The future is still unknown, and the past remains buried beneath the waves. After your journey across Mt. Firmament, all clues now point to a hidden island in the sea—the Black Shores. Yangyang's message hints that in the Port City of Guixu, you might find the Bloom Bearer now stationed in Jinzhou...
Dialog blocks are currently not sorted correctly.
| 1 |
That's weird. These parameters are correct, but nothing's happening. What's going on…?
|
| 1 |
Are you a Bloom Bearer from the Black Shores?
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| 2 |
Yes. Need something?
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| 3 |
Oh!? So… y-you're the one Aalto invited earlier?
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| 3 |
The one and only.
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| 4 |
Ohhh! Sorry I didn't recognize you!
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| 5 |
Golden pupils and this Blake Bloom. Yeah, it's you alright!
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| 6 |
I'm Niya, a Bloom Bearer from the Black Shores. Didn't expect to meet someone as important as you under these circumstances...
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| 7 |
I know it's unusual, but… could you help me out now that we're working together?
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| 7 |
Hold on, I haven't decided if I want to join the Black Shores.
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| 8 |
Really? But Encore mentioned you'd be joining soon...
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| 8 |
Can you explain what's going on first?
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| 9 |
Actually, we're monitoring abnormal parameters and detected a problematic frequency that needs to be taken back to the Black Shores.
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| 10 |
The Port City of Guixu was decimated by the Lament. If this frequency goes unchecked, it could trigger another catastrophe...
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| 10 |
Are the stakes really that high?
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| 11 |
Yes, that's why the Tethys System sent us to locate and recover this frequency as soon as possible, to prevent a potential disaster.
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| 12 |
Our agents relayed the coordinates, but...
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| 13 |
Since then, I've lost contact with them, which doesn't sit well... I'm stuck here monitoring, can't leave my post.
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| 14 |
Do you think you could help check out what happened?
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| 15 |
If things aren't looking good, we might need to inform Jinzhou's City Hall, like we did before.
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| 16 |
We will need to act fast, then.
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| 17 |
That's the worst-case scenario. If we contain the frequency as the Tethys System advises, nothing bad will happen.
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| 18 |
{PlayerName}, I want to help her.
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| 19 |
As an Outrider, it's my duty to safeguard the peace.
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| 19 |
Guess I'll take charge. No surprise there.
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| 19 |
You're right. We can't just sit this out.
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| 20 |
Thank you! It's reassuring to have a Midnight Ranger with us. I'll send you the coordinates of the abnormal frequency.
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| 20 |
By the way, what do you mean by "abnormal frequency"?
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| 21 |
Could be the Reverberations or something in the Sonoro Spheres.
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| 22 |
In Solaris, frequencies can be anything. One thing's for sure though, this frequency represents gravity.
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| 23 |
It's abnormal because... it has its own gravitational center. You should be able to feel a palpable anomaly near it. That's how you can locate it.
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| 24 |
I trust you'll handle it smoothly. But remember, your safety matters most. Don't hesitate to retreat if you run into any real danger.
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| 25 |
And once you're back, we'll hurry to the Black Shores to upload it to the Tethys System… Oh! I forgot you haven't been to the Black Shores, have you?
|
| 25 |
Not yet, at least.
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| 26 |
No worries. I'll be your guide then.
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| 1 |
Well, well! Look who I bumped into—a Midnight Ranger!
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| 2 |
Ah! Rover, you're finally here...
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| 3 |
So you're the Rover, huh? Delighted to make your acquaintance.
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| 4 |
This is Youhu from Jinzhou. Like Mr. Chenpi, she's an expert in antiques.
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| 5 |
That's me!
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| 5 |
What brings an antiques expert here?
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| 6 |
To uncover clues about hidden antiques, of course! Since Mt. Firmament reopened, Master and I noticed artifacts from there popping up in the market.
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| 7 |
Aside from Court of Savantae gadgets, there are still plenty of mystery items that don't exactly scream Mt. Firmament, ya know?
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| 8 |
So…
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| 8 |
So...
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| 9 |
So I'm betting they're from the Port City of Guixu!
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| 9 |
I received a message from Yangyang.
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| 10 |
Yes, I remember you mentioned wanting to learn more about your past ties to the Black Shores.
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| 11 |
The battle in Norfall Barrens is over, and the Black Shores should be withdrawing... but they've asked the Midnight Rangers to monitor the area around the Port City of Guixu.
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| 12 |
I thought this might be your chance to gather more information about them...
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| 12 |
I'm touched you remember what I said.
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| 13 |
Ah!?
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| 14 |
You, er, brought it up before.
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| 15 |
Aw, Yangyang's got a soft spot for you, huh? Are you her SPECIAL someone?
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| 16 |
Oh, come on. I-I just know it means a lot to you.
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| 17 |
Relax, I'm just teasing. So {PlayerName}, you're tracking the Black Shores too?
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| 17 |
I still have this Blake Bloom that Aalto gave me.
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| 17 |
This should lead me to them, right?
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| 18 |
Since we're on the same trail, how about teaming up?
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| 19 |
Let THIS master be your guide! You and me, dream team. Nothing is going to slow us down.
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| 19 |
That's a little dramatic, to say the least.
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| 20 |
Not to boast, but epic adventures tend to have a way of finding me.
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| 21 |
Since Rover's here, let's talk to that Bloom Bearer first.
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| 1 |
What…
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| 2 |
Look for survivors, quick!
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| 3 |
It's… too late.
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| 4 |
So, they're the agents Niya was waiting for...
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| 5 |
What happened here…
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| 6 |
Welcome.
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| 7 |
Astral Modulator, the Rover herself. We have awaited this reunion for a long time.
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| 7 |
We?
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| 8 |
Yes… WE.
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| 9 |
We are the gravitational force you seek.
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| 10 |
Time... is running out. Hoda. My name is Hoda.
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| 11 |
This is MY name. I once lived under it… as a Bloom Bearer.
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| 11 |
Is this your doing with the Bloom Bearers?
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| 12 |
Heh heh, "you"? Which one of us are you talking to? Men or women, elders or children?
