And the True Heroes Are Always Behind the Scenes (II)

Despite his claws and fangs, he maintains a gentle demeanor... as long as you don't provoke him.

And the True Heroes Are Always Behind the Scenes (II), also known as Edgy...?, is the second episode of Von Lycaon's Agent Story "And the True Heroes Are Always Behind the Scenes".
To unlock this, the player must be Inter-Knot Level 36 and have already completed The Midnight Pursuit (B). The player will then enter Immersive Storytelling upon entering the mission.

Stories

Steps

Talk to Chop Jr.
Help the customers place their orders (X/3)
Report to Chop Jr.
Talk to the mysterious person
Head to the cram school and talk with the students
Talk to Lilac
Catch up to Lilac
Talk to Lilac
Return to the video store and talk to (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍)

Dialogue

A few days later, you meet up with Lycaon at the coffee shop in Lumina Square as you agreed earlier.

Lycaon: Regarding the Mockingbird incident from before, I have conducted a preliminary investigation.

Lycaon: It seems this organization is deliberately trying to get close to Miss Lilac after all.

Oh, I see...

They're definitely up to something.

Lycaon: That's right. The true intentions of these people remain unclear. However, I have already prepared my "bait."

Lycaon: Perhaps a big fish will take a bite soon.

Lycaon: Actually, there's one more thing I'd like to discuss with you.

Lycaon: If it's not too much to ask, could you spare some time around this time tomorrow?

Lycaon: I have some doubts about this case that I hope we can clear up together.

Of course.

See you tomorrow!

Lycaon: Wonderful. Then I'll be waiting for you at Lumina Square this time tomorrow.

The next day, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍) heads to Lumina Square and immediately spots Lycaon in the crowd.
(‍HeHeText for Wise / SheSheText for Belle‍) steps forward and stands on tiptoes to pat Lycaon on the back...

Abnormal Normal Day

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

"Abnormal Normal Day"

Video Summary: Someday, that once tiresome everyday life will become unreachable.

Story Description: Lycaon noticed some suspicious behavior from Lilac recently, such as frequenting the noodle shop and skipping her tutoring lessons, leading him to suspect a connection to Mockingbird. Consequently, you've decided to head to the noodle shop.

Lycaon: Ah, you are very punctual.

Lycaon: I wanted to discuss with you that, recently, Miss Lilac has been acting rather strange.

Lycaon: While she usually frequents the bookstore, recently, she has been going to the noodle shop instead.

What's wrong with the noodle shop?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): What's wrong with the noodle shop? (‍Noodles are pretty good. / Noodles are the best!‍)

Lycaon: I apologize, I have no bias against noodles, what I mean is... Miss Lilac's least favorite food is noodles.

Lycaon: She even said, "Noodles being the protag's favorite food? That's so last year. It's a new year now, have some creativity."

So Lilac really is a big comic nerd.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Lilac seems to be quite the comic nerd. / So Lilac really is a huge comic nerd, huh!‍)

Lycaon: In addition, according to what her chauffeur and bodyguards said, she even skipped her extra classes today.

Lycaon: This is completely unprecedented. Miss Lilac has always been well-behaved and never skips classes. Even in her free time, she spends it almost entirely reading comics.

Lycaon: I have a suspicion that this all might have to do with that so-called Mockingbird organization.

The phantom thieves taught Lilac some bad habits?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Did the phantom thieves teach Lilac bad habits. / You think the phantom thieves are teaching Lilac bad habits?‍)

Lycaon: Yes, I believe so.

Maybe Lilac is in a rebellious phase?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Maybe Lilac is going through a rebellious phase... / Maybe Lilac is just going through a rebellious phase?‍)

Lycaon: I thought... Miss Lilac's rebellion is already expressed through the way she speaks?

Lycaon: In any case, in order to ensure that there are no potential threats to her safety, I wish to do some investigating at the places she frequents.

Lycaon: If I could be so bold as to ask you to accompany me? I believe you are likely more familiar with Lumina Square than I am.

Sure! Lumina Square is like a second home to me.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Sure, Lumina Square may as well be my second home. / Of course! I know Lumina Square like the back of my hand.‍)

Lycaon: It seems you are indeed quite familiar with the location. I was wise to ask for your help.

Sure. I can be your Proxy for Lumina Square.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Sure. I can be a Proxy for Lumina Square, too. I've memorized the locations of all the stores there. / Sure. I can be a Proxy for Lumina Square. No one knows where all the stores are as well as I do.‍)

Lycaon: Although I am not quite sure I understand, I trust that it was a very amusing joke.

Lycaon: Ah, yes, there was something else I wished to discuss with you.

Lycaon: May I call you "Master" while investigating, just in case?

Lycaon: I believe using this to cover our identities will be more convenient for us.

