Drown in the Nightmare
Last updated 2026-05-22
Drown in the Nightmare is the sixth episode of Season 2 - Epilogue: New: Eridan Sunset (A) in Phaethon's Story.
Parts
- End of Stage 1
- Sweeper
- Root of Fear
- Sudden Sunset
- Scorched by the Sun
- Ramiel
- Within Sight...
- Nightmare Gazer
- Midnight Snack Prelude
- Snake's True Heart
- A Cornered Villain
Steps
- Projection of Fear
- Calm Cissia down
- Night Talk for the Lost
- Get some late-night fresh air on Sixth Street
- Talk to the woman in front of the Arcade
- Respond to Cissia, who's out here searching for you
Gameplay Notes
- During steps 1-4, most interactions in Random Play (e.g., Video Archive, videotape rental) and Sixth Street, as well as certain menu options, are disabled.
- The story can be paused during this time.
Dialogue
Projection of Fear
End of Stage 1
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
End of Stage 1Video Summary: Childhood traumas stick with you for life—pretty sure some theory backs that up, but hey, that's just how it is.
Story Description: Back at the video store, you and (BelleBelle /
- Later at the video store, you sit down with (BelleBelle /
WiseWise) and talk through everything that happened at Starloop... - (SiblingSibling): I thought catching Romeul would be the end of it... Can't believe things spiraled even worse after that...
Too many people are involved.- I get the feeling there's more going on.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Too many people are tangled up in this. I've got a feeling there are still a lot of secrets waiting to surface... This competition is probably way messier than we thought...
- (SiblingSibling): (Let's worry about all that after the event restarts. Right now, what you really need is some proper rest.Let's worry about all that after the event restarts. Right now, what you really need is some proper rest. /
Let's deal with that once the event resumes. For now, you need to rest.Let's deal with that once the event resumes. For now, you need to rest.) - (SiblingSibling): After we isolated all the redundant data, have you had any issues with the HDD lately?
- (Lie and say everything's fine.)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Uh... I'm fine. I was a bit worried about overusing it while updating everyone's Carrot, but nothing weird happened afterwards.Uh... I'm fine. I was a bit worried about overusing it while updating everyone's Carrot, but nothing weird happened afterwards. Tooltip for Uh... I'm fine. I was a bit worried about overusing it while updating everyone's Carrot, but nothing weird happened afterwards.ⓘ /
I'm totally fine! Okay, maybe I pushed it a little when I was updating everyone's Carrot, but seriously, I'm good!I'm totally fine! Okay, maybe I pushed it a little when I was updating everyone's Carrot, but seriously, I'm good!)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Uh... I'm fine. I was a bit worried about overusing it while updating everyone's Carrot, but nothing weird happened afterwards.Uh... I'm fine. I was a bit worried about overusing it while updating everyone's Carrot, but nothing weird happened afterwards. Tooltip for Uh... I'm fine. I was a bit worried about overusing it while updating everyone's Carrot, but nothing weird happened afterwards.ⓘ /
- I feel a little off...
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (I do feel a bit funny... but it's probably just fatigue. Don't worry about it.I do feel a bit funny... but it's probably just fatigue. Don't worry about it. /
I do feel kinda weird... but I'm sure a good sleep will fix it. Don't worry!I do feel kinda weird... but I'm sure a good sleep will fix it. Don't worry!)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (I do feel a bit funny... but it's probably just fatigue. Don't worry about it.I do feel a bit funny... but it's probably just fatigue. Don't worry about it. /
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (To be honest, I'm more concerned about Cissia... She's been really shaken up since we met Promeia and Romeul...To be honest, I'm more concerned about Cissia... She's been really shaken up since we met Promeia and Romeul... Tooltip for To be honest, I'm more concerned about Cissia... She's been really shaken up since we met Promeia and Romeul...ⓘ /
Honestly, I'm way more worried about Cissia... After running into Romeul and Promeia, she's been completely out of it...Honestly, I'm way more worried about Cissia... After running into Romeul and Promeia, she's been completely out of it...) - (SiblingSibling): Ah... (that explains whythat explains why /
no wonderno wonder) she went straight to your room without a word. Maybe you should go check on (her?her? / her.her.)
- (Talk to (SiblingSibling), optional)
- (SiblingSibling): (Wise, I'll leave you to check on Cissia! Oh, and you must be beat from the competition today... Make sure you get some rest after talking to her, okay?Wise, I'll leave you to check on Cissia! Oh, and you must be beat from the competition today... Make sure you get some rest after talking to her, okay? /
Belle, I'll leave you to check on Cissia. Also... you must be exhausted from the competition today. Get some rest once you're done talking with her, okay?Belle, I'll leave you to check on Cissia. Also... you must be exhausted from the competition today. Get some rest once you're done talking with her, okay?)
- (Interact with the Tightly Closed Door)
Sweeper
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
SweeperVideo Summary: Childhood traumas stick with you for life—pretty sure some theory backs that up, but hey, that's just how it is.
Story Description: After much inner turmoil, Cissia finally reveals their past identities — Romeul and Promeia were Sweepers from Calydon, the former Overlord of the Outer Ring. They were both her worst nightmares back then...
- You knock on (Belle'sBelle's /
youryour) bedroom door with an armful of snacks.
The door opens, and a shadow darts out and grabs the snacks. - Cissia: Mm... mmm... uh-huh...
