The Winner's Rules

The Art of Hospitality

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "The Art of Hospitality"

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Video Summary: What an unpleasant way to treat guests.

Story Description: You meet Major General Lorenz at his invitation. He shows high guard and hospitality during the meeting, and claims to restrict (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍)'s personal freedom.

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"Sir, your guests have arrived."

Major General Lorenz: Colonel Isolde, I heard that, uhh... Obol Squad has already obtained the coordinates of the Exaltist headquarters?

Isolde: That's correct, sir. The recon operation was a success. However, we also discovered something unexpected... There are numerous Ether reactors installed around Waifei Peninsula, known as Obscura, which may pose a significant threat.

Major General Lorenz: You can handle the specifics with your squad. You know I've always counted on you — just make sure I get results.

Isolde: Yes, sir.

Major General Lorenz: Among all the mediocrity in the Obsidian Division, Isolde, you're the one who truly stands out. I'm really glad I found you back then.

Major General Lorenz: Someone like you shouldn't be stuck on the front lines... I'm pragmatic, but I always make sure my subordinates are treated fairly.

Major General Lorenz: This is a big opportunity, but I went to great lengths to get troops into Waifei Peninsula. So this mission is one we cannot afford to fail.

Isolde: Yes, sir.

Major General Lorenz: Ah... I seem to have forgotten about our guest. Isolde, the person beside you...

Isolde: This is the officially-appointed Hollow Technical Advisor and the mayor's Special Envoy for Military Operation, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍).

Major General Lorenz: Welcome to Waifei Peninsula, Ambassador (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍).

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I've been in Waifei Peninsula for a while now. Honestly, it's more appropriate for me and Suibian Temple to be the ones welcoming the Defense Force.

Major General Lorenz: Suibian Temple...? Ah... Yunkui Summit.

Major General Lorenz: Pardon my memory, I nearly forgot our guest works directly under Mayor Mayflower.

Major General Lorenz: Mind filling me in, Colonel Isolde? Why is one of the Mayor's personal agents, an infamous Proxy, getting involved in Defense Force business?

Isolde: (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍) was appointed by the city as a technical advisor and envoy for Mayor Mayflower, Sir. (‍He'sHe'sText for Wise / She'sShe'sText for Belle‍) here to assist and oversee the Defense Force's operation.

Major General Lorenz: Assist, huh...? If the High Preceptor of Yunkui Summit had shown up in person, perhaps I'd consider that worthy.

Major General Lorenz: And as for the "supervision"... Since when does Mayflower get a say in when Obsidian Division pulls the trigger?

Isolde: Sir, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍) is only here to assist Obol squad. This has nothing to do with the main force's operations or command.

Isolde: All part of the agreement to keep the city council from meddling with our military affairs in Waifei Peninsula. Which, I imagine, suits you just fine?

Major General Lorenz: Of course, your arrangements are always right on point, Colonel. This whole operation is running smoothly thanks to you.

Major General Lorenz: Well then, since you're the Hollow expert sent personally by the Mayor, it's only right that I give you a proper welcome.

Major General Lorenz: Unfortunately, military secrecy is of utmost importance, so I'm afraid I can't escort (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍) to the more refined venues in the city for a proper celebration, at least for now.

Major General Lorenz: Colonel Isolde, until this operation is over, all of (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍)'s external communications and movements beyond Failume Heights must be temporarily restricted.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): That's a very unique way to treat a guest...

Isolde: Major General... The Mayor and Yunkui Summit might not be too happy about that...

Major General Lorenz: That's an order, Colonel.

Isolde: Yes, sir.

Major General Lorenz: The people from Porcelumex are still waiting for me in Failume Heights. Something about a "banquet to welcome the Defense Force to Waifei Peninsula." Typical corporate parasites... Always know how to adapt and survive.

Major General Lorenz: I'm afraid I won't be able to personally entertain our guest, Isolde...

Isolde: ...Let's go, (‍MisterMisterText for Wise / MadamMadamText for Belle‍) Ambassador.

The truth behind it?

 Attempt to return to Suibian Temple

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When even leaving and speaking to outsiders is restricted, it feels like I'm a prisoner. Still, if I'm just heading down to Suibian Temple for a breather, they probably wouldn't stop me, right?

Seagaze Road

(Idle, near the Business Car)

Orphie: Our plan for the next mission...

Isolde: The initial recon is complete. Next up is...

(Idle)

Seed: The Proxy's been captured~

Trigger: You seem to be in a pretty good mood?

Soldier 11: Don't make fun of your comrades!

(Talk to Seed, optional)

Seed: The Proxy's been nabbed by the Major General!

Trigger: Then why do you look so happy, Seed?

Soldier 11: Don't make fun of your comrade's suffering, Seed!

Seed: That Major General guy's a real pain, huh? So if the Proxy doesn't get along with him, that must mean they're alright!

Trigger: It sounds silly, but also somehow makes sense?

I can hear you.

I heard all of that~

Seed: Aaaah! You're also the type to eavesdrop on people!

Trigger: I've been aware of your presence for a while now, Proxy... and for the record, I wasn't talking behind your back!

Seed: Proxy, Proxy~ The ever-so-lovable Proxy~ Always listening in with those keen ears~

(Approach the cable car)

Stern-Faced Soldier: Sorry, orders from above — you're not allowed to leave!

Argue with facts and logic

Threaten in a harsh and intimidating tone

Stern-Faced Soldier: I don't know who you are, but there's no argument to be had, orders are orders...

Argue with facts and reason again

Threaten again in a harsh and intimidating tone

The argument draws the attention of several nearby soldiers...

Trigger: (‍Are you okay, Wise?Are you okay, Wise?Text for Wise / You okay there, Belle?You okay there, Belle?Text for Belle‍)

Trigger: Comrade, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍) is a special envoy sent by the Mayor. Show some respect!

