GODDESS OF VICTORY: NIKKE story · Brief Encounters

Library

12 scenes, 1,116 lines

1. Library Ghost Story

102 lines

11:00 PM, Outpost Library

Rupee

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.

You

Hello.

Rupee

Next, we have the self-proclaimed unscareable Drake!

Drake

Pssh, if anything, this will just put me to sleep.

A laughing stock is precisely that, regardless if they're living or dead.

Rupee

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.

Rupee

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!

Drake

Ha! Easy-peasy!

I can locate Rapture radio signals.

Ghosts are child's play in comparison.

Your choice

We're counting on you.

You're awfully cocky.

Drake

Of course I am, 'cause I'm awesome!

00:00 AM, 1st floor of library.

Rupee

Can everyone see?

It's midnight, and we are currently in front of the 4th bookshelf.

According to the rumor, we should hear wailing.

Drake

Maybe the ghost is too stupid to know we're here.

I'll knock and let it know.

Rupee

No, wait!

*Knock knock*

Drake

...

See? No respons...

*Bang bang*

Rupee

Gyah!

Drake

What the hell was that?!

You

A poltergeist.

Drake

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!!!

Drake

You're too loud, Rupee!

Rupee

That wasn't me!

Rupee

...

*Creak creak creak*

Wah! It's really here!

Rupee

Even the courageous Drake has gone quiet!!!

*Bang* *Bang* *Bang! Bang! Bang*

*Clatters*

???

Would you shut up?!

*Dadadadadadadadada*

You

A ghost is heading right for us!

Rupee

N-no!

Your choice

Run while hugging Rupee.

Carry Drake on your back and run.

Rupee

Run!!

Drake

Hey, what are you doing?!

Don't just leave me here!

*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.

You

Look back.

Eunhwa

... Weakling.

Rupee

*Gulp*

Eunhwa?

I'm just glad you aren't a ghost!

Eunhwa

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.

Drake

Understood.

Wouldn't want to disturb your studies.

Let's head back, fellow nimrods.

Rupee

Yes...

But, all those sounds we heard today...

You didn't make them by any chance, did you?

Eunhwa

What sounds?

Sure, I was pounding on the walls

cause you were all being so damn loud.

Rupee

But...

what about all that screaming?

???

Kyaaa!!! Argh!!!!!

Rupee

Yeah! That's the one!

You

Let's get out of here. Now.

Drake

Good idea.

2. Emma's Tarot Cards

93 lines

Zing-

Signal

Anyone can see those are bad cards! You're so mean!

Emma

Signal!

You

???

Just as I'm about to head inside the library,

Signal comes running out crying.

What's wrong?

Emma

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.

You

What did you see?

Emma

Her love life.

You

Was it a bad reading?

Emma

I tried to soften the blow...

but Signal still took it pretty hard.

Have you ever had your fortune told?

You

Never.

Emma

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.

You

Okay.

Emma

Let's start off easy with, say... your near future?

You

Emma spreads out several cards onto the table.

Emma

Now close your eyes...

Think of a question in your head.

Now pick whichever card stands out to you.

You

... This one.

Emma

That card emanates a positive energy.

Let's take a look, shall we?

Oh my.

Rose in the Dark.

You

Is that bad?

Emma

Well... not necessarily, but...

It's typically a negative card due to its connotation with death.

You

So I'm going to die?

Emma

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

You seem unsettled.

Emma

Really?

I-it's just hot in here, that's all.

What part of your fortune would you like me to tell you?

Your choice

Love

Money

Emma

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.

You

That one.

Emma

Let's see what we ended up with.

I guarantee you'll get a good card this time, so don't worry!

You

While turning over the first card, Emma accidentally drops a card she was holding.

*Thud*

Emma

Oh my. Reverse...

You

But you dropped that one...

Emma

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...

You

Reverse only showed up because of you...

Emma

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.

You

Emma turns over the card, a grim look on her face.

Emma

Dance with the Devil?

You

It's been nothing but bad cards.

