GODDESS OF VICTORY: NIKKE story · Event stories
Jennifer: A
14 scenes, 1,497 lines
1. Jennifer: A
81 lines
If we all swarm in, it'll look suspicious.
A job?
Like the others?
How should we split up?
Dunno. How about everyone picks where they wanna go?
Me. Center. Go.
Yeah, go for it. After all, you've been there the most.
Can I go with her?
I kinda want to see the place for myself.
You want me to head to the center?
Yeah. If they've been tracking Jane, there's a good chance they know about us.
You'll draw less suspicion than we would.
Okay, sure.
That leaves the three of us... Takina, Sugar, and me.
Looks like we're handling the new job. You good with that?
Leave it to me.
I'll carry out the client's request flawlessly.
I'll support both teams from here.
You can do that?
Wow, look at the time. We should get going.
Agreed.
...
Chisato, be careful.
...!
Hehe, don't worry!
See you later!
Takina, Milk, and Sugar head the surveillance target's location.
Chisato, Frima, and I head for the Ark Child Protection Center.
*Step, step*
Arrived.
Ooh, is this it?
...
The paint on the pillars is peeling in places,
but otherwise the building looks clean, as though it's been carefully maintained.
The words "Ark Child Protection Center," neatly lettered on the front,
feel different from how they looked through the drone camera at night.
It's bigger than I thought!
There's a huge field for sports and even a playground.
...
Frima enters the center without a word.
How about we head in, too?
Sounds good.
*Step, step*
There's a woman smiling and laughing with the children on the playground.
She has an air about her that fits perfectly with the center, almost as if the whole scene were a painting.
Hey.
Hm? Oh...!
Hello, Frima.
You didn't say you were coming. What brings you here?
Volunteer.
So suddenly?
I-I see.
Nice to meet you! I'm Chisato!
Hello, I'm Commander.
...!
H-hello...
I'm Jennifer, director of the Ark Child Protection Center.
... Jennifer.
"Hello, Commander."
"I'm Jennifer, the manager of the Ark Child Protection Center."
"We are a nonprofit organization that helps child victims of domestic violence, as well as those without homes."
So this is Jennifer.
2. Jennifer: B
86 linesWe are shown to Jennifer's office inside the center.
Oh dear, I'm afraid all I can offer is some rather cheap coffee.
I wish you would've let us know you were coming.
If I remember correctly, your next visit wasn't for another two weeks.
Right.
Hehe... I'm very grateful for the continued interest you take in our center.
And as for your two friends, you're here to volunteer as well?
Yes, that's right.
Hmm...
I was under the impression that you were quite busy, but perhaps I was mistaken.
Commander Commander.
...
You two. Acquaintances?
No, we've never met in person. We only talked once.
That's right. I requested your assistance.
Thank you again. We weren't able to recover the child's body,
but your involvement proved extremely helpful to this center.
Helpful?
Hehe. Yes.
... Something doesn't feel quite right.
So, what exactly do volunteers do here?
Oh, nothing particularly difficult.
You just play with the children and help clean the building and the yard.
That's it?! That's easy!
Oh...!
You're quite perceptive.
Some of the children are out at a field trip today with their teachers, so our numbers are lower than usual.
... Hm.
Why don't you spend some time playing with the children who are still here?
You're just in time for soccer!
After filling out a simple volunteer form, we head down to the field.
Haha! Over here! This way!
You're running too fast!
Slow down a bit!
You're just slow! Haha!
We can just play with them, right? Let's do it! Hey, everyone! Mind if I join?
Huh? Who're you?
Maybe she's a new volunteer?
Ding ding ding! That's right!
And you know what? I'm actually really good at soccer.
Wanna play together?
... She's really good with kids.
Haha! Hahaha!
Ack...!
*Crash!*
No, I'm okay.
Frima stretches her hand out to the child who fell.
The child politely refuses and stands up on his own.
Hand. Bleeding. Needs care.
Thank you for the concern... but I'm really okay!
It's just a scratch. No big deal.
Oh...! Yeah, I do.
I trip a bunch when I'm playing around with my friends, hehe...
Hey, hurry up!
Ah! Okay, I'm coming!
Uh, anyway...
The boy who had fallen gestures goodbye, then runs back to his friends.
... He seems pretty grown-up for a kid.
Hmm.
I watch the children running around the field.
They seem to genuinely be enjoying themselves, without a hint of gloom on their faces.
From just an outside look, nothing seems suspicious...
*Step, step*
This seems like a good time for a break.
Aww, but we were having fun!
Just a short break, and then you're coming back, right?
When you ask like that, how could I not?
Good job out there, Chisato. You can really run.
Phew... Being popular is tiring.
Any. Leads?
Hmm. Everyone looks like they're having fun,
but... a lot of the kids have scars on their hands.
Yeah, we saw that too.
One of them said he got them while playing with his friends.
They all have marks in the same place, though. And they're not just ordinary scrapes, either.
Meaning?
I've seen marks like that a lot.
They're the kinds of calluses and blisters you see on people who handle guns.
...!
3. Underground Prison: A
100 linesChisato, aren't you gonna play with us?!
Hehe, hold on a sec!
I gotta use the bathroom!
Oh, you're coming along too?!
All right guys, be back in a jiffy!
