Flora of the Blooming Valley (I)

(‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍) mentioned a new commission in the text message earlier, though the actual details are blurry.
Now that you have some free time, you should go back and find out more about it.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Hey... WiseHey... WiseText for Wise / By the way... BelleBy the way... BelleText for Belle‍), have you been in (‍touchtouchText for Wise / contactcontactText for Belle‍) with anyone from Obol Squad lately?

Pretty often... What's going on?

Haven't been in touch lately... What's up?

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Hmm... they've been coming to see you quite (‍a lota lotText for Wise / oftenoftenText for Belle‍) lately, but you're always out for one reason or another... As for what they're visiting about, well, they're being totally tight-lipped about it...

How mysterious.

I'm getting more and more curious...

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): If you're curious, you can ask them yourself in a bit~ (‍Hehe, knowing you would definitely be here at this time, I already set up a meeting time with them.Hehe, knowing you would definitely be here at this time, I already set up a meeting time with them.Text for Wise / Since I knew you would be here at this time, I arranged a meeting time with them in advance.Since I knew you would be here at this time, I arranged a meeting time with them in advance.Text for Belle‍)

So reliable...

That's my good (‍sistersisterText for Wise / brotherbrotherText for Belle‍)!

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Huh? I hear the doorbell... Looks like your guests are right on time!Huh? I hear the doorbell... Looks like your guests are right on time!Text for Wise / Hm? The doorbell... Looks like your guests are right on time.Hm? The doorbell... Looks like your guests are right on time.Text for Belle‍)

Before you finish speaking, several familiar figures appear at the doorway.

 Talk to Magus

---

The Magus crew has arrived at the room. Let's ask them about their commission.

Suibian Temple

(Talk to (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle), optional)

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Wise, hurry up and go greet them! It might be an awesome commission!Wise, hurry up and go greet them! It might be an awesome commission!Text for Wise / Belle, go greet them. It might be a really important commission...Belle, go greet them. It might be a really important commission...Text for Belle‍)

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Don't forget to share it with me later~‍^{[Verify if this appears in future updates]}Don't forget to share it with me later~‍^{[Verify if this appears in future updates]} Tooltip for Don't forget to share it with me later~‍^{Verify if this appears in future updates}Category:Needs VerificationⓘText for Wise / I'm looking forward to your future updates!I'm looking forward to your future updates!Text for Belle‍)^{[Note 1]}

(Idle)

Orphie: Proxy, finally you're here!

Orphie: Ahem, let's find somewhere more private to talk.

(Talk to Orphie)

Secret Commission

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Secret Commission"

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Video Summary: Obol Squad brings in a mysterious request...

Story Description: Obol Squad entrusts (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍) with a special commission: Investigate why Seed has been so mysterious lately...

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---

What's the commission about?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): So... what exactly is your commission about?

Magus: Right to the point? I respect that — but hold your horses!

Orphie: What Magus means is that we need to go through some brief but necessary procedures first.

Trigger: Sorry, Proxy, but I assure you, this isn't out of caution or lack of trust.

Trigger: This commission concerns one of our important companions. We don't want any surprises before it's settled... and we don't want anyone else to know about it.

Don't worry. Your secret is safe with me.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Don't worry. I won't breathe a word about this (‍to anyone.to anyone.Text for Wise / commission to anyone!commission to anyone!Text for Belle‍)

Magus: Not anyone! Not even the mission target! In fact, the target of this commission is exactly who we need you to hide all this from!

Orphie: If you're ready, let's go ahead and sign the confidentiality agreement. It's simple — you just need to say "I agree" clearly during the final voice confirmation step.

Seems kinda mysterious...

Let's get started!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): This all sounds very mysterious... Well, I'm down. Let's get started.

Orphie: First, Proxy, as the commissioned party, you promise to maintain strict confidentiality regarding matters related to Magus's commission, and shall not directly or indirectly disclose information to the mission target or any third parties.

Orphie: "Related matters" include, but are not limited to, client identity, commission motives, and specific action plans.

Orphie: Second, the Proxy's investigation and assistance to the mission target must be conducted under their own name, without mentioning the client's instructions. Specific scenarios that may be involved include but are not limited to the following...

Magus: Reading them one by one is such a drag! Orphie, just give us the main points!

Orphie: A—Alright! Last point: if necessary, the Proxy must take reasonable measures, including but not limited to encrypted communications, eye contact, appropriate deception, etc., to prevent any situation that may lead to information leaks! That's it!

Uh... I agree.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Such flair in a confidentiality clause... I'm in.

Magus: Perfect, with the confidentiality agreement in place, we're all in the same boat! And as for leaks... Trigger will be keeping a close eye with round-the-clock monitoring.

Trigger: ...Captain, you're scaring the Proxy. Plus, I need sleep — working 24 hours non-stop is pushing it.

Orphie: Is that really the point...

So... what's the commission about?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍So... can you tell me now?So... can you tell me now?Text for Wise / So, can you tell me already?So, can you tell me already?Text for Belle‍) What's this commission about?

Magus: No surprise... It's about Seed. All those who know about it are here now. Since Soldier 11 joined later than her, she doesn't know the whole story, so we didn't bring her along today.

Magus: We're hoping you can help us keep Seed Sr.'s death a secret from her.

