User:Lux/Sandbox

Event order

	夏彦 (Xia Yan) Luke Pearce	左然 (Zuo Ran) Artem Wing	莫弈 (Mo Yi) Vyn Richter	陆景和 (Lu Jinghe) Marius von Hagen
Prologue
主線第一章「人情冷暖」 (Fickleness of Human Nature) Episode 1: The Hand That Feeds	XY SR ASMR 彼时少年 (The Boy Back Then) Luke "Once Upon a Time"	ZR SR ASMR 锋芒褪尽 (Extremely exhausted) Artem "Staying Humble"
	Luke's Story: Blossom Chapter 1	Artem's Story: Blossom Chapter 1
主線第二章「无法承受的爱」 Episode 2: The Unbearable Love			MY SR 初光倾泻 Spilling Light	LJH SR 心头撞鹿 Butterflies
	Luke's Story: Blossom Chapter 2	Artem's Story: Blossom Chapter 2
	XY SR 斑斓光影 (Multicoloured Light and Shadow) Luke "Radiant Sunlight" XY SR 碧蓝之间 Luke "Among the Great Blue" XY SR 倾落心扉 (Falling in Love) Luke "Inner Sanctum" XY SR 完美营救 (Perfect Rescue) Luke "Timely Rescue" XY SR 惊心一刻 (Startled Moment) Luke "Moment of Danger" XY SSR 微醺视线 Alluring Gaze	ZR SR 人间烟火 Artem "Sparks" ZR SR 冷暖心知 (The heart knows the changes) Artem "In Sickness or in Health" ZR SR 秋叶寄梦 (Dreams sent on an Autumn Leaf) Artem "Autumn Dreams" ZR SR 会心一击 (Know when to strike) Artem "Focus Fire" ZR SR 纸幕光影 (Light and shadow paper play) Artem "Thin Veil"	MY SR 水“逆” Vyn "Mercury in Retrograde" MY SR 塑心 Vyn "Mended Heart" MY SR 虚妄之泪 Vyn "False Tears" MY SR 指尖温度 Vyn "Lingering Warmth" MY SR 绅士游戏 Vyn "Gentleman's Game"	LJH SR 底比斯之梦 Marius "Dream of Thebes" LJH SR 弦外之音 Marius "Overtone" LJH SR 共舞云端 Marius "A Dance on the Clouds" LJH SR 童心攻势 (Lock-on the Innocent Heart) Marius "Child at Heart"
			Vyn's Story: Blossom Chapter 1 Vyn's Story: Blossom Chapter 2 Vyn's Story: Blossom Chapter 3	Marius' Story: Blossom Chapter 1 Marius' Story: Blossom Chapter 2
主線第三章「心之天秤」 Episode 3: The Weight of a Soul		ZR SR 长夜微明 Darkest before Dawn
主線第四章「心火」 Episode 4: Les Tournesols				LJH SR 坠入心扉 Falling into You
主線第五章「雪落有聲（上）」 Episode 5: Sins of Cynicism (Part 1)	XY SR 与子偕行 Together with You
主線第五章「雪落有聲（中）」 Episode 5: Sins of Cynicism (Part 2)
主線第五章「雪落有聲（下）」 Episode 5: Sins of Cynicism (Part 3)			MY SR 入局 Entrapped
	XY SSR 最佳拍档 Perfect Partner
夏日消暑 (Summer Holidays; Aug)
清夏同游 Summer Breeze	XY SSR 千灯如昼 Shape of You	ZR SSR 心有千千结 Entwined Fate	MY SR 凉夏 Cool Summer	LJH SR 琥珀昙华 Twilight Beauty
未名开学 (Stellis School Start; Sept)
弈起守护 Guardian
Birthday 莫弈生日「莫逆于心」 Reciprocal Hearts			Secrets of My Heart (Event Story) MY SSR 舞夜流光 A Star in the Night
消失的黄金 Mysteries of the Lost Gold LG: Chapter 2, 3 Lu Jinghe LG: Chapter 2, 3 Zuo Ran LG: Chapter 2, 3 Xia Yan LG: Chapter 2, 3 Mo Yi LG: Chapter 4	XY SSR 虹色心跳 Iridescent Heartbeat	ZR SSR 铃音予梦 Dreamful Melodies	MY SSR 心悬一线 Heartfelt Suspense	LJH SSR 悸乱微光 In the Darkness
惊奇万圣节 Halloween Surprise (Not in global)
扫地机器人失踪事件 Missing Roomba
久久牵绊 Ties that bind. 100 days together mail
午夜华章 Symphony of the Night Event story	XY SR 忆中人 How I Remember You	ZR SR 暇光一隅 Fixated on You	MY SSR 明暗之境 Between Good and Evil	LJH SSR 虚诞盛宴 Fabulous Feast
夏羽乘风 Wings of Flight (not in global)
Birthday 夏彦生日「四季如夏」 Luke All Year-Round	满分惊喜 Top Surprise (Event Story) XY SSR 温馥予怀 Warm Embrace
缤纷乐游会 Xmas Partyland	XY SR 掌中流光 Star in the Palm	ZR SSR 一步之遥 One Step Apart	MY SR 松雪童话 Snowy Fairy Tale	LJH SSR 终夜明辉 All Through the Night
新年诉心语 New years calls
新意家居日 New Home Day
致斯卡提的情诗 Love Letter to Skadi Event Story	XY SSR 荧荧眸光 Twinkling Eyes	ZR SSR 天心漫游 Wandering Heart	MY SSR 焰落琉彩 Blazing Colours	LJH SSR 极光之昼 Daytime Aurora
主线第六章(上) 「伥鬼」 Episode 6: A Vicious Cycle (Part 1)
主线第六章(下) 「伥鬼」 Episode 6: A Vicious Cycle (Part 2)		ZR SR【抉择】 Choice
专属支线第三章 Personal Story 3	XY Personal story 3	ZR Personal story 3	MY Personal story 3	LJH Personal story 3
醇情恋歌 Sweet Melody text messages
新春特别 New Year Blessing mail (not in global)
温暖闹元宵 Warm and festive Lantern Festival
花遇惠风 Love in the Air	XY MR 陪伴 Companionship	ZR MR 心意 Intention	MY MR 约定 Promise	LJH MR 信物 Keepsake
白色情人节 White Day (mail; not in global)
异乡行歌·上篇 Romantic Rail Getaway (part 1) event story	XY SSR 此心安处 Peaceful Place			LJH SSR 苍木为意 Will of the Trees
Special Consultation			MY MR 朝颜 Morning Glory
毅然同行 Resolute Journey (not in global)
Birthday 眷然恋影 Days to Re-live Forever event story		ZR SSR 两心无间 Two hearts as one
异乡行歌·下篇 Romantic Rail Getaway (part 2) event story		ZR SSR 惠雨归晴 Sunshine after Rain	MY SSR 思酿 Brewing Thoughts
庭园家居日 Garden Home Day
燃动潮流夜」第二阶段 Electrifying Night	XY SSR【腾霄】 Soaring	ZR SR 【制胜球】 Victory Shot	MY SSR 【霓光旋律】 Neon Melody	LJH SR 【迷涂炫彩】 Vibrant Graffiti
甜蜜下午茶 Sweet Afternoon Tea
520快乐 I love you day (not in Global)
梦的涟漪 Dream Ripples (phonecalls;not in Global)
主线第七章(上) Episode 7: The Rain of Monte Cristo (Part 1)
主线第七章(上) Episode 7: The Rain of Monte Cristo (Part 2)				LJH SR【静默之下】 Beneath the Silence
Special Consultation	XY 专项咨询; 夏彦·探险 Adventure
粽意与你 Zongzi (Want to be) with You (not in Global)
共绘流景 Painting together (not in Global)
Birthday 浮光和景 M for My One and Only Event story				LJH SSR【荣光加冕】 Coronation of Glory
Special Consultation		ZR MR 舒展 Stretch
专属支线第四章 Personal Story 4	XY Personal story 4	ZR Personal story 4	MY Personal story 4	LJH Personal story 4
周年庆特别通话 Anniversary Calls
绯色盛典 Blissful Fête Event story	XY SSR【夜落星河】 Beneath the milky way	ZR SSR 【相思情长】 Lovesickness	MY SSR 【不渝】 Faithful	LJH SSR 【意笔明心】 The brush understands the heart
湛蓝假日 Azure Holiday
City Exploration
Special Consultation				LJH 专项咨询; 探险·陆景和 Adventure
佳期鹊桥会 Reunion Event
花间密语 Secrets of Flowers	XY MR【寄意】 Sending thoughts	ZR MR【眷慕】 Admiration	MY MR【凝眸】 Gaze	LJH MR【悸动】 Palpations
甜趣家居日 Sweet Home Day
七夕语音电话 Qixi phone calls (not in Global)
Special Consultation	XY MR【明熹】 Bright
Sweet Chapter 两心共夏时 Entwining Hearts	XY SSR 妄夜之魇 Looming Nightmare
花好月圆 Beautiful flowers and round moon (not in global)
Birthday 沐光偕愿 Tenderly Lit Wishes Event story			MY SSR 昔年之缚 Binds of the Past
Recharge		ZR SSR 惊情 Shock
狂沙的呼唤 Secrets of the Tomb Event Story	XY SSR 【昼夜余想】 Thoughts day into night	ZR SSR 【炽响】 Blazing Reverberation	MY SSR 【渡月逐光】 Chasing Moonlight	LJH SSR【微芒】 Faint Light
狂沙的呼唤 Call of the Desert
主线第八章 《远航前夜》 Main chapter investigation: Eve before the voyage
幻夜呓语 Bewitching Night Rave	XY 夏彦MR思绪【囚月】 Prisoning Moon	ZR 左然MR思绪【拟心】 Pseudo-Heart	MY 莫弈MR思绪【溯夜】 Source of Night	LJH 陆景和MR思绪【妄罪】 Presumptuous Sin
Special Consultation			MY 「专项咨询」【莫弈·探险】 Adventure
青葱巡礼 Revisiting Youth	XY SR 【纸间情眷】 Love between pages	ZR SSR 【新晴】 New Day (Feelings)	MY SR 【絮语无终】 Endless Whispers	LJH SSR 【朝华惜时】 Magnificent Cherished Moments
Special Consultation				LJH MR 初露 Early Dew; First Exposure
Birthday 灼年情记 Redolent Mirage	XY SSR 【暗漪】 Dark Ripple
满载鹅归 Goose Overload
Sweet Chapter 同绘四时景 Masterpieces of the Seasons				LJH SSR【潮生情动】 Tidal Passion
雪色弥境 Snowfallen Secrets	XY SSR 【瑰色余温】 Rosy Warmth	ZR SR 【浮情燃夜】 Passionate Night	MY SSR 【弦光掠影】 Shadow of the Bowstring/Glimpse	LJH SR 【爱之浆果】 Berries of Love
圣诞快乐 Christmas Mail
时光纪念册 Memories Scrapbook
新年快乐 New Year Mail
Special Consultation		左然「专项咨询」Adventure
Recharge				LJH SSR 【镌痕】 Imprint
飞雪落红尘 Drifting Snow on the Mortal World Event Story	XY SSR 【戏影入梦】 Shadows in the Dream	ZR SSR 【野有蔓草】 Kudzu in the Wild	MY SSR 【灼华于归】 Brilliant Union	LJH SSR 【画堂春】 Painting Hall’s Spring
新春福利 Lunar New Year Mail
浓情浅吻 Butterfly Kisses	XY MR 【挚切】 Sincerely	ZR MR 【慕望】 Keen admiration	MY MR 【勿忘】 Unforgettable	LJH MR 【诚愫】 Sincerity
情人节快乐 Valentines Day mail
Sweet Chapter 此生偕安然 Love in Tranquillity		ZR SSR 【好愿成双】 Paired Blessing
童梦畅游 Dreams of Childhood	XY SSR 【执愿】 Vow	ZR SR 【沐游聆心】 Listen to your Heart	MY SR 【缠情如缚】 Entangled Love	LJH SSR 【沁甜绮想】 Seeped in Sweet Fantasies
主线第八章《荼蘼》 Main Story Episode 8 - Rubus coronarius			Mo Yi - Clamorous Dream
厨房的试炼·曲奇篇 Kitchen Trails - Cookie Recipes
白色情人节快乐 Happy White Day mail
Sweet Chapter 莫忘情归处 Forget Not Your Love			MY SSR【欲愈】 Hungering Desires
Special Consultation (pilot)		ZR MR【整装待发】 Ready and Waiting
煦风恋旅·上篇 Cozy Couple’s Getaway (Part 1)			MY 【晖染萦沙】 Sand awash with sunshine	LJH 【星愿心澜】 Overflowing Wishes
阅见未名 To see Stellis
Birthday 「韶华若岁」 The Hearts Wishes		ZR SSR【日夜相生】 Coexistence of Night and Day
Sweet Chapter 2 同绘四时景 Masterpiece of Seasons 2				LJH SSR 情难自匿 Unconcealable
偷心机密 The Men from NXX	Emotion)	ZR MR【皎然】 Bright like this (”evidently”)	MY MR旖梦】 Flutter of a Dream	LJH MR【徘徊】 Dithering
Special Consultation			MY 专项咨询 【莫弈·绯色】 Crimson outfit
煦风恋旅·下篇 Cozy Couple’s Getaway (Part 2)	XY 【繁荫浮岁】 Fluttering Shade (like many floating shadows)	ZR 【愿者缱钩】 Voluntary Hooked (voluntarily attached on love)
甜情天选 Sweet Choice
521 I love you day Mail
Sweet Chapter 2 莫忘情归处 Forget Not Your Love			MY SSR【浮华沉宵】 Gilded Loaming
厨房的试炼·粽子篇 Kitchen Trials: Zongzi
Birthday 「岁海织梦」 Dreams Rewoven				LJH SSR 【炽盛不息】 Ceaseless
「甜宠萌心·上篇」 Fluffy Fuzzy Time (part 1)	XY SSR【犬梦留晞】 Dog’s Dream		MY SSR【泡影抚痕】 Traces of Comfort
Special Consultation (pilot)				LJH MR【心环】 Heart Ring
主线第九章《灰色交界》 Main Story Episode 9: Grey Boundary	XY SR 【刻心】 Engraved on the Heart
星运满夏 Starry Starry Summer
Recharge			MY 茗香入梦 Tea-Scented Dreams
共赴月朝 Moonlit Eve
周年庆特别通话 Anniversary Call
约定之日 The Promised Day	XY ANN. SSR【蜜橙淆心】 Honey Orange Heart	ZR ANN. SSR【粲华挚约】 Weight of Splendid Sincerity	MY ANN. SSR【溺于烬中】 Drowning in Ashes	LJH ANN. SSR【浮霎缔世】 Tied for this life
七夕快乐 Qixi mail
甜瓜沁夏 Refreshing Sweet Summer
Sweet Chapter 2 两心共夏时 Entwining Hearts	XY SSR 两心共夏时 Threads of Time
甜宠萌心 Sweetly Pamper
「甜宠萌心·下篇」 Fluffy Fuzzy Time (Part 2)		左然SSR【萌果弥思】 Overflowing Affections		陆景和SSR【葡甜润心】 Mellowing Sweetheart
Special Consultation	XY 绯色·夏彦 Crimson
「百味盈欢」 Gourmet Gastronomy	夏彦MR【涎涟】 Salivating	左然MR【珠缀】 Cluster of Pearls	莫弈MR【腴绵】 Soft and Plump	陆景和MR【觅甘】 Seeking Sweet
主线第十章：无言的铿锵 Main Story 10 Silent Resonance		左然SR【此间】 Here
Birthday 岁许佳期 Oath to Joy			莫弈生日SSR【繁梦明辰】 Complicated Dreams
Recharge	Support and Affection
「情迷贝克伦」 Mystery of Bakerlon Event Story	夏彦SSR【恋恋雾城】 Foggy City (Reluctant to Leave)	左然SSR【寄雨疑云】 Believe, through the rainfall of doubt and suspicion (Suspicious Rainfall)	莫弈SSR【迷弭惊鸟】 To calm a frightened bird (Secret Flight)	陆景和SSR【眷海遗梦】 One last dream (Ocean Legacy)
「悠风旅会」 Travel Club
「情迷贝克伦」 Love of Bakerlon
「此生偕安然Chapter.2」 Chapter 2: Love in Tranquillity		【夜赴佳会】 Belle Nuit of Amois
「漫想夜话」 Enchanting Whispers	MR【幻诱】 Fantastical Guide	MR【胧迹】 Mark of the Rising Moon	MR【惑海】 Sea of Obsession	MR【撩梦】 Stirrings of a Dream
「绿洲绘忆」 Oasis Painted Memories
Special Consultation (pilot)			莫弈MR思绪【暗扣】 Hidden Fastener
Solo event 3 「裁情拾景」 Fit for a King				陆景和SSR【炙锦】 Brocade
Birthday 3 恋满韶荫 Sweet Felicity	夏彦生日SSR思绪【旧忆灼心】 (Old) Memories of the Heart
【文悦未名】 (Delightful) Stellis Culture
Solo event 3 「凝香思弈」 Vyntage Fragrance			【浮香黯光】 Transient fragrance under dim light (Ambiguous Fragrance)
Special Consultation (anni1 outfit)		【左然·绯色】 Crimson
【雪遇心选】 Snowy Encounter
Special Consultation (pilot)			莫弈MR思绪【暗扣】 Hidden Fastener
浮生岁月 Fleeting Years (phone calls)
【冬恋晴歌】 Snowy Sweetness	【蜜秘】 Honeyed Secrets/Sweet Secrets/Secrets	【影落归声】 Echoing Trace	【流年织愿】 Weaving a Wish/Horoscope	【岂在朝暮】 Joyful Days and Nights
跨年特别短消息 New Year short messages	夏彦「跨年市集」 New Year Market	左然「过度思念」 Thinking of you	莫弈「只属于你」 Only yours	陆景和「雪团祝福」 Snowy blessings
故城黎明的回响 Echo of dawn in the old city/Enduring Light	空烬 Ashes	尘隐烟霞 Secrets beneath the haze	湮索留痕 Scars	棘途 Thorny Road
Recharge			心壑 Heart's Ravine
故城黎明的回响 mini game
新春特别通话 CNY Phone call	夏彦「烟花表演」 Firework show	左然「出逃计划」 Plans to run away together	莫弈「年货大街」 Merch street	陆景和「电视晚会」 TV party
夏彦 Lukeout Fire	【逆火逐夏】 Hearts blaze together
厨房的试炼·汤圆篇 kitchen trials: tangyuan
【主线更新】 11 E11.1
初代的元宵祝福 DAVIS yuanxiao blessing
【情沐秘邀】 fresh and fancy	【沉溺】 Indulge	【衷情】 Feelings	【依偎】 Snuggle	【余韵】 Aftertaste
【疾速怦然】 Wings of Exhilaration		逐速撩欲 Chasing desires
情人节专属邮件 Valentines mail	夏彦「幸福的礼物」 Blessed gift	左然「我们的时光」 Our time	莫弈「爱意烘焙」 Baking love	陆景和「晚宴邀约」 Invitation to banquet
【新增卓越贡献奖励系统】 Recharge invites
Pilot series	【缠恋】 tangled in love
Feixue rerun puzzle
HoHo好运 Hoyoluck
LJH solo Whereever we may go				【无问归途】 Unspoken, the journey home
White day mail	夏彦「我的心意」 My feelings	左然「情人节回礼」 White day gift	莫弈「烦恼求助」 Troubled request	陆景和「数不完的浪漫」 Unlimited romance

Story

Prologue

Prologue Dialogue

MC awakens.
Fading in from white. An unknown area, birds are chipping.

Do you want to leave the dream? (Leave) (Explore)

You: Where am I?
You: Strange, I thought I was at...
You: Wait... Wh-What was I doing just now?

(Look around)
Moving forward. A figure appears in the distance.

You: Who... Who is that?

(Approach him)

You: ...Xia Yan!?

(Call out)

You: Xia Yan!
You: ...

Moving closer.

You: He didn't hear me...?

Suddenly, a myar bird brushes by, cawing.

You: Ah!

Xia Yan disappears. A key is on the ground where he stood.

You: ...Xia Yan?
You: ...?
You: What is this?

(Pick it up)

You: It's Xia Yan's key! Did he drop it?
You: ...?

You notice a box is on a table behind where Xia Yan was.

You: There's something up ahead.

(Continue on)

You: It's locked? Right, the key!

(Use the key)

The box opens to blindingly white light. The scene changes.

You: The forest... It's gone...
You: Where am I now...?

It appears to be an art studio.

(Look around)

You: ...!

Lu Jinghe is working at a nearby standing easel.

You: Lu Jinghe...?

(Call out)

You: Lu Jinghe!
You: ...
You: Nothing engrosses you as much as painting does.

(Go closer)

Light flashes as Lu Jinghe disappears.

You: ...Aah!
You: Lu Jinghe? Where did he go?
You: What was he painting?

(Examine)

The canvas has a layer of cracked plaster.

You: Huh?
You: Only white paint? Is this a new art style?
You: Ah!

The chipped plaster is falling apart.

You: But I didn't even touch it... Wait, there's something underneath!

(Scrape the paint)

You: ...?

(Keep scraping)

You: ...!

(Keep scraping)

You: This is...

It is a painting of you with a gentle gaze.

You: Ugh! It's happening again... I feel so dizzy...

You sway, losing focus. You are crying in the painting as the scene fades to black.

You: ...!?

A new location.

You: A cemetery?
You: ...
You: It's raining...

(Examine)

You: ...
You: Strange. Why isn't there a name?
You: ...
You: None of the tombstones... have names...

You look about the area.

You: That's...
You: Zuo Ran!
You: He didn't hear me? Seems like none of them can...
You: He brought flowers. Is he visiting?
You: Could it be a relative of his?

(Go closer)

Something cracks beneath you.

You: Ah!
You: Gosh, it's just a branch.
You: ...!

You look up, but Zuo Ran has disappeared.

You: Where's Zuo Ran? H-He was just here!
You: Zuo Ran!

(Look for him)

You: These are... Zuo Ran's flowers.
You: ...
You: Hyacinths...
You: Zuo Ran...
You: Agh...!

Vision hazy, you begin to sway.

You: My head... It hurts!

Vision fades to black.

???: Do not worry...
???: Do not worry... I am here...
You: ...

Sounds of clock ticking, and you open your eyes to a new location. Someone is leaning over you.

Mo Yi: It appears you were having a nightmare.
You: So, all of that was a dream...
Mo Yi: How does one discern dreams from reality?
Mo Yi: That was a dream, but this may not be reality.
You: Dreams...

You become dizzy and close your eyes.

You: My head... So dizzy...
Mo Yi: The key to the chest of memories... Did you see the answer inside? Was it what you wanted?

You close your eyes into darkness.

You: What are you talking about?

You open your eyes to see Mo Yi on the other side of the room, holding Lu Jinghe's painting of you.

Mo Yi: Using a painting to conceal the truth? Perhaps you can fool the eyes, but not the heart.

Your vision blurs into darkness.

You: Mo-Yisheng...

You open your eyes again and Mo Yi is holding a bouquet of hyacinths.

Mo Yi: Ironic, is it not? Adhering to your convictions but betraying your heart... In the end, it was all for nought.
You: Stop! Stop talking! My head hurts so much!...

Your vision blurs, the room shakes, your ears are ringing.

Mo Yi: Even if the world were against you... Would you still stand by your choice?
You: I...
Mo Yi: Shh. You need not answer at this time. Come, look at me... You are very sleepy right now...

Your vision blurs, and everything fades to black.

You: I...
You: I'm exhausted...

You open your eyes and there is a pocket-watch swaying before you. It is 1:52:56.
The seconds tick, the minute strikes. Your eyes close, and you fall into darkness again.

Mo Yi: Words are empty. Deeds over words. Let time reveal the answer.

Characters

• Main Character (MC) | Main Character
• 夏彦 (Xia Yan) | Luke Pearce
• 陆景和 (Lu Jinghe) | Marius von Hagen
• 左然 (Zuo Ran) | Artem Wing
• 莫弈 (Mo Yi) | Vyn Richter

Notes and Trivia

• Lighthouse: a symbol for strength, safety, individuality, mystery, and existentialism.
• Hyacinths: Flowers related to the lily family, they are a symbol for sorrow and jealousy. In the flower language for hyacinth colours, blue hyacinths mean sincerity while purple hyacinths mean regret and yearning for forgiveness. There are many colours besides, but these are one noted for appearance.
• The present time is unknown.

Characters

Main Character (MC)

Info	Stats
Name	Player Defined
Birthday	Player Defined
Age	24
Height	<180 cm
Occupation	Lawyer
Organisation(s)	Themis Law Firm
Debut	Main Story 01-01

Background

A local to Stellis City, MC was a competitive academic and a high achieving liberal arts student. In secondary school, she was ranked second only to her friend, Xia Yan, but took first place in liberal art studies. Her tertiary education was at Stellis University's famous Law School as she had always wanted to study law. After graduation, MC became a lawyer at Themis Law Firm with speciality in commercial and economic law. She is presently studying for a bar advancement exam, often at the law firm as it is easier to access reference materials.