Of course, you can!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍By all means, go ahead. / Of course, you can call me whatever~.‍)

Call me that as much as you want, I like it~

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Sure. You can call me that as many times as you want. / For sure! Can you call me that more often? I like hearing it, heheh.‍)

Lycaon: Thank you for your cooperation.

Lycaon: Then, let us begin at the noodle shop.

Talk to Chop Jr.

Commission Description

Go with Lycaon and chat with Chop Junior at the Lumina Square noodle shop.

(After the cutscene): Lycaon: The noodle shop is the one with the long line in front over there. Let's go and see the chef.

(Idle 1): Excited Diner: The white bowls are not spicy, but the black bowls are super fiery hot...

(Idle 2): Anxious Employee: We're getting our noodles soon, right? It's a shame the owner didn't have more time to consider all my suggestions earlier...; Calm Employee: Well, I'm not sure if he's going to, even if he had time...

(Idle 3): Hesitant Diner: Hmm... Ordering at restaurants is just so hard...

(Idle 4): Idle Elder: After all these years, the noodle shop's still as packed as the day it opened, huh?; Stern Elder: Look at that line—it's only getting longer.; Idle Elder: That's a good sign right there. Means the food's still top-notch. And hey, we're retired, right? We've got all the time in the world.; Stern Elder: I've been keeping myself quite busy. If you're up for it, how about we head to the gym together after we finish our noodles?

(Idle 5): Hesitant Diner: *sigh* I'm craving something warm and filling...

(Talk to Chop Junior): Chop Junior: Oh, it's you, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍).; Are you free right now?; I wanted to ask you about something.; Chop Junior: Well... Sorry, I'm in the middle of something right now and there's a stream of customers queueing out the door.; Chop Junior: *sigh* We've been short-staffed at the shop recently, and the part-time kids aren't always able to come in...; Chop Junior: Besides making all the noodles, I have to serve all the diners, too. Some people take an eternity just to order... I'm just swamped here.; Lycaon: Would it make things more efficient if you were to know in advance what each customer in the queue wished to order?; Chop Junior: Course it would! If I could get their orders in advance, then I could really focus on the noodles.; Lycaon:...I see. I have a proposal to address this problem. You can judge for yourself if it's appropriate.; Lycaon: With your assent, we could sign a temporary contract — I can help ask your diners about their preferences; give them some appropriate suggestions; and summarize everything into a table for your perusal.; Lycaon: Of course, I won't be requiring any form of compensation. I just hope you can take the time to answer a few questions once you're less busy.; Chop Junior: Er...; Lycaon sure is one dependable attendant!; Trust us on this!; Chop Junior: If you say so, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍)... then I'll leave things with you.

Help the customers place their orders

Step Description

Help take orders for the diners lining up outside the noodle shop.

(Talk to the Excited Diner)

Excited Diner: Oh... I think a white bowl is better...

Excited Diner: Wow! It's a Thiren attendant! He looks so suave...

Lycaon: Good day. Our restaurant provides a menu service that matches you with dishes that suit your needs to increase efficiency.

Lycaon: May I ask: What appeals to your taste?

Excited Diner: My taste? That's a little direct, isn't it? I like 'em hot and arrogant. I'm also into furries. And...

Lycaon: That's on me. I didn't explain myself clearly enough. What I meant to say was "How do you like your noodles?"

Excited Diner: Oh... in that case, I like sweet noodles.

Lycaon: Master, based on this diner's description, I have identified their main requests: white bowl, preferably on the sweeter side. Is there anything you could suggest?

White Bowl: Pumpkin Soup Noodles

Excited Diner: Not bad. That's exactly how I like it! By the way, do you mind if I watch the attendant while I eat? They go really well together.
(Continue dialogue)

White Bowl: Seafood Noodles

Excited Diner: Er, are you just passing this off as a sweet dish because of the sweet shrimps in it?
(Return to choices)

Black Bowl: Mushroom Noodles

Excited Diner: The black bowl is very spicy, right? Yeah, that's not what I want.
(Return to choices)

Lycaon: ...I don't think that's a good idea. It will affect the running of the store.

Excited Diner: That's too bad! For a second there, I thought the noodles on the menu had turned into a high-end ribeye steak.

Excited Diner: I've got one last question for you! May I please... pet your tail?

Go right ahead. It's free.

Lycaon: Uh... Thanks. But the tail is off-limits.

The tail has a different price tag.

Lycaon: Well, I haven't heard that one before. Look, thanks, but the tail is off-limits.

(Talk to the Excited Diner again, optional): Excited Diner: Ah... I forgot to take a selfie with the Thiren attendant...

(Talk to the Hesitant Diner^{[Note 1]})

Hesitant Diner: Look at this crowd! How long are we going to be waiting for? Is it really that hard to get a bite to eat around here...

Lycaon: Good day. Our restaurant provides a menu service that matches you with dishes that suit your needs to increase efficiency.

Lycaon: Excuse me, how do you like your noodles?