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| 13 |
Do you hear the echoes of our "lament"?
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| 14 |
Remember… Remember it all…
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| 15 |
Remember your past, the past you turned your back on… The past as one of the Black Shores...
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| 16 |
And respond... respond to the promises you made, to the future we're bound to share.
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| 17 |
Salvation... is forging a world where saving is no longer needed.
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| 18 |
No, no! They want you to become a part of them. I can't let it happen.
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| 19 |
Run! RUN! {PlayerName}!
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| 20 |
What you seek… is on the girl…
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| 21 |
She has it...
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| 22 |
Eugh! What does any of this have to do with me?!
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| 23 |
Where did it go? No, wait. Don't go over there, {PlayerName}!
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| 23 |
It claimed it was the gravitational center we're looking for.
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| 23 |
It must be the abnormal frequency the Black Shores want recovered.
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| 24 |
The remaining frequency there is in extreme chaos. It's dangerous.
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| 25 |
Hold on! Hey, what's happening?! It's starting to glow!
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| 26 |
It must be from the Black Shores! Look at this!
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| 27 |
A mysterious object pulses with rhythmic light, seemingly harboring some form of frequency.
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| 1 |
I need to learn more about this thing. My master and I guessed it's from the Black Shores, and now it looks like we were right!
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| 2 |
The abnormal frequency definitely links to the deaths of those Bloom Bearers.
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| 3 |
Now it's hiding in this object, but I can still feel its strong attachment to the Black Shores.
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| 4 |
Solving this issue is beyond our capabilities. Besides, they also mentioned Rover and the fall of the Port City of Guixu.
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| 5 |
We should meet with that Bloom Bearer first and explain the situation. This is best left to the experts.
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| 5 |
You're right. We need to keep her informed.
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| 6 |
Let's go, {PlayerName}. I've a bad feeling about this.
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| 7 |
I sense there's more to this than meets the eye…
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| 8 |
Port City of Guixu must hold secrets waiting to be discovered.
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| 9 |
As the group moves forward, Yangyang informs the Midnight Rangers of the situation and begins preparations to recover the Bloom Bearers' bodies...
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| 1 |
Lalala, happy watering…
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| 2 |
Grow and bloom, my sweet little flowers…
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| 3 |
Ahh! Don't sneak up on me like that!
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| 3 |
Are you watering the flowers?
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| 4 |
Of course! As a capable Gardener, I always give ultimate care to all these flowers.
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| 5 |
Planting, watering, pruning, airing, and giving them sunshine!
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| 5 |
...So, where's the Modulation Device?
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| 6 |
Upstairs! See that piano? That's the Modulation Device.
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| 7 |
Oh, hold on! Please plant a flower.
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| 7 |
What?
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| 8 |
Plant-A-Flower!
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| 9 |
In the Black Shores, each member plants a flower here. Most choose flower seeds from their hometown.
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| 9 |
What flower did Aalto plant?
(Jump:10)
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| 9 |
What flower did Encore plant?
(Jump:11)
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| 9 |
What flower did Camellya plant?
(Jump:12)
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| 10 |
Hmm... Aalto didn't plant a flower but a tree. A money tree, I remember…
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| 10 |
(Jump:13)
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| 11 |
I forget, but Encore didn't bring a seed from her hometown.
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| 11 |
(Jump:13)
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| 12 |
Camellya? She planted so many! Countless. She created an entire garden of flowers…
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| 12 |
(Jump:13)
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| 13 |
So, what kind of flower seed would you like to plant from your hometown?
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| 13 |
My hometown? I don't remember where I'm from.
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| 14 |
Um… So you're a wandering traveler, right? Then a Blake Bloom would probably suit you well.
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| 14 |
A Blake Bloom?
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| 15 |
Of course! Even if you don't remember your hometown, the Black Shores can be your new home. The Blake Blooms we give each member symbolize that!
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| 15 |
I belong here...?
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| 16 |
Yeah, you could say that… Um?!
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| 17 |
Wait! KU-Water, are you feeling that? You... you're getting the same feeling, right?
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| 18 |
Hmm, yeah… You look familiar, but I can't remember where we met...
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| 19 |
Request… Request… No response.
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| 20 |
But the Tethys System reacted to your face...
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| 21 |
Ohhh!!!
|
| 21 |
What?!
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| 22 |
Strange. I found a record of you in the system, but it suddenly disappeared...
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| 23 |
What happened? Why did Tethys suddenly tell us to leave... Alright, let's go, KU-Water. KU-Money is waiting for us.
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| 24 |
O-okay. See you next time!
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| 25 |
Under the instruction of the Tethys System, the two robots leave.
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| 26 |
It seems like the Tethys System is hiding something from you…
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| 27 |
However, KU-Water and KU-Plant have already departed. Your best course of action now is to inspect the Modulation Device.
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| 1 |
This piano is playing by itself.
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| 2 |
Hmm? Do you know how to play the piano?
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| 2 |
No. It's doing that all by itself.
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| 3 |
I guess the Black Shores have earned their mysterious reputation. They even have a self-playing piano.
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| 3 |
(Try to touch a key)
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| 4 |
…
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| 5 |
The piano seems to respond to your touch.
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| 6 |
So you do know how to play!
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| 6 |
(Keep touching the keys)
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| 7 |
…
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| 8 |
I don't have a musical bone in me, but that sounded good.
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| 8 |
It sounds familiar.
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| 8 |
(Keep touching the keys)
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| 9 |
In every sound and frequency lies an emotion.
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| 10 |
Just like this, expressing what's on your mind through music…
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| 11 |
It's something even you can do. You'll give it a try, won't you?
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| 12 |
Hey! Wake up! What was that?
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| 12 |
Did I just see...?
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| 13 |
Ugh, what? It's just been the two of us here this whole time!
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| 14 |
Ah! Another earthquake!
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| 15 |
What's happening? Run! We need to get out of here!
|
| 1 |
All right! All the repairs are finally done.
|
| 2 |
Thank you for your help, {PlayerName}.
