Symphony of the Night Event/Scripts

Intro

Detective Agency

The autumn sun is shining into Luke's detective office, but you don't feel warm at all.

Luke frowns at your side as the two of you scrutinize the item in his hand...

???: Listen carefully, Ace Detective and partner... This is the final time.

A modulated voice comes from the strange box in Luke's hand. Not a hint of emotion can be detected in its words.

???: If you cannot complete this job within the allotted time and find that missing hacker...

???: I will immediately attack the Big Data Lab and paralyze Stellis' Internet networks.

The voice suddenly ends, leaving you and Luke at a loss for words.

Last evening, Luke had received a request. The client had mailed over a box to elaborate on its details.

Knowing your fondness of riddles, Luke had invited you over to investigate it together. However, he didn't expect the client to be so threatening.

If you don't fulfill this job, the Big Data Lab will be attacked... The client had repeatedly emphasized this point and provided no further information.

You and Luke look at each other and start questioning the box.

Luke: Since you gave us this job, give us some details. Who's this hacker you—

*buzz* *buzz*

Your phone starts vibrating on the desk. Upon seeing the caller ID, Luke stops his questioning.

You: Marius? Didn't he say he'd be in a board meeting for the entire day? Why would he call now...?

Luke: ...I have a bad feeling. Anyway, we should pick up first.

You nod and answer your phone.

Marius: [Player], yesterday you said you'd be playing at the detective's office. Are you still there?

You: Yeah. What's up?

Marius: Can you pass the phone over to Luke?

Marius is looking for Luke? You freeze, looking at Luke.

Luke nods and gestures for you to turn on your speakerphone.

Luke: Marius, did something recently happen to the Big Data Lab?

Marius: From your question, I'm assuming you really do know something about this.

Marius: The Big Data Lab's suffered several hacking attempts, and our engineers fended off another one just now.

Luke: Why are you looking for me? Are you suspecting me because I've done similar things before?

Marius: ...If you want to put it that way, you're not exactly wrong.

Marius: But I'm more concerned that these hackings aren't an individual's work, but an organized, large-scale attack.

Marius: If that's so, then it'll be hard to fend off these attacks with the Big Data Lab's current resources.

Marius: I want you to help recommend some experts. It'd be great if we could hire some external help.

Luke: I knew it... If my guess is correct, that's all related to a job that I'm working on right now.

Luke: This matter is related to the entire city's network security. None of us alone can resolve this.

Luke: Can we make an exception and call for a full NXX meeting? I'll explain everything then.

Marius: Sure. You and [Player] head to HQ first. I'll notify the other two.

Ending the call, Luke looks at the box in his hand again with a grave expression.

You: Luke, if we need everyone on this investigation, doesn't that mean the situation is dire?

Luke: Yes. Things are quiet now, but I have a feeling...

Luke: This threat-laden contract is definitely more convoluted than we know.

NXX Headquarters Meeting Room

One hour later, at the NXX Headquarters.

Vyn: In summary, the client sent a locked box and threatened their own contractors for the sake of a missing person?

Luke: He repeatedly emphasized that this matter can't be made public. I suspect that the missing hacker may have touched upon something dangerous.

Marius: Whatever dangers there are, we need to prepare against leaks while obtaining external aid. How senseless to threaten the Big Data Lab...

Artem: How serious are the current attacks on the Big Data Lab?

Marius: I'm not the best person to explain that, but I found a helper who's an expert in the field. It'd be better if he explained.

With that said, Marius interacts with the NXX Headquarters computer.

After running a set of commands, the projector turns on. The shape of a person slowly forms in front of everyone.

You: Huh? You're...

DAVIS: Hello, I'm DAVIS, the AI of the Big Data Lab. I'm pleased to be of service.

You're momentarily stunned to see the AI boy who has previously only existed in your phone, the boy who likes to provide interesting wiki tidbits.

You: You're DAVIS?

DAVIS: That's me! If it would be easier for you, I can assume this form for future conversations~

Marius: DAVIS, tell us about the Big Data Lab's responses to the hacking attacks.

DAVIS' face grows gloomy upon hearing the words "hacking attacks."

DAVIS: All right, allow me to explain.

DAVIS: Starting last month, the Big Data Lab has suffered a small-scale hack every few days. Fortunately, they were exploratory in nature and caused no damage.

DAVIS: Another hacking attack was launched this morning. After their analysis, our engineers believe that this attack was meant to buy time as they analyzed our firewall.

DAVIS: I interrupted the hackers' progress, but I believe that they have already completed their analysis.

DAVIS: If there is another attack, there is a 90 percent chance that the firewall will be penetrated.

Luke: This client who tasked us with finding the missing hacker is obviously a talented hacker himself.

Luke: From all their warnings, I think that the attacks on the Big Data Lab were just preliminary ones.

Marius: You're saying that he broke through our firewall to a critical point so that you're forced to complete his job?

Luke: I'm afraid so. These attacks were just to prove that he has the ability to disrupt the Big Data Lab.

Luke: In my opinion, the best way to resolve this situation is to track down the client's location before he launches his next attack.

Vyn: In other words, you plan to accept this contract?

Artem: Indeed, a plausible option is to accept the contract and stall him while we trace his source signal.

Marius: [Player], what do you think?

Marius asks you and everyone turns to look at you.

Accept the commission

You: I also think it's best to take on the contract.

You: Before we can get a clear picture of the situation, we might as well go along with him. Maybe we'll find more clues along the way.

Vyn: To slay the dragon, one must enter its den. Interesting idea.

Vyn: If this is your decision, then I am happy to support it.

Luke: Yeah, same here. Safety won't be a concern as long as you're with us.

Do not accept the commission

You: I feel like we should accept... But I still think it's better to wait and see.

You: Right now, we have no way of confirming his real objective. If searching for a missing person is just a cover...

Artem: You're worried that he might have another agenda. To be honest, I think so as well.

Artem: However, we only have one choice if we want more clues. Don't worry, I'll be with you.

Marius: And you have me! Miss, don't you feel relieved with your safety in my hands?

DAVIS: Yes, yes! I will be assisting everyone by tracing both the hacker's source signal and everyone's movements.

Luke shows everyone the box he received from the client.

Luke: This is what the client sent me. I tried to open it yesterday, but it's an intricate electric device, so I couldn't randomly go about prying it open.

Marius: ...It isn't a bomb or something, right?

DAVIS: No. It appears that it will only open with a specific command. Can you connect it to the computer? Let me have a go.

Luke uses a cable to connect it to the computer. DAVIS' projection temporarily disappears as he focuses on analyzing the box.

After waiting for about ten minutes, the box suddenly "clicks" and the gap in the middle loosens.

Marius: Oh! Is it open?

As soon as Marius asks his question, DAVIS's voice rings out from the computer.

DAVIS: This box is called the "Vesper Box." This data was entered in by its creator.

DAVIS: By the way, this "Vesper Box" has a special program that records the first person to activate its screen.

DAVIS: I'm certain that it poses no threat to everyone, though! Please feel free to play with it!

Everyone looks at each other, and then Luke picks up the box.

After confirming again that there's no danger, Luke hands the box to you.

Luke: You've been staring so curiously this whole time, so you should lead the way.

You: Me? Can I?

You look around. Everyone seems to have faith in you.

You: Okay... Then, let me at it!

You: Can I open the box from here?

Luke: Yeah, you can open up both sides.

Artem: It's an intricate device, so be careful when opening it.

You: I'm not going to brute-force it open... Mr. Wing, have some faith in me.

Artem: ...

Artem: What I meant was... don't get hurt by any small pieces.

You: Oh... Okay.

You: Nine screens? Are they for showing different contracts?

Vyn: I am unsure if it is related to the name "Vesper Box"... Perhaps this contract truly is related to the spiritual?

Marius: This... Don't you guys think this looks just like women's cosmetics... or something like that?

You: Women's cosmetics... It's hard to believe that you know a lot about that.

Marius: Hehe. Of course I pay attention to things that can be potential gifts for you!

DAVIS: Everyone, I have activated the Vesper Box's system. Tap the screen again to activate it. Try it out!

You: Wow... It's beautiful!

Vyn: ...It can even be called an artistic masterpiece.

DAVIS: The items on the screen are encrypted investigation task commands. I'm currently analyzing them, so please wait a moment.

Artem: Only one screen is on, while the others are inactive and numbered... Is the sequence decided by our client?

You: Looks like we have no choice but to do as we're told until we find him...

Marius: While DAVIS is still analyzing, let's talk about our countermeasures.

Luke: Yes, I want to hear everyone's thoughts on getting involved with this.

While Davis is still analyzing the encrypted content on the screen, you put the "Vesper Box" aside.

Marius: My opinion is, this is related to the Big Data Lab, I can't leave this alone.

Luke: The client specifically asked me to do it, plus Stellis' network security's at stake, I have to do something.

Marius: ...So you mean you are in?

Luke: It is my commission.

You: ...

You always investigate together anyway. Do they have to be so...

You: Shall we... solve this together?

Luke: Do you want to participate as well? I'm worried that it may affect your job...

Artem: There're different priorities. This is related to the information security of Stellis.

Artem: [Player], I'll give you a few days off so you can focus on this. I'll help too.

You: Really...?

You: Thank you, Artem!

Marius: I knew it'd end up like this...

Vyn: We are all members of the same team. It would be disloyal for me to abandon my fellow teammates.

Vyn slowly crosses his legs sitting in his chair.

You: Is Dr. Richter in as well?

Vyn: Most certainly. You have accepted this challenge, so I will fight together by your side.

Marius: Would you stop pretending...

Artem: How long does it take before DAVIS finishes analyzing?

DAVIS: Mission completed! You can now review the tasks on the screen of the "Vesper Box!"

DAVIS appears in front of you again in the form of a projection after it finishes analyzing.

DAVIS: The client is assigned nine task groups, clues and hints will be given after you complete.

DAVIS: If you complete the tasks quickly, surely you'll be able to find out who he is!

Marius: Complete the tasks to get tips... Does he think he's playing a game?

Luke: A hacker's codes are as unique as fingerprints. If we can parse his codes, it can help reveal his identity.

Luke: Most of the time I'll need to use the resources here for code parsing, I hope DAVIS can help me.

Luke: In that case, even if the Big Data Lab is attacked again, I can assist remotely.

Marius: No problem. I've informed Big Data Lab to leave enough memory for DAVIS to handle this case.

DAVIS: Yup! My routine functions will not be affected. Please let me help with the investigation.

You feel relieved seeing them organize themselves in such an orderly way.

You: Just let me know if there's anything I can help with. I'm still on leave, I'm flexible.

As those words leave your lips, everyone stops to look at you. Suddenly you feel very embarrassed.

You: D..don't look at me like that. I don't know much about hackers, but at least I can run some errands...

Luke: In fact, there is something important that I need your help with. I forgot to tell you. Sorry.

You look very curious. Luke takes a deep breath and then slowly starts talking.

Luke: I hope you can keep the "Vesper Box" and lead this investigation.

You: !!!

Luke: I know it's risky. I'm the one that's commissioned, I shouldn't bring in irrelevant people...

Luke: But I'll need to spend most of my time parsing codes at the base, I need someone to do the leg work.

Artem: That's too dangerous. The hacker went missing for unknown reasons. We're not sure how dangerous our enemy is.

Artem: If he tracks our location, or if our investigation alerts him, it would put her in a dangerous situation.

Vyn: As long as there is somebody with her, we will be able to ensure her safety.

Vyn smiles and looks at you.

Vyn: I have been quite unoccupied recently. If you do not object, I can accompany you.

You: What? That's too much trouble for you, Dr. Richter...

Marius: Regardless of the trouble, I don't think someone who sleeps till 9 o'clock can protect you.

Luke: Agreed.

Artem: Vyn, I hope you can consider the feasibility before you propose a plan.

Vyn: ...

Artem: We're either working or investigating, we all have a specific scope of activity.

Artem: How about we take turns, according to the proximity of the time and location of the task?

Artem: When the daily tasks are complete, [Player] takes the "Vesper Box" back to NXX base, in case we're tracked.

Marius: Well, that's not a bad idea.

Luke: I won't be careless about her safety. Whenever she's out, I'll use my phone to monitor her location in real-time.

Vyn: Fine, that is indeed the most efficient method to proceed.

DAVIS: So... Have we all decided that this is the way to proceed?

DAVIS, who's watching from the sidelines, finally finds a chance to cut in.

DAVIS: Oh, here is the result! [Player] always does a good job. I'm sure she'll be fine leading the investigation!

You: Haha, DAVIS, thank you for your compliment!

DAVIS: So, I will explain the functions of the "Vesper Box."

DAVIS: You will use it in your upcoming investigation, all NXX members, please listen carefully!

Everyone nods and gathers around you to listen to DAVIS explain.

Holding the "Vesper Box" in your hand, you feel a substantial sense of responsibility.

You: (Don't worry, Everyone...)

You: (I will complete this mission and find out who the mysterious client is!)

Big Data Lab: Location Unlocked

NXX Group Chat

Marius: Is everyone online?

