Ridu Holidays

Beyond the Dispute

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 Beyond the Dispute

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Video Summary: A dispute was peacefully resolved, but its aftereffects will linger long after.

Story Description: After analyzing the situation, everyone concludes that Pompey's reconciliation plan is the best option for the entire Old Oil Field. Lucy then comes over and mentions that Caesar has been feeling a bit down lately, so you decide to take Caesar out for some fresh air.

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Two days later...

Burnice: So, it turns out Mors bugged the handicrafts sent to Blazewood for processing and was listening in on our conversations.

Kasa: Yes, and once the goods were processed and shipped out, they could discretely retrieve the listening device. It's a flawless plan.

Burnice: If that's the case, why did the Overlord reveal this? At that point, we hadn't even discovered the listening device.

Though we hadn't discovered it yet...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Even if we hadn't found the listening device, once we cleared things up with Kasa, we would've eventually started to suspect the handicrafts.

Kasa: That's right. If we found the bugs ourselves, things would've gotten out of hand.

Burnice: Is there a difference?

Piper: Oh, Burnice, always so optimistic!

Piper: The Overlord stepping up shows some sincerity at least.

Piper: If we had confronted him, even if it was all Mors's doing, we wouldn't have accepted his terms, right?

Piper: Mishandling this could've shaken the foundations of the Motor League, jeopardizing the safety of the Old Oil Field.

It would've caused that much trouble?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): It would've caused that much trouble?

It could jeopardize the safety of the entire area?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): It could jeopardize the safety of the entire area?

Kasa: Yes. We've been able to live relatively peacefully, thanks to the league ensuring the security of our oil resources.

Kasa: You have to understand, our oil isn't just coveted by other regions in the Outer Ring. Big city companies see it as the only thing stopping them from expanding into the Outer Ring.

Kasa: If something happens to the oil, the biker gangs might have a chance to move to other areas, but everyone else won't be so lucky.

Kasa: Especially Blazewood. The residents are mainly the elderly or children, and their Ether Aptitude is weak...

Lucy: Ah, Proxy, there you are.

Lucy: Sorry to bother you, but can we talk?

Later, a little distance away...

Lucy: Proxy, I want to discuss Caesar. Ever since we met with the Overlord, she's been acting weird.

Lucy: She's usually straightforward and energetic. But lately, she's just been sitting on her own, lost in thought. She's even eating less than usual.

Caesar has something on her mind?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Caesar has something on her mind?Caesar has something on her mind?Text for Wise / Caesar's worried about something?Caesar's worried about something?Text for Belle‍)

Lucy: It's strange, right? Lighter offered to train for the Tour de Inferno with her, and she said she'd "think about it."

Maybe she's not feeling well...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Maybe she's not feeling well...

Lucy: Burnice told me, "Caesar's going deaf. She didn't respond even after shouting three times. You've got to help her!"

Lucy: I think it's related to what happened that day. But if I ask her, she won't tell me the truth.

Lucy: Ahem, just so you know, I don't really care what's wrong with her. But she's still the leader of the Sons of Calydon, and I can't let her affect the others.

Lucy: Proxy, can you come up with something?

I'll try to feel her out subtly.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Alright, I'll try to be subtle about it.

How about I take Caesar out for some fresh air?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Lucy, how about I take Caesar out to take her mind off things?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I'm planning to head back to New Eridu tomorrow to copy some offline data. It might be a good opportunity.

Lucy: That's a good idea, and Caesar hasn't been to New Eridu much. You can show her around.

Lucy: Alright, I'll handle Caesar. Tomorrow, have her take you to New Eridu on her bike. I'll leave the rest to you.

What's going on?

It doesn't sound like Caesar's style

Alright, let's do that!

 Return to the residence and rest

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Caesar and I will head back to New Eridu tomorrow. Rest up today.

Since you and Caesar are heading back to the city tomorrow, perhaps you should go to bed early today.

I'll go to bed now.

No worries. It's still early.

Stepping into the room, you flop onto the simple yet cozy bed...

With Caesar's city tour around the corner, what should you do...?

(‍Should I ask Belle what girls are into...?Should I ask Belle what girls are into...?Text for Wise / Wise always complains of being tired during shopping... Would Caesar be up for that...?Wise always complains of being tired during shopping... Would Caesar be up for that...?Text for Belle‍)

...

You doze off before you realize it. After a period of time, you are awakened by the chirping of birds...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Time to prepare to head back to New Eridu. Lucy should have Caesar sorted by now, right?)

 Meet up with Caesar and get ready to leave

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Meet up with Caesar at the gas station and head back to New Eridu for data copying.

Caesar: Proxy, you're here!

Caesar: Lucy mentioned you're heading back to New Eridu to copy the data for the Tour de Inferno.