Seed: The mighty (‍Mr. WiseMr. WiseText for Wise / Miss BelleMiss BelleText for Belle‍) got taken down a notch~!

Stern-Faced Soldier: I'm just following orders.

Soldier 11: Following orders is a soldier's duty — I understand where this soldier is coming from.

Soldier 11: I hope you understand, Crimson Gloom.

Storm off in defeat

Withdraw with head held high

 Check in with Isolde and Magus for an update

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Restrictions on going out and contacting the outside world? I might as well be a prisoner... Let me check on the situation with Isolde and Magus.

Seagaze Road

(Idle)

Soldier: I have my orders, so please don't make this difficult...

(Talk to Isolde and Orphie)

The Proxy Is Strong

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "The Proxy Is Strong"

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Video Summary: What an unpleasant way to treat guests.

Story Description: You make it through Lorenz's interrogation unscathed. Magus promises to take good care of (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍).

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Orphie: Captain! Proxy made it through the interrogation unscathed!

Magus: No significant change in pulse, and your face isn't too pale... looks like you passed the test!

Magus: You look so frail, Proxy. Who would've thought you had the makings of a soldier tough enough to endure enemy torture!

So you're really that eager to see me tortured?

I'm a pro. I couldn't be caught.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Sigh... since you already see me as a villain, it's only natural I've learned how to avoid torture, right?Sigh... since you already see me as a villain, it's only natural I've learned how to avoid torture, right?Text for Wise / Hah... With you already calling me the villian, I figured I'd better get good at dodging torture.Hah... With you already calling me the villian, I figured I'd better get good at dodging torture.Text for Belle‍)

Isolde: Ahem...

Isolde: The Major General may be tough to deal with, but interrogating the Mayor's envoy? That kind of thing doesn't happen in the Obsidian Division...

Isolde explains the Major General's orders to everyone...

Orphie: Temporarily "restricting" the Proxy's movements and communications... What does that mean?

Magus: It means we've got your precious Phaethon locked away — no way out, and no texting or calling family.

Trigger: That's just... so...

Orphie: That's terrible!

That's terrible!

Trigger, were you about to say it's good?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): What a shame... I never thought the Legendary Proxy, Phaethon, would end up getting caught one day.

Isolde: On the plus side, at least the Legendary Proxy Phaethon was caught by Obol Squad.

Isolde: The Major General's idea of "hospitality" might be questionable, but for a soldier, orders are orders.

Magus: So, as much as we regret it, the Legendary Proxy Phaethon will have to stay put in Failume Heights for a while.

Orphie: You sure you're sorry, Captain? I'm pretty sure you were holding back a laugh just now?

Magus: Don't worry. Obol Squad and the Obsidian Division are the first line of defense against the Hollows!

Magus: We'll wipe out the Exaltists faster than you'd think.

Orphie: And then the Proxy will be free!

Isolde: As ordered, a technician will now attach a tracker to the Proxy and temporarily block all communication functions of their electronics.

There's no point fighting it, so you allow a soldier to fasten the tracker, more like an electronic shackle, to your ankle.

Thanks to the Defense Force's signal jamming, the only wireless frequencies still functioning in Waifei Peninsula are military ones.

For now at least, say farewell to the friends anxiously awaiting your replies on Knock Knock.

Isolde: My apologies, Proxy.

Magus: For the Obsidian Division, orders carry more weight than mountains... I don't like restricting someone's freedom like this... and I'm not exactly your biggest fan... but I hope you won't hold it against Isolde or the squad.

I understand...

This probably wasn't your intention...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I may not be a soldier, but I can understand the weight "orders" carry for all of you...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): If temporarily restricting my freedom helps the operation go smoothly and keeps the people of Waifei Peninsula safe, I'll gladly go along with it.

Magus: Hmph... I never thought you'd show such resolve, Proxy.

Magus: Don't worry, I'll keep an eye on you while you're with us!

Orphie: Captain Magus keeping an eye on you... Just a heads-up, she's not exactly the caring type.

Isolde: Once again, Proxy, you have my apologies.

But I don't have any equipment on me...

(Not that I could fix anything even if I did...)

 Join Obol Squad's routine maintenance

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Hard to turn down such enthusiasm - guess I'll tag along for Obol Squad's routine maintenance check.

Seagaze Road

(Talk to Seed)

Orphie: Obol Squad is all here!

Seed: Alright, time to start today's routine maintenance! Inspector on duty: Squad member Seed!

Seed: First up for inspection: Mercury!

Mercury: Ehn-ne na! (Mercury, here!)

Seed: Let me take a look and see if this little Coalby's got anything wrong with it...

Seed: Mhm...

Mercury: Ehn-en nhe-na ne... (I always get nervous when Seed does my check-up...)

Seed: The antenna on the comms module seems a bit worn out. Gotta remember to get those parts replaced!

Seed: If Coalby can't hear me on the radio during the operation, I'm gonna kick your butt!

Mercury: Ehn-nhe na! (Aye aye!)

Seed: Next up is Trigger's sniper rifle!

Trigger: I'm counting on you again, Seed.

Seed: I only need one look to tell your weapon's in flawless shape, just like always, Trigger!

Trigger: A sniper's weapon is their soul on the battlefield, after all.

Seed: Boring~ Now it's Orphie and Captain Magus' turn!

Magus: Let's get this straight — you're not laying a finger on me!

Orphie: Calm down, Captain! Quit swinging around my tail!

Seed: Your exoskeleton is in good shape overall, Orphie, but your tail shows way more wear... no doubt due to the Captain's reckless fighting style!

Orphie: The Captain gives it her all in combat!

Magus: I'll... I'll try to stay in sync with Orphie's movements.

Seed: As for Captain Magus...

