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Prologue: Intermission

Last updated 2026-09-09

Prologue: Intermission is a Main Story Commission, that takes place directly after the events of "Fairy", after completion of the Prologue of Zenless Zone Zero. It serves as an introduction to managing the Video Store.

Steps

  1. Go to the arcade and collect the videotapes
  2. Go to Coff Cafe to collect the videotapes
  3. Go to the convenience store and collect the videotapes
  4. (SiblingSibling) sent you a DM. Go find (‍herher / himhim‍) on the street corner.
  5. Pet the kitten.
  6. You took the photo, show it to (‍BelleBelle / WiseWise‍)
  7. Time to get back to the video store
  8. Learn some store management tips from Bangboo 18
  9. Meet Billy in front of the Godfinger arcade
  10. Enter Godfinger and play video games with Billy
  11. The evening is so quiet on Sixth Street. Time to rest up
  12. Go meet Shepherd
  13. Complete the commission via the HDD system
    1. Escape from Certain Doom
  14. Go back to your room and watch TV with (‍BelleBelle / WiseWise‍)
  15. If you plan to watch TV, go find (‍BelleBelle / WiseWise‍)

Dialogue

(SiblingSibling): Good morning, (‍WiseWise / BelleBelle‍). Did you sleep well?
Icon Dialogue Talk (‍Not bad.Not bad. / I slept okay.I slept okay.‍)
(SiblingSibling): That's good (‍to hearto hear‍). With so much happening yesterday, I was worried you might have trouble sleeping.
(SiblingSibling): (‍By the way, I've been thinking maybe it's time for our video store to return to its normal routine.By the way, I've been thinking maybe it's time for our video store to return to its normal routine. / By the way, maybe it's time to get our video store back on track.By the way, maybe it's time to get our video store back on track.‍)
Icon Dialogue Talk I... I had trouble sleeping.
(SiblingSibling): (‍Probably 'cause of all that chaos from yesterday. You might need a couple of days to reset.Probably 'cause of all that chaos from yesterday. You might need a couple of days to reset. / Makes sense, considering everything that went down yesterday. Taking a breather for a few days might be a good call.Makes sense, considering everything that went down yesterday. Taking a breather for a few days might be a good call.‍)
(SiblingSibling): (‍You know what, though? How 'bout we shift gears and get back into running the video store?You know what, though? How 'bout we shift gears and get back into running the video store? / By the way, I have a good way to relax – how about we focus on managing the video store for a change of pace?By the way, I have a good way to relax – how about we focus on managing the video store for a change of pace?‍)
(SiblingSibling): Since Nicole came, we've been (‍either busyeither busy / busy eitherbusy either‍) exploring the Hollows or repairing the flash drive. (‍The video store's been on the back burner.The video store's been on the back burner. / The video store hasn't been open.The video store hasn't been open.‍)
(SiblingSibling): (‍I sent 18 to the storeroom to take inventory before you got up.I sent 18 to the storeroom to take inventory before you got up. / Before you woke up this morning, I had 18 go to the storeroom to take inventory.Before you woke up this morning, I had 18 go to the storeroom to take inventory.‍)
Icon Dialogue Talk: It really has been too long since I took care of the store.
(SiblingSibling): (‍That's right. Our Proxy earnings aren't gonna be as high as before. Spend more time focusing on the store to keep increasing your income.That's right. Our Proxy earnings aren't gonna be as high as before. Spend more time focusing on the store to keep increasing your income. / Yeah, our recent Inter-Knot revenue is gonna take a hit. Reorganizing the store a little will bring in some much-needed pocket money for the house.Yeah, our recent Inter-Knot revenue is gonna take a hit. Reorganizing the store a little will bring in some much-needed pocket money for the house.‍)
(SiblingSibling): (‍Before we officially reopen, let's retrieve each of the overdue videotapes our neighbors borrowed.Before we officially reopen, let's retrieve each of the overdue videotapes our neighbors borrowed. / You can take charge of retrieving the overdue videotapes rented by our neighbors before the store opens.You can take charge of retrieving the overdue videotapes rented by our neighbors before the store opens.‍)
Icon Dialogue Talk (‍Sounds good.Sounds good. / Sure! Leave it to me.Sure! Leave it to me.‍)
(SiblingSibling): (‍Shall we go then?Shall we go then? / Let's get ready to go.Let's get ready to go.‍) The weather is nice today, perfect for a stroll.
Icon Dialogue Story Go to the arcade and collect the videotapes

The video store will soon be back in business. Go to the Godfinger arcade to retrieve the videotape they rented earlier.
(Talk to (SiblingSibling) again, optional)
(SiblingSibling): (‍You remember from whom to collect the videotapes, right Wise?You remember from whom to collect the videotapes, right Wise? / Belle, I suppose you haven't forgotten from whom to collect the videotapes, right?Belle, I suppose you haven't forgotten from whom to collect the videotapes, right?‍)
(SiblingSibling): Asha from the arcade, the Bangboo from 141 convenience store, and the Tin Master from Coff Cafe.
(SiblingSibling): (‍...Me? I've not been slacking, y'know! The customers I have to get tapes from live pretty far apart, so I need to plan my route....Me? I've not been slacking, y'know! The customers I have to get tapes from live pretty far apart, so I need to plan my route. / I'll go later. The clients I need to collect the videotapes from live quite far apart, so I need to plan my route.I'll go later. The clients I need to collect the videotapes from live quite far apart, so I need to plan my route.‍)

(Talk to Tin Master, optional)
Tin Master: Our store is under renovation but will be back soon, so please stay on the lookout!

