Slumbering Mystery

3-3
Slumbering Mystery

Story Type
Phaethon's Story

Chapter
Memories of Dreams Bygone

Episode
3

Starting Location
"The Town" - Aerospace City

Previous
"The Town" (Episode)

Next
Embrace Darkness

Parent Commissions
Half-Awake Person

New Helpers

The Weight of the Self-Bound

Summary
Characters

The mysterious "Town" and its mysterious "Townsfolk"... Countless secrets lie hidden within the mist. If you want to uncover the truth, you'll need both the courage to venture through the mist and the means to dispel it.

A-Cing, A-Yuet, Banyue, Belle, Fairy, Komano Manato, Lucia Elowen, Pal, Sarah Floren, Sweety, Viggo Moss, West, Wise, Yidhari Murphy, Zhao

Slumbering Mystery is the third episode of Season 2 - Chapter 4: Memories of Dreams Bygone in Phaethon's Story.

Parts

"Bell and Hunter"
Waking From the Dream
Awakened Lady
Unable to Continue
You've Got Nowhere to Go
Predicament
The Creator of the Illusion
Wandering Hunter
Like Enemies, Like Friends
Lantern Girl
Second Free Tea Party
Hanging Branches of Compliance

Steps

Half-Awake Person
1. Head to Timesworn Hills
2. Talk to Komano Manato
3. Check out what's going on with Banyue
4. Check out the auditorium
5. Talk to Lucia
6. Enter the auditorium
7. Lead Yidhari out of the Hollow
8. Find the safe house
9. Break the Miasma Tumor with Yidhari's help
10. Head to the safe house
11. Leave the Hollow
New Helpers
1. Meet everyone at the Tancha Pavilion private room in Yum Cha Sin
2. Talk to Komano Manato
The Weight of the Self-Bound
1. Go to sleep
2. Talk to Lucia

Gameplay Notes

During steps 7-11, a trial Yidhari Murphy, Lucia Elowen, and Komano Manato are added to the squad.
During step 12, only Lucia Elowen, and Komano Manato remains in the squad.
Additionally, Banyue will assist in battle but cannot defeat any monsters.

Trials

Inter-Knot Rank: Legendary Proxy
Team Position	Agent & W-Engine	Skills & Equipment	Stats
1	C0 Yidhari Murphy Lv. 55 Yidhari Murphy	Basic Attack Lv. 9 Dodge Lv. 9 Assist Lv. 9 Special Attack Lv. 9 Chain Attack Lv. 9 Core Skill Lv. 6	HP: 17,768 ATK: 2,131 DEF: 730 Impact: 95 CRIT Rate: 51,8% CRIT DMG: 118,8% Anomaly Mastery: 87 Anomaly Proficiency: 90 PEN Ratio: 0% PEN: 0 Energy Regen: 2,66 Energy Generation Rate: 0% Energy Limit: 120 Sheer Force: 2,331 Adrenaline GainAdrenaline GainAutomatic Adrenaline Accumulation: 0 Adrenaline Generation Rate: 0% Max Adrenaline: 120
1	C0 Yidhari Murphy Lv. 55 Yidhari Murphy	Drive Discs Not Provided Drive Disc Lv. ? Set Bonus None
2	C0 Lucia Elowen Lv. 55 Lucia Elowen	Basic Attack Lv. 9 Dodge Lv. 9 Assist Lv. 9 Special Attack Lv. 9 Chain Attack Lv. 9 Core Skill Lv. 6	HP: 20,113 ATK: 2,025 DEF: 868 Impact: 83 CRIT Rate: 12,2% CRIT DMG: 64,4% Anomaly Mastery: 96 Anomaly Proficiency: 95 PEN Ratio: 0% PEN: 0 Energy Regen: 2,65 Energy Generation Rate: 0% Energy Limit: 120
2	C0 Lucia Elowen Lv. 55 Lucia Elowen	Drive Discs Not Provided Drive Disc Lv. ? Set Bonus None
3	C0 Komano Manato Lv. 55 Komano Manato Grill O'Wisp Lv. 55 Grill O'Wisp	Basic Attack Lv. 9 Dodge Lv. 9 Assist Lv. 9 Special Attack Lv. 9 Chain Attack Lv. 9 Core Skill Lv. 6	HP: 17,962 ATK: 1,711 DEF: 725 Impact: 95 CRIT Rate: 37,4% CRIT DMG: 118,8% Anomaly Mastery: 87 Anomaly Proficiency: 90 PEN Ratio: 0% PEN: 0 Energy Regen: 1,2 Energy Generation Rate: 0% Energy Limit: 120 DMG Bonus: 25,5% +15% Sheer Force: 2,223 Adrenaline GainAdrenaline GainAutomatic Adrenaline Accumulation: 0 Adrenaline Generation Rate: 0% Max Adrenaline: 120
3		Drive Discs Not Provided Drive Disc Lv. ? Set Bonus None

Dialogue

Half-Awake Person

Head to Timesworn Hills

The plan is set. Let's head back into the Lemnian Hollow.

Failume Heights

(Listen to Lucia, optional): Zhao: Miss Lucia, I noticed in your sketchbook... there are some portaits [sic] of people, but most of the other drawings are of Ethereals, aren't they?; Lucia: Yeah, if I've heard about them or seen them myself, I catalog all Ethereals and sketch them in my notebook.; Lucia: While I might not be great at portraits, I'm pretty confident when it comes to drawing Ethereals!; Zhao: Hmm... both the portraits and Ethereals look... pretty cute.

(Talk to Komano Manato)

Komano Manato: So, you ready? Don't forget to bring that Lumin-Box.

Ready to roll, let's go.

Hold up, lemme check again...

Komano Manato: Yeah, we'll be waiting for you.
(Talking to Manato again repeats dialogue)

"Bell and Hunter"

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

"Bell and Hunter"

Video Summary: In the auditorium of "The Town", the sleeping Yidhari awakens.

Story Description: Upon arriving at the town, Banyue immediately realizes that the so-called residents aren't human. Moss appears and explains that the Ethereal which attacked that day had nothing to do with them. It's a town scourge known as the "Wandering Hunter." But with Banyue and Manato here, there's no need to worry too much about the Wandering Hunter. For now, you should focus on the auditorium.

Inside Lemnian Hollow, at the "town"...

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): So this is the "town"... It's a little different from what I imagined...

The Lumin-Box works. As expected from Miss Zhao!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): The Lumin-Box works. Just what I'd expect from Miss Zhao!

The Lumin-Box works. Leave it to Krampus to have good tech!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): The Lumin-Box works. Just what I'd expect from Krampus!

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Alright, the connection is stable. That's a relief... TOPS may be (‍pushy / overbearing‍) and arrogant, but at least their technology is reliable.

Fairy: A large number of Ether signatures matching the Drowned Ideal - Komano Manato have been detected. Preliminary analysis suggests that this is a gathering point for drowned ideals.

