Dancing on Strings
Last updated 2026-07-08
Dancing on Strings is a special Hollow Zero Combat Commission and part of the Hollow Zero: Lost Void storyline.
Parts
- The Oracle's Data
- Dangerous Sample
- Trapped Uninvited Guests
- Who Is This 'Accident'?
- Intel That's Worth Your While
- Deeper Into Hollow Zero...
Steps
- Check Ray's progress on Geppetto
- Explore the "Lost Void" with Ray
- Review the investigation results with Ray
- Check the renovation results of Scott Outpost
Gameplay Notes
- During step 2, a trial
Evelyn Chevalier, 
Lighter, and 
Luciana de Montefio are added to the squad. - After completing this commission, the helicopter pad will be permanently moved to the right side of the Outpost, giving access to the view of the ruins below.
Trial Mode
| Inter-Knot Rank:
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| Team Position |
Agent & W-Engine |
Skills & Equipment | Stats |
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1 |
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 HP: 9,892 ATK: 2,197 +165 DEF: 714 Impact: 93 CRIT Rate: 49.8% CRIT DMG: 109.2% Anomaly Mastery: 92 Anomaly Proficiency: 90 PEN Ratio: 0% PEN: 0 Energy Regen: 1.2 Energy Generation Rate: 0% Energy Limit: 120 DMG Bonus: 21% |
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2 |
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HP: 10,470 ATK: 1,795 DEF: 714 Impact: 155 +25 CRIT Rate: 33.8% CRIT DMG: 54.8% Anomaly Mastery: 91 Anomaly Proficiency: 90 PEN Ratio: 0% PEN: 0 Energy Regen: 1.72 Energy Generation Rate: 0% Energy Limit: 120 DMG Bonus: 21% |
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3 |
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HP: 10,240 ATK: 2,295 DEF: 714 Impact: 86 CRIT Rate: 12.2% CRIT DMG: 64.4% Anomaly Mastery: 94 Anomaly Proficiency: 111 PEN Ratio: 0% PEN: 18 Energy Regen: 2.36 Energy Generation Rate: 0% Energy Limit: 120 |
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Dialogue
Check Ray's progress on Geppetto
- (Talk to Ray)
- Ray: I found some interesting things in the Institute's database. Maybe...? We should go to the Lost Void again.
Is it about Geppetto?- Check Ray's Research Log
- (Open Research Log)
- (Leave)
- (Exits dialogue)
The Oracle's Data
Special Event
"The Oracle's Data"
Story Description: Though Geppetto remains undefeated, Ray discovers what appears to be a Replica Relic made from his samples in the Institute database. She's invited you to investigate further in the Lost Void.
- Ray: I submitted my self-reflection report a while back, but the Institute ignored it until recently. I just received their response a few days ago.
- Ray: As I expected—no major consequences. They're letting me off easy, so we can go ahead and keep investigating Geppetto.
- A—Again?
- Didn't you get into trouble precisely because...
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): You just heard back from the Institute, and you're planning to break the rules again?
Didn't you get into trouble precisely because of the unauthorized investigation into Geppetto? - Ray: Don't put it like that.
- Ray: I had to write the report due to "failure to identify and report a breach in the confidential database firewall, resulting in a small-scale data leak."
- Ray: Oh, and also for "recklessly launching an investigation that put myself and the enthusiastic Independent Investigation Team captain in danger."
- Ray: I have already reflected on my mistakes. As a member of the Institute, my vigilance against sensitive information and caution in conducting Hollow investigations are still lacking.
- Ray: Which is why the moment I spotted another security breach, I reported it immediately.
- I'm not buying it.
- There are that many breaches?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Hearing that from you, I'm not sure I buy it...
The Institute's confidential database has that many security breaches all of a sudden? Sounds kinda fishy to (me.me. /me...me...) - Ray: Well, in any case, I've already compiled everything about the breach into my weekly report and submitted it.
- Ray: But at the end of the day, I'm just a nobody in the Institute. Who knows when the higher-ups will read footnote 17 on page 4, subsection 21 of my report.
- Ray: Now, back to the matter at hand.
- Ray: Before I "accidentally" accessed some of the Institute's confidential files through the security breach, I stumbled across research on combat boosters for in-Hollow missions.
- Ray: There's a whole new line of combat boosters... Based on my preliminary observations, they are likely artificial etheric coagulum similar to "precious relics."
- Precious relics?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Precious relics? Aren't those made from the data and samples collected from rare and powerful Ethereals?
- Ray: That's right.
- Ray: However, I found that the samples and data used to create the new etheric coagulum... most likely came from Geppetto.
- Someone actually took down Geppetto?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): But we didn't even manage to catch a glimpse of Geppetto during our last investigation. Who could have taken it down in such a short time?
- Someone already analyzed Geppetto's data?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Didn't you say that you were planning to analyze Geppetto's data? Who beat you to it?
- Ray: No one did.
- Ray: I've been monitoring the outpost's mission logs, but not one mentioned anything about Geppetto.
