Portrait of a Middle-Aged Artist
Last updated 2026-06-02
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Pictures
Portrait of a Middle-Aged Artist is the first part of the Trailblaze Mission chapter Unraveled for Daybreak. It automatically begins after completing The Indifference of Those Who Yet Live.
Steps
- Head to Graphia Academy and continue your adventure
- Go to the old classroom to regroup with Welt
- Show Ryusuke around the Astral Express
- Head to the Party Car
- Return to the Parlor Car
- Head to Duomension City and wait for Pearluxe Corp's shuttle
- Wander around until the shuttle arrives
- Meet up with Pearluxe Corp's host
Dialogue
Story Recap
- Picture missing
- After receiving an invitation from Jade's Anti-Destruction Alliance, the Astral Express set its course for Himeko's homeland, the world from which the Express set off again after its fall — Planarcadia.
- Picture missing
- In this world blessed by the Elation, there exists the Phantasmoon Games. Wearing ancient masks of the Elation, eight chosen participants strive to create miracles that move the hearts and souls of Planarcadia's people, hoping to share in the power of the Aeon.
- Picture missing
- Having managed this world for many years, the IPC seeks to profit by controlling this Aeonic game. In response, the Astral Express, too, has decided to enter the fray.
- Picture missing
- Meanwhile, General Yao Guang, the Xianzhou envoy to the Anti-Destruction Alliance, foresaw through divination the great crisis looming over Planarcadia. In her reading, the Stellaron Hunter Blade, who had arrived for the Phantasmoon Games, would become the source of this impending catastrophe.
- Picture missing
- To uncover the truth behind the coming apocalypse, Yao Guang seized a Mask of Elation meant for the Stellaron Hunters, and placed it upon Sunday's face. Thus, due to this unexpected turn of events, Sunday was made a participant in the games.
- Picture missing
- Meanwhile, we journeyed to the school tied to Himeko's family in search of the Mask of Elation that had once belonged to her. Yet before we could reach it, we were attacked by the streamer Sparxie, a double of Sparkle, who seized the mask for herself.
- Picture missing
- After seeing through the illusion, I encountered a mysterious girl named Evanescia in the school's archive room. With her help, I obtained another mask of her own creation, and thus became a Supplicant of the Phantasmoon Games.
- Picture missing
- To defeat Supplicant Sparxie, we ventured deep into the Fool's base of operations, the "World's End" Tavern, and later returned to the school to overcome her. In doing so, we achieved the first miracle of the Phantasmoon Games: "The Express hero defeats the villain spreading the virus."
- Picture missing
- Yet at the close of the Supplicant's first battle, greater mysteries emerged. A stranger appeared, claiming himself to be Himeko's father, and revealed a long-buried tale: fifteen years ago, during the Phantasmoon Games, someone known as the Herald of Death went on a murderous rampage...
Head to Graphia Academy and continue your adventure
Mission DescriptionHas it started? A new Phantasmoon Games? Ready to grab a bucket of popcorn and settle in on the couch, in a cinema, or on your phone to enjoy the show?
Oh wait, you're still stuck in the middle of some mystery, with no way to escape.
- Sequence 01Kuchiba conducted a memetic virus screening for the group and shared the news about Skott's death. March found it hard to stomach and, feeling that the Phantasmoon Games were getting creepy, suggested reaching out to Himeko and Mr. Yang.
- Shortly after the SparxiCon fiasco came to an end...
- Kuchiba: ...Miss March, please look straight into my eyes. Just like that, perfect.
- Kuchiba: Now, I'll need you to repeat these next few lines after me, and do so in the same tone of voice:
- March 7th: Huh? O-Okay.
- Kuchiba: "The sky is blue, not a dazzling display of sparks."
- March 7th: The sky is blue, not a dazzling display of sparks.
- Kuchiba: "Though dazzling sparks may light up the night sky, they can never outshine the eternal silence of stars."
- March 7th: Are you kidding? That's one sentence? Okay, um... "Though dazzling sparks may light up the night sky, um... they can never outshine the eternal silence of stars?"
- Kuchiba: Very good.
- March 7th: ...Very good.
- Kuchiba: "The internet is both an umbilical cord and a waste duct for the mind, through which humanity's thirst for Elation gave birth to the twisted Sparxie."
- March 7th: Whoa there! That's a bit much... Maybe (Trailblazer) can be the one to say it?
What are you guys up to?- What kind of crazy talk is that?
- Kuchiba: These are test sentences I improvised according to the guidelines from the Human and Intellitron Emotional Baseline Test.
- Kuchiba: I carefully observe the subject's micro-expressions and tone changes at the moment they say the name "Sparxie" to check if they are infected by a memetic virus...
- March 7th: So, I passed the test, right?
- Kuchiba: Given how fascinating your reaction was, I clearly don't need to worry about you. Should you find yourself experiencing any livestream addiction withdrawal symptoms later, feel free to contact the Department of Aberration Defense staff. We'll provide you with a series of corrective behavioral treatments.
- March 7th: You're handling this like a real pro, Miss Kuchiba. Has this kinda thing happened before?
- Kuchiba: It's impossible to predict what will happen during the Phantasmoon Games. Once, a Supplicant reversed the definitions of truth and lies, which nearly caused massive civil unrest.
- Kuchiba: After that incident, we incorporated memetic treatment into the Department of Aberration Defense's emergency safety protocols.
- Kuchiba: "SparxiCon" didn't cause any casualties this time. But if (Trailblazer) hadn't stopped Sparxie from spreading the virus, she might have turned into a Calamity-level Aberration.
Calamity-level... just how dangerous is that?
- Kuchiba: Without proper containment measures, a Calamity-level Aberration can destroy dozens of cities as it spreads... That's the scale we're talking about.
- Aberration?
- Kuchiba: That's the Department of Aberration Defense's term for them. It usually refers to imagenae infused with Wishpower who have lost control and begun to run amok. Over time, though, it's become a label that gets slapped onto any hazardous entity.
- So what level of Aberration am I?
- March 7th: ...You, an Aberration? What're you talking about? Though I gotta say, you do look pretty weird with that mask on.
- Kuchiba: Don't tell me you're a Cosmicon Collective player? The Department of Aberration Defense's hazard ratings are nothing like the power ratings in some card game.
- Kuchiba: Right then, that's all for the required check-up. If you're interested in "Aberration Calamity Threat Levels" and how they're classified, you might want to take a look at this document. However, do bear in mind that causing damage of the aforementioned scale during the Phantasmoon Games will cause you to be classified as an Aberration... and dealt with accordingly.
- (Quick read)
Aberration Threat Levels in Planarcadia - Planarcadia has a five-tier rating system for uncontrollable Aberrations and the scale of damage they cause.
Ghost-level:
Weak presence, essentially harmless; or causes only minor discomfort, small annoyances, troubling a handful of people;
Typically ideogenitive imagenae born from collective consciousness: Such as villains from comics, panic-inducing objects spawned from rumors, animated smart appliances; ghosts with distorted cognition;
Can be subdued by civilian ghost-busting squads. Even if left alone, they won't escalate into complex mass disasters.