Hesitant Diner: You mean flavor? Well, of course, it's gotta be spicy! Noodles without chili is like an Ethereal without a Hollow. It's not natural!

Lycaon: I'm sorry, but noodles that aren't spicy do exist in the world, or at least they do here. If you want some, we got it!

Lycaon: Master, based on this diner's description, I have identified their main requests: a black bowl, piping hot soup, and a dish with meat. Please recommend a dish for them.

Black Bowl: Cold Noodles

Hesitant Diner: I want piping hot noodles! I'm not interested in the cold noodles you recommended.
(Return to choices)

Black Bowl: Mushroom Noodles

Hesitant Diner: I want some meat! This is all vegetarian — who wants that?
(Return to choices)

Red Chilli Chicken Noodles

Hesitant Diner: Hmmm, not bad. This noodles [sic] looks like it'll hit the spot.
(Continue dialogue)

Hesitant Diner: Looks like you're working really hard. I thought you were some rich person who brought their attendant out to experience life in the real world!

Thank you... I guess?

Hesitant Diner: You're welcome! Remember to add extra chilies — the spiciest you got.

But I am rich!

Hesitant Diner: Ah? I don't suppose I could have my meal on the house? I'm broke.

Lycaon: ...Your order has been settled. Thank you for your business.

(Talk to the Hesitant Diner again, optional): Hesitant Diner: Thank you for the suggestion, you really saved me a lot of time there.

(Talk to the Hesitant Diner^{[Note 1]})

Hesitant Diner: Every bowl of noodles looks so good to me...

Lycaon: Good day. Our restaurant provides a menu service that matches you with dishes that suit your needs to increase efficiency.

Hesitant Diner: But I don't really have any special requests... I'll take whatever you suggest. Is there anything you can recommend?

Lycaon: How about this white bowl of fried BBQ noodles? It's one of our most popular dishes.

Hesitant Diner: That sounds pretty good, but isn't fried BBQ a little greasy? I like eating meat, but it's not very healthy if it's greasy.

Lycaon: ...Well, how about a black bowl of red chili chicken noodles? The soup isn't greasy, and it's good for your immune system.

Hesitant Diner: That does sound good... but the black bowl has red chili in it. Won't that be a bit too spicy? I can eat spicy food, so there's no problem there, but I just don't feel like eating something that's super spicy...

That's not what "whatever" means!

I thought you said you didn't have any "special requests"?

Lycaon: It's quite alright. I understand.

Lycaon: Master, based on this diner's description, I have identified their main requests: meaty, but not greasy; and not spicy. Please could you suggest some dishes for them?

Green Pepper Chicken Noodles

Hesitant Diner: Is that a black bowl with green peppers? That'll still be too spicy. No thank yew~
(Return to choices)

Green Pepper Meat Noodles

Hesitant Diner: The white bowl with green peppers is pretty good, but the meat is still a bit greasy! No thank yew~
(Return to choices)

Bone Broth Noodles

Hesitant Diner: Wow, that sounds great, and the meat on those bones doesn't look greasy at all. I'll take one of those.
(Continue dialogue)

Lycaon: ...Your order has been settled. Thank you for your business.

Hesitant Diner: No, no, I should be thanking you. I'm not the type of diner with many requests. It must be a real pain for you when you get a picky eater, right?

Lycaon: Thank you for sharing your concerns. We always try to cater to the needs of our diners, no matter the customer.
I hope you have a lovely meal.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (As expected of Lycaon... cool, calm, and collected...)

(Talk to the Hesitant Diner again, optional): Hesitant Diner: I'll give you five stars if it tastes good~

(After taking all three orders): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (I've counted up all the orders of all the customers in line... Let's hurry up and give Chop Junior the final table)

Report to Chop Jr.

Step Description

You've helped those diners place orders. Now report back to Chop Junior with Lycaon.

(Idle): Excited Diner: Hehe... The wolf attendant ordered the noodles for me... Hehehe...

(Talk to the Excited Diner, optional): Excited Diner: Ah... I forgot to take a selfie with the Thiren attendant...

(Idle): Hesitant Diner: It would be great to always have someone help me with ordering and make recommendations...

(Talk to the Hesitant Diner, optional): Hesitant Diner: I'll give you five stars if it tastes good~^{[Note 2]}

(Idle): Anxious Diner: I'm famished. I wish a steaming bowl of noodle soup would just appear in front of me...

(Talk to the Anxious Diner, optional): Anxious Diner: Thank you for the suggestion, you really saved me a lot of time there.^{[Note 2]}

(Talk to Chop Junior)

Chop Junior: That's it? You guys are moving fast.

Chop Junior: Let me see... Th—This is a complete, clear table... with prominent, easy-to-read items... You really are a gem of a worker!

Chop Junior: Oh, once I'm financially independent, I'd love to have such a capable attendant helping out with daily operations in the shop...

Chop Junior: And just think of all the customers he'll attract just by standing there.

Was that last bit your point?