Banyue: As expected, none of them are human. No matter how humanlike their behavior may seem, their infrared signatures reveal their true nature.

Komano Manato: In that case, let's not waste energy on them and focus on getting to the auditorium.

"Martial Arts Master" Pal: Oh! Manato! Back looking for Lumite ore again? Need a hand?

Komano Manato: ...I'm good.

Komano Manato: By the way, I'm putting together a set of self-defense techniques for everyone to practice. They might come in handy someday. Want to join? When you're unarmed, your fists are your last hope.

Komano Manato: Pal... If you really love martial arts so much, why not just do it? Why leave it as some fantasy illusion...?

Moss: Come now, don't be like that. Fantasy is humanity's greatest gift.

Moss!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Moss!

Moss: Whoa, why are you so angry? There's nothing between us, is there?

The Ethereal you set loose chased me for blocks.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): The Ethereal you let loose chased me all the way down the road!

Moss: Ethereal? That I set loose...? Ah, I see. You must have run into Lantern Bearer and Wandering Hunter! This is all a big misunderstanding. We're just as terrified of them as you are!

Lucia: Lantern Bearer and Wandering Hunter?

Moss: Yeah, they're like phantoms... Appearing in the town without warning and causing chaos before vanishing again.

Moss: There's always a strange bell sound whenever they appear. When the townsfolk hear it, they immediately go into hiding. That time, everyone hid too quickly to warn you. Sorry, we fear being seen by them.

Komano Manato: Can a place that leaves you constantly watching your back really be called "the sanctuary for dreams"?

Moss: Ahem... Anyway, please believe that I mean no harm. Don't worry, if Wandering Hunter shows up again, I'll be sure to warn you.

Banyue: No need. If it appears again, it shall be struck down immediately.

Moss: ...Quite the bold hero you have there. Seems you've found a reliable companion, Manato.

Komano Manato: ...

Moss: Anyway, feel free to take your time and look around. Everyone likes chatting with you. If you're short on supplies, we have plenty here, so don't hesitate to ask.

(Since you said we're free to look around...)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Since you said we're free to look around, I'll just go have a look at your auditorium here.)

Talk to Komano Manato

Just after entering the Town, Moss immediately seeks out Manato. Let's go see what they're talking about.

(Ongoing): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (I should go say hi to Manato before heading to the auditorium.)

(Idle): NPC 1: Ha, back again? Feel free to drop by anytime!

(Idle): "The Great Writer": No, we can't change it like that...; "Movie Star": I actually think this is better.

(Interact with "The Great Writer", optional): "The Great Writer": I think it'd be better if the protagonist's shift in the stance they're taking was more subtle? Seems a bit unnecessarily intense at the moment...; "Movie Star": No way! Every character I play needs to leave a lasting impression on the audience. I'm a powerhouse actress who's won Best Actress three years in a row. I can't accept playing such a bland character!; "The Great Writer": But this... this isn't quite the personality I had in mind... I've got it!; "The Great Writer": Let's meet halfway. Our protagonist will be this upbeat, passionate person during the day, then flip into this cool, brooding character at night. How's that sound? Pretty unique, right?; "Movie Star": Isn't that a super common trope?; "The Great Writer": Ah...

(Interact with Komano Manato): Moss: You're back again, welcome.; Komano Manato: Don't tell me you're gonna go on and on about the past again.; Moss: No, there's no need. You've already seen him, haven't you?; Komano Manato: ...; Manato shoots you a look, as if saying, "I'll keep him busy. You head to the auditorium first."; (Respond with your own look); (Sneak away)

Check out what's going on with Banyue

"Banyue Shifu noticed something off about the "townspeople" right away. Let's talk to him and find out what he thinks about them."

(Idle): NPC 2: How's the Lumite ore mining going nearby? Moss says we need to pick up the pace.; NPC 3: Who knows why they're digging up that stuff? It's not like it's any use to us...

(Idle): "Postman": *sigh*

(Interact with "Postman", optional): "Postman": *sigh*...; "Postman": More and more letters have to be returned to sender...; How come?; "Postman": If the sender puts down an undeliverable address, the letter's gotta be returned to them, right?; "Postman": I used to be confident that I could deliver letters anywhere. But everyone... gradually started sending letters outside the Hollow.; "Postman": The addresses are all like X Street in New Eridu, sending them to family and friends and such...; Everyone's longing is growing stronger.; "Postman": How am I supposed to deliver these letters? I can only return to sender... Some postman I turned out to be...; "Postman": Ah, will those recipients come to our town in the future? Moss says the town will keep expanding, and everyone will end up coming here.; ...; (No comment); "Postman": I'll hold onto their letters for now. There'll be a chance to deliver them someday...

(Approach Banyue)
(Ongoing): "Martial Arts Master" Pal: Really? You also run a martial arts school?

(Interact with Banyue): "Martial Arts Master" Pal: For real? You run a martial arts school? Oh man, we've gotta talk shop!; Banyue: I did open a martial arts school, and I'd be willing to teach you my art once the real you returns to Failume Heights.; "Martial Arts Master" Pal: No, no, no, I don't want to be your student. I'm planning to open my own martial arts school here to teach the fighting techniques of Yunkui Summit!; Opening a martial arts school in the Hollow...; Opening a martial arts school in the Town...; "Martial Arts Master" Pal: The areas outside town are still dangerous, and not everyone here can fight. If everyone studied at the martial arts school, at least they'd have a way to protect themselves when going out.; "Martial Arts Master" Pal: Oh hey, what do you think about holding the Tidefaire here?; Banyue: The Tidefaire... is a ceremony held at Failume Heights by Suibian Temple. People write their blessings for family on skyletters, which are then released into the Hollow by the temple master. It's a ceremony that only Yixuan Shifu can perform.; "Martial Arts Master" Pal: I know, I've been going since I was a kid. I even went to the last Tidefaire at Suibian Temple.; So, you can make skyletters?; "Martial Arts Master" Pal: No need for that! Think about it: where did all those skyletters end up? They flew into the Hollow, right? All I gotta do is search the Hollow and collect them all. Then I'll have tons of skyletters!; "Martial Arts Master" Pal: If you spot any skyletters, could you bring them back to me? I want to recreate the ceremony!; Banyue: You want to release skyletters that people have already released once before...; That seems pointless...; This is just meaningless imitation...; Banyue: If this request came from a normal person, I'd do my best to help. But this is the Hollow, and I won't assist a hollow creature made of Miasma.; Same.; A creature made of Miasma...; Banyue: I remember there's a technique called the Perception Technique from Yunkui Summit. If you've mastered it, perhaps you could use it to understand what these "townsfolk" really are.

Check out the auditorium

In accordance with the plan, we need to find a way to investigate the auditorium. Let's check out the surroundings first.

