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100 SLEEPING PRINCES & THE KINGDOM OF DREAMS
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HELDT CHARACTER CARD #1
Country of Red Hunt - Vealoth. 
In the tranquil forest where the melodies of birds resound under the dazzling moon of Vealoth, a prince awakens, enveloped in radiant light.
??? : You...Who are you?
His striking scarlet cloak draped over his head, he gazes directly at me.
(His eyes are so pretty...)
Drawn into his translucent emerald-colored eyes, I found myself momentarily captivated...
Suddenly, he grabbed my arm and pulled me towards him.
EMMA : ...!?
In an instant, I find myself pressed against his chest, my heart pounding wildly. 
EMMA : Why did you...?
??? : That was close. It's a Poison Sister.
He points behind me, where a pitch-black creature dangles from a branch by thread. 
EMMA : Oh my!!
??? : You're safe. As long as we don't startle it, it won't attack.
He picks up a sturdy branch and has the creature crawl onto it, then expertly moves it to a different tree.
??? : Try not to attract too much attention. It's dangerous for both of us.
With that warning, he turns back towards me. 
EMMA : Th-Thank you very much.
Bathed in the dappled sunlight, his golden hair gleams.
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??? : What's your name?
EMMA : I'm Emma. And you are...?
HELDT : I'm Heldt, the prince of this country. Thanks for helping me out back there.
From behind his back, a large rifle peeks out.
(That's a big gun...)
The incongruity between his bright and gentle appearance and the firearm intrigued me somehow...
EMMA : Um...Sir Heldt...?
HELDT : Just call me Heldt.
EMMA : Ah, right! Heldt.
HELDT : That's better. I'm not a fan of formalities. Keep it casual.
EMMA : Casual...I think I can do that. 
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HELDT : Haha, you're the modest type, huh? 
EMMA : ....!! I'm sorry!!
HELDT : Nah, it's fine. Just be yourself. 
As I start to feel a fondness for his bright and dazzling smile... suddenly, a thunderous gunshot echoes through the air. 
EMMA : !! 
Startled by the sound, the birds all took flight at once.
HELDT : .......
Heldt's expression, previously adorned with a bright smile, suddenly turned grim.
EMMA : Wh-What was that....?
HELDT : It's the "Beastmen"...This place is dangerous, Emma. Follow me. 
EMMA : ....!!
Before I can respond, he grabs my hand and dashes deep into the heart of the forest...
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DREAM MEISTER & THE RECOLLECTED BLACK FAIRY
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MIKAGE PAST #2
After spending much of my childhood at Asahi’s home, I would eventually return my village at the age of ten with my mother.
The reason? To begin my full time training as a member of the Shadow Clan.
Honestly… I wasn't looking forward to it...
MIKAGE : (Is this village really safe?)
Perhaps it was simply because I had lived so peacefully in the kingdom of Kobai for so long…
…But even as a child, I somehow knew... that this village was falling behind the times…
MIKAGE : (Sure, the war is still going on but... every nation was getting… what was the word? Weary?)
MIKAGE : (Whatever comes next, especially with someone like Asahi leading, seems likely to be more peaceful than now, at least.)
When that happens, what will become of those who can only live in the shadows of the village?
MIKAGE : (Me included, perhaps.)
Feeling too lazy to think, I reluctantly gave myself to my training. Even as my motivation remained… practically nonexistent…
Unfortunately… It seemed I had a talent for all these shadow techniques…
VILLAGE HEAD : A talent indeed.
MIKAGE : Huh?
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VILLAGE HEAD : Strive forward in your training, child. The future of the village rests upon you.
MIKAGE : (This is bad...)
Call it a hunch but I suddenly had the feeling that if things continued like this… I’d be stuck living a chore-filled life thanks to the head of the village very, very soon…
MIKAGE : (I’m not for dealing with all that crap… So what do I do about it...)
After some time thinking about how to get out of my duties to the village, I decided that, when I was about 15 or so, I needed to go on a… “journey of enlightenment” so to speak. Citing the need to hone my skills further or whatever convenient reason would actually get me out of the village.
Persuading the head of the clan was tough, but with my father's support, I managed to obtain permission. And so, I set out on my journey alone.
MIKAGE : (Ahh… Nothing like an undisturbed nap... Pure bliss…)
This was definitely the life. While I was still expected to respond to my village’s summons, it was much more easygoing than being stuck in the village itself.
MIKAGE : (I am kinda hungry though… But there's no way around that…)
I spent much of my days in this blissful stupor.
And then one day… As I was having my usual midday nap, a carrier pigeon arrived.
MIKAGE : (Oh, so this must be a report from the village?)
I untied the message attached to its leg and read its contents.
MIKAGE : (They want me to help in the war... Ugh, what a pain. Wait, what…?)
MIKAGE : (Kobai Kingdom has been invaded by the neighboring regions!?)
And it sounded like they were in dire straits, too… Many of their more prominent nobles, renowned warriors, even our own clan were under attack...
I arrived to Kobai Kingdom as swiftly as I could...
But my journeys had taken me far… Far too far… And by the time I’d finally arrived… The war was already over…
ASAHI : ..................
As I approached the estate where I spent most of my childhood, I saw a figure that brought back nostalgic memories.
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But something was… Different… His eyes… They were vacant… And his body was… Too small for his frame... There wasn’t a single trace left of the vitality he once had in his youth...
MIKAGE : (Asahi? Is that really him…?)
He sat by the window, entirely lost in a reverie of his own thoughts, and remained entirely unaware of my presence…
MIKAGE : (If only I had arrived sooner...)
MIKAGE : (No… That's conceited of me. It's not like my presence would have changed anything…)
MIKAGE : (Not if they still lost even with Asahi to guide them...)
Despite this my heart felt anchored down in my chest….
Clasping my trembling hands to suppress these overwhelming emotions, I turned my back on Asahi without a word...
And so it was, that I returned to my former life…
Wandering around alone… Engaging it my midday bouts of rest... And occasionally fulfilling missions sent from the village…
But… But each new horrific scene I bore witness to… Asahi's broken and emaciated figure haunted my thoughts...
Was there truly no easy way to life?
If only there was, then everyone could live a better life. The kingdom, and all those who perished...
To live a life where you can't enjoy what you love, and can't freely laugh in the company of others—
Its absurd, isn't it…?
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100 SLEEPING PRINCES & THE KINGDOM OF DREAMS
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HALDINE (Bright Oath) CHARACTER CARD #1
As I walked under the clear blue sky, I gazed up at the towering cathedral that was shrouded in a sacred atmosphere. A sense of relief washed over me.
(Thank goodness everything went smoothly.)
We had just conducted the "Dream Vigil Ceremony" here at the cathedral, where dreams are pledged.
(There's so many people from all over the world gathered here...)
Recalling the hopeful gazes of the multitude that had gathered from all over the world, I straightened my posture, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. Just then I was interrupted by a bright, cheerful voice.
HALDINE : Hey, Sugar!
Recognizing the voice, my tension eased. It was him.
EMMA : Haru...!
Prince Haldine, who I called Haru, approached with a radiant smile on his face. 
EMMA : Thank you so much for attending.
HALDINE : No, thank YOU for inviting me!
Haru's eyes sparkled with excitement as they caught the sunlight.