Lycaon's services cost top dollar.

Lycaon: Your praise honors me, but you surely are joking. I am merely a humble attendant.

Lycaon: I wonder if you might be available now to answer a few questions?

Chop Junior: Oh, I almost forgot about all that. Go ahead, ask away! We can talk about anything you want... except my PIN.

Lycaon: Have you seen a little girl called Lilac? She used to shop at your store quite frequently.

Chop Junior: Li—who? Ah, sorry. My memory isn't the greatest, and I'm always forgetting other people's names.

Lycaon: Well... She's always saying things that people find difficult to understand.

Chop Junior: Ah! I remember now. That girl who's always talking nonsense! I know her! I saw her recently!

Chop Junior: She just came into our store recently for some part-time work! One look tells me she'd never lifted a finger on housework at home, but she is hardworking, studious, and a pretty good person.

Chop Junior: Speaking of which, I just paid her a big advance on her salary today. She seemed nice, and she left her student ID as collateral, so I gave her the advance.

Lycaon: An advance on her salary... Got it. Thank you for your cooperation, you have been a tremendous help.

Chop Junior: It's fine, [sic] Now that you mention it, what is your relationship with that kid?

Lycaon: Lilac is my employer. She has had some minor issues recently, and I am duty-bound to keep her safe.

Chop Junior: So it's like that, then... Hang on, if that kid is your boss, then does that mean (‍Wise / Belle‍)...?

I'm Lycaon's friend!

Lycaon: Mmm... just as (‍Mister Wise / Miss Belle‍) here advised, we are as close as intimate friends. But in addition to that, (‍he / she‍) is also my master.

I'm Lycaon's master!

Lycaon: Correct. (‍Lord Wise / Lady Belle‍) is my master.

Chop Junior: Ah, now I get it.

Chop Junior: Anyway, Thiren attendant: You are very capable. If you're after any side gigs in the future, please come and find me! I'll make it worth your while!

Looks like you've gathered a lot of information about Lilac... discuss it with Lycaon.

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

"The Richest, The Poorest"

Video Summary: No matter where you go, this memory will always follow you.

Story Description: Lycaon suspects Lilac may be saving money to purchase the artwork. He also reveals Lilac's parents were highly wealthy but lacked involvement in her life, and suggested you accompany him elsewhere.

Lycaon: I did not expect Miss Lilac would actually work here part-time.

Lycaon: Logically speaking, she would not lack pocket money to spend.

Lycaon: Unless... perhaps she's saving up to purchase something particularly expensive.

What could that be?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍I wonder what it could be... Perhaps a limited edition surprise box? The kind all the girls have been raving about recently. / I wonder what it is. Maybe the hottest limited edition surprise box, you think?‍)

Lycaon: No, I highly doubt a surprise box, even a limited edition one, could be that expensive.

She's not going to try to buy that painting, is she?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Is it possible that Lilac wants to instead buy that painting she was going to steal? / What if...maybe Lilac wants to buy the painting she wanted to steal...‍)

Lycaon: As expected of a great Proxy such as yourself. You came to this conclusion immediately as well.

Lycaon: Lilac's parents have been planning to sell a batch of paintings recently. That painting is amongst them, and I hear it was reserved a couple of days ago.

Lycaon: But that painting is not cheap. If I had to guess, I'd say it costs about...

Lycaon uses his hands to convey an impossibly large number.

Excuse me, how much?!!!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Wait a second, how much? Could someone her age really afford something like that? / Wait, how much?! How could someone her age come up with that much money?‍)

Lycaon: Well... in terms of material wealth, my employer is indeed quite affluent.

Material wealth?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Material wealth? Is there another kind of wealth?

Lycaon: ...

Lycaon: Miss Lilac's parents are usually exceptionally busy and unable to spend time with her. However, they are very strict and expect the best from her.

Lycaon: No matter what she is doing, she usually has a chauffeur or bodyguards to accompany her. Well, excuse me, "monitor her actions" would be a more apt way to put it.

Lycaon: Every day, after school, Miss Lilac also has endless extracurricular and supplementary classes to attend.

Lycaon: Though she may have material wealth, is she truly happy? I've been wondering ever since I took over attendant duties for this household.

Lycaon: Perhaps that is exactly why Miss Lilac spends so much time with her comics.

Lycaon: At the very least, in the world of comic book fiction, she is free.

Lycaon is so responsible.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Truly, you're such a conscientious attendant. Your employers are lucky they managed to hire you. / You're such a responsible attendant! Your employers are lucky to have you.‍)

Lycaon: You flatter me. I do not believe I live up to your praise.

Lycaon really is such a good person.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍You really are a good person. / You're such a sweet guy!‍)

Lycaon: You flatter me. But... I may not be how you think I am.

Lycaon: Someone once told me that family is an everlasting, unavoidable curse placed upon a person.

Lycaon: No matter how much you grow, no matter where you go, that curse will forever follow you like a shadow.