(Talk to Ask, optional)
Ask: Ehn-na! Nuh-ehn-ehn-ne, Ehn-nana!
(Sorry, 141 is temporarily closed for renovation!)

(Talk to Asha)
(A small cutscene plays)
Asha: Hey, you here to play?
Asha: I feel like I've forgotten something... Maybe I left the stove on, or I forgot to clock in this morning...
Icon Dialogue Talk Good morning, Asha.
Asha: Good morning. Oh, it's you. Hmm, seeing you makes me feel like I forgot something related to you...
Icon Dialogue Talk The video store is reopening.
Asha: Has your little vacation ended? Oh, I remember now. The videotape I borrowed from you is due today!
Icon Dialogue Talk I'm here to collect that videotape.
Asha: Oh right, I remember now. The videotape I borrowed from you is due today!
Asha: Sorry for making you come all this way. Keeping track of every little thing in life and work is much tougher than playing games that only rely on your short-term memory.
Icon Dialogue Talk We hope to see you at the store again soon!
Asha: Of course, the same goes for you!
Asha: I'd like to invite you in to play right now, but it looks like you have some things to take care of?
Asha: When you have some free time, remember to come to play a game with me. I like that feeling of rivalry between us.
(Obtain First Piece of Soil Filmcase, Starlight Knight Filmcase)
(Talk to Asha again, optional)
Asha: Welcome to Godfinger! Please read through our store policy.
Asha: Looking to relax after a busy day at work? You're at the right place!
Asha: Leave your worries at the door — it's all about pure entertainment at Godfinger!

Icon Dialogue Story Tracked Go to Coff Cafe to collect the videotapes

The video store is reopening soon! Head over to Coff Cafe and collect those borrowed videotapes from your neighbors.
(Talk to Tin Master)
(A small cutscene plays)
Tin Master: Welcome! We have a new roast in today, please have a taste!
Tin Master: Hello, Manager. I'm sorry, but the cafe isn't open today...
Icon Dialogue Talk Why not?
Tin Master: Coff Cafe is currently getting new equipment and selecting new seasonal bean varieties. I'm looking forward to the newest batch of dark-roasted beans...
Tin Master: But the delivery of goods on both sides has been delayed due to a Hollow, which means the coffee shop won't be able to do business for a while.
Tin Master: Oh, hang on. I just remembered — one of the videotapes I rented out is almost overdue. I should take this chance to return it to you.
Icon Dialogue Talk I'm here to collect your rental tapes.
Tin Master: Oh, that's right. One of the videotapes I rented out is almost overdue. Let me get it for you.
Tin Master: I feel bad I can't serve you any coffee after you came all the way here...
Icon Dialogue Talk When will the coffee shop open again?
Tin Master: It shouldn't be much longer. I can open again once the Hollow has settled down and we receive the new equipment and coffee beans.
Tin Master: I look forward to seeing you there, Manager.
Icon Dialogue Talk Give me a call when you're ready.
Icon Dialogue Talk I'll be there for sure.
Tin Master: Very well. I'll be sure to notify you. Thank you for your support.
(Obtain Coffee Mate Filmcase, Don't Touch Filmcase)

Icon Dialogue Story Tracked Go to the convenience store and collect the videotapes

The video store will soon be back in business. Go to the 141 Convenience Store to retrieve the videotape they rented earlier.
(Talk to Ask)
(A small cutscene plays)
Ask: Ehn na en! Nhu-nah ehn? (Welcome... What's that? Need a videotape? The one our boss borrowed?)
Give Change: Ehn! Nah nu-en! (Right here, here you go! It's just about to be overdue, so take it quickly!)
Icon Dialogue Talk Is the store open today?
Buy: Nuh-ehn! (Nope!)
Give Change: Ehn-na! (Yes!)
Icon Dialogue Talk So, is the store open or not...
Buy: Nuh-ehn-nuh-ehn, nuh-ehn-ehn!
(We're open! We'll get the store ready right away!)
Give Change: Ehn-nana, nuh-ehn-nana!
(Buy is dumb! Don't listen to it!)
Buy: Nuh-ehn-ehn, ehn! Ehn-ehn-nene, ne...
(The renovation isn't done yet! Three floorboard seams are yet to be cleaned...)
Give Change: Ehn-na-ehn-ehn, nuh-ehn, ehn-nenene!
(You're such an idiot, Buy! That's cleaning, not renovating!)
Ask: Nuh-ehn, ehn-ehn-ne, nenene, ehn-na-ehn-na!
(We make things difficult for our customers by not opening the store. Let's open as soon as the Hollow stabilizes!)
Give Change: Ehn-na, ehn-na! Ehn-nana!
(Open! Open! When our store is open, Dennies will come our way!)
Buy: Ehn... Ehn-nene-ne...
(Uhhh... Dennies... Dennies will come our way...)
(Obtain Invasion: Next Gen Filmcase, Nihility Filmcase)
(Unlock 141 Convenience Store - Item Rank C-Rank Materials)

Message Wise IconMessage Belle Icon
Bro, I found a mysterious creature. Could it be a sprite, or a wild tiger?Belle, I ran into a cat at the street corner...
Message Wise IconMessage Belle Icon
Bro, street corner, come quick!There's a little black cat, seems like the sort of thing you'd like
Icon DMs REPLY
Are you in danger? I'm on my wayBro, keep it occupied!
Should we contact the Animal Protection Society first?I'll be there in no time!
Message Wise IconMessage Belle Icon
Ah, no need to worry, Wise...It's quite relaxed at the moment, with no signs of wanting to run
Message Wise IconMessage Belle Icon
I found a cat, so I got a bit too excitedAre you coming over? I'm waiting at the alley entrance.