Seed: Captain Magus, you're using that Nitro-Fuel oil again, aren't you? Seed can't stand that smell pouring out of your gun barrel!

Magus: Whoa, whoa, whoa — are you seriously attacking your Captain's dental hygiene?!

Seed: And finally, it's your turn, Proxy! Hmm... where should I start?

Seed stares straight into the Proxy's eyes — impossible as it seems, it almost feels like she can see right through to the HDD.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (...But that can't be possible, right?)

Look away

Change the subject

Seed: Your eyes are crystal clear, Proxy! All systems good! Inspection complete!

Orphie: You were just looking for an excuse to stare into the Proxy's eyes!

Magus: Now that everyone's finished their equipment checks, you're dismissed! Get some rest and make sure your gear's serviced at the armory!

Seed: Hey Proxy, don't forget to look after your eyes too!

Family Hotline

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Family Hotline"

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Video Summary: Nothing can stop a call from home.

Story Description: Although you're stuck in a situation with restricted movement and communication, at least you can still get crucial intel and stay in touch with (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍) and Fairy through the HDD.

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You confirm that the military really is restricting your freedom of movement with Obol Squad...
You then return to the tent to rest.

The tent offers some cover from the soldiers' gazes, and reestablishing the connection with the HDD brings a small sense of relief.

Fairy: Hmph— hmph—

Fairy: As Master's Supreme Assistant and a thoughtful, all-purpose AI, I would never sit back helplessly while Master's freedom is being restricted, unlike the Second Assistant.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Fairy, you really can't stop chasing that First Assistant title, can you?!

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): When will you finally understand that as (‍hishisText for Wise / herherText for Belle‍) sibling I'm irreplaceable!

You two are just like kids.

Calm down for a moment.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Alright, you two, enough arguing... I'm just the pitiful, useless captured Proxy here, while you two are elite hackers, okay?

Fairy: Negative. Although Master was unfortunately captured, Master remains an elite hacking expert.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Save your useless sympathy, First Assistant!

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Luckily, not even the Hollows can interfere with the HDD's unique signal. So the Defense Force's jamming is barely an inconvenience.

Fairy: Still, I was the one who actually encoded the anti-jamming signal.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Which means (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍) can still reach me through the HDD, and Eous' deep dive can continue as planned!

I'll send over the data from "my eyes" right away.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I saw some new data with my eye implants in the Hollow. I need you to run some calculations.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Whether or not the military's info checks out, nothing is more trustworthy than your calculations, Fairy.

Fairy: Affirmative!

Fairy: Additionally, I've made a full copy of the military intel files that Eous and Master saw.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): If the Defense Force comes knocking because you did something without permission, make sure they know Second Assistant and your Master had nothing to with it!

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Anyway, leave the rest to me and Fairy, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍)! Just like always!

As always!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Then leave clearing out the Hollow to me and Obol Squad. Just like always!

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): The Defense Force's mission is bound to be dangerous... Be careful, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍)!

The bed beneath you feels so foreign. You hardly rest well that night, but as with all things, it eventually passes...

 Check out the commotion at the base

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There's been a stir in the base since early morning... let's check it out.

Seagaze Road

(Idle)

Seed: Hang in there, little Bangboo!

Battleboo: Ehn... ehn-nah...

(Talk to Seed)

Magus: Is this the little one you brought back from the Hollow?

Seed: Yes Captain, the Bangboo's squad seems to have been attacked. I received the Bangboo's distress signal and rushed over...

Orphie: What... what about the soldiers in that squad?

Seed: Uh... they were all lying there covered in blood... I mean, the not-breathing kind of lying there.

Orphie: ...Let's pay our respects.

Magus: This Bangboo probably recorded what happened when they ran into the enemy, but it's badly damaged. Do we have any technicians at base?

Let me fix up the Bangboo!

I'm a technician.

Orphie: Proxy, you know how to fix a Bangboo? Please help this little guy!

Magus: I'll leave it to you... Proxy.

(After completing Ether Tuning)

Awakened Dead

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Awakened Dead"

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Video Summary: Soldiers' spirits return from the miasma.

Story Description: The Battleboo who survived the ambush brings back crucial video data: soldiers from the Old Capital have awakened from the Miasma, while Exaltist priests are brewing a sinister plot.

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The video footage is restored, and images from inside the Hollow stream out through the Bangboo's data port...

Sharp Soldier: All units, be advised... at 3 o'clock, 300 meters... a cluster of Miasma... Ethereal presence confirmed...

Sharp Soldier: Hmm... something's off... Are those... humans coming out of there?

Panicked Soldier: Hey! Look! Someone's crawling out of the Miasma!

Calm Soldier: Why are they... wearing Defense Force uniforms?

Panicked Soldier: They're... they're coming closer, and they're armed!

(Gunshots ring out from a distance.)

Sharp Soldier: We're under attack!

Calm Soldier: Fight back! Enemies spotted at 3 o'clock... more at 5 o'clock!

Confused Soldier: *Beep*. Is it the *beep* Exaltist troops in disguise?

(Gunfire echoes all around.)

Panicked Soldier: No, they emerged from the Miasma. They're definitely not *beep* alive!

Confused Soldier: What the *beep*?! Are we seeing the dead in broad daylight?

Calm Soldier: Ethereal or monster, just take them down—

Sharp Soldier: Reporting in. We've got casualties!

Panicked Soldier: We've got another wave of hostiles closing in on the right. We need backup!

(The deafening gunfire grows louder, gradually drowning out all the voices.)

(The gunfire and voices gradually fade away... and everything returns to silence.)

(White noise grows louder. Skipping ahead...)

Wild Priest: Hahaha. It's just as the Overseer said! Even a miracle like resurrection is nothing for the Creator!

Faithful Priest: Don't let joy blind you, my dear brother... Until we stand before the Creator, every miracle is just a small step toward the gate of the final domain.