Emma

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.

You

Never was.

Emma

Y-yeah? Well that's a relief...

I think we should stop there for today.

You

Emma seems rattled as she quickly brings the fortune-telling to an end.

I can understand why Signal left crying.

3. Library Romance

81 lines
You

I've been coming to the library to read for some time now.

As I was contemplating what to read, I ran into Pepper.

Pepper

Hmm?

Oh, hi Commander!

Fancy running into you here!

You

Hi, Pepper. What brings you to the library?

Pepper

I'm here to go over some medical books.

After all, acquiring knowledge is a never-ending process, right?

But...

You

Is something wrong?

Pepper

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.

Pepper

Urgh...

Just a little more and I think I could reach it!

Your choice

Help.

Watch.

You

I walk over to Pepper.

Pepper

Hey!

You

Is this the book you're talking about?

Pepper

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!

You

As Pepper grasps the book in her hands, she slips toward me.

*Crash*

Pepper

Ooof...

Commander, are you okay?!

Sorry, I slipped!

Are you hurt? We should go to the hospital...

You

I'm okay.

But...

Pepper

But...?

You

You're a little too close for comfort.

Pepper

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?

You

No, I'm going to stay and read as well.

Pepper

Whoa, you're reading a medical book as well?

Are you sure it won't go over your head?

You

My interest was sparked when I saw you with that medical book.

Pepper

Haha. Well good!

We can read together then.

You

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.

Pepper

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...

Your choice

I'm so sleepy.

I'm fine, honestly.

Pepper

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.

You

Sorry.

Pepper

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.

You

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.

Pepper

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.

You

Feeling refreshed, I grab the drink and the note, and head out of the library.

4. The Ordeal of Public Places

75 lines
You

I'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-?

You

...

Your choice

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...

You

Go and tell whoever it is to keep quiet.

Beebeeep-? Beep beep-?

You

Excuse me, could you keep it down?

Julia

... 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.

You

What are you talking about?

Julia

...

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

What you said...

is it true?

You

Aria?

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?

Julia

...

Yes, there is.

Aria

Would it be possible for you to let me have it?

Julia

Sorry. As an undying devotee of music, I cannot allow that.

Aria

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.

Julia

...!!

Do you also wish to set sail with me

on this perilous journey over the vast and tumultuous sea of melody?

Aria

... 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.

Julia

...

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.

Aria

Sounds wonderful, my dear violinist.

You

...

I don't have time for this. Back to my report.

*Crumble crumble crumble crumble crumble*

Beeep-?

Aria

Lalalala la~? Lala Lala La~?

Beep Beeeeeeeee~~?

Aria

Rwaaaaaaaaaah~!??

The next morning.

You

After staying up all night, I submit my report. I feel like death warmed over.

*Beep*

5. Counterfeit Cleverness

108 lines

*Zing*

Rei

Teacher! This way!

You

Why was it so important that I come to the library?

Rei

I'm up to my ears in homework.

You've gotta help me.

Your choice

Are you sure that's okay?

Rei, you're already in your third year. You should be doing this yourself.

Rei

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!

You

What can I do to help?

Rei

What is 7+7÷7+7x7-7?

Your choice

... 8?

... 56?

Rei

Naru, is that correct?

Naru 1

Negative.

You

...

Rei

...

Noah

Pssh... haha!

I thought I smelled an idiot in my vicinity, and there you are.

You

... Noah?

Your choice

Why don't you move along?

Rei, let's find somewhere else to do your homework.

Noah

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

You think you're smarter than me, don't you?

Noah

Of course.

And I'm heads and shoulders above this dork with the penguins.

Those penguins don't seem too bright either.

Naru 1

*Cry*

Naru 2

*Scream*

Naru 3

*Sob*

Rei

Hey! Don't pick on Naru!

Why do you think you're so smart?

Noah

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.

Rei

Why would you say that...

*Cry*

T-Teacher...!

Your choice

If you cry, you're letting her win.

You're a big girl, so wipe away those tears.