- You're looking a lot better.
- Wanna talk about what happened back there?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (You look better. So, do you want to talk about what happened out there earlier?You look better. So, do you want to talk about what happened out there earlier? /
You sure are looking a lot better now. So, wanna talk about what happened earlier?You sure are looking a lot better now. So, wanna talk about what happened earlier?) - Cissia: Proxy, I want more — nom!
- That's my last snack.
- Spit out the wrapper!
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (...Hold on, Cissia. This is my last snack... please spit out the wrapper!
...And my hand, too!...Hold on, Cissia. This is my last snack... please spit out the wrapper!
...And my hand, too! /Whoa, whoa, Cissia — that's my last snack! And spit out the wrapper!
...Wait, not my hand! Spit out my hand too!Whoa, whoa, Cissia — that's my last snack! And spit out the wrapper!
...Wait, not my hand! Spit out my hand too!) - Cissia: Hiss~ I bit you for a reason! I'm interrogating you... so don't lie to me!
- Cissia: Back in the competition... when we ran into Black Wolf, I could tell from your breathing and heartbeat that you were terrified too. So why... why did you...
- Cissia: (quietly) ...Why didn't you just leave me and run?
- I don't really remember.
- I just did it without thinking.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Uh... I don't really (remember. I was probably too tense to think clearly... I just reacted out of instinct.remember. I was probably too tense to think clearly... I just reacted out of instinct. /
remember what I was thinking back then. I was probably too freaked out to think straight... and just moved on autopilot.remember what I was thinking back then. I was probably too freaked out to think straight... and just moved on autopilot.) - Cissia: ...
- Cissia: Hmph. So you didn't even know how terrifying those guys from the Outer Ring can be... What an idiot!
- Not everyone from the Outer Ring is bad.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): People from the Outer Ring aren't all bad, you know? Billy, Lighter, Lucy, Caesar...
- Cissia: What are you even talking about... I mean those real monsters!
- Cissia: That Promeia woman and "Black Wolf" Romeul... they're both Sweepers.
- Cissia: In the Outer Ring, Sweepers only do one thing: "cleaning."
- Cissia: Useless Corrupted patients, rule-breakers, anyone in the way — they all get swept out.
- Cissia: A lot of people say they take orders from Calydon, the strongest force the Outer Ring ever had.
- (The Calydon that used to control the Outer Ring?)
- (Recall info about it.)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Calydon, the former dominant force in the Outer Ring... They collapsed a long time ago. It wasn't until recently that Caesar revived their name as the Sons of Calydon...)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): I thought Calydon (dissolved... Shouldn't the Sweepers have disbanded as well?dissolved... Shouldn't the Sweepers have disbanded as well? /
disbanded... Doesn't that mean the Sweepers are gone too?disbanded... Doesn't that mean the Sweepers are gone too?) - Cissia: The Sweepers may have disbanded... but people like them don't just magically become good.
- Have you dealt with them before?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): You've dealt with them before, haven't you?
- Cissia: Yeah! I only survived because I ran fast enough...
- Cissia: That was ages ago, back when I was drifting around the Outer Ring. Only way I got food was doing odd jobs for the Biker Gangs who controlled the oil supply.
- Cissia: There were a lot of people like me. So many... We clawed that land, and all that oil, back from the Hollows with our own hands. But none of it ever belonged to us!
- Cissia: Because we were weak. Even if we fought tooth and nail to get our hands on something, the city folks would just immediately snatch it from us. The Biker Gangs were the only ones who could hold onto anything out here in the Outer Ring, so we had to play by their rules.
- Cissia: Sometimes, some hotshot would get cocky, thinking they could stand up to 'em. And every single time... they got squashed — like bugs. Funny, right?
- Cissia: That's what the old Outer Ring was like. To those "big shots," our lives weren't worth more than ants on the street.
- Cissia: Anytime I even heard a rumor that Sweepers might be nearby, I'd pack up immediately. New hideout. Never stayed in one place too long.
- Cissia: But then, one day... I ran out of food. At that rate, even Chalky — who'd been with me the whole time — would've starved to death...
- Cissia: That's when someone told me I could scavenge places that'd been "cleaned." Once the owners were gone, you could find valuable stuff. Most people were too scared to go near those places, though.
- Cissia: I was scared too... but I was starving.
- So you went?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (So you took the risk and scavenged those sites?So you took the risk and scavenged those sites? /
So you worked up the nerve and went scavenging?So you worked up the nerve and went scavenging?) - Cissia: Yeah. I quietly followed the Sweepers — Promeia and Romeul... Waited until they finished cleaning a house and left, then snuck in through a window.
Root of Fear
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
Root of FearVideo Summary: Childhood traumas stick with you for life—pretty sure some theory backs that up, but hey, that's just how it is.
Story Description: Cissia recalls a horrifying childhood memory — Promeia, a Calydon Sweeper, "cleaned up" some Outer Ring scavengers right in front of her. Terrified she'd be next, Cissia fled the scene in fear...
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Sudden Sunset
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
Sudden SunsetVideo Summary: Burning, falling, and losing. A dream, yet not a dream.
Story Description: Cissia shares her past with Promeia and urges you to withdraw from the competition. But just then, you suddenly collapse from severe discomfort...