(Ongoing, if Perception Technique has been used previously in "The Town"): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Actually... I already used the Perception Technique earlier...)
(Ongoing, otherwise): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Banyue said to try using the Perception Technique... Let's give it a shot!)

(Ongoing, when activating the Perception Technique near Pal, optional): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Just as I thought... Pal shows the same ether frequency as the Miasma Tumor...); (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (This town... Is there really not a single living soul...?); (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Never mind. Let's check out the auditorium.)

(Interact with Dropped Paper, optional): This is a strange report.; "Regular report, Captain Hoshimi Miyabi, requesting support."; "The target's been acting strange lately. Every time I see him, he's desperately trying to run out of town, saying he wants to leave the Hollow, even though he knows damn well there's no way out."; "Calling him 'Boss' used to keep him in check, but now he won't listen anymore. My cover might be blown: requesting backup immediately."; The report has some news clippings attached, all about Section 6. Looks like whoever wrote this "report" was fantasizing about being a member of Section 6.

(Idle): "Lackey" ...

(Interact with "Lackey", optional): "Lackey": ...What are you staring at?; I remember you.; You look like...; "Lackey": ...; A certain boss's sidekick.; "Lackey": Heh, sidekick. So you think that too, huh. Well, good. Means I've fooled everyone. The more I look like a thug, the easier it is for me to conduct my investigation.; You have another identity?; "Lackey": Look, I know you're not from around here, so I'll cut to the chase: I'm an undercover agent.; "Undercover Agent": There's something terrifying lurking in this town. I'm pretending to be one of the locals to uncover it and complete the mission I've been assigned.; Don't tell me you're...; You...; "Undercover Agent": That's right, I'm actually the ace of Section 6! Hoshimi Miyabi's right-hand, codename "Tsukishimo."; You had me in the first half...; I knew it was just a fantasy!; "Undercover Agent": Shh! Don't blow my cover. I'm laying low here until Captain Hoshimi Miyabi makes contact...

(Idle): "Food Critic": Where's the waiter...? Where's the food...?

(Interact with "Food Critic", optional): "Food Critic": Hey (‍manmanText for Wise / missmissText for Belle‍), quick question: there used to be a teahouse owner here, any idea where he ran off to?; I don't know.; Teahouse...?; "Food Critic": That's weird, he said they're opening today. I came early to snag a spot, and was really looking forward to this...

(Idle): "Guardian": Wait, what do you want?

(Approach the designated area): "Guardian": Oh wait, do you have Moss' permission?; "Guardian": Can't go in without it, sorry.

Talk to Lucia

Lucia pulls me aside discreetly. Does she have a plan to deal with these guards?

(Ongoing): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Looks like they're not going to let us through...); Lucia: Hey, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍), over here!

(Interact with Lucia): Lucia: Those guys are guarding the entrance, we can't get in... The more they try to hide it, the fishier it looks!; Let's circle around and look for another entrance.; How about we come back later?; Lucia: No, I've got a more direct approach: just send a few Ethereals over there to lure them away.; How are you going to get a few Ethereals...?; Lucia: I'm pretty good at drawing Ethereals, you know! Like, in a fight, I can create etheric coagulum that looks just like them with my weapon and make them move around. Though they only last a few seconds... Lemme think, which Ethereal should I create?; Summon Nineveh!; Lucia: I've never seen Nineveh in person, and I can't recreate something I've never seen... No, no, even if I have seen it, it's impossible! Unless ten Lucias stacked together all collabed, it's just not feasible! That's a legendary Ethereal we're talking about!; Actually... I've seen it before.; Lucia: For real! Nineveh?! You're not messing with me? You're absolutely the most mysterious yet unassuming Proxy-mystic-online friend I've ever met! Where'd you see her? Hollow Zero? You gotta take me!; Are we not heading to the auditorium anymore?; Lucia: Ah... hmm... how long would it take to go to Hollow Zero and come back?; Are you for real!?; It would take ages!; Lucia: Never mind, let's head to the auditorium first~ I'll switch to a smaller Ethereal instead. Something less dangerous but still tempting enough to make them chase after it, perfect for luring them away.; Blastcrawlers or Hatis?; Lucia: Hmm... Yeah! That works! You really know your Ethereals too, huh! I'll distract them while you sneak into the auditorium. That's the plan then. Let's do this!; "If we just wanna scare them... this will be perfect. One, two... let's make it three, follow me, little Hatis!" Lucia summons three smaller-sized Hatis, who start rolling around in front of the guards.; "What the! Where did those Ethereals come from!"; Soon, they all run off, the guards following the little Hatis, and the little Hatis following Lucia...

Enter the auditorium

Lucia's managed to distract the guards. Now's the chance to sneak into the auditorium!

(Ongoing): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Nice work, Lucia! Quick, get to the auditorium before they come back!)

(After getting past the gate): Whispers in the Town: Come... Embrace... your true desire...; (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍), did you hear that voice?; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): No, I didn't hear anything.

(Interact with Auditorium Entrance)

Waking From the Dream

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

Waking From the Dream

Video Summary: In the auditorium of "The Town", the sleeping Yidhari awakens.

(Cinematic starts): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Someone's trapped in the Miasma!; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): We have to find a way to help her!; (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): We gotta find a way to help her!
(The Proxy suddenly sees strange visions): NPC 5: Hari, why don't you go get some rest?; NPC 6: Don't bother. We're teaming up with someone else
(A hand holds the girl's hands): Sarah: You can do this, Yidhari. Here...; Sarah: Let's try again
(The lady awakens, and the miasma that bound her dissapears, making her fall): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Are you (‍alrightalrightText for Wise / okayokayText for Belle‍)?; Awakened Lady: Good morning...
(Cinematic ends)

Awakened Lady

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

"The Awakening Lady"

Video Summary: In the auditorium of "The Town", the sleeping Yidhari awakens.

Story Description: You discover and save a sleeping young lady in the auditorium. To everyone's surprise, she turns out to be the only human in the town. She introduces herself as Yidhari. The group suggests taking her away from here, and Moss doesn't object. But the fact that it went so smoothly feels suspicious, as if he has another motive...

Awakened Lady: Mmm... Good morning...

Uh... Hello.

It's not morning right now.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Uh... Hello, but it's not morning right now.

Awakened Lady: ...

What's wrong?

Are you still half-asleep?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): What's wrong... Are you still half-asleep?

Awakened Lady: Such beautiful eyes... Am I still dreaming?

You're not dreaming.

You're in a Hollow.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): You're not dreaming, you're in a Hollow. What are you doing in such a dangerous place? Wait, you're not a drowned ideal, are you...?

Banyue: What happened? We heard some commotion from outside. Hold on... This girl... There is a human in this town full of nonhuman entities?!

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): She was trapped in the middle of the auditorium! She fell the moment we got near her. I guess you could say (‍Wise / Belle‍) saved her.