Chisato waves at us and disappears inside.
...
*Step, step*
Hehe, the children seem to be having a great time.
What do you think of the center, now that you've volunteered here and seen it for yourself?
There are a lot of things I'm curious about.
Such as...?
Oh, just things like whether the center's run by you privately,
and whether all the children here are orphans, and if so, whether they could be adopted...
You know, those sorts of things.
Oh my.
You're showing far more interest in our center than I anticipated.
Was there a particular child you wanted to adopt?
No, not exactly...
It's just that the children here look unusually strong and healthy.
I'm glad it comes across that way.
This center is indeed run privately by me.
And since I only have limited resources to work with,
I cannot always provide proper treatment to children who fall ill, so they sometimes leave us.
It's... truly heartbreaking.
... I see.
Were the children who left really sick?
Or is that their cover for children who get injured or killed during training and on missions?
I really hope not, but I can't shake these thoughts.
Are you still putting tracking devices on the children?
If she is, she'd know that Jane has been coming to the cafe.
No.
I realized that tracking devices aren't as effective as one might hope.
...?
For whatever reason, it seems she no longer attaches trackers to the children.
At least that means our connection to Jane won't be exposed any time soon.
What about the rumors?
What rumors?
You know, that you capture children and mistreat them,
or that you harvest their brains to turn them into Nikkes when they become adults...
The malicious rumors you said delinquents spread.
Oh.
Now that you've seen this place firsthand, I imagine you've already sensed it, Commander.
Those rumors no longer circulate.
Such a relief, don't you think?
But how can you be sure that—
Commander.
For someone who's merely curious, you certainly ask some unusual questions.
It almost sounds as though you're suspicious of us.
Oh, I didn't mean to pry. I apologize if I made you uncomfortable.
If I push any further, she'll really start suspecting me.
Something is definitely off, but I need to back off for now.
I should probably get back out there and play with the kids for a bit.
Of course.
...
Phew, I finally managed to break free.
All right, let's go find Jane!
Jennifer said some of the kids went on a field trip, right?
Maybe Jane went with them.
Okay, I'll go ahead and check inside the building one more—
*Bzzzz*
At that moment, a drone flies toward Frima and Chisato.
Hey, it's Kurumi's drone!
Kurumiii! Do you see us?
Okay.
...
Following Kurumi's drone, they head to the back of the yard.
There they find a separate, rundown building that looks like a warehouse.
Whoa! That's super shady!
Old. Poorly kept. Suspicious.
*Ding!* *Clack*
There you go.
Crazy. Skilled.
We'll go take a look inside. Can you keep an eye out in case anyone comes?
Got it. I'll keep watch.
Let's go, Frima.
Okay.
Inside the building, the air is damp and there is dust everywhere.
Ugh... It smells terrible!
Yeah, it's deeper than I expected.
After descending for a long while, the two finally reach the lowest level.
There, prison-like cells stretch out to the left and right.
And...
In one of them, they find Jane lying on the ground.
4. Underground Prison: B
82 linesJane...!
Ugh...
Th-that voice...
Jane, are you okay?
Ah, Chisato...
Hehe, I'm okay.
This is terrible... How'd you get locked up in a place like this?
What even is this place?
This is...
where you get punished.
If you do something wrong, or don't do what you're told, they send you here.
Jane. What. Do wrong?
Me? Nothing.
But my brother...
Jane slightly turns her head.
The shadows made it hard to see much, but Chisato and Frima notice someone else further inside the cell.
... My brother failed.
I knew this place was shady,
but I didn't think it'd be this bad!
...
*Bam!*
...!!
Eek...!
In one quick motion, Frima had slammed her hand down and smashed the cell door open.
Oh...
...
After a moment of hesitation, Jane slowly reaches out and takes Frima's outstretched hand.
Then...
What're you doing, Jane?!
Rain!
You're awake? Are you okay?
You think I could sleep with all this noise?
Anyway, you weren't going to go with those people, were you?
Rain, just listen—
They're the reason we got locked in the Room of Contrition to begin with! And now you want to run off with them?!
Things are different out there...!
The world they showed me was nothing like this place at all.
Outside this center, there's a whole new world.
I want to show you how happy and peaceful life can be, Rain...
Happy? Peaceful?
Jane, you know better.
There's only one way for people like us to get that kind of life.
After all this time...
you're not thinking of betraying me and the teacher, are you?
R-Rain...
...
Why are you so sure there's only one way to get that kind of life?
What way is it, anyway?
Don't answer, Jane.
...
For orphans like us to be happy, there's just the one way...
Getting adopted... Becoming someone's family.
Getting adopted? And how do you do that?
That's—
Jane!
Eek!
...
Um... Look, I'm really okay, so please head back now.
If my brother won't go, then I can't go either.
My dream...
is to be adopted by the same family as my brother and live happily together.
Hehe.
...
Jane.
I use guns too, but I make sure not to kill anyone.
What? But guns are used to hurt people.
Usually, yeah.
But depending on how you use it, a gun can help people too.
You get to decide, Jane,
whether you hurt someone, or help them.
Hurt someone... or help them...
Chisato, Frima! You two need to get out of there!
At the urging of Kurumi, Chisato and Frima are forced to leave the prison with Jane still there.