Fiend-level:
Poses a clear and present danger, capable of harming dozens of people or causing structural damage, throwing multiple city blocks or an entire small town into chaos.
Typically powerful imagenae that have accumulated massive Wishpower and spiraled out of control, such as unspeakable entities lurking in urban legends for ages, or vengeful manifestations born from collective trauma (say, mass casualties caused by the Herald of Death).
Calamity-level:
A severe threat capable of causing casualties in the hundreds or more. If left unchecked, they could lead to the destruction of major cities in arcadia's core regions. The Herald of Death falls into this category. In the Phantasmoon Games, the upper limit of destruction caused by a Supplicant going out of control also falls roughly within this range.
Cataclysm-level:
Catastrophic threat capable of crippling an entire continent, causing mass casualties and environmental upheaval. Reality-warping abilities manifest.
Apocalypse-level:
A level of threat capable of causing civilizational collapse or even the extinction of humanity on Planarcadia's surface. Their very existence is a great catastrophe.
- Kuchiba: Before I leave, there's one more thing I need to tell you, (Trailblazer). Remember Lyndon Skott, the man who served as your tour guide? He was murdered.
- March 7th: ...What?
- Skott's dead? No way. You guys sure about that?
- March 7th: Yeah! The Skott we knew was... uh, a really tenacious opponent!
- Kuchiba: We're sure. Both the ID and genetic information of the deceased match that of Mr. Skott's. You said he was once your opponent?
- Who'd he tick off this time?
- March 7th: Though, given how he's behaved, he's definitely rubbed a lot of people the wrong way, but I doubt any of it was serious enough to get him killed, right?
- Kuchiba: Seems like you are quite familiar with him.
- March 7th: Ah! You don't... suspect us, do you? I wouldn't exactly call Skott a friend, but we'd never do anything like that to him.
- Kuchiba: Easy there, young lady. I haven't even started asking questions yet.
- Kuchiba: Of course there's no way the renowned heroes of the Express would harm some lowly IPC employee simply because they had a problem with him. More importantly, both of you have solid alibis.
- Kuchiba: The initial results of our investigation suggest his murder might be connected to the Phantasmoon Games. I'm informing you both of this to warn you to be extremely careful. The Phantasmoon Games are far from a simple game intended for passing the time or relaxation.
- Kuchiba: Anyway, I wish you success, (Trailblazer). Farewell.
- March 7th: Skott? Could he actually... I just can't believe it! But it was Miss Kuchiba who told us, so... it must be true.
- March 7th: So, the Phantasmoon Games... pretty frightening, huh? What's your take, (Trailblazer)?
- I'm not feeling so good...
- March 7th: Yeah, I understand what you mean.
- March 7th: Skott pops up now and then to give us a bit of trouble... but I'd say he's more of a "friend" than an enemy, if you know what I mean.
- I wanna find out the truth.
- March 7th: Yeah! Even though Skott pops up now and then to give us a bit of trouble... I still feel bad about him dying so suddenly during the Phantasmoon Games like this, and without even knowing why...
- I don't care at all...
- March 7th: Huh? Really?
- March 7th: Even though Skott pops up now and then to give us a bit of trouble... I'd still say he's usually more of a "friend" than an enemy, if you know what I mean.
- (Trailblazer): If the killer is here for the Phantasmoon Games, they might become our enemy soon.
- March 7th: The Phantasmoon Games...
- Hey, what's that for?
- You're way too young to sigh like that!
- March 7th: Good thing Himeko entrusted this mission to the two of us... Who would've imagined that the great March herself would be stopped at the doorstep in the very first round?
- March 7th: Forget it, I'm not like you! I was never hero material to begin with... Normally my hands can't even keep up with my brain when I play video games! You're definitely the right person for the Phantasmoon Games.
- March 7th: It's just... such a shame. We finally get a chance to vacation in Himeko's hometown, and I thought we'd make some happy memories together, but...
- I'll work hard for the both of us!
- (Trailblazer): I'll triumph in the Phantasmoon Games in your stead!
- March 7th: All right!
- I hope you'll be safe and sound.
- (Trailblazer): The Phantasmoon Games may be dangerous, but I hope you'll be safe and sound.
- March 7th: Hey, don't look down on me! I, March 7th, am a top-notch Nameless who can hold my own!
- March 7th: But look, don't push yourself too hard, okay, (Trailblazer)? Remember that we've got your back!
- March 7th: Oh right, where are Himeko and Mr. Yang? They must be getting examined and interrogated too, right? Why don't you send Mr. Yang a message?
- (Open Messages with Welt)
Messages
WeltMr. Yang, where are you?
Mr. Yang, where are you? Have you seen Himeko?I just finished the memetic infection screening. Himeko is still here, but I don't know where she went after.(Trailblazer), I heard Himeko reunited with her father.She seemed rather out of it. I didn't press her for details. Could you fill me in on what happened back there?A reunion convo that was hard to chime in...It was a shocking revelation...Being stuck between them both was so awkward and nerve-wracking, I could've excavated the entirety of a second Graphia Campus the way my toes curled in such intense cringeYou guys really wanna hear the whole story?We're all one big family on the Express. It's important to understand what our companions are going through.I'll be waiting for you in that classroom with that ghost you mentioned earlier. Come quickly.
- (Trailblazer): Uh, Mr. Yang said he wants to hear what happened between Himeko and her dad...
- March 7th: Can't blame him for being curious, I really wanna know too!
Go to the old classroom to regroup with Welt
- Mission DescriptionHas it started? A new Phantasmoon Games? Ready to grab a bucket of popcorn and settle in on the couch, in a cinema, or on your phone to enjoy the show?
Oh wait, you're still stuck in the middle of some mystery, with no way to escape.
- Sequence 02Welt mentioned that Himeko had never spoken of her father, and asked if you know anything about what happened between them. March 7th chimed in, saying she's curious as well.
Throughout Himeko's life, Ryusuke was never there, not during her struggle with the "Weathering Curse" nor the Phantasmoon Games. Himeko left behind a grave marked with her own name and became the Navigator of the Astral Express. Ryusuke insisted he had been searching for a cure for her curse all along, but he didn't even have the courage to find out if the famous Navigator was actually his daughter. - (Approach Welt)
- Welt: You're here, (Trailblazer).
- Welt: Himeko hasn't mentioned her father at all in the time since I've boarded. So, what is going on between them? As you were the only one with her at the time, you're the only one I can ask.
- March 7th: Yeah, it really threw me for a sec when you said "Himeko's father." But when you think about it, it's only natural that Himeko has a father, right? Not everyone's like me, thawed out of an ice block.
- So, here's what happened...
- A while ago...
- Ryusuke: Fifteen years ago, the Phantasmoon Games of that year came to be remembered as the "Bloodstained Games"... So many parents lost their children. So many people lost those dearest to them.
- Ryusuke: One of the victims... was my very own daughter. Upon my return, I stood before the grave, where she was laid to rest.
- Ryusuke: ...Her name was Himeko.
- Ryusuke: So, this lady who bears her name...
- Ryusuke: ...Who exactly are you?
