Ominous Fugue

Go back with Eve's underlings

 Commission Description

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Let's do what Eve suggested and head back.

(Talk to Evelyn, if combat is exited)

Astra Yao: Phew! We got the treasure! My wish is fulfilled!

Astra Yao: Eve, I can go with you now!

Evelyn: ...Okay, get in the car.

Fake Deadline

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Fake Deadline"

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Video Summary: Deadlines only work when pushed to the absolute limit...

Story Description: Astra excitedly tells Evelyn about the Proxy siblings and how they helped her find Joran's final work. Evelyn reminds Astra that the deadline for the concert is approaching, and Astra tries to subtly change the subject. However, Evelyn is not fooled. Just then, the two notice a suspicious car following them. Evelyn decides to use a Hollow to shake off the pursuers.

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Astra gets in the car and stretches out. A constant, nagging noise draws her attention.
On a second glance, she sees a man on the car's videophone, shouting angrily...

Evelyn presses the mute button casually.
With the sound cut off, the man's angry expressions look even more ridiculous...

Astra Yao: What's Mr. Hobson blabbing about this time?

Evelyn: It's gotta be a whiny version of "Please don't run off alone and stay safe before the show."

Evelyn: I mean, if there's anything that needs to be done, just give me the orders. There's no need to put yourself at risk.

Astra Yao: Eve, are you... angry?

Evelyn: No. Just a straightforward, calm protest with no whining.

Astra Yao: Don't be mad. Check out what I found — it's Joran's legacy work, the legendary secret record!

Astra Yao: I told you before, remember? After Joran left the agency, he held a small fan meetup in a music store.

Astra Yao: I was there! And so young at the time. I never thought I'd find a recording from that day!

Astra Yao: It's all thanks to the Proxies. I definitely would've gotten lost without them.

Evelyn: ...You trust people too easily. How do you know anything about these random Proxies you found on Inter-Knot? Who they really are, what their motives might be, or if they can be trusted?

Astra Yao: They're not random Proxies. They're friends I knew before. I told you about them — the siblings who run the video store on Sixth Street!

Evelyn: ...

Astra Yao: Wh—What?

Evelyn: If you already knew they were Proxies from the start, you could've just DM'd them on Knock Knock. Why bother making a formal Inter-Knot post?

Astra Yao: Um... true. I was just being stubborn out of habit... Sorry! I was wrong~

Evelyn: But they've managed to keep their Proxy identity hidden from close friends, and they use a Bangboo to handle commissions. That means your friends are pretty careful and dependable. That's reassuring.

Evelyn: Hmm, if we invite them to the concert, then they might just come in handy. Let me think about where to station them...

Astra Yao: Wow, Eve, you're surprisingly generous with compliments — for other people, that is. Wait, you're not planning to run a background check on them, are you?

Evelyn: Having every bit of information allows me to prepare for any scenario — like if you decide to suddenly run off.

Astra Yao: So then... What gave me away this time?

Evelyn: You borrowed the make-up artist's phone to post on Inter-Knot; pre-opened a bathroom window^{[Note 1]} before the press conference for your escape... I have to say that the most creative idea this time was riding a public bike into the Hollow.

Astra Yao: Aw, I thought my plan was flawless... You're so sharp, Eve! Before you were a manager... were you a detective? Or a PubSec officer?

Evelyn: Not exactly, but close enough.

Astra Yao: Huh~ So secretive. If you tell me, I promise I won't run off next time. I swear!

Evelyn: A professional spy.

Astra Yao: Hahaha~ Huh? Hang on, a professional spy... That's so cool! Sounds like the perfect inspiration for a song.

Evelyn: ...Are you really thinking of singing a song about being a professional spy at the New Year's concert?

Astra Yao: Huh? Is that not allowed?

Evelyn: ...So how's the concert show-stopper coming along? Today's the production deadline.

Astra Yao: Huh? Um... uhhh...

Evelyn: Okay, so we went against the entire board to buy Starloop for a New Year's concert, publicly announced your new single, and now you have writer's block.

Evelyn: Did I miss anything?

Astra Yao: Yes~ Today's just the official deadline, and, I know you've prepared plenty of fallback deadlines.

Evelyn: ...

Astra Yao: Okay, okay, okay. I'll do it! I'll do it right now! But... there's no piano here?

Astra Yao: Can you help me, Eve?

Evelyn: ...I don't sing, you know that.

Astra Yao: That's okay. You can just hum along with my cues, like this...

Evelyn's voice flows along Astra's fingertips, rising and falling into a gentle, melodious tune.

Astra Yao: Wow...