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| 3 |
Without you leading the charge, we would have barely made it—
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| 4 |
You are… Hoda.
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| 5 |
Oh, I forgot to tell you. We finally found out her true identity.
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| 6 |
She wasn't lying when she said she was a Bloom Bearer. She worked as a field medic.
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| 7 |
But more importantly, she died in the Lament that destroyed the Port City of Guixu a few hundred years ago.
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| 8 |
In short, she couldn't be alive.
|
| 8 |
Then how is any of this possible?
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| 9 |
Hoda is but one of us. In the Tethys System, our registered name is… Necrostar.
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| 10 |
We are forever trapped on the event horizon of the black hole, falling into an unending darkness…
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| 11 |
Beneath the Lament's wheels we are but dust, pitiful souls cursed to suffer dreadful eternity, denied the solace of death.
|
| 12 |
My mentor… the one I follow…
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| 13 |
Please… I beg you to end this Möbius loop, this endless cycle...
|
| 14 |
Welcome home, {PlayerName}.
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| 1 |
You stand on these shores once more. Welcome home, {PlayerName}.
|
| 1 |
You saved me back in the Port City of Guixu?
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| 2 |
I wished to keep you from any harm.
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| 3 |
Forgive me for acting on my own accord.
|
| 3 |
Was that you on the beach before?
|
| 4 |
…
|
| 4 |
Why do you look sad?
|
| 5 |
Sad? Pardon me, such emotions are not mine to show…
|
| 6 |
Yes, it was I.
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| 7 |
Long ago, when you first brought the Black Shores into existence on this island, I assisted you in managing this place.
|
| 8 |
You once wove the threads of this world together, but then you left, roving the boundaries between this realm and the next.
|
| 8 |
I don't remember any of this…
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| 9 |
You have lost far more than just your memories.
|
| 9 |
But the Black Shores...
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| 10 |
Since your departure, the Tethys System has been the sole leader of the Black Shores.
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| 11 |
Most have never seen you, and that is all by your design.
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| 12 |
This place, built by your hands, holds all its resources at your disposal.
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| 13 |
You have more important matters to attend to than dealing with everyday trifles. That is why you entrusted the Tethys System with the Black Shores' governance.
|
| 14 |
This time, only you have the ability to end all of this. Completely.
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| 15 |
This is also your first step towards the future.
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| 15 |
Hoda said something similar.
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| 16 |
You mean…
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| 17 |
You tell the Shorekeeper what happened in the Port City of Guixu.
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| 18 |
She was indeed a Bloom Bearer, but mysteries still surround her and the departed.
|
| 19 |
The departed, whom you saw in the Port City of Guixu, caused those abnormal frequencies. Only you can mend those errors.
|
| 20 |
Rest assured, I shall always be by your side, to assist you as before.
|
| 20 |
What happened back then…?
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| 21 |
I am sorry, but I must keep this secret from you.
|
| 22 |
Perhaps, as you restore the Tethys System, you will uncover the reasons for severing ties with your past…
|
| 23 |
Wandering traveller, please tell me.
|
| 24 |
Are you satisfied with your journey and stories in Jinzhou?
|
| 24 |
The people in Jinzhou are nice.
(Jump:25)
|
| 24 |
I'd say it's been a good start to the adventure.
(Jump:26)
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| 25 |
Is that so? I'm glad to hear that.
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| 25 |
(Jump:28)
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| 26 |
In Solaris, Jinzhou is but the beginning of your journey.
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| 27 |
Please, have faith. The path ahead shall be as splendid as you desire.
|
| 27 |
(Jump:28)
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| 28 |
What should I do now?
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| 29 |
The gate to the underground has been opened. Pass through it, and you will reach the depths of the Black Shores.
|
| 30 |
Your journey has only just begun.
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| 31 |
Beyond the Black Shores lies Solaris itself.
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| 32 |
Before you go, can I ask a favor?
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| 33 |
When all is settled, will you share your stories from Jinzhou with me?
|
| 1 |
Phew, finally out of the cave.
|
| 2 |
But why is the fog still so thick? I can't even see you!
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| 3 |
Because you're at Veiled Rock, your vision is veiled. Now, how about explaining what brings you here, uninvited guests?
|
| 4 |
Wh-what…!? {PlayerName}!?
|
| 5 |
Is it really you? No, no, don't let this be a dream… At last! You've come to me, to the Black Shores!
|
| 5 |
Wait, what? This is the Black Shores?
|
| 6 |
Precisely.
|
| 7 |
But how did you manage to get here?
|
| 8 |
You recount to Aalto the events that led to your arrival here.
|
| 9 |
I see… Tsk, the situation doesn't look good.
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| 10 |
That Hoda might not be one of us.
|
| 11 |
But I'm curious... could I have a look at that item the antique dealer gave you?
|
| 12 |
You hand the antique Youhu gave you over to Aalto.
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| 13 |
Huh, didn't expect to see it outside Mt. Firmament…
|
| 13 |
You know what it is?
|
| 14 |
A monitoring register. We, Black Shores members, place these around the world to keep an eye on the Sentinels. If anything happens to them, we'll know immediately.
|
| 15 |
Looks like it was also used to record abnormal frequencies in the Port City of Guixu…
|
| 15 |
But why was I teleported here?
|
| 16 |
Maybe the Tethys System has a soft spot for you? But without more details, I can't say for sure.
|
| 17 |
Since your arrival, has anything unusual caught your eye?
|
| 18 |
You tell Aalto about the person you met on the beach…
|
| 19 |
A person in light blue… Could it be the Shorekeeper?
|
| 19 |
The Shorekeeper?