...
Help people...?
5. Assassin Training Facility: A
62 linesTakina's group at around the same time...
... It's too quiet.
The moment you think that is usually when things are most dangerous.
*Whoosh!*
Ugh!
Sugar, you okay?!
Understood.
Run!
Takina and Milk chase after a figure moving swiftly through the crowd.
Judging by their size, they're definitely a kid.
Which means we can outrun 'em!
Stop! We just want to ta—
Just as Milk reaches out to grab the fleeing suspect...
*Wham!*
The suspect abruptly stops, causing Milk to go tumbling to the ground.
Agh!
*Crash!*
The suspect immediately bolts toward Takina.
...!
Takina calmly rolls away and takes cover. After a moment, though, she realizes it was a feint. The suspect had run away.
...
*Sigh*
*Step, step*
Milk, are you all right?
Gone.
Tch, every time...
Definitely a kid, though... No way an adult's that nimble.
...
... Hm?
What's this?
Ain't a phone... Looks like some super thin device.
The suspect must've dropped it while escaping.
Let's take it with us. It could be an important lead.
... Right.
Um...
Are you hurt at all?
I see.
... I'm glad to hear that, then.
Kurumi, could you take a look at this?
The suspect dropped it.
But no matter what I press, nothing happens.
I don't know how to turn it on, or how it's supposed to work.
We've don't know, either. First time we've seen something like that.
6. Assassin Training Facility: B
91 linesChildren, it's time for dinner.
Woohoo!
Whoa, it's already that late?
Should we call it a day?
Oh, thank you so much for visiting us today.
Next time, I'd really appreciate it if you reached out beforehand.
About half the children were away today, and I just feel terrible for not being able to give you a more proper reception.
Oh no! I'm sorry!
I just really wanted to see this place for myself...
Well, thanks to you, the children had a wonderful time.
I look forward to seeing you again.
Also, Commander.
Yes?
I answered quite a few of your questions today...
so next time, I'd like you to answer some of mine.
Sound good?
Jennifer gives me a deep, knowing smile.
I answer with a small nod.
After taking one more walk around the center, we return to the cafe.
Together with Milk's team, we each share what we found,
then try to piece the situation together.
We found Jane at the center, along with Rain, the twin brother she mentioned.
They were locked underground.
Then one thing's certain.
That place is an assassin training facility for kids, disguised as the Ark Child Protection Center.
... I'd figured as much, but having it confirmed is still unsettling.
...
Don't beat yourself up, Frima.
There's no way you could've known she was hiding it in plain sight.
... Yeah.
But we still don't have solid evidence.
Jennifer.
By which I mean, we need proof that she's raising children as assassins.
Hmmm...
I finished hacking that device the suspect dropped.
Ooh, that was fast! Way to go, Kurumi.
What did you find inside?
Its only function is to display names. That's it.
Names...?
So, just in case, I ran a search on one of the names.
It matches a lawyer turned politician who's been getting a lot of attention lately for proposing a bill to raise taxes on Sovereigns.
And tomorrow, this politician's holding a large support rally at a park in the Ark.
This time, we'll find a real lead!
The next day.
Justice for us! Tax the Sovereigns!
Protect the lives of the people!
Whoa... That's a huge crowd!
There are a lot more people than I expected.
Hmm.
This is an official rally. Cops and news crews are everywhere.
Why choose this of all places for an assassination attempt?
Yeah, the risk seems way too high.
Hm?
Assassination. Purpose. Weird.
She has a point. If assassination were the goal, it'd make more sense to do it somewhere quiet.
This place is packed with thousands of supporters.
Shooting someone here wouldn't be assassination... It'd be suicide.
With that, Frima suddenly bolts off.
What?! Wait for me!
I'll come too.
...
Think we should go too, Partner?
No, let's hold this position just in case.
Civilian safety comes first.
I figured you'd say that.
Okay, we'll let those three handle that side, then. We'll do our part over here.
There might be someone else lurking nearby.
*Huff... huff...*
Frima, Chisato, and Takina head for the rooftop of the building they're in, guided by Kurumi's drone.
*Clank, clank*
Hmm... The door's locked.
*Bam!*
Wow...!
She just smashed that door open with her bare hands.
... Let's head out to the roof.
7. Rain's Testimony
101 linesStanding on the rooftop was...
a familiar face.
Rain.
...
... I take it that's Jane's twin brother?
Yeah.
Rain, what're you doing up here?
What's it to you?
It's dangerous being out on the roof of such a tall building.
I was just watching the people at the rally.
I like people-watching.
Then what's that gun next to you? What were you gonna do?
That?
It was already there when I got here.
It's probably just a decoration, right?
... He's not making this easy.
He was trained not to talk.
Hmm... How do we get him to open up?
Frima watches them silently from behind.
...
But our schedules never match.
It's always sad.
Schedules?
Err...!
S-school! Our school schedules!
Hmph, I see.
I'm s-sorry. I think I need to go home for today...!
Uh... Um...
M-my homework! I forgot to do my homework.
Homework, huh? Yeah, can't be skipping out on homework.
What...?!
Rain. Right now. Homework?
H-how did you...?
...
School. Teacher?
!!
How much do you know?!
Jane didn't tell you everything, did she?!
