far as I know, most artifacts in those stories

only move when they are not being observed.

Haven't you ever heard of paintings changing their expressions

or moving their eyes when no one else is looking at them?

Then you understand.

Then time to experience it for the first time.

Let me show you how it's done.

Er... I fell asleep.

Did anything happen?

The statue?

Oh, it moved?

... I see.

It's 5cm lower than yesterday for sure.

How's that? Do you believe me now?

Hello, Sister.

What are you praying about?

...?

Who are you...?

Are you a nun?

Indeed I am. Please, call me Rapunzel.

So you're Sister Rapunzel! I'm N102.

I was praying that it would rain tomorrow.

You must enjoy the rain very much.

Oh yeah, a whole lot!

There is nothing more calming than the sound of gently falling raindrops.

Are you here to pray as well, Believer?

I see, how have you been doing?

How lovely running into you like this.

You two know each other?

I'm going to pray a little longer,

you two can catch up.

Sister N102 has been coming here to pray for the past couple of days.

Of course. She and I often have wonderful discussions.

Yesterday she prayed for sunny weather because she doesn't like rain...

Today, she comes to pray for the opposite.

Yes. I have introduced myself to her many times over.

How lonely it must be to wake up each morning having to face an unfamiliar world...

...

Why does Sister N102 come here to pray every day?

Ah, so that notebook she always brings with her

could be considered her "memory".

I have entertained the notion, but I do not feel it is wise to do so.

My existence must be kept a secret from the outside world.

You two seem really wrapped up in conversation!

Sister N102, have you finished praying?

Yes, all finished.

If it does not offend you,

could I see the notebook you carry around with you?

Sorry? No-notebook?

Um... sure. Here.

Now that you are finished praying, I assume you'll purchase some juice?

Yep! Once I get my juice, I'm all done for the day.

Tell me,

do you think it will rain tomorrow like you wished for?

Hm... I'm not too sure.

So I prayed for one more thing!

If it doesn't rain tomorrow, I prayed that you, Teacher, and I could all go on a picnic together!

...!

Sure, but my prayers may not be heard, and it might not rain.

If the weather is sunny tomorrow then I want to go on a picnic with you two!

That way, I'll be happy whether it rains or not!

So this is how it feels to be erased from someone's memory.

I wonder... how many people have I forgotten?

...

I should pray to the statue as well.

It's quite the sight seeing Sister Rapunzel pray.

What do you think she'll pray for?

Does she not like the rain?

I like the rain.

But it'd be nicer if we can all go on a picnic together.

Really? I should pray for the same thing then.

It was great that all three of us were able to spend time together today!

I've got to get going, gotta buy some juice...

Okay, sounds good!

Believer...

Will you pray as well?

What lovely weather we're having!

This is a perfect day to clean up the statue.

That was the plan at first, but

I was told there were some strange marks and liquid stains on it.

So I wanted to clean it up a bit.

This statue was made to commemorate all the fallen Nikkes who have sacrificed their lives in the fight to reclaim the surface.

I hate to see a statue with so much meaning

be in such a state.

So I took it upon myself to wash it up.

Sorry for roping you in on your day off, Commander.

No. 7? What are you doing here?

!!

You're the one from M.M.R...

What are all these cleaning tools... Are you planning on tidying up this place?

What for?

I have some personal matters to attend to.

Ah yes, I almost forgot to ask you.

Have you seen any suspicious Nikkes around here?

I'm referring to the Pilgrims.

Pilgrims?

Have you seen them?

Hmm? Why aren't you saying anything?

No? Are you sure?

No reason.

It's just that there are rumors of a Pilgrim being in the vicinity of this statue.

I thought that perhaps you might know something about it.

But since you claim not to have seen anyone,

I can continue going about my business.

Ta-da.

?!

This will help me to capture that Pilgrim.

What are you doing?!

Done. If anyone touches this statue today, they'll leave their fingerprints behind.