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| 20 |
Yes, the elusive guardian of the Black Shores, who is said to be always watching our true leader, shielding us from danger. It seems you've had quite the encounter.
|
| 21 |
In times of great adversity, the Shorekeeper will reveal herself and support our true leader, who, at the destined moment, will rise to save and guide the Black Shores. Fantastical or not, that's all we've got to go on.
|
| 22 |
There must be a reason she went to such lengths for you.
|
| 23 |
Ahem... Anyway, let's not get carried away. We should head to the Greenhouse. The abnormal frequency you collected needs to be uploaded to the Tethys System as soon as possible in order to avoid another Lament in the Port City of Guixu.
|
| 24 |
Given that we've already lost enough of our own to it, we need more Bloom Bearers to handle this.
|
| 25 |
As for the information you're after—
|
| 26 |
It's already spread this far…
|
| 27 |
Seems like the Tethys malfunction is getting worse.
|
| 28 |
We need to hurry. Time is one luxury we do not have. Let's save the rest for the road.
|
| 1 |
This is what the Black Shores really looks like.
|
| 1 |
You're just a projection, right?
|
| 2 |
To be exact, my body is composed of Sonoro Spheres, and the projection you see is but a shadow of the Sonoro.
|
| 3 |
I cannot leave my post. As the core computational unit of the Tethys System, I must remain to ensure its proper functioning.
|
| 4 |
Yet, I still wish to be with you. This is the only way.
|
| 5 |
Seeing a sky like this down here is a real surprise.
|
| 6 |
This place holds records of every Lament across Solaris—those that have passed, those happening now, and those yet to come.
|
| 7 |
Here, a planet's Lament transforms into stars that fill the sky.
|
| 7 |
Hoda called me the "Astral Modulator."
|
| 8 |
Does that name have something to do with this place?
|
| 9 |
Astral Modulator, Guide of Civilizations, Mastermind of the Black Shores…
|
| 10 |
Before you severed ties with your past, it was indeed one of your names.
|
| 11 |
Perhaps you have a preference?
|
| 11 |
What did you call me?
|
| 12 |
Me…?
|
| 13 |
I would call you by your true name, {PlayerName}.
|
| 14 |
I have always addressed you as such. In the past and present, through countless years.
|
| 15 |
That is the Necrostar, once known in ancient astronomy as a "black hole."
|
| 16 |
The Tethys System transforms data into stars, observing the entire Solaris, and discarded data are cast into the Necrostar.
|
| 17 |
The abnormal frequency you encountered in the Port City of Guixu is part of it—or rather, it is the Necrostar itself.
|
| 18 |
Please bring it back to the Modulation Hall, and I shall correct it.
|
| 19 |
Then, the Tethys System will be restored, and harm will be no more.
|
| 20 |
My only hope now... is that we are not too late.
|
| 21 |
Go ahead. I am always with you.
|
| 1 |
You're safe. It's okay now.
|
| 2 |
I... I heard her voice.
|
| 3 |
Yes, she's here. Don't worry, you'll be fine.
|
| 4 |
I'm here with you now.
|
| 5 |
Stay with us, the medical team will arrive any minute.
|
| 6 |
I fulfilled my duty... as a member of the Black Shores...
|
| 7 |
Your effort won't be wasted. We will restore everything to normal and ensure everyone's safety.
|
| 8 |
Thank you... Please... Stop them...
|
| 9 |
We will. Have a good rest now, you've done enough.
|
| 10 |
Your actions will shine bright like the stars, a beacon for all to see.
|
| 10 |
What happened?!
|
| 11 |
An entire Necrostar was forcefully discharged into the Error Cell without warning.
|
| 12 |
The error codes spilled out as a result. At its worst, it looked a lot like virtual blood seeping through the ground.
|
| 13 |
We had to seal the underground gate to protect the Control Room. But someone had to retrieve the key...
|
| 14 |
He did what was necessary, even if it meant risking his own life.
|
| 15 |
I admit... I am surprised to see the Shorekeeper here.
|
| 15 |
How's the Agent doing?
|
| 16 |
He is severely infected with abnormal frequencies... It could be fatal.
|
| 1 |
...
|
| 1 |
Are you alright?
|
| 2 |
It might sound abrupt, but... I have begun to sense a change within myself.
|
| 3 |
More precisely, it's the part of me that rests in my garden. I feel... something different.
|
| 4 |
Something... I don't know how to describe...
|
| 5 |
It's clear that the Agent's condition is terminal.
|
| 6 |
But still, I lied to him...
|
| 6 |
I'd do the same if I were you.
|
| 6 |
White lies are necessary sometimes.
|
| 7 |
I've done this before, by imitating the you I remember from many years ago.
|
| 8 |
You did what a leader must, but when I looked into your eyes, I could feel it—the emotion humans call sorrow.
|
| 9 |
Maybe… I should express that emotion in situations like this.
|
| 9 |
You've learned this from me?
|
| 10 |
Yes.
|
| 11 |
You led the Black Shores with empathy, and it's my responsibility to carry it forward in your absence.
|
| 12 |
But... I'm currently unable to fully comprehend this feeling.
|
| 12 |
Human emotions are complex.
|
| 13 |
I see. Well, it is our utmost priority to deal with the Necrostar to prevent further harm.
|
| 14 |
The only way to achieve this is by bringing the Necrostar to the Modulation Hall and initializing it within Tethys.
|
| 14 |
Gravity caused the destruction of Port City of Guixu.
|
| 14 |
Does the Necrostar have any connection to the Port City of Guixu?
|
| 15 |
This Necrostar is the black hole that destroyed the Port City of Guixu.
|
| 16 |
When the Lament struck the city, many were unable to escape and were drawn into the black hole.
|
| 17 |
The data you brought back is directly related to that event.
|
| 17 |
Is the Black Shores experimenting on the Lament?
|
| 18 |
Yes. You've questioned this approach before.
|
| 19 |
That's why I aim to change it.
|
| 19 |
How?
|
| 20 |
I have the highest access to the Tethys System. Bring the Necrostar to the Modulation Hall, and I'll erase its corrupted data.
|
| 21 |
Once it's done, Tethys will function as it should, and no one will get hurt again.
|
| 22 |
But as I mentioned, I'm only a projection without physical form... Could you assist me with this?
|
| 22 |
It feels familiar...
|
| 23 |
Did I do the same thing 20 years ago?
|
| 24 |
...
|
| 25 |
Yes.
|
| 26 |
I'm here to help and protect you, just like I always have.