Rei

*Cry*

You

Unable to control her anger, Rei bursts into tears.

Noah

Jeez, the waterworks are kicking up already? What a crybaby.

Tseetsee.

Rei

You're mean!

You

Enough. Both of you.

Noah

No, it's not enough.

We're only getting started.

Besides, I don't have to listen to dreck like you two.

Your choice

You piece of...

You motherf--

Rei

Teacher! You mustn't lose your temper! If you do, she wins.

Noah

Hee-hee, this is fun!

Rei

Do you know what 7+7÷7+7x7-7 comes out to by any chance?

Noah

Of course!

Anyone with two brain cells to rub together knows it's 50.

Rei

Is that right, Naru?

Naru 1

Correct.

Noah

Score a point for me, loser! How could you not know the answer to such a rudimentary question?

Rei

Hmmph!

Teacher.

Ask her some questions.

You

...??

Rei

I need to beat her.

You

Are you sure you can do it?

Rei

??

I know I can. I'm just not a math whiz, that's all.

You

... If you say so.

I'll ask some common sense questions.

Let's see who's smarter.

Noah

Is this really necessary?

Me winning is a foregone conclusion at this point.

Rei

... You wish.

You

First question.

When you want to get something off your chest, you blow off some...

Noah

...

Rei

...

You

Really? No one?

Rei

I thought you said these were going to be simple questions.

Noah

Yeah, don't be asking such asinine questions.

You

... Fine.

C02 is comprised of oxygen and...

Noah

...

Rei

...

You

...??

Neither of you knows that one either?

Noah

Of course I know.

I just wanted to give this dolt a fighting chance.

Rei

Y-yeah, me too!

You

... 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?

Rei

...

Noah

...

You

All right, we're done here.

Rei

...

Noah

...

You

And with that, the impromptu intellectual showdown comes to a sudden conclusion.

6. Education That Transcends Memory

132 lines
You

I stop by the library to browse through the books, something which I haven't done in a while.

Marciana

What kind of fruit do you like?

N102

Just a moment...

Anne opens up her notebook.

N102

I like strawberries.

You

As I pass through the entrance, I can hear familiar voices off in the racks.

Marciana

Let's say you have two baskets with five strawberries in each. How many strawberries do you have?

N102

Hmm...

10?

Marciana

Correct.

For this problem, the 'x' here indicates the number of baskets.

N102

So that's seven times two, which means there are seven strawberries in each of the baskets, right?

Marciana

Exactly.

N102

Hehe, you always make everything so easy to understand.

Marciana

That's because you're so smart.

You

Hello, you two.

N102

Hey, Teacher.

Marciana

Hello, Commander.

N102

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.

Your choice

Nobody beats Marciana when it comes to teaching.

Any chance I can join you?

N102

So you already know about that?

Marciana

It's got nothing to do with me. It's just that Anne is such a quick learner.

N102

Sure! Let's study together.

Marciana

You're not serious, are you, Commander?

You

What are you studying?

N102

Math.

I need to solve the problems in this book I received today.

You

I didn't know you were a fan of math.

N102

Oh sure, my notebook told me that I love math.

You

Have you finished all the problems?

N102

Yep, just got the last one done.

It's honestly a bit disappointing that it's already over...

You

You can always stay here a little longer.

N102

Would that be okay?

Marciana

Of course.

Is there anything else you'd like to cover?

N102

... I actually don't know much.

If you're gonna be the one teaching me, then I'm willing to learn anything.

Marciana

...

How about we learn a little more about cats?

N102

Cats...

You

Anne hurriedly flips through her notebook.

N102

Sounds good! I mentioned here that I'm a big fan of tri-colored cats.

You

...

Marciana

How about you go pick a book on cats, then?

N102

I can choose whatever I want?

Marciana

Sure, whatever you like.

N102

Wow, okay!

You

Anne skips off to go choose a book.

How did you two end up getting into an impromptu study session?

Marciana

We met at the library.

You

How is it teaching Anne?

