Candy Festival (2022)

Yaen usually hosts the Candy House to celebrate her birthday and the Candy Festival but this year, Player decided to return the favor and arrange a birthday party for her instead. Player starts to go around Luxium to hand out invitations to the party and specially asks four of his friends to come early to help. Unfortunately, each of the four thought they might have a chance to spend some alone time with Player and were surprised to see the others show up when they got to the venue.

Player gets to the venue, a ryokan high up in the mountains. As he stands at the entrance, he wonders, "Will everyone get along together?"

*Note: While this side story occurs before Player has completed Kong's, Santos's, Antonio's or Creed's story, knowing what happens in those stories will help with understanding some references.*

## Part 1

*Player stands at the entrance to a large, Japanese-style hot springs inn high in the mountains*
*In the northern part of Luxium, near the Cloud Plateau.*
*Cloudy Hot Springs Town*
**Player**: Soak in the water, take in the scenery, drink a little wine, and above all, the falling snow...
**Player**: Ahh, nothing like an open-air bath. So comfortable and romantic!
*But...*
*These wonderful delights have nothing to do with you now.*
*At the entrance to Cloudy Hot Springs Town*
*A cool wind blows as Player examines a package set down at the entrance*
*Inside are the pajamas everyone picked out themselves for the party*
**Player**: Ah-choo! (Flipping through) Two, four, ten...
**Player**: Ah, all these bags, how can I tell which pajamas are whose?
*A howl from near the desolate entrance reaches the hot bath.*
**Lantern Above**: (Swaying) Squeak -
*Player looks around*
**Player**: Huh? My voice is shaking? That can't be...
*Kong meets Player at the entrance*
**Kong**: Oops, I accidentally dropped it.
**Kong**: (Takes back the red diamond, which is now smaller than before) I wanted to show you the location, but I lost it.
**Player**: Thanks for looking out for me, Kong. Those other three guys have no conscience.
*Kong teases Player*
**Kong**: This poor hotel doorman hasn't found a bag to carry yet.
**Player**: I take back what I just said.
**Kong**: (Laughs at your expense) Haha, serves you right.
**Kong**: Who asked you to send us an invitation to the Hot Springs Town. You didn't say it wasn't just for me.
**Kong**: You also didn't say that other people would be coming.
**Player**: I prepared a birthday surprise for Yaen, but judging by her popularity...
**Player**: I'm not sure who will actually help.
**Kong**: Why is it the same?
**Kong**: You asked us to come and prepare everything before the party. That means we will also spend a whole day and night together...
**Player**: (Forces a smile) Ahaha, I'm sorry. But I'm trying to make it up to you!
**Player**: Yaen's been throwing parties at the Candy House for several years. I think throwing her a pajama party in return is a pretty good idea.
**Kong**: Huh? You weren't blackmailed into coming here on April Fools' Day?
**Player**: When did you become so smart, Kong?
*Kong takes a look at the package*
**Kong**: Ah, this is what they were talking about.
**Kong**: The pajamas are here.
*Player starts to pick up the pajamas*
**Player**: Two at a time. Got it done.
**Kong**: Shall we go back together?
**Player**: Sure. How is everyone getting along now?
*Player and Kong start walking inside the inn*
**Kong**: (Whistles softly) We're all friends here. Let's have a friendly chat!
**Player**: Friendly, that's good...
*How Kong perceives the situation...*
*Doesn't necessarily reflect the actual situation.*
*Scene - At an outdoor bath*
*Santos, Antonio, and Creed relax in the bath under the falling snow*
**Santos**: You soak in the hot spring for too long, you'll get dizzy.
**Antonio**: It's windy over at the entrance, I thought it might be pretty cold.
**Creed**: Pfft. That monkey's already tricked you into complaining about the draft. Now he's gonna make somebody else do it?
**Antonio**: Creed, your tone isn't very...friendly.
**Santos**: Not friendly? Judging by your tone, you miss somebody.
**Santos**: If you can't forget the past, you aren't ready for the future.
**Antonio**: ...
*Antonio looks away with wistful eyes*
**Creed**: Well, we didn't come for nothing. I knew there'd be something interesting to see when I saw him sending out invitations on the airship the last few days.
**Santos**: You live on his airship?
**Creed**: Yeah, but not permanently. I do some odd jobs around the place in return for the lodging.
**Antonio**: The bed next to the Hottie Bar is nice when you get drunk in the bar. Player really knows how to take care of people.
**Santos**: ...
**Creed**: It seems like our fate extends beyond the borders of BlackFlame City...
**Santos**: (Suddenly looks at a place)
**Antonio**: He's here?
**Creed**: If that crafty looking person in the hallway isn't him, then who is it?
**Santos**: (Looks anxious upon seeing the pajamas in your hands.)
*Kong leads Player down the hallway towards the outdoor bath when Player suddenly pauses, anxiously holding four sets of pajamas to his chest*
**Kong**: What are you still doing here, Player? Are you tired? Do you need my help?
**Player**: (From a distance, you see the three of them exchange glances. It doesn't seem like a friendly atmosphere.)
**Player**: Are you sure they're getting along?
**Kong**: Yeah. It's quite a coincidence, maybe even fate. We just went to BlackFlame City with you not too long ago.
**Kong**: I went to The Bull bar to recruit mercenaries, just like you said I should.
**Kong**: Back then, you said I was the center of attention. The three of them were happy to hear you say that.
**Kong**: Just now, Antonio was telling us that he owns The Bull! You often go there to drink and chat with people. Isn't that an interesting coincidence?
**Player**: Yeah...
**Kong**: That's not even the best part! Santos says that you helped cover for him at the bar by drinking Bloody Sand in the daytime.
**Kong**: That cold guy said that you pretended to be his boyfriend one evening recently, and went to the bar to find someone...