Then, all I have to do is compare those fingerprints with those of the Nikkes inside the Ark. If I fail to produce a match, then it must be a Pilgrim.

So you're the one who's been desecrating this statue!

What on earth are you talking about?

The handprints and liquid stains! It was you!

Oh... that.

And what if I did?

This is a sacred statue, and you're defiling it!

How can you stand there and act like nothing is wrong, after committing such a heinous act?!

Calm down already, don't have a conniption.

You're acting like I poured this stuff over your own head.

This statue was built in memory of all those fallen Nikkes!

I wouldn't be so sure of that if I were you. I say the humans who constructed this statue also constructed that story.

All that nonsense about commemorating fallen Nikkes was just to make it seem special and get more Nikkes to come see this hunk of rock.

Even if that were the case,

defacing statues isn't right!

You act as if I'm doing this for no reason.

Did you not hear what I just said?

I'm hoping this will lead me to the Pilgrim!

Then what was that squeaking sound just now? Whatever you're using is eating away at the statue!

And?

If that isn't careless, then what is?

This is absurd! You're a Nikke yourself, how could you...

You're the one being ridiculous! Why can't you understand that searching for clues regarding that Pilgrim

is more important than honoring a few dead Nikkes?

I can see that you're from Seraphim, so you must be a doctor, yes? How can you be so harebrained?

Has your entire mind been taken over by sentimentality?

This is about morality, not sentimentality.

Argh! You're so irritating!

Fine, I'll stop. Happy now?

For all I know, this may be a Seraphim conspiracy. What do I care?

I quit, so save your breath.

Typical doctor, always prattling on...

Hey!

See you around, No.7.

Don't forget to tell me if you see anyone from Seraphim.

Some people just can't be reasoned with!

!!

Just look at this mess she made! She left without even cleaning it up.

The next time I see her, I'm gonna give her a piece of my mind!

I've been seeing ads for this all over the Ark.

It's a good thing we came, right Anne?

Yeah!

Can I really choose whatever I want?

Of course you can. It's on me.

Really?

Then... Can I buy a bear stuffed toy?

You sure can.

!!

How about this fairy tale book?

That too.

!!!!

Th-then...

What about this model ice castle?

Consider it done.

Wait a minute, 7,500,000 credits?! Who considers these flea market prices?

So I can't have it?

Well...

I suppose it's okay to splurge a bit. Go ahead.

Woohoo! You're the best, Rupee!

You're not so bad yourself, kiddo.

Don't you get it?

If she keeps accumulating happy memories like she is today,

some of them might stick.

There's nothing I love more than shopping,

so I wanted Anne to experience that joy as well.

The more pleasant memories we give her,

the happier she'll be.

Besides,

someone as adorable as her,

deserves to have everything she wants in this world.

Under my tutelage, she'll become a seasoned shopaholic in no time.

You spend enough money as is. I shudder to think of having two of you running around.

Eep!

Um... Sorry, Sweetie, but something just came up. Anne and I really have to get going.

Beating a swift retreat, I see.

Eek! Don't hurt me!

No, just hunting down a certain someone who failed to show up to the company meeting.

I-I just wanted to buy some gifts for Anne.

I assume that doll she's holding is one of them?

Oh, this? Yeah!

Let me see that.

This was recalled last month. The stuffing was found to contain harmful particles.

Just because Anne is a Nikke doesn't mean you shouldn't be careful.

Yes, Miss...

Take this one instead.

This is the finest out of our mid-range products.

It also uses eco-friendly materials, so it won't cause any harm to infants who chew on it.

Look at the size of it! It's so cute!

Thank you!

So well-mannered.

Don't let Rupee rub off on you too much, okay?

Hey...!

What about the fairy tale book? Don't you like it?

It's got such a lovely title, and the pictures are super pretty!

It's been a best seller for the last 6 weeks.

Did you see what age group it's meant for?

Let me see...

... Adults.

In other words, not meant for children.

...

My recommendation is this. A book about the happiest butterfly in the world.