Lycaon: When you fall to rock bottom or climb to your peak, it will appear, turning you back into that helpless, powerless child who can do nothing but hide in the closet and weep.

Lycaon: Perhaps it is because I have never known the feeling of being bonded to someone through blood, but...

Lycaon: I've always believed that family should not be a curse, as they had told me.

Family can be full of warmth.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Family can be full of warmth, there to support you every step of the way. / Family can be full of warmth. They can be the people who support you, every step of the way!‍)

Lycaon: It seems you and your kin are quite close. I am sincerely happy to know that.

Who told you that?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍That sounds quite heavy... Who said that? / That's pretty dark... Who told you something like that?‍)

Lycaon: An... old friend. No one worth mentioning.

Lycaon: I'm sorry, it appears I've digressed.

Lycaon: I believe Lilac chose to work part-time due to her family as well. Perhaps her savings are just short of being able to afford the painting, and she does not wish to ask her parents for help.

Lycaon: Or perhaps... she simply wants to obtain something through the efforts of her own two hands.

Lycaon: However, what I am most worried about is that if Miss Lilac did manage to buy the painting, it would then follow that she would meet with members of Mockingbird.

Lycaon: If this is so, she may end up in danger.

Lycaon: So, may I be so bold as to ask you to accompany me to another location?

Lycaon: Once we are there, I should be able to confirm where exactly that painting will end up...

Talk to the mysterious person

Step Description

Lycaon said he wanted to take me to meet someone... Go speak with that "mysterious person."

(Talk to the Suspicious Vendor)

Suspicious Vendor: Oh, this young (‍gentleman / lady‍) here — Interested in buying some jade? We just got a new batch in!

No thanks, I don't need it.

Suspicious Vendor: Uh, as expected of a rich (‍gentleman / young girl‍)...

Suspicious Vendor: How about you buy a piece of jade for this Thiren attendant with you? It could be a token of trust between you two. Seeing it is like seeing your master in person. Just imagine passing this down for five generations to your descendants.

I don't have any money.

Suspicious Vendor: You've got to be kidding me. How could a young (‍gentleman / lady‍) like you with a top-notch wolf Thiren attendant not have any money?

Casey: How about this: I'll cut you a 12% discount. I'm practically giving it away, just consider it a way to make friends! The name's Casey. Every pawn trader around here knows my name. You guys are lucky to have bumped into me!

Lycaon: Mr. Casey, we are not here to shop.

Lycaon: Have you heard about that famous piece at the museum getting torched? Do you know who did this?

Casey: It was the artist himself. All his works are supposed to be fireproof. If it burned, it's definitely a fake.

Casey: Alright, your turn. Which organization has the highest success rate in our field so far?

Lycaon: Mockingbird. Or to be more precise, the formerly-active Mockingbird.

Casey: Ha, I never would've guessed a couple of decent-looking guys like you were actually in the know.

Casey: Guess you deserve a bonus question: Who's the leader of Mockingbird?

Lycaon: ...That's not one of our code words.

Casey: Hahaha, I'm just messing with ya. If you knew the answer to the industry's biggest secret, you wouldn't be standing here, would ya?

What are you two talking about?

Suspicious Vendor: Huh? What's up with your master... Don't you understand the code word?

Lycaon: Of course. Master is just joking with you.

(Remain silent)

Casey: Fine. Got anything you need to sell? My cut's a fixed 20 percent, no discounts.

Lycaon: No, we'd like to ask you for some information. Naturally, we shall offer appropriate compensation.

Casey: Oh, looking for a bit of intel, huh? You've come to the right person.

Casey: But rules are rules: If you want the info, I need the code word. And your master has to give it to me, too!

Casey: The most famous piece at the museum was torched. Who was the arsonist?

The artist himself.

Casey: Very good. Correct.
(Continue dialogue)

A thief.

Casey: Incorrect! You're not actually a cop trying to trick me, are you?
(Return to choices)

You!

Casey: That's not funny!
(Return to choices)

Casey: Which organization has the highest success rate in our field so far?

Mockingbird.

Casey: Very good. You're correct.
(Continue dialogue)

Robin.

Casey: Wrong. Think about it carefully — which bird is it?
(Return to choices)

Any old bird.

Casey: Wrong. Completely wrong! You don't take me for an idiot, do you?
(Return to choices)

Casey: Tell me then — what do you want to know?

Lycaon: It's about that painting, "Divine Heart." Do you know who the buyer is?

Casey: Oh, that. Then you really have come to the right place. The buyer of that painting... is a little girl, I believe.

Casey: *sigh* Kids these days, each richer than the last.

Lycaon: That's precisely as I'd predicted... Got it. Thank you for the information.

Casey: No problem! Oh yeah, one more question for the attendant — are you working solo these days, or do you have a partner?

Casey: Surely this pampered (‍gentleman / lady‍) here with (‍his / her‍) innocent, Bambi eyes isn't your partner right?