- Himeko: Fifteen years ago, when I made up my mind to join this Phantasmoon Games, my father wasn't with me.
- Himeko: Even as I fought for my life against the Herald of Death, my father was still off somewhere, wandering the cosmos.
- Himeko: Strictly speaking, ever since I can remember, his presence in my life has been as thin as the air in space...
- Himeko: So, I would ask you who bears his name, who exactly are you?
- Ryusuke: ...
- Ryusuke: Well, well, well, look at you... What are you getting so worked up over?
- Ryusuke: Just a joke, a joke! It's been fifteen years, after all, and you've grown into such a fine young lady! How could you expect your old man to recognize you right off the bat?
- Ryusuke: So, what's with that gravestone I saw with your name on it, then?
- Himeko: When you don't know if you'll live to see tomorrow, there's nothing strange about getting your affairs in order in advance, is there, Mr. Ryusuke?
- Ryusuke: ...M—Mr. Ryusuke!?
- Ryusuke: How can you be so formal with your own father? At least call me "dad" like you used to, okay?
- (Quietly slip away)
- (Hide in the corner)
- Ryusuke: Hold it.
- Ryusuke: And you are...?
- Ryusuke: Don't tell me... Himeko, is this... your child!?
- G-Grandpa!
- Himeko: Could you please stop making things worse?
- Hold up, there's been a misunderstanding...
- Ryusuke: Haha, I haven't seen you in fifteen years, and now I'm a grandfather!? Wait—
- Ryusuke: Who's the father!?
- Himeko: That's enough! You are looking at my colleague, a new generation of Trailblazer, my friend, and my companion on the Astral Express... (Trailblazer). Do you understand now, father?
- Ryusuke: You hear that? She called me father! Hahaha!
- Ryusuke: Hello there, (Trailblazer)! Sorry about that, I thought you were Himeko's (son/
daughter) for a second there. - Do you not watch the news at all?
- Ryusuke: You must forgive me, I'm just an old-timer who's lost touch with the times.
- We don't even have anything close to the same hair color.
- Ryusuke: Sorry, I'm just getting on in years. Whenever I see a youngster like you, I can't help but think my (grandson/
granddaughter) would be about your age by now.
- Ryusuke: Sorry, I'm just getting on in years. Whenever I see a youngster like you, I can't help but think my (grandson/
- Ryusuke: I'm a painter. Most of my work involves traveling to different segmenta to complete commissions for my clients...
- Ryusuke: Himeko, I know I've let too many chances to spend time with you slip away.
- Himeko: Just "slip away"? The first time we met was at mother's funeral. When I was already six years old.
- Himeko: Let's put that aside for now. Were you also too busy with work when I was suffering from a weathering curse?
- Ryusuke: ...You might not believe me, but I've been running around for your sake all this time. All these years, I've been trapped in this "room that represents the past" that I imagenated, and I've never left it.
- Himeko: You didn't know about me becoming the Express's Navigator either?
- Ryusuke: Fifteen years, and the Express never stopped here once. You didn't even leave behind so much as a single word to indicate you were still alive. And the Department of Aberration Defense completely sealed all records of what happened during those Phantasmoon Games.
- Ryusuke: I did hear many rumors about the Astral Express, though. I even saw the Navigator's name...
- Ryusuke: At first, I thought it was just someone else with the same name.
- Ryusuke: And even when curiosity drove me to look up your picture, I still didn't dare believe that the woman so full of poise and grace was my daughter. That she'd grown up safe, becoming a living legend in her own right.
- Ryusuke: I thought about contacting the Express, but what if their Navigator was just someone who happened to share the same name?
- Ryusuke: I've been clinging to an absurd notion: that if I never sought the answer, there was still a fifty-fifty chance my daughter was still alive. But if I found the answer, and it was "no"... then she would truly be dead.
- Himeko: ...
- Ryusuke: So, Himeko, how did you...
- Himeko: I'd rather not tarry here too long. I'll be taking my leave now, Dean.
- Himeko: The Express has defeated the Supplicant that occupied this school, and prevented another tragedy like the one fifteen years ago. Now it's time for you to fulfill the duties you failed in back then...
- Himeko: ...Go comfort those students, and see if you can't figure out how to deal with the media bombardment while you're at it.
- Ryusuke: Failed in my duties... So, still mad at me.
- Ryusuke: (Trailblazer), can we talk?
- Sequence 03Ryusuke was relieved that Himeko had pulled through the Graphia family's ancestral "Weathering Curse." He asked for a tour of the Astral Express to see her workplace, hoping to finally show some fatherly concern.
- Ryusuke: Sorry, kid, this might be a bit abrupt, but has Himeko ever mentioned her surname to you?
- She rarely talks about herself.
- She has never even mentioned her homeland.
- Ryusuke: I'm a failure of a father... I broke her heart.
- Ryusuke: But... what exactly happened fifteen years ago? I can't believe it... She actually survived the weathering curse.
- Weathering curse? What's that?
- Ryusuke: Have you heard the tale of the legendary painter Graphia, who hid everything on this planet's surface within a scroll?
- Ryusuke: It is said that to achieve such a monumental feat, she made a forbidden exchange, sacrificing both her own life and that of her descendants, resulting in the "weathering curse"...
- Ryusuke: Few descendants carrying the Graphia bloodline have lived past thirty. Most of them wither like flowers while they're still young, skin cracking and peeling like dried paint.
- Ryusuke: Himeko was no exception. She was tormented by the curse for years...
- And what did you do for her as she suffered?
- Ryusuke: What I did... doesn't matter anymore.
- Ryusuke: The Elixir Seekers' folk remedies, the Intelligentsia Guild treatments... I tried them all, but nothing could reverse the curse. All the time spent searching for cures only resulted in me not being by her side when she needed me the most.
- Ryusuke: ...In the end, I am nothing but a useless father.
- But you appear to be very healthy...?
- Ryusuke: I'm... just a useless son-in-law who married into the family. Strictly speaking, I can't really be considered a Graphia descendant.
- She's safe and sound now. Isn't that what matters?
- Ryusuke: You're right. I just didn't realize it quickly enough.
- Ryusuke: ...How she got through it, how she survived... none of that's important. What matters is that my daughter is back! That's all I need.
- Ryusuke: (Trailblazer), if I may ask a small favor: Would you mind showing me where my daughter works?
- Ryusuke: I want to make up for all the care I failed to give her all those years... I want to get to know my daughter better!
- Sequence 04Welt noted that the situation reminded him of the different perspectives he had as both a son and a father, saying he understood their feelings. Ryusuke thanked the group for looking after Himeko and asked you to show him the way.
- Back to the present...
- Welt: Truly a memorable father-daughter reunion. Brings up some memories of my own home, as well.
- March 7th: There goes Mr. Yang, with that knowing look again... Just what kind of parent-child relationship are we talking about, anyway?
- Welt: When I was a child, my parents were also always busy with work and were unable to spare a moment for me. As a child, I couldn't help but feel resentful...
- Welt: It wasn't until I became a father myself that I understood how they felt when they were forced to sacrifice the time we could have spent together.
- March 7th: So, (Trailblazer), did you already promise to give Mr. Ryusuke a tour of the Express?
