NEVERLAND

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## NEVERLAND

* Splash art
* Logo

### Event Start

December 7th, 2023 After maintenance (18:00) (UTC+9)

## Sources

Twitter
Official website

For other uses, see NEVERLAND (disambiguation).
**NEVERLAND** is an event in *Goddess of Victory: Nikke*. It is both the 24th story event and the 2023 Christmas event. According to a letter from the developers, the event's story will be fully voiced.

The event follows the story of the commander who must explore the north regarding a hot spring.

## Synopsis

At the behest of Andersen, the protagonist is deployed to investigate reports of hot springs appearing in the frozen north. There, he and his squad get a warm welcome from the owner...Ludmilla?

## Story

*Canonically set after the events of Miracle Snow, Blue Water Island, Sea, You, Again, and Alone Survivor.*

### Prologue - Hot Spring Discovered

A yawn leaves the mouth of Neve, the resident polar bear fanatic of Unlimited. As she peers around for a place to ~~hibernate~~ take a nap, she notices a building off in the distance...

Approaching the building, Neve bumps into Tove, Unlimited's ~~self-proclaimed~~ survival expert. They take a look around and see the makings of a hot spring resort. The walking path and the shops arraying it are well-preserved, the resort is *almost* the perfect getaway, save for the detail that there's no water to be seen anywhere. Remembering what she came here for, Neve asks Tove for assistance in digging a hole where she wants to burrow for a while.

The two dig away at a certain spot, and after some time, they're nearly finished. Just then, a \*thunk\* and a \*hiss\* come from the hole, and Tove wonders if they've just hit a gas main. The surroundings begin to rumble, and the two diggers are sent flying back as a jet of water gushes from the ground. After panicking a bit over the scalding hot water, they decide to get Ludmilla to take a look at things.

While Alice is enjoying herself with the warm water, Ludmilla muses at this fortuitous find. Inspecting the flow, Tove posits that this hot spring would provide enough water to revitalize this area and make it a working resort again. In fact, that was *exactly* what Ludmilla was planning to do, since they may as well make the most of this spring. But before she can do that, she has to notify the Ark of this development...

### Part I

#### Search for the Hot Spring

Deputy Chief Andersen is in a meeting with the CEOs Ingrid and Mustang. Syuen requested her absence from this meeting, as Missilis is currently occupied with business-related matters this time of year. Andersen reports that Unlimited has discovered a hot spring in the north, prompting Mustang to cheer over his Nikkes and their unexpected boons.

With that out of the way, Andersen requests Elysion and Tetra Line devote some squads towards reconnoitering the hot spring and its surroundings for resources. Ingrid reports that the Scouts and Absolute are available to take on the mission. Mustang decides to send the Carronades, as Belorta and Mica are, by his testimony, light on their feet and would be a good fit for scouting missions.

With the lineup set, Andersen prepares to notify Enikk of the mission details. Ingrid hopes there are no unexpected surprises like what happened last summer, but Andersen assures that Unlimited's presence will surely prevent a similar scenario from occurring, since they're giving the mission to "him."

Some time later, the protagonist is summoned to Andersen's office during a routine patrol with Counters. The Deputy Chief explains that the Ark is undergoing *another* resource shortage, and he wants them to investigate the newly-discovered hot spring for viable resources. The departure will be in three days' time, right on Christmas.

The additions of Absolute, the Carronades, and the Scouts is welcome news for the protagonist, as Counters is unfortunately slated for maintenance on and after Christmas. Andersen accepts and simply notes Counters will not be on the mission roster. The man assures that this mission will see little to no complications due to the squads participating and their expertise in scouting missions. By his take of it, it shouldn't take long to get the job done, leaving plenty of time after to enjoy the hot springs. On that note, Andersen dismisses the protagonist so he can get to another meeting. But before the commander departs, Andersen stops him to commend him for his efforts this year, and the two wish each other a Merry Christmas. Stepping outside, the protagonist notes that he'll need to explain the upcoming mission to various squads...

Signal is excited to hear she'll be heading out to a hot spring, something she's only seen on her TV dramas up to now will surely be another layer of warm feelings on top of her already-high spirits from the Christmas season. Ever the on-duty soldier, Delta reminds her subordinate that this is still a mission, though she's willing to lend a hand so they can spare some time for the hot springs. Having finished his business, the protagonist bids farewell to the Scouts, musing that they've no objections to the mission.

The next squad to be notified is Absolute, and while Eunhwa is as prickly as ever, Emma and Vesti are quite happy to hear about the mission details, especially the part where they can soak away their worries after they're done. With his piece said, the protagonist ~~gets shooed out by Eunhwa~~ steps out of the Armory.

Belorta and Mica are elated to see "Old Timer" at the Toy Store, given how he's their first ~~and only~~ customer *this entire week*. Sidling past that bit of sad news, the upcoming mission is a welcome surprise to Belorta, though Mica seems less happy about it. In fact, she's requesting that the Carronades be *dropped from the mission roster*...

#### Curse

With slightly teary eyes, Mica explains that the Carronades simply have *the worst* luck when it comes to Christmas. Every year, without fail, Belorta either gets hurt or something bad happens to her. Sure, nothing happens to Mica herself, but it still tears her up inside how her best friend keeps getting shafted every Christmas. Despite Belorta insisting it's all good, Mica cites last Christmas at the Amusement Park, where Belorta tripped and scraped her knee getting off the merry-go-round.

The protagonist notes that a string of bad luck *that* consistent sounds more like a *curse* than anything, a notion that Mica assents. It's the whole reason why they try not to do anything big for Christmas, and going on a mission to the surface *definitely* qualifies as big enough to trigger the curse. It takes some time and effort ~~and reminders it's an official order from Mustang and Andersen~~, but the protagonist and Belorta eventually managed to convince Mica to at least hope that *this year*, Christmas will come and go without Belorta getting into some kind of mishap that sends her to the Repair Center...