- Ray: In fact, the outpost has plans to demolish the aircraft hangar and logistics station outside the observation deck to facilitate observing Hollow Zero up close. The reason it hasn't happened yet is because they're still waiting on more intel about Geppetto.
- Ray: So, we'll have to take things into our own hands.
- That's so sudden!
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Wait, that's quite a sudden development!
- Ray: You're my trusted Independent Investigation Team captain, and the only one I've shared my investigation results on Geppetto with.
- Damn you...
- Fine, I'm in.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Alright.Alright. /
Alright!Alright!) I won't let you down on something so important. I'm ready to keep investigating whenever you (are.are. / are!are!) - Ray: Great, we can start once you complete your preparations.
- Ray: Don't worry, be it fieldwork or data analysis, the moment we have something new, I'll come find you and let you know in person.
Explore the "Lost Void" with Ray
- (Begin Reinvestigate the Lost Void)
First floor, Friendly Talk
- (SiblingSibling): Looks like there are supplies up ahead.
- (SiblingSibling): Let's check it out—it might be useful!
- (Idle)
- Obsidian Division female soldier: Stay alert!
- Obsidian Division male soldier: No anomalies detected!
- Old White Star Institute researcher: We need to keep a close watch...
- Young White Star Institute researcher: That makes sense.
- White Star Institute male researcher: Let us head back in one more time!
- Obsidian Division soldier: No can do, rules are rules.
- White Star Institute female researcher: Alright, alright...
- (Talk to Ophelia)
- Ophelia: Tools need to be powerful and compatible.
- Ophelia: I suggest you take a weapon that your partner finds compatible and then proceed.
- (Talk to Ray)
- Ray: Carrot, ammunition, Bangboo backup batteries...
- Ray: Is everything ready?
- Yup!
- Ray is way too worried.
- Ray: One can never be too careful in the Lost Void.
- Ray: After all, this is as far as we got with our last investigation.
- Ray: Geppetto's influence on the Ethereals is growing stronger, and no one can predict what bizarre situation might occur...
I'll keep looking for clues — let's go our separate ways and stay in constant communication. - Ray: If need be, I'll make sure to come find you!
First floor, second stage
- (After defeating the enemies)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (There's a high concentration of etheric coagulum over there... Is it the Replica Relic?There's a high concentration of etheric coagulum over there... Is it the Replica Relic? /
There's a high concentration of etheric coagulum here! Is this what Ray was talking about?There's a high concentration of etheric coagulum here! Is this what Ray was talking about?)
- (Interact with the Replica)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Such an intense Ether wave! (Is this strange thing causing it?Is this strange thing causing it? /
It seems to be coming from this... what is this?It seems to be coming from this... what is this?)) - (ProtagonistProtagonist): ((Could this be the "Replica Relic" Ray mentioned?)(Could this be the "Replica Relic" Ray mentioned?) /
(Could this be the thing Ray mentioned... the "Replica Relic"?)(Could this be the thing Ray mentioned... the "Replica Relic"?)) - (Select 1 of 2 [Shadow Reflection] Resonia)
- (Bubble)
- Fairy: Master, you've discovered "Serendipity: The Mysterious Shadow Fragment"
Dangerous Sample
Special Event
"Dangerous Sample"
Story Description: After discovering samples of the Replica Relic, Ray warns you that while this substance can help fight against Geppetto, it may also have some negative effects. Only by continuing your exploration can you confirm the specifics.
- Ray: Looks like you've found the "Replica Relic" I reverse-engineered using the data from work.
- You reverse-engineered this...?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (SoSo /
Oh, soOh, so) this is the experimental prototype you made based on the Institute's data.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (SoSo /
- "Replica Relic"?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): So this etheric coagulum is a "Replica Relic"?
- Ray: Yep. Do you remember what I told you?
- Ray: The Institute seems to have used Geppetto's data to develop a new type of etheric coagulum in their Hollow research lab.
- Ray: The end product of these experiments resembles the relics of powerful Ethereals, but we can't confirm if those experiments used Geppetto's samples, so I labeled them "Replica Relics."
- Ray: If the Institute can make it, I can, too.
- Ray: However, aside from the ones I left in the Hollow, other similar relics you might encounter during your exploration actually come from the Institute's Hollow research lab.
- Ray: I'm certain they function just like my replicas, so you can consider them the same thing.
- Ray: Unfortunately, we don't have much info on Geppetto, so I can only speculate on the effects of the etheric coagulum based on my own data. Follow-up experiments are needed to confirm finer details.
- Follow-up experiments...
- Let me guess, you want me to carry out these follow-up experiments.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): "Follow-up experiments"... Are you suggesting that I use the etheric coagulum during my investigations, and see how it affects my performance in combat?
- Ray: I apologize. It might sound a little risky, but that's precisely it.
- Ray: Please do not worry! We have studies that confirmed the relics of Ethereals can affect Hollow combat. My experiments simply swapped the data source to Geppetto.
