Tales of the Dreamless (III)

While wandering around Failume Heights, you run into Yidhari.
Now this is a rare visitor...

Yidhari: Lucia said she had something super amazing to tell us tonight, so she asked us all to meet her at Mystic Wares.

Yidhari: But before she could say a word after rushing here, she got some message... from someone called Kieran? And just left right away.

Yidhari: Yuzuha and the others were also completely confused... but since their families were waiting, they headed back home. Though I think you might know what's really going on?

I do.

What else did she say?

Yidhari: If you know about it, then I can rest easy.

Yidhari: Lucia says she and Chestnut are waiting for you and wants you to meet them at this spot.

Yidhari hand over a page with notes, clearly hastily written and torn from Lucia's notebook.

I'm on it.

Let me tidy up real quick, I'll be right there.

Yidhari: Let's wait until you get back, then you can tell me what really happened.

Yidhari: Whatever she ditched us for had better be worth it, or else... she's going to have to treat us to Yum Cha Sin at the very least.

...You sound kinda like Yuzuha when you said that.

...Yuzuha was the one who said that, wasn't she?

Yidhari: I can't hide anything from you. We'll wait outside the Hollow for you to bring Lucia back.

Yidhari: But... who is "Chestnut"?

 Meet up with Lucia

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Looks like Lucia finally found clues to figure out what happened before.
Let's meet up with her at the location Yidhari mentioned.

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(Talk to Lucia in the Hollow)

Lucia: Look, our little guide is in position~

Chestnut: Woof woof!

Lucia: You're so smart!

No matter how many times I look at it...

This whole thing feels so weird.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍)? What are you muttering about?

Lucia: We're deep in Lemnian Hollow now — even I've never been here before.
If that investigator really is hiding here, plotting something, I wonder how Kieran managed to track him down...

Lucia: Never mind that for now. The terrain around here is pretty tricky, so stick close to me — and our guide, Chestnut!

Chestnut: *whimper*!

Chestnut seems particularly excited. Seems like she was pretty happy with that Hollow adventure last time...

 Find the investigator's trail

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As expected, it's connected to that investigator you saved! Let's look around for any tracks he might've left behind.

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(Ongoing)

Lucia: Let's just follow Chestnut!

Lucia: Whether it's the suspicious investigator we saw earlier, or...

Lucia: Chestnut should remember their scent.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Are you training Chestnut to be a rescue dog...?Are you training Chestnut to be a rescue dog...?Text for Wise / She has the makings of a rescue dog... You should totally train her!She has the makings of a rescue dog... You should totally train her!Text for Belle‍)

(Interact with the Scattered Documents)

Chestnut left a claw mark here, next to some scattered documents.

Lucia: Not bad, Chestnut's markings really help!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍(...Anyone who can spot those claw marks probably wouldn't miss these documents either... Is Lucia... er, doing positive reinforcement dog training?)(...Anyone who can spot those claw marks probably wouldn't miss these documents either... Is Lucia... er, doing positive reinforcement dog training?)Text for Wise / (To be honest, if someone can spot those claw marks, they probably wouldn't miss these documents either... Oh I get it! Lucia's trying positive reinforcement dog training!)(To be honest, if someone can spot those claw marks, they probably wouldn't miss these documents either... Oh I get it! Lucia's trying positive reinforcement dog training!)Text for Belle‍)

Lucia: Wait, what's written here... it's about Chestnut!

Documents: "...from a reliable source... a smaller than average Hati... usually active in the Timesworn Hills area..."

Documents: "...After repeated observation, it can be confirmed that the target displays affection and almost no hostility towards non-Ethereal beings. It appears that communication with the target is possible..."

Documents: "...chosen as the research subject. The capture plan is as follows..."

The document is vague, but it's almost certain that they're all about Chestnut. Heck, some parts even mention Lucia.

Lucia: Just as I thought, that person was after Chestnut from the very beginning... We need to find them quickly!

Lucia: And... what does "reliable source" mean? Could someone be feeding them information about Chestnut?!

(Interact with the Broken Phone)

A phone that was left behind in a hurry, damaged, but not "fatally."

Lucia: What the...?

It looks like that person's phone...

Should we check it out?

Lucia immediately turns the phone on... So she does know how to use electronics!

"Anonymous Message": "...Thank you for your referral. Our collaboration has been going quite well! However, allow me to bring the news of that Hati to that gentleman. I'll be seeing you next time..."

"Anonymous Message": "Oh no, even if we have the chance to meet again... you likely won't recognize me anymore. So, farewell~"

Lucia: ...What does that mean?

Looks like his partner betrayed him...

Perhaps we'll find an Ethereal...

