GODDESS OF VICTORY: NIKKE story · Brief Encounters

Workshop

10 scenes, 1,002 lines

1. Engineer VS Pilgrims: Let the Sparks Fly

127 lines
Noah

*Giggle giggle*

Is this the workshop for the underground tunnel?

Centi

We've got customers!

Noah

It's not so bad on the inside.

But doesn't the engineer seem a bit... shady?

I doubt this can even hold a candle to Eden's technology.

Centi

!!

There's nothing mightier than Mighty Tools!

Impossible isn't part of our vocabulary!

Noah

You don't say? All right, then.

You see this shield?

Make a drill that can pierce through it.

Just a little reminder: Tyrant level Raptures can't put a dent in it.

This is the strongest shield on earth.

Noah

Let me guess, you can't do it? *Snicker*

So much for 'almighty'. I knew all these underground dwellers...

Centi

Consider it done.

I'll put my reputation on the line.

I will make

a drill that can pierce that shield of yours.

Noah

... Huh?

Hey now, no need to take this so seriously...

Centi

No!

Liter has worked her whole life building up Mighty Tools!

I won't let it all fall because of me!

Noah

Wh... what is going on?

I was just kidding around...

Well, at any rate, it's not like she'll actually succeed.

All right, give me your best shot.

But if you can't make a scratch on my shield in 3 days,

everyone will know that Mighty Tools is nothing but a sham. Got it?

Good luck, then. *Giggle*

Centi

...

Dear Liter.

In your absence, I have encountered a formidable foe unlike any I have come up against.

How am I supposed to make a drill capable of piercing that Pilgrim's shield?

Not even a weapon of pure Goddesium could make a dent.

But you have always told me to never accept defeat.

Even if I lose, I will not take it lying down!

I will make it work!

I will make a drill that pierces that shield!

... A bit later.

Noah

...

You

You seem nervous.

Noah

I'm not nervous! It's just

that bet I made with that goofy-looking engineer...

What I asked of her is clearly impossible.

But she's all full of piss and vinegar, as if she actually believes it's possible.

What if...

if she actually ends up pulling this off, I'll be disgraced.

A pilgrim's shield was pierced by a drill made from the underground!

That kind of useless shield, I wouldn't even want it for free!

... Well, that's the gist of it.

You

If you're so anxious, why don't we go sneak a peek?

Noah

Wait, what?

Surely that's not necessary?

That makes it seem like I'm actually worried about all this... which I'm not!

... A bit later, at the Mighty Tools workshop.

Noah

Can you see anything?

Your choice

Centi is tempering.

I can't see through the window. It's too small.

Noah

Bah, get out of the way. Let me see.

...

That stupid...

What's she slaving away for?

It's not going to change anything.

Your choice

It's the process that's important, not the result.

Everyone has something they just can't compromise on.

Noah

Pssh.

If you're lacking in ability, that spurt of passion won't get you anywhere...

Working harder, not smarter.

Makes me sick.

... The next day, at the Mighty Tools workshop.

Noah

What is she doing today?

You

She's carving the individual spirals of a drill.

Noah

Wow, she's really something.

What if my shield gets scratched...

No, wait, forget I said that.

I take it back! Don't want to jinx me.

On the last day, at the Mighty Tools workshop.

Noah

...

You

...

Centi

Finished!

The drill is done!

All that's left to do is try it out.

Noah

...

I can see that.

You

Noah holds up the drill Centi made.

Noah

*Gulp*

Well... shall we?

Centi

Let's!

*Turns on drill*

*Bzzzzzzzzz*

You

The drill scratches at the surface of the shield for a while.

Then...

Noah

Is that...

a crack?

You

It is!

Centi

No way.

I don't see anything!

Noah

What are you talking about?

Right here, look!

Centi

That thing's practically microscopic!

I'll make another one.

I'm sure it'll be big enough this time!

Noah

N-no need! The bet's off.

Centi

!!

So... has Mighty Tools

failed?

Noah

No. Matter of fact...

I'm worried you'll actually pull it off next time.

Noah

What a nuisance you all are.

Makes my hair stand on end seeing weaklings like you make such large strides.

... Well, I'll be going then.

By the way,

I'll have a normal request for you next time.

So don't let me see your skills slipping.

Centi

Boss...

was that... a compliment from her?

I didn't bring shame to Liter's name, did I?

You

She'll be proud of you.

Centi

Th-thank you!

I'll keep improving!

You

I'll be there cheering you on all the way.

2. Need Anything? Come to the Workshop!

96 lines
Centi

Liter, I'm done with packing!

Liter

Good work. It's about time we head out.

You

Another business trip?

Liter

Yes, a hotel extension. We'll be there for a few days.

Keep the place up and running while I'm away, Centi.