It's a little old, but it's been the best seller for 12 weeks in a row for children's books.

How do you know about all of this?

These things are something any merchant worth their salt should keep abreast of.

Honestly, I don't know how you've made it as far as you have.

How about this model, then?

Just look at the detail. They captured everything perfectly.

You can practically feel yourself wandering inside the icy castle yourself.

And where, may I ask, do you intend to keep this?

Well...

Sigh...

So we can't buy the castle?

Wait. I'll choose something else.

Let me see...

Here.

What is this?

It's another castle that comes for free with the one you already purchased.

It's only half the size, but looks exactly the same. The parts are all separate, so you'll have to assemble them yourself.

The three of you can assemble it together.

Doesn't that sound like fun?

All three of us?

When can we start?

Once you get back to the dorm.

All right!

If that's everything, let's go cash out.

I've got this one.

You chose all the presents, so the least I can do is pay for them.

I know that. You didn't actually think I was going to pay for it, did you?

Besides this, there's something else you need to pay for.

Something else?

But I've already bought everything Anne wants...

You of all people should know that my time is valuable.

...?

I had to schlep all the way over here to find you.

Do you realize how much time I've wasted on you?

Uh oh. Here it comes...

I have plenty of clients who'd pay a fortune for the kind of advice I just gave you.

Taking that into consideration, I'd say you owe me approximately...

You had this all planned from the very beginning!

This is a scam! I'm not paying you anything!

Not even after I made Anne so happy?

Th-that's...!

I thought you cared about her.

That's why I did what I could to help. Oh well, it seems you don't feel that way about her after all.

No!

That's not what I meant...

Woohoo! You're the best, Rupee!

You're not so bad yourself, kiddo.

...

I'll pay.

That's more like it.

I don't take payments in cash.

I'm planning on holding a New Year's sale event at the store,

and I want you to advertise it on your channel. Sound good?

Yes...

What's going on with Rupee? Why is she acting all funny?

A ride...?

Aaahhhh!

I'm loving this weather!

Nothing beats a stroll on a nice day.

True, but...

It's obviously nicer when the weather is agreeable. Hee hee.

Hey, Commander.

And Biscuit?

Hello!

We were just going for a walk since the weather is so nice.

Just enjoying a short perambulation as well.

Unfortunately, I forgot to take a few things, so that's been bothering me.

Sorry, I should have paid more attention and prepared them beforehand.

Don't worry.

The reason we got all flummoxed is that I said I wanted to try a new route.

What did you forget to bring?

Oh you know, just some basic essentials.

A leash, stuff like that.

You're so right!

Before you go on a walk,

you've got to be sure to pack a few things.

A leash, like you said,

some snacks to eat when they get hungry, a ball to play catch with...

You're right.

We totally forgot about snacks and playthings.

We hadn't even considered those...

This is a brave new frontier for us!

Yes, very new indeed.

We have to prepare different items for different walks.

I guess we didn't think about that.

Yuni, should we go shopping?

Yes, let's. I want to try something new.

I'm going to buy a bunch of snacks! And toys!

Sure, we'll see what's out there.

Heehee!

Well, we've got some shopping to do.

You two have fun.

You too.

Wow, they certainly seemed excited.

Those two must really be into pets.

I'm pretty sure!

Do you think it's for a dog or a cat?

Oh right, they said they were going for a walk,

so it must be a dog.

I heard that Missilis is practically draconian with their Nikkes.

Hard to imagine that they'd let them keep pets...

Shows what I know!

Huh?

What were they buying all those items for then?

Something special?

What? Something seems off...

Oh... okay.

It's the one on page 187.

The pattern on this black-belt starfish is simply exquisite.

...

Oooh, and check out page 512.

Isn't this Gila monster adorable?

Get a load of that lumpy skin of his. I could just eat him up, hehe.

Er...

What about this one?

Oh, a dwarf rabbit. What a cutie-pie.

Adorable.

Irresistible.