Wild Priest: Don't worry, my joy hasn't clouded my judgment, and my knowledge as a researcher remains sharp.

Wild Priest: The large-scale "Miasma Activation" experiment has already begun ahead of schedule. They'll never catch up to us on our path to the Creator...

(The footage ends abruptly here. The Bangboo recording the data seemingly couldn't hold on any longer.)

They are not the undead.

More like some kind of Miasma creature.

 Report to Isolde

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I should report to Isolde about the footage recorded by Battleboo.

Seagaze Road

(Talk to Isolde)

Stirring Up the Hornet's Nest

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Stirring Up the Hornet's Nest"

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Video Summary: "Swift as the wind, fierce as fire, and unknowable as shadow."

Story Description: The unauthorized actions of the Major General's direct unit leak the Defense Force's plans for a full sweep of the Exaltists. With their cover blown, Isolde decides to deploy Obol Squad ahead of schedule.

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Together with Obol Squad, you brief Isolde on what you saw in the footage.

Isolde: The Exaltists have already figured out that we're launching a full-scale operation?

Isolde: So far, only Obol Squad's scouting mission involved direct combat... What that recon team ran into was likely just an unfortunate accident.

Isolde: Ahem...

Isolde: But your operation was flawless, and no part of the plan was leaked. That means either the Exaltists are more perceptive than we thought, or some unit acted outside my command and carried out an unsanctioned mission.

Magus: But Lorenz handed over command of this operation to you...

How could someone ignore the Colonel's orders?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): So if we rule out interference from higher up, the only one who could've mobilized troops without the Colonel's approval is...

Isolde: Mhm... Only the Major General himself.

Orphie: Looks like Colonel Isolde has it even tougher than I do when it comes to dealing with a demanding superior.

Magus: Orphie, you don't actually think I'm that difficult to deal with, do you?

Isolde: At this point, arguing with my superior won't do any good.

Magus: So if we want the raid to stay on track, we'll have to strike even faster!

Isolde: While I usually think you're a little too reckless, Magus, this time I agree with you.

Isolde: "Swift as the wind, fierce as fire, and unknowable as shadow" — that's the essence of blitz tactics. At least according to a Yunkui Summit scroll.

Isolde: Since the enemy already knows we're coming, let's seize this rare opportunity and strike before they're ready.

Magus: Obol Squad, gear up and get ready!

Orphie: Yes, Captain Magus!

Isolde: I'm about to start deploying troops to launch the offensive. Proxy, both the battlefield and the Hollows can shift in an instant — make sure you're fully prepared.

Isolde: We aren't as ready as we could have been. The Obsidian Division will handle the battlefield, but when it comes to the Hollow... you're the only one we can count on.

I won't let you down.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Leave it to me. On my reputation as a legendary Proxy, and my honor as the Mayor's envoy, I won't let you down.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I'm counting on all of you too. Please don't betray the trust the people have placed in the Defense Force.

Magus: Hmph... Save it. We're well aware!

Orphie: What the captain means is — Obol never fails a mission!

Obol Squad, move out!

Prepare first

(Repeat dialogue)

The One Behind It All

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "The One Behind It All"

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Video Summary: "Swift as the wind, fierce as fire, and unknowable as shadow."

Story Description: Despite doubts in the intelligence, Magus has almost unconditional trust in Isolde's information.

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Magus: The unexpected deployment of forces beyond Isolde's plan has put the Exaltists on high alert, like a startled bird ready to flee...

Magus: We can't risk the Exaltist core members escaping right under our noses, we have to strike quickly and hit their key bases!

Orphie: Based on the intelligence we have, the target stronghold in this operation is very likely the Exaltists' main base!

The intel may not be complete.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I'm not usually one to spoil the mood... but from what I've seen of the Exaltists, they're not that easy to pin down. Which raises the question — can we really trust the intel from the Defense Force?

Magus: You really know your way around intelligence and information warfare, Proxy — but it's Isolde's strategy and intel that have been key to the Defense Force's success so far.

Magus: I understand your concerns, but I've no reason to doubt the reliability of Isolde's intel.

You really trust her.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Captain Magus... you sure have a lot of trust in Commander Isolde, don't you?

Orphie: That's because Captain Magus and Commander Isolde were comrades-in-arms — they fought side by side years ago.

Magus: Technically, "fighting side by side" isn't exactly accurate...

Magus: But yes, Isolde and I go way back. She's a comrade, a senior, and my commanding officer.

Magus: In fact, Obol Squad itself wouldn't exist without Isolde's support and guidance.

Magus: If I can't trust Isolde, then there might not be anyone left in Obsidian Division I can trust.

I understand.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I understand... So please believe me, when I'm acting as your Proxy, my one and only goal is to lead you all to where you're meant to be.

 Raid the Exaltist headquarters and gather intel

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"Swift as the wind, fierce as fire, and unknowable as shadow" — that's the essence of blitz tactics.

Refinery

(Approach the building)

Vicious Exaltist: The Defense Force people are here...

Arrogant Exaltist: Yeah... Who goes there?!

Arrogant Exaltist: Petty thugs blocking the way to the Creator...

Vicious Exaltist: The Creator will not forgive them!

Vicious Exaltist: Our sacrifice... will pave the way for our Master's return!

(Interact with the Control Panel)

Fairy: Encrypted documents detected on this device, accessing...

"Answering the overseer's call, wrongfully killed soldiers rise from the underworld, cloaked in flames of vengeance..."

"As for why the Defense Force soldiers would fight for us, the overseer was rather vague... Perhaps they too were blessed with witnessing the Creator's true form in the underworld."

Fairy: The files stored in this device are incomplete. The remaining intelligence needs to be obtained elsewhere.