**Kong**: It's gotta be fate, right! This all happened so recently!
**Player**: More like ill fate. This is not the time or the place...
**Kong**: But that cold-looking guy doesn't seem like the type to come to a party.
**Kong**: Isn't that a little beneath you?
**Player**: (Pushes him) Watch your mouth!
**Kong**: All right, all right. No matter. (Reaches out) You really don't need my help?
**Player**: I don't need your help.
*Santos, Creed and Antonio continue to watch Player and Kong from the bath*
**Creed**: (Faces Santos) The two of them were whispering over by the doorway just now.
**Creed**: Now they're secretly holding hands again.
**Santos**: Ugh, so hot and steamy! The hot spring isn't warm enough for you?
**Creed**: (Urges Antonio) How about asking him to give us our pajamas one by one?
**Creed**: Then we'll see who he knows best.
**Antonio**: He'll definitely recognize mine.
**Santos**: Childish.
**Creed**: Two to one.
*You calmly walk down the hallway, sneaking peeks every now and then.*
*You dawdle for a while until you see there's no animosity between them.*
**Player**: (Carries four sets of pajamas and sets them down next to the hot spring.)
**Antonio**: (Raises arm) This is some plum wine you just heated up, Player. Catch!
**Player**: (Taste) Hey, this wine is pretty good.
**Creed**: Wow, good throw. And good catch! The two of them seem to have a connection.
**Santos**: Mmm.
**Creed**: You really don't care?
**Santos**: (Gestures to Creed to stay quiet.)
**Creed**: No one likes a hardass.
**Santos**: (Hands you a dry bath towel) Wipe the snow off your head.
**Kong**: (Sincerely) Welcome, Player!
*Everyone shares subtle glances.*
**Creed**: This wasn't my idea.
*The awkward atmosphere hangs in the air for a bit before things hit the fan.*
**Kong**: You two are fighting, aren't you?
**Player**: Ahem. Here are your clothes, take them.
**Antonio**: (Whispers in your ear) I'm strong and tall, right?
**Player**: Huh? Of course.
**Antonio**: Hahaha, I'm tall, so my 'pajama' is big, too.
**Player**: Pajamas?
*With the four of them all looking at you...*
*You're forced to look at the pajamas one by one.*
**Player**: Give it your best guess. Who do you think the fuzzy orange monkey top and the beach pants belong to?
*Choice 1.1 - Santos*
**Santos**: (Gestures to his chest) I can't wear this white shirt.
*Choose again*
*Choice 1.2 - Antonio*
**Antonio**: (Sighs) I already told you I'm too tall for this.
*Choose again*
*Choice 1.3 - Kong*
**Kong**: Wow, you know me so well, Player!
**Santos & Antonio**: ...
**Creed**: (Watches passively) You're stronger than I am.
**Kong**: I'm going to go change.
*Kong leaves*
*Choice 1.4 - Creed*
**Creed**: These flower pants? Do they really look like they're my style?
*Choose again*
*Scene continues after choices*
**Player**: Let's turn over the second piece. Oh...it's a cow suit...
**Player**: This bulging fanny pack is a bit lewd.
*Choice 2.1 - Antonio*
**Antonio**: ... (Well that would be redundant, wouldn't it? Why show off his chest muscles like this...)
*Choose again*
*Choice 2.2 - Santos*
**Santos**: ... (Holds up sunglasses)
*Santos blushes while trying to hide a smile*
*Choose again*
*Choice 2.3 - Creed*
**Creed**: ... (Actually, under the right circumstances, it wouldn't be so bad...)
*Choose again*
*Choice 2.4 - Unclaimed*
**Player**: Hmm... Looks like no one's gonna claim this one.
**All**: (Looks up at the sky)
**Player**: The only problem is, there are four sets of pajamas. Someone has to take them. Let's see the next set.
*Scene continues after choices*
**Player**: (This one has a dinosaur on it. It looks tall and strong. Who fits the bill?)
*Choice 3.1 - Antonio*
**Antonio**: (Takes them) Good boy!
**Antonio**: (Looks at Creed) I knew you'd get it right.
**Player**: What's Creed doing?
**Antonio**: Heh heh, nothing.
*Choose again*
*Choice 3.2 - Santos*
**Santos**: ... (He isn't responding. He seems to be at a loss.)
*Choose again*
*Choice 3.3 - Creed*
**Creed**: Ruler of the land, how handsome.
**Creed**: Too bad I'm more the sea type.
*Choose again*
*Scene continues after choice*
**Player**: The next set are shark pajamas.
**Player**: Huh? Why's there only one left?
*The unclaimed cow pajamas seem to have been taken by someone.*
**Creed**: (Shrugs and raises hands) Got nothing to do with me.
**Creed**: I'll take the shark pajamas.
*You go to the locker room to see where the 'lost pajamas' are.*
*You see a dog wearing a pointed hat behind someone biting something, its legs moving.*
*It seems he's helping take off the fanny pack.*
**Player**: (Fails to stifle laughter) Pfft...
**Player**: (Santos is always wearing leather, so it's a bit surprising to me that he wears cow pajamas.)
**Santos**: (blushes)
**Santos**: You know, Graci loves to drink milk.
**Graci**: Woof?
**Santos**: Uh, the day I went to pick out pajamas, my dog bit this one and wouldn't let go, so I had to buy it.
**Graci**: Woof! Woof!
**Santos**: (Grits teeth) All right. Well, the key point is, I thought that I was the only one you invited before.
**Graci**: Woof! Woof!
**Player**: Ahem... (Wants to go help)
**Santos**: Don't move. Just stand there. Don't move.
**Player**: Huh? What are you doing? Remember not to hit anyone in the face.
*Santos throws a bottle of milk into the air.*
*You catch it without thinking.*
**Santos**: (Smiles) We're a good match.
**Player**: What?
*Kong barges in, wearing his monkey pajamas*
**Kong**: Player, you are here. Catch this candy!
**Player**: Throw a big one!
**Santos**: ...
**Kong**: What's going on with him?
**Player**: (Gets close) Want some candy? What's your favorite kind, I'll get it for you.
**Santos**: (Laughing) Yeah, you've been suckered into this. Why are you bothering with trivial things like this?
*Meanwhile, on the other side.*
*Creed in his shark pajamas and Antonio in his dinosaur pajamas spy on Player, Santos and Kong*
**Creed**: After he touched hands with the monkey, he went off whispering to sunglasses again. Are you in a hurry?
**Antonio**: I can always see him there in front, which is good. But whoever he turns toward is always free.
**Creed**: Tch. I don't think you're worried enough. Or you just can't see what's coming.
**Creed**: The monkey's stupid, probably because he thinks of him as a brother.
**Creed**: Sunglasses always acts on his own. He won't talk about his feelings until he's gotten his revenge.
**Creed**: The situation is good.
**Antonio**: What about you? You've got quite the serious analysis for someone who's just watching from the sidelines.
**Creed**: Huh? Me? He's just my landlord, temporarily. I just owe him a little favor, that's all.
**Creed**: That guy, from when we were pretending to be a couple... He got hurt.
**Antonio**: (Frowns) Hurt?
**Creed**: I'm just gonna have some fun and find him a real boyfriend to cure his heartbreak.
**Antonio**: Remember these words, child.
**Antonio**: Don't be so sure that you're gonna be the one to cure his heartbreak. It might just be me.
**Creed**: Tch, as if.
*Later...*
*Player gathers the four around a large table to discuss the upcoming party*
**Player**: Thank you everyone for coming in advance to prepare tomorrow's Candy Festival pajama party!
**Player**: While we get ready for the party, let's make sure to enjoy this trip to the hot springs!
**Player**: There's going to be a lot more to do and eat today than there will at the actual party.
**Player**: Because we need to narrow down the process together!
**Kong**: All right! I'm definitely down for a pajama party!
*Atmosphere group number one is in place. They're probably looking forward to drinking and having a good time.*
**Antonio**: You're exactly right!
*Atmosphere group number two is in place. They're probably looking forward to spending time with each other.*
**Creed**: Ha, the mobilization atmosphere is good.
*The people sitting in the audience are probably looking forward to a good show.*
**Santos**: (The pragmatic group takes the stage) Player, are you ready for your birthday present?
**Player**: (Picks up recipe) 'Wonderland Magic Candy has a round texture, is fluffy and soft...'
**Player**: 'Its sweetness melts in your mouth, allowing you to immerse yourself in a sweetness you've never tasted before.'
**Player**: I found this magical candy in Taneleer's treasure book. I'm planning on giving this to Yaen.
**Player**: It sounds like cotton candy from the Blue Star, but I've never been able to get them sweet, soft, fluffy, or pretty enough.
**Santos**: Don't worry. There's still time to improve.
**Player**: Mmm! Then let's get our pajama party started first!

## Part 2

*Player finds a spot at the inn where he can work on making Yaen's birthday gift*
**Magic Candy Recipe**: Beep. Candy is not sweet enough.
**Player**: I'm trying to make cotton candy, but why do I keep getting stuck on this step?!
**Magic Candy Recipe**: Taste Tip: The first step in making Wonderland Magic Candy is to extract thick, sweet syrup from sugar cane.
**Player**: Yeah, the first step is pretty clear. I followed it to the letter.
**Player**: The maker needs to have experience 'tasting rich layers of sweetness, and needs to differentiate between them'.
**Player**: (Drops book) Does candy really have a taste profile? It wasn't sweet enough before. Is this why?
**Player**: This book doesn't make any sense. I don't know if I can make this birthday present...
*Santos, Graci and Antonio find Player*
**Santos**: The snow's getting pretty heavy. Considering what tomorrow's weather might be...
**Antonio**: Do you think the cake and the rest of the food will make it here?
**Player**: I ordered two batches altogether. Our food for today is already at the entrance. Tomorrow's should be the same.
**Graci**: Woof! Woof!
**Player**: Hahaha, does Graci want to go get it with me?
**Santos**: Hold on.
*Santos waves into the distance.*
*Creed comes over*
**Creed**: (Expressionlessly) What are you going to get? I'll go with you.
**Player**: You're offering to help? As long as you don't cause any trouble.
**Santos**: (Whispers to you) Don't worry. The deal is all set.
**Creed**: Stop talking nonsense.
**Antonio**: Hahaha, better put him to work before he changes his mind.
**Player**: The cake that's going to be the main attraction of the dessert table will come tomorrow. Now, it should be...
**Player**: Donuts and puff pastries from Field's; caramel brulee, cream puffs, and mont blanc from Antico's...
**Player**: Frosted cookies and souffle cheese from Fram's...
**Antonio**: (Eyes light up as you mentioned Field's)
**Creed**: Hold on, these names... Uh...
**Creed**: (Disdainful) What a mess...
**Player**: (It seems like Creed isn't very good at remembering names.)
*You sneakily stuff an order form in his hands.*
**Creed**: Tch.
**Santos**: Why did you buy so much different stuff?
**Player**: On Earth where I'm from, we usually have a dessert table close to the entrance.
**Player**: Around the birthday cake (which is the most important), we put lots of other desserts for people to choose from.
**Player**: There will be about ten kinds total, and each person at the party can try about three or four.
**Player**: Today we'll try these flavors, pick a few of them out, then plan the dessert table.
*Kong sneaks up behind Player*
**Kong**: Open up, Player!
*A straw is put in your mouth and you take a few sips.*
*It's sweet coconut water.*
**Player**: What are coconuts doing here?
**Kong**: I brought them just for this occasion!
**Player**: They're sweet.
**Antonio**: There are more sweets at the entrance that need to be picked up.
**Player**: Yeah, let's go, Creed.
**Santos**: (Pulls you to the side as you pass by) Don't be too extravagant, we're over budget.
**Player**: Don't worry, don't worry. I know.
**Player**: (Turns around and blinks) We're also covering two days at the open air hot spring.
**Santos**: Sigh... No wonder you never have any money, even though you take on work everywhere you go.
*Everyone goes to gather the food and sets it out on a large table*
**Player**: Wow, what a bounty of desserts.
**Antonio**: How did you know that Field's donuts are good?
**Player**: You mentioned it before. You said you liked to eat these when you were in school.
**Antonio**: Hahaha, that's true.
**Creed**: Tsk, see? He's asking a question when he already knows the answer.
**Santos**: Informant?
**Creed**: (Stops talking)
**Antonio**: Try their maple syrup donuts! It's been one of their signature products for many years!
**Player**: Oh~ (Licks lips)
*After a few chews, the crispy and sweet outer shell mixes with the oil.*
*And steam spurts out of the pores in the flour.*
**Player**: Arcana Argen Fruit is good (the arcana keeps the heat in really well).
**Antonio**: (Sees you blow on the donut in your hand to cool it off) It's pretty good, right? Keep eating it as it cools.