- Ray: And I've personally tested them in the Hollow to the best of my abilities...
- Ray: ...Still, it's not zero-risk. If you're really concerned, forget I said anything.
- Ray: I can finish the remaining experiments myself.
- But I've already decided to do it.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (No need to explain. If we're testing our theories on Geppetto, we need to find out what the Institute is hiding.
Even if you didn't ask, I'd still bring them along with me in my investigations to verify their effects.No need to explain. If we're testing our theories on Geppetto, we need to find out what the Institute is hiding.
Even if you didn't ask, I'd still bring them along with me in my investigations to verify their effects. /Say no more~ If we're testing our theories on Geppetto, obviously we need to find out what the Institute is hiding.
Even if you didn't ask, I'd test them anyway to see what they can do.Say no more~ If we're testing our theories on Geppetto, obviously we need to find out what the Institute is hiding.
Even if you didn't ask, I'd test them anyway to see what they can do.)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (No need to explain. If we're testing our theories on Geppetto, we need to find out what the Institute is hiding.
- This is my first time seeing you so nervous.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (No need to be so tense, Ray. If we're testing our theories on Geppetto, we need to find out what the Institute is hiding.
Even if you didn't ask, I'd still bring them along with me in my investigations to verify their effectsNo need to be so tense, Ray. If we're testing our theories on Geppetto, we need to find out what the Institute is hiding.
Even if you didn't ask, I'd still bring them along with me in my investigations to verify their effects /Relax, Ray~ If we're testing our theories on Geppetto, obviously we need to find out what the Institute is hiding.
Even if you didn't ask, I'd test them anyway to see what they can do.Relax, Ray~ If we're testing our theories on Geppetto, obviously we need to find out what the Institute is hiding.
Even if you didn't ask, I'd test them anyway to see what they can do.)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (No need to be so tense, Ray. If we're testing our theories on Geppetto, we need to find out what the Institute is hiding.
- Ray: ...Alright. Thank you for trusting me.
- Ray: However, I do have to warn you. Although it is very likely that the etheric coagulum will work against Geppetto, there is also a chance that it might negatively impact your Hollow exploration.
- Ray: If you've decided to take some with you... Just be careful.
- (Bubble)
- Fairy: Congratulations Master, you have completed "Serendipity: The Mysterious Shadow Fragment"
First floor, third stage
- (Idle)
- Sumoboo 1: Ehn-ne! (Good luck! And... even better luck!)
- Sumoboo 2: Na nu! (No child cries every day, and no Bangboo loses all the time!)
- (Talk to Good Boy)
- Good Boy: Ehn-ne ne, nhu-en! (It's an honor to welcome you. This is our Hollow business — Lucky Slots!)
- Good Boy: Nhe-na ehn nu... Ehn-na! (At the excellent employee "Good Boy" here, you can get some good things, or... some even better things!)
- Good Boy: Nah-nhu en? (Ready to test your luck?)
First floor, fourth stage
- (Idle)
- Strange Little Bird: Chirp—
- Ju Fufu: Why are you the only one here?! Where did Shifu go?
- (Talk to Ju Fufu)
- Strange Little Bird: Chirp chirp chirp!
- Ju Fufu: ...I can't understand what you're saying. Just quickly point out to me where she went.
- Strange Little Bird: Chirp chirp!
- Ju Fufu: Oh, someone's here! I won't argue with you, little bird... making myself look like a fool.
- Ju Fufu: Hello, I am Ju Fufu, a disciple of Yunkui Summit — and occasionally a Hollow Investigator!
- Hello?
- Be careful, something feels off around here.
- Ju Fufu: Off?
- Ju Fufu: Are you worried about the Ethereals... the ones who set ambushes and attack?
- Ju Fufu: Don't worry~ It's just a few little pests. They look cunning, but they're actually dim-witted and disordered. Shifu will definitely take care of them without a second thought when she passes by.
- Ju Fufu: Don't even mention them, even that big pompous giant behind them is no match for my Shifu!
- Are you talking about Geppetto?
- Is your... Shifu that good?
- Strange Little Bird: Chirp—
- Ju Fufu: Little bird! I'm talking about some serious matters here, so stop chirping!
- Strange Little Bird: Chirp chirp!
- Ju Fufu: ...Sorry. I've got something to "discuss" with this little one.
- Ju Fufu: Since my Shifu's been here, this area's definitely safe. You go ahead and pass through without worry!
- Ju Fufu: Oh, right! If you happen to meet a lady wearing a bright yellow coat and with white long hair, looking fierce and like she's constantly upset...
- Ju Fufu: That'll be my Shifu, Yixuan!
- Yixuan?
- Ju Fufu: That's right! Make sure to tell her — next time she sneaks into Hollow Zero without a word, I'll... I'll...
- Ju Fufu: I'll never buy her bird treats again!
- Strange Little Bird: ...Chirp?!
First floor, fifth stage
- (Upon entry)
- Mercenary Leader: Help! Can anyone let us out!