- You bet I did!
- How could I possibly refuse?
- March 7th: Thought as much. After all, it's Himeko's dad. So, where is he?
- Ryusuke: Ah, everyone's here. Sorry to keep you all waiting. I'm truly grateful to all of you for looking after my daughter.
- Welt: Not at all. She's the one who has been taking care of us.
- Ryusuke: Would you all be so kind as to show me around?
- Right this way, Mr. Ryusuke.
Please wait a moment.
Show Ryusuke around the Astral Express
- Step DescriptionAn elder's elder has arrived at the Astral Express. What an unprecedented experience!
As for what happens next, well... good luck with that.
- (Talk to Ryusuke)
- Ryusuke: Hey there, kid, would you mind showing me the way?
- Right this way, Mr. Ryusuke.
- Please wait a moment.
Tooltip for 18px|link=ⓘ Sequence 05Ryusuke asked for more details about Himeko's work. Pom-Pom felt he looked familiar and recommended that the father and daughter catch up in the Party Car. Himeko, however, insisted you join them to discuss the Phantasmoon Games.- Ryusuke: So, this is the Astral Express? It really lives up to its reputation. It's even more impressive than I imagined.
- Ryusuke: As to be expected, of course! It's the place where my daughter works! By the way, what's the pay like for a Navigator? Does the position come with insurance and an annual bonus?
- March 7th: Talk about parental love... First thing out of his mouth is asking about her salary! Like I'd have a clue... Help! A little backup here?
- The Nameless don't have much in the way of income.
- March 7th: Hey, that's not totally true! We get some spending money every time we stop somewhere.
- Ryusuke: What? No income? Don't tell me that everyone working for the Astral Express is actually doing volunteer work?
- March 7th: I mean, I guess you could say that? But actually, it's more like... Ugh, I'm butchering the explanation... Anyway, it's nothing like what you're thinking!
- We Nameless earn at least as much as you do!
- March 7th: Nice one, (Trailblazer)! Parents can probably relax as long as their kids aren't making less than they are, right?
- Ryusuke: Really? Don't underestimate me, kid. I've got big shots from across the cosmos on my client list. While I wouldn't say my work is worth a king's ransom, my fees are nothing to sneeze at.
- Welt: Mr. Ryusuke, please rest assured, none of the Express crew ever lack for money. We not only receive support from members of the Genius Society, but also from prosperous commercial worlds such as the Planet of Festivities.
- Ryusuke: Good, good! Hearing you say that is a huge relief, Mr. Yang!
- Ryusuke: Speaking of which, what kind of work does being a Navigator generally entail?
- March 7th: Don't you underestimate Himeko either! Her daily duties include charting navigation routes, calibrating warp jumps, and technical maintenance, not to mention she's always guiding the Nameless on missions.
- Ryusuke: Hoho, my daughter is really something else, isn't she!
- March 7th: Of course! Every time we return safely from a trailblazing expedition, it's all thanks to Himeko's guidance and protection! She's the backbone of the Astral Express!
- Oooh, let me go tell Pom-Pom what you just said~
- Where's your respect for our conductor?
- March 7th: Hey, come on! You're just trying to stir up trouble!
- March 7th: If Himeko's the backbone of the Express, then our conductor is the absolute cutest and hardest working of all! Right, Pom-Pom?
- Pom-Pom: Oh? We got a new passenger?
- Pom-Pom: Hmm, this gentleman does look kind of familiar...
- This is Ryusuke, Himeko's father.
- Pom-Pom: No wonder he felt so familiar! How are you, Mr. Ryusuke?
- Ryusuke: Conductor? So you must be my daughter's superior! Thank you for taking such good care of her all this time!
- Pom-Pom: Uh, superior? Th—That's way too formal! It's Himeko who's been taking care of the Express and everyone on it!
- Himeko: He's... what is he doing on the Express?
- Ryusuke: It's all my fault! I was just curious about your daily work, so I asked your colleagues to show me around, and I know I didn't ask your permission first. Please don't be mad, Himeko.
- Himeko: Mad? Why would I be mad?
- Himeko: Mr. Ryusuke, welcome aboard the Astral Express. Is there anything else you'd like to see? I can show you around.
- Ryusuke: Well... uh, I know you'd rather keep your distance from your good-for-nothing father, you're on a journey, and it's rude of me to barge in like this...
- Ryusuke: But it's been way too long since we last saw each other. As your father, I want to get to know you better, make up for all the time we've lost...
- Ryusuke: At least, while you're staying here... please allow me to show you some of the fatherly care and devotion I owe you. Will you?
- Himeko: ...
- Pom-Pom: Excuse me, why don't the two of you go to the Party Car? "Shush," get the drinks ready.
- Ryusuke: Sh-Shush? ...Alright, I'll go make some tea.
- Himeko: That's just our domestic robot's name. Come on, Father, people are resting here. Let's not disturb them. Oh, and (Trailblazer), come with us.
- Me? But this is a father-daughter reunion...
- Shouldn't I leave you two alone?
- Himeko: I want to talk about the Phantasmoon Games, not just personal matters.
- March 7th: They left... Whoa, that's the first time I've seen Himeko be that cold to anyone.
- (Unlock Achievement In the Name of the Father)
Head to the Party Car
- Step DescriptionPoor little raccoon, caught in the middle of a father-daughter conflict. There's no other choice but to bear with it a little longer.
- (Talk to March 7th, optional)
- March 7th: What're you still doing here? Himeko asked you to go to the Party Car!
- March 7th: I get it, reunions are private, and you don't want to spoil it for them! That's fair, it won't hurt to give them some time.
- (Talk to Welt Yang, optional)
- Welt: I hope a drink will help the two of them set aside their past differences.
- Welt: (Trailblazer), if they do argue, I'm counting on you to play peacemaker.
- (Talk to Pom-Pom, optional)
- Pom-Pom: So that's Himeko's father? No wonder he looked so familiar.
- Sequence 06In their conversation, Ryusuke hoped Himeko would stay, but she explained that her path lay among the stars and she had only come back for the Phantasmoon Games. She saw defeating the Herald of Death copycat in the Dovebrook case as a perfect opportunity to demonstrate the Nameless's resolve to all of Planarcadia. Ryusuke was gratified and proposed meeting at the school library later to hand over the Graphia family's records regarding the Phantasmoon Games.
- (Go to mission location)
- "Shush": ...
- "Shush": When it comes to breaking the icy silence between a father and daughter, nothing's better than a cup of hot water.
- "Shush": The person who drinks it will yelp, "HOT!" and be immediately met with a concerned, "How could you be so careless?" from the other party. And just like that, the conversation starts flowing.
- "Shush": Friendly reminder: That is not a joke, but a practical ice-breaking tip.
- Ryusuke: ...Hahaha, your robot is hilarious! I'm surprised how relaxing and comfy the work environment is here.
- Himeko: ...
- Ryusuke: ...
- "Shush": ...Got it, I'll make myself scarce.
