An Incomplete Story

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (I had my doubts about Colonel Isolde's behavior all along, but still... I didn't expect her to go this far.)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Has she been hiding a fierce (‍needneedText for Wise / desiredesireText for Belle‍) for revenge beneath her calm and composed exterior?)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Magus seems to have taken quite a blow, but thankfully Orphie has been with her the whole time.)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Best not to interrupt Magus and Orphie right now. I should go check on the others instead.)

(Talk to Orphie before talking to everyone else)

(Repeat above monologue)

(Idle)

Orphie: Captain Magus...

(Talk to Yixuan)

Yixuan: All Sacrifices in the city have been eliminated. I've done a sweep and found no other contaminated Obscura.

Yixuan: I sensed something was wrong in the Hollow... then heard gunfire from Sailume Bay again, so I rushed over here with your senior disciples.

Ju Fufu: That officer just now... killed their own superior? That's mutiny, isn't it?

Ju Fufu: That military officer lady... she seemed like a straight arrow.

Ye Shiyuan: You can't judge someone's character just by their appearance... And Fufu, when you mentioned killing your superior with your own hands, weren't you sneaking a glance at Shifu?

Ju Fufu: I—I did not! Shifu's as righteous as they come!

Yixuan: Something's off with the Lemnian Hollow. I'm heading in myself to check it out.

Yixuan: I'd imagine that Obol Squad captain is already gearing up to charge into the Hollow after her superior?

(Idle)

Seed: Colonel Isolde... how unexpected.

Trigger: The Captain must be taking it really hard?

Soldier 11: I trust the Captain... I trust in her resolve!

(Talk to Seed)

Seed: Colonel Isolde... Who would've thought that beneath her calm exterior burns a fiercer flame than Captain Magus?

Trigger: For the Captain... to see the mentor she trusted most act like that. She must be taking it really hard?

Soldier 11: I believe in the Captain — she's got a heart of steel... and a body to match! I trust in her resolve!

Trigger: Yeah, Captain Magus will pull through!

Trigger: For now, let's just wait for the captain's orders before making our next move.

(Idle)

Zhao: Never thought I'd run into such an exciting plot twist...

(Talk to Zhao)

Zhao: Lucro, the Executive Officer of Porcelumex, has been confirmed dead after a Sacrifice attack.

Was it an accident?

Maybe it wasn't an accident...

Zhao: Intentional or not, I'm in Waifei Peninsula on behalf of Krampus to conduct a full investigation into both Porcelumex's operation and Lucro's misconduct.

Zhao: There was a tip-off about Lucro and Lorenz being tied to bribery, and wouldn't you know it — they both end up dead.

Zhao: Unexpectedly, fate dealt the punishment in Krampus' place — though whether it was too harsh is still up for debate.

Zhao: But right now, the bigger concern is that Porcelumex needs a new leader — one who won't let the Round Table down.

Zhao: Some call Krampus's actions a "reckoning" ...and I can't help but feel the defector acted for the very same reason.

 Calm Magus down

(Talk to Orphie)

Magus and Orphie stand by the shore, the wind from the ocean drowning out the pulse at the heart of her machine frame.

Captain Magus...

Orphie...

Keep Pushing On

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Keep Pushing On"

---

Video Summary: The River Styx is hard to cross.

Story Description: Another dangerous commotion occurs in the Hollow, and Isolde escapes into the Hollow... After calming down, Magus decides to work with Yixuan to venture into the Hollow to resolve the crisis and uncover the truth.

---

---

Before you could say a word of comfort to Magus, Fairy's alarm rang out once again.

Fairy: Warning! Ether Activity across Lemnian Hollow is approaching record-high levels.

Fairy: Warning! Abnormally high Ether activity detected. There is an unusual surge of Miasma!

Oh no...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Great... Why now of all times...

Magus: I assume the Exaltists are on the move again... Maybe the "final sacrifice" is about to begin?

About Isolde...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Magus... About Colonel Isolde, she...

Magus: I never imagined that Isolde could have been planning something like this all along.

Magus: It's really not like her at all.