- Fairy: Master, someone's calling for help up ahead
- (Idle)
- Mercenary Leader: Over here!
- Mercenary: Save us!
Trapped Uninvited Guests
Special Event
"Trapped Uninvited Guests"
Story Description: You encountered a group of strange mercenaries trapped in an abandoned bunker. After being "rescued," the mercenary captain arrogantly revealed they have backing from some higher-ups, and Geppetto is just one of their targets.
- Mercenary Leader: ...
- What are you doing?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): This is the Lost Void. What are you all doing here?
- Mercenary Leader: Hmph! We could ask you the same!
- Mercenary Leader: Since you did help open the bunker, we won't question your motives for entering Hollow Zero.
- Mercenary Leader: Got that, independent investigator? ...or should I say "Hollow Raider?" Either way, you'd better mind your own business.
- Mercenary Leader: If you're smart and keep it to yourself, we could even help each other out the next time we cross paths.
- Mercenary Leader: But, if you can't take a hint and insist on poking your nose where it doesn't belong...
- You sure talk big...
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): You sure talk big for someone who couldn't even open the bunker.
(And I see no proof that you're authorized to be here... Careful, I doubt Captain Roland would be happy about this.And I see no proof that you're authorized to be here... Careful, I doubt Captain Roland would be happy about this. Tooltip for And I see no proof that you're authorized to be here... Careful, I doubt Captain Roland would be happy about this.ⓘ /Hiding behind an ugly helmet doesn't give you the right to push us around. I wonder what Captain Roland would do when he hears about this.Hiding behind an ugly helmet doesn't give you the right to push us around. I wonder what Captain Roland would do when he hears about this.)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): You sure talk big for someone who couldn't even open the bunker.
- The military will come after you.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Well... You're the ones trapped in there, not me.
You have no proof of identity, and you're threatening me, a law-abiding independent investigator... I'm sure Captain Roland would like to have a word with you.Well... You're the ones trapped in there, not me.
You have no proof of identity, and you're threatening me, a law-abiding independent investigator... I'm sure Captain Roland would like to have a word with you. /Hey, you're the ones who got stuck in there without clearance, not me.
And now you've got the nerve to threaten me, a kind-hearted independent investigator who's just trying to help with the Hollow disaster? You better watch out, 'cause my buddy Captain Roland, won't let that slide!Hey, you're the ones who got stuck in there without clearance, not me.
And now you've got the nerve to threaten me, a kind-hearted independent investigator who's just trying to help with the Hollow disaster? You better watch out, 'cause my buddy Captain Roland, won't let that slide!)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Well... You're the ones trapped in there, not me.
- Mercenary Leader: Hahaha! Don't make me laugh!
- Mercenary Leader: What we're up to is way above Roland's pay grade.
- Mercenary Leader: That "thing" lurking around here is only one of our targets.
- Mercenary Leader: Anyway, please kindly butt out and get lost.
- Mercenary Leader: Otherwise, you may end up tangled in the strings of the "Puppeteer"...
- Mercenary Leader: And you'll be stuck wandering here... until you turn into an Ethereal.
- (Defeat the mercenaries)
- Mercenary Leader: Hey! Look, we were a bit rash just now...
- Mercenary Leader: But I suggest you just let it go. Or this'll get ugly!
- Are we ready to talk properly now?
- Were you just locked up by Ethereals?
- Mercenary Leader: ...Are you uneducated, or do you just like believing nonsense?
- Mercenary Leader: An Ethereal would never imprison someone.
- Did you enter the bunker yourselves?
- Were you locked up by yourselves?
- Mercenary Leader: Hmph!
- Mercenary Leader: Some useless trash in the Defense Force can't even maintain the bunkers and extraction tower along the essential routes...
- Mercenary Leader: Just wait until I get out of here, I'll make them pay!
- Whose "inevitable path"?
- What's going on with the extraction tower?
- Mercenary Leader: Alright, knowing too much isn't in your best interest.
- Mercenary Leader: That Geppetto? It's nothing to us. If it weren't for that Ether wave going haywire, we would've finished the mission ages ago.
- Mercenary Leader: I admit I was wrong earlier. A bet is a bet — this is yours now.
- Mercenary Leader: In any case, if you still wanna leave here, I suggest you steer clear of Geppetto and the Ether extraction tower and get out of here soon. But if you're dead set on getting yourself killed... this thing might just come in handy.
- (Obtain Locator Card: Index)
First floor, Crisis on the Road
- (Interact with the Control Panel)
- You find the Ether extraction tower's control panel.
