Flowing Starlight in the Iris(Wuthering Waves)

Rover:

(Chisa's been in the Black Shores' care after Honami. I wonder how she's doing.)

Rover:

(I should drop by when I have the time.)

Some time later, you return to the Black Shores to visit Chisa. Valentina tells you that the connection between Honami's Sonoro and the real world is stabilizing. Chisa has completed her treatment and shows no serious lingering Overclocking symptoms. However, she recently went back to Honami alone for reasons unknown. Her guide, KU-Shosho, might know more.

With Chisa's treatment over, you once again return to the Black Shores...

Valentina:

Ah, Rover. Perfect timing. There's something you need to know.

Valentina:

Since we took charge of the Honami Sonoro Sphere, we've been noticing some changes on the inside—

Valentina:

The link between Honami and the real world is stabilizing, and the city's time flow is almost in sync.

Valentina:

But scans from Tethys indicate that much of the recent frequency exchanges weren't passing through this rift.

Valentina:

Meaning it could either just be a misreading due to overlapping data, or... there's another access point to the Honami Sonoro Sphere.

Valentina:

On top of that, the city's buzzing with unidentified phenomena and unconfirmed hazard zones. We'll continue to monitor them closely and run further analysis.

Valentina:

She's just completed her treatment. Everything seems to be all right. Her Rabelle's Curve is within normal parameters, and there are no significant lingering Overclocking symptoms.

Valentina:

That said, I don't recommend repeating what happened in Honami. That level of Resonance strain is unsustainable.

Valentina:

Ah, excuse me.

Valentina:

...Yes. Mm-hmm. Got it. {Male=He;Female=She}'s with me right now.

Valentina:

I just got a call that Chisa submitted an itinerary not long ago and left for Honami alone.

Valentina:

She didn't specify. All she wrote was "I want to go back."

Valentina:

You can find her guide KU-Roro in the Haven of Sprouts. It may know something.

Rover:

I'll go check it out. Knowing Chisa, she usually doesn't act without purpose.

Actor No. 1:

Now then, I believe it's safe to say I can finally go for a recharge...

The Aetherfin shows you a holographic reconstruction of the event that occurred here—

You see a girl looking off into the distance, her eyes lost in the blue sky. What could she be thinking?

Valentina:

Anything else you'd like to know? As long as it's within my authority, I can answer.

Valentina:

After Honami was devastated, energy from the Lament sealed the entire city into a unique Sonoro Sphere like congealed amber. Its time flow was slowed down compared to the rest of the world.

Valentina:

A similar case would be Mt. Firmament. Being on the inside for a day means up to a hundred days might have passed on the outside.

Valentina:

But it's not permanent. As Honami's connection to reality grows stronger, the flow of time begins to restore itself.

Valentina:

You getting sucked into Honami through that rift has got Shorekeeper worried sick, and she's been closely monitoring everything that's going on over there since.

Valentina:

Good thing is, at that point, Honami's time flow was no longer that different from the real world. So to us, you were only gone for just a bit.

Valentina:

Anything else you'd like to know? As long as it's within my authority, I can answer.

Valentina:

After Honami was devastated, energy from the Lament sealed the entire city into a unique Sonoro Sphere like congealed amber. Its time flow was slowed down compared to the rest of the world.

Valentina:

A similar case would be Mt. Firmament. Being on the inside for a day means up to a hundred days might have passed on the outside.

Valentina:

But it's not permanent. As Honami's connection to reality grows stronger, the flow of time begins to restore itself.

Valentina:

You getting sucked into Honami through that rift has got Shorekeeper worried sick, and she's been closely monitoring everything that's going on over there since.

Valentina:

Good thing is, at that point, Honami's time flow was no longer that different from the real world. So to us, you were only gone for just a bit.

After some searching, you find Chisa on the pedway. She opens up about what's been troubling her—While she spent only two months in Honami, more than twenty years passed in the outside world. Unsure how to face a world that now feels unfamiliar, she asks you to walk with her for a while, perhaps... to the lake surrounded by cherry blossoms.

Chisa:

Rover, what are you doing here? Are you... looking for me?

Chisa:

I'm sorry for not staying at the Black Shores and resting as I should.

Chisa:

I'm in stable shape, and the Black Shores approved my temporary travel.

Chisa:

But these are just conditions that made this possible. As for the true reason...

Chisa:

I wanted to see what's become of Honami... since the loop ended.

Chisa:

Strolling through the streets, I realize that this is my first time seeing the city as a tourist, despite being trapped here for months.

Chisa:

No more worrying when the next Lament will come. No more desperate reach for Neon Tower. Now, I can simply wander around. No burdens.

Chisa:

The Lament left scars. They won't fade. But what was once frozen in time... seems to be moving again.

Rover:

This is the new future that we and everyone who once lived here forged together.

Chisa:

A new... future, you say?

Chisa:

By the way, I asked the Black Shores to help me verify the academy I once attended and dig into my records.

Chisa:

They didn't reach the school directly, but... I found out something. I was in Honami for around two months. Outside, over twenty years have passed.

Chisa:

Kuchiba Chisa... was a first-year student at Startorch Academy over twenty years ago.