**Antonio**: Eat this.
**Player**: There's still half left.
**Antonio**: I'll take care of the other half.
**Antonio**: Actually it's a lot better when you fish the oil out while it's piping hot.
**Player**: (Slowly) The oil's so fragrant. The bread on the inside is fluffy, and the outer frosting is burnt ever so sweetly!
**Santos**: So you want to put this one on the dessert table? You relax and eat. I'll help you keep track.
**Player**: Okay.
*After eating and 'sampling' the treats...*
**Santos**: There are enough desserts now. Don't you think there ought to be some drinks?
**Antonio**: Donuts are delicious when they're dipped in coffee.
**Kong**: Coffee's so bitter... Yikes, it's really strange when you think about it.
**Kong**: Coconut milk might be better. It's sweet and smooth.
**Santos**: Milk would work, too. There will be lots of children at the party. Milk will help them grow nice and strong.
**Player**: All right, I've got it all down. Let's go get the stuff.
**Player**: Let's keep eating while we talk.
*From seemingly out of nowhere, Kong takes out some bananas, coconuts, and apples.*
**Kong**: I brought more than just coconuts, Player. Try out some of these other fruits!
**Kong**: (Use a toothpick to pick up one piece of fruit for you) Here!
*When he starts eating...*
*Spears three pieces on each toothpick, kind of like candied haws.*
**Kong**: (Swallows)
**Player**: Hey there, don't choke!
**Kong**: Oh, I can do more than that! I love putting tons of food in my mouth!
**Player**: (Thinking)... Maybe we could add some fruit to the dessert table?
*Creed watches you all eat, then suddenly speaks.*
**Creed**: Sugar stimulates a certain neurotransmitter in your brain that tricks you into feeling satisfied.
**Player**: So?
**Creed**: Well...you should add something salty.
**Player**: Oh, you don't eat sweet stuff, do you?
**Creed**: I'm just raising a reasonable suggestion.
**Creed**: We can use the stuff I've got in my backpack.
*That way, there will be more on the table.*
*Sandwiches, shrimp chips, and wheat crackers...*
**Santos**: ...
**Santos**: (Contestant number one remembered eating donuts, number two got the right to add fruit, and number three offered his backpack full of snacks...)
**Santos**: Well, Creed's right. The current fitness trend is to avoid sweets.
**Santos**: So this amount of desserts can't be used for your everyday commercial products.
**Santos**: I'm going to make for you my homemade coconut milk cubes.
*Santos makes a batch of his dessert and brings it to the table for everyone to try*
**Antonio**: Tastes pretty good. You're good at more than just seafood, Santos.
**Player**: (Takes a small bite) Mmm, good.
*The final dessert is on the table. You're occupied with the chosen treats.*
*You plan the table's layout.*
**Antonio**: Doesn't matter if there will be children tomorrow, I can bring alcohol today.
**Santos**: (Shakes head)
**Player**: Hahaha. Well, detective, we've specially prepared some 'safe-for-children alcohol-free bubbly' for you.
**Kong**: What's that? I want to try, too.
**Creed**: Add some carbonated grape juice.
*You all wear soft, casual pajamas as you snack on desserts together.*
*It's fun relaxing with your partners in the hot springs courtyard.*
*So long as you don't think about "losing the cream"...*
**Player**: Take it easy! Otherwise, it won't be so easy to clean up!
*Too bad nobody heard you...*
*Later...*
*After eating, drinking, and solving the issue of the dessert table, you think about where else you want to go.*
**Player**: Where should I go?
*Choice 1.1 - Hallway*
*Someone squats under a wooden display stand in the hallway where the dessert table is planned to be.*
**Santos**: Considering the snowy weather, how high should it be to maximize keep in the heat and moisture?
**Player**: Hey! What's the chef up to? Those coconut cubes just now were really tasty.
*Santos blushes*
**Santos**: Ah, it's nothing. Hold on, what did you say? Ahem, I can't hear you clearly.
**Player**: I said, the coconut cubes were really tasty.
**Santos**: (Smiles) Then have another!
**Player**: I can't make it myself. I wouldn't even know the steps.
**Santos**: I thought you didn't eat in the mornings?
**Player**: H-How did you know?
**Santos**: Hmm... Well I may not have stayed in your airship, but I'm willing to guess that you stay in bed till the last minute, Player.
**Player**: Ahem... Maybe I'm just making the most of me time?
**Santos**: You don't need to make it. There's still one more in the kitchen.
**Player**: Huh? There's still some left?
**Santos**: I use it for taste tests. It's too sweet. You can go finish it off.
**Player**: All right. You really don't want any?
**Santos**: (Smiles) I'll eat again when the table's position is set.
**Player**: Well then, good luck. I'm going to go eat.
**Player**: (It's just pointless small talk...)
**Player**: (Seems sweet enough.)
**Santos**: Enough with the chit-chat. Get going.
*Choose again*
*Choice 1.2 - Courtyard*
*There's a figure leaning against the railing of the wooden bridge, enthusiastically waving to you.*
**Kong**: Player, I'm over here!
**Player**: Aren't you cold hanging out here on the bridge, dressed like that, Kong?
**Kong**: I miss the coconuts I traveled halfway across Luxium to pick myself!
**Kong**: I'm all out of big, round coconuts!
**Player**: Haha, have they all been turned into shreds?
**Kong**: (Nods mournfully) Luckily, you got to try the coconut juice.
*You smile subconsciously.*
**Player**: (It's strange. Today, I tried so many desserts...)
**Player**: (And yet, I still remember the faint sweetness of that coconut milk.)
**Kong**: (Blinks) There are also bananas and peaches.
**Player**: What, are you going to open a fruit stand?
**Kong**: Haha, I'm keeping in shape, thanks to you.
**Kong**: You were the first one who figured out that I eat and drink like a madman when I'm feeling down.
**Player**: Ha, ten servings of barbecue with BlackFlame sauce, it was a bit hard to miss.
**Kong**: So that's why I eat fruit now.
**Player**: If you've been eating fruit like a madman, it's no wonder you're so healthy-looking.
**Kong**: (Blinks) Healthy-looking? What does that mean...
**Player**: (Blinks back at him) It means you've got a pinchable face.
**Kong**: Ah... (Pinches face)
*Choose again*
*Choice 1.3 - Hot Spring*
*One's environment does indeed have an effect on their temperament.*
*In the steam of the hot springs on this snowy day, the tall figure seems to have become something of a gentle giant.*
*Player catches Antonio relaxing in the hot spring*
**Antonio**: Eating dessert really is a nice luxury, Player.
**Player**: Yep! Especially those donuts. How did you find that shop, anyway?
**Antonio**: Those stickers they send out with the donuts are pretty popular.
**Player**: Popular?
**Antonio**: 'Forget about this hole, focus on what's around it.'
**Antonio**: Hahaha, only because of the perverse interpretations of adolescent boys.
**Player**: Heh, isn't this that Optimist's Chicken Soup for the Soul?
**Antonio**: That child said the same thing on the way home from school, so we stopped by to try them out.
**Antonio**: I love this tangy, hot sweetness.
**Player**: But dipped in coffee. 'The Bull's cocktails are so good, you can't live without them.
**Player**: How can you like eating bitter with sweet like that?
**Antonio**: Hahaha, it was Diess who said that about the wine... I didn't understand drinking coffee this way before, either.
**Antonio**: (Looks down at hand) Yeah, this way of drinking coffee...
**Antonio**: Probably got beat up. Bam, bam, bam!
**Antonio**: It started with a bunch of unplugged holes in the wall, haha.
**Player**: ... (You remember the brother's betrayal and death that he told you about)
**Player**: (Stiffly) Coffee tastes sweeter with donuts...
**Antonio**: (Gives you a funny look)
**Player**: (Ah, what am I babbling about...)
**Antonio**: Ah, yep. It is sweeter. Don't focus on the hole. Focus on the bread around.
**Antonio**: Let's not think about that stuff while we're on vacation. So, Mr. Bread, would you like to soak in the hot springs with me?
**Player**: (Blushing) Huh?
*Choose again*
*Choice 1.4 - Sauna*
*It looks like someone just poured water all over the hot stone. The sauna is full of steam...*
*You can't even make out the other person's facial features.*
**???**: Hey, even a busy guy like you makes time for the sauna.
*You can tell from the rude tone that it's Creed. You don't even need the steam to dissipate.*
**Player**: I'm just taking a look around. If you want to be alone, I can leave.
**Creed**: No, no. Come sit with me. I don't want to develop a reputation for chasing people away.
**Player**: Oh. (Turns) I'm going to go to the shower room and wash up real quick.
**Player**: (Turns around quickly) Uh... I didn't bring any body wash.
*Some of the steam has become water drops, and has thinned out.*
**Creed**: (Rubs neck) Ah, I see. Now that your tummy's full, your brain isn't working so good.
**Player**: Then shall I go?
**Creed**: There's a bottle on the shelf. Use that one.
*Player finds the bottle of body wash in the shower room*
*You make a bubble with it, lean in, and smell it curiously.*
**Player**: Ah, smells like pine. Seems normal enough.
**Player**: But along with the rush of the hot water, how come there's still the sweet smell of fried chestnuts and sugar?