Now, should we shut it down, repair the tower, and stop the Ether currents from falling? - Let's shut it down, it'll be safer.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): ((There are way too many falling Ether currents... Is this the unexpected issue the mercenaries mentioned?)(There are way too many falling Ether currents... Is this the unexpected issue the mercenaries mentioned?) /
(There's just too many Ether currents! Yikes... Is this the unexpected issue the mercenaries mentioned?)(There's just too many Ether currents! Yikes... Is this the unexpected issue the mercenaries mentioned?)) - (ProtagonistProtagonist): ((The environment here is complex, it's better to shut down the extraction tower and leave as soon as possible.)(The environment here is complex, it's better to shut down the extraction tower and leave as soon as possible.) /
(I can't shake the feeling that Ethereals are still lurking around... I should shut down the extraction tower and leave ASAP.)(I can't shake the feeling that Ethereals are still lurking around... I should shut down the extraction tower and leave ASAP.)) - Fairy: Master, shutting down the Ether flow is the right call
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): ((There are way too many falling Ether currents... Is this the unexpected issue the mercenaries mentioned?)(There are way too many falling Ether currents... Is this the unexpected issue the mercenaries mentioned?) /
- Let's keep it on and see what we can discover.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): ((That mercenary said they encountered an accident... Did he mean the Ether current here?)(That mercenary said they encountered an accident... Did he mean the Ether current here?) /
(The mercenary said they got trapped because of an accident... could it be because they encountered an Ether current?)(The mercenary said they got trapped because of an accident... could it be because they encountered an Ether current?)) - (ProtagonistProtagonist): ((If that's the case... We could stand to gain something if we don't shut down the extraction tower.)(If that's the case... We could stand to gain something if we don't shut down the extraction tower.) /
(If you look at it that way... We might just discover something if we don't close the extraction tower!)(If you look at it that way... We might just discover something if we don't close the extraction tower!)) - Fairy: Activating the Ether Flow Transmitter will make combat way more intense. Best of luck!
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): ((That mercenary said they encountered an accident... Did he mean the Ether current here?)(That mercenary said they encountered an accident... Did he mean the Ether current here?) /
- (Bubble, if the tower was not repaired)
- Fairy: Ether Flow Launcher activated, detecting Ether surge attack
Second floor, Friendly Talk
Who Is This 'Accident'?
Special Event
"Who Is This 'Accident'?"
Story Description: You ran into Ray again and discussed what you encountered along the way. Ray speculated that the mercenaries are indeed familiar with the Lost Void, but ended up stranded due to an unexpected failure with the extraction tower.
- Ray: The Ethereals here haven't changed... Their attacks are well-organized. Clearly, they're still under Geppetto's command.
- Ray: How are things on your end? Did you encounter anything unusual?
- Not really.
- Do annoying mercenaries and a broken extraction tower count?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (What do you mean by "unusual"?
I did encounter some annoying and incompetent mercenaries and a broken extraction tower.What do you mean by "unusual"?
I did encounter some annoying and incompetent mercenaries and a broken extraction tower. /Nothing out of the ordinary.
Just a few annoying mercenaries and a broken extraction tower.Nothing out of the ordinary.
Just a few annoying mercenaries and a broken extraction tower.) - Ray: Mercenaries... and an extraction tower... Hmm?
- Ray: Ah, that's right!
- How is that right?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (I was forced into combat and had to fix a broken extraction tower. That's not right, is it...I was forced into combat and had to fix a broken extraction tower. That's not right, is it... /
I've been ganged up on, and hit by an Ether current. How is that right?!I've been ganged up on, and hit by an Ether current. How is that right?!) - Ray: Oh, sorry. Let me explain.
- Ray: After going through the Institute's data on Replica Relics, I suspect that they've known about Geppetto all along and collected loads of data from it.
- Ray: But neither the Institute nor the military has tried to take down Geppetto. On the contrary, they're letting the Ethereals roam the Lost Void under its control.
- Ray: So they must think Geppetto's well-supervised and don't see a reason for drastic measures.
- Ray: Those mercenaries you ran into were probably hired by the Institute to check on Geppetto regularly.
- Then why were they trapped inside the bunker?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (You make a fair pointYou make a fair point /
That makes senseThat makes sense)... But if they come here regularly, how did they get trapped in the bunker?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (You make a fair pointYou make a fair point /
- But they looked pretty haggard.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): But when I ran into them, (they didn't seem like they came in prepared. They looked completely defeated and worn out.they didn't seem like they came in prepared. They looked completely defeated and worn out. /
they all looked worse for wear and didn't give the impression that they were hired professionals at all.they all looked worse for wear and didn't give the impression that they were hired professionals at all.)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): But when I ran into them, (they didn't seem like they came in prepared. They looked completely defeated and worn out.they didn't seem like they came in prepared. They looked completely defeated and worn out. /
- Ray: That's because the situation with Geppetto has exceeded their expectations.
- Ray: Like you said, the Etheric extraction tower was destroyed—whether by sabotage or not, the Ether currents clearly affected Geppetto and the Ethereals it controls.
- Ray: Geppetto and its subordinate Ethereals "lost control" and launched an unprecedented attack that overwhelmed the mercenaries. Their planned routes and tactics have all failed. They had to take shelter in the bunker and got stuck until you found them.
- Can this be considered good news for us?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): So Geppetto has always been under the Institute's watch... which means the Replica Relics should work against it, right?