Magus: Or maybe... I haven't known the real her for some time now...

Right now, the situation is critical.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Sorry, Magus. I know your feelings must be pretty complicated, but the situation in the Hollow...

Magus: Alright, no need to comfort me right now — besides, I can see how worried you are.

Magus: I am a seasoned soldier, after all. Don't underestimate me!

Magus: The Exaltists... The Obscura... The Sacrifices... All these factors "coincidentally" paved the way for Isolde's revenge.

Magus: And now that Isolde has fled into the Hollow, the Hollow itself has started to undergo some unusual changes.

Magus: If Isolde has broken the soldier's code... I won't let her off the hook!

Orphie: Whether it's to stop the crisis in the Hollow or to get answers from Colonel Isolde...

Orphie: We have to strike again!

I've got your back.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I'll keep supporting your operation. Phaethon won't let any threats to New Eridu go unchallenged!

Yixuan: Now that things have come this far... It wouldn't be right for Yunkui Summit to sit idly by.

Yixuan: Some terrifying energy is surging within the Hollow... I doubt you can handle this threat alone. I'll join you in this fight.

Magus: Eleven years ago, a Yunkui Summit High Preceptor stood before me and pulled me out of a crisis I couldn't handle on my own.

Magus: This time, I'll fight by your side, High Preceptor Yixuan!

Yixuan: I believe the High Preceptor from eleven years ago would be proud to see this.

Ye Shiyuan: The city's defense will be in the hands of the military and the other disciples. I'll be joining Shifu to support your mission.

Magus: Obol squad, gear up and get ready!

Magus: The Lemnian Hollow is active — there's a high risk of secondary disasters or even a direct eruption!

Orphie: Colonel Isolde disappeared into the Hollow as well... Regardless of why she did what she did, we have every reason to bring her back.

Magus: Obol squad, gear up and get ready!

Attack now

Prepare first

(Repeat dialogue)

March of the Underworld

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "March of the Underworld"

---

Video Summary: The River Styx is hard to cross.

Story Description: The Miasma from Lemnian Hollow is gathering towards the tower. The situation is not looking good. (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍) and Obol Squad can only boldly walk forward.

---

---

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): The Miasma inside the Hollow is gathering around that tower.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): If we let it continue gathering like that, the consequences could be pretty serious...

Fairy: Warning: Ether Activity in Lemnian Hollow has surpassed record levels.

Magus: Then let's find out what's going on in there... and no matter what happens, we must stop it.

Fairy: Warning: Ether Activity in Lemnian Hollow is still rising at an increasing rate.

Orphie: If we don't manage to put a stop to this, will something terrible happen?

Fairy: Warning: At the current rate of expansion, Lemnian Hollow will breach the Zenless Limit within 7 hours.

Seed: "Boom!" Like a crushed nutshell... like a popped balloon!

Yixuan: I won't let that happen.

Ye Shiyuan: Yunkui Summit will not back down.

Magus: It's like a scene straight from the underworld... Where did Isolde go after taking this path... and why?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Let's move forward — whether it's to find Isolde, to stop the Exaltists, or to prevent the worst from happening.

Magus: Obol Squad, gear up and prepare to move out!

 Investigate the Miasma device

---

Miasma, the Exaltists, Isolde... every looming threat and mystery is brewing within the Lemnian Hollow. We have to go back to the Hollow and face the danger once more.

Miasmaflare Tower

(Approach the Miasma Device)

(The device activates and Sarah runs away)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): These devices are converging the Miasma in a single location.

Yixuan: If Miasma of this magnitude gathers in one place, the consequences would be catastrophic.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Try to destroy those devices!

(Interact with the Miasma Device)

Yixuan: The Miasma here is way too thick. Even I'll have my work cut out for me trying to disperse it.

Yixuan: And this isn't the only device in the Hollow. Just deactivating the one here likely won't be enough.

Yixuan: Right now, we need to focus on the places where the Miasma is gathering... and eliminate whatever threat is lurking there.

 Use the Perception Technique to search for the door code

(After the conversation)

Yixuan: These devices are linked by the Miasma, making them difficult to destroy.