Komano Manato: So is she the "extremely important" thing Moss mentioned about the auditorium before? Just what is that guy plotting...?

Awakened Lady: ...

Lucia: She keeps staring at you, (‍Wise / Belle‍). Do you know each other?

...Have we met before?

...What's your name?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Uh... What's your name? I'm (‍Wise / Belle‍). Have we ever met before?

Yidhari: My name is Yidhari. I think... this is the first time I've met you.

Moss: Oh, wonderful! You actually managed to rescue her!

Komano Manato: You've got some explaining to do, Moss! Why was she locked up in here?

Moss: Wait, it's all a misunderstanding! She was already trapped when we arrived. We were startled and tried to free her, but couldn't break the Miasma that was binding her.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): We've heard you use a similar excuse before... Not very convincing.

Moss: Please believe me, the townsfolk can all vouch for it. What really amazes me is that you could break the Miasmic bindings... Was it you, (‍Wise / Belle‍)?

I'm not even sure what I did...

I just suddenly sensed something through my eyes...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍I'm not actually sure what I did, I just suddenly sensed something through my eyes... / I'm not even sure what I did, I just suddenly felt something through my eyes...‍)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (I remember now... A few images flashed before my eyes, and I saw Sarah in them. I need to find the right time to get to the bottom of this.)

Komano Manato: No need to tell him about that. Let's get her to a safe place first. Can you walk, Yidhari?

Yidhari: ...

Can you walk, Yidhari?

Let's leave the Hollow.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Can you walk, Yidhari? We'll take you out of the Hollow.

Yidhari: Yeah, I can walk on my own.

Komano Manato: Hey... Are you ignoring me?

Yidhari: But I can't leave the Hollow. I've already tried many times.

Don't worry, I'm a Proxy.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Don't worry, I'm a Proxy. I promise I'll get you out of here.

Moss: Are you planning to take this girl with you? She doesn't seem very stable. I'll ask West to bring some medical supplies since we still have plenty.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Huh? You're... not (‍gonna / trying‍) stop us? I thought there'd be a fight...

Moss: Why would I try to stop you? We couldn't bear to see her stuck in the Miasma like that, either. Please make sure she stays safe.

Banyue: Let's go. Although things didn't quite go as expected, we still gained a lot. I've recorded most of the townfolks' appearances.

And so, you take Yidhari safely out of the auditorium, with the townsfolk showing no intention of stopping you.

"Teacher" West: They were just in the auditorium... Could they have discovered the "cradle"?

Moss: No, all their attention was on Yidhari. They didn't touch the hidden door.

"Teacher" West: That's good. Although it may be cruel to that child... are we going to let her go? Didn't you say Yidhari is the guardian deity of the town?

Moss: It's fine. Let's just say she went out for a little walk after waking up... She'll be back.

The Guardians cast wary but not exactly hostile glances.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Better leave for now.)

Lead Yidhari out of the Hollow

How'd Yidhari get trapped in the Hollow? There's many questions, but first, let's get her out of the Hollow.

(Ongoing): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Then let's get out and head back to Failume Heights first.; Yidhari: Mm... But...; (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): What's wrong?; Yidhari: No, it's nothing...; (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Speaking of which... Do you know Sarah?; Yidhari: Yes, I'm stuck here most likely because of her. Do you... know Sarah too?; (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I've got a score to settle with her.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Let's talk about it in detail once we're in a safe place(‍!!Text for Wise / ..Text for Belle‍)

(Interact with Dropped Files, optional): This appears to be a letter.; "Mom, I'm not happy. Even though no one dares to bully me anymore, I'm still not happy."; "I finally achieved my dream, but now there's no one left to share this with."; "Mom, I'm coming to find you. I want to show you the new me."

(Approach the designated area)

(Open Tutorial [Character Intro] Yidhari)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Watch out, Ethereals up ahead.

Yidhari: I'll handle them. Just woke up, so it's a good chance to stretch a bit.

Yidhari: Mm... Not sure how many Ethereals there are... but let's take them all down~

(During combat): Komano Manato: Impressive, Yidhari.; Lucia: She may sound drowsy, but she's full of fighting spirit.; Komano Manato: With strength like that, why were you trapped in the auditorium?; Yidhari: Ah, careful! (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍), you should stay back. I'm afraid you might get caught in the crossfire.; Lucia: You ignored our question.; Banyue: Such a pure and focused fighting style. Truly admirable!; Komano Manato: ...

(After defeating all enemies): Yidhari: Alright, that should be the last of the enemies...; (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍MmhmMmhmText for Wise / MmMmText for Belle‍), let's head toward the (‍exit.exit.Text for Wise / exit!exit!Text for Belle‍)

(Interact with Exit Gate)

Unable to Continue

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

"Unable to Continue"

Video Summary: Though awake, I couldn't escape the Hollow. After multiple attempts, I have no choice but to place Yidhari in the Safe House while seeking another solution.

Story Description: When the group reaches the exit and is about to leave, Yidhari stops in her tracks. She says she sees layers upon layers of darkness ahead and that she can't leave.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Alright, the door's open. The exit is just ahead.

Komano Manato: This was almost too easy... We didn't run into Wandering Hunter, and that white creature didn't show up either.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Let's go back and discuss the next step. (‍We have / We've got‍) a lot of questions for Yidhari.

Yidhari: Let's go back and discuss the next step. We have a lot of questions for Yidhari.

Yidhari: ...

Lucia: Hm? Yidhari stopped.

Yidhari?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Yidhari?

Yidhari: It's no use... I can't go any further.

Why?

The exit is just ahead.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Why? The exit is just ahead.

Yidhari: I... I see darkness blocking the way ahead. It's gathering, rising, and twisting into a vortex... One more step and I'll fall in! (‍Wise / Belle‍), go on without me. I can't this time, the exit has rejected me...

Komano Manato: A vortex? I don't see anything.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): It's probably a hallucination caused by corruption. We need to get out of this Hollow (‍now / quickly‍). We've come this far, so we'll pull her out if we have to!

Just keep going, you can get out.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Just keep going, you can make it through. You're only a few steps away.

Trust me, you can get out.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Trust me. You'll get out of here this time.

Yidhari: I'm sorry... I really can't! I'll fall in... Just leave me, or you'll fall in as well...

(Take Yidhari's hand.)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Stop overthinking it. Let's go!

You've Got Nowhere to Go

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

You've Got Nowhere to Go

Video Summary: Though awake, I couldn't escape the Hollow. After multiple attempts, I have no choice but to place Yidhari in the Safe House while seeking another solution.