HALDINE : I saw your dream vow. You stood so confidently in front of the crowd, I was impressed. Though, I suppose that's to be expected of my Sugar!
His infectious smile, unchanged as always, illuminated my heart.
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DREAM MEISTER & THE RECOLLECTED BLACK FAIRY
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HOUND SWEEPER GUILD STORY #1 
DASTE : Ahhh!! Shit!! It hurts so muuuuchh!!
ALMA : Hey, don't make such a fuss.
LYKOS : Miss, please cover your ears. 
EMMA : It's my fault. I should have stopped Daste.
LYKOS : No, it was Daste who bypassed your orders and caused an explosion during our "covert operation." There is no reason for you to shoulder the blame, Miss.
EMMA : But, it's still my responsibility.
ALMA : Shiharu's punishments have been intense as of late. Just the other day, I got my backside whipped, like Daste currently is. I thought I'd split right in half, haha! The welts he left behind even effected Karma. I found a bottle of ointment with a note saying, "Kill!" 
EMMA : (Karma...)
ALMA : I wonder if something unpleasant happened to Shiharu to make him this way~
DASTE : That fucking asshole, Shiharu! I almost cried this time!
EMMA : Daste, are you okay...?
DASTE : What do you think idiot? Do I look okay!?
EMMA : Kinda...
DASTE : Tch. Not funny. Hey Lykos, isn't it your job to keep Shiharu in a good mood?
LYKOS : It's true, however...As of recent, he seems to be in an exceptionally good mood. 
ALMA : The punishments get worse when he's in a good mood? Why is that?
DASTE : 'Cause he's a pervert. That's why!
EMMA : Hmm...I wonder what happened.
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SHIHARU : It's the season of love, after all~
DASTE, ALMA, & EMMA : !!!
SHIHARU : Today is a special day! A day to express your gratitude toward close acquaintances...I thought I'd give it a try too.
DASTE : You gotta be kidding! Why the hell would that make your punishments worse!?
LYKOS : Could it be...The "Whip of Love"?
ALMA : Ahahah, so that's it!
DASTE : I ain't buying it! God, you're such a fucking asshole!
NANASHI : Emma!!
EMMA : Oh, Nanashi. What a rare sight. 
NANASHI : I got a report from Shiharu, aaaand~ I heard you were visiting Hound Sweeper, so I rushed over! Happy Valentines Day~ To show my gratitude for everything you've done, I present my hug to you~! Oh, whoa!?
SHIHARU : You're late, Nanashi. 
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NANASHI : Oh, sorry about that. I got delayed while sorting things out.
SHIHARU : The same old excuses. Sounds like your habitual tardiness requires a bit of punishment.
NANASHI : Huh!? Hey! Wait! Ouch!! What!? Why do you look so happy about it!?
SHIHARU : Hmm~ Emma. I'll have to express my gratitude to you properly another time. Oh don't worry, it's not punishment. Unless that's what you wish for.
EMMA : N-No!! Not at all!!
SHIHARU : Everyone else, be sure to convey your gratitude toward Emma too.
NANASHI : Emma! Help~!!
LYKOS : Miss. How would you like to go and get a meal? Nanashi's screaming is quite loud. Allow me to treat you.
ALMA : I'm going too! I'll treat Emma to a hundred pieces of gratitude fried chicken!
EMMA : Hehe, thank you. A hundred pieces might be a bit much, don't you think?
DASTE : Tch. Who gives a crap about love and gratitude? Emma, let's get a drink to soothe our pain.
EMMA : (It's rare to see them all share a meal together. I guess, it is the season of love. I feel a bit sorry for Nanashi though...)
EMMA : Let's do it! We can eat and drink and talk all night!
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THE TALE OF FOOD
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DOUZHI - STORY #1
NOTE : These translations are done using the SG/MY version of the game, we apologize for any inconsistencies that may come with the official English release.
??? : Hey, what are you hesitating for? This is a fantastic opportunity! 
??? : Really!? Do you think the young Master will come to see it too? Will they praise me? 
??? : Don't get ahead of yourself. 
While searching for any sign of Douzhi, I heard the loud sound of drums in the Kongsang Square. Thinking that it must have been him, I headed over to check it out.
DOUZHI : Welcome, everyone! Today I bring you a rare opportunity to fulfill your every dream! 
A stage has been built in the square, Douzhi is standing in the center of it, banging on his drum as he speaks to the crowd over a microphone. Speakers blaring his voice for all to hear. There is a massive, colorful mural behind him that invokes a feeling of excitement. With another thrum of the drum, he continues his speech...
DOUZHI : Have you ever felt lost? Have you ever been unable to find ambition and direction? 
The crowd subconsciously nods along. 
DOUZHI : Then don't be afraid! Look here!
He points to the large mural. The words painted across it say : "Kongsang : Let your dreams soar; Douzhi has the power to set you free!" 
DOUZHI : Kangsang! Allow my theater troupe to show you what it means to be alive! You will never be lost again! I will show you the way!
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HAR-GOW : Woah! So impressive! 
FOUR-JOY MEATBALLS : Master Douzhi! I have decided! 
-
OPTION 1 : Decided what? HAR-GOW : Ah~ Young master! You're here. Master Douzhi is introducing his theater troupe to us!  FOUR-JOY MEATBALLS : Yes, I've decided to join Master Douzhi's troupe. He said I'll be able to dance on the biggest stage and Har-Gow is going to sing! 
-
OPTION 2 : What are you guys doing? FOUR-JOY MEATBALLS : We're listening to Master Douzhi's lecture!  HAR-GOW : Master Douzhi is truly amazing! He set up a Theater Troupe 101 class here in Kongsang. He even said that I have great potential and can sing on the biggest stage in the world! 
-
Upon hearing their excitement, Douzhi becomes somehow more energetic than before, speaking even louder. 
DOUZHI : Those with time, come and see! Those without, make time! After listening to my words, success will no longer be unreachable!
The audience erupts in applause. 
-
OPTION 1 : Drag Douzhi off the stage.  DOUZHI : Ow! Hey! Hey! What are you doing!? I know you're eager to join my theater troupe, but can't we talk about it later? 
-
OPTION 2 : Shout loudly to make Douzhi stop. DOUZHI : Alright, I heard you! Sheesh. With a voice that loud, you wouldn't even need a microphone. It's a pity you're not joining me in my speech!  DOUZHI : Let me schedule our next meeting first! 
-
DOUZHI : Sorry, everyone! I have something to attend to today, our next class will be scheduled for Thursday at three! 
-
DOUZHI : What is this? You interrupted my speech because you got tickets to watch a theater troupe perform and you want to take me? I see! Then I gladly accept your invitation! It will also be a good opportunity to scout for new talents!
DOUZHI : Hmmm...The name on this ticket sounds familiar...Anyway, let's go. 
-
DOUZHI : Excuse me. Do you know what play the theater troupe will be performing today?
AUDIENCE MEMBER : It's a signature play of the troupe, it's called the "Douzhi Chronicles." It's my first time watching so please keep quiet, the play is starting! 
The plot of "Douzhi Chronicles," is a bit boring, but the actors on stage still manage to captivate the audience with their talents. On the small stage, a roller coaster of love and hatred unfolds. 