**Player**: The fragrance is warm... I'm surprised Creed doesn't use a cold woody fragrance.
**Creed**: (Sniffing) You aren't eating that something...blanc with all that chestnut pulp again, are you?
**Player**: No...
**Creed**: I never thought of this body wash as sweet before...
*The lights are dim and you can't see so clearly, but your sense of smell is sharper.*
**Creed**: (The steam mixes with the lingering scent of the body wash, which is similar to the smell on his body.)
**Creed**: Ahem (Think about something else. I can't see his face. On the surface of things, it doesn't seem like he's pulling any tricks, but I'll proceed carefully.)
**Creed**: (Well... This has put me in a good mood, yes.)
**Player**: Huh? That's strange...
*Choose again*
*Choice 1.5 - Improve Cotton Candy*
*Player finds a spot to himself to work on Yaen's gift*
**Player**: The dessert table's gone from purely sweets in its original design to including drinks, fruit, and even cold food...
**Player**: And next to them, the milk cubes, the donuts, coconut milk, and the shower gel all have different levels of sweetness.
**Player**: (Reading) 'Upon the tip of the tongue is a rich, natural sweetness...'
*You read the recipe again and seem to get an idea.*
**Player**: Different tastes and styles from the levels of sweetness.
**Player**: So it isn't that the cotton candies I used before weren't sweet enough, it's that I didn't have another flavor to set it off.
**Player**: Let's try a cereal bar this time.
*I think the first step in my cotton candy birthday present is a success.*
*Scene continues after choices*
*In a certain corner.*
*Kong and Creed talk on the wooden bridge in the courtyard*
**Creed**: Tell him that Player has eaten all the coconut cubes he had left, and this is the chocolate he sent back.
**Kong**: This isn't good, is it?
**Creed**: He used up all your coconuts today. What if tomorrow, he kidnaps your friend?
## Part 3

*On the tatami inside...*
**Player**: (Turns around and gets up to open the recipe.)
**Magic Candy Recipe**: Beep. Sweetness is at acceptable levels. The softness of the texture needs to be improved...
**Player**: Shh, quiet.
**Magic Candy Recipe**: Tips for improving texture: The second step of making Wonderland Magic Candy is to melt it at high temperatures to draw out the threads of sweetness.
**Magic Candy Recipe**: It requires its maker to have a 'soft touch, and to feel the heat and sensation'.
**Player**: What an abstract description...
*Later...*
*Antonio catches Player studying the Magic Candy Recipe*
**Antonio**: Player, why did you tell me to take a nap, while you're secretly reading a book?
**Antonio**: (Unhappy) And you're sitting up again...
**Player**: Ah? You're not asleep yet? I just saw your eyes were closed.
**Antonio**: A few of them still have some energy left and aren't sleeping. It's okay if I sleep a bit later.
**Player**: Yeah. Wanna get some air?
*You take a few steps and open the wooden window at the side of the house. A breeze carries in some snowflakes with it.*
*They melt without even floating into the room.*
**Kong**: Huh?! What's this window doing open all of a sudden?
*The eavesdropping Kong skips away*
**Player**: (Kong is outside. What's with his temper? He didn't even say hi to me.)
**Player**: (Did he stuff Santos with something?)
*Bare-footed, you make your way back to Antonio's side. The woven wickerwork is cold...*
*But there's still a little warmth left.*
**Antonio**: That's right, you sit here. It was hot when you were lying down.
**Player**: Ahem, thank you.
**Antonio**: How strange. It's already summer, yet it's still snowing up in the mountains.
**Player**: High altitudes are like that.
*Antonio chats with you about random stuff.*
*You even share some chestnut cake mont blanc...*
*Then sleep finally comes.*
*You wake up from your nap, but Antonio is already gone.*
*His blanket is on top of you, and the side window is closed.*
**Player**: I'm gonna go have a walk around.
*Choice 1.1 - Hallway*
*As soon as you open the door, you see someone leaning against the hallway entrance.*
**Player**: What are you doing dozing off here, Kong? You're gonna catch a cold.
**Kong**: I had some stuff to do just now.
**Player**: What stuff? Why were you hiding from me?
**Player**: Aren't you cold, sitting outside like this?
**Kong**: I'm not cold. Look at my fuzzy coat. It's warm!
**Player**: Oh, so your head's wet because of sweat, not because of the snow.
**Kong**: Ahahahaha (awkwardly lowers head)
**Kong**: (Takes hair and vigorously rubs it on coat)
**Player**: Are you dumb? Take off your top and dry off...
**Kong**: Oh, I'm already dry.
**Player**: (Skeptical) Really?
**Player**: Sitting outside, saying you're not cold - you aren't just playing tough, are you?
*You reach out your hand and lightly rub his tousled hair.*
**Kong**: !
*Kong quickly gets out of Player's reach*
**Player**: What's up?
*A gentle breeze blows in from the courtyard.*
**Kong**: What a light breeze. It almost seems a little warm.
**Player**: Warm?
**Kong**: (The wind blows through your hair, almost like a hand.)
**Kong**: (Your cold face seems to be getting warmer)
**Kong**: (Regretfully) Ah, a nap. To be able to relax in the same bed as you...
**Kong**: Why did I make that promise to Ice Cube Face back then?
**Player**: Sure enough, he's secretly up to no good!
**Kong**: (embarrassed)
*Choose again*
*Choice 1.2 - Courtyard*
*Player sees Santos and Graci in the courtyard*
*Santos's face is slightly flushed*
**Graci**: (Joyful) Woof!
**Player**: You're walking Graci in the courtyard. Does he like this place?
**Santos**: Mmm, he's awake.
**Player**: Awake?
*Graci runs up to greet you, running circles around your feet.*
**Player**: Ah, haha, that tickles. Don't lick me!
**Santos**: Calm down, Graci!
*You squat down too.*
**Player**: Yeah, if I had an open wound, I'd need to get a shot.
**Graci**: (Lies down on the ground, dejected) Woo...
**Santos**: Dogs collect information through their tongues. He's just showing that he's not dangerous and that you can get close.
**Player**: All right, all right. Here, lick my hand.
**Graci**: (Rises happily) Woof!
**Graci**: Woof?
**Player**: !
*You feel a familiar softness and wetness on your hand.*
*Someone's holding the back of your hand.*
**Santos**: (Lifts your hand, then licks your fingers from the base to the tip.)
**Santos**: (He even picks up the crumbs of chestnut cake.)
**Player**: (The back of your neck tingles, and you feel a jolt through your body.)
**Player**: You... You...
**Santos**: Huh?
**Player**: I smell alcohol!
**Santos**: It must be that Creed guy... That fool... Give it to me.
**Player**: You fell for it!
**Santos**: (Stares at your face) I...fell for it...
**Player**: You look like you could use a nap. Let me take you back to the room.
*Choose again*
*Choice 1.3 - Hot Spring*
*Player joins Creed soaking in the hot spring*
**Creed**: Humans are so strange. A bath at home is just as warm, it feels the same...
**Creed**: Why do you want to come all this way to a hot spring?
**Player**: It's been a while since I've heard you say that word, 'humans'.
**Player**: (Picks up towel and puts it on head) I thought you were going to be condescending and group us in the same category.
**Creed**: What's that towel? You look ugly with it on your head.
**Player**: This is the difference between soaking in the hot spring and taking a bath.
**Player**: Wanna give it a shot?
**Creed**: (Disgusted) Ugly.
**Creed**: (Reaches a hand out to you) Take it off.
**Player**: Can you take it? According to the rules, nothing except your body is supposed to enter the hot spring.
**Player**: (Gets up) Wait for me to go, and then send it to...
**Player**: (Foot lands at a weird angle and body leans) ...You!
*Creed reacts quickly, and he grabs your arm.*
*The hand that has grasped you slowly slide down your arm to your wrist.*
**Player**: (Uh oh, am I going to fall into his embrace? How cliché.)
**Creed**: (Lets go of your wrist, grabs the towel in your hand, and yanks it away.)
**Player**: ?
**Player**: (Falls over) You weren't helping me? You were taking my towel?!
**Creed**: (Puts towel over forehead) You said the towel can't go in the water, but people can.
**Player**: ...
**Creed**: (The warm and soft towel sticks closely to the skin) Ah, this feels good.
**Creed**: (Touches own forearm) Now it feels like something's missing.
**Creed**: You wanna try falling again?
*Choose again*
*Choice 1.4 - Sauna*
*Player sits with Antonio in the sauna*
*The temperature keeps rising in this intimate, dimly lit enclosed space.*
*Water drips from your face and land on the hot floor.*
**Antonio**: Hahaha, still haven't gotten used to this temperature?
**Player**: That's not it. I got used to this heat a long time ago.
**Antonio**: Tough it out, or turn the temperature lower.
**Antonio**: Oh, that's right. Tonight when you sleep, remember to pick the middle-most spot.
**Player**: What would be the point of that?
*You are the only two people in the room...*
*He bends down and whispers in your ear.*
**Antonio**: After I woke up from our nap today, I snuck a heater into the room.
**Player**: (The breath from his speaking tickles your ear, and the sauna's temperature seems to get hotter.)
**Antonio**: Hahaha, don't let them take the good spot.
**Antonio**: I'm going to go adjust the temperature.
*Choose again*
*Choice 1.5 - Party Arrangements*
*The free time ends, and you call everyone back.*
*Scene continues after choices*
*Player gathers everyone around a large table*
**Player**: Now that we've eaten and rested up, let's arrange the game part of the party.
**Kong**: A game! Okay!
**Kong**: I'll show you what I've got!
**Antonio**: Antonio the Bull will accompany you!
**Santos**: Hmm... Is it a game that Yaen can play tomorrow?
**Creed**: ...
**Player**: Well, I've used all team-building experience I accumulated back on Earth and picked a game that people of all age groups can play.
