Marius' Sweet Chapter 03-06: Difference between revisions

From Tears of Themis Wiki
(Updated text)
(Marius' Sweet Chapter 03-06)
 
Line 11: Line 11:
===Script===
===Script===
{{Script
{{Script
|scriptHeader=Obscure Fog
|scriptHeader=Reconsolidation (1)
|characterLinks=You!Main Character,Marius!Marius von Hagen,Kiki Bennet!Kiki Bennet
|characterLinks=You!Main Character,Marius!Marius von Hagen,Vincent Kim!Vincent Kim
|script=
|script=
{{Float|{{Background location|name=Themis Law Firm 2F|location=Themis Law Firm|image=Themis Law Firm - Office (Day).png}}}}
{{Float|{{Background location|name=Marius' Bedroom|location=Von Hagen Estate|image=Von Hagen Estate - Marius' Room (Day).png}}}}
''Marius wants to speak to Darius Morgan in private. Go back to the Law Firm and wait for their decision.''
''Marius went home to rest. Go see how he's doing.''


You've taken time off after your lunch break every day recently to stay on top of how Marius is doing.
After a few days of rest, Marius is nearly fully recovered.


But today, due to Darius Morgan being here, you're able to make it back to the firm before the break ends.
Of course, that includes both the exterior injuries and...


{{SL|Kiki Bennet|Huh? What are you doing back here? Everything okay at home?}}
{{SL|You|Your temperature and wounds are... both fine.}}
{{SL|You|Yeah, it's finally starting to look better.}}
{{SL|You|Do you still feel dizzy?}}
{{SL|Kiki Bennet|That's great to hear... But things really are getting chaotic out there.}}
{{SL|Marius|...}}
{{SL|Kiki Bennet|I just heard the seniors saying, "If we don't sue the pharmaceutical industrial park to the ground, no one will be able to find proper medical treatment."}}
{{SL|You|What is it...? Why aren't you responding?}}
{{SL|You|The pharmaceutical industrial park? Did something happen to them?}}
Marius doesn't reply. Instead, he looks at you with a bitter look.
Last month, after Pax sued the factories, the counterfeit pharmaceutical products became the topic that everyone was talking about at the firm.


But someone brought it up again today. Did something happen with the industrial park?
{{SL|Marius|I feel dizzy, very... dizzy.}}
He moves the hand you've placed on his hair down to his cheek, as if to prove what he just said.


Kiki tells you to wait as she gets up and goes through the public files area. She soon returns with a file.
{{SL|Marius|See? I can't even sit properly without you helping me.}}
{{SL|You|...Really?}}
{{SL|Marius|I really am dizzy... I need at least five... no, six company reports to feel better.}}
{{SL|You|...}}
You let out a long breath and suppress the explosive impulse inside of you. You put away your phone, look at him, and take back the hand he's holding onto.


{{SL|Kiki Bennet|This is it... We didn't actually take this case - Baldr Legal Office did.}}
You then pinch his cheeks and pull them in opposite directions.
{{SL|Kiki Bennet|However, the client sent over this information and said they have other cases they'd like to discuss in a few days.}}
{{SL|You|Let me take a look at the files first... Huh? Troy Canes!?}}
The name "Troy Canes" written as the defendant immediately catches your attention.


{{SL|You|They're suing him for trademark infringement, design infringement, creative infringement... Why are there so many infringement accusations? And also...}}
{{SL|Marius|Wahh! It hurts!}}
You take a look at the number of documents. In terms of an infringement case, the number of documents provided here isn't even sufficient for a single infringement accusation.
{{SL|You|Are you still feeling dizzy?}}
{{SL|Marius|I'm good now! I'm cured of everything. I'm in perfect shape.}}
After playing around for a while, he grabs your hands and holds you in his arms.


{{SL|You|There's too little material in here. We won't be able to go to court with this.}}
{{SL|Marius|I'm just messing with you... See how wound up you are every day?}}
{{SL|Kiki Bennet|That's what the senior members said. The plaintiff seems to be more interested in... harassment than actually going to court.}}
{{SL|Marius|I would be really sad if you were to collapse as I got better.}}
{{SL|You|(If it's purely for harassment, this method seems to be much less crafty than what Troy Canes would do...)}}
{{SL|You|Yeah, but that's all because of you! Have you heard of "The Boy Who Cried Wolf"?}}
You flip to the first page of the file and carefully read the name of the plaintiff.
{{SL|Marius|I'm sorry... I won't do it again.}}
{{SL|You|...}}


{{SL|You|Joseph Brightwood...? Kiki, do you have any recollection of this person?}}
{{Float|{{Background location|name=Hospital Ward|location=Hospital Ward|image=Hospital - Patient Room (Night).png}}}}
{{SL|Kiki Bennet|No, he's never been to the law firm before. However, I heard that he's in the pharmaceutical field and has a lot of influence.}}
Three days ago at the hospital...
{{SL|You|(He's also related to pharmaceuticals... Could he be one of Troy Canes' competitors?)}}
You want to find out more, but the amount of materials is much more limited than you imagined.


However, since Themis didn't take the case, Joseph Brightwood will no longer be sending any additional evidence.
After watching the doctor leave, you sit by the bed as Marius clenches on to your hand. He is immersed in the joy of not having been dumped.


{{SL|You|(Seems like there is only limited information here... I should give the files back to Kiki and find another way to handle this.)}}
{{SL|You|...Do you want some water? I'll go get some for you.}}
{{SL|You|Kiki, I've looked over the materials. Do I need to return it to the file room?}}
{{SL|Marius|No, just stay right here and let me look at you a little longer.}}
Kiki doesn't respond. Instead, she shows you her phone with the newest trending topics notification on it.
{{SL|You|You'll have all the time in the world to look at me. I told you - I'll always be by your side.}}
{{SL|Marius|Forever and ever?}}
{{SL|You|Yes, forever and ever.}}
{{SL|Marius|Then can you take a few more days off and go on a vacation with me? You know, get some fresh air?}}
{{SL|You|Of course.}}
{{SL|Marius|Oh, and I heard that many restaurants are introducing new dishes. How about we try one out every day starting next week?}}
{{SL|You|Next week... But we have to wait until you're recovered.}}
{{SL|Marius|You just said that you'd be by my side forever and ever...}}
Seeing the disappointed look on his face, you have no choice but to give in.