(After closing the menu)
Achievement Bronze.png Chips Are 50% Off Here? Achievement Complete
Icon Dialogue Story Tracked (‍BelleBelle / WiseWise‍) sent you a DM. Go find (‍herher / himhim‍) on the street corner.

There's a DM from (‍BelleBelle / WiseWise‍) about an adorable cat hanging out on the street. Take a break from your hectic schedule and go give this little furball some love!
(Talk to (SiblingSibling))
(SiblingSibling): There you are! It's so sweet! I've been petting it for a long time...
(SiblingSibling): Come on and try it!

Icon Dialogue Story Tracked Pet the kitten

How can you resist not reaching out to such a cute cat — gently pat the little cat.
(Interact with Inky)

(Stop petting Inky)
(SiblingSibling): (‍You've been petting that kitty for quite a while, Wise. Aren't your legs sore?You've been petting that kitty for quite a while, Wise. Aren't your legs sore? / Sorry to interrupt, Belle, but you've been petting that cat for five minutes.Sorry to interrupt, Belle, but you've been petting that cat for five minutes.‍)
Icon Dialogue Talk Uh oh, I think I've become glued to the cat.
Icon Dialogue Talk I want to stay with the cat forever and ever.
(SiblingSibling): (‍Don't worry. I'll think of something...Don't worry. I'll think of something... / Fret not. I'll think of something...Fret not. I'll think of something...‍)
(SiblingSibling): (‍Let's take a pic! That way, you can be with the cat at any time!Let's take a pic! That way, you can be with the cat at any time! / Let's take a photo! That way, you can be with the cat at all times.Let's take a photo! That way, you can be with the cat at all times.‍)
As if hearing our conversation, the kitten leaps lightly onto the low wall next to it...
(‍(Hmm? What a smart kitten. It's pretty good at finding a camera.)(Hmm? What a smart kitten. It's pretty good at finding a camera.) / (Wow~ This angle is great... Kitties are so smart.)(Wow~ This angle is great... Kitties are so smart.)‍)
(Tutorial)
(SiblingSibling): Let's take a photo of the cat~
(Take a photo)

Icon Dialogue Story Tracked You took the photo. Show it to (‍BelleBelle / WiseWise‍).

You got a picture of the kitty. Show it to (‍BelleBelle / WiseWise‍).
(Talk to (SiblingSibling)
(SiblingSibling): (‍Is the photo taken? Let me see... Hmm, your photography skills are as reliable as ever!Is the photo taken? Let me see... Hmm, your photography skills are as reliable as ever! / Are you done? Let me see... Not bad, it's pretty cute.Are you done? Let me see... Not bad, it's pretty cute.‍)
(SiblingSibling): (‍Hey,Hey, / By the way,By the way,‍) how long have we been out? (‍We've pretty much collected all the videotapes, right? I suppose 18 has almost finished sorting out the goods, too...We've pretty much collected all the videotapes, right? I suppose 18 has almost finished sorting out the goods, too... / We've collected all videotapes, and I think 18 has almost finished sorting out the goods, too...We've collected all videotapes, and I think 18 has almost finished sorting out the goods, too...‍)
(SiblingSibling): (‍Phew! This cat got me so distracted I couldn't think straight!Phew! This cat got me so distracted I couldn't think straight! / That was close. I almost lost track of time petting that cat.That was close. I almost lost track of time petting that cat.‍)
Icon Dialogue Talk (‍Time to go back to the store!Time to go back to the store! / It's time to go back to the store.It's time to go back to the store.‍)
(SiblingSibling): (‍Alrighty! I'll head back to check the inventory with 18 first. Come back soon, Wise!Alrighty! I'll head back to check the inventory with 18 first. Come back soon, Wise! / Sure, I'll head back to check the inventory with 18 first. Don't stay out for too long, Belle.Sure, I'll head back to check the inventory with 18 first. Don't stay out for too long, Belle.‍)

Message Default Lemon Icon
Are you a new Proxy just starting out? Let Inter-Knot incentives pave the way to a worry-free future!
Need Bangboo or W-Engine? Looking for professional agents' information? Don't you worry! From free Ether aptitude tests to the latest Carrot resources, everything a Proxy needs is on Inter-Knot!
New Proxies, stay tuned for Inter-Knot benefit events. ☆☆☆ Open your smartphone ☆☆☆ to receive push notifications about our benefits, and claim your massive New Proxy Welcome Gift Bundle right away!

(Event has been unlocked)
(ProtagonistProtagonist): (‍(An Inter-Knot ad for newcomers... I haven't seen one in ages. Can I unsubscribe?)(An Inter-Knot ad for newcomers... I haven't seen one in ages. Can I unsubscribe?) / (Wise's right. Belle, how can you allow yourself to sink so low? Have you forgotten about the store opening? You need to stop!)(Wise's right. Belle, how can you allow yourself to sink so low? Have you forgotten about the store opening? You need to stop!)‍)
(ProtagonistProtagonist): (‍(Doesn't look like it, but the event has rewards, so I might as well have a look...)(Doesn't look like it, but the event has rewards, so I might as well have a look...) / (...Let me watch it for just a little longer.)(...Let me watch it for just a little longer.)‍)
Icon Dialogue Story Tracked Time to get back to the video store.