- Himeko: Being a Nameless is neither "relaxing" nor "comfy." Most of the time, we are facing down Voidrangers from the Antimatter Legion, bugs left by the Swarm Disaster, Borisin, and various organizations that are suspicious of the Express or have malicious intentions for us...
- Ryusuke: ...That dangerous? Maybe... this trip home is a great chance to quit your job?
- Ryusuke: Talk about coincidence! Just so happens I'm getting on in years, and Graphia Academy is in need of a new dean.
- Himeko: ...
- Ryusuke: ...
- Himeko: You know that's not what I meant. Once I've set my mind on something, I never look back.
- Himeko: Ever since I was six, when you told me those stories about traveling through the cosmos, I knew that someday, I would walk among the stars.
- Ryusuke: Actually, I was just kidding. I'm not completely clueless about what the Express and what you do. Oh, right! Once I knew the Express was coming, I even bought that comic series that's based on your adventures.
- Himeko: ...Please don't tell me it's Fluffy Across the Blue. I never thought you'd be into comics.
- Ryusuke: That's right, the protagonist is a baseball-bat-wielding raccoon. The character is based on that kid, right?
- Himeko: As an artist, you do have a good eye. Come over here, (Trailblazer).
- Himeko: Thanks for giving us some time alone.
- Don't mention it.
- Ryusuke: Himeko, that's the first time I've seen you smile since I've seen you this time.
- Ryusuke: So, what brought you back home this time? What's the story behind our lucky meeting?
- Himeko: Like I said before, we're here for the Phantasmoon Games.
- Ryusuke: ...So, the Phantasmoon Games 15 years ago were the reason you were able to overcome the Weathering Curse?
- Himeko: Indeed.
- Ryusuke: I see. That makes sense. For those of us who haven't experienced the Aeonic game firsthand, it's just something from the history books, or even akin to a myth.
- Himeko: But I never imagined... that the Aeonic game would turn into a blood sacrifice overnight.
- Himeko: The Herald of Death... was a heartless madman. If I hadn't defeated him then, all of Duomension City would have become his slaughterhouse.
- Himeko: During the first few years of my journey, I relived that evening every single night in my dreams. The color of that twilight, painted with blood... So much blood, blended with terror and screams.
- Himeko: The victims were twisted like clay into grotesque shapes, like paint tubes that had been snapped, one after the other. And that man... he reveled in the colors splattered everywhere, and wanted the whole world to be his canvas...
- Stop... Himeko.
- Stop dwelling on those memories.
- Himeko: ...Even if I could avenge his victims, in the end, it won't bring them back to life.
- Himeko: The entire thing is like a heavy piece of baggage. Only by letting it go can I travel the road ahead more easily.
- Ryusuke: You did your best, and I'm glad to see you made it back here safe and sound.
- Himeko: I thought I'd never come back, but the times have changed. The conditions to hold the Phantasmoon Games have been met again. However, to hold two games in just fifteen years... that in itself is far from normal.
- Himeko: Just like fifteen years ago, the IPC wants to control everything. However, a game woven by the most fickle of Aeons is destined to slip through everyone's grasp.
- Himeko: I received a report from the Department of Aberration Defense. I'm sure (Trailblazer) must also have heard. There's been a brutal incident in Dovebrook District. Someone massacred everyone at the headquarters of the Synwish Syndicate, leaving a signature that only the Herald of Death would use... the "Bloody Bloom."
- (Quick read)
Dovebrook Times News Clipping - Mysterious Murder Case: Synwish Syndicate Members Found Dead in Pool of Blood!
Recently, a major homicide occurred in Dovebrook District. A total of thirty-three members of the Synwish Syndicate, including boss Polwave and second-in-command Caustide, were found murdered at the Syndicate's headquarters.
The Security Bureau suggests the case appears to be the result of a gang turf war.
Crime Wave Strikes, Dovebrook District Gripped by Fear!
Regarding these incidents, some residents are applauding the news, claiming gang activity has been seriously disrupting daily life in Dovebrook District.
However, the vast majority of residents are deeply concerned, since anyone could be the next victim until the case is closed.
As of press time, foot traffic on Dovebrook streets has plummeted, with many shops reporting declining sales due to the impact of these cases.
Gang Infighting, or Something More Sinister?
A shocking murder case has cast a bloody shadow over the newly opened Phantasmoon Games. Various rumors have added a suspiciously mysterious touch to the incident. Word has it that the Synwish Syndicate recently acquired a Supplicant mask. Could this be connected to the massacre that wiped them out? An IPC Worker also tragically perished in the incident, but why would an IPC employee be on Synwish Syndicate turf in the first place?
Regarding the above questions, I've already contacted the Security Bureau for clarification.
The receptionist stated: The case is still under investigation. Residents of Planarcadia are advised not to believe or spread rumors, and to await further official announcements.
- Ryusuke: What? The Herald of Death is still alive?
- The Herald of Death is back at the Games?
- Is this really the same Herald of Death as before?
- Himeko: People at the Department of Aberration Defense told me that the Herald of Death was executed after his verdict was passed. Even were he to be resurrected, the rules dictate that the same person cannot become a Supplicant twice.
- Ryusuke: Are you saying we've got a copycat?
- Himeko: That's right. The Herald of Death has a copycat. But what I find even more worrying is that this Phantasmoon Games has caught the attention of something even more terrifying than the Herald of Death.
- Himeko: I believe that whether or not this Herald of Death copycat has a connection to the Phantasmoon Games, defeating him presents an excellent opportunity for (Trailblazer) to demonstrate the resolve of the Nameless to the whole of Planarcadia.
- Just as you did all those years ago.
- Himeko: Exactly.
- I understand.
- Himeko: As for you, Dad, have any clients commissioned you lately? It'd be best if you left this world for a while.
- Ryusuke: May I take that as my daughter showing concern for her dad?
- Himeko: You can take it as a safety advisory from the Astral Express.
- Himeko: Also, as (Trailblazer) has already become a Supplicant and joined the Phantasmoon Games, (he/
she) will have my full support. I'd like (him/ her) to temporarily keep the Mask of Elation that has been passed down through our family. - Ryusuke: Too late for me to raise any objections at this point, right? Sounds good, the mask stays with the kid.
- Himeko: Thank you. Would you like another drink?
- Ryusuke: Got it. Next, it's time to show me the way out, isn't it? I've definitely overstayed my welcome.
- Ryusuke: For most of my life, I couldn't be there for my daughter. And now that I finally have the chance, she wants me to leave.
- Ryusuke: In that case, I ought to be on my way.
- Ryusuke: Himeko, the Graphia family has a number of records about the Phantasmoon Games, passed down through the generations. Come over to the school library later, I'll give them to you.
- Himeko: I'll be there, Dad.
- Himeko: I apologize. My father's little tour seems to have made things awkward for everyone on the Express.
- Himeko: Let's head to the Parlor Car and check in on Welt and March. Now that my father's gone, we can all relax a bit.
- Just a moment, I wanna chat with you...
- I have an idea regarding the goal of the Phantasmoon Games...
Return to the Parlor Car
- Step DescriptionFinally, a moment to catch your breath. But, the Phantasmoon Games waits for no one. Run forward or you'll be left behind.