{{SL|You|What is that... Huh!?}}
{{SL|You|Fine...}}
The tenth trending topic says that Pax has decided to work with various vendors for the manufacturing of their second-generation products.
The hospital room door suddenly opens, and a man walks in with fast strides.


On top of that, two of the companies included are ones that Pax sued previously.
Before the two of you can react, he comes to a quick stop and turns around to leave the room.


{{SL|Kiki Bennet|What's going on? What is Pax doing?}}
{{SL|Vincent Kim|Sorry, I forgot to knock...}}
{{SL|You|I don't know...}}
{{SL|You|It's fine! Come in!}}
Is this the plan that Darius Morgan and Marius came up with after their lengthy conversation...?
Vincent seems to be burdened with hesitation. As he turns back around, he behaves as if his feet have been nailed to the floor.


You quickly take out your phone and call Marius.
{{SL|Marius|It's fine. Come on in.}}
{{SL|Vincent Kim|Yes, Master Marius.}}
{{SL|You|(Oh, I should speak to Vincent about what we have to do next...)}}
{{SL|You|(In Marius' current state, he's definitely not going to be able to make the press release in a few days, let alone deal with those shrewd geezers on the board of directors.)}}
{{SL|You|(His father and brother aren't here either. What should we do...?)}}
{{SL|Marius|Vincent, how are things outside?}}
{{SL|You|?}}
You aren't able to react fast enough at first. You can't help but come to a pause as you hear the calm words coming from his mouth.


{{Script
The disappointment, sadness, and weakness that just filled the hospital room is suddenly nowhere to be found.
|scriptHeader=Call script
|script=
{{SL|Marius|Hello?}}
{{SL|You|Marius, what's going on with the trending topics? You and Darius... What did you guys end up deciding to do?}}
{{SL|Marius|Oh? You already know? Good. I was worried that the message wouldn't be able to spread fast enough.}}
{{SL|You|Hurry and tell me what's going on...}}
{{SL|Marius|Don't worry, I've spoken to the police about everything that we're doing. These are decisions that I've made after thoroughly thinking them through.}}
{{SL|Marius|However, it might be better if I explained it to you in person...}}
{{SL|Marius|Can you come over right now? I'll wait for you at home. I can fill you in on all the details.}}
{{SL|You|Okay, I'm on my way.}}
}}
}}
{{Script
|scriptHeader=Start of the Counterattack (1)
|characterLinks=You!Main Character,Marius!Marius von Hagen
|script=
{{Float|{{Background location|name=The von Hagen Living Room|location=Von Hagen Estate|image=Von Hagen Estate - Sitting Room (Day).png}}}}
''Marius and Darius Morgan seem to have finished talking and arrived at a conclusion. Go back and ask Marius his reason for the decision.''


{{SL|You|Marius!}}
A strange cloud of suspicion slowly rises.
Darius Morgan had already left by the time you got back to the von Hagen estate. Marius is waiting for you in the living room.


{{SL|Marius|You look flustered. Come on, sit down and I'll pour you a glass of hot water.}}
{{SL|Vincent Kim|Yes, the person eavesdropping outside has already left.}}
{{SL|You|No... That's not important.}}
{{SL|You|Eavesdropping? What are you talking about?}}
You try to control your heavy breathing after rushing here and look at Marius with urgency.
{{SL|Marius|The bad guys eavesdropping on our conversation.}}
You look at Marius in total shock. He looks to be back with his casual, cocky smile. The depression and disappointment from earlier were seemingly just an act.


{{SL|You|I know that you must've gone through this with Captain Morgan... But what's the purpose of doing this?}}
{{SL|Marius|But don't worry, both of us were very convincing.}}
{{SL|You|Pax working with counterfeit factories that it sued before... Wouldn't that make the public opinion of Pax even worse than what it is right now?}}
{{SL|Marius|Pax CEO is suffering from mental trauma and just rescued his relationship with his loved one... I'm guessing whoever's eavesdropping should be satisfied with that.}}
{{SL|Marius|Miss... Slow down, you need to breathe.}}
{{SL|You|...}}
{{SL|You|...}}
{{SL|Marius|I know you're worried about me, but allow me to slowly break it down for you.}}
You immediately understand what just happened.
Marius pushes you toward the sofa and makes you sit down. He then gives you a glass of warm water and tells you to have a drink first.
 
You have no choice but to take a sip of the warm water. Although your throat is feeling better, the worries still remain.


{{SL|Marius|First, let me tell you a semi-confidential piece of information. The manufacturing pressure that Pax is facing regarding the Xbone II is actually pretty severe.}}
The breakup, memory loss, and the strange lottery number...
{{SL|Marius|It just so happens that the factories we recently sued are equipped with sufficient manufacturing power. All that's missing is our authorization.}}
{{SL|Marius|On top of that, they're facing incredible cash flow pressure. So, working with them will be able to resolve the immediate fires that both of us are facing.}}
{{SL|You|But... aren't they factories that produce inferior products?}}
{{SL|Marius|The ones I've contacted have never produced any inferior products.}}
{{SL|Marius|The materials and designs that they use match the specifications. All that's missing is Pax's authorization. So, when we went after them, it was actually about copyright infringement.}}
{{SL|Marius|Working with them in the short term to relieve our current situation is an option. After all...}}
Marius pushes a file on the coffee table toward you.


{{SL|Marius|We can't let Troy Canes succeed in running the entire industrial park, can we?}}
{{SL|You|Marius von Hagen!}}
{{SL|Marius|The best-case scenario is to be able to have some of his supporters side with us instead.}}
{{SL|You|This is... information on the factories Pax is going to be working with?}}
You take a detailed look at the files. None of the factories' lawsuit files contain anything regarding secondary damage cases.


It's also as Marius says - they do have sufficient manufacturing power.
{{Float|{{Background location|name=Marius' Bedroom|location=Von Hagen Estate|image=Von Hagen Estate - Marius' Room (Day).png}}}}
{{SL|You|Good thing you weren't seriously injured or lost your memories...}}
Obviously, at first, you're angry that you were kept in the dark.