I guess that's good news for us.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): So Geppetto has always been under the Institute's watch... which means the Replica Relics should work against it, right?
- That's bad news, isn't it?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): The Institute has been monitoring Geppetto for (quite some timequite some time /
a while nowa while now), but even they couldn't predict its change in behavior...
And the only thing we have to fight back are some Replica Relics... That's bad news, isn't it?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): The Institute has been monitoring Geppetto for (quite some timequite some time /
- Ray: We can't say for sure yet.
- Ray: For now, the Dark Wall is on the back burner. Our top priority is Geppetto, it was already strong, let alone a Geppetto that's gone berserk.
- Ray: One thing is for sure: you can count on the etheric coagulum, whether it came from me or leaked from the Institute's lab.
- Ray: After collecting enough Replica Relics, I can already predict Geppetto's movements through the changes in Ether activity.
- Ray: Let's keep tracking it... but do be careful.
- Ray: I heard you have some new findings?
- (Locator card from the Mercenary Captain)
- Ray: This?
- Ray: It looks like a locator card... but I don't have a navigation device here, so I can't help you update the map.
- Ray: Go ask Marlene! She should know how to use this.
- (Talk to Marlene)
- Marlene: Hello, honored independent investigator.
- Marlene: Ray told me that you've collected some new map data... Would you mind sharing it with me?
- Marlene: With this data, I can also help find a clearer path for your investigation.
- (Use Locator Card: Index)
- (Talk to Ophelia)
- Ophelia: According to regulations, I can offer support again here.
- Ophelia: What do you want? Choose whatever you like.
Second floor, first stage
- (Idle)
- Rampant Brute: I warned you already! Can't you understand what I'm saying?!
- Wanted Enforcer: And I told you before — absolutely not!
- (Talk to the Hesitant Hollow Raider)
- Hesitant Hollow Raider: Sigh... Why could anyone argue over which Resonium is more useful and end up fighting in the Hollow?
- Hesitant Hollow Raider: The big bosses never mentioned where they worked before... Could it be the White Star Institute?
I hear these "scholars" are facing quite a bit of job pressure these days. Maybe they'll end up going into our line of work. - Hesitant Hollow Raider: No, no! If they keep arguing like this, it'll be too late!
- Hesitant Hollow Raider: Hey, you seem quite experienced. Could you help me take a look at these two Resonia?
- (Select)
-
- Emergency Evasion/Obtain 1 random Anomaly - Stun Resonium and leave.
- Emergency Evasion/Obtain 1 random Dexterity Resonium and leave.
- Top Mediator/Enter combat and obtain 1 of each of 2 types of Resonia upon victory.
- (After choosing Top Mediator)
- Rampant Brute: What's that noise — who let these little bugs in?
- Wanted Enforcer: We haven't finished discussing what just happened. Let's get this over with!
- Hesitant Hollow Raider: You... I've never seen anyone more greedy than the boss!
- Fairy: Detected significant fluctuations in the opponent's body temperature and adrenaline... Prepare for combat.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Thanks, Fairy, but he's already charging over.Thanks, Fairy, but he's already charging over. /
Meticulous as always Fairy... but he's already charging over!Meticulous as always Fairy... but he's already charging over!)
- (After defeating the three thugs)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (New spoils... Not bad.New spoils... Not bad. /
Woohoo! Picked up something nice~Woohoo! Picked up something nice~)
Second floor, second stage
- (Upon entry)
- Fairy: Master, it seems you have encountered a Bangboo robber.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (This kid, barely higher than a table, wants to rob us?This kid, barely higher than a table, wants to rob us? /
Robbed by a kid... who doesn't even reach my waist?Robbed by a kid... who doesn't even reach my waist?)
- (Idle)
- Cryboo 1: Nhe nhe... (I was wrong, I shouldn't have come here from the start...)
- Cryboo 2: Nhe-en... (Wah, how terrifying...)
- Strong'Un: Nhu-en? (Oh... a new "customer"?)
- (After defeating the enemies)
- Fairy: Master, you have cleared the accomplices of the Robber.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Even in Hollow Zero, justice will be served!
- (Idle)
- Cryboo 1: Nah-ehn! (My savior! My savior saved us!)
- Cryboo 2: Na-ehn? (Did I see that right... I—I can go now?)
- (Talk to Strong'Un)
- Strong'Un: Nhe... Nhe-en... (Is this... the final moment...?)
- Strong'Un: Ehn-nhe, nah nhu-en... (If you happen to be a well-mannered individual, could you deliver a message to my parent for me...)
- Strong'Un: Nhe-na en, nhe ne... Ehn. (I'm sorry I didn't bring back more Gear Coins, and I didn't become the excellent investigator he had always hoped for... but I love him.)
- You can rummage through your pockets...
- Buy a chance to escape from me
- Strong'Un: Nhe-nhu?! Ehn-ne na-en! Nhe! (What?! Wait... I still have something useful here! And I'll never do such barbaric business again! I'll send those Bangboo back to reunite with their families right away!)