The play ends and everyone stands to their feet and applauds. To top it all off, the servers bring out a bowl of Douzhi for all of the patrons.
AUDIENCE MEMBER : Wow! I didn't expect them to also serve Douzhi! That's a neat touch. I heard it's a traditional dish that their leader loves. Hm. It's pretty good. What about you, do you like it? 
DOUZHI : Of course, I love it! I didn't expect them to serve one of my favorite dishes! Here, let's have a drink too! 
-
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Returning to Kongsang, I noticed that something about Douzhi's expression seemed...off. It was like he was lost in deep thought.
-
OPTION 1 : Douzhi, are you okay...? DOUZHI : O-Of course! I'm fine! No, not just fine, I'm doing great! In fact, genius that I am, has come up with a fantastic new idea! Just you wait and see!
-
OPTION 2 : Douzhi, what did you think of the play? DOUZHI : It was great! Not only great, but it also gave me a fantastic idea! 
-
After saying this, he offered a swift bow before rushing back to his room for the night. 
-
In the pitch-black morning, before the sun had even risen, someone vigorously knocked at my door. Yanking me from deep slumber. I let out a sigh and go to answer the door. Only to See Douzhi standing there.
DOUZHI : Hardworking people chase the sunrise at six in the morning. Only a lazy loser would lie in bed all day. Were you already awake?
-
OPTION 1 : Yes.  DOUZHI : Good! That is to be expected of the young Master of Kongsang! 
-
OPTION 2 : Guess I'm just a lazy loser... DOUZHI : ....? DOUZHI : You're always slacking off Master.
-
DOUZHI : Anyway, I came straight to you as soon as I finished working on my idea! It took all night but it's genius! 
He pulls out a thick book, the binding and pages have been sewn together with a needle and thread. The cover is colorful, with large captivating fonts and a hand-drawn portrait of Douzhi. It is sure to instantly capture anyone's attention. 
DOUZHI : Feast your eyes on this groundbreaking masterpiece! It's sure to be a success! My autobiography - "Dreams Deserve To Be Followed : Douzhi's Inspirational Life." Now, all I need is a foreword and some good promotion! 
With that, he flips the book open and thumbs through the pages. Each one covered in colorful pictures. All of which catch my eye.
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DREAM MEISTER & THE RECOLLECTED BLACK FAIRY
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FATA MUSICA GUILD STORY #1 
The Unified Meister Examination... It's a test of academic knowledge taken by every Meister under the World Guild Organization, conducted once a year.
This examination serves as one of the many metrics and criteria taken into consideration when the federation commissions work, as such, the UEM is generally seen as mandatory for all Meisters.
Once again, it would seem that time of the year has come…
EMMA : Next question. What is the name of the beer that can only be found on Yoka Island, the luxurious resort island of the pirate country, Ancyra?
HEATH : Yokayoka Lager!
EMMA : Correct!
KENT : Ah! I'm late to the party!
VELVET : What are you all doing?
EMMA : We were just discussing how to be prepare for the upcoming Unified Meister Examination.
HEATH : We’re killing two birds with one stone.
SUZUKA : Two birds with one stone?
KENT : Yup! Yup! With pub quizzes, you can concentrate on polishing up on your trivia blind spots, while still having fun! It can also serve as a reference for landing roles like The Quiz King or Trivia King, so killing three birds with one stone! It's amazing!
SUZUKA : I highly doubt it can serve as a reference for acting... but well, I see your point… For once…
HEATH : My general knowledge is pretty weak, so I've been taking part in order to improve.
HEATH : Even when I try to hit the book, I still just end up itching to play music instead.
SUZUKA : So, you turned our study into a "lighting round" style quiz.
EMMA : Yeah, I had prepared a hundred questions, and was just about to start asking Heath and Kent.
VELVET : A hundred questions? How very enthusiastic of you.
EMMA : They’re all from exams the federation held in the past. I gathered several years' worth of papers and selected the best ones!
SUZUKA : That must have been quite a hassle, right?
KENT : ...We'll make sure to thank Emma properly later.
HEATH : Of course.
EMMA : We've just finished the first ten questions. Would you guys like to join us?
SUZUKA : Sounds fun, but I'll pass. I have a script to finish.
EMMA : Oh, right. Your schedule was completely booked through to the unified examination.
EMMA : Maybe I should have taken some time to help you out, too…
SUZUKA : No, it's fine. The outline of the script is already coming together, and I usually score above average in the exams. If I keep up the same pace this year, it should be fine. But thanks for your concern.
SUZUKA : Take care of Kent and the others, Emma.
EMMA : I will!
VELVET : Maybe I should join…
HEATH & KENT : Huh?
VELVET : I have some free time anyway. And I really should help Kent study… It would be bothersome if he didn’t score above average this year.
KENT : Oh...!
HEATH : Is that guild policy?
VELVET : No. It's just embarrassing for me and the guild.
KENT : That's a blunt but incredibly hurtful reason!
HEATH : Well then, I'll have to work even harder.
EMMA : Okay, Velvet, here's your buzzer.
VELVET : Thanks.
VELVET : As someone who's supposed to be a genius, I can't afford to show weakness.
VELVET : Come on, both of you. If you can score even one point, I'll praise you.
KENT : Whoa, it feels like you're emitting the aura of the undefeated Quiz King...!
HEATH : Velvet's in serious mode. I need to focus too.
EMMA : Okay, on to the eleventh question!
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After the Unified Meister Examination…
VELVET : 80 points.
HEATH : 58 points.
KENT : 43 points!
SUZUKA : ...Alright.
SUZUKA : 43 points...
KENT : Huh? I have the same score as Suzuka!? I did it!!
VELVET : Suzuka…
SUZUKA : Don't look at me like that. I’m not happy about it either…
SUZUKA : Damn... I didn't expect to be up for three sleepless nights before the exam…
EMMA : (The tone of Velvet’s voice must have really got to him, by the looks of it…)
VELVET : I see. So you’re saying that it is my fault you couldn't get the result you wanted, huh?
SUZUKA : No, it's because of my own inadequacy. I failed.
KENT : Suzuka! Let's aim to get an average score next year! We can prepare for Emma's questions together!
HEATH : So much for becoming the Quiz King, huh?
SUZUKA : ...Damn it!!
EMMA : (He seems really upset about this…)
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100 SLEEPING PRINCES & THE KINGDOM OF DREAMS
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DAYANG - VOICE COLLECTION
Description : 
He is the head of the Pharmacists Guild in the Country of Pharmaceutics - Medicina. He wanders around, peddling medicines. He simply loves money and believes "Money makes the world go round!" For some reason, he has developed a habit of playing with an abacus.
Background :
On your way back from the Land of Poisons, you reunite with Dayang. You agree to help him with concocting medicines, but little do you know, it's all part of his scheme…
Policy :
Good business.
Likes :
Money and chips.
Dislikes :
Gambling on a loss.
"Whazzat!? You wanna touch for free? Nah, not happening~"
"You wanna split the bill? Don't make such a fuss about stuff like that!"
"What else is there in life but money?"
"How much do I gotta pay to get a kiss? Come on! At least tell me how much it's worth!"
"Come on, let's go out! Bring your jacket, they say colds are going around." 
"If you have money, well, at least you won't be unhappy, right?"
"Early bird gets the worm, right? I'm an early riser!"