Yixuan: To prevent the Miasma from gathering further, we'll likely need to go to the point where it's converging.

Magus: Pick up the pace and stop Sarah from activating more of the Miasma devices!

(Interact with the Password Device, optional)

This control panel requires a password. Look around nearby for clues to the code.

(Follow the trail to the elevator)

(Miasmic Troopers appear)

 Eliminate the Miasmic Troopers

(After defeating the enemies)

Yixuan: There's a trace of Miasma behind all that junk near the elevator...

Yixuan: Power up the elevator and assess the situation.

Ye Shiyuan: The marks on the back of the elevator should be a combination code.

 Search the area for clues to the code

(Talk to Ye Shiyuan, optional)

Ye Shiyuan: The marks on the back of the elevator should be a combination code.

(Repair the generator)

Yixuan: These marks on the wall... Let's investigate them using the Perception Technique.

(Analyze the wall marks)

(The code 3752 appears)

 Go back and open the locked door

(While heading back)

Magus: It took some effort to find the code. We're running out of time!

Yixuan: I've already pinpointed Sarah and Mevorakh's trail.

Yixuan: But... something about Mevorakh's presence feels oddly familiar.

Magus: Whatever scheme they're planning, we have no other option but to press on!

 Drive back the Exaltist Remnants

(Enter combat)

Magus: Master Yixuan, can you lock onto Isolde's presence?

Yixuan: Hmm... Her presence is up ahead as well.

Orphie: Up ahead? Why would Colonel Isolde retreat toward the Exaltists?

Magus: ...

 Use the Perception Technique to search for the switch along the power lines

(Interact with the Control Device, optional)

The red indicator light on the control device is flashing, seems like it needs authorization to activate.

Start

Control device: Beep beep beep beep— (Warning! Permissions system error!)

(Device activation failed... We might need authorization to open...)

Leave

(Talk to Ye Shiyuan, optional)

Ye Shiyuan: Using my Perception Technique, I spotted the ID card we need to get through the gate — it's inside that energy shield.

Ye Shiyuan: We need to find a way to shut down the shield and get the ID card.

(Interact with the Shield Control Computer)

Use the device to deactivate the shield?

Disable

(Pick up the Access Card and interact with the Control Device)

 Pursue Sarah

(After defeating the enemies)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I've spotted a Miasma device up ahead! Sarah and Mevorakh are close by!

(Talk to Ye Shiyuan, optional)

Ye Shiyuan: The Exaltist higher-up known as Sarah escaped from the platform above.

Ye Shiyuan: Let's gear up and continue the attack!

(Approach the stairs)

(Another device activates)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Over thereOver thereText for Wise / That wayThat wayText for Belle‍)... It's a beam from a Miasma device!

 Drive back the Exaltist Remnants

(Approach the other side of the rooftop)

Orphie: Another Miasma device has been activated!

Yixuan: Let's get going!

 Pursue Sarah

(Head down the stairs)

Orphie: They're activating the device!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): This time, don't let them get away!

(Approach Sarah and the device)

Runaway Sarah

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Runaway Sarah"

---

Video Summary: This isn't where it ends for her.

Story Description: After confronting Sarah, she tries to escape again, and Ye Shiyuan goes after her alone.

---

---

What exactly are the Exaltists trying to achieve?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): What kind of teachings has this Creator of yours given you?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Destruction, disaster, chaos... Is this really what your Creator wants?

Sarah: Not everyone is blessed with a name as bright as yours, Phaethon.

Sarah: In this dark world, is the sun you chase truly the only source of light?

Sarah: You don't understand the price we're willing to pay, the sacrifices we're ready to make, to meet our Lord of Hope.

Orphie: What kind of hope can something that robs others of their happiness ever provide?

Magus: Proxy, Orphie... Don't waste your time with her!

Magus: If sacrifices must be made, then sacrifice yourself!

Sarah: The Overseer has already reached the gate of the "final domain"... Just one step away.

Sarah: Don't you understand yet? All your struggles are in vain!

Sarah, a high-ranking Exaltist, swiftly distances herself and heads toward an unremarkable fissure nearby.