- Cissia: That day, I ran with Chalky in my arms. I kept running and running... farther and farther... to somewhere I thought Promeia could never reach me.
- Cissia: I know how Sweepers operate. Once they've laid eyes on you, they don't let go. After that, I never went near a cleaned site again.
- Cissia: I wandered in fear for a long time... until one day, Jane dragged me into Public Security, and Commissioner Severian gave me a chance to become a specialist...
- Cissia: Now, word was Calydon had completely fallen apart. That the Outer Ring had a new ruler. That the Sweepers were the ones getting crushed now... Heh.
- Cissia: If the commissioner hadn't dragged me into this investigation... I would've never crossed paths with them again!
- No wonder you panicked when you saw them.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): No wonder you panicked the moment you saw them. That's brutal. Anyone would be scared...
- Cissia: I barely survived once... I'm not letting them catch me again. Not dying quietly, without a trace. No, not me!
- Cissia: So let's just pull out, Proxy. It's not just The Sweepers we're dealing with — there's whoever's behind those faded Ethereals too... I don't know who's pulling the strings behind the scenes, but this is way too risky for us!
- Cissia gives you a pleading, sincere look.
Just as you want to say something, a nauseating feeling wells up in your chest... - Cissia: Proxy, you get what I'm saying, right...?
- Cissia: Staying alive is what matters most. Schemes, rewards, any of it — none of it matters if we're dead.
- Cissia: Proxy...?
- (I...)
- Cissia: Are% you )#okay...?
- A surge of pain plunges your world into darkness...
... ... ...
The commotion of the world fades as you plummet. Darkness envelops you, like a cocoon, as if that would save you from those awful memories of the past.
... ... ...
...Just like that, time passes in a flash, and after who knows how long, your consciousness surfaces. A boiling energy surges within, about to burst.
You want to call out for help, but only distorted cries come from your throat, that squeeze out that promise made over ten years ago.
Scorched by the Sun
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
Scorched by the SunVideo Summary: Burning, falling, and losing. A dream, yet not a dream.
Story Description: While unconscious, you have a nightmare of your entire body turning into golden Ether. Shadows from the past seems to be quietly awakening.
- ...We ...Phaeth–... Icarus...
- ... ... ...
- ...Where is this?
- Ruins...? Why... why am I here...?
- I have to... go...
- (ProtagonistProtagonist)?: Go... where?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist)?: This isn't right...
It shouldn't be ruins... - (ProtagonistProtagonist)?: Ah–Ah... ah...
The place I need to go... I remember... - ...Tell them... I've already seized the "sun."
The sun—!
...Just a dream... hah......Hah... hah... hah...
...Just a dream... hah... /
...Just a dream......Hah... hah...
...Just a dream...)
(This is my room...? I don't remember coming back here at all...This is my room...? I don't remember coming back here at all... /
- (Cissia starts talking in her sleep)
Night Talk for the Lost
- (Ongoing)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Looks like Cissia's been watching over me since I passed out... (Better not wake her up.Better not wake her up. /
I should let her get some rest.I should let her get some rest.) - (ProtagonistProtagonist): (And Belle's door is shut... She's probably asleep already. Me passing out like that must've really worried her...And Belle's door is shut... She's probably asleep already. Me passing out like that must've really worried her... /
Where did Wise go? He let me lie down on his bed, so he probably had to sleep on the couch...Where did Wise go? He let me lie down on his bed, so he probably had to sleep on the couch...) - (ProtagonistProtagonist): Ugh... Just thinking about anything gives me a headache...
- (Interact with Cissia, optional)
- Cissia: Sir, you actually volunteered to stay behind and cover our retreat... This case specialist is so touched...
- Cissia: Hang in there... Once I get outta this Hollow, I'll report to your superior... then I'll sit in your office, take over your position... and try every single flavor of omelet rice in the cafeteria...
- Cissia: ...Then I'll send someone to rescue you... Just hang in there, boss... Wait, no — you're gone, so I'm the boss now... I, the boss... will be right back...
- Cissia mumbles incoherently in her sleep, sprawled out over the edge of the bed. She's out cold, drool already soaking into the sheets. Her sleep-talk is practically bubbling over with barely-contained joy. Looks like there's zero chance of her waking up anytime soon...
- She must've been watching over you this whole time and dozed off without realizing it... Better let her rest.
- (If playing as Wise, interact with Tightly Closed Door, optional)
- Belle's door is closed but doesn't seem to be locked. Listening carefully, you can faintly hear her mumbling in her sleep...
- Belle doesn't usually talk in her sleep unless she's really tired... Looks like she was really worried for you today. Gotta be more careful going forward... can't let her worry like that again. For now, let her get some proper rest...
- (If playing as Belle, interact with Sofa, optional)
- Wise isn't on the first floor, but it's clear he was recently on the couch. Is he staying here for the night? ...Maybe now he can't sleep so he's gone to the parking lot for some air?
- Wise doesn't usually get insomnia like this... You feel rather bad about making him worry so much. Once everything's settled, you both gotta take a good rest...
- (Go outside)
-
- (Ramiel observes an advertisement in front of Godfinger)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Huh? Is someone there...?
- (Ongoing)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Sixth Street feels unusually quiet tonight... Even General Chop isn't open...
- (Talk to Ramiel)
Ramiel
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
RamielVideo Summary: Anyone who plays clunky grappler characters is a good soul (unless they're actually good at the game).