Seed Sr.? That Intelligent Construct?

Isn't he sleeping?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Seed Sr.... you're talking about the Intelligent Construct that Seed pilots, right? But didn't Seed say he's been sleeping... Did something happen to him recently?

Trigger: Not recently... Seed Sr. was a self-aware Intelligent Construct, but that was years ago.

Orphie: Eleven years ago, his Logic Core suffered irreversible damage... For an Intelligent Construct, that's like a terminal illness. He held on for many years... but passed away shortly after joining Obol Squad...

But in Seed's mind...

She never noticed anything unusual?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): How could this happen... But in Seed's mind, he's just been sleeping? Has she really not noticed anything strange this whole time?

Magus: We've been working together all these years to keep this from her, creating the illusion that Seed Sr. has fallen into a long-term hibernation... This was also Seed Sr.'s last wish.

Magus: Her understanding of death is... limited, and she kept believing in Seed Sr.'s condition — up until now.... lately, she's started acting kind of strange.

Trigger: ...After witnessing how Isolde crafted those soldiers with Miasma, she's been spacing out a lot more. I think it's stirred up some weird ideas in her head.

Orphie: And not long ago, she straight up broke into Hollow Zero and set up a little safe house in there! Now, unless she's out on a mission, she basically spends every day holed up in the safe house...

Setting up a safe house... in Hollow Zero?!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Setting up a safe house in Hollow Zero... and staying there for extended periods? Isn't that dangerous? Does she have enough anti-corruption serum?

Magus: Her aptitude for Ether is scary high — she doesn't need to worry about any Corruption...But anyone without that kind of aptitude basically can't get close to her. Makes for a pretty neat way to dodge social interactions, though.

Magus: Anyway, I'm worried that she's been influenced by Isolde and started having doubts about the Seed Sr. situation. But she's being all mysterious, and won't even tell us what she's planning!

Trigger: We're counting on you, Proxy! For some reason, Seed took an instant liking to you after your first meeting. Normally, she avoids any kind of contact with strangers... yet she calls you one of "her kind."

Trigger: You might be able to get closer to her and find out what she's thinking. If she really is starting to question Seed Sr.'s condition... please help us keep up the lie. I'm sorry — I know this might put you in a tough spot.

Let the one with the "protagonist aura" handle this!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I think I get the situation now. Let me give it a shot. Though I really don't know why she's taken a liking to me... maybe it's my "protagonist aura"?

Magus: If you can say stuff like that, then we've definitely got the right person. Your way of thinking is on the exact same wavelength as Seed's.

 Head to Seed's Safe House

---

You got the coordinates for Hollow Zero. Time to pay Seed a visit at the Safe House.

Suibian Temple

(After the cutscene)

Magus: I'm sending you the coordinates of the Hollow Zero Safe House right now... it's all yours, Proxy!

By myself?

Aren't you guys coming with me?

Orphie: Don't worry, Proxy, that area is safe. The Ethereals around there have already been cleaned out by Seed...

Trigger: More importantly, we want to give you some alone time with Seed. That way, she might let her guard down a bit...

You trust me that much?

I've got a feeling this mission's gonna be tough...

Trigger: There's a special power hidden within the Proxy. I've felt it clearly before...

Trigger: If it's you, you can definitely do it.

Magus: When you're ready, we can head out anytime.

Magus: That girl's probably gonna be hanging around there for a while...

Sure. I'll go right away.

(Continue story)

I still need more time to prepare...

(Interacting with Orphie again repeats dialogue)

 Talk to Seed

---

Looks like Seed is in the room. Let's have a chat with her.

Hollow Zero

(Continue the story)

You arrive at Seed's Safe House in Hollow Zero...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): The Ether levels here are so high... Before my body was enhanced, I don't think I could've stayed here very long.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Everything here, and the tent... Did Seed set this all (‍up by herself?up by herself?Text for Wise / this up on her own?this up on her own?Text for Belle‍)

Seed: Hmm~? Is someone here?

(Talk to Seed)

Meeting Seed Again

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Meeting Seed Again"

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Video Summary: Hollow zero, the ideal spot for a heart-to-heart.

Story Description: You meet Seed again. After a conversation, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍) barely manages to catch up with her thoughts, but hardly any progress is made in the investigation.

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---

Seed is curled up on the couch, wearing her usual smile, though her eyes are fixed straight ahead. It's almost impossible to read what is going through her mind.
She then gracefully hops off the couch.

Seed: Yah-hoh, Proxy~!

Ya-hoh, Seed.

I didn't expect to find you living in a Hollow...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Y—Yah-hoh..? I heard from Magus you've been living around here, so I came to check on you. I didn't think you would be staying in such a dangerous place like Hollow Zero...Y—Yah-hoh..? I heard from Magus you've been living around here, so I came to check on you. I didn't think you would be staying in such a dangerous place like Hollow Zero...Text for Wise / Yah-hoh, Seed~! Magus told me you've been living around here, so I came to check up on you! But y'know... isn't it kinda dangerous living in Hollow Zero?Yah-hoh, Seed~! Magus told me you've been living around here, so I came to check up on you! But y'know... isn't it kinda dangerous living in Hollow Zero?Text for Belle‍)

Seed: Hmm... You think it's dangerous? Oh! Should we burn the place down then?