Chisa:

Yes. I had a feeling this would be the case when Sumika mentioned her findings, but I didn't expect such a huge time difference.

Chisa:

The nice orientation ceremony... still feels recent. But the classmates I met have long since graduated.

Chisa:

When I tried to contact my parents back home, I realized there was no way for me to reach them at all.

Chisa:

Where are they? What have they been doing? How will they react if they find out that their daughter is still alive... I have no way of knowing.

Chisa:

Now this place feels more like home than the world out there.

Rover:

It just takes some time to get used to an unfamiliar environment.

Rover:

Just ask the Black Shores to help you keep digging. With enough time, you're bound to find those connections again.

Chisa:

Since you're here, would you walk with me? I'd like to see what Honami looks like now... together.

Rover:

Any particular places you have in mind?

Chisa:

I haven't come up with an exact plan yet. Specific routes, time of travel, rest locations... None.

Chisa:

Just as I thought. I'm not my usual self today.

Rover:

Hey, it's just a "weekend getaway." No plans needed. Just get up and go.

Chisa:

If you put it that way...

Chisa:

How about that lake surrounded by cherry blossoms?

Chisa:

That vending machine looks like it's still working.

Chisa:

I'll buy you some juice as a thank you for the hassle you went through to find me.

The vending machine jams and fails to dispense a drink, but Chisa seems to know exactly how to deal with the situation...

Chisa:

I think it got stuck inside...

Chisa:

I've got a better way to handle no-good vending machines like this.

Chisa hands you a drink and begins to share painful memories from her past. As a Resonator, she faced constant discrimination in her hometown, even at school. Just when she felt she couldn't take any more, she received an acceptance letter from Startorch Academy. There, she was treated with kindness by the teachers and her classmates.

Chisa:

Here you go. Simplicity works best.

Chisa:

...Is something wrong?

Chisa:

You're right. We were always running from something. Or chasing after something.

Chisa:

Before I transferred to Startorch, I used to hide next to the vending machines behind my high school building all the time.

Chisa:

No one else really went there. It was quiet. The sound of soda cans dropping down would make me feel relaxed.

Chisa:

Where I come from, discrimination and prejudice against Resonators are part of life. School was no exception.

Chisa:

The gossip, the looks, the way people kept their distance... intentional or not, it still got to me.

Chisa:

I tried to stand up for myself. I tried holding it in. Nothing changed. Just when I was close to breaking, I received an acceptance letter.

Chisa:

And so, with my family's blessing, I left home and went to Startorch Academy, far away in the Lahai-Roi region.

Rover:

Startorch Academy... What was it like?

Chisa:

So it's true, you... No, it's nothing.

Chisa:

It is a multinational school built specifically for Resonators. A metropolis of science and research.

Chisa:

Even for a girl who couldn't face her own problems and chose to run away, they accepted me with a warm welcome. I met people who dreamed of reaching the stars.

Chisa:

This swing... It's just like the one back home.

Chisa:

Would you join me? There is room for one more.

Chisa:

That fountain over there... it's been concealed by leftover Irideglow Crystals. Kind of a shame.

Rover:

I'll take care of it. Just like back in Neon Tower.

At a fountain, you discover a strange cassette, a device unique to Lahai-Roi. Every Startorch Academy student carries a similar frequency storage cassette in their Terminal. Chisa decides to bring it to Namipon, hoping it can help you locate its origin. With the cherry blossoms so close, the two of you decide to take a picture together.

Chisa:

There's something in the water...

Rover:

Let's fish it out and see what it is.

Rover:

This looks like a cassette tape.

Chisa:

Ah, I know what it is.

Chisa:

Every Startorch Academy student has a frequency storage cassette like this inside their Terminals.

Rover:

(I remember now. Galbrena once told me about them.)

Chisa:

I also have one in my Terminal. They were given out during the orientation.

Rover:

If it's a device unique to Lahai-Roi, what's it doing here?

Chisa:

Random "castaways" often appear inside the Honami Sonoro Sphere. This must be one of those.

Chisa:

I'll take this to Namipon. It should be able to help us find where it came from.

Chisa:

Cherry blossoms... Right in front of us. It's so beautiful.

Chisa:

Sure. You and I together.

Under the cherry blossoms, Chisa returns your old student ID, revealing that you too once attended Startorch Academy in the past. Still, what matters more to her is the you she met in Honami, and she wants to know you better. You tell her stories of your adventures in Rinascita, and she confides her own uncertainties about the future. Your response moves her, and she says she's drawn strength from the journey you've shared. She then gives you a gift: an intricate kirigami of her hometown she made during her recovery in the Black Shores. A piece filled with feeling and memory. Finally, she suggests inviting your Black Shores friends to the cafe to celebrate a real "opening day."

Chisa:

When I was little, my parents once took me to a park full of cherry blossoms for a picnic. I made kirigami in all kinds of shapes and had them guess what they were.

Chisa:

The kirigami didn't really look like anything, but when I told them, they'd always smile and pretend they understood.

Chisa:

Those cherry blossoms... they looked just like they do now. After being away from home for so long, drifting around... I feel like I'm home again.

Chisa:

Thank you, Senpai.

Chisa:

They told me about you at the Black Shores. That you've lost some memories.