- (Bangboo Store: All prices are reduced to 0; cannot refresh)
Second floor, last Friendly Talk
- (Talk to Aldie, optional)
- Aldie: Uhnnn-nah en-na! (Hey! You're an independent Investigator, right? Over here, over here!)
- Aldie: Nhe-ne ne-nha-ni! (I'm an HIA Bangboo assistant responsible for delivering Hollow Supplies.)
- Aldie: En-ne-ne, nu-nha-nu! (Resonia, gear... and all sorts of other goodies — anything you need, I've got it!)
- Aldie: Nha-ne-ne ne-nha-ni! (Of course, you also need to have enough Gear Coins!)
- (Talk to Ray)
- Ray: Strange...
- What's up?
- What's happening?
- Ray: I searched through some confidential files to get more information about Geppetto, but...
- Ray: Do you know about the Helios Academy?
- ...about that Void Hunter?
- ...I've only heard rumors.
- Ray: Tsk, I'm really losing my head. How could you know about something that happened so long ago?
- Ray: It's just... some of the files I found don't quite seem like the academy's work, but they closely resemble the research scope and methodology of the legendary Helios Academy.
- Ray: But didn't they already...?
- Ray: Forget it, just pretend I'm talking nonsense.
- Ray: Phew, we need to pull ourselves together! I have a feeling... the final showdown is just around the corner!
Final Battle
- (After defeating Geppetto)
Intel That's Worth Your While
Special Event
"Intel That's Worth Your While"
Story Description: After defeating Geppetto, you're blocked by the mercenary captain and their anonymous backer, preventing any pursuit. The anonymous figure hints that Geppetto and other powerful Ethereals within Hollow Zero have been under deliberate manipulation all along.
- Ray: Geppetto is leaving! We have to go after it—
- Mercenary Leader: Sorry, I'm afraid I'll have to ask you two to stay here.
- Mercenary Leader: What happens next is none of your concern.
- You're still trying to stop us?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Are you going toAre you going to /
You think you canYou think you can) stop us? Why don't you go sort out that bunker access first?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Are you going toAre you going to /
- Why are you still here?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Oh? You're still here?Oh? You're still here? /
Whoa, didn't think I'd see you here again.Whoa, didn't think I'd see you here again.) I thought you'd be off getting permission to access the bunker.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Oh? You're still here?Oh? You're still here? /
- Ray: Is that the military bunker? Shall I get in touch with Captain Roland for you?
- Mercenary Leader: You...!
- Unknown Voice: That's enough. Let me speak with them.
- Mercenary Leader: ...Understood.
- And who might you be...?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): And who are (you...?you...? /
you again...?you again...?) Sorry, we're busy chasing after Geppetto, not that it concerns you.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): And who are (you...?you...? /
- I didn't know you'd have backup.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): I didn't know you had backup to swap in mid-conversation. Sorry, but us chasing Geppetto is none of your concern.
- Unknown Voice: Please, be patient.
- Unknown Voice: Apologies for our previous discourtesy. It was our mistake.
- Unknown Voice: We only recently learned that you're...
- Unknown Voice: In any case, as an exceptional independent investigator, you have the right to know more about the situation.
- Unknown Voice: Please trust in our goodwill. As long as you don't push further into Hollow Zero, we can provide you with all the information you want, plus more useful tools like the Replica Relics.
- Unknown Voice: Furthermore, as a token of our apology and respect, we will also provide you with another piece of information before you leave Geppetto's territory.
- And what's that?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): And what information is that?
- Unknown Voice: "Have you ever considered that powerful corrupted entities might not be just an act of nature, but rather something created by people?"
- Ray: What?! Who are you? And what exactly do you mean?
- Unknown Voice: We'll leave it at that. If the opportunity arises, I'll be in touch.
- Unknown Voice: Oh, and one more thing...
- Unknown Voice: I've received your weekly report, Miss Ray.
- Unknown Voice: A poor QA engineer has been distressed about your hypervigilance on the Institute's data security.
- Unknown Voice: So, based on his suggestion, and in light of your contributions investigating Geppetto, you have been granted extended clearance. You don't need to trouble your Bangboo to write reports anymore.
Review the investigation results with Ray
- (Talk to Ray)
- Ray: You're already done resting? Let's hear about your investigation then.
- Ray: Even though my "mystery superior " shut down the pursuit of Geppetto, this trip wasn't a total waste.
- You're too modest, Ray.
- This was a worthwhile trip.
- Ray: I'm about to upload these Geppetto photos to the Institute's database — here, you get first dibs on checking them out.
- (Phantom of the Lost Lands stored in Memory Board)
-
- The Puppeteer of the Lost Void has finally revealed its true form — but whether it truly possesses the intelligence to control Ethereals, or is a product of an experiment or someone's hidden schemes... everything remains inconclusive.
The Hollows never have an obligation to be honest.
Deeper Into Hollow Zero...