Orphie: She's trying to run away again!

Ye Shiyuan: Leave her to me. Everyone else can keep moving forward.

Magus: Are you sure you can handle her on your own? She is very cunning.

Yixuan: Shiyuan is a highly skilled mystic — leave it to him.

Magus: Very well. Let's keep moving straight to the heart of the Miasma... and right to Isolde!

The team splits into two groups: Ye Shiyuan leaves to pursue Sarah alone, while the rest continue advancing toward the heart of this "underworld."

 Head on into the heart of the Hollow

(Approach the enemies)

Magus: Th—These soldiers...

Magus: Their uniforms... They're from eleven years ago.

Yixuan: They're just illusions formed by the Miasma. Pull yourself together, soldier!

(Reach the marked location)

Mevorakh: You sure took your sweet time, my dear unwelcomed guests.

(Mevorakh grabs her mask)

Take Off the Coat

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Take Off the Coat"

---

Video Summary: Those heart-wrenching stories, told with such casual indifference.

Story Description: Mevorakh takes off the Overseer coat... and reveals the face of Isolde.

---

---

"Surrender now! Mevorakh!"

"If you keep resisting, I'll blast you to ashes!"

Are you going to shoot me, Magus?

Isolde: Then why didn't you pull the trigger before?

Magus: ...?!

Orphie: C—Colonel Isolde?

Yixuan: The Defense Force, Porcelumex, the Exaltists... So you were the one tying all these pieces together.

Magus: Isolde... why are you wearing Mevorakh's clothes?

Isolde: Tell me... Why didn't you pull the trigger when you were facing Lorenz?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Colonel Isolde of the Defense Force... or Mevorakh, Exaltist Overseer... Which is the real you?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): The Defense Force moved under your command, and the Exaltist's followers struck back at your signal... You were the one orchestrating both sides all along.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): That must be why there was a "blind spot" in your intel. It was all just part of your own game?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): You plotted this whole charade to divert the Defense Force's troops. Which means your real objective is...

Isolde: You're a sharp one, Phaethon. You've caused us plenty of trouble, but some fates are unavoidable.

Isolde: As for my true purpose... my followers haven't lied to you. It's all for the final sacrifice.

Magus: So you were the one behind all the tragedies in Waifei Peninsula... Is that right, Isolde?

Isolde: And, "tragedies"?

Isolde: I only ever sought to avenge our comrades... I painstakingly wove together the justice you so desperately desired...

Isolde: But yes, it did end in tragedy...

Isolde: What pains me the most is your betrayal, Magus. You had our mortal enemy in your sights, and you were too weak to do anything.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Over the years, Captain Magus has been conducting investigations within the military and has constantly encountered strong opposition from within...

Isolde: Magus! Why didn't you pull the trigger when you were facing Lorenz?

Magus: I am a soldier of Obsidian Division. I cannot shoot anyone who isn't an enemy combatant.

Magus: I am a citizen of New Eridu. I have no right to take the law into my own hands against anyone.

Magus: And I am the captain of Obol. I cannot let my own hatred put everyone behind me at risk.

Isolde: I'm sorry, I forgot you'd forged new bonds.

Isolde: Then let me mourn alone... for the souls no one else remembers.

Isolde: The sacrifice is about to begin. You are welcome to witness it.

Yixuan: Stop her!

A surge of violent Miasma flares up around Isolde, forcing Yixuan, who was casting techniques, and Obol Squad to retreat.

 Catch up to Isolde

(After the cutscene)^{[Note 1]}

Orphie: Colonel Isolde... Why...?

Magus: ...

Yixuan: Eleven years is plenty of time for many things to change.

Magus: Who once walked side by side...?

Magus: How long has it been since I worked alongside Isolde? How long has it been... since we walked side by side?

Yixuan: Come to think of it, I might not be older than you, Captain Magus, so perhaps I shouldn't be lecturing...

Yixuan: But I have also gone through many partings, moments of loyalty and betrayal...

Yixuan: And regardless of the reason, turning and betraying who you once were is always a regrettable thing.