A few days later, on Christmas. While waiting for the assigned squads to arrive, the protagonist is messaging Counters, who are already away for maintenance. After chatting away, the protagonist bids Rapi, Anis, and Neon a goodbye and a Merry Christmas, hoping he'll be able to go with them to the hot springs next year.

The door slides open as the Scouts, Absolute, and the Carronades stride into the room. But just as the protagonist is declaring the mission a go, the door slides open again to reveal...Blanc and Noir of 777? The two bunnies reveal that Mustang made a last-minute revision, and apparently neglected to notify the protagonist...

To make a long story short, their Christmas show at Coin Rush was cancelled due to technical difficulties, and while they *were* going to just help Rouge with her work, Mustang decided to shake things up and assign them to the hot springs mission. To him, giving the twins something to do *and* beautifying them with the health benefits of the hot spring was a two-for-one too good to pass up.

While somewhat flummoxed by the spontaneity of Mustang, the protagonist and co. are happy to have Blanc and Noir join the mission. Spirits are high as everyone has hot springs on the mind when they depart...

The trek to the north is a lighthearted one, and everyone's excitement over the snow and the hot springs chases away the cold. Though Mica can't help mother-henning after Belorta and waiting for the other shoe to drop. The protagonist does his best to assuage concerns, but there's only so much he can do when Mica seems intent on her ~~paranoia~~ vigilance...

Eventually, they reach the coordinates near the Northern Base, spying a massive building amidst the trees lining the road. Marveling over the size of the resort and the springs, the protagonist knocks on the door, and out comes Ludmilla, dressed in attire befitting her surroundings and warmly welcoming the newest guests of Snowfield Hot Spring.

#### Snowfield Hot Spring

After a moment of everyone admiring Ludmilla's new dress, the proprietress of Snowfield beckons them into the premises. The scattered thermal pools dotting the terraces mixed with relaxation spaces is everything one could expect of a hot spring resort. Ludmilla explains that Unlimited did quite a bit of work to touch up the place, with some help from Mighty Tools.

As to where the rest of Unlimited and Mighty Tools have gone, Ludmilla explains they're scouring the area for more hot springs. It's her hope and theirs that if they can find more springs, they can expand the resort and turn the frozen north into a relaxing paradise. It's a notion that gets a nigh-unanimous approval from the group, who are already raring to take a dip.

Ludmilla notes that she has no problem with letting everyone use the springs once their mission is over, or even right now. There's just one little thing she'd like to ask of them. Snowfield, despite how large and luxurious it seems, isn't quite 100% complete yet, so she'd appreciate some help getting things in order. The protagonist sees no problem with it, given just how many people he brought for this mission.

While Blanc and Noir note the good luck of conveniently bringing so many on this mission, they also ask Ludmilla for some spare clothes, as their current attire is...not exactly suitable for traipsing in the snow or taking a dip in a hot spring. Fortunately she does, but there's only three sets of clothes since she was only expecting Counters for company. The Scouts, Absolute, and Belorta politely decline the outfits, the latter letting Mica get dressed up while Ludmilla takes the others inside for tea.

The interior of the hotel is warm and spacious, and the tea only makes it even more relaxing. Soon enough, Blanc, Noir, and Mica come out in their new kimonos, which everyone compliments on the style. Mica is particular seems to fit in so well Ludmilla actually asks her to work at the resort for a while, with compensation of course. While Belorta ~~gently bullies~~ teases her friend about potentially quitting the Toy Store, the protagonist decides now's a good time to get their work started.

The group splits up between helping Ludmilla with the resort's maintenance and scouring the area for resources the Ark could use. The protagonist hops around assisting with various matters, though for some reason, Belorta keeps gifting him snowballs with hearts drawn on them, and *this* one has a *mysterious red liquid* on it. As Mica notices, it turns out Belorta is wiling away the time doing what she always does; pranking people. In this case, she decided to give the protagonist a *hot-sauce coated snowball* to make his hands burn. While commiserating over being victims of Belorta's antics, the protagonist notes that Mica is a lot calmer now. Seeing Belorta frolic and trick people has done wonders for her mood, but Mica can't *quite* shake this uneasy feeling...

Ludmilla calls Mica to help her with something, while also telling the protagonist if he's planning on talking with Andersen, he should probably report about how there are a lot more minerals in the soil than they expected. As if to demonstrate, Delta's digging at Signal's directions pulls up another mineral, one of a different color than the rest they dug up so far. On that note, he decides now is a good time to report their initial findings to Andersen.

The exchange is short and to the point, with Andersen telling the protagonist he and his Nikkes can spare some time to enjoy the hot springs once they have some samples of minerals and dirt. It'd be a shame to make them work and come back straight away without any R&R on Christmas, or so he claims. With a final advisory to preserve the samples so they can be studied at the Ark, the call ends. The protagonist decides to notify the others about this development.

With the mission officially complete this soon, most everyone is over the moon at the prospect of staying at the resort for a while. Especially Belorta, who continues her streak of pranking the protagonist with hot sauce and snowballs. While musing on the nature of the ~~bratty~~ mischievous Carronade, a crashing sound rings out as Belorta trips and tumbles to the ground. In a flash, Mica is there, worriedly looking over her friend for injuries. With Belorta lightly chiding Mica over her mothering, Ludmilla steps in and offers her own piece. In her eyes, taking a tumble or two is just part and parcel of being a kid, and Mica doesn't need to worry so much thanks to the resort's medical facility. Though Mica still seems a little uncertain, Ludmilla keeps on and declares a start to the vacation.