Teacher's name. Jennifer?
Ugh...!
Don't say her name!
I got in serious trouble last time because you guys didn't let me finish my homework.
Jane got punished too! All because I failed!
And now you're here to get in my way again?!
You ruined everything. Everything!
Are you gonna take responsibility if I don't get adopted?!
Oh, so in other words...
That place is a school that teaches you how to shoot, and the teachers assign you to kill people as homework?
...
You don't know anything...
Stop acting like you do!
Rain pulls a handgun from his coat and takes aim.
*Bang!*
Aaagh!
However, Chisato is faster. She draws her gun and shoots Rain's weapon right out of his hand.
Hngh...!
Please...
just leave us alone!
Rain shoves Chisato aside and bolts off the rooftop.
Chisato!
Don't worry, it's all good.
Did you get that, Kurumi? How's the footage?
Nice!
Also, Frima... You were amazing!
Great job baiting him.
Thanks.
We can chat about how it went later.
For now, we need to check if there are other children, and make sure the civilians are safe.
Good call! Let's head back!
Something's not sitting right with me, though.
Why choose such a crowded venue for an assassination attempt?
Was it even really an assassination attempt to begin with?
... It's possible the center was trying to get rid of Rain.
Yeah, there's no reason to delay anymore.
We have evidence that Jennifer's the culprit.
She hired you before, right, Pal?
Yeah. Something felt off back then too.
After we finished the job she gave us, I should've dug deeper.
If I had, fewer kids might've gotten hurt.
Yes, and right now we need to hurry.
If Rain went back to the center and reported what happened, they might try to flee.
We should head there now so they don't have that chance.
Yeah, let's go.
Late at night, with the rally behind us,
we move carefully toward the Ark Child Protection Center.
8. Talks & Threats: A
87 linesAs the night deepens,
we arrive at the Ark Child Protection Center.
Let's take a look around.
I want to go save Jane.
Do you know where she is?
Under the warehouse behind the building.
She was locked up there last time.
I think we should check there first, just in case.
I'll go with you.
It's dangerous to go by yourself. We don't know what's down there.
That's true. It's probably better if we split into groups rather than moving as a pack.
You two, go on ahead.
Okay! We'll be back!
... Is this the place?
Is this really where Jane and Rain were kept?
The door's open, and they're not here.
This should be the place...
Jaaane! Raaain!
Anyone heeere?
Chisato's voice echoes emptily throughout the prison.
Hmm... I've got a bad feeling about this.
Should we head back for now?
Yes, I think that would be best.
Suddenly, they hear the sound of steps.
Hm?
I think someone's outside...
...!
As the two come up the stairs and step out of the warehouse, someone is there waiting for them.
Jennifer.
Hi there.
I didn't expect visitors at such a late hour.
Clearly, that isn't the main entrance. May I ask what you were doing there?
Ahaha...
All the lights were out and it's so dark, so we must've taken a wrong turn!
I see.
Would you mind coming with me for a moment?
As Jennifer turns, flashlight in hand,
the scene hidden behind her finally comes into view.
...!
...
Dozens of children are aiming guns straight at them.
And here I thought you were just helping a couple lost visitors.
I didn't realize it was a threat.
Well, that depends...
on whether you're lost visitors, or criminals who are trespassing.
I suppose we'll find out soon enough, won't we?
Takina and Chisato are taking a while...
What?!
Argh... Maybe they let their guard down.
Screw it. Let's storm the place!
What if that puts them in danger?
They're already in danger!
No, Jennifer won't do anything to them just yet.
She'll probably use them as hostages.
Hostages?
I'll go alone to meet Jennifer.
What?! That's even more dangerous!
If Jennifer has any sense, she won't harm me.
Taking the two of them hostage might've been to draw me out.
... You sure?
Also, Commander.
Yes?
I answered quite a few of your questions today...
so next time, I'd like you to answer some of mine.
Sound good?
Yeah, I think there are some things she wants to hear from me.
So... what, we just sit here and wait?
No.
You three gather as much evidence about what's been going on here as you can.
Wasn't Rain's testimony already enough?
The more evidence we have, the better.
We might need it.
I promise, we will.
9. Talks & Threats: B
109 linesOn the way up to Jennifer's office,
I can feel countless eyes on me, but I don't see anyone.
They must all be hiding...
I stop in front of the door, take a short breath,
and knock carefully.
*Knock, knock*
Please come in.
*Creeeak*
...!
The first thing I see when I step inside...
are Chisato and Takina in restraints.
*Sigh*
You made it. We've been waiting.
Give me a moment. I'll make some coffee.
*Clatter, clatter*
Jennifer calmly begins brewing coffee.
...
Why are you doing this?
Hm? I'm afraid you'll have to be more specific.
Do you mean taking in abandoned children, feeding them, and raising them?
Well, I absolutely adore children.
There's nothing more endearing than when they look at me with those bright, shiny eyes.
Jennifer approaches me and sets down a mug filled with coffee.
You know that's not what I'm really asking.
Oh? Is that so?
Then... is this the sort of answer you were hoping for?
I do what I do because there are so many children who need me.
They "need" you...?
Yes.
In this suffocatingly small Ark, just look at how many children are left without any protection at all.
Children like that come to me,
because even if they're abandoned by everyone else, they still have to survive.