Centi

No problem! Don't worry about me!

*Ring*

Centi

Welcome!

Poli

Hello.

Oh, Commander, you're here too?

Always nice running into you.

You

What brings you to the workshop?

Poli

Is Liter in?

Liter

I'm here.

Anything I can help you with?

Poli

The police baton you made me last time,

broke in half.

Poli holds out a broken police baton.

Liter

What happened? I made it so that it was nearly unbreakable.

Poli

It caught a bullet during a raid on an illegal trading den.

Liter

A gun?

I made it sturdy, but not enough to withstand a bullet.

Poli

I was hoping you could repair it?

Liter

No, I'll make a new one.

Poli

Are you sure?

Liter

I'll get right on it. Wait just a moment.

Your choice

What about the business trip?

Is it even possible to make a baton that quickly?

Centi

Liter always leaves a half-day early just in case.

There's still plenty of time.

We're actually a bit ahead of schedule, so it's no problem.

If it's Liter making it, yes.

The speed she works at is incredible.

Not to mention the quality of the end product!

Isn't she amazing?

Liter

Centi, enough chit-chat. Let's get to work.

Centi

Yes, ma'am!

Later.

Liter has created a new, upgraded police baton.

Liter

Hold it up.

Poli

Whoa!

It's way lighter than the last one.

Liter

It should withstand all traditional firearms.

Poli

Marvelous work Liter, as always.

Thanks for putting it on rush order!

Well, I've got to get going. I'll leave the money here.

Take care, Commander!

Centi

Thank you for your business.

Poli leaves.

Centi

I'll go get your luggage.

*Vroom-m-m*

Liter

I know that sound...

I hear a motorcycle engine turning off.

*Ring*

Centi

Welcome!

Sugar

Are you open?

Centi

Yes, we are.

Sugar

Hey there Partner. You here to order something?

Your choice

Nope.

No.

Sugar

...?

Anyway, Black Typoon is making some strange noises, so I came in.

You

Didn't sound any different to me.

Sugar

Well, it does to me.

Usually you can hear it loud and clear, but it's been sounding a bit muffled lately.

Liter

I hear it too. I'm pretty sure I know what the problem is.

There should be just one part we need to fix. Let's go check it out.

Sugar

Getting straight to it, I like it.

Later.

*Vroom-m-m*

Liter comes in, as the sound of the motorcycle fades into the distance.

Liter

Phew... we should get going.

Centi, bring our bags.

Centi

Yes! Right away!

You

...

Liter

Hmm?

What's the matter?

You

You're stretched pretty thin.

Liter

I wouldn't say that.

I just do what I can. That's all.

...

Do I look tired to you?

Your choice

You do.

No. More than anything I'd say you look happier.

Liter

Well, I've been pretty busy since coming here.

But no more than I expected to be.

Ha, you think so?

There's certain happiness to be found in exhaustion.

A lot of people need me.

So if you ever need anything fixed, come visit our shop.

Centi

Liter, here are your bags!

Liter

Thank you.

All right, we're off then.

Centi

Safe travels!

You

Safe travels.

Liter steps out of the shop with a smile on her face.

3. Change of Conception

85 lines
Liter

Finally, all the work orders that have been coming in since yesterday are finished.

It has been a while since I had some free time.

You

You were really up to your elbows at work.

Liter

You can say that again.

I gave Centi some time off, but I wonder how she's doing.

*Ring*

Liter

Another customer already?

No time to rest, I suppose.

Maiden

Is this the shop that can make anything?

Liter

Sure is.

What'll it be?

Maiden

Um...

Can you make a face mask?

Liter

A face mask?

Like the one you're wearing now?

Maiden

Yes, something like this one, but

one that doesn't feel like it's touching your skin.

One that's so comfortable to breathe through, you don't even realize you're wearing a face mask.

I'd like for it to be thin, and have a beautiful design as well.

Liter

Hmmm.

That's not really our area of expertise.

You may be better off asking Elysion directly.

Maiden

Oh...

Boss says that the face masks we have right now are extremely dependable, but

they're so suffocating! I can't stand them.

Anyway, I suppose face masks are a no-go for you.

Then what about a portable bed?

Liter

You mean like a rollaway bed or a fold-out bed?

Maiden

Those are nice, but I mean a bed small enough to fit in a bag that you can expand when you need to use it.

That way I can lie down and rest wherever I want.

Is that possible?

Liter

Of course not!

Ever since you came in here, you've been asking the impossible!

If I could make something like that, it'd already be a mainstay on the battlefield!

Why don't you ask for a flying carpet while you're at it, or a magic pill to make you grow ten stories tall?

Maiden

A flying carpet? I'm intrigued!

Could you do that?

Liter

It's like speaking to a wall!