Caesar: You've been a huge help to the Sons of Calydon, so I want to return the favor. Let me be your assistant and bodyguard this time.

Your backup is appreciated!

Now I've got a top-notch assistant and bodyguard!

Caesar: Haha, No time to waste. Let's get started then.

Alright, let's go!

Give me a sec

Caesar: Oh, need to prepare something for your ride back? Go for it.

(Talk to Caesar again if left)

Caesar: Are you ready to set off, Proxy?

Let's go.

Oh, wait! I've got something else to do!

Caesar: Yeah, get yourself ready. Travel from the Outer Ring to New Eridu is a trek, so take your time preparing.

 Return to the video store with Caesar

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I'm ready to go back to the video store with Caesar and copy the data.

(Interact with Caesar's Motorbike, optional; interacting with it opens Navigation)

City Tour

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 City Tour

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Video Summary: A dispute was peacefully resolved, but its aftereffects will linger long after.

Story Description: Since it will take some time to copy the data, you suggest that Caesar and you take a stroll around the city to pass the time.

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A few hours later, at the Random Play store...

Caesar: So this is where the famous Phaethon lives and runs a video store.

Caesar: Haha, that reminds me. Sometimes Lucy comes all the way to New Eridu just to see movies that feature her favorite stars.

Does Lucy still go back to the city often?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Does Lucy still come back to the city often?

Caesar: We sometimes do business in the city. Thanks to her New Eridu citizenship she can come and go as she pleases.

Caesar: Not me, though. If I hadn't come with you today, it would've been ages since I'd been in the city.

Caesar, you haven't been to New Eridu much, have you?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Caesar, you haven't been to New Eridu much, have you?

Caesar: When we do get business in the city, we get hold of temporary entry permits. But I rarely make the trip.

Caesar: I was born and raised in the Outer Ring. I still prefer a place that gives you the freedom to roam.

Caesar, how about exploring the city today?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): How about we explore the city today? I'll be your tour guide.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): We have some time while the data copies, and there's nothing else to do here while we wait.

Caesar: Alright, you're the boss!

Caesar: What are we doing in the meantime, Proxy?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍(Speaking of ways of relaxing in New Eridu... Let's try the "holiday default plan": watching movies, drinking teamilk, and shopping.)(Speaking of ways of relaxing in New Eridu... Let's try the "holiday default plan": watching movies, drinking teamilk, and shopping.)Text for Wise / (A good way of relaxing in New Eridu, that would be the "holiday default plan"! Watching movies, drinking teamilk, and shopping!)(A good way of relaxing in New Eridu, that would be the "holiday default plan"! Watching movies, drinking teamilk, and shopping!)Text for Belle‍)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍(Though it's Belle's default plan, Caesar's a girl, too, and she's around the same age, so she probably won't be too opposed?)(Though it's Belle's default plan, Caesar's a girl, too, and she's around the same age, so she probably won't be too opposed?)Text for Wise / (Though it's just what I personally default to, Caesar's a girl about my age, so she shouldn't be too opposed to this classic combo.)(Though it's just what I personally default to, Caesar's a girl about my age, so she shouldn't be too opposed to this classic combo.)Text for Belle‍)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍(Yup, let's take Caesar to Lumina Square next.)(Yup, let's take Caesar to Lumina Square next.)Text for Wise / (Alright, let's take Caesar to Lumina Square! Time to go!)(Alright, let's take Caesar to Lumina Square! Time to go!)Text for Belle‍)

 Watch a movie with Caesar

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For a relaxing tour around New Eridu, the cinema at Lumina Square would be a great first stop. Let's check out what's on.

(Talk to Caesar in front of the cinema)

Caesar: Oh, cinemas in the city are huge. It's like a whole block.

Do you also have cinemas in the Outer Ring?

Don't you have cinemas like this in the Outer Ring?

Caesar: Yeah, but they're basically just large rooms with a video player. They aren't this impressive.

Caesar: We don't have luxury skyscrapers there. Our cinemas are just some large rooms with video players.

Caesar: We have open-air kinda drive-in cinemas, too. On clear nights, bikers will roll in from miles to catch some awesome movies. Sometimes, they even duked it out for a good spot.

Caesar: Didn't expect city cinemas to be so crowded, though.

Hmm? Weird, it's not usually this crowded.

Is there an event going on?

That's when...

Cinema Promoter: Welcome to Gravity Cinema! We'll be showing award-winning movies this week, with a unique theme every day.

Cinema Promoter: Today's all about thrillers! With "The Port Peak," "Attack on Cyberz," "The Big Hollow," and "Coffee Mate" available!