Chisa:

This student ID card came into my possession by chance. It was in that Tower that I found—No, that I recognized who it belonged to.

Chisa:

I never found the right moment to return this to you. Here, this belongs to you.

Chisa:

We never met in person at school, but... I did read the course selection guide you wrote.

Chisa:

It's okay. Honami is where we first met each other.

Chisa:

But I've been talking about myself this whole time. Why don't you tell me about your story so far? I'd like to know more about you.

Chisa:

Rinascita... sounds like quite an adventure. Only someone like you, Senpai, could accomplish so much.

Chisa:

Alright. You always seem to find your way forward, no matter how uncertain things are. Like you did in Honami. But I...

Chisa:

What comes next? Should I continue my studies at the Academy? Should I go home? Or should I do something else... I still haven't decided.

Rover:

No need to rush your decision. You can take your time and stick around here for a while.

Rover:

At least, you won't have to face the future alone anymore.

Chisa:

You're right. We're partners.

Chisa:

I received a precious gift while traveling with you—the courage to face reality and move on.

Chisa:

There's something else I want to give you besides the ID card, Rover.

Chisa:

I was out of inspiration towards the end, but finally managed to finish it after coming back to Honami and getting some ideas.

Chisa:

Yes. It's a pretty tricky piece, so I ended up using a lot of paper. Looks very much like Honami, don't you think?

Chisa:

My hometown was built next to the Tacet Field created by Honami's fall. Even though the Lament still haunts us, some stubborn souls have rebuilt that familiar Tower again.

Chisa:

We still reach for the sky. Still hope radio waves break through the blockade to connect the isolated regions left behind...

Chisa:

The painful memories of home will never fade. But I won't turn away from the beautiful ones, either. Together... they are what make me Kuchiba Chisa.

Chisa:

This is my thank-you gift to you. Something precious to me... A memory of my home.

Chisa:

I just remembered... Namipon always said the cafe needed more life. Maybe now is the time to try?

Chisa:

Like you said, I have time to "stick around" for a while. So would it be alright if I invite your friends from the Black Shores here for a party?

Chisa:

Before I make any decisions on what to do next, I want Shashou Cafe to celebrate a real "opening day."

Pink petals swirl upon the wind like drifting thoughts, gently filling the space between hearts.

Why not stay a little longer, in this long season, along the streets we once walked, here in Honami...

Chisa:

I've never mentioned it before, but the buildings and infrastructure here... they remind me of the neighborhood I grew up in.

Rover:

Brings back old memories?

Chisa:

Yes. Even just walking around here brings back memories.

Chisa:

So, do you want to hang around a bit longer, or shall we head back? I'll follow your lead.

Chisa:

Is there something else you'd like to know? We've got plenty of time.

Chisa:

Are you worried about me? I'm feeling all right for the time being.

Chisa:

Not when I'm with you. The people at the Black Shores called it a miracle. That someone who was on the verge of Overclocking for so long could recover. But...

Chisa:

When we passed through Honami's rift, I felt a warm frequency flowing toward me. I suspect that's what helped stabilize my Resonance energy.

Chisa:

It was the person who brought you to Honami... In the end, the same person pulled me back from the edge. Again.

Chisa:

...

Chisa:

I hear you. I'm just... enjoying the gentle sway. Especially... when someone's beside me.

Chisa:

Everything feels so peaceful all of a sudden.

Chisa:

When you're ready to move on, I'll get up.

Chisa:

Oh, you're back. Do you like sitting on the swing too?

Rover:

Make sure you look towards the camera.

Chisa:

I will.

The next day, you and Abby arrive near Shashou Cafe. It is Abby's first time visiting this coffeehouse. You have already asked Shorekeeper to notify your friends in the Black Shores, and they should be arriving soon.

Abby:

Come to think of it, this is the first time I'm here at this cafe while wide awake.

Rover:

You sure it's not because you've been putting in more nap hours lately?

Abby:

Says who? I got locked out by the Sonoro Sphere right from the start, remember? I couldn't even get to you. And don't get me started on all the wacky frequencies that I got mixed in with...

Rover:

You did a great job. Welcome to Shashou Cafe, Abby.

Abby:

...Whoa, why the formality all of a sudden? Ahem. So you asked Shorekeeper to invite the Black Shores gang over for a party. They should be here pretty soon, right?

Rover:

Yep. Let's go check on Chisa and see how the decorating is going.

Chisa and Namipon have already decorated the cafe for the opening party. Right away, Abby finds Namipon suspicious and uneasy, seeing how close you and Namipon are. As the two face off, an unaware Chisa asks you to help place the final decorations.

Abby:

Gotta hand it to ya, I love what you guys did with the place. Feels like a mini festival in here!

Chisa:

Oh, you're here. Namipon and I are just making finishing touches to the party.

Chisa:

Welcome aboard, Abby.

Abby:

Well, hello there, Chisa. It's nice to see you again. You're all so kind, you know. Say, whatcha got on the menu—

Namipon:

In the cozy cafe, vibrant lights dance on the walls. Soft chimes whisper. Glad to have you aboard again, Passenger.

Namipon:

Chisa's the Acting Manager today, and she'll be our host for the opening party.