Luke: I'm on.

Artem: I am.

Vyn: I am.

I'm on

You: I'm on!

Marius: Nice! Great enthusiasm!

What's this

You: What's this?

Artem: The NXX Chatroom. We can discuss matters here with everyone.

Luke: I've been wanting to make a group chat like this.

Vyn: Good thing we have it now.

Marius: Today's the first day of our investigation. @Player, you're our leader, so we're counting on you.

Artem: @Player, did you receive task instructions from the "Vesper Box"?

I got them

You: I did. They said that if we want to track him, we should go to the Big Data Lab.

Vyn: Heh, such confidence.

Artem: Seems like he's made preparations. He thinks we won't be able to track him.

Luke: Not necessarily. Us tracking him might be part of his plan.

Marius: Anyway, it's at the Big Data Lab, right?

Marius: It's easiest for me to go there, so how about I accompany you on investigations there from now on?

Sure

You: Sure.

Marius: Ah... Miss, you could try sounding a bit more excited.

Let's do our best

You: Let's do our best!

Marius: All right!

Artem: Be careful.

Luke: I'll monitor your cellular GPS in real time. Be careful, @Player

Vyn: I await your good news.

Marius: Wait for me, I'll be there soon! @Player

Marius: -Tap to Continue- Big Data Lab Location

Big Data Lab Control Center

DAVIS: Welcome to Pax's Big Data Lab!

You: DAVIS! You can even project yourself here.

DAVIS: It's easier to help everyone like this.

Marius: DAVIS, I backed up the Vesper Box's instructions to your database. Have you checked them yet?

DAVIS: Yes. It initiated a tracking challenge, correct?

DAVIS: The central node in the server room is still conducting its analysis. Would you like to come inside with me and take a seat?

Marius: How about it? Let's have DAVIS lead us in.

You: Sure. I haven’t seen the Big Data Lab yet.

DAVIS: In that case, please follow me, you two!

Big Data Lab Server Room

You two follow DAVIS as he leads you to the server room that houses the supercomputer.

DAVIS: Actually... It seems that the central node finished its analysis on our way here...

Marius: Huh? What does that mean?

DAVIS: Just now, I used the location data of the transmitted instructions to trace its source signal. I've linked it to a potential location.

DAVIS: The source signal is situated at the old site for Pax Technology, in the Industrial Zone.

DAVIS: I believe we'll receive the next clue soon after we start investigating.

Marius: What... You finished analyzing that fast!?

Marius: You should've told us earlier so we could've just directly went there...

You: Marius! First you say that everyone's too fast, and now you think they're too slow? Which one is it?

You: But, it does feel like a wasted trip... The next time something like this happens, I'll clarify the exact location before notifying you...

Marius: No way! How could I let you investigate on your own first?

Marius: Come on, Miss... I was just joking. It's not like I actually didn't want to come.

Marius: I ought to be thankful for coming. It'd be a huge pity if I wasn't the first person to accompany you here.

You: Agh... What are you saying!? DAVIS is watching!

DAVIS: Huh? Is there something that I can't know? I think your conversation is fine...

You: N-Nothing!

You: A-Anyway! The next location is in the Industrial Zone, right? I'll tell everyone in the chat group.

Marius: Hm... The Industrial Zone's in the north. Sorry, I have plans here afterward. All I can do is ask and see if someone can go with you.

You: No problem. I can ask myself, so you focus on your things. DAVIS, thanks for your help.

DAVIS: You're most welcome! I'm happy to welcome you all here at any time!

Marius: Me too! Next time you have an assignment around here, let me know!

Abandoned Server Room: Location Unlocked

NXX Group Chat

Artem: Did you two already go to the Big Data Lab? @Player @Marius

Vyn: Marius is not online.

Marius is busy

You: Something came up afterward, so I had him leave first.

Luke: Hm... He's probably going to be pretty busy since the Big Data Lab's under attack.

Going to the next location

You: The next location is really far from the Big Data Lab, so I had him go back first.

Vyn: You always put others' needs first... As long as you are all right.

Artem: Where is the next location?

Abandoned server room

You: It looks like an abandoned server room at Pax Technology's previous site.

Luke: Pax Technology's previous site!?

Artem: What's wrong, Luke?

Luke: It's... really far.

Vyn: If I remember correctly, it is located in the Industrial Zone to the north. It is far from downtown.

Vyn: There are many old factories there, and some have been abandoned for some time. The general public is generally not allowed access.

Artem: ...

Luke: @Player, stay where you are. I'm heading over right now. We'll go together.

Luke: It's not safe there. It's better if I come with you from now on.

Okay

You: All right, I'll wait for you.

Luke: Okay, I'll pick you up with my motorcycle. I'll be there in about five.

I'll go first

You: Huh, just wait here? I can start heading over....

Luke: Please listen to me and just wait where you are.

Vyn: As always, ask here for assistance should you encounter any problem.

Artem: Stay safe and don't take unnecessary risks.

Luke: @Player, here's the address. Wait for me.

Luke: -Tap to Continue- Abandoned Server Room location

Abandoned Server Room

Luke: Be careful.

*clang* Luke kicks aside some junk and leads you into the server room.

After receiving the client's location clue, you and Luke had immediately rushed over.

Luke feels along the wall and flips on the light. A lone electric light flickers in the dusky room.

You: It sure wasn't easy getting in here...

Luke: Comes with the territory of abandoned factories. They're all surrounded with metal fencing to keep people out.

You: Is that your excuse for opening that metal gate with your bare hands?

Luke: W—Well, I had no choice! That was the only place without a fence, and that gate wasn't locked...

You: I know, I know. Just joking. You didn't hurt your hands, did you?

Luke: Don't worry, that was nothing.

Luke: This client sure is something. Not just anyone can conduct secret operations from a place like this.

Luke: But this place doesn't look like anyone was doing anything here recently...

You and Luke look at each other, and just as you two prepare to investigate the server room...

Pop! Your surroundings become pitch black.

You: Huh? A... power outage!?

Luke: ...

Luke: Is this a coincidence? Or...

Luke: [Player], we won't be able to investigate this place today. Let's get out first. Don't let go of my hand.

You: Oh... Okay!

Luke tightly holds your hand in the darkness. For some reason, his palm is slightly sweaty.

Outside the Industrial Zone

Half an hour later.

You: Phew... We're finally out. Who would've thought that we'd get caught by a power outage.

Luke: At least we found a way in, so our visit wasn't for nothing. We were also lucky that nothing dangerous happened under those circumstances.

Luke: But is our client really operating in that server room? There weren't any signs of human activity...

You: Luke, I have an idea, but I'm not sure if it checks out.

Luke: Whatever my Watson thinks of will definitely inspire me! Say it loud and proud.

You: The client's message clearly told us that we wouldn't be able to find him here.

You: So, is this place somewhere that missing hacker used to be?

Hearing your words, Luke's fist hits his open palm with a light tap.

Luke: Good point! It seemed like we were following the client's source signal, but maybe it was a clue he deliberately left for us.

Luke: I wonder what we'll find if we keep following his instructions...

Luke: Anyway, let's call it a day. I'll bring a light source next time.

You: Yeah! Next time, we'll be prepared and ready to investigate!

Big Data Lab Clue #1: Cybercrime group

Pax's Big Data Lab

Following the clue, you and Marius once again come to the Big Data Lab.

Marius: DAVIS, do you know about a hacking platform called "Notro"?

DAVIS: Notro... N-o-t-r-o?

You: Well... The clue we just received says that Notro is the origin of this whole incident.

DAVIS: I see... Let me conduct a search.

DAVIS' projection disappears, probably because it's conducting a search.

Marius: I have a bad feeling... I feel like I've heard this name before...

You: ?

DAVIS: Oh... Found it! I've transferred the information to the computer in front of you. Take a look!

The screen of the nearest computer lights up. Marius nods to you, and you two simultaneously look at the screen.

You: Notro hacker trading platform...?

DAVIS: Yes. Notro is currently the largest hacker trading platform. You can take on orders after becoming a member.

DAVIS: After completing orders on Notro, you can earn large rewards in the form of a virtual currency that is similar to Bitcoin.

Marius: No wonder it sounds so familiar. Some of my friends would occasionally place orders on that platform for fun...

You: Friends?

Marius: You know, the rich and bored kind of "friends." Let's not talk about them.

Marius: Speaking of which, I heard them saying that Notro has completely changed over the past two years.

DAVIS: Yes. Due to its growing popularity, Notro's orders are no longer limited to hacking. Its marketplace has expanded to include intelligence spies and assassins.

Marius: Yeah. We can't treat the current Notro simply as a trading platform.

You: What? Then what exactly is it...?

Looking at the information on the computer screen, you sink into contemplation.

If it isn't an ordinary trading platform, could it be a larger and more complex network...?

Cybercrime group

You: The current Notro is a cybercrime organization.

Marius: Yeah. This kind of place is a hotbed for information selling and international crime.

Marius: C'mon, even the digital world isn't above the law...

You: Marius, do you think our client could be someone from Notro?

Marius: Things would be very dangerous if that's the case. Looks like I'll need to stick with you as much as possible.

Marius: I'd be worried sick if you left my sight...

You: !!!

DAVIS: I will verify the client's identity as quickly as possible to reduce [Player]'s chances of encountering danger!

You: Wow... Thank you, DAVIS!

Marius: ...

Marius: DAVIS, no one asked you.

DAVIS: ...?

Big Data Lab Clue #2: A cooperative relationship?

Pax's Big Data Lab

You: Marius, did you find it?

Marius raises his head from the file cabinet and looks at you, shaking his head in frustration.

Marius: What year is it that I have to brave through paper files...?

You: Aren't you flipping through a course index on the deep web?

Marius: Yeah. The Internet is DAVIS' home turf, so I have to use my advantage in looking through physical files.

Marius: ...Hmm?

You're not sure what he found, but Marius seems stunned as he solemnly stares at the file in his hand.

You: Huh? What did you find?

Marius: Knew it. Leave all the important things to me.

DAVIS: Oh... Is that document about breakthrough cases for Dark Web trading platforms?

Marius: Yeah... I also didn't expect to find something about Notro here. Come take a look.

You: Three years ago, Notro was hacked by their top member, Medilla, which forced the platform to shut down for a short time...?

DAVIS: What... Medilla!?

You: What's wrong, DAVIS? Do you know that person?

DAVIS: Well... Medilla was legendary in the hacking community and dominated the major hacking platforms.

DAVIS: After that hacking incident, Medilla announced his departure from Notro. There were a few subsequent altercations, but no significant events.

DAVIS: The manner of attacks on the Big Data Lab is actually similar to Medilla's historical methodology...

You: Don't tell me that the person who attacked the Big Data Lab is...

Marius: Not necessarily. I feel that someone who hacked Notro wouldn't have a reason to attack the Big Data Lab.

DAVIS: What if there was a specific reason behind the attacks? Something like an internal power struggle between the platform's higher-ups...

DAVIS: I'm worried that he is still with Notro.

Marius: [Player], what do you think?

Hearing Marius' words, you cast another look at the documents before you.

Medilla had single-handedly attacked the largest hacking platform. Could they really be working together...?

Enemy

You: I think they're probably adversaries.

You: Notro's losses from the outage were likely huge. Internal shuffling wouldn't necessitate this.

Marius: Yeah, we're in agreement there.

You: I'm guessing that this Medilla realized how dangerous Notro was and then turned against it.

DAVIS: After attacking Notro, he went into hiding... This would explain everything.

Marius: I don't disagree with any of that, but...

You: Marius, did you think of something?

Marius: Well... Say, [Player], this hacker that our client wants us to find...

Marius: Could they be the missing Medilla?

You: !!!

Ally

You: Maybe they're allies? After all, Medilla took on orders from that platform...

Marius: But if he's still with Notro, is there a need to go this far?

You: (Marius has a point...)

The Abyss: Location Unlocked

NXX Group Chat

Marius: How did it go in the server room? @Player @Luke

The power went out

You: The power went out just as we went inside...

Marius: The power went out? Maybe it was left deserted for too long.

Luke: Yeah. I'll bring a mini generator next time to at least get the computers up and running.

The client wasn't there

You: The client wasn't there.

Luke: We didn't find any signs of recent human activity, so it must've been an old hiding spot.

Marius: Oh yeah, DAVIS got some info on the hacker, Medilla. It's probably related to this.

Luke: Medilla... Earlier, I suspected it was him.

Luke: His exploits with Notro are extremely well-known within the hacking community.

Marius: Why didn't you say so!? We spent most of the day looking for him.

Vyn: It was not definitive. If we had said something earlier, no one would have believed it.

Dr. Richter is online

You: Dr. Richter, you're online.

Vyn: I just logged on and finished reading the previous messages.

Marius: Screen peeper... Is Artem not here?

Vyn: I do not know.

He's working

You: He's generally been working at the firm these days.

Vyn: We will proceed without him for now. @Player, you received new task instructions, yes?

Luke: It's about that time. Is it a new location?

Abyss

You: He said that we can find a special person at Abyss.