(‍(Oh, no! It's Thriller Day today!)(Oh, no! It's Thriller Day today!)Text for Wise / (Awesome! It's Thriller Day today!)(Awesome! It's Thriller Day today!)Text for Belle‍)

(‍(I shouldn't have picked the cinema...)(I shouldn't have picked the cinema...)Text for Wise / (Coming to the cinema was an awesome idea!)(Coming to the cinema was an awesome idea!)Text for Belle‍)

Caesar: Seems like there's an odd one out...

Cinema Promoter: You're talking about "Coffee Mate," right? While it's labeled "romantic comedy," it's today's pick for its heart-racing effect! Most viewers' pulses will go wild!

Caesar: W—Wait, heart-racing? Really?

Are you into this one, Caesar?

Caesar: Huh? N—No, not at all... It's a rare cinema trip, so let's just catch a thriller for kicks.

(‍Since it's Caesar's call...Since it's Caesar's call...Text for Wise / Although I'm down for a thriller...Although I'm down for a thriller...Text for Belle‍)

(‍Guess I'll have to bear with it... for Caesar's sake...Guess I'll have to bear with it... for Caesar's sake...Text for Wise / Is Caesar trying to hide something?Is Caesar trying to hide something?Text for Belle‍)

Cinema Promoter: Sure thing, I'm checking tickets now... We still have empty seats for "Attack on Cyberz" and "Coffee Mate." So, two Attack on Cyberz tickets for you?

(‍Sure... I guess...Sure... I guess...Text for Wise / Yes, please!Yes, please!Text for Belle‍)

You watch "Attack on Cyberz" with Caesar, and after that...

Caesar: ...Compared to the Cyberz horde climbing the tower at the end, I loved the scene where they broke free from the underground more! That elevator malfunction had me holding my breath!

(‍Y—Yeah, I totally agree...Y—Yeah, I totally agree...Text for Wise / And the scene when the hero's Bangboo cracked!And the scene when the hero's Bangboo cracked! Tooltip for And the scene when the hero's Bangboo cracked!ⓘText for Belle‍)

Caesar: (‍You look pale, Wise. Are you alright?You look pale, Wise. Are you alright?Text for Wise / Yeah! Got chills at that part, too! You're really into thrillers, too, Belle!Yeah! Got chills at that part, too! You're really into thrillers, too, Belle!Text for Belle‍)

(‍Yeah, I'm good...Yeah, I'm good...Text for Wise / Of course! I super love them!Of course! I super love them!Text for Belle‍)

Caesar: (‍Wait, could it be you're...? Pfft.Wait, could it be you're...? Pfft.Text for Wise / Wait, really? Wise is scared of thrillers? But you guys risk your lives in the Hollow every day. That's way more intense than a movie, right?Wait, really? Wise is scared of thrillers? But you guys risk your lives in the Hollow every day. That's way more intense than a movie, right? Tooltip for Wait, really? Wise is scared of thrillers? But you guys risk your lives in the Hollow every day. That's way more intense than a movie, right?ⓘText for Belle‍)

(‍Hey, stop laughing at me!Hey, stop laughing at me!Text for Wise / Just don't tell Wise I told you about this~Just don't tell Wise I told you about this~Text for Belle‍)

Caesar: (‍Sorry, sorry! No offense, it's just... I feel like I'm seeing another side of you. I thought you were just naturally poker faced.Sorry, sorry! No offense, it's just... I feel like I'm seeing another side of you. I thought you were just naturally poker faced.Text for Wise / Pfft... I see, let's keep this between us.Pfft... I see, let's keep this between us.Text for Belle‍)

Caesar: (‍Thanks for picking the thriller. It was for me, right? I'm really happy I got to watch a movie with you today.Thanks for picking the thriller. It was for me, right? I'm really happy I got to watch a movie with you today.Text for Wise / Didn't expect to learn your brother's little secret from the movie. Feels like we're getting closer now.Didn't expect to learn your brother's little secret from the movie. Feels like we're getting closer now.Text for Belle‍)

Hold on a sec! Let's go for "Coffee Mate"!

Caesar: Huh? (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍)? What's with the sudden change of heart...?

(‍I... I surrender!I... I surrender!Text for Wise / It gets your heart racing, right...?It gets your heart racing, right...?Text for Belle‍)

(‍I just can't handle thrillers!I just can't handle thrillers!Text for Wise / This movie looks promising!This movie looks promising!Text for Belle‍)

Caesar: (‍Wait, so you're... Pfft.Wait, so you're... Pfft.Text for Wise / Yeah, right? Now that you mentioned it, I'm kinda curious about this movie too.Yeah, right? Now that you mentioned it, I'm kinda curious about this movie too.Text for Belle‍)

(‍Hey, stop laughing at me!Hey, stop laughing at me!Text for Wise / (As I thought, this is the one Caesar actually wants to watch!)(As I thought, this is the one Caesar actually wants to watch!)Text for Belle‍)

