
GODDESS OF VICTORY: NIKKE story · Brief Encounters
Library
12 scenes, 1,116 lines
1. Library Ghost Story
102 lines11:00 PM, Outpost Library
Hi-! My lovely Lupins☆
Thanks for tuning into Rupee's Shopaholics Anonymous.
You may be expecting me to throw money around flippantly, but no! I've got something better!
Today's vlog is about ghost stories!
I chose this topic because many of you are interested in the 7 Outpost mysteries.
Shall we go ahead and introduce our special guest?
Joining us once again is the spectacular Commander.
Hello.
Next, we have the self-proclaimed unscareable Drake!
Pssh, if anything, this will just put me to sleep.
A laughing stock is precisely that, regardless if they're living or dead.
You certainly talk a big game!
However, the important thing is will you feel that way by the end of our program?
All right, let the adventure begin!
11:30 PM. Library 1st floor reading room.
Before we start exploring the library,
I'll give you a short explanation about this place's backstory.
This library is home to one of the 7 mysteries of the Outpost.
When the clock strikes midnight, behind the 4th bookshelf...
it's said that you can hear cries of anguish.
There is a rumor that the voice is from a ghost sealed within a book,
or someone buried alive in the library walls crying out for help.
Today, we're here to find out the truth behind it all!
We're counting on you.
You're awfully cocky.
Of course I am, 'cause I'm awesome!
00:00 AM, 1st floor of library.
Can everyone see?
It's midnight, and we are currently in front of the 4th bookshelf.
According to the rumor, we should hear wailing.
No, wait!
*Knock knock*
*Bang bang*
Gyah!
What the hell was that?!
A poltergeist.
Poltergeist?
That's when a ghost appears and causes physical disturbances, like moving objects or making sounds.
At least, that's how I understand it.
So if it's a poltergeist, where is it?
Kyaaa!!!
You're too loud, Rupee!
That wasn't me!
...
...
Even the courageous Drake has gone quiet!!!
*Bang* *Bang* *Bang! Bang! Bang*
*Clatters*
Would you shut up?!
*Dadadadadadadadada*
A ghost is heading right for us!
N-no!
Run while hugging Rupee.
Carry Drake on your back and run.
Run!!
*Swing*
We've only moved a few steps when a door behind us opens.
*Thump thump*
There is the sound of footsteps drawing near.
Tsk...
I was wondering who was making such a ruckus.
I should have known it was you.
Look back.
... Weakling.
What?
You need to get your head examined.
Listen up. I've got an important mission early tomorrow morning.
I put a lot of work into it, and I don't need you nimrods screwing it up.
So get out of here, before I really get mean. This is your last warning.
Kyaaa!!! Argh!!!!!
Yeah! That's the one!
...
...
Let's get out of here. Now.
Good idea.
2. Emma's Tarot Cards
93 linesZing-
Anyone can see those are bad cards! You're so mean!
Signal!
???
Just as I'm about to head inside the library,
Signal comes running out crying.
What's wrong?
Commander? What brings you here?
I made some tarot cards.
They're much better than the last bunch, so
I told Signal her fortune, but she stormed off in a huff.
What did you see?
Her love life.
Was it a bad reading?
I tried to soften the blow...
but Signal still took it pretty hard.
Have you ever had your fortune told?
Never.
Want to give it a try?
I haven't quite perfected it, but it's pretty accurate.
I'm sure you'll get a kick out of it.
Okay.
Let's start off easy with, say... your near future?
Emma spreads out several cards onto the table.
Now close your eyes...
Think of a question in your head.
Now pick whichever card stands out to you.
... This one.
Is that bad?
Well... not necessarily, but...
It's typically a negative card due to its connotation with death.
So I'm going to die?
N-no! Nothing that serious!
It can also mean periods of unhappiness or transition, but
it can also have a good meaning.
Have you ever noticed how ancient medieval flags often have white roses painted on them?
They signify the resurrection.
Think of it this way. After a period of great turmoil, a new future awaits.
Still, I think it's best you be extra careful for the next few days. Just in case.
Anyway, this is all just for fun.
Don't take it too seriously.
Hehehe... all right, let's move on...
You seem unsettled.
Really?
I-it's just hot in here, that's all.
What part of your fortune would you like me to tell you?
Love
Money
I didn't expect that from you!
Someone been on your mind lately?
All right, let's take a look at
your future love life.