Lycaon: ...I once had a partner.

Lycaon: But now... we are enemies.

Casey: Oooh, that happens all the time in this line of work. We've all had partners who ended up becoming our enemies.

Casey: So, why did you split? Trouble dividing your cuts equally? Come on, spill the beans, I love hearing these stories!

Lycaon: ...I'm sorry, that's private.

Lycaon frowns and pulls awkwardly at the collar on his coat.
He seems rather reluctant to talk about this topic...

Casey: Yikes, judging by the look on your face, you must've parted ways in some spicy drama?

Casey: Shame we didn't know each other back then. I'm a top mediator in this industry and maybe if I'd stepped in, you'd still be peacefully splitting your profits!

Casey: So what is your former partner up to now? Have they got any good stuff? Go on, tell him I'll pay top Denny!

You're talking too much.

Ever heard the saying "Silence is golden"?

Lycaon: ...It's okay. Thank you for helping out, Master.

Lycaon: Mister Casey, here's your promised remuneration. Let us hereby part ways.

After talking to the suspicious merchant, you give Lycaon a wink.
Lycaon instantly understands, and the two of you walk to a remote area together...

Not-So-Happy Past

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

"Not-So-Happy Past"

Video Summary: Why is Lycaon so proficient?

Story Description: You wondered why Lycaon knew so much about the second hand dealer. Lycaon admitted it was related to his own past. You were worried Lilac might meet with Mockingbird, so decided to find her at her tutoring class.

Lycaon: You seem to have something about which you would like to inquire. Please, go ahead.

Why do you know so much about these kinds of transactions?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): How come you know so much about this sort of thing?

Lycaon: I've merely dabbled a little in such things. I would not consider myself an expert.

What exactly is your line of work?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): What exactly is your line of work?

Lycaon: As you can see, I am merely a normal attendant.

Lycaon: I understand your confusion, however, this concerns my past...

Lycaon: It also concerns my... nemesis.

I see.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I see. You haven't said anything yet, but (‍I think I get it. / I get it.‍)

Lycaon: Indeed. They are memories I would rather not bring up.

Nemesis? Spill the tea.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Lycaon's nemesis... Perhaps it's one of those creatures from old civilization films, who happen to like a certain crimson liquid — that get into fights with wolf people whenever they come across one another? / Your nemesis... Like, certain creatures from old civilization films who may enjoy a particular crimson liquid, who perhaps fight wolf people whenever they encounter them?‍)

Lycaon: I believe your imagination is running away with you.

Lycaon: In any case, that past is not pleasant.

Alright, I'll let you off the hook for now.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Alright, well I'll let you off the hook now, but I'll keep it in mind. / Alright, I'll let you off the hook for now. Guess I'll just have to interrogate you later!‍)

Lycaon: Thank you for your understanding. As a matter of fact, I once had dealings with these intermediaries due to... well, I had my reasons.

I wanna know now.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍You can't tell us anything? I kinda want to hear it now. / You can't tell us anything now? What if you forget later!‍)

Lycaon: ...

Lycaon: This nemesis and I... we once worked together. That is the reason I once had dealings with these intermediaries.

Lycaon: Many of them are so cunning they will take advantage of any weaknesses they perceive. It takes patience and effort to deal with them.

Lycaon: If you ever come across such merchants in the future, please be careful and do not give your trust lightly.

Lycaon: Seeing as Miss Lilac has already obtained the painting, she must be meeting with the people from Mockingbird soon.

Lycaon: We must stop her before that happens...

Lycaon: She should have just finished with her supplementary classes. Let's head over and take a look.

Head to the cram school and talk with the students

Step Description

Lilac's cram school is over. Talk to the students around her school about her.

(Idle): Yawning Student: *yawn* I'm so tired...

(Talk to the Yawning Student, optional): Yawning Student: When am I gonna be able to sleep? I've still gotta finish my homework once I get home...; Hello, excuse me.; I'd like to ask you something...; Yawning Student: Ha? I'm so tired I can barely speak. Go find someone else, okay...

(Idle): Annoyed Student: Ugh, I slipped another spot... I was sure I'd make it into the top ten this time.

(Talk to the Annoyed Student, optional): Annoyed Student: I can't fall further behind in the exam next time... Otherwise....; Excuse me.; Can I ask you something...?; Annoyed Student: Huh? Ask me something? Are you a journalist? Are you trying to expose Prodigy Courses for exploiting their students?; Lycaon: Sorry, we just wanted to ask a few personal questions.; Annoyed Student: Oh, well in that case, I'm busy. Go find someone else.; The student walks off...

(Idle): Excited Student: No one knows this cool organization better than I do!; Skeptical Student: ...