#### Shaky Friendship

With the vacation officially on, everyone is taking the time to do their own thing. The protagonist decides not to watch Emma *massage* Noir and instead turns to Signal, who's reciting flowery lines like she's in one of her TV dramas. The radio operator becomes flustered upon noticing she has a captive audience, and scurries off. Belorta considers now a good time to go in the hot spring, but is vehemently denied by Mica, who's doing everything she can and then some to keep her friend safe and sound, eventually settling for waiting until they can step in together.

The protagonist muses on how Mica has become a helicopter parent towards Belorta ever since the previous tripping incident, and is more or less being a wet blanket on any of the latter's attempts to enjoy herself on this vacation. Taking over Belorta's assigned tasks, telling her not to pick up random bugs she finds interesting. Even the upbeat prankster of the Carronades finds it too much, and ends up getting in a fight with Mica over getting in the way of her vacation. The distraught Mica pleads to the protagonist to help her with this spat, and he first suggests she calm down so they can brainstorm an apology.

#### How to Make a Merry Christmas

Ludmilla comes by to see what the fuss is about, and a blubbering Mica manages to explain the situation. Acknowledging that Mica has reason to worry about Belorta's wellbeing, Ludmilla posits that perhaps Belorta also wants Mica to enjoy her vacation. After all, she's has spent so much time mothering Belorta that she's barely done anything for herself during what should be a fun and relaxing time at the resort.

Seeing Mica ponder over Belorta's way of caring, Ludmilla gestures to a vine on a nearby tree. The tree gives the vine a stable place to grow, and in turn the vine helps the tree remain steady. Neither of them try to domineer or overbear on one another. She muses that friendship is much the same way. One should take care of their friend, rather than try and railroad them into a specific thought or action. Mica acknowledges that she *has* tried to force Belorta into doing things she doesn't want, and thanks Ludmilla for her advice as she dashes off to apologize.

Seeing the little Carronade run off, the protagonist asks Ludmilla if she really thinks their relationship can survive this. The proprietress is confident that it will, given how much Mica and Belorta care for one another, which ironically was also the root of this squabble. On that note, Ludmilla invites the protagonist for teatime with her, since it's been so long since he brewed a cup for her...

After having tea with Ludmilla, the protagonist hears a strange noise. The two follow the source to find Mica apologizing to Belorta...or rather, *practicing* her apologies to Belorta. The Carronade paces around mired in worry, completely oblivious to the fact that Belorta is *right behind her*. The latter notices the protagonist off to the side and the two chat about why she hasn't gone to Mica yet. One is that her friend is a bundle of nerves right now, so a sudden interaction would likely be counterproductive. The second is that she's still a little mad, even if she doesn't show it. Eventually, Belorta changes topics and decides to elucidate why exactly Mica hates Christmas. Belorta's holiday misfortunes run all the way back to when she was human, because Christmas was the day she *died*.

Seeing the shocked looks on Ludmilla and the protagonist's face, Belorta elaborates further. That Christmas, back when Belorta was a human in the orphanage, she died *right in front* of Mica. The fear Mica has of having that happen *again* is the reason why she worries every Christmas, and this one is no exception. Yet however much Belorta understands Mica's feelings, she wants her friends to spend at least *one* Christmas happily, instead of just thinking of the bad old days of the orphanage. That's why she wants Ludmilla and the protagonist to help Mica understand; Christmas is a day when people are meant to be *happy*. Though Mica normally believes every word Belorta says ~~sometimes to her own detriment~~, "Christmas=bad" is the one thing her friend won't budge on by words alone. With the two agreeing to do what they can, Belorta dashes off to her own thing, leaving a commander and a Nikke to ruminate on what they've heard and agreed to. But first things first, they have a sad lonely child to look after...

Later, Ludmilla and the protagonist try talking to Mica, who's still fretting over her inability to apologize to Belorta. The protagonist proposes they hold a Christmas party, and give Mica a chance to apologize either during prep or the event itself. Knowing just how much her friend *loves* Christmas parties. Mica briefly pauses as she remembers they'll need Ludmilla's permission for such an affair, but the proprietress is more than happy to do so. It's Christmas, so holding a Christmas party is all part of the fun. And if it helps patch up a relationship, all the better. They just need to apprise everyone of the impending festivities.

The proposed party gets nigh-unanimous approval, save for the ever-dour Eunhwa. There's a brief bout of panic as *Emma* volunteers to help Ludmilla *cook*, but Signal and Vesti save the day by suggesting Emma do desserts instead, like the cookies she made last Christmas. Blanc and Noir decide to work on decorations, with some help from Delta and surprisingly Eunhwa. Belorta volunteers to help Emma with the desserts, and the protagonist notices Mica struggling to say anything. Eventually, Ludmilla "volunteers" Mica to help with making a cake, prompting the latter to look towards the protagonist with pleading eyes. The man folds and puts himself in the cake team as well, much to Belorta's joy and Mica's relief.

#### A Merry Christmas?

The cake team gets to work, with Emma and Mica doing the batter while the protagonist and Belorta stuff the strawberries with ~~hot sauce~~ chocolate. The baking quickly gets out of control as Emma keeps fumbling ingredients and adding too much to the mix. Thankfully, Mica salvages the situation by simply deciding they'll have to make an extra-large cake. This display of acumen prompts Belorta to sing praise about Mica's ability to make food taste delicious, leading Mica to bashfully downplay her skills.

With the last ingredient being a small bit of sugar, Emma suggests the protagonist do the honors, given her recent streak of dropping things. It goes well at first, but then he fumbles at the last moment and adds a *mound* of sugar to the mix. After an awkward silence, Belorta starts chuckling as even "Old-Timer" had a bad case of butterfingers. Mica assures the cake will be fine. It'll just be very sweet...and big. Come what may, she'll do what it takes to ensure this cake comes out delicious.