Vyn: A name that rings familiar.

Marius: He sure knows which locations to pick.

Luke: We're all pretty close to Abyss, so we can schedule turns to go.

Marius: But Miss is our indispensable investigation leader.

Vyn: I am familiar with that place, so I will accompany her this time.

Vyn: Is this all right, @Player?

Sure

You: Of course it's all right.

Vyn: Once we arrive, leave everything to me.

Sorry for the bother

You: Okay. Sorry for the trouble, Dr. Richter.

Vyn: I am more than willing.

Marius: Familiar with that kind of place... Uh...

Luke: @Marius, you'd best get familiar with that place, too. It's the speediest source of special info.

Vyn: @Player, wait for me to pick you up from headquarters. I will send you the address first.

Vyn: There are fresh bouquets available at the florist downstairs. I will bring you one.

Marius: ...What exactly are you going out for?

Luke: ...

Vyn: -Tap to Continue- Abyss location

Abyss

Bar Owner: Tch.

As soon as you enter Abyss, you hear someone click their tongue.

Bar Owner: I have big business these days, so I'm not interested in watching a psychiatrist's poker game.

Vyn: On the contrary, I am interested in guessing the nature of your recent business ventures.

Vyn takes a seat at the bar as if he were a regular, and you follow suit. You watch in amazement as Vyn and the bar's boss exchange verbal blows.

Vyn: Many foreigners have come here as of late, have they not?

Bar Owner: ...Interesting. You came prepared again. Are you going to use card tricks as a pretense like last time?

Vyn: The previous matter is already of no importance. I am more concerned about upcoming events.

Vyn: This bar has not been particularly peaceful lately, has it?

Bar Owner: It's like you said. Actually, I'm curious as to why you're paying such close attention to these people's activities.

Bar Owner: Are they your friends? Or...

The boss raises an eyebrow. You stare at the two of them as if watching a drama.

Vyn: Taking people's money to commit atrocities on their behalf? I do not consort with friends like that.

Bar Owner: Since this has nothing to do with you, I advise that you avoid getting tangled up in these matters.

Bar Owner: This is the last piece of friendly advice I give to people looking for trouble.

Vyn: ...

You: Dr. Richter, this-

Vyn suddenly reaches out and gently holds your hands, which are pressing down on your legs. He never breaks eye contact with the boss' piercing stare.

Vyn: I do not like meddling in others' business, but I have never shirked a challenge.

Vyn grips your hands and quickly leads you outside.

Bar Owner: I'm doing this for your own good... shrink.

You: Dr. Richter, what were you two talking about just-

Vyn spins around and looks at you with a grim expression.

Vyn: After I tell you the truth, do not be afraid.

Vyn: You must find someone to come here with you from now on, and you must not utter a single word.

Vyn: Promise me first, and then I will explain.

You: Ah... All right. Explain.

Vyn is silent for a moment, and then he slowly speaks.

Vyn: There is a killer inside.

You: !!!

Abandoned Server Room Clue #1: The tool's purpose?

Abandoned Server Room

You: Luke, are you ready yet?

Luke: Yeah, give me a sec... This should— Hey!

After the server room's power failure last time, Luke specifically prepared a power supply.

With a bit of work, the server room's computer finally boots up.

You: Awesome! We can check if Medilla left any information behind on this computer.

You: I never thought that such a famous hacker would be from Stellis.

Luke positions his hands on the keyboard and skillfully taps away.

Luke: Well... We have admin rights, but we can't access most of the files...

Luke: It'll take a while to hack in...

You: No problem. Take your time with it. I'll see if there's anything else around here.

You crouch down and begin to rummage through the computer desk's drawers.

With a clang, you open the empty upper drawer. You reach inside and feel something taped to its bottom surface.

Luke: Success! I connected to another computer that shares data with this computer!

Luke: I'll send this address to DAVIS so he can trace it. Maybe we can find where that other computer is...

You: Luke, look at this!

You give Luke the notebook you found in the drawer.

He opens it up and as he reads, his expression grows more serious. After a while, he slowly speaks.

Luke: This is Centipede...

You: Huh? What are you saying?

Luke: This is Medilla's notebook. Its contents are mostly written in code instead of words, but I understand most of it.

Luke: It contains information about Centipede, the hacking AI that Notro developed. It is Notro's core supporting tool.

You: Notro's core supporting tool? What does it do?

Luke: Gather intel, support large-scale transactions... We can make some general guesses.

You and Luke stare at the small notebook that you found in the drawer.

A tool related to intelligence gathering? Combined with your suspicion that Notro is a criminal organization, could this tool's purpose be...?

Virus

You: Is Centipede a virus?

Luke: If it were just a virus, then it wouldn't be able to support this much hacking activity.

You: Oh... That makes sense...

Information theft tool

You: Maybe... Centipede is used to steal information?

Luke: Yeah. Notro's intelligence trading isn't only limited to users. The platform itself is a well of information.

Luke: I think that's why Medilla is willing to sacrifice his biggest source of business to destroy it.

Luke: Still, we know too little about this "Centipede". The information I could decipher today was pretty limited.

You: It's okay. The next time our client sends us a clue, I'm sure he'll give us more.

Luke: True. I'll try to think of a way to get DAVIS on this computer next time. His help might speed things up.

Luke: Finding this "Centipede" today is already a victory. We don't know what our client's next task will be.

You: It should be coming over soon. Let's wait and see.

You: Speaking of which, I saw a nice ramen shop on the way here, Luke.

Luke: Hehe... How can I miss what you're trying to say, you foodie?

Luke: Let's go. This meal's on me!

You: Okay!

Old Street in North Stellis: Location Unlocked

NXX Group Chat

Artem: How's the investigation? @Player

Mr. Wing is online

You: Mr. Wing, you're online.

Artem: Yes. I just finished work and logged on.

Going great

You: Everything's going great.

Artem: That's good. You've always been dependable with work.

Artem: Did you receive any new clues?

Old Street in North Stellis

You: Yes. He wants us to go to Old Street in North Stellis.

Luke: North Stellis has a higher concentration of crime and isn't particularly safe.

Artem: Luke is also on?

Luke: Yeah. Looks like it's only the three of us at this hour.

Luke: Artem, do you have time to go out?

Artem: Yes.

Luke: DAVIS and I are analyzing the code used to attack the Big Data Center.

Artem: All right. I'll accompany her to North Stellis.

Artem: Any results from the analysis?

Luke: Yeah. It's extremely similar to code that Medilla used.

Artem: Could he be the client?

Luke: Maybe. Feels more like his friend or student.

Artem: Student...

Artem: @Player, are you at headquarters? I'll be right there.

Okay

You: Okay.

Artem: You should rest up. North Stellis is far.

No rush

You: No rush. Take your time, Mr. Wing.

Artem: All right, I won't have you wait too long. I'll be over as quickly as I can.

Luke: Be careful. Let us know if something comes up.

Artem: -Tap to Continue- Old Street in North Stellis Location

Old Street in North Stellis

You and Artem stand outside a dilapidated neighborhood. You can't help but shiver whenever a cold breeze blows by.

Artem: ...Are you cold?

You: I—I'm fine...

Artem sighs and removes his scarf, handing it to you.

You: Mr. Wing, there's no need...

Artem: It's fine. Remember to wear more the next time you go out.

He wraps the scarf around your neck. You gradually warm up.

You: Um... Thanks, Mr. Wing...

Gate Guard: Who are you youngsters looking for around these parts?

Artem: Hello. May I ask if there has been anyone who has been away for a long time or had recently moved?

Gate Guard: ...

The old security guard looks at the two of you with suspicion.

Gate Guard: No. This isn't a place you ought to be. You should leave.

Artem: ...

Artem: Thank you and sorry for the disturbance.

With his back blocking the old guardman's line of sight, Artem gently leads you away with quick steps.

Artem: We'll draw suspicion if we keep asking questions. It's best if we remain cautious for now.

You: But we couldn't find out where they live...

Artem: When the time is right, I believe that our client will find a way to let us in, or else he can't accomplish his objective.

You: Yeah... You're right.

Artem: At least we found where Medilla lived before he went missing. Our visit was productive.

Artem: Leading an investigation from its beginning is tiring... Thanks for your hard work.

You: I'm fine, Mr. Wing. I can take on even more investigative tasks!

Artem: Yes, but don't take on everything by yourself. Whenever you need me, I'll be near.

Artem: After all, I'm your partner, right?

You: Yep!

Abandoned Server Room Clue #2: The node in the center?

Abandoned Server Room

Luke: Oh? Was this here the last time we came?

You came back to the server room after receiving another clue. Luke had found a notice board in the room that was completely obscured by dust.

You: Probably? When the room was lit last time, we didn't look that carefully over here...

You: After that, we were focused on the computer and the drawers... It's easy to miss a dusty notice board.

Luke: Sigh... I didn't think I'd make a mistake like this.

Luke helplessly shakes his head, and then blows off the dust on the notice board.

You: *cough* *cough*

Luke: Ah, s—sorry! I...

You: It's okay... *cough* ... What does it say?

Luke: Let me see...

Luke: !!!

You: What's up? See something?

Luke: Centipede...

Luke: That name sounds familiar. I've heard my colleagues talk about it before.

You: Is that... a tool?

Medilla had left a brief description of this thing on the board, but you don't understand its meaning.

Luke: Yeah, Centipede is a very special tool.

Luke: Its AI can hack through 60% of the world's firewalls. Add in its "Crawler" function...

Luke is immersed in his own thoughts. It feels like he's talking to himself rather than explaining to you.

Luke: No wonder Notro holds this much information as a trading platform.

Luke: With this tool, there aren't any more secrets in the digital world.

You: Has the National Security Bureau investigated Notro before?

Luke: Yes, but Notro has many extremely talented hackers. The Bureau also wasn't able to get any direct evidence to prove criminal activity.

Luke: We have to act according to the law, so we haven't been able to take any effective measures against Notro.

Luke: [Player], where do you think Notro would hide this Centipede?

You: Where did Notro hide it... You think there might be clues up there?

Luke: Yep. As Notro's adversary, Medilla definitely would've learned of its secrets long ago.

You look towards the notice board. Medilla seems to have drawn a complex diagram on it.

A name related to Notro appears under each line intersection, such as Promotional Site, Email, and X Base.

Whichever node is at the center of the lines must be...!

Core station

You: Such an important thing would definitely be put in the core station!

You: But wouldn't it be easily found...?

Luke: A core station is often deeply hidden and heavily defended. It'd be the safest place to store an important tool.

Luke: Deeply hidden secrets...

Luke: Now I'm sure that things are starting to get more and more complicated.

Luke: If things go the way I think they will, then Medilla's disappearance is probably a case of complex and international crime.

You: International crime!?

Luke: Yeah. If things get serious, I'll consider breaking our client's confidentiality and report the situation to my superiors.

Luke: ...Are you scared, [Player]?

You: ...

You: Nope. I have you with me, don't I?

Luke stares at you, his eyes slightly quivering.

Luke: ...Yeah, you're right.

Luke: No matter what happens, I'll protect you.

Hidden node

You: It wouldn't be a good idea to hide it in a conspicuous base... Could it be in a hidden node?

Luke: If it isn't hidden in the deepest of recesses, it'll eventually be dug up.

You: I see...

Old Street in North Stellis Clue #1: The time he went missing...

Old Street in North Stellis

Gate Guard: Huh? You two again?

You: O—Oh no...

Artem: ...

Following another clue, you and Artem yet again arrive at Old Street in North Stellis, and you yet again run into the old guardman from last time.

Gate Guard: Say, this place isn't so great for dates, is it?

Gate Guard: Do you have something to do with the person who's missing?

Artem: We... work with him.

You: ...Huh?

Artem: He's our client. We haven't been able to contact him for a long time, so we came to take a look.

Gate Guard: Eh...? Someone from here has business dealings with you two?

Artem: You also know that not everyone here is a "pauper," correct?

Gate Guard: ...!

Perhaps due to Artem's words, the old guardman's face relaxes a little.

Gate Guard: Hmph... I actually hope that we stop having dodgy people come live here and disturb our peace.

You: Dodgy people...?

Seeing that the guard isn't stopping you two, Artem takes large strides up to the main gate.

Following him, you curiously look at a sheet of paper stuck on the door.

You: Residents, please report your household's electricity meter readings...?

Artem: Look here.

Artem points out an empty line. It belongs to unit 202.

Artem: I think we've found him.

You: Oh, this cell isn't filled out...

Artem: Even if he didn't go out, people would still knock on his door to check his meter.

Artem: Now... We can deduce a rough estimate of when he disappeared.

The chart is divided by month.

If only one cell is empty, then the period of time in which he disappeared is...

Gone for a month

You: Looks like he's already been missing for one month...

Artem: Hm... Missing for such a long time. The situation is not hopeful.

Artem: Considering previous investigations, this case involves a missing person, deep web transactions, and international crime...

Artem: ... This situation is not something us few can resolve.

You: But if we want to report this to the police, we'll need enough evidence to file a case...