During 2030, Zuo Ran, her senior at Themis took note of her potential and after a discrete psychological evaluation, offered her the opportunity to be partners. Honoured and ecstatic, she agreed. It was also through this opportunity MC was able to meet Mo Yi in person. She greatly admires him for his work and contribution in the field of criminal psychology.

MC began taking on criminal cases including one for Pax Group's Acting-President, Lu Jinghe. After her first successful criminal defence, she confirmed her partnership with Zuo Ran. Thereafter, MC learns about the NXX Special Investigation Team and X-NOTE cases. Zuo Ran cautions MC to consider carefully after extending an invitation to join NXX as he wishes to investigate with her. He reassures no matter her decision, they can still be working partners for other cases.

Personality and Hobbies

MC is courageous, quick witted, fast reacting, and has good observation and deductive skills. She is also quite good at on-the-spot role-play to ease the situation. In addition, MC has some investigative savvy. In the past, she enjoyed playing Detectives with her childhood friend though she initially had a closed world view on investigators, thinking they only solved cold cases.

Regardless of the weight of the crime, MC believes all should be brought before the law for judgement. MC staunchly believes in physical evidence. Though she will consult a criminal psychologist for hypothetical scenarios, she will only agree to a definitive conclusion when the evidence is before her. She considers this her duty to her client and to the truth. A prosecutor she has encountered in court noted MC's court style reminded him of a particular someone and looks forward crossing paths again.

Life and Philosophy

MC strongly believes fate cannot be swayed by anyone else and that individuals shape their own outcomes.

Sometimes, MC drifts into thoughts about food. She is very weight conscious, even considering changing lights to promote weight loss. She has always loved seafood from youth, especially now that she is older because it is low in fat and she can eat it without gaining weight. As a treat, she will eat desserts. In regards to beverages, all wine look the same to her.

MC has talent in the arts as she had learned and played the violin since she was young up until she started university. She has excellent understanding and appreciation of music and knowledge on music history. She is also familiar with Greek mythology.

MC does not have chemical or pharmaceutical knowledge.

Relationships

Please see under male leads for blurb.

Family

Both of MC's parents are research fanatics. During the time MC was in university, both parents were recruited as researchers in a secret research project. While they are not allowed contact with the outside world, they still regularly send MC holiday postcards and money.

Others

• Best friends with Kiki Bennet.
• Zuo Ran and Celestine Taylor are direct superiors at Themis Law Firm.

Noted cases

• Represented the defendant in Civil Court for Vernon Green of Penny's Comfort Foods.
• Represented the defendant, Lu Jinghe, in criminal case.
• Represented the defendant, Harry Grant after taking Zuo Ran's case.

Trivia

• During Themis Law Firm's 2030 Annual Meeting, MC won the grand prize during the game session.
• Neat handwriting.
• MC is afraid of crawlers such as worms and cockroaches since youth and will also avoid talking about them.
• MC's personal mobile phone is pink in colour. Tactile typing and vibration setting, and pop up holographic push notifications functions.
• Takes care of her professional appearance and wears makeup.
• Attire:
  • MC's outfit in Court is reminiscent of China's lawyer uniform, particularly because of her necktie.
  • Wears glasses in Court
  • Usually wears heels
• Uses a briefcase.
• Things in her purse:
  • Alcohol swipes for cleaning and or disinfecting.
  • Tablet
  • Her namecard.
• Used to hide in closets when playing hide-and-seek
• Has never changed her phone number
• Empathises with celebrities who have their privacy invaded
• MC is knows how to drive.
• Does not like hanging bedside lamps because switch searching is difficult.
• Thinks bedside stools are nice.
• Cloudy days are perfect for staying in bed

Language Notes

• Different language settings have a different player dialogue box label and narrative perspective.
  • CN: "我" I/me
  • JP: "私" I (polite)
  • KR: "나" I/me (casual)
  • EN: "You"
    • English has combinations of first and third person descriptions during internal dialogue.

夏彦 | Luke Pearce

"I also have mysteries I cannot solve, for example -- You."

Info	Stats
Name	夏彦 (Xià Yàn)
Birthday	5th December
Age	24
Height	180 cm
Blood type	O
Occupation	Private Investigator
Organisation(s)
S.CN CV	金弦 (Jīn Xián; Titus Jin)
Soft debut	Main Story 01-01
Debut	Main Story 01-05

Meeting you again is the best thing thats happened
I never thought that I would meet you again, here and now.
The carefully concealed photo album holding the light of childhood memories, opens on many new blank pages waiting to be filled.
Even if fate is playing a joke, every minute and every second with you is incomparably precious.
Before this mystery is solved—-
”Please, give me a little more time...”

About Xia Yan

Xia Yan is the dear coral eyed-coloured childhood friend of Main Character. After eight years of separation, they are finally reunited. During the eight years Xia Yan was away from Stellis City, MC was unaware of what he has been up to, but he has learnt many skills including: tracking, sniping, fighting, tactical driving, and wilderness survival skills... skills useful for a private investigator. No matter the job, he will complete it cleanly and excellently under the eyes of the law. There's almost nothing he's not good at... all except for expressing his love for the girl he grew up with... After reuniting after many years of separation, deep down, Xia Yan is still the same old cheery but shy boy. In the past, MC had thought Xia Yan would become a bioengineer. With his intelligence, it would not be a problem to go in this direction... But, maybe something unknown occurred that altered the career shift.

An outgoing private investigator who brings light and hope to everyone around him. Xia Yan lives in a three-story building left to him by his parents. The first floor is Time's Antiquities, an antique store he operates, specialising in acquisition, restoration, and sales of antiques from the last century. It is famous within the cultural circles of Stellis City and favoured by collectors. He uses the second floor as his office for his investigation agency.

After being reunited with you, every day together is worth celebrating. Every corner of the city we have turned, helping those in need, wandering through restlessness and hiding a restless heart, and through the moments of thrills and excitement together... You are the one I instinctively understand and the one I want to protect forever.

There are things hidden in my heart for a long long time, but here and now, I just want to tell you-- because of you, I will never give up.

But please, just give me a little more time...

Background

Xia Yan's parents passed away when he was young. MC's family took him in and and they became close friends while growing up together.

Xia Yan was always top of the class in secondary school, igniting MC's competitive spirit. At 16 years of age, during first year of senior high school, he was admitted into the country's best university, National Central University in the capital. He initially kept his acceptance secret from MC as he didn't know how to tell her, exclaiming he was worried about upsetting her by leaving the city. He chose to major in Bioengineering, thinking that it would have delighted his mother if she knew he followed her footsteps. On admittance, he entered into a confidential national project where outside contact was prohibited, eventually losing contact with MC and her family. Eventually, he graduated with a Masters in Bioengineering with distinction.

It was a childhood dream of Xia Yan to become an investigator, but he is not any ordinary investigator. He has the authority to certify formal reports as evidence to be submitted into the Court of Law. Xia Yan uses Time's Antiquities as a front for his investigation office due to zealous investigators confusing people to mistake investigators as paparazzi, and most clients would prefer confidentiality when visiting a private investigator.

Xia Yan carries out infiltration missions under the codename Raven. He also undertakes commissions as an investigator for company credit and background checking. His skill set includes: Tracking, sniping, fighting, tactical driving, wilderness survival, stealth, and crafting gadgets.

Around during a mission, Xia Yan was infected by something regarding Heirson's effervescents. He holds great suspicion towards anything regarding the company. His senior has been running analyses on their effervescents.

Relationships

Main Character

In future, the sun, wind, and rain, will be experienced together with him.

Xia Yan is a dear childhood friend and an integral part of MC's youth. He grew up with MC while living at her home. But he vanished eight years ago when he left for admittance into National Central University. MC and her parents contacted him early on, only to discover he was selected for a secret research project which prohibited outside contact, and eventually lost contact altogether. Though Xia Yan eventually returned to Stellis City, a surprise reunion occurred with MC during 2030 when he was hired as a Private Investigator in the same case she was investigating. Initially, MC was shocked that he was now a private investigator as he had had gone to National Central University study Bioengineering. She thinks he is a bit tanned compared to the past, and is confused how one can get a tan when working in a laboratory for the last few years.

Despite the years apart, it is a happy reunion. When they were young, Xia Yan would ask for forgiveness by extending his hand to be held by MC. Hesitantly he extends his hand again, but she says there is nothing to forgive because he is here now and that is what matters. Xia Yan thinks MC hasn't changed at all since childhood, after all, she is "still the same... as when she was 16." When he is updated about MC's parents, he was initially hesitant on discovering her parents were also recruited into a secret project during MC's university years, but relieved she and her parents do have some form of contact. He tells her to let her parents know he is back in Stellis City to take care of her. Though in the past, he was the troublemaker and got her into scoldings too. She used to think he was an excitable and impulsive youth but sees he has now grown into a mature young man, feeling sad that they both missed out on a lot of each other's lives.

Though there was eight years separation, the relationship between MC and Xia Yan is still very close where she can comfortably teases him about anything. Their relationship has a lot of trust, care, and attentiveness towards each other. Sometimes one cannot help but get small cuts and bruises and he would brush it aside, but she would worry and administer treatment. He in turn, is more worried about her getting hurt. Xia Yan trusts MC a lot and is easily flustered by her. He is also very attuned to MC's micro-expressions and always checks on her feelings. They often think on the same wavelength, even after many years apart to the point she can still see through his vague statements when he attempts to blur the truth of his exact return.

Both MC and Xia Yan like detectives and puzzle solving, and in the past they nicknamed each other: MC was Watson to Xia Yan Holmes. MC has the key to Xia Yan's parents home, received just before he left for the Capital, so that she could read his collection of Sherlock Holmes books whenever she wanted to. Xia Yan has also received a key during youth from MC that he cherishes and always wears on his person. It opens a locked box where the contents have have been unknown to MC since before they were 16. he kept the contents a secret from MC to keep her guessing.

Thinks MC is a bit skinny, though she's a foodie, and wants her to eat more. He would often ask to have a meal together before parting ways for the day.

• Aaron Yishmir, called 杨哥 (Yáng-gē; Big bro Yang) by Xia Yan, is Xia Yan's elder and senior. Aaron was assigned as Xia Yan's support as he is extremely familiar with him.

Personal Schedule

"It's not that I don't want to sleep more, it's just that..."

Aside from investigations, sometimes interesting commissions are received. Xia Yan's week days are very regular. Everyday, he does morning run, evening run, and it looks like he wakes up very early... It is unknown how many secrets he has hidden in his diary.

Xia Yan's Workday Schedule

05:30	Wake up and take medication.
05:45	Morning run after warm up.
06:30	Have a healthy breakfast, organise work plans.
08:00	Open store, receive commissions, or improve a few gadgets.
12:00	If not forgotten, will buy fast food for lunch.
12:30	Out for investigation (if forgotten to have lunch, will have it on the road).
18:00	Buy takeout dinner, make a report of the day's work.
20:30	Evening run.
21:30	Diary writing, call some contacts.
23:00	Wash up and sleep.

Xia Yan's Day Off Schedule

05:30	Wake up, eat a simple breakfast.
05:45	Morning run after warm up.
06:30	Return home, preparations for opening store.
08:00	Receive commissions, if no commissions, read novels while watching the store.
12:00	Go out to eat.
12:30	Receive commissions, if no commissions, read novels while watching the store, work on small inventions.
18:00	Go out to eat.
18:30	Continue to watch the store, store organisation.
20:30	Evening run.
21:30	Diary writing, leisure and relaxation time.
23:00	Wash up and sleep.

Trivia

• Big Data DAVIS comments: Xia Yan is obviously from Stellis City, but why is there so little information on him?
• Used to have a habit of sitting on windowsill while reading.
• Has the entire Sherlock Holmes collection. He keeps it at his parents' home.
• Uses a backpack.
• Doesn't like being called pale and very pleased with his light tan, but MC thinks he's still very pale.
• Rides a motorbike.
• Xia Yan in MC's memory is reading Sign of the Four.

Language Notes

• Names:
  • In Chinese, Xia Yan's name is 夏彦 (Xià Yàn).
    • Family name 夏 (Xià) means Summer, and is also the same character used in "Sherlock" (夏洛克 Xià Luòkè).
    • Personal name 彦 (Yàn) may mean accomplished or elegant.
  • In Japanese, Xia Yan's name is 水无瀬夏彦 (Minase Natsuhiko).
    • Personal name 夏彦 (Natsuhiko) are the same characters as his full Chinese name.

Gadgets and misc.

• Digital communicators.
• Digital night vision googles.
• Smart terminal (watch).
• Handy Analyser Mark IV: Portable chemical analyser that can identify common chemical substances. Augmented and modified by Xia Yan.
• Magnetic powder for lifting fingerprints.
• Tablet
• Toolkit
• Recording pen
• High-tech work station at Time's Antiquities under the guise of an ordinary counter.

左然 | Artem Wing

"You are a profound and exquisite legislation, worth a lifetime of study."

Info	Stats
Name	左然 (Zuǒ Rán)
Birthday	26th April
Age	29
Height	182 cm
Blood type	A
Profession	Lawyer
S.CN CV	赵路 (Zhào Lù)
Debut	Main Story 01-01

You Are My Themis
In the path of life’s trajectory, you inadvertently entered into my orderly life.
You are like the first ray of Spring's sunlight, pleasantly bringing forth new life.
Like how a sprout yearns to break through soil, I want to become a better me to support you through any adversity.
Ahead is a new world with you, maybe it means new unknown and challenges—-
”But to give up so easily now, I would not be be the Zuo Ran you know.”

About Zuo Ran

Lawyer Zuo Ran is very strict. Themis Law Firm with this senior lawyer has extremely high work standards. The media's evaluation of him is an emotionless defence machine. But there are many who aspire to become a lawyer as good as he is. He has staunch belief that a lawyer's judgement should not be influenced by feelings before the Court of Law. Young, promising, and handsome. There are many women who want to get to know Lawyer Zuo Ran. It is a pity he is used to being alone and does not enjoy personal contact with others except for work circumstances. Many of his clients are young women who want cross paths with him.

In Stellis City, Lawyer Zuo Ran is a legend in the industry. He is one of the few elite lawyers with an expansive expertise and a win rate of 99%. He is an individual who is able to maintain absolute rationality and cool headed at all times, treating himself with such high standards akin to self abuse. It is no wonder he reaches these achievements. Little do they know, this is because Zuo Ran has grown used to suppressing his emotions and impulses. No one can even begin to imagine the kind of past he bears...

Previously, I had meticulously established rules for my life, but that was before. Everything in work and all routines were driven by what was measured as success by other people. I never considered deviation or change until... you appeared.

You showed me new possibilities, beyond only reason- warmth, colour, and simplicity -- you captivated me. So much that I decided to break through the rules I had established to live life, to be someone who can hold up a part of the world so you can soar, and be warmth in your life.

I had never really thought about it, but perhaps to me.. you are the one who can only be encountered but not sought for. But to give up so easily now, I would not be the Zuo Ran you know.

Background

A graduate of Stellis University with a Doctorate in Law. Zuo Ran comes from a family in Law where both parents are leaders in the field, but his outstanding abilities are his own. According to Big Data Lab, Zuo Ran with his win rate of 99% has already surpassed his parents in popularity and is a rising star in the judicial world. Among his expansive expertise, he has speciality in criminal law. Time to time, Zuo Ran handles equity cases in buildings with signal shielding and may be difficult to contact.

In 2026, Zuo Ran was invited by Celestine as a Senior Partner to Themis Law Firm. After joining, the scope of the firm significantly increased and the firm quickly rose in industry ranks. No one has heard of him losing a case during his time in Themis, so there are speculation that it occurred before he joined. In 2029, 28 year old Zuo Ran cleared the 1%-pass-rate advanced bar exam. He became the youngest lawyer to do so since the country's establishment of the qualification system. Later, Zuo Ran begins a working partnership with MC.

Even in extraordinary circumstances, Zuo Ran is hesitant to discuss when there is lack of evidence, reserving judgement until all possible evidence is obtained. Zuo Ran believes in rationality in court, but emotions do not have to be discarded entirely. Use of emotions at critical moments can shatter the opponent's defence. There are also instances he uses intimidation to confirm a person's nature and knowledge to determine if a witness or suspect is easy to manipulate.

Not likely in the law firm during the weekend.

Daily Life

Zuo Ran enjoys cooking when he is in a good mood. When he has free time, he likes to watch movies or go out for a car joyride to relax. He also enjoys routine motions such as having the same meal at same place around the same time for lunch during work days.

Relationships

Main Character

Like new words on blank sheets of paper, the journey with him hereafter.

Zuo Ran is MC's senior at Themis Law Firm. He gives care and attention, taking the intuitive in offering assistance in her studies, organising review outlines. Noticing MC's reservations about her capability, he reassures her to be confident as only the best are accepted into Themis. While he thinks that MC is someone readily swayed by emotion, he praises her ability to cast that aside in the Court of Law as a professional lawyer. MC is visibly moved, so he is also careful and warns against complacency.

After Celestine Taylor's insistence to find a work partner to lessen work load and seeing potential in MC's capability, he sends her to Mo Yi for a discrete psychological evaluation as a candidate. Zuo Ran's secondary reason is to recruit MC into NXX Investigation Team, believing a new member may help lessen present bias of opinions within the current team. He also believes NXX will give her more experience. After informing her about the existence of the special investigation unit, he ensures she considers before making a decision. Regardless of MC's decision and interest in NXX's X-NOTE cases, he reassures they will still be partners for Themis Law Firm related work and collaborate on regular cases.

Zuo Ran trusts MC a lot regarding work related matters, believing in her work ethics and personal integrity. He trusts her and gives her the choice to decide her own direction. When he first informed NXX investigation unit to MC, he was sure to tell her to take good time to consider before making a decision. MC in turn is flattered and careful. Thankful that Zuo Ran trusts her and considers it seriously to join NXX. She does not want to on whim or gratitude because his trust. Thereafter, he calls MC "我的搭档"|My Partner.

Towards MC, Zuo Ran is attentive and careful. At times, moments of rationality come apart when he believes MC may have been placed in an uncomfortable circumstance and he behaves uncharacteristically. He enjoys her company greatly and likes to learn new things about MC. In turn, he is pen to sharing information with her, including personal information such as his connections to previous clients to broaden her network. MC finds comfort in Zuo Ran's presence, finding it calming especially in moments when she feels emotional.

During MC's first criminal case trial, he returns to the city early to support her. He sees through her worries and anxieties of disgust in obtaining a key piece of evidence and gives her encouraging words she needed to hear. What she did was for justice and intention was not for invasion of privacy.

A man who has always had rigid structure in his life. On encountering MC, there is realisation of something more. His theme is Fate. It can be seen in his reoccurring lines.

Quotes

• The idiom 可遇(而)不可求|an encounter that cannot sought for, is reoccurring for Zuo Ran. It is similar but not the same as serendipity (an accidental encounter to something good) and more a fateful encounter that may or may not be serendipitous.
  • "你对我來说, 也许是可遇而不可求的." | "To me, perhaps you are an encounter that cannot sought for." - Zuo Ran Character PV
  • "能当你镜孑的人可遇不可求好吗!" | "Can the [person you want as partner] not be someone you can only find but cannot be sought for!" - Celestine to Zuo Ran.
• "In the heart of everybody, fairness and justice is different for everybody. protect those you want to protect. stand by what you believe in. Do not waver because of others."

Family

Zuo Ran comes from a family in Law where both parents are already leaders in the field. His mother is a lover of Chinese Opera and sings often enough that Zuo Ran also knows how to sing Chinese Opera too.

Others

• Senior Partner with Celestine Taylor at Themis Law Firm.
• Superior to Main Character and Kiki Bennet at Themis Law Firm.
• Neil Hume is his teacher.
• Darius Morgan, Captain of Stellis City Police Department, and Zuo Ran have a good working relationship. They have crossed paths many times and are extremely familiar with one another. Sometimes Zuo Ran will retrieve items or information from the crime scene for NXX Investigations. Darius is aware and does not object to this.
• Lu Jinghe is a business partner, as Pax Group and Themis Law Firm have signed a collaborative agreement.
• Mo Yi is a business associate, not friends.

Personal Schedule

"I had breakfast at home, no need to prepare for me."

After work Zuo Ran and at work Lawyer Zuo are completely different. He will go into the kitchen when he is in a good mood. When he has some free time, will watch movies or go out for a joyride. But not many people get to see this side of him. Calm, strict, and unyielding is the impression most people have of Lawyer Zuo.

Zuo Ran's Workday Schedule

07:00	Wake up.
07:15	Swimming exercise.
08:00	Eat a home-made traditional breakfast, or order a usual Chinese breakfast from a specific old shop.
08:30	Drive to work, handle cases or receive clients.
12:00	Lunch nearby the Themis Law Firm at a high-end restaurant, usual seat, usual meal. Taking a break after the meal.
13:45	Fieldwork, or deal with administration for Themis.
18:00	If not working overtime, go home and make dinner. If working overtime, same meal as lunch.
21:30	Make progress with NXX related cases. If no work, watch a movie to relax.
23:30	Wash up and sleep.

Zuo Ran's Day Off Schedule

07:30	Wake up, swimming exercise.
08:30	Eat a home-made traditional breakfast, or order a usual Chinese breakfast from a specific old shop.
09:30	Deal with work. If no work, read news, read books.
11:30	After eating out for lunch, return home for a siesta.
13:30	Work out.
16:00	Read and study, or watch a movie to relax.
18:00	Dinner, review last week's work, prepare next week's work.
21:30	Read and study, leisure and relaxation time.
23:30	Wash up and sleep.

Notable Cases

• Represented S&J Jewellery and won an astronomical copyright lawsuit.

Quotes

• 没有任回一个法律体系是完美的，总会有人觉得，自己的诉求不能得到满足。
  • No legal system is perfect. There will always be someone who feels unsatisfied.
• 当正义被认为注定缺席，人们就会拿起武器捍卫内心的是非天平。
  • When justice appears to be absent, people will take up arms to defend their balance of right and wrong.
• 可如果每个人都这样的话，整个社会，该以谁心里的天平为准呢？
  • But if everyone is like this, in this society, which balance should be decided from?

Trivia

• During Themis Law Firm's 2030 Annual Meeting game session, Zuo Ran was selected for Truth or Dare. A question for Truth was posed by Kiki Bennet: "Among people [within the Law Firm], is there someone you have interest in? Please say their name!" Very put on the spot, Celestine Taylor gives him the option to sing a Chinese Huangmei Opera song 《夫妻雙雙把家還》(Husband and Wife Return Home) instead. MC attempts to buy time for Zuo Ran, but Celestine asks if MC was offering to sing too as the song is a duet. Zuo Ran immediately jumps to MC defence saying he'll sing- "don't bully MC". Initially, he purposely sings the wrong lyrics to end the game, but scolded by Celestine who is disbelief someone like High Standard Senior Lawyer Zuo Ran would get something wrong. MC speaks with Zuo Ran who gives a sheepish sigh and sings the song properly.
  • 《夫妻雙雙把家還》(Husband and Wife Return Home) is a Chinese Huangmei Opera song. Huangmei operas are rural folk dance and music that have been around for centuries, and is one of the more famous and mainstream typing of Chinese Opera. This opera song tells a story of Dong Yong, a poor man, who sold himself as a slave for three years to bury his father who recently died. The seven fairy daughters of the Jade Emperor playing on the Magpie Bridge were peeping into the human world, when the youngest fell in love with Dong Yong and went to earth to marry him. To assist in buying out the man's three year slave contract down to 100 days, seventh fairy recruited sisters to help weave 10 silk brocades overnight for the husband and wife to return home. When the emperor found out, infuriated, he ordered the seventh sister to return home immediately by threatening Dong Yong's safety. She had no alternative except to leave, suffering regrets, for eternity. During Zuo Ran's rendition, he ends after the line "husband and wife return home."
• In the eyes of those around him, Zuo Ran is strict but doesn't treat people unfairly. An unexpected surprised to those at Themis Law Firm's 2030 Annual Meeting, his singing talent is very good.
• Zuo Ran isn't usually at work during the weekends, but if he's busy, in addition to pulling all nighters, he'll even work into the Lunar New Year holidays.
• Personal phone is black and uses vibrate function. He also uses this to make and store notes.
  • Lists Lu Jinghe in contacts as KING.
• Drinks coffee as beverage of choice
• Uses a fountain pen to write notes.
• Has a car drivers licence and owns a car
• Zuo Ran has azure (湛蓝) eyes
• At work, Zuo Ran is more animated and personable.
• Has a digital workstation in his Themis Law Firm office.
• Uses a briefcase.
• Reads extremely fast. Much faster than 10 lines per second.
• Leather office chair.
• ZR office has french windows overlooking CBD
• Man of few words and few smiles.
• Strict but does not treat unfairly

Language Notes

• Names:
  • In Chinese, Zuo Ran's name is 左然 (Zuǒ Rán)
    • Family name 左 (Zuǒ) means left (directional)
    • Personal name 然 (Rán) can mean correct, thus, "like this", "in this manner"
  • In Japanese, Zuo Ran's name is 左京静真 (Sakyo Shizuma)
    • Family name partially follows Chinese surname 左
    • Personal name 静真 (Shizuma) is similar in meaning to his Chinese name: calm, not-moving (still); truly, really (as such)
• Tag line differences:
  • CN: "You are a profound and exquisite legislation, worth a lifetime of study."
  • EN: "You are one comprehensive lexicon that I'd dedicate my life to study."
• Terms used to describe Zuo Ran's profession:
  • CN: 大律师 (Barrister): Barristers are a type of lawyer in common law jurisdiction who may represent in court, as well as provide legal services. They deal with more complex legal problems and may be court specialists.
  • CN: 高级律师 (Senior Lawyer): an individual who works with a legal team to provide legal advice, particularly for difficult cases. In addition, they may take on leadership roles and mentor lower level lawyers.
• "Professor" mentioned in Episode 1: The Hand That Feeds is 老師|Teacher in Chinese

莫弈 | Vyn Richter

"Do not be afraid, I only want to look clearly into your heart."