Magus: Wrongfully killed soldiers...? But those ones emerging from the Miasma were wearing eleven-year-old uniforms — and they died protecting New Eridu!

Magus: These Exaltist scum... How dare they desecrate the honor of fallen soldiers! Unforgivable!

Uninvited Guest

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Uninvited Guest"

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Video Summary: "Swift as the wind, fierce as fire, and unknowable as shadow."

Story Description: The uninvited guests turn out to be the Major General's troops. They bypass Isolde's command, but their hasty actions end up disturbing the Exaltists...

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The approaching footsteps have everyone on guard, but then what they see is the sight of allied uniforms.

Magus: Which unit are you in? According to Commander Isolde's orders, aside from Obol squad, there shouldn't be any other squads assigned to raid this base...

Major General's Adjutant: ...Isolde may be the acting commander for this op, but our squad reports to Major General Lorenz.

Just as expected...

So they really are under the Major General's command?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): So... these idiots are the ones who alerted the Exaltists to our plan! And it was all under orders from the Major General?

Major General's Adjutant: Mind your tone... The major general sent us because he was worried you wouldn't be able to handle this alone. We're here to support the operation.

Orphie: Support the operation? We were just out there fighting alone as a single squad...

Major General's Adjutant: That's right, and we really do appreciate it. Without you taking the brunt of the Exaltists' attention, we couldn't have made it to their headquarters from the flank so smoothly.

Major General's Adjutant: Ah... We have to apologize. We accidentally beat you to it and ended up taking the credit for wiping out the Exaltists' main base.

Magus: ...Credit? That's meaningless. Is this really the attitude of new recruits in Obsidian Division these days?

Major General's Adjutant: Acting all high and mighty... You're just a gun. Do you really think yourself so important?

Major General's Adjutant: I may be a rookie, but at least I'm not a washed-up old dog like you.

Orphie: Watch it! The captain has given everything to protect the city. You don't deserve to...

Magus: It's okay, Orphie.

Magus: As long as they really did take out the Exaltists, then they've helped safeguard New Eridu — which makes them our comrades.

Seed: Even among "comrades," there are plenty of annoying ones~

Seed: If you ask me, we should just take this guy away... and cover it up as an accident caused by an Exaltist attack~

Major General's Adjutant: Hey... Are you threatening me?

Magus: Stay focused, soldier — answer me. Has the Exaltists' base been completely cleared?

Major General's Adjutant: ...

Major General's Adjutant: Several preachers took advantage of the chaos to escape. We... we had other orders to carry out, so we didn't have time to pursue them while clearing the base.

Orphie: Other orders...? What could be more important than wiping out the Exaltists?

Magus: Bunch of fools... They can't even handle something this simple properly.

Magus: Obol soldiers, let's move out. Once again, it's up to us to clean up after these fools.

Magus: Obol, gear up and get ready!

Orphie: Yes, Captain Magus!

 Wipe out the remaining Exaltists

(Reach the marked location)

Orphie: The Exaltists are fleeing in all directions!

Magus: Tch... These second-rate troops sure are surprisingly good at messing things up.

Magus: ...Who would ever call THIS an ambush?

Magus: We've already failed half of the mission's objective.

Orphie: Hopefully, we can still find some useful documents and materials.

(Interact with the Control Panel)

Fairy: Encrypted documents detected on this device, accessing...

"We may be working with Porcelumex, but they aren't exactly saints — they'd sacrifice everything for profit..."

"The soldiers didn't die protecting the city... the truth is..."

The file ends here, without warning.

Fairy: There's a record of the hardware being moved, but the missing data cannot be retrieved.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Damn it... Of all places, the data had to be missing at the most crucial part...)

Orphie: "The soldiers didn't die protecting the city"? Just what have these Exaltists learned?

Magus: Hmph... It's nothing but a distraction they planted on purpose to mislead us!

Magus: Still, it's clear the Exaltist remnants were spooked by the Major General's unit acting so recklessly — that's why they moved the key data early... Guess we have no choice but to press on!

 Proceed to the heart of the base

(Reach the top of the stairs)

Orphie: Elite targets have appeared!

Magus: Elite targets? Just the kind of fight Obol Squad's been waiting for!

(Reach the marked location)

Major General Lorenz: Everything is moving along smoothly, Mr. Lucro.

Lucro: We'll be counting on you again this time.

(Obol Squad interrupts the meeting)

Conspiracy

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Conspiracy"

---

Video Summary: Lorenz and Lucro are plotting in the Hollow...

Story Description: Lorenz and Lucro meet in the Hollow, scheming about how to split their profits from this event, only to unexpectedly run into the advancing Obol Squad.

---

---

Magus: Major General Lorenz? You're here in the Hollow... in person?

Major General Lorenz: You're the squad Isolde spoke so highly of — codename "Obol," wasn't it?

Major General Lorenz: ...This is quite a surprise. You arrived even faster than I expected. It's just as Colonel Isolde said, you're quite a capable squad.

Magus: Given that you're leading this entire operation... I'd expect you to be at the command post. And the person with you is...?

This must be Mr. Lucro?

I know this boss.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): You must be Mr. Lucro. We met briefly at the (‍reception banquet for the Porcelumex safety inspectionreception banquet for the Porcelumex safety inspectionText for Wise / Porcelumex safety inspection reception banquetPorcelumex safety inspection reception banquetText for Belle‍).

Magus: A reception banquet... for a "safety inspection"? That makes no sense...

Lucro: This... er... gun, certainly has a blunt manner of speech. Anyway...

Lucro: Ah, we are acquainted from the banquet, aren't we? Also involved with the Obsidian Division, I see... For someone so young, you must have made quite the impact with the military.

Major General Lorenz: Not so, Mr. Lucro. This (‍gentlemangentlemanText for Wise / young ladyyoung ladyText for Belle‍) is the mayor's envoy, specially sent by the kind-hearted Mr. Mayflower to oversee our work.