Some time later, the cake is complete. It is indeed quite large. Emma notes how plain the presentation is and suggests decorating it. Unfortunately, there's not enough frosting left, so Emma instead proposes using *ketchup* as a decorator. Both the protagonist and Mica become befuddled by this idea, especially when Belorta recalls the Maid Cafe doing a similar thing that turned out pretty tasty by her testament. The protagonist notices Mica's eyes have turned blank as she dissociates from this impending culinary disaster, and he frantically looks for an alternative.

Suddenly, Mica snaps out of her trance to foist a bag of chocolate, suggesting they use these instead to adorn the cake. Unfortunately, it does little to dissuade Emma's ~~terrible~~ cooking ideas, so the group settles for half chocolate, half ketchup for the decorations. Mica gets a contemplative look on her face as Belorta busts a gut from laughing over everyone's antics. After some time, the chocolate-strawberry-ketchup cake is completed...

Meanwhile, Blanc and Noir are reporting the completion of a decorated Christmas tree. Signal and Vesti marvel over the precision of the light arrangements, courtesy of Delta and Eunhwa. While Belorta is busy giving Emma a frosting mustache, the protagonist notices Mica looking over the proceedings with an odd expression. He asks for her thoughts, and Mica explains that Christmas is a *lot different* from what she thought it was. To Mica, Christmas was a day where people *forced* themselves to smile, but everyone she can see here...their smiles are genuine. Maybe Belorta had a point about her being overly biased against Christmas. The protagonist explains Christmas is a time for cheer and celebration, as they both gaze upon the smiling faces of everyone...

With the preparations complete, Ludmilla asks everyone to gather round the table as the lights switch off, leaving the room dark save for Blanc and Noir's string lights along the ceiling, and the glow of the lights on the Christmas tree. The food Vesti and Signal made with Ludmilla practically envelops the table, plus the chocolate-strawberry-ketchup ~~abomination~~ cake the protagonist made with Emma, Mica, and Belorta.

Ludmilla thanks everyone for all their work, and declares the party's commencement as everyone exchanges Christmas wishes. Blanc and Noir first go for the cake, ketchup for the former and chocolate for the latter. The ketchup cake gets a surprisingly good review, with even Eunhwa and the protagonist finding it palatable. A glowing testament to Mica's skills as a baker. However much Mica tries to downplay her effort, it falls on deaf ears as people reach for another piece...

#### Mica and Belorta

With the party getting livelier as time passes, Belorta decides to get some fresh air outside, inviting Mica to come along with her.

Outside, the Carronades relish in the cool air, a stark contrast to the lively but stuffy interior of the resort. Belorta muses that Mica's cake really stole the show, but can't shake the feeling something is missing from this festive occasion. By which she mean she wants to set off fireworks, and holds out her hand to invite Mica to do the same. Elated at this development, Mica takes her friend's hand, and the two make ready for their entertainment.

Belorta steps back in with Mica to notify everyone of the impending fireworks show and bring the protagonist along. Blanc and Emma are excited to see it, but Ludmilla vetoes it due to snow buildup on the mountains. In the face of the Carronades' kicked-puppy expressions, Ludmilla relents on the condition she accompany them, and they wait until the weather clears up.

Mica and Belorta chatter about the fun they've had this Christmas, and their shared feeling that every Christmas they have from now on will be much the same...

### Part II

#### Christmas Nightmare

With the weather clearing up, Ludmilla sees little reason to stop the Carronades from setting up their fireworks show. While the protagonist and herself are escorting the little Nikkes, Blanc and Noir are left in charge of the resort for the time being.

Seeing the Carronades skipping hand-in-hand, Ludmilla and the protagonist feel their hearts stirring, with the latter moved to the point of tears.

As the group nears the peak of the mountain, the wind suddenly picks up as if to defy Ludmilla's idea that things would get easier. With the protagonist feeling like he'll either freeze from cold or be blown away by a gust, Ludmilla deems it too dangerous to proceed and tells the Carronades to abort the fireworks until things quiet down. While Belorta is downcast that they're turning back so close to the peak, Mica's worries and the protagonist's condition convince her to stop, if only to avoid endangering everybody else...

The descent is somehow even more treacherous, with the protagonist needing Ludmilla's support to avoid tumbling down the slopes. Just as the group nears the base of the mountain, the gale is accompanied by a \*crack\* and the sound of snow falling from the peak. The snowstorm has gotten bad enough to cause an avalanche, and it's *heading right towards them*. Seeing Mica frozen in shock, Ludmilla jolts the little Carronade back to reality so they can dodge the avalanche.

When the dust settles, Ludmilla performs a headcount. Thankfully, the protagonist is alright, but Mica's blank-eyed horror tells it all even before she speaks. Belorta is *gone*, likely buried under the snow. Try as Mica might to dig through the cold and call for her friend, the silence is more chilling than the wintery cold around them.

With eyes and voice mired in despair, Mica mutters that they never should have come out here. In the end, Christmas is a day of tragedy, and nothing can change that for her...

Belorta and Mica's past, in Angel Orphanage. The director tearfully told the reporters that the children meant everything to him, and he'd do his utmost to take care of them all. Off to the side, a female Sovereign handed out presents to the children and embraced the director, giving the press plenty of shots for their publications.

The Sovereign noticed Mica's shoulder was injured while handing out presents, and despite the child's attempt to deflect, Belorta had no such compunctions. She told the lady that the director *struck Mica*. While the man blubbered and tried to defend himself, the Sovereign simply called the interview to a close and told the reporters to pack up. On her way out, she whispered to the director, subtly threatening him not to sully the reputation of the Sovereigns funding the orphanage, else they'd cease their contributions. Belorta scoffed at the lack of action on anyone's part...