Lucia: Huh? You mean the guy who accused us of siding with Ethereals might have already turned into an Ethereal...?

Lucia: Tsk...

Are you okay? It's not your fault...

Are you really upset?

Lucia: No, it's not that. I was just thinking... if we'd saved him in time, wouldn't it be fun to see the face of that person who was so eager to say their "final farewell"?

 Investigate the suspicious tracks

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Some tracks left by that "investigator" are scattered around the Hollow, with Chestnut eagerly leading the way.
Examine them carefully with Chestnut's help.

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(Interact with the Lost Briefcase)

Chestnut seems to have torn open a briefcase here.

The thing inside likely also belongs to the investigator.

Lucia: I'm not sure what happened, but that person... or Ethereal... must be nearby!

(A Dullahan approaches)

 Defeat the Ethereals, destroy the amplifier

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The Ethereals keep coming non-stop. We need to clear them out fast and destroy the Ether Amplifier.

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(During combat)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Well, no need to look much further. He's definitely nearby.Well, no need to look much further. He's definitely nearby.Text for Wise / Yeah... You were right, Lucia! He's close.Yeah... You were right, Lucia! He's close.Text for Belle‍)

Lucia: Sorry...

Lucia: I'll have to send you back to the Hollow...

(After defeating the Dullahan)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Ugh, I feel like there's an endless swarm of Ethereals heading this way...

Lucia: Yep, they know exactly what they're after.

Lucia: If this keeps up, we're toast. We need to take out the amplifier now!

(Interact with the Ether Amplifier)

Kieran: Well, well, well, the device is broken... Guess you'll have to pay me back for that, huh?

(He brings out a Guardian MK III)

Lucia: It's you...

Born to be Part of the Hollow

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Born to be Part of the Hollow"

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Video Summary: Regarding what talent can bring, Kieran has an ambitious vision.

Story Description: Kieran appears and reveals that the Chief's disappearance was due to his resentment over the staff being given to Lucia, while also testing "the possibility of controlling Ethereals." He urges Lucia to hand both Chestnut and the staff to him.

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Kieran: As expected from one of my own...

Kieran: So much for being close to the Ethereals... when it's time to strike, you don't even flinch, do you?

Lucia: Kieran?!

Kieran: Oh, did I surprise you?

Kieran: Honestly, I was more surprised by you and the old man.

Lucia: You mean... the chieftain?
He sleepwalked into the Hollow because of you?!

Kieran: Yeah.
I figured someone like him, sitting at the top for so long, would've caught the Night Horror's attention. But nope — he's swallowed by Lemnian Hollow just like anyone else...

Lucia: ...Why are you doing this?!

Kieran: Because he was just a coward, standing in the way.

Kieran: A few days ago, some higher-ups came looking for him. They made him an offer, but he turned it down on the spot. When I confronted him about it, he acted like he was some righteous hero and told me off like I was some kind of traitor.

Kieran: You are a hypocrite, just like him. No wonder he gave the staff to you.

Lucia: ...You call us hypocrites, but you'll do whatever it takes to get what you want, even if it means hurting others.

Kieran: Whatever it takes? Hah, after years of glorified legends, everyone forgets... the Nightwatchers' power was taken from the Ethereals to begin with.

Taken from the Ethereals...?

What do you mean...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): The Nightwatchers' power was taken from the Ethereals?! What do you mean...?

Kieran: Well, well, Lucia didn't tell you? There's another version of how the Nightwatchers came to be.

Kieran: Our ancestors didn't just encounter the Night Horror by chance. They knew what it was capable of. They knew it could control other Ethereals. The entire tribe went after it, hoping to defeat it and seize its power.

Kieran: But when the Night Horror unleashed its final surge of energy...

Kieran: Half the tribe turned into Ethereals on the spot. The rest barely survived. The only reason they were acknowledged by the Hollow was because they sacrificed their own kin.

Lucia: But that's just another ancient rumor.

Kieran: Stop lying to yourself. Do you really believe you can strike a deal with the Ethereals and not pay the price?

What does that have to do with anything?

What exactly are you trying to say?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍I don't think you're very good at explaining yourself... Even if your story is true, it has nothing to do with what's happening now.I don't think you're very good at explaining yourself... Even if your story is true, it has nothing to do with what's happening now.Text for Wise / Stop twisting the facts! Even if that story is true, it's got nothing to do with what's happening now.Stop twisting the facts! Even if that story is true, it's got nothing to do with what's happening now.Text for Belle‍)
What exactly are you trying to say?

Kieran: We've spent our lives hiding in the shadows, shaped by traits we never asked for. Just because the Ethereals don't attack us, those who live in the city see us as freaks, like we're invisible, like we don't matter.