That's not what I meant!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): That's not what I meant! I mean, aren't you worried about Ethereals showing up and bothering you?

Seed: Ha! I'm just kidding! I've set up some traps around here — any Ethereal that steps on them will be impaled in less than a second~ So it's pretty quiet here. No need to heat things up just yet~

Seed: I get the feeling you're not just here for a visit, Proxy. What brings you here?

I just thought I'd check in and see how you've been.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Uh, I just thought I'd check in and see how you're doing. It's been a while since we last fought together, and thinking back on it (‍nownowText for Belle‍) brings up a lot of memories.

Seed: I know, right? That battle was like tossing mints into Nitro-Fuel—super intense at first, but then the fizz died down and everything's calm again~

(...What?)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): So that's what happens when you drop a mint into Nitro-Fuel... Huh, I learned a weird little fact today.

Seed: Give it a try sometime, Proxy! Um, I need a moment to water these flowers, so why don't you take a look around? Just watch your step~ This place is like a minefield~

What do you mean by "minefield?"

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): What do you mean by "minefield?". You mean the safe house has a bunch of carefully set-up areas, right?

Seed: Oh, no. I mean there are a bunch of blown-apart Ethereals outside the safe house. Their remains weirdly smell like mint candy. If you're curious about the Nitro-Fuel and mint combo, go take a whiff~

(Oh, so it's a literal minefield!)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (So it's a literal minefield! Wait... why do I feel like she just brushed me off? How am I supposed to find out what she's planning now...?)

Not expecting any reply, Seed walks over to the row of flower pots and starts watering them.

 Investigate the "special items" in the Safe House

---

There should be some special items in the Safe House that might help us learn more about Seed. Let's keep our eyes peeled.

Hollow Zero

(After the cutscene)

(Seed seems to have lost interest in the previous topic. Time to find something new to talk about...)

(There should be something special around here. Let's keep our eyes peeled...)

(Idle)

Seed: Kids, it's healing time~

(Talk to Seed again, optional)

Seed: What's up, Proxy?

Seed: Feel free to ask me anything... though I can't guarantee I'll remember it all.

(Interact with Bizarre Frame)

The photo frame on the table draws your gaze involuntarily.

(Seed's Flower added to the Workbench)

Seed's Flower

A childlike sketch with innocent strokes and bright colors. The crayon marks appear somewhat faded, suggesting that it was created several years ago.

In the childlike drawing, a giant robot and a little girl are tenderly nurturing a flower bud about to bloom.

(This must be Seed's creation...)

(Seed seems really fond of flowers...)

(Interact with Old Sofa)

An old sofa sits quietly here. The scratches and tears have been patched up as best as possible, but it seems like it's still been used for quite a long time since then...

A strong sense of warmth and comfort spreads from your fingertips.

(Looks like it's a model from many years ago...)

(Feels reassuring...)

(Interact with Messy Box)

An old-looking box sits here, covered in weathered scratches and massive knuckle-shaped dents - probably the handiwork of someone not exactly known for their finesse.

The box lies open silently, with nothing particularly noteworthy inside.

(This place is a total mess...)

(Does that mean...)

(Is this how Master feels too?)

(After interacting with everything)

Sleeping Flower

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Sleeping Flower"

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Video Summary: What should we use to water it? "Engine Oil", "Nitro-Fuel", "Salt Water", or "Plant Juice"?

Story Description: You start chatting with Seed about the potted plants in the room. Turns out she is trying to understand Seed Sr.'s condition...

---

---

With a closer look, many items in this Safe House bear traces of Seed Sr.'s existence... and Seed has kept all of them to this day. Maybe that could be a way to start getting through to her?

She's watering plants... if watering withered flowers counts as watering plants. Let's go talk to her.

Seed: ...What's wrong, Proxy?

I just want to see what you're doing.

How long have these flowers been here?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Nothing, I just wanted to see what you're up to. How long have these flowers been here?

Seed: They've been here since I built this safe house~ They used to be in the dorm with me and Seed Sr., but after I moved here, there was no one left to look after them there.

But some of the flowers have already wilted...

Plants can also get corrupted by the Hollow.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I see... but some of these flowers have already withered, right? With the Ether concentration in Hollow Zero (‍being what it isbeing what it isText for Wise‍), even plants will suffer from Corruption, or gradually lose their vitality...

Seed: I know~ Ether doesn't really bother me, but for these little ones, and some others, it can be a real headache, huh?

Seed: I've been looking after them for years, but I've never seen them this lifeless before. So watering them is just another attempt to see if it'll help.

What are you... watering them with?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Hold on... that isn't water you're using, is it? What are you watering them with?

Seed: Engine oil.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): ...

Seed: When Seed Sr.'s feeling down, he drinks engine oil to perk up. So I thought, maybe it would work for them too? But it doesn't really seem to be helping... probably because they're a different species.

Seed: But that's fine~ I've got plenty of backup plans! Nitro-Fuel, salt water, juice from other plants... if I try them all, one of them's bound to work~

Seed: After all, just look at Isolde, she tried all kinds of ways to bring her old buddies back, and in the end, she found something that worked... Miasma!