All I did was provide children who have nowhere to go with a way to be useful.
...
One by one, people started seeking us out once they realized the value of these children.
And that was the finishing touch on this little community,
where the children and I belong.
Though, to be honest, this most recent client was unusually troublesome.
There are so many people who say they're too poor to pay taxes, yet they're willing to spend money at a place like this.
It's unfortunate, but that's reality... Hahaha!
Do you actually think everything you're doing can be forgiven?
No, I wouldn't imagine so.
But you know what?
The whole reason I was able to establish myself here was thanks to you, Commander.
What are you talking about...?
Our center had used to have a number of issues.
We were making money off of the children, but we weren't particularly good at it.
The children would either die, or they had to reach a certain age before they could bring in any money.
Back then, I was actually raising the children with my own money!
Ridiculous, right? I'm not a philanthropist, haha.
Some of them would even get scared and run away. From a business standpoint, it was a complete loss.
And that's when I reached out to you, Commander. Hehe.
Meaning?
You thought I was suspicious even then, didn't you?
Because you were.
That's right! I was suspicious.
People who do this kind of work tend to get used to their circumstances. They stop feeling any sense of danger.
Once that happens, they lose the ability to distinguish between what looks suspicious and what's perfectly normal.
But thanks to you, Commander, I realized something.
The thought hit me, "Oh, this won't do. At this rate, I'm going to get caught."
I wasn't about to get dragged off to the Rehabilitation Center. I hadn't even made that much money yet!
So I took care of everything that might look suspicious from the outside,
and I started raising the children properly.
As assassins, of course.
...
People are interesting.
If someone steals a piece of candy, they think it was a child,
and if someone kills someone, they think it was an adult.
See, when a crime is committed, people usually look at whoever is most likely to have a motive.
I took advantage of that.
And I have you to thank for all of this, Commander!
Don't be ridiculous.
Why is it ridiculous?
Everything needs a catalyst, after all.
Children who were once abused and considered worthless now have a home in this center, where they can laugh and play.
Thank you for being our catalyst.
...
This is going nowhere.
She's just trying to rattle me. I need to ignore it.
So what's your point?
Commander.
I think you and I are a good match,
so I'd like to make you an offer.
Be my business partner.
Your business partner?
Yes.
I doubt being a Commander pays all that well.
Seeing how you risk your life for a living, I'm sure your expenses add up.
I'll give you thirty percent each month.
Based on last month, that would be about... this much.
Jennifer shows me a calculator with a number on it that's far larger than I expected.
It's a lot, isn't it?
In a society where money brings with it power, this amount is more than enough to change your life.
The children get to live in a warm home, and we continue to make a lot of money.
You want me to take the money and keep my mouth shut?
Well, I suppose you could think of it that way.
I don't mind.
What matters is this: I'm offering you a huge share of the life I've built.
... Sorry, but I'm not the type to be swayed by money.
Oh, is that so?
Then you leave me no other choice.
Come in, children.
*Creeeak*
The door I came in through earlier opened.
...
...
Jane and Rain stepped inside.
It's time you see for yourself...
how well I've educated these children.
10. Request for Assistance: A
78 linesAll right, let's check it out.
The members of Cafe Sweety follow Kurumi's drone.
Locked.
It uses a physical key too, which means I can't hack it.
*Crack!*
Oh...
...
You did that last time, too. You seem to like brute-forcing things.
It's straightforward. I like it.
*Click*
*Whirrrrr*
What the?! Hey! The bed's moving!
Oh, nice.
*Step, step*
Hm.
Whoa, this place is huge.
...
*Swipe, swipe*
Sugar sweeps her foot over a mark on the floor.
This bloodstain hasn't even dried yet.
There are a bunch of weapons over here.
Looks like this was used as a training ground.
... This is disgusting.
Even Nikke training camps are better than this.
*Creeeak*
An office right next to their training room...? That's weird.
Okay.
As always, you work fast.
Why? What's on it?
Do you see that list on the monitor?
Yeah.
Name, gender, age, photo, notes...
Looks like a profile list for each of the kids staying at this center.
11. Request for Assistance: B
120 linesWhat is this? There are addresses written here.
It's an adoption list.
So they've been pretending to be a legit adoption center?
No.
They actually did place kids with families.
Those addresses are all real, and the kids look like they're doing well.
For an organization that cares for, protects, and helps families adopt children...
it looks like they did their job properly.
So that's how she avoided getting caught.
... Tch. This is pissing me off.
Wait, let me get this straight...
The kids who were bad with guns got adopted, while the ones who were good shots were forced to stay here and work?
The system screws over the kids who worked the hardest just to get adopted.
That's how they make money.
There are plenty more files besides that.
Lists of targets, documents about their training systems, you name it.
Holy... They killed a lot of people.
And made a lot of money.
...
...
Jane, Rain...
I'm grateful you've been taking such good care of my children recently.
Why did you call them in?
I'd like to show you just how well I've educated them.
Children, say hello to our guests.
Jane and Rain look at me and offer polite greetings.
Click.
They then point their guns at Chisato and Takina.
...!
...
...
What do you think you're doing?
What do you mean?
I'm going to have them killed.
The Cafe Sweety girls may be Nikkes,
but these two are human.