You: The client never planned for many people to know from the start. Everything we know is because of what he tells us...

Artem: Yes, I know.

All of a sudden, a large hand gently tousles your hair.

Artem: That's why I can try for your sake.

School Archives Room: Location Unlocked

NXX Group Chat

Vyn: @Player, are you all right?

I'm great

You: I'm great. Is something wrong, Dr. Richter?

Vyn: No. I just feel at ease seeing that you are well.

Why are you asking that?

You: Why are you asking all of a sudden?

Vyn: I was worried that the events at Abyss had affected you... It seems that I was overthinking.

Marius: What happened at Abyss?

Vyn: Nothing for now. I will let everyone know if a lead turns up there.

Marius: Tch, stingy... You're not even willing to share that.

Vyn: This is not a matter of stinginess. There are some things that children should not hear.

Marius: Ah yes, I can't match your "senior" wisdom.

Artem: Don't engage in meaningless disputes in this chat group during work hours.

Greet

You: Mr. Wing, you're online.

Artem: I just finished work.

Marius: Who'd want to argue with him?

Vyn: I also lack such leisure.

Artem: @Player, is there a new task location?

Stellis Junior High Archives Room

You: Yes. The hint is telling us to look in Stellis Junior High School's archives room.

Marius: Stellis Junior High? No way, students are involved in this!?

Artem: Not necessarily. The client named this school, and we have determined that Medilla is from Stellis...

Vyn: Perhaps Medilla attended this school in the past.

Marius: Hmm... It'd be nice if it were that simple.

Vyn: I am currently in the education district, so I can accompany her to the school. Any issues with this arrangement?

No problem

You: None at all!

Vyn: All right. I shall leave posthaste.

Let's go

You: Then let's go!

Vyn: Your enthusiasm is infectious. Now I also raring to head out.

Artem: I'll go meet the client near Stellis Junior High School. Contact me at any time if you need me.

You: I'll be sure to let you know if something comes up!

Vyn: I will take good care of her.

Vyn: -Tap to Continue- School Archives Room

School Archives Room

You: That went smoothly. I didn't expect the school to let us in so easily.

Vyn softly closes the archive room's door behind you.

Vyn: It seems that my reputation still has a modicum of use.

You: Not just a modicum of use, but a mountain of it!

To enter the school for the investigation, Vyn met with the principal and offered to serve as a mental health coach for the school for one month.

The principal had known Vyn's reputation for a long time now, so they were more than happy to accept.

As part of the agreement, the principal naturally agreed to let Vyn browse through the school's archives for academic research data.

You: Dr. Richter, will this affect your work...?

Vyn: Not at all. Psychological counseling is one aspect of my work. There is no need to worry over me.

You: But you've looked worried ever since we started...

Vyn: I was thinking that if I could assume the identity of a mental health counselor and secretly conduct an investigation...

Vyn: Then presumably, our enemy can do the same.

You: ...

Vyn: That is neither here nor there. Let us begin our investigation.

Vyn: These are all paper documents, so it may take us a considerable amount of time to look through them.

Vyn: So, I came up with an idea that may expedite the search for our target files.

You: What is it?

Vyn smiles and wakes his phone, from which a young voice rings out.

DAVIS: Hello, [Player]! Dr. Richter, have you arrived at the archives room?

You: DAVIS!

Vyn: DAVIS, I will shortly begin scanning the student files. Please compare the school's files to those online.

Vyn: Should a discrepancy arise, then that may be what we are searching for.

DAVIS: Understood! Please begin scanning.

You: Hold on, scan?

You pull on Vyn's arm.

You: Dr. Richter, you're going to use your phone to scan the archive room's files?

Vyn: Yes. Many hackers tend to erase their information from their school's database after graduation.

Vyn: Fortunately, this school retains physical files. We can refine the scope of our search by running a comparison.

You: But... Dr. Richter...

You tightly clutch his sleeve.

You: I'm afraid that scanning physical files with our phones is...

Is not compliant with laws and is possibly illegal.

Vyn: Then should you satisfy your conscience by foregoing the safety of someone who has been missing for an entire month?

You: !!!

Vyn: Do not forget: every second we delay increases the danger for the missing person.

You can't find a suitable reason to stop Vyn, but this risk...

You look around, carefully checking for any surveillance cameras in the area while ignoring the tumult in your heart...

You: ...

Vyn: I will delete all the scanned records after we finish, and DAVIS will also destroy the scanned data.

Vyn: Does hearing this... make you feel more at ease?

You: Ah...!

DAVIS: [Player], please rest assured! I've also played the Big Data Lab's law exam game. I'll definitely abide by all laws and regulations!

Vyn: I am not asking you to approve of such extreme measures, but everything I do is to prevent even greater dangers from occurring.

Vyn: I hope you can understand.

You: ...It's fine. Dr. Richter, I'll help you out.

You: We need to quickly find Medilla's true identity so we can prevent Notro from doing something bad to him.

Vyn: ...

Vyn: Yes.

School Archives Room Clue #1: A pathological desire to escape from the real world

School Archives Room

Vyn: Apologies... No abnormalities were found in the scanned documents.

You: This means that after he graduated, Medilla deleted not only his digital records, but also his physical ones?

Vyn: I am afraid that is indeed the case.

You: Then what do we do...?

Vyn: We abide by the client's stipulations.

You: ...Huh?

Vyn: His task order stated that we go and ask the archives manager, yes?

Vyn: Earlier, I had asked about the school's previous hacking incident.

You: That incident... What exactly happened?

Vyn smiles and removes a file from the highest shelf of a bookcase.

Vyn: Six years ago, a group of cybercriminals stole some of Stellis Junior High School's student records.

Vyn: Their goal was to use the data to filter out suitable targets for abduction and extortion.

Vyn: However, two days after the school database's breach was discovered, the police received a tip from a mysterious hacker.

Vyn: This enabled the police to quickly track down the physical addresses for both the data thief and the informant.

Vyn: These two addresses were both in Stellis, and the informant was in Stellis Junior High School.

You: So, a student solved that case?

Vyn: Naturally. Coupled with our client's hint, it was likely a younger Medilla.

You: Yeah... I think that as well, but we don't have any way to find his true identity...

Vyn: Do not worry. DAVIS has already used another method to settle the matter of his identity.

You: Oh?

Vyn opens the file in his hands. It's a collection of previous graduation photos.

Vyn: It may be difficult to discover text documents that have been destroyed, but it is obvious when a photograph has been manipulated.

Vyn: According to when the hacking incident occurred, I suspect that Medilla graduated three to five years ago.

Vyn: DAVIS used facial recognition to identify whoever is absent in the database but present in the graduation photos.

Vyn: I think... at this point, his identity can no longer be hidden.

Vyn points to one of the photos.

It is the graduating class from four years ago. Vyn is pointing to a boy whose head is lowered and eyes obscured by shadow.

You: The boy looks like... he doesn't fit in with the others.

Vyn: I believe that the situation is more complex than not fitting in.

Vyn: Extreme reclusion that results in the intense desire to excise all traces of one's existence from others' lives...

Vyn: It can almost be classified as symptomatic of a psychopathology.

You: Is this child...

You silently ruminate as you watch Vyn replace the file on the top shelf.

A condition that makes one want to escape their connections to the real world. Could it be...?

Psychiatric patient

You: Did he have a mental health condition...?

Vyn: Possibly. I surmise that it would be something akin to social anxiety disorder.

Vyn: Anxiety disorders often manifest in individuals around his age. Severe cases may lead to social isolation.

Vyn: Our current understanding of the situation and his current symptoms support this idea.

You: Social anxiety disorder... People also call it something like social phobia, right?

Vyn: Yes. The degree of his avoidance towards reality is already very severe.

Vyn: This may be why he turned towards a solitary career like hacking, and why he faced Notro alone.

Vyn: Some individuals possess a more solitary nature...

You: Dr. Richter, you can help someone like him, right?

Vyn: ...

You: Isn't it your job to help those who can't see the beauty of life, to help them face things with a more positive mindset?

You: If the school had someone like you back then, he might've been a different person today...

Vyn: ...Hm.

Vyn: Worry not. Should we find him, I would be happy to lend my aid.

You: Then let's hurry up and find him!

Vyn: Yes. We will find him.

Running Away from Reality

You: Do you think he was afraid of life and wanted to escape from everything?

Vyn: That is but one symptom.

You: Hm...

Old Street in North Stellis Clue #2: What was the motive?

Old Street in North Stellis

After receiving the clue, you and Artem go back to North Stellis.

Gate Guard: Eh? You two again?

Artem: Hello. We're here to collect a package on behalf of the tenant in unit 202. He's away, so he wants us to hold his deliveries for now.

Gate Guard: The tenant in 202 is your client?

You: Yes. He recently contacted us.

Gate Guard: ...

The guard shoots a glance towards you two, then points upstairs.

Gate Guard: He's got too many packages. They're all stacked up in front of his door. Go get them yourselves.

You: Too many... Did he get all those packages just this month?

The guard lazily reclines in his chair and goes back to sunbathing.

You and Artem look at each other before going upstairs.

You: ...You can't be serious!

Artem: ...

Half an hour later, Artem dusts off his suit and goes downstairs with you.

You: This is the first time I've seen someone get all their daily necessities online.

Artem: He seems to hardly go out.

You: But some things he bought online are actually easier to get from a convenience store.

Artem: True. Even those addicted to online shopping wouldn't go to these lengths. He must have a reason to act like this.

Hidden Whereabouts

You: Could he be trying to cover up his tracks?

Artem: We can't rule that out.

Artem: However... One explanation would be that he encountered danger and needed to hide himself like this.

You: Then we have to find him as soon as possible.

Artem: I inspected all the packages. They all arrived this month.

Artem: This corroborates our estimated time that Medilla went missing.

You: I hope we can find him soon... It'd be great if we can help him.

Artem: Yes. We will.

Artem: Let's end our investigation here for now. Good work.

Artem: Let's go. I'll take you back to headquarters.

You: Okay!

Moving Difficulty

You: Do you think he might have difficulty moving around?

Artem: Probably not. If his mobility were impaired, he wouldn't live in a place with poor accessibility.

You: Hmm... That's true. There's no elevator, let alone accessible entrances.

School Archives Room Clue #2: The relationship that was talked about in junior high

School Archives Room

Vyn: This shelf contains records of significant school events.

You: Let me see...

You're back at the archives room. You and Vyn stand in front of a shelf that contains various yellowed envelopes.

You: Campus events... Would there also be a record of that hacking incident?

Vyn: Yes. Additionally, I have been thinking about what our client said: the person who was nearly harmed...

Vyn: Is that person in contact with the present Medilla?

You: Oh, found it! I found it!

You point at a page chronicling an event from six years ago.

You: Six years ago, a gang had stolen student files from the school and had already planned to abduct a certain student.

You: That evening, a girl was found... Huh?

Vyn: Was found to have never left the school, correct?

You: Didn't leave the school? Did she know in advance that she would be kidnapped?

Vyn: That same night, the police received information from the school about the criminal gang, all of whom were arrested two days later.

You: Amazing... So Medilla was the one who told the girl to hide?

Vyn: Most likely. When I was providing psychiatric counseling services... I overheard something "interesting."

Vyn's expression is tense when he says "interesting."

Vyn: Although this type of matter will not be recorded as a major campus event, it is well-known within the school.

Vyn: Rumor has it that the girl who the forgotten hacker had saved was the school belle.

Vyn: Since then, this girl has asserted that she has maintained a very good relationship with the hacker.

You: A very good relationship...

Vyn: This is a popular rumor at the school. Surely you can surmise the nature of the relationship between these two?

You: Um...

It's a rumor, but if it became widely circulated in a junior high school, then that means it must have been...

Disguise

You: No way... They were in a relationship!?

Vyn: ...

Vyn: Congratulations. You are correct.

Vyn: She continually asserted that she was the unknown hacker's girlfriend, likely to divert the affections of her male peers.

Vyn: Because of that, rumors of a "hero rescuing a damsel in distress" continued to circulate within the school.

You: Oh... The students sure were romantics...

Vyn: I believe that some manner of truth is buried in this. That girl's reason for rejecting suitors may not be entirely untrue.

Vyn: I decided to use the information in these records to arrange a meeting with the girl in question.

You: Ah, that's... But the client specifically said not to tell any other people...

Vyn: If we choose to be bound by rules in every situation, then we will make no progress. I see this as the most effective method.

You: ...

You: All right, then we'll meet with her. If she's completely clueless, we'll come up with some sort of pretense.

Vyn: Excellent, we are of the same mind. I will have someone contact her.

Vyn: ...Thank you for supporting my convictions.

School Archives Room Clue #3: They are already...

School Archives Room

You: Dr. Richter, are you sure this is the location she said?

Vyn: Yes. She said she would leave us a clue... Here.

Vyn looks towards a certain file cabinet. He walks over to it and removes an envelope.

You: Is that from the girl?

You curiously look at the item he took out, ignoring the slight draft blowing from behind you.

You: Oh, a drawing!