Info	Stats
Name	莫弈 (Mò Yì)
Birthday	27th September
Age	27
Height	178 cm
Blood type	AB
Occupation	Psychologist Visiting Professor
Organisation(s)	Giannovyn Mental Health Research Center (founder) Stellis University
S.CN CV	姜广涛 (Jiāng Guǎngtāo)
Soft debut	Main Story 01-16
Debut	Main Story 02-01

You are the quietly blooming secret at the bottom of my heart
Day after day, people of this world stage a constant play of joys and sorrows, but only you are different from the rest.
During my voyage through the labyrinth of human hearts, the moment I met you, a rose bloomed in my heart.
I believed everything was under my control and never would have thought to be unexpectedly 'reckoned' by you.
Willingly, I fall into the trap known as 'you,' incapable and unwilling to turn back, so—-
”My Rosa, you must take responsibility for me.”

About Mo Yi

If you believe the witness may be hiding something, Dr Mo may be the person to ask. Mo Yi is the country's top psychology expert and many universities reached out to him. After declining an olive branch from everyone, he returned to Stellis City to be a psychologist. Dr Mo has a very gentle temperament, but he is not what one may imagine as a weak scholar. He is very reliable in critical moments. Weakness of a person who is able to maintain a perfect disposition is unknown. Though Dr Mo is young, he is a distinguished visiting professor at Stellis University. If he cannot be found in the Giannovyn Mental Health Research Center, one may find him at Stellis University.

Are you are anxious about your secrets being seen through by a psychologist? Don't be afraid. Dr Mo has always appeared elegant and calm. Those who are calm, gentle, and humble will get along with him very well. Dr Mo is able to face any situation with ease and skill, giving those around him a sense of serenity, so that individuals involuntarily open their hearts to him and display their truest self. If one's heart has secrets, it most definitely will be discovered by him. Words on a document do not necessarily reflect reality. Dr Mo wishes to know a person's true heart. However, as someone who had always observed the volatile human emotions from the outside, he never expected himself to become one with the same emotions.

The human consciousness is a place of immeasurable depths. But through carelessness and micro-expressions, secrets from the bottom of the heart may be revealed. When I carefully observe myself in this way, what I suddenly discovered as the secret at the bottom of my heart-- was you.

You are the first girl to ride the back of my horse, the first audience to my magic card tricks - previously, I had never used my cards like this. I am willing to block all dangers for you, even if it scars me. I also cannot help reveal my vulnerabilities to you, for your warmth and smile.

All evidence point to one conclusion: the 'love at first sight' that I disdained and disbelieved has already occurred. It is you, who has changed me. My Rosa, you must take responsibility for me.

Background

A world renowned expert on psychology, Mo Yi is a young and genius psychologist with double Honorary Doctorates in Science and Pedagogy from the University of Svart, School of Psychology. His outstanding appearance and speeches have attracted media attention to pry into his life experiences, but no accurate news has been uncovered. Mo Yi also has a practising psychology licence and an international hypnotist certificate.

Mo Yi's original nationality is from Kingdom of Svart. For reasons unknown, he migrated to Stellis City in 2028 to be a naturalised citizen. Since 2028, he has focused on criminal psychology and published many academic papers. He has also presented lectures on criminal psychology to the police and considered as an external consultant. During his time studying criminal psychology, he has dealt with many cases and suspects and greatly experienced in the flow of interrogation.

Many prestigious universities wanted him as a lecturer, but for reasons unkown, he refused all invitations and settled down in Stellis City. In 2028, Mo Yi and Lu Jinghan jointly co-founded the Giannovyn Mental Health Research Centre where he is the chef researcher.

Life, Philosophy, and Hobbies

Searching for a needle in the ocean, is how Mo Yi describes what he often does. As in this world, there is nothing as deep and profound as the human heart, like the mysterious depths of the ocean. He enjoys exploring the secrets within one's heart to discover the subtleties. It is a habit for him to analyse human behaviour and its associations, and though he does not enjoy misleading others, he will deceive individuals to obtain a reaction or response. This is useful during suspect questioning as he observes their reactions to discover weak points. Mo Yi is able to identify when an individual is lying through their micro-expressions and micro-reactions. Despite situations lacking physical evidence, Mo Yi is extremely confident in his psychological assessments. Though he works with and understands those who strongly believe in evidence, he feels it is lamentable that even if the way is known, rules and regulations act as shackles: "The road ahead is something that can be hoped for, but cannot be reached."

Cautious by nature, Mo Yi keeps suspicious individuals at a distance.

He is very gentleman and cannot bear to let a lady look through the dustbin during investigation, offering to do it instead.

Mo Yi believes a man's true charm comes not from his appearance but from his temperament and manner of speech, and his stance on love is mutual support and acceptance of each other. Calm, graceful, and elegant, like his hobbies. Mo Yi enjoys listening to classical music to relax. He also enjoys making red wine in his spare time and familiar with high-end cognac.

At the end of the day, he records a work diary as habit to assess his own mental state from quality and tone of his voice.

Mo Yi lives in the Education District.

Relationships

MC

Eyes of molten gold, he is waiting, writing the prologue of an encounter.

As a world renowned expert in the field of psychology, MC has heard of Mo Yi before and he is someone whom MC has long wanted to meet. She admires him greatly and has the utmost respect for him. She encounters an opportunity to meet him when Zuo Ran sends her to him for a psychological evaluation under the guise of delivering documents.

After their first interaction, Mo Yi finds MC exceptional. Then after an investigation together with MC, Mo Yi determines she far exceeds his expectations. She has many desirable attributes: courage to break free, discerning eye for detail, a compassionate heart, yet able to maintain rationality. Previously, he had reflected on collaborating with NXX as independence would offer more freedom, but now all his doubts are fading as she joins. He is thankful that he decided to stay.

During their initial meeting, Mo Yi is in his study room stacking a tower of Ace of Heart cards. He requests MC to remove a card from the card tower while maintaining its structural integrity. MC notes it can theoretically be done, but she would only topple it. Mo Yi notes her judgement was correct, asking "If you could foresee the outcome, would you [still make the same choice]?" Expecting a refusal, he is surprised that MC would still try. Her answer tied to Haydn's String Quartet in C Major, Emperor - The belief the only constant in the world is change. Therefore, regardless of knowing what could happen, the slightest change in repeating a scenario with even the slightest deviations could result in a different outcome. MC has the belief that we shape our own outcomes -- upon hearing this response, Mo Yi is shaken for a moment as it's the best answer he has heard. He tells MC he finds her exceptional, and hopes even if the world is against her that she would still stand by her decision.

After the initial conversation, Mo Yi is extremely warm and forward towards MC. He likens MC to a rare wild rose (蔷薇, Qiángwēi), believing that through trials and tribulations will her spirit and resilience become more brilliant. When MC expresses interest in discussing criminal psychology, Mo Yi tells her he is often at the psychology research institute. For her, no appointment is required if assistance is required. Then promptly requests if she has interest in arts to visit the Art Gallery at Stellis University in the coming weekend.

Although Mo Yi's personality is extremely warm and forward towards MC, to others, he is not so cordial. When MC accepts to meet him outside of work, there is a chance encounter with a student of his, Lu Jinghe, whom he openly expresses his displeasure by likening his student as a child who likes to follow others.

Mo Yi's habit of analysing human behaviour and its associations also appears with MC. Though he does not enjoy misleading others, he asks MC hypothetical to obtain a reaction or response. When MC expresses her interest in learning criminal psychology from him, he inquires and observes her expression: he does not want to teach her as he does not want to think of her as a student. (EN: "I do not want you to regard me as your professor.")

While MC wants to learn from Mo Yi about psychology, he too, encounters and is amazed at new directions and experiences with her. He comes to realise there are more ways to see the world and situations, and more ways to utilise certain social groups even if he had previously scorned them in the past.

Mo Yi enjoys a degree of mysteriousness around MC as he believes it adds to his charm. He is extremely attentive to her comfort and will insist resting. Though Mo Yi appears cool, calm, and collected, the first time MC notices Mo Yi break demeanour and panic is during their first investigation together. MC had lost her balance while inspecting broken glass and he had grabbed her in panic.

Mo Yi's theme of love is Love at First Sight. It can be seen in how was extremely receptive towards MC and immediately planned for their next meeting in the following weekend after their first encounter.

Quotes

• Mo Yi often tries to ease those around him, saying 不用害怕/别怕 | Do not be afraid
  • (担心被心理医生看穿心底的秘密吗?) 不用害怕 | (Are you worried about been seen through by a psychologist?) Do not be afraid - Mo Yi character description
  • "别怕, ---" | "Do not be afraid, ---" - Tag-line
  • "不用擔心... 要我在." | "Do not worry, there is me here." - Mo Yi in Prologue
• 心有猛虎，细嗅蔷薇 | In me, the tiger sniffs the (wild) rose - Mo Yi while evaluating MC joining NXX
  • This is reference to the poem "In Me, Past, Present, Future Meet", by Siegfried Sassoon. The tiger represents masculinity and the rose represents femininity. The two sides of human nature.

Others

• Zuo Ran is an associate, not friends. On first discussions about MC, Mo Yi sees that Zuo Ran has great expectations for MC and believes Zuo Ran should not shield her too much to give her room for growth. He acknowledges that Zuo Ran has keen sight and chose an impressive partner. He thinks highly of MC, believing she may eclipse Zuo Ran's accomplishments in the future as their only disparity is experience.

• Lu Jinghe is Mo Yi's student. Mo Yi was hired by Lu Jinghe's father, Lu Yuanxi, to tutor Lu Jinghe once a week after he deemed it necessary for his son to be educated in the fundamentals of psychology.

Personal Schedule

"You need not be at a desk to engage in thought."

Unlike other young and famous people, Dr Mo Yi appears to spend a lot of time enjoying life. He maintains serenity and elegance during his workday, balancing clinical, police, and academic work with ease. His expertise and efficiency are awe-inspiring.

Mo Yi's Workday Schedule

09:00	Wake up and have breakfast.
09:40	Horticulture research, body exercises.
10:10	Work at Research Centre.
12:10	Lunch. Nap after eating.
14:00	Work, lecture at Stellis University, arrangements with police, psychological consultations for clients, etc.
18:00	Short rest.
18:30	Dinner
19:30	Private tutoring for Lu Jinghe once a week. If no commitments, return home to read books.
22:30	Voice record work journal, then listen to classical music, leisure and relaxation time.
23:30	Wash up and sleep.

Mo Yi's Day Off Schedule

09:20	Wake up and have breakfast, followed with horticulture research and body exercises.
10:30	Head out to an equestrian field to practice horsemanship.
14:30	Return home to tend the garden.
16:00	Leisure and relaxation time.
18:30	Dinner, listen to classical music, read books.
20:30	Leisure and relaxation time.
23:30	Organise a simplified scheduled for next week's work, then forward to the assistant for detailed arrangements.
00:10	Wash up and sleep.

Trivia

• He has golden eyes.
• His two-story home has a smart front door, fitted with smart terminals within the house. The interior is decorated like an old English Manor with wooden flooring, where a vintage wall clock with a pendulum is in the entryway. There are French windows in the living room. The second floor has a Study Room to the left of the stairs. There is a phonograph-style stereo in one corner of his Study.
• Drinks black tea.
• Drinks red wine.
• Uses a black fountain pen.
• Carries around plastic poker cards with a gilded pattern on its backing and knows cartomancy.
• Familiar with black markets and their dealings, where value is determined by difficulty in acquisition rather than the price.
• Knows how to perform magic tricks.

Language Notes

• Names:
  • In Chinese, Mo Yi's name is 莫弈 (Mò Yì)
    • Family name 莫 (Mò) means none/there is none
    • Personal name 弈 (Yì) is the classical term for the board game Go
  • In Japanese, Mo Yi's name is 森月黎 (Moritsuki Rei)
    • Personal name 黎 (Rei) is similar pronunciation to his personal name in Chinese. There is no connection in meaning.
• Mo Yi uses formal speech.
  • CN: formal, with some classical speech and tone.
  • EN: formal English through choice of vocabulary and few contractions, clinical language.
• Abyss Bar Owner heard that...
  • CN: Psychologists are people who know how to do divination.
  • EN: Shrinks are practically modern magicians.
• Both Mo Yi's double doctorates are honorary doctorates (荣誉博士学位) but EN omitted a term and localised it as doctorates.

• Occupation varies between text language selected: CN: psychologist; EN: psychologist/psychiatrist

• • CN: 心理学专家 (psychology expert): An expert in psychology.
  • CN: 心理学家 (psychologist): One who studies psychology. May also be used as an umbrella term for any individual studying any branch of psychology.
  • CN: 心理医生 (psychologist): A professional psychologist who treats patients.
  • CN: (有)临床心理学执照: (He has a) licence for clinical psychology.
  • Dialogue differences in English localisation, original Chinese, and direct translation in Main Story 02-01 (as of 2022-01-30):

English localisation	Original Chinese	Direct translation
Vyn: Greetings. I am Vyn Richter.	莫弈: 你好，我是莫弈。	Mo Yi: Hello, I am Mo Yi.
Vyn: As this is our first encounter, how shall I address you?	莫弈: 初次见面，怎么称呼？	Mo Yi: First time meeting, how may I address you?
You: Greetings, Mr. Richter. I'm (Y/N) from Themis Law Firm. I came here on behalf of Artem Wing to deliver these documents to you.	我: 莫弈先生您好，我是忒弥斯律所的(Y/N),来替左律师送文件。	Me: Greetings Mo Yi-xiānshēng, I am Themis Law Firm's (Y/N), delivering documents on behalf of Lawyer Zuo.
Vyn: Mister? I presume that Artem told you that I am a psychologist?	莫弈: 莫弈先生？左然是不是和你说，我是心理学家？	Mo Yi: Mo Yi-xiānshēng? Did Zuo Ran tell you that I am (in the) psychologist (profession)?
You: He did. Is that incorrect?	我: 是说过，有什么不对吗？	Me: He did speak of it, is there something incorrect?
Vyn: "Psychologist" is not wholly correct.	莫弈: 心理学家这个说法，不太准确。	Mo Yi: Psychologist is a way of saying it, but it's not accurate.
Vyn: To be precise, I am a psychiatrist.	莫弈: 我准确的职业是，心理医生。	Mo Yi: My profession to be accurate is, (practising/patient seeing) psychologist.
Vyn: As such, please address me either as Vyn or Dr Richter.	莫弈: 所以，你叫我莫弈或者莫医生就好。	Mo Yi: Therefore, it is better to call me Mo Yi or Dr Mo.
You: All right, Dr Richter.	我: 好，莫医生。	Me: Understood, Dr Mo.

• Points of interest:
  • 心理学家 (A scholar who studies any branch of psychology; psychologist) is translated as psychologist.
  • 心理医生 (A psychologist who treats patients) is localised as psychiatrist. This is mistranslated as psychiatrist in Chinese is 精神科医生.
• Nuanced explanations:
  • When Zuo Ran mentioned Mo Yi as a 心理学家 (scholar who studies psychology), it is definitive term that the individual is of the psychology profession (for anything related to psychology).
  • 先生 (Xiānshēng) is the default polite title for men. It is also a term for men which may mean mister, teacher, or doctor (Chinese is context heavy, so the term depends on use).
    • It is not an insult to use 先生. Promotional Birthday media every year has used 莫弈先生 (Mo Yi-Xiānshēng).
  • Mo Yi gives MC a more precise term for his profession: 心理医生 (psychologist, but one who sees patients), where there is more specificity that he meets with clients as a psychologist, therefore the title 医生 "doctor" may be used.
    • It may be of note he is fine with his full name: 'Mo Yi' with titles dropped or another title: 'Mo-Yisheng/Dr Mo'. There is no insistence on title usage though they are only acquaintances at this time.
    • In Chinese, one who studies and treats patient in any health capacity will use the title 医生 (Yīshēng; Doctor). The term is more general use compared to English and not only for medical doctors. Those who have earned a doctorate are titled 博士 (Bóshì); there is no formal title for those with honorary doctorates.
    • 医生 as Doctor title has been kept for English localisation.
  • A more ideal translation ought to have been: "'Psychologist' is not wholly correct./To be precise, I am a Clinical Psychologist."
  • It may be of note that diaspora Chinese use '心理医生' for both psychologist and psychiatrist, resulting in confusion for two very different professions. In addition, much like rest of the world, Chinese who do not have higher education or awareness also use '心理医生' for both psychologist (心理医生) and psychiatrist (精神科医生) as a blanket term for doctors for mental illness. This is because there is extreme public stigma and negative association with mental health in general in China, thus the general ignorance of mental health and related professionals by members of the public. However, we do see the CN term for psychiatry (精神科) instead of the blanket term for psychology (心理) in department information in CN Big Data. So it can be concluded the writers know to distinguish the terms between psychologist and psychiatrist, but EN localisation has not.

• My Rosa/Rose

Mo Yi calls MC "我的薔薇" ("My Rosa") which has been localised in English as "My Rose." While the term 'rose' is broad in English encompassing multiple types of roses inciting confusion -barring scientific names, all types of roses are called "rose" in European languages (in Latin, Rosa is Rose)- Chinese is more specific. In consideration of the more broad use term for the various types of roses, 薔薇 (qiáng​wēi) is the wild rose, rosa, while 玫瑰 (méi​guī) is rose, but the cultivated/modern rose.

When we consider that Mo Yi says 薔薇 (Rosa) rather than 玫瑰 (Rose), English localisation of MC's code name (薔薇) to Rosa instead of than Rose, and Mo Yi's comment of giving MC space to grow, it is more accurate that Mo Yi means to say "My Rosa" which is also the same as MC's NXX codename.

One could say 'a rose by any other name would smell as sweet' as localisation is all over the place. And it is especially prudent to ignore Mo Yi's words of growing roses in a Petri dish - an impossibility he should know from his garden research. Roses require deep roots.

陆景和 | Marius von Hagen

"You seem to have the wrong idea. I have never thought of you as 'elder sister', never."

Info	Stats
Name	陆景和 (Lù Jǐnghé)
Birthday	21st June
Age	21
Height	188 cm
Blood type	B
Occupation	Acting-President of Pax Group Student
Organisation(s)	Pax group Stellis University
Family	陆元希 (Lù Yuánxī), Austin von Hagen (father) 陆景瀚 (Lù Jǐnghàn), Giann von Hagen (older brother)
S.CN CV	杨天翔 (Yáng Tiānxiáng)
Soft debut	Main Story 01-14
Debut	Main Story 02-04

To My Princess
I never cared about all sorts of prejudiced labels stuck on by other people, I only care about your opinion.
It is because I understand that a sincere and genuine heart is the most precious treasure of all.
Like a proud cat facing someone who truly cares for me, only then will I reveal the side of my true self.
But also like a stubborn cat, I will only recognise one person, forever never letting go. Therefore, you best be prepared—-
”My Lovely Princess.”

About Lu Jinghe

There is a lot of media news about Lu Jinghe, his information is no secret. As the heir of a conglomerate, everything he does is exposed by the paparazzi or media, and often headlined. Among the citizens of Stellis City, he is extremely popular. But excessive popularity is not always good as paparazzi often like to make explosive allegations while news reports him as a frivolous and rebellious young master. The outside world calls into question of whether or not Lu Jinghe has the ability to inherit such a large family business. But the head of Pax Group and Lu Family does not comment, resulting in various speculations in public opinion.

It is difficult to understand this second young master. The daily inconvenient demands Lu Jinghe must deal with is unimaginable. The public and secret battles against the top executives of the family conglomerate is not for the faint of heart. Moreover, he dislikes hypocritical social rules and refuses to give face to those who flatter and fawn. Perhaps instead of inheriting the family business, he would rather be free and unconstrained in creating art. Lu Jinghe has completed an undergraduate course majoring in oil painting at a world famous academy and presently studying in the art department of Stellis University. One may think this kind of young master is ignorant and incompetent, but Lu Jinghe's paintings are absolutely amazing. If one has the chance, it is highly recommended to check out his exhibitions.

If one doesn't see news or photos of Lu Jinghe but meets him on the streets, one may not necessarily recognise him. Lu family's second master's usual dressing appears like an ordinary person, rarely wearing luxury brands. Most of the time, he wears unbranded clothes. As a young man who only recently reached 20s... Regardless of the burdens and responsibly being heir to the family's group and being a gifted and talented artist, only before those he is close to, will he express his childish side.

I am this planet's king, under the worshipful gaze of my subjects, even though I'm just a cat. You are probably wondering why humans would worship a cat? Haha~ The reason is simple, because in their eyes I am not a cat, but a symbol of wealth and power. Originally, I thought all of humanity was greedy and boring, but then... I met her.

She is a person who really understands cats, indulging childishness and tolerating wilfulness. She is willing to go on adventures with me, and in her own way protect me with sincerity. Of course, there are times when she loses her temper with me, but the sight is also like a haughty cat, charming me. Ah~ My little princess, how I wish to have her to myself, so that in her eyes there is only me and no one else. Mmm.. say, should I show her my true self? It's just like the fairy tales: with a light kiss the prince and princess seal their eternal bond.

--- Ah! I heard you. You said 'yes', right!? Then from now on, we are the only one for each other. Don't play dumb, you know I'm talking about you, 'My Lovely Princess'.

Background

As a son from the most prominent family in the country, Lu Jinghe who received elite education in childhood has always been extremely passionate about art and oil painting. and before the age of 18, was admitted into one of the world's top art academies, Florence Academy of Art, to major in oil painting. In 2029, Lu Jinghe completed his undergraduate studies in advance and obtained a Bachelor in Arts with Honours. When his older brother, Lu Jinghan, went on a confidential business trip, he returned to Stellis City to take over as Acting-President of Pax Group. Though he took up office, he continues to pursue art. In 2030, Lu Jinghe enrolled into Stellis University School of Art after passing the Spring Semester postgraduate entrance examination.

Lu Jinghe is one of the wealthiest people alive with no criminal record. However, he was implicated in a homicide case when he attended a business banquet in 2030 and had no alibi as he left for his art studio. Lu Jinghe was willingly apprehended as a possible key suspect without proper procedure due to the immediate media pressure, displaying that Pax Group and Lu family, while extremely affluent, would never use money to tip the scales of justice. Growing up under media attention, he is knowledgeable about the law and media manipulation and how to protect reputation. He cares less about affecting company stock value and more frustrated with company board members. It was later revealed he was framed by a Pax Group employee, and he was acquitted of all charges.

Lu Jinghe has always been honest about his feelings and smartly avoids scandals. He chooses to remain silent, ignoring irrelevant questions in face of the media. But it is impossible to prevent candids photos of celebrities, and some of his personal photos have surfaced on the internet. After he was implicated in a homicide case, his name also started appearing in Judicial Journals.

Regarding business matters, Lu Jinghe refuses to support companies that carry out immoral actions and deception. A Pax Capital manager was removed from his position for underhanded nepotism to fund an immoral business. Estelle Marino, CEO of Mode de Vénus, noted his business skills were nothing out of the ordinary after baiting Pax Fashion & Design into false talks of acquisition of her company, hyping media attention to boost net worth and popularity to the forefront of the industry.

Relationships

MC

An encounter during midsummer in Stellis City, begin a new journey with him.