Special Event
"Deeper Into Hollow Zero..."
Story Description: The investigation comes to a temporary halt. Ray wants to get to the bottom of what the anonymous figure said, but for now, you can only wait for another chance. Meanwhile, Ray reminds you that the outpost's renovation is complete, and you can check out the observation deck.
- Ray: Thanks to you, the Institute gave me access to the files that were classified.
- Ray: In a hidden directory, I saw another familiar name along with Geppetto—who, by the way, is now back under the Institute's watch after you defeated it.
- Nineveh?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Let me guess... Nineveh?
- Ray: That's correct. As expected of my most trusted Independent Investigation Team captain.
- Ray: All it took was that one hint from my, uh, mystery superior for you to connect the dots?
- Ray: "Powerful corrupted entities created by people"... That's unsettling.
- Ray: At least we've got more time now to unravel these mysteries. I'll contact you as soon as I have more information, and we can investigate Hollow Zero together again.
- Okay!
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Of course. Feel free to contact me anytime you have news.Of course. Feel free to contact me anytime you have news. /
Of course! Hit me up if you have something new.Of course! Hit me up if you have something new.) I can't get what they said out of my mind... - Ray: Right, there's one other thing.
- Ray: I think I mentioned before that our outpost is planning to renovate.
- Ray: Following the "Geppetto going berserk" incident, the outpost has finally started demolishing its hangar and logistics station.
- Ray: They should be removing the last bit of the metal frames right about now.
- Outside the outpost, in the direction of Hollow Zero, a loud sound roars... and dies down as quickly as it arose.
- Ray: If you're interested, you can head to the observation deck to check out the view now.
- Ray: No matter how many times I see it, the fractured land in front of Hollow Zero still weighs on my mind.
Check the renovation results of Scott Outpost
- (Interact with the Telescope)
- Ray: Actually, I really like the view right now.
- As Ray said, the buildings in front of the observation deck have been demolished. Everyone who comes to the outpost can see...
- Hollow Zero, which once carved a deep and painful scar into this city is actually right under our noses.
- Ray: ...
- Ray: By the way, during my pursuit of Geppetto, I also found some old relics.
- That belonged to a friend?
- My deepest sympathies...
- Ray: ...Not so much a friend, just someone I met in passing.
- Ray: I just wonder, taking her records out of the Hollow and returning to the outside world... would that bring her some sort of solace?
- You stand quietly with Ray for a moment.
- Ray still had matters to attend to at the outpost, so she left soon after.
Before you knew it... a somewhat familiar figure appeared by your side? - Ju Fufu: The view here is so nice—
- Ju Fufu: I'll just wait right here... if Shifu comes out of Hollow Zero, I'll notice immediately!
- Your Shifu?
- Ju Fufu: Oh, was I complaining too loudly?
- Ju Fufu: Sorry, sorry! Us tiger Thirens... well, we're not exactly great at keeping our voices down.
- It's okay.
- Want to chat about your Shifu?
- Ju Fufu: Oh, it's nothing! It's just... You see, some mentors are always around their disciples, guiding them every step of the way. And then there are the quiet, lone-wolf types that are really hard to figure out. Right?
- Ju Fufu: And I just happened to get one of those reclusive, mysterious type!
- Ju Fufu: Honestly, aside from always being impossible to find, Shifu's always been really nice, and always looking out for us!
- Tiger Thirens can indeed be a bit loud sometimes.
- Ju Fufu: Sorry... just thinking about where she might've gone got me a little worked up...
- Ju Fufu: Oh right! You're a Hollow Zero investigator, right? If you happen to run into someone with white hair—
...Ah, never mind. I can't even find Master myself, no point in troubling you... - Ju Fufu: You sure are very patient, listening to all my rambling...
- Ju Fufu: And for some reason... you kinda remind me of this little Bangboo I just met...
- ...How could a person be like a Bangboo?
- (...She's so sharp!)
- Ju Fufu: That's enough from me, I'll go back to looking for her. I hope your investigation goes well!
- Ju Fufu bids farewell with a cheerful smile, then walks away with a swish of her fluffy tail.
Somehow... You feel like you'll meet again.
Other Languages
| Language | Official Name |
|---|---|
| English | Dancing on Strings |
| Chinese (Simplified) | 悬丝索引 Xuán Sī Suǒyǐn |
| Chinese (Traditional) | 懸絲索引 Xuán Sī Suǒyǐn |
| Japanese | 操り糸は誘う Ayatsuri Ito wa Sasō |
| Korean | 얇은 실을 따라 Yalbeun Sireul Ttara |
| Spanish | Bailando sobre los hilos |
| French | Danse sur des fils |
| Russian | На тонких нитях Na tonkikh nityakh |
| Thai | เชือกใยชักนำ |
| Vietnamese | Sợi Tơ Dẫn Dắt |
| German | Fadentanz |
| Indonesian | Menari dalam Jaring |
| Portuguese | Conjunto de Fios Suspensos |