Think of a question, then pick a card.
Money trumps love, then?
I'm not sure if that's good or bad...
All right, let's take a look at
what your fortune holds in store for you money-wise.
Think of a question, then pick a card.
That one.
While turning over the first card, Emma accidentally drops a card she was holding.
*Thud*
Oh my. Reverse...
But you dropped that one...
Why Reverse of all things...?
Well, Reverse isn't necessarily all bad either...
!!
Dagger!
Someone with a knife stuck in their back...
What is wrong with these cards today?
First Rose in the Dark, then Reverse...
Reverse only showed up because of you...
Don't worry, Commander, it's not all doom and gloom.
I'm slightly worried about the Reverse, but...
Anyway, let me turn over the last card.
Emma turns over the card, a grim look on her face.
Dance with the Devil?
It's been nothing but bad cards.
N-no, Commander! These cards don't necessarily mean back luck.
If you think about it positively,
maybe you'll have a big party soon?
Hehe, see? No problem here!
Don't worry about it.
Never was.
Emma seems rattled as she quickly brings the fortune-telling to an end.
I can understand why Signal left crying.
3. Library Romance
81 linesI've been coming to the library to read for some time now.
As I was contemplating what to read, I ran into Pepper.
Hi, Pepper. What brings you to the library?
I'm here to go over some medical books.
After all, acquiring knowledge is a never-ending process, right?
But...
Is something wrong?
I found a book that I wanted, but it's way high up on the shelf.
Pepper stands up on her toes and reaches for the book.
Help.
Watch.
I walk over to Pepper.
Hey!
Is this the book you're talking about?
That's the one!
Thanks!
Commander, you're taller than I expected.
I've got butterflies in my stomach, hehe!
Just a... little more...
Yes! I got...
Eeeeek!
As Pepper grasps the book in her hands, she slips toward me.
*Crash*
Ooof...
Commander, are you okay?!
Sorry, I slipped!
Are you hurt? We should go to the hospital...
I'm okay.
But...
But...?
You're a little too close for comfort.
Oh...!
S-sorry!
I'll move out of the way!
A-anyways I'm glad you weren't hurt!
And I got my book! Hehe.
I'm planning to stay a bit and read.
Are you going back now?
No, I'm going to stay and read as well.
My interest was sparked when I saw you with that medical book.
I start reading with Pepper.
The book is filled with medical jargon I can't understand.
I can feel my eyelids getting heavier with every page.
Pretty heady stuff, isn't it?
That book covers advanced medicine, so if you have any questions, let me know.
At this rate, you'll end up working at the hospital too. Hehe.
Hey!
Commander, are you okay?!
You look exhausted...
I'm so sleepy.
I'm fine, honestly.
You certainly look it.
Don't lie.
You can barely keep your eyes open.
Lie down for a bit and close your eyes.
I'll wake you up in a minute.
Sorry.
It's okay, I'm sure your job is tough on you. You should rest whenever you can.
Your health is what's most important.
Now go to sleep.
As Pepper gently strokes my hair,
I fall asleep.
...
...!
After waking up, Pepper is nowhere to be seen.
On the desk there is a drink with a note on it. The book is gone.
Commander, I couldn't bring myself to wake you up since you were so sound asleep.
Something came up, so I have to go to the hospital.
Feel free to contact me whenever you're feeling tired.
Your health is the most important thing of all.
See you next time.
Feeling refreshed, I grab the drink and the note, and head out of the library.
4. The Ordeal of Public Places
75 linesI'm at the library preparing a report for my superior.
Andersen will have my hide if I don't have this in by tomorrow.
Gotta focus. Let's get this done.
...
???
*Crumble crumble*
Beeeep-?
No, that's not right...
The ultimate score would be more...
Beeeep-? Beep-?
...
Go and tell whoever it is to keep quiet.
Ignore it and continue working.
*Crumble crumble crumble crumble crumble*
Beeep---? beep- beep-?
That sound isn't right either. *Sigh* What a mess...
Go and tell whoever it is to keep quiet.
Beebeeep-? Beep beep-?
Excuse me, could you keep it down?
... Conductor?
I'm sorry, but I can't do that.
Not until I find the treasure which awaits me within this vast library.
Until then, I must continue my search.
What are you talking about?
...
I heard there was a musical score hidden in this library.
One composed by the old masters. Just playing it once is like
stepping back in time and into the shoes of a master violinist of old.