Lu Jinghe and MC's first encounter was when they bumped into one another at Stellis University during Summer of 2030. He cautions her to look where she's going, calling her Little Miss|小姐姐 (Xiǎo Jiějiě). He picks up her dropped badge and realises she is from Themis Law Firm as her recent case was in the news. Lu Jinghe was careful in assistance, holding MC gently after their accident and requesting her to double check for no injuries before letting go. Unfortunately for him, MC realised his sweaty and dishevelled appearance that he must've run into her instead. Playfully, he admits he thought he almost got away with it. When MC requests his student ID, he teasingly dangles it before her. Noticing MC's pout, with a mischievous smile he teases if she's enchanted into silence from his good looks. She is flabbergasted and only realises his identity as Acting-President of Pax Group when a mutual acquaintance called his name.

Soon after their initial meeting, Lu Jinghe was apprehended as a possible key suspect in a homicide case without proper procedures due to pressure from media. He knows he is innocent and is calm about the matter, believing that justice will be found. Lu Jinghe finds MC interesting and believes she will discover the truth and hires her as his defence attorney, after she agrees in light banter. While this is ongoing, he is also extremely attentive. He sends his personal assistant to gift MC a pair of flat shoes, as she would be tired after a long day of moving around. As the investigation becomes increasingly serious with more media attention, he is willing whatever the result to protect MC as he recruited her into the case. He does not want her credibility attacked. MC in turn, is moved in his faith and his extremes to protect her at the cost of his own reputation. While Lu Jinghe is often silent and ignores media, when her ability was questioned, he immediately threatens them against slander. He then uses himself as bait to lure media away so that she may exit the scene. Slowly, she sees him not as a celebrity, but maybe half a friend after this exchange.

Lu Jinghe knows well what the public thinks of him, but he wishes that MC will see him for who he really is, and curious to know her thoughts after knowing him. For MC's assistance in investigation and trial, Lu Jinghe offers her a painting. While it is his first time offering a painting to anybody, she refuses thinking it's too much. He playfully teases maybe he should seduce her with his handsome looks and endless wealth instead. He also jokes that perhaps he isn't enough of a hedonistic son from wealthy parents as he isn't embroiled in enough scandals when she defended him against fake media accusations.

Gifts MC has received from Lu Jinghe

• Pair of flat shoes.

Quotes

• "让她的眼中有我的存在, 容不下旁人" | "...so that in her eyes there is only me, and no one else" - Lu Jinghe Character PV

Family

• 陆元希 (Lù Yuánxī), Austin von Hagen (father)
• 陆景瀚 (Lù Jǐnghàn), Giann von Hagen (older brother)
  

Others

• Zuo Ran is a business partner. Themis Law Firm is the legal attachment to Pax Group.

• Mo Yi tutors Lu Jinghe once a week as his father deemed it necessary to be educated in the fundamentals of psychology and personally hired Mo Yi.

• Van Kerrel was his mentor. His murder (Case 1036) was something Lu Jinghe was curious about. Believing there was something more, he began an investigation.

Personal Schedule

"Of course one must save time for leisure. For example, time for art."

There is always someone questioning if the frivolous Lu Jinghe can replace his older brother as the heir to Pax Group. The fact is, Lu Jinghe invests an extraordinary amount of effort to simultaneously balance commitments for Pax and his beloved art career.

Lu Jinghe's Workday Schedule

06:05	Wake up.
06:20	Shower and personal styling.
07:00	Breakfast while organising work plans and mail check.
08:00	Graduate studies.
09:30	Regular Pax Group meetings.
10:30	Continue graduate studies or handle company affairs.
11:30	Lunch.
13:00	Continue with graduate studies or company affairs.
15:00	Regular multinational Pax Group meetings or emergency meetings.
17:30	Exercise then dinner.
19:30	Once a week, attend Mo Yi's tutoring; If there is no class, focus on work or painting.
21:30	Focus on work or painting.
22:00	Art or relax in the art studio.
00:30	Return home to rest.

Lu Jinghe's Day off Schedule

07:30	Wake up, shower and personal styling.
08:00	Paint in art studio, extreme sports or stay at home and play games, etc.
11:00	Handle company affairs.
12:00	Leisure and relaxation.
14:00	Multinational Pax Group meetings or emergency meetings. (If no meeting or other work, leisure and relaxation.)
16:00	Take a break from work.
17:00	Multinational Pax Group meetings or emergency meetings. (If no meeting or other work, leisure and relaxation.)
18:30	Take a break from work.
20:00	Emergency meetings or paint in art studio. Leisure and relaxation time.
21:00	Go home and rest.
23:50	Wash up and sleep.

Trivia

• Hair colour has been described as midnight blue
• Scents
  • CN: 冷冽的香味 | piercing cold fragrance, EN: brisk smell
• News headlines
  • "War of Romance! Pax President Marius von Hagen versus Fashion Designer Estelle Marino!"
    • This scandal was fabricated by media from business exchanges between Pax and Mode de Vénus during Fashion Week
  • "Pax Group President Commits Murder"
    • Deflamatory but sensational headlines by media.
• He has a personal assistant, Vincent Kim.
• Extremely talented painter with great spatial awareness, able to correctly estimate a person's shoe size after a glance.
• Art studio is located on Stellis University campus.
• The Lu family does not believe in business marriages.
• Though he often attends them, he dislikes business banquets.
• Estelle Marino has noted Lu Jinghe's taste in chocolate was impeccable.
• Has car drivers licence and brought a car when he returned to Stellis City. The car has two keys, one he keeps on his person and the other is in his private bank safe. He keeps a Pax Pharmaceutical first aid kit in the trunk.
• Does a little bit of wood carving.

Language Notes

• Names:
  • In Chinese, Lu Jinghe's name is 陆景和 (Lù Jǐnghé)
    • Family name 陆 (Lù) is a surname (predominately in Southern China) with history, with meaning regarding water and continent.
      • 陆 (Lù) is a common trope surname in Chinese media for president stereotypes. If one consumes Chinese media, one may have read media pertaining to 陆总|President Lu many times...
    • Personal name 景和 (Jǐnghé): 景 (Jǐng) means sunlight, bright, or scenery as a bound term, while 和 (Hé) is together (with), union, and peace.
      • Lu Jinghe shares the character 景 as a generation name with his older brother, Giann von Hagen| 陆景瀚 (Lù Jǐnghàn)
  • In Japanese, Lu Jinghe's name is 和泉景 (Izumi Kei)
    • Personal name 景 (Kei) is the same character as his Chinese generation name
    • Family name 和泉 (Izumi) partially follows his Chinese personal name, in addition to 泉 meaning small water stream.
  • It can be seen that many variant of his names has a common theme with water.
• Tag line differences:
  • CN: "You seem to have the wrong idea. I have never thought of you as 'elder sister', never."
    • 姐姐 (Jiějiě) literally means older sister, but it is also commonly used by someone younger towards an older girl within a similar age bracket. Outside of familial meaning, it is also used as an gentle endearment like "Miss".
    • A direct explanation where him calling MC 姐姐 has nothing to do with familial sibling hierarchy. "Do not be mistaken [I don't mean it in that way]".
  • EN: "Calling you 'Missy' doesn't mean I take you for a diva."
• Education
  • Chinese mentions he is in 研究生|Post-Graduate studies, while English specifies this as Masters study
• Clothing is often unbranded, otherwise:
  • CN: Cheapest items from the brand he wears cost at least five-digits.
  • EN: Even the cheapest clothing from this brand is in the thousands.

Other Characters

Beneath the tranquil surface of Stellis City is the surging undercurrents of dark tides. The relationships between people are twisted and intertwined. As the cases progress forward, the people behind the circumstances gradually become evident, relationships tangled in interest, the concealed identities... Push aside the deep fog, what kind of truth will you discover? Perhaps the person who can point you in the right direction is closer than you realise.

初代 | DAVIS

Info	Stats
Organisation(s)	Pax Group Pax Technology and Big Data Lab
S.CN name	初代 (Chūdài)

The Ultimate AI Assistant, DAVIS: Data Analytic Virtual Intelligence System, is the holographic brand ambassador of Stellis City's Big Data Lab. His appearance is a young blonde hair, blue eyed boy. He wears a white shirt with gold embellishments on the collar and a grey vest, matched with dark coloured shorts.

Trivia

Language Notes

• Names:
  • In Chinese, DAVIS' name is 初代 (Chūdài)
    • 初 (Chū): "beginning", the first, early
    • 代 (Dài): substitute/representation, to replace, "acting for", an era/generation
      • "First generation representation" of Big Data Lab

Public Security

Information

Character	S.CN CV	Debut
警员 (Member of Police force); EN: CSI Officer	吕书君 (Lǚ Shūjūn)	Main Story 02-10
检查官 (Procurator/Prosecutor)	贾邱 (Jiǎ Qiū)	Main Story 02-27
法官 (Judge)	武向彤 (Wǔ Xiàngtóng)	Main Story 01-16

• Police Officer's Crest: Lightreach Star
  • The residents feel safe when they're around.
  • Hesperus: Also known as the Evening Star, it appears over the eastern horizon before dawn, standing fast in the darkness to herald in the light.
• Prosecutor's Crest: Coltsfoot Mirror
  • Bronze Mirror: Perspicacious and impartial in judgement, everything unlawful will be exposed under the bronze mirror, with nothing overlooked.
  • Coltsfoot: A symbol for justice, the coltsfoot and its leaves coil around the bronze mirror, signifying that its radiant reflection will never be obscured.
• Judge's Crest: Sword of Judgement
  • Sharpened Sword: A blade that not only cleaves the evil and unjust, but also reminds the judge to wield their power with care.
  • Lily: A symbol of purity and solemnity. It signifies the incorruptible purity of the law and the unwavering solemnity of the court.

Trivia

Language Notes

• In Chinese, the Police Badge is 长庚之辉|Radiance of Venus, also known as 启明星|Venus.

严巍 | Darius Morgan

Info	Stats
Character name (CN)	严巍 (Yán Wēi)
Age	37
Occupation	Police Captain
Organisation(s)	Stellis City Police Department
S.CN CV	冷泉夜月 (Lěngquán Yèyuè)
Debut	Main Story 02-06

Captain of the Stellis City Police Department, Captain Morgan is in charge of major criminal investigations within the scope of the municipal's administrative jurisdiction.

Relationships

• Cooperative relationship with Zuo Ran. Darius and Zuo Ran have crossed paths many times and are extremely familiar with one another. He is aware and does not object some documents and evidence retrieved during investigations are used for NXX investigation group.

Trivia

• Carries a gun.
• Smokes cigarettes.

Language Notes

• Names:
  • Chinese:
    • Family name 严 (Yán) is a surname, meaning rigorous, severe, strict, and stern
    • Personal name 巍 (Wēi) means lofty or towering
    • Steadfast pillar (of justice!)

翟星 | Celestine Taylor

Info	Stats
Character name (CN)	翟星 (Zhái Xīng)
Age	32
Organisation(s)	Themis Law Firm (founder and executive manager)
Occupation	Lawyer
S.CN CV	范楚绒 (Fàn Chǔróng)
Soft debut	Main Story 01-01
Debut	Main Story 02-26

Celestine recommends Zuo Ran to find a partner to share his workload. But when he asks her for recommendation, she throws the question back that it depends what he's looking for with his standards. After he lists a few, she asks that he be realistic and not to seek something that can only found and not sought for.

Background

Celestine is a Stellis University Law School graduate with a Masters in Law, Zuo Ran's mother was her teacher. Celestine is an Intermediate Lawyer with high win rate and outstanding ability, given the nickname 'Queen of Commercial Law' in the legal circles of Stellis City as she mainly takes on commercial cases. In 2024, she founded Themis Law Firm, and in 2026, invited Zuo Ran as a Senior Partner.

Relationships

• Senior Partners with Zuo Ran at Themis Law Firm.
• Superior to Main Character and Kiki Bennet at Themis Law Firm.

Trivia

• Enjoys teasing MC and Zuo Ran. During Themis Law Firm's 2030 Annual Meeting game session, she purposed a Dare on Zuo Ran to sing 《夫妻雙雙把家還》(Husband and Wife Return Home), poking fun at his expressions. Initially, Zuo Ran sang the wrong lyrics in an attempt to stop early, but Celestine saw through his excuse in disbelief "How could that be 'it's about right' for someone like High Standard Senior Lawyer Zuo Ran?" Later, she jokes that anyone has an easy time escaping Single Life compared to Zuo Ran, while winking at MC.
• Not good with Criminal Cases as they are not her speciality.
• Celestine's first name may be a reference to HoYoverse's Genshin Impact's Celestia.

Language Notes

• Names:
  • In Chinese:
    • Family name 翟 (Zhái): a surname; a long-tail pheasant
    • Personal name 星 (Xīng): star (heavenly body)

程澄 | Kiki Bennet

Info	Stats
Character name (CN)	程澄 (Chéng Chéng)
Age	23
Organisation(s)	Themis Law Firm
Occupation	Legal Intern
S.CN CV	筱筝 (Xiǎo Zhēng)
Soft debut	Main Story 01-01
Debut

A graduate of Stellis University Law School and presently an Legal Intern at Themis Law Firm, Kiki joined in 2029, and started working in 2030 as MC's junior. Her appearance is like a youthful carefree university student.

Kiki has a peach tablet with a cartoon sticker of an idol adhered on the back of the tablet shell with News push notifications. Sometimes she is a little scattered brained, forgetting where she previously placed an item. She enjoys gossip, chasing celebrities, and really likes window shopping. She is in circles with other celebrity fans and fan apps that track idol schedules. Though she chases idols and follows their schedules, she draws the line at interfering in their private lives. She was a fan of the actor Janus Beaufort. She also likes to watch shows until late, sometimes until the sun comes up, and then sleep into the afternoon.

Kiki's tablet has lock pad for pin and fingerprint unlock. Tablet has fan stickers. Lately she is obsessed with Kanon. She is a little scattered brained and often misplaces things.

Relationships

• Best friends with Main Character.
• Celestine Taylor and Zuo Ran are her superiors at Themis Law Firm.

Trivia

• Kiki enjoys teasing MC and Zuo Ran, setting up Themis Law Firm's 2030 Annual Meeting's game session's Truth question to coax a confession.
• Big Data says Kiki joined Themis in 2029, but mentions she started working in 2030.

Language Notes

• Names:
  • In Chinese:
    • Family name 程 (chéng): order, rule and regulations
    • Personal name 澄 (chéng): clear (transparent), to purify
    • Clarity in rule and regulations/(law and) order
    • Generally, homonym names are very cute!
• CN: She calls apps "A-P-P"

蔡昊雨 | Howard Syter

Info	Stats
Character name (CN)	蔡昊雨 (Cài Hàoyǔ)
Age	30+
Organisation(s)	Baldr Legal Office (founder)
Occupation	Lawyer
S.CN CV	鹏小胖 (Péng Xiǎopàng)
Debut	Main Story 01-16

Howard Syter is a co-founder of Baldr Legal Office with William Lewis. He is a prominent figure in the legal circles of Stellis City. He claims to have Senior Lawyer qualifications, but the real situation is unknown. Howard, like William, considers Themis Law Firm their biggest opponent after continuous losses. But Howard has now also lost to Themis' Junior Lawyer.

Cases

• Represented the six victims in the class-action lawsuit against Penny's Comfort Foods where due to faulty management, insecticide contaminated water was used to make Seafood Tofu Soup, causing victims to seek medical attention for abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Damaging health and causing severe psychological trauma, unable to enjoy food without concerns. $30,000 compensation was demanded for each victim, for a total of $180,000.
  • CN: 20万 compensation each victim, for a total of 120万.

Relationships

• Co-founded Baldr Legal Office with William Lewis.
• In love with Ingrid Rosworth; love rivals with his Baldr Legal Office colleague William Lewis.
  
• One-sided rivalry with Themis Law Firm.

Trivia

• If Howard does have Senior Lawyer qualifications, it would place his age at 30+.

Language Notes

• Chinese name:
  • 蔡昊雨 (Cài Hàoyǔ) is a homonym to 蔡浩宇 (Cài Hàoyǔ). The name of one of miYoHo's co-founders.

刘炜 | William Lewis

Info	Stats
Character name (CN)	刘炜 (Liú Wěi)
Age
Organisation(s)	Baldr Legal Office (founder)
Occupation	Lawyer
S.CN CV
Soft debut
Debut

Like Howard, William considers Themis Law Firm their opponent after continuous losses.

Relationships

• Co-founded Baldr Legal Office with Howard Syter.
• In love with Ingrid Rosworth; love rivals with his Baldr Legal Office colleague Howard Syter.
  
• One-sided rivalry with Themis Law Firm.

Trivia

Language Notes

• Chinese name:
  • 刘炜 (Liú Wěi) is a homonym to 刘伟 (Liú Wěi). The name of one of miYoHo's co-founders.

罗羽 | Ingrid Rosworth

Info	Stats
Character name (CN)	罗羽 (Luō Yǔ)
Age
Relationships
Also called
Organisation(s)	Baldr Legal Office
Occupation
S.CN CV
Soft debut
Debut

Further developed Baldr Legal Office to what it is today.

Trivia

Language Notes

• Chinese name:
  • 罗羽 (Luō Yǔ) is a homonym to the first two characters of 罗宇皓 (Luō Yǔhào). The name of one of miYoHo's co-founders.

陆元希 | Austin von Hagen

Info	Stats
Character name (CN)	陆元希 (Lù Yuánxī)
Age	57
Family	陆景瀚 (Lù Jǐnghàn), Giann von Hagen (first son) 陆景和 (Lù Jǐnghé), Marius von Hagen (second son)
Organisation(s)	Pax Group
Occupation	Retired since 2026
S.CN CV
Soft debut	Main Story 01-14
Debut

Lu Yuanxi is the head of Pax Group and current head of the Lu family, the most prominent family in the country. He has two sons: Lu Jinghan and Lu Jinghe. In 2026, he announced his retirement, but is only semi-retired.

Trivia

Language Notes

• Names:
  • In Chinese:
    • Family name 陆 (Lù) is a surname (predominately in Southern China) with history, with meaning regarding water and continent.
      • 陆 (Lù) is a common trope surname in Chinese media for president stereotypes. If one consumes Chinese media, one may have read media pertaining to 陆总|President Lu many times...
    • Personal name 元 (Yuán) currency; original; first; primary + 希 (Xī) hope/admire

陆景瀚 | Giann von Hagen

Info	Stats
Character name (CN)	陆景瀚 (Lù Jǐnghàn)
Age
Family	陆元希 (Lù Yuánxī), Austin von Hagan (father) 陆景和 (Lù Jǐnghé), Marius von Hagen (younger brother)
Organisation(s)	Pax Group
Occupation	President of Pax Group
S.CN CV
Soft debut
Debut

Lu Jinghan was given the position of President of Pax Group in 2026. But in 2029, he left for a confidential business trip leaving his younger brother, Lu Jinghe, as Acting-President.

Trivia

Language Notes

• Names:
  • In Chinese:
    • Family name 陆 (Lù) is a surname (predominately in Southern China) with history, with meaning regarding water and continent.
      • 陆 (Lù) is a common trope surname in Chinese media for president stereotypes. If one consumes Chinese media, one may have read media pertaining to 陆总|President Lu many times...
    • Personal name 景 (jǐng) bright/circumstance/scene + 瀚 (hàn) ocean/vastness (literary)
      • Vast brilliance
      • Lu Jinghan shares the character 景 as a generation name with his younger brother, Marius von Hagen| 陆景和 (Lù Jǐnghé)

柳亚 | Christopher Cromwell

Info	Stats
Character name (CN)	柳亚 (Liǔ Yà)
Age
Relationships
Also called
Organisation(s)	Crimson Biotech Ltd. (founder)
Occupation
S.CN CV
Soft debut
Debut

Liu Ya is the Head of the Liu family, the second largest family in the country. He is the founder of Crimson Biotech Ltd., leading the world in biotechnology. During establishment of Crimson Biotech Ltd., Liu Ya spent a large amount of money to buy the company name.

Trivia

• News Headlines
  • "Crimson Biotech Reveals New Anti-Cancer Drug, Leaving Its Name in Medical History!"

Language Notes

• Names:
  • In Chinese:
    • Family name 柳 (Liǔ): a surname (not common but also not rare in Southern China; old surname); willow
    • Personal name 亚 (Yà): (a loan sound); second (ordinal)
• Company name
  • CN: Liu Ya spent a large amount of money to buy the company name 亚宁.
    • 亚宁 is the combination of two names: 亚 (Yà) and 宁 (Níng)
    • 亚 (Yà) is the same in 柳亚 (Liǔ Yà)
  • EN: Christopher Cromwell spent a large amount of money to secure the name "Crimson Biotech" when it was founded.

鲁海洋 | Pedro Brooks

Info	Stats
Character name (CN)	鲁海洋 (Lǔ Hǎiyáng)
Age	27
Organisation(s)	DeliCart (Former) Penny's Comfort Foods (part-timer)
Occupation	Sales Manager, Delicart
S.CN CV	张沛 (Zhāng Pèi)
Debut	Main Story 01-01

Pedro was a high school drop-out who studied to change his destiny. Sponsored by Vernon Green, the owner of Penny's Comfort Foods, he was able to complete his studies and settle in Stellis City. As a student, he was sponsored $300 every month from 2024 until June of 2029, when he graduated from university. In the past, Pedro was also a part-timer at Penny's Comfort Foods while studying. Pedro has known Vernon for six years.

Pedro has a great fear of poverty, working hard to make ends meet and remain in the city. He had difficulty maintaining a job until he worked as DeliCart's Sales Manager for the district where Penny's Comfort Foods was located. Pedro was subjected to DeliCart's humiliating "motivation boosts" of 50 slaps to himself in front of his team when he was $70,000 short from target sales. Going to Vernon for help resulted in Vernon angered and wanting to pursue legal action, but Pedro was desperate not to lose this job and return to manual labour. Eventually, Vernon purchased a membership to assist. Given an inch and taking a mile, Pedro kept returning to sell membership upgrades but was continuously rejected. In anger, Pedro hired ghostwriters to review bomb Penny's Comfort Foods.

Pedro believes that Vernon only cared about him because of similarities to Vernon's dead son, Peter, thus the support and encouragement to go to university. But relocation and survival in a hyper-city was difficult, barely earning enough for rent and food. Believing that Vernon would not take action against him, he continued to take advantage. Shamelessly announcing: if Vernon sees him as a son, it is only right that he provides for him too. This eventually resulted in intentional sabotage to Penny's Comfort Foods. Pedro secretly contaminated Penny's Comfort Food's spring water with an agricultural grade insecticide, resulting in six cases of food poisoning and a filing of a class-action lawsuit against the restaurant. During the lead up to the court summons, he appeared in good will to sell DeliCart PR Premium Services to remove bad press, but also hired Baldr Legal Office Lawyers to apply pressure.

However, Pedro's actions were eventually discovered on numerous evidence tying him to the scene and crime. When confronted and motivations exposed, he attempted to destroy evidence. In the end, the key evidence from kitchen surveillance that Pedro himself had suggested installation lead to his own conviction. While his actions showed hesitancy that he may have been conflicted about his actions, ultimately the desire for monetary gains won over. Pedro was convicted and sentenced, liable for victim compensatory damages. In addition, the testimonies during the lawsuit also brought to light the shady and illegal practices of DeliCart.

Relationships

• Vernon Green sponsored Pedro from 2024 till he graduated university in 2029 June. He also worked part-time at Vernon's restaurant during this period.

Trivia

Language Notes

• Names:
  • In Chinese:
    • Family name 鲁 (Lǔ): a surname. Same word used in bound form to mean stupid or rude
    • Personal name 海洋 (hǎiyáng) means ocean
• CN: Vernon Green sponsored Pedro 2000元 per month as a student
• CN: Pedro was 50万 short from monthly target, thus 50 slaps

薛欣然 | Winnie Cooper

Info	Stats
Character name (CN)	薛欣然 (Xuē Xīnrán)
Age	19
Organisation(s)	Stellis University
Occupation	Student
S.CN CV	v17-苏婉 (v17-Sū Wǎn)
Debut	Main Story 01-01

Winnie is a student who received a full scholarship to Stellis University in 2030. Originally not from Stellis City, she arrived early into the city after accepting the offer to seek work as first steps into her own independence... only to encounter Penny's Comfort Food's poison incident while assisting "Grandpa" Vernon Green. She is thankful towards Vernon, her sponsor, for success in getting into Stellis University and spares no efforts to help him. She cares deeply for and assists in his health checks.

Winnie first appears at Themis Law Firm to hire a lawyer for Penny's Comfort Foods as Vernon was unwilling to trust lawyers after encountering Baldr lawyers. She attempted to offer all her living expenses and salary, but the case qualified for pro bono and the fees were waived. In addition, she secretly hired a private investigator without Vernon's knowledge whom also waived payment.

Relationships

• Vernon Green sponsors Winnie's study and was able to assist her into getting into Stellis University. She is incredibly thankful and after moving to Stellis City, assist him time to time.

Trivia

• Winnie uses a canvas purse.

