With great power comes great...

 Talk to (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍)

---

There's new progress in the Bringer case. I should talk to (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍) about it.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍), the news just mentioned the Bringer investigation outcome. It seems like the Commissioner regards everything as Bringer's personal actions...

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): I was hoping PubSec's internal investigation would drag out more big names.

Seems a bit suspicious.

It might have gotten the hush treatment.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Hmm... You make a good point.Hmm... You make a good point.Text for Wise / Yes, you make a good point.Yes, you make a good point.Text for Belle‍) After all, the Exaltists are involved, and PubSec probably doesn't want to disclose more details.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍I have a feeling there's some terrible secret behind this whole thing...I have a feeling there's some terrible secret behind this whole thing...Text for Wise / I still feel like there's some terrible secret behind all this.I still feel like there's some terrible secret behind all this.Text for Belle‍)

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Huh? Wise, I think your phone just rang.Huh? Wise, I think your phone just rang.Text for Wise / Belle, your phone just rangBelle, your phone just rangText for Belle‍) Maybe you should check who sent the message.

(Enter Immersive Storytelling)

Master Proxy, my apologies for disturbing you.

Are you available at the moment?

I have some important matters I'd like to discuss with you in person.

REPLY

Sure, I have time.

This doesn't sound like a good thing...

Sure, I'm free, but this doesn't sound like a good thing...

In my humble opinion, this shouldn't be considered a bad thing, at least.

It's great that you have some free time. Please wait a moment.

Ellen and I will visit the video store in five minutes.

 Chat with Lycaon and Ellen

---

Lycaon and Ellen are here to visit. Let's have a chat.

(Talk to Lycaon)

Lycaon: Master Proxy, we have come to discuss an important matter with you.

Lycaon: Before that, we need to be honest with you — about the Master of Victoria Housekeeping.

Ellen: Mhm. You probably don't know about that yet.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): We actually don't... Is it your mysterious Master?

Lycaon: Correct. Victoria Housekeeping is loyal to the current head of the Mayflower family, who is also the mayor of New Eridu.

The mayor...?

Is it the mayor I'm thinking of?

Lycaon: Yes. New Eridu currently has only one mayor, so it must be the one you're thinking of.

Ellen: Don't worry, the mayor's probably just an ordinary person. I haven't met him in person, though.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): This is definitely some news to process... Although I had already suspected you were loyal to some big name, I didn't expect it to be someone of the mayor's level...

Lycaon: Actually, it's the mayor who wishes to talkwith [sic] you two, which is why we've come. After all, you've both been deeply involved in the previous Bringer and Sacrifice-related events.

The mayor... wants to talk to us?

We haven't gotten into trouble, have we?

Lycaon: I completely understand your concerns.

Lycaon: Please be assured. I pledge on my honor that the mayor has no ill intentions and will not hold either of you accountable in any way. He will only contact us through the phone.

Well, if you say so...

Well, then, let's talk.

Lycaon: Thank you very much.

Lycaon: Then, without further delay, let's contact the mayor.

Mayor's Gift

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Mayor's Gift"

---

Video Summary: Power is a sharp blade. It can strike at enemies, and just as easily strike at companions.

Story Description: With the mayor's help, the HDD system was upgraded, removing the restrictions on Aptitude for Ether, and allowing for longer stays in the Hollow.

---

---

Lycaon: They're here with me now, sir.

Mayor: I'm glad to have the chance to speak with you, youngins.
...Helios Academy used to be a peaceful and comforting place.

You know about...!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): You know about... Helios Academy?

Mayor: Yes, I do, and I knew your teacher, Carole... She was a kind person.

(Stay silent)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): ...

Mayor: I know you still can't fully trust me, and I understand that completely. But please do know that I mean you no harm.

Mayor: Your teacher Carole and I... We used to be friends. She was a kind person.

Mayor: I was truly sorry to learn that she was the one held responsible for the fall of the old capital.

She was innocent!

There's more to the story!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): She was innocent! (‍There must be something else behind it.There must be something else behind it.Text for Wise / There has to be more to the story...There has to be more to the story...Text for Belle‍)

Mayor: I hope so too. It's just that... the fall of the old capital still weighs heavily on us all.

Mayor: But I believe you just got caught up in all of this. I'm sorry for what you've been through over the years, it must be tough.