(Cinematic starts): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Don't overthink it; (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Let's go, Yidhari; Yidhari: Ah... Hold on...
(Both Yidhari and the Proxy suddenly teleports to a cliff and falls down, appearing in many other places as they both fell, ultimately landing in the water)
(The Proxy suddenly awakens from the vision): Yidhari: Careful!; (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Was I... just seeing things...?; (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): That wasn't real!
(The Proxy takes Yidhari's hand and runs through an infinite loop): Yidhari: (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍)...; Yidhari: It's no use; Yidhari: This isn't an illusion; Yidhari: It's the curse of the Hollow!
(Cinematic ends)

Predicament

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

"Predicament"

Video Summary: Though awake, I couldn't escape the Hollow. After multiple attempts, I have no choice but to place Yidhari in the Safe House while seeking another solution.

Story Description: Yidhari harbors a hidden secret. Each time she approaches the Hollow's exit, the surrounding Ether turns chaotic, making it impossible for her to leave. It's as if the Hollow itself is holding her captive. To get to the bottom of it, the group chooses to rest at the Safe House Yidhari spoke of.

Komano Manato: Why did you come back? We were just about to catch up.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Was that not the way out? Lemme check... The path seems clear.

Fairy: Anomaly Report: Master's coordinates were detected at multiple locations throughout Lemnian Hollow over approximately ten seconds.

Seems like something serious just happened...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): It feels like something (‍really strange / big‍) just happened...

Yidhari: Like I expected, it didn't work this time either. This is the curse the Hollow has placed upon me.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): I reviewed the data! From the moment Yidhari got close to the exit... the Ether particles around the fissure started fluctuating almost to the point of being reshaped, making it impossible to leave the Hollow.

So as long as Yidhari is with us...

The exit will disappear?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): So that means as long as Yidhari is with us, the exit will disappear?

Yidhari: Yes... so just leave me here. I can't go back. But at least you still have a place you can return to.

Komano Manato: Let's look for another exit. If we can't find one, then we should find somewhere to rest. We can't just leave her out here.

Lucia: I agree with Manato.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): I agree. After all the effort we put into rescuing her, we can't just walk away now. And we still have so much to (‍ask / ask her.‍)

Yeah, no need to rush out just yet.

Let's find a safe spot to rest.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Alright, let's not (‍leave / rush out‍) just yet. We can find a safe place to rest first and then figure out our next move...

Yidhari: A safe place... Oh, I know a safe house nearby. Should we go there?

Wait, there's a safe house in a place like this?

How do you know about it?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Wait, there's a safe house here? How do you know about it?

Yidhari: When I first entered the Hollow, I scouted the nearby routes. The truth is, I'm a Proxy too... a Proxy trapped inside the Hollow. Pretty pathetic, isn't it?

Don't worry about it...

Let's head to the safe house first.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Don't worry about it... Let's head to the safe house first.

Find the safe house

Since she can't leave the Hollow, we'll have to find a safe house for Yidhari first. As luck would have it, Yidhari happens to know where one is located.

(Ongoing): Yidhari: Sorry, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍), that must have scared you...; (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): No, I was just too impatient. I've been a Proxy for quite some time, but I've never faced anything like this before...

(Arrive at the designated area)
(Enter combat): Yidhari: Mm... We're heading the right way. Let's keep going.; (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): You don't have a Bangboo or a Carrot, how do you know the way?; Yidhari: The simplest way is just to follow the others~; Lucia: Others? Where are they?; Yidhari: It's my ability as a Proxy. For instance, I can see investigators' illusions up ahead.; Yidhari: By following where they go, I'll find a path to follow. The footsteps of those before me are my Carrot.; (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍But... I don't see any footprints or people at all...But... I don't see any footprints or people at all...Text for Wise / But... I don't see any footprints or people at all...But... I don't see any footprints or people at all...Text for Belle‍); Yidhari: Only I can see them... Those twisted faces, familiar yet strange, drifting back and forth...; Yidhari: I'll explain more once we reach the safe house. For now, we need to follow those illusions.

(After defeating all enemies): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): There's a Miasma Tumor blocking the way ahead, but I don't see any Miasma node connected to it nearby...; Let's find a way to break that Miasma Tumor.; Yidhari: There are people up ahead, they seem to be observing something... Maybe it's what you're looking for?; People? But I can't see anything...; Yidhari: It seems someone was here a long time ago. Hold on, I can make them appear so you can see them...

Break the Miasma Tumor with Yidhari's help

A massive Miasma Tumor blocks the path, and its core is hard to find... However, Yidhari seems to have a lead.

(Ongoing): Yidhari: Look... Those figures...; (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): That's the Exaltists!; Yidhari: Heh... Calm down. I only recreated illusions of the past.; Lucia: That's an amazing ability, just as impressive as (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍)'s techniques.; Yidhari: It seems they're looking for something hidden...

(After disintegrating all targets)

Head to the safe house

The safe house is just ahead; let's keep moving.

(Ongoing): Komano Manato: These illusions look so strange.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): They're illusions. Unusual is normal for them.

(Approach the designated area)
(Enter combat): Lucia: Yidhari seems to have been in the Hollow for a long time. Is her body alright?; Komano Manato: I just saw some medicine and Porcelume scattered on the auditorium floor.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Do you use those to reduce the corruption effects?; Yidhari: ...; Lucia: Yidhari?; Lucia: She seems a bit slow to react... Is it because she just woke up?

(Approach the designated area): Komano Manato: Look, the gate up ahead... There's a safehouse!

(Arrive at the designated area)

The Creator of the Illusion

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

"The Creator of the Illusion"

Video Summary: Though awake, I couldn't escape the Hollow. After multiple attempts, I have no choice but to place Yidhari in the Safe House while seeking another solution.

Story Description: After reaching the Safe House, Yidhari explains her situation. She possesses the ability to see past scenes within the Hollow, a power amplified by Miasma in the Lemnian Hollow, enabling her to recreate these scenes. This caught Sarah's attention, who deceived Yidhari into continuously tracking and recreating a specific scene from the past. The group remembers the Porcelume device provided by Miss Zhao, which might help Yidhari escape her predicament.

Komano Manato: So there really is a safe house... And it looks like we're the only ones here.

Banyue: Judging from the structure, this place dates back to the Old Capital era. It's still in great condition and appears to be well-equipped.

Fairy: Multiple Porcelume partitions have been detected, making this area more stable than any other Ether environment within Lemnian Hollow.

Alright, then let's rest here.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Alright, then let's rest here.

Yidhari: Yes... I've actually rested here before.

Yidhari: Huh? Who...

Lucia: Hmm? What's up?

Yidhari: Who are you all?

Komano Manato: Huh?

Yidhari: So there are others here besides (‍Wise / Belle‍).

Komano Manato: We've been here the whole time! I knew you were ignoring us! What gives?!

Yidhari: Sorry, my mistake. I thought you were illusions until now... Maybe the safe house eased the symptoms.

You thought we were illusions?

What symptoms?

Yidhari: You mistook them for illusions? What kind of symptoms?