Language Notes

• Names:
  • In Chinese:
    • Family name 薛 (Xuē): a surname; a type of grass
    • Personal name 欣然 (Xīnrán): cheerful/gladly

方远 | Vernon Green

Info	Stats
Character name (CN)	方远 (Fāng Yuǎn)
Age	70
Family	青萍 (Qīng Píng), Penny (wife; deceased) 方轩 (Fāng Xuān), Peter (son; deceased)
Also called	CN: 方爷爷 (Fāng-yéyé); Grandpa Fang EN: Grandpa Vern
Organisation(s)	Penny's Comfort Foods (founder and owner)
Occupation	Independent Restaurant Owner Chef
S.CN CV	赵洋 (Zhào Yáng)
Soft debut	Main Story 01-01
Debut	Main Story 01-06

Vernon Green is the founder and owner of Penny's Comfort Foods, a high-end private restaurant, opened in memory of his late wife and son. In 2003, Peter, the son of Vernon and his wife Penny, was accepted into his dream school, Stellis University. Tragically, he passed away in an accident during a celebratory trip. To cope with their grief, Vernon and Penny started helping under-privileged students so that Peter's dream of university could be lived through others and their hard work. Unfortunately, Penny never recovered from the loss of their son and passed away soon after in 2005.

Penny was a passionate gourmet. Among Vernon's book collection are recipe books published over 30 years ago in French, Russian, Japanese, Thai, and other languages. Vernon quit his job to open Penny Comfort Food so that everyone could enjoy food she enjoyed. The first floor of his home in Central Business District was renovated into a restaurant while second floor remained as his living space. The entrance is scented by camellias he had planted for his late wife. Majority of profit from the restaurant is used to support under-privileged students. Many students they previously sponsored are now financially independent and live very good lives.

During May of 2030, an incident occurred at Penny's Comfort Foods where six customers suffered from mild food poisoning after ingesting Seafood Tofu Soup. Vernon initially wanted to settle in private. However, when people attempted to extort him for large sums of money, he refused, even when they hired lawyers from Baldr Legal Office to file a class-action lawsuit. Vernon, already in poor health, was angered and suffered from a heart attack. The behaviour of Baldr lawyers left such a bad impression, he became distrustful of lawyers in general and refused to hire any. He pretended to be ill to avoid questions during an investigation.

It was later revealed that Vernon already knew Pedro Brooks, a former sponsored student, was the one who poisoned customers since a Food Safety Bureau inspection but he deliberately shielded the suspect. He could not bear to ruin Pedro's life, due to the striking resemblance in appearance and personality to the son he had lost. Vernon did not actually care about lawyers, he only did not want Pedro to go to jail because he blames himself for pushing Pedro into walking a bad path. Vernon wanted to continue helping Pedro, believing DeliCart was the one that made him poison the water. He understood that Pedro has a great fear of poverty and purchased membership of $300 a month as support in 2029 March. Pedro kept pushing for membership upgrade to $4500 a month, but it was too expensive and Vernon could not afford it. Though DeliCart continued to review bomb Penny's Comfort Foods, Vernon continued to pay the $300 membership fees. With the poison incident at Penny's Comfort Foods, Pedro came again to offer DeliCart Premium PR Services.

Eventually, Vernon was heartbroken after seeing Pedro's true colours come to light: trying to push more sales after staging the incident, destroying evidence, and hurtful words. Vernon agreed to hire MC as his defence lawyer to cut ties. He hands over key evidence that Pedro had tampered with the spring water dispenser. He can only hope that Pedro will eventually turn a new leaf.

Vernon's heart issue is chronic and had been taking large doses of Heirson effervescent packets, far exceeding the recommended daily dosage. MC thinks it might only work as a placebo effort for him. Xia Yan cautions the side effects may be harmful. Vernon has since has been diagnosed with depression, the exact cause unknown. It was noted by Mo Yi that Vernon's actions towards Pedro were an example of transference where feelings towards his son was redirected to another person.

Relationships

• Sponsors Winnie Cooper for her studies.
• Sponsored Pedro Brooks from 2024 till his university graduation in June of 2029.

Trivia

• 2029 Champion of Stellis Angling Competition
• Wine enthusiast and collector. A sizeable collection of alcohol is on display in Penny's Comfort Foods

Language Notes

• Names:
  • In Chinese:
    • Family name 方 (Fāng): a surname; square
    • Personal name 远 (Yuǎn): distance; remote
    • Wife: 青萍 (Qīng Píng)
    • Son: 方轩 (Fāng Xuān)
• CN: DeliCart membership is 2000元 a month
• CN: DeliCart premium membership is 3万块 (30,000元) a month

老师 (Teacher) | "Professor"

Info	Stats
Character name (CN)
Age
Also called	CN: 老师 (teacher)
Organisation(s)
Occupation
S.CN CV
Soft debut
Debut

Relationships

• Teacher to Zuo Ran.

Trivia

Language Notes

• EN: "Professor" mentioned in Main Story 01-01 is 老師|Teacher in Chinese

Locations

未名市 | Stellis City

Generally clear skies, 28 ~ 32°C, with a westerly breeze. The sunshine is beautifully bright with a cool and refreshing ocean wind by the seaside. Stellis City has been described as a hyper-city. It is the home of two of the country's largest families: Lu and Liu and their respective multinational company headquarters. Stellis City also has an airport.

Stellis City is a city of art and culture. There are many festivals and celebrations held in Stellis City throughout the year. These include seasonal changes such as changeover between Summer and Autumn with a festive Temple Fair, and Dragonboat Festival. In addition to the festivities, Stellis City also has its own amusement park where it host events festivities such as Halloween.

There are also two Art Galleries in Stellis City. Stellis University's recently built Exhibition Centre holds art exhibitions sponsored by Pax Group, displaying famous artworks such as "The Night Watch" by Rembrandt and "The Card Players" by Cézanne.

The school season begins in September during Autumn.

Notable districts in Stellis City include:

• 中央CBD区 | Central Business District (CBD)
• 滨河区 | Waterfront
• 文华区 (Education District) | Hemingway Heights
• 锦兰区 | Orchidshine
• 嘉南区 (Jianan District) | South Stellis
• 金湾工业区 (Golden Bay Industrial Zone) | Golden Beach Industrial Zone

Trivia

• City competitions:
  • Stellis Angling Competition
    • 2029 champion: Vernon Green
  • Fashion Week
    • First place recipients: Mode de Vénus.
• Cars are driven on the right side of the road (car interior illustration).
• Electronic payments are popular. People rarely use physical money.

Language Notes

• Chinese:
  • 未名市 = Unnamed City

中央CBD区 | Central Business District (CBD)

There is a gym in the CBD.

Law Firms

The most well known lawyers in Stellis City are gathered under two law firms: Themis Law Firm and Baldr Legal Office. The two circles often meet in court, representing either side of the same case as plaintiff and defendant.

• Lawyer Badge: Bramble Scales
  • Scales: Symbol of Impartial Justice.
  • Brambles: Maintaining impartial justice is like constantly cutting a path through thistles and thorns, unafraid while breaking through hardships. Simultaneously enduring the system to punish evil and injustice.
    • Senior Lawyers: Gold badge
    • Intermediate Lawyers: Silver badge
    • Junior Lawyers: Bronze badge

Not all students are able to obtain Junior Lawyer qualifications upon graduation. Intermediate Lawyer qualification also takes time. In addition, Senior Lawyer qualification is extremely difficult with a pass rate of less than 1%.

Supreme Court first mention: Main Story 01-13

Civil Court begins at 10:00 am. Presided by Judge (male).

忒弥斯律师事务所 | Themis Law Firm

• Location: Central CBD
• First referenced: Main Story 01-01

From difficult establishment, to today's fame throughout the city, the achievements of Themis Law Firm are inextricably linked to the achievements of Lawyer Zuo Ran. During 2024 when Themis Law Firm was first established, many people thought Celestine Taylor was too young and the firm would not be around for long. But when she convinced Zuo Ran to join as a Senior Partner in 2026, all doubts disappeared.

For several years, Themis has done very well and has become one of Stellis City's most famous law firms. Initially, Themis Law Firm only took on commercial disputes, but after Zuo Ran joined, the scope significantly expanded and the firm quickly rose in industry ranking. When Themis Law firm was founded, the "Themis Public Welfare Fund" was also established to provide free legal aid and pro bono to individuals unable to afford rights protection or litigation costs. Themis' positive reputation is not unrelated to the effective operation of this fund.

The Law Firm has rented a two-story building in City Centre. There is only one headquarters with no branches. As the second largest law firm in Stellis City after Baldr Legal Office, it is the goal and the dream of many young lawyers in the city, country even, to work at there. But those who are able to pass Queen of Commercial Law Celestine, and industry legend Zuo Ran's double exam, are few.

Baldr Legal Office has a one-sided conflict against Themis Law firm after their two aces lost to Zuo Ran. Baldr marked Themis as its arch-enemy and has been targeting them at every opportunity but has been continually defeated every time. Themis ignoring them only bruises their ego more.

The law firm works with electronic cases, but still uses physical files.

In 2029, Themis Law Firm signed a partnership and became the legal attachment to Pax Group.

Affiliated

• Celestine Taylor (commercial law)
• Zuo Ran (multiple expertise)
• Main Character (commercial and economic law)
• Kiki Bennet (Legal Intern)

Trivia

• Themis Law Firm was named by Celestine after Themis, the Greek Goddess of Law and good counsel. While the name is meaningful, it is difficult for the average citizen of Stellis City to pronounce.
• Themis Law Firm holds annual meetings. Aside from the meeting, activities also include dinner, Red Packet Snatching (a popular Lunar New Year virtual game to collect red packets to obtain money gift), and other game sessions with prizes. Highlights of the 2030 Annual Meeting was Zuo Ran selected in Truth or Dare, organised by Kiki Bennet, where Zuo Ran was dared to sing《夫妻雙雙把家還》(Husband and Wife Return Home), a Chinese Huangmei Opera song. It was the first time for many to hear him sing.
  • Those at Themis Law Firm are in high admiration of Senior Lawyer Zuo Ran and are amazed with his singing and take great delight that even someone like him has awkward moments. They made recordings of his singing during the Themis Law Firm's 2030 Annual Meetings and confess they would like to hear him sing more. Many are in agreement, resulting in consideration of a singing competition in future.
• Recycling scheme is in place for waste.
• Entrance to Themis Law Firm has a doorbell. Facilities at Themis Law Firm includes a pantry with a coffee machine.

巴德尔律师事务所 | Baldr Legal Office

• Location: Central CBD and offices in all districts
• First referenced: Main Story 01-03

The largest legal firm in Stellis City is Baldr with several thousand employees. The headquarters are located in the CBD with offices in all districts of the city.

Founded by Howard Syter and William Lewis, further developed by Ingrid Rosworth to new heights, the most famous and largest law firm in Stellis City is Baldr Legal Office. Their concept is "追求极致，客户至上"|"Pursue perfection, customer first," hoping to spread light to all corners of Stellis City.

After their two aces lost to Zuo Ran, Baldr marked Themis as it's arch-enemy and has been targeting them at every opportunity. They have been defeated every time. Themis ignoring them only bruises their ego. At the very least, their quarter profits by far exceed Themis Law Firm's.

Affiliated

• Howard Syter
• William Lewis
• Ingrid Rosworth

Trivia

• Baldr is the Icelandic god of beauty, light, joy, and all things positive.
• In Norse mythology, Baldr is the summer sun.

和印集团 | Pax Group

• First referenced: Main Story 01-01

Pax Group is the world's largest multinational group. It holds a dominant position in the sectors of industrial, finance, real estate, and many other fields domestically and internationally. In recent years, Pax Group has increased investment in bio-pharmaceutical and gene-based medicine research and development. Their developments are making great progress as they are catching up to Crimson Biotech, the industry leader. The chairman of Pax Group was Lu Yuanxi, from the Lu family, whom has always topped of the list of the world's richest people. In 2026, he announced his retirement and the position of President was passed to his eldest son, Lu Jinghan. But in 2029, due to a change in business direction, Lu Jinghan temporarily left Pax Group for confidential projects but still retains title. Lu Yuanxi has called in his second son, Lu Jinghe, to be the Acting-President and take over the day-to-day operations of Pax Group.

In 2029, Pax Group signed on Themis Law Firm for their legal services.

• Operations under Pax Group include:
  • Pax & Co.
  • Pax Capital
  • Pax Entertainment
  • Pax Express
  • Pax Fashion & Design
  • Pax Food
  • Pax Pharmaceuticals
  • Pax Real Estate
  • Pax Records
  • Pax Technology and Big Data Lab

和印资本 | Pax Capital

Pax Capital was a legacy from Lu Jinghe's mother.

A Pax Capital manager abused his position by providing investment funds to a relative who owned DeliCart, an online food review app. In addition, DeliCart spread rumours that Pax Group was backing their company to intimidate the public. When Penny's Comfort Food poisoning case exposed DeliCart's operations, upper management was investigated, investments were revoked, and the manager removed.

During an attempted acquisition of Mode de Vénus, a Pax Capital operation manager leaked the base negotiation price to Estelle, compromising Pax in negotiation.

Pax Fashion & Design

Pax Fashion & Design once intended to acquire Mode de Vénus, but the acquisition did not go through as their CEO, Estelle Marino, never intended to sell. She leaked information to the media, feigned interest for two months, and used media hype to boost Vénus' net worth and popularity to the forefront of the industry before officially rejecting the offer. This was Lu Jinghe's first project as Acting-President. During the attempted acquisition, internal staff conflicts were revealed when Pax Capital operation manager leaked the base negotiation price to Estelle, compromising Pax in negotiation. Lu Jinghe personally took charge to handle malfeasance. The internal sweep assisted elders of the company into forced retirement.

和印快递 | Pax Express

A delivery service that requires in-person signing for packages. Authorised individuals carry their name badge. Their packaging notes: 'Please handle with care. Everyone is responsible for environmental protection and recycling'

Pax Pharmaceuticals

2005, Pax pharmaceuticals developed new gene-based medicine in collaboration with Crimson Biotech. The aim was to cure terminal illness and genetic defects, increase longevity and in addition to anti-ageing effects. The government eventually intervened and banned development due to severe side effects. Since then, the government imposed more stringent regulations on all drug clinical trials. While it was one of the most shocking information, there is very few information nowadays.

Pax Technology

The core of Pax Technology is operation and maintenance of the supercomputer Stellis Big Data Analytics Lab, also known as Big Data Lab. Majority of Big Data Lab shares are owned by Pax Group. It is considered as a Lu family asset.

大数据中心 | Big Data Lab

Big Data Lab is a collaboration project between Pax Group and Stellis City government. It legally collects data from every aspect of society and feeds them to a super computer for analysis. The information is complied into practical use to primarily assist the city government in decision-making processes. Big Data also provides services for civilians such as weather forecasts, financial data analysis, navigation, and traffic monitoring. Resources from Big Data Lab are open to the public for research.

Every year, the Big Data Lab supercomputer costs Pax Group millions to maintain. The database is conveniently accessible via the 6G mobile device. Searchable information are categorized into one of six categories: Figures, Works, Culture, Society, Academia, and Geography.

女神的试炼 | Trial of the Goddess

Trial of the Goddess 《女神的试炼》 is a pixel adventure game promoting legal rights, developed and launched by Big Data Lab. Within a short time, it became very popular in Stellis City. According to back-end data, 80% of Stellis residents have installed the game. Great rewards can be won as prizes.

In this adventure, you will encounter rebel warriors, criminal soldiers, and wicked enslavers... At the crossroads of your adventure, what will you choose? Your next opponent is up to you.

• On the road to becoming a God: The reincarnated Goddess Themis, with the blessing of Mother Earth, is on a journey to defeat an evil god. A righteous journey to revive Olympia's Glory.
• Generous rewards: Open priesthood's treasure chest to obtain rich rewards.

Trivia

Language Notes

• Chinese:
  • 和 (Hé) means peace, together, "and"/"with"
  • 和印 (Héyìn) = Peace Seal(mark)
  • Business hierarchy nuances:
    • 董事长 is Chairman of the Board
    • 总裁 corresponds to President (of a company) or Director General in English. In Chinese it also means Chairman or chief executive officer (CEO) of a large company.
• English:
  • The term CEO and President is interchangeably used.
  • Although Lu Jinghe is Acting-President, "Acting" is often dropped in English localisation.
• Latin:
  • Pax = peace

亚宁生物科技公司 | Crimson Biotech Ltd.

• First referenced: Main Story 01-01

Founded in 1998, Crimson Biotech's main focus is cutting-edge drug research, manufacturing, and sales. World leading in biotechnology, the foundation of its industrial chain. Since the middle of last century, the Liu family's focus in development has gradually shifted overseas and its influence is no less than the world's largest multinational group, Pax Group. When Liu Ya returned from abroad and established Crimson Biotech Ltd. in Stellis City, the Liu family's industry shifted towards domestic markets attracting great attention from both political and economical circles.

News headlines: "Crimson Biotech Reveals New Anti-Cancer Drug, Leaving Its Name in Medical History!" Crimson's Longevity III anticancer drug was revealed and investors saw opportunity for profit and poured money into drug research and development. This resulted in flourishing pharmaceutical industry.

2005, Pax pharmaceuticals developed new gene-based medicine in collaboration with Crimson Biotech. The aim was to cure terminal illness and genetic defects, increase longevity and have anti-ageing effects. The government eventually intervened and banned development due to severe side effects. Since then, govt imposed more stringent regulations on drug clinical trials. While it was one of the most shocking information, there is very few information nowadays.

Trivia

Language Notes

• Breakdown of company name in Chinese: 亚宁|Yà Níng 生物科技|biotechnology 公司|company
  • CN: Liu Ya spent a large amount of money to buy the company name 亚宁.
    • 亚宁 is the combination of two names: 亚 (Yà) and 宁 (Níng)
    • 亚 (Yà) is the same in 柳亚 (Liǔ Yà)
  • EN: Christopher Cromwell spent a large amount of money to secure the name "Crimson Biotech" when it was founded.

海奥森保健品有限公司 | Heirson Health Products Co. Ltd.

• First referenced: Main Story 01-01

Heirson Health Products Co. Ltd. is a well known healthcare products company in Stellis City. In recent years, their market share has been growing rapidly. Their flagship product, Heirson Effervescent Packets, is always in short supply in the last two years. In addition to selling various kinds of health products, Heirson also provides users with complete and comprehensive health monitoring and considerate and complete after-sales service that are well received by consumers.

Medical centres are one of Heirson's affiliated institutions. It is unclear where the examinee personal information is kept. They also do lab tests for private clinics.

Head of Heirson Health Products' material division, Simon Bloodworth, was suspected of suicide. His death was ruled as suicide due to the presence of a suicide note at his home. He was believed to have committed suicide after his thefts were exposed. The theft was reselling controlled substances that Heirson uses to produce pharmaceuticals. His body was never recovered.

Notable consumers of Heirson Effervescent Packets:

• Vernon Green
• Janus Beaufort

Trivia

Language Notes

• Breakdown of company name in Chinese: 海奥森|Heirson 保健品|healthcare products 有限公司|limited company.
• 海奥森 (Hǎiàosēn) is loanword for Heirson.

雪玉珠宝 | S&J Jewellery

• First referenced: Main Story 01-01

S&J Jewellery is an internationally renowned jewellery design brand headquartered in Stellis City. They became the focus of public attention due to a copyright dispute over their jewellery design drafts. The case ended in their victory, setting a record for the largest amount of compensation in a domestic copy-right protection case. Zuo Ran was highly praised for his work on this case.

• Headline: "S&J jewellery Wins Astronomical Copyright Lawsuit"

Trivia

Language Notes

• CN: 雪玉珠宝 = snow jade jewellery
• EN: S&J most likely refers to the Chinese name: Snow & Jade

胄萍私房菜 | Penny's Comfort Food

• Location: Central Business District, Kensington Lane, not far from Themis Law Firm
• First referenced: Main Story 01-01

Penny's Comfort Food is a small high-end private restaurant opened by Vernon Green in memory of his wife and son, Penny and Peter. Penny loved cooking and Vernon wanted to share this with the world. After some home renovations, Vernon opened the restaurant in the first floor of his home in Central Business District, while the second floor remained as his living space. Entry is through a well-kept alleyway. The main door to the restaurant is through a glass panel front door, scented by the fragrance of camellias he had planted outside for his late wife. A small place with a good reputation for 25 years.

It is a warmly lit place with an intellectual and classy vibe, with a collection of books and a large wall mounted wine cabinet. An impressive piece of calligraphy is hung over the reception counter arch with fruit candies at the checkout next to a handwritten customer feedback book, filled with many positive reviews. Electronic and physical ledger for bookkeeping is maintained for transactions. A place filled with love. Penny's Comfort Foods also has a loyalty program which may be registered through a QR code at the reception counter. Members may make reservations and collect membership points to redeem items.

Among Vernon's book collection in the restaurant are recipe books published over 30 years ago in French, Russian, Japanese, Thai, and other languages. The wine cabinet displays his collection of XO cognac, tequila, gin, liquors, and more. There is also an open kitchen for visual aesthetics. The tableware is custom-made with tasteful elegant patterns, along with white plastic cups with porcelain pitches for water. Items on the menu include: Seafood Tofu Soup, Veggie Delight, and Pan-Fried Pork Chops. Every morning, spring water used in their dishes is delivered from Yunzhuo Mountain.

Security features electronic fingerprint lock and two CCTV cameras. Pest control for this establishment is done by the staff. The usual brand of insecticides is BugOut, which is non-toxic to children and household pets. The staff at Penny's Comfort Foods are few: Vernon himself as chef, a hired server, and a caretaker. However, after an incident where six customers suffered food poisoning, both staff resigned to work elsewhere to avoid involvement.

Income generated goes towards ingredients, and supporting underprivileged students. Many sponsored students are living a good life in Stellis City. Previously, there was also DeliCart monthly membership fees. Vernon was paying DeliCart a $300 monthly membership fee to support Pedro Brooks, though they have review bombed Penny's Comfort Foods for not upgrading to higher membership.

Trivia

Language Notes

• CN: 胄萍|Penny('s) 私房菜|private kitchen

维纳斯时尚 | Mode de Vénus

• First referenced: Main Story 02-06

Mode de Vénus was founded by CEO Estelle Marino as a premium women's clothing brand. Estelle was a talented fashion designer with business savvy who led Mode de Vénus to great heights. Pax Fashion & Design was once interested in acquisition. Estelle feigned interest for two months, leaked information to the media, and skyrocketed Mode de Vénus' net worth and popularity to the forefront of the industry. Later that same year, they won Stellis City's Fashion Week.

After the passing of Estelle, Themis Law Firm received a commercial dispute regarding Mode de Vénus. It is likely major changes will occur. Lu Jinghe, who had led Pax Fashion & Design's interest in acquisition, noted Mode de Vénus cannot exist without Estelle.

Moonriver Pharmaceutical Laboratories

• First referenced: Main Story 03-15

Everything was to be donated to pharmaceutical company called Moonriver Pharmaceutical Laboratories. The company was founded by Gordon and wealthy partners. In 2022, when Moonriver's drugs failed to pass clinical tests, the investors divested. Gordon was unwilling to lose everything and used Joey as test experiment for the drug. Controlled substances Gordon purchased from Simon Bloodworth was for Moonriver. Moonriver Pharmaceutical Laboratories made the pink tablets.

滨河区 | Waterfront

曼尼大酒店 | Manning Palace Hotel

• First referenced: Main Story 02-06

Manning Palace Hotel is a well known five-star resort in Stellis City. It is located downtown, situated beside the Stellis River to offer its guests a grand view. It is the venue of choice for various receptions and banquets. The resort also offers spas, afternoon tea, manicure, and other services. Staff are always available 24/7, and calls are kept on record. The hotel is situated 40 minutes away from Stellis Airport.

The hotel has long history in Stellis City. There are connecting doors in each of the hotel rooms installed according to regulations at the time of establishment, to be used as a fire escape and firebreak for partitioned walls. As they no longer serve their purpose, they are usually locked to protect the privacy of guests. There are two keys for each locked door, one kept at the front desk and the other with security. Hotel renovations have begun to remove all connecting doors on Floor 17 and below. Renovations for Floor 18 to 30 are to soon follow. There are at least 30 floors with various types of rooms, and standard and deluxe hotel rooms on each floor.

A deluxe room offers French windows with beautiful views. The rooms are decorated with abstract art on the wall, pot plants for ambience, extremely comfortable feather down sofas, designer tea tables, and beautiful carpet rugs. For those who enjoy drinking, the wine glasses are beautifully embellished with a ring of exquisite amethysts at the stem. The room service bar tab offers: tea, soda and yoghurt. There is an extremely large holographic TV in the middle of the room partitioning living and rest space. In the rest area, a desk sits with a collection of financial magazines and a box of unscented tissues. The beds are queen sized situated nearby the connecting doors. Smart controls for the room are also located bedside. A first aid kit can be found in the storage cabinet. Complimentary gifts are placed on the bed for visitors. This includes a welcome card, a bottle of essential oil from a luxury brand, and a bar of soap with hotel's logo.