- Sequence 07Pearl invited the Supplicant of the Express to Pearluxe Tower to coordinate the next steps of the Phantasmoon Games, arranging for a private car to meet them at the giant gate next to the @ Plaza.
- Welt: ...Has Mr. Ryusuke left?
- Himeko: Yes, I told him to head home for now. After all, what is going on with the Phantasmoon Games has nothing to do with him.
- Himeko: I'm really sorry, everyone, for bringing my personal family matters onto the Express.
- March 7th: Not at all! Mr. Ryusuke is your family, and that makes him part of our family too. And the most important thing for family is to be together, so he's welcome to drop by any time!
- Welt: Madam Pearl sent a message to the Express just now, inviting our Supplicant to a meeting. She'll have a private car waiting for us.
- Me?
- A meeting with Pearl?
- Welt: Yes. The meeting won't be held in some stuffy formal reception room. She would like us to visit and tour the headquarters of a company under her name instead.
- Welt: Himeko, you know about Pearluxe Corp, right?
- Himeko: Of course, it's the biggest entertainment conglomerate in Planarcadia.
- March 7th: Entertainment company?
- Himeko: That's right, Pearluxe Corp is a titan, dominating the entertainment consumer market, including cartoons, comics, games, toys, and the like. They've cornered half the market.
- March 7th: Oh! So that's where the "Pearl" in Pearluxe comes from! It's a play on her name!
- Himeko: Did Pearl mention what she wanted to talk about?
- Welt: She didn't say much, but she specifically mentioned wanting to discuss the developments regarding the Phantasmoon Games. And that she could provide us with a bit of help.
- Himeko: Helping her opponents in the Aeonic game? Looks like she realizes we are all in the same boat. Perhaps she has also realized that the Phantasmoon Games cannot be artificially manipulated.
- Welt: We may be able to get a clearer picture of Pearl's intentions after (Trailblazer) meet with her.
- You're really going to have me meet with Pearl?
- You know I'm not the best with words, right?
- Himeko: Think about it. You've already crossed paths with key figures from numerous factions, and even built rapport with some. You're already a capable Nameless who can more than hold your own!
- Himeko: Though she holds a high administrative position on this planet, do not forget she is also one of the Ten Stonehearts. You've already dealt with Aventurine on numerous occasions, so you should have ample experience handling members of the Ten Stonehearts.
- March 7th: Hey, don't worry! If things do get messy, yours truly is here to save the day!
- Welt: Looks like March wants to visit too.
- March 7th: I'm just trying to look out for (Trailblazer) here! Even if things do go sideways, Pearl wouldn't dare get mad at (an/
two) adorable young (lady/ ladies) like (me,/ us,) right? - Himeko: Well then, I'll leave this meeting to you two.
- March 7th: Aren't you coming with us, Himeko?
- Himeko: I'd like to talk with my father. Didn't he say he would hand over the records about the Phantasmoon Games from our family history to me...? And honestly, isn't this a good chance for you youngsters to handle things independently?
- Welt: I understand. In that case, (Trailblazer), March, and I will be heading out now.
- March 7th: Score, a private car! So, where are we getting picked up?
- Welt: You should be familiar with it. It's just under the giant gate next to the @ Plaza.
- March 7th: Isn't that where we first met Sparxie? Since we're getting chauffeured there, why not just come straight to us?
- Isn't this the perfect chance to do some shopping?
- Looks like we're not the only ones getting picked up, then.
- March 7th: Perfect! I've been wanting to stop by the comic store to grab a copy of Fluffy Across the Blue.
Head to Duomension City and wait for Pearluxe Corp's shuttle
- Mission DescriptionElation relishes surprises, coincidences, and randomness as its favorite treats. While wandering through Duomension City, you might just stumble upon a bit of fun in the randomness. Maybe a bizarre research society, or perhaps a potential opponent, a friend, or even a certain Supplicant who'd rather stay anonymous.
- (Talk to March 7th, optional)
- March 7th: Destination, Pearluxe Headquarters! And let's grab a copy of "The Fluffy" while we're at it. This is just perfect!
- (Talk to Welt Yang, optional)
- Welt: (Trailblazer), we'll head out when you're ready.
- (Talk to Himeko, optional)
- Himeko: There may be some information in the family records that could help us... It's just that whenever I think about talking with my father, I can't help feeling uneasy.
- That's not a Himeko we see very often.
- Himeko: Haha... Even someone like me, who is always putting on a composed front, can end up giving everyone a laugh. When you think about it like that, (Trailblazer), the meeting with Pearl doesn't seem so scary, now does it?
- Sequence 08While waiting for the car, March 7th hoped to grab a copy of the Fluffy Across the Blue from a nearby shop. Welt suggested they regroup under the gate in a few minutes.
- (Go to mission location)
- March 7th: Ah, look! There's a convenience store. Mind if I grab a copy of Fluffy Across the Blue while we're waiting?
- Welt: Is that the comic based on the Express's adventures? Haha, the author sure knows how to tap into what's trending.
- March 7th: The best part is that the author drew all of us as adorable little animals! Totally fits our personas, don't you think?
- You're super adorable, March Bunny.
- March 7th: Right back atcha, Baseball Raccoon!
- I'm THE protagonist, y'know!
- March 7th: Hey, so am I! It's an ensemble comic!
- The author is totally infringing on our IP!
- Welt: Unfortunately, according to the intellectual property protection laws governing the Pan-Cosmic Trade System, using real-life experiences as creative material doesn't infringe on anyone's rights.
- (Trailblazer): Dang! There goes my payday!
- Welt: In fact, it was recently announced that The Fluffy is getting an animated adaptation, and the copyright for it is currently held by Pearluxe Corp.
- March 7th: It's a super memorable comic! No way can I miss getting a copy while I'm here. I promise I won't be long, a couple of minutes, tops!
- Welt: Looks like we got here on the early side. Hmm, since coming to this world, I still haven't had a chance to get a street-level view of the city. How about this: We'll meet up under the @ at the Plaza gate in a few minutes.
- March 7th: Alright, sounds like a plan!
Wander around until the shuttle arrives
- (Trailblazer): Might as well take a look around, then.
- (Approach Chatting Citizen, optional)
- Chatting Citizen: Absolutely insane! Did you see the post I shared?
- (Investigate Chatting Citizen, optional)
- Chatting Citizen: Hey, you hear the news? ...There was a Supplicant battle at Graphia Academy.
- Waiting Citizen: Yeah, I saw it. The online forums are already blowing up.
- Chatting Citizen: The Supplicant called Sparxie... How terrifying! Actually using livestreams to spread memetic viruses! Aeons, that's just evil. I can't believe the Department of Aberration Defense is letting someone that dangerous run loose!
- Waiting Citizen: I heard her livestream got permabanned. Good thing that Nameless from the Astral Express acted so quickly.
- Chatting Citizen: I wonder what the next Supplicant will do?
- (Approach "The Fluffy" Fan, optional)
- "The Fluffy" Fan: Have you read the new chapter of Fluffy Across the Blue?
- (Investigate "The Fluffy" Fan, optional)
- "The Fluffy" Fan: Have you read the new chapter of Fluffy Across the Blue?