Jane won't shoot them.
Oh, but she will.
The children at this center are very obedient when I tell them to do something.
Argh...
... I just have become your business partner, right?
Oh my, did you change your mind?
Unfortunately, your rejection of my initial offer marked the end of our trust.
What...?
Who's to say you wouldn't sign the contract and then run away?
I presented you with a way we could coexist.
You were the one who turned it down.
Tch...
Now then.
Jane, Rain.
Pull the trig—
Ugh, I've heard way more than enough!
*Clatter!*
Chisato and Takina's handcuffs drop to the floor.
They both stand up.
Huh...?
How did you do that?
Getting out of handcuffs is nothing to a Lycoris.
Chisato picks up a sharp pair of tweezers.
You used a pair of tweezers?
... You two were trained somewhere, too.
No wonder you're not the least bit scared.
Where'd you put our bags?
I left them somewhere else.
They were rather heavy,
almost as though they had weapons in them.
*Sigh...*
Well, I guess we're doing this, then.
Bring it on!
What? Hahaha!
How amusing.
*Clap, clap*
Everyone, come in!
Kids with guns begin flooding into Jennifer's room.
These people are bad. They're trying to attack me.
I'm really scared.
You'll protect me, won't you?
Yes, Miss Jennifer!
...
This assignment will count heavily toward your grade.
It goes without saying that whoever does the best here will have a higher chance of being adopted.
Yes, Miss Jennifer!
Jane, Rain.
Let's go. I'm too scared to stay here.
Okay.
... Okay.
Jennifer strolls out of the room with Jane and Rain,
while the other kids move slowly, keeping Chisato and Takina at bay.
Oh, wow... We're pretty outnumbered here.
We'll have to find an opening and break through.
The two stand back to back.
Takina.
We can't hurt the kids.
I know.
...
Let's go.
Hup!
12. Choosing for Yourself: A
87 linesChisato and Takina close in on the children in an instant.
...!
You can't shoot if we're right here!
*Thud!*
In tight spaces, a gun just gets in the way!
Ah...!
*Thud!*
With precise movements, they knock out the children one by one.
You were only trained for assassinations, huh?
That's why you're freezing up in a situation like this!
Ugh...!
We have to buy time for Miss Jennifer to get away!
Start shooting! It doesn't matter if the kids behind them get hit!
*Bang, bang, bang!*
Agh, they're actually shooting?!
That complicates things.
Suddenly...
*Boom!*
Ahhhh!
...?!
What the...?! There were already tons of kids down at the entrance,
but up here it's like a freakin' rush-hour train!
Let's clear them out. Fast.
Yeah.
You guys made it!
Yep.
Woohoo!
Let's hurry and wrap this up!
The tide turned quickly once Cafe Sweety joined the fight.
With just light chops to the back of the neck, the kids were safely knocked out.
Before long, none of them were left standing.
Phew.
These kids are relentless.
You'd think they would've surrendered when half of 'em were down, but they all fought until the very last one went down.
By the way, where's Jennifer?
She ran off with Jane and Rain.
We need to chase after them.
The problem is, we'll need to figure out where they went.
*Bzzz*
Oh, Kurumi.
Okay.
*Thunk*
Ooh, you found them!
Our bags!
Thank you. Where were they?
We picked them up on our way here.
I see...
Hm?
Wait...
Is there a problem?
Huh? No, it's nothing...
If my guess is right, we should fine.
Let's go!
...
...
All right. This should be far enough.
I'm going to go through the underground waterway and hide.
Thank you for escorting me this far.
It was nothing.
When can we see you again?
Honestly...
I doubt we'll ever meet again.
What?!
Wh-why?
But you said you'd make sure Jane and I get adopted together.
You're right. I'm sorry I couldn't keep my promise.
You should forget about me and find new lives for yourselves.
I know I often asked a lot of you...
Thank you for always trusting me.
Miss Jennifer... I believe you'll come back.
I believe you'll get me and Jane adopted into a good home!
...
Miss Jennifer.
Before you go, can I ask a question?
Yes, but we've no time. Make it quick.
Did you ever think of us...
as your family?
...?
What?
Hahaha!
That's such a...
silly question.
You've always been my one and only family.
13. Choosing for Yourself: B
258 linesWell, I'll be going now.
I wish you the best in life.
...
I'll wait for you! I promise!
*Vrooom*
Just as Jennifer opens the underground waterway and is about to slip inside,
the three of them hear the roar of a motorcycle approaching.
...!
Someone's coming...? Here?
That isn't possible...
*Screeeech!!*
From the shadows of the dark alley emerge...
Sugar, riding the motorcycle,
with Milk and Frima sitting in the back,
and three figures standing precariously on top.
All right, just chill out.
Haha! That was amazing!
Oh...!
It looks like we showed up right on time.
Hmph.
You're really persistent, aren't you?
Jane, Rain.
Kill them!
At Jennifer's signal, Jane and Rain open fire.
*Bang, bang!*
You won't hit me.
I can see it all coming.
...
Argh...!
Then we'll just shoot her!
Jane and Rain begin firing at Takina.
...
Takina quickly takes cover,
then starts to weave her way around.
I knew it! She's just a normal human!
*Bang, bang, bang!*
Takina sprints while dodging the gunfire...