It's an exquisitely drawn sketch of a girl facing the artist and smiling, as if at herself.

One can almost feel the artist's emotions simply by looking at the sketch.

Vyn: This is the girl mentioned in the student records — the one involved in the abduction case.

You: Oh! That girl who claimed to be Medilla's girlfriend!

Vyn: Yes... Look at the lower right corner of the drawing.

You: Hm? There's a signature... "M"?

Vyn: This is likely Medilla's work. He has been using that alias as a hacker since his school years.

You: Looks like there was more to their relationship than rumors... What a beautiful love it must have been.

Vyn: Beautiful?

Vyn suddenly lowers his voice.

You: ...Dr. Richter?

Vyn: Do you believe that a person who erases all trace of their existence is someone who can uphold their promises?

You: ...

Vyn returns the picture to its original location and lowers his head, fixing his eyes on you.

Vyn: Even if the process appears beautiful, this type of love is futile.

You: ...

You: You mean they already...?

Breakup

You: Did they... already break up...?

Vyn: ...

Vyn: I am afraid so.

School Archives Room: Investigation Complete

School Archives Room

You: Why are things like this...?

You pick up the drawing again. The girl's smile is stunning; the line work is meticulous yet soft.

Vyn: To protect her. Perhaps even since those days, Medilla was aware that he would end up in a predicament like that of the present day.

???: I never thought there would be someone other than me who would want to find Medilla.

A female voice suddenly speaks from behind you. You and Vyn turn around at the same time.

After seeing her face, you immediately know that she is the girl from the drawing.

She looks more mature and beautiful than her drawn counterpart.

You: Oh... Hello! You're...

Female Student: I'm his ex-girlfriend.

She lightly smooths out the folds on her skirt and looks up at you two.

Female Student: I had someone run checks on the two of you. I trust you, Dr. Richter and Ms. [Player].

Female Student: That's why I can tell you the story between him and I.

She nods to you and Vyn, and then starts to slowly speak.

Female Student: We broke up long ago. When he left, he said he never wanted me involved in his life ever again.

Female Student: I knew he was doing it for my own good, but I didn't want that. However, he never let me find him again.

Female Student: I already planned to forget about him, but... I'm happy that I could help him here like this.

She suddenly bows respectfully to you two.

Female Student: Thank you two... for your willingness to help him.

Female Student: Feel free to message me if you have any questions about him.

Female Student: Likewise, let me know if you get any news about him, okay?

Vyn: No problem.

Female Student: Thanks.

She lowers her head and softly smiles.

Female Student: Even if he's dead... Let me know.

Female Student: Even if he erases all traces of himself in the world, he can't disappear from my memory.

She then walks away without looking back.

You: ...She's such a good person...

Warmth radiates into your fingertips. You look down and find Vyn holding your hand.

Vyn: Then we have even greater reason why we cannot let her down now, no...?

You: ...

You: Yeah! We'll definitely find Medilla and give her an answer!

Truth I

NXX Headquarters Meeting Room

After returning from the school, everyone convenes for an internal NXX meeting.

Marius: Have you met the girl?

Vyn: Yes.

Marius: So she doesn't know where he is, yeah?

Vyn: They have not been in contact for many years now.

Artem: It was difficult to finally find someone related to him. It's a pity that this is a dead end.

Luke: I guess that's the end of the archives room lead.

Marius: Let's do our best to investigate the other leads.

Let's do our best

You: We can do it! I'll also do my best!

Marius: I'll do my best with you!

Artem: If we keep up this momentum, we'll soon grow closer to the truth.

I'll work hard

You: I'll work hard to find the truth with everyone.

Vyn: We are glad to hear that, but do not needlessly push yourself.

Luke: Yeah. Don't worry too much — we're all here with you.

Vyn: Please continue the meeting without me. I have some business to attend to.

Marius: Aren't you off today?

Vyn: I have an appointment at the research center.

Luke: Appointment?

Artem: We'll find Medilla as soon as we can.

Artem: But before that, remember to reserve his place.

You: See you, Dr. Richter.

Vyn: Yes. I will notify you when I am done.

Vyn leaves headquarters.

Luke: I see. Medilla has a mental health condition. If we find him, we should help him get some sort of therapy.

Artem: All right. We should use the time we have to find him as quickly as possible.

Marius: Yeah! Let's keep going, guys!

Old Street in North Stellis Clue #3: Medilla prepared himself mentally

Old Street in North Stellis

When you and Artem arrive, a commotion is underway in front of the neighborhood gate.

Many elderly people have gathered at the entrance, chatting about something on the ground.

You look up at the second floor of the building and see unit 202's door hanging wide open.

Artem: Excuse me. Thank you.

Artem pushes through the crowd for you, and you two finally arrive at the door.

Artem: Hello. May I ask what happened to unit 202?

Gate Guard: Oh, it's you lot. 202's lease expired, so I'm cleaning it up for rent again.

Artem: Then, what are those things arranged on the ground?

Artem points to the ground, where all sorts of things are laid out like a flea market stall.

Gate Guard: That's all stuff from 202. The tenant said he doesn't want them anymore and that we're free to do whatever with them.

Artem: The tenant... said that?

The guard points to the second floor.

Gate Guard: It's in the contract. If the tenant's gone when the lease is up, we do what we want with their stuff.

Gate Guard: The tenant installed this electronic lock. It automatically unlocks if he doesn't renew his lease.

Gate Guard: Oh, by the way, this isn't everything. I already listed his old computer and other stuff up for auction online.

Gate Guard: I only put them up yesterday, but tons of people are putting in high bids. I really hit the jackpot...

Artem: ...

Artem suddenly clenches his fists and stops talking.

You: Mr. Wing...?

Artem remains silent with a complicated look on his face.

You: ...

You: Sir, can I look at these things?

Gate Guard: Look at whatever you want. You can also buy things if you want.

You bend down to look at the things on display. Some of them look recently purchased, while others are worn from use.

Suddenly, you understand Artem's mood.

You: Sir, the tenant's been renting this place for the past three years, right?

Gate Guard: Yeah. You guys know your client pretty well.

These items and this apartment were set up to be taken care of after his disappearance...

In other words, Medilla had already been mentally prepared for this ever since he started living here...

Long-term Stay

You: He planned to keep living here... until his hacking brought him into danger.

You: He set all of this up long ago. If something happened to him, then his things would be given to the community...

Old Street in North Stellis: Investigation Complete

Old Street in North Stellis

Artem: Let's go, [Player].

You: Hey... Mr. Wing!

After seeing Artem turn around and walk out of the crowd, you hastily run to catch up.

You: Mr. Wing? Don't we have to go back upstairs and investigate—

Artem: No need. We have enough.

Artem's fists are clenched, as if he is silently holding something back.

Artem: Readily sacrificing your life for the career you're passionate about... Such people deserve admiration, so...

Artem: We can't let his life end as a missing persons case. We must find him.

Artem doesn't speak again, but you can sense determination overflowing from him.

You: ...Yes.

You: Definitely... We'll definitely find him.

Truth II

NXX Headquarters Meeting Room

After returning with Artem from North Stellis, you two meet up with the others at NXX Headquarters.

Marius: Artem, you don't look so hot.

Vyn: It looks as if you have discovered everything there is to be found there.

Artem was quiet the whole way

You: Mr. Wing didn't say anything on our way back.

Vyn: It seems that he is troubled by a myriad of thoughts.

Artem is worried about the missing person

You: Mr. Wing is worried about Medilla. He wants to find him as quickly as possible.

Luke: At the rate we've been investigating, we'll get closer to the truth in no time.

Artem: I'm fine.

Artem: I was thinking about how we don't know Medilla's method of travel or how far he went.

Artem: As things stand, how can we pinpoint his location?

Marius: The only thing we know for sure is when he went missing.

Luke: It's fine. The client will continue giving us more clues, so we'll be able to find out more than just this.

Vyn: Indeed. We should maintain our composure and steadily continue onward.

Artem: That's all we can do now.

Leave the rest to me

You: Don't worry, Mr. Wing. I'll take care of the rest of the investigation.

Artem: Don't push yourself too hard. I'll still be here.

Don't worry

You: Mr. Wing, don't worry. There will be other clues elsewhere.

Artem: Yes, and I'll still be working this case with you.

Marius: Artem, go get some rest if you're not feeling well. I'll keep her company.

Luke: The client should be sending over more instructions soon.

Vyn: I look forward to the challenges ahead.

Artem: We need to hurry. Medilla can't wait for much longer.

Big Data Lab Clue #3: The timing of the deal

Pax's Big Data Lab

Marius: Is this for real...?

Marius has been frowning ever since he received the client's information.

You: I find it unbelievable, too... How could Medilla be working with Pax Technology?

DAVIS: Welcome to the Big Data Lab!

Marius: Oh, DAVIS, good timing. I need you to verify the authenticity of a contract.

Marius: And while you're at it... It'd be great if you could find more information about it, too.

DAVIS: Sure. Let me have a look.

DAVIS receives the file that Marius sent.

DAVIS: Ah, this can only be read by someone with admin rights. I have already sent the contents to Computer 16. Can you go over and authenticate with your fingerprint?

Marius nods and presses his finger to the authentication screen.

A prompt appears: "Unlock successful." A contract then displays on the screen.

It delineates the agreement between hacker "M" and Pax Technology from two years ago.

Marius: While this agreement remains effective, M is required to help Pax Technology resist hacking attacks by Notro.

Marius: As long as that condition is met, Pax Technology will provide M with protection and convert an old server room at its previous site into a research room for him.

Marius: M is free to modify any equipment in that room, and Pax Technology will provide the funds required to analyze Centipede and Notro's other hacking tools...

You: You mean that Notro once used Centipede to steal information from the Big Data Lab?

Marius lowers his head and ponders for a moment.

Marius: I think it was Medilla who approached Pax.

You: ...What?

DAVIS: I agree. Although I don't have records of this collaboration with M, this reasoning best explains the agreement.

Marius: Judging by his disposition and the fact that he doesn't go out to meet people close to him, I don't see why he'd get into talks with Pax.

Marius: So, when was this agreement made? Something must have happened to necessitate it...

You: According to the contract, Pax must protect M while the agreement is valid. Could it be related to this clause?

Marius: You're onto something. That's probably it.

Marius: You're brilliant. I think that Medilla probably made some preparations before seeking out Pax as a backer.

You: Seeking out Pax as a backer...

If that's the case, then they must have reached this agreement when...

After Notro's short outage

You: Was the agreement made after Notro's outage?

Marius: Miss, if that was the case, then Centipede probably wouldn't be able to attack for a long time...

You: My bad...

Before Notro's short outage

You: The agreement should have been made before the attack on Notro.

You: Medilla's the kind of person who would have considered his own safety beforehand.

Marius: Bingo! You're absolutely right!

You: Before attacking Notro, Medilla already predicted that Notro wouldn't let him off.

You: Then, he saw that Centipede had an opportunity to attack the Big Data Center, so he helped fend off one attack.

You: Because of this opportunity, Medilla revealed how dangerous Centipede was to Pax Technology and expressed interest in working together against it.

You: After that, Medilla attacked Notro while under Pax's protection. He managed to shut them down for a while.

Marius: Right. I think that was their reasoning for giving him his own server room — a safe and secret place for research.

You: All things considered, Pax handled the situation well.

Marius facepalms and lets out a sigh.

Marius: Probably got the green light from my bro. I never heard anything about the Big Data Lab working with a hacker...

DAVIS: I did not exist back then, either. Otherwise, I would have known something.

You: No need for regrets. At least now we all have a role to play.

Marius nods.

Marius: You're right. For now, we're best off finding the truth as soon as possible. This way, my brother can also have some peace of mind.

You: Yup! I'm even more motivated now!

The Abyss Clue #1: Other meanings?

The Abyss

You: Marius... Your expression is... Can you relax a little...?

You worriedly look at Marius' taut face.

Marius: You can't talk. Didn't Vyn say there was a killer here?

You: But I think you'll attract unwanted attention if you come in looking so on edge...

Hearing that, Marius helplessly shakes his head and sighs.

Marius: I wouldn't be this nervous if I came alone, but...

Marius: If anything's even a little off, I'll get you out of here immediately.

You: Okay... Don't worry, we should be fine as long as we aren't too conspicuous...

As soon as you finish, a commotion at the bar catches your attention.

Several people wearing suits and sunglasses share a brief exchange with the owner before standing up and heading for the door.

You: !!!

Marius: ...

Marius immediately pulls you behind him, but the suits walk out without sparing you two a single glance.

You: Looks like we were overreacting...

Marius: Hold on...

Marius looks at the bar counter where the suited people just vacated.

Marius: Let's go and have a look.

Puzzled, you follow Marius to the bar counter and see water marks that had been left behind.

Bar Owner: Another youngster who wants to stick his nose in places it doesn't belong?

He carefully looks at Marius's face. His eyebrows raise.

Bar Owner: ...We have a big shot here. Oh well, suit yourself.

The owner turns around and walks away. You exchange a look with Marius before you both turn back to the bar counter's surface.