Later that night, Belorta fell terribly ill, likely a consequence of not eating until earlier that day. Mica wanted to notify the director to take Belorta to a hospital, but the latter insisted bedrest was all she needed. Then the director stormed in, ready to let Belorta have it for ruining the interview before noticing her state...

Mica wasted no time pleading to the director to get Belorta some help, cling to his arm. The director flung her aside, accusing them of wanting to expose his abuses to the doctors. As Belorta's conditioned worsened, Mica kept clinging on and beseeching the director, even as he started hitting her to get her to let go. Then as he raised his hand for another blow...Belorta jumped out of bed to shield Mica from the fist. Belorta insisted that all she needed to do was endure it for a little bit longer. But she never did. That night, on Christmas, Mica's only friend died in her arms...

Back in the present, Mica keeps digging in the snow screaming Belorta's name and apologizing, even when her hands turn red and swollen from the cold. Ludmilla and the protagonist's attempts to calm her down fall on deaf ears until the former grabs the Carronade Nikke's shoulder. Ludmilla tells Mica to calm down and rest. She'll work with the protagonist to find Belorta and bring her back. Mica simply stares blankly ahead, to the space her friend occupied just moments prior...

#### Life and Death

Ludmilla and the protagonist scour the snow for what feels like ages, but neither hide nor hair of Belorta can be found. With conditions worsening and no signal available, Ludmilla proposes heading back to regroup. Then the protagonist notices Mica, still blank-eyed...

The despairing Carronade mutters about how she lost her friend *again*. Even after they became Nikkes, in the end, the world decided they could not be together forever. If she has to live in a world without Belorta...*is that even a world worth living in?* Lamenting how she never got to apologize for their earlier fight, Mica's feet take her *dangerously close* to the cliff Belorta was near. But before she can dive off to *rejoin her friend*, the protagonist lunges and grabs Mica's arm.

With the protagonist holding her down, Mica finally responds to his presence, if only so she can tearfully plead him to let go. Let her go, so she can leave behind a world without Belorta. Unable to formulate a response, Ludmilla proposes they head back before the weather gets any worse...

Back at the resort, everyone is worried sick about Mica's condition, and are taken aback when they hear Belorta is missing. Ludmilla explains the situation, and that everyone here will need to assist her as Unlimited is still out of contact. As Eunhwa agrees to assist, Ludmilla lays a map and compass on the table.

The map itself displays a wide area around the Northern Base. Snowfield is located smack in the middle of the map, with Belorta's last known location being the mountain approximately 0.6 miles away from the hot spring. Absolute and Delta are tasked with sweeping the northwest, while Signal remains behind to manage communications between search teams. Ludmilla recruits Blanc and Noir to accompany her in lieu of her Unlimited subordinates. The protagonist also volunteers, despite Ludmilla's wishes for him to remain safely in the resort with Signal. The man is insistent on being a part of the search-and-rescue, both as Belorta's commander and her friend.

With the teams set, Ludmilla advises everyone to keep in contact regularly, and to be *especially* wary of another avalanche. For that, every team will get a grappling hook so they can link together and anchor down to avoid getting swept away. Rapture encounters are likely inevitable, but everyone here has experience fighting them, so that's less of an issue compared to the environmental hazards. The greater concern is if *Belorta* bumps into any, isolated and potentially injured as she is. While the operation details are being hashed out, Mica is still blankly standing to the side...

#### Finding Hope

Everyone is preparing for the operation in their own ways, be it communications checks, weapon inspections, or even just bringing potentially useful tools. Yet Mica remains as motionless and blank-eyed as ever, even with everyone assuring her that Belorta will be found. Fed up with this listlessness, Ludmilla decides to snap Mica out of it, even if it means saying some harsh words. Despite the protagonist trying to curtail the verbal flagellation, it actually does the trick to rouse Mica from her doldrums. She declares her refusal to give up. She already lost Belorta once on a cold, dark Christmas night. She's not going to lose her *again*. With Mica properly motivated, Ludmilla holds out her hand, beckoning Mica to come and find her- no, *their* friend together.

Tearfully taking the hand, Mica blubbers apologies for having frozen up as she did, terrified that history was repeating itself. Ludmilla simply embraces Mica, telling her it's fine to cry when she's sad. They'll wait for her tears to stop, and then they'll look for Belorta.

With the crying episode over, Mica declares her intentions to accompany everyone on the search-and-rescue. She pulls out several signal flares and hands them out, so that the teams can notify everyone once Belorta's been found. The flares will draw Raptures as well, but that's considered a secondary issue. With final preparations complete, the teams set out in search of their wayward companion...

The protagonist's team returns to the spot where Belorta went missing. Ludmilla notes the poor visibility and suggests a certain path, until Mica notices something buried in the snow. It's the signal flare she gave to Belorta before all this. If visibility has improved enough they can see things in the snow, then they should carry on the search and keep an eye out for any more traces.

Mica declares she'll take point, but Blanc stops her to suggest holding hands with herself and Noir. The twins of 777 have a reputation as lucky charms, so their idea is to give Mica a luck booster to help their odds of finding Belorta. Mica agrees, and the three stride forth hand-in-hand.

Watching the scene unfold, Ludmilla and the protagonist muse at Mica's inner strength, to bounce from the despairing mess she was to the determined voyager she is now. They agree to support Mica however they can, so that her resolve will keep burning as they move on...

#### Lucky Bunny

Some time later, Mica spies some of Belorta's socks on the ground. Thanking Blanc and Noir for charging her luck, Mica sets off a flare to signal the others they're hot on Belorta's trail, and hopefully Belorta herself will notice the flare's light...