Evelyn: You're not tricking me into singing for you, are you...? Hmm...

Evelyn swiftly reaches out a hand to press firmly onto Astra's shoulder —
using her body weight to press her down into the small gap between her seat and the floor.

Astra Yao: What's wrong?

Evelyn: We're being tailed. Those cars have been following us a while now.

Evelyn: There's a Companion Hollow in the area. Let's use it to lose those unwelcome followers!

---

(Open tutorial (Character Intro) Evelyn)

(Approach the marked location)

Assaulter: Hmph, do you think hiding in a Hollow will make everything fine?

(After defeating the enemies)

Evelyn: I arranged for someone to meet us before we entered the Hollow.

Evelyn: It shouldn't be far. Follow me.

(Approach the marked location)

Assaulter: Where are you running off to, Astra Yao?

Evelyn: I'm your opponent. You are not worthy of speaking to Miss Yao.

(Approach the marked location)

Assaulter: Ha, the intel was right. You really can fight.

Assaulter: So this is where your true strength lies?

Assaulter: I knew you were just a talentless company puppet!

Evelyn: Shut it!

(Talk to Odeum HAE Security)

Astra Yao: Eve! Are you alright?!

Evelyn: I'm fine. But we can't let our guard down just yet. You guys, take Miss Yao back.

Odeum HAE Security: Right!

Astra Yao: What about you, Eve? Aren't you coming? It's dangerous to go alone!

Evelyn: There's something that bothers me. I have to thoroughly investigate the goal of those attackers.

Evelyn: Miss, you should take the car back first. I will be there shortly.

Astra Yao: But... Oh, I see. You must have your reasons.

Astra Yao: Then I'll head back first. Eve, make sure to come back safely!

Evelyn: I will.

Evelyn, watching Astra leave safely, lets out a sigh of relief—

Evelyn: (The assaulters mentioned some "intelligence.")

Evelyn: (Miss Yao's clearly being followed somehow, her position must've been leaked. Besides... hmm, who else could it be?)

Evelyn: (Thankfully, they're quite unprofessional.)

Evelyn: (When we fought just now, they didn't even realize that I had knocked their communicator off...)

Evelyn: (As long as I find the comms, I can find out who's behind those attackers. Also, how exactly did Miss Yao's schedule get leaked?)

(Interact with Strange Stuff)

Evelyn: Found it. This is it.

Evelyn: Hm... It's completely wiped. So this is why they're not worried about losing the communicator.

Evelyn: But, like they said, no data can be completely erased.

Evelyn: Guess it's time to meet an old friend.

Evelyn: The secret code is... Oh, I remember. It's the payphone on Sixth Street.

Go to the designated payphone and make a call

 Commission Description

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The "old buddy" left a code for contact. Call at the payphone on Sixth Street and give them the code.

(After completing Shake off the Pursuit)

Evelyn: (After all these years, she's the only one who successfully hid her identity after leaving the organization.)

Evelyn: (I shouldn't disturb her.)

Evelyn: (But, this matter concerns the [sic] Miss Yao's safety...)

Evelyn: (I need to find that payphone quickly.)

(Idle)

Inky: Meow-hiss!

(Talk to Inky, optional)

Evelyn: Such a vigilant kitty.

Kitty: Meow.

Evelyn: I used to be like you, too, but there's really no need for that. You're beloved my [sic] many.

Kitty: Meow.

Evelyn: Meow.

Evelyn: Speaking of which, this place looks a bit familiar. It seems like there used to be a store here. Do you know about it?

Kitty: Meow.

Evelyn: So, you don't know...

(Talk to General Chop, optional)

Evelyn: There should be one at Lumina too, right? I think Miss Yao really wants to have these noodles.

General Chop: The one at Lumina is a branch, but this is the main store!

Evelyn: I see, the two store owners also look quite alike.

General Chop: Of course, my son looks like me, and the noodles are like mine too.

(Talk to Tin Master, optional)

Evelyn: Mm... Because I always drink extra strong, Tin Master from Lumina gets quite upset every time he sees me.

Tin Master: I'll prepare whatever flavor you need. May I ask, how strong would you like your coffee?

Evelyn: Is octuple okay?

Tin Master: ...

Tin Master: Please take care of your health.

Evelyn: Ah, it made him angry, as expected...

(Talk to Ask, optional)

Evelyn: The chain convenience store seems to be promoting fruit candies.

Evelyn: Sometimes when you get busy, you really need something sweet to relieve the stress.

(Talk to Elfy, optional)

Evelyn: Excuse me, do you still have Astra's album?