We'll find the evidence to clear her name.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍One day...One day...Text for Wise / Sooner or later...Sooner or later...Text for Belle‍) we'll find the evidence to clear her name.

Mayor: Then I sincerely wish you success.

Is that all you wanted to say?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Is that all you wanted to say to us?

Mayor: You two are very cautious, and rightfully so. Carole has taught you well.

Mayor: The real reason I reached out to you is to tell you something very important. Something about... your eyes.

Mayor: I stumbled upon some of the data Carole left behind. She spent much of her time studying ways to minimize the side effects of your eye implants.

Teacher...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Teacher... she was always looking out for us...

Mayor: Yes, which is why I believe this was her final wish. As her friend, I want to see it through.

Mayor: Simply put, your eye implants are directly linked to your brain, and their functionality depends on your body's limits.

Mayor: As a result, the HDD system takes up a part of your body's capacity. This leads to certain issues, the most notable being that it suppresses your innate Ether aptitude.

Mayor: I brought in a team of specialists to analyze Carole's data samples, and after some effort, they created a plan to upgrade the HDD system.

Mayor: After the upgrade, the HDD system will operate with significantly reduced power consumption, allowing for a substantial boost in your Ether aptitude... or rather, a restoration to its original level.

Do you mean... we'll be able to enter the Hollows ourselves?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Do you mean that once the HDD upgrade is done, we'll be able to enter the Hollows ourselves without Eous?

Mayor: Exactly. You'll likely experience some discomfort at first, but you'll get used to it over time.

Mayor: I'll have the specialists from Marcel Group continue monitoring your physical condition to reduce the burden on your body and help restore your Ether aptitude more effectively.

Thank you.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): You're actually sharing such advanced technology with us...? (‍Thank you!Thank you!Text for Wise / Thank you so much!Thank you so much!Text for Belle‍)

Mayor: ...No need to thank me. If anything, you should thank Carole.

Mayor: Furthermore, from what I've learned, the power within your eyes goes far beyond this — that's why I waited until now to tell you.

Feels like there's some kind of catch.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Are you really giving us such advanced technology for free? Feels like there's gotta be some kind of catch... Besides, you must have known about us for a while, so why wait until now...?

Mayor: I'm not asking for anything in return. As for why I didn't reach out sooner...

Mayor: Truth is, from what I've learned, your eyes possess even greater power.

Mayor: Perhaps, the power within you... could affect all of New Eridu.

Mayor: But you must understand, power is a double-edged sword. It can be used against enemies, or allies.

Mayor: As the mayor of New Eridu, I must ensure everyone's safety. So I hope you'll forgive my caution. I'd been observing you for some time. That said, I'm confident to say that everyone at Victoria Housekeeping speaks highly of you.

Lycaon: Miss Belle and Mr. Wise are both kind and honorable individuals. I believe they'll use their power for the right cause.

Ellen: Yeah, they're both good people.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Um, thank you for your kind words... even though we have no idea what this power is. You're not just (‍making it upmaking it upText for Wise / saying thatsaying thatText for Belle‍) to get our hopes up, are you?

Mayor: Of course not. It's just that I don't have much information right now... I'll let you know as soon as I do.

Mayor: Well then, I'll let Lycaon assist you with upgrading the H.D.D. system.

Mayor: Rest assured, he'll guide you through everything. You should be able to follow him with your knowledge.

Lycaon: If you would follow me.

Lycaon begins working on the HDD system...

Release

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Release"

---

Video Summary: You can only release what you already possess.

Story Description: After upgrading the HDD system, the mayor gives you a mission to collect Hollow data. Time to head into the Hollow and check things out.

---

---

After a while, you feel almost as if an invisible binding within you has been undone...

Your eyes and brain feel almost bloated, but it passes quickly, replaced by a sense of lightness and clarity you've never felt before.

It's almost like a blurry layer shrouding reality has vanished, and a mysterious power swirls within you.

Mayor: How are you feeling now?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): All good, I think?

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Really? I'm feeling... a bit off...

Mayor: Your body is adjusting. Give it time to adapt to the changes. As a precaution, hold off on entering the Hollows until you feel better.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): I see... In that case, I'll sit back and (‍help Wise for now!help Wise for now!Text for Wise / help Belle for now then.help Belle for now then.Text for Belle‍)

Mayor: It's quite impressive one of you adapted so quickly. Your Ether aptitude is now on par with most Hollow Investigators, meaning you're ready to explore regular Hollows.