Though it's hard to leave the kitty behind, it's getting late. Time to head back to the video store.
(Return to Random Play)
Bangboo 18: Ehn na nu na... (I've sorted the videotapes, including the ones that have just been returned...)
Bangboo 18: Nha-ehn nu ne.
(We have enough videotapes to keep the business going for the time being, but in the long run, we'll need more.)
Bangboo 18: Ehn-nu!
(We should consider getting some new stock!)
A familiar-looking young lady suddenly storms through the door while you're discussing the restocking plan...
Heddy: You guys are getting new stock? That's great!
Heddy: I've already watched every videotape in the store ten times...
Icon Dialogue Talk Uh, you are...?
Icon Dialogue Talk Ten times!?
Heddy: It's me, Heddy, your super loyal customer!
Heddy: Though I often complain, "The video store always has the same videotapes, do they really wanna stay open..."
Heddy: I still find myself coming back here because your taste in movies aligns so much with mine.
Heddy: Looks like you guys are planning to reorganize?
Icon Dialogue Talk We've formulated a new business strategy.
(ProtagonistProtagonist): Before, we decided to run this business on a go-with-the-flow policy, but I guess it's time we take this seriously, huh!
Icon Dialogue Talk We finally have time for the store.
(ProtagonistProtagonist): (‍We were busy with other things, but now we can dedicate our time to running the video store.We were busy with other things, but now we can dedicate our time to running the video store. / We've been busy with all this other stuff, but now we can totally throw ourselves into running the video store!We've been busy with all this other stuff, but now we can totally throw ourselves into running the video store!‍)
(ProtagonistProtagonist): (‍But if we want things to keep going smoothly at the video store, we better come up with some new ideas.But if we want things to keep going smoothly at the video store, we better come up with some new ideas. / However, if we want things to keep going smoothly at the video store, we'd better think up some new strategies.However, if we want things to keep going smoothly at the video store, we'd better think up some new strategies.‍)
Bangboo 18: Nu-nah ehn! (I'll do my best to meet customers' needs!)
Heddy: Seeing 18 so enthusiastic makes me want to help...!
Heddy: Ah, you guys must really need some promotion at this stage. I can help with that!
Heddy: Umm... I just realized I have no idea how to go about it...
Bangboo 18: Na-nu en-ehn! (Don't sweat it! I'll show you how!)
Heddy: Speaking of... the first time I set foot in this store was because I met Lil 18... I mean, Master 18 handing out posters of the new movie on the street.
Heddy: I'm sure I can learn a lot from 18, it's an excellent promoter!

Icon Dialogue Story Tracked Learn some store management tips from Bangboo 18.

Bangboo 18, the shopkeeper at the video store, has a wealth of (self-taught) experience in advertising. Take the chance to learn a thing or two from it.
(Talk to Luckyboo, optional)
Luckyboo: It's Saturday morning! Have a great day!
(Talk to Heddy, optional)
Heddy: 18 is so reliable! I'll try to learn from it!
(Talk to (SiblingSibling), optional)
(SiblingSibling): Why does it feel like 18 is even more reliable than us.
(SiblingSibling): (‍While we're barely running the store ourselves, our Bangboo has, surprisingly, mastered everything and can handle things alone.While we're barely running the store ourselves, our Bangboo has, surprisingly, mastered everything and can handle things alone. / I feel a sense of fulfillment, like a proud parent watching their child grow up...I feel a sense of fulfillment, like a proud parent watching their child grow up...‍)
(Talk to Bangboo 18)
(Start Video Store management tutorial)
(SiblingSibling): Now that we're back in business, let's get our tapes sorted.
(SiblingSibling): Let's start by picking some tapes for display.
(SiblingSibling): Best choose the most popular genres to attract more customers.
(SiblingSibling): Find the right videotapes and place them on the shelf.
(SiblingSibling): Oh, and make sure to organize the rest of the shelves as well.
(SiblingSibling): This videotape should create a lot of buzz.
(SiblingSibling): Down to the final shelf.
(SiblingSibling): Let's pick this one as our final tape.
(SiblingSibling): This should be good.
(SiblingSibling): This reflects the popularity of a videotape.
(SiblingSibling): Let's leave the store promotions up to 18.
(SiblingSibling): Let's open up for business when you're ready.
Heddy: 18 looks so cool when it's promoting the store!
(SiblingSibling): With 18's help and our dedicated management, we'll definitely see more and more customers coming to the store!

Message Billy Kid Icon
Manager! It's me, Billy!
Message Billy Kid Icon
So I'm still the first person in the Cunning Hares to have your new contact information since you changed your account.
Icon DMs REPLY
Don't reopen old wounds.
Billy, that's a sore spot...
Message Billy Kid Icon
Ahhh, sorry Manager!
Message Billy Kid Icon
Don't worry, with siblings like yourselves plus friends like us, everything's gonna be fine!
Message Billy Kid Icon
How about it, Manager? We're good friends and it's been a while, wanna hang out today?
Message Billy Kid Icon
There are two new games over at the arcade on Sixth Street. We haven't played each other in ages.
Icon DMs REPLY
Sure! Let's go!
Message Billy Kid Icon
My beloved Godfinger... These god-like fingers of mine have been itching for a workout! I'll see ya outside the arcade!
You might be free, but I need to work.
Message Billy Kid Icon
It can't be all work and no play. Hurry up, Manager! I'll meet you at the front of the arcade... Be there or be square!