(So it's Isolde!)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Seed... after seeing what happened with Isolde... you're not planning something, are you?

(Oh no, I blurted that out without thinking!)

(I need to try to smooth things over.)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Ah, that's not what I meant! I was just curious how our conversation went from watering plants to Isolde, and honestly, her methods aren't something to look up to — you (‍definitelydefinitelyText for Wise‍) shouldn't follow her example...

Seed: Hehe, there's nothing to learn from Isolde. Anyone who tries to control the Miasma just becomes a part of it — she's already shown me how that ends.

Seed: Still, I'm kinda jealous that she got to see her long-lost friend in the Miasma~

...You're missing Seed Sr., aren't you?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): ...You're missing Seed Sr., aren't you? I've noticed a lot of things around here that are tied to him, and I heard about him from Magus. He's someone really important to you, isn't he?

Seed: ...Yeah. Isolde and lots of the citizens of Waifei Peninsula saw their loved ones in the Miasma. So I was thinking... I've grown taller now, and if I don't let Seed Sr. see me soon, he might not recognize me anymore.

He's just in a deep sleep right now.

The Miasma only creates an illusion.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): The Miasma only creates an illusion... but Seed Sr. has been by your side all along. He's just in a deep sleep right now — you'll see him again someday.

Seed: I'm actually still talking to him~ Seed Sr. messages me sometimes on Knock Knock~

...Huh?!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍...Ahh?! Really?!...Ahh?! Really?!Text for Wise / ...Huh?! For real?!...Huh?! For real?!Text for Belle‍)

Seed: Of course, though it's always when I'm asleep~ Why do you look so shocked? Isn't it totally normal to wake up late at night, check your phone, and go right back to sleep?

Seed: Or... like me, are you starting to realize that Seed Sr. isn't actually sleeping?

(Oh no... was that a trick to get me to spill something?)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Oh no... I reacted without thinking when she said (‍she wasshe wasText for Wise / she's beenshe's beenText for Belle‍) messaging the late Seed Sr. But... is what she said actually true? Is she trying to get something out of me?)

Seed: No need to stress, Proxy~ I'm pretty good with machines. Once I fully understood how intelligent constructs are built, I realized... Seed Sr. isn't really asleep.

Seed: At some point, he woke up without me realizing — but his consciousness had already left this body... Maybe it's been uploaded into cyberspace? I'm still not sure where he went, but I plan to get to the bottom of it~

What's your plan?

Can I join you?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Seed, what's your plan... Can you share it with me? I want to help... since I'm one of "your kind."

Seed: Hmm... a Proxy might come in handy, just like engine oil. But maybe I should think about it.

Seed: You used to feel like me... but now, you're starting to seem just like everyone else.

(Did she notice something?)

I am who I am. I haven't changed.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): What are you talking about? I'm still me, I always have (‍been.been.Text for Wise / been!been!Text for Belle‍)

Seed: Hmm... Was I just imagining things? Huh, but if you say so, I'll give it some thought~ Just not right now.

Seed: I've got other guests coming soon~ I'll give you a proper welcome next time, Proxy. I'll even whip up a mint Nitro-Fuel~

 Leave Seed's Safe House

---

First visit complete. Let's head back and fill Magus and the others in on the situation.

Hollow Zero

(After the cutscene)

While you're lost in thought, Seed goes back to watering her plants by herself.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Looks like you're stuck for now...)

(Better head back and fill Magus in on the situation.)

(Continue story)

(Just stay here a little longer...)

(Exit dialogue)

(Talk to Seed, optional)

Seed: Proxy, is there anything else?

Seed: No need to be so formal here~

(Interact with Leave Room)

Time to meet up with Magus and the others...

Leave here.

(Continue story)

Stick around a bit longer.

(Interacting again repeats dialogue)

Another Lie

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Another Lie"

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Video Summary: She deserves to know the truth... but not right now.

Story Description: The lie about Seed Sr. can no longer keep Seed deceived, so Magus proposes a new plan: hacking into the Defense Force radio.

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After leaving Seed's safe house, you meet up with Magus and the others waiting anxiously, and tell them what you found out.

Magus: Tsk, guess we can't keep using sleep as an excuse... Who would've thought her mechanical knowledge had reached the point she can accurately diagnose an Intelligent Construct?

Trigger: No wonder she asked me to go buy books on Intelligent Constructs with her a while back... I let my guard down.

Orphie: More importantly... what's up with Seed Sr. replying to her messages on Knock Knock? Seed Sr.'s phone has been sitting in our squad's common room since he died... Has anyone been using it?

Trigger: I thought about it... but a dormant Intelligent Construct that still responds? That's just suspicious, so I didn't go through with it.

Magus: ...It wasn't me either. But that's not the point — she didn't get suspicious because of the Knock Knock messages. If anything, Seed Sr. replying made her even more convinced he's still alive.

Magus: Our immediate task is to make up another lie — something that makes her believe Seed Sr. is still alive. We can't let her carry out whatever her mystery plan is. We have to stop her from going off the deep end!

Magus pauses in thought for a moment and raises her head, looking hesitant.

Magus: Proxy... how's your hacking game? Think you can crack into the Defense Force's radio network?

...You serious?