Mayor: But you must be careful at first. Lycaon, Ellen, why don't you two go along.

Mayor: One of the data piles in the Hollow near the metro is malfunctioning, and we need a skilled Proxy to address it.

Mayor: I'll assign this task to you. Of course, you'll receive fair compensation upon completion.

Mayor: Take your time in the journeys ahead. You've got plenty of time to uncover your full potential.

 Enter the Hollow with Lycaon and Ellen

---

With the Mayor's help, we've upgraded the HDD system and recovered some aptitude for Ether. Let's try entering the Hollow with Lycaon and Ellen to complete the Mayor's commission.

(Talk to Lycaon)

Lycaon: Master Proxy, if you are ready, let's enter the Hollow together.

Lycaon: Please be assured, Ellen and I will protect you and will not let you get hurt.

(Enter combat)

Lycaon: Let's confirm the mission objective.

Lycaon: The mayor wishes for us to retrieve information from 3 data piles here, in order to update the Carrot of this area.

Lycaon: Retrieving the data is something only the esteemed Master Proxy can accomplish, so we'll leave it to you.

Lycaon: Master Proxy, the data pile that the mayor mentioned is in this direction.

Lycaon: Let's keep moving.

(Interact with Data Pile)

Lycaon: That's one Hollow data set successfully retrieved. Master Proxy, you are indeed skilled.

Lycaon: Let's go find the next data pile.

Ellen: Hah... If only all work were this easy.

Lycaon: The data pile that the mayor mentioned is near that garage ahead.

(Approach the marked location)

Ellen: ...What a pain. There's nowhere else to go. We'll have to move the train.

(After interacting with the Console)

Lycaon: Master Proxy, it seems that this laser console requires a passcode to unlock.

Lycaon: But based on currently available information, it's difficult to determine the origin of the passcode... Perhaps we've missed something...

Let me try.

The clue might be inside the console.

After manipulating the console, you successfully hack into its system...
Although you can't directly crack the passcode, you learn that clues are hidden in the nearby area.
You relay this information to Lycaon and Ellen...

Lycaon: So the information was hidden in the console... Thank you.

Ellen: Good thing we have the Proxy here, or we would be stuck right now.

Lycaon: Time is of the essence. Let's start searching for clues related to the passcode in the surrounding area.

Lycaon: We should search for the passcode nearby to disable the laser and then move the train.

(Interact with Data Point)

Lycaon: Master, this string of numbers should be the passcode we need.

Ellen: Doesn't this visual effect seem a bit sloppy?

Lycaon: Master Proxy, let's input this string of numbers into the console right now.

Ellen: Ah. I get it now.

Ellen: We should be able to enter the passcode now.

(Interact with Console)

Lycaon: Master Proxy, let's input the numbers 7777 into the console.

Like a Rebirth

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Like a Rebirth"

---

Video Summary: "I'm super strong now."

Story Description: It's the first time going into a Hollow after upgrading the HDD system — physical conditions are stable.

---

---

Lycaon: How are you feeling now, Master Proxy?

Fantastic!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Fantastic. Never been better.

Lycaon: I'm relieved to hear it.

I feel like I'm gonna pass out...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Not good. I feel like I'm gonna (‍pass out.pass out.Text for Wise / pass out~pass out~Text for Belle‍)

Lycaon: Glad to see you're well enough to crack jokes.

Lycaon: If you feel any discomfort, please let us know at once.

Ellen: Yeah, I'll carry you on my back if needed.

That won't be necessary...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Well, that won't be (‍necessary.necessary.Text for Wise / necessary...necessary...Text for Belle‍)

I want you to carry me right now.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Really? (‍Can you carry me right now?Can you carry me right now?Text for Wise / I want you to carry me right now.I want you to carry me right now.Text for Belle‍)

Lycaon: Ahem, let's finish the task first, Master Proxy.

Ellen: You've always had a sharp mind, and now you've got the muscles to match.

Thanks for the compliment.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Thanks for the compliment...?

Ellen: Oh, I was just thinking, when will you pick up some fighting skills?

Ellen: If you can fight, you could handle things in the Hollow all on your own... That'd be pretty neat.

(Interact with Data Pile)

Lycaon: Good, we've obtained another piece of data.

(After interacting)

Lycaon: Master Proxy, the data pile is right up ahead.