Kieran: When disaster hits, whether it's in the city or in the Hollows... we're always, always the ones they abandon first.

Kieran: Back when New Eridu was founded, Public Security declared "all survivors have been safely relocated to New Eridu."

Kieran: And us? We were still running for our lives, caught between Companion Hollows, stumbling over the bodies of our own kin, crying as we counted who didn't make it... Tell me, did anyone come for us?

Kieran: Lucia... don't you wanna change our lives for the better?

Lucia: Even if we were to leave all this behind, it shouldn't come at the cost of our people's lives.

Kieran: Who are you waiting for to come and "uphold justice"?

Kieran: Being seen as kin by the Ethereals, walking freely through the Hollows — this is the Night Horror's blessing. We should use this gift to earn power, to gain recognition... Isn't that what we deserve?

Kieran: If it means a better future for everyone, then what do a few sacrifices matter?

Lucia: But the price you're paying for that future... is it really your so-called gift? Or is it the lives of your own kin?

Lucia: What is it you really want? A place for our tribe to survive? A stamp of approval from New Eridu? Or something else...?

Kieran: Those "sacrifices" were just inevitable casualties. It's nothing compared to what we gave up when we first fought the Night Horror.

Kieran: Besides, after the early trials, I've finally found better test subjects, and stronger allies to back me. Everything's going smoothly now.

Lucia: Better test subjects? Are you talking about me?

Kieran: Hahahaha! Lucia, you're so full of yourself... Though I, too, used to think you were some kind of prodigy, summoning Ethereals out of thin air.

Kieran: But now? You're just a coward with a fancy stick. Putting on cheap tricks, hiding behind "research" while running away from your fate!

Kieran: I couldn't care less whether you live or die.

Lucia: What is it you're after? Chestnut? Or the staff?

Kieran: Obviously, both.

Lucia: That staff was entrusted to me by the chieftain... After everything you've done, you still have the nerve to ask for it?
And Chestnut — Chestnut is my friend. She is a free Ethereal... I will not let you take her away!

Kieran: Oh, save the speech. I've heard it all before — the Night Horror's watching over the conflicts, gifts from your dreams...

Kieran: But you've never even dreamed of the Night Horror. You are just making up stories to hide the fact that it never chose you.

Kieran: The only reason you stumbled upon this rare Hati first^{[Note 1]} was because I slipped up. And I'm here to fix that. It's time things go back on track now.

Lucia: You treat our people with even less care and compassion than Nineveh does the Hornets.

Lucia: I don't believe a word you say. And I won't let you hurt anyone else just to feed your ambition!

Kieran: You didn't really think that half-finished prototype you destroyed earlier was my only backup plan, did you?

Kieran: Not everyone can stand to see the Nightwatchers' rare gift go to waste. My ally supports my research, generously. They've even thrown in a little extra firepower.

Kieran: So, hand them over. Your magic stick, the gullible little Ethereal you tricked, and you — my new test subject.

Kieran: If you surrender now, maybe I'll even spare you from getting torn up too badly before I put you to use~

 Defeat Kieran's helper

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So Kieran was behind all of this.
To protect Chestnut and the staff, we'll have to defeat the big guy he brought along first.

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(Defeat the Guardian MK III)

Echoes of the Hollow

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Echoes of the Hollow"

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Video Summary: Lucia never expected that there would actually be an echo from the Hollow.

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(A cinematic plays)

Lucia: Chestnut, watch out!

(The mech blasts Lucia and Chestnut to the ground)

Kieran: So, looks like the staff didn't make you stronger

Kieran: Why don't you give it back to me?

Kieran: I won't allow you...

Kieran: To disgrace the relic of my ancestors!

(Chestnut retrieves the staff for Lucia)

Lucia: Chestnut...

Lucia: I will never give the staff to you!

Lucia: Instead of using it to hurt people—

Lucia: Or treating it as a bargaining chip

Lucia: I would rather...

Lucia: Use it to make new friends in the Hollows!

(She summons a pack of Hatis from her notebook)

Lucia: Go! Little Hatis—

Kieran: What...

(They tear the Guardian apart)

Kieran: They aren't illusions... They're real Ethereals?!

Kieran: You... You're a monster...

Lucia: See? The Hollow... has answered my call

(Cinematic ends)

Dreams Finally Projected

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Dreams Finally Projected"

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Video Summary: So that's what the dream means... Not confrontation, but reluctance to let go.

Story Description: Although Lucia and Chestnut thwart Kieran's plot together, his allies have already set their sights on the friendly Ethereal. To protect Chestnut, Lucia has no choice but to send her away.