Story Description: You run into Ramiel late at night on Sixth Street, where she is hanging around, and you strike up a conversation. The chat bounces from arcade games to competition targets, and eventually lands on the nightmare you've just had — which seems to really pique Ramiel's interest...
- Ramiel: ...
- You're... Miss Ramiel?
- What are you doing here?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Wait... Miss (Ramiel?Ramiel? /
Ramiel?!Ramiel?!) What are you doing out here at this hour...? - Ramiel: Evening, (Mr. WiseMr. Wise /
Miss BelleMiss Belle). Have you ever played Foodie Fighters? You know, the game being advertised over there. - Uh... yeah, I have.
- Wait — no, that's not what I wanted to say...
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Uh... (yeah, I play it fairly often. Wait no, that's not what I wanted to say.yeah, I play it fairly often. Wait no, that's not what I wanted to say. /
yeah. I come here to play this game all the time. No, wait, that's not what I wanted to say!yeah. I come here to play this game all the time. No, wait, that's not what I wanted to say!) Why are you here at this hour...? - Ramiel: I figured as much. You look like a gamer. So, which character do you like?
- (A long-range zoning type.A long-range zoning type. /
A mid-range pressure character.A mid-range pressure character.) - (One with lots of move branching.One with lots of move branching. /
One with really strong hit detection.One with really strong hit detection.) - (ProtagonistProtagonist): (If I had to choose... probably The Cook? She's got lots of mix-ups and solid projectiles, great for controlling distance. My little sister really struggles against her.If I had to choose... probably The Cook? She's got lots of mix-ups and solid projectiles, great for controlling distance. My little sister really struggles against her. /
Oh — character choice? Definitely Salmonson! Dash punches, jabs, uppercuts, flashy moves and solid hitboxes. Pressuring my older brother at mid-range with him is just ridiculously satisfying.Oh — character choice? Definitely Salmonson! Dash punches, jabs, uppercuts, flashy moves and solid hitboxes. Pressuring my older brother at mid-range with him is just ridiculously satisfying.) - Ramiel: I see... So you've got a (younger sisteryounger sister /
older brotherolder brother). As for me, my favorite is Hannibull. - Isn't that a pure grappler?
- That character's insanely hard to use...
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Hannibull... (Isn't that the hardest character to use? Most of his kit is grapples, his movement speed is slow, and the model's huge... Hardly anyone picks him...Isn't that the hardest character to use? Most of his kit is grapples, his movement speed is slow, and the model's huge... Hardly anyone picks him... /
The one who's basically just command grabs? Isn't he really hard to use? He's painfully slow, and he's such a massive target — you almost never see anyone pick him...The one who's basically just command grabs? Isn't he really hard to use? He's painfully slow, and he's such a massive target — you almost never see anyone pick him...) - (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Ah... sorry. I wasn't trying to put down your favorite character! I've been destroyed by skilled Hannibull players plenty of times...Ah... sorry. I wasn't trying to put down your favorite character! I've been destroyed by skilled Hannibull players plenty of times... /
Ah! Sorry! I didn't mean to trash your favorite character! My win rate against really good Hannibull players is awful too...Ah! Sorry! I didn't mean to trash your favorite character! My win rate against really good Hannibull players is awful too...) - Ramiel: Haha... it's fine. His lack of mobility is simply a fact. But once you get into grab range, a single throw can be devastating. I find that rather compelling, don't you?
- Ramiel: Did you know? When arcades first took off, quick, agile characters weren't actually that popular. The graphics in action games back then were so rough that all that fast movement was enough to make players dizzy.
- Ramiel: I'm pretty into old-school arcade games, so I've read up on their history. As it turns out, slow-but-deadly grapplers were actually the most popular picks in those days~
- It is kind of a surprise, honestly...
- I thought you'd like something... lighter...
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): I see... (Still, it's a bit unexpected. I assumed the character you liked, or your preferred style, would be something more lightweight...Still, it's a bit unexpected. I assumed the character you liked, or your preferred style, would be something more lightweight... /
Still, it's kind of unexpected. I thought the character you liked, or the style you liked, would be something lighter and more agile...Still, it's kind of unexpected. I thought the character you liked, or the style you liked, would be something lighter and more agile...) - Ramiel: If you mean how I fought in the competition, you're not wrong. But in virtual matches, it's fun to mix things up... You don't exactly get many chances in real life to flip someone over and pile-drive them into the ground... legally.
- Ramiel: Compared to me, you seem much more consistent — inside and out. (Keeping your distance from the brutes, wearing them down with your head until they step right into your trap...Keeping your distance from the brutes, wearing them down with your head until they step right into your trap... /
Positioning yourself carefully, reading the moment, waiting for the right opening to lock your opponent down completely...Positioning yourself carefully, reading the moment, waiting for the right opening to lock your opponent down completely...) Whether in a game or the real deal, it's the same approach for you, isn't it, (Mr. WiseMr. Wise / Miss BelleMiss Belle)? - Ramiel: Alright, your turn now.
- Huh? My turn for what?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Huh...? My turn? For what?
- Ramiel: I asked which character you like. You answered. So now it's only fair that you get to ask me a question. Go on.