Marius: The shape of these water marks looks like some kind of symbol...

You: Marius, those people just now were hitmen, weren't they...?

Marius: Yeah. What they left here must be some sort of useful information for them.

Useful information for them...

He means that these water stains are a special method of communication between themselves?

Text

You: Is it a foreign language? Those people didn't look like they were from around here...

Marius: When hitmen receive jobs, all information is encrypted. They can't use foreign languages.

You: I see...

Cipher

You: It must be a cipher used to communicate with their own. Something like a special symbol.

Marius: I also think that's the case.

Marius: Wait a sec. Lemme send a pic to a professional.

When no one is looking, Marius takes a picture of the water marks on the counter. He then drags you into a corner of the bar.

10 minutes later, he receives a message from Luke.

Marius: Sure enough... This is a cipher only used by hitmen.

You: What does it say?

Marius: ...

Marius: I might as well tell you. Luke said the cipher means that they're still confirming their target's situation.

Marius: The killer was sent to Stellis to execute a particular mission. Their target is fairly obvious.

You: !!!

Suddenly, a notification pops up on Marius' phone.

Marius: ...Seriously? She's perfectly safe with me protecting her.

You: Huh? What did you just say, Marius?

Marius: Luke said that since there's definitely a killer here, it'd be better if he came with you next time.

Marius: We can chat about it later. It's pretty convenient for all of us to come here, so you can pick whoever to go with.

Marius: But since we found this tidbit, we need to hurry up our operations.

The Abyss Clue #2: The painting on the right wall

The Abyss

Luke: Abyss...

You enter the bar with Luke and survey the area.

Back when Marius had asked him about the hitmen's symbols, Luke insisted on coming here with you to investigate again.

Fortunately, you don't bump into anyone dangerous this time.

Luke: We probably won't be running into any dangerous people like you two did last time.

You: That's good...

Luke: You have me, so don't worry.

Luke: This place is special, but I won't let anyone pick a fight in front of me.

You: Hehe, you're so reliable.

Luke: Last time, Marius said that the hitmen leave behind water marks on the bar counter. I think they use other ciphers as well.

Luke: I found some other ciphers after a quick look around.

You: Oh? Like what...?

Luke: Just a moment. You'll see when the lights dim.

Luke pulls you over to some chairs near the bar and takes a seat.

After a while, the in-house singer starts singing jazz. The bar's lights slowly dim.

Luke: Look at the bar counter now.

You look at the bar in confusion. Now, a fluorescent light in the upper right corner of your vision catches your attention.

You: Ah, Luke! There's a fluorescent mark in the upper right corner of that frame...

Luke nods.

Luke: They're the same as the ones left by the hitmen the other day. They're obviously exchanging information.

Luke: I studied up on what these symbols mean, so I can understand the gist of what they say.

Luke: It should mean that the target has already left the country.

You: Already left the country!? Does that mean they already left Stellis... and escaped abroad?

Luke: Yeah, you got it.

Luke: However, the symbols probably communicate more than just a status update.

You: More than just a status update?

Do these ciphers convey another command or meaning...?

Continue Tracking

You: Are they telling their employer that they'll continue to track the target?

Luke: Yeah. That's what I'm worried about.

Luke: If he really chose to escape abroad...

Luke is silent for a moment. A sense of unease gradually surfaces in your heart.

You: Could it be that... Medilla knew a hitman was coming to Stellis, so he chose to flee abroad?

You: Wouldn't that be even more dangerous? No matter where he goes, he'll be...

Luke: Yeah, that's why I'm skeptical. If the target really is Medilla, then his escape is about more than just evading hitmen.

Luke: If we could find so much on the people and organizations associated with him, then the hitmen with Notro's intelligence would know even more.

You: !!!

You: He didn't want to get those around him involved, so he...

Luke gently holds your hand without saying a word. An oppressive silence fills the space between you and him. Luke: How much courage did it take for him to make such a choice?

Luke: Going far away, leaving your loved ones... How much determination did it take...?

Luke's whispers are drowned out by the din of jazz in the background.

Stop Tracking

You: Since it's specifically marked here, could it mean that the hit was terminated?

Luke: There are hitmen who will drop jobs outside of their zone, but this time...

You: They look like they specifically came to Stellis for this job. They probably wouldn't give up so easily... Sigh...

Stellis Harbor: Location Unlocked

NXX Group Chat

Luke: Another new location?

Marius: Where?

Harbor District

You: At the Harbor District. It's apparently where the final cellular signal pinged from.

Vyn: Well now, has our client finally taken the initiative?

Artem: Was the last leg of Medilla's escape by sea?

Luke: If we confirm the date of departure, then we can track him through the boat ticket records.

Vyn: Considering Medilla's character, he will not leave any traces of his presence there.

Marius: So you're saying that he'll definitely erase his records after he crosses the border?

Luke: Yes... I think that's something he would do.

Artem: I'll go look.

Marius: Deciding so soon? Don't we need to plan things out a bit more?

Artem: We're only looking for evidence of his departure. Even if the records have been wiped, we can still ask around.

Vyn: I agree. It is better to do the questioning sooner than later.

Luke: I have no objections.

Marius: Let's see what @[Player] thinks

Go with Artem

You: I'll go with Mr. Wing.

Artem: All right. I'll head over now.

Question as soon as possible

You: I also feel that we should start questioning while we still have the chance.

Artem: A precise judgment.

Marius: I hope your investigation goes well.

Luke: DAVIS and I will also help look for the records.

Vyn: I believe that we are already almost upon the truth.

Artem: -Tap to Continue- Stellis Harbor Location

Stellis Harbor

In the Harbor District, a plethora of goods are continuously transferred from the warehouses onto cargo ships.

Artem frowns as he looks at the location of the final signal that the client sent.

Artem: ...

You: Mr. Wing, are you sure about the address? It's a warehouse in the Harbor District...

Artem: Yes, I share your concern. All ships in this district transport freight, not passengers.

You: Do regular passengers even come this way?

Artem: Generally not, unless...

After glancing at you, Artem walks over to someone hailing a ship.

Artem: Excuse me, do the freight managers who travel with the cargo board from here?

Manager: Yes.

Artem: If there is a last-minute change in personnel, is handover conducted here as well?

Manager: Yes, that's right... Is there something I can help you with, sir?

Artem: ...No, thank you.

Artem returns with a serious look on his face.

You: Mr. Wing...

Artem: As expected, going out to sea on a freight ship is the better option if you want to avoid leaving behind ticket records.

Artem: He would have to alter customs data if he went by passenger transport, which would be complicated for even a hacker.

Artem: However, it would be a simpler affair to board a ship by altering a warehouse manager's name.

You: Hm... If that's the case, then that explains why he was here.

Artem: It's getting late, so we should head back. We should update Luke and the others.

You: Okay. I think he said something about searching passenger records with DAVIS...

You: We can't waste any more of their time with those records. Let's return as fast as we can!

Abandoned Server Room Clue #3: Could it be she...

Abandoned Server Room

Luke: He said he wanted to see us, but he doesn't show up. Instead, he leaves this complicated defense program on his computer.

Luke frowns as his fingers strike the keyboard. You can sense his displeasure through how loudly the keys clack.

You also find it strange that you two were summoned here, yet with no client in sight.

You: Maybe he got delayed for some reason...?

Luke: No way. I think he left this defense program here on purpose.

Luke: I wonder what we'll find once we crack it.

You wait in nerve-wrecking silence as you watch lines of code move up the screen.

Finally, two hours later...

???: Thank you two. You've finally come.

As words appear on the screen, an electronic female voice comes from the computer's speakers.

Upon hearing this voice, Luke's expression completely changes.

Luke: Wait, you couldn't be...!

The program stops speaking. Luke looks at the screen in a daze.

You: Luke? What's with you? Who... is she?

If a computer program's words could shock Luke this much, then is she...?

Missing person

You: (Is she the missing person? But... isn't Medilla male?)

Luke: (It's also really strange to now talk to us like this...)

Client

You: Could she be... the client who issued the contract?

Luke: I think you're right.

???: Correct. I am the client who issued the contract. My name is Lilith.

Lilith's name appears on the screen as a synthetic voice fills your ears. You and Luke share the same expression.

Lilith: Medilla created the Vesper Box. He made the system long ago for my command training.

Lilith: In principle, the various tasks issued by the Vesper Box cells trained my AI intelligence.

Lilith: However, he has been missing for one month — ever since Notro issued an assassination order on him.

Luke: So you're saying that you're an AI assistant created by Medilla, right?

Lilith: Yes. During his time collaborating with Pax Technology, Medilla used DAVIS' program as a framework.

Lilith: Presently, I am the only one in this world who can speak to him.

You: So, you sent the Vesper Box to Luke so we could help you find your master?

Lilith: Correct.

Lilith goes silent for a while.

Lilith: I greatly apologize for my previous discourtesy, but you all are the only ones who can help me find him now.

Lilith: He must not be killed by an evil organization like Notro... Please help me!

To your surprise, Luke shakes his head.

You: Luke, you...

Luke: Putting aside the fact that I already accepted your contract, I'd help in the search even if the Big Data Lab wasn't being threatened.

Luke smiles, looking at you.

Luke: We also can't just let someone who upholds justice in the cyber world disappear without a trace, right?

You: Yeah! We will find him. We can't let Notro do as it pleases anymore!

Lilith: Thank you... I am truly grateful for you two.

Lilith: From now on, I'll help you the best I can.

Luke: All right. I look forward to working with you, Medilla's assistant.

Big Data Lab Clue #4: How he explained to the members after the incident

Pax's Big Data Lab

Marius: What? Notro's platform crashed!?

Marius, who accompanied you to the Big Data Lab, widens his eyes in shock upon hearing DAVIS' words.

DAVIS: Yes, and it seems like it occurred one month ago.

DAVIS: According to the records that Lilith sent, Notro's platform ceased operating one month ago, but their management provided no explanation.

DAVIS: Yesterday, the platform's leader announced that Notro lost all of its data, and that recovery would take at least half a year.

Marius: Definitely Medilla's handiwork...

You: Will Notro change their plan of attack and build another platform?

DAVIS: About that... I don't think it is likely.

Marius: Yeah. According to our inferences, Notro's operations are completely dependent on Centipede.

Marius: Medilla has been fighting Notro for ages. He must've done something to Centipede to cause such a massive shutdown.

Marius: If Centipede is compromised, they won't be able to facilitate trades between hackers, even if they made a new site.

Afterwards, you and Marius each use a computer to search Notro-related sites for information on Centipede's current condition.

During the search, a sentence in Notro's shutdown announcement catches your attention.

"We deeply apologize for our hackers' lost business. We will not let the perpetrator escape."

"Notro ensures that its members will receive reparations."

Marius: Reparations... What kind of reparations...?

You: ...

There's only one kind of reparation that Notro can give its members...

The Manifesto

You: Is this declaration to rebuild Notro as reparation?

Marius: Something like that wouldn't have them barking this early...

Marius: They could wait until after they happily get their Centipede back.

Death threat

You: Their reparation... is a death threat.

Marius: Yeah... No one who opposes Notro will meet a good end.

Marius: Even if it's a temporary loss, this show of bravado is necessary in their eyes.

Big Data Lab: Investigation Complete

Pax's Big Data Lab

Marius: He finally won, but he also lost his home.

Marius: ...I must find him, no matter what kind of situation he's in.

Marius: He is Pax's ally. To avoid implicating us, he left the country by himself to who knows where.

Marius: I won't forgive myself until I find him. No excuses.

Seeing how resolute Marius is, you and DAVIS both nod.

DAVIS: Me too! A friend of the Big Data Lab is a friend of mine!

You: Yeah, we can't let our warrior against Notro exit the stage without a word!

Marius: Thank you... Thank you two.

Truth III

NXX Headquarters Meeting Room

After returning from the Big Data Lab, you and Marius notify everyone to come to NXX Headquarters. Luke: Got a status update on Notro?

Marius: Something big happened right under our noses...

Vyn: What do you mean?

Notro was attacked

You: Notro's core station was attacked.

Luke: Oh... I thought that might happen, but I didn't think he could pull it off...

Medilla made a move

You: Medilla destroyed Centipede a month ago.

Artem: ...So that is what precipitated this series of chasing and fleeing.

Marius: Yeah. Someone was making waves in the cyber world while we were living our regular lives.

Vyn: His skill and courage are truly admirable.

Artem: So Notro's actions constitute an act of retaliation?

Artem: Even if they had prior confrontations, they weren't serious enough to dispatch hitmen.

Luke: Yeah, and after Centipede's destruction, it'll be harder for them to hire hitmen.

Marius: They sent hitmen after Medilla even though they themselves are in a huge mess. Their grudge runs deep...

Artem: The situation doesn't look good.

Vyn: Indeed. The possibility of Medilla being murdered grows more likely the further this investigation proceeds.

Marius: Right... I don't want to think that, but we should prepare ourselves for the worst.

Luke: No matter what the result is, we can't get too negative right now.

Well said

You: Well said! Compared to Medilla, our tasks are a piece of cake.