You're too kind.

You even know that I'm an envoy?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I'm just doing my duty... Please, the title of envoy is a bit too much... I feel like it's a little too high-and-mighty.

Lucro: So you're a distinguished guest from city administration. My apologies... please excuse the poor welcome.

Magus: So... What brings you here, Major General, Mr. Lucro? And these troops who have been acting without Colonel Isolde's orders...

Major General Lorenz: My troops and I have our reasons for being here.

Major General Lorenz: You're a veteran, Captain Magus. Even if you don't fully grasp what overstepping means, you should at least know not to ask about classified military matters.

Major General Lorenz: Mind your tongue, Captain.

Major General Lorenz: After all, besides your sharp tongue, there's not much else you have left.

Lucro: Major General, shouldn't we be going? Staying too long in areas with high Ether Activity isn't good for my health.

Major General Lorenz: You're right, Mr. Lucro.

Escorted by the troops, Lorenz and Lucro withdraw from the stronghold.

Orphie: Urgh... Aside from that clerk I met at the "Special Military Affairs Desk," these are honestly the two most annoying people I've ever had to listen to!

Orphie: S-Sorry... Captain Magus. It was wrong of me to speak disrespectfully about a commanding officer.

Magus: ...I'll let it slide this time, Orphie. If I weren't afraid of getting you all tried at a military tribunal, I'd have turned every curse word into high-energy laser blasts right at their faces.

The reason they were here...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): This place is not only a key Exaltist stronghold, but also one of their major research facilities...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Porcelumex's other executivePorcelumex's other executive Tooltip for Porcelumex's other executiveⓘText for Wise / One of Porcelumex's executivesOne of Porcelumex's executivesText for Belle‍) previously worked with the Exaltists. Many of their facilities were originally Porcelumex's assets as well.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): And now under Lucro's lead, Porcelumex has formed ties with the Defense Force. It's clear why they're here...

Magus: You're making my head spin! Isn't it just those two plotting how to profit?

Orphie: Goodness, Commander Lorenz is such a bad person!

Seed: Orphie is still caught up in that naive teenage mindset of seeing the world in just good and bad~

Magus: Goodness, Orphie, you really are a fool. But... I can't say you're wrong this time.

Magus: They chose to meet in the hollow, likely to stay under the radar—either way, Obol's mission continues.

Magus: Everyone, we keep pursuing the escaping Exaltists!

Orphie: Yes, Captain Magus!

Somewhere in the Lemnian Hollow, illuminated by flickering candlelight...

Sarah: Great Overseer, the Defense Force took the bait just as planned... and they're feeling pretty proud of themselves.

Mevorakh: Perfect... they've wasted enough time on meaningless distractions, and that foolish general thinks he's already claimed enough victories.

Mevorakh: They won't be throwing major forces at us anymore... though the price was...

Sarah: The price was nothing more than a few necessary sacrifices. They died for their faith, Overseer.

Sarah: Besides, the troops you brought back from the underworld were a huge help.

Mevorakh: Soldiers fighting soldiers... it's cruel, really.

Mevorakh: Still, if it's for the right cause, then even you and I must be willing to give our lives.

Sarah: Absolutely — if that greater purpose is an audience with the Creator.

Sarah: I know you have other intentions, but... you'll still open the path to the Creator, won't you... Great Overseer?

Mevorakh: I've wandered in confusion along this path more than once... but the whispers I heard were true, without a doubt.

Mevorakh: Once I've achieved my goal, I'll open the path to the Creator for you.

Sarah: Which means... your sacrifice and mine are justified.

Sarah: But... Phaethon is with the Defense Force right now, and that one's a real handful — not the type to let things go easily. And that elite squad of theirs has been a serious thorn in our side.

Mevorakh: I've noticed... That youngster may be an unexpected variable, but I've already set the course for how their tale unfolds.

Mevorakh: Don't back them into a corner unless you have to.

Sarah: Your arrangements are reasonable... May the Creator refine us.

 Ask the soldier what's going on

---

The base is full of chatter... Let's go find out what's going on.

Seagaze Road

Cheers and laughter echo from the military camp, which has been so quiet the past few days...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Why's the Defense Force base so lively? What's going on?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Let's ask around and see what the soldiers know...

(Idle)

Righteous Soldier: About time!

(Talk to Righteous Soldier, optional)

Righteous Soldier: We should've wiped out that scum a long time ago!

Righteous Soldier: They threw Waifei Peninsula into total chaos — and the poor workers paid the price for it!

(Idle, next to Trigger)

Friendly Soldier: But that squad...

(Talk to Friendly Soldier, optional)

Friendly Soldier: If Obol squad hadn't broken through head-on, our plan to strike from the flank wouldn't have gone nearly as smoothly.

Friendly Soldier: They're the ones who put in the work and got results... shouldn't they get most of the credit?

(Idle, near Lucro)

Soldier: Hmph, we're gonna take all the credit!

(Talk to the Soldier, optional)

Arrogant Soldier: Our squad was the first to break into the Exaltist headquarters, and this time we're gonna take all the credit!

(Talk to Arrogant Soldier)

Arrogant Soldier: Oh... A new face, and not in uniform either... You must be that outside help for the... what was it? Apostle Squad?

Arrogant Soldier: Thanks to the brilliant leadership of the Major General and his adjutant, we secured an easy victory!

Arrogant Soldier: Sure, you didn't land the big win, but you still played a part.

Stand your ground

Stay silent

Arrogant Soldier: Hey... what's with that look? We're celebrating our victory here, don't be such a buzzkill, okay?

 Ask Lucro what's happening

(Talk to Lucro)

Lucro: Welcome back, Envoy. I've been waiting here just to make sure you returned safely.

You're really laying it on thick, huh?