Lycaon: It seems to be guarded, however.

(Interact with Console)

Ellen: Ah... Enemies are approaching.
Master Proxy, please focus on obtaining the data. We'll handle the combat.

(Enter combat)

Lycaon: Worry not, Master Proxy. We'll ensure your safety.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Thank you! Sorry, I still need you guys to (‍protect me.protect me.Text for Wise / protect me...protect me...Text for Belle‍)

(After defeating the enemies)

Lycaon: Master Proxy, this console also needs a passcode.

Leave it to me!

You manipulate the console again like before...
This time, the passcode is more complex and requires three clues around the area to piece together the complete string.
You relay this information to Lycaon and Ellen...

Lycaon: There are three parts... Let's hurry and find these scattered passcodes then.

Ellen: Ah, it's another passcode.

Lycaon: We should be able to find the passcode nearby. Let's keep an eye out for it.

(Approach the marked location)

Lycaon: Maintaining the data piles in the Hollows requires a proxy with the utmost professionalism.

Lycaon: It is Victoria Housekeeping's honor to maintain a professional relationship with an outstanding proxy such as yourself.

(After defeating the enemies)

Lycaon: Master Proxy, let's take a look around this area. We might be able to find clues regarding the passcode.

Ellen: This should be it.

Ellen: Huh... We need another passcode... Oh well, let's check the other side.

(Interact with Data Point)

Lycaon: Found it, this should be the first digit of the passcode: 0.

Lycaon: Let's keep searching for the remaining parts.

(Approach the marked location)

Ellen: Proxy's moves seemed more fluid in that last battle.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Thanks, but all I did was dodge.Thanks, but all I did was dodge.Text for Wise / Hehe, all I did was dodge though...Hehe, all I did was dodge though...Text for Belle‍)

Lycaon: Nimbly evading an enemy's attack is an important skill. As for combat, leave that to us.

(Approach the marked location)

Lycaon: Master Proxy, this should be the second passcode.

(Interact with Data Point)

Lycaon: Good, this should be the second digit of the passcode: 4.

Lycaon: Based on the information, only one part of the passcode remains.

(Enter combat)

Lycaon: Master Proxy, we've been in the Hollow for quite some time. How are you feeling?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I feel fine. (‍Nothing unusual, actually...Nothing unusual, actually...Text for Wise / Nothing out of the ordinary...Nothing out of the ordinary...Text for Belle‍)

Lycaon: That's good to hear. After all, this is the first time you've entered a Hollow since the system upgrade. Best not to overdo it.

Lycaon: Let's end this fight quickly.

(After interacting with Console)

Lycaon: Here. The last passcode.

(Interact with Data Point)

Lycaon: Here is the final part of the passcode: 51.

Lycaon: Let's go back and start the console.

Ellen: Do you still remember the numbers from before? I forgot.

Lycaon: Don't worry, Master Proxy. I have memorized everything.

Lycaon: Alright, that's all of them.

Lycaon: Let us return and open the door.

(Interact with the Console)

Lycaon: Now, we just need to piece together the three passcode parts from before.

Lycaon: I remember the numbers were: 0, 4, 51. Let's enter them.

(Interact with Data Pile)

Lycaon: This is the last piece of data.

Lycaon: Master Proxy, our mission has been successfully completed. Are you experiencing any physical discomfort?

Everything is normal.

I'm even better than usual.

Lycaon: That's wonderful.

Lycaon: If that's the case, let's leave the Hollow and report the mission results to the mayor.

The Stolen Core

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "The Stolen Core"

---

Video Summary: Its power comes from the same source as Sacrifice.

Story Description: The mayor extracted a mysterious core from Sacrifice, but the core was stolen and somehow ended up at an auction. The mayor hopes for help in purchasing the core back from the auction.

---

---

Lycaon: The mission was a success, sir. Master Phaethon's performance was outstanding.

Mayor: Excellent. You truly are exceptional.

Mayor: I'll be frank. I contacted you because I need your expertise for an important task.

Mayor: I'd like you to participate in an auction and help me secure an item up for bid.

An auction? Don't tell me...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Hold on, is it the same auction I heard about? The one with all the high-profile attendees?

Mayor: ...Yes, that's the one. I knew asking you was the right choice.