Right?

Let's keep seeing what other cute animals we can find.

... I'm good.

Me too.

Why not?

Cause starfish are the cutest.

They're all cute, but there's nothing special about them.

They lack that unique charm.

...

Oh, hey Captain.

Hi, Teacher.

It's good to see you.

It's a good thing you showed up, Captain.

It's been tough fighting a solo battle this entire time.

Hear me out.

Anchor wanted to go for a walk.

I said that sounded good, so I followed her out.

As we passed by the Goddess of Victory statue, we ran into Tia, who was reading a book.

Turns out, she was looking through a picture book

filled with all sorts of cute animals,

and she asked if we wanted to take a gander at it with her.

This thing is filled with all sorts of cute marine life that Anchor loves.

That's how we ended up stuck here.

Now, don't get me wrong.

I like a cute and cuddly critter as much as the next guy,

but all the animals Tia has been showing us are far from cute.

If you ask me, they're positively hideous, but she's going gaga over them.

I can't take it anymore!

What do you mean? Everything I've shown you has been utterly adorable.

Teacher, look here.

This is a Gila monster.

Those bright colors, those symmetrical scales... how could you resist that?

Don't you wanna touch it?

Captain,

take a gander at this fella.

This is a black-belt starfish.

The pattern is gorgeous.

Check out how smooth it is. Just delightful.

Captain,

I need you to focus.

Here, look at this dwarf rabbit.

If you look up cute in a dictionary, this picture will be next to the definition.

Don't fall for these two and their bizarro definitions of cuteness.

Well?

Which is the cutest?

Yeah, which one?

See, I told you!

I knew I could count on you, Teacher.

You have a good eye, hehe.

I hope one day, I'll be able to raise one.

Every time we go up to the surface on a mission,

I'll keep my eyes peeled for one.

This stinks...

You certainly... have unique tastes, Captain.

Captain.

I knew I could trust your judgment.

If I ever end up finding a real-life starfish,

I'll be sure to show it to you.

Scout's honor!

Teacher, I'm disappointed in you.

I never would have thought you'd be into that kind of animal.

Just look at those round button eyes!

Those perky ears!

How can you possibly resist such cuteness?

I knew you weren't a weirdo like these two.

I'm looking even more forward to working with you now.

This stinks...

How could you choose the rabbit, Teacher?

Yo, Partner.

Perfect timing.

We need a referee.

We're having a race.

Although, let's be fair, Black Typhoon will win by a country mile.

I wouldn't be so sure if I were you.

My new board just got an overhaul and it runs faster than ever.

Also, someone new is throwing their hat in the ring today.

Oh, hello, Zoo Keeper.

Oh,

I'm not the one racing, it's Timi.

Graul!

I was out for a walk with Timi and stumbled upon these two.

Once they got a look at Timi, they said they wanted to race him.

Lions aren't really known for their speed, so I'm not sure if he'll make for a good competitor,

but this is a rare chance for Timi to go full sprint.

That's why we need you to act as a referee.

You've got this, Black Typhoon, just do your thing.

We're gonna leave this newcomer in the dust!

Oh boy...

I can't believe I'm gonna race a lion.

I'm kinda nervous now, actually.

Have fun out there, Timi.

Roar!

Vrooom vrooom!

Off we go!

Roar?

Hmm?

Do you not want to run, Timi?

Roar!

What do you think the deal is, Zoo Keeper?

Timi did just have dinner, so maybe he's not up for a lot of physical exertion.

To be honest, lions tend not to be overly active unless they're hunting.

I feel like we let down Sugar and Epinel just a bit.

Yeah.

Phew!

Ha...!

Good game.

Looks like I won.

That was a good race,

but I clearly crossed the finish line first.

...

Partner, you're the referee.

Who got here first?

...!

Wait a minute.

Hmm?

No wonder I never saw you!

You...

Graul?

He...

You got here way before us!

This big guy is a real speedster.