"Hey, come on...If you laze around eating all day, you'll miss out on opportunities!"
"Even after the sun sets, there's still plenty to do! Mixing potions and making tea, for example!" 
"What are you staring at? If you keep staring I'm gonna charge you. Just kidding~"
"Beautiful flowers have poison, you know... Be careful♪"
"This is a pressed flower I made with some leftover herbs I had. Would you like it?"
"If it's you and me, I think we can make a good business! Come on, let's do this!"
"If I make you good medicine, you'll show me a smile, right?"
"When you offer cheap, regular, and expensive medicines, everyone ends up buying the regular one, don't they?"
"With this, we can expect good sales tomorrow too!"
"Sometimes, bold discounts are necessary too!"
"Leave any injuries to me!"
"And a big thank you with a loud voice~!"
"Money talks, even in Hell!"
"This one's special just for you!"
"Love and sentimentality is not an accepted payment!"
"Haha, money, oh money~"
"I wonder if there are any rare herbs here we could sell for some extra cash!"
"You came to hang out? If you're feeling unwell, I've got medicine! It's not free though."
"A celebration? What are you giving me?... Nothing at all?"
"It's your birthday... I'm not good with this kind of thing. Here, have this special pick-me-up medicine!"
"It's been a while since anyone celebrated my birthday...It feels weird...But thanks, it makes me happy, Princess."
"If I get first place and my name gets out there... Oh man, I can only imagine the big profits!"
"I'm really, really happy. Maybe the world isn't just about money after all!"
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PERSONA 5 : THE PHANTOM X
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PERSONA 5 : THE PHANTOM X BETA - PART 9
As the shadow falls to reveal Joker’s crouching form, he pushes himself to his feet. Wonder looks up at him from his own kneel and Ruferu watches on in awe.
RUFERU : What the--... Who IS this guy?
Joker nods his head, motioning for Wonder to stand. He does so, scrambling to his feet and turning to face Joker who had already shifted his attention to Ruferu.
JOKER : Let’s go.
More Shadows spawn into existence as Joker and Wonder charge them together, their masks activate as they summon forth their Personas. 
WONDER : Janosik!!
JOKER : Arsène!!
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Janosik and Arsène burst into existence in a spectacle of cosmic light before spearing their way through the enemy. In a single eruption of pyroclastic energy, the Shadows are annihilated in their entirety. As the dust settles, Wonder looks across to see Joker standing in the rubble. He speaks but a single word…
JOKER : Revolt…
…Before his form begins to fade away in a gleaming electric blue light.
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Wonder and Ruferu watch on as he disappears before Ruferu speaks up…
RUFERU : He… Vanished…? What the Hell…?
WONDER : I feel like… I’ve seen him somewhere before…
RUFERU : Nevermind that. We need to get out of here.
RUFERU : We’re safe for now, but this isn’t a place we can stay any longer. Let’s go.
Ruferu sets off down the train tracks with Wonder trailing close behind only to freeze at the sight of a door to the Velvet Room appearing before him. The door opens and out steps Merope.
MEROPE : Finally, we found you.
MEROPE : Please, follow me.
Merope steps forward and curtsies before Wonder, only to grab at his hand and throw him forward, through the Velvet Room door. 
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In the Velvet Room, we see Igor and Wonder, dressed back in his real world attire, both sitting at a roundtable with Merope standing off to the side of Igor.
MEROPE : I’ve brought Wonder.
WONDER : (Looks like I’m back to my usual self…)
MEROPE : In reality, you’re currently leaving school. That’s why you appear before us in this form. Do not be alarmed.
IGOR : It seems you’ve made yet another… Interesting choice…
WONDER : An… Interesting choice…?
MEROPE : Yes, it relates to our earlier discussion of how you may resist your inevitable destruction and honing your own desires.
MEROPE : You volunteered to venture into the Metaverse, indicating that you fully intend to challenge and refine your own desires by nurturing the desires of those around you.
IGOR : And so, it is our desire to support you on your journey.
IGOR : Merope, this was your idea, no? Then let’s get started.
Merope bows her head in curtsy to Igor. We are taken to the summoning tutorial, and after…
MEROPE : What you just observed… Was another person’s cognitive existence.
WONDER : Someone’s cognitive existence?
MEROPE : Yes, or rather, they are embodiments of the "cognition" that sleeps deep within your heart. This you must understand.
MEROPE : This includes your perception of those close to you, and those you are not yet familiar with.
MEROPE : Put simply, it is your sustained impression of everyone you have ever met in your life, knowingly or otherwise.
MEROPE : As such, I have no control over who you may encounter.
MEROPE : But what I do know is that these are people just like you. That is to say, they are individuals with strong, human, desires.
MEROPE : Though, perhaps, they may also be people who are only just beginning to discover their true desires. Or they could be beings who once possessed desires and have lost them in some way.
MEROPE : In such cases, their cognition may take on various forms from the pinnacle of their desires. This, too, you must understand.
WONDER : Have I ever met such a person…?
MEROPE : You may not realize it, but life has a way of bringing together those who share the same desires.
MEROPE : Rest assured, in time, you will come to know exactly who these people are.
MEROPE : In a world of dimming desires, they will radiate as brightly as uncut gems.
MEROPE : Not unlike idols.
MEROPE : I have taken to calling such power… “Persona II”.
WONDER : II…?
MEROPE : Yes, the roman numeral for the number “2”. It is to say their power is derived from the combination of two people combined, and that your persona leads theirs in turn.
MEROPE : In some languages, it can be seen as an abbreviation for duet. As in two people singing in unison.
MEROPE : Supporting you in battle like idols support one another on stage.
MEROPE : I’ll name these entities “Phantom Thief Idols”.
MEROPE : The Persona II Masks used by the Phantom Thief Idols draw inspiration from your own Persona Mask.
MEROPE : Their origins are that of a fusion between the Shadows roaming in the cognitive world and the cognitive desires of the individuals in question.
MEROPE : Now, that all said, it is our understanding that all Phantom Thieves must have their own code name.
MEROPE : To that end, I’ve taken it upon myself to provide code names for each of the Idols. Forgive me for doing so without their permission.
WONDER : No, you have my thanks.
MEROPE : Haha! What’s this? I’m suddenly overcome with an unprecedented sense of accomplishment.
MEROPE : I will call upon you again with further support. Please, be ready for it.
WONDER : (With Merope by my side… I find myself feeling strangely excited for the days ahead…)
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I am thou… Thou are I… Together, we shall resonate with boundless desire… In resonance, friendships may blossom in resistance of thy’s inevitable destruction. I, in resonance of thy’s deepest desire, gaze forth unto a boundless future.
MEROPE : If I may add one more thing…
MEROPE : In your subconscious, many people may take on multiple personality traits at once… Which means they may manifest under multiple persona masks.
MEROPE : This will all depend on your perception, at the time your cognition materializes them into being. Consider your mind the root from which may sprout all manner of possibility.
MEROPE : I hope that with the support of these Cognitive Entities, Phantom Thieves and Personas…
MEROPE : You will be able to face down the oncoming destruction.
WONDER : (Yeah… whatever you say…)
WONDER : So will the person in the real world now also be a Phantom Thief Idol…?
MEROPE : …Hm?