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Kieran: ...You freak.

Lucia: Maybe. But if you were really blessed by the Night Horror, how'd you end up being defeated by a freak and a little Hati?

Kieran: Hmph, I underestimated you.

Lucia: No. What you underestimated was what you kept talking about, the "gift."

Lucia: You always saw our abilities in the Hollow as some kind of superior gift. And you see the city people as enemies who abandoned us.

Lucia: And when it came down to it, you forgot that we've been acknowledged by the Hollow, and chose their machine instead.

Kieran: I was only borrowing their power...

Lucia: Most people see Ethereals as enemies. But when you try to exploit their power and get burned by your own betrayal... it's hard to play the victim then, isn't it?

Lucia: When you spoke so passionately about our tribe's place in the world... I thought you understood that.

Kieran: ...Are you defending the Ethereals now?

That is a wild take.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍That's... not what she said at all. And as far as I've seen, Lucia never stood by when Ethereals were hurting people.That's... not what she said at all. And as far as I've seen, Lucia never stood by when Ethereals were hurting people.Text for Wise / Whoa... that is a wild take. And for the record, Lucia never stood by when Ethereals were hurting people!Whoa... that is a wild take. And for the record, Lucia never stood by when Ethereals were hurting people!Text for Belle‍)

That's not what she said at all.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍That is... not what she said at all. Also, as far as I know, Lucia's never stood by while Ethereals were hurting people.That is... not what she said at all. Also, as far as I know, Lucia's never stood by while Ethereals were hurting people.Text for Wise / Wow... that's not what she said at all. Also, Lucia's never stood by while Ethereals were hurting people!Wow... that's not what she said at all. Also, Lucia's never stood by while Ethereals were hurting people!Text for Belle‍)

Lucia: You see the Nightwatchers' power as leverage or a weapon for revenge. I see it as a way to understand the world.

Lucia: I want to learn about Ethereals because the Hollow is their "home"... They're born there, they exist there, and they return there. I wanna learn from them.

Kieran: ...Not because you also want to find the Night Horror?

Lucia: That's only part of it.

Lucia: I want to find it, to speak with it. To try and fix the situation we're in. But that doesn't mean I'll stop trying to understand the other Ethereals along the way.

Chestnut lets out an annoyed sneeze from the side.

What about Chestnut?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍I think Chestnut has something to say about this... Huh, there's still a lot we haven't figured out about her.I think Chestnut has something to say about this... Huh, there's still a lot we haven't figured out about her.Text for Wise / Wait. What about Chestnut? There's still so much we haven't figured out about her!Wait. What about Chestnut? There's still so much we haven't figured out about her!Text for Belle‍)

Chestnut doesn't seem too happy about that...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Lucia... Chestnut doesn't look too happy about you shifting your research focus to other Ethereals before fully understanding her.

Lucia: Chestnut... I might never be able to fully understand you.
This is probably goodbye for us...

The sneezing stops abruptly, replaced by soft, eager whimpering...

Lucia: You never said who your ally was, but I'm guessing they already know about Chestnut, don't they?

Kieran: That's right.

Kieran: I won't lie. I did promise my ally I'd bring back an Ethereal that could talk to humans. He's very interested.

Kieran: So, make your choice, Lucia...

Kieran: Stay with her, wait for them to find her, and watch as she's dissected, destroyed... or let her go deeper into the Hollow and never see her again.

Lucia: No need for threats. I know what you mean.

Lucia: People like us — strange, sometimes invisible to others — if we don't live among our own, it's nearly impossible to find someone else who's just as special, a real friend.

Lucia: Thankfully I met my friends... Friends with genuine kindness, some patience, and a little passion.

That sounds familiar...

Didn't Cairn say something like that?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Sounds familiar... Who said that again...?
(‍Wait, wasn'tWait, wasn'tText for Wise / Wait! Wasn'tWait! Wasn'tText for Belle‍) that what Cairn said... the way to get puppies to like (‍you?you?Text for Wise / you?!you?!Text for Belle‍)

Kieran: Friends...

Kieran: You mean the kind of friend who sends two messages in the morning when they wake up, then leaves you on read all day until finally replying right before bed?