**Player**: There are four choices. Number Seven, Guess Who, Werewolf, and Pillow Fight.
**Player**: Shall we try?
**Creed**: (Rolls eyes) These all sound childish.
*Finally, everyone sits at the table and starts counting from 7.*
**Santos**: 6
**Player**: (Slaps table)
**Player**: Here are the rules. If you get number that has 7 or is a multiple of 7, don't say anything!
**Kong**: I get it!
**Creed**: (Rolls eyes again) You want me to count out all the bomb numbers right away?
**Antonio**: (Looks at you and whispers) You're the one who signed the house contract on Never Isle.
**Player**: (That's right, I almost forgot that numbers give Antonio a headache.)
**Player**: Uh, pay attention to where you step.
**Antonio**: What?
*The game continues*
**Player**: 12
**Kong**: 13!
**Antonio**: (Nervous) ...
*You kick Antonio's foot under the table.*
**Antonio**: (Slaps table)
*The numbers are called out more and more quickly.*
**Kong**: 25!
**Santos**: 26.
**Creed**: (Slaps table)
**Antonio**: 2...
**Player**: (Damn, kicked him too late.)
**Player**: 28!
**Player**: Rats, I lost.
**Creed**: You lost just in time. The table's gonna break if we keep this up.
**Santos**: ... (Lowers head and pets Graci)
**Kong**: Huh? Aren't we supposed to slap the table?
**Player**: (Exchanges glances with Antonio) Ahem.
*You imagine what the rest of the game is going to be like with this awkwardness hanging in the air.*
**Player**: Guess Who... Creed doesn't remember anyone's names.
**Creed**: Sunglasses are Sunglasses. Do I need to say his name?
**Creed**: Santos? Santis?
**Player**: Werewolf rampage...
**Kong**: If I forsake my brother's loyalty and kill him...
**Kong**: That would bring great shame to the Shadowhunters. I can't do that. I won't play.
**Santos**: (Smiles coldly) You're just throwing the game so they'll win.
*After quickly running through the scenarios in his head, Player decides to not try Guess Who or Werewolf*
**Player**: (Reluctantly) Why don't we jump straight to the pillow fight?
**Kong**: Okay! I never lose a good fight!
**Creed**: Couldn't we play a game with a little more...
*Kong happily brings out five pillows from his room.*
*He throws the pillows at everyone.*
*Feather burst out everywhere*
**Creed**: Brains?
**Kong**: Hahaha, I'm going to love this!
**Creed**: (Keeps smiling)
**Santos**: (Passes quickly, pillow hits Creed) Sorry, Graci's running around.
**Antonio**: (Lifts pillow) This is great!
**Kong**: (Stops in front of Santos, then turns and hits Antonio) Yeah, it is!
**Creed**: (Throws pillow at you) If they're not going to hit you, I will!
**Player**: (Hides behind Antonio) Protect me, Antonio!
**Santos**: Smart idea, hiding. Looks like I'm just going to have to make a move!
*The pillow fight continues*
**Creed**: Supersonic speed!
**Kong**: Ah, a poisonous weapon!
**Kong**: But I've already made my peace with it.
**Kong**: As long as I'm alive, I'm going to keep fighting!
**Player**: Hahaha, what kind of slogan is that?!
**Antonio**: Let's team up, Kong!
**Player**: What?
**Santos**: (Sneaks closer) Nowhere to hide?
**Player**: No, no, no. I'm just as safe hiding behind the detective.
**Santos**: Nope. It's too late. There's no going back.
**Player**: (Covers head) Ah!
**Santos**: (Laughs) I haven't even hit you yet, what are you yelling for?
**Player**: (Pleading) Haha, let's get your revenge and join them!
*You find yourself surrounded into a corner by four people.*
**Creed**: (Shouts back) Antonio! Kong! Santos! Player!
**Kong**: Oh, Ice Cube Face, you remember our names?
**Creed**: (Runs away while covering head)
*More feathers fly out*
**Player**: Wow, that was brutal, Antonio!
**Antonio**: What are you doing with Creed's salted fish stick?
**Creed**: (Escapes the center) Hahaha, enjoy a taste of your own medicine!
**Player**: Stop, Kong! You've got the wrong person!
*At the end of the fight, everyone lies down on the floor, exhausted.*
*Looking up, you can't tell if the air is filled with falling snow or the feathers of pillows.*
**Santos**: The money you paid for the open-air hot springs was definitely worth it.
**Player**: Haha, if someone passes by and sees a bunch of people wearing pajamas...
**Kong**: In a gang fight?
**Antonio**: Revenge.
**Creed**: Tch. Someone's being flirty.
**Player**: (Shakes off goosebumps) If we're spotted like this, our reputations will be ruined.
**Creed**: Where's the reputation? Everyone... Milk, dinosaurs, monkeys?
**All**: (Everyone's eyes glance at Santos's fanny pack.)
**Santos**: Come on, Antonio's pockets are just as ridiculous.
**Kong**: Are our clothes too boring?
**Creed**: Thank the gods for making me normal.
**Antonio**: Just be a lazy little trouble-maker, puff puff.
**Kong**: Hahahaha!
*While joking around, you pick up a feather that has fallen on the ground.*
*You pinch its soft texture and run it across the palm of your hand.*
*It brings to mind the feeling of a nap you had with a certain someone.*
**Player**: Hmm... What kind of cotton candy is softest?
**Player**: I think I have a way to improve my cotton candy

## Part 4

*Playing around and then cleaning up the aftermath of the afternoon was extremely exhausting.*
*You finished your dinner almost as soon as it was set on the table.*
*Night falls, and you are full of wine and food.*
*Everyone hands around the large table while Player checks on the Magic Candy Recipe again*
**Player**: (Flips through the recipe, checking on its progress)
**Magic Candy Recipe**: Beep. Texture is at acceptable levels.
**Player**: I knew it!
**Magic Candy Recipe**: Wonderland Magic Candy, step three. Swirl the threads so that they're nice and fluffy.
**Magic Candy Recipe**: The maker will need to exhibit 'a keen listening ability in order to pay attention to the swirl's true situation'.
**Player**: The swirl's true situation?
*Graci trots around the table.*
*He's picked up by Kong, who hugs him tightly. He growls softly.*
**Kong**: Why are you so friendly to Player, but you won't let me pick you up?
**Santos**: Graci's got his own preferences, too.
**Player**: Yep. He's good at pouncing on his enemies, so be careful!
**Graci**: Woof! Woof!
*Santos sits down...*
*And Graci runs up and sits close by his side.*
**Santos**: (Pets Graci's head)
**Creed**: (Glances back and forth between Graci and Santos) It's good to have an instinct for vigilance.
**Santos**: Your informant on the matter of the alcohol chocolates has disappeared.
**Player**: (Remembers the alcohol smell...)
**Antonio**: (Changes the subject) He must eat a lot of meat to have gotten in the shape he's in.
**Kong**: And the way his ears stand up straight looks so majestic!
**Santos**: (His look of pride changes.)
**Kong**: Huh? Turn it around.
**Player**: What's up?
**Kong**: His tail is so short!
**Santos**: ... (His face darkens, but he doesn't say anything.)
**Antonio**: Graci is Santos's brother-in-arms, so be careful where you point that finger.
**Creed**: I'm just pointing out a physical defect, I'm not judging him. What's wrong with what I said?
**Kong**: Ah, I spoke without thinking. Sorry, Santos.
**Santos**: ...
**Santos**: (Snaps back to reality) There's no need to apologize. Actually, thank you for reminding me.
**Santos**: (Sighs) His ears are not majestic, and his tail isn't a defect. It's all because of me.
**Player**: What?
*Santos looks at you with an expression like he wants to say goodbye.*
*He's still wearing the cow suit from when he was making dessert, but his temperament has suddenly become cold and serious.*
**Santos**: Graci is a doberman. He originally had wide ears and a tail.
**Santos**: He had just been born when my crew and I found him on an island.
**Santos**: At the time, he was just something we found entertaining. We didn't care what he looked like.
**Kong**: Is that when you cut his ears and tail?
**Santos**: I came back to shore and set my sights on my target.
**Antonio**: Target?
**Creed**: For revenge.
**Player**: Revenge?
**Santos**: That's right. In order to get my revenge, I need someone to fight by my side. He's not just a pet.
**Santos**: His ears are upright so he's more sensitive to sounds. His tail has been cut so that he doesn't have any weak points that are easy to target in a fight.