Abby:

Wait a minute... Something smells funny about this guy!

Abby:

This frequency isn't Echo or TD. Feels like it's hiding a whole mixed bag in its fuzzy tummy!

Abby:

You say that, but I don't trust it. Hey, ain't there a whole lot more of you around here too?

Namipon:

Would you like to join us in putting up the decorations, Passenger?

Abby:

And it's completely ignoring me! Now it even chats up Rover like they're old buddies or something...

Namipon:

Ah, the place is starting to turn into a party now.

Chisa:

Is something wrong with your friend?

Chisa:

After being an emergency shelter for so long, it's finally starting to become what it was supposed to be.

Chisa:

I'll let you finish these last few decorations, Rover.

Not long after, Shorekeeper arrives. It turns out Chisa already met her while recovering in the Black Shores. Later, Buling arrives and lightens the mood. Although Chisa has heard of her from you, this is their first meeting. Namipon then leads Buling inside.

Shorekeeper:

Rover, Chisa. I have arrived as scheduled.

Shorekeeper:

I see you're all waiting here. Could I be mistaken about the time?

Chisa:

No, not at all. We're glad you made it, Shorekeeper. Shashou Cafe welcomes you aboard!

Shorekeeper:

I see.

Chisa:

Mmm...

Namipon:

Oh, say something, Passenger. This awkward silence is killing me...

Rover:

Sounds like you two already met at the Black Shores.

Chisa:

Yes. Shorekeeper personally oversaw all of the routine checkups during my recovery. She was very helpful.

Shorekeeper:

Chisa remained on the verge of Overlocking for a prolonged period within a distorted temporal flow. Her case required a full evaluation by the Tethys System.

Namipon:

Now it's suddenly turned into a conversation about work...

Buling:

Hi, Boss! Heard you bought the whole place out?

Buling:

Very good lah! My reading for you said visitors from all around, wealth coming in thick and fast. Super lucky day for an opening!

Chisa:

You must be Buling?

Chisa:

I've heard about you from Rover. You're the one who helped pinpoint Honami's rift. Thank you.

Buling:

It's no biggie. Me and Boss, we go way back. Just treat me to a good meal and we're even.

Buling:

Good to meet you, Chisa. And this floating one here... Hmm...

Namipon:

I'm the cafe's mascot. Call me Namipon.

Buling:

Hello, Namipon. You show the way? Been walking until my legs go jelly. Need to sit and rest a while.

Buling tells you that Honami feels quiet, likely because many of the "people" who once lived there have already faded away.

Buling:

It's okay, I'm just admiring the feng shui. Mmm, bright and open, good for drawing in fortune. Hard to find one so lucky.

Buling:

Speaking of Honami... I actually came to see if any special Reverberations were hiding in the city ruins.

Buling:

But after coming here... It's really quiet. You won't find another place like this in the outside world.

Buling:

A good thing, of course.

Buling:

It means that lots of "people" here let go of whatever they were holding onto. Just poof, all gone!

Buling:

...Oh yeah, the coffee beans haven't been changed in ages, right? Next time I'll bring some of my favorite blends for you to try.

After trying the cafe's coffee, Shorekeeper shares news about Startorch Academy: the region of Lahai-Roi, where the Academy is located, has been sealed off by the Void Storm, making normal travel there impossible. As you and Chisa absorb this information, a familiar companion arrives. It's Camellya, who finished her mission early and rushed over as soon as she heard about Honami and your situation.

Chisa:

Here you go. I hope it's to your liking.

Shorekeeper:

Thank you.

Shorekeeper:

It's... a bit bitter. But nothing I can't bear.

Shorekeeper:

It's all right. I rather think of it as a novelty.

Shorekeeper:

Now then... Rover, Chisa. The Black Shores has conducted another investigation on Startorch Academy, the school that you both once attended.

Shorekeeper:

As of now, we can confirm that the Academy, along with the entire region of Lahai-Roi, has been completely isolated from the rest of the world by the Void Storm.

Shorekeeper:

A Waveworn Phenomenon unique to Lahai-Roi. When it's active, any form of communication is blocked.

Chisa:

So you're saying... right now there's no way for us to reach the Academy?

Camellya:

Oh, you're all here. How come I wasn't invited to the party?

Camellya:

Don't be silly. Seeing you is always my No. 1 priority.

Shorekeeper:

Camellya, shouldn't you be on a mission?

Camellya:

Got it done early. And I would've finished it even sooner if someone had told me a city popped up off the coast of the Black Shores.

Camellya:

So... you must be Chisa?

Chisa:

...Hello.

Camellya:

I saw the report on Honami. Oh, it's such a shame I wasn't there for the excitement.

Camellya:

You wouldn't mind having an extra girl at your party, would you? I'd like to make up for all the fun I missed.

Camellya imagines how exciting it would have been to explore Honami with you, saying she wishes she had been dragged into the crisis with you. Seeing Chisa's potential, she invites her to take part in the "germination test" she will hold once Chisa has fully recovered.

Camellya:

A city doomed to be destroyed again and again. Irideglow that triggers Overclocking, and TDs tearing through the streets...

Camellya:

But never mind that. You're here. I'm here. The two of us can dance... doesn't that sound a lot more fun?