If they can work together in manufacturing the second-generation products, their experience with producing the first generation will definitely also come in handy.
But after Marius and the police explain all the details to you, your anger completely turns into worry.


Most importantly, if they only work with Troy Canes, they will only ever be able to make money off knockoff products.
You sit back down on the bedside after handing Marius a glass of warm water and his medication.


And if they choose to lean Pax's way, they will be given more opportunities.
{{SL|You|So, you and the police put on a show to catch the person who attacked us?}}
{{SL|Marius|Yep. After all, we were lacking evidence to back up our previous theory. We didn't have a way of finding the bad guy behind it all either.}}
{{SL|Marius|After talking to the police, I decided to use the ledger to lure them out of their caves.}}
{{SL|Marius|However, not everything went according to plan... They were able to pin me down due to a blind spot in our plan.}}
He swallows the medicine with force, as if to swallow his dissatisfaction and anger.


{{SL|You|I see... So you're planning on using this investment to court the factories that were previously under Troy Cane's management?}}
He must find it frustrating for someone to find a vulnerability in his plan.
{{SL|You|By doing that, not only is there a possibility of the executives at those factories siding with you...}}
{{SL|You|But if everyone knows Pax is in immediate opposition to Troy Canes and isn't planning on going after anyone except him...}}
{{SL|You|Then maybe Pax will win over even more support to fight against Troy Canes.}}
{{SL|Marius|Yep, that's my plan. And... everything seems to be going quite smoothly right now.}}
{{SL|Marius|People may think that the hardest part of this is for me to check my ego and work with these smaller manufacturers.}}
{{SL|Marius|However, our goal is to solve problems and do a good job. I honestly don't care about any of that.}}
{{SL|You|That's true, but...}}
You're still worried as you think about what Troy Canes is capable of.


{{SL|You|This is a huge risk... What if Troy Canes goes after you again? What if he sends people to attack you again?}}
But even so, his tone remains calm and kind when he speaks to you.
{{SL|Marius|Don't worry. The police will provide protection for me in this plan.}}
{{SL|Marius|We might even get someone who will surprise our opponents and come to our aid.}}
And with that, Marius' phone vibrates as a call comes in.


Marius looks at the caller's number and chuckles.
{{SL|You|But your plan worked in the end. The police were able to capture the attacker, and we got the ledger.}}
{{SL|You|But... I'm actually worried about the eavesdropper. Is it really okay not to catch him right here and now?}}
{{SL|Marius|Yep. Besides, it's not time to capture him yet.}}
After putting down the glass, Marius leans in and holds you with one arm. He then grabs your hand and interlocks his fingers with yours.


{{SL|Marius|Speak of the devil.}}
After a slight pause, your fingers become tightly entwined.
{{SL|You|Who is it?}}
{{SL|Marius|It's a new "lobbyist" that we're working with. As for what we're going to be working on this time... Well, it'll be related to getting rid of Troy Canes.}}
Marius picks up the phone and puts it on speaker mode.


{{SL|Marius|Hello? Are you looking to talk about a partnership...? Mr. Joseph Brightwood?}}
{{SL|Marius|I told Vincent at the very beginning that if the other side isn't showing clear signs of aggression, and if we're unable to ensure total security in a hospital...}}
{{SL|You|(Joseph Brightwood!?)}}
{{SL|Marius|Then we should avoid conflict in a place like this. We need to avoid injuring innocent people.}}
{{SL|Marius|Besides... We've been thinking of ways to deal with their punches, instead of going directly after them. This is why they feel like they can do whatever they want.}}
{{SL|Marius|Now, it's our turn to catch the big fish.}}
{{SL|You|Catch the big fish...?}}
}}
}}
{{Script
{{Script
|scriptHeader=Start of the Counterattack (2)
|scriptHeader=Reconsolidation (2)
|characterLinks=You!Main Character,Marius!Marius von Hagen,Darius Morgan!Darius Morgan
|characterLinks=You!Main Character,Marius!Marius von Hagen,Payton Way!Payton Way
|script=
|script=
{{Float|{{Background location|name=The von Hagen Living Room|location=Von Hagen Estate|image=Von Hagen Estate - Sitting Room (Day).png}}}}
{{Float|{{Background location|name=Marius' Bedroom|location=Von Hagen Estate|image=Von Hagen Estate - Marius' Room (Day).png}}}}
''Speak to Marius about the next steps after the phone call.''
''Marius seems to have a plan in mind. Go talk to him about the next steps.''
 
{{SL|You|By catching the big fish... Do you mean to find the person behind everything through the person who was eavesdropping?}}
{{SL|Marius|Yes.}}
He lets go of your hand and reaches for the cell phone on the nightstand.
 
{{SL|Marius|Captain Morgan got me up to speed on everything just a few days ago.}}
{{SL|Marius|He said that although the attacker gave up his employer, there were no records of communication between them, and the money never arrived either.}}
{{SL|Marius|Even though the person is his employer, he's nothing but a low-level grunt from the North Stellis Pharmaceutical Industrial Park.}}
{{SL|Marius|Always going after the little guys will only make things even more complicated...}}
{{SL|Marius|So, the police decided that they were going to let the eavesdropper go this time and use him to lure out the person responsible for all of this.}}
{{SL|You|And you guys decided to put on a show in front of him as misdirection for when he relays what he heard to the others?}}
You finally understand what he's trying to do - you think back on Marius telling everyone that he was ill and wasn't seeing anyone, when he actually only suffered minor injuries.
 
{{SL|You|You didn't leave the room at all for the following few days either, even skipping out on returning to the company to take care of things after such a big commotion...}}
{{SL|You|What you intended on doing was to make your "illness" a reality?}}
{{SL|Marius|You nailed it. I told the police a while ago that there was no need to keep you out of the loop on an operation like this.}}
{{SL|Marius|If someone with your clear sense of logic was around, maybe the plan would've been even more perfect.}}
{{SL|Marius|By now, they should be convinced that their plan has worked. They should be getting ready to wrap things up.}}
He opens the trending news on his phone and shows it to you.
 