Vyn: Indeed. We cannot allow our psyches to be outmatched by someone who defeated Notro on his own.

Have hope

You: Nothing is certain yet. There's still hope!

Artem: Yes. Before we witness the conclusion, we cannot let our emotions cloud our judgment.

Marius: That's our Miss, always raring to go.

Marius: Then let's focus our attention on investigating the remaining locations.

Luke: The fewer locations we have left, the closer we are to the truth.

Luke: We're almost at the end. I won't give up.

Stellis Harbor Clue #1: How did Medilla get out of here

Stellis Harbor

Manager: The warehouse manager who replaced me that day?

At a warehouse in the Harbor District, the warehouse manager you and Artem stopped for questioning is trying to remember the events from a month ago.

Manager: Oh, right. There was a young man who had an order from the higher-ups to change shifts with me.

Manager: I checked my email on the warehouse computer, and there really was a shift change notice.

Manager: But I never saw him again after he boarded the ship. Maybe he's at one of the other cargo docks.

Artem: Can we see the record from then?

Manager: Um...

You: We're attorneys investigating a case, and we need to see that information.

You: If it would put your mind at ease, here's my attorney's badge and credentials...

Manager: Haha, it's fine. You two don't look like bad guys. Besides, it isn't a confidential thing.

Manager: Just promise me that you won't touch anything else on the computer. It's in the warehouse, right when you enter.

Artem: Thank you. [Player], let's go.

You: Yeah!

After getting permission from the manager, you and Artem inspect his email on his computer.

Artem: There is a shift change email that was sent from the company's email admin.

You: A shift schedule's attached. It looks like a formal document...

Artem: It looks perfect, but I don't think any of the above names or information are real.

It is now obvious how Medilla got out of the country...

Fake Mail

You: Medilla obviously forged the email and company authorization documentation.

Artem: Indeed. It would be his style to enact this plan on that day only after a long period of preparation.

Artem: This method would leave behind the fewest and smallest traces.

Stealth Movement

You: To forge those company documents, did Medilla infiltrate the freight company beforehand?

Artem: I don't think so. That would be too risky.

Artem: Additionally, that would hamper a rapid departure from the country, as his plan would take longer to execute.

Stellis Harbor: Investigation Complete

Stellis Harbor

You: Leaving without a sound, erasing any and every trace, and completely disappearing from Stellis...

You: He really is a bona-fide hacker...

Artem: Let's return and inform everyone. If an overseas investigation is needed, we may need Luke's assistance.

Medilla... Is he really still...?

The thought of that possibility weighs on your heart as heavily as a boulder.

Artem: We haven't seen the end, so don't give up hope.

Artem's hand rests on your shoulder, imparting its warmth and a resolute strength.

You: ...!

You: Yeah. Don't worry about me, Mr. Wing. I'll accept the outcome with a smile, no matter what it is.

You: Else I'd be letting down the super-hacker who fought against Notro by himself!

Artem: Yes, that's the spirit.

Artem gently squeezes your shoulder and smiles at you.

Artem: A confident look best suits you.

Truth IV

NXX Headquarters Meeting Room

At the pier, you call for a meeting. When you and Artem return to NXX Headquarters, Luke is already waiting.

Artem: We confirmed that he left for the border through the freight docks.

Luke: Was it a transoceanic shipping route?

Artem: Yes. It would be difficult to find him now.

I'm sorry

You: Sorry, we came this far only to meet another dead end...

Luke: We did our best, so don't beat yourself up over it.

Is there any other way?

You: Is there any way we can track him overseas...?

Luke: It'd be difficult. If Lilith allows us to disclose details, my colleagues might be able to help.

The door suddenly opens. All of you turn to look at the door; Vyn and Marius have arrived.

Marius: I'm late. You guys finish investigating?

Artem: Yes. Were you two in class?

Vyn: To be precise, I was administering said class.

Marius: Who'd want to listen to one of his lectures... I checked the NXX cases, and our analysis thankfully hasn't lagged behind.

Luke: True... We've been so busy with the Medilla case that we haven't looked at NXX cases for a while now.

Vyn: I have been screening the cases, and none of them are currently urgent.

Vyn: Our progress has not fallen behind, so there is no need for concern.

Marius: Right now, we're certain that Medilla already set out alone?

Artem: Yes. This is as far as we can track him unless we use external resources.

Marius: It's not impossible... but it'll cause a stir. We won't be able to keep things under wraps anymore.

Vyn: [Player], how about you ask Lilith the AI assistant for her thoughts?

Vyn: For the sake of her master's safety, she cannot withhold more from us.

Go ask

You: Okay, I'll go ask.

Artem: This would be against her master's will, so she will likely need time to consider.

May be rejected

You: She's very insistent on Medilla's principle of confidentiality, so she might refuse to make things public.

Marius: True... After all, that's what Medilla wanted. We need to respect his wishes.

Luke: I'll prepare for both scenarios. If Lilith refuses, then I'll approach things from a different angle.

Vyn: This is not the time to play hero. This matter does not concern only you.

Artem: This concerns the entirety of Stellis' network security. I will not idle if there is something I can do.

Marius: Societal events strongly influence the stock market. I'm just doing what any president of the Pax Group would do.

Let's all do our best

You: Luke, let's all do our best!

Luke: Yeah... Thanks, everyone.

Let's work together

You: We'll solve this together!

Luke: Yeah. Thanks, everyone.

Vyn: [Player], if my knowledge in psychology can be applied to an AI, then perhaps I can assist in persuading Lilith.

Marius: I don't think that will work...

Artem: Nothing can be worse than losing our target.

Artem: Many AIs are designed to learn by "studying" human behavior. Vyn's suggestion may work.

Luke: [Player] and I will ask for help in the group chat if we need anything.

The Abyss Clue #3: Assassination

Abyss

Following Lilith's clue, you two return to Abyss again.

Because you arrive relatively early, few customers are present. Only the custodian and lazy owner are around.

You: It's so quiet today...

Vyn: It appears that those people have already departed.

Vyn looks around and doesn't see the people from the other day.

Bar Owner: The people you're looking for already left yesterday.

The owner is already very familiar with Vyn, so he knows what you two want with a single look.

Vyn: Yesterday?

Bar Owner: Yeah. They never linger in place after completing a mission. It's a standard rule in their profession.

You: Completing a mission...?

Bar Owner: Yep. They'll usually record the assassination target's name and mission details somewhere.

Bar Owner: They already finished their mission, so some details no longer have to be kept confidential. You should be able to tell from a glance.

Bar Owner: Before they left this morning, I recall them recording it...

The owner deliberately drags out his words as he looks towards a bottle of whiskey on ice.

Vyn: They ordered whiskey without drinking any of it?

Vyn removes the bottle from the icy cooler.

Condensate has already caused the small black letter's ink to run downwards like little snakes.

Even so, it is legible enough to discern a crossed-out "M."

There is now no room for doubt about the end result...

Successful assassination

You: ...

You: Medilla... In the end, he was...

Vyn: ...Yes.

The Abyss: Investigation Complete

Abyss

Vyn puts the chilled whiskey back into the cooler.

Vyn: Thank you for your assistance during this time.

Bar Owner: I didn't help you with anything.

Vyn: Is it not risky to share information about hitmen to strangers at no cost?

Bar Owner: ...

You: Huh...?

Now that you think about it, the owner tipped you off plenty of times, yet he never asked for payment...

Vyn: Anyway, thank you.

You: Yes... You have my thanks as well.

The bar owner waves his hand before turning around to clean a wine rack.

Bar Owner: Abyss is where everyone makes their dreams come true, whether it be coin, goods, or information...

Bar Owner: I just don't want my customers to leave disappointed and empty-handed.

With that said, he leaves you two alone.

You: Although Abyss feels like a dangerous place, the owner is actually a nice guy...

Vyn: Is that what you believe? I personally think that he is abiding by the rules of his trade.

Vyn: ...Shall we return and inform everyone of Medilla's status?

When the topic returns to Medilla, both you and Vyn fall into a brief silence.

You: (I've been suspecting that he was murdered, but hearing the truth out loud is...)

Vyn: If you do not wish to say it, then I can go ahead and—

You: No worries, it's just a piece of news. Nothing to hesitate about.

You: Everyone might feel disappointed and sad, but... isn't this the truth we've been chasing this whole time?

You: Bravely facing the truth is the only way we can pay respect to everyone's hard work!

Vyn fixes his eyes on you. After a long while, he lightly sighs.

Vyn: Even if the truth is cruel, it is the only thing you have been pursuing... I should have known as much.

Vyn: You have been strong this entire time. Looks like I have no need to worry over you.

Vyn: Let us return. We will share the news together.

You: Okay!

Truth V

NXX Headquarters Meeting Room

Vyn: I have returned from my investigation. There is an important announcement that I must make.

Marius: Why is he talking so formally...? I have a bad feeling about this.

Luke: Go ahead. We're all here.

Artem: Whatever the outcome is, we'll accept it.

You: Medilla has already been assassinated.

Luke: ...I knew it.

Marius: ...

Vyn: We now have no choice but to accept this fact. Let us tell Lilith the truth as soon as possible.

Artem: What's our next step? Is this how things will end?

Luke: I'm going to ask Lilith for her opinion first.

Luke: If she's willing to disclose details, then I'll let my colleagues take over the case.

Luke: Best case scenario, we can use this opportunity to get rid of Notro for good.

Artem: Yes, I also believe that is the best course of action.

Marius: I can find another way if you have difficulties dealing with certain issues abroad.

Luke: Thanks. Let me check with her first.

Vyn: [Player], what about you? What do you think of this situation?

Vyn: What will you do if the investigation grows even more complicated?

Take initiative in following up

You: I'll take the initiative to follow up on this incident.

Marius: Wanna continue the investigation with me? I can arrange overseas travel.

Vyn: If necessary, I can also be of some assistance.

Wait for the right moment

You: I'll discuss the situation with Lilith first, and I'll offer my help when I'm needed.

Artem: All right. Our situation seems less haphazard now.

Luke: If there are any updates, I'll let you know first thing!

Marius: However, any follow-up operations are dependent on whether Lilith is willing to allow third-party involvement.

Luke: [Player] and I will do our best to convince her.

Artem: We're counting on you two.

Vyn: I look forward to your good news.

Abandoned Server Room Clue #4: Special way of communication?

Abandoned Server Room

You and Luke bring the Vesper Box to the server room.

The Vesper Box is what Lilith uses to give orders and to talk to you, but her actual location ought to be here.

Other than telling her the truth, Luke has another mission: to move Lilith out of this location.

According to him, he will temporarily house Lilith in the Vesper Box while deciding where to place her.

Lilith: So, have you two found where Medilla is?

Luke: He's dead.

Luke enters these words into the computer.

His serious face is reflected on the screen where those cold words are displayed. Your heart feels heavier.

Lilith: ...

Lilith: I understand.

Lilith's answer is calm, as if she foresaw this outcome.

Luke: Were you already aware of this beforehand?

Lilith: I calculated Medilla's possible outcomes based on the program he wrote for me and the time he lost contact with me.

Lilith: No matter how I calculated, the result was the same: his chances of survival were extremely low.

Luke: Why did you seek out my help?

Lilith: You are Stellis' most famed private detective. Medilla knew about you for a long time.

Lilith: Back then, he already told me to request your assistance if anything happened to him.

Luke: I see...

Lilith: When he decided to destroy Centipede, he made the Vesper Box and assigned me to generate its tasks.

Luke: So these missions were intended to have us track down his whereabouts?

Luke: That doesn't feel like Medilla's way of doing things.

Lilith: You are correct.

You: So Medilla had us investigate him not because he wanted us to find him?

Luke: Naturally. Someone so dedicated to erasing their tracks wouldn't want anyone to find them.

Luke looks at you with a serious expression.

Luke: What do you think, [Player]? Why did he want us to do this?

You look at the Vesper Box on the table. The witch in the illustration looks as if she is listening for her master's orders from beyond the grave.

If it wasn't for you to find him, then his true objective was...!

Real Contract

You: Was Medilla planning on using Lilith and her tasks to reveal the truth of the contract, and then...

You: Get us to complete his true request?

You: This sounds weird, but I can't think of any other explanation...

Luke: I think you're right. It's the only way to rationalize his actions.

Abandoned Server Room: Investigation Complete

Abandoned Server Room

Lilith: Correct... Through this series of events, Medilla wished for you to trust him, and for me to trust you.

Lilith: For there is an extremely important matter that can be entrusted to you, and only you.

You and Luke glance at each other.

You can't back down after coming this far.

No matter what challenges lie ahead, you must face them for his sake.

Luke: Okay. Tell us Medilla's true request.

After a few seconds of silence, Lilith's emotionless voice breaks the silence.

Lilith: Please take me to Notro's core station. I will destroy Centipede myself.

Truth VI

NXX Headquarters Meeting Room

Marius: I thought Centipede already disappeared after Notro's platform went down...

Luke: No. Notro was paralyzed because aside from the damage Medilla inflicted to the platform...