Camellya:

Oh, Rover. If I got pulled in too, how much more fun would that have been!

Camellya:

I'll take it as a yes, then.

Camellya:

Anyway, pushing through the pain of Overclocking and mastering the shiver of death clawing at your spine... I spy with my little eye a promising seed.

Camellya:

Interested in trying a little "germination test," Chisa? A little eval I host, just for the brave.

Chisa:

Eval as in...?

Camellya:

Defeat me, or be defeated.

Chisa:

Is this... some kind of tradition in the Black Shores?

Camellya:

Relax, dearie. Don't get worked up just yet. Hehe, you can show me your dance moves once you're fully recovered.

Abby:

Hey!

Namipon:

Gimme that.

Abby:

MINE!

Abby:

Whoa!

Rover:

Careful!

Camellya:

Photo time's over.

Rover:

Do the honors, Acting Manager.

Chisa:

Mmm-hmm.

Chisa:

(In this Honami summer night, I wish—)

Chisa:

(For the moments spent with friends to last forever.)

Namipon privately tells you it wants to surprise Chisa with a special piece of decor. With your input, it finishes the special piece in secret...

Namipon:

Passenger, Chisa was the one who proposed the party. She has put lots of effort into preparations.

Namipon:

For this, I'd like to prepare a surprise—a special ornament just for her. Any recommendations?

Namipon:

Agreed. It must be something that would let all the Passengers know Chisa is the manager of the day at first glance.

And just like that, after a little tinkering here and some cuts there, Namipon hands you the ornament it just finished…

When Chisa sees the life-sized cutout of herself placed at the cafe entrance, she falls silent in astonishment. She then turns and asks your opinion of it...

Chisa:

...

Chisa:

What's... this?

Namipon:

Oh, it's a standee of the cafe's manager. I made it with the lingering frequencies around.

Chisa:

Rover, do you like... No, what do you think of it?

Chisa:

You even included my weapon... Let's leave it here then.

Namipon:

Thank you for lending us a hand with the decorations, Passenger. I'm sure the others will be very pleased.

Actor No. 2:

Would you like to start off with something to drink?

Actor No. 1:

Anything would be fine, thank you.

Chisa:

Everyone's here, and the food and drinks are almost ready. Shall we start the party?

Actor No. 1:

Is that...?

Actor No. 2:

Oh... No need to mind that.

Actor No. 1:

Very well. I shall follow the proper code of this cafe, and prevent eye contact with your standee.

Actor No. 2:

Wait, I... I didn't mean that.

The radio suddenly picks up a signal from outside the Sonoro. On a talk show hosted by the Pioneer Association, special guest Aalto recounts an incident he dealt with in Lilyland, where someone attempted to resell the Troupe of Fools' tour tickets at outrageous prices...

Radio:

*Light, upbeat melody*

Radio:

...We have a special guest with us today—

Radio:

Well hello to all the lovely listeners of the Pioneer Podcast. It's your old pal, Aalto.

Radio:

Glad to have you. Mr. Aalto, why don't you start us off with the Lilyland incident?

Radio:

It all happened during the Troupe of Fools' big tour. Tickets were already pretty cheap, but scalpers hogged them all and were ripping off unsuspecting fans.

Radio:

Not the first time they've done something like this, actually.

Radio:

After Brant, the head of the Troupe, found out about it, he put on a disguise one night and snuck into their hideout. "Retrieved" all the tickets and bills as evidence right under their noses.

Radio:

It was bye-bye scalpers! Brant offered free tickets to all the fans that came to watch their play. Such a happy ending.

Radio:

Well it sounds awfully like Brant did most of the work, Mr. Aalto. So... So what exactly was your role in all of this?

Radio:

Ah-ha-ha... Well, I supplied Brant with intel on the hideout, of course. I was undercover and it all happened right in front of me.

Rover:

...

Rover:

(So this radio can receive signals from outside of Honami now?)

Abby:

Hey!

Namipon:

Gimme that.

Abby:

MINE!

Abby:

Whoa!

Rover:

Careful!

Camellya:

Photo time's over.

Rover:

Do the honors, Acting Manager.

Chisa:

Mmm-hmm.

Chisa:

(In this Honami summer night, I wish—)

Chisa:

(For the moments spent with friends to last forever.)

From Shorekeeper, you learn that no other guests are expected. Of everyone invited, only Shorekeeper, Encore, and Buling were able to come. Encore turned down the invite, choosing instead to finish the homework assigned by the Tethys System. Her newfound dedication to studying might be because Chisa tutored her in math during her time spent in the Haven of Sprouts...

Shorekeeper:

...

Shorekeeper:

From the guest list you provided, only Encore, Buling, and myself were free to come. The others are either away or currently on assignment.

Shorekeeper:

Encore... She locked herself in her room and insisted on finishing Tethys's assigned homework.

Shorekeeper:

Apologies. I didn't expect her to suddenly become so... competitive. It's a first, truly.

Chisa:

Is Encore that little girl with pink hair? I helped her with some math problems over at the Haven of Sprouts once.

Chisa:

She's a quick learner. She understood all the formulas I taught her in no time.

Chisa:

There's still time before the party begins. Why don't we go inside and have a seat?