(Talk to the Excited Student): Excited Student: ...So, Mockingbird is a super mean phantom thieves syndicate!; Excited Student: They can get hold of anything if they want to! Not even TOPS can stop them!; Skeptical Student: Really? I'm not buying it.; Excited Student: Don't you believe me? Their biggest case at that time was La... La... What was it again?; Lycaon: The Lymecria Hotel.; Excited Student: That's right, that's the one! Are you also a fan of Mockingbird?; Lycaon: Not really. I just happen to know a thing or two about them.; The students gather around Lycaon, chatting endlessly...
Seems like he's managed to make his way into their inner circle. It's time to ask about Lilac...; Lycaon: I've got a question I'd like to ask you all. Do you know Miss Lilac?; Excited Student: Sure, she's in our cram class.; Excited Student: But I don't think she's here today?; Yawning Student: She was here earlier, but she's already left. Not sure what's up with her.; Excited Student: She's always on about some "Companion of Justice" stuff. Totally weird, if you ask me.; Annoyed Student: Nah, you're just not getting it. She's trying to be edgy.; Yawning Student: "Edgy"... That's ancient...; Annoyed Student: Yeah, that trend died like last decade...; Excited Student: Oh right, at the last PTA, her folks didn't show. Some old dude came instead. I think it was her attendant.; Excited Student: I thought it was her grandpa.; Annoyed Student: But seriously, she's loaded — she's even got a personal chauffeur.; Yawning Student: Why doesn't she just hire a tutor to teach her at home then?; Annoyed Student: Who knows — maybe she wants to make friends?; Yawning Student: Erm... she's solo all the time. I feel kinda sorry for her...; Yawning Student: It's not like there's much we can do... Legit can't make heads or tails of what she says.; Annoyed Student: Plus she's always buried in her comics during breaks. I'm like, no thanks — I wouldn't wanna hang with someone like her...; Lilac appears at the corner...; Lilac: ...; Lycaon: Miss Lilac—

Talk to Lilac

Step Description

Lilac is right tight [sic] over there. Go talk to her.

(After the conversation): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Huh...? Isn't that Lilac?

(Talk to Lilac): Lycaon: Miss Lilac—; Lilac: That's enough! I don't want to hear it!; Lilac: Are you satisfied seeing me like this...; Lilac: I'm useless, such a freak, so hated by everyone... That's the kind of person I am! Are you happy now?; Lilac ran off again...
Lycaon and you glance at each other silently before chasing after her...

Catch up to Lilac

Step Description

Lilac ran away. Chase her down with Lycaon.

(Talk to Lilac near the Lumina Square parking lot): Lilac: You've been investigating me all this time... Was it my father or mother who put you up to it?; Lilac: Is it because I skipped one of my extra classes recently or I dropped a rank in the monthly exam?; Lilac: They're always fixated on these things... It's all they ever remember!; Lilac ran off again...
Lycaon and you glance at each other silently before chasing after her...

(Talk to Lilac near Lumina Galleria): Lilac: You also think the other students are correct, right?; Lilac: A Companion of Justice? What a joke! I fantasize all day long about being the chosen one, yet I can't even control my daily life...; Lilac: But it's my only dream... Why do you want to take that away from me?; Lilac: Stop following me! Don't look at me... Please...; Lilac ran off again...
Lycaon and you glance at each other silently before chasing after her...

Talk to Lilac

Step Description

Lilac finally stopped. Speak with her, ASAP.

Having run alongside Lycaon for a long time, you're already out of breath, while Lycaon remains as composed as ever.
You inadvertently catch his eye and sense he's hesitating, as if wanting to suggest carrying you...
Luckily, you manage to catch up to Lilac before that.

If That is What You Wish

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

"If That is What You Wish"

Video Summary: "I will help you fulfill it."

Story Description: Lycaon's attempts to dissuade Lilac prove unsuccessful. In the end, he decided to assist her in fulfilling her wish. Meanwhile, Lycaon received a message from Mockingbird, and needs you to do him a favor...

Lycaon: Miss Lilac, please, we have no ill intentions. And I do not agree with what those other students said about you.

Lycaon: I merely want to warn you that Mockingbird is suspicious. It is possible you may encounter danger if you go.

Lilac: Even if I'm in danger, it doesn't concern you!

Lilac: In the end, you're just an attendant that my parents hired... Why are you trying to stick your nose into everything?

Lilac: In any case, you're probably just like those other people. You must think I'm a freak just like they do...

Lilac: Well, I'm soooo sorry that you're forced to take care of someone who only causes trouble, who no one loves, who's edgy and delusional like me.

Lycaon: I've never thought that.

Lycaon: Miss Lilac, you are the respectable, important employer of Victoria Housekeeping. We would never treat someone like yourself with such utter disrespect.

Lilac: ...But, you weren't even willing to listen to what I said!

Lycaon: ...

Lycaon: My most sincere apologies. My knowledge is lacking; I have yet to better understand popular subcultures — such as what being "edgy" truly means.

Lycaon: I shall make sure to take lessons and educate myself on it.