(Ride the elevator to the top)

Yixuan: The gathering point of the Miasma lies just ahead of us.

Orphie: Is Colonel Isolde there, too?

Magus: This is the first time I've ever realized how hard it can be to confront someone.

Orphie: Does the tactical handbook happen to include countermeasures for situations like this?

Magus: It would sure be nice if it did.

 Eliminate the Exaltist enemy

(Reach the top of the stairs)

Yixuan: Magus, Isolde has most likely committed some unforgivable crimes.

Magus: I understand.

Magus: Don't worry, I'm a seasoned soldier.

Magus: If she has truly betrayed who she once was... I won't let her get away with it.

(Approach Isolde)

No Turning Back

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "No Turning Back"

---

Video Summary: Those heart-wrenching stories, told with such casual indifference.

Story Description: Faced with Orphie and Magus' questioning, Isolde insists on taking revenge. Obol Squad and Yixuan have no choice but to fight her...

---

---

Orphie: Colonel Isolde! You have committed a serious crime!

Orphie: Please cooperate with our operation and return to New Eridu with us... to face judgment!

Isolde: ...

Isolde: So foolish, just like she was back then.

You've already taken your revenge.

Why won't you stop?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Lorenz and Lucro are both dead. You've taken your revenge!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Why won't you stop?

Isolde: This isn't the end... Those fallen soldiers will never come back.

Isolde: How can this city possibly repay the debt it owes them?

Isolde: To be honest, I'm not sure what kind of world the Creator will bring...

Isolde: But at least it'll be different than the disappointing one we're in now.

Isolde: You're right, I've taken my vengeance. Whatever kept me here... it's all behind me now. It's time to knock on the door to the Final Domain.

You and the Exaltists...

Your identity...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Are you a soldier protecting the city... or an overseer wreaking havoc?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Isolde... or should I say... Mevorakh?

Isolde: It's just a name, young Proxy. Just like you wear the name "Phaethon."

Isolde: To the world, Carole Arna is the name of a sinner... But there are still those like you who believe in her innocence.

Isolde: If I don the name of a sinner for those whose names have been forgotten... does that make my justice any less true?!

Magus: Even if it was for the sake of revenge...

Magus: Why did you choose such a twisted path?

Isolde: How would you carry out revenge then?

Isolde: With kindness? Justice? Or love?

Isolde: These tainted hands... are all I have to depend on!

Magus: Turn back, Isolde. They're gone... and I don't want to lose you too.

Isolde: I've already come this far, so let's skip the empty reassurances and heart-wrenching farewells.

Isolde: Let's settle this with guns and blades... just like real soldiers would!

Tidal Surge

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Tidal Surge"

---

Video Summary: Those heart-wrenching stories, told with such casual indifference.

---

(A cinematic plays)

Isolde: Don't be so naive

(Isolde summons her army of Miasmic Troopers)

Isolde: Revenge...

Isolde: ...Is a path of no return.

Isolde: Onwards, to battle!

(They shoot into the sky, covering the area in the Miasma's red glow)

Orphie: Careful!

Magus: Hold the formation! Keep the Proxy safe!

(Isolde holds her sword high, imbuing it with Miasmic energy)

Isolde: We've already chosen different paths...

Isolde: So...

Isolde: ...there's no point in looking back now!

(She impales herself through her brooch, causing a surge of Miasma)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): These Ether fluctuations...

(Isolde emerges from the vortex, reborn as The Defiler)

Isolde: You—

Isolde: You're not the same flame you once were...

Isolde: You don't deserve the name I gave her

Isolde: Magus!

(Cinematic ends)

 Defeat Isolde

(While fighting The Defiler)

Isolde: Creator of all things... grant me your grace.

Magus: Why are you... still clinging to that for protection?!

Orphie: The Miasma's gathering around her!

(When The Defiler launches her Miasmic blade chain attack)

Chain Defensives against Miasmic blades, knock The Defiler down!

(When The Defiler gains a Miasmic Shield — approx. 75% health)

Isolde: Well then... be washed away by the great wave!