The morning after the opening party, you wake up on the cafe sofa...

Rover:

...

Namipon:

You're awake, dear Passenger.

With the opening party a success, Chisa seems more at ease. She shares with you her plans. She wants to return home to find her parents first, and then go back to Startorch Academy to finish her studies. Neither will be easy, but she believes she can overcome the challenge just as she did with you in Neon Tower. Though saddened by the coming farewell, she trusts that you will meet again once everything is settled.

Chisa:

Good morning, Rover.

Chisa:

It feels like we're back to our adventuring days in Honami.

Chisa:

That was a perfect wrap for our opening party. It was a very special night.

Chisa:

A fitting conclusion for everything that's happened over the past two months, a celebration for the cafe's opening, and... a commemoration for meeting new friends.

Chisa:

Even if we were to say farewell now, I wouldn't have any regrets.

Chisa:

Yes. I have decided what I'll do next.

Chisa:

I will return home first and find my parents. After that, Startorch Academy, to complete my studies.

Chisa:

Neither will be easy, but I will overcome whatever stands in my way, just like... how we did together in that Tower.

Chisa:

"Nothing can trap me... I'll find my way back."

Rover:

That's right. Nothing can stop you.

Chisa:

We'll be going our separate ways for a while. But I'm sure when this is all over, you and I will see each other again.

Chisa:

No... when the time comes, I promise I'll come looking for you.

Chisa:

Then again, I won't be leaving right away. The Black Shores still wants me back for a few health checkups.

Chisa:

What do you say I join the Black Shores during this time just like Camellya suggested?

Chisa:

That one was a joke. Now comes the real part.

Chisa:

Thank you, Rover... Thank you for everything you've done for me.

Abby:

Whoa, why are your frequencies leaking all over the place?!

Abby:

Grrr!

Rover:

It's like... something's pulling them out...

Chisa:

Is that...

Chisa:

Startorch Academy?

Some time later, a team from the Black Shores arrives. Shorekeeper checks your condition and confirms your vitals are stable, and the frequency loss you experienced has stopped. The leading theory is that the sudden spatial rift acts as a conduit to Lahai-Roi, the very region where your frequency was drawn. Investigating that region may be the only way to discover the root cause. Chisa suggests using the rift as a direct route, but the Shorekeeper warns it is too unstable and unsafe for travel for now.

Shorekeeper:

Your frequency loss has been contained for now. How are you feeling?

Shorekeeper:

I'm glad to hear that. Your vitals are also within normal parameters now.

Abby:

Ugh, this part of you feels completely empty. Let me check that out for you.

Shorekeeper:

The connection between your frequency and the rift has been cut off. You are out of immediate danger.

Shorekeeper:

We are unable to confirm at this time. But frequency signatures identical to the Void Storm were detected in the rift's proximity.

Shorekeeper:

The most likely scenario is that this rift is acting as a conduit between here and the Lahai-Roi region, which is also where your frequency was drawn to.

Rover:

Lahai-Roi is where it all started. Guess we'll need to pay the place a visit to find out the actual cause.

Chisa:

The Void Storm at Startorch was what brought me to Honami in the first place. Now it's the other way around.

Chisa:

Do you suppose this rift can take us straight to Lahai-Roi?

Shorekeeper:

...

Shorekeeper:

Theoretically, yes. However, the frequencies inside the rift are highly unstable, and you are likely to lose your way without proper navigation.

Shorekeeper:

I'm afraid now is not the appropriate time.

Near the rift, Platya finds the radio Chisa had taken outside the cafe earlier. It's now emitting heavy static. Namipon, seeming to recall something, asks you to adjust the receiver.

Platya:

Oh, you're here. Look what I found.

Platya:

Spotted it next to the rift. Here, listen to this—

Radio:

This time... we... as our guest.

Platya:

The thing's not even turned on, but it's been playing these choppy sounds non-stop.

Namipon:

I see the problem here... Try adjusting its receiver, Passenger.

After some tuning, the signal clears. The broadcast is an interview about school uniforms, and Chisa recognizes who the guest speaker is...

Namipon:

If not mistaken, the sounds will become clearer once you've adjusted it to the right frequency.

Rover:

(Let's give this a try then.)

Namipon:

Hmm, that doesn't seem right. Try the other way.

Rover:

(In that case...)

Namipon:

Oh, oh! There you go!

Radio:

*Static*... Mrs. Kuchiba, would you mind sharing with us why you chose this particular design... *static*... of the Academy's new uniform?

Chisa:

Huh?

Radio:

The inspiration came from... well, my daughter. She once made a cutout of this pattern from some old fabric at home...

Radio:

...Very interesting... *static*... It really captures the Academy's spirit...

Radio:

*Static*... If it's this uniform, I thought... my little Chisa would love to wear it...

Radio:

*Loud whistle*

Radio:

*Complete silence*

It turns out to be a Startorch Academy radio program, and the guest is Chisa's mother, who is currently at the Academy. By tracing the signal, Namipon can pinpoint Lahai-Roi's relative coordinates. With support from the Black Shores, securing safe passage through the rift may soon be possible. Since her family is at the Academy, Chisa changes her plan and decides to return there first. You, too, have your own reasons for going. Lahai-Roi is now your next destination. As you prepare to leave, a mysterious voice suddenly cuts through the radio...