...That sounds illegal.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): ...Are you serious? That's illegal, you know... Should a Defense Force Sergeant like you really be suggesting such a thing?

Magus: Someone from the underworld has no right to judge me! Besides, I'm already working with you, so why get hung up on the details? As long as we don't get exposed, it's all good!

Orphie: You're really starting to play fast and loose with the rules, huh Magus...

(‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍) and I are super strong!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Alright... we may not be full-time hackers, but (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍) and I are the legendary Proxy, Phaethon. We know what we're doing, and (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍) will be there to back me up with the HDD system when the time comes.

I'm super strong, especially with Fairy's help.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Got it... We can handle the technical part. With Fairy by my side and (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍) backing me up, I'm confident (‍we'llwe'llText for Wise / we canwe canText for Belle‍) pull this off.

Magus: Perfect! Listen up, here's my plan... We'll impersonate the Defense Force's official broadcast and send Seed a message saying Seed Sr. is on a long-term mission with limited outside contact.

Orphie: Hm? But Seed Sr.'s body is still with Seed...

Magus: Since Seed believes Seed Sr.'s uploaded his consciousness to cyberspace, we'll just roll with that story! For the mission, they gave Seed Sr. a new body — everything adds up perfectly!

Magus: Identify the military frequencies, crack their encryption protocols, and hack into their radio in record time — that's your mission, Proxy! We'll provide you with the broadcaster's voice data later to help with the impersonation!

Technical issues confirmed, but...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): So, theoretically speaking, the technical problem's solved, but...

Magus: Hm? Is something else bothering you, Proxy?

Covering up one lie with another...

Is this the right thing to do?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Covering up one lie with another... is that really (‍the right thing to do?the right thing to do?Text for Wise / okay?okay?Text for Belle‍) If Seed knew the truth, she'd be heartbroken...

Magus: ...You disagree with my plan? If you're taking this on, you'd better be prepared to lie to her — to be the villain. That wasn't clear to you?

Trigger: Captain, the Proxy didn't mean to criticize you. I understand the tough position you're in... but their concerns aren't without reason.

Magus: I know. Proxy, if you want to blame me for not being a good person, go ahead... I'm the captain of Obol Squad, and I have a duty to all my members.

Magus: I'll carry out Seed Sr.'s last wishes to the very end. You just focus on doing your part... I'll take full responsibility for whatever happens.

That's the plan settled with Magus.
Meanwhile, Seed has quietly set her own plan in motion.

Seed: Proxy's probably left the Hollow by now~

Seed: Alright, time for the next meeting~ Better straighten things up before the guest shows~

 Check the flowers' condition

---

The expected guest will be here soon. Let's check on the flowers while we wait.

Hollow Zero

(After the cutscene)

Seed: Routine maintenance didn't wake Seed Sr.... so engine oil doesn't work.

Seed: Which means... it's time to try Nitro-Fuel.

(Interact with Wilted Flower)

Seed: Hmm, the kids seem a bit down today...

Seed: Let's try to cheer them up first~

"Nitro-Fuel"

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Nitro-Fuel"

---

Video Summary: A new guest has arrived at the safehouse.

Story Description: Dr. Veronica pays a visit and proposes a collaborative mission. However, she seems to disagree with Seed's views.

---

---

Meanwhile, the cramped safe house welcomes yet another guest.

Veronica: Phew... This place has... so many twists and turns... I can barely catch my breath...

Seed: Yah-hoh~ So you're the one who contacted me on Knock Knock a week ago, Seed Sr.'s old friend? I'm impressed you made it here without getting lost~

Veronica: You're too kind. I'm Veronica, I served as a medic in Obsidian Division, and I was both Seed's doctor and friend.

Seed: Seed?

Veronica: ...Ah, sorry, I forgot — you're Seed now... he's Seed Sr. now. Anyway, we go way back... He saved me the first time I was ever caught in a Hollow.

Veronica: This isn't actually our first meeting, Seed. When Seed Sr. brought you out of Hollow Zero, I was the one who did your medical examination... though you probably don't remember.

Seed: Really? I had no idea! But that's not what we're here to talk about today~ Dr. Veronica, let's sit down and have a chat~

Veronica: Hmm... Seed, what's with those flowers?

Veronica gazes at the row of potted plants that Seed has planted. After being ravaged by both Ether Corruption and engine oil, many have almost completely withered.

Seed: Those little ones are the flowers I planted~ Doctor, since you're friends with Seed Sr., you must know how much he loves gardening, right? Heh... Thanks to him, I've grown to love flowers too.

Veronica: ...Oh? So those things still count as "flowers" in your eyes, huh.

Veronica: But back to the matter at hand... Seed, after all these years, I'm sure you miss Seed Sr. just as much as I do. That's why you were so quick to respond when I reached out, right?

Seed: Yeah. Whether he's in some kind of tech-induced sleep I don't understand, or he's awake but his consciousness isn't in his body... it's time for him to come back.

Seed: I tried a few things on these flowers because they've been wilting in the Hollow environment — engine oil, Nitro-Fuel, salt water, plant juice... I'm planning something similar for Seed Sr.

Seed: Doc, you're that cup of Nitro-Fuel.

Veronica: ...I don't quite get what you mean, but that's not important. Like I said in my DM, I've got a way to bring him back, but I need your help.