Isolde: This hatred... is boundless!

(During the Miasma tsunami)

Break the massive blade dropped by The Defiler to form a barrier against the tsunami!

(When The Defiler is purified)

Isolde: Resistance is futile...!

Orphie: The Miasmic Shield's broken!

Magus: The enemy's weakened — now's our chance!

(When The Defiler begins her Miasmic Trooper's barrage)

Isolde: Soldiers, return to the mortal realm!

Isolde: Fight for me... Obsidian Division!

(During the barrage)

Chain Defensives against the Miasmic Trooper's attacks, suppress The Defiler's offensive!

(Defeat The Defiler)

Ebbing Tide

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Ebbing Tide"

---

Video Summary: Those heart-wrenching stories, told with such casual indifference.

---

(A cinematic plays)

(Isolde summons a Miasma tsunami)

Isolde: Why... Why must you stand against me...?

Isolde: Stop... getting in my way!

(She fires a laser, only to be intercepted by Magus' own)

Magus: The flames of vengeance... they've been burning inside you and me...

Orphie: But these flames...

Orphie & Magus: ...Shouldn't be what ends up consuming you!

(Seed and Yixuan lend their firepower, pushing back Isolde, who falls back to the ground)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): The miasma's clearing!

(The Miasmic Troopers dissipate)

Magus: Isolde...

(Isolde stumbles as her Exaltist mark vanishes)

(Yixuan prepares to attack; Magus stops her, knife at the ready)

Magus: Yixuan Shifu...

Magus: You can leave the rest...

Magus: to me

Orphie: I think you mean us!

Magus: Right...

Magus: Us!

(Cinematic ends)

 Confront Isolde

(Talk to (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍), optional)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): We've come so far... I never thought it would come to this.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Maybe it's my fault as the Proxy... for not guiding this story to a proper ending.

Orphie: You haven't failed us, Proxy. I believe you've led us to the "right place", just as promised... Don't you agree, Captain Magus?

Magus: It might not be a proper ending, but I still believe this is the "right place."

Magus: Had Isolde found a Proxy to lead the way... could she have made it to the "right place" too?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): That's not what a Proxy is for... Whoever grips the guiding rope already knows exactly where they're headed.

(Talk to Yixuan, optional)

Orphie: That was a tough fight... We only managed to defeat so easily because of Yixuan Shifu's help.

Yixuan: Rather than defeating her, you'd prefer to save her though, right?

Magus: But just like she said... she's gone too far down the wrong path to turn back now.

Yixuan: Irreversible regrets have a way of sticking with you to the very end.

Magus: I've always had a question I wanted to ask you, High Preceptor Yixuan... but I never found the right moment.

Yixuan: Go ahead. Just don't let your doubts affect your battle with her.

Magus: My memories may have grown blurry with time and with my hardware's age... but eleven years back, that Yunkui Summit mystic who stepped in front of Isolde and me to save us—

Magus: Her white hair and silhouette looked just like yours, yet somehow different. And if I remember correctly... she was also the High Preceptor of Yunkui Summit back then.

Yixuan: Mhm, that's my sister, Yijiang — the twelfth High Preceptor of Yunkui Summit.

Yixuan: Eleven years ago, she took a team of mystics to Hollow Zero... and died fighting to protect the city. She saved so many people, and if you were among them, then that's a blessing in itself.

Magus: Your... sister?

Magus: To be honest, I've always felt some resentment toward High Preceptor Yijiang... I blamed her for not saving my comrades, for leaving me to survive in this broken body — so much so that I've taken it out on you at times.

Magus: I was being selfish. High Preceptor Yijiang gave everything, including her life — just like my comrades did... so that I, and so many others, could have another chance to choose.

Yixuan: Don't be too hard on yourself. You endured unimaginable pain and paid an enormous price — no one could demand that you remain composed and rational.

Yixuan: And you made the most of the chance my sister gave you... You made the right choice.

Yixuan: Now, go make the final choice and bring this story to its close.

(Talk to Seed, optional)

Seed: Captain Magus doesn't look as happy... or as angry... as she usually does after a victory.