I thought the reason we never saw you was because you were too slow,

but apparently, it was the other way around.

Dang, apex predators are no joke.

Graul?

Hey, Leona.

Yes?

Waddya say we hold more races here?

Black Typhoon won't accept defeat lying down, and it'll be restless for a while.

I think that's a good idea.

Timi just set a new benchmark for us to strive towards.

Well, it's just that...

Er...

Timi can only run once a month.

Makes sense.

If you run at that speed too often, you could end up hurting yourself.

Once a month?

So we happened to run into him on his racing day, is that it?

Um...

sure, yeah. Something like that.

Well, if today's the only day he can race, there's not much we can do.

Can you at least humor us for a while longer today?

Please?

Haha, sure.

I came ready for today's training.

Look what I've got: watery ketchup!

Watery ketchup?

Yeah, I poured some water into this bottle.

So, if you give it a little squeeze...

Water's gonna come out just like that.

You can use it to doodle on the ground.

The water dries up quickly, so there're lots of places to draw.

Aren't I brilliant?

Does this even count as training, though?

I mean, this feels completely different from ketchup, doesn't it?

Only poor craftsmen blame their tools.

Yeah, but... they're kind of different, you know...

Fine.

I'll do my best.

Very well!

All righty then, Master, when I give the signal, go ahead and swipe the tablet screen to reveal a word.

Then, Privaty, you gotta draw that word on the ground.

Fine, I get it...

...

Tip number one to painting with ketchup:

Be as fast as the wind!

...

C'mon, repeat after me!

B-be as fast as the wind!

I'm gonna count to 10, and you have to write that word all pretty-like, got it?

G-got it.

Ready...

Go!

... Time's up!

Please stop!

Phew...

I'd say that was pretty speedy, wouldn't you?

Um...

Er...

I-it's a word, in case you didn't notice!

This darn water just keeps spreading and makes it impossible to make anything out.

It'd look a lot better if I were drawing a simple pattern or something.

If you say so.

All right, Master, onto the next one.

Tip number two to painting with ketchup:

Keep it simple and cute!

Keep it simple and cute!

Maids should be able to draw a variety of cute and simple images,

like this kitty here, to keep the masters happy.

... Isn't it enough to just look at the character and draw?

What kind of person would want us to replicate a real-life photo with ketchup?

Don't think like that!

If you just keep drawing cute images while looking at the characters all the time, you won't get any better, you know?!

...

Fine, I'll give it a shot.

That's the spirit!

Ready, set...

Go!

...

Hmm...

I knew it's not something we can accomplish in one shot.

Let's call it a day and continue another time.

...

Let me do it one last time.

But that defeats the entire point of this training!

Forget it,

just draw whatever you want since it's the last one.

Just do it slow.

... Okay.

Phew...

Mmm...

Done!

Hmm...

Let's not worry about the end result for now.

The thing is that you took waaay too long.

At this rate, most masters would lose their patience and leave by now.

Man... I guess I'm just not cut out for this stuff.

Not so fast.

Take a good look.

The cat you drew is positively adorable, and even resembles you in many ways.

...!

What do you think, Master?

R-really?!

If you were just a tad faster, it would've been perfect!

All right, that concludes today's training!

Ah...!

It wasn't a bad time, I suppose.

I mean, it's probably because I'm just naturally good at it.

Ahem... I guess there's no helping it.

If that's what you want, Master.

Helloooo, my lovely Lupins!

Today, we're going to film some super special outdoor content!

It's all about...

finding the top blonde beauty in the Ark!

What's that? You think I'm the prettiest blonde there is?

Hehe, I knew you all would say that, so I decided not to participate!

Alrighty, before we start the interview,

let's give a big welcome to a returning guest!

It's none other than the shining star of the Ark, our very own Sweetie!

Oh, come on now, Sweetie! You mustn't be too modest!

Great! Now that we've gotten introductions out of the way, let's get started with the interview.

Oh my goodness! Right off the bat, we've spotted an elegant blonde beauty!