There's no one on this entire planet who could make that!

Maiden

Oh... I guess you're right.

Turns out that you can't make everything.

Liter

If you're not going to request something that's even remotely possible to construct,

then I suggest you head out.

You

You can make it.

Liter

What?

Your choice

You're from Mighty Tools, you can make anything.

What's so outlandish about the bed she asked for?

Liter

... You think I can make it?

A bed that fits in your bag so you can lie down and rest any time...

If I just think outside the box, I suppose it's not that far-fetched.

...!

Ah hah!

That's right. It's all so simple.

Wait here a moment.

A moment later.

Liter comes back with several iron bars and a piece of cloth.

Maiden

What is this?

Liter

Isn't it obvious?

It's the bed you were asking for.

You connect the iron bars like this to make a support frame.

Then you simply hang the cloth in-between them.

Maiden

I get it!

It's like a collapsible hammock.

Liter

It's easy to disassemble too. Here, you try.

Maiden's excitement is palpable as she dismantles the hammock.

Maiden

Easy as pie! And it's even lighter than I thought.

I can carry this in my bag no problem.

I guess you guys can make anything here after all.

Thank you. Now I can sneak in some cat naps when the Boss isn't looking.

Liter

Um, well... how you decide to use it is up to you.

If you want to thank anyone, thank Greenhorn over here.

You

Huh? Why me?

Liter

If it weren't for you, I'd have never tried making this.

I was being too close-minded, until you lit the fires of inspiration.

If I'd given up because I thought it was impossible to make, we'd have lost a customer.

Maiden

Thank you Commander.

Because of you, I found a new way to slack off.

You

... You're welcome?

Maiden

I gotta go find someplace to test this baby out!

*Ring*

Liter

Hehe, I've been building and tinkering for as long as I can remember, but I guess I still have a lot to learn.

Now that I have some free time, I think I'll use it to do some studying.

Care to help me?

You

Of course.

Liter and I studied all sorts of useful topics.

4. Legendary Snowboard

107 lines
Centi

Hey, welcome to Mighty Tools! You name it, we can do it!

Epinel

Hi. Is Liter here?

Centi

I'm afraid she stepped out to inspect some new machinery that just arrived.

Epinel

Can I put in an order then?

Centi

Sure!

Epinel

Then...

I want you to make a board for Anne.

Like from the old days.

Anne

Hey there.

Epinel told me that there used to be boards that you could ride on snow with.

They sounded super cool to me,

and Epinel said she could take me to a workshop that could make anything... so, here we are.

Centi

!!

You bet we can!

My only question is...

when would you ever have to ride a board on top of the snow?

Does snow even pile up that high?

Epinel

So...

you're saying you can't do it?

Centi

Hmmmm...

To be honest, it's pretty advanced for a one-man job.

But if someone more familiar with the concept could give me some pointers,

I'd be able to churn it out with no problem, no matter how unfamiliar it is to me.

Epinel

I see what you mean.

Wait a moment, I've got just the person.

... Soon after.

Anne

Teacher?

Are you the one who will be giving orders to Centi?

Your choice

What do you mean "orders"?

I don't know what's going on. Epinel just said it was something urgent.

Centi

Boss!

Do you happen to know anything of some kind of board that you can use to ride across the snow?

You

I've heard about it.

Centi

Perfect!

Sounds like we're about to have two satisfied customers.

All right then, what do I have to do to get started?

You

I've only heard about it. I don't have the slightest clue on how to make one.

Centi

At least you've heard about it. That's more than I can do for myself.

...

So what's the first step?

You

...

Epinel

How about we start with the shape? The board should be long.

You

... What she said.

Centi

Sure thing.

*Wiiiing*

You

Centi cuts out several layers of planks, stacks them on top of each other,

then finishes off by using a cutter to round off the ends.

Centi

All right Boss, what's next?

Epinel

I'm not 100% sure,

but if it's a board, then surely it needs wheels, doesn't it?

Anne

And since it's meant to be used in winter, how about we add some snowflake decals?

You

Add wheels and then some snowflake decals.

Centi

I'm on it!

*Tang! Tang! Tang*

You

Centi crafts some wheels and attaches them to the board.

She then proceeds to paste several snowflake decals on the deck.

Anne

It's really starting to come together.

Epinel

...

It's meant to be ridden on top of the snow, but... it doesn't really have any distinguishing features.

What else do you think we can do?

Your choice

I don't think we should go overboard with it.

There are a few things, but a board should be lightweight...

Centi

C'mon Boss, don't be so indecisive.

Besides, no one here has seen one of these things before.

It's not like anyone is going to call you out for inaccuracy.

Your choice

Let's add a sensor that detects sinkholes under the snow.

Let's add a sensor that detects avalanches.