Yidhari: Since I was a child, I've been able to see scenes that once took place within the Hollow... Animals, people, buildings... I've always cherished this ability, because it's revealed many hidden stories.

Yidhari: As I got older, my ability grew unstable. Once I enter a Hollow, people and scenes from different times overlap all at once.

Yidhari: I can't distinguish between past illusions and my teammates. Their faces blur and twist... That's why I didn't recognize you at first. I thought you were just illusions following the same path.

Yidhari: I was only able to recognize you once we got into the safe house, where the shadows had thinned out and the Ether was more stable.

Komano Manato: Then why didn't you mistake (‍Wise / Belle‍) for an illusion as well? You were quick enough to answer all her questions.

Yidhari: I'm not sure why, but from all the twisted faces, only (‍Wise / Belle‍) 's was clear... When I woke up in the auditorium, (‍his / her‍) eyes drew me in instantly. It felt like seeing a familiar face in an unfamiliar place...

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Hear that, (‍Wise / Belle‍)? Someone thinks your eyes are super captivating.

Fairy: I concur. To some extent, I was drawn to those same eyes as well.

Yidhari: By the way, if you're going back to Failume Heights, could you drop by a shop called Mystic Wares and give a message to someone named "Yuzupepper"? Say that I'm sorry, but "Strawberry Parfait" won't be able to make it.

Komano Manato: *gasp* What!? You're...

Lucia: Strawberry?! It's me, it's me! I'm "Night Emissary"! And this is "Aratama-maru"!

Yidhari: Really? What are the chances...

So it turns out Yidhari is the online friend who never showed up.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): So it turns out that Yidhari is the online friend who never showed up.

Yidhari: Then... Does that mean (‍Wise / Belle‍) is "Yuzupepper"? Or... "T A T"?

No, no, I'm only a passerby, just someone being helpful.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): No, no, I'm only a passerby! Just someone being helpful!

I could always go back and set up a fake account...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I'm just a passerby lending a hand, but I could always go back and register a fake account... (‍Hm,‍) I wonder how Yuzuha and Alice would react...

Lucia: Weren't you supposed to be coming to Failume Heights for the meet-up? How did you end up in the Hollow beforehand?

Yidhari: Sarah invited me here, and I thought it was just a routine commission. But I didn't expect that foul Miasma to amplify my ability, allowing me not only to see past scenes but also to project them for others.

Yidhari: So Sarah trapped me here, forcing me to project past scenes over and over...and in the haze, I heard her mention she was searching for a door that exists in the past.

Yidhari: I've tried to escape the Hollow, but just like before, no matter what I do, I can't get out. Each time I end up losing consciousness, only to wake up back in the auditorium...

Let's rest here for now.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Let's rest here for a while. If the reason you can't leave is caused by the Miasma amplifying your ability, then staying here longer might help stabilize it.

Lucia: I'll stay by your side, Yidhari.

Banyue: I can stay as well. I'm highly resistant to the corruption here.

Yidhari: No... It's fine, I can stay here for a long while. You should go back. Just meeting you at a time like this has already made me happy.

Lucia: If only the safe house could move, like a little car that drives itself out of the Hollow...

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Now that you mention it... maybe we could (‍make / create‍) a moving safe house.

A moving safe house? What do you mean?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): A moving safe house? What do you mean?

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): The Lumin-Box that Miss Zhao gave us can weaken the Miasma.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Keeping it on hand restores communication, but it doesn't solve Yidhari's problem of being unable to leave. I thought maybe it wasn't weakening the Miasma enough, so I contacted Miss Zhao.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): She said she still has a few more devices, and she can lend them to us to see if they can enhance the effect.

Alright, then let's head back to Failume Heights.

Yidhari, wait for us here.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Alright, then we should head back to Failume Heights. Yidhari, wait for us here.

Yidhari: Sure, okay... Oh, by the way, Lucia, did you find the Mind-Reading Monster?

Lucia: Not yet. I'm gonna keep looking. I'll bring it back to you when I find it.

Leave the Hollow

Miss Zhao can provide more Lumin-Boxes to help rescue Yidhari. Let's head back to Failume Heights to get them

(Ongoing): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): How does Yidhari know about the Mind-Reading Monster?; Lucia: I met Yid... I mean, Strawberry Parfait on the forum a long time ago.; Lucia: None of the others, not even Manato, believes in the Mind-Reading Monster, but she does.; Lucia: This time in Waifei Peninsula, we secretly agreed to search for the Mind-Reading Monster together.; Komano Manato: You two are way too obsessed with that urban legend...; Lucia: Next time, bring her some ginger tong sui, it'll definitely help!

(Approach the designated area)
(Enter combat): Lucia: Did you hear that?; (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): It's a bell! The same as the one we heard in the town last time!; Komano Manato: Lantern Bearer and Wandering Hunter are nearby!; Lucia: This feeling... It's like playing hide-and-seek...; Komano Manato: (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍), stay close. Let's not get separated this time!

(After defeating all enemies): Komano Manato: The bell again... Where are they hiding...?; Banyue: I see it! Over there!; Banyue: I'm going in!

Wandering Hunter

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

"Wandering Hunter"

Video Summary: Though awake, I couldn't escape the Hollow. After multiple attempts, I have no choice but to place Yidhari in the Safe House while seeking another solution.

Story Description: The Wandering Hunter shows up again, with Banyue taking it head-on while Lucia moves in to strike the Lantern Bearer behind it.

"Filth, I shall deal with you!"
The lion's roar echoes before you see the enemy. With the roar, Banyue is already far ahead...

Slumbering Mystery Cutscene Quest Still 01

Before anyone can react, there's a thunderous noise. When you look that way, you see that Banyue is already fighting the enemy hidden within the ringing of bells: Wandering Hunter.

Lucia: It's a new kind of Ethereal I've never seen before! Must be native to Lemnian Hollow... Better write this down, write this down...

In the blink of an eye, Banyue's heavy fists come down again and again, each swing ringing with the sharp clang of metal on metal.

Wandering Hunter lets out a piercing roar. Is it anger? Or excitement? One thing is clear, it isn't pain. Banyue's attacks are completely blocked, failing to deal any real damage.

Lucia: Whoa, that's a tough one! Just that white arm alone can block attacks. Is it some special hardening...?

Wandering Hunter is no longer content with merely defending. It raises its crimson, spiked right arm and thrusts at Banyue's exposed side during a gap in his assault.

Komano Manato: I'll help you!

Manato dashes to Banyue's side and raises his sword to parry, but the brutal strike drives him back several steps.

Komano Manato: Mph!

Banyue: Don't be reckless! Fall back, Manato!

Lucia: Its fighting style is smooth and steady, holding its own even against two opponents... It knows how to use its strengths, almost like it's been trained...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍That Lantern Bearer is really strange... / That Lantern Bearer's acting strange behind it!‍)

Lucia: Yeah, I've never seen an Ethereal of that size, and it's just standing there, not joining the fight. Could it be commanding Wandering Hunter...?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Then we just need to take it down! That'll end the fight quickly!