MEROPE : I’m not sure I understand what you’re asking…
Igor lets out his trademark laugh, hunching over the roundtable, head propped up by the back of his hand.
IGOR : Heheh… I guess you could say that I’d expect as much.
IGOR : Ah, my apologies. There are still many mysteries we have yet to unravel when it comes to the Cognitive World. Perhaps something altogether more “twisted” may occur…
IGOR : The abnormal phenomena caused by the entanglement of various individual consciousnesses... It would seem there are still aspects of the mysterious realm that are unknown even to us.
MEROPE : For what it’s worth, taking these risks will also help you to hone your desires more effectively.
MEROPE : As an attendant here at the Velvet Room, I will do what I can to help.
IGOR : Well, then, let’s bring an end to our little rendezvous for now.
MEROPE : If you ever seek the power of the Phantom Thief Idols, you need only call upon me in your heart…
With that, Wonder takes his leave from the Velvet Room…
13 notes · View notes
WOLF GAME
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THE WOLF GAME PART 11
My search for the syringe used to potentially inject Miho eventually led me back to the bathroom where it didn’t take long to find an box of medication stored under the sink…
ME : O-Oh… Oh no…
Opening the box, I found three needles insides… Well… What should have been three...
ME : …One is missing…
ME : Which means…
It meant that someone really did inject Miho last night… Now all I needed to do was figure out why… I continued to search through the box.
ME : Hm?
…And found a blister pack of sleeping pills…
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ME : 3 tablets seem to have been used...  By who…?
ME : Did someone take them out...?
I picked up the sleeping pills to examine them more closely when a sudden shout from behind me caused me to jump.
RITSU KAMIKI : Hey! What do you think you’re doing?
ME : Jesus! You scared me!
RITSU KAMIKI : Yeah? And you’re not answering my question. What are you doing messing around like this...?
ME : N-nothing… Really!!
I quickly hid the sleeping pills I had in my hand behind my back but it was to no avail. Ritsu was more observant than I realized…
RITSU KAMIKI : Show me what you’re hiding behind your back! Now!
ME : Why? it's nothing! R-Really!
But she didn’t let me, reaching behind me to snatch up the pack of sleeping pills.
RITSU KAMIKI : You call this nothing!? Sleeping pills!? And some have been used, too!
RITSU KAMIKI : C-Could it be... Are you the culprit!?
RITSU KAMIKI : Did you drug Miho Kaidou!?
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ME : No, that's not it at all! You’ve got it all wrong!!
This was it… I needed to convince Ritsu I was innocent. But how did I go about doing that? 
Clearly just telling her I’m not the culprit wouldn’t work. That’s exactly what the culprit WOULD do. 
…Which also meant flat out denying giving anything to Miho could just serve to escalate the situation.
…In the end, I decided that the best course of action was to be as transparent as possible….
ME : I-I only just found the sleeping pills! I swear!
RITSU KAMIKI : Hmph, so you just found them, too, huh?
RITSU KAMIKI : Alright… I guess I'll believe you for now.
RITSU KAMIKI : But really you shouldn’t act so suspicious all the time…
ME : R-right, I'll be more careful…
I took a breath, sighing out relief. It seemed I was in the clear of her suspicions for now…
RITSU KAMIKI : Seriously though...
RITSU KAMIKI : This is my first time looking through this place but they even have, like, these blood transfusion packs here...
ME : Wait, what…? They even have blood transfusion packs here?
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Indeed they did… It seemed the harder we searched, the more we found, and almost everything we found proved to be so… out of place… in a facility like this…
RITSU KAMIKI : Maybe they’re here so that if someone does try to kill us, we have all the means to fight for survival… Or to the bitter end?
ME : Ritsu!
A chill ran through me. And Ritsu laughed.
RITSU KAMIKI : Haha, just kidding. Now THAT would be ridiculous…
ME : You really shouldn’t be making jokes about stuff like that…
Not that she seemed to pay me any mind…
RITSU KAMIKI : Right, well, I'mma keep exploring this place a little longer! See ya!
I turned away from Ritsu and continued searching the room independently from her. Only to find myself lost in thought once again.
ME : (Thankfully, it seems I didn't raise any suspicions from Ritsu...)
ME : (But still...)
The missing syringe… The injection in Miho’s arm… 
…The evidence was piling up.
And we needed to be careful as we picked our way through it. The wolf who killed Miho was among us… And we needed to find them…
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DREAM MEISTER & THE RECOLLECTED BLACK FAIRY
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MIKAGE PAST STORY #1
I was born in a small village deep in the mountains of the Showa Kingdom.
Everyone in the village had their own unique skills, and their reach would extend across the globe with tasks such as protection, espionage, and even assassination, all as part of the secretive 'Shadow Clan'.
Around this time, the neighboring countries seemed to be in constant conflict. My father and the villagers were always busy, rushing around day after day.
But I found myself growing up somewhat removed from all these shadows, due to a chance encounter. My mother was hired as the bodyguard of a prominent family in the Kobai Kingdom, and as an infant, I moved with her to their estate.
??? : Hah! There you are!
MIKAGE : (You never get tired, do you?)
The man behind the voice was the eldest son of the family, and he was my polar opposite—hardworking, honest, and more demanding of himself than anyone else.
The lady of the house was in poor health, and my mother was not only responsible for her protection but also for taking care of their son, Asahi. And so, I was raised as his foster brother.
MIKAGE : (It’s too bad for Asahi. If I hadn’t come out here, he’d still be working up a sweat training all day.)
But one can't change their inherent nature. I just wanted to live a relaxed and carefree life.
Today, as I lay on the veranda, dozing off while listening to Asahi's distant voice...
ASAHI : Mikage!
MIKAGE : Huh!?
He should have been training but, instead, Asahi had somehow found a way to creep up right behind me.
MIKAGE : (I might have been sleeping... But I still should've sensed his presence. Father will be furious if he finds out...)
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ASAHI : What's up? Still half asleep? It's almost lunchtime. Let's go help out!
MIKAGE : Nah, I'd rather take a longer nap here.
ASAHI : Oversleeping is not good. Come on, let's go!
MIKAGE : ...Fine.
Yeah. For as long as I could remember, I had admired Asahi's dedication and determination to bring honor upon his family name, for the country, and for the greater good. I found it impressive and more than a little dazzling.
MIKAGE : (But still… I don't want to be like Asahi.)
MIKAGE : (I just wanna live an easy life.)
But I would never tell him that. Wouldn’t matter even if I did. Asahi wouldn’t change anyway, and it would just be a hassle for the both of us.
ASAHI : Mikage! If you're not busy, pass me that bowl!
MIKAGE : Yeah, yeah.
ASAHI : One 'yeah' is enough.
With his arms crossed, Asahi would speak like our mother and give me orders, making me smile wryly.
ASAHI : Strange… You're not trying to escape like you usually do, Mikage.
MIKAGE : Well, today's a special day. It's all about the mood.
I was about to say that escaping would be even more of a hassle, but I swallowed my words.
ASAHI : Don’t tell me escaping is too much trouble for you these days.
MIKAGE : Haha, you can see right through me, can't you?
Helping out Asahi and these little conversations between us were hassles, but… I really didn't mind days like these…
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100 SLEEPING PRINCES & THE KINGDOM OF DREAMS
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EDMOND CHARACTER CARD #4
EDMOND : This place is as beautiful as ever.