(‍...Am I invisible to you?...Am I invisible to you?Text for Wise / Hey, I'm right here!Hey, I'm right here!Text for Belle‍)

(‍...I'm Lucia's friend, too....I'm Lucia's friend, too.Text for Wise / I'm her friend and I'm right here!I'm her friend and I'm right here!Text for Belle‍)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Excuse me, mister noble and talented Nightwatcher...
Unless you're night-blind, you should be able to see me standing right here. I'm Lucia's friend, in case you missed it.Excuse me, mister noble and talented Nightwatcher...
Unless you're night-blind, you should be able to see me standing right here. I'm Lucia's friend, in case you missed it.Text for Wise / Hey... Are you night-blind or just stuck in your own little bubble?
I'm Lucia's friend and I'm standing right here. I stayed up way past my bedtime to be here, don't act like I'm invisible!Hey... Are you night-blind or just stuck in your own little bubble?
I'm Lucia's friend and I'm standing right here. I stayed up way past my bedtime to be here, don't act like I'm invisible!Text for Belle‍)

Lucia: See?

Lucia: Staying close doesn't mean you have to talk to each other all the time. We live in different moments, but that doesn't keep me and my friends apart.

Lucia: Now... before I say my proper goodbye to one of my best friends, Chestnut, and hand you over to Public Security, I've got one last question.

Lucia: That Ether Amplifier of yours... what are its side effects?

Kieran: What?

Lucia: Right before I summoned the brave little Hatis, I felt a strange power surge through me.

Lucia: In this area, only that amplifier could've caused something like that. But... what's the price?

Kieran: ...You think that machine summoned those Hatis?

Kieran: It's impossible. You've destroyed that thing completely. And, as your tribesman, I didn't feel anything unusual.

Kieran: Maybe it's time you face it — you're just something that can't be explained. You're a...

There's no need to keep repeating that word.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍I understand you're desperate and not thinking clearly, but there's no need to keep repeating that word.I understand you're desperate and not thinking clearly, but there's no need to keep repeating that word.Text for Wise / Look, I understand that you're out of options and brain cells, but can we please stop with that word already?Look, I understand that you're out of options and brain cells, but can we please stop with that word already?Text for Belle‍)

...Is that the only word you know?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Wait, ifWait, ifText for Wise / ...Wait! If...Wait! IfText for Belle‍) that word is all you've got left, then maybe just stop talking...

Lucia: Freak!

Lucia: ...Okay, okay. I'm sorry!

Lucia: It's like something only angsty teenagers would say. Hear it one too many times an it feels like getting brushed by Sordidus's tentacles... Ugh!

Lucia: Anyway, I'm taking you to Public Security. Our tribe isn't some lawless land.

Lucia: Now... it's time to say goodbye.

Reluctantly, Chestnut turns to face Lucia.

Time to Say Goodbye

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Moment of Farewell"

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Video Summary: It begins to gaze once more—at the "Nightwatchers" to whom it granted strange powers.

Story Description: Lucia and Chestnut bid each other a reluctant farewell.

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Chestnut is exhausted from the battle.
But somehow, she's made her way back to the small pillow Lucia gave her.

They lock eyes — both alive, both relieved, and neither ready to say goodbye.

Chestnut: Whiine~

Lucia: He's right. You'll be freer and safer if you stay away from me.

Lucia: Head for the deepest part of the Hollow... as far as you can go.

Lucia: Be wary of humans the way they're wary of you — but don't hurt them.

Lucia: If we're lucky, maybe we'll meet again...

Chestnut: Woof! Woof—!

Lucia: Good girl, Chestnut! Go on...

Lucia: I...

Lucia: I will never forget you.

Lucia watches as the little Ethereal trots off with the pillow in its mouth.
That gentle, puppy-like Hati feels like a dream, as if it never existed in this time and space at all.

Lucia: ...I already miss you.

But deep within the Hollow, a strange creation awakens once more.
After an adventure that defies all instincts and the natural order, it returns to its body.

This was a fruitful journey, returning with a name and gift given by a new friend.

Now, it returns to watching...
The Nightwatchers who gained powers from it.

(At Suibian Temple)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Lucia said she needs to deal with Kieran first and will be back in a bit.)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (So (‍tiredtiredText for Wise / sleepysleepyText for Belle‍)... let's take a break.)

So much has happened...
Wonder how Chestnut is doing, will you ever see her again...?

...

After taking a short break, you are woken up by your phone's notification sound. Sure enough, it is a message from Lucia.

 Talk with Lucia about everything

---

Things have settled down for now. Let's have a talk with Lucia.

Failume Heights

(Talk to Lucia by the "Cyclical Destiny" statue)

Lucia: (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍), you're finally here!

Are you all done?

End of the Ghost Story

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "End of the Ghost Story"

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Video Summary: Encouraged by the Hollow echoes, she continues to dream of conversations with the Night Horror.

Story Description: Lucia worries whether Kieran's allies will continue to disturb the Nightwatchers, but when she talks about "summoning" a group of little Hatis to defeat Kieran, she starts daydreaming about talking with the Night Horror.