- "Daybreak Warrior" Fan: Sorry, I'm not into comics for kids.
- "The Fluffy" Fan: They just released the official concept art for that giant Pom-Pom Robot!
- "Daybreak Warrior" Fan: That mech design is totally unrealistic... What's so great about it?
- "The Fluffy" Fan: Do you have the slightest clue how to talk to other people!? DO YOU!?
- "Daybreak Warrior" Fan: Hey, relax! Now, if we were talking about a fusion between Daybreak Squadron and the raccoon, that would totally get my attention!
- "The Fluffy" Fan: Wow. You are unbelievably childish.
- (Approach March 7th, optional)
- Comic Reader: Blurry_QR_Colt is the GOAT!
- Comic Reader: What happened in the newest issue?
- Comic Reader: No spoilers! If you've already read it, don't tell me a thing!
- (Talk to March 7th, optional)
- March 7th: I've tried buying a copy of "The Fluffy" from a couple of stores, but they were always sold out! I really hope this store has it in stock.
- (Approach Ashveil)
- Recruiter: Hello there! Would you like to learn more about the Research Society of Happy Smiles?
- Ashveil: So, uh... are there any charges or fees?
- (Trailblazer): Isn't that "Detective Passerby"? What's he doing here?
- Sequence 09Ashveil spoke with some Smiles Society recruiters and found out about a seminar starting soon. You joined the talk out of curiosity and received one of their flyers.
- (Go to Ashveil)
- Recruiter: Is the weight of work and stress in your life crushing you? Check out the Research Society of Happy Smiles!
- Ashveil: So, uh... this free?
- Recruiter: Rest assured, the only thing joining our Research Society will cost you is a bit of your precious time.
- Recruiter: We've set up a venue near Dovebrook, where we offer free psychological counseling and living assistance to all visitors. All our services are provided free of charge.
- Ashveil: I... I had a friend who passed away, and he'd mentioned you before. He told me that if I ever ran into trouble, the kind people at the Research Society would help me...
- Recruiter: Your friend passed away? How terribly sad. But the words he left you have illuminated your path in life.
- Ashveil: He told me that if I joined the Research Society of Happy Smiles, I could get rid of my suffering forever, and be eternally happy. That true?
- Recruiter: Of course it's true. Just look at the society we live in. Everyone's suspicious and dismissive of one another, and willing to take dangerous risks just for a little pleasure, for a thrill.
- Recruiter: Did you hear about how a streamer took over Graphia Academy and was trying to spread a memetic virus through the internet? And over in Dovebrook, gang violence erupted, and left a pile of corpses in its wake. May the Master of Elation save us all.
- Recruiter: The Research Society was founded with the sole purpose of healing humanity's incurable inner pain. Following Aha's creed, we aim to spread laughter across the mortal coil and eliminate all suffering.
- Eliminate all suffering... what's that mean?
- Recruiter: Exactly what it says. As an eraser wipes away the doodles of a pencil, so too shall the pain be wiped away.
- Eliminate all suffering... No way is that possible.
- Recruiter: Of course it's possible! For this is a world blessed by the God of Elation, where Aha has granted us the right to happiness.
- Recruiter: Have either of you heard about the tragedy of the "Bloodstained Games" fifteen years ago?
- I've heard of it.
- Recruiter: Why of course you have, you're the Astral Express's superstar! You've even dug up everything there is to know about something that happened over a decade ago!
- Nope, doesn't ring a bell.
- Recruiter: That won't do at all! You're the Astral Express's superstar, there's a ton of things you need to look into before joining the Phantasmoon Games.
- Recruiter: There was an awful accident during the last Phantasmoon Games, and many people lost their loved ones and children. It was as if a hole that could never be filled had been drilled into their hearts, leaving only sorrow to accompany them for the rest of their lives.
- Recruiter: To escape their suffering, these people who had lost their loved ones gathered together and established a mutual support association. This was the Research Society of Happy Smiles' predecessor.
- Recruiter: It's now been well over a decade, and the Research Society continues to help more and more people emerge from the darkness in their lives and step into a brighter, happier future.
- Recruiter: Come to think of it, it would be most wonderful if a distinguished person like yourself were also interested in our Research Society! Should you find yourself with a moment to spare, please come and visit our mutual aid society!
- Sequence 10Ashveil had planned to slip into the Smiles Society unnoticed, but you accidentally blew his cover. To honor a friend's memory, he bought the last copy of the The Fluffy from March 7th for a hundred times its value, advising you to watch your step.
- Ashveil: Well, if it isn't the "Astral Express's superstar"... Of course it's you. Looks like we really were bound to run into each other.
- Ah, "Detective Passerby". What're you doing?
- What, here to catch me again?
- Ashveil: Perish the thought! You're the hero who just saved Duomension City! Laying a hand on you would spark public outrage.
- Ashveil: I'm here to do my job. Problem is, you've gone and messed up my investigation!
- How'd I manage that?
- Ashveil: Here I was, pretending to be a broke passerby to infiltrate this shady "Research Society." You should've ignored me, but no, you acted like some approachable celebrity waltzing into a supermarket, hijacking my conversation with their recruiter.
- Ashveil: With a star like you here, I can't even test the waters anymore.
- You're investigating some roadside charity group?
- Ashveil: The "Research Society of Happy Smiles"... You think they're just some random charity outfit?
- Ashveil: You must've heard about the Synwish Syndicate killings in Dovebrook, right? The lead I'm following might be connected to this "Research Society of Happy Smiles." But I'll stop there. Not like you're going to pay for my intel, and none of this is any of your business anyway.
- Someone I knew died in that incident.
- Ashveil: ...Ah. Based on your social circle, you wouldn't be talking about the poor IPC sap who was unlucky enough to be there?
- Ashveil: Planning to avenge him?
- I am.
- Ashveil: Sharp eyes, (kid./
missy.) Anyone who messes with someone like you is in for a nasty surprise.
- Ashveil: Sharp eyes, (kid./
- Maybe?
- Ashveil: I get it. I can see there's still a bit of doubt in your eyes.
- I plan on defeating the Herald of Death. That counts as revenge.
- Ashveil: Oh, so your next "miracle" will be... executing the Herald of Death? Can't say I'm surprised.
- (Trailblazer): Be careful, the murderer is the Herald of Death. He's dangerous.
- Ashveil: Hahaha... Thanks for your concern. "Be careful"... Been a hot minute since anyone said that to me.
- Ashveil: Even so, it's my duty to solve the case. Doesn't matter if nobody pays me, I'll still find the killer, and exact justice on the spot.
- Why?
- Ashveil: Because one of the victims happened to be someone I was on fairly good terms with... the fool.
- A friend of yours was among the victims?
- Ashveil: Mm. A fool I happened to be on fairly good terms with.
- Ashveil: Revenge killings or turf wars... wouldn't be unusual for gang members to die like that. But dying at the hands of some psycho who kills for kicks? That, I can't accept.
- Ashveil: No matter where you are in the cosmos, which era, regardless of how civilization evolves, some rules will just never change...
- Ashveil: Like "an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth."