Centi

Oh, right!

I hadn't even considered that.

It's wonderful that you always keep the safety of your Nikkes in mind, Commander.

*Kssssss*

Centi

Now what?

Epinel

Anne, is there anything else you want to add?

Anne

Um... well...

Could we add somewhere where I could store my notebook?

I'm worried that I might lose it while riding.

You

How about adding storage space for all sorts of things?

Centi

...!!

Now that I think about it, if you want to ride this on top of the snow, you'll need to head up to the surface.

You'll have to bring firearms and supplies,

so it makes sense for us to add a bit of storage space.

*Tang! Tang! Tang*

*Kssssss*

Centi

Phew... all right, what's next?

If you ask me...

You

Centi tips her workman's cap.

Centi

I think we've really outdone ourselves!

Your choice

Good job, Centi.

You've done Mighty Tools proud.

Centi

I appreciate it,

but I should be thanking the three of you for bringing me such a cool order.

...

How about we all head outside and take in the sunset?

The weather is perfect.

Anne

Oh, let's hurry before the sun gets away from us!

You

Everyone left the workshop in high spirits.

... Soon after.

Liter

Finally... that inspection took ages.

I just hope Centi didn't run the place into the ground.

Huh? What on earth is this thing?

Wait...

These wheels were supposed to be sent to the Central Government tomorrow.

And these snowflake decals were meant for the Talentum Mall.

...

...

What is this monstrosity?!

Ceeenntttiiiii!!!

5. Naru is All Yours

97 lines
Rei

Aaarrghhhh!

N-Naru!

Open your eyes!

Naru 1

... They're open.

Rei

Don't you die on me!

We were supposed to be together forever... *Sob*

I'll be nicer to you!

I'll stop mooching off your snacks!

You won't have to do my homework for me ever again!

You

...

I head into the workshop,

only to find Rei bawling as she cradles Naru 1 in her arms.

Rei

And...

And...

The toilets...

Naru 1

... What about them?

Rei

I'll scrub them myself!

Naru 1

!!

Rei... promise me...

You

I may be seeing things, but Naru 1's eyes seem to widen.

Rei

So don't die...

Centi

Ready to go, initiating repairs!

Rei

Wait, wait a minute! Naru and I haven't finished talking.

You

What is going on here?

Centi

Oh, hey Boss!

Rei

Teacher!

Naru is ill.

Your choice

What happened?

I thought Naru was an android.

Rei

Can't androids fall ill?

You

... Fine, what exactly is the issue?

Rei

He feels sluggish.

He can barely open his mouth.

His power keeps getting cut off.

And he even gets heavier.

You

... I see.

Centi, is Naru sick?

Centi

I wouldn't say sick, more like broken.

That's why I'm here to fix him.

Just some small repairs, nothing major.

Before I can do that though, I've got to shut down Naru's power.

Naru 1

Rei, goodbye.

You make me... happy...

Rei

Naru, Naru!

*Beep*

Naru 1

...

Rei

Noooooooo!

Teacher, Naru isn't talking!

You

Of course he isn't. His power is off.

Centi

I'll have him fixed in a jiffy!

*Sizzle*

*Click click*

You

Centi opens Naru's back lid.

*Click click*

*Sizzle*

*Beep*

Centi

All done.

You

The entire process takes less than a minute.

All you did was change the battery...

Centi

Yep, just a basic procedure.

You

What was wrong with him?

Centi

Some laundry detergent had corroded her battery.

A bit of water seepage isn't an issue, since Naru's waterproof.

The same can't be said for chemicals, I'm afraid.

So be careful!

You

This happened because Rei always has Naru cleaning the toilets.

*Beep*

Naru 1

Retrieving signal.

*Sizzle*

Naru 1

Naru 1.

Operation confirmed.

Rei

Naru! Are you all right?

Naru 1

I'm okay.

Rei

Are you feeling better?

Can you open your mouth now? Can you move?

Naru 1

Perfectly.

Rei

Whoo... Great.

Naru 1

Rei.

I am deeply moved.

Naru is free.

I'll never forget

your promise to me.

Rei

Huh?

Oh, right! That...

Naru 1

Snacks, homework, toilets.

You promised.

Rei

Sure, but... could I maybe have some of your snacks once in a while? About the homework...

Naru 1

*Beep*

Rei

!!

All right! Fine!

I'll do as I promised!

Naru 1

...

You

Naru smiles gently.

Rei

Hee-hee. It's so good to see you're all right, Naru.

Centi

If you're feeling under the weather again, feel free to drop by.

Rei

Sure thing, thanks Centi.

You

Naru and Rei skip merrily out of the workshop.

6. The Figure of Dream

138 lines

*Zing*

Mast

Is that you?

Liter

Yes.

Mast

...