Mayor: Since you're aware of it, I'll get straight to the point. It's related to the Sacrifice you encountered.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Sacrifice?! (‍It's back?!It's back?!Text for Wise / Has it appeared again?!Has it appeared again?!Text for Belle‍)

Mayor: Remember the Sacrifice you took down near the construction site? Public Security did some research after retrieving it...

Mayor: It turns out it can maintain its form outside the Hollow and carries human genes.

Mayor: Within it, we extracted a mysterious core.

Mayor: This core possesses the same inexplicable power as the Sacrifice, allowing it to exist without relying on Ether.

Mayor: However, the core was recently stolen from the most secure lab in New Eridu. We suspect this is an inside job rather than an external theft.

Mayor: We searched extensively without success... until I saw the auction flyer.

Mayor: The core has been concealed within an auction item.

So, you want us to bid on it at the auction.

Why us?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): So, you want us to bid on it at the auction... but why us?

Mayor: The power of the Sacrifice is highly volatile and destructive. We must keep it confidential, at least for now.

Mayor: And I, as Mayor, am not suited to participate in the auction myself. Plus, I'm running checks on my inner circle due to the theft.

Mayor: Frankly, there aren't many people I can trust.

Mayor: Don't worry, the funds are covered, and Victoria Housekeeping will be assisting you.

Mayor: Of course, this hinges on one condition... your willingness to aid me.

We'll give it a shot.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Alright... We'll give it a shot.

Mayor: Thank you very much. I knew that I could rely on you.

Mayor: The only hurdle now... is the invitation. It's exclusive to TOPS, so obtaining one might take some time.

Mayor: I'll handle that promptly. I'll leave the rest in your capable hands.

The mayor ends the call.

Lycaon: You seem a bit puzzled, Master Proxy?

The relationship between the mayor and TOPS...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): The relationship between the mayor and TOPS... seems rather delicate.

Lycaon: You're quite perceptive. As you know, the roots of New Eridu's governance lie with the Mayflowers, while TOPS is a conglomerate of companies.

Lycaon: Power and profit often lay the foundation for conflicts.

Lycaon: Which is why securing invitations could be tricky for us. Things would be much easier if TOPS weren't so involved.

Lycaon: But worry not, Master Proxy. It may take some time, but we will overcome these obstacles.

Lycaon: Now, if you've no further need of me, I'll take my leave. Have a good day.

 Talk to (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍)

---

The mayor wants us to head to the auction and bid on artifacts related to the Sacrifice Core, but first we need to figure out how to get an invitation. Maybe we should get in touch with Hugo, the collector from before... I should talk to (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍) first.

(Talk to (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle))

Child's Play

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Child's Play"

---

Video Summary: There are always secrets hiding behind the light...

Story Description: You solved Hugo's little puzzle and contacted him. Hugo agreed to help you obtain the invitation, but he also hopes you can do him a favor.

---

---

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Didn't that collector Hugo mention if we wanted to (‍attend the auction, we could give him a call?attend the auction, we could give him a call?Text for Wise / attend the auction to give him a call?attend the auction to give him a call?Text for Belle‍)

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): But he didn't leave us his contact information... Odd, right? If he wanted us to contact him, why not leave a number... ? Did he just forget?

Maybe we overlooked something?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Maybe he did leave us his contact but we missed it?

Maybe he left a puzzle for us to solve?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Maybe he left a puzzle for us to solve...? Like in the (‍movies!movies!Text for Wise / movies.movies.Text for Belle‍)

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): You've been watching too many movies, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍). We need to separate fiction from (‍reality!reality!Text for Wise / reality.reality.Text for Belle‍)

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Come to think of it, Hugo did leave us a (‍raffle ticket and said something weird...raffle ticket and said something weird...Text for Wise / raffle ticket and said something weird...raffle ticket and said something weird...Text for Belle‍)

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): He said something cringey, like... "There are always secrets hiding behind the light..."

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): ...Wait, don't tell me...

You hold the ticket up to the light, and a string of numbers appears...
It is literally "behind the light"!

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): ...I get it now. This guy watches (‍waywayText for Belle‍) too many detective movies.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Anyway, let's try contacting him.

Hugo: Aha, it's you, the manager of my favorite video store. Glad you've cracked my little puzzle.

Hugo: I've been waiting for you to contact me. I was worried I might have left a bad impression.

Actually, I have a favor to ask.