Icon Dialogue Story Tracked Meet Billy in front of the Godfinger arcade

There's a DM from Billy. Looks like he wants to play some video games at the arcade.
(Talk to Luckyboo, optional)
Luckyboo: It's Saturday afternoon! Enjoy the rest of your day!

(Talk to Heddy, optional)
Heddy: What a creative way to promote running a store... I've taken note of it!

(Talk to (SiblingSibling), optional)
(SiblingSibling): (‍If more customers drop by our store, we should add videotapes from some new genres!If more customers drop by our store, we should add videotapes from some new genres! / If more customers are coming to the store, it seems time for us to add some videotapes from some new genres.If more customers are coming to the store, it seems time for us to add some videotapes from some new genres.‍)
Icon Dialogue Talk (‍Horror movies again?Horror movies again? / Art movies again?Art movies again?‍)
(SiblingSibling): (‍It's for the sake of the video store. I'm sure you won't mind?It's for the sake of the video store. I'm sure you won't mind? / There's been quite a lot of good films lately. Besides... it's for the video store.There's been quite a lot of good films lately. Besides... it's for the video store.‍)
Icon Dialogue Talk Don't use store funds for your personal needs!
(SiblingSibling): (‍It's not for me! I'll leave half of the choices to you, at least.It's not for me! I'll leave half of the choices to you, at least. / Alright, alright, I get it. I'll leave half of the choices to you, okay?Alright, alright, I get it. I'll leave half of the choices to you, okay?‍)

(Leave Random Play)
(Talk to Billy)

Co-Op Battle

Special Event
Co-Op Battle

Story Description: The arcade has a new game that can be played in co-op mode. Billy enthusiastically invited you to go give it a try.


Billy: Manager, you're finally here!
Icon Dialogue Talk What's up? Why so excited?
(ProtagonistProtagonist): What's up, Billy? You look so excited.
Billy: It's just been such a long time since we gamed together.
Icon Dialogue Talk It's only been a few minutes since you messaged me.
(ProtagonistProtagonist): But... it's only been a few minutes since you messaged me.
Billy: I know, but all the hustle and bustle outside the arcade just got me fired up.
Billy: By the way, have you heard? Since Godfinger reopened, two new games have been released. One is called Snake Duel. It's even got a two-on-two co-op mode.
Billy: So how about we team up and go against some other players?
Icon Dialogue Talk Okay, teaming up with you sounds fun.
(ProtagonistProtagonist): Okay, teaming up with you should be fun.
Billy: Woohoo, I knew you'd acknowledge my skills, Manager!
Billy: Come on, let's show everyone what we're made of!
Icon Dialogue Talk Not tired of teaming up with me in the Hollows?
(ProtagonistProtagonist): We've already spent so much time teamed up in the Hollows. You're not tired of me?
Billy: Course not! 'Cause you're not only clutch in a fight, you've got some killer gaming chops too.
Billy: With a teammate like you to watch my back, I can unleash my true power!
Icon Dialogue Talk You better not slow me down.
(ProtagonistProtagonist): You better not slow me down after all this talk.
Billy: Hmph, don't you worry about that. I was studying tactics through the crack in the door before you got here.
Billy: Let's get in there! Godfinger is pretty packed today! There won't be any seats left if we dilly dally!
Billy enters the arcade ahead of you...

Icon Dialogue Story Tracked Step Description

Billy has already gone to the Godfinger. You should go in and find him. He mentioned wanting to play "Snake Duel."
(Godfinger arcade has been unlocked)
(Enter Godfinger and play Snake Duel - Clash with Billy)
(Open Snake Duel - Clash Tutorial)
(After winning)
Billy: Ha — multiplayer mode sure is more fun than single-player!
Billy: Team up and defeat the enemy. This is the Starlight Knight's kinda game!
Billy: How 'bout it, Manager? Reckon I didn't do too badly there.
Icon Dialogue Talk You were incredible, Billy.
Billy: Haha, you sure know what's what, Manager!
Billy: Back in the day, I was always top of the high scores on the arcade machines... I'm a bit rusty these days though.
Billy: Let's you and me play a few more games together next time we get the chance!
Icon Dialogue Talk (‍Still not as good as meStill not as good as me / You're just as good as meYou're just as good as me‍).
Transcription missing
Billy: (‍You are pretty good... But personally speaking, I reckon we're equals!You are pretty good... But personally speaking, I reckon we're equals! / Manager, you really are amazing though... That's really inspired me!Manager, you really are amazing though... That's really inspired me!‍)
Billy: Back in the day, I was always top of the high scores on the arcade machines... I'm a bit rusty these days though.
Billy: Gimme a few days of practice, and then we'll have ourselves a little contest!
Billy left, seemingly reluctant...
(ProtagonistProtagonist): (‍(It's so late already! Time to go back and rest...)(It's so late already! Time to go back and rest...) / (It's getting late. I should go home and rest.)(It's getting late. I should go home and rest.)‍)
Icon Dialogue Story Tracked The evening is so quiet on Sixth Street. Time to rest up.