Liter

Is that all you've got to say? You're the one who called me over.

Mast

Sorry.

It's just that I've got something on my mind. A glove, to be exact.

It's a very special glove that isn't even sold on the market.

Ever since I saw it in the movies when I was a kid,

I always wanted to wear it.

So I can't give up.

A guy recommended this place to me.

Apparently, you can make just about anything there.

Anything that you can imagine.

You

That's basically how it happened.

Liter

You keep some awfully strange company, Greenhorn.

...

A glove, was it?

Setting aside the fact that you're asking me to craft something in this sweltering heat,

what kind of wacko item is this if you can't even buy it at a market?

Mast

It's shaped like a hand.

Liter

... As all gloves are.

Mast

It's made of metal.

Liter

So we're talking about a gauntlet?

Mast

No, you're totally off base.

Here, let me show you.

*Scribble* *Scribble*

You

Mast draws a crude sketch on her tablet.

... Is this some form of abstract art?

Liter

Are you trying to give me a brain aneurism? What am I supposed to make of this?

Mast

??

Just a sec, let me try again.

*Scribble* *Scribble*

You

It's somehow even worse...

Mast

??

Neither of you can tell what this is? It's so basic!

I'm starting to get frustrated here.

*Zing*

Yan

What are all of you doing here?

Mast

I'm trying to get a customized glove made,

but these two can't make heads or tails of my drawing.

Yan

What is it? Let me see.

You

Yan walks up to the sketch.

Yan

...

Ah, this!

If this is what I think it is, I know all about it.

We just got some in stock this morning.

Liter

... What?

You

Can you tell us what it is?

Yan

Oh, telling you would be easy enough,

but you're going to be ordering it irregardless, I presume?

I'll just have someone bring it over.

In order to truly appreciate it for what it is, you've got to see it in person.

A moment later.

*Zing*

Clerk

Here's the product you asked for, Boss.

Yan

Very good. Bring it here.

You

Is that a...?

As the Talentum Mall employee steps forward and lays down the product in their hands,

it is revealed to be... a metal ring meant for hanging curtains on.

Yan

This is what you wanted, right?

It beats me as to why you'd want to outfit this into a glove,

but the Outpost is chock full of weirdoes, so I didn't ask any questions.

Mast

This... isn't quite what I was looking for.

Yan

??

Mast

What I wanted is a bit more...

curved, like a hook.

Yan

Huh?

What in the world are you talking about?

Liter

Now you see why we were so confused.

Yan

Why are we going through all this rigmarole in the first place?

You

To make someone's childhood dream come true.

Yan

You said it's more like a hook?

Surely you're not talking about a fishing hook or something like that...

... or are you?

...

Forget it, it's easier if I just show you.

I happen to have some. I'll have someone bring it.

A moment later.

You

...

Mast

...

Yan

Feast your eyes on this.

This right here is something you'll only find at our store, and nowhere else.

A limited-edition silver fishing hook meant for pro fishers.

On top of it being made of metal, it's the only curved hook available at the moment.

Mast

...

Hmm...

Hmmmmm...

It's not exactly what I was looking for, but...

it has a similar feeling to the glove I dreamed of.

Your choice

Your dream was about being a fisherman? Not a pirate?

What in the heck was your dream about?

Liter

All right, I'm officially checking out.

You all come back to me when you've figured out what the hell you actually want.

You

Yan proceeds to bring us a few more items to view.

Clerk

Delivery.

Yan

What about this?

Mast

Getting closer...

Yan

This has to be it, I'm sure of it.

Mast

If only the part you put your fingers in was a tad bit smaller...

A moment later.

Yan

*Phew*

Mast

*Phew*

You deserve a high five for this, Yan.

If you called this baby here the Legendary Pirate, Barb,

no one in their right mind would ever disagree.

Yan

... I'm just glad you're satisfied.

You

Isn't Barb famous?

Yan

He is.

He's the pirate with the prosthetic hand in the fairy tale.

Mast

That's right! Boy, there's nothing you don't know, Yan.

You

Then how come we didn't search for that image from the beginning?

Mast

...

Yan

...

Mast

I guess you do have a point there...

That's putting on the old thinking cap, Captain.

...

But then again, if we'd done that,

we wouldn't have gone on this madcap adventure,

and that's just not the proper pirate way.

Anyway, I think it's time I put this dream to rest now.

Yan

After all this, you're giving it up, just like that?

Mast

Come on, you shouldn't put it like that.

Don't think of it as an ordeal. Think of it more as an exciting adventure!

Yan

...

If that's the case, then where's my money?

Mast

Huh?

Yan

Don't adventurers get a reward after a successful adventure?

Mast

Uh... that's true, but...

Yan

And, lest you forget, Rookie, Liter and I all don't come cheap.