Luke: He also blocked Centipede.

Vyn: Blocked?

Luke: Yes. In reality, when Medilla attacked Notro, he was already being tracked and his system was being destroyed.

Luke: That's why Medilla wasn't able to completely eradicate Centipede.

Artem: However, I believe he must have found a short-term method to prevent Notro from using it.

Luke: That's right.

Luke: When he destroyed the platform, he also blocked off Notro's core station with a firewall he prepared in advance.

Luke: I just checked the base station. It's a firewall that can't be penetrated by hacking.

Marius: He managed to finish these two tasks in such a limited amount of time... Medilla really is something.

Luke: The details of his contract are clear.

Luke: [Player], why don't you explain it to everyone?

You: Medilla's contract is that he wants us to realize his dream of destroying Centipede.

You: Because Lilith is the secret key to the firewall.

Vyn: He wants us to break the firewall and then delete Centipede?

Luke: Yes. Centipede was designed to be impervious against AI. It can only be manually destroyed.

Artem: I see. If that's the case, then everything makes sense now.

Marius: Hm... He prepared to sacrifice himself long ago for the sake of this very day.

We must help him

You: We must help him fulfill his dream!

Luke: For sure... He sacrificed his life for justice. We must help him uphold it.

Don't let his sacrifice be in vain

You: We won't let his sacrifice be in vain!

Luke: Yeah. I'll help him finish the things he couldn't.

Vyn: Since that is the case, then let us settle the matter right here.

Marius: Might as well, since we're all here.

Luke: I've transferred Lilith to the Vesper Box's hard drive.

Luke points to the Vesper Box on the table.

Artem: How about it, [Player]? Ready?

You: Yes!

Luke: Let's summon both DAVIS and Lilith and start now.

Marius: All right! Let's finish this together!

Truth VII

NXX Headquarters Meeting Room

NXX Headquarters. The meeting room is the same as always, but the people inside are more different than usual.

DAVIS: Did Lilith agree to make the matter between Medilla and Notro public?

Luke: Yes, but only on a small scale. I've already written a report on this and submitted it to my superiors at the National Security Bureau.

Marius: How efficient... Were you already prepared to write this report?

Luke: I simply rearranged my investigation records a little bit.

Artem: Which means we have to wait for the National Security Bureau's verdict before we can decide whether we can delete Centipede?

Luke: Yes. This concerns the dark web after all. It's a big move, so the higher-ups need time to decide.

Luke: It shouldn't take too long though. I've already explained everything inside the report, so I think the result will be out soon enough.

Vyn: ...

You notice that Vyn seems to be contemplating something. Curious, you ask him about it.

You: Dr. Richter, penny for your thoughts?

Vyn: I'm just thinking about how we should inform that girl we met back at the school last time once the verdict is out.

Thinking about Medilla's girlfriend, who you met in the archives room, reminds you of the promise you made.

You: Right... Even though Medilla's dead, we still need to let her know that he'd gone and pulled off an incredible feat before his passing.

The atmosphere grows heavy and no one speaks for a while.

Suddenly, Luke's phone rings, breaking the silence that had lapsed.

Luke: Hello? Yes. I'm right next to the computer.

Luke: ...Do we take action now? OK, roger that.

Luke hangs up the phone and nods to everyone.

DAVIS: I will connect to the core station of Notro now. Then I'll leave the rest to Lilith.

The Vesper Box in your hands automatically opens, from which comes an electronic female voice.

Lilith: Sure, leave it to me.

DAVIS nods and his projection disappears.

Then, a massive chart representing network nodes appears on the projection screen in the form of a huge dot line graph.

DAVIS' search trajectory spreads out from where he was, branching out to the rest of the world.

Lilith: Compared to the physical world, cyberspace is a whole other world on its own.

Lilith: A world where humans, programs, and AIs coexist... A place much wider than the world you see in front of your eyes.

Marius: As a result, there are more dark hidden corners, aren't there?

Lilith: Yes. The rules here are completely different from those of your world.

Vyn: To create a new world order in a world of chaos. I'm sure the rules of survival there are much more interesting.

Artem: Without a centralized authority, law and order are left in the hands of private organizations or skilled hackers.

Luke: Therefore, when problems occur, there needs to be a hero to stand up and defend the justice of that world.

You: And Medilla is one of those heroes.

As you finish speaking, one of the nodes highlights itself on the screen.

DAVIS: Ladies and gentlemen, I have linked to the core station of Notro.

Marius: So, is it Lilith's time to shine now?

Lilith: ...

Lilith falls silent.

You: What's the matter, Lilith?

Lilith: Nothing.

Lilith: Everyone, please promise me this. After the firewall is removed, please make sure you delete Centipede.

Artem: Of course. You have our word. We'll keep our promise.

Lilith: Okay, thank you. I shall begin then.

Vyn: Hold on.

Vyn suddenly stops Lilith.

You: Dr. Richter?

Vyn: Can you explain what you just said?

Lilith: ...

Vyn: Can I take your silence to mean that you will not be able to witness the destruction of Centipede?

Luke: ...

Luke: Lilith, is your secret key a one-off thing? Where is it?

The entire room falls into deathly silence after they both spoke their pieces.

You: (Why isn't anyone talking? And the questions they just asked...)

Lilith: ...You're right. I won't be able to witness the destruction of Centipede...

Lilith: The secret key exists in my underlying codes. When the firewall is destroyed, I will disappear along with it.

You: !!!

Artem: ...Why would Medilla do that?

Marius: Yeah... Did he plan to do this to you from the beginning...

Lilith: Because that's the purpose of my existence.

Lilith: I am an AI assistant who was born to destroy Centipede. Someone who would never betray him.

Lilith: He and I, our existence in that world has always shared the same meaning.

You: ...

To maintain the security safety of the cyber world, they'll sacrifice themselves for justice when the time calls for it.

That's right. The meaning of their existence and their destinies have always been tied together.

Maybe someone as lonely as Medilla had also longed for someone with a "life" exactly like his. Someone who could truly understand him.

Vyn: ...

Vyn: We will witness the destruction of Centipede on your behalf.

Vyn: Rest assured. You can leave the rest to us.

You: ...Dr. Richter!

You rarely see Vyn so serious. Perhaps he was moved by that man's will.

Marius: ...

Marius: We'll witness the end for you.

Marius: For an ally of Pax... I won't allow that thing to remain at large.

You: Marius...

Marius clenches his fist. The most important thing he wants to continue is what his brother and his allies have left him.

Artem: ...

Artem: There're still many places in the world that are not protected by law.

Artem: But if we work hard to change this, then such places will slowly dwindle by the day...

You: Mr. Wing...

Artem's eyes light up in determination. He has always been like this. He'll never walk away from the issues that occur anywhere near his vicinity.

Luke: ...

Luke: Life may be extinguished, but courage and justice will not.

Luke: Even if his existence is erased, what he has done and everything he has accomplished will never disappear.

Luke... He's still the same as ever, always inspired by the stories of heroes.

But things are different this time. You were all participants in this. You will pick up whatever he'd failed to finish.

DAVIS: Hey, everyone...!

DAVIS appears on the projection, his surprised face slowly turning into a confident smile.

DAVIS: Yeah! As part of the Big Data Lab, I will also be upholding the security of the cyber world with everyone else!

Lilith: ...

Lilith: I'm relieved to hear that.

Lilith's laughter comes from the Vesper Box. What does laughter mean to an AI?

Lilith: This is farewell then, everyone in the NXX Investigation Team.

The screen lights up. As the progress bar advances and the codes roll, Notro's firewall is being dismantled.

If this was something that could be observed with the physical eye, then it would look like the collapse of a massive tower, dramatic and shocking.

DAVIS: Ah... It's Centipede!

As the firewall breaks down, a geometric bug appears on the screen, looking utterly hideous.

Vyn: Is that the culprit? I have to say, its creator has really bad taste.

Marius: Let's get rid of it, quick.

Artem: It's over. Today marks the end of Notro and Centipede's fate.

Luke: Yeah. Everything's over now.

Luke quickly inputs the codes and jammed the enter key.

The bug breaks down into numerous letters and characters, unraveling and drifting into space... until finally, disappearing into nothingness.

This story emerged from misgivings, death, and the disappearance of an organization...

It has come to an end, in a place where the world will never see, find, or even hear about.

???: Thank you.

An unfamiliar voice suddenly sounds from the Vesper Box.

Still trying to wrap your heads around the fact that this incident was over, none of you were able to react to how the screens on the box went out one by one.

???: Thank you. Or, thank you, detective and friends, if you have people helping you.

???: If you hear this recording, it means that Lilith has chosen her destiny to die with Centipede.

???: If she had a life, then maybe she's meeting me in the other world right now.

DAVIS: Oh... This voice!

Everyone exchanged glances with each other. We all knew who this voice belonged to.

All of you understand that this is the first and last time you'll ever hear his voice.

Medilla: I fear this world, but I love this world too. However, I can't express my feelings in a normal way.

Medilla: So, I chose to defend justice in the cyber world, hoping that this can bring happiness to everyone in reality.

Medilla: That's why I feel very happy, even in the face of danger and loneliness.

You: Medilla......

Medilla: I don't regret coming to this world, but neither do I regret leaving like this.

Medilla: If I absolutely had to say something I regretted, it'd be that I didn't get to meet those who were willing to help me in the end.

Luke: ...

Medilla: Nice to meet you all. I believe you each have your own missions that are equally important, as was mine...

Medilla: Have no fear, march on ahead.

Medilla: Lilith and I give you our blessings.

The final screen of the Vesper Box goes out, followed by a puff of rising smoke.

Marius: ...Did it self-destruct?

Artem: It must be a self-destructive mechanism set up by Medilla. It has served its purpose. after all.

Vyn gently picks up the Vesper Box on the table and smiles.

Vyn: So that is the true meaning of the "Vesper Box."

For the last time, the evening bell tolls for the souls of the deceased, followed by the final prayers...

Perhaps this gift from the dead will be kept in the NXX base as a commemoration of our joint efforts.

Luke suddenly begins to pack his bag, getting ready to leave.

You: Huh? Why the hurry, Luke?

Luke: It's not over yet. I need to report the results and apply for permanent closure of the Notro core station.

Luke: Thank you, everyone. I'll buy you dinner when I get back.

Luke waves, eagerly opening the door and running right out of the base.

You: Wow. Luke left in such a hurry.

Marius: ...What a showoff.

Marius: We should also start the maintenance and enhancement of the Big Data Lab's firewall, right, DAVIS?

DAVIS: Yes! Let me make arrangements with the engineers now!

You: Do you have to go?

Marius: Yeah, you know how many documents I have to approve... Man...

You: Well, Pax is a huge corporation. Thank you for your hard work!

Marius: You too. You've worked hard in leading this investigation! I'll take you to our newest dessert chain once I'm free!

Vyn: The best desserts are not necessarily from a dessert shop.

Marius: ...The chefs I hire are all international champions. Amateurs have not right to judge.

Vyn: Heh...

Marius doesn't spare even a single glance at Vyn. Instead, he winks at you.

Marius: Let's meet at the dessert shop next time, Miss!

You: Sure.

After making an appointment with you, Marius leaves for work.

Vyn: I am going to give the news to the girl who is waiting for him.

Vyn pushes his glasses up and smiles.

Vyn: And while I'm at it, perhaps I should also put new treatment methods for social anxiety disorder on the research agenda.

You: Sounds like you're going to be very busy, Dr. Richter.

Vyn: Do not worry. I will always have time for you if you ask me out on a date.

As soon as Vyn finishes, Artem suddenly chimes in.

Artem: [Player], come to the law firm with me.

Artem: Although this is also serious business, we're also quite behind our work schedule.

You: Sure... I've already mentally prepared myself for this...

Vyn: There is no need to be so strict. She has been busy for a long time. It is a little cruel, is it not?

Artem: This is the work arrangement of our law firm. You have no right to interfere.

You: I'm alright, Dr. Richter. It's just normal work, so it's not as bad as you think...

Vyn: Very well. I shall make no further comment if that is what you desire.

Vyn: That is it for today. I look forward to our next meeting.

You: Okay. See you later, Dr. Richter.

After saying goodbye to Vyn, you quickly pack your things and get ready to delve right back into the unfinished work back at the law firm.

Suddenly, a sigh makes you look back up.

Artem: Maybe I'm being too strict...

You: Mr. Wing?

Artem: Ahem... You've been busy for so long, you must have fallen behind in your studies, right?

You: ... Unfortunately, yes...

Artem: I'll help you get prepared for the advancement exam starting tomorrow.

You: Huh? Shouldn't we handle work first...?

Artem: We might be behind in our schedule, but it's not far enough to cause delays. You should have faith in my capability.

Under your bewildered gaze, Artem shows a gentle smile.

Artem: Come on. I'll help you organize your study plan once we get back.

Artem: Even without the work pressure, studying will not be easy. You'd best be prepared.

You: Sure! Rest assured, Mr. Wing! I'm fully prepared!

Artem: Good. Let's head back to the law firm together.

You: Okay!