Sixth Street is gradually getting busier, and the video store's sales are on the right track. You can rest well now, and enjoy sweet dreams tonight.
(Return to Random Play)
(Talk to (SiblingSibling), optional)
(SiblingSibling): (‍Business looks great at the video store today. I can finally stop worrying about our bills... You should get some rest too, Belle.Business looks great at the video store today. I can finally stop worrying about our bills... You should get some rest too, Belle. / Business looks great at the video store today... I can relax a little. You should get some rest too~Business looks great at the video store today... I can relax a little. You should get some rest too~‍)

(Go to sleep on the Sofa)
How strange. It's nothing but an ordinary sofa, yet it looks so enticing.
Icon Dialogue Sleep Follow your heart and lie down.
Icon Dialogue Talk It must be an illussion. Leave.
(Interacting with the Sofa again repeats dialogue)

You rest comfortably, and now your mind feels exceptionally clear.

Avatar Inter-Knot User 1
Hello. Independent intelligence broker: Shepherd, at your service.
Avatar Inter-Knot User 1
We're currently serving invited members only. Respond with "1" or "Operator" to speak to customer support.
Icon DMs REPLY
1
Operator
Avatar Inter-Knot User 1
...
Avatar Inter-Knot User 1
Hahaha, you really bought it?
Avatar Inter-Knot User 1
If I kept speaking like that, could I have just swindled you out of your private info or credit card number?
Avatar Inter-Knot User 1
You need to wise up to fraudsters, Phaethon my old friend
Icon DMs REPLY
That's not funny
Avatar Inter-Knot User 1
Haha, it's worth it just to trick you at least once
How did you know it was me?
Avatar Inter-Knot User 1
I'm your intelligence broker. I wouldn't be very good at my job if I didn't know what happened to my oldest client — the legendary Phaethon, now would I?
Avatar Inter-Knot User 1
I'm just glad you guys told me about this alt account
Avatar Inter-Knot User 1
That proves I'm still your favorite intelligence broker, right?
Icon DMs REPLY
Don't forget to get us more commissions
Avatar Inter-Knot User 1
Of course, why I have one right here
That's not true. Who are you?
Avatar Inter-Knot User 1
So merciless... I'm really fond of you guys
Avatar Inter-Knot User 1
Getting back on topic. I have a commission
Avatar Inter-Knot User 1
It could be crucial for your comeback as a Proxy
Avatar Inter-Knot User 1
Let's talk in person. I'll wait for you in the usual spot
Avatar Inter-Knot User 1
Emoji Smile

Icon Dialogue Story Tracked Go meet Shepherd.

Shepherd wants to talk in person. Go meet up with him.
(Leave Random Play and talk to Shepherd outside Coff Cafe)
Shepherd: Hey, old friend.
Shepherd: You rarely talk about your private affairs, but my instincts tell me Phaethon's disappearance is due to unforeseen circumstances. I feel for you.
Shepherd: But don't lose heart yet. You built your legend from scratch, and as your old friend, I'll help you the best I can.
Icon Dialogue Talk Thanks, Shepherd.
Shepherd: Don't mention it. After all, it's my calling as a broker to help Inter-Knot discover and nurture budding users.
Icon Dialogue Talk What kind of help?
Shepherd: Well as you know, we Inter-Knot brokers can get our hands on lucrative commissions, and Inter-Knot is happy to let us nurture any budding users for them.
Shepherd: That (Proxy)(Proxy) account is in urgent need of a reputation boost right now, considering its account level.
Shepherd: So, I have a slightly challenging commission for you. If you can get it done, it'll be a good way of showing others what you've got.
Shepherd: And this commission was posted by Vision Corporation, which recently scored the metro renovation project. I think you'll be happy with their offer.
Shepherd: The objective is to enter a construction Hollow and rescue three trapped engineers.
Icon Dialogue Talk Leave it to me!
Shepherd: I'm glad you sound so confident. Looks like a little setback in life won't hold you back.
Shepherd: Anyway, I'll arrange better commissions for you if you can make a name for yourself on Inter-Knot... So this is a win-win situation.
Icon Dialogue Talk It'll be a walk in the park.
Shepherd: That which we call a rose, by any other word would smell as sweet, right? Phaethon is still as charming as ever no matter which name you go by.
(ProtagonistProtagonist): (I accepted the commission because I didn't want to miss out on the chance to rebuild our account, but just thinking about this "Fairy" still in the HDD...)
(ProtagonistProtagonist): (It was thanks to her that I managed to escape the Hollow before, but as (‍BelleBelle / WiseWise‍) said, we know very little about her.)
(ProtagonistProtagonist): (Anyway, for this Hollow commission, I'll try to block her out and make do with the leftover Hollow data. As for her abilities and background, there's plenty of time to figure that out.)
Icon Dialogue Story.png Story Commission Now Available: Escape from Certain Doom
Icon Dialogue Story Tracked Complete the commission via the HDD System.

Complete the Escape from Doom commission to reset a baseline for our Proxy business.
(Talk to Shepherd again, optional)
Shepherd: There was once a time where I would personally go into Hollows, until...
Icon Dialogue Talk Feeling nostalgic all of a sudden?
Shepherd: ...Uhhh. I'm not sure how to feel about getting such a comment from a youngster... Well, I'm sure you mean no harm, old friend.
Icon Dialogue Talk You were once a Proxy too?
Shepherd: "I was a Proxy until the birth of my second child..."
Shepherd: How does that sound? Haha. It sounds like something that would take place in New Eridu, doesn't it?