MINISTER : Yes, but if we continue deeper into the impoverished area, the condition will deteriorate greatly. 
EDMOND : Why is that?
MINISTER : The buildings are old and crumbling apart. No one has maintained them. It's not suitable for human life. 
EDMOND : Let me see the documentation of these buildings.
MINISTER : Yes, Sir. 
With a furrowed brow, Edmond carefully scanned over the documents. All the while, a crowd of onlookers were gathering and watching with curious eyes. 
(They look surprised he's here...Must be that Edmond rarely conducts these inspections...) 
I jumped and let out a startled yelp when the sound of a loud, screaming voice echoed through the streets. 
MAN : Do you think it's alright to do something like this!?
(What the heck is going on...?)
I turned to look in the direction the shouting was coming from and spotted a young boy cowering on the ground, surrounded by several large men. He looked terrified.
(That's the boy from before...)
BOY : Hey, it's the lady who gave me the cookies! 
EMMA : Excuse me, what is going on here?
Before thinking through my actions, I had stepped between the men and the boy in order to protect him. 
MAN : Mind your own damn business! This little rat stole our stuff!
EMMA : .......
BOY : ...I'm sorry....I'm so sorry....
The boy curled up in a ball on the ground was trembling as he apologized over and over again. Instinct had me crouching down to wrap him up in a protective hug.
EMMA : I apologize on his behalf. He's young and didn't know what he was doing. Won't you please forgive him?
BOY : ...Miss...
MAN : As if I'm gonna just forgive him 'cause you say so! How dare he steal our things! If you're siding with him, we're gonna have to beat your ass too!
The men held up their fists, prepared to hit me. 
TOWNSFOLK : Hey! Stop it! How dare you lay hands on a woman and a child! They already apologized and you got your things back, just move on! 
All the men and women in the poverty district had gathered around, verbally defending me and the boy. 
MAN : The fuck...!? 
After that, the men finally ran away. 
BOY : Thank you so much, Miss. 
After the men were out of sight, the boy finally ceased his trembling and weakly smiled up at me. 
EMMA : You're welcome. Just please, remember to never steal again, okay?
BOY : Y-Yeah. I promise. I'm so sorry...
Seeing that the boy appeared to be truly apologetic and set on changing his ways, I said my goodbyes before turning to head back to Edmond. However...
(That's weird...Where did Edmond go...?)
BOY : Are you lost, Miss?
EMMA : Seems so...
TOWNSFOLK : If you're looking for Prince Edmond, I saw him inspecting a building over there. 
The kind men and women from earlier pointed me in Edmond's direction.
EMMA : Thank you so much!
(These people are so nice...)
After thanking the townsfolk, I headed in the direction they had pointed in search of Edmond. As I walked a bit further...
EMMA : ....!?
The angry group of men from earlier suddenly jumped out of the shadows. Surrounding me like sharks hunting their prey. 
EMMA : Y-You're the guys from before...
MAN : You're a friend of Prince Edmond, right?
MAN : It's rare to run into such a fancy lady in a place like this. Why don't you come have some fun with us? 
The look in his eye sent a shiver down my spine. 
(Wh-What are they going to do to me!? This is so scary...!)
Just then...
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EDMOND : You, there! What are you doing to her?
Edmond accompanied by a group of armed soldiers approached me and the men. 
MAN : Damn it! Let's get outta here!
The men immediately fled the scene. Letting out a breath of relief, Edmond rushed to my side and firmly grasped at my shoulders. Looking me over with a concerned gaze.
EDMOND : ...Where did you run off to? I told you not to leave my side no matter what.
EMMA : ...I'm sorry...But it's okay...I-I'm fine...
EDMOND : You wouldn't have been fine if I hadn't arrived...And you're trembling...
Edmond reached out to gently caress my back in an attempt to calm and reassure me. His fingertips tracing patterns in my spine. 
EDMOND : I shouldn't have ever brought you here.
EMMA : ...Huh?
EDMOND : What if you'd been kidnapped by those despicable poverty district men...Or worse? The thought makes me sick.
EMMA : But, Edmond, there are also nice people in the poverty district.
EDMOND : .........
EMMA : Edmond...?
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Edmond fell silent, his gaze shifting to his boots.
EDMOND : This is no place for someone like you. We should head back to the city.
EMMA : Ah....
With that, Edmond grabbed at my hand, tangling our fingers and pulling me through the poverty district in the direction of the palace. It was strange, though he was typically a very gentle man, his grip on my hand was so tight. His knuckles white. As if he was terrified I would wiggle free.
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DREAM MEISTER & THE RECOLLECTED BLACK FAIRY
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OSCAR PAST STORY #3
MINATO : Please enjoy it while it's still warm. 
From the plate in front of me, steam rises, the scent of delicious food enticing my appetite. It splits with ease as I cut into it with a fork. It is perfect.
OSCAR : ...Thank you.
I spear a bite with my fork and bring it to my eager mouth. The moment the food touches my taste buds...
OSCAR : ....Ah!!
I was so shocked I momentarily lost my composure. 
OSCAR : (What in the heavens is this..!? It's delicious!!)
I can only think of one simple word ; Delicious. It has a faint sweetness beneath the savory soy sauce. A tender texture with a rich flavor. Before I knew it, I had completely cleaned my plate. 
OSCAR : (Oh...It's gone already...)
MINATO : I can't remember a time someone enjoyed my cooking so much. It means a lot to me, sir. 
His laughter, radiating pure joy, drags me out of my trance and I look up at him. I'd nearly forgotten his presence. 
OSCAR : This is the first time I have ever tasted a meal so exquisite. It was incredibly delicious. You should be proud of your skills as a chef. 
OSCAR : This must be...Bonito with soy sauce...
MINATO : That's quite impressive. You even guessed the ingredients correctly. Today has been a day full of surprises.
OSCAR : Full of surprises?
MINATO : Yes. I mean, I clean the dishes after your meals. You barely even touch the food. I thought you might have a small appetite. 
OSCAR : I usually don't feel like eating it, but this...I could eat plate after plate of this. 
MINATO : Haha, well I'm glad you liked it. This is a dish from my hometown. We call it "Dashimaki."
OSCAR : Dashimaki....
OSCAR : Minato, if you can make such delicious dishes, why aren't you allowed in the kitchen?
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MINATO : It's because I lack the skills to cook for your family.
OSCAR : That isn't true. The head chef makes shit food compared to this. 
MINATO : Haha, you're quite straightforward. The truth is, even if I were skilled enough, I wouldn't be allowed in the kitchen.
OSCAR : Why not?
MINATO : Because I'm a mere commoner. I can only do menial tasks around the kitchen. Which I'm more than happy to do, because while doing these chores I can watch the head chef at work and improve my skills.
OSCAR : I don't get it. Why should your background matter? There's no law that says commoners can't serve my family.
MINATO : That's what the head chef insists upon. But, I can't help but crave dishes from my hometown sometimes. So I secretly sneak into the kitchen and make them like tonight.
With a melancholic smile, Minato takes a bite of his Dashimaki.
MINATO : Oscar...Could you please keep my use of the kitchen a secret?
OSCAR : ...Alright.