(‍Cut me some slack, please...Cut me some slack, please...Text for Wise / (Caesar's more interested in this movie...)(Caesar's more interested in this movie...)Text for Belle‍)

Caesar: (‍Sorry, sorry! No offense, it's just... I feel like I'm seeing another side of you. Alright then, let's go for Coffee Mate.Sorry, sorry! No offense, it's just... I feel like I'm seeing another side of you. Alright then, let's go for Coffee Mate.Text for Wise / Alright then, let's go for "Coffee Mate"!Alright then, let's go for "Coffee Mate"!Text for Belle‍)

You watch "Coffee Mate" with Caesar, and after that...

Caesar: ...Seriously, everyone, even the characters in the movie, could tell that Angelina had a thing for Rob, right? But Rob just wouldn't believe it, almost leading to a misunderstanding!

Caesar: Oh, am I the only one who keeps babbling about the story...

It feels like...

(‍I feel like I've discovered a new side of you.I feel like I've discovered a new side of you.Text for Wise / (I feel like I've discovered a new side of Caesar.)(I feel like I've discovered a new side of Caesar.)Text for Belle‍)

Caesar: (‍Huh? Wait, what's that supposed to mean...? Oh, I get it. You're getting back at me for earlier, aren't you?Huh? Wait, what's that supposed to mean...? Oh, I get it. You're getting back at me for earlier, aren't you?Text for Wise / W—What's up, Belle? Why are you suddenly grinning at me like that? It's kinda weird...W—What's up, Belle? Why are you suddenly grinning at me like that? It's kinda weird...Text for Belle‍)

(‍Just kidding!Just kidding!Text for Wise / It's all in your head.It's all in your head.Text for Belle‍)

Glad you enjoyed it.

Caesar: Yeah, this movie makes you laugh out loud in the first half, and then makes you fret over their relationships in the second. It really is a movie that gets your heart racing.

Caesar: And the best part? It leaves you with a warm feeling after. Thanks for taking me to watch this movie, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍).

Caesar: So, where are we heading next?

Let's grab a drink.

My treat!

 Buy some teamilk with Caesar

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After the movie, it's time to go to Richard Teamilk for a drink.

(Talk to Coco)

Schoolgirl With Glasses: ...Fine, it's totally up to you, but you really need to consider this seriously. Catch you later.

Coco: Y—Yeah... I'll think about it.

After that, the girl wearing glasses leaves...

Coco: Ugh...

Hey, we'd like some teamilk~

Coco: ...

HEL—LO!!

Coco: Whoaaa! I'm sorry! I got a bit distracted there! Welcome to Richard Tea rich, milk... uwa...!

Caesar: Huh, Richard Teamilk? That name rings a bell! When Burnice and I swung by last time, she grabbed a drink from here, and it took us ages to eat.

Wait, "eat"?

Are you sure it's this one?

Caesar: Yeah, Burnice said it was a rare journey to the city, and that she was keen on uncovering the teamilk ingredients used in the city, so she ordered all the toppings on the menu to be added.

Coco: Ah, you mean the lady on the motorbike, right? I remember her.

Coco: I'm sorry. While we don't have a huge range of toppings... I should have explained what would happen if you added them all back then. I'm sorry for the terrible drink you had!

Caesar: No worries. It wasn't your fault. Plus, we had to queue up for a long time to get out of the city for a temporary inspection that day, and it saved us from starving.

Caesar: But today, I'll go for a regular one.

You and Caesar buy Coco's recommended teamilk, and then...

Unexpected Separation

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 Unexpected Separation

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Video Summary: A dispute was peacefully resolved, but its aftereffects will linger long after.

Story Description: You ran into an officer chasing a fugitive on the street. Caesar realizes that the fugitive would be difficult to deal with, and rushes to help. After much effort, Caesar finally answered the phone, but the call was suddenly cut off...

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Caesar: We've seen the movie and had our drinks. Where should we go next?

How about a walk nearby?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): We’ve got some time to (‍sparespareText for Wise / killkillText for Belle‍). How about we walk around nearby? There's lots of interesting shops in Lumina Square, you might see something you like.

Caesar: Okay, let's go.

Flustered Public Security Officer: Everyone, watch out! Stay away from that fugitive!

Across the street, a burly man charges through the crowd, followed by several flustered officers.

Caesar: Uh-oh, that guy has a dangerous look in his eyes. Those guys chasing him don't stand a chance!

Caesar: Take care of yourself, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍). I'll be right back!

Caesar rushes off before she's even finished speaking. A few minutes later, you manage to call her...