I'm no big shot or anything.

Lucro: Such modesty... Still, if you're acting on behalf of the Mayor in Defense Force matters, I'm sure your words hold real authority with the city administration.

Lucro: We owe it to the Major General's forces that we were able to reclaim a significant cache of Porcelume without incident — assets Ferox had handed over to the Exaltists which are in fact Porcelumex's property. It's quite the haul.

Lucro: The Major General and I go way back. He may not be the most charming guy, but he's someone you can count on.

Lucro: I know I'm just a shrewd, profit-minded trader. And I also know there's been some bad blood between you and the Major General...

Lucro: But that doesn't stop me from seeing the potential for us to work together in the future... Someone like you always brings value to the table. So naturally, I'm pleased you made it back in one piece.

About Porcelumex and the Exaltists...

About the Obscura...

Lucro: It's true that certain individuals within Porcelumex, including Mr. Ferox and his team, engaged in unlawful activities with the Exaltists.

Lucro: The shameful and pathetic Mr. Ferox is now in custody, and with the Major General's support, we've tracked down his subordinates who escaped into the Hollow. Porcelumex is clean of any further criminal associations.

Lucro: Regarding the so-called "Obscura" devices... while they were created through Ferox's dealings with the Exaltists, I'm not clear on their scientific worth. Still, they're made of costly Porcelume, so they belong to the company.

Lucro: We'll recover each of the Obscura once the Defense Force finishes assessing their risk.

Their risk?

Lucro: Yes... Colonel Isolde stated in the report that the Obscura could pose an extreme risk — even going so far as to order an evacuation of Waifei Peninsula for public safety.

Lucro: It's gotten too dangerous — looks like it's time for me to leave Waifei Peninsula... Take care of yourself.

 Explain the situation to Magus

(Talk to Orphie)

Magus: These guys sure know how to take it easy... They're already planning the victory party right after winning.

So what's the Defense Force's next move...?

Magus: Next move? There isn't one... The Major General believes the key members of the Exaltists have been wiped out and their base cleared. As far as he's concerned, we've already won.

Orphie: I never thought..."victory" would come so easily.

The Exaltists won't be that easy...

What about the Obscura in the city?

Magus: You've faced the Exaltists more times than anyone, Proxy — your insight is valuable. But even so, the Obsidian Division can't keep pouring resources into chasing down a minor outlaw group.

Orphie: As for the Obscura... Colonel Isolde is taking our intel — and the risk posed by the Sacrifices — very seriously. She's already preparing to evacuate the citizens of Waifei Peninsula!

Orphie: We'll stay on guard here to protect the civilians until everyone's been evacuated and all Obscura in the city have been cleared.

Magus: It's thanks to Isolde's leadership that we were able to locate so many Obscura across the city before the operation began, too.

Did the Colonel know about the risks of the Obscura all along?

Orphie: Since everyone's taking a break, why don't you relax a little too, Proxy?

Orphie: I'm heading back to the camp with the Captain, wanna join us for a bit, Proxy?

Despite your doubts, with cheers ringing out through the night all around you, you find yourself taking a brief rest by the firelight with the two soldiers.

Victory

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Victory"

---

Video Summary: That victory came way too easy...

Story Description: Lorenz announces the Defense Force's victory and begins celebrations. Obol squad [sic] is unable to continue operations, but intel gathered by (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍) shows that it isn't that simple...

---

---

As Obol Squad settles in at their quarters,
the troops are already preparing to celebrate.

Major General Lorenz: Everyone! The Exaltists, the threat that plagued Waifei Peninsula, have been wiped out under our thunderous assault!

Major General Lorenz: Once again, we've brought justice and victory to the people of New Eridu, like every triumph before!

Major General Lorenz: Give it up for yourselves, soldiers! Cheer for victory!

(Cheers rise up from the gathered soldiers...)

Major General's Adjutant: And let's hear it for our brilliant commander, Major General Lorenz!

(The cheers erupt once more...)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I hate to be that (‍guyguyText for Wise / girlgirlText for Belle‍), but isn't it a bit early to celebrate?

Orphie: That commander sure seems to be soaking up the cheers.

Seed: A typical "big shot," huh~

Magus: You're right to be concerned, Proxy.

Magus: There are still Exaltist stragglers roaming inside and outside the Hollow, and the Obscura in the city haven't been fully inspected yet.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): As far as I know, the key Exaltist leaders are still (‍at large — they'veat large — they'veText for Wise / on the loose. They'veon the loose. They'veText for Belle‍) managed to slip away after every encounter so far. The Exaltists will (‍remain a threat until they're eliminatedremain a threat until they're eliminatedText for Wise / still be a threat until they're taken outstill be a threat until they're taken outText for Belle‍).

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Even though Mevorakh was severely injured by Yixuan Shifu and the Exaltists suffered heavy losses, there's still no sign of them backing down. Miasma activity is still spreading — key people like Sarah still hold major influence.

Magus: Yixuan, High Preceptor of Yunkui Summit? I've heard the name before...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): How come I don't see Colonel Isolde anywhere? As the operation's leader, shouldn't she be here to celebrate?

Magus: Isolde has been unwell recently and went back to the city to rest. She's also been absent from meetings over the past few days.

Orphie: Maybe the commander's like Proxy and isn't fond of these kinds of gatherings. She might've just found an excuse to slip away.

Magus: You might be right... That does sound like her.

Magus: In any case, we've dealt a heavy blow to the Exaltists, and after fighting on the verge of life and death, the soldiers really needed a "victory" to boost their morale.

Orphie: That doesn't sound like something our strict Captain Magus would say...

Magus: *sigh* Think of it as me trying to lift everyone's spirits. As soldiers, it is our duty to obey orders.

Magus: So even when we have doubts, we can't launch investigations on our own.