Though I didn't like it, I understood. If the head chef found out, he might kick him out of the kitchen for good. Even in my youth I understood that much.
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100 SLEEPING PRINCES & THE KINGDOM OF DREAMS
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CRETO CHARACTER CARD #1
In the Country of Chocolate, Shocoluna. 
(This is Prince Creto's country...)
As I walked through the streets in the town beneath Shocoluna's castle, I breathed in the air. It was tinged with the sweet aroma of chocolate. 
It was precisely two weeks ago when I met the prince. He was slightly younger than me, and his almond-shaped eyes glistened with the light of the sun as he was awakened from the ring.
-
CRETO : Where...Where am I? Did you wake me up...?
EMMA : Yes. Are you hurt?
He glanced around, scratching at the back of his head, brow furrowed in deep thought, before finally those large eyes fixated directly on me.
CRETO : It smells sweet here...I like it.
EMMA : Huh...?
(Is he talking about me...?)
As I tilted my head to the side, the prince's eyes shot wide and a deep blush bubbled to the surface of his cheeks. He was speaking quicker now. Stumbling over his words. Clearly embarrassed. 
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CRETO : Oh, um, I meant to say you're a beautiful girl...No, I mean, a beautiful person! 
It was as if he was searching for the right way to address me.
EMMA : ....?
His eyes were full of panic. Fingers fidgeting anxiously with clothes. 
EMMA : You can call me Emma. What's your name?
CRETO : Uh, sorry! I mean, excuse me! I should have introduced myself! I'm Creto, the Latte Tribe Prince of the Chocolate Kingdom. I was attacked by Dream Eaters while scavenging for ingredients. 
EMMA : Nice to meet you, Creto...
(He was searching for ingredients this deep in the forest...?)
Though his words puzzled me, I was quick to offer reassurance.
EMMA : I'm glad you're safe. 
I smiled warmly, and his blush only intensified. A big toothy grin stretching across his face. 
CRETO : You should come visit me at my kingdom sometime! As a thanks for waking me up, you can treat me to the most scrumptious chocolate! 
This time he spoke more playful-like. In a happy boyish tone.
CRETO : Er, I mean, I'll treat you. 
Scrunching up his face, he corrected himself. 
CRETO : Sorry about that, I'm not really good at talking sometimes...
The words were muttered quietly under his breath. Face reflecting the shame he felt.
-
(Two weeks have already passed since then. I wonder what Creto is up to. I can't wait to see him again.)
With that, I set off for the castle where the Latte Tribe resides. That was where Creto should be!
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RECITING WITH YOU IN THIS GLOWING RED WORLD
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HIRAGA GENNAI CHARACTER CARD #1
The moment I finished reciting the given incantation, a dazzling white light flashed before me, and a boy dressed in white stepped out of it.
??? : I see... So I was spirited away... What a valuable experience...
The boy crossed his arms and took in his surroundings, nodding in curious satisfaction.
??? : So, you're the kind heroine who saved me, huh? What's your name?
AYUMI: I'm Ayumi.
??? : Okay, so you’re the priestess girl, so tell me about the familiar spirit.
The boy gazed across to me, eyes shining bright with an energizing curiosity.
...
...
HIRAGA GENNAI : Hmm, I see. That is quite interesting indeed. I'm Hiraga Gennai, a genius inventor!
HIRAGA GENNAI : It’s all thanks to you that I was saved. As a token of my appreciation, I'll give you a guided tour of my laboratory when next we’re there.
(So even at his age, he's already an established inventor with a laboratory... amazing...)
My own gaze remained firmly locked on Gennai's face, eyes full of surprise.
HIRAGA GENNAI : You… You were just thinking that I was far too young to be a successful inventor, right?
AYUMI : W-Wha-- No!
HIRAGA GENNAI : Don’t underestimate me, or I'll modify you.
(What does he mean he’ll modify me?!)
HIRAGA GENNAI : Well, well, perhaps I’ll swap the positions of your eyes and ears? Wouldn’t that be interesting?
AYUMI : I-I'm sorry, I was just a little surprised... I didn't mean to make fun of you…
HIRAGA GENNAI : ...That's good then we won’t have any issues.
(Phew, thankfully I won't be modified… Whatever that means…)
As I gazed at Gennai’s energized profile, still retaining every ounce of his youthful exuberance, I felt my heart flutter in my chest...
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DREAM MEISTER & THE RECOLLECTED BLACK FAIRY
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LEN CHARACTER CARD #2
MALE CUSTOMER : Excuse me, sir. Can I bother you for a moment?
LEN : Yeah, what do you want?
MALE CUSTOMER : I'd like to take a short break and get something to eat, but this is my first time at the Primus Club and I'm not sure where to go.
LEN : We've got a food court with all sorts of restaurants and a bar right over there. 
EMMA : ..........
Today I was assisting Len who works in the billiards hall of the Primus Club, under Camus's instruction.
EMMA : (Huh...Len is talking nice to the customers for once!) 
He's not being the most polite and friendly person, but this is still like night and day to how he normally acts. He isn't even cursing!
LEN : Enjoy your meal then get back to gambling. 
Len gave a nod to the guy, before turning on his heels and heading back in my direction. 
EMMA : You're actually quite good at customer service, Len.
LEN : The hell? Why would you say something stupid like that?
EMMA : I was just giving you a compliment. 
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LEN : Well, I've been here a long time. Of course I can handle a customer. Are you an idiot?
EMMA : Haha, It's hard to respond when you put it that way.
LEN : The people who come here are all idiots, anyway. If you smile and nod, you can get by just fine.
EMMA : Wait...That was you SMILING earlier...?
LEN : You trying to pick a fight!?
EMMA : N-No. S-Sorry.
LEN : Seriously, why the hell are you here? I don't need your help.
EMMA : Camus sent me to help you.
LEN : Ugh. He only sent you 'cause he thinks I'll mess up. Damn it.
Just like that, Len had returned to his usual self. Grumbling and polishing the billiard balls. 
EMMA : Should I help you with that?
LEN : Are you fucking deaf? I don't need your help. You'll just get in the way. 
EMMA : (I'd really like to get along with Len, but he makes it so difficult...This is going to be a challenging night.)
-
A few days later...
EMMA : Ymir, you really don't have to carry my bags.
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YMIR : It's only natural. I can't let a pretty girl like you carry heavy bags like these♪
YMIR : In the future, whenever you go shopping just give me a call. It's dangerous for someone as cute as you to shop alone.
EMMA : Thanks for worrying about me, Ymir. Hey, isn't that Len over there?
Len and a strange man were standing in the shadows of a sketchy alleyway talking about something. 
EMMA : Is that a member of the Bloody Lady, perhaps?
YMIR : Looks like it. Wonder what they're talking about.
EMMA : Ymir!? 
I frantically reached out to him as he began to walk in the direction of Len and the stranger. With a panicked expression , I hurried after him. 
LEN : Camus is...
EMMA : (Huh...!?)
EMMA : (It sounds like a casual conversation...But the atmosphere feels really heavy...)
YMIR : ...!! Len watch out!!
LEN : Wha!?
??? : DIE!!!
Without warning, a man in a mask with a knife leapt at Len from the shadows. Len narrowly managed to avoid the attack. 
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LEN : Who the hell are you!? 
MASKED MAN : I have no obligation to answer your questions. 