**Santos**: (Pauses) You tried all day to pick Graci up, but you couldn't. Right, Kong?
**Kong**: Ah, yeah. He kept slipping right out of my hands.
**Santos**: If he still had a tail, you could grab it, and then he wouldn't be able to fight back.
**Kong**: So in order to avoid that happening, you hurt him yourself?
**Kong**: I take back the apology I gave you just now!
**Santos**: I hurt him myself. You're exactly right, that's just the kind of person I am.
**Santos**: (Looks at you) Bad things happen to those who get too close to me.
**Kong**: (Suddenly becomes silent after hearing what Santos just said.)
*Strangely, Antonio and Creed also lower their gazes.*
*What had been a fun, casual chat has suddenly become serious.*
**Kong**: Why are you talking like that in front of so many people?
**Creed**: Huh? I admire your honesty. Is this your 'curse' too?
**Kong**: (Stutters) S-says who? I'm the unbeatable Kong!
**Kong**: I'm a 'Son of Stone!'
**Antonio**: What's that?
**Kong**: Uh...the tribe where I grew up.
**Kong**: The children chosen by the gods of the tribe are called 'Sons of Stone'!
**Kong**: The Sons of Stone can eat at whoever's house they want.
**Kong**: When they grow up, they protect the tribe, and help its members live better lives!
**Kong**: After I grew up, I went to become a Shadowhunter, then I protected even more people!
**Antonio**: (Worried) How did you recruit your mercenary teammates back at the Bull?
**Kong**: Ahaha, I thought they were a little too bossy, so I didn't.
**Antonio**: I see...
*Amidst the conversations, everyone's worries disappear.*
*After dinner, everyone splits up*
**Player**: Where should I take a look around?
*Choice 1.1 - Hallway*
*In the hallway, someone is drinking wine and cleaning his gun.*
*Aware that you're here, he gestures for you to sit next to him.*
**Antonio**: You never experienced war back on Earth, did you?
**Antonio**: (Hands you a glass a wine) I heard it was very peaceful for you. Come on, have a drink with me.
**Player**: (Takes the drink) That's right. Everything was pretty peaceful.
**Antonio**: Were you scared when you came to Luxium and you fought in your first battle?
**Player**: I don't remember. But I often think of the Ursus Altar...
**Player**: The cries of Captain Bernard and his soldiers as they charged together...
**Antonio**: It's a shame I hadn't met you back then.
**Player**: A shame?
**Antonio**: (Takes a sip) Haha, yeah. Maybe I would've treated you like a younger brother.
**Antonio**: If you charged ahead, I'd shout with you.
**Antonio**: If you didn't, I'd hang back with you.
**Player**: Such a sound plan, they must have had a pretty good commander.
**Antonio**: They did. His name was Kerandi. But he's not with them anymore.
**Player**: ...
**Antonio**: You must have heard, right? When we all fought together, I would always stand at the very back.
**Player**: What would you think about at times like that?
**Antonio**: I just held my breath and didn't die. There wasn't much time to think.
**Antonio**: But I could hear random bullets whizzing overhead. I would even hear my brothers chatting and laughing.
**Antonio**: I'm not in the Skulls anymore. I live a quiet life now. It's hard for me to hear about this kind of stuff.
**Antonio**: (Sets down wine glass) Do you think they're disappointed that their brother-in-arms isn't fighting anymore?
**Player**: Don't worry about it. It doesn't matter what choice you make.
**Player**: As long as you're happy, everyone who cares about you will accept it.
**Antonio**: (Voice grows softer) Hmm. Can you accept me like this?
**Player**: What did you say?
**Antonio**: I said... Did you know... You're a good guy...
**Player**: I know that you're drunk. How about I take you back to your room?
*Choose again*
*Choice 1.2 - Courtyard*
*You walk to the tree in the courtyard and see that someone is already sitting there.*
*He is holding a book, but looking into the night sky.*
**Player**: Creed?
**Creed**: Mmm.
**Player**: What a coincidence. I've got a book to read, too, but it's a cookbook.
**Creed**: (His gaze falls upon the instructions in your hands.)
**Player**: Ahem, I've made it to step three. Let me read it to you.
**Player**: Swirl the threads so that they're nice and fluffy. You need to pay attention to the swirl's true situation.
**Player**: Do you know how to improve a swirling machine?
**Creed**: I don't have room in my head for this childish crap.
**Player**: Can you at least give me any advice that might help?
**Creed**: You really want to hear it? I was just thinking about a theory related to rotation.
**Creed**: (Looks up) See that? The celestial bodies in the night sky are all whirling around.
**Creed**: With an airship, you can fly in the sky, but the stars are still so far away.
**Creed**: As it's flying, the airship's internal gyro axis is not rotating relative to the night sky.
**Creed**: But if the airship were to fly too close to a star, would its gyro axis start rotating relative to it?
**Player**: What's rotating, and what isn't?
**Creed**: I don't like relative rotation, and I don't like change.
**Creed**: I know I don't have a good temper. I don't know how to say nice or sweet things.
**Creed**: The engineer who watched me grow up never had anything nice to say about me
**Creed**: You know. That big fire at the Luxium Business Summit.
**Creed**: So, the airship's navigational gyro axis's rotation is too complicated. I don't like it.
**Player**: I don't understand theory, but I do know that when it comes to humans...
**Player**: Just because you don't like something, doesn't mean it won't happen.
**Player**: Sometimes people don't even understand their heart's true desire.
*The shade of the tree creates a separate area...*
*... where your voice is echoing*
**Creed**: Heart's true desire? I don't have anything like that.
*You can't understand his mysterious jargon.*
*In the end, Creed asked you to leave, because he felt that you affected his thinking.*
*Choose again*
*Choice 1.3 - Hot Spring*
*Santos is soaking in the hot spring. You shush Graci.*
*You sneak up behind him and inhale, preparing to scare him with a loud roar.*
**Santos**: (Suddenly) What are you doing?
**Player**: (Stops creeping forward and jumps back) Ah!
*The stones next to the hot spring are very slippery.*
**Player**: (Falls over)
*This is giving you déjà vu. It didn't end well last time, did it?*
**Player**: Huh? I didn't fall in the water, and I didn't fall on the ground either!
**Santos**: (Stands up, his hand on your waist.)
**Santos**: (Let's go) Stand up.
**Player**: Wow, you really are a perceptive one. You were ready and everything.
**Santos**: ... (Purses lips and stays silent)
**Player**: Huh? What's wrong? I just wanted to scare you a little, please don't be angry.
**Santos**: It's not that.
**Santos**: After the party, please leave me alone.
**Player**: What?
**Santos**: Just because you're finished killing Shadows for the day, doesn't mean that other people don't have their own responsibilities to take care of.
**Santos**: (Quickly puts on clothes) Let's go, Graci.
**Graci**: (Bites your pant leg) Awoo...
**Santos**: (Tugs leash) Let's go.
*Your pants slacken as Graci lets go.*
*A gust of wind blows away the steam from his body.*
**Player**: (After the previous chat about Graci, he felt a different person... Why?)
*You leave the hot springs in silence.*
*Choose again*
*Choice 1.4 - Sauna*
*You enter the sauna and see Kong hasn't even taken off his pajamas.*
*His head is lowered and he's watching the stones inside the furnace used to control the temperature.*
**Player**: Aren't you hot, wearing clothes in here?
**Kong**: (Looks up) Player...
**Player**: Your face is covered in sweat. Take your clothes off!
**Kong**: Don't say that.
**Player**: What...?
**Kong**: (Huddles up next to the furnace and begins to wail) Ah...
**Kong**: (Crying) I lied to you guys!
**Kong**: (Crying) The gods didn't bless me. Why would they bless a stone?
**Kong**: (Crying) It's because I'm always getting into trouble, that's why the called me the 'Son of Stone!'
**Kong**: (Crying) When I was born, I didn't have any family. My friends in my tribe and in the Shadowhunters all kicked me out...
**Kong**: (Wailing) Ah! I lied to you guys! I'm a disaster! I deserve to be cursed!
**Player**: ... (Opens the door to let air in and cool things off)
**Player**: (Opens arms) Stop hugging the wood and come hug me.
**Player**: What if I hadn't come? Would you keep crying in this sauna, fully clothed like this?
**Kong**: (Sniffling) I'm fine... I'm a desert stone. I'm not afraid of a little heat.
**Player**: Am I your friend?
**Kong**: (Nods head, then shakes it)
**Player**: You've cried yourself silly.
**Kong**: (Stops crying, looks a little embarrassed) I didn't run crying to my friends when the tribe kicked me out...
**Player**: (Lets down arms) All right, Mr. Big Man.
**Kong**: I'm just like a stone. Nobody likes me.
**Player**: What do you mean, nobody likes stones? Gems are stones, too.
**Kong**: (Scratches head) But I'm all fuzzy... I'm not like a gem at all!
**Player**: No two stones are alike.
**Player**: The furnace next to you uses igneous rocks that have been carefully selected. It doesn't use any other kind of stone.