Mast

Er...

Yan

On top of that, you ordered custom-made materials, so that'll come at a premium as well.

Mast

... C-Captain! Help!

I think I'm in big trouble.

You

Sorry, Mast, but it's time to face the music.

Having adventures and chasing one's dream is often a pricy venture.

7. Hidden Master of Production?

104 lines

*Zing*

Tove

Survivalist, you're just in time.

Why is here so empty?

I need a fishing rod made pronto, but there's no one here.

I did a cursory check, and all the materials I need are right here. I'm half tempted to make one myself.

You

Why don't you try it then?

Tove

Huh?

Wouldn't that be a bit out of line?

I'm not the one who came up with all these materials.

You

Didn't you say it was urgent?

Tove

Yeah...

You

I'll cover for you. Do what you need to do.

Tove

You will?

All right then, I'll get started!

You

Tove starts to busy herself with making the fishing rod.

After a while.

Tove

Ta-da!

Tove the survival expert's special handmade fishing rod is officially completed!

It's made of oakwood, so I'm confident about its durability.

You

The craftsmanship looks impeccable.

Tove

Heh-heh, I know. I'm very satisfied with it.

Well, I better leave some money for snagging their materials.

*Zing*

Dolla

Hmm?

Where's Liter? Only Client, and a new customer?

You

She's out.

Dolla

Well, that's no good.

I've got an urgent order.

You

Why don't you tell Tove about it?

She's good at crafting all sorts of stuff.

Tove

W-what are you talking about?

I mean, it's nice to be complimented, but...

Dolla

... Fine, I'll bite.

If Client recommends you, it's worth a shot, I suppose.

Here's the design I'm after. Can you do it?

You

Tove scrutinizes the blueprints that Dolla hands her.

Tove

Let's see...

Okay, no problem.

I can make this in an hour or so.

Dolla

An hour?

That's all?

Tove

Yep!

Dolla

Well, I'll let you get to it then.

Tove

Okay!

You

Tove's words have barely left her mouth when she springs into action.

About an hour later.

Tove

All finished!

You

Dolla takes the object from Tove and examines it carefully.

Dolla

...

You actually pulled it off.

Your craftsmanship is no joke!

Would you ever consider working for me?

Tove

Huh?

Oh, I'm sorry. I'm working with the Unlimited Squad now.

Dolla

I know that.

I mean do you want a part-time job?

Tove

A part-time job? I never considered that...

*Zing*

Yan

Liter, are you in there?

Huh?! What in the world?

How come there are so many customers?

Dolla

Because you're late.

Yan,

I've got a sample of that thing you wanted.

Yan

Already?

You're kidding.

I was told it'd take at least three hours to complete.

Liter really is something.

You

It wasn't Liter who made it.

Yan

Huh? What did you say?

Who else could accomplish this so quickly?

It wasn't Centi, was it?

Tove

Um... I did.

Yan

What the... who are you?

Turns out we've got a bona fide prodigy amongst us!

Hey, do you want to come work with me?

I'll pay you well.

Dolla

Save it, Yan.

I already gave her an offer.

Yan

Bah, I should have known you'd try and undercut me.

Tove

Please don't fight...

At any rate, I'm not interested in any part-time work.

Liter

Unbelievable!

How dare you make such a scene in the sacred Workshop?

I'm gone for five minutes, and you still manage to kick up a commotion.

Yan

Forget about that. Look at this.

She made this within an hour, all according to the specifications as well.

Surely you'd want someone with that kind of talent on your team as well?

Liter

What is this?

Let me see.

...

*Bang*

*Collapse*

Liter

Apparently all that glitters is not gold.

I can't believe you all were fooled by this hunk of junk.

It's no better than a child's toy.

If she wants to be a true master, she's got a whole lot of training left to do.

Tove

Survivalist...

I think now is where we run.

Dolla

Wait up!

Yan

Hey, stop right there!

You

Tove and I hurriedly flee the Workshop,

leaving the furious Dolla and Yan yelling behind us.

8. BOOM Friend

69 lines
Elegg

Nice!

You really are great at making stuff, Liter. You live up to your reputation.

And so detailed, too! This is gonna be a lifesaver.

Centi

Everyone is always happy

with Liter's work!

Liter

Naturally.

Honestly, getting showered with nonstop compliments is starting to get old.

If you don't need anything else, then move along.

Elegg

Whatever you say!

Now that we've got the part we need, let's head back, Mr. Commander.

You

It's unusual for you to go back so quietly.

Elegg

What do you mean?

You

Normally you'd make a big commotion about installing BOOM somewh...

Centi

Um... Liter, this display seems to be acting up.

All these weird monsters are swarming on screen...

Here too! And here!