- Why are you here this late?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): There is something (I'd like to ask...I'd like to ask... /
I wanna ask you...I wanna ask you...) It's so late. Why are you wandering around Sixth Street (alonealone / all by yourselfall by yourself)?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): There is something (I'd like to ask...I'd like to ask... /
- Did you find the prize you were looking for?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Oh... Then, can I ask something about the competition? You're leading the rankings today. Have you finally decided which prize you want?
- Ramiel: That's what you want to know? Alright... where do I start? Hmm... let's skip the exposition then and jump straight to the point.
- Ramiel: Long story short, we're after the same W-Engine. I thought it over, and a niche antique like that would be perfect for my collection. So... sorry~ but I guess that makes us direct competitors now.
- Ramiel: That said, if I want to stay in the event, I need to get my Ethereal card fixed before the next stage of the competition... Someone pointed me to a mechanic on Sixth Street. That's why I'm here.
- You mean Enzo, right?
- How did you even manage to break your Ethereal card?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): You mean Enzo? (He lives nearby, and yes — he's skilled. But his shop's closed at this hour. More importantly... how did you manage to break your Ethereal card to begin with?He lives nearby, and yes — he's skilled. But his shop's closed at this hour. More importantly... how did you manage to break your Ethereal card to begin with? Tooltip for He lives nearby, and yes — he's skilled. But his shop's closed at this hour. More importantly... how did you manage to break your Ethereal card to begin with?ⓘ /
He's my neighbor. And sure, he's really good at fixing things. But at this hour, he's definitely already closed shop for the day. By the way, how did you manage to damage your Ethereal card to begin with?He's my neighbor. And sure, he's really good at fixing things. But at this hour, he's definitely already closed shop for the day. By the way, how did you manage to damage your Ethereal card to begin with?) - Ramiel: Um... I input a cheat code: "up, up, down, down, left, left, right, right, B, A, B, A" and... it just went black...
- That's a video-game cheat code!
- That's so reckless of you!
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): That's a standard video-game cheat code! Using it in a Hollow competition is certainly reckless, Miss Ramiel...
- Ramiel: It wasn't just a random decision! Years ago, during one of the early Hollow Champion competitions, a programmer actually hid a cheat code inside an Ethereal card... It even made the news.
- Ramiel: The scores were so tight today, so I figured... if it still worked, maybe I could squeeze out a few extra points... Guess history didn't repeat itself this time.
- Clearly, you tripped the anti-cheat system...
- Don't worry. I can fix it.
- Ramiel: Since it's happened before, it's normal they'd add anti-cheat measures, and you ran straight into them... (Give me your card. Now that I know what happened, I think I can fix it.Give me your card. Now that I know what happened, I think I can fix it. /
Still, now that the cause is clear, I should be able to fix it. Give me your card.Still, now that the cause is clear, I should be able to fix it. Give me your card.) - Ramiel: You can fix it? Oh, thank you~! If the competition starts again and my card's still dead, I'll be in real trouble...
- Ramiel hands over her Ethereal card.
You check it over. As expected, she tripped the anti-cheat, but it's not too hard to fix. - Wait... If you used this chance to destroy her Ethereal card, you could...
The thought crosses your mind, dark and sudden. You shove the wild thought aside and focus on the repair... - Ramiel: By the way, (Mr. WiseMr. Wise /
Miss BelleMiss Belle), why are you wandering around this late? - You sure you want to ask that right now?
- I had a nightmare...
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Uh... You sure you want to ask while I should be focusing on repairing your card? But to answer your question, I'm not out here for any particular reason. I just had a nightmare and needed some air.
- Ramiel: A nightmare? If you, uh... fall asleep face down, dreams of getting chased are pretty common.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): No, I dreamt of some ruins... Everyone I knew was gone, and I was left all alone... And my hand...
- Ramiel: Was your hand getting corrupted by Ether? Or was it something even worse?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): It was something I've never seen before, a golden Ether... No, it might not have been Ether at all — some kind of unfamiliar substance...
- Ramiel: ...
- (Wait... Why am I telling her any of this?)
- (Just fix the thing and give it back.)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): ...Sorry. I'm (justjust) rambling. Ignore what I said. Here. Your Ethereal card's all good again.
- Ramiel: That's amazing! Ah... Now I can finally sleep in peace tonight.
- You're not worried I might smash your Ethereal card?
- You really trust your competitors a little too easily...
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (That's good. Though I have to askThat's good. Though I have to ask /
You're welcome... though I have to askYou're welcome... though I have to ask) — aren't you trusting a competitor a little too easily? (Weren't youWeren't you / You weren'tYou weren't) worried I might just smash your card? - Ramiel: I wouldn't call it "trust." I'm just giving a citizen who has nothing to hide the benefit of the doubt. And since you helped me out, in return...
- Ramiel: ...Lemme take a little look at that "nightmare" you mentioned.
Within Sight...
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
Within Sight...Video Summary: Anyone who plays clunky grappler characters is a good soul (unless they're actually good at the game).
- (A cinematic plays)
- Ramiel: I'm curious
- Ramiel: What does a nightmare mean to you...
- (She stares into (ProtagonistProtagonist)'s eyes, and they shine back at her)
- Ramiel: ...I see
- (Cinematic ends)
Nightmare Gazer
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
Nightmare GazerVideo Summary: Anyone who plays clunky grappler characters is a good soul (unless they're actually good at the game).