{{SL|You|"Pax's Xbone II Press Release in Danger of Cancellation"...}}
{{SL|You|"Xbone II's Skyrocketing Price"?}}
{{SL|You|Are they starting their smear campaign against Pax!?}}
{{SL|Marius|Yes. After getting rid of the counterfeit products, lower-priced Xbone products basically vanished from the market.}}
{{SL|Marius|Ordinary people don't have access to the counterfeit versions and aren't offered lower-priced second-generation products. They will naturally start to criticize Pax and accuse us of earning money through unethical means.}}
{{SL|Marius|All they have to do is pay for a few trending news slots and the public opinion will begin to sway.}}
{{SL|You|Umm... It's already starting to cause quite an effect.}}
{{SL|You|These two trending topics are still getting more popular... It's going to be hard to salvage the situation from here, right?}}
{{SL|Marius|This kind of speculation isn't big enough to affect Pax too much yet.}}
{{SL|Marius|All these problems will take care of themselves if we're able to resolve the main issue in the next couple of days.}}
He smiles with great confidence and swipes his finger twice across his phone. He then shows you a series of video conference records.
 
{{SL|Marius|The first day after returning home, I had a series of meetings with the board of directors.}}
{{SL|Marius|It did take quite a bit to convince them... But the good news is that no one was against me this time.}}
{{SL|Marius|The press release preparations are also still proceeding in near complete secrecy.}}
{{SL|You|You... did all that in secret these past couple of days?}}
Although you were taking care of Marius the whole time, he was only able to look at various materials in bed due to how weak he was from his injury.
 
You didn't expect he was able to organize so much work while you weren't paying attention...
 
{{SL|You|(He always makes it sound so easy when he talks about stuff like this...)}}
{{SL|You|(He's never willing to let people around him see the amount of work he really puts in.)}}
{{SL|You|Well then, it would seem that most of the company stuff that needs to be taken care of recently has all been done, right?}}
{{SL|You|You haven't fully recovered yet, and we need to make sure you get enough rest.}}
{{SL|Marius|It's... not time for that yet.}}
Marius' phone suddenly vibrates. A look of realization appears on his face as he looks down at the notification on the screen.
 
{{SL|Marius|None of their retaliation against Pax or me would be a problem. Anything goes when it comes to business.}}
{{SL|Marius|But they dared to set their eyes on you...}}
Marius clenches his jaw as he utters the last few words.
 
{{SL|You|...}}
At that moment, you shudder from the fear you felt when you were pinned down on the hood of the car with the metal pipe raised above your head.
 
Marius quickly notices your behavior and holds you even tighter.


The result of the phone call is a meeting between Marius and Joseph Brightwood in North Stellis two hours later.
The burning sensation of his breath sears your skin. You wet your dry lips and reach out to touch Marius' face that's buried in your neck.


You seem to have an idea of Joseph Brightwood's agenda through what he said during the phone call.
You both know that their attack on Marius was for retaliation and to retrieve the ledger that could be used as evidence.


{{SL|You|Sounds like he was hoping to threaten you with his cooperation in arresting Troy Canes and make you agree to a verbal agreement over the phone.}}
However, the attack on you was... not in the original plan. It just so happens that Marius was on the phone with you at the time.
{{SL|You|Good thing you didn't leave any weak spots in what you said.}}
{{SL|Marius|Yup. I've heard a little about this Joseph Brightwood character.}}
{{SL|Marius|He's now in control of more resources than Troy Canes. Brightwood has the ability to completely get rid of Troy Canes.}}
{{SL|Marius|However, Joseph Brightwood feels that taking down a leader of the pharmaceutical industrial park would be even more profitable.}}
{{SL|Marius|So... making a fortune by working with Pax would be the best choice for him in a time like this. I'll naturally have to keep my guard up against him.}}
{{SL|You|I also went through a ton of materials regarding Joseph Brightwood's attempts to sue Troy Canes at the firm today.}}
{{SL|You|I was curious why he would go after Troy Canes in such a tedious way... But now I understand.}}
{{SL|You|He's just waiting for the highest bidder to make an offer for the evidence he has.}}
{{SL|Marius|Hahaha, you're amazing. You nearly saw through all of Joseph Brightwood's plans from just a few prosecution documents.}}
{{SL|Marius|But as for whether the evidence is sufficient to be beneficial to both me and Joseph Brightwood, we'll have to see how the meeting goes.}}
After that, Marius gets up and prepares to leave.


You bite down on your lip as you look at the location of his injury on the back of his head.
After learning about the phone call, they included you as a part of their revenge.


{{SL|You|Marius, let me go with you this time...}}
{{SL|You|These thugs... they really are despicable...}}
{{SL|You|Even though the police are there to protect you... it still makes me worried...}}
{{SL|Marius|At the time, I saw you when I regained a part of my senses...}}
{{SL|You|Besides, it's a negotiation, right? You'll need an attorney there to help you if there are a ton of clauses to go through.}}
{{SL|Marius|The only thought in my mind at the time was that if the pipe had hit you, that moment would've been the end of my life.}}
{{SL|Marius|I know... That's why I planned on taking you with me from the start.}}
{{SL|Marius|I regret... that I wasn't harsh enough from the very beginning. I should've been thinking of how I was going to get rid of them from the very start.}}
{{SL|You|Hmm?}}
{{SL|Marius|I knew from the jump that they were scum. They don't care about other people's lives and are only after money. But even then, I didn't finish the job.}}
After Marius gathers everything he needs, he reaches out his hand toward you as if to invite you to accompany him.
{{SL|You|But... aren't we working on bringing all of them to justice right now?}}
You reach out and press your hand against Marius' neck, closing the distance between the two of you while letting him feel the determination in your heart.


{{SL|Marius|You said before that running a company is my specialty, and going to court is yours.}}
{{SL|You|We're exposed, while they hide in the dark. If their plans have no boundaries, and we're going after them, it's expected for certain issues to take place.}}
{{SL|Marius|What I'm walking into now is a combination of the two. I...}}
{{SL|You|Now, we need to return the pain and suffering they've brought upon all of us and make them think it over in jail.}}
His tone suddenly deepens. This isn't the usual tone he speaks in when he's joking around with you.
{{SL|You|So... stop blaming yourself, okay? We still have very, very important things to do.}}
{{SL|Marius|...}}
The violent heartbeat resonating from his back softens. You can feel Marius finally calming back down.