Seed: If you take action without orders, you'll be standing trial at a military tribunal~

Seed: I might not mind, but I'm sure Seed Sr. would stop us!

Orphie: I don't want anyone ending up in front of a military tribunal either...

Magus: Ah, right, since it is a military order, the major's restriction on you can't be lifted until the operation is officially concluded. Sorry about that, Proxy.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I understand. Obol Squad and all the other soldiers have already given so much to protect New Eridu.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Everyone should enjoy this hard-earned victory.

Magus: ...Thank you, Proxy.

"But as Phaethon, I have no right to stop moving forward."

Easy-going Guard on Duty: Excuse me, (‍Mr.Mr.Text for Wise / MissMissText for Belle‍) Special Envoy.

Easy-going Guard on Duty: The colonel asked me to pass on a message, some bigwig from TOPS is here to see you.

From TOPS?

Easy-going Guard on Duty: Don't ask me about the specifics, you'll just have to go see for yourself...

 Meet with the TOPS visitor

---

A visitor from TOPS has asked to meet me... I've no idea if they're friend or foe.

Seagaze Road

(Idle, near the cable car)^{[Note 1]}

Seed: Is Captain Magus really asleep?

Trigger: Let's just say she is!

(Listen to Seed, optional)

Trigger: Captain Magus always sticks to a strict routine... especially when it comes to her self-diagnostics. Is she really asleep?

Seed: Hehe... let's just pretend the captain really is asleep!

(Talk to Damian)

Krampus Visitor

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Krampus Visitor"

---

Video Summary: A petite yet imposing visitor.

Story Description: Entangled in the power struggle inside the company, Damian comes to (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍) for help, and introduces to (‍himhimText for Wise / herherText for Belle‍) Miss Zhao, a member of Krampus Compliance Authority, the TOPS supervising body.

---

---

You meet with Damian after dark and fill him in on what Lucro's doing...

Damian: Actually... I've already heard about Lucro personally entering the Hollow and the Major General's movements.

Damian: Besides relocating Porcelumex and the Exaltists' stock of Porcelume, they're rounding up trusted members who served under Ferox, including my poor colleagues who fled into the Hollow's labs, fearing a purge.

Damian: The dust hasn't even settled, yet they're already discarding what they no longer need, proving that the only thing crueler than one ruthless boss is another...

Damian: I have no place in TOPS any longer, and the Defense Force won't seek justice for a stray like me.

So you're in a pretty risky position as well?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Even though you played a major role in taking down Ferox, your new boss won't tolerate you for long, will he?

Damian: Exactly. "I can't stand stray dogs like you, always sniffing out scraps to survive"... Like I ever had a choice. I'm just trying to stay alive.

Damian: Honestly, I was already planning to turn to you and Yunkui Summit for help. Regardless of our differences, you are among the few in Waifei Peninsula who have the power, care about justice, and are willing to hear me out.

Damian: A stray like me is used to bowing and begging.

Unfortunately...

Well...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Unfortunately, no matter how much power we might have, we're just as constrained as you are now... I can't contact anyone at Yunkui Summit for assistance either.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): But if it's (‍totoText for Wise / just tojust toText for Belle‍) keep you safe...

Damian: It's alright. Just when I was at my wits' end, "Miss Savior" appeared...

Just as Damian finishes speaking, a small figure suddenly springs out from behind him.

???: Hiya, I'm the "Savior" he was talking about.

???: It's funny... most company employees usually see me as a "disaster," who would've thought I'd ever be called a "savior"?

Damian: Allow me to introduce you... This is Miss Zhao from TOPS, affiliated with the Krampus Compliance Authority.

The Krampus Compliance Authority?

Is that the name of a company?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Nice to meet you, Miss Zhao. The Krampus Compliance Authority... is that the name of another company within TOPS? It doesn't sound as familiar to me as the other big companies...

Zhao: That's alright, most people haven't heard of it — Krampus isn't actually a company.

Zhao: Our role is to inspect, decide on, and enforce regulations.

Zhao: Brutal "competition" is an inherent flaw of the market system. For the members at the Round Table, it doesn't matter if the company's executives are tearing each other apart.

Zhao: However, the condition is that all actions by the company and its management must comply with the core rules and interests of the alliance.

Zhao: The business game doesn't always let us play by the rules — that's the Round Table's mercy. But when those rule-breakers go too far, the strict mother reaches out with her black branch.

Zhao: This time, Porcelumex has clearly stepped out of line.

So you really are a "disaster."

Isn't this what's kept TOPS standing strong all this time?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I think I get why the corporations might see members of Krampus as a "disaster."

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Even so, having regulators like you is probably a key reason TOPS has managed to maintain its strong position in the city.

Damian: So it's not hard for you to understand why I see Miss Zhao as my savior, right?

Zhao: We'll only know whether I'm your savior or your disaster once all the investigations are complete.

Damian: Better than letting someone like Lucro treat you like a fish on a chopping board, right?

Hopefully, she'll turn out to be your savior.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Although he isn't really a friend, (‍I do have some understanding of the way Damian does thingsI do have some understanding of the way Damian does thingsText for Wise / I do sorta get Damian's styleI do sorta get Damian's styleText for Belle‍).

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): He's determined to survive this brutal game, but he's also someone who (‍would never crosswould never crossText for Wise / never crossesnever crossesText for Belle‍) the line.

Zhao: Heh... You've got sharp and beautiful eyes.

Zhao: I hope you'll never become the enemy of Krampus.

Zhao: And that, when those eyes look at me again, they won't be filled with hostility, (‍Mr. WiseMr. WiseText for Wise / Miss BelleMiss BelleText for Belle‍).

Miss Zhao, the Krampus member, turns and walks off with Damian in tow.

She may have been small in stature, but her commanding presence nearly overshadowed the disheveled Damian beside her...