MAN IN BLACK : He's gonna attack again!!
Len and the man in black he had been talking to, both retaliated against the masked man wielding the knife. 
EMMA : (It's two against one, but that masked man is strong!)
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THE TALE OF FOOD
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MOONLIT CONFESSIONS - BONUS CONTENT
-Full Moon Plan Part 1-
The robo-bunny lies there, still as the dead. The tremors running through the ground have yet to abate.
OSMANTHUS WINE : Go! The cracks here are about to reappear! Watch out!
TGII : Ah, so the mortise on the joint of the main support column broke. Please move to higher ground and wait for a moment please.
OSMANTHUS WINE : What? This isn't the time to be conducting studies on robots!
OSMANTHUS WINE : Master, we've got to hurry and climb up higher. Osmanthus sprigs of mine, long may you flower fine!
The rumble of another collapse floats up from underground. Guanghan Palace's crescent shape appears even more narrow now. Osmanthus Wine attempts to summon Osmanthus sprigs to send us up to higher ground. But after a few attempts, they fail to make their entrance.
OSMANTHUS WINE : Oh no, Guanghan's sustained too much damage and has no lunar essence left to nurture the Osmanthus sprigs...I can no longer...
He has barely spoken before he loses his balance from a particularly nasty jolt and almost falls into the gaping seam!
OPTION 1 : "Dive and pull him to safety." MASTER : Osmanthus Wine, grab onto me!
With just me, maybe both of us will...I hold onto his hand tightly but my heart sinks in despair.
But right that instant, everything becomes still. We lie stomach-down on the ground without moving. It is so steady it feels almost as if we are sailing on the crafts of the giants.
MASTER : The crack...The crack's been sealed? TGII, were you repairing the moon just now?
TGII : These mechanism designs are very familiar...I...
OSMANTHUS WINE : Since you can fix these broken machines, maybe...There's still hope for Guanghan Palace!
The mountain rocks and Osmanthus sprigs in the distance are still vibrating. We exchange glances, with the same thought in mind.
MASTER : TGII, let's put a stop to Guanghan Palace's collapse together.
OSMANTHUS WINE : That's right. I'm not about to throw my life away while hunting for Yipin Pot!
TGII slowly straightens upright and stares at me. His expression is unreadable, obscured by the dark-colored glasses he is wearing.
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TGII : I'll help you, don't worry.
TGII : To repair the machines, we'll need the corresponding parts to swap out for the broken ones. I managed to get a scan of the parts we'll need over there.
He points in the direction of Guanghan Palace and bows his head, saying something softly.
TGII : ...To humans, the moon must be very important.
-Full Moon Plan Part 2-
The ruined palace's backyard leads into an endless forest of Osmanthus trees. Osmanthus Wine's form melts into the forest quickly.
OSMANTHUS WINE : Master, come see, I seem  to have found something rather curious...
TGII : This is a dovetail joint...!
TGII : Excellent, it's just what we need.
OSMANTHUS WINE : I'll lead the way, I...Know it very well.
-Full Moon Plan Part 3-
Our repairs seem to be fairly effective. On the way here, the core tremor aftershocks have steadily decreased and the moon is beginning to look plumper.
MASTER : Still, I just saw that the component's hub...It isn't a match for any of the spare parts we have.
OSMANTHUS WINE : Let me see.
OSMANTHUS WINE : Hm, I have never seen anything like this. Perhaps, we need to walk further inward?
The stars spin idly in the skies far away, the moon's glow is slowly growing richer, and the scenery on it is slowly starting to come back to life.
MASTER : You're right, let's keep walking down here and take a look...
-Full Moon Plan Part 4-
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YIPIN POT : This is the last burr puzzle.
We're standing in the core zone and staring at the last empty cavity. Osmanthus Wine's eyes are full of anticipation. TGII slots the last component into the core mechanism's insides.
With a clank of the gears, the operation to repair Guanghan Palace is complete. But this all looks like nothing's changed.
OSMANTHUS WINE : Is that it? Has it ended? Why is there no improvement to my power over the Osmanthuses?
MOON CAKE : A moon...That never becomes a full one...
TGII : ...
TGII gazes at Moon Cake who is leaving on his own. He looks so alone, like a rudderless, homeless little canoe sailing to nowhere.
TGII : The mechanism has deteriorated for too long. We've changed all the components, but it'll take some time for operations to completely resume.
TGII : As for the power of the lunar Osmanthus, survey data suggests that the abandoned mechanisms and old creepers have been entangled for many years, preventing its growth. We just need to clean up those old mechanisms and it'll be full moon soon enough on Guanghan.  
YIPIN POT : At least Guanghan Palace has been fully repaired.
MASTER : Thank you, thanks...Yipin Pot.
YIPIN POT : I just did as my will dictated. As I have in the past and will in the future.
YIPIN POT : Let's leave quickly. We've got to go before the robo-bunny comes for us and restore the power of the Palace's Lunar Osmanthus...
OSMANTHUS WINE : ...! I see it...It's the robo-bunny!
-Guanghan Summit Part 1-
The robo-bunny's appearance is unchanged. But we are all crystal-clear that it is no longer the robo-bunny we used to know. Or rather, it was never what we thought it to be.
OSMANTHUS WINE : It's not yours, so why hang onto it?
ROBO BUNNY : ...
ROBO BUNNY : Click, click...
That's the...Robo-bunny's laugh. The cogs appear to be spinning at will, its laugh seems inexplicably tinged...By sadness.
YIPIN POT : Watch out, its eyes have turned red!
*FIGHT*
-Guanghan Summit Part 2-
The destructiveness of the giant robot that the robo-bunny is riding is amazing. Even with all of our powers combined, we are barely keeping up with it. Suddenly, it charges furiously at me, launching an attack!
TGII : !!!
TGII steps between me and the robo-bunny.
ROBO BUNNY : Uhm...
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MOON CAKE : It hesitated! Quick, take the chance to...Toss the carrot! Maybe it'll do something!
ROBO BUNNY : Sorry. I'm a machine oilist. No obstacle will be allowed to exist...On the path that I've chosen to take.
Having had its damaged parts repaired, the giant robot gets to its feet. The robo-bunny's small eyes look at us, just as it had when we first met.
ROBO BUNNY : Unlocking...Second Form : Tenacity!
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DREAM MEISTER & THE RECOLLECTED BLACK FAIRY
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SIDE CONVO : DASTE
EMMA : ..........
DASTE : Hey, the hell're you starin' at? Is there somethin' on my face?
EMMA : Oh no, sorry for staring...It's just rare to see you with your hair tied up like that.
DASTE : Ah, this? It ain't a big deal I just do it sometimes if it's really hot out or when my hair is gettin' in my face.
EMMA : Well, I think it suits you. I've tried wearing my hair up like that before, but I just can't make it work...
DASTE : Hah, well us pyrotechnicians are good with our hands. So, how 'bout it. You want me to tie up your hair for you?
EMMA : Seriously...?
DASTE : Sure. Why not? I'll make it look as flashy as a firework! 
EMMA : Flashy as a firework...? Oh god. Why are you cracking your knuckles like that!?
DASTE : Shut up. I'm just psyching myself up. Now stay still.
EMMA : (Huh...His hands are surprisingly gentle...)
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