Every word he speaks at this moment is filled with trust and reliance.
He then slowly lets go of you.


{{SL|Marius|I really need you right now.}}
{{SL|Marius|You're right. We do have important things to take care of soon.}}
He gently places his forehead on your shoulder as his arms hang onto your waist.
{{SL|Marius|If we can take care of what comes next... We will be able to bring all of them to justice.}}
{{SL|You|What comes... next?}}
A knock comes from the door before you can finish your question.


Due to his straightforwardness, all you can feel in this moment that should've been filled with intimacy is the warmth the two of you are trying to pass on to one another.
{{SL|Payton Way|Master Marius, Captain Morgan is here and waiting for you in the living room downstairs.}}
{{SL|Marius|Okay, I'll be right there.}}
{{SL|You|Why is Captain Morgan... Did he find something new?}}
{{SL|Marius|Yes.}}
Marius shows you the message he just received on his phone.


{{SL|You|...}}
{{SL|Marius|From the group of indicted counterfeit companies, they've narrowed the suspects that are capable of getting to me and harassing my employees to a very small range.}}
{{SL|You|I know. I really hope this will put an end to it all.}}
{{SL|Marius|I sent the police the most recent batch of leads this morning. They should be able to pinpoint the culprit in no time.}}
{{SL|Marius|Let's go talk to Captain Morgan and find out what's new.}}
}}
}}
{{Script
{{Script
|scriptHeader=Start of the Counterattack (3)
|scriptHeader=Reconsolidation (3)
|characterLinks=You!Main Character,Marius!Marius von Hagen
|characterLinks=You!Main Character,Marius!Marius von Hagen,Darius Morgan!Darius Morgan
|script=
|script=
{{Float|{{Background location|name=North Stellis Street|location=North Stellis|image=North Stellis - Street (Day).png}}}}
{{Float|{{Background location|name=The von Hagen Living Room|location=Von Hagen Estate|image=Von Hagen Estate - Sitting Room (Day).png}}}}
''The negotiation is about to begin. Speak to Marius about the details of the negotiation.''
''Darius Morgan has arrived and is waiting in the living room. Go ask if he has any new leads.''
 
Darius Morgan is waiting for the two of you as you arrive in the living room.
 
{{SL|Marius|Thanks for making the trip, Captain Morgan.}}
{{SL|Darius Morgan|It's fine. How are you? How are your injuries?}}
Darius Morgan raises his head slightly, gesturing to the wound on Marius' head.
 
{{SL|Marius|I'm okay. I should be thanking them for allowing me to survive the attack.}}
{{SL|Darius Morgan|Good.}}
After a short chat, Darius Morgan shares the reason for his visit.


{{SL|Marius|Okay... I've sent the location and details to Captain Morgan.}}
{{SL|Darius Morgan|The criminal who attacked you shared some more information with us yesterday during the interrogation.}}
After he sends the last message to the police, Marius places the cell phone back in his pocket and prepares to venture even deeper into the crisis with you by his side.
{{SL|Darius Morgan|After further investigation, we discovered a key person involved is also related to the counterfeit case that we worked on last time.}}
Darius Morgan takes out a file from the satchel placed on the sofa. He flips it open and shows the two of you the first page.


The streets of North Stellis are desolate as usual. You look around and can't help but raise your head to ask a question.
{{SL|Marius|Troy Canes...?}}
{{SL|You|Do you know this person?}}
Marius remains silent for a moment and shakes his head.


{{SL|You|Didn't the police say they'll be protecting you? Why does it feel like you and I are the only people here...?}}
{{SL|Marius|I have an idea of all the core personnel and legal representation in the factories, but I don't recall this person being involved with the case.}}
{{SL|Marius|This was also part of the plan.}}
{{SL|Darius Morgan|That's true, but only from the surface. It's also true that we didn't have to process him in the incident.}}
{{SL|Marius|With Joseph Brightwood's abilities, he would've definitely done his homework prior to such an important and secretive meeting.}}
{{SL|Darius Morgan|However, based on our investigations, we've recently discovered that Troy Canes is the core individual behind the group of counterfeit pharmaceutical factories.}}
{{SL|Marius|At the very least, the police wouldn't have been able to pretend to be my assistant or secretary. Otherwise, the courtesy of the negotiation would've been trampled upon.}}
{{SL|Marius|No wonder our lawsuit went so smoothly...}}
{{SL|You|So...}}
{{SL|Marius|It's because the real culprit cut his losses and ran.}}
You speak with a quieter voice and pose the question by nearly just moving your lips.
{{SL|You|Seems like this Troy Canes person... really knows how to protect himself.}}
{{SL|Darius Morgan|That's right. Troy Canes is not a person with a grand vision. So even though he operates from the shadows, the success of his businesses can only be seen as mediocre at best.}}
{{SL|Darius Morgan|However, he does have some tricks of his own when it comes to self-preservation.}}
{{SL|You|The police have probably been investigating someone like Troy Canes since the very beginning, right?}}
{{SL|You|But with the counterfeit products and everything that's been going on at Pax, you haven't had a way to arrest him.}}
{{SL|You|Could it be that... he's never slipped up even with all that's happened?}}
{{SL|Darius Morgan|Not entirely so.}}
Darius Morgan takes out another file from the satchel. He doesn't open it, but shows you the words on the cover - "Financial Investigation."


{{SL|You|How will the police confirm the details of the negotiation process?}}
{{SL|Darius Morgan|Something will eventually surface if there are any illegal or non-compliance activities connected to the money that he has earned.}}
Marius doesn't respond and gently squeezes the corner of his shirt.
{{SL|Darius Morgan|The investigative team has actually been on his tail for quite some time. They've also gathered a large amount of evidence.}}
{{SL|Darius Morgan|However, we're still waiting for key evidence that will put him away for the rest of his life.}}
{{SL|Marius|So... the key to the problem... is still time.}}
{{SL|You|(It's true... Whether it's the employees, Pax's product, or the citizens who are faced with danger at any time.)}}
{{SL|You|(No one can afford to wait any longer.)}}
Darius Morgan doesn't respond immediately.