Story Description: Ramiel seems to have glimpsed something in your eyes... but she bids farewell and leaves without revealing more, while the now-awake Cissia immediately begins calling out your name.
- Ramiel: ...Looks like you do have something to hide after all, (Mr.Mr. /
MissMiss) Model Citizen. - Ramiel: Anyway, I'll pay you back for this favor by dealing with your nightmare in the future.
- Now it's my turn to ask.
- What do you mean by that?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Wait! Earlier, you asked me why I was out so late, and I answered. (It's my turn now... what exactly do you mean by "pay you back?"It's my turn now... what exactly do you mean by "pay you back?" /
Now it's my turn... what exactly do you mean by that?Now it's my turn... what exactly do you mean by that?) - Ramiel: You really like this little Q&A game, huh? Too bad, we'll have to call it here. Someone over there seems to be looking for you.
- "(WiseWise /
BelleBelle)—! Are you there?"
Ramiel glances back toward the video store. Right on cue, Cissia's anxious voice echoes from inside. - Ramiel: See you around. Oh, also, in the next round, you might wanna be careful of Hannibulls... or other suspicious characters that try to creep up on you.
- Ramiel turns and walks into an alley, disappearing around the corner...
- (Talk to Cissia)
Midnight Snack Prelude
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
Midnight Snack PreludeVideo Summary: Why does my pet snake keep making noise?
Story Description: Cissia finds you and invites you to share some limited-edition pudding from the video store fridge late at night.
- Cissia: (WiseWise /
BelleBelle), there you are! So you were wandering around outside? I knew I heard voices earlier... Was someone else here just now? - Someone who likes suplexes.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Uh... (It's hard to explain.It's hard to explain. /
it's kind of complicated.it's kind of complicated.) Basically, someone who likes suplexes. - Cissia: So... a violent maniac!? You should stay away from people like that. Your tiny frame wouldn't survive!
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Uh... (It's hard to explain.It's hard to explain. /
- Someone who does whatever they want.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Uh, it's a long story... Just someone who does whatever they want.
- Cissia: That just sounds like an annoying weirdo... Proxy, you really gotta stay away from people like that. Next thing you know, they might take over your house!
- Cissia: Anyway, enough about that... Do you know how worried (BelleBelle /
WiseWise) and I were? You collapsed, and then snuck out in the middle of the night! What if you'd passed out on the street?! - Sorry... I just needed some air.
- Thanks for staying by me.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Sorry for making you worry. I woke up and needed some air... Thanks for staying with me while I was asleep, Cissia.
- Cissia: Don't just thank me with words, you gotta take action! I was protecting you even in my sleep, you know! In my dream, you were surrounded by outlaws, and I chose to stay behind and cover your escape!
- (Wasn't it Severian who stayed behind...?)
- (Whatever, I'll just buy her a late-night snack...)
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): From what you were mumbling in your sleep, it sounds like someone else covered our retreat... (Anyway, let's get something to eat. What do you want? My treat.Anyway, let's get something to eat. What do you want? My treat. /
Still, let's get something to eat. My treat. What do you want?Still, let's get something to eat. My treat. What do you want?) - Cissia: You're treating me?! Heck yeah—! Manager, you're the most generous person alive! Once this specialist here wraps up the case perfectly, your name is totally going in the report!
- Cissia: Uh, that sounded kinda weird... Never mind! Oh! I saw this pudding in your fridge earlier — it looked amazing! I want that!
- (That one's a limited edition I bought...That one's a limited edition I bought... /
That one's a limited edition my brother bought...That one's a limited edition my brother bought...) - (But it's fine. It's yours.But it's fine. It's yours. /
Go ahead. I'll tell him.Go ahead. I'll tell him.) - (ProtagonistProtagonist): (That pudding's a limited edition I queued up for earlier... But it's yours now. Just don't let Belle see it... She'll definitely demand you give her half.That pudding's a limited edition I queued up for earlier... But it's yours now. Just don't let Belle see it... She'll definitely demand you give her half. /
That pudding was a limited edition my brother lined up for... but it's fine — eat it! He can't say no to me, after all! Just don't let him catch you eating dessert this late, or you'll never hear the end of it.That pudding was a limited edition my brother lined up for... but it's fine — eat it! He can't say no to me, after all! Just don't let him catch you eating dessert this late, or you'll never hear the end of it.) - Cissia: Manager, you're the best~! If you're worried about getting caught, how about we sneak off somewhere quiet to eat it? I'll take you there first, then slip back and rescue the pudding, silent and quick!
- Under Cissia's insistent invitation, you're half-dragged up to the video store's rooftop. Not long after, pudding in hand, she tiptoes over from the store...
Snake's True Heart
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
Snake's True HeartVideo Summary: Why does my pet snake keep making noise?
Story Description: Cissia and you share some pudding together on the music store rooftop. Cissia listens intently as you open up about your current struggles, and then decide to stay in the competition to help you get that W-Engine.
- Cissia: Nom... Oh wow, this flavor! I can't really explain it, but you can just tell it's premium... nom... so good!
- Cissia: ...Hmm? Why are you staring at me like that... I'm not sharing, okay?