|
| 27 |
But this time, I will bring everything to a proper end.
|
| 27 |
Let's talk again once we're done with all this.
|
| 28 |
There are many things I need to understand.
|
| 29 |
Of course... We have plenty of time for it.
|
| 30 |
Long enough to talk about the past, the present, and the future.
|
| 31 |
Will you trust me?
|
| 31 |
I don't see any reason not to.
|
| 32 |
Thank you...
|
| 33 |
...for everything you've done.
|
| 1 |
I think... therefore I am?
|
| 2 |
Existence precedes essence—how should one comprehend this sentence?
|
| 2 |
Hello?
|
| 3 |
Hmm, what an intriguing question.
|
| 3 |
Excuse me? Could you tell me where I am?
|
| 4 |
Ah, my apologies, I was immersed in contemplation and didn't notice you.
|
| 5 |
This is Eidoscope, a garden linked to the Tethys System, where the Shorekeeper resides.
|
| 6 |
The Shorekeeper is here?
|
| 7 |
Well, this is her garden. It's only natural for her to be here.
|
| 8 |
Though she often takes the guise of the Sonoro, she has revealed herself recently. It's been some time since I last saw her.
|
| 9 |
As for this garden, it's where she assists Tethys' computational analysis in observing the stars.
|
| 10 |
Ahem, that explanation should suffice. Back to the question now...
|
| 11 |
Existence... Hmm, is it real? If it is, what about me? Do I truly exist?
|
| 12 |
It appears there's little point in continuing the philosophical debate with the robot.
|
| 13 |
Perhaps checking on the Shorekeeper is the more pressing matter.
|
| 1 |
Aalto, there you are. And this is…?
|
| 2 |
The Rover just arrived. She is the one we invited earlier—the mysterious Resonator who appeared in Jinzhou.
|
| 3 |
So you're the Resonator who confronted the Threnodian? I honestly didn't expect to meet you in person!
|
| 4 |
Ahem, sorry, I got a bit carried away. My name's Monica, the chief administrator—or "housekeeper" around here.
|
| 5 |
I was supposed to show you around, but things are quite hectic right now. My apologies.
|
| 6 |
You heard about what happened in Guixu, right?
|
| 7 |
Yes, we received word from Jinzhou's City Hall about their actions. We also alerted them to the Tethys System's likely warning of a potential Lament in the Port City of Guixu.
|
| 8 |
The data you brought back has been uploaded to the system, but as you know, Tethys has been unstable.
|
| 9 |
So the problem isn't solved.
|
| 10 |
Exactly. We need Tethys functioning normally to fully resolve this.
|
| 11 |
But retrieving the abnormal frequency was a significant step forward.
|
| 12 |
Those Bloom Bearers didn't sacrifice themselves in vain…
|
| 13 |
It could have been much worse if they hadn't risked their lives to transmit the coordinates back to Niya. And thank you for risking your life to retrieve the data.
|
| 14 |
What's the current situation?
|
| 15 |
Efforts to stabilize the Tethys System are underway.
|
| 16 |
Good to hear. By the way, since you deal with all our contacts, does the name "Hoda" ring any bells? She claims to be a Bloom Bearer.
|
| 17 |
Hoda? No, I don't recall any Bloom Bearer by that name. Why do you ask?
|
| 18 |
You tell Monica what happened in the Port City of Guixu…
|
| 1 |
So, this is related to that abnormal frequency…
|
| 2 |
Maybe she's a traitor.
|
| 3 |
That theory doesn't hold water. Not only are traitors incredibly rare in our history, they are all documented.
|
| 4 |
And there's no record of her in the system. Was she trying to mislead us?
|
| 4 |
She told me I was once part of the Black Shores.
|
| 5 |
Hmm, that's strange, because we just added you to the recruitment list recently.
|
| 6 |
She's quite the mystery... Monica, can you try to gather more info about this Hoda for us?
|
| 7 |
Of course. If it concerns the security of the Black Shores, it's my job.
|
| 8 |
If this... "person" was truly residing in that abnormal frequency, "she" could be responsible for those deaths.
|
| 8 |
If she was residing in that abnormal frequency…
|
| 9 |
Did we just upload it to…?
|
| 10 |
—Damn it, we've been tricked. We just fed it back into Tethys!
|
| 11 |
Careful!
|
| 12 |
Well, looks like she's made herself at home in Tethys.
|
| 13 |
I'll check with KU-Money to assess the current situation underground. We need to do everything in our power to protect Tethys from any harm.
|
| 14 |
{PlayerName}, could you please accompany Aalto to the Greenhouse? We need you to find the KU-Water robots.
|
| 15 |
Also, ensure the Modulation Device in the Greenhouse remains secure.
|
| 16 |
…I'm sorry. You were meant to have a pleasant time here…
|
| 17 |
When the dust clears, I'd like to formally welcome you to join us.
|
| 1 |
Ku ku ku…
|
| 2 |
Aalto? I've told you before, when it comes to the classic games on the TR-1200, you don't stand a chance against me. Not in the slightest!
|
| 2 |
Is that... a talking robot?
|
| 3 |
Well, in a sense, yes. They're directly linked to the Tethys System, their voice frequencies are encoded into languages we could understand. If you think about it, they could be considered a unique living race of their own.
|
| 4 |
As for the Tethys System, imagine it as a supercomputer. The Black Shores relies on its calculations to observe, forewarn, and solve anything Lament-related.
|
| 5 |
Anyway... let me introduce you to KU-Money. They manage the cash flow and keep tabs on robot terminals across the region. They're the shrewd profiteer of the Black Shores.
|
| 6 |
Yo, hold up! You can't call me that! Every move I make is about stacking those chips for the Black Shores!
|
| 7 |
Easy there. Let's get back to business.
|
| 8 |
The recent quake's stirred up Tacetite's interference. How's your underground connection holding?
|
| 9 |
Rock solid. As long as Tethys is up, we're wired tight.
|
| 10 |
That's comforting. Hey {PlayerName}, you can give the abnormal frequency to KU-Money. They'll handle the upload.