About the auction you mentioned...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Actually, I have a favor to ask. About the auction you mentioned... could you secure two (‍invitationsinvitationsText for Wise / invitesinvitesText for Belle‍) for us?

Hugo: Ah, so you'd like to attend the auction. I'd love to assist, but unfortunately, I have some tasks at hand...

Hugo: But if you two can help me with my current task, I should be able to find time to get the invitations you need.

What kind of task?

Is it something I can handle?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): What kind of task? Is it something I can handle? Nothing too dangerous, I hope...

Hugo: Don't worry, I would never put you in danger. Let's discuss the specifics in person.

Hugo: I'll wait for you at Dew Gardening Shop in Lumina Square.

 Meet Hugo at the Lumina Gardening Shop

---

Hugo promised to help us get an invitation, but he needs a favor first... I need to meet him in front of the flower shop.

(Approach Hugo)

Hugo: You've arrived, my friend. Punctual as always.

(Talk to Hugo)

Hugo: To get to the point, I need you to shadow someone for me. Record and tell me everything they do and say.

Hugo: And that someone is — Hartman Ravenlock.

The head of the Ravenlock family?

Hugo: That's right, him. I've already got his schedule. Soon, he will be meeting with someone nearby.

Hugo: I need to know the exact details of their exchange, please. Of course, for your troubles, I'll take care of the auction invitations you need.

May I ask why?

Is this what they call a business war?

Hugo: To be honest, based on my sources, the Ravenlock family appears to be plotting something... rather sinister.

Hugo: You are a complete stranger to him, which will make everything easier.

Hugo: Relax, it's nothing illegal. You just "happen" to be in proximity and "happen" to overhear some things. Even if someone from PubSec shows up, they won't have anything on you.

Hugo: ...Besides, you already have connections in PubSec, don't you?

You know that too?

It's not just PubSec.

Hugo: Well, I'll be waiting for your good news then.

 Chat with the flower shop owner

---

Orchidea seems to have something to say. I should talk to her.

(Talk to Orchidea)

Orchidea: Hello there. I didn't expect that blond gentleman to be your friend as well.

Do you know him?

Orchidea: Of course. He often comes here to buy flowers, and he's always very generous.

Orchidea: However, he always buys flowers for memorial purposes, said they're for his deceased loved ones...

Orchidea: He seems like someone with quite a story.

 Secretly tail Hartman

---

Hugo wants us to tail Hartman from the Ravenlock family and gather some intel... Follow Hartman, without being spotted.

(Approach the alley)

Hartman: Another waste of my precious time.

(Approach Hartman)

Hartman: ...There's no need to report such trivial matters to me. My time is precious, get to the point.

Hartman: Organs...? Didn't that get shut down already? The people behind it are gone. And here I had high hopes for her, but now...

Hartman: Anyway, shut the entire business down, and make sure to do it clean. Understood?

Hartman: Oh, by the way, have you tried that medicine I mentioned before?

Hartman: As long as there's no problem. This thing is worth far more than your life.

Hartman: ...Hmph, you better make sure everything goes perfectly. Don't forget, our partners are dangerous people...

Hartman: Failure is not an option.

 Keep tailing Hartman

---

Keep tailing Hartman. I can't let him see me.

(Approach Hartman)

Hartman: This time, I'll lead the family back to the top...

(Move closer to Hartman)

Hartman: How is the new insurance project going?

Suspicious Young Man: It's progressing smoothly. However, Master Hartman, can this thing really profit? Our funding chain is already...

Hartman: Tsk, of course it won't earn much. Breaking even would already be good enough.

Hartman: These are Master Edmund's orders... To improve our family's reputation, we must do some charity work.

Suspicious Young Man: They're dumping all their unprofitable business onto us. Isn't this just too—

Hartman: Shut up. Of course I'm aware.

Hartman: To regain influence within TOPS, we'll have to take it step by step...

Hartman: I will manage.

After compiling the things you heard, you arrange to meet Hugo in front of the flower shop to exchange intelligence...

 Exchange intel with Hugo

---

I got some intel on Hartman, let's discuss it with Hugo.

(Talk to Hugo)

Family

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

 "Family"

---

Video Summary: To bring happiness or pain.

Story Description: You conveyed the matter of tracking Hartman to Hugo and learned that Hugo has a deceased sister...

---

---

Hugo: Good day, Manager. Wonderful to see you again. You're as sophisticated and charming as always.