Caesar: (‍Hello? Wise?Hello? Wise?Text for Wise / Hello, Belle?Hello, Belle?Text for Belle‍)

Caesar, where are you? Are you okay?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Caesar, where are you? Are you okay?

Caesar: Don't worry, don't worry, I'm fine. I already caught the guy. Don't forget I'm even stronger than Lighter.

Caesar: And besides, you weren't that concerned about me when I was dealing with Ethereals before.

But your tone earlier was pretty scary.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍You sounded so serious just now, I thought something bad was about to happen!You sounded so serious just now, I thought something bad was about to happen!Text for Wise / You sounded so scary just now, and you told me to stay out of the way, so I thought something bad was about to happen!You sounded so scary just now, and you told me to stay out of the way, so I thought something bad was about to happen!Text for Belle‍)

Caesar: Sorry to scare you. That guy was really dangerous for an ordinary person. He could've hurt someone.

Humans are more dangerous than Ethereals.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Humans are sometimes more dangerous than Ethereals.

Caesar: Wow, that's so old school. You sound just like Big Daddy!

Caesar: So are you still nearby?

Caesar: I got totally turned around chasing him through the alleys, so I'm a little lost right now. Give me a minute and I'll come to you.

Caesar: Hm? Hey, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍), can you hear me?

Caesar: Hey! Hello? Can you hear me? Hello?

Caesar: (Darn, my phone's died... Got it ages ago at a yard sale. Looked fine back then, but now it's acting up.)

Caesar: (The Outer Ring has many dead zones for signals, so not having a phone isn't really a big deal, but now it's causing trouble.)

Middle-Aged Public Security Officer: So, young lady, have you managed to contact your friend yet?

Middle-Aged Public Security Officer: Oh, your phone is ancient. My daughter is your age, and she changes hers out every year... Huh? Your outfit... you're from the Outer Ring, right?

Caesar: Huh? Is there an issue with that? I've got all the papers to enter the city.

Middle-Aged Public Security Officer: Oh, that's not what I mean. Most from the Outer Ring work in the Faunus Quarter, and it's rare to see one here.

Middle-Aged Public Security Officer: Thank you for your help, but next time when we Public Security officers ask citizens to steer clear, just stay put. It's too risky to dash into danger.

Caesar: But I'm not a citizen. I'm from the Outer Ring. You don't have a duty to protect me, do you?

Middle-Aged Public Security Officer: Technically, I guess, but you're still a kid in my eyes. It's only natural for us adults to protect you kids.

Caesar: Hah, don't sweat it. I've kicked my fair share of butts, and I can tell if my foe's tough from a mile away.

Caesar: Speaking of... you're not nearly as tough as that fugitive. Haven't you considered he lured you into the alley to pick you off away from the crowd?

Middle-Aged Public Security Officer: Of course, we have.

Caesar: Huh? So why did you...?

Middle-Aged Public Security Officer: It was an emergency, and we had no backup. If we hadn't acted, he might have snatched an innocent citizen. To be honest, I didn't want to face him head-on, but we had no other choice.

Caesar: (For some reason, this officer reminds me of Old Man Greycrow who retired a while back. Back when I was like ten, a Companion Hollow emerged, swallowing a few kids who were picking berries.)

Caesar: (He risked himself to rescue them and it wrecked his health, but he always smirks whenever he mentions that incident...)

Middle-Aged Public Security Officer: What's up, young lady?

Caesar: ...Nothing, I'm off to meet my friend. Take care of yourself.

Caesar: Goodbye, and thank you again for your help.

Caesar: (It's all set now. I should go meet the Proxy. Maybe I should check out that teamilk place first.)

(Idle)

Young Public Security Officer: Sir, the car in the station won't make it here. Looks like we'll have to take him back on foot.

Middle-Aged Public Security Officer: No funny business. You hear?

Frustrated Fugitive: Yeah... Yeah, sure.

(Talk to the Young Public Security Officer, optional)

Young Public Security Security Officer: Thank you so much for helping us! By the way, what was that move you used to take him down? That was awesome!

Middle-Aged Public Security Officer: Enough with the sweet talk! None of this mess would've happened if you hadn't been so impatient! You'll have to write a self-review when we get back.

Young Public Security Officer: Sorry, sir...

Middle-Aged Public Security Officer: You're in a hurry to meet your friend, right? Just go, we'll handle the rest.

(Talk to Ask in front of 141 Convenience Store, optional)

Caesar: (Wait...! Are these Bangboo... knock-offs of the mascots at the Blazewood convenience store?)

Caesar: (Hah, no way. The ones in Blazewood are the knock-offs. So, that thing on the Bangboo's head is an inventory list. And I always wondered why that Bangboo had a brick on its forehead.)

Caesar: (A brick can actually be pretty handy in a fight and to scare off enemies. While I don't have my weapons on hand, a brick is my go-to after a crowbar.)