Marciana

She's a model student. She enjoys learning.

You

For sure.

Marciana

Although I have to say,

last week, she was all about languages, and now it's math.

You

...

Anne

I'm back!

You

Anne returns with a cute and colorful pop-up book filled with cat illustrations.

Marciana

...

You picked a great book.

N102

Hehe. I figured this would be a real hoot to study with.

You

Can I join you two?

Marciana

...

Let's see what we have here.

You

We all look at the book together.

N102

Wow, this cat looks fascinating!

Marciana

In ancient times, some civilizations even worshipped them as gods.

N102

Really?!

Marciana

That's right.

N102

What about this cat?

Marciana

This cat is...

You

Marciana answers each of Anne's questions in great detail.

N102

Miss Marciana...

Marciana

What is it?

N102

I feel a little sleepy.

Marciana

...

I'm not surprised. You learned a lot today.

N102

Hehe, thanks!

Miss Marciana...

Could we do this again sometime?

Marciana

Of course, anytime.

N102

Woohoo!

You

...

N102

Today was such a blast!

Well, I oughta get going.

Get home safe, you two.

You

As Anne prances out of the library,

Marciana quietly watches her until she is out of sight.

You

You've performed admirably, teaching her like you have.

Marciana

It's nothing, honestly.

You

So you've been teaching her for a while now?

Marciana

Yes.

I usually visit the library to look up some information.

Anne tends to visit the library in the afternoon on weekends.

You

...

Is that why you showed up here at the same time?

Marciana

...

That's right.

You

How are you holding up?

Marciana

What do you mean?

You

Everything you teach Anne, she ends up forgetting.

Marciana

...

Commander,

how do you ride a bicycle?

You

I just... ride it?

Marciana

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.

You

I see.

Marciana

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.

Your choice

That's true, but it's the struggle that gives this entire endeavor meaning.

I'll help too.

You

You really did a good job despite the struggle.

Marciana

You will?

You

Anne considers me her teacher as well.

Marciana

...

Thank you, Commander.

7. Meeting a Fan

62 lines
Tove

Hello, Survivalist!

What a coincidence.

You

Didn't imagine I'd see you at the Library.

Tove

Hmm? What do you mean?

I come here all the time.

You

You do?

Tove

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.

Tove

Hehe, I appreciate the compliment.

Glad to see that you're finally starting to appreciate me.

You

I didn't say anything just now...

Tove

... Huh?

Who was that then?

Naga

Me.

Nice to meet you, Tove.

Hey, Teacher.

You

Naga? What are you doing on your own?

Where's Tia?

Naga

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!

Tove

Why are you so excited about seeing me?

Naga

I'm a big fan of the Unlimited Squad.

Meeting you is like meeting one of my heroes!

Tove

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.

Naga

Totally!

They're on a completely different level from the rest of us Nikkes.

The way you describe it sounds kinda strange, though.

Tove

Hmm? Why?

Naga

You're a member of that squad now,

yet you make it sound like you're a complete outsider.

Tove

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.

Naga

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!

Tove

...

I... I did?

Naga

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.

You

Naga fetches the book she was looking for and leaves.

Tove

...

You

Tove?

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 lines
Kilo

Hmm...

Is this the way?

Huh?

Hi, Commander.

You

Hi, Kilo.

Kilo

What are you up to?

You

Just reading a good book.

Kilo

Oh, okay.

Well, enjoy your book.

You

Are you not here to read?

Kilo

I am, but...

It's a bit...

You

What's wrong? Are you looking for a book that's...you're not at liberty to discuss?

Kilo

No! It's nothing like that.

Er...

Guillotine

There you are.

Kilo

Gah! Where did you come from?

You

Guillotine?

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".

Guillotine

Now, fess up. Tell me what you know.

Kilo

What?

I don't know what you're talking about.

Guillotine

Ha! You won't fool me with such playacting!

Tell me the truth.

I know you're looking for the Book of Darkness.

Kilo

Book of Darkness?

I've never even heard of such a thing.