Hmm?

Hehe, you have a most discerning eye.

The legendary city of gold, El Dorado; the topaz that sees through the truth.

All of these are aliases used to refer to my luscious locks...

Uh... interesting.

If we're looking for the best blonde in the Ark, perhaps we'll have to...

Of course.

Huh? What was that?

An honor as high as this could only be allotted to one person,

and therefore, paradoxically, I am terribly lonely.

This lonely fate is something that ceaselessly eats away at me.

... Hehe.

...

Um... could you show our viewers something endearing about you? A hidden talent, maybe?

What?!

You know about that?

Are you a spy sent by the Big O?

Er, I'm not quite sure exactly what you mean by "that".

Ah, so you're simply an ordinary civilian.

In that case, I would suggest you forego prying into that matter any further,

for it may lead you to ruin.

Got it! Well then, I better get going!

W-wait!

Yes?

While it is dangerous for me to use my hidden talent straight out,

I could perhaps mimic the appearance of it.

Oh? Are you saying you'll give us a sneak peek of some kind?

Yes, for your curiosity has awakened the Dragon.

Revere and tremble in fear before this Stygian abyss!

Dragon. of. the. Deep!

...

Ah-hah! I knew it! Was my fusillade too potent for the saint?

Um...

What is it? Is it your first time seeing a forbidden technique?

You do realize I'm out to find the most beautiful blonde on the Ark, right?

...!

And...

thousands of viewers are watching right now...

...!

Ahem...

W-wait, what's that? An emergency call from the Association?

I-I've got to take this. See you next time!

That was quite the... interview! Hehe...

Let's see... Who should we talk to next?

Hero interview!

*Cough cough* You scared me!

A fine question indeed, Birdie!

I was on patrol when I heard what seemed like someone calling out to me. So I rushed over here as fast as I could!

Actually, we're looking for the most beautiful blonde...

Oh? You mean my hair color?

If you're ever in a pickle and spot these golden locks, you can rest assured

that help is on the way!

Your hair is quite gorgeous,

but we're looking for the best blonde beauty,

not the best blonde hero!

...!

I... I see.

What's that? I hear someone calling for me!

Hero, out!

*Cough cough*

Oh no... my blouse is covered in dust. This just came out too...

However, our search isn't over yet! We've gotta find the most amazing blonde beauty out there!

Oh my goodness! What a gorgeous blonde!

Hello! Do you mind if we have a quick interview?

Excuse me?

Oh, hey Coach! So nice to see you!

If Coach is gonna stay for it, I'd love to do an interview!

Great! Why don't you quickly introduce yourself?

Hello!

I'm in charge of showmanship in the cheerleading squad known as Rewind.

My name's Clay.

Wow, such beautiful blonde hair you have!

Hehe, thanks!

I'm currently looking for the most rapturous blonde beauty in the Ark.

Would you like to participate?

Oh boy, when you phrase it that way, it makes me a bit embarrassed.

Still though, I'll participate.

Great!

Then what would you say is your most charming aspect?

Charming?

Hmm...

My most charming aspect is...

capturing the audience's attention

in an instant!

Woooww!

Could you perhaps show us

one of your show-stopping routines?

Of course!

*Clap clap clap*

Cheer up! Power up!

All together now, one, two, three!

Hehe, whoops. I fell.

One more time to all those watching!

Raise your hands above your head and shout:

We're unstoppable!

My goodness, I really got caught up in that!

Looks like you did as well, Sweetie.

Did you feel that too, Lupins? What an incredible energy!

That was amazing, Clay!

Hehe, glad you liked it!

Sweetie, I think we might have found her.

It looks like the viewers agree too.

Well then, it's official! The best blonde beauty in the Ark is...

Clay!

W-what?

With your sparkling blonde hair and even more dazzling cheerleading skills,

there's no doubt in our mind that you deserve to be number one!

Can you share a few words with us on how it feels to win?

*Sob* Thank you so much, everyone!