*Click*
And before they can even react, she's standing behind Jennifer with her gun aimed and ready.
!
A gun isn't something you just fire at random.
You should've watched where I was running and determined where I was headed.
Didn't your teacher teach you that?
Ugh...!
So, what are you gonna do now?
...
...
...
Let me go.
No.
If I'm caught, Jane and Rain will be devastated.
Don't worry. I can explain everything to them.
Hmph.
All right. Then let's do it this way.
Jane, Rain.
Point your guns at each other's heads.
...!
*Click*
Without hesitation, Jane and Rain raise their guns and aim at each other.
If you don't let me go, I'll make them shoot each other.
Jane won't shoot.
Then Jane will die at her brother's hand,
and Rain will become someone who killed his own sister.
In any case...
if you don't let me go, at least one innocent life will be taken.
People like you care about that kind of thing, don't you?
...
We have to protect Jane and Rain.
After all this, are we going to have to let her go free when she's right here in front of us...?
Well if that's the case,
can't I just do this?
Hm? Do wh—
*Bang!*
What?!
...!
She just...!
...
Jane had shot Rain.
Rain collapses to the floor.
Ha...
Haha...
Now you can't run away, can you?
... You're insane.
You shot your brother? You...?!
...
Want to know a secret, Miss Jennifer?
We actually knew.
The kids with the bad scores were the ones getting adopted.
Honestly, it was obvious.
We knew better than anyone what each of the kids was each capable of.
Still...
I was okay with never getting adopted,
because I thought we were already a family.
I knew how dangerous and wrong it was to hurt others...!
I just thought that maybe it wasn't so bad if it meant we got to stay together!
... But it looks like you didn't feel the same way.
I guess I was wrong.
You lied until the very end just so you could run away.
You're the worst.
*Click*
Jane raises her gun and aims it at Jennifer.
!
Ha.
Haha...!
Hahaha! Hahaha!
I almost forgot I'd raised an attack dog.
And quite well, if I do say so myself.
Did you never think you'd get bitten?
Shooting a stranger and shooting someone who felt like family are very different.
... Are you really going to throw away what little humanity you have left like this?
...
There's no need or reason to spill any more blood here.
I start to move in order to stop Jane from killing,
but immediately...
Chisato stretches out her arm and stops me.
Chisato?
She's okay.
What?
Jane will be okay.
Let's just watch.
...
Okay.
Are you really going to kill me? Hm?
What're you doing, Jane?
I'm your one and only family...
You watched over me all this time,
and yet you don't know a single thing about me.
This, right here.
This is who I am.
Thank you for raising me when I wasn't even your family.
Argh...!
D-don't do it...!
Don't shoot!
I don't want to die! Don't shoot!
*Bang!*
Jane pulls the trigger.
Ahhh!
*Thud!*
...!
Jennifer falls to the ground.
...
Chisato, what's going on?
That gun...
Yeah, when I got my bag back, my gun wasn't in there.
What?!
You came without even looking for it?
I kinda had a feeling Jane was holding onto it.
But how did you...?!
*Step, step*
Jane walks slowly toward Chisato,
and hands her the gun.
... I'm sorry I took it without asking.
Normally, I never let anyone use my gun,
but I'll make an exception just this once.
Okay...
There's something I realized when I saw the gun you used on Rain.
The way to use a gun and not kill someone is easier than I thought.
What mattered most was... my choice.
That's why I had to borrow your gun.
Thank you for teaching me how to save people, and for lending me a gun that doesn't kill.
Jane expresses her deep gratitude.
Bingo.
Never do that again.
I'm sorry, I'm sorry! Let it slide just this one time, okay? Think of the children!
*Sigh...*
What am I supposed to do with you...?
Empty-handed, Jane walks over to Rain on the ground.
Rain.
Just remember this.
I didn't kill you because I chose not to.
... I chose to save you.
I know why you were trying so hard,
because that's all we were ever taught.
We never learned how to help or save anyone.
If you want to stay trapped here, then you do that.
I'm going to leave,
because now I know how not to kill.
I'm going to live an ordinary life.
...
...
I'm guessing you won't be able to come to the cafe for a while.
We'll be waiting. Drop by anytime.
Hehe, okay!
Jane looks at us and, just as she always has,
she gives us a bright smile.
*Whirr*
Ugh, I'm beat.
Yeah...
I turned the center and the kids over to Deputy Chief Andersen.
Then I spent all night submitting evidence and writing reports. I just now managed to get out.
Ooh, thanks.
*Clink*
And here's a parfait with extra hot chocolate.
Huh...?
This is a parfait...?
Yes. It's a dessert I came up with some time ago.
It was quite popular.
Right... Of course... Thanks for this. I'll, uh, dig in.
What happened?
I thought the cafe would only be closed for a day, so I came back the next morning...
and no one was here!
I thought everyone just went off to the market or something, so I went ahead and opened.
Customers kept pouring in, but no one else came to help...!
I ended up working till close all by myself for several days!
Oh...
C'mon, I said sorry!
We were trying to do something good, and it just took longer than we thought.
Next time, make sure you tell me first!
Okay, okay.
Oh, about that.
We've found the Gatekeeper. We just need to head to its location sometime soon.
Ooh...!
