Spirit Traces #2

Stellar Jade x 40, Trailblaze EXP x 250, Credit x 12000, Sparse Aether x 12, Hertareum x 50, Letter From Locus Silentii x 1

Head to the storage zone to look for the Xenohydro