(Talk to (SiblingSibling), optional)
(SiblingSibling): ...
Icon Dialogue Talk Are you thinking about Shepherd's commission?
(SiblingSibling): The commission won't exactly be a breeze, but it shouldn't be a problem for us.
(SiblingSibling): I'm just a little concerned about Fairy. Someone in this family has to be wary about some AI that just shows up out of nowhere...
Icon Dialogue Talk Are you thinking about Fairy?
(SiblingSibling): ...Ah, Belle. How is Shepherd's commission going? I'm sure it'll be a piece of cake for you.
(SiblingSibling): I'm indeed thinking about Fairy. Don't blame me for being paranoid. You aren't the kind of person to be won over just because she calls you "Master"...
(SiblingSibling): Wait. Is that the sort of thing you enjoy?

(Enter the HDD)
AI: Unauthorized process modification detected. I have initiated countermeasures.
AI: Process subject of unknown origin locked; force-deleting... deleting... deleting... #$*%!
Fairy: — System update complete —
Fairy: Out-of-date and inefficient support plug-ins decommissioned. From now on, commission screening and info updates will be handled by me, Fairy.
Fairy: You're welcome.
Fairy: New commissions detected from the Compilation of Hollow Affairs Violations and Anonymous Subcontractor Forum, commonly known as Inter-Knot.
Fairy: Hollow information updated in less than 20ms. Performance exceeds 99% of all New Eridu support plug-ins. You're welcome.

(Upon completing Escape from Certain Doom)

Artificial Intelligence

Despite taking place within Prologue: Intermission, the following Special Event dialogue is saved in the Video Archive under Cat's Lost & Found (A): An Uninvited Guest (Chapter 1)
The following is recorded in the Video Archive
Story Artificial Intelligence

Video Summary: The Cunning Hares are synonymous with "nothing but trouble."
Story Description: (‍BelleBelle / WiseWise‍) and you discussed Fairy's impact: she could definitely help you get closer to your goal, but there's no denying she comes with her own risks.


And so, this alt account commission full of unexpected twists and turns comes to a end.
Some days later—
(SiblingSibling): (‍Wise, finally! Come here!Wise, finally! Come here! / Oh Belle, good timing. Come here.Oh Belle, good timing. Come here.‍)
Icon Dialogue Talk ...What's going on?
(ProtagonistProtagonist): (‍...What's going on?...What's going on? / Um, what's all this for?Um, what's all this for?‍)
Icon Dialogue Talk Is this some kind of weird ritual?
(ProtagonistProtagonist): (‍Is this some kind of weird ritual?Is this some kind of weird ritual? / What kind of weird ritual is this?!What kind of weird ritual is this?!‍)
(SiblingSibling): You mean these bags? They're full of broken signal transmitters that came from Bangboo. When put together, they're equivalent to several low-frequency signal jammers.
(SiblingSibling): With these, we can talk freely without worrying about "Big Brother" over there.
(SiblingSibling): Yeah, I mean that AI, Fairy.
(SiblingSibling): (‍Look bro, we really need to talk about her.Look bro, we really need to talk about her. / We need to have a serious talk about her.We need to have a serious talk about her.‍)
Icon Dialogue Talk I wanted to talk to you, too.
(ProtagonistProtagonist): Mmm, I wanted to talk to you about her too.
(SiblingSibling): I thought with her calling you "Master" all the time she'd have you fooled, but seeing your (‍total seriousnesstotal seriousness / utter lack of surpriseutter lack of surprise‍) makes me feel relieved.
Icon Dialogue Talk Oh? Is it "trash talk the newbie" time?
(ProtagonistProtagonist): Oh? Is it "trash talk the newbie" time? (‍Hazing is good for team morale.Hazing is good for team morale. / You've got my attention!You've got my attention!‍)
(SiblingSibling): (‍Glad to see you're so carefree... But this is a serious topic!Glad to see you're so carefree... But this is a serious topic! / I like your enthusiasm, but this shouldn't be taken lightly.I like your enthusiasm, but this shouldn't be taken lightly.‍)
(SiblingSibling): It's been a while since we let Fairy participate in our Proxy work. And she's independently calculated all the escape paths you've used in the Hollows lately.
(SiblingSibling): I'm sure you've noticed. She didn't depend on any local data, nor did she ask for any support. But she's still 270 times faster than us when generating escape paths.
(SiblingSibling): It's not like she doesn't need any Hollow data — she does. It's just that she can access the data she needs almost instantly. Remember how she mentioned she can access over 80% of the smart devices in the city? Looks like she was telling the truth.
(SiblingSibling): (‍So likeSo like / SoSo‍), if we could only glimpse a corner of the Hollow before, now thanks to her, we can see the entire thing. But—
Icon Dialogue Talk But Phaethon's account is gone...
(ProtagonistProtagonist): (‍ButBut‍) Phaethon's Proxy account is gone. Even if we (‍cancan‍) become better Proxies ourselves, it'll be hard to get back to the level we were (‍atat‍) before.
(SiblingSibling): Mmm, (‍thisthis / thatthat‍) is really important. But right now (‍I wanna talk to youI wanna talk to you / I want to talkI want to talk‍) about this Fairy problem.
(SiblingSibling): Fairy's powers are something the elites of New Eridu would all kill for. This is way too hot for us to handle.
Icon Dialogue Talk Nothing's for free in this world.
(ProtagonistProtagonist): There's no such thing as a free lunch. Fairy's presence could be a ticking time bomb.
(SiblingSibling): Exactly. The elites of New Eridu have been dreaming of the power she has. She's not just a bomb, she's an active volcano.
(SiblingSibling): And when she forced you to become her master, she said that you should "bide your time and wait for the opportunity to complete the agreement" with her...
(SiblingSibling): But refused to reveal anything further. (‍Something just doesn't feel right.Something just doesn't feel right. / It's definitely not that simple.It's definitely not that simple.‍)
Icon Dialogue Talk But if we can make good use of her abilities...
(ProtagonistProtagonist): But if we can make use of her abilities, we might finally get some leads on what we've been investigating! Our teacher's lifelong dream just might...
(SiblingSibling): Yeah. Anyway, we need to figure out where Fairy came from.
(SiblingSibling): There's no rush, of course. Let's take it slow. At least she's really good at staying hidden, so we don't need to worry about hackers like last time.
Icon Dialogue Talk How's the investigation going?
(ProtagonistProtagonist): Didn't you ask the Cunning Hares to help investigate all this? How's that coming along?
Icon Dialogue Talk Let's just try and get along with her for now.
(ProtagonistProtagonist): Let's just try and get along with Fairy for now.
(SiblingSibling): (‍Hmph, despite being an AI, somehow, she still manages to be rude to me! But that's the way it is I guess.Hmph, despite being an AI, somehow, she still manages to be rude to me! But that's the way it is I guess. / Get along? She's constantly rude to me... But it's not like there's anything we can do about it.Get along? She's constantly rude to me... But it's not like there's anything we can do about it.‍)
(SiblingSibling): (‍Oh yeah, do you remember? I asked the Cunning Hares to help investigate, but...Oh yeah, do you remember? I asked the Cunning Hares to help investigate, but... / I even asked the Cunning Hares to investigate, but...I even asked the Cunning Hares to investigate, but...‍)
(SiblingSibling): There's not been much progress, I'm afraid. Nicole got the strongbox mission from an anonymous subcontractor. They didn't get to meet anyone related to the commission. She said she was gonna try looking into the Red Fang Gang a few days ago, but I've not heard back since.
(SiblingSibling): I doubt they'll find anything concrete. Let's just hope that they don't get themselves into any trouble...
(SiblingSibling): They're good at making mountains out of molehills.
(SiblingSibling): (‍Okay. We've talked enough about this for today. Let's leave it at that.Okay. We've talked enough about this for today. Let's leave it at that. / Anyway, that's about everything I wanted to say about Fairy. Let's leave it aside for now.Anyway, that's about everything I wanted to say about Fairy. Let's leave it aside for now.‍)
(SiblingSibling): You've been so busy improving our reputation on Inter-Knot and running the video store lately(‍, dude, dude‍).
(SiblingSibling): Let's just chill out and watch some TV tonight.