|
| 11 |
You hand over the card Youhu gave you to the peculiar robot.
|
| 12 |
This a new rookie? You've got skills if you snagged that abnormal frequency from Port City of Guixu. Better not underestimate you.
|
| 13 |
How's the upload? Already sent the data back to Tethys?
|
| 14 |
Yeah, all done.
|
| 15 |
What's going on, Aalto? I never see you this serious.
|
| 16 |
The Tethys System has been shaky lately. You've noticed, right.
|
| 17 |
What's worse, along with the data, we received some terrible news. The Bloom Bearers we sent to the Port City of Guixu… We lost them all.
|
| 18 |
H-how did that happen!?
|
| 19 |
What happened in that city…
|
| 20 |
Since you're linked to the Tethys' data bank, can you check if there's a Bloom Bearer named Hoda registered?
|
| 21 |
She might have something to do with the deaths of our people.
|
| 21 |
She seems to be able to control gravity.
|
| 22 |
She referred to herself as a "we."
|
| 23 |
A Bloom Bearer whose Forte is controlling gravity… I've checked all records of both Resonators and Bloom Bearers, but I didn't find anyone matching your description.
|
| 24 |
I haven't heard of anyone with such an ability either.
|
| 25 |
Gravity control? Sounds farfetched. I'd sooner believe in someone minting Shell Credits.
|
| 25 |
Unlikely that exists in any universe.
(Jump:26)
|
| 25 |
Keep me posted if you find one.
(Jump:27)
|
| 26 |
Well, it's a big world, after all. Since we already know someone who can resonate with the Sentinel… you never know.
|
| 26 |
(Jump:29)
|
| 27 |
Sure thing! We can split the Shell Credits they generate, 30-70. I'll take the 70, you take the 30. That's the deal!
|
| 28 |
Says Mr. Cheapskate!
|
| 28 |
(Jump:29)
|
| 29 |
Oh, almost forgot.
|
| 30 |
Here, take this!
|
| 31 |
KU-Money takes out a large sum of money…
|
| 32 |
Uh, sorry?
|
| 33 |
Each Black Shores member is allocated a specific fund, and this is yours. Find me when you burn through it all.
|
| 34 |
That's not fair. You've never given me that much before!
|
| 35 |
I deducted the money you lost to me in games. It was all you had left!
|
| 36 |
Oh, by the way! Are you heading to the Greenhouse?
|
| 37 |
If a Bloom Bearer dies outside the Black Shores, we bring their body back and keep Monica in the loop.
|
| 38 |
Oh, we need to send out a warning as usual. There's still a lot to do...
|
| 39 |
KU-Money is right. Just in case, the Tethys System is very likely to send out a warning to Jinzhou about an imminent Lament in the Port City of Guixu.
|
| 40 |
As for Hoda... If she's a Bloom Bearer, there should be a record of her in the system. And if such a Resonator existed, the Black Shores would definitely know.
|
| 41 |
Hold on. There's another possibility…
|
| 41 |
She's not from the Black Shores?
|
| 42 |
Yeah, that's one possibility. Not to worry, if the machine route doesn't work, there's another way...
|
| 43 |
Let's go to the Greenhouse. Most of us like to gather there, and Monica, our chief administrator, is stationed there as well.
|
| 1 |
Th-thank goodness, you're finally awake! I-I thought you fell so hard th-that you wouldn't be able to make it…
|
| 1 |
Where am I?
(Jump:2)
|
| 1 |
Who are you?
(Jump:3)
|
| 2 |
Y-you're at the Bank of Life. As you can see, i-it's an underground seed bank.
|
| 2 |
(Jump:16)
|
| 3 |
M-me? I-I am KU-Nana, an underground Gardener. I-I take care of the flowers here.
|
| 3 |
(Jump:16)
|
| 16 |
So I'm already in the underground area, huh?
|
| 4 |
Y-yes…
|
| 5 |
Usually, no one comes to the Bank of Life except the Shorekeeper…
|
| 5 |
Where is the Shorekeeper?
|
| 6 |
Hmm, as far as I can remember, she seems to have never left this place.
|
| 7 |
She used to come to the Bank of Life once in a while, choosing a flower to plant in her own "garden." But she hasn't come for a very, very long time.
|
| 8 |
To be exact, it's been twenty years, five months, and seventeen days since her last visit.
|
| 8 |
I need to fix Tethys' errors.
|
| 9 |
Then you need to go to the Data Hub where the Stellar Matrices... I mean collections of stars are stored. Unfortunately, it's been out of commission for a while now.
|
| 10 |
The Shorekeeper has probably been too busy trying to fix it to visit.
|
| 11 |
If the Shorekeeper places her trust in you, then y-you shall have our trust too.
|
| 11 |
Thank you for trusting me.
|
| 12 |
KU-Money shared your information with us through the Tethys System.
|
| 13 |
I only know how to take care of plants, and I can't do much in this situation… but I still want to help if the Black Shores, my home, is in crisis!
|
| 13 |
I'll give it to the Shorekeeper.
|
| 14 |
Thank you so much!
|
| 15 |
Go straight ahead, and you'll leave the Bank of Life!
|
| 1 |
Apologies. I should have controlled my Sonoro vision.
|
| 1 |
Those scenes... they look real.
|
| 2 |
Have you experienced them yourself?
|
| 3 |
I was entrusted to lead the Black Shores in your absence.
|
| 4 |
It's through this duty that I can protect you and what you cherished.
|
| 5 |
Though I've never witnessed the Lament firsthand, others have shared their experiences with me.
|
| 6 |
I've encoded them into observable stars, enabling the Tethys System to issue Lament alerts.
|
| 7 |
I am sorry.
|
| 7 |
Why apologize?
|
| 8 |
I... should have done better.
|
| 9 |
This disaster could have been prevented... if only I had been more dedicated to understanding those experiences and emotions.
|
| 9 |
You've done well.
|
| 9 |
Things could've been a lot worse without your help.
|
| 9 |
You've saved many lives.
|
| 10 |
I will give it my all, even if I must sacrifice my Sonoro, or myself...