I don't think taking lessons is necessary...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Is there really a need to take lessons on being edgy...? / I don't think taking lessons on being edgy is necessary...‍)

I don't think we can expect Lycaon to understand such edgy speech.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Let's be real. Isn't it a little unfair to expect others to understand such over-the-top language? I mean, the only reason I get it is, er, 'cause I'm kinda special. / Let's be real. It's way too much to expect others to understand this edgy lingo! The only reason I can understand is... 'cause of natural talent! Yeah!‍)

Lilac: It doesn't matter anymore. This is all just the price I need to pay to become a Companion of Justice.

Lilac: I've bought the painting so I can finally meet with them. The people at Mockingbird told me that I'm the most promising recruit yet.

Lilac: I will join them, and become a Companion of Justice! You cannot stop me!

Lycaon: ...

Lycaon: I understand. If that is your wish, I will not stop you.

Lycaon: I will help you fulfill it.

Lilac: You...

Lilac: I'm meeting with Mockingbird at the Ballet Twins at this time tomorrow.

Lilac: You know, I can, in fact, do this by myself. I don't need you. I've got a Carrot, and I've prepared weapons to deal with the Ethereals.

Lilac: So... I don't care if you come or not. It's up to you.

Lilac leaves.

Lycaon: My apologies, I have brought shame upon myself...

Lycaon: By making Miss Lilac feel uncomfortable, I have failed in my duties as an attendant.

Are you really going to do this?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Are you really going to do this? (‍To help grant Lilac her wish? / To help Lilac fulfill her wish...‍)

Lycaon: Yes, I will. However, the wish I will help her fulfill, is what her heart truly desires.

Lycaon: If I'm correct in my suspicions, she doesn't simply wish to join Mockingbird.

Lycaon: That's only what's on the surface. She has other needs — emotional needs — that are truly what she seeks to fulfill...

(Lycaon's phone beeps)

Lycaon: ...The fish has taken the bait.

Fish? Where?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍By fish you mean...? / Fish? What fish? Where?‍)

Lycaon: The organization calling itself Mockingbird has contacted me.

Lycaon: Master Proxy, may I ask you for a favor?

Lycaon: Please, this is something only you can do.

Return to the video store and talk to Belle/Wise

Step Description

Discuss what happened today with (‍Belle / Wise‍).

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): I (‍definitely didn't / didn't‍) expect things to turn out like this...

I feel sorry for Lilac...

Lilac is really stubborn.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Yeah. But I never thought Lycaon would come up with something like that...

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Anyway, let's wait for his message.

Take a Break (Leave Story)

Notes

↑ ^1.0 ^1.1 There are two Hesitant Diners: a female PubSec officer and a male civilian.
↑ ^2.0 ^2.1 The Hesitant Diner's and Anxious Diner's talk again lines are switched during this step.

Other Languages

And the True Heroes Are Always Behind the Scenes (II)

Language	Official Name
English	And the True Heroes Are Always Behind the Scenes (II)
Chinese (Simplified)	而英雄总是归于幕后中
Chinese (Traditional)	而英雄總是歸於幕後中
Japanese	そしてヒーローは暗幕に帰る（中）
Korean	영웅은 항상 무대 뒤에 있다(중) Yeong'ung'eun Hangsang Mudae Dwie Itda(Jung)
Spanish	Un héroe entre las sombras (II)
French	Les vrais héros sont en coulisses (II)
Russian	Герои всегда остаются за кадром (II) Geroi vsegda ostayutsya za kadrom (II)
Thai	ฮีโร่มักจะอยู่เบื้องหลัง (II)
Vietnamese	Anh Hùng Luôn Trở Về Phía Sau Hậu Trường II
German	Und die Helden bleiben immer hinter den Kulissen (II)
Indonesian	Pahlawan Selalu Berada di Balik Layar (II)
Portuguese	Heróis Sempre Agem às Sombras II

Edgy...?

Language	Official Name
English	Edgy...?
Chinese (Simplified)	中二病也要…？
Chinese (Traditional)	中二病也要……？
Japanese	中二病でも…？
Korean	중2병도…? Jung-2-Byeongdo...?
Spanish	¿«Trastorno de la pubertad»?
French	Emo...?
Russian	Ребячество?.. Rebyachestvo?..
Thai	จูนิเบียวก็...?
Vietnamese	Hội chứng nổi loạn cũng phải...?
German	Man mag extravagant wirken, aber ...?
Indonesian	Sindrom Karakter Utama Juga Harus...?
Portuguese	Coisas de Adolescente...?

Change History

Released in Version 1.0 - Welcome To New Eridu

[Create New History]

Navigation

[HD-1] 1.0 ^1.1 There are two Hesitant Diners: a female PubSec officer and a male civilian.

[HD_Dialogue-2] 2.0 ^2.1 The Hesitant Diner's and Anxious Diner's talk again lines are switched during this step.

[Note 1]

[Note 2]