(Interact with the entrance to the HIA Club, optional)

Caesar: (HIA... Club? No idea what that is, but it seems lively.)

Caesar: (Hollows can be eerie, but the HIA casually uses the term "club" to describe something related to it. I admire their boldness.)

(Talk to Yi, optional)

Caesar: (That guy looks like Billy. Somehow, he's got the aura of a big shot...)

Caesar: (While I was reading the text on that jacket, I felt this weird sensation like I as being watched... Probably just my mind playing tricks.)

(Talk to Eve at the Newsstand, optional)

Caesar: (This newsstand run by a fancy makeup-wearing old lady has loads of magazines with juicy titles like "Monica's Childhood Pics" and "Starlight Knight's Actor Cheating Scandal"...)

Caesar: (I'd love to grab one, but if the Proxy catches me... Maybe I'll just say it's Lucy's? Nah, recipe for disaster.)

(Interact with the entrance to Coff Cafe, optional)

Caesar: (Coffee? Nah! We Outer Ringers prefer Nitro-Fuel! Oh... wait, did the manager just shoot me a look?)

(Talk to the Passerby Near the Cinema, optional)

Caesar: (So many people near the cinema. Those girls are all dressed to the nines, giving off major city vibes. No wonder that officer saw straight through me.)

Caesar: (But seriously, I could blend right in with a cute, fluffy dress... Wait, what was I even thinking?!)

(Talk to Chop Junior at Waterfall Soup, optional)

Caesar: (Is this noodle shop part of the same chain as the one by Proxy's store? The sign is a bit smaller.)

Caesar: (That restaurant on Sixth Street is flaunting something that says... Waterfall Soup? Reminds me of Cinder Lake, pretty classy.)

(Talk to Officer Mewmew, optional)

Caesar: Huh...?

Officer Mewmew: Hey, kind citizen! Do you need a paw from Mewmew?

Caesar: No thanks, I'm good.

Caesar: (Didn't realize that they're still using this mascot in the city.)

Caesar: (Back in the day, someone tried using an old Mewmew headpiece for a scarecrow, but it was totally useless, so everyone dubbed it "that useless guy" in my hometown.)

Caesar: (The real deal Mewmew at Public Security also seems kinda... Nah, let's not get into that.)

Officer Mewmew: ?? ...Oh, have a great day!

(Interact with the entrance to Public Security Office, optional)

Caesar: (Last time, I came here for a vehicle permit. The officers were cool, but all the paperwork was a hassle.)

Caesar: (Thank goodness Piper wasn't with me last time, or she would've been all over PubSec's armored van and refused to leave. Hmm, what's that weird hole in the front for?)

Caesar: (Looks like an old-school cannon... What, are they going to shoot evidence outta the van if they get robbed...? Haha, no way, that's too wild, even for me.)

 Return to Richard Teamilk to look for the Proxy

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I'm not sure if the Proxy is still near the teamilk store. I should go check it out.

(Talk to Coco)

Caesar: Excuse me. May I ask something?

Coco: ...

Caesar: HEL—LO!!

Coco: Whoaaa! I'm sorry! I got a bit distracted! Welcome to Richard Teamilk, rich in milk, rich... Oh, it's you again?

Caesar: Glad you remember me. Do you know where my friend went?

Coco: After you dashed across the bridge, your friend got worried and ran after you. Didn't you two meet up?

Caesar: No, and my phone's dead. Can't reach (‍himhimText for Wise / herherText for Belle‍) at all.

Coco: I see... I'm sorry... for not being helpful.

Caesar: No sweat. I'll sort this out. Hey, you alright? You look distracted.

Coco: H—Huh? H—How did you know!

Coco: You've been zoning out. Is it because of that girl with glasses? Oh, is she bullying you?

Coco: N—No, she's not! She's just a friend trying to talk me out of my job.

Caesar: Er, talk you out of your job?

Coco: Yeah, I started working here, thinking I would enjoy some tasty teamilk while making a little cash on the side.

Coco: But it's turned into more customer service than I thought. Dealing with people has never been my thing.

Coco: I was wondering... if this job isn't my thing and the pay isn't great, why should I stick around if I just want to enjoy my teamilk?

Coco: Ah! I... I'm sorry for venting. It must be tedious hearing about my worries, right?

Caesar: You're all good. If you're thinking of quitting, why hesitate?

Coco: Because... seeing customers happy with their drink, saying "it's perfect" in taste and temperature, it's fulfilling.

Coco: I want to make drinks that bring relaxation to everyone.

Coco: Ah, thank you. I think I've figured out something... I'll stick around here a bit longer.

Caesar: Don't mention it. I've just been chatting with you, but what you said made me realize something too.