A moment's silence passes by with nothing happening. This path seems to be a dead end leading to a sheer cliff. Blanc and Noir propose they check the area right around the cliff, taking advantage of their natural flexibility and dexterity. With the gloves they'd brought on this mission, the twins scour the area for any other paths. There's a brief scare as the cliff collapses a little, but with some support from the protagonist, the twins avoid a nasty fall. Fortunately, Blanc spied a small path below the cliff, which should be safe to walk as long as they go single-file.

The next issue is getting down to the path, but Noir has a solution. A rope ladder that the twins use for their performances, which is sturdy enough to hold them both. Before Noir can drop the ladder, Ludmilla notices the winds beginning to pick up again. Fearing another avalanche, she proposes they hide in a cave until the danger passes.

#### The Signal Flare of Hope

With nothing to do besides wait out the storm, Ludmilla and the protagonist idly chat. The former reveals that Belorta's story about the orphanage reminded her of...something very unfortunate. The Sovereigns that were Ludmilla's human family were also sponsors of Angel Orphanage, but she had no idea about the abuses the children suffered there. Though there's little point to lamenting it now, Ludmilla wanted the Carronades to know that not all adults are as rotten as the ones they knew at the orphanage. She needs to find Belorta, so that those two will never know the pain of separation a second time. The protagonist assures her they *will* find Belorta...

Meanwhile, in a distant snowfield, Belorta comes to. Frantically looking around and calling for her friends, Belorta tries to take out her phone to get in touch. Unfortunately, said phone was smashed in the tumble and is nothing more than scrap now. Attempting to stand reveals that Belorta's ankle has been broken, she won't be going anywhere like this...

Despite the situation, all Belorta can think about is how Mica might have been *right*. Maybe Christmas really does bring her nothing but misfortune. She'd dared to hope that maybe, just *maybe*, this Christmas would've been *different* from all her previous ones. It was the first Christmas she celebrated with so many people. The first time she'd made a cake. All that happiness she'd felt then...feels so far away now...

Looking over her dire straits, Belorta bitterly chuckles at the idea that for the second time in her life, she'll die on Christmas day. Then she remembers Mica, and becomes appalled at the idea her friend would literally kill herself trying to find her. She can't have that, *no matter what*. She's going to live and see Mica again, and wipe off the tears that crybaby will most certainly be shedding...

Meanwhile, the snowstorm has lightened enough for the protagonist's team to proceed. Noir finishes setting up the ladder, planning to hold it steady after she and Blanc descend so everyone else can climb down. Ludmilla lets Mica and the protagonist do down ahead of her, with the former bravely descending by herself despite how much her legs quivered. The Carronade Nikke runs ahead to search with Blanc. Then the protagonist tries to climb down, only to fumble a step and land right on top of Noir. Thankfully, the black rabbit is...*soft enough*...to cushion the fall, though it's an embarrassing moment for both of them. After assuring Ludmilla that *nothing is wrong*, the protagonist makes way so that the Unlimited leader can climb down. While Noir and the protagonist are still stewing in flusterment, Blanc comes hollering that they've found traces of Belorta.

Mica presents the trace in question, which is the hot sauce-laden snowball Belorta was playing with at the resort. With this being near a tree, there's no doubt Belorta is somewhere nearby. The team redoubles their search efforts, emboldened by this find.

#### A Light in the Dark

Though their spirits were lifted from the previous find, the team stumbles at a crossroad. Splitting up is out of the question, given environmental hazards and communication issues. The protagonist muses that they simply have to test their luck and hope for the best...

At the mention of "luck," Blanc perks up and suggests they leave picking a path to her and Noir. The twins elaborate that every time something like this has come up, they've *never* made a wrong turn as long as they agreed on where to go. With little alternative, Ludmilla decides to leave it to the bunnies to decide where they go. On the count of three, Blanc and Noir both declare...they're headed right. While Mica marvels at the twin's synchronicity, the team carries on, thankfully finding a path forward instead of a dead end.

Mica finds along the road another of Belorta's snowballs, proving that Blanc and Noir really did lead them down the right way. Ludmilla notices a sign buried in the snow that she found on a previous search. The avalanche must've altered the terrain, so if they went left, they really *would* have hit a dead end. Musing over this good luck, the team follows the lucky rabbits' intuition at each fork, finding more of Belorta's snowballs and flares. The trail eventually leads to a small cave...

They enter the cave hoping to find Belorta, but instead they find a sleeping *polar bear*. Considering the danger a wild animal could pose, the team considers falling back, but Mica wants to check and see if Belorta is hiding somewhere. Her resolution convinces Ludmilla, who promises to distract the bear should it awaken. Mica tiptoes around the bear and sweeps the cave top to bottom, but not even a trace of Belorta can be found. The team decides to leave the cave before they do something to disturb the polar bear's slumber.

Outside again, the team ponders over where Belorta could be. Despite the trail going cold, the fact remains that it still led them this far, and that's enough for Mica to keep going. Ludmilla commends the little Carronade on her resolve, but before they can proceed, Mica suddenly perks up at something she heard in the wind. After another gust, Ludmilla hears it as well. It sounds suspiciously like a *scream*, and to Mica, it sounds like *Belorta's voice*.

After a moment, another scream echoes, one audible enough for the protagonist and the twins to hear it. They waste no time rushing towards the source...

#### An Undying Spark

Following the screams leads them towards a cliff, and on the other side is Belorta, fending off a Rapture with great difficulty. They try calling out to her, but their voices can't reach that far, especially with the Rapture rampaging about. Looking around, Mica spies a wooden bridge and moves to cross it, despite Ludmilla's warnings that it'd collapse under a Nikke's weight.