Seed: What do you need me to do? Whether it's mechanical work or coding, give me some time to study and I'll get it down.

Veronica: N—N—No... It's not time yet. Seed... how do you feel when you see the flowers you've planted wither away? Do you feel sadness?

Seed: Hmm... maybe a little? I mean, those poor things look so lifeless... I used to eat flowers when they got like that, but Captain Magus and Trigger won't let me anymore...

Veronica: Do you actually know what it means for something to "wither"? In your eyes, is it any different from Seed Sr. sleeping?

Seed: I think it's all the same — whether it's wilting or just resting, a flower's still a flower, and Seed Sr. is still Seed Sr.

Veronica: It's as I thought... you haven't truly grasped what Seed Sr. went through. I'd heard you'd achieved remarkable feats in your missions... but it seems the only thing that's grown over the years is your combat ability — not your understanding.

Veronica: If that's the case, my plan doesn't require your involvement.

Seed: ...

Seed: ...Did you really come all the way to Hollow Zero just to say that, Doc? We aren't going to keep talking about working together?

Veronica: Don't give me that emotionless smile... If you want this conversation to continue, you'll need to earn my approval first.

Veronica: Truth is, I've been promoted to Junior Lieutenant, which means I can assign specific personnel for special missions. I have a mission here, and if you're up for it, you can take it on.

Seed: A mission? Is the target Ethereals or rebels this time? Ooh, how much time do I have?

Veronica: ...Neither. Just a group of Hollow Raiders who stole military resources. They're trapped in the Hollow. We need to recover those resources... your job isn't to destroy them, but to rescue them.

Veronica: Sure, your gun might be able to level an enemy base with ease, but that doesn't mean it can protect anyone. Show me you can, and we'll continue working together.

Seed: Ooh~ New game rules, huh... okay then, let's get moving!

Veronica: I'll be with you on this mission, but you'll have to rely on yourself.

Veronica: Show me how much you've grown, Seed.

 Venture into the Hollow to rescue the wounded

---

Venture into the Hollow and rescue more survivors without causing casualties.

Outer Ring Hollow

(Talk to Veronica)

Veronica: Seed, you ready to start the mission?

I'm ready~

(Start combat)

Wait a moment.

(Interacting with Veronica again repeats dialogue)

(Open tutorial (Character Intro) Seed)

(Enter combat)

Veronica: The distress signal's coming from somewhere deeper in this area. But before you go in, Seed...

Veronica: We still don't know how many people are injured or how bad it is. Your job is to get as many of them out as possible safely, without casualties.

Veronica: Time's tight so make every move count. Try not to engage in battles unless you have to.

Seed: Roger that~

(Move past the gas station)

Seed: Doctor, I found a shortcut~ If we break through these, we can save some travel time~

Veronica: No. All that noise is gonna bring more Ethereals to us!

Veronica: Seed, stick to the plan! If there are still injured people nearby, we can't risk drawing attention!

(Approach the Terrified Hollow Raider)

Seed: Target spotted~

Veronica: Are you guys alright?

Terrified Hollow Raider: Ugh... Still breathing... We got a lot of wounded over here. Please, you gotta help us!

Veronica: We'll get you out... But once you're safe, you're gonna tell us where you hid the items you'd stolen.

Veronica: Keep them safe, Seed. We don't know how bad they're injured. Tread carefully.

Seed: Leave it to me~

(Talk to Terrified Hollow Raider)

Terrified Hollow Raider: Wait, miss—!

Terrified Hollow Raider: You're really planning to haul us away with this big guy?

Seed: Don't worry, Seed Sr. is a pro at hauling heavy stuff~

Terrified Hollow Raider: Heavy stuff... you talking about us?

Seed: This is the fastest and safest way to get you all out of here.

Terrified Hollow Raider: But if we run into an Ethereal or something like that, you'll have a tough time in combat! Maybe we should...

Seed: Just one punch is all I need~

Veronica: So this is how you transport the wounded... Is this your style of carrying out missions?

Seed: What is it, Doctor?

Veronica: No... your current mission is to evacuate the wounded to safety, and these Hollow Raiders had it coming anyway. As for everything else... we'll talk about that later.

(Destroy the first obstacle in the tunnel, optional)

Seed: Aaand now we can get to the destination more easily~

Veronica: ...Don't you even care about the people trapped in there?

Seed: Aw, you're worried more Ethereals will show up, right, Doc? Don't worry, if they come, I'll crush all of 'em!

Veronica: ...

(Reach the designated area)

Seed: Oh, we've got tracks~ Someone's been here.

Terrified Hollow Raider: Yeah! That's them! They went that direction!

Terrified Hollow Raider: But, little miss... could you maybe slow down a bit? I'm gonna — bleeargh...!

Seed: Tummy trouble? Hang in there, we're almost there~

(Approach the injured Hollow Raiders)

Terrified Hollow Raider: It's boss! Over there!

Seed: Sit tight!

Seed: I'll clean up these Ethereals in no time~

Terrified Hollow Raider: H—Help!

(Talk to Veronica)

Unity and Division

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Unity and Division"

---

Video Summary: Is this another kind of pain?