Coco: Oh? Are you troubled, too?

Caesar: Yeah, haha, kinda. My friends have been worried about me. They even found an excuse to drag me into the city to help me unwind.

Caesar: Hmph, they're experts at acting like nothing happened.

Coco: Awww... Sounds like you've got great friends.

Caesar: Yeah, that's why I need to step up too.

Coco: Oh, you said you got separated from your friend. How did you get here, to Lumina Square?

Caesar: We rode on my trusty motorbike, of course... Oh, right! I'll just head to the parking lot and wait for (‍himhimText for Wise / herherText for Belle‍)!

Caesar: Oh! Thanks for the hint! I'm leaving!

Coco: You're welcome! Come back again soon.

(Talk to Coco again, optional)

Coco: Strangely, I feel comfortable talking to you, and I'm less tongue-tied than usual.

Coco: I hope you'll find your friend soon.

 Look for Proxy at the parking lot

---

The staff at the teamilk store mentions that Proxy may be waiting at the parking lot. I should go check it out.

(Talk to (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍))

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Caesar, you're here.Caesar, you're here.Text for Wise / Caesar! Great! You're finally here!Caesar! Great! You're finally here!Text for Belle‍)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Though you asked me to wait at the teamilk store for you, I was worried... Then by the time I found those PubSec Officers, they told me you had already left.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I couldn't contact you, and I was afraid of losing you again, so I just stayed here.

Caesar: Sorry, it's all 'cause of my phone malfunctioning. But... Now that we're together, let's head back to Sixth Street.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍I didn't realize it got so late... You're right. We should be getting back. Too bad we couldn't hang out more.I didn't realize it got so late... You're right. We should be getting back. Too bad we couldn't hang out more.Text for Wise / Oh man! It is getting late. We really should get back. Too bad I didn't get the chance to go shopping with you...Oh man! It is getting late. We really should get back. Too bad I didn't get the chance to go shopping with you...Text for Belle‍)

Caesar: No worries. I actually had quite a meaningful time here.

Stronger Than Expected

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 Stronger Than Expected

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Video Summary: A dispute was peacefully resolved, but its aftereffects will linger long after.

Story Description: Before heading back, Caesar shares her recent thoughts, realizing that to become a qualified ruler, strength alone is not enough.

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After a while, you return to Random Play with Caesar...

Caesar: The data should've finished copying by now and it's getting dark. Let's head back to the Outer Ring.

Caesar: Thanks for showing me around today. Seems like everywhere in New Eridu is just as busy as the Old Oil Field's biggest market — Badger's Respite.

Caesar: So many strange and wonderful things, no wonder a lot of people from the Outer Ring want to live here.

Haven't you ever thought about it?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Haven't you ever thought about it, Caesar? With your skills, you could apply for citizenship.

Caesar: Me? Never thought about it. Even now, being here in the city, I still feel like I belong in the Outer Ring.

Enzo: (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍), it really is you! Long time no see.

Enzo: I saw the note on your door saying you'd be away for a while, but I didn't expect it to be this long.

Enzo: Chop told me he saw you were back, so I came over to check. How are you guys?

Thanks, Enzo. We're good.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): We're doing good, thanks, Enzo. Just visiting friends for a few days.

Caesar: I happen to be one of those friends. We'll take good care of Belle and Wise.

Enzo: Haha, with such a friendly host, we neighbors can rest easy. I'll leave you to it. If you need anything, just drop by my store.

Caesar: Is that guy your neighbor, Proxy? You seem close.

Caesar: I always heard people in the city aren't as close to one another, but from what I've seen today people seem pretty friendly here too.

Caesar: You asked if I ever thought about living in the city... I guess with so many close friends in the Outer Ring, I've just never thought about leaving.

Caesar: So, if I want to really protect them, I can't do that...

Are you talking about... becoming the Overlord?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Are you talking about... becoming the Overlord?

Caesar: Yeah, Proxy, I've been thinking a lot these past few days.

Caesar: Growing up with stories of the Tour de Inferno, I always wanted to become the Overlord to prove I was the strongest.

Caesar: But being the Overlord is more than just being the strongest.

Caesar: Even though Pompey's men caused trouble, he stepped in and resolved the situation. He even took care of the problems in Blazewood and with the Sons of Calydon.

Caesar: I only just found out, the reason the Overlord hadn't been seen for the past six months is because he had been working on negotiations with the other regions. I would never have thought of doing that. I didn't even know it was an option.

Caesar: When he laid out the terms, Lucy immediately saw the benefits of the new routes for the Old Oil Field, but I only understood after she told me.

Caesar: Kasa has been working tirelessly for the town, bearing the brunt of all the pressure...

Caesar: Compared to them, I still have a long way to go.