Chased by the protagonist's calls for her, Mica sprints across the bridge, which has already begun to splinter and fall under her weight. It barely registers to her, as her mind can only replay her moments with Belorta. When her friend complimented her on the chocolate-strawberry-ketchup cake. When she told her to smile and enjoy Christmas more, just like every Christmas they'd have from then on. Even as the bridge shudders and sways enough to nearly drop her into the ravine, Mica's mind can only think about Belorta. And how her best friend died on a cold Christmas night, promising her everything would be fine...

Mica keeps running, practically bounding and leaping to cross the collapsing bridge. History *will not* repeat itself, not when Belorta is *still alive* and *in front of her*. Finally, Mica makes it to the other side, tumbling in front of Belorta to stand in the Rapture's way. The automaton screeches at the presence of a new threat, Mica *roaring* back as she fights to protect her friend...

When the Rapture finally falls, Mica sees to Belorta, who's already berating her for the reckless stunt she just pulled. Mica chuckles at this strange reversal, where Belorta is the one worrying for once. Micca can't stop laughing or crying, overcome with emotion as she is. This time, she managed to protect Belorta, when previously it was always herself that needed looking after.

Composing herself briefly, Mica thanks Belorta for surviving and apologizes for being such a mother hen back at the hot spring. For stopping her from having fun on what was supposed to be her Christmas vacation. For taking so long to bring her back...

Finally, Belorta cuts off Mica's apologies to hug her best friend, making her own apologies over getting mad. The two tearfully apologize to and thank each other for their friendship...

After some time, the waterworks have ceased, but now the Carronades are left with another problem. Mica's phone still has no reception, she has no familiarity with this area, and a fog cover is compromising visibility. In other words, they're lost again. Sidling past some gallows humor on Belorta's part, Mica spies a cave they can shelter in.

Inside the cave, the two wile away time chatting and poking fun at each other's swollen faces. Under her breath, Belorta murmurs how cool Mica was bounding across the bridge, voice low enough that Mica can't hear it. Just then, they notice something in the distance. An orange light from the mouth of the cave, drawing ever closer...

The light is coming from Ludmilla's lantern, and she's ever so happy to see the Carronades alive and well. With everyone's safety confirmed, the three return to the Snowfield Hot Spring...

Some time later, Mica and Belorta shuffle out of a room, having fallen asleep after returning to the resort. Everyone is relieved to see Belorta safe and sound, with Emma having put a splint on the Carronade's ankle so she can walk a little. Noticing a delicious smell, Belorta wonders why there are still dishes from the Christmas party after they already had one. The protagonist explains that *technically*, the party isn't over since they've yet to set off fireworks. With glimmering eyes, Belorta readies to light some fireworks on the terrace with Mica's help. 777 and Absolute go to the hot spring so they can soak in the warm water while their eyes soak in the fireworks. The Scouts are planning to build an igloo. Ludmilla declares that it's time for take two of their Christmas party...

The Carronades stuff themselves on food and cake, while 777 and Absolute enjoy the hot springs ~~and Eunhwa tries to steal Vesti's towel for some reason~~. Gazing upon the fireworks that light up the sky, Mica brags to the protagonist that she's finally done it. For the first time, she's finally had herself a Merry Christmas...

### Hard Mode Epilogue - Friends Forever

Some time after the hot springs investigation concluded, everyone returned to the Ark. The protagonist is wiling away time as he usually does when he hears a knock at his door. It's Ludmilla, who decided to swing by the Outpost to check on the Carronades after reporting to Andersen about the hot springs. According to the Deputy Chief, Snowfield Hot Spring has been made into a permanent rest stop for Nikkes, whether they're doing missions in the north or wind up lost there. With the welcome news handled, Ludmilla asks the protagonist to escort her to the Toy Store so she can see Mica and Belorta.

The Carronades are happy to see both Old-Timer and Ludmilla stop by the Toy Store. They're even more elated to hear Snowfield is going to be a permanent fixture of the north, and are already making plans to go again. Hearing that Ludmilla plans to sightsee downtown with the protagonist, Belorta decides to tag along with Mica, except...Mica...lets Belorta go by herself? Surprisingly, Mica isn't overly worried about Belorta this time, even though it's still technically the tail-end of the Christmas season.

Belorta muses over this major change in demeanor, mentally contrasting it to when Mica bemoaned the Carronades' misfortune every Christmas. While pondering over how her friend's outlook pulled a 180, Belorta sets off with Ludmilla and the protagonist, bidding Mica goodbye and promising to be back soon...

## Gameplay

Event Tickets (Hot Spring Baskets) are spent to play stages and earn currency (Cold Milk) to trade in the shop for rewards. Baskets regenerate up to 5 per daily reset, and additional Baskets can be purchased in the shop for Gems.

### Event Map

According to the letter from the developers, NEVERLAND will feature a map that, quote, "is much bigger than usual and better captures the romantic scenery of winter, so it'll be more fun if you observe the animations on the field in landscape mode." As with other event maps, Lost Relics will spawn every day to find and collect.

### Part I

Part I of the story and its stages will be open as soon as maintenance ends

### Part II

Part II of the story and its stages will be open at 5:00 December 14th, 2023 (UTC+9)

### Minigame: Snowfall Oasis

According to the letter from the developers, NEVERLAND will feature a visual-novel style minigame with an emphasis on story.

Unlocked after clearing 1-5

Snowfall Oasis requires Heart Clocks to play. Clocks replenish at a rate of 3 per day, to a maximum of 21. On the final day of the event, players are given unlimited Heart Clocks in order to play all of the minigame's events.

Upon seeing all of the minigame's events (which includes maxing out Connection Level with every Nikke), the CG "Snowfall Oasis" will be available to decorate the Lobby.

#### My Room

Every game begins in the protagonist's room, where players can review the scenario and the current time, or suspend the game to continue later. The "Go Out" button will begin the game.