A business banquet was held here by Mode de Vénus' Estelle Marino for their success at Stellis Fashion Week. There was great fanfare and a Romanée-Conti was a welcome gift personally arranged by the on-duty Manager in celebration. Romanée-Conti is one of Burgundy, France, finest red wines. It is also known as the "wine of dreams."

文华区 (Education District) | Hemingway Heights

The Education District was one of the municipal administrative districts established in 1970s with the purpose of promoting higher education. Many institutions of higher education, including Stellis University, are located in this district. In addition, many academic institutions and scientific research laboratories are also located here. The environment of Education District is quiet and elegant. A major feature in the area are the boulevards of French plane trees. Many teachers working in higher education and universities choose to live in the education district. Mo Yi's residence and research centre, and the residence of Zuo Ran's parents are in this district.

Trivia

Language Notes

• In Chinese:
  • Education (District), 文华 "Wénhuá" meaning magnificant culture/language/education, is hyonoym to 文化 "Wénhuà," the term for culture and education.
• There are boulevards of different trees planted depending on language text:
  • CN: 法国梧桐 | Platanus × acerifolia, French Plane Tree
  • EN: Sycamore
  • Platanus × acerifolia is a hybrid from Sycamore and Oriental Plane Tree. The most notable difference of Platanus × acerifolia from its parent Sycamore is the colour of the under-bark exposed as the tree matures: plane trees have a lighter green-yellow under-bark while sycamore are commonly bone-white.

未名大学 | Stellis University

• Location: Higher Education District
• First referenced: Main Story 01-03

Stellis University has a history of over two hundred years. Located in the Higher Education District with a serene environment with convenient transportation. It is one of the top universities in the country with an extensive range of programs. It is internationally distinguished for its Literature, History, Art programs, and Law School. In recent years, the addition of renowned psychologist Mo Yi resulted in ranking increase for their Psychology Department. Due to the active role criminal psychologists plays in various criminal cases, higher education institutions in Stellis City have opened relevant courses and majors to both promote in-depth studies and cultivate new talents in the field.

For decades, Stellis University has been a strong competitor for the national university rankings against the National Central University. Many stories have been born from Love-Hate discussions by the public as students flaunt endless accomplishments to establish their respective alma mater as the best university in the country. National Central University has been producing superior results in scientific and engineering research, but Stellis University became a hot topic of discussion with the 2030 enrolment of the Pax Group's second heir, Lu Jinghe. Everyone knows that this rivalry will continue for many years to come.

There are programs that offer full scholarships to Stellis University, Winnie Cooper is a recipient.

Affiliated

• Celestine Taylor: Alumni; Masters in Law
• Zuo Ran: Alumni; PhD Doctorate in Law
• Main Character: Alumni; Graduate in Law
• Kiki Bennet: Alumni; Graduate in Law
• Mo Yi: Visiting Professor; Psychology
• Winnie Cooper: Student
• Lu Jinghe: Student; Masters in Art

Stellis Exhibition Centre

• Location: Stellis University Campus
• First referenced: Main Story 02-01

Built in 2029, the Exhibition Centre also doubles as Stellis City Art Gallery. Located on the campus of Stellis University, it is the newest art gallery in Stellis City. There are three large lecture halls used for academic exchanges or small and medium-sized cultural performances. It also offers the most advanced and comprehensive 24/7 digital library, providing services such as information on its catalogues and online exhibitions. The Stellis Art Gallery is also the designated venue for graduation exhibitions for art students of Stellis University. Students with ID are allowed to enter Exhibition Hall for free.

The Exhibition Centre frequently exhibits representative artworks from domestic and abroad and holds special exhibitions from time to time. Pax Group sponsors exhibitions for Stellis Art Gallery, displaying famous artworks such as "The Night Watch" by Rembrandt, "The Card Players" by Cézanne, and more.

Special Note: The exhibition hall is closed every Monday.

Trivia

• There are two art galleries on campus. An older art gallery and an exhibition hall which doubles as a large art gallery.
• DAVIS: Somehow, the online booking is always full...
• In a background art for Stellis University, the number 211 can be seen on a plaque. This may be a reference to China's Project 211, a project that began in 1995-2019 now superseded by the Double First Class University Plan. The aim of Project 211 was to increase research standards and to cultivation of socio-economic development of high-level universities. There were a total of 140 universities in this plan, 5% of all higher education institutions and thus representing China's most elite higher education.
  • The founders of miHoYo: Cai Haoyu, Liu Wei, and Luo Yuhao, were students of Shanghai Jiao Tong University, a university in Project 211.

莫氏心理健康研究中心 (Mo Mental Health Research Centre) | Giannovyn Mental Health Research Centre

• Location: Higher Education District, Hemingway Heights
• First referenced: Main Story 02-02

Founded in 2028 by Mo Yi and Lu Jinghan, the Giannovyn Mental Health Research Centre is an advanced scientific research institution devoted to the study of human psychology and mental health; it has made several achievements and strides in the field. In addition to scientific research, the research canter is attached to an appointment-based psychiatric clinic that integrates medical treatment, healthcare, and rehabilitation. Mo Yi is the owner of the Mo Mental Health Research Centre. As the principle investigator, he is responsible for leading, development, and management of all projects at this research centre. Mo Yi can be found here on most weekdays.

Trivia

• Name of institution differs depending on language:
  • CN: 莫氏| Mo (clan/family) 心理健康|Mental Health 研究中心| Research Centre
  • EN: Giannovyn Mental Health Research Centre
    • The name references both founders of the Research Centre: Giann von Hagen and Vyn Richter

NXX

• Location:
• First referenced: Main Story 01-03

Seemingly unrelated cases are inextricably linked. So-called truths shrouded in a fog of suspicion and deceit. Missing persons, psychological aberrations... The number of anomalous cases in Stellis City has dramatically increased since 2027. NXX investigates and analyses these anomalies as an unofficial investigation team funded by Pax Group. Treading dangerous territory to uncover the truth at all costs. It is their mission to shoulder these responsibilities to prevent future tragedies.

NXX Headquarters is the secret base known only to NXX members. They often gather here to analyse anomalies of X-NOTE cases. To ensure secrecy, an alias or shell company is used when applying for capital and other resources.

X-NOTE (未定事件簿) is a compilation of anomalous civil and criminal cases in Stellis City curated by Big Data Analytics Lab, where anomalous refers to case incidence rate. Since Big Data Lab's creation, the incidence rate of cases have been stable. But the rate is significantly increased since 2027. Cases that have increased the most are missing persons or mental illness cases. NXX is investigating the reason for the for anomalous increase in case incidence rates.

Each individual has their own responsibilities.

Mid-2030, Zuo Ran receives a call from "KING" which makes him restless. ZR does not believe that "professor" betrayed NXX because of one email. As no members in the team are able to be impartial, ZR wants to bring in another member to aid in investigation. He will send them to MY for psychological investigation when there is a suitable candidate.

Before individuals are able to enter into NXX, they must undergo psychological evaluation.

Members of NXX:

• Zuo Ran

Notable Cases

• NXX-011 (Missing persons case)
  • Victim: Simon Bloodworth. Head of Heirson Health Products' material division.
  • Around June-July of 2030, Simon disappeared. He was suspected of jumping into the ocean but his body was never found. His death was ruled as suicide due to the presence of a suicide note at his home. He was believed to have committed suicide after his thefts were exposed. The theft was reselling controlled substances that Heirson uses to produce pharmaceuticals. His client was Gordon Grant, the owner of a popular chain pharmacy in the city. He met his client prior to the suicide.
  • Big Data analysis on his daily life demonstrated no signs of suicidal intent. The anomaly: theft is generally not a crime that forces suicide. The case was tagged as suspicious.

• X03A was trafficked controlled substances by Simon of Heirson. Vial is full and not opened was found in Gordon's bedroom. Lab report on the Pink Tablets, X03A. A drug that suppresses both physical and mental growth. it has a complex composition that inhibits normal development of the human body. It has certain anti-ageing effects. Preliminary results state it may interfere with normal development. There are severe side effects that can cause brain damage over time, especially in children. The exact composition is unknown. Further testing is required to learn more about its precise pharmacological properties. Only Gordon's fingerprints are on this.

• An encrypted notebook belonging to Gordon was retrieved by NXX from a case regarding homicide of Gordon Grant. Based on the description, it is likely the test subject was Joey.
  • "The drug has a long-term effect of delayed ageing, but the side effects are evident..."
• It contains detail observations of an experimental subject. The earliest records are from seven years ago. Someone gave the test subject a drug with supposed anti-ageing effects. While the drug did slow the test subject's ageing, it caused cognitive impairments, slowing brain development.
  • "The subject recently demonstrated taste deterioration. I suggest improving the C-band molecular formula..."

• Strongbox in the bedroom contained transactions about money transfers. But the contents are encrypted for contents, parties, and time. A private ledger was also obtained.

• Joanne provided ZR more files on clinical documents left by Gordon and forged documents to claim Harry's assets.

Trivia

• Male Lead emblems:
  • A raven is on Xia Yan's pipe. The pipe itself represents his love of Sherlock Holmes and alludes to his profession as a Private Investigator.
  • Zuo Ran's scales are balancing the Sun and Moon (representing good and evil) on the Sharp Sword of Justice (relating to the Court of Law). The symbol is also reminiscent of the Bramble Scales, the Lawyer's Badge.
  • The symbol for Mo Yi is Psi (ψ), the 23rd letter from the Greek alphabet. Psi is the symbol used to represent psychology and all its branches, directly referencing his profession as a Psychologist. Within the spaces of the symbol and following the markings, a silhouette of an owl can be seen.
  • Jiaolong coils into the shape of infinity for Lu Jinghe. Symbolising the Lu Family and eternity. A wave may also be assumed from the shape behind, a reference to the water origins in Lu name and the origin of jiao.

Language Notes

• 《未定事件簿》 the Chinese name of the game, meaning undetermined and unsolved cases, is X-NOTE in English localisation.
• Code names
  • MC:
    • CN: 蔷薇 (Qiángwēi), EN: Rosa
      • 蔷薇 means wild rose, rosa; Rosa is Latin for rose.
  • Xia Yan:
    • CN: 渡鸦 (Dùyā), EN: Raven
  • Zuo Ran:
    • CN: 天秤 (Tiānchèng), EN: Libra
      • 天秤 is balance scales (天秤座 is the Libra constellation and zodiac sign). Libra may have been the choice for a one word EN codename.
  • Mo Yi:
    • CN: 裁决者 (Cáijuézhě), EN: Adjudicator
  • Lu Jinghe:
    • CN and EN: King

锦兰区 | Orchidshine

Lu Family

• 陆元希 (Lù Yuánxī) - Chairman of the board, semi-retired
• 陆景瀚 (Lù Jǐnghàn) - First son, President of Pax Group
• 陆景和 (Lù Jǐnghé) - Second son, student, current Acting-President of Pax Group

Family Crest: 蛟龙 | Jiaolong

Family motto: 潜蛟破云，翔龙在天。 | The hidden jiao pierces the clouds, a soaring dragon in the sky.

Pax Group's multinational achievements is number one in the world. Chairman of the group, Lu Yuanxi, for many years has topped the list of the most rich and powerful person in the world. His second son, Lu Jinghe, is presently Acting-President while his eldest son is abroad. One hand grasping Pax, the Lu family is the nation's most influential family. The family clan has been in existence for hundreds of years, with profound cultural roots. The hidden jiao piercing the clouds, is the Lu Clan's motto.

Jiao, in ancient legends is the predecessor to the dragon. [The hidden jiao pierces the clouds] is the Lu Family's emblem, inherited for hundreds of years. The meaning is the jiaolong from watery depths will eventually leap up, [piercing through the clouds, to soar in the skies]. It is the wish and encouragement from the ancestors of the Lu Family to the younger generations.

Today's Lu family has lived up to the expectations of their ancestors. Pax Group's Pax Capital, Pharmaceuticals, Technology, Real Estate, Jewellery, Fashion and Design, Foods, and Entertainment... Lu family's businesses encompasses all of Stellis' major industries. The silhouette of jiaolong piecing the clouds can be found within all Pax Group's trademark logos.

The direct descendants of the Lu Clan carry on their persons a family token emblazoned with the jiaolong. On their suits worn for formal occasions, there are also embroidery patterns of the jiaolong.

Language Notes

• CN: 蛟龙 (Jiāolóng)
  • Jiaolong, or jiao, is a mythical beast from ancient Chinese mythology. It is a species of water beast with dragon blood, with the ability to evolve into a true dragon if they can survive a calamity. The Chinese dragon is a mythical being that is able to control the weather and create rain. They also represent divine imperial power.
    • Family name 陆 (Lù) is a surname (predominately in Southern China) with history, with meaning regarding water and continent.
• EN: Jiaolong is localised as Aquarian Serpent

嘉南区 (Jianan District) | South Stellis

时光古物店 | Time's Antiquities

• First referenced: Main Story 01-13

Time's Antiquities is located on the first floor of a three story building inherited and owned by Xia Yan. It is an antique store, specialising in acquisition, restoration, and sales of antiques from the last century. There are also music boxes, carved lamps, complete comic sets, lamps inspired by Biblical stories... It is very well known store within the cultural circles of Stellis City and favoured by collectors.

Xia Yan considers himself a caretaker of antiques. Each item holds its own unique memories, with a storied past and a future waiting ahead, waiting for their true owners to discover them. The "youngest" item in the store is possibly Xia Yan's high-tech work station which on ordinary days, is the store counter.

Pearce Private Investigations

The second floor is used as Xia Yan's office for his investigation agency. Time's Antiquities is a front for his investigation office as most clients would like confidentiality when visiting a private investigator. Regardless of how small or how complex the cases are, not one fails to be completed.

金湾工业区 (Golden Bay Industrial Zone) | Golden Beach Industrial Zone

• Location: Northern region of Stellis City
• First referenced: Main Story 01-01

Stellis City's Industrial Zone is the starting place of modern industrialisation. In the past, many industries of Stellis City was based on processing and highly dependant on import and export at Stellis Harbour. The name "Golden Bay" was the nickname of the industrial zone due to the multi-colour bay (various colourful containers bringing in "gold"). After many industrial upgrades, the industrial region successfully introduced and developed high-end manufacturing and high-value-added technological industries. It is now an internationally famous manufacturing hub.

In the beginning, the industrial zone was filled with various types of small industrial parks in the region. To maximise benefits, Stellis City's municipal government took lead and jointly promoted by large enterprises, integrating parks together to expand the scale of industrial zone. Today, many large international conglomerates such as Pax Group and Crimson Biotech have set up core production bases in the industrial zone, contributing a staggering amount towards Stellis City's annual GDP. The industrial boom has drawn many people to settle in the region, resulting in an increase to service industry in the industrial zone. Many famous bars and restaurants are located here.

There is a Chemical Materials Depot in the Industrial Zone with freight robots.

Trivia

Language Notes

• 金湾 is literally Golden Bay, but English has localised this to Golden Beach.
  • 金湾(区) is an actual place located in the district of Zhuhai, Guangdong province of China. There exists a high-tech industrial zone with a focus on electronics, computer software, biotechnology, and bio-pharmaceuticals. Local government initiative strengthened the original industrial zone to promote development to what it has become today.

Abyss

• Location: Stellis City Industrial Zone
• First referenced: Main Story 02-21

The Abyss is an underground pub located in Stellis City's Industrial Zone. It is the gateway to the underworld of Stellis City and the place to acquire intel and below-the-counter items. It is rumoured that many secret transactions occur here on a daily basis, but the truth is unknown to many. Janus Beaufort was a customer here who purchased tetrodotoxin.

The owner of Abyss is a mysterious young man. The bar runs on his integrity that cannot be brought. He is extremely perceptive of undercover police and thugs. His bar houses an expensive collection where bottles are worth more than the salaries of civil servants. The "books" are kept in the centre of the wine cabinet, behind a bottle of Louis XIII.

Other

美味咖APP | DeliCart

• Location: Online food app
• First referenced: Main Story 01-01

DeliCart was a food review app owned by a private company planning to go public, with many smaller financial institutions following suit. But there was public suspicion competition was high but their revenue was inadequate. Their goals unknown. DeliCart membership began at $300 a month and premium membership fee was $4,500 a month, with additional fees for advertising. They also provide customised public relation services to its clients. Although the general public note that it was a shady company, there was caution in dealing with DeliCart due to rumours of a powerful backer, Pax Capital.

A financial institution who was also considering to go public contacted Xia Yan to investigate credit and background checks on DeliCart. It was discovered DeliCart paid posters to write fake reviews in addition to suspicion of making money through illegal means. In light of Vernon Green's Penny's Comfort Food Poisoning case, there was enough evidence to forward from Civil to Criminal Court. Pedro revealed the shady and illegal practices of DeliCart,leading to a lawsuit against the company itself. DeliCart had purposely sabotaged its clients through review bombing, and stirred up trouble, coercing business owners into purchasing their premium service subscription plans.

In addition to malpractice, DeliCart also punished their employees through humiliation. Sales manager Pedro Brooks was once $70,000 away from a monthly target was punished to slap himself 50 times in front of his team. The company called this "motivation boost," or they would penalise through salary reduction for the individual not reflecting enough on their mistakes.

Pax Group's internal upper management also discovered Pax Capital had supported DeliCart with investment funding, it came to light Pax Capital's manager was a relative to DeliCart's owner and abused his position. Pax Capital have since withdrawn their investments and removed the involved manager.

Trivia

• Exchange rate of currency occurs through localisation.

Language Notes

• 美味咖APP translates to Delicious Coffee APP
• CN: DeliCart membership is 2000元 a month
• CN: DeliCart premium membership is 3万块 (30,000元) a month
• CN: Pedro was 50万 short from monthly target, thus 50 slaps

Government bodies

Stellis Government

• Location:
• First referenced:

In 2005, a collaboration project between Pax Pharmaceuticals and Crimson Biotech developed a new gene-based medicine with the aim to cure terminal illness and genetic defects, promoting longevity and anti-ageing. The government intervened and banned development due to severe side effects. Stringent regulations on drug clinical trials were implemented.

In recent years, the government has promoted projects with National Capital University to recruit talented individuals for training.

Food Safety Bureau

• Location:
• First referenced: Main Story 01-03

The department that oversees food safety. They carry out investigations into incidents such as food poisoning. In the case of Penny's Comfort Food incident, it was determined the spring water used in the restaurant's Seafood Tofu Soup was contaminated to insecticide powder. This type of incident was filed under food poisoning due to poor management.

Beyond Stellis City

云州区 (Yúnzhōuqū) | Cloudbreak Hill

• Location: Northwest of Stellis City
• First referenced: Main Story 01-06

One of the municipal administration districts under Stellis City located towards north-west. Yunzhou is a tourist area where Mt Yunzhou is a Scenic Resort internationally recognised 5A-level natural scenic spot. Yunzhou has a long history of almost a thousand years since the establishment of the Yunxia Temple. There are modern high-end resort hotels and indigenous hotels with characteristics of the region. The amount of tourists in a year can reach up to 50 million. To protect the ecological environment of Mt Yunzhou, the building of factories and polluting scientific laboratories is prohibited in this district.

Trivia

• The spring water for Penny's Comfort Food is sourced from here.

Language Notes

• 云州区 is Yunzhou District. It may also mean "Prefecture of Clouds."
  • 云州区 is an actual place located in the district of Datong, Shanxi province of China. But there are no similarities between real world and Themis world location of the same name.
• 云霞山: Yúnxiá Mountain, the name carries beautiful aesthetics about clouds and daybreak.
• 云霞寺: Yúnxiá (Buddhist) Temple

首都大学 | National Central University

• Location: in the Capital
• First referenced: Main Story 01-05

Capital University is one of the top universities in the country, specialising in science and engineering. Its bioengineering research department is considered one of the world's finest. There is a history of 200 years since establishment with high reputation nationally and internationally. Capital University competes with Stellis University for first place in domestic rankings all year around. In recent years, to further improve in rankings, Capital University has cooperated with relevant government departments to set up a number of professional talent training projects, attracting many outstanding students.

Affiliated

• Xia Yan: Alumni; Masters in Bioengineering with Distinction

Trivia

• Xia Yan was admitted at 16 years of age.

翡冷翠 | Florence

翡冷翠美术学院 | Florence Academy of Art

The world's top art school.

Affiliated

• Lu Jinghe: Alumni; Bachelor's degree in Oil Painting with Honours.

Trivia

• Lu Jinghe was admitted before 18 years of age and graduated in advance.
• There is a real world Florence Academy of Art.

Language Notes

• CN: There are a few variations for 'Florence' in Chinese:
  • 佛罗伦萨 (Fóluólúnsà) is closer to English pronunciation of Florence. The official and proper Chinese name for real location Florence.
  • 翡冷翠 (Fěilěngcuì) is closer to Italian pronunciation, Firenze. First coined by the poet 徐志摩|Xú Zhìmó in 《翡冷翠的一夜》|A Night in Florence, the name is loan-sounds in addition to meaning cool emerald, or jade-like. Similar to how the marble work of churches there embellishes the city in emerald. The reason this name is not used officially is because it violates the Principle of Foreign Transliteration by having meaning. But in fictional work, 翡冷翠 is beautifully poetic and often used.

斯沃尔特王国 | Kingdom of Svart

斯沃尔特国王大学 | University of Svart

• Location:
• First referenced:

There is a Psychology and Pedagogy Department.

Affiliated

• Mo Yi: Alumni; bestowed double Honorary Doctorates in Psychology and Pedagogy

Timeline

Approximated and assumed events are italicised. Timeline organisation is based on my personal thoughts deduced from known information. Events are indented under months when there is proper estimation or reference, otherwise a loose estimate.

1000s

• Yunxia Temple was founded in Yunzhou.History of nearly a thousand years, before 2030

1800s

• National Central University was founded in the Capital.200 year history, before 2030

• Stellis University was founded in a province known as modern day Stellis City.200 year history, before 2030

1900s

• Stellis City Development
  • North District was the central area of ​​modern day Stellis City.Beginning of 20th century
  • Waterfront District was a municipal district established to support the future Golden Bay Industrial Zone.Early 20th century

1930s

• Sea voyaging sailors accidentally brought back a bacteria from the deep sea: Noxious X Xeno-gene (NXX) to Stellis City, causing an unprecedented plague.1930s

• Stellis City Development
  • Due to the outbreak of the plague, many residents moved out of North District. After the epidemic ended, the development centre of Stellis City moved south after the city government chose Waterfront District as the new downtown area. North District gradually declined.1930s To prevent the plague recurrence, Stellis City government, with the help of large enterprises and scientific research institutions, collected and sealed samples of the X bacteria group for future research,1930s and Stellis Municipal Hospital was built in Waterfront District.1930s
  • Stellis Port District was established after building an airport north of Stellis Port.Late 1930s

1935

• Stellis City Development
  • Many foreigners immigrated here leading to city prosperity but also increased conflicts between Eastern and Western culture. To establish order, Municipal Government with state support created and enforced legislation and regulation of social laws. As the social order stabilised along with increased economic growth for the entire city, citizens came to appreciate the social atmosphere and advocated the rule of law. Lawyers came to have a higher social status in Stellis City.1935

• July
  • 30th - Promotion of Stellis City Public Security Management Regulations. The current Stellis City of today was born.1935年7月30日

1950s

• Liu family shifted biotechnology development focus from Stellis City to overseas.Middle of last century

1960

• Vernon Green was born.70 years old in 2030

1961

• Wei Kang was born.69 years old in 2030

1970s

• NXX Research: Researchers finally discovered the reason why NXX bacterium could infect the human body and cause disease and death was because it carried the heterogeneous gene NXX.1970s

• Stellis City Development
  • Many large enterprises and multinational groups headed by Pax Group chose Waterfront District of Stellis City as the location of their company headquarters. The government optimised the commercial supporting facilities in the area and established the Central Business District (CBD).1970s
  • Urban planning upgraded Stellis Port area to a municipal area, and launched special tourism projects to turn the eastern coastal area of ​​​​the Long Beach District into a new urban landscape.1970s
  • Education District was established with the purpose of promoting higher education. In addition to universities, many academic institutions and scientific research laboratories also established here.1970s

1971

• Lu Yuanxi was born.59 years old in 2030

1976

• Zuo Linchuan was born.54 years old in 2030

• Eirik Haspran was born.54 years old in 2030

• Van Kerrel was born.Noted as 53 (died a year before E4)

1977

• Lawrence Myers was born.53 in E4 (2030)

• An Hua was born.53 years old in 2030

1978

• Mo Zijin was born.52 years old in 2030

• Fannie Morris was born.52 in E3 (2030)

1980

• Ogier Wechsler was born.50 years old in 2030

• Gordon Grant was born.50 in E3 (2030)

1985

• Peter Green was born to Vernon Green and Penny Green.18 years old (27 years ago). 45 years ago from 2030

1987

• Nie Qiu was born.43 years old in 2030

1993

• Darius Morgan was born.37 years old in 2030

1995

• Simon Bloodworth was born.35 in 2030 (E3)

• Joanne Scott was born.35 in 2030 (E3)

1998

• Liu family returns to Stellis City, bringing back the family's biotechnology from overseas arousing great attention from political and economical circles.Returned before founding Ya Ning
  • Ya Ning was founded by Liu Ya in Stellis City.Founded in 1998, following Liu Ya's return

• Zhai Xing was born.32 years old in 2030

1999

• Lu Jinghan was born to Lu Yuanxi and Yuan Ning原宁.31 years old in 2030

• Bai Xin白莘 was born.31 years old in 2030
  • Lu Jinghan and Bai Xin grew up as childhood sweethearts, and eventually became engaged.