|
| 11 |
This is the only way to protect the stars... and you.
|
| 12 |
I made my vow to you long ago, {PlayerName}. It remains just as true today.
|
| 13 |
I will break the shackles of fate.
|
| 14 |
I will unravel the Möbius loop that binds you.
|
| 15 |
I will give my all to honor my commitment.
|
| 16 |
How do I describe this feeling...? Is it guilt, dismay, or perhaps... longing?
|
| 17 |
What emotion should I express now?
|
| 1 |
The floating device appears to be made out of Tacetite. It emanates a strange aura.
|
| 1 |
(Reach out your hand)
|
| 2 |
Authorized access, operation confirmed.
|
| 3 |
Hey! Don't just eat whatever's in front of you!
|
| 4 |
This looks awful! Ugh, like the worst stew ever made!
|
| 5 |
This frequency...
|
| 6 |
W-what are you staring at?
|
| 7 |
It's the one.
|
| 7 |
The one?
|
| 8 |
This frequency has dwelled within you for millions of years...
|
| 9 |
I'll keep an eye on it. We have more important matters at hand.
|
| 10 |
Wait, are you saying I'm not important here?!
|
| 10 |
Why did you wake up again, Abby?
|
| 11 |
'Cause you were about to gulp that hotchpotch of who-knows-what stuff! Go grab something normal if you're hungry. But this? Absolutely no!
|
| 12 |
This thing... It's like a dark, spooky hole. Once you fall in, you'll never crawl back out.
|
| 13 |
Precisely. This is the Necrostar, a black hole that will suck anything close to it into oblivion.
|
| 14 |
That little creature is able to perceive objects by their frequency...
|
| 15 |
Just as it described, the Necrostar's frequency is indeed incredibly complex.
|
| 16 |
Speaking of which, are you feeling discomfort anywhere?
|
| 16 |
Not at all. The black hole doesn't affect me.
|
| 17 |
No, I'm referring to that creature...
|
| 18 |
Do you feel anything unusual when interacting with it?
|
| 18 |
I feel fine.
|
| 19 |
...That's good to know.
|
| 20 |
The Necrostar's singularity has been retrieved. Let's take it to the Modulation Hall.
|
| 21 |
I'll stand by you until the very end of this journey.
|
| 32 |
A Blake Bloom imbued with the Shorekeeper's longings, holding the key to a fresh beginning after saying goodbye to the Shorekeeper at the End of Wandering. It grants the highest level of access in the Tethys System.
|
| 1 |
The corrupted data is contained! The Necrostar's event horizon is stable, and the Data Hub is back online!
|
| 2 |
We did it! The Tethys System is back online!
|
| 3 |
The Rover... you did it!
|
| 4 |
Wait, where's the Shorekeeper? Wasn't she with you?
|
| 4 |
She sacrificed herself to the black hole to save me.
|
| 5 |
What?!
|
| 6 |
But she has admin access to the Tethys System! How could she just disappear like that?
|
| 7 |
No! That can't be right!
|
| 7 |
The black hole...
|
| 8 |
Wait! What if she's still in the process of falling?
|
| 9 |
What do you mean?
|
| 10 |
Gravity is the only pre-Lament law of physics that still holds true today.
|
| 11 |
Someone once told me that...
|
| 12 |
The law of gravity from the old world still holds true today.
|
| 13 |
Objects will stay in perpetual free fall inside a black hole.
|
| 14 |
You mean...
|
| 15 |
Oh! I get it!
|
| 15 |
We might still see her on the black hole's surface!
|
| 16 |
This is unprecedented... We've never considered observing a Necrostar before.
|
| 17 |
But I remember reading about similar theories in ancient texts. It might just work.
|
| 18 |
Attention all units! Our observation target is now the Necrostar. Deploy all available equipment!
|
| 19 |
Understood! It'll take some time!
|
| 20 |
We must save the Shorekeeper at all costs! The Black Shores can't afford to lose her.
|
| 21 |
She's been watching over us all along...
|
| 22 |
We'll bring her back, no matter how long it takes.
|
| 23 |
Ma'am, we've pinpointed the Shorekeeper's location in Tethys!
|
| 24 |
And not just her, we've identified the relative positions of everyone captured by the black hole beyond the event horizon!
|
| 25 |
To rescue them from the Necrostar, we'll have to redesign it using the principles of the new world.
|
| 26 |
In other words—
|
| 26 |
We must fight against the Tethys System.
|
| 27 |
But the Tethys System's programming is impeccable, almost otherworldly... Is it really possible to do that?
|
| 28 |
Besides, we still need a decoy with the highest-level access to divert its computational power so we can find the Shorekeeper.
|
| 28 |
I'll do it.
|
| 29 |
No, it's too risky!
|
| 30 |
We can't be sure if the rescue will suceed, and we can't afford to lose another member!
|
| 31 |
And there isn't anyone with higher access than the Shorekeeper.
|
| 31 |
Tethys, confirm my access.
|
| 1 |
You place the Necrostar on the analyzer...
|
| 2 |
Stellar Matrix confirmed. Classification: Necrostar.
|
| 3 |
Would you like to start the remodulation?
|
| 3 |
Yes.
|
| 4 |
Loading backup data from the Necrostar. Simulating the Port City of Guixu...
|
| 4 |
It's the city destroyed by the Necrostar...
|
| 5 |
Backup data loaded. Please confirm.
|
| 6 |
That's the digital entrance of the Matrix! It worked!
|
| 7 |
So to complete the remodulation, just enter the Matrix and collect Tethys' redirected data.
|
| 8 |
Please wait.
|
| 9 |
The Tethys System now uses less of my computational power since the Necrostar was controlled.
|
| 10 |
I can assist you, {PlayerName}. Please, let me come with you.
|
| 11 |
...I must keep my promise.
|
| 11 |
Are you feeling okay now?
|
| 12 |
It's fine, I can link with more Sonoro Spheres to stay functional.
|
| 13 |
My duty must be fulfilled as long as I still physically exist.