I'm thrilled that you all enjoyed my routine, and I'm honored to receive such accolades.

Please show lots of love to Rewind!

Well, lately I've been working as a librarian.

Ah, I see.

It's not giving you too much trouble, I hope?

Sometimes it can be a little tough, but I really do enjoy the work.

*Woof woof woof*

What is it, Volt?

*Woof*

Heh, seems this little one wants you to play with him too.

Sorry to ask, but would you mind playing with Volt for a bit?

Of course! I love dogs!

C'mon, Volt. Let's run aaall the way over there and back.

*Woof woof woof*

Start running on three, okay?

*Woof woof*

One... Go!

!

Gah! You startled me!

Next time, don't sneak up on me, okay?

I was taking Volt for a walk and ran into this young lady.

Volt took quite a liking to her and kept following her around.

Well, they say dogs can sense a person's true nature,

and after talking with her a bit, I understand why Volt is so fond of her.

She's a fine, upstanding young lady, the type you don't see too often in this day and age.

Though... there's something a little sad about her.

Well, what's the point of poking your nose into someone else's pain?

Anyway, what are you up to, Greenhorn?

Ah, excellent. It's good to get some exercise!

Young folks these days hardly ever engage in any physical activity.

You can't spend all day sitting behind a desk. If you're young, you ought to get outside and move your bod—

*Woof woof woof*

*Huff... huff...*

Volt, you're really fast...

Oh!

I saw Liter talking with someone, but I didn't know it was you!

Did you come to the park for a walk?

Hm?

You two know each other?

We sure do!

Well that's good to hear.

I'd be hard-pressed to find a kinder-hearted person than yourself, Greenhorn.

With you around, I don't think this young missy has anything to worry about.

What's that? I can't hear you.

Come closer. Closer, I say!

After speaking with her for a while, I can guess a few things.

But as the adult, it's my job to pretend I don't notice, you see.

Treat her well, Greenhorn.

She's someone who needs another by her side.

If she has someone supporting her, she won't stray down the wrong path.

Um... Sorry if I'm interrupting, but...

What've you guys been talking about all this time?

Oh, it's nothing special.

Just chatting about life, that's all.

How even people who seem perfectly fine can have pain they don't talk about.

That sort of thing.

I know exactly what you mean!

Everyone has pain or secrets they keep hidden in their hearts.

Still, I try my best to keep smiling.

As long as you keep thinking that way, I'm sure you'll be able to overcome anything.

... What could have happened to you to make you like that, I wonder.

They say the world's gotten harsher these days... I feel sorry for you.

Remind me again of your name? Arcana, right?

Yep, that's me!

If you don't mind, it'd be wonderful if you could play with Volt every now and then.

Volt would certainly enjoy it, and perhaps you might as well.

Yes! Of course!

Would it be okay if I brought some treats next time?

Well... nothing wrong with a few small treats, I suppose.

Wow!

Volt!

I got permission to give you treats!

Let's celebrate by running aaall the way over there!

But this time, we're really gonna start on three, okay?

... Go!

!

This again?

Why do you keep trying to bring up something she clearly doesn't want to tell me?

She's trying to figure out who she really is.

That's why she keeps getting confused, wearing a school uniform one moment and saying she's a librarian the next.

Right. Wearing a school uniform when she isn't even a student...

I figure there must be an unfortunate story behind it.

Well, you see...

Wounds on the body can be treated with medicine,

whereas wounds of the heart have no cure.

A librarian in a school uniform...

Perhaps she doesn't know exactly who she is,

and wants to inhabit a role of sorts to help with that.

What do you mean?

Where in the world do you see a librarian walking around in a school uniform?

I humored her for a while, but you can't indulge someone forever.

You can go along with it to a point, but you must consider what's best for her.

So, it's settled.

We'll meet here at this park once a week.

Perhaps spending time playing with Volt will help her heart slowly heal.

And of course, Greenhorn, you'll be coming too.