Caesar, you have your own strengths too.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Don't say that, Caesar. You have your own strengths too.

Realizing your shortcomings is the first step to improvement.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Realizing your shortcomings is the first step to becoming a better person, and you have your strengths too, Caesar.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): When you found those goods in the Hollow, you didn't get angry. You let Kasa take them out first.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): At the time, we all thought Kasa had betrayed us, but you still thought of the town's residents first, worrying the items would be corrupted in the Hollow.

Caesar: Haha, I think anyone else would do the same, right? Making sure everyone has enough to eat is more important than my pride or my feelings.

Caesar: But hearing you say that makes me feel a lot better!

Caesar: I might not be the smartest, but like a wild boar, once I set my sights on a target, I won't let up until I chase them down!

Caesar: Besides, I've got a great group of friends supporting me!

Caesar: Now it's time to focus on Tour de Inferno! Pompey is a great opponent. This time, we'll find out once and for all who is the best!

Caesar: I had a blast today, Proxy, all thanks to you.

Caesar: Plus, chatting with you totally made me feel so much better!

Awesome!

Best of luck with the Tour de Inferno!

Caesar: Since we're done here, let's return to the Outer Ring! I'll wait for you at the parking lot.

 Return to the Outer Ring with Caesar

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Everything's done in the city. Time to return to the Outer Ring with Caesar.

(Talk to Caesar, optional)

Caesar: Never thought one day my old pal would be parked in a private parking lot in New Eridu...

Caesar: Oh, are you ready, Proxy? Time to hit the road.

The Outwardly Harmonious, Inwardly Disparate Master and Servant

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 The Outwardly Harmonious, Inwardly Disparate Master and Servant

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Video Summary: A dispute was peacefully resolved, but its aftereffects will linger long after.

Story Description: It seems Overlord Pompey has caught wind of the truth behind the eavesdropping, and he warned Lucius against scheming. Despite feeling that his health has declined recently, Pompey is still set on winning the Tour de Inferno.

---

---

Meanwhile, somewhere in the Old Oil Field District...

	Lucius: Boss, here's the new route distribution sheet. Lucius: The newly expanded freight routes have been assigned to the Sons of Calydon as per your instructions.
	Pompey: Yes, put it there.
	Lucius: Boss, you've worked so hard for these new routes. Are you really going to just hand them over?
	Pompey: If it weren't for Mors stealing the intelligence, I wouldn't have had to go through all this trouble.
	Pompey: By the way, Mors insists he acted alone.
	Pompey: What do you think?
	Lucius: Well, Boss, you know Mors was also thinking of our best interests...
	Pompey: Hmph, you're giving me the answer to a question I never asked... But you don't seem too surprised by all this.
	Pompey: Wanting to win isn't a bad thing, but since I'm the reigning Overlord, we have to act with integrity. Pompey: The Motor League's stability ensures the safety of the oil wells. If there's infighting someone's going to get taken advantage of!
	Pompey: By the way, I heard that you've had a lot of dealings with companies in the city lately.
	Lucius: That is absolutely untrue! Lucius: It's just that we had some issues with the protective gear we arranged for the oil refinery. I had to find a way to handle it!
	Pompey: I hope so. Pompey: Lucius, you're smart and ambitious, but always eager for immediate results. Don't let your cleverness backfire. Lucius: Yes, Boss...
	Pompey: Ahem!
	Pompey: These documents never end! I've been feeling exhausted these days. Am I getting too old for this? Lucius: Not at all, Boss. You've been talking about the Tour de Inferno a lot lately; you're clearly raring to go.
	Pompey: Hahaha, well said! Caesar may have some potential, but she's not ready to replace me yet!
	Lucius: But Boss, please don't overwork yourself for the next few days.
	Lucius: After all...
	Lucius: For this grand event...
	Lucius: You need to be in peak condition.

 Talk to (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍)

---

We're all set for the Tour de Inferno. Talk to (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍) about the plans for the upcoming days.

(Talk to (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍))

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Everything is set for the Tour de Inferno, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍). And Caesar is looking sharp, too.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): The competition's just around the corner. So, if there's any last-minute preparations needed, let's get it done ASAP.

All's set!

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Alright, let's rest up for the Tour de Inferno.

(Enter Immersive Storytelling)

I do need to make more preparations...

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Sure, (‍don't hesitate to askdon't hesitate to askText for Wise / hit me uphit me upText for Belle‍) if you need a hand.

(Talk to (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍) if exited dialogue)

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Are you geared up for the Tour de Inferno, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍)?

(Same dialogue options as above)

Finally, the day of the Tour de Inferno arrives...

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Caesar and the crew are already on the move for the kickoff, (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍). Let's link up with the HDD and get Eous started.

Story Commission Now Available: The Race From Which a Hero Was Born