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Lucia: I borrowed a vacant house from Manato so Kieran could stay there. The chieftain said someone will come pick him up, an officer who's familiar with our tribe's affairs.

Lucia: That investigator who turned into an Ethereal wasn't exactly a good person, but Kieran still has to take responsibility.

I guess that's a wrap for now.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Well,Well,Text for Wise / Great!Great!Text for Belle‍) I'm glad things have settled down.
But I can't help thinking... isn't there still something we haven't figured out?

Lucia: Yeah. We still don't know anything about Kieran's ally. There might still be someone out there waiting to take advantage of the Nightwatchers.

I'm glad things have settled down.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): With this settled, you can get back to (‍researching Ethereals.researching Ethereals.Text for Wise / your Ethereal research!your Ethereal research!Text for Belle‍)

Lucia: But... the ally Kieran mentioned still hasn't surfaced. Someone might still be out there waiting to take advantage of the Nightwatchers.

Lucia: ...It's unsettling.

That's not like you, Lucia.

But your research still goes on, right?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Unsettling? That doesn't sound like you, Lucia. But either way, you're going to keep up (‍withwithText for Belle‍) your research, right?

Lucia: Of course! Even if I won't be seeing Chestnut as often anymore...

Lucia: And I can't upload our videos or tell the world there's an Ethereal in the Hollow who can actually communicate with humans...

Lucia: Chestnut gave me the courage to keep going. I've made some real progress this time!

You mean the staff, right?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Progress... Oh, you mean the staff, right? (‍The way it let you summon a real Ethereal... that's definitely worth studying.The way it let you summon a real Ethereal... that's definitely worth studying.Text for Wise / It really came through this time!It really came through this time!Text for Belle‍)

You mean the Hollow, right?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Progress... Oh, you mean the Hollow, right? (‍The way those Hatis appeared, it really felt like it actually responded to you.The way those Hatis appeared, it really felt like it actually responded to you.Text for Wise / I can't believe it actually responded to you!I can't believe it actually responded to you!Text for Belle‍)

Lucia: Yeah!

Lucia: You see... I don't know how it happened, but just now, through the staff, it felt like the Hollow responded to me!

Lucia: The Hollow said, "Let there be little Hatis to help Lucia." And boom, they appeared! And helped me take down that big guy!

Lucia: All in all, I think it's something very, very memorable...

Lucia: And it's got tons of research potential!

Lucia: You see, if the Hollow really let me communicate with little Hatis... then maybe, I could talk to the Night Horror, too?

Maybe...?

What would you ask?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): If you really could talk to the Night Horror... what would you ask?

Lucia: Hmm... if I ever got the chance, I'd ask:

Lucia: Why did it give the Nightwatchers the trait that makes Ethereals see us as kin? Can our dreams stop leading us to madness, and turning us into Ethereals?

Lucia: But I want more than asking questions. I have bigger ambitions!

Lucia: Maybe someday, everyone could hear the Hollow respond, just like the first Nightwatchers did. Maybe we could even communicate with it... so we won't have to live like nomads?

That answer's a long way off.

But I think if anyone can reach it, it's you, Lucia!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍ThatThatText for Wise / Wow, thatWow, thatText for Belle‍) answer's a long way off. But I think if anyone can reach it, it's you, (‍Lucia.Lucia.Text for Wise / Lucia!Lucia!Text for Belle‍)

Lucia: Yeah! There's still so much left to learn...

Lucia: Time for a break... and then the journey continues!

To deal with Kieran, Lucia had to return to the Nightwatcher tribe, and hadn't been in touch for several days.
...After going to bed early for a few days straight, you're actually starting to miss the feeling of staying up late.

A few days later, at Suibian Temple late at night...

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Wise! Ever since coming to Yunkui Summit, with Shifu making us go to bed early, wake up early, and exercise regularly... I haven't seen such obvious dark circles under your eyes in sooo long!Wise! Ever since coming to Yunkui Summit, with Shifu making us go to bed early, wake up early, and exercise regularly... I haven't seen such obvious dark circles under your eyes in sooo long! Tooltip for Wise! Ever since coming to Yunkui Summit, with Shifu making us go to bed early, wake up early, and exercise regularly... I haven't seen such obvious dark circles under your eyes in sooo long!ⓘText for Wise / Belle? Ever since you came to Yunkui Summit and started following the same strict routine as our senior disciples, I haven't seen you stay up this late for so many nights.Belle? Ever since you came to Yunkui Summit and started following the same strict routine as our senior disciples, I haven't seen you stay up this late for so many nights.Text for Belle‍)