You immediately understand... A listening device is probably hidden inside the corner of his shirt.
However, a confident smile appears on Marius' face after a brief moment of thought.


{{SL|Marius|With my understanding of Joseph Brightwood, he'll definitely be quick about showing me their contract in an attempt to turn the tables on me.}}
{{SL|Marius|So, it would seem like I need to work with the police and "make some moves" of my own.}}
{{SL|Marius|I'll be giving the contract to you. All you need to do is glance over the area regarding profit sharing. I need you to see if they're asking for more than twenty percent.}}
{{SL|You|...Huh?}}
{{SL|Marius|If it's over twenty percent, then I'll be able to negotiate.}}
{{SL|Darius Morgan|Cases often require the cooperation of multiple parties.}}
{{SL|You|Oh, okay... Hey, wait... Shouldn't you be the one who looks over anything that has to do with profit sharing?}}
{{SL|Marius|Don't worry - an upstanding citizen like me will definitely do everything I can to cooperate with the police.}}
As an attorney, your job is to assist him in confirming the contents of each clause in the contract. Profit sharing is more of a business-related thing...
{{SL|You|Does this mean... you guys are going to work together?}}
Darius Morgan nods and looks at you with a stern expression.


{{SL|Marius|Because I'm almost one hundred percent certain that he'll try to make a fortune off Pax through this deal.}}
{{SL|Darius Morgan|I'm very sorry, but that would mean I can only discuss what comes next with Marius alone.}}
{{SL|Marius|So, all you need to do is slam the contract back on the table and act super cool, and I'll take care of the rest.}}
{{SL|You|Oh, okay... I'll go back to the law firm then.}}
{{SL|You|I see... So what you're trying to do is to have me play along to look cool.}}
{{SL|Marius|No, I'm the one who's supposed to look cool. But after some thought, you slamming the table in the courtroom is just too mesmerizing.}}
{{SL|You|Marius!!}}
{{SL|Marius|Okay, okay. I was just joking. It's just that you looked nervous, so I was afraid you'd break character later.}}
{{SL|Marius|Don't worry - Joseph Brightwood won't become hostile at the negotiation table. We'll definitely be safe.}}
{{SL|Marius|I really need you to do it. It's about creating a stronger presence at the negotiation.}}
{{SL|Marius|To be honest, that old man still does have seniority over me.}}
{{SL|Marius|If we don't establish a strong presence, I'll be at a disadvantage from here on out.}}
{{SL|You|That's true. Having a strong presence at negotiations is something we find very important as well.}}
{{SL|Marius|Well then, I leave myself in your hands.}}
{{SL|You|I understand. Just leave that part to me.}}
}}
}}
|summary=
|summary=
Line 245: Line 297:
|characters=
|characters=
{{Character|name=Marius von Hagen|image=Marius character icon 1.png}}
{{Character|name=Marius von Hagen|image=Marius character icon 1.png}}
{{Character|name=Kiki Bennet|image=Kiki Bennet character icon.png}}
{{Character|name=Vincent Kim|image=Vincent Kim character icon.png}}
{{Character|name=Payton Way|image=Payton Way character icon.png}}
{{Character|name=Darius Morgan|image=Darius Morgan character icon.png}}
}}
}}

Latest revision as of 08:14, 3 May 2024

Overview

  • Stage Cost: None
  • First Clear Rewards: None


Guide

  • Hover to view spoiler content.

Script

Reconsolidation (1)
Von Hagen Estate
Marius' Bedroom
Von Hagen Estate - Marius' Room (Day).png

Marius went home to rest. Go see how he's doing.

After a few days of rest, Marius is nearly fully recovered.

Of course, that includes both the exterior injuries and...

You: Your temperature and wounds are... both fine.

You: Do you still feel dizzy?

Marius: ...

You: What is it...? Why aren't you responding?

Marius doesn't reply. Instead, he looks at you with a bitter look.

Marius: I feel dizzy, very... dizzy.

He moves the hand you've placed on his hair down to his cheek, as if to prove what he just said.

Marius: See? I can't even sit properly without you helping me.

You: ...Really?

Marius: I really am dizzy... I need at least five... no, six company reports to feel better.

You: ...

You let out a long breath and suppress the explosive impulse inside of you. You put away your phone, look at him, and take back the hand he's holding onto.

You then pinch his cheeks and pull them in opposite directions.

Marius: Wahh! It hurts!

You: Are you still feeling dizzy?

Marius: I'm good now! I'm cured of everything. I'm in perfect shape.

After playing around for a while, he grabs your hands and holds you in his arms.

Marius: I'm just messing with you... See how wound up you are every day?

Marius: I would be really sad if you were to collapse as I got better.

You: Yeah, but that's all because of you! Have you heard of "The Boy Who Cried Wolf"?

Marius: I'm sorry... I won't do it again.

You: ...


Hospital Ward

Hospital - Patient Room (Night).png

Three days ago at the hospital...

After watching the doctor leave, you sit by the bed as Marius clenches on to your hand. He is immersed in the joy of not having been dumped.

You: ...Do you want some water? I'll go get some for you.

Marius: No, just stay right here and let me look at you a little longer.

You: You'll have all the time in the world to look at me. I told you - I'll always be by your side.

Marius: Forever and ever?

You: Yes, forever and ever.

Marius: Then can you take a few more days off and go on a vacation with me? You know, get some fresh air?

You: Of course.

Marius: Oh, and I heard that many restaurants are introducing new dishes. How about we try one out every day starting next week?

You: Next week... But we have to wait until you're recovered.

Marius: You just said that you'd be by my side forever and ever...

Seeing the disappointed look on his face, you have no choice but to give in.

You: Fine...

The hospital room door suddenly opens, and a man walks in with fast strides.

Before the two of you can react, he comes to a quick stop and turns around to leave the room.

Vincent Kim: Sorry, I forgot to knock...