- March 7th: Hey, (Trailblazer)! Guess which lucky girl just managed to snag the last copy in the whole store— Oh! Uh, who's this?
- Ashveil: Allow me to introduce myself. I am Ashveil, the famous detective. You could say your friend and I are acquainted through past clashes.
- We didn't actually fight, though.
- Ashveil: We did have a bit of a clash of opinions back at the tavern did we not?
- (Trailblazer): That's what you meant by "clash"? Fair enough.
- I—I don't really know this guy.
- Ashveil: My, my, celebrities truly are heartless...
- March 7th: First time I've ever heard anyone introduce themselves as a "famous" detective...
- March 7th: Mr. Ashveil, why are you staring at me? Is there something weird on my face?
- Ashveil: Um... young lady, you're holding a copy of Fluffy Across the Blue, right? Would you mind giving it to me?
- March 7th: Give it to you...? This was the last copy in the store, you know!
- Ashveil: Ah, I see... Of course, I'm not asking you to give it away for free. I'll pay for it! The retail price is... 300 credits? I can pay you ten times sticker price... 3,000 credits, what do you say?
- March 7th: Hey, mister, this isn't about the money!
- Ashveil: Oh? Because it was the last one on the shelves? True, true. The last item in stock is like the final slice of cake on a plate, the last prey animal on the plains. It never fails to stir our urge to seize it before anyone else. So—
- Ashveil: Th-thirty thousand credits, how about that? That's my final offer! I'm not exactly rolling in money here.
- ...Why are you fighting over a comic book with a kid?
- Aren't you a bit too old for stuff like this?
- Ashveil: Truth is, I'm actually buying it for that foolish friend of mine, the one who died.
- Ashveil: Today is his farewell ceremony. I thought I'd buy him his favorite comic to pay my respects.
- Ashveil: Ha, he'd always be rambling on about some raccoon with a baseball bat, and how the journey of the Express would never end, that kinda stuff. I heard those stories so many times, it felt like my ears were gonna fall off.
- Ashveil: But... after all that fuss, I completely missed the chance to buy it! Every store around here is sold out!
- March 7th: Aww, that's enough! My poor little heart can't handle sob stories like that. Here, Mr. Ashveil, take the comic!
- Ashveil: Thank you very much for the comic, young lady. Here's the 30,000 credits, as promised!
- Ashveil: Oh! I heard you're the real-life inspirations for the characters. Since you're here, could I perhaps trouble you to sign it?
- March 7th: Unbelievable...
- (Sign) (Trailblazer)
- (Sign) Baseball Raccoon
- (Sign) May Your Journey Never End
- Ashveil: Thank you both. If Caustide could see this from where he is now, I'm sure he'd be smiling down on us.
- Ashveil: As a token of my gratitude, I'd like to give you a friendly word of caution, (Trailblazer): I know you plan to target the Herald of Death and cement your heroic image.
- Ashveil: However, all eyes will be on you during the Phantasmoon Games. On such a public stage, discretion would be wise.
- Ashveil: Because when the masses see your magnificent miracles and wield your extraordinary power, fear and jealousy could turn their "Wishpower" into "Wish-you-ill-power" at the drop of a hat. Forgive the expression, but you get what I mean.
- Ashveil: So, whatever plans you might have for this Herald of Death, why not leave the whole messy affair of revenge to someone who couldn't care less about winning or losing, like me?
- Ashveil: Just like this comic. I'm dead set on getting him.
- You're... a Supplicant?
- Looks like we're going to be rivals...
- Welt: Is he an acquaintance of yours?
- March 7th: He's just some weird detective who was passing by.
- Welt: It's nearly time for Pearluxe Corp to pick us up. We should get going.
Meet up with Pearluxe Corp's host
- Sequence 11A specialist from Pearluxe Corp's mechatron division arrived, announcing that he was picking up Ashveil as well as the Express Crew. You all boarded a high-end shuttle to head to the tower.
- March 7th: Well, we're here. So, where are they? I don't see anyone in IPC uniform.
- They're running late?
- Welt: Maybe they got stuck in traffic on their way over.
- Maybe we got the wrong time?
- Welt: This is the time we agreed on, no mistake about that... Maybe they got held up in traffic.
- We got stood up?
- March 7th: No way! They're professionals, and they work for a huge company! There's no way they'd just bail without saying anything.
- ???: Greetings, crew of the Astral Express! It is my honor to escort you on your visit to headquarters!
- March 7th: ...A mechatron?
- ???: I am Guard number 100086, created by Pearluxe Corp, a security specialist from the Business Division. My designated human name is Feiron, said to derive from an ancient language meaning "iron." It's a pleasure to be of service.
- Wow, a mechatron employee, how cool is that!
- Feiron: I'm truly honored to hear you say so.
- Why a mechatron?
- Feiron: At present, 16% of Pearluxe Corp's active workforce are mechatrons. In specific business and security contexts, they outperform human staff in protective capability and offer a stronger sense of spectacle and visual appeal.
- Feiron: The smiles on your faces and looks of surprise are the highest praise I could ask for.
- How long have you been waiting here?
- Feiron: Please, do not concern yourselves with such things. My sole duty today is to ensure everyone reaches Pearluxe headquarters safely and happily.
- March 7th: So, what're we waiting for? Let's go!
- Feiron: According to the instructions given to me by Madam Pearl's secretary, there is still one more guest I need to pick up.
- Ashveil: Well, now how did I not see this coming... Looks like we're going the same way after all.
- March 7th: It's you again!
- Ashveil: Hey, Mechatron, what's the plan? Do we hop into your cockpit, or are you gonna give us all a piggyback while you fly over?
- Feiron: Your ride is ready. Please, take your seats, everyone.
- Ashveil: Whoa, now that's what I call a custom paint job.
- Feiron: Your ride isn't your run-of-the-mill business car, but a customized made-to-order vehicle, used especially for receiving guests.
- Welt: Sorry, this might come across as a bit insensitive, but I have to ask: Can Feiron actually fit in the driver's seat?
- Yeah, can you fit?
- How are you gonna drive this thing?
- Feiron: Of course not. I'll be driving and monitoring this vehicle remotely. Please, take your seats.
Trivia
- The name of this mission is a reference to James Joyce's A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man.
Other Languages
| Language | Official Name |
|---|---|
| English | Portrait of a Middle-Aged Artist |
| Chinese (Simplified) | 一位中年艺术家的肖像 |
| Chinese (Traditional) | 一位中年藝術家的肖像 |
| Japanese | ある壮年芸術家の肖像 |
| Korean | 한 중년 예술가의 초상화 |
| Spanish | Retrato de un artista de mediana edad |
| French | Portrait d'un artiste d'âge mûr |
| Russian | Портрет художника среднего возраста |
| Thai | ภาพเหมือนศิลปินวัยกลางคน |
| Vietnamese | Chân Dung Một Nghệ Sĩ Trung Niên |
| German | Porträt eines Künstlers mittleren Alters |
| Indonesian | Potret Seorang Seniman Paruh Baya |
| Portuguese | Retrato de um Artista de Meia-Idade |
Change History
Released in Version 4.1