Elfy: It was already sold out a few days ago. I'm really sorry, but I've already contacted the supplier, and it will be restocked soon.

Evelyn: Sold out? Very nice.

Elfy: You seem happy despite not getting the album you wanted.

Evelyn: Ah, I was just asking.

Elfy: I see. How about you come back in a few days to check again? I really like Astra's music too.

Elfy: She will soon hold her own solo concert at Starloop, and a new single is said to have an upcoming release.

Elfy: She's both talented and diligent, and a one of a kind singer. Highly recommended.

Evelyn: Yeah, I agree.

(Interact with Arcade, optional)

Evelyn: There's even an arcade here. How nostalgic.

Evelyn: When I was a child, there were many stores like this. I always envied the kids whose backpack pockets were filled with tokens.

Evelyn: I should come play next time when I'm free.

(Interact with Gadget Store, optional)

Evelyn: A gadget store? I'll take Miss Yao here next time.

Evelyn: She'll probably go crazy and buy out the entire store...

(Talk to Enzo, optional)

Evelyn: There's a remodeling shop here, it looks good.

Remodeling Shop Owner: You can trust my mods, dear customer.

Evelyn: Sure, if I need anything next time, I'll come to you.

Remodeling Shop Owner: Great, I hope that one day you'll become a regular here.

(Interact with Video Store, optional)

Evelyn: The siblings at the video store... I'll have to investigate them thoroughly.

Evelyn: Becoming such an outstanding Proxy at such a young age... I don't think things are so simple with them.

Evelyn: What exactly is their purpose in trying to get close with Miss Yao?

Evelyn: I hope they have no ulterior motives... *sigh* Miss Yao is too trusting of others, I can't help but worry.

(Interact with Astra Yao's Poster, optional)

Hmm? There's a poster of Miss Yao at the entrance of this music store.

(Talk to Howl, optional)

Howl smells something unfamiliar and wakes up with a howl!

Evelyn: There's a poster of Miss Yao's here too.

Newsstand Dog: Woof woof!

Evelyn: Huh? Where's your master?

Newsstand Dog: Woof woof.

Evelyn: I see, you are your own master.

Newsstand Dog: Woof woof?

(Interact with Payphone)

Evelyn: The secret code is the nursery rhyme — 1155665, 4433221.

The old Payphone let out a series of dial tones before falling into silence.
Evelyn waited... until finally, a voice came through on the other end of the line—

???: Hey, I thought you'd never call. What's up?

Evelyn: I need your help.

???: Oh? That's rare. There's a mission you can't handle? Go ahead, tell me what I can help with.

Evelyn: Can we meet?

???: Meet... Hmm, fine. Since I promised to help you, I'll help you to the end.

???: From where you are, can you see that tin man's... uh, beverage shop?

Evelyn: Yeah.

???: Turn left at the intersection and walk straight. There's a good spot for us to rendezvous, you'll know it when you see it.

???: Wait for me. I'll be there in ten minutes.

Evelyn: (Hm, if it's just ten minutes, maybe I'll take a walk around the area? I also need to keep an eye out for any suspicious people...)

Investigate whether there are any suspicious people nearby

 Step Description

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While waiting for our "old buddy," check for suspicious people.

(Interact with one of the following)

(Talk to General Chop)

Evelyn: It smells so good.

General Chop: Dear customer, we have a special menu item today. Would you like to give it a try?

Evelyn: Maybe next time. I'll bring some friends along, too.

General Chop: Sounds great! I'll make sure to add the most delicious toppings for you and your friends!

Evelyn: (He's a cheerful shop owner, not suspicious at all.)

Evelyn: I remember there's a video store over this way, right?

General Chop: Yes, it's right here.

Evelyn: What kind of person is the video store manager?

General Chop: Hmm? They're good kids, what's wrong?

General Chop: Dear customer, is there something you need from them?

Evelyn: Ah, it's nothing. I was just asking.

General Chop: This customer seems a bit suspicious... I should let Belle and Wise know.

Evelyn: What did you just say?

General Chop: Ah, nothing, nothing at all. I was just saying thank you for liking my noodles, hahaha...

It's about time to head to the rendezvous point.

(Talk to Tin Master)

Evelyn: I'm a bit sleepy, please get me a cup of coffee.

Tin Master: Dear guest, coffee is not just a tool to keep you awake, it has its own mission.

Evelyn: Oh?

Tin Master: The aroma of coffee is meant to relax people, while its bitterness is the true taste of life.

Tin Master: A cup of good coffee is actually a conversation with one's innermost thoughts.

Evelyn: I see, I've underestimated the meaning of coffee.