Guillotine

Very well.

You leave me with no choice.

Kilo

Wha...?

Guillotine

The truth...

Out with it! Hyah!

Kilo

Gah!

...

What was that?

Guillotine

Now, you will find yourself incapable of lying.

So go on then.

Where is the Book of Darkness?

Kilo

I told you I don't even know what that is!

I'm looking for a robot maintenance manual.

You

You are?

Kilo

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.

You

...

Kilo

More than helpless, I realized I was incompetent.

I have to do something.

Guillotine

No one said you were incompetent.

Guillotine

Very well. It's becoming clear that you are not the one I was looking for.

I've wasted my time here.

You

Not at all. Thanks to your magic, I was able to learn more about Kilo.

Guillotine

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.

You

Guillotine retreats from the library by walking backward.

Kilo

...

Who was that strange person?

You

You don't know the half of it. That wasn't nearly as abnormal as she usually is.

You

Anyway, let's look for that manual.

Kilo

Oh...!

Oh, you don't have to help me!

You

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

...

All right.

Thank you for your kind words, Commander.

You

Kilo and I spend time studying in the library together.

9. Ein's Secret Hideout

81 lines
You

I 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.

You

...

I try to ignore the distracting sounds and focus on my reading.

*Babam*!

???

Haha!

What is this? Hahaha!

You

...

I snap the book shut and head towards the noise.

Over in another corner, Ein is cackling while looking at her tablet.

Ein

Oh, hi Teacher!

Did you just get here?

You

No, I've been here a while.

Ein

Whoa, really? I had no idea.

Am I being too noisy?

Sorry, I didn't think anyone else was here.

You

What are you watching?

Ein

Just some random videos.

Can I tell you a secret, Teacher?

This place is kind of my secret hideout.

You

The library?

Ein

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.

You

But doesn't the school have its own reading room?

Ein

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?

You

Why?

Ein

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.

?!

Marciana

Hmm?

Hello, Commander.

Ein?

What brings you two here?

You

I came here to read, and Ein is here to rela...

Ein

I-I...

I came here to read too!

Marciana

... You did?

Ah, yes.

Did you come to read up on the material related to the homework I gave today?

Ein

Y-yeah! That's it!

Teacher was helping me find the right book.

Isn't that right, Teacher?

You

Ein looks up at me pleadingly.

I recall how she desperately begged me to keep her hideaway a secret.

... Yes, that's right.

Marciana

Why come all the way out here?

You could have easily found something in the school library.

Ein

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.

Marciana

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.

Ein

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!

You

Ein scurries off.

Marciana

She really is something.

I'm curious to see what she'll have prepared for me tomorrow.

You

...

Marciana smiles proudly.

I don't have the heart to tell her the truth.

10. The Burrowing Rabbit and Rabbity

126 lines
You

*Gasp*

Whew... I thought I was going to suffocate back there.

Quency and I emerge from a small hole in the ground.

Quency

Hehe, shouldn't you be used to this by now?

You

Why even bother using a tunnel? I could just walk over here.

Quency

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.

You

It's not that I'm entirely opposed to the idea...

Anyway, what kind of item were you asked to retrieve?

Quency

We're in a library, aren't we?

What else could it be? A book, of course.

You

A convict from the Rehabilitation Center wants a book?

Quency

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

You look more like a thief than a regular citizen...

Quency

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.

You

... So what's that book called?

Quency

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?

You

Yeah...

???

Wow!

You

?!

You

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.

Alice

Holy moly!

Quency

H-how long have you been standing there?!

Alice

Did you two... just come out of that hole?

I saw it all!

Who's this that you're with, Rabbity?

Quency

Hmm... How do you think we should handle this?

You

Beats me.

Alice

You must be a rabbit digging your burrow!

You

Huh?

Quency

Come again?

Alice

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.

You

Alice's eyes sparkle as she looks at Quency.

Alice

I never thought I'd run into one in the library!

Quency

Um...

Yep! That's right. I'm a rabbit digging a burrow.