Hugo: About our previous discussion, I assume you've made some progress?

You share your findings on Hartman with Hugo...
His gaze remains lowered as he listens intently, his pale, slender fingers absently flipping two intricate coins with practiced ease.
At key moments, he asks thoughtful questions to clarify the details... Who knew this guy could be so serious?

Hugo: I see... Looks like it's more complicated than I thought.

Hugo: I appreciate your help. Here are the promised invitations for you. One was mine, but I won't be able to attend as I'll be occupied that day.

Hugo: I had to pull a few strings to secure these invitations... so please don't mention where they came from.

Hugo: Otherwise, someone might come hunt me down.

Really?

Is the auction that dangerous?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍WaitWaitText for Wise / W—WaitW—WaitText for Belle‍), seriously? Is the auction really that dangerous?

Hugo: Well, when you dance with sharks, you can't avoid risk.

Hugo: But I have faith in you, dear manager. I'm entrusting you with my life.

My lips are sealed.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Don't worry, my lips are sealed... and so are my (‍sister'ssister'sText for Wise / Brother'sBrother'sText for Belle‍)!

Hugo: I've been meaning to say, you're so close with your sibling... I'm kind of jealous.

Hugo: What's your view on family ties, Manager?

It's a bond you can count on.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): It's a bond you can count on, like... No matter what happens, (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍) and I have each other's backs.

Hugo: That's the exact kind of answer I expected from you. How lovely~

It's a bond you must maintain with care and understanding.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): It's a bond you have to maintain carefully. Even as family, we might not fully know each other. For example, our... someone who was like a mother to us, loved us deeply but also kept many things from us.

Hugo: "Mother," huh... For me, that word only brings fear, pain, and hatred.

Hugo: I once had a half-sister, different mothers.

Had...?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Had...? (‍You didn't have a fall out over some big argument, did you?You didn't have a fall out over some big argument, did you?Text for Wise / Did you two fall out of touch because of an argument, or something?Did you two fall out of touch because of an argument, or something?Text for Belle‍)

Hugo: No, we never argued. I would like to try, but... It's too late.

Hugo: She's been gone so long, I can barely remember her face.

Sorry...

My condolences...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I'm sorry, I didn't realize it was a sensitive topic... My condolences.

Hugo: It's okay, I brought it up first, and it was ages ago.

Hugo: Anyway, back to what we were saying. It's highly likely that Hartman will be at the auction as well.

Hugo: As you know, while he's the rightful heir to the Ravenlock family, he keeps many secrets. Should you cross paths with him in the future, be cautious.

Hugo: He's sitting up on his high horse, looking down on everyone else, and he'll do whatever it takes to get more power...

Hugo: I hope these "upper-class" people eventually face the punishment they deserve.

Hugo: Too bad the scales of fate lean one way or another... unless someone steps in to tip them back.

Hugo: I digress. That's all for today. I have some errands to attend to, so I'll take my leave.

Hugo: Have fun at the auction.

REPLY

Lycaon, we got an invitation!

Got it easily.

As expected of you. I, on the other hand, am a bit behind on my progress.

Now, I'll head over to confirm some follow-up matters with you.

Please wait a moment.

(Obtain Auction Invitation)

 Go back to the video store and talk to Lycaon

---

Lycaon's coming to check the invitation. Let's have a chat with him.

(Approach Lycaon)

Lycaon: It's a pleasure to see you again, Master Proxy.

Ellen: It's been a while.

(Talk to Lycaon)

Lycaon: ...

What's wrong, Lycaon?

You look concerned.

Lycaon: I seem to have caught a whiff of... No, it's nothing, probably just my imagination.

Lycaon: Master Proxy, may I have a look at the invitation you received?

Of course!

This can't be fake, right...?

Lycaon: Hmm... This is indeed an authentic invitation. It's truly impressive that you were able to obtain it in such a short time.

Lycaon: However, if I'm not mistaken... this invitation came directly from TOPS.

Lycaon: So, you are in contact with TOPS as well?

I have connections in TOPS.

Lycaon: I see. You are indeed well-connected.

My friend has connections in TOPS.

Lycaon: Oh, a friend... I see. They must be quite the character.

Lycaon: Don't worry, I won't pry further if you're reluctant to share.

Lycaon: Well then, I'll take my leave. See you at the auction later. Have a pleasant day.