• Van Kerrel and Lawrence Myers graduated from university. They become working partners and founded Lester Auction House in Stellis City.Worked together for 30 years; 30+1

2000s

• January
  • 7th - Monozygotic twins Bobby Davis and Johnny Bailey were born to Bob Davis and his wife.Bobby DOB: 29th birthday last year; Johnny DOB: 7th Jan, 30 years old (in E4)
  • 8th - Headlines: "Baby Theft at Stellis City Hospital, January 8th..."; Johnny Bailey was stolen from the hospital.About 30 years ago30 years ago on 8th Jan (from E4)

• Stellis City Development
  • Stellis City Port Area was officially renamed as Airport New Area and a high-speed railway hub was built, creating a comprehensive transportation and trade hub for sea, land, and air, and sea and inland waterways.21st century

2001

• Janus Beaufort was born.29 years old in 2030

• April
  • 26th - Zuo Ran was born to Zuo Linchuan and An Hua in Stellis City.29 years old in 2030; birthplace: Stellis City

2003

• Pedro Brooks was born.27 years old in 2030

• Jen Mendoza was born.27 years old in 2030

• Sharon Iams was born.27 years old in 2030

• Peter Green (18 years old) was accepted into Stellis University, but passed away in an accident while on vacation.27 years ago from 2030; graduation season, before university start
  • Vernon Green and Penny Green began supporting disadvantaged students to cope with the loss of their son, Peter Green.After their loss

• September
  • 27th - Vilhelm Richard Albert de Haspran was born out of wedlock to Eirik Haspran and Mo Zijin in the Kingdom of Svart.27 years old in 2030; Birthplace: Svart

2004

• Estelle Marino was born.26 years old in 2030

2005

• Pax Group and Ya Ning began a collaboration to develop gene-based medicine. The aim was to cure terminal illnesses and genetic defects, as well as to produce longevity and anti-aging products.25 years ago, from E3
  • The government eventually intervened and banned development due to the severe side effects, and stringent regulations were placed on drug clinical trials. But since then, pharmaceutical industry has only flourished.25 years ago from E2

• Penny Green passed away from grief.A few years after losing her son; Peter died 27 years ago from 2030
  • Vernon Green founded Penny's Comfort Foods in Stellis City, after discovering Penny's recipe book, as a way to commemorate his late wife and son.In memory of Veron's late wife; good reputation for 25 years25 years ago from 2030

2006

• Harry Grant was born to Gordon Grant and his wife.24 in 2030 (E3)

• Dec
  • 5th - Xia Yan was born in Stellis City.24 in 2030; birthplace: Stellis City

2007

• Kiki Bennet was born.23 years old in 2030

• Vincent Kim was born.23 years old in 2030

2009

• Jun
  • 21st - Lu Jinghe was born to Lu Yuanxi and Yuan Ning原宁 in Stellis City.21 years old in 2030; birthplace: Stellis City
    • Lu Jinghe's mother, Yuan Ning, passed away.Passed away after giving birth to LJH

2011

• Winnie Cooper was born.19 years old in 2030

2014

• Lu Yuanxi attended a Lester Auction House Auction with his sons, Lu Jinghe and Lu Jinghan. Young Lu Jinghe was enraptured by an art piece and found by Artist and Appraiser Van Kerrel, who led him into the world of art and what it meant to be an artist.LJH 5 years old; after June

2015

• Lawyer Nie Qiu uncovered an underground chain of gangsters affiliated with local forces. Working as a double agent, he destroyed them inside out. After a successful operation, on a day of celebration, he and Zuo Ran were ambushed by those who had escaped.15 years ago before 2030

2019

• Jason Sanders graduated from University of Fine Arts and married Reimi Lee. He spent his days painting at home.11 years ago from 2030; after Jun/July

• Zuo Ran enrolled into Stellis University's Law Department as both an undergraduate and masters student, with Nie Qiu as his tutor.Year of 18 years old; 29 in 2030 (11 years ago); no exact age specified, likely before April

• Professor An Hua accepted Zhai Xing as a master student in the Law Department, and Zuo Ran met Zhai Xing.Same year ZR entered law department; after Jun/July

2020

• Lawyer Nie Qiu taught his student Zuo Ran gun shooting.10 years ago from 2030

• The Love Story of Stellis, a love drama produced by Stellis City Stellis TV, exploded in popularity and began the trend of attaching love locks to the Stellis TV Tower.10 years ago from 2030

2021

• Lawyer Zuo Linchuan became Chief Justice and moved from Stellis City to the Capital.2021

• Zhai Xing graduated from Stellis University with Masters in Law.Typically, Master degrees require at least two year full time study

• Johnny Bailey graduated from vocational schoolGraduated at 21 and began working at HomeCare Household Services.After graduation

• Bobby Davis graduated from university and began working as an editor for art publications.
  • Bob Davis brought 'Lake Tahoe' from Lester Auction House, without realising it was item-swapped with a counterfeit.Unknown when or how long ago but before creditor was interested, possibly when his son was interested in art post graduation

2022

• Main Character and Xia Yan began their first year of senior high school in Stellis City.XY left during first year senior high

• Lily Flores was born.8 years ago from 2030

• Student Xia Yan won a gold medal for a perfect score in an international biology competition and was granted early admission into National Central University. He moved from Stellis City to the Capital.Year of 16 years old; no exact age specified, likely before Dec
  • In the midst of an experiment, Xia Yan was accidentally involved in a classified case and helped crack it. He was then specially recruited by the Ministry of Security.Between years of 16~23 years old

• Moonriver Pharmaceutical Laboratories was founded by Businessman Gordon Grant and wealthy partners in Stellis City.
  • Failed to pass clinical trials and investors divested. Gordon remained and continued experiments.8 years (before E3/2030)
  • Joanne Scott began relations with Gordon Grant and became pregnant. Gordon fed her experimental drugs as she carried her child to term.8 years (before E3/2030)

• Yunxia mountain campus built an observatory, with homage to astronomers from theological to natural science.The year XY went to the capital, still in construction when he left

2023

• Joey Grant was born out of wedlock to Gordon Grant and Joanne Scott.7 years old in 2030
  • Gordon secretly began an observation diary, documenting Joey's growth while feeding her experimental drugs.Earliest records were from seven years ago (Before E3/2030)

2024

• Stellis City Amusement Park implemented Pumpkin Carriage rides as part of the parade float.6 years ago from 2030

• Themis Law Firm was founded by Lawyer Zhai Xing in Stellis City.2024

• Student Pedro Brooks began part-time work at Penny's Comfort Foods while studying for university in Stellis City.6 years ago from 2030
  • Studies were sponsored by Vernon Green.
  • Pedro Brooks suggested installation of CCTV in Penny's Comfort Foods' kitchen.

• Student Jen Mendoza became a fan of Trainee Janus Beaufort after seeing him in a talent selection program.A year before they meet

2025

• Mode de Vénus was founded by Fashion Designer Estelle Marino in Stellis City.Newly established during the year Jen graduated

• Jen Mendoza graduated from university in Stellis City in Fashion Design. While job hunting, she encountered Idol Janus Beaufort at a public park.Five years ago from 2030; just graduated
  • Mode de Vénus' Estelle Marino hired Jen Mendoza as assistant and secretary.Jen is hired after graduation, starting out as assistant and secretary; worked together for five years (2030)

• Sharon Iams graduated from Stellis University and was married soon after. She moved her residence register to Stellis City in addition to breaking contact with her family.Already married for 5 years from 2030

• Main Character graduated from senior high school in Stellis City.6 years ago from 2030; graduation season
  • Celebrated with friends at an amusement park. Many classmates gave each other confessions on the drop tower as they fell.6 years ago from 2030; graduation season
  • Enrolled into Stellis University, Law Department.
  • Parents of Main Character were recruited into a secret research project.During MC uni years

• Rick Sider enrolled into Stellis University, Law Department.Same major as MC, met at gradation, should be same year group

2026

• Head of Pax Group, Lu Yuanxi, announced his retirement2026, announced retirement but it is actually semi-retirement; still chairman and his eldest son Lu Jinghan was appointed as Pax Group President.2026

• Zuo Ran (25 years old) graduated as a PhD doctoral student ahead of schedule from Stellis University, Law Department, publishing two thesis papers in reputed journals.PhD in law25 years old; should be after AprilYear of 25 years old: PhD doctoratedoctorate at 25 years oldWrote two thesis papers while studying for the intermediate qualification promotion examination
  • Applied for advanced examination and passed the Intermediate Lawyer Qualification examination.After obtaining his doctorate, ZR (25) went through advanced promotion to apply directly for, and passed, the intermediate qualification promotion examination

• Themis Law Firm's Zhai Xing invited and was joined by Zuo Ran as a Senior Partner.Year of 25 years old (ZR)

• Students Rick Sider and Lune Edwards began dating while studying at Stellis University.Started dating when sophomores (?? second? year university?); After September.

2027

• Big Data Lab began noting a dramatic increase in the number of anomalous cases in Stellis City.Increased in the last three years, before 2030Last three years
  • Significant increase in rate of missing persons and or mental illness cases.Past three years (before E3/2030)

• Lu Jinghe and Qin YuanQin Li; Giovanni/George Vance met at a business banquet and became friends.Before LJH left Stellis City

• Stellis City Stellis Rock Climbing Gym Speed Wall: new record for Solo Speed Wall (11.57 s).Record has been there for three years before 2030

• Lu Jinghe was admitted into Florence Academy of Art to major in Oil Painting, and moved from Stellis City to Florence.Before age of 18; before JuneYear of 18 years old

• March
  • Student Lune Edwards began dating Professor Wesley Dunn. She also began cutting contact with those close to her.Four months prior to her death; losing contact with people from end of March
  • Student Rick Sider and Lune Edwards, who were already dating, had disagreements when he was concerned about her cutting off friends and contact. Lune broke up with Rick citing she had found true love with another man.Worst fight was three years ago, from 2030; Lune broke up with Rick after she began dating Wesley

• April
  • Lune Edwards sent Rick Sider an email to their secret address about Wesley Dunn.Diary date: 2027-04

• May
  • Lune Edwards and Wesley Dunn visited Stellis TV Tower in Stellis City to hang love locks to symbolise their love.Diary date: 2027-05

• July
  • 25th - Lune Edwards discovered Wesley Dunn's secret.25th July, 3 years ago from 2030
  • 28th - Lune Edwards committed suicide with carbon monoxide poisoning.28th July, 3 years ago from 2030

• Psychologist Mo YiOr is it Vilhelm Richard Albert de Haspran? tbc in the Kingdom of Svart, published an academic paper on criminal psychology that aroused the attention of the academic circle. He became famous and was awarded an honorary doctorate of science by University of Svart.Year of 24 years old; no exact age specified, likely before Sept; Honorary Doctorate in Science from University of Svart for his publication on criminal psychology; unknown when he changed his name but he is famous as Mo Yi
  • Also rewarded with an honorary doctorate in Pedagogy by University of Svart.Honorary Doctorate in Science and Pedagogy from University of Svart; unknown when and for what Pedagogy was awarded

2028

• January

• Mysterious Painter "Z" became active in the oil painting world, garnering international fame.Year of 20 years old; no exact age specified, likely before June of 2029, active in oil painting world as Z in FlorenceFamous in recent years, before 2030, even in Stellis City

• Many large financial corporations in Stellis City began investing in pharmaceutical research and development.In the past two years, from 2030
  • Pax Group began publicly investing towards biopharmaceutical and gene-based medicine research and development.In recent years, from 2030; technically investing since before 2005

• With increased active involvement of criminal psychologists in various investigations, higher education in Stellis City began promoting in-depth studies and courses to promote talents.In recent years, from 2030

• February
  • 24th - Joanne Scott was certified with a pharmacist licence.Two years ago; "February 24, 2028"

• Violinists Juno Watson and Zoe Nelson were to participate in an international competition as rivals for the first time.
  • Juno pushed Zoe off the second floor of a banquet hall before the competition began. Both were disqualified.A couple of years ago, before 2030, while MY was still abroad

• Fashion Designer Estelle Marino and Actor Janus Beaufort fell in love at first sight and secretly married while abroad, outside of Stellis City.Already married for two years, before 2030; registered their marriage while abroad
  • To safeguard the secrecy of the marriage, Estelle Marino fired two secretaries, but retained Jen Mendoza.Estelle fired two she could not trust, to protect Janus
  • Janus Beaufort increased in fame as his movies and TV shows become popular. But media highlighted him as a topic of many scandals.In recent years, before 2030
  • Estelle Marino started becoming increasingly insecure about her secret relationship with Janus Beaufort.During the past two years, before 2030

• Psychologist Mo Yi migrated from Kingdom of Svart to become a naturalised citizen of Stellis City.2028, year of 25 years old; no exact age specified, likely before Sept, becoming a naturalised citizen
  • Changed his name Mo Yi and no longer went by Vilhelm Richard Albert de Haspran.
  • Devoted himself to the study of criminal psychology, publishing many papers.Settles in Stellis City and devotes himself to Criminal Psychology
  • Became a visiting professor at Stellis University, Psychology Department.
  • Giannovyn Mental Health Research Center was co-founded by Psychologist Mo Yi and Pax Group's Lu Jinghan in Stellis City, after the former accepted the latter's investments.Established after MY accepted LJHan's investment; MY (unknown when) has a licence for clinical psychology and international hypnotist certification

• May
  • Wesley Dunn visited Stellis City Stellis TV Tower.Same day every year for the last three years, before 2030

• Main Character graduated from Stellis University with a Bachelor in Law.A little less than two years before MC meets MY
  • Celebrated with friends, setting off fireworks at the beach.Graduation season
  • Obtained Junior Attorney qualificationsStatus: Junior Attorney before 2030; was studying for Junior during university days; in 2030 studying Intermediate and joined Themis Law Firm specialising in commercial and economic cases.Two years ago, from 2030

• Rick Sider graduated from Stellis University with a Bachelor in Law.Same major and graduation as MC

• Businessman Bob Davis became addicted to gambling.
  • Bob's creditor was interested in the art piece 'Lake Tahoe' and offered astronomical sums.Two years ago (from E4)
  • Bob discovered the artwork purchased from Lester Auction House was 'Lake Tahoe' but also discovered it was counterfeit through appraisal when he wanted to sell.

• December
  • 17th Dec - Private Doctor Jenkins Wood conducted a paternity test and discovered Johnny Bailey was 99.90% DNA match with Bob Davis and his wife.17th December year before last year (to E4)

2029

• January
  • Caregiver Johnny Bailey resigned from HomeCare Household ServicesLast Jan (from E4) and reunited with his biological family.Around time of paternity report
  • 7th - Businessman Bob Davis committed arson, setting own house on fire. He and his wife died while his son Bobby Davis was critically burned and placed in a long-term care facility.Last Jan from E4Suicide on 7th Jan, 29th birthday of his son Bobby

• Stellis University's Exhibition Centre, doubling as an Art Gallery, was built.Built last year, before 2030, as exhibition and Stellis University art galleryBuilt just after MC's graduation

• Lu Jinghe completed Florence Academy of Art undergraduate studies in advance and obtained a Bachelor in Art with Honours.2029, Year of 20 years old; no exact age specified, likely before June, Bachelor with Honours ahead of schedule; likely Jan-May before birthdayFlorence Art Academy

• Vernon Green was the champion of Stellis Angling Competition.Last year, from 2030

• Granny Zhang's health began to rapidly decline.Past year and a half from after E1, before 2030

• Pedro Brooks no longer part-timed at Penny's Comfort Foods and began working at DeliCart in Stellis City.Last year, from 2030

• March
  • Penny's Comfort Foods's Vernon Green began a subscription to DeliCart for Pedro Brooks.March last year, from 2030
  • Stellis City Lester Auction House scandal appeared in the media as post-auction item-swapping was discovered."Eight month before" Van's murder
  • Johnny Bailey began working at Bliss&Bless Household Services.End of March last year (from E4)
    • Caregiver Johnny Bailey from Bliss&Bless Household Services was hired by Businessman Lawrence Myers to take care of his friend Van Kerrel.End of March last year (from E4)

• April
  • Appraiser Van Kerrel secretly realised repercussions of the Lester Auction House item-swapping scandalDuring April and May (last year from E4) and was clinically diagnosed with depression by Psychologist Mo Yi.Last April from E4
    • Van Kerrel discovered and kept the secret truth about his caregiver Johnny Bailey, and taught him how to oil paint.

• May
  • Wesley Dunn visited Stellis City Stellis TV Tower.Last year in May, from 2030Same day every year for the last three years, before 2030
  • 18th - Van Kerrel completed an art piece 'Vase with Twelve Sunflowers (B/W)'.5.18

• June
  • Pedro Brooks graduated from a university in Stellis City.
    • Sponsorship by Vernon Green ended.Sponsorship ended in June last year, from 2030
  • Kiki Bennet graduated from Stellis University with a Bachelor in Law.Four years for law degree; graduation season
    • Kiki Bennet joined Themis Law Firm as an assistant lawyer.2029
  • 23rd - Van Kerrel completed an art piece 'Vase with Twelve Sunflowers (B/W)'.6.23

• Stellis City Manning Palace Hotel began renovations to remove connecting doors on Floor 17 and below.Last year, from 2030

• Lawyer Zuo Ran (28 years old) passed the Senior Lawyer Qualification Examination, becoming the youngest senior lawyer since the establishment of the domestic lawyer qualification system.2029, ZR was 28; youngest senior since qualification establishment; after AprilZR (28) then met the special promotion requirements for the senior examinationYear of 28 years old: passed Senior Qualification Promotion ExaminationQualified for special promotion which he eventually took (for senior qualification promotion examination)

• Pax Group signed a collaboration agreement with Themis Law Firm for their legal services.2029

• July
  • 9th - Van Kerrel completed an art piece 'Vase with Fifteen Sunflowers (B/W)'.7.9

• September
  • Appraiser Van Kerrel was recovering from depression and requested Johnny Bailey to dispose of cyanide he had kept.Last Sept from E4

• Lawyer Zuo Ran joined the NXX Investigation Team under the recommendation of Lawyer Nie Qiu.Year of 28 years old

• Lawyer Nie Qiu disappeared.2029
  • Stellis City registered him as a missing person.About half a year ago from 2030 ZR B1

• Special Agent Xia Yan was injured in a mission, doctors diagnosed he had less than three years left, accompanied by intermittent nerve pain.Year of 23 years old; no exact age specified, likely before DecOperation required; breathed in toxic gas
  • During recovery, Xia Yan was infected by Heirson's Effervescents.
  • Friend gifted him melee diamonds for his engagement ring.During recovery
  • Ministry of Security discovered the source of the disease was related to Stellis City. Xia Yan volunteered to accept the investigation.Year of 23 years old; no exact age specified, likely before Dec

• Pax Group President Lu Jinghan temporarily left for confidential projects abroad, retaining the title of President.2029, but retains title of President of Pax
  • Lu Yuanxi appointed his second son, Lu Jinghe, to step in as acting-president for daily operations.LJH has been appointed as Acting President; huge financial headline earlier this year (2030)
  • Lu Jinghe moved from Florence, returning to Stellis City to take over Pax Group as Acting-President.2029

• Pax Group Pax Art Foundation launched the Rising Talent initiative, for training young artists.LJH took over Pax

• November
  • Stellis City Lester Auction House almost became bankrupt as media reported post-auction swapped pieces were found sold in the Black Market.
  • 11th - Businessman Lawrence Myers and partner Van Kerrel planned to meet and discuss Lester Auction House the following day. Caregiver Johnny Bailey gifted them a bottle of rum before going on vacation.11th Nov, "Johnny" had not left yet
  • 12th
    • 10:30 - Johnny Bailey travelled on the high-speed rail from Stellis City to vacation in a neighbouring province.Vacation "Today" 12th Nov
    • 13:40 - Johnny Bailey checked into a hotel.
    • 16:00 - Bobby Davis travelled on the high-speed rail from a neighbouring province to Stellis City.Travelled to Stellis: 4:00 PM; arrived 6:00 PM. Left Stellis: 12 AM; arrived: 2:00 AM
    • 18:00 - Bobby Davis arrived in Stellis City.Travelled to Stellis: 4:00 PM; arrived 6:00 PM. Left Stellis: 12 AM; arrived: 2:00 AM
    • 20:00 - Lawrence Myers visited Van Kerrel after dinner. They verbally fought and Lawrence left. They did not end up drinking as planned.About 8:00 PM
    • Appraiser Van Kerrel died from mechanical asphyxia (53 years old).Last year; "almost a year ago" from E412th Nov last year, between 6:00 PM and midnightAround 20:0053 year old
  • 13th
    • 00:00 - Bobby Davis took the high-speed rail from Stellis City to a neighbouring province.13 Nov, 00:00
    • 02:00 - Bobby Davis's high-speed rail reached its destination.Travelled to Stellis: 4:00 PM; arrived 6:00 PM. Left Stellis: 12 AM; arrived: 2:00 AM
    • 04:25 - Johnny Bailey requested a medical spray from his hotel.Around 04:00; 04:25
    • 07:00 - Van Kerrel's body was discovered by police in his home.7:00 AM on 13th
    • 09:20 - Johnny Bailey returned early from vacation back to Stellis City.Morning after9:30 AM

• Mysterious Painter "Z" was longer active in the oil painting world.Nothing new released last year, from 2030
  • An individual brought a painting by "Z" for astronomical sums, before realising it was fraudulent.About a year ago, before MC and LJH met in 2030

• Actor Janus Beaufort's mental health began to decline.Past half year, before 2030 E2

2030

• January

• Stellis City Census year.Half a year ago
  • Sharon Iams was suspected as a victim of domestic violence during census. It was later ruled as minor injuries.Half a year ago

• Xia Yan was conferred a Master's degree in bioengineering from National Central University.Year of 24 years old; no exact age specified, likely before Dec; Master's degree in bioengineering
  • Moved from the Capital to return to Stellis City as the owner of Time's Antiquities and as a private detective.Not long ago in 2030 before MC and XY reunite

• Doctor Yang Xiao and his family transferred to from the Capital to Stellis City.