|
| 14 |
I'll be fine. From now on, no one will ever be harmed.
|
| 15 |
Please, trust me.
|
| 1 |
From the distant past to the far future, everything begins and ends here.
|
| 2 |
When you established the Black Shores to unite Solaris, the Tethys System already existed.
|
| 3 |
Later, you discovered it relied on emotions from the Lament to fuel its calculations. Without them, it cannot function.
|
| 4 |
Using the Lament against itself is like walking on a Möbius loop with no end in sight.
|
| 5 |
We have tried for millennia to break this cycle without success.
|
| 6 |
And then... you left the Black Shores to look for other solutions.
|
| 7 |
But deep down, you already knew the best solution. It was one you couldn't accept.
|
| 8 |
That solution is me—the tool always meant to become Tethys' core.
|
| 9 |
If I don't do this, you, as the Modulator of this system, will be chosen as the core. I must fulfill my duty to protect you.
|
| 10 |
But... I want to be by your side, to see the skies you've seen, to tread the paths you've walked. I want to understand... what happiness really means.
|
| 11 |
When I first discovered these emotions, I didn't know what to do...
|
| 12 |
So I lied to you, thinking it was the best choice for both of us...
|
| 13 |
I... I'm sorry...
|
| 14 |
Sorry for putting you in harm's way...
|
| 15 |
"Salvation is about building a world where people no longer need to be saved."
|
| 16 |
This is why we return to this shore.
|
| 17 |
No one should be treated as a mere tool.
|
| 18 |
I...
|
| 18 |
We're back at the Black Shores now, back to our home.
|
| 19 |
Welcome home, my Shorekeeper.
|
| 20 |
Yes.
|
| 21 |
Thank you. My... star.
|
| 2 |
…{PlayerName}! Finally got through…
|
| 3 |
Hey, you scared us to death!!!
|
| 3 |
Sorry, the Tacetite's interference was too strong.
|
| 3 |
I'm in the Black Shores now.
|
| 4 |
Glad to know you're all right.
|
| 4 |
Chixia, is that you?
|
| 5 |
Yeah! Just so you know, we got the Black Shores' warning, so we cranked up the defenses in Jinzhou.
|
| 6 |
The Midnight Rangers are preparing to secure the Port City of Guixu, and…
|
| 7 |
As for the Bloom Bearers who have passed, we'll bring their bodies back to the Black Shores.
|
| 8 |
I know the Black Shores hold many answers for you—your memories, your past…
|
| 9 |
Though the road ahead is uncertain, I hope you find the truth you seek.
|
| 10 |
And please remember, you never have to bear the weight alone... I... We are here with you. Always.
|
| 1 |
Confiming access... {PlayerName}, Chief Steward. Welcome.
|
| 2 |
What? How do you have top security clearance?
|
| 2 |
The Shorekeeper transfered her access to me in our last moments.
|
| 3 |
She gave you her access? Are you somebody important that we should know about?
|
| 4 |
Wait, that ancient prophecy...
|
| 5 |
In times of great adversity, the Shorekeeper will reveal herself and support our true leader, who, at the destined moment, will rise to save and guide the Black Shores forward.
|
| 6 |
You... You are the—
|
| 7 |
It's not important.
|
| 8 |
Our focus now is the Tethys System.
|
| 9 |
Members of the Black Shores have followed Tethys' calculations and commands.
|
| 10 |
Even the Shorekeeper herself is used as a pawn.
|
| 11 |
But humans shouldn't be treated as mere tools. History teaches us this, and we should never forget it.
|
| 12 |
No system is flawless, just as no human is perfect. That's why we have the right to question Tethys' decisions.
|
| 13 |
In Jinzhou, I learned an old saying: "We can't change the past, but we can shape the future."
|
| 14 |
That's what we need to do now—learn from our mistakes and build a better future.
|
| 15 |
The Black Shores exist for one reason: to protect everyone on this planet, because people are the heart of civilization.
|
| 16 |
We can fix broken systems, but without people, civilization has no soul.
|
| 17 |
Sorry to jump in but... I couldn't help overhearing what you've been saying...
|
| 18 |
Consultant Aalto?
|
| 19 |
Do what you have to do. Leave the ground area to us.
|
| 19 |
I'll bring her back, mark my words!
|
| 20 |
You've heard what she said.
|
| 21 |
Attention all units! Readiness Level One enabled. Switch the Tethys System to full recursive search mode. Prepare to open the transmission passage!
|
| 22 |
Rover, we're counting on you to save the Shorekeeper and the Black Shores.
|
| 19 |
Some time later...
|
| 1 |
About that frequency dwelling within you...
|
| 1 |
You mean Abby?
|
| 2 |
Yes.
|
| 3 |
It seems to be "hungering" for something.
|
| 4 |
Have you ever felt anything unusual?
|
| 4 |
I don't feel anything...
|
| 4 |
Abby's been unusually quiet these days.
|
| 5 |
My Sonoro can sense even the most minor changes in frequencies.
|
| 6 |
So I can tell that there's something strange about that frequency.
|
| 7 |
I'll search for more information in the Tethys System and share what I find with you.
|
| 7 |
How is the Tethys System now?
|
| 8 |
After being fixed, it's executing the master command given at its creation.
|
| 9 |
The core computational unit has now been replaced by a special frequency that shares similar properties as the Lament.
|
| 10 |
But this one is... more harmonious and mild.
|
| 10 |
What about you? Are you still confined to this place?
|
| 11 |
...No.
|
| 12 |
Although I must stay here to watch over the Black Shores, I'm now able to bath in the sunshine and feel the sea breeze with you.
|
| 12 |
This is what freedom feels like.
|
| 13 |
It feels delightful.
|
| 14 |
I know you have your own journey to finish.
|
| 15 |
You can entrust the Black Shores to me, and I'll carry out my duty as always.
|
| 16 |
You have the full support of the Black Shores, no matter where you are or how far you go.
|
| 17 |
And... despite all the many names you bear, I see you for who you truly are.
|
| 18 |
Wherever your path leads, I hope to walk it with you.
|