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Don't tell me... (‍you're planning to make us Nightwatchers too, so you're getting some practice in?!you're planning to make us Nightwatchers too, so you're getting some practice in?!Text for Wise / you and Lucia made plans to become Nightwatchers together?you and Lucia made plans to become Nightwatchers together?Text for Belle‍)

(‍What are you talking about?What are you talking about?Text for Wise / Wise, your jokes are so lame.Wise, your jokes are so lame.Text for Belle‍)

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Hehe, just kidding~Hehe, just kidding~Text for Wise / ...Tch, really?...Tch, really?Text for Belle‍)

(‍Then let's go now!Then let's go now!Text for Wise / Yup, let's head out now.Yup, let's head out now.Text for Belle‍)

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍No way, no way! If we go to the Outer Ring, we won't get to have Yum Cha Sin and noodles anymore!No way, no way! If we go to the Outer Ring, we won't get to have Yum Cha Sin and noodles anymore! Tooltip for No way, no way! If we go to the Outer Ring, we won't get to have Yum Cha Sin and noodles anymore!ⓘText for Wise / ...I don't believe Belle would go anywhere she can't get Yum Cha Sin and noodles....I don't believe Belle would go anywhere she can't get Yum Cha Sin and noodles.Text for Belle‍)

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Oh right, Manato's waiting for you in the outer courtyard! Better get going!Oh right, Manato's waiting for you in the outer courtyard! Better get going!Text for Wise / Oh right, Manato seems to be waiting for you in the outer courtyard. Go take a look.Oh right, Manato seems to be waiting for you in the outer courtyard. Go take a look.Text for Belle‍)

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Come back soon and tell me all about what happened these past few days~Come back soon and tell me all about what happened these past few days~Text for Wise / When you get back, we'll talk about what's been happening lately... and make sure you get to bed early tonight!When you get back, we'll talk about what's been happening lately... and make sure you get to bed early tonight!Text for Belle‍)

 Chat with Manato at the door

---

Lucia's gloomy mood has the Spook Shack crew worried.
Manato seems to have been sent as their "representative" to check on her. Let's go see what's up.

Suibian Temple

(Talk to Manato)

Komano Manato: Proxy, Lucia seems down lately. Yuzuha and the others think you might know what's up.

Komano Manato: Actually, we've seen her posts... Is she still sad about parting ways with that Ethereal puppy?

It's possible.

Where's Lucia?

Komano Manato: I just saw her at Fluffy. Let's go over now?

 Let's see what Lucia and Cairn are talking about

---

Followed Manato to Fluffy's entrance.
Lucia and Cairn seem to be talking about something. Let's get closer and listen in.

Failume Heights

(Ongoing)

Komano Manato: Although Lucia's always going on and on like, "We gotta be friends with Ethereals," we can never quite follow her train of thought...

Komano Manato: But as her "human friends," everyone really likes her.

Komano Manato: Plus she's always so cheerful... So what's been weighing on her lately?

(Talk to Lucia and Cairn)

Ethereal Adventures Is a Huge Hit!

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Ethereal Adventures Is a Huge Hit!"

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Video Summary: "When will Chestnut dive through the fissure into Hollow Zero, punch the Hornets, kick Nineveh, and reach the peak of Ethereal life?"

Story Description: Lucia wrote down her imagined adventure story about Chestnut, which became quite popular. Additionally, after talking with the chief, who managed to escape danger, she begins pondering "what exactly is the Night Horror?"

---

---

Cairn: Oh, M—Miss, I remember you! Would you mind if I asked a few quick follow-up questions?

Lucia: Oh... You mean the sturdy little pillow I bought here?

Cairn: Yes!

Lucia: Sure, go ahead. What do you want to know?

Cairn: Heh... Th—Thank you so much! So... did your puppy like it?

Lucia: Yeah, she loved it!

Cairn: I'm glad to hear it! Next question is... how's the wear and tear?

Lucia: Hmm... Pretty worn out now...

Cairn: Oh no, I'm so sorry...! We'll keep improving the pillow's material!

Cairn: But... the material's already been reported as too hard by a lot of customers... If we make it any sturdier, I'm worried some smaller pups might hurt their teeth chewing on it...

Lucia: Chestnut is... well, a big girl! For most dogs, the material is already strong enough, I think.

Cairn: Alright... Noted!

Cairn: And one last question — has your pup shown any discomfort from the scent of the stuffing?^{[Note 2]}

Lucia: Not at all~ She's quite a strong pup! Loves running around with that little pillow in her mouth.

Cairn: Wonderful... Thank you for shopping with us! We appreciate the feedback!

Komano Manato: Lucia? Are you done talking?