Namipon:

Something's probably broken inside. I'll take a look.

Chisa:

Namipon, was that a live signal from Lahai-Roi?

Namipon:

Yes, it was. That cassette we put inside lets it receive radio signals from the rift.

Namipon:

With the right tweak, maybe I can track it. Like I did with Neon Tower's—

Chisa:

It sounded like the Academy's radio talk show... But why did I hear my mother?

Chisa:

Does that mean she's at Startorch? Why is she there? Is she... looking for me?

Namipon:

Chisa?

Rover:

(Chisa will need some time to process everything.)

Shorekeeper:

I am detecting a unique frequency from this radio...

Namipon:

It has formed a connection with Lahai-Roi on the other end of the rift.

Namipon:

Once it's all fixed up, I can piggyback on this frequency and plot coordinates from there to Honami.

Shorekeeper:

Understood. With established coordinates, you will be able to navigate your way within the rift.

Shorekeeper:

The Black Shores will also assist with stabilizing the rift to ensure your safety as much as possible.

Shorekeeper:

...Should you decide to travel to Lahai-Roi. To Startorch Academy.

Shorekeeper:

It is a region once forgotten, covered in snow most of the year and sparsely populated. No Sentinel is there to guide its civilization.

Shorekeeper:

Beneath its ice fields lie Startorch Academy and numerous research facilities, built by a multinational alliance known as the Spacetrek Collective.

Shorekeeper:

Startorch Academy enacts a strict access protocol for all personnel. I will have the necessary paperwork in place before your departure.

Chisa:

Looks like I need to make changes to my plans...

Chisa:

I want to go back to Startorch Academy.

Chisa:

My family is there, and so are my instructors and classmates. The future may be uncertain, but I know what I have to do.

Chisa:

Now, we wait. And then...

Chisa:

We get through this together.

Radio:

*Static noises*

Voice from the Silence:

*Static*... The universe... has rejected us...

Voice from the Silence:

...Is this the answer you've been seeking, Rover?

Voice from the Silence:

I hope to make you proud. I hope I haven't let you down...

Namipon explains that you fell asleep after seeing your friends off, though you have no memory of what happened after watching the meteor shower. When you ask about Chisa, you learn that she woke up earlier and went outside for some air.

Namipon:

Yes, you did. Everyone had a fantastic time last night.

Namipon:

After saying goodbye to your friends, you got tired and decided to take a rest in the cafe.

Rover:

(I did...?)

Rover:

(The only thing I remember is what happened right before watching the meteor shower.)

Namipon:

What's the matter? Did you not sleep well?

Namipon:

Chisa...

Namipon:

Hehe, Chisa woke up before you. She tiptoed out for some fresh air. Said she didn't want to bother you.

Actor No. 1:

So this is where the radio went...

Actor No. 2:

What's with all that noise it's making?

Chisa:

I can already see our destination from here. Look at the cherry blossoms... they weren't blooming like this before.

Chisa:

Like clouds floating above the water, or like cotton poking through a torn couch... Sorry, I'm using weird analogies again.

Chisa:

Luckily, a view like this can exist forever within this Sonoro Sphere.

Chisa:

You don't have to wait for me. I think I've been on the swing long enough.

This appears to be a gallery set up by Chisa. It displays scenes from around Honami, and pictures she took with people she holds dear...

You see a glistening piece of amber on the bar counter. It reminds you of someone you once met.

Namipon:

Ah, this was left here by Passenger 3.

Namipon:

Passenger 1 is Chisa. You're Passenger 2. As for Passenger 3... Ahem...

Namipon:

Passenger 3 is the relentless seeker of truth. She never gave up her quest.

Abby:

As if! I told you, there's something off about that furball. It's like the frequencies of people's emotions all got balled up together like a... like a wad of bubble gum.

Abby:

But then again... I didn't pick up anything bad from it though.

Abby:

A-Alright, alright, if you say so. I guess a chat wouldn't hurt.

With the help of a Rice Dango, Abby and Namipon bury the hatchet. Feeling a little guilty, Abby offers to help Namipon with the rest of the party prep.

Abby:

Nom-nom-nom. Ya know, it must be really rough for you. Having your frequency get split into pieces like that, and then clearing your head of all the clicking and buzzing.

Namipon:

That's all in the past now. How's the Rice Dango?

Abby:

Not bad, actually. Soft and chewy. Well... I guess I shouldn't have judged a Namipon by its smell.

Abby:

Plus, you've been a big help to Rover these past few days. I'll come give you a hand after I'm done with this Dango.

Namipon:

That's lovely! We'll take all the help we can get.

Namipon:

Anything you'd like to know, Passenger? I'm here to help anytime.

Namipon:

Mmm, it was the surprise "we" prepared, and Honami's way of answering everyone's wishes.

Namipon:

The city is free from its sorrow. Time isn't stuck anymore. That was... a little epilogue after the "real ending." And a happy one.

The wall is covered with pictures from Shashou Cafe's opening day—

Although the time you spent with your friends was short, every moment was captured forever. Now it feels clear and close enough to see and touch.