Lucia: Good point. I'm on it!

Like Enemies, Like Friends

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

Like Enemies, Like Friends

Video Summary: Though awake, I couldn't escape the Hollow. After multiple attempts, I have no choice but to place Yidhari in the Safe House while seeking another solution.

(Cinematic starts): Lucia: Hn! That should be enough.; Lucia: Let's show everybody
(Lucia dashes through the battle to shove the Lantern Bearer's hoodie): Lucia: Your true face!; Lucia: It can't be...
(The Lantern Bearer smiles as the Wandering Hunter appears behind her and takes her away): Komano Manato: Lucia!; Komano Manato: That's...
(Cinematic ends)

Lantern Girl

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

"Lantern Girl"

Video Summary: Though awake, I couldn't escape the Hollow. After multiple attempts, I have no choice but to place Yidhari in the Safe House while seeking another solution.

Story Description: After pulling back the Lantern Bearer's hood, you find she looks strikingly similar to Lucia, though Lucia herself has no idea why. With no answers, the group can only retreat for now. Meanwhile, Moss approaches Yidhari, asking her to return and take a look at the Cradle.

Banyue: Hmph, it actually fled. That's the first time I've ever witnessed such a strange Ethereal... and I was just about to get serious.

Komano Manato: ...

The last time I ran into it...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Same thing happened the last time I ran into it. It just vanished all of a sudden. Completely different from the regular Ethereals that have a strong drive to attack.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Did you see that Lantern Bearer? The hair, the ears...

Komano Manato: Yeah, she looked a lot like Lucia. Only much younger.

Lucia: I feel like I know her, but I don't have a sister...

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): We won't get any answers here. Let's head back. We still have a lot to do.

Just as the group is leaving the Hollow, an uninvited guest knocks on the safehouse door.

Yidhari: ...It's you.

Moss: I'm here to bring you back to town, Yidhari.

Yidhari: No, I promised (‍Wise / Belle‍) I'd wait for (‍him / her‍) here.

Moss: We don't have the strength or the right to stop you. But believe me, no matter how many times you try, you can't leave here. You belong to the town.

Moss: The one keeping you from leaving the Hollow is you.

Yidhari: ...What do you mean?

Moss: Please come with me to see something in town. Once you do, you'll understand. If you still want to leave after that, you can come back here and wait for (‍him / her‍).

Yidhari: ...See what?

Moss: The most precious thing in the entire Hollow. We call it the Cradle.

Sweety: Oh hey, you're back! Good work out there~

You're too kind.

Sweety: Of course! You're VIP guests at Yum Cha Sin. Miss Zhao paid a hefty deposit to reserve the private room for you~

Sweety: Head on up! Everyone's waiting for you upstairs at the Tancha Pavilion as usual.

New Helpers

Meet everyone at the Tancha Pavilion private room in Yum Cha Sin

Sweety says you can meet up with everyone at the usual spot: the Tancha Pavilion.

(Ongoing): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Tancha Pavilion...? Looks like it's the same place as before.

(Interact with Knock on the Door)

Second Free Tea Party

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

"Second Free Tea Party"

Video Summary: Both in the Hollow and Failume Heights, there are still many mysteries waiting to be uncovered...

Story Description: Everyone gathers at Yum Cha Sin again to exchange information about the series of events you encountered in the Hollow. Miss Zhao says she will begin organizing a large-scale search for the original forms of the drowned ideals. As for Yidhari's situation, Miss Zhao generously brings out all the Lumin-Boxes. However, no one has any solutions to deal with the Wandering Hunter and Lantern Bearer, forced to take things one step at a time.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Wise / Belle‍), you're here! Come, sit down, I just ordered (‍two more plates of steamed chicken feet! / another plate of prawn dumplings~‍)

You've already started eating!

Don't tell me Miss Zhao is treating us again...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): You've already started eating! Don't tell me Miss Zhao is treating us again this time...

Zhao: It's fine, everything's covered. Everyone, grab a seat, and let's eat while we go over the situation.

Zhao: First, regarding the missing persons. The town is filled with drowned ideals, and no real people were found in the auditorium. The investigation has led us nowhere.

Banyue: I recorded the appearance of all the drowned ideals there. If needed, you can check my operation logs.

Zhao: ...Is that okay, Banyue Shifu? After all, you're not just an ordinary machine. Accessing an Intelligent Construct's operation logs is like peeking into their memories. It's a breach of privacy.

Banyue: It's fine. If it helps save those who are suffering, my feelings are irrelevant.

Zhao: Then let me thank you on their behalf. If everything matches up, we can quickly identify the missing and launch a large-scale search. Next, about Yidhari.

Zhao: (‍Miss Belle / Mr. Wise‍) has already told me about her. These are all the Lumin-Boxes I have—five in total, counting the ones I gave you earlier. Go ahead and give them a try.

Thank you.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Alright, thank you.

I only need to write one report, right?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Thank you. (‍And just to clarify, we'll only need to write one report after trying them all out, right? / After trying them out, we only need to write one report, right?‍)

Zhao: Of course. As long as you don't break them, one report will be enough.

Zhao: Lastly, there's Wandering Hunter and the girl who looked like Lucia. Could that girl possibly be... Lucia's drowned ideal?

Lucia: I don't know either, but if that's really the case... I'd like to try becoming her friend.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Become friends with a drowned ideal?

Lucia: Yeah. My grandma used to say, "If you ever meet someone who's a lot like you, you must find a way to make friends with her."

Banyue: Understood. The next time we meet them, I shall hold off Wandering Hunter and buy you the time to make friends.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Banyue Shifu really does want to help with everything...

Zhao: Then focus on Yidhari and Wandering Hunter. Leave the town search to me.

Komano Manato: Oh, when sending the search team, make sure to choose people with a strong sense of self. Otherwise, new drowned ideals could appear.

Zhao: Hmmm..That's a pretty vague requirement. What exactly counts as a strong sense of self?

Komano Manato: Preferably... someone content with their life, without too many regrets.

Zhao: ...Understood. That's all for the meeting. Everyone, go get some rest. Banyue Shifu, please stay—we need to talk about retrieving the records.

Lucia: (‍Wise / Belle‍), did you have enough to eat? I noticed you were talking all through the meeting and barely ate.

I did, it's just...

Lucia: What is it?

Still didn't get to eat a main dish...

The char siu buns I wanted are sold out.

Lucia: Heh heh, just as I thought! Watch this... Ta-da! The Great Char Siu Bao Summoning Technique!

Lucia spreads open her book, pretending to summon something from its pages, when... her other hand, hidden beneath the book, pulls out a char siu bun.