- Cissia: ...Well, unless you really want some... Here, just one bite.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (No, you eat.No, you eat. /
Nah, you eat!Nah, you eat!) You helped a lot in today's match. Take this chance to unwind a bit. - Cissia: ...What is it... nom... Are you... nom... still feeling sick?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Hey... don't talk with food in your mouth... I'm fine now — I just had a headache when I woke up, so I got some fresh air to clear my mind.Hey... don't talk with food in your mouth... I'm fine now — I just had a headache when I woke up, so I got some fresh air to clear my mind. /
Finish chewing before you talk... I'm fine now, really. Had a bit of a headache when I woke up, but the fresh air helped.Finish chewing before you talk... I'm fine now, really. Had a bit of a headache when I woke up, but the fresh air helped.) - Cissia: Hmm... gotta admit, you're tougher than you look!
- Cissia: But... ugh, fine, lemme just say it! Proxy, the real reason you refuse to quit the competition... It's got something to do with you suddenly passing out earlier, right? Some kinda... special illness?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): ...What makes you (thinkthink /
saysay) that? - Cissia: Hah! What a lucky guess! I mean, uh, as a PubSec specialist, I've... got a knack for these things, okay?
- Cissia: Now, I suspect you are withholding information and obstructing official duties! I order you to confess immediately! Leniency if you cooperate; consequences if you resist!
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): ...Cissia, this is the kind of trouble you usually try to avoid. Are you sure you want to hear about it?
- Cissia: Yeah, it is a pain, hearing you talk about your illness and all... but wouldn't it be worse if something actually happens to you and I can't hang out here and eat your snacks anymore?! If you're gone, what am I supposed to eat?!
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): Haha... that's very on brand for (you.you. /
you, Cissia.you, Cissia.) If I went through every detail, you'd probably fall asleep before I finished... So, how about I tell you the condensed version? - (ProtagonistProtagonist): I've been relying on a specialized ocular implant to navigate Hollows... But lately, it's been harder to control. My body seems to be reacting to it, that's why I passed out.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): One of the competition prizes is a Porcelloy W-Engine. And Porcelloy seems to alleviate my symptoms. So... no matter what, I want to obtain it and understand how it works... Though (I admitI admit) I may have been too reckless.
- Cissia: ...I see. So what you're really saying is you want to win that prize to save your life... Er, or, well, save your career as Proxy?
- Cissia: Then if I said Billy and I will stay in the competition and win that W-Engine for you, and you can just withdraw and wait safely at home for good news... What would you say?
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): I'm sorry, Cissia... You need a skilled Proxy. If what happened today happens again, entering the Hollow without a navigator would be extremely dangerous.
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): In the past... (Belle would be able to assist, but she recently disabled her connection config to the HDD to help me. That... But that also means she can't be a Proxy for the time being.Belle would be able to assist, but she recently disabled her connection config to the HDD to help me. That... But that also means she can't be a Proxy for the time being. /
Wise would be able to help, but he recently disabled part of his HDD connection device. He did it for me, but it also means he can't be a Proxy for the time being.Wise would be able to help, but he recently disabled part of his HDD connection device. He did it for me, but it also means he can't be a Proxy for the time being.) - (ProtagonistProtagonist): And since it's a problem with my eyes, using Eous will only (exacerbateexacerbate /
worsenworsen) the issue. (That leaves me with no choice butThat leaves me with no choice but / So I haveSo I have) to continue competing in person. After we secure the W-Engine, however... I may need to take some time to adjust. - Cissia: Alright, alright... I swear eating and sleeping at your place has turned me into some goodie two-shoes too... Well, since you've made up your mind, I'll stick with ya through this mess.
- Cissia: Okie then, let's lay out our battle plan... You and Billy — well, mostly Billy — will act as bait, draw everyone's attention. And while nobody's looking, I'll slip into the prize vault and steal the W-Engine!
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (Hold on... When did this plan even come into existence? Stealing the prizes would get you dismissed from Public Security, and you'd end up in prison... I'm vetoing this career-suicide scheme right now!Hold on... When did this plan even come into existence? Stealing the prizes would get you dismissed from Public Security, and you'd end up in prison... I'm vetoing this career-suicide scheme right now! /
Wait, wait... Since when was this even a plan? And stealing the prizes? They'll kick you out of Public Security so fast, and then you're looking at jail time... I'm shutting down this career-suicide scheme right now!Wait, wait... Since when was this even a plan? And stealing the prizes? They'll kick you out of Public Security so fast, and then you're looking at jail time... I'm shutting down this career-suicide scheme right now!) - Cissia: Idiot! I was kidding! Like I'd actually throw away this perfect job over something like that! I hear New Eridu prison only serves two eggs a week — only a fool would sign up for that!
- Cissia: But remember how uneasy you felt just now when I suggested that plan. Because that's exactly how I feel whenever you're the one putting yourself in danger!
- Cissia: ...So listen up! In the contest coming up in a few days, you're not allowed to use any of your eye powers. You're a pretty well-read Proxy, right? Surely you've got other ways to find your path without relying on your eyes? Though, uh, don't ask me how — I wouldn't have a clue!
- Cissia: And as a snake Thiren, I can see and track the Ether traces left behind by living things... You know, that thing you thought was my sense of smell? It's kinda like that. ...What I'm saying is I can help with navigation too!
- Cissia: Just so we're clear — at all times, my top priority is staying alive! I'm not risking my life for your problems... but I also don't want to see you get hurt again. It ruins the pudding!