It's happening to all the screens in the Workshop!

Liter

What?

You

...

Elegg

What do you take me for? Of course I installed it everywhere.

I want the entire world to be able to play BOOM.

You

Centi might be fine with that, but I doubt Liter will appreciate it.

Elegg

Liter?

You

Both of us nervously turn our heads and look towards Liter.

Liter

Is that...?

Elegg

She doesn't look too good.

You think she's mad at me?

You

Most likely.

Elegg

Uh oh. Abort installation! Abort!

Liter

Isn't this BOOM?

Elegg

Huh?

Centi

You know what this is?

Liter

Of course I do.

It's BOOM. A classic FPS.

I used to play it back in the day, but only casually.

Even by the standards back then, it was pretty archaic. Not something you would want to play for too long.

I wonder if I should pick it back up again...

Elegg

...

No way!

You know about BOOM?

And you've actually tried it a long time ago?!

When did you first play it?

What's your favorite BOOM Guy line?

Liter

Gah! Don't sneak up on me like that.

And stop screaming in my ear.

Elegg

Sorry! I got a little excited...

S-so...

When did you first play BOOM?

Liter

I don't quite remember.

Video games are usually tough and make me dizzy, so I wasn't a huge fan.

However, I do remember the controls of BOOM being nice and smooth. Very simple as well, perhaps because it was made so long ago.

Like I said, I only dabbled in it a few times.

It's nice seeing it again after all this time.

Elegg

Wow...

This is amazing. Just amazing.

Liter

I don't see what you're so excited about.

Anyway, I assume you're the one behind this?

Hmm...

Having it installed on every device is overkill. Just leave it installed on my personal tablet.

Maybe I can relive some old memories next time I get bored.

Elegg

Wow! Really?!

I'll add a couple of new modes for you. You're gonna love 'em!

Liter

Do as you please.

Centi

Wow.

This is the first time I've seen Liter interested in something like this.

You

I know. I'm a little taken aback myself.

Centi

It's been a while since she had any real fun, so it'll be nice for her to blow off some steam.

You

Elegg doesn't seem to have any intention of going back for a while,

so I decide to leave the Workshop by myself.

9. The Limit of Technology

78 lines
You

At Trony's request, I accompany her to the Workshop.

Liter

What brings you here, Greenhorn?

You

Trony asked me to come.

Trony

Um... Hi, Liter.

Liter

Hey there, Kiddo. It's been a while since I've seen you out of your cave.

Trony

You know I don't like you calling me that...

Liter

So, what is it that you need this time?

Trony

I'm thinking of adding a few more features to my gaming desk,

and I wanted to get your advice.

Liter

You're trying to add even more features to that thing?

You keep adding strange features to that desk...

At this rate, you're never going to leave your room.

Haven't I told you?

You need to step outside and get some fresh air sometimes!

Trony

*Sigh* Again with the nagging.

Liter

What do you mean!?

I'm saying this for your own good!

You

Sounds like you've already added quite a few features to your gaming setup.

Trony

Yeah, for starters,

all sorts of gadgets that help with managing basic tasks.

For example, I rigged my chair with heating and cooling systems

to regulate my body temperature so that it won't affect my performance.

I also thought I might feel like eating something during a session, so I put in a refrigerator.

You

... How'd you manage to fit a fridge in there?

Trony

...

That's a secret.

Liter

Is that all?!

You should add a cleaning feature while you're at it since you're too lazy to clean your own room.

Didn't you also install a jamming device to fend off any unwanted calls?

What's up with that?

Trony

It's just...

I hate getting calls from Syuen.

You

Trony.

Trony

Yeah?

You

Can you make that desk for me?

Trony

You want to use it too, Commander? Hehe.

You

If I had that desk, I could stay in my room and play games all day.

Liter

Hey! Don't go putting any ideas in his head!

Anyway, what is it this time?

It better not be something weird,

or else you can count me out!

Trony

It's not weird...

Uh...

I was thinking of adding a feature to cut off the surrounding power.

Liter

What?

Why in the world would you need something like that?

Trony

J-just out of curiosity.

Liter

Huh?

Trony

I want to see how far Missilis's technology can go.

Liter

That...

is a great idea!

I love that you're so interested in pushing the technology to its limits.

It's been a while since I've been this excited about something!

All right, I'm in.

Trony

Yes!

Here, I've drawn up some blueprints.

You

As Trony and Liter look through the blueprints and start to talk shop,

I'm completely lost as to what they're discussing.

I'll just sit here quietly.

Liter

How about this?

Trony

Whoa!

You

As Trony manipulates the newly furnished keyboard attached to the desk, the workshop lights flicker and then turn off.

Liter

Hey, what did you do?!

Don't go switching off the power in the Workshop!