• Zhai Xing accepted Su Ziyi's engagement proposal.Engaged for six months from before ZX gave ZR psychology book/before ZR BC1

• Artist Jason Sanders separated with his wife Reimi Lee after he started selling selling counterfeit paintings with Businesswoman Cher Young. Jason moved out to live in Cher's home.About half a year ago; 2030 after MC and LJH meet

• Madam Grant passed away.Half a year ago from E3
  • Gordon Grant brought his mistress Joanne Scott and daughter Joey Grant along with nanny Fannie Morris into his family home.After lady died
  • Gordon ceased financial support for Joanne.At least half a year, prior to E3 (2030)

• Assistant Lawyer Kiki Bennet began working at Themis Law Firm as a legal intern.This year; 2030Legal intern; 2030

• February
  • Pax Group Pax Fashion & Design began negotiations to acquire Mode de Vénus from CEO Estelle Marino; Lu Jinghe's first major undertaking since becoming acting-president.Three months ago, before MC and LJH first met
    • Pax Capital Operation Manager leaked the base negotiation price to Estelle, who leaked negotiation details to the media.During attempted acquisition of Mode de Vénus
    • Lu Jinghe discovered the acquisition malfeasance, Pax Capital Operation Manager was removed and a few Pax elders were sent into forced retirement.During acquisition planning of Mode de Vénus

• March
  • Lu Jinghe passed Stellis University Art department's Spring Semester post-graduate entrance examination2030; Mar - May and enrolled in a Masters program.2030 before MC and LJH met
    • Lu Jinghe began working on new painting.Working on a new painting some time before E2
  • Riddler Sphynx appeared in Stellis City.Two months after Yang-ge transfers to Stellis City
  • Simon Bloodworth was confirmed as missing. A suicide note was found in his home.Three months ago before E3

• April
  • Mode de Vénus' CEO Estelle Marino formally rejected Pax Group's acquisition offer.One month ago in 2030 after MC and LJH first met, after two months of negotiation with Pax
  • Winnie Cooper received admission and a full scholarship to Stellis University before moving to Stellis City.Last month, before E1
  • Sunday - Janus Beaufort visited Abyss, a pub in Stellis City's Industrial Zone. He failed to acquire potassium cyanide and purchased tetrodotoxin instead.A month ago from E2 (2030)Confirmed purchaseSunday
  • 29th, Monday - Penny's Comfort Foods's Vernon Green purchased non-toxic BugOut insecticide from the convenience store.Four days before the incident, Monday of the same week (as E1, 2030)
  • Extreme Sports Club opened in the outskirts of Stellis City, near the Airport District."Friend opened a club"

• May
  • Psychologist Mo Yi presented lectures on criminal psychology to Stellis Police Department and was considered as an external consultant.Recent to before E2, 2030
  • An open-air cafe opened near Themis Law Firm.New open-air cafe; 2030 after meeting LJH
  • 2nd, Thursday - Pedro Brooks purchased agricultural Insecticide 330.Two weeks ago from E1 (2030), Thursday, same week of the incident
  • 3rd, FridayIncident on Friday, 3rd of this month (E1 Trial)
    • 07:28 - Pedro Brooks entered Penny's Comfort Foods.7:28 AM
    • 07:32 - Pedro Brooks dissembled the water dispenser and placed Insecticide 330 into the tank.Day of the incident He was worried he put in too much and diluted the tank with tap water, but then thought too diluted and added in more Insecticide 330.7:32 AM
    • 07:43 - Pedro Brooks left Penny's Comfort Foods.7:43 AM
    • Noon at Penny's Comfort Foods: Six customers suffered from food poisoning after eating Seafood Tofu Soup.Friday, noon, two weeks ago from E1 (2030), almost the weekend
      • Baldr Law Firm filed a class-action lawsuit.Customers went to Baldr
  • 5th, Sunday - All six customers suffering from food poisoning recovered within two days. No hospitalisations.Within two days
  • Main Story Episode 1: The Hand That Feeds
  • 17th (Friday, night) - Raven investigated Stellis City's Industrial Zone. There were abnormal outbound shipments in the middle of the night.Middle of the night
  • 18th, Saturday
    • News Headline: "Ya Ning Reveals New Anti-Cancer Drug, Leaving Its Name in Medical History!"Saturday morning
      • Investors saw opportunity for profit and poured money into drug research and development.This (2030) year, after Ya Ning's reveal
    • Student Winnie Cooper visited Themis Law Firm for counsel about Penny's Comfort Foods.Saturday
    • Lu Jinghe and Mo Yi informed Zuo Ran that Nie Qiu had betrayed the NXX Investigation Team. Zuo Ran disagreed and proposed to introduce a new member to investigate the 'betrayal' and Lu Jinghan's disappearance.ZR (Year of 29 years old)
    • Zuo Ran considered a partnership with Main Character at Themis Law Firm with the possibility of extending to NXX Investigations.After phone call, E1; 2030After E1 case (2030)
    • Childhood friends Main Character and Xia Yan reunited after eight years separation in Stellis City's CBD.After eight years separation - a reunion
      • MC and Xia Yan began investigating Penny's Comfort Foods.
  • Personal Assistant Vincent Kim placed a Pax Pharmaceutical first aid kit into Lu Jinghe's car trunk.Last week, before E2 start; 2030
  • 22nd, Wednesday"Trial is next Wed"; 2030Wed, court day
    • Xia Yan began investigating a special case.Wed, court day
    • Zuo Ran contacted Mo Yi, requesting a psychological evaluation for Main Character.Wed, court day
    • 10:00 - Civil Court
      • Court was in session for the food poisoning case at Penny's Comfort Foods. Prosecution Howard Syter represented the six victims in a class-action lawsuit against Penny's Comfort Foods. Defence Main Character represented the defendant and owner of Penny's Comfort Foods, Vernon Green.Wed, court day; 10:00 am
      • The Judge determined the trial had changed the nature of the case. The Court rejected the plaintiff's claim. Pedro Brooks was taken into custody.Wed, court day; 10:00 am
  • Criminal court took charge of Pedro Brooks's case. He was swiftly convicted and sentenced. Penny's Comfort Foods was not faulted or responsible for compensation. Pedro was liable for victim compensation.Soon after
  • A lawsuit began against DeliCart for shady and illegal business practices.'After Pedro's case
  • Zuo Ran noticed Heirson's effervescent packets amongst recently collected evidence.After E1 trial
  • Main Character collected documents from Zuo Ran for delivery to Mo Yi.Wed, court day; ASAPAfter MC and ZR discuss E1 trial
  • Lu Jinghe removed a Pax Capital Manager due to abuse of power and improper investment procedures.End of E1
  • Main Story Episode 2: The Unbearable LoveMC left for MY's residence at the end of E1.
    • Main Character met Mo Yi for the first time in the study room of his home. After a discreet psychological evaluation, Mo Yi invited MC to an art gallery exhibition in the upcoming weekend.Followed from end of E1
      • Evening phone call, Mo Yi informed Zuo Ran that MC would be a welcome addition to the NXX Investigation Team.Same day, after meeting MC for the first time
  • Actor Janus Beaufort was on a break from work.No schedual this week (E2)Before E2, 2030
    • Fashion Designer Estelle Marino organised a private health clinic appointment for Janus Beaufort and accompanied his visit. Estelle secretly arranged paparazzi to be present.Before E2, 2030
    • Doctor gave Janus Beaufort an initial diagnosis of depression and prescribed medication.
  • Mode de Vénus was the winner of Stellis City Fashion Week.E2 banquet was because of the win
  • Luke's Story: Blossom Chapter 1Awhile since returned to Stellis City.
    • Xia Yan had a physical health check and was prescribed a more effective analgesic. The doctor updated that optimistically, he has three years left.Today, XY BC1 (2030)
    • Xia Yan's precious item, was stolen by Sphinx while he was on a morning run. He met up with Main Character to solve puzzle clues.
  • 25th, Saturday
    • Stellis University Exhibition Hall began an exhibition sponsored by Pax Group.This weekend, following MY meeting MC for the first time
    • Lawyer Zuo Ran flew out of Stellis City for an equity case.Last Saturday before E2 trial date
    • Estelle Marino received a detailed diagnostic report for Janus Beaufort's mental health.Yesterday; same day as banquet; E2 (2030)
    • Stellis City Fashion Week winner Mode de Vénus held a celebration banquet at Manning Palace Hotel.Last night to the Sunday LJH met MC; Invitation: 18:30 PM to 20:30
      • Room 1818 (deluxe) and 1713 (standard) were reserved for CEO Estelle Marino and Secretary Jen Mendoza respectively, under Mode de Vénus. Room 1817 (standard) was booked under Jen Mendoza.
    • 18:30 - Mode de Vénus' banquet began. Lu Jinghe arrived as the last guest with a gift box of liquor chocolates he bought en-route.Around 18:30
    • 19:00
      • Manning Palace Hotel's On-Duty Manager sent Estelle Marino a Romanée-Conti as a celebration gift through housekeeping, directly to her hotel room, Room 1818.Almost 7:00 PM
      • Janus Beaufort checked into Manning Palace Hotel, Room 1817, booked under Jen Mendoza's name.7:00 PM
    • 19:15 - During the banquet, Estelle Marino conversed with Lu Jinghe and ate a piece of chocolate from his gift.Around 7:15 PM
      • Lu Jinghe left the banquet after Estelle Marino's speech to go to his art studio.Around 7:15 PM He parked his car at the Stellis University campus car park.
    • 19:20 - Mr. Zane张主席, organiser of Fashion Week, delivered a speech.7:20 PM
    • 19:25 - Jen Mendoza entered Estelle Marino's room, Room 1818, to refrigerate chocolates before returning to the banquet.A little before 7:30 PM She saw Janus in the room when she entered.
    • 19:40 - Jen Mendoza had an accident with a chocolate tower and returned to her room, Room 1713, to medicate for chocolate allergy and to change clothes.7:40 PM
    • 20:00 - Jen Mendoza returned to the banquet.Almost 8:00 PM
    • 20:30 - Mode de Vénus' banquet ended.20:30
    • 21:00 - Estelle Marino and Jen Mendoza parted ways at the elevator.Around 9:00 PM
      • Janus Beaufort was in Estelle Marino's room. They fought. Janus accidently cut himself on a shard of glass.Last night, after the banquet
    • Estelle Marino (26 years old) died from eating poisoned liquor chocolates.Time of death between 21:00 - 02:00
    • 23:00 - A guest checked into Room 1816.11:00 PM
  • 26th, Sunday
    • 01:40 - Janus Beaufort had finished taking a hot shower in Room 1817 when he was ambushed by a lock-picking groupie hiding in his room.Approximately 1:40 AM on Sunday
    • 07:20 - Janus Beaufort checked out of Room 1817.7:20 AM
    • 07:40 - Discovery of Estelle Marino's body in Room 1818 by Jen Mendoza.Around 7:40 AM
    • 07:45 - Police received the report of the incident and immediately instructed Manning Palace Hotel to lock down the scene.This morning07:45
    • 07:55 - First officers arrive at Manning Palace Hotel to secure the scene.07:55
    • Headline: "War of Romance! Pax President LJH versus Fashion Designer Estelle Marino!"Sunday
    • Headline: "Monday Reveal! Top Idol Janus with Midnight Mystery Woman At Private Clinic!"Sunday
    • Main Character had an unexpected Summer encounter with Lu Jinghe outside Stellis University.Summer/June - AugustSunday
      • They both encounter Mo Yi outside the Stellis University Exhibition Hall. Darius Morgan appears and Lu Jinghe is taken into police custody as a suspect in a homicide case.Sunday Main Character temporarily assists with the investigation before formally signing on as his defence lawyer.
        • Vial of tetrodotxin and a syringe was discovered in Lu Jinghe's car.
    • Main Character and Mo Yi began investigating Manning Palace Hotel.
    • 11:30 - Janus Beaufort checked in at the airportOne hour before flight for a 12:30 flight to his hometown.12:30 PM
    • Headlines: "Pax Group President Commits Murder"
      • Investigation details were leaked, framing Lu Jinghe as a murderer and Pax Group was using its influence on proceedings. As the case became high profile, prosecution brought case forward.Trial will be next week
    • 12:00 - Janus Beaufort was taken into police custody.
    • A Janus Beaufort groupie was taken into custody.Half an hour before MY goes to the Abyss; Janus already in custody
    • Mo Yi visited the pub Abyss with two officers.Sunday; one week before the trial

• June
  • Joey Grant's prescription medication order was doubled, though dosage remained the same.Doubled for the month E3 occurs
  • Dr. Angelo transferred from a district hospital to Stellis Hospital.Soon after XY BC1
  • 2nd, Sunday - Main Character updated Zuo Ran on Lu Jinghe's case.E2; For the following week, ZR was unreachable till now
    • Zuo Ran informed Main Character that he was looking for a partner.
    • Zuo Ran returned to Stellis City a day in advance.Night before trial date
  • Main Character met with a Janus Beaufort groupie at a coffee shop.One day before trial date
  • Trial DateA week after E2 incident, one day after meeting groupie (should be 3rd (Mon) - 8th (Sat))
    • Laboratory report was completed for silk glove tracing.Overnight from MC meeting groupie, delivered just before trial started
    • Main Character's first criminal case trial.
    • Mo Yi was teaching at Stellis University.Trial date should fall on Mon-Sat
    • 10:00 - Criminal Court
      • Court was in session for the People of Stellis City vs Lu Jinghe for the case of Estelle Marino's murder. Prosecutor represented Stellis City. Main Character represented the defendant Lu Jinghe.
      • The court found insufficient evidence to implicate Lu Jinghe. Evidence suggested Janus Beaufort was the prime suspect. The case was transferred to criminal investigation department for re-investigation. Lu Jinghe was pronounced not guilty.
    • Xia Yan concluded a commission.
  • Lu Jinghe began appearing in Judicial Journals.After E2 trial
  • Themis Law Firm received a commercial dispute regarding Mode de Vénus.
  • Artem's Story: Blossom Chapter 1Before MC and ZR are partners; before E3.
    • Main Character and Zuo Ran visited the orphanage.
    • Sherry Lamber was approved to adopt Lily Flores.
  • NXX Investigation Team meeting - Lu Jinghe gave his vote for Main Character to join the team; Zuo Ran was still deciding Main Character for NXX Investigation Team.One week later, after E2 trial (should be 9th - 15th)
    • Lu Jinghe discovered his car tampering was a last-minute framing.
    • Zuo Ran reported on Heirson connections.
  • Janus Beaufort criminal court trial.Next week, after E2 trial (9th - 15th)
  • Lawyer Zuo Ran formally requested and Main Character accepted to be his working partner.Worked the whole week after E2 trial (15th - 16th end of following week)
  • Psychologist Mo Yi confirmed his resolution to stay in Stellis City after affirming his interest in Main Character.
  • Lu Jinghe designed a pair of shoes for Main Character, to be made in Italy.After E2 case
  • Vyn's Story: Blossom Chapter 1References E2.
    • Main Character became Professor Mo Yi's teaching assistant for a day and audited a class.
    • Main Character learnt about presence of Pickup Artists (PUA) within the community.
  • Stellis City Manning Palace Hotel renovated floor 18-30 to remove connecting doors.Next month from E2
  • Artem's Story: Blossom Chapter 2ZR and MC are partners (After E2); half a year ago was census (should take place after mid-year).
    • Sharon Iams signed over power of attorney to Main Character for divorce procedures against her abusive husband. She also obtained a restraining order against him and began undergoing therapy.
  • Approximate timing for Luke "Radiant Sunlight"Relatively long holiday, likely around graduation and June holidays
    • Main Character was on a break and organising files.Three days later still on break; likely June public holidays
  • Grant Family Doctor, Dr Ding, inquired if Harry Grant knew why his father Gordon Grant was writing a will while in a stable condition.Few days ago before E3
    • Harry discovered estate custodians had been bribed to sell his late mother's paintings and antiques, and Gordon had forged documents to steal pharmacy shares under Harry's name.
  • Main Story Episode 3: The Weight of a SoulFollows from E2, likely a week after E2 concludes (close to end of June); semester break
    • Businessman Gordon Grant and his son Harry Grant argued about household finance.
    • 10:00 - (Grant Estate) Nanny Fannie Morris began preparing Gordon Grant's usual dose of traditional medicine.10:00 am
    • Zuo Ran introduced Main Character to X-Note cases.
    • 10:40 - Fannie went to check the fire, saw Harry in the kitchen, and spoke with him.10:40
    • 10:53 - (Grant Estate CCTV) Harry threw tablets away into the community bin.10:53
    • 11:00 - (Grant Estate) Joanne Scott entered the kitchen.Before 11:40 AM11:00 AM
    • 11:40 - Harry reentered into the kitchen to pour out the medicine but Joanne entered to collect the medicine. Fannie went into the kitchen to check the fire and saw Harry getting a drink.Harry in kitchen twice; 11:40Joanne went to collect medicine; 11:40
    • 11:50 - Gordon drank his medicine but soon passed away (50 years old) from an adverse drug reaction.Soon after taking medication; Time of death 11:50 AMDied approximately 11:50
      • Police treated it as homicide case.
    • Zuo Ran received a call from Harry Grant that Gordon Grant had died. Zuo Ran and MC went to the Grant Estate to investigate, before taking on the case as Harry Grant's attorney.
      • Gordon Grant's private ledger and observation diary were obtained by the NXX Investigation Team.During E3 investigation
  • Zuo Ran and MC worked through the evidence and MC decided to be Harry Grant's lawyer.Next few days after E3 incident; after the past few days from E3 incident
  • Zuo Ran began the process of recovering of Harry Grant's embezzled assets.
  • Marius' Story: Blossom Chapter 1Soon after E2 trial; Pax still holding art exhibition, before E4.
    • Rumours of a fraudulent Z painting appeared at the Pax Exhibition.After E2
    • Art Director Sven Phillips confirmed a real Z painting was present; "The Shepherd Girl" debuts.
  • Luke's Story: Blossom Chapter 2.One month after XY BC1; XY knows YX knew of MC
    • Doctor Yang Xiao was officially assigned as Xia Yan's attending physician.
    • Xia Yan began a new treatment plan which will give him an extra two months.
    • Xia Yan became resolved to spend as much time left as possible with Main Character
  • Assumed timing for Vyn "Mercury in Retrograde"MY and MC visit new media art gallery (probably to make up for E2); weekend, MC pipes burst; plans for next weekend
  • Assumed timing for Vyn "False Tears"MY is lecturing (not in June); weekend; MY remembers MC played violin; MC learns of MY hobbies
    • Main Character met her idol Violinist Juno Watson at Giannovyn Mental Health Research Center.
    • A violin competition was held and Violinist Zoe Nelson was arrested.16 days later (Tuesday) after MY False Tears began

• July
  • Assumed timing for Luke "Inner Sanctum"Weekend
  • Assumed timing for Artem "Sparks"ZR and MC are partners (After E3; Themis on company retreat over a weekend; Summer? (June-Aug), fruit season (May-Jun); chestnut (Sept-Oct), melon (May-Nov), dates (Aug-Oct) -> likely July - August; before ZR Sickness and Health
    • Themis Law Firm company retreat for team building.
  • Vyn's Story: Blossom Chapter 2Continued its story arc, some time following MY BC1
    • Student Vera Walton applied to open a PUA Victim Support Club on Stellis University campus to help students. This club soon gained support of both school and police, becoming a famous support group based in Stellis City.
  • Grant Family Doctor, Dr Ding, returned from vacation.at least half a month after E3 start (mid July)
  • Trial Date
    • 10:00 - Criminal Court
      • Court called the People of Stellis City versus Harry Grant for the case of Gordon Grant's murder. Prosecutor represented the People of Stellis asserting Harry was guilty of negligent homicide, while MC represented Harry.
      • Due to multiple revisions of witness testimonies, defence claims and prosecution case could not be substantiated without conclusive evidence. Harry Grant and Joanne Scott both found not guilty.
  • Moonriver Pharmaceutical Laboratories' illegal research was seized by police.'
  • Gordon Grant's embezzled assets were returned to Harry Grant after Gordon Grant's associates were arrested.
  • Joanne Scott cooperated and forwarded information about Moonriver Pharmaceutical Laboratories to relevant the authorities.
  • Doctor Yang Xiao visited Xia Yan for a welfare check and update. Xia Yan had given Yang-ge two boxes of Heirson effervescents to test against what infected Xia Yan. At least another month is required for analysis.
  • Stellis City Officer was KIA, survived by his extremely ill child. Though unaware of the circumstances, Lu Jinghe donated generously for the child's treatment.Recently, before E4

• August
  • Stellis City Court updated the final trial date for Businessman Lawrence Myers for the assisted murder of Appraiser Van Kerrel.Thursday before trial date; few days before E4 start
  • FridayFriday
    • NXX Investigation Team meeting - Lu Jinghe wanted to investigate Case 1036, Van Kerrel's murder and contacted Main Character.
    • Main Story Episode 4: Les TournesolsFollows from E3, after LJH BC1 and before BC2, "relatively" close to Nov
    • Main Character and Zuo Ran were going through evidence when Lu Jinghe contacts Main Character for an investigation into Van Kerrel's death.
  • SaturdayNext day
    • Lu Jinghe's giftItalian handmade shoes he designed for Main Character arrived from Italy.
    • Morning - Johnny Bailey passed away (30 years of age)."This morning"
    • 09:00 - Main Character met Lawrence Myers, who was in police custody.09:00 the following day from E4 start
    • Main Character and Lu Jinghe visit Van's house and encounter Johnny Bailey
    • Johnny Bailey set fire to Van Kerrel's house.
    • Johnny Bailey's true identity was revealed.
    • Main Character accepts to be Lawrence Myers's lawyer.
    • Evening - Lu Jinghe's assistant sends paperwork and photos to Main Character.
  • Sunday - Main Character received identity records from the High-Speed Rail."The next day" after Sat
  • ThursdayA week laterNext Thursday from E4 start
  • 10:00 - Criminal Court.
    • The court called for the People of Stellis City versus Lawrence Myers for the case of Van Kerrel's assisted suicide. Prosecutor represented People of Stellis City in the case against Lawrence Myers, MC represented Lawrence Myers.
    • The court found insufficient evidence to implicate Mr. Myers, and pronounced him not guilty. Evidence established a new prime suspect and the case was transferred to criminal investigation department for re-investigation.
  • Lawrence Myers went on trial for fraud.Not long after E4 trial
  • Bobby Davis went on trial for murder and confessed everything."Not long after" (E4 trial)
  • X03A laboratory results were completed. It was found to contain illegal substances.After E4 trial
  • Tyson Turner was hospitalised for cancer.After E4 trial
  • Main Character officially requests to join NXX Investigation team.After E4 trial
  • Xia Yan received a new assignment from Yang Xiao.
  • Lu Jinghe received an encrypted message. A special investigator has been dispatched to assist with NXX Investigations.
  • SundaySunday - NXX Investigation Team meeting
    • Zuo Ran invites Main Character to attend.Sunday following E4 conclusion
    • Main Story Episode 5: Sins of Cynicism (Part 1)Follows from E4, Sunday

• • Marius' Story: Blossom Chapter 2Follows after LJH BC1, end of a month, after E4
    • Lu Jinghe hosted an Art Salon for art collectors.
  • Jason Sanders and Cher Young were arrested for art fraud.Few days later after LJH BC2
  • Reimi Lee was transferred to Pax's Private Hospital for treatment.
  • Jason Sanders was recruited into Pax Art Foundation.
  • Headline: "Another work from Z! He's making a strong comeback after a long silence!"Z began trending again after the Pax exhibition

Assumptions and notes

• Episode 1 begins in 2030.
  • Big Data: Lu Jinghe was admitted into Stellis University as a graduate student in 2030.
  • Big Data: Ricardo is a new modelling talent and the winner of the 2030 Stellis Modelling Competition.
  • Investigation item dated March 2028. Photo "was taken two years ago."
  • "It is as if you've travelled back in time from the current year, 2030."
  • Incident of a case occurred "On Friday, the third of this month".
  • MC and Lu Jinghe's encounter is during Summer (June - August).
• 2030 calendar dates align as 1st of November is a Friday (date and week day is noted in Xia Yan's first birthday event Tablet UI date).
  • The only Friday that is 3rd of the month in 2030, is in May.

• Assume the male leads to be their promotional age in 2030. Each year celebrated with them is an additional year to their age.
  • Artbook counts notable age milestones as age for x year.
  • Assume for NPCs, the noted age in NXX-OS is the age for the year the event approximates if alive, or age when they died.

• The natural seasons and school semesters follow Northern Hemisphere cycle.
  • Xia Yan's birthday (December) stories and events are during snow season in illustrations.

• Approximate timing: Estimated with multiple references within story and other stories.
• Assumed timing: Estimated with references between stories due to lack references in-story.
  • Luke "Timely Rescue" can be read any time after reunion, Luke "Inner Sanctum" before Luke "Moment of Danger".
  • Mo Yi can be loosely read in any order before or just after Vyn's Story: Blossom Chapter 1, but recommended as Vyn "Mercury in Retrograde"Made up for missed E2 gallery visit; cookies, Vyn "False Tears"MC learns of MY hobbies, Vyn "Mended Heart"Pondering feelings, then Vyn "Lingering Warmth"Jealousy developments as MY falls more and more; starts gifting; MC is over for new teasets and tea is a thing; talks more about hobbies.
  • Zuo Ran has minor details in additional to seasonal timings and best in order of Artem's Story: Blossom Chapter 1, Artem "Sparks", Episode 3: The Weight of a Soul, Artem "In Sickness or in Health", Artem "Autumn Dreams", Artem "Thin Veil", Episode 5: Sins of Cynicism (Part 3), Artem "Focus Fire".
    • Vyn "Gentleman's Game" holds inconsistencies to main story-line, and best read as standalone for background lore for this male lead.
  • Marius' Story: Blossom Chapter 1 before (any order) Marius "Dream of Thebes", Marius "Overtone", Marius "Child at Heart", and Marius "A Dance on the Clouds".

• 2006 - 2007
  • Main Character was born; "wasn't born 25 years ago"
    • Unknown if Xia Yan or MC is older.
    • No mention of birthday around reunion; can assume -/+ month out of birthday timing.
    • MC says "Your horoscope sign," indicating she may not be Sagittarius. (XY second birthday)

Conflicts

• General conflicts: the order will be Artbook, original text, then localised text.
• Main story is likely to have a different timeline to all other events (birthday, one-time events, mini events, etc). Time passing within and between each Episode is often vague.
• There are five distinct timelines for all Tears of Themis Stories and events. One for each of the male leads' personal stories and their respective events, and main story line.
• There are card and event stories cross over into main story. It is likely that when reference occurs from male lead card story into main story, there is an alternative and neutral event that occurred within the main story timeline, with that male lead.