Orphie: Seed, there are more sides to Captain Magus than just being happy or mad.

Seed: Sometimes I think Orphie and Captain Magus's relationship might be just like me and Seed Sr...

Seed: But it's not quite the same — Seed Sr. never laughed smugly in or got as angry as Captain Magus, and I never had to comfort Seed Sr. like you do with Captain Magus, Orphie.

Magus: So I'm a troublesome superior who laughs smugly all the time and needs comfort from my juniors, huh?

Seed: But sometimes, I wish Seed Sr. would need me the way Captain Magus needs Orphie.

Seed: What's the deal between Commander Isolde and Captain Magus? The connections between people are so much more complicated than the ones between metal and electric current...

(While walking to Isolde)

Magus: ...

Orphie: Captain Magus, you must be going through a lot right now, huh?

Magus: Tch, I've told you before... Installing those unnecessary emotion chips isn't worth the trouble.

Orphie: How can having a "heart" ever be unnecessary?

Orphie: Our hearts have been beating together since the day we were born, Captain Magus.

Orphie: I share the rhythm of your heartbeat as well.

Magus: That's a pretty cheesy line, Orphie...

Magus: But I understand how you feel.

(Further ahead)

Orphie: Colonel Isolde is just up ahead...

Magus: Thanks for being with me through all of this, Orphie.

Magus: It's time to teach this arrogant fool a lesson...

Magus: Tactical strategy: "Fateful Duel"!

 Defeat Isolde in the fated duel

(While fighting Isolde)

Isolde: Back in the day, you never managed to beat me during training...

Isolde: I hope you... both of you have grown since then.

Magus: I might still be stuck where I was, but Orphie...

Orphie: I... I'll do my best!

(If Orphie reaches 1% health for the first time)

Magus: Orphie... Stand up!

Isolde: Can you still hold up your blade?

Orphie: I... won't give up, ma'am!

(When Isolde reaches 70% health)

(Isolde fires a shot before crossing blades)^{[Note 2]}

Isolde: Show me your conviction with that blade of yours, Magus.

(If the player succeeds)

(Isolde loses 20% of her health)

Isolde: Ha... You've certainly improved.

(If the player fails)

(Orphie loses 20% of her health)

Isolde: Your resolve is weak, and so is your technique.

(After Isolde gains a Miasmic Shield)

Isolde: The one still stuck in the past... might be me.

Magus: Weren't you the one who pulled me out of my stubbornness?

Magus: Weren't you the one who saved me from despair?

Magus: Well, now... It's my turn to wake you up!

(Defeat The Defector)

Duel

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Duel"

---

Video Summary: Blood-stained weapons tell the final tale of fallen soldiers.

---

(A cinematic plays)

(Orphie knocks Isolde to the ground)

Orphie: Enough... Colonel!

Isolde: Revenge...

Isolde: Or closure...

Isolde: No matter what...

Isolde: There's no going back!

Magus: You're right. There's no going back!

Orphie: That's why we have no choice...

Orphie: But to keep moving forward!

Magus: I won't allow it...

Orphie & Magus: I don't wanna lose anyone who stands behind me again!

Orphie: Including you... Colonel

Isolde: People behind you?

(Isolde touches her brooch)

Isolde: But you've lost so many...

Isolde: What difference would one more make?

Isolde: Being soft... only leads to pain!

(She draws a gun)

Magus: Hey!

(She shoots Orphie before Magus can stop her)

Magus: Orphie—!

(A Denny lays on Orphie's forehead)

Orphie: Huh... It's... A Denny?

Magus: Isolde...?! You—

(Isolde's Denny gun clatters to the floor; blood drops soon follow)

(Magus' knife is embedded through Isolde's brooch, deep into her chest)

Isolde: It's already too late...

Isolde: For me to turn back now...

Magus: Isolde!

Orphie: Colonel!

(Cinematic ends)

Farewell

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Farewell"

---

Video Summary: Blood-stained weapons tell the final tale of fallen soldiers.

Story Description: Isolde gives up resisting and is stabbed in the chest... Lying in Orphie's arms, Isolde expresses her final regrets and wishes to Orphie and Magus.