Tin Master: Not many people know how to slow down and savor it. I hope this cup of coffee brings you a moment of peace.

Evelyn: (It seems like a master barista, deeply passionate about coffee, not suspicious at all.)

Evelyn: Quite the skillful technique. I didn't expect there to be such an excellent coffee shop hidden here.

Tin Master: Of course. Sixth Street is a place full of hidden gems. I hope you'll visit often in the future.

Evelyn: Just as I expected... Thank you for the coffee.

It's about time to head to the rendezvous point.

Meet up with the "old buddy" at the agreed location

 Step Description

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It's about time to meet up with the "old buddy."

(Approach the marked location)

Evelyn: (This place... I see now.)

Evelyn: (As expected, it's the kind of place that's perfect for getting in contact.)

Evelyn: (This street is really something...)

Evelyn: (Let's wait for her here.)

(Approach the meet-up spot)

Old Buddy

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Old Buddy"

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Video Summary: The true threat lies in the shadows within.

Story Description: Evelyn, managing to escape the previous assault, is trying to find out who was behind the attack. She has no choice but to contact her old friend, Rain, and try to fix the communication device left by the attackers. She manages to get some important information: The attackers were employed by a rival company, Fugue, and a mole at Odeum HAE leaked Astra's whereabouts. After Rain leaves, Evelyn realizes that their situation is becoming more dangerous.

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Waiting...
A girl in a hoodie, with the hood pulled down low, pokes Evelyn on the shoulder...

An Old Friend: Long time no see. You seem to be doing well for yourself.

Evelyn: Same for you.

An Old Friend: Me? I've had a couple of close calls. But compared to my old days in the organization, I'm much happier now.

An Old Friend: So, what can I help you with? I'd like to repay you for saving my life sooner rather than later.

Evelyn: This communicator's been wiped. Can you restore the data in it? Even fragments would help.

An Old Friend: Mmm, let me see.

The girl hooks up the communicator to her portable laptop.
After rebooting it a few times, "pop," the communicator emits a puff of smoke...

An Old Friend: Huh, so it fries its own motherboard after too many brute-force attempts. That's some really advanced tech.

An Old Friend: What trouble have you gotten yourself into this time...

Evelyn: ...Did you get any useful intel?

An Old Friend: Hmph, have some faith in your old buddy.

An Old Friend: I got a snippet of encrypted communication before the board fried: "...The record... can't let Odeum have it... must separate... Don't let anyone find out Fu—"... and the rest is gone.

Evelyn: Fugue.

An Old Friend: Fugue? What does that mean? Ah, forget it — I don't need to know. As long as you get it.

Evelyn: Can you see who sent that encrypted message?

An Old Friend: Only the encrypted IP address. Let me trace it... Yeah, here we go. 192.453.18.300.

Evelyn: Hmm?!

An Old Friend: Your look says it all. Is this bad news for you?

Evelyn: No, it's not bad news for me. But it's very bad for the person I'm trying to protect.

An Old Friend: Wow, you really have been doing well.

Evelyn: Wh-what makes you say that all of a sudden?

An Old Friend: Because you have someone you want to protect no matter what. I'm kinda jealous, I still work alone.

An Old Friend: I've made some interesting friends, too. But they've saved me a couple of times so I feel like I owe them, and it's kinda embarrassing...

An Old Friend: Otherwise, if I teamed up with them, we'd probably be unstoppable.

Evelyn: Huh. I'm a bit intrigued that you think so highly of them.

An Old Friend: They're pretty famous on Inter-Knot, the name is "Phaethon." If you can't get a hold of me next time, try reaching out to them. Tell them you know me, might even get a discount.

Evelyn: Got it.

An Old Friend: That's all I got before the motherboard fried. I hope it's useful.

Evelyn: Very useful. You haven't changed. Still as reliable as ever.

An Old Friend: Well, I'm heading back to my safe house, then. I'll see you next time — and who knows when that might be.

Evelyn: Take care of yourself out there. But you've always been so cautious, I'm sure you'll be fine.

An Old Friend: Oh yeah, what name do you go by now?

Evelyn: Evelyn. Evelyn Chevalier.

An Old Friend: Evelyn, that's beautiful and sounds real fancy. I go by Rain now.

Evelyn: Nice to meet you, Rain.

Rain smiles at Evelyn and leaves. As Evelyn watches her go, she thinks to herself:
Rain? That's a beautiful name, too.

On her way back to Astra, Evelyn can't help but think about that IP address.
It's an internal company IP, which means that the person who leaked Astra's location... was an insider!