**Player**: Those stones can withstand and maintain high temperatures, but also evaporate quickly when splashed with cold water.
**Player**: Any other kind of stone would break, and then we wouldn't be able to heat the sauna!
**Kong**: Yeah, but I can't heat a sauna, either.
**Player**: Maybe not, but there's stuff you can do that no one else can.
**Kong**: I have talents...
*As he spoke slowly...*
*Kong leaned against the furnace and then fell asleep.*
**Kong**: (Murmurs) I want to go home...
**Player**: Aye...
**Player**: (Strange whispers are betraying all the hang-ups. Seems tonight things are a little more complicated than they are on the surface.)
*Choose again*
*Choice 1.5 - Improve Cotton Candy*
**Player**: (Tonight, heard their emotions based on the pitch of their voice, the timbre of their different personalities, the sincerity hidden in their lies...)
**Player**: (Does that qualify as a keen listening ability?)
*Scene continues after choices*
*A full day of preparing for a party, with all its emotional ups and downs, has made you exhausted.*
*Everyone says good night to each other as they get ready for bed.*
**Player**: (Sincerely) Everyone's been so busy lately.
**Player**: Everyone deserves a good rest.
**Player**: Good night, everyone.
**Antonio**: Good night, sleep tight!
**Kong**: Good night, don't let the bed bugs bite!
**Creed**: Pipe down!
**Santos**: (Quietly closes door and turns off lights)
*As you fall into a deep sleep during the night, two people sneak out to chat.*
**Santos**: ...
**Santos**: If Player ever runs into any problems he can't solve on his own, please quietly let me know.
**Antonio**: Why does everyone have such a high opinion of me?
**Santos**: Well, someone who's earned the title 'Buster of Crimes' is going to find himself in a dangerous situation, sooner or later.
**Antonio**: Can you take care of it? I wouldn't trust this to just anyone.
**Antonio**: Whatever your relationship with him is, clearly there are feelings there. And feelings can't be transferred.
**Antonio**: Don't think too much. Just go to sleep.

## Part 5

*The light from the sky shines through the window and gradually lightens the room.*
*You've all had a good night's sleep. Now it's the day of the party.*
**Player**: (Sits up in bed) The food, the drink, and the festivities are all ready. We just need to set up the decorations this morning, and we'll be good to go.
**Player**: (Stretches) Most of the weight has been lifted! Huh? Why is this quilt wrapped so tightly?
**Player**: (Looks around, and realizes no one else is in the room)
**Player**: It doesn't look like I slept in...
*Next to the bed is a tray with your breakfast upon it.*
**Player**: I just got out of bed, and breakfast is ready? Wow!
**Player**: (Takes a big bite) Huh? Santos didn't make this...
**Player**: I didn't see him all night.
**Player**: I think I forgot something... The birthday presents!
**Magic Candy Recipe**: The last step, improving the presentation: wrap the candy.
**Magic Candy Recipe**: When the present is unwrapped, the sunlight must bend around the candy, turning it into a dream of color.
**Player**: Uh, is this going to require me to have an 'eye for beauty' or something like that?
**Player**: Wow, I was right! What's with the fine print down below? 'This works best with a dream catcher.'
**Player**: Where am I going to find a dream catcher? All I've got is the cotton candy. I've already failed enough as it is.
**Player**: I'm gonna go have a walk around.
*Choice 1.1 - Hallway*
*As soon as you walk out, you see someone squatting in the entrance, staring into the distance and frowning.*
*Expression aside, this blue little dumpling is a little cute.*
**Creed**: (Staring...)
**Player**: (It's the same look he gets when he's trying to solve a serious problem!)
**Player**: (From this angle...it's where I was just sleeping. That's gotta be it!)
**Player**: (Nervous) Creed, why are you squatting here like a Keeper?
**Creed**: (Slowly looks at you) Keeper?
**Player**: Uh, it's something we put on doors back on Earth. (Gestures) It's a deity we paste on doorways.
**Creed**: Oh... (Looks back in the direction he was originally looking in and frowns toward the spot where you'd been sleeping.)
**Player**: (Grabs him by the shoulders) Please forgive me, if I wasn't careful last night...
**Player**: I might've kicked your leg, or taken all the blankets, burped, grinded my teeth...
**Creed**: (Covers the shoulders you grabbed)...
**Player**: Talk to me! Don't keep it all inside. No... Don't think too much!
**Creed**: Say something?
**Creed**: (What you said suddenly floats through your heart, and your frown grows deeper.)
**Creed**: (Huh? Me? He's just my landlord, temporarily. I just owe him a little favor, that's all.)
**Creed**: (I'm just gonna have some fun and find him a real boyfriend to cure his heartbreak.)
**Player**: Hey, are you okay? (Waves hand in front of his face.)
**Creed**: (The light seeps through your fingers and dances around on his face.)
**Creed**: (Frowns) I hate this light, too much...
**Player**: What?
*You only know that he's frowning, and seems to be fighting something. But what?*
*The more obsessed he is with rejecting his human feelings, the more he gets tangled up in them.*
**Creed**: What are you using to make the cotton candy? Do you need an upgrade?
**Player**: You were making fun of me yesterday.
**Creed**: I'm just asking.
**Player**: Yes, I need an upgrade. Today we have to deal with the decorations!
*Choose again*
*Choice 1.2 - Courtyard*
*Facing the sunlight...*
*Antonio does his morning exercises in the courtyard.*
**Player**: Hey! Antonio!
**Player**: You're up early, considering how much you had to drink last night!
*You're not sure whether it's because of his morning exercises, or because you mentioned alcohol, but...*
*Antonio's face is beet red.*
**Antonio**: I'm not up early, you're up late.
**Antonio**: I didn't say anything when I was drunk, did I?
**Player**: No, you just kept complimenting, that's all.
**Player**: I'm embarrassed.
**Antonio**: Hahaha, all right, then.
*Antonio's body clearly shows his commitment to his workouts.*
*Like a wall that can feel emotions.*
*He is tough, quiet, and reliable.*
**Player**: (But occasionally, it's good to give him someone else that he can rely on.)
**Player**: (Gestures to abs) How do you manage to drink so much but still stay in shape?
**Antonio**: Huh?
**Antonio**: I train a lot.
*The sun shines from behind. Your smile and voice melt into it.*
*Soft and friendly, like a dream.*
**Antonio**: (Softens voice) You're in a good mood today.
**Player**: I'm always in a good mood when I get enough sleep.
**Antonio**: Don't sleep too long. It's not good for you.
**Antonio**: You're different from him, but why do you both love sleeping so much?
**Player**: All right.
**Antonio**: So I did tell you about Kerandi.
**Player**: (Nervous) Huh? Keran...what?
**Antonio**: It's nothing. Anyway, I don't need to keep secrets from you.
**Player**: Uh... I thought you didn't want to talk about what makes you sad?
*You join Antonio's morning exercises just as they're coming to an end.*
**Player**: (Panting) What a workout...
**Player**: I'm going to take a walk somewhere else.
**Antonio**: All right.
**Antonio**: (Thinks for a bit, then speaks again.)
**Antonio**: See you soon.
*Choose again*
*Choice 1.3 - Hot Spring*
*Kong relaxes in the hot spring*
**Kong**: (Clears throat) Ahem, Player. You're awake.
**Kong**: (Softly) Want to go to the hot springs together?
*You hear a voice full of vigor, but it seems to be speaking slowly on purpose.*
*The speaker is uncharacteristically not lying lazily on his side.*
*Instead, he's sitting upright, looking at you with a smile on his face.*
**Player**: I still need to go...
*Perhaps it's because of light reflection off the water's surface, but you're suddenly blinded.*
*It's the first time you ever looked so clumsy in front of Kong.*
**Kong**: Haha, wow. Huh? Is it finally time for me to help calm your mind?
**Kong**: I used to not be able to see certain sides of people. But you can see all of them...
**Player**: That's...uh...ambiguous.
**Player**: So, what? Whenever you run into big setbacks, you have to find friends to rely on?
**Kong**: (Suddenly comes closer, then wipes your face off with a towel.)
**Player**: W-what are you doing?
**Kong**: Huh, that's not sauce left over from breakfast?
**Kong**: Is it a mark from the tatami? The pattern looks right.
*He stares at you without blinking, and sits upright with the towel in his arms.*
*He looks almost like a cub pretending to be a mature one so that he may protect his treasure.*