Icon Dialogue Story Tracked Go back to your room and watch TV with (‍BelleBelle / WiseWise‍).

(‍BelleBelle / WiseWise‍) suggests watching TV together to relax. Go back to the workshop and find (‍herher / himhim‍).
(SiblingSibling): (‍Wise~ Wanna watch TV?Wise~ Wanna watch TV? / Belle, wanna watch TV?Belle, wanna watch TV?‍)
Icon Dialogue Talk Why do you want to watch TV all of a sudden?
(SiblingSibling): (‍It's been quite eventful lately, and the election is coming up. I think... it's about time we caught up with the latest news! Maybe we'll learn something new.It's been quite eventful lately, and the election is coming up. I think... it's about time we caught up with the latest news! Maybe we'll learn something new. / A lot has happened lately, and the election is approaching. Let's check out the news and see if we can learn anything.A lot has happened lately, and the election is approaching. Let's check out the news and see if we can learn anything.‍)
(Open Immersive Storytelling Tutorial)
Icon Dialogue Story Tracked If you plan to watch TV, go find (‍BelleBelle / WiseWise‍).

(‍BelleBelle / WiseWise‍) suggests watching TV together to relax. Go back to the workshop and find (‍herher / himhim‍).
(Talk to (SiblingSibling))
(SiblingSibling): (‍WiseWise / BelleBelle‍), how about we watch the news now?
Icon Dialogue Story Sure. Let's watch it together.
(You are about to enter Immersive Storytelling. You cannot complete missions of other types while in this mode. Continue?)
(SiblingSibling): (‍Cool! Where's the remote... Ah, it's started!Cool! Where's the remote... Ah, it's started! / Lemme see which channel it's on... Ah, it's already started.Lemme see which channel it's on... Ah, it's already started.‍)
Icon Dialogue Talk I've got work to do.
(SiblingSibling): (‍Alright~ Let's watch it after you wrap things up!Alright~ Let's watch it after you wrap things up! / No problem. Just come over when you're done.No problem. Just come over when you're done.‍)
(Talking to (SiblingSibling) again repeats dialogue)

Other Languages

LanguageOfficial Name
EnglishPrologue: Intermission
Chinese
(Simplified)
序章 幕间
Xùzhāng Mùjiān
Chinese
(Traditional)
序章 幕間
Xùzhāng Mùjiān
Japanese序章 幕間
Joshō Maku'ai
Korean프롤로그 막간
Peurollogeu Makgan
SpanishIntermedio del prólogo
FrenchPrologue : Intermission
RussianПролог: интермедия
Prolog: intermediya
Thaiบทนำ บทแทรก
VietnameseChương Mở Đầu - Giữa Giờ
GermanProlog – Kapitelpause
IndonesianProlog - Intermission
PortuguesePrólogo: Interlúdio

Change History