Cairn falls silent, staring at the tall, slightly intimidating canine Thiren standing before her.

Komano Manato: Huh? What's with that look... What were you guys talking about just now?

After a whirlwind of explanations, you finally convince Cairn the toy wasn't meant for Manato.
Cairn apologizes six times for the misunderstanding, then brings out the store's most popular dog treats and insists Lucia take them.

Komano Manato: ...Next time, don't call Hatis "puppies."

Lucia: Hahahahahahaha... Alright!

Komano Manato: Canine Thirens aren't puppies either!

Right!

Huge difference among the three of them!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Of course. Whether it's a fierce canine Thiren or a bulky Hati, neither is your average little pup.
Pfft... sorry, I didn't mean to laugh out loud.Of course. Whether it's a fierce canine Thiren or a bulky Hati, neither is your average little pup.
Pfft... sorry, I didn't mean to laugh out loud.Text for Wise / Yup! Fierce canine Thiren or bulky Hati, either way, not your average little pup! *giggle*Yup! Fierce canine Thiren or bulky Hati, either way, not your average little pup! *giggle*Text for Belle‍)

Manato glares helplessly at his friends.

Lucia: Alright, alright. Back on topic!

Congrats!

Your post is blowing up!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Congrats, Lucia. Your latest post is getting a lot of attention.
If Manato hadn't told me, I'd have thought everyone suddenly wanted to discuss why Trinox have such pointy heads.Congrats, Lucia. Your latest post is getting a lot of attention.
If Manato hadn't told me, I'd have thought everyone suddenly wanted to discuss why Trinox have such pointy heads. Tooltip for Congrats, Lucia. Your latest post is getting a lot of attention.
If Manato hadn't told me, I'd have thought everyone suddenly wanted to discuss why Trinox have such pointy heads.ⓘText for Wise / Congrats, Lucia! Your post is blowing up!
At first, I thought it was because everyone was suddenly interested in debating why Trinox have such pointy heads.Congrats, Lucia! Your post is blowing up!
At first, I thought it was because everyone was suddenly interested in debating why Trinox have such pointy heads.Text for Belle‍)

Lucia: Ugh, don't mention it...

Lucia: I put so much effort into my serious, well thought-out research posts. But everyone just wants Chestnut's adventure stories...

Lucia: Some even asked when Chestnut will dive through the fissure into Hollow Zero, punch the Hornets, kick Nineveh, and reach the peak of Ethereal life...

Komano Manato: Lucia, we all know you miss Chestnut, but...

Lucia: But a Hati's front legs are built more like a real canine's, not a cat's — I mean, they can't punch Hornets! And its back legs can't really...

Komano Manato: Wait... this is what you've been stressing over?

Lucia: Well... not exactly.

Lucia: Actually, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍), there's something else I wanted to talk to you about.

Lucia: Things are mostly settled now. Kieran's been turned over to Public Security.

Lucia: But when I asked the chieftain, even he had no clue why I was able to summon an actual Hati using just the staff and a notebook.

Lucia: If it wasn't just the staff, then maybe the little Hatis appeared because the Night Horror was watching me again? Or... was it because of Chestnut?

Lucia: Do you think the Night Horror might not be an Ethereal at all?

Not an Ethereal...?

Then what could it be?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Hmm... I trust your judgment! But aside from Ethereals, the only other beings we've seen born from the Hollow are... (‍SacrificesSacrifices Tooltip for SacrificesⓘText for Wise / the Sacrificesthe SacrificesText for Belle‍), right? The Night Horror doesn't seem like one of them.
Then what could it (‍be...be...Text for Wise / be...?be...?Text for Belle‍)

Lucia: It gave the Nightwatchers the traits that make Ethereals mistake us for kin. It can enter our dreams and lead us into the Hollows... It even foreshadowed my farewell with Chestnut. It has to be something far more mysterious, some deeper creation of the Hollow itself.

Lucia: But I still know far too little about the Hollows... Like you said, the answers might be a long way off.

Lucia: At least I can restart the research I put on hold...

Lucia: So — who's coming with me into the Hollow to see if an Avarus actually bonks its horn when it rolls over?

(‍You gotta sleep early today no matter what...You gotta sleep early today no matter what...Text for Wise / You already promised Wise you'd sleep early today...You already promised Wise you'd sleep early today...Text for Belle‍) Let's leave such night outings for next time!
Lucia isn't disappointed. She happily waves to you and leaves, scribbling away on her little book.

In the night sky of the unknown and on this dreamless journey, there are plenty more truths regarding the Hollows...
Waiting to be discovered by this Thiren girl full of curiosity.