Lucia: The char siu buns were so good today, I wanted to save one for a midnight snack. I even ate two fewer shrimp dumplings just to make up for this bad boy!

Lucia: But what a coincidence... This just happened to be Yum Cha Sin's last char siu bao of the day! Here, take it! You haven't had any yet, right?

You're not going to eat it?

No, you should have it.

Lucia: No worries, I've got it all planned out. I'll check out some other late-night food stalls in a bit. The night's still young~ If we head out early tomorrow, we can grab some breakfast for Yidhari too. The supplies at the Safe House taste awful!

That's a good idea.

Lucia: It's kinda surreal... That's what Strawberry Parfait is like in real life...

Lucia: Actually, when she's online, she types crazy fast! Sometimes she can be pretty assertive and takes charge in conversations.

Am I still half-asleep?

Maybe she's been in the Hollow for too long...

Lucia: Yeah... I didn't expect our first meeting to be under such unusual circumstances.

Lucia: We'd planned to meet up these couple days, but I haven't heard from Yidhari for over two weeks. Thought she went off somewhere, turns out she came half a month early...

Must be Sarah who led her here.

Lucia: That Sarah person sounds dangerous, tricking Yidhari and keeping her locked up in the Hollow for so long.

She really knows how to get inside people's heads.

She's fooled quite a few people, that's for sure.

Lucia: I see... Lemme take note of what she looks like. If I ever run into her, I'll show her the consequences of messing with Yidhari! Now then, time to grab some late-night snacks!

After saying goodbye to Lucia, you turn around and see Manato not far away... it looks like he's picking out snacks.

Talk to Komano Manato

Manato seems to be deep in thought in front of the stall. Go say hi.

(Idle): Komano Manato: ...

(Interact with Komano Manato)

Komano Manato: Oh, it's you, (‍Wise / Belle‍). Thanks for your hard work today.

You too!

Komano Manato: To be honest... I kinda feel ashamed about what happened. I swore up and down I could take on that Wandering Hunter, but when it really came to it...

So that's what's bugging you...

Komano Manato: Yeah, not only did I fail to help, but Banyue Shifu had to look after me. If only I could be more like Banyue Shifu...

Child's Voice: I see him, I see him, over there!

The cheerful shouts of two kids echo from nearby as they come charging full speed ahead, crashing right into Manato.

Komano Manato: How did you two get out here!

A-Yuet: You messaged saying you're at Yum Cha Sin, so we came to find you! Did you get my message about wanting some sour gummy candies?

Komano Manato: Got it, I'll buy it now... Oh, (‍Wise / Belle‍), these are my younger siblings, A-Cing and A-Yuet. Say hi to (‍Big Bro Wise / Big Sis Belle‍).

A-Cing & A-Yuet: Hi, (‍Big Bro Wise / Big Sis Belle‍)~

Your younger siblings...

(No tail, and the ears...)

Komano Manato: I know what you're thinking. We're not blood-related. We just picked each other up along the way. Alright, gotta go, need to get them home. See you tomorrow.

A-Yuet: I don't wanna leave yet, I wanna go on the kiddy ride!

A-Cing: Me too!

Komano Manato: Alright... you each get to go on it once, then we're heading back.

(After dialogue, Idle): A-Yuet: I call dibs!; A-Cing: I call dibs!; Komano Manato: Aren't there two kiddy rides? You can each take one...; A-Yuet: I don't want to sit on that one on the right, I want to sit on the fishy!; A-Cing: Ah, then I want the fishy too!

The Weight of the Self-Bound

Go to sleep

Time to call it a day. Let tomorrow's problems be tomorrow's problems.

(Interact with Warm Bed)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍(It's time to take a rest.) / (Time for a break.)‍)

(Go to sleep)

(With all these Lumin-Boxes, we'll definitely be able to bring Yidhari out of the Hollow tomorrow. Better get some sleep...)

(I'm not tired yet!)

Hanging Branches of Compliance

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

"Hanging Branches of Compliance"

Video Summary: Both in the Hollow and Failume Heights, there are still many mysteries waiting to be uncovered...

Story Description: Miss Zhao finishes pulling Banyue's records, but it isn't just as simple as obtaining them...

Lights are fading in Failume Heights as people slowly drift to sleep. Somewhere down the street...

Zhao: Thank you, Banyue Shifu. I have the data. I'll get it archived now and push the higher-ups to finish the review process tonight.

Banyue: Sounds good. I'll take my leave then.

Zhao: ...

After watching Banyue walk away, Zhao makes a call — but the person on the other end isn't a "higher-up."

Zhao: Dialyn, I know you've been looking for that Purge Unit - Type Zero. I found it. Here in Waifei. Goes by the name Banyue now.

Zhao: Don't thank me just yet. You know I don't work for free.

Zhao: Calm down... You're yelling in my ear. If you really want to pay me back right now, bring it to Failume Heights. I think they'll know how to put it to use.

WiseBelle, you up yet?

REPLY

Lucia!

How did you get my Knock Knock ID

Lucia! How did you get my Knock Knock ID?

Everyone at Spook Shack has your Knock Knock, how could I not have it~ Manato said he could message you, but I beat him to it~

We're all set and waiting for you at the Suibian Temple entrance!

Talk to Lucia

Lucia sent a message saying everyone's waiting at the entrance of Suibian Temple. Let's go meet them.

(Interact with Lucia)

Lucia: You're here!

Did you get Yidhari's breakfast?

Lucia: Not only do we have snacks from Yum Cha Sin, but we also have another little surprise. When we talked about our favorite foods before, Yidhari said she loves cold desserts. She'd even have ice cream first thing in the morning as breakfast!

I see...

That's Strawberry Parfait for ya!

Lucia: I found this thing called "shaved ice" in Sailume Bay and tried it — it's delicious! So I bought one for her. It's fine even if it melts! She loves sweet icy drinks anyway~

Komano Manato: How about you, (‍Wise / Belle‍)? Got the Lumin-Boxes ready?

All set, let's roll!

Hang on...

Lucia: Anything else? Better make it quick, shaved ice waits for no one~
(Exits dialogue)

(Interact with Lucia again, after asking her to wait): Lucia: How's it going? Ready to head out?; Let's go!; Wait a while longer...

Other Languages

Language	Official Name
English	Slumbering Mystery
Chinese (Simplified)	沉睡的谜团
Chinese (Traditional)	沉睡的謎團
Japanese	眠りし謎
Korean	잠들어 있는 수수께끼 Jamdeureo Inneun Susukkekki
Spanish	El enigma dormido
French	Mystère endormi
Russian	Спящие тайны Spyashchiye tayny
Thai	ปริศนาที่หลับใหล
Vietnamese	Bí Ẩn Trong Giấc Ngủ
German	Schlummerndes Rätsel
Indonesian	Misteri Tidur
Portuguese	O Mistério Adormecido