**Player**: Pfft. Why are you acting so weird today, Kong?
**Kong**: A-am I?
**Kong**: (Low voice) Someone said before that Antonio and Santos treat you differently than I treat you.
**Kong**: I feel it too, a little... (Looks at you)
**Kong**: But I don't understand. We're all friends, how is it different?
**Player**: So you pretended to be like them so that you could find the difference?
**Kong**: I wasn't pretending! I'm...I'm more mature than that!
**Player**: Then I'll just pretend that I believe you.
*Choose again*
*Choice 1.4 - Sauna*
*After the strange encounter in the hot spring last night...*
*And then running into each other in the sauna, you feel a little embarrassed.*
**Player**: Ahem. You're here too, Santos.
**Player**: (Looking for something to say) This is the first time I've seen you here in the sauna.
**Santos**: (Sitting at the far end of the sauna, you can't see his expression clearly) Yeah.
**Santos**: I've seen a lot of people come in here recently.
**Player**: Ah, no, I'm just taking a walk around.
**Santos**: What's that got to do with me?
**Player**: Aye... (Stands at the far end of the bench with a towel, getting ready to sit down)
**Player**: Where do you put Graci when you come to sit in the sauna?
**Santos**: (Rushes over and grabs you by the arm) Don't sit there!
*The temperature difference between the two parts of the room turns the steam into water droplets on his body.*
*They run down his waist and abs.*
**Santos**: (Reaches down, knocks on the creaking board, then bends over and leans on it)
**Santos**: You need to check before you sit down, even if no one is sitting there.
**Player**: Oh... (Whispers) Good looking out.
*You notice that he didn't take off his sunglasses.*
**Santos**: What's up?
**Player**: Don't move.
*You raise your hand to touch his expressionless face.*
*You carefully pinch the bridge of his sunglasses, as if you're opening a seal.*
**Player**: (With the sunglasses now out of the way, your view of his eyes is unobstructed.)
**Player**: (His expression isn't oppressive. His eyes are black and white, and unexpectedly clear.)
**Santos**: (blushes)
**Player**: (Scratches head) Wow... Your sunglasses do a good job protecting your eyes.
**Santos**: Enjoy the sauna. Don't get too close, and don't touch my sunglasses.
*Choose again*
*Choice 1.5 - Party Arrangements*
*No additional dialog*
*Scene continues after choices*
*Player gathers everyone before the party starts*
**Player**: Let's take a look at the decorations we've got.
**Santos**: Colorful cards and markers.
**Antonio**: Colorful lights, streamers, and string.
**Kong**: Letters and candy-shaped balloons!
**Kong**: If I had to guess, I'd say it's about stepping on balloons and creating an atmosphere.
**Player**: Pfft, you're not supposed to step on the balloons. I'm going to use them to spell out Yaen's name.
**Player**: (Looks up) Of course, if people want to step on the balloons, I suppose that's not out of the question.
**Creed**: Is this disposable tableware?
**Player**: There's also a table napkin.
**Creed**: (Unexpectedly cooperative) The colorful world of happiness really doesn't suit me.
*You talk about options for decorations.*
**Player**: Basically, feel free to play around with the colorful candy theme.
**Player**: What's most important now, is...
**Player**: (Removes something from pocket)
*Colorful and gorgeous bows are placed on the ground.*
**Player**: (Suppressing a smile) Take your pick, everyone.
**All**: ...
**Antonio**: Are you sure this suits us?
**Player**: (Pretending to be disappointed) I guess if nobody's willing...
**Player**: Actually, these...
**Creed**: I'll go first.
**All**: ?! (Looks of admiration)
**Creed**: I like the blue. Matches my pajamas.
**Player**: What I wanted to say was, the bow will be put on your sign-in photo.
**Santos**: So first you wanted us to think that we'd be wearing them on our heads, so that you could embarrass us by clarifying later. Not bad.
**Player**: Haha, just a little trick I learned from you.
**Santos**: (Doesn't take the bait)
**Player**: ...
**Player**: You surprise me, Creed.
*Creed blushes*
**Creed**: No, I just wanted to...
**Creed**: (Just wants to flatter you)
**Santos**: (Interrupts) I want purple.
**Player**: Wow, you really know how to flatter a guy, Santos.
**Creed**: (smiles)
**Antonio**: Red.
**Antonio**: (Lifts up the bow and shows it to Creed, then mouths the words) You chickened out.
**Kong**: (Slowly) Hmm... Everyone's had their turn, now it's mine.
**Kong**: (Steadily) Yellow. It matches my pajamas.
**Antonio**: You're still not awake yet, are you, Kong?
*A short while later...*
**Santos**: (Takes scissors) Did I leave enough space beneath the photo?
**Player**: Should be enough for a signature! Now take these cards and use string to hang them.
**Player**: Whoever's first can sign their name, or write a birthday wish.
**Antonio**: Good idea.
**Player**: Hahaha, yes. On Earth, we have a sign-in desk. It's the first step to getting into the party.
**Player**: What are you doing, Kong?
**Kong**: You can flip through the photos to see who's at the party.
**Player**: Photos... The others can use the ones they've already taken. How about you guys take one now?
**Player**: We'll go in order based on who chose their ribbons first.
*The photos now taken, you spread them out.*
**Creed**: (Whispers) I told you I'd help you make the birthday decorations.
**Player**: Then how about the dessert table's decorations?
**Creed**: I'll lay out the tableware in just a second.
**Player**: Ah, all right. I spent a long time on that cotton candy, so don't mess it up.
**Creed**: Is that what you think of me?
*Creed goes to set the decorations for the dessert table*
*After a while, Player checks on his progress*
**Creed**: Looks like it's all set.
**Player**: You're done already?!
**Player**: Do you have the 'eye for the beauty' that the guide talks about?
**Creed**: What?
**Player**: Nothing. Talent really does make all the difference...
*After the wrapping is finished, you go back to the courtyard to see how everything looks.*
**Santos**: (Lifts up finished cards)
**Kong**: (Pulls string tight and prepares to clip photos)
*Kong sees you coming.*
**Kong**: (Relaxes and waves you over) Player!
*The string retracts...*
**Santos**: (Ducks) Are you stupid?
**Player**: How are you guys doing here? Check out this cool wrapping!
*You untie the ribbon, and a small fountain and blue fireworks appear above the gift box.*
**Kong**: Uh, will the fireworks burn her hand?
**Creed**: It's just an optical projection.
**Antonio**: Blue fireworks with a fountain. Look good?
**Player**: (Nods)
**Player**: (Yaen will definitely like the romantic gesture.)
**Santos**: Romance is useless.
**Creed**: Huh? How about you give it a try, then?
**Kong**: What's going on with you today, Santos?
**Kong**: Creed can do it better than you can.
**Santos**: ... (Continues working on the cards)
**Antonio**: (Remembers the conversation from yesterday) Don't worry about him, he's just being dumb.
*The party is about to start...*
*You go to the entrance to welcome the guests.*
**Yaen**: I'm not late, am I? This mountain's so tall!
**Player**: (Takes out the cotton candy that has now been wrapped) You're right on time. Happy birthday, Yaen!
**Yaen**: Wow! Is this my favorite candy?
**Player**: That's right! I made this cotton candy step-by-step according to Taneleer's recipe.
**Yaen**: Incredible! Kids like me are 100x happier than old farts like you are when we get gifts!
**Yaen**: But, I hold the Candy Festival so that everyone can be happy.
**Yaen**: I don't know when your birthday is. I'll give you an arcana dream catcher. Let's enjoy ourselves!
**Player**: Huh? A dream catcher? That sounds familiar...
**Player**: I'm a little suspicious that you gave me a gift, though, you little witch...
**Yaen**: Humph. It's not like I made it just for you. I'm just taking a gift and giving it to you instead.
**Player**: If you're just giving me a gift someone else gave you, how do you know it has arcana? You really did make this just for me!
**Yaen**: Come on, just take it. As Big Pipe would say...
**Yaen**: Children find pleasure in candy, but adults enjoy more complicated pleasures.
**Player**: Pleasure? Do you have any idea what you're talking about?
*On the way back from the Cloud Plateau...*
*You hang the dream catcher on the headboard in your room and go to sleep.*
*Player has pleasant dreams...*
*Beneath a romantic fountain of fireworks...*
*Someone who spoke with you about the past and told you of his sorrows.*
**Antonio**: You're the one who persuaded me to look forward. But when I look forward, all I see is you.
*In a narrow, dark, and dangerous room...*
*Someone who avoided you.*
**Santos**: I've lost enough people for one lifetime. I can't lose you, too.
*In the foggy, steaming bath...*
*Someone who complained about your towel.*
**Creed**: When did you get so beautiful? I can't take my eyes off of you...
*On an airship floating through the clouds...*
*Someone who had a strange encounter.*
**Kong**: If you like me, you need to tell me... Only then we can embrace...
*When you wake up, you cannot remember what was in the dream.*
*But the joy is lingering in your heart, and you feel a kind of happiness coming from the future.*
**Player**: (Just like the day we prepared the pajama party.)
**Player**: (Although nothing big happened, or even the chats were forgotten.)
**Player**: (Only knows that, at that moment, me myself is happy.)
**Player**: And because I made the candy and developed my sense of taste, hearing, touch, and sight...
**Player**: That's what it means! More complicated pleasures in the candy!