Story Description: Unable to tolerate Seed's lack of humanity any longer, Veronica forcefully terminates Seed's mission.

---

---

After transporting the last injured Hollow Raider back to the temporary safety zone, Seed dusts off her hands with satisfaction.

Terrified Hollow Raider: Urgh... nghh...

Terrified Hollow Raider: H—Hey, little miss, think you could let us down now...?

Seed: Huh? Need to tie your shoelaces?

Terrified Hollow Raider: What, no... ugh, whatever! Let us down to tie our shoelaces!

Seed: No can do. My mission is to get you all safely away from the danger zone, and with these new rifts forming, I can't say there's absolutely no chance of a watering can coming through one and smacking you in the head.

Terrified Hollow Raider: There's no way that's ever going to happen!

Seed: Alright, break's over. Let's hit the road~

Terrified Hollow Raider: A—Again?! Oh... have mercy on us! We were wrong! We won't do anything bad ever again!

Seed: Stay still, or Seed Sr. might slip up!

Seed: All the more reason to get you out safely if you've decided to change your ways!

Terrified Hollow Raider: I object! Uh... sure, we messed up by attacking the Defense Force and—and tried to smuggle stolen resources through the Hollow...

Terrified Hollow Raider: But according to Article 17 of the New Eridu Hollow Rescue Management Regulations, Hollow Raiders engaged in illegal activities still retain their basic human rights!

Terrified Hollow Raider: We've been wandering the Hollows for years. Sure, we've been caught plenty of times — but nothing we did should've earned us this kind of punishment...

Terrified Hollow Raider: We've taken heavy losses in this operation... If things were different, we wouldn't be swallowing our pride and asking the Defense Force for help.

Groans of pain echo among the Hollow Raiders. One of them finally musters up the courage, fixing his determined gaze upon Seed.

Terrified Hollow Raider: Please, let us make our own way out of the Hollow — just provide cover, that's all we ask. We appreciate your support, but some of us are seriously hurt... and we can't take much more of this.

Seed: No can do. The Hollow's dangerous, and you guys are way too slow — That's not what I'd call finishing my mission.

Seed: Anyway, don't worry, I won't let you lose any more hands~

Terrified Hollow Raider: Wait... "hands" as in... people? Or like, actual hands?

Seed: Mhm! Seed Sr.'s hands got wrecked a bunch of times in combat, but no worries — the doc's always put 'em back together good as new. If you guys ever lose your hands, I can put in a recommendation for ya~

Terrified Hollow Raider: You gotta be kidding... you can't be serious! Some of us are already at death's door, others might end up with lifelong disabilities... and you... you have the nerve to say something like that!

Terrified Hollow Raider: We might be Hollow Raiders, but we're still people! We bleed, we care, and it hurts when our comrades fall! You heartless monster... doesn't this mean anything to you?!

Seed: ...Whoa, that's a big reaction. Is your broken arm hurting? Don't worry, I can help — Seed Sr. just needs to give that arm a little squeeze and it'll pop right back into place.

Terrified Hollow Raider: S—Stay back, you monster! M—Ma'am, please h—help us!

Veronica: ...Cut it out, Seed. Stop messing with them. This isn't a game, these are people's lives.

Seed: What's wrong, Doc? I'm still in the middle of my mission.

Veronica: Getting these Hollow Raiders out of the Hollow is my job — yours ends here. I get it now, you're incapable of understanding other people's pain, aren't you?

Seed: I can. It's like when the mounting screw for an external drone goes missing... Ah! and—and you finally find it rattling around inside your abdominal armor after the last maintenance job... Mhm, that kind of thing.

Veronica: Tsk... Just as I thought, you don't get it at all.

Seed: ...Really?

Veronica: When someone comes to you, afraid of death and asking for help, your job is to protect them, not inflict more pain.

Seed: Death? But their hearts are all still beating. Not a single one has died yet.

Seed: Besides, I've already eliminated anything that could harm them...

Veronica: You're the source of their pain, Seed!

Veronica: You can't use ignorance as a shield just because you're young. Ever since Seed Sr. left, you really haven't grown at all.

Seed: ...

Veronica: Figures. You're not really human... more like something that just resembles one.

Veronica: I don't think we need to discuss cooperation any further... I'll complete my plans on my own. As for you... Since using me as your "Nitro-Fuel" for Seed Sr. didn't work, feel free to try "salt water" or "plant juice" next, whatever suits you.

Veronica: Your mission ends here, Seed.

After visiting Seed, you began preparing the plan to impersonate the Defense Force broadcast.
Soon after, Magus and Orphie came rushing to the door.

Magus: Proxy, we've got trouble!
About that plan to hack into the Defense Force radio broadcast - how's the prep coming along?

All the fake documents are ready...

But... you sure you don't want to reconsider?

Magus: No time to think! Since we're ready, let's head to Seed's safe house now!

Hang on...

What's going on?

Orphie: A few days ago, Seed seems to have secretly carried out a mission alone. After the mission, she's been holed up in the safe house at Hollow Zero...

Orphie: Trigger was worried that her current state wouldn't hold up against the dangers lurking in the Hollow and thus stayed by her side.

Orphie: But she still wouldn't say a word...

Magus: So we had to come to you, Proxy. That kid must have told you about it...

Magus: You're her kind.