Once we defeat the Gatekeeper, we'll be able to return home, correct?
Right.
What, you sad now that it's time to leave?
Yeah, of course!
I really wish you all could come visit our world sometime.
That'd be nice.
We won't be leaving right this minute.
We still need to assess the situation, and there's a lot to prepare. It'll take some time.
Since today might be our last day, let's stay up all night playing board games!
Well, if you insist, then I guess I'll join you.
Hold on.
We open in exactly one minute.
We don't have time to be chatting like this.
Did you wipe down the tables?
Not yet.
Kurumi, give me a hand.
I can't. I'm busy.
I think we're short on ingredients!
I'll take Black Typhoon and go buy some.
Okay.
Ahhh...!
The line's already insanely long! You'd think we'd been gone months...
Hurry, everyone get in place!
Hmm.
*Clack*
Frima flips the sign on the door from "Closed" to "Open."
14. Open for Business!
155 lines*Clatter, clatter* The dice make a clattering sound as they roll...
*Clatter, clatter*
... Three.
That's my turf. Pay up.
Tch!
Oh, by the way.
It sounds like we'll be going home tomorrow.
They said they're gonna wake up that Gatekeeper thing.
Right?
Yeah. That's right.
I was hoping we'd get to see Jane before we left, but it seems like we won't.
Sure.
*Clatter, clatter*
Five.
What...?!
Hahaha! Ahahaha!
The look on your face is priceless right now, Sugar!
*Clatter, clatter*
Aw...!
Ugh... My whole body aches.
I must've fallen asleep while playing board games.
How long were we at it...?
Hm?
Milk, Sugar, and Frima are asleep on the floor.
I don't see the others anywhere.
They must have already left.
Chisato, Takina, and Kurumi probably got taken back to their world in a flash of light, just like the other visitors did before.
Things are going to feel empty without them for a while.
After that night, we left the board games spread out across the table for some time.
It just felt like they would come back, push open the cafe door, and ask to keep playing.
A few days later...
After several days buried in paperwork, I finally find the time to stop by the cafe again.
*Whirr*
Welcome.
Huh?
The decor's still the same.
Oh. It's you, Partner.
Yeah, we weren't ready to put things back the way they were, and the concept works, so we're keeping it like this for a while.
You finish up all your busy work?
Yeah, just barely...
Pal! You're here!
Hey.
Yeah. I'm here.
There aren't any customers, though.
Yeah, we're closed today.
We've been swamped thanks to Takina's new dessert, so we're making sure to take days off regularly.
That's good.
Hey, Partner.
Since you're here, I wanna ask you something.
What ended up happening to the kids from the center?
Ah, right.
They're receiving psychiatric treatment under the Central Government's supervision.
Makes sense. Pushing them straight back into society would've been rough in a lot of ways.
They'll probably need proper schooling too.
Also, several missing children were confirmed to have been at the center.
Whoa, seriously?
She was all proud about how she took in kids with nowhere to go and raised them.
She conveniently left out the part about kidnapping them...
What. Happened. Jennifer?
Right, I almost forgot the most important question.
Given the gravity of her crimes, she's not getting off easy.
I think they're going to let her live, but not in a way that'll really be living.
Lifelong. Suffering.
Anyway, it sounds like everything's wrapped up. That's a relief.
Yeah.
*Whirr*
Following Cafe Sweety's gaze, I look toward the cafe entrance.
A young girl stands there fidgeting.
Jane!
Hehe.
Hi, everyone!
Is it really okay for you to be out?
Does this mean you can keep coming to the cafe from now on?
Will bring. Coffee. Desserts.
Hahaha! You're all the same as ever!
I'm doing good.
I've been keeping up with my studies, and they say I'm no longer a risk.
As long as that man there accompanies me, they said I can come outside sometimes!
I look over Jane's shoulder to see a large man watching from a slight distance.
That makes sense. Despite everything that's happened and the progress she has made, she still killed people.
We're lucky they let her off with just this.
Hehe! I really, really missed you all!
Where are the other two girls?
Oh...
I wanted to show them how well I'm doing now, thanks to them...
I'm sure they know.
Milk puts her hand on Jane's head and ruffles her hair.
...
Um...
Every time I'm allowed to come out, would it be okay if I came here to play?
You wanna come play?
Yes!
Of course you can—
No.
Oh...!
Frima?!
Y-yeah... I bet you're very busy.
I shouldn't get in your way.
Come. Work.
Work...?
M-me...?
I-is that really okay?
I've never worked before...
You bet it's okay!
You just take whatever's right here, and serve it to the customers.
And when you do, give 'em a cute little smile.
Here, Jane. Take this to that table.
What is it?
It's the new dessert Takina made before she left.
Hahaha!
It looks like poop!
You're not supposed to say that out loud!
So you're starting tomorrow, right?
W-wait a second...!
I don't even know the next time I'll be allowed out yet...
Haha, I'm just teasing ya!
The two girls from another world managed to accomplish a lot in a relatively short time.
They left Cafe Sweety with a great theme for their cafe,
introduced the citizens of the Ark to some bold, unconventional desserts,
and gave the children from the center a precious gift: an ordinary life.
Their absence will no doubt be felt for a while still, but even so...
Cafe Sweety is open for business today.