#### Snowfall Hotpsring

The primary game map, featuring various locations where the player interacts with Nikkes. Not all areas are open at the start.

#### Scenario Event

Going to an area where a Nikke is present will trigger an event. Some events will consume Heart Clocks, and will also progress the in-game time. Depending on choices made during the event, Nikke Bond will rise at a certain rate.

*\*Note: Snowfall Oasis Bond is NOT the same as Advising Bond.*

#### Connection Event

When Nikke Bond reaches a certain level, a Connection Event will be unlocked. Connection Events are denoted by a heart mark, and upon completion, increase the Nikke's Connection Level.

Upon maxing out a Nikke's Connection Level and seeing al of their events, a event item will be awarded that can be used to receive a Gift item.

#### Lost Item

When an event in the minigame requires an item, that item will spawn on the event map as a "Lost Item." The Hint system in the upper corner will direct players towards the item's location.

#### Daily Reward

Players are awarded 30 Gems and 1 Date with the CO Gift upon spending 3 Heart Clocks every day. Note that this reward can be only be obtained ONCE per day, even if Unlimited Mode is active.

#### Unlimited Mode

After completing Day 21 of Snowfall Oasis, Scenario Events will infinitely loop to allow for accumulation of Bond.

### 14-Day Login Event: Happy Holiday

To celebrate the new event, additional bonuses will be given with each login for up to 14 days, including Advanced Recruit Vouchers

### Challenge Mission

A series of one-time missions awarding additional Cold Milk on completion. Completing Completing Stage 1-12 will award the CG "Welcome to Snowfield Hot Spring" and a Memory Film to unlock an event in the Archives. Completing Stage 2-12N will award the CG "You can do it, Mica!"

### Challenge Stage

Spend Challenge Chips to play increasingly-difficult battles against Black Smith and earn rewards. Chips regenerate to a maximum of 1 per day.

### Bunny Lucky Pass

An event exclusive Mission Pass separate from the monthly version. The premium track for this pass offers the costume White Rabbit for Blanc.

## List of Bonus Nikkes

Complete stages using the following Nikkes for a chance to earn extra Cold Milk. Bonus chance stacks at 100%

## Version Updates

### Recruit Update

#### New Limited SSR Nikkes: Ludmilla: Winter Owner and Mica: Snow Buddy

L:WO duration: End of maintenance to 5:00 December 28th, 2023 (UTC+9)

M:SB duration: 5:00 December 14th to 5:00 December 28th, 2023 (UTC+9)

Event Limited SSR Nikkes Ludmilla: Winter Owner and Mica: Winter Buddy will be on rate-up in the Special Recruit during the event at the specified times. Their Molds to directly purchase via Gold Mileage Tickets will also be available in the Shop.

\**Event Limited SSRs will **NOT** be added to the standard pool in a later update*

#### Reissued Limited SSRs: Rupee: Winter Shopper and Anne: Miracle Fairy

The Limited SSRs released in Miracle Snow will become available to recruit again during the event alongside the new releases. They are available on both Ludmilla: Winter Owner and Mica: Snow Buddy's banners, but their rates are lower compared to those of the featured SSR. Molds to directly purchase Reissued SSRs will also be sold in the Mileage Shop.

\**Reissued Limited SSRs will **NOT** be added to the standard pool in a later update*

#### Reissued SR Nikke: Neve

Neve will be available for exchange in the Event Shop once Part II of the event is released.

\**Reissued SRs will **NOT** be added to the standard pool in a later update*

#### Standard Recruit Update

SSR Nikke Tove will be added to the Standard pools, including Standard, Mold, and Friend Recruits, as well as Spare Bodies in the Mileage Shop

SSR Nikke Red Hood will be added to the Standard Recruit and Mold pools. She is not available anywhere else.

### Archives Update

The event Queen's Order will be available to unlock in the Archives.

### Solo Raid

Duration: 12:00 December 14 to 5:00 December 21 (UTC+9)

Players form teams from their own roster to take on Chatterbox and earn Harmony Cube materials. Players who rank in Challenge Difficulty can earn Gems from the leaderboards.

### Coordinated Operation

Duration: 12:00 December 15 to 23:59 December 17th (UTC+9)

Players team up to take on the boss Land Eater and earn Broken Cores to trade in the Shop for rewards.

### Union Raid

Duration: 12:00 December 22nd to 5:00 December 28th (UTC+9)

Unions of level 3 or higher can take on bosses to earn Union Chips for rewards in the shop. Players cannot leave or be kicked from Unions while the raid is active.

### Full Burst Day

Duration: 5:00 December 23rd to 5:00 December 25th, 2023 (UTC+9)

During Full Burst Day, all rewards from Simulation Room and Interception will be doubled.

## Trivia

* This is the fourth event to receive voice acting, alongside Over Zone, Sea, You, Again, and Red Ash, not including the Archive version of Miracle Snow.
* The map will undergo changes as the event story and time progresses.
	+ After clearing stage 2-12N, at 5:00 12/21/23 (UTC+9), the members of Unlimited will appear on the map.
	+ After 5:00 12/23/23 (UTC+9), the map theme was changed from "Dreaming" to "In Neverland."
	+ On the final day of the event, all characters except Unlimited disappear from the map. The map BGM is changed back to Dreaming.

## References

Notes

References
1. ↑ https://twitter.com/NIKKE\_en/status/1730753689051177387
2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 https://nikke-en.com/newsdetail.html?content\_id=dac94809a4b9aa4a8ea8749a5a3f96a9e0ef&sid=494&from=list&col\_name=IMPORTANT&father\_content\_id=dac94809a4b9aa4a8ea8749a5a3f96a9e0ef
3. ↑ https://twitter.com/NIKKE\_en/status/1730768779242615165