Maki:

Phew, never thought I'd actually be here, standing in the post-apocalyptic city from the storybooks I read when I was a kid.

Maki:

Hi, there, Bloom Bearer. I've collected some frequency samples and am analyzing them now.

Maki:

Yep. Aside from the Void Storm readings we got around the rift, we also found scattered foreign frequencies in the vicinity.

Maki:

What might have happened is that frequencies from another region got "spat out" into Honami when the rift was formed.

Maki:

That's right. We still need to verify their exact origins, but the general areas are pretty much narrowed down.

Fabio:

"Safety risk, moderate. Further surveillance is needed." That'll do as the report for Valentina for now.

Fabio:

The rift seems to be in a stasis. No Tacet Discords popping out of it, at least.

Fabio:

But I've recognized a few flashing images within the rift.

Fabio:

Yes. Most information about that school is highly classified.

Fabio:

I only know what I do because a friend of mine is an instructor there, but we've been out of touch for a long time.

Platya:

I remember this Crossing. When I was little, my younger sister and I once snuck out to play in the shopping mall. Oh, we had a blast that whole afternoon...

Platya:

Yes, it is. I was on a train leaving Honami when the Lament struck. I, uh... I had a fight with my parents.

Platya:

Oh, don't be. That was years ago.

Platya:

In the real world, all that's left of Honami is this giant Tacet Field. But inside this Sonoro Sphere, it still exists.

Platya:

To me, the things I need to do stay the same. Collect Reverberations, analyze traces of the Lament, and then... search for the truth.

Little Namipons:

We... doing food prep for the party... Huge cake for opening... Keep up the good work... Yay...

Little Namipons:

Big-pon helped gather them... All local pure Remnants... 100% natural... Additive free...

Chisa:

Maintain eye contact... Smile... Greet everyone as they come in...

Chisa:

A little bit. I'm... I'm just reviewing the basics of greeting guests.

Chisa:

Shashou Cafe is like "home" to me in Honami. Honestly, i-it's been a long time since I hosted anyone at home.

Chisa:

I think the last time was… sometime in high school.

Chisa:

To me, you're different from everyone else.

Chisa:

I-I didn't give it much thought at the time. Anyway... I need to pull myself together. A manager must stay composed.

Radio:

*Light, upbeat melody*

Radio:

Good afternoon, Honami. You're tuned in to your city radio, broadcasting live on a warm summer breeze.

Radio:

As the temps slowly climb, looks like that midsummer heat is comin' in hot. But don't sweat it. Up next, we've got a special announcement.

Radio:

Our meteor trackers are lighting up. Looks like a shower is set to dazzle just after midnight tonight. For anyone up for a little stargazing, grab your friends and family to catch this "Midnight Summer Magic Show."

Radio:

Coming up next, here's a list of the best viewing spots across the city...

Rover:

(So the seasons in Honami that stood still are flowing again...)

KU-Shosho explains that Chisa usually rests at the Haven of Sprouts, but has been in low spirits lately. She left in a hurry without even cleaning up her kirigami on the table. This unusual behavior prompts you to search for her in Honami.

KU-Shosho:

Kuku... Why did she leave in such a hurry? Should I clean this up?

KU-Shosho:

Ah, Bloom Bearer. Ms. Chisa has been gone for some time now.

KU-Shosho:

She was only visiting the nearby facilities, like she normally does. But I had noticed her emotional readings had been low for a while.

KU-Shosho:

She used to enjoy reading the archives, but in the past few days, I saw her staring off into the distance or performing kirigami.

KU-Shosho:

Ah, yes. Making small art crafts by cutting paper. There are still a few left on this table. She usually always cleaned up afterward, but this time...

Rover:

(These look like scraps from all the paper cutting. And this one here is a half-finished tower... It looks kind of familiar.)

KU-Shosho:

After submitting her leave, I even asked her if she would like someone to accompany her on her travels, to which she refused.

KU-Shosho:

Please. I leave Ms. Chisa in your care.

Strangely, Chisa, standing beside you, doesn't hear it. But you're certain it wasn't your imagination.

Chisa:

Is something wrong, Rover? Why did you turn back?

Chisa:

A voice from the radio? But isn't it broken?

Chisa:

Yes. You must be exhausted. Should we go back to the cafe?

Rover:

(I don't think I was imagining it... that voice.)

Namipon:

Next up... Ehhh, gotta fix this radio.

Namipon:

So you and Chisa can get to school okay, I'm gonna use... a dozen Rice Dangos' worth of effort.

Namipon:

Okay, okay. When you get to Lahai-Roi, take care of each other, alright?

Namipon:

Nope. I'm a Namipon from Honami. This is where I stay.

Namipon:

I'll look after the cafe while you're away. It'll always be here when you need to rest.

Abby:

Oh, man... Why you gotta bring up the emotional talk out of the blue?

Shorekeeper:

I will be using my powers to stabilize the rift's channel.

Shorekeeper:

No, to my ears the radio has been silent.

Shorekeeper:

However, I was able to sense a peculiar frequency for a brief moment.

Shorekeeper:

It felt independent from the Honami Sonoro Sphere, as if... it existed beyond a singular dimension.