I get it...

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍), are you guys heading to Hollow Zero? I'll stay here and wait for your update. (‍Just hit me up when you're ready~Just hit me up when you're ready~Text for Wise / Just contact me when you're ready.Just contact me when you're ready.Text for Belle‍)

Magus: It's urgent. Let's move out now!

Alright...

Let's get going!

You arrive at the Safe House with Magus and Orphie, where Trigger is consoling Seed.

 Execute Magus' Plan

---

Seed seems to be acting strange. Let's talk to her according to the plan.

Hollow Zero

(Idle)

Trigger: Even though I don't know what you've been through... Seed, I'll be here for you.

(Talk to Orphie)

Seed Sr.'s Whereabouts

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Seed Sr.'s Whereabouts"

---

Video Summary: So that's how it is.

Story Description: Due to Seed's depression, (‍Wise and BelleWise and BelleText for Wise / Belle and WiseBelle and WiseText for Belle‍) decide to collaborate with Magus and the others on the radio program. Seed has gotten back on his feet.

---

---

Trigger: Proxy, you're here!

Seed: ...Oh, it's you, Proxy.

What's going on?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): What's going on, Seed? Magus said you went on a mission alone... Did you run into trouble?

Seed: Oh, it's nothing... Just some spilled Nitro-Fuel. That's all.

Seed: But forget about that... Proxy, what exactly is death?

Uhh... Oh?

What's with the sudden question?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Huh...? Why are you suddenly asking about that... Has someone said something?

Seed: Seed Sr. told me that life is a circle, and "death" is just a dot on that circle. When flowers wither and return to the earth, new buds will soon sprout again.

Seed: ...But something doesn't quite add up. If he's right, why would those Hollow Raiders be so afraid and hateful of "death"?

Seed: Why is it that instead of confusion... I just feel this overwhelming, suffocating pressure?

(Oh no, what's got her shaken up?)

(Quick, use the radio!)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Relax... That kind of question takes some time to unpack. We'll figure it out gradually. More importantly, I think I heard Seed Sr. mentioned on the Defense Force radio.

Seed: Huh?! Right now?

(Contact (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍) outside the Hollow.)

(Tell the prepared story)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Yeah! For certain reasons, I hacked into the Defense Force's internal broadcast and heard his name... The report seems to be on a loop right now, so I rushed over to find you.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): We can't get radio signals in the Hollow... but (‍Belle'sBelle'sText for Wise / Wise isWise isText for Belle‍) outside right now, so we can call (‍herherText for Wise / himhimText for Belle‍) and tune in to the broadcast!

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍I heardI heardText for Wise / I thought I heardI thought I heardText for Belle‍) someone calling me~ Did you want to hear that radio message (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍) mentioned?

Seed: Yes, please!

The radio message lifts Seed's spirit. Everyone gathers around the screen, holding their breath as they listen to the fabricated recording.
As (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍) silently hacks into the Defense Force's channel, the recording begins to play clearly on the radio...

Encrypted Channel: ...Now syncing next mission update. It's under top-level confidentiality, information strictly classified from non-Defense Force personnel.

Encrypted Channel: The following Intelligent Construct units have detached their consciousness from their current shells. They have entered Logic Core offline maintenance upgrade protocol until core iteration is complete.

Encrypted Channel: Preliminary core iteration completed. Relevant units will temporarily operate in new vessels, directly assigned to the extended closed training program " Operation Deep Dive", executing multi-dimensional tactical simulations and cross-generational consciousness synergy missions.

Encrypted Channel: The list includes: Chromaconda, Tartarus, Seed Sr....

Encrypted Channel: Special notice: During training, all forms of non-encrypted private communications will be restricted. All external contact must be reviewed by security personnel.

Seed: ...

Seed: ...So Seed Sr. has been on a secret mission? No wonder he's been gone for so long...

Seed: But... why didn't he tell me?

Trigger: That's probably because of the self-defense system built into military Intelligent Constructs... They can't disobey commands issued by the system, even for the people they care about most...

Trigger: But I'm sure, even if Seed Sr. can't answer your messages, he's still looking out for you...

Trigger: Seed... let's wait patiently... until the day Seed Sr. returns from his mission, okay?

Seed: ...So I don't need to do anything? And he'll just come back on his own?

Seed: If that's the case... I guess I'm okay with that.

 Talk to Magus about Seed's condition

---

Seed seems to have recovered a bit, and Magus appears to have something to tell you.

Hollow Zero

(Idle)

Trigger: Everyone's here the whole time...

Seed: It's so warm.

(Talk to Trigger, optional)

Trigger: Seed, if there's anything you want to talk about or need help with... feel free to hit us up anytime.

Seed: Anything goes?

Trigger: Of course, we're Obol Squad after all.

Seed: Got it.

(Talk to Orphie)

Orphie: Phew... looks like we're safe for now, maybe?

Magus: Proxy, I gotta admit, you're one heck of a reliable guy!

You're too kind...

As long as Seed is fine.

Trigger: Seed's taking a breather, says she needs some alone time...

Trigger: But she seems to be doing much better than before... Thank you, Proxy.

Orphie: We should all get some rest.

Magus: Alright, let's wrap it up!

Wrap it up! (Leave Story)