You: It's fine! Come in!

Vincent seems to be burdened with hesitation. As he turns back around, he behaves as if his feet have been nailed to the floor.

Marius: It's fine. Come on in.

Vincent Kim: Yes, Master Marius.

You: (Oh, I should speak to Vincent about what we have to do next...)

You: (In Marius' current state, he's definitely not going to be able to make the press release in a few days, let alone deal with those shrewd geezers on the board of directors.)

You: (His father and brother aren't here either. What should we do...?)

Marius: Vincent, how are things outside?

You: ?

You aren't able to react fast enough at first. You can't help but come to a pause as you hear the calm words coming from his mouth.

The disappointment, sadness, and weakness that just filled the hospital room is suddenly nowhere to be found.

A strange cloud of suspicion slowly rises.

Vincent Kim: Yes, the person eavesdropping outside has already left.

You: Eavesdropping? What are you talking about?

Marius: The bad guys eavesdropping on our conversation.

You look at Marius in total shock. He looks to be back with his casual, cocky smile. The depression and disappointment from earlier were seemingly just an act.

Marius: But don't worry, both of us were very convincing.

Marius: Pax CEO is suffering from mental trauma and just rescued his relationship with his loved one... I'm guessing whoever's eavesdropping should be satisfied with that.

You: ...

You immediately understand what just happened.

The breakup, memory loss, and the strange lottery number...

You: Marius von Hagen!


Von Hagen Estate
Marius' Bedroom
Von Hagen Estate - Marius' Room (Day).png

You: Good thing you weren't seriously injured or lost your memories...

Obviously, at first, you're angry that you were kept in the dark.

But after Marius and the police explain all the details to you, your anger completely turns into worry.

You sit back down on the bedside after handing Marius a glass of warm water and his medication.

You: So, you and the police put on a show to catch the person who attacked us?

Marius: Yep. After all, we were lacking evidence to back up our previous theory. We didn't have a way of finding the bad guy behind it all either.

Marius: After talking to the police, I decided to use the ledger to lure them out of their caves.

Marius: However, not everything went according to plan... They were able to pin me down due to a blind spot in our plan.

He swallows the medicine with force, as if to swallow his dissatisfaction and anger.

He must find it frustrating for someone to find a vulnerability in his plan.

But even so, his tone remains calm and kind when he speaks to you.

You: But your plan worked in the end. The police were able to capture the attacker, and we got the ledger.

You: But... I'm actually worried about the eavesdropper. Is it really okay not to catch him right here and now?

Marius: Yep. Besides, it's not time to capture him yet.

After putting down the glass, Marius leans in and holds you with one arm. He then grabs your hand and interlocks his fingers with yours.

After a slight pause, your fingers become tightly entwined.

Marius: I told Vincent at the very beginning that if the other side isn't showing clear signs of aggression, and if we're unable to ensure total security in a hospital...

Marius: Then we should avoid conflict in a place like this. We need to avoid injuring innocent people.

Marius: Besides... We've been thinking of ways to deal with their punches, instead of going directly after them. This is why they feel like they can do whatever they want.

Marius: Now, it's our turn to catch the big fish.

You: Catch the big fish...?

Reconsolidation (2)
Von Hagen Estate
Marius' Bedroom
Von Hagen Estate - Marius' Room (Day).png

Marius seems to have a plan in mind. Go talk to him about the next steps.

You: By catching the big fish... Do you mean to find the person behind everything through the person who was eavesdropping?

Marius: Yes.

He lets go of your hand and reaches for the cell phone on the nightstand.

Marius: Captain Morgan got me up to speed on everything just a few days ago.

Marius: He said that although the attacker gave up his employer, there were no records of communication between them, and the money never arrived either.

Marius: Even though the person is his employer, he's nothing but a low-level grunt from the North Stellis Pharmaceutical Industrial Park.

Marius: Always going after the little guys will only make things even more complicated...

Marius: So, the police decided that they were going to let the eavesdropper go this time and use him to lure out the person responsible for all of this.

You: And you guys decided to put on a show in front of him as misdirection for when he relays what he heard to the others?

You finally understand what he's trying to do - you think back on Marius telling everyone that he was ill and wasn't seeing anyone, when he actually only suffered minor injuries.

You: You didn't leave the room at all for the following few days either, even skipping out on returning to the company to take care of things after such a big commotion...

You: What you intended on doing was to make your "illness" a reality?

Marius: You nailed it. I told the police a while ago that there was no need to keep you out of the loop on an operation like this.

Marius: If someone with your clear sense of logic was around, maybe the plan would've been even more perfect.

Marius: By now, they should be convinced that their plan has worked. They should be getting ready to wrap things up.

He opens the trending news on his phone and shows it to you.

You: "Pax's Xbone II Press Release in Danger of Cancellation"...

You: "Xbone II's Skyrocketing Price"?

You: Are they starting their smear campaign against Pax!?

Marius: Yes. After getting rid of the counterfeit products, lower-priced Xbone products basically vanished from the market.

Marius: Ordinary people don't have access to the counterfeit versions and aren't offered lower-priced second-generation products. They will naturally start to criticize Pax and accuse us of earning money through unethical means.

Marius: All they have to do is pay for a few trending news slots and the public opinion will begin to sway.

You: Umm... It's already starting to cause quite an effect.

You: These two trending topics are still getting more popular... It's going to be hard to salvage the situation from here, right?

Marius: This kind of speculation isn't big enough to affect Pax too much yet.

Marius: All these problems will take care of themselves if we're able to resolve the main issue in the next couple of days.

He smiles with great confidence and swipes his finger twice across his phone. He then shows you a series of video conference records.

Marius: The first day after returning home, I had a series of meetings with the board of directors.

Marius: It did take quite a bit to convince them... But the good news is that no one was against me this time.

Marius: The press release preparations are also still proceeding in near complete secrecy.

You: You... did all that in secret these past couple of days?

Although you were taking care of Marius the whole time, he was only able to look at various materials in bed due to how weak he was from his injury.

You didn't expect he was able to organize so much work while you weren't paying attention...

You: (He always makes it sound so easy when he talks about stuff like this...)