---

---

Isolde: *coughing*

Isolde: It's too late to turn back now...

Isolde: And I've always hated dealing with court-martials.

Magus: Isolde... Why didn't you ever tell me everything that happened?

Isolde: Because... Because you're Orpheus... My Orpheus. You had already lost so much.

Isolde: Your comrades, your body, and the life you were meant to live.

Magus: Isolde...

Isolde: After everything you'd lost... I didn't want you to carry any more burdens.

Magus: But if I had known sooner... Maybe you wouldn't have...

Magus: Everything I've lost... You've lost too.

Isolde: There's no turning back, Orpheus. My hands... are stained with blood and guilt.

Magus: I know... I'll pay your debts for you.

Orphie: Me too...

Isolde: Orphie...?

Orphie: I'll stick with Captain Magus, and we'll make up for your mistakes together.

Orphie: I'll stay by Captain Magus's side... I won't let her lose her way like you did... Driven by anger, loneliness, and despair.

Magus: ...

Isolde: I know you're in pain just like me... But you're also very lucky.

Isolde: Orphie is a good kid. Don't let her down... Don't disappoint your younger self, Orpheus.

Magus: I won't, Isolde.

Isolde: I believe you... I'm the only disappointment here...

Isolde: It's been so long, Orpheus.

Isolde: I've missed you so much...

Isolde: Please... forgive me.

Isolde, corrupted by the miasma to the point of near complete crystallization, shatters in the air in the Hollow...

 Talk to everyone

(Talk to Orphie)

Magus: Isolde has committed an unforgivable sin...

Magus: But I think... when she left, she felt some relief, but also some remorse.

Magus: As for her crimes... even if they can't be fully repaid, I'll do my best to atone for them.

Orphie: I won't let Captain Magus carry this burden alone!

(After the conversation)

Fairy: Master... An abnormal Ether fluctuation has been detected nearby.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍An abnormal fluctuation...?An abnormal fluctuation...?Text for Wise / Abnormal fluctuations...?Abnormal fluctuations...?Text for Belle‍)

Yixuan: It's just a fluctuation in the Miasma. I don't sense any hostility.

 Check the Miasma anomaly

(Approach the marked location)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Why do I feel as though... it's resonating with me?

(The Miasma takes the form of a woman)

Orphie: Watch out, Proxy!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Is that... Teacher?!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Teacher!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Is this... just a hallucination caused by Miasma?

Carole: Belle... Wise...

Carole: (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍)...

Carole: You two now walk this path alone... You are the bravest, most gifted children that I... that Helios Academy has ever seen...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Is that... from when we were separated from Teacher?^{[Note 3]}

Carole: You and your (‍sistersisterText for Wise / brotherbrotherText for Belle‍)... must carry on the flames of Helios together...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Teacher...

Carole: Just what kind of being is your Creator, exactly?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): The Creator?! Just who is she talking to...?

Carole: The gate to the final domain. It's in Hollow Zero, isn't it?

Carole: What secrets lie beyond that door that could be worthy of such feverish praise and supplication?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): The Exaltists... and Teacher...?

Carole: Fine... I'll pave the way for you to meet your revered Creator.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): ...No! There's no way Teacher is an accomplice to those people!

Carole: At the end of that path... also lies something that I'm seeking.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Something that Teacher is seeking...? What in the world could that be?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Even if one has to pay such a hefty price...

Carole: Even if I have to pay such a hefty price...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Even if one has to bear such guilt...

Carole: Even if... I have to bear this guilt...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Even if it means leaving us behind... Is this really what she wants!?

Carole: This path may not lead to a happy outcome... I don't know if Eridu will fall into the abyss or find salvation from the brink.

Carole: But I believe in my dear children.

Carole: They are the brilliant "Phaethon."

The Miasmic illusion in the air shatters and fades...

However, Miasma, the Exaltists, and where exactly Teacher is...
These suspicions still remain unknown, lingering in the Hollow...

On the path which Miasma retreats, you evacuate the Hollow alongside Obol Squad...