- Cissia: This is the conclusion I came up with after really putting my mind to it while you were passed out. So you'd better respect all the brainpower I put into this. No objections allowed! Nod if you understand!
- (ProtagonistProtagonist): (A–Alright... I understand, Cissia! I promise you...A–Alright... I understand, Cissia! I promise you... /
O–Okay... I get it, Cissia! I'll listen...O–Okay... I get it, Cissia! I'll listen...) - Cissia: Good! And now I've finished the pudding too! Aw, looks like I forgot to save you a bite... Anyway, this case specialist is tired! Let's go home and sleep!
You sneak back to the video store with Cissia. You hold your breath, keeping it light on your feet — can't afford to make a sound.
While keeping your head down and sneaking forward, you suddenly bump into a slightly trembling tail. Looking up, you realize Cissia had stopped in her tracks.
Cissia...? What's wrong? Why do you ask? Have you gotten tricked a lot? You're my ace in the Hollow right now. You gotta be more confident or otherwise I won't feel safe... Have mercy, O'Great Cissia! I really trust you! After all, you managed to survive out in the Outer Ring on your own for so long... And slip into my place without anyone noticing... It wasn't a complaint, I swear! I trust your skills more than anyone else... I trust... ...You'll definitely get me home safe and sound!A Cornered Villain
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
A Cornered VillainVideo Summary: Didn't you think about this day coming when you put on that muzzle?
Story Description: Late at night, having apparently slipped away from prying eyes, Romeul makes contact with one of his handlers. But when he catches wind that he's about to be thrown under the bus, he decides to bite back first.
- At the same time, in a secluded building...
- Contact From Rusty Cliff: When I first laid out your mission objectives, I believe I was perfectly clear. Don't you agree?
- "Black Wolf" Romeul: ...
- Contact From Rusty Cliff: Choosing silence now? How unbecoming. "Find a way to thin the herd. Make them drop out. You're the funnel for the first round of cuts." I distinctly remember those instructions being very explicit.
- Contact From Rusty Cliff: ...Now, perhaps you'd care to explain this to me: How exactly does that directive get interpreted as "indiscriminate slaughter of contestants and the Ethereals they turn into"?
- Contact From Rusty Cliff: There are a thousand ways to force people out of the competition. Yet you chose the loudest, bloodiest one. You dragged civilian deaths into it, blew the whole thing wide open, and put Public Security, the city administration, and Krampus on high alert... Truly impressive work.
- "Black Wolf" Romeul: ...I don't owe explanations to some mid-level lackey like you. Take a good look at what's left of these washouts still in the running... Get me on the line with him. He'll back my track record, and he'll tell you to shut your yapping.
- Contact From Rusty Cliff: He won't be speaking with you, Black Wolf Romeul. Did you really think he hadn't already made his position clear to me? He's disappointed... Deeply disappointed.
- "Black Wolf" Romeul: I'm *beep* telling you — get me through to him! Talking to you is a waste of time... I've cleared far more obstacles for him than you ever have. He will listen to me!
- Contact From Rusty Cliff: Well, there's no denying it. You were a very effective tool... That's precisely why I said he's disappointed. He believed you could handle this assignment... Unfortunately, he was mistaken. Your brutality ruined everything.
- Contact From Rusty Cliff: When a tool still has its master's scent on it, the hounds don't take long to find it... I truly am sorry, Romeul. Arranging an escape route is the last thing we can do for you.
- Contact From Rusty Cliff: We'll find a new "funnel" elsewhere. Lie low for now. Your boat departs at 3:30 in the morning from the outermost dock at Port Elpis. No electronic devices during the handoff. Good luck.
- "Black Wolf" Romeul: What the... What kind of joke is this?! A mangy lapdog dares look down on me?! I'll kill you... I'll find you and *beep* rip you apart!
- "Black Wolf" Romeul: So those *beep* aren't planning to protect me anymore...? What now? Do I hide out in the Outer Ring, or do I follow their instructions and head for Port Elpis...?
- "Black Wolf" Romeul: Nah... If I were him, I'd never be that generous to someone I planned to toss aside... I'd bait 'em out, then take 'em out nice and quiet...
- "Black Wolf" Romeul: ...*beep*! So that's why they're shipping me off by sea?! Those backstabbing bastards... I got an itch and offed a few worthless nobodies, and now they actually want me dead?!
- "Black Wolf" Romeul: No way... I'm not ending up as fish food at the bottom of the ocean... Think, gotta think of something...
Trivia
- Ramiel's cheat code is similar to the Konami Code.
Notes
- ↑ Wise and Belle's actual voice lines are swapped.
Other Languages
| Language | Official Name |
|---|---|
| English | Drown in the Nightmare |
| Chinese (Simplified) | 新变数的到来 |
| Chinese (Traditional) | 新變數的到來 |
| Japanese | 新たな変数の到来 |
| Korean | 새로운 변수의 등장 Saeroun Byeonsuui Deungjang |
| Spanish | Una nueva variable |
| French | Une nouvelle variable |
| Russian | Новая переменная Novaya peremennaya |
| Thai | การมาถึงของตัวแปรใหม่ |
| Vietnamese | Sự Xuất Hiện Của Biến Số Mới |
| German | Eine neue Variable |
| Indonesian | Variabel Baru |
| Portuguese | Uma Nova Variável |
Change History
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