You see? Hippity hop! Hehe.

Alice

I knew it!

Hehe, nice to meet you, Burrowing Rabbit.

You

Alice, what's that book that you're holding?

Alice

Encyclopedia of Rabbits on the Surface.

You

!!

Alice

It has soooooo many rabbits!

Quency

So the book we're looking for is right in front of us?

You

Seems so.

Quency

Alice,

could I perhaps take a look at that encyclopedia?

Alice

You're intrigued by it as well?

Sure!

*Thud*

Quency

Wow, very interesting.

Thanks for letting me take a look.

Alice

Huh? I don't think you read it all the way to the end.

Quency

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.

You

Quency hands the encyclopedia back to Alice.

Alice

Oh, that's all right!

I already read it a bunch today.

You can borrow it.

Quency

Are you sure?

All right then, I'll return it the minute I'm finished with it.

Alice

No problem! I can pick it back up once you're done.

You

Alice gives the encyclopedia back to Quency.

Smooth.

Quency

Hehe, thanks.

Well then, I've gotta get going.

See you later, Alice!

Alice

Oh, Burrowing Rabbit!

Quency

Yes?

Alice

Before you go... can I ask for one favor?

Quency

What is it?

Alice

Um... Could I...

take a look at your burrow?

You

You mean that hole we came through?

Alice

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!

You

Sorry, Alice, but I don't th...

Quency

Sure! That sounds like fun.

Alice

Yahoo! Thank you!

Quency

I'll go in first. Follow me and stick close, okay?

Alice

Okay!

You

Quency and Alice make their way to the tunnel opening.

W-wait!

You

That might be a problem.

Alice

Huh? So I can't go in?

You

Well... I'm not saying that...

Alice

B-but I want to see what's in there!

Quency

C'mon, Rabbity, don't be so mean!

You

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.

Alice

Oh, is that so?

Then could you speak to them and invite me next time?

You

Of course.

Quency

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.

You

Having other people join us might make things... complicated.

Quency

Hm... I guess you're right.

All right then, I'll go first.

*Swoosh*

You

Quency disappears into the hole.

Alice

Whoa!

It's just as cool as it was the first time!

You

See you next time, Alice.

Alice

See you next time, Rabbity.

You

With a small pang of guilt, I jump into the hole.

*Swoosh*

Alice

I guess that's that...

Alice, now on her own, yells into the hole.

Alice

Burrowing Rabbit!

Be sure to invite me next time!

I'll be waiting!

11. Culinary Spelling Bee Quiz Show

89 lines
You

I 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...

Crust

Correct! Stir-fried Sausage and Vegetables!

Phantom

Wrong. It's Soy Garlic Chicken.

Crust

Darn it...

You

...

Crust

Mr. Gourmand!

You've come to rescue me!

You

??

Phantom

Hello, Monsieur. Are you looking for something?

You

Yeah, but...

what are you two doing?

Crust

I'm planning on publishing a cookbook.

You

Crust hands me a stack of papers titled "Crunchy & Crispy! Easy cooking by Crust".

Crust

It's my first time writing a book though,

so Phantom offered to help with editing and proofreading.

You

...

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?"

Your choice

I feel like my brain is snapping in half...

Good grief...

You

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.

Phantom

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.

Crust

Um, Mr. Gourmand...

You

Crust leans in and whispers to me.

Crust

I'm not in the wrong here, am I?

You

No, Crust. You're in the right on this one.

Crust

Phew...

Phantom

Communicating remotely also complicated things, as I expected it would.

Crust

That's why I came here today.

But I think I'm a bit out of my depth.

You

... I'll help.

I have prior experience interpreting...

Or rather, deciphering Phantom's writing.

Crust

Thank you!

Phantom

Much appreciated. I don't foresee any more issues, then.

You

And so we begin the daunting task of decrypting the abstract document.

Onion!

Phantom

Wrong.

Crust

I got it!

... Lamb?

Phantom

Correct.

Crust

Woohoo! I got it right!

You

Wait, but how come...