You: (He's never willing to let people around him see the amount of work he really puts in.)

You: Well then, it would seem that most of the company stuff that needs to be taken care of recently has all been done, right?

You: You haven't fully recovered yet, and we need to make sure you get enough rest.

Marius: It's... not time for that yet.

Marius' phone suddenly vibrates. A look of realization appears on his face as he looks down at the notification on the screen.

Marius: None of their retaliation against Pax or me would be a problem. Anything goes when it comes to business.

Marius: But they dared to set their eyes on you...

Marius clenches his jaw as he utters the last few words.

You: ...

At that moment, you shudder from the fear you felt when you were pinned down on the hood of the car with the metal pipe raised above your head.

Marius quickly notices your behavior and holds you even tighter.

The burning sensation of his breath sears your skin. You wet your dry lips and reach out to touch Marius' face that's buried in your neck.

You both know that their attack on Marius was for retaliation and to retrieve the ledger that could be used as evidence.

However, the attack on you was... not in the original plan. It just so happens that Marius was on the phone with you at the time.

After learning about the phone call, they included you as a part of their revenge.

You: These thugs... they really are despicable...

Marius: At the time, I saw you when I regained a part of my senses...

Marius: The only thought in my mind at the time was that if the pipe had hit you, that moment would've been the end of my life.

Marius: I regret... that I wasn't harsh enough from the very beginning. I should've been thinking of how I was going to get rid of them from the very start.

Marius: I knew from the jump that they were scum. They don't care about other people's lives and are only after money. But even then, I didn't finish the job.

You: But... aren't we working on bringing all of them to justice right now?

You reach out and press your hand against Marius' neck, closing the distance between the two of you while letting him feel the determination in your heart.

You: We're exposed, while they hide in the dark. If their plans have no boundaries, and we're going after them, it's expected for certain issues to take place.

You: Now, we need to return the pain and suffering they've brought upon all of us and make them think it over in jail.

You: So... stop blaming yourself, okay? We still have very, very important things to do.

Marius: ...

The violent heartbeat resonating from his back softens. You can feel Marius finally calming back down.

He then slowly lets go of you.

Marius: You're right. We do have important things to take care of soon.

Marius: If we can take care of what comes next... We will be able to bring all of them to justice.

You: What comes... next?

A knock comes from the door before you can finish your question.

Payton Way: Master Marius, Captain Morgan is here and waiting for you in the living room downstairs.

Marius: Okay, I'll be right there.

You: Why is Captain Morgan... Did he find something new?

Marius: Yes.

Marius shows you the message he just received on his phone.

Marius: From the group of indicted counterfeit companies, they've narrowed the suspects that are capable of getting to me and harassing my employees to a very small range.

Marius: I sent the police the most recent batch of leads this morning. They should be able to pinpoint the culprit in no time.

Marius: Let's go talk to Captain Morgan and find out what's new.

Reconsolidation (3)
Von Hagen Estate
The von Hagen Living Room
Von Hagen Estate - Sitting Room (Day).png

Darius Morgan has arrived and is waiting in the living room. Go ask if he has any new leads.

Darius Morgan is waiting for the two of you as you arrive in the living room.

Marius: Thanks for making the trip, Captain Morgan.

Darius Morgan: It's fine. How are you? How are your injuries?

Darius Morgan raises his head slightly, gesturing to the wound on Marius' head.

Marius: I'm okay. I should be thanking them for allowing me to survive the attack.

Darius Morgan: Good.

After a short chat, Darius Morgan shares the reason for his visit.

Darius Morgan: The criminal who attacked you shared some more information with us yesterday during the interrogation.

Darius Morgan: After further investigation, we discovered a key person involved is also related to the counterfeit case that we worked on last time.

Darius Morgan takes out a file from the satchel placed on the sofa. He flips it open and shows the two of you the first page.

Marius: Troy Canes...?

You: Do you know this person?

Marius remains silent for a moment and shakes his head.

Marius: I have an idea of all the core personnel and legal representation in the factories, but I don't recall this person being involved with the case.

Darius Morgan: That's true, but only from the surface. It's also true that we didn't have to process him in the incident.

Darius Morgan: However, based on our investigations, we've recently discovered that Troy Canes is the core individual behind the group of counterfeit pharmaceutical factories.

Marius: No wonder our lawsuit went so smoothly...

Marius: It's because the real culprit cut his losses and ran.

You: Seems like this Troy Canes person... really knows how to protect himself.

Darius Morgan: That's right. Troy Canes is not a person with a grand vision. So even though he operates from the shadows, the success of his businesses can only be seen as mediocre at best.

Darius Morgan: However, he does have some tricks of his own when it comes to self-preservation.

You: The police have probably been investigating someone like Troy Canes since the very beginning, right?

You: But with the counterfeit products and everything that's been going on at Pax, you haven't had a way to arrest him.

You: Could it be that... he's never slipped up even with all that's happened?

Darius Morgan: Not entirely so.

Darius Morgan takes out another file from the satchel. He doesn't open it, but shows you the words on the cover - "Financial Investigation."

Darius Morgan: Something will eventually surface if there are any illegal or non-compliance activities connected to the money that he has earned.

Darius Morgan: The investigative team has actually been on his tail for quite some time. They've also gathered a large amount of evidence.

Darius Morgan: However, we're still waiting for key evidence that will put him away for the rest of his life.

Marius: So... the key to the problem... is still time.

You: (It's true... Whether it's the employees, Pax's product, or the citizens who are faced with danger at any time.)

You: (No one can afford to wait any longer.)

Darius Morgan doesn't respond immediately.

However, a confident smile appears on Marius' face after a brief moment of thought.

Marius: So, it would seem like I need to work with the police and "make some moves" of my own.

You: ...Huh?

Darius Morgan: Cases often require the cooperation of multiple parties.

Marius: Don't worry - an upstanding citizen like me will definitely do everything I can to cooperate with the police.

You: Does this mean... you guys are going to work together?

Darius Morgan nods and looks at you with a stern expression.

Darius Morgan: I'm very sorry, but that would mean I can only discuss what comes next with Marius alone.

You: Oh, okay... I'll go back to the law firm then.

Character(s)