My mission is to pass on music from the olden days.
I cannot allow such a precious melody to fall into obscurity.
Aria?
You sound surprised. Is it so weird to see me here?
Can't opera singers can come to the library?
I come by whenever I have questions about a play we're putting on, or whenever I need some inspiration.
But enough about me. Julia, if you could please answer my question.
Is there really a score of a great master here?
Would it be possible for you to let me have it?
Sorry. As an undying devotee of music, I cannot allow that.
How about we share it then?
What?
I heard you playing through all the musical scores in this library.
At your current pace, you'll never finish them all.
And you can't ask anyone else for help either.
Most people are unable to read ancient sheet music, and even if they did, they wouldn't know how to play it.
But I do.
I'm a lead opera singer, an ancient art form in its own right.
Reading a difficult score is as easy as singing a C4.
...!!
Do you also wish to set sail with me
on this perilous journey over the vast and tumultuous sea of melody?
... I think so?
Anyway, once we find that score,
you and I will perform it together.
We'll hold a grand concert at the Royal Road opera house.
...
Yes, yes!
Like a breeze that blows in early spring, like fresh leaves sprouting in early summer,
my soul has been bestowed with a new hope.
I will accept your offer, Aria.
With our music, we shall sing the praises of past glories in spectacular fashion.
Sounds wonderful, my dear violinist.
...
I don't have time for this. Back to my report.
*Crumble crumble crumble crumble crumble*
Beeep-?
Lalalala la~? Lala Lala La~?
Beep Beeeeeeeee~~?
Rwaaaaaaaaaah~!??
The next morning.
After staying up all night, I submit my report. I feel like death warmed over.
*Beep*
5. Counterfeit Cleverness
108 lines*Zing*
Teacher! This way!
Why was it so important that I come to the library?
Are you sure that's okay?
Rei, you're already in your third year. You should be doing this yourself.
Why wouldn't it be? You're my teacher. Of course you can help me out with homework.
I know that, but...
I've been procrastinating.
I don't think I can finish all this in time.
If I don't have all this done by tomorrow, they'll have me scrubbing toilets for a month.
So I'm begging you, help me!
What can I do to help?
What is 7+7÷7+7x7-7?
... 8?
... 56?
Naru, is that correct?
Negative.
...
...
... Noah?
Why don't you move along?
Rei, let's find somewhere else to do your homework.
Not a chance. I've got nowhere else to be.
This place suits me just fine.
Besides, I was here first!
I bet you didn't know that, you lunkhead.
Oh, what's this?
Now you're avoiding me? You're not scared of me, are you?
I knew you were a coward.
Nothing but a big chicken.
You think you're smarter than me, don't you?
Of course.
And I'm heads and shoulders above this dork with the penguins.
Those penguins don't seem too bright either.
*Cry*
*Scream*
*Sob*
I just told you, I'm smarter than you bunch of morons by a country mile.
Oh, sorry, I forgot to say it twice. I should have known I'd have to repeat myself for the simpletons.
If you cry, you're letting her win.
You're a big girl, so wipe away those tears.
*Cry*
Unable to control her anger, Rei bursts into tears.
You're mean!
Enough. Both of you.
No, it's not enough.
We're only getting started.
Besides, I don't have to listen to dreck like you two.
You piece of...
You motherf--
Teacher! You mustn't lose your temper! If you do, she wins.
Hee-hee, this is fun!
Do you know what 7+7÷7+7x7-7 comes out to by any chance?
Is that right, Naru?
Correct.
Score a point for me, loser! How could you not know the answer to such a rudimentary question?
...??
I need to beat her.
Are you sure you can do it?
... If you say so.
I'll ask some common sense questions.
Let's see who's smarter.
... You wish.
First question.
When you want to get something off your chest, you blow off some...
...
...
Really? No one?
I thought you said these were going to be simple questions.
Yeah, don't be asking such asinine questions.
... Fine.
C02 is comprised of oxygen and...
...
...
...??
Neither of you knows that one either?
Y-yeah, me too!
... Well, from here on out, if you know the answer, just say it.
Let's try this one more time.
How many kilograms are in a ton?
...
...
All right, we're done here.
...
...
And with that, the impromptu intellectual showdown comes to a sudden conclusion.
6. Education That Transcends Memory
132 linesI stop by the library to browse through the books, something which I haven't done in a while.
What kind of fruit do you like?
Just a moment...
Anne opens up her notebook.
I like strawberries.
...
As I pass through the entrance, I can hear familiar voices off in the racks.
Let's say you have two baskets with five strawberries in each. How many strawberries do you have?
So that's seven times two, which means there are seven strawberries in each of the baskets, right?
Exactly.
Hehe, you always make everything so easy to understand.
That's because you're so smart.
Hello, you two.
...!
Hey, Teacher.
Hello, Commander.
I came to the library and ended up running into Miss Marciana.
Studying with her is so much fun!
She's the best teacher ever.
Nobody beats Marciana when it comes to teaching.
Any chance I can join you?
So you already know about that?
It's got nothing to do with me. It's just that Anne is such a quick learner.
Sure! Let's study together.
You're not serious, are you, Commander?
What are you studying?
I didn't know you were a fan of math.
Oh sure, my notebook told me that I love math.
...
Have you finished all the problems?
You can always stay here a little longer.
Would that be okay?
... I actually don't know much.
If you're gonna be the one teaching me, then I'm willing to learn anything.
Cats...
Anne hurriedly flips through her notebook.
Sounds good! I mentioned here that I'm a big fan of tri-colored cats.
...
...
How about you go pick a book on cats, then?
I can choose whatever I want?
Sure, whatever you like.
Wow, okay!
Anne skips off to go choose a book.
How did you two end up getting into an impromptu study session?
We met at the library.
How is it teaching Anne?
She's a model student. She enjoys learning.
For sure.
...
I'm back!
Anne returns with a cute and colorful pop-up book filled with cat illustrations.
Hehe. I figured this would be a real hoot to study with.
Can I join you two?
We all look at the book together.
Wow, this cat looks fascinating!
In ancient times, some civilizations even worshipped them as gods.
Really?!
That's right.
What about this cat?
This cat is...
Marciana answers each of Anne's questions in great detail.
Miss Marciana...
What is it?
I feel a little sleepy.
Of course, anytime.
Woohoo!
...
As Anne prances out of the library,
Marciana quietly watches her until she is out of sight.
...
You've performed admirably, teaching her like you have.
It's nothing, honestly.
So you've been teaching her for a while now?
Yes.
I usually visit the library to look up some information.
Anne tends to visit the library in the afternoon on weekends.
...
Is that why you showed up here at the same time?
How are you holding up?
What do you mean?
Everything you teach Anne, she ends up forgetting.
I just... ride it?
That's it.
Our ability to ride a bike is stored in our procedural memory, which belongs to the subconscious part of our brain.
This is all theoretical on my part,
but I personally believe that if you learn something enough times, you can internalize that information
in the subconscious part of your mind, just like it is with riding a bicycle.
I see.
Besides, Anne has a strong passion for learning.
Even if she may not remember me once enough time passes,
she may be able to recall certain things she's been taught multiple times.
Of course, there's also the possibility that she may never remember anything.
That's true, but it's the struggle that gives this entire endeavor meaning.
I'll help too.
Yeah.
You really did a good job despite the struggle.
You will?
Anne considers me her teacher as well.
7. Meeting a Fan
62 linesDidn't imagine I'd see you at the Library.
You do?
Of course! Any survival expert worth their salt knows that reading books is a must for building up your knowledge,
so I do it regularly.
So cool! You really are a survival expert.
I didn't say anything just now...
Naga? What are you doing on your own?
Where's Tia?
Yeesh, what are we, glued at the hip?
I'm perfectly capable of studying on my own, which is what I've come here for today.
And I'm glad that I did,
cause I got the chance to see you, Tove!
Why are you so excited about seeing me?
Hehe, you remind me of myself back in the day.
I used to be crazy about Unlimited. A real fangirl, I was.
All I would think about was how I could join them one day,
and stand shoulder to shoulder with those Nikkes as they rescued those in need without breaking a sweat.
Totally!
They're on a completely different level from the rest of us Nikkes.
The way you describe it sounds kinda strange, though.
Hmm? Why?
Oh, eh... you've got me there.
I'm a new member, and I haven't managed to distinguish myself just yet.
No marvelous deeds or anything of note worth bragging about.
I feel like I'm an impostor, a normie amongst true masters.
You should have heard yourself
when you were talking about survival experts having to be well-read on all sorts of topics.
You sounded super cool!
So you oughta be proud of being a member of the Unlimited Squad.
No matter what happens,
you can always count on me being your fan.
Naga fetches the book she was looking for and leaves.
...
Tove?
Heh-heh-heh.
Can I be real with you for a moment, Survivalist?
I never was completely convinced that reading books is as useful as I make it out to be.
Sometimes, I'd find myself seriously doubting
whether it actually helped any in actual combat.
But after hearing what Naga had to say, I've made up my mind:
I will continue to learn as much as I can, so that I can be the best survival expert I can be!
I am a proud member of Unlimited,
and I must live up to the precedent set by my predecessors.
Mark my words, Survivalist,
I will continue to work harder than ever!
8. Robot Maintenance Manual
78 linesHi, Kilo.
What are you up to?
Just reading a good book.
Are you not here to read?
What's wrong? Are you looking for a book that's...you're not at liberty to discuss?
There you are.
Gah! Where did you come from?
Guillotine?
I should have known that you would find her
before I did, Partner.
Having said that, it would appear that you still have not obtained "it".
?
Now, fess up. Tell me what you know.
Ha! You won't fool me with such playacting!
Tell me the truth.
I know you're looking for the Book of Darkness.
Wha...?
Now, you will find yourself incapable of lying.
So go on then.
Where is the Book of Darkness?
You are?
Yes.
You know how much I rely on T.A.L.O.S.
If something were to happen to him, or if he broke down,
I should at least know how to do basic repairs to keep it operational.
...
Last time, T.A.L.O.S. had a malfunction, and I wasn't even able to finish the test.
I was totally helpless.
...
...
No one said you were incompetent.
?
Very well. It's becoming clear that you are not the one I was looking for.
I've wasted my time here.
Not at all. Thanks to your magic, I was able to learn more about Kilo.
Heh.
I'm glad I was able to be of assistance.
Anyway, the book you're looking for is probably in the next aisle over.
I'm rather busy, so I must get going.
Guillotine retreats from the library by walking backward.
You don't know the half of it. That wasn't nearly as abnormal as she usually is.
?
Anyway, let's look for that manual.
It's all right. I could learn something from perusing that manual as well.
Also, you're not incompetent, so don't let me hear that kind of talk from you again.
Kilo and I spend time studying in the library together.
9. Ein's Secret Hideout
81 linesI drop by the Library since it has been a while since my last visit.
I eventually select a book with an eye-catching title, and am just about to start reading it, when...
Zzzzz...
Zzzzzzzz...
Mmm... Hmm? Ahhh... that was a good nap.
...
I try to ignore the distracting sounds and focus on my reading.
*Babam*!
Haha!
What is this? Hahaha!
...
I snap the book shut and head towards the noise.
Over in another corner, Ein is cackling while looking at her tablet.
No, I've been here a while.
What are you watching?
Just some random videos.
Can I tell you a secret, Teacher?
This place is kind of my secret hideout.
The library?
Yep!
Very few people come here, so it's nice and quiet.
I can sleep, talk as loud as I want, and make a ruckus without worrying about disturbing other people.
Being surrounded by the smell of books is also a plus.
It feels like I've rented out the whole place for myself.
I often come here when I need some alone time.
But doesn't the school have its own reading room?
Come on, Teacher, use your head!
The school reading room is always packed with people.
I can't relax and get comfortable over there like I can here.
By the way, you've got to keep this all a secret, okay?
Why?
What do you mean "why"?
If any of the teachers or my friends at school find out about this, I won't hear the end of it.
Just thinking about it gives me a headache.
So please, keep this between us.
By the way, you came here to read, didn't you?
I'll put on my headphones to watch my videos.
I'll be quiet so you can get back to your book.
?!
I came here to read, and Ein is here to rela...
... You did?
Ah, yes.
Did you come to read up on the material related to the homework I gave today?
Ein looks up at me pleadingly.
I recall how she desperately begged me to keep her hideaway a secret.
... Yes, that's right.
Um... that's because I can't concentrate in the school library!
There are way too many people in there,
but it's nice and quiet over here.
Mmm, that's very true.
Still, I'm surprised.
You've never taken your classwork that seriously,
but now you're willing to come all the way out here?
If it's all right with you, can you show me what you've learned so far?
I could quiz you.
A-actually, I'm nearly finished!
I'll show you tomorrow!
Thanks a lot for helping me find the book I needed, Teacher.
I better get going!
Ein scurries off.
...
Marciana smiles proudly.
I don't have the heart to tell her the truth.
10. The Burrowing Rabbit and Rabbity
126 lines*Gasp*
Whew... I thought I was going to suffocate back there.
Quency and I emerge from a small hole in the ground.
Hehe, shouldn't you be used to this by now?
Why even bother using a tunnel? I could just walk over here.
Why would you do that? We're both going to the same place, so why take different paths?
If you're so against it, you should have said no.
It's not that I'm entirely opposed to the idea...
Anyway, what kind of item were you asked to retrieve?
A convict from the Rehabilitation Center wants a book?
Why wouldn't they? We're more cultured than you think!
Unfortunately, that's not the perception most people have of us, so that's why I've got this nifty plain clothes disguise on.
... But to be honest, I think there might be some important info or contraband inside this book they want.
You look more like a thief than a regular citizen...
Bah, it's fine!
I'm wearing a mask. No one will know it's me.
Even if we do get caught, all we've gotta do is run away.
If that does happen, I trust that you'll be able to stay and smooth things over? Hehe.
... So what's that book called?
Encyclopedia of Rabbits on the Surface.
Apparently, they're picking a book they felt no one else would borrow.
After all, who in the world cares about rabbits up on the surface these days?
Yeah...
Wow!
?!
?!
I whip my head around
to see Alice standing beside us, book in hand. She darts her eyes back and forth between us and the book.
Holy moly!
H-how long have you been standing there?!
Hmm... How do you think we should handle this?
Beats me.
You must be a rabbit digging your burrow!
Huh?
Come again?
I just saw an entry in this here encyclopedia!
Lots of rabbits live in tunnels that they dig called burrows.
It's where they eat and sleep.
Alice's eyes sparkle as she looks at Quency.
I never thought I'd run into one in the library!
Alice, what's that book that you're holding?
Encyclopedia of Rabbits on the Surface.
!!
It has soooooo many rabbits!
So the book we're looking for is right in front of us?
Seems so.
*Thud*
Huh? I don't think you read it all the way to the end.
Mhmm, that's right.
I'd love to read more, but since you're in the middle of reading it, I don't have much of a choice.
It's unfortunate, but I'll have to wait until next time to give it a proper read.
Quency hands the encyclopedia back to Alice.
No problem! I can pick it back up once you're done.
Alice gives the encyclopedia back to Quency.
Smooth.
Oh, Burrowing Rabbit!
Yes?
Before you go... can I ask for one favor?
What is it?
You mean that hole we came through?
Yeah!
I heard if you follow the paths inside, they can take you to all sorts of other places!
I'd love to go exploring in there!
Oh?
Sorry, Alice, but I don't th...
Sure! That sounds like fun.
Yahoo! Thank you!
I'll go in first. Follow me and stick close, okay?
Okay!
Quency and Alice make their way to the tunnel opening.
W-wait!
That might be a problem.
Huh? So I can't go in?
Well... I'm not saying that...
B-but I want to see what's in there!
C'mon, Rabbity, don't be so mean!
It's just... all the rabbits in the burrow are sleeping right now.
I don't think they'd appreciate you barging in unannounced like this.
Of course.
Hehe. Instructor, didn't you once say not to make promises you can't keep?
If you keep fussing over every little thing like this, life can be awfully exhausting.
Having other people join us might make things... complicated.
*Swoosh*
Quency disappears into the hole.
See you next time, Alice.
See you next time, Rabbity.
With a small pang of guilt, I jump into the hole.
*Swoosh*
I guess that's that...
Alice, now on her own, yells into the hole.
11. Culinary Spelling Bee Quiz Show
89 linesI stop by the library to find some materials.
Is Phantom not here?
Phantom's usual seat is empty.
Instead, I can hear murmuring from the back room.
Phantom? You here?
When I step inside...
Correct! Stir-fried Sausage and Vegetables!
Wrong. It's Soy Garlic Chicken.
Darn it...
...
??
Hello, Monsieur. Are you looking for something?
Yeah, but...
what are you two doing?
I'm planning on publishing a cookbook.
Crust hands me a stack of papers titled "Crunchy & Crispy! Easy cooking by Crust".
It's my first time writing a book though,
so Phantom offered to help with editing and proofreading.
...
I start to flip through the pages with a sense of foreboding.
*Flip*
"Here speling rong. ↑Soy Garlick very yes tasty is okaynot?"
"↑Chang oder page beter yesyes"
"Shorts drawing moar good. Story fokus better yesyes?"
I feel like my brain is snapping in half...
Good grief...
On top of the catastrophic spelling,
there are arrows marking corrections scattered about everywhere and chaotic annotations scrawled in random positions.
The result is a cryptic document that not even the world's finest codebreakers could hope to decipher.
This is even worse than usual.
I know... I'm ashamed.
The truth is, I've been incredibly busy lately, so I had to rush through the proofreading process.
As a result, there are a lot of shortcomings.
I had planned to review and finalize everything with Crust.
Um, Mr. Gourmand...
Crust leans in and whispers to me.
I'm not in the wrong here, am I?
No, Crust. You're in the right on this one.
Phew...
Communicating remotely also complicated things, as I expected it would.
... I'll help.
I have prior experience interpreting...
Or rather, deciphering Phantom's writing.
Thank you!
Much appreciated. I don't foresee any more issues, then.
And so we begin the daunting task of decrypting the abstract document.
Onion!
Wrong.
Correct.
Woohoo! I got it right!
Wait, but how come...
I wrote it in a hurry, so my handwriting isn't the neatest. I could see how you thought it said "onion".
... So what's the score now?
With that round, Crust has taken the lead.
Woohoo! Just gotta keep it up!
I won't lose to either of you!
Onto the next question.
All right!
After struggling for quite some time, we finally manage to re-proofread Phantom's "proofread" version.
Phew, it's finally over...
I feel like my brain is melting.
Good work. I think we're good to proceed with the first run of printing.
Thanks for all the help, Phantom. I leave the rest in your capable hands.
Ooh! Since we're all together, why don't I treat you both to dinner?
I think we're a little past dinner time.
What? No way... gah!
Reading the clock reveals it is nearing 11 PM.
I had no idea... Didn't we start right after lunch?
Somewhere around the middle, it essentially morphed into a quiz show.
What is it?
I just came up with a great idea!
Thanks again for the help, both of you. I'll treat you guys to a meal tomorrow.
Crust dashes off at full speed.
A few days later...
A quiz segment with the audience is added to Crust's TV show.
Viewership subsequently doubles.
12. Neat Handwriting Workshop
89 linesWow!
Yaaayyy!
Can't believe you got two people to show up on such short notice.
That's right, I'm so glad!
Now, before we get started, I have a question.
Biscuit, my friend, what made you come to my handwriting workshop today?
I wanna get better at writing so I can teach the other puppies too!
O-of course, I know it won't be easy, hehe.
Hehehe! I came 'cause you said there'd be something tasty!
Wait, is "neat handwriting" something you eat?
No, no, neat handwriting isn't something you eat.
All right, can everyone see the blackboard?
As an example, can you write your name for me, Friend?
Sure thing.
I don't usually think twice about my handwriting, but suddenly I'm worried it looks messy.
*Scribble, scribble*
*Scribble, scribble*
Whew... Done.
Aw, thanks...
Hmm, try making this stroke a little longer here.
And if you keep both sides even, it'll look much nicer.
Oooooh...
When Snow Crane writes my name out, it looks as neat as if she'd typed it.
Perfect. Now, let's have Biscuit write her name.
O-okay!
*Scribble, scribble*
Let's see now... Biscuit's handwriting...
Oh my, it's so round and cute!
Your handwriting really suits you!
Not at all!
There is a "proper" way to write, of course...
But your handwriting is part of what makes you, you.
I see! Hehe, thanks for saying that!
But!
I wouldn't quite call this neat handwriting just yet.
Try making this part a little smaller,
and if you make this part sharper...
Ta-da! How's that?
That's wonderful to hear!
Snow Crane pats Biscuit's head.
Hehe! I'm so happy!
Biscuit's tail wags like crazy.
Please write your name here.
...!
You don't know how to handwrite, Jackal?
Just write your name like we did earlier—
Wait, Friend.
Huh?
Ah...
That was my mistake.
Of course, not everyone knows how to write...
Jackal, come sit with me.
Yeah, yeah, got it. So where's the food?
Once we're done, I'll put together a lavish feast for you.
Really? Hehehe!
Yeah, you can head out now.
Hehe! Okay, thanks for the amazing class!
Biscuit runs off to show Max what she's just learned to write.
As it turns out, Jackal can write after all, quickly jotting down her name and earning herself a feast.
... Don't tell me she's been playing dumb this whole time.