Crust

I wrote it in a hurry, so my handwriting isn't the neatest. I could see how you thought it said "onion".

You

... So what's the score now?

Phantom

With that round, Crust has taken the lead.

Crust

Woohoo! Just gotta keep it up!

You

I won't lose to either of you!

Crust

I'm rooting for you, Mr. Gourmand.

...

Wait... why am I cheering for my opponent?

Phantom

Onto the next question.

Crust

All right!

You

After struggling for quite some time, we finally manage to re-proofread Phantom's "proofread" version.

Crust

Phew, it's finally over...

You

I feel like my brain is melting.

Phantom

Good work. I think we're good to proceed with the first run of printing.

Crust

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?

You

I think we're a little past dinner time.

Crust

What? No way... gah!

You

Reading the clock reveals it is nearing 11 PM.

Crust

I had no idea... Didn't we start right after lunch?

You

Somewhere around the middle, it essentially morphed into a quiz show.

Crust

Yeah. We were completely absorbed...

...

!!

That's it!

Phantom

What is it?

Crust

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.

You

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 lines
Snow Crane

Welcome!

Thank you for coming to Snow Crane's neat handwriting workshop.

Jackal

Yaaayyy!

You

Can't believe you got two people to show up on such short notice.

Snow Crane

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?

Biscuit

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.

Snow Crane

What a wonderful goal!

I'm sure you'll do just fine.

And what about you, Jackal?

Jackal

Hehehe! I came 'cause you said there'd be something tasty!

Wait, is "neat handwriting" something you eat?

Snow Crane

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?

You

Sure thing.

I don't usually think twice about my handwriting, but suddenly I'm worried it looks messy.

*Scribble, scribble*

Snow Crane

Hehe, you must be nervous.

Just relax and write like you normally do.

*Scribble, scribble*

You

Whew... Done.

Snow Crane

Hmm... Very nice.

You have a strong, neat handwriting.

It's just like you!

You

Aw, thanks...

Snow Crane

Hmm, try making this stroke a little longer here.

And if you keep both sides even, it'll look much nicer.

You

Oooooh...

When Snow Crane writes my name out, it looks as neat as if she'd typed it.

Snow Crane

Perfect. Now, let's have Biscuit write her name.

Biscuit

O-okay!

*Scribble, scribble*

Snow Crane

Let's see now... Biscuit's handwriting...

Oh my, it's so round and cute!

Your handwriting really suits you!

Biscuit

Really...?

You don't think it looks too childish?

Snow Crane

Not at all!

There is a "proper" way to write, of course...

But your handwriting is part of what makes you, you.

Biscuit

I see! Hehe, thanks for saying that!

Snow Crane

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?

Biscuit

Wow! It looks so neat and grown-up now!

I'm gonna try real hard to write like that now!

Snow Crane

That's wonderful to hear!

You

Snow Crane pats Biscuit's head.

Biscuit

Hehe! I'm so happy!

You

Biscuit's tail wags like crazy.

Snow Crane

Now, last but not least,

Jackal!

Jackal

Okay!

So what d'you want me to do?

Snow Crane

Please write your name here.

Jackal

My name?

Uh, how d'you write it again?

You

You don't know how to handwrite, Jackal?

Jackal

What's "handwrite"?

Is that a snack?

You

Just write your name like we did earlier—

Snow Crane

Wait, Friend.

You

Huh?

Snow Crane

Ah...

That was my mistake.

Of course, not everyone knows how to write...

Jackal, come sit with me.

Jackal

Hehe, okay!

You gonna feed meee?

Snow Crane

I'm going to teach you everything.

And by the end,

I'll make sure you can write your name.

Jackal

Yeah, yeah, got it. So where's the food?

Snow Crane

Once we're done, I'll put together a lavish feast for you.

Jackal

Really? Hehehe!

Biscuit

Um...

Looks like it might take a bit, huh?

You

Yeah, you can head out now.

Biscuit

Hehe! Okay, thanks for the amazing class!

You

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.