Trony

Sorry. I was just curious if it works.

It certainly seems like it.

Liter

Of course, one should never doubt Missilis's technology.

There's nothing we can't do!

Trony

I can see that!

Now, I can use this whenever I'm too lazy to get up and turn off the lights.

Liter

Huh?

Trony

Or when I'm about to lose to Elegg again.

Hehe.

Liter

You little scamp! You tricked me!

Trony

Hehehe.

You

...

There's an old saying that most technological advances are borne out of a desire to alleviate discomfort.

I'm reminded once again of how true adages can be.

10. A Special Halloween Gift ♡

101 lines
You

Belorta and I arrive at the workshop.

Belorta

Yay! Thanks for coming with me, Old-Timer ♡

You

You said I needed to be at the workshop...

Belorta

Yeah, there's something I need you to do.

Come on, let's go in.

*Whirr*

Liter

I've finished my work, so I reckon I'll take a little break.

Well, if it isn't Greenhorn.

What brings you here?

You

Belorta said she had a favor to ask.

Belorta

Hi, Liter ♡

Liter

!!

Belorta, you little rascal! What are you up to this time?!

Belorta

Aww, c'mon!

I really do have a favor to ask!

Liter

... You're always pulling some strange prank or another. How am I supposed to trust you?

You

A prank? What did she do?

Liter

She'd sneak up on me and scare me,

give me some strange-tasting candy as a "gift,"

or ask me to fix one of her toys, only for it to blow up in my face...

Anyway, she sure gave me plenty of headaches.

You

So she's been playing a lot of pranks on you, too...

Belorta

But today, I have a reeeally, really, REALLY big favor to ask.

Liter

*Sigh* All right, let's hear it.

What is it you want, then?

Belorta

Could you make me a toy?

Liter

A toy? What are you up to this time?

Belorta

Nothing, I swear!

It's a really important toy!

I'm decorating the Toy Store for Halloween,

and this toy is going to be the centerpiece!

You can whip up just about anything in a flash, Liter, so making a toy should be a piece of cake for you, right?

Liter

... Indeed, making a toy is hardly a challenge.

But I worry you'll go and bother someone with it again.

Belorta

When have I ever bothered anyone?

This toy would be perfect for Halloween!

Pretty please? Can you make it for me?

Even Old-Timer said it'd be nice to have one!

You

As she says so, Belorta pokes me in the side.

... So that's why she asked me to come along.

Ahem...

Since she's asking so nicely, why don't you make it for her?

She says it's essential for the Toy Store, and you could whip one up in no time.

Liter

Hmm... If you're voucing for her, Greenhorn...

*Sigh* I suppose I have no choice.

Do you have a blueprint for it?

Belorta

Yeah! I drew one up!

*Rustle*

Belorta

Ta-da! ♡

Liter

This is a drawing, not a blueprint.

Belorta

C'mon, I'll explain everything!

Here, look!

Liter

I get the gist of it now.

You're not planning to use this to bother someone again, are you?

Belorta

Of course not! This one's extra special compared to the other toys.

I really need it, so I need you to make it.

And most importantly, don't you think the customers are gonna love it?

Liter

... All right, fine.

I can have it done in about an hour, so you just wait here.

Belorta

Yay! Thank you ♡

One hour later...

Liter

There, all done!

You

... Huh?

It's a bat-shaped toy?

Liter

Is this what you wanted?

Belorta

Yeah! This is perfect! ♡

You

It doesn't look all that special.

Belorta

Nuh-uh!

Only Liter can make something like this ♡

Liter

Good grief...

Belorta

Time to test it out!

*Beep*

*Whirrr*

You

Oh, it can fly.

...

W-wait, it's coming my way...

*Skreeee!*

You

Ahhh!

*Plop*

You

Startled by the bat flying toward my face, I throw up an arm to protect myself.

Just then, something drops in front of me.

Th-this is... candy?

Belorta

Ahahahaha!

Your reaction is priceless! ♡

You

What just happened?

Belorta

This toy flies around and gives candy to the customers.

It uses a motion sensor to detect people, then flies over and gives them some candy.

Scaring them is just a little extra ♡

I call it... the Trick-and-Treat Toy!

Pretty special, huh?

You

I-I guess so...

Liter

Oh, honestly... Do you really find playing pranks that amusing?

Belorta

Of course!

Just think how long the customers will remember this!

I mean, Halloween just isn't Halloween without something like this!

Liter

Well, I suppose this is better than your usual foolish antics.

Just don't go getting too carried away with your pranks, now.

Belorta

Okay! Thanks again for making it ♡

You

Still clutching my pounding heart, I leave the workshop with Belorta.

From what I hear, the bat toy...

or rather, the Trick-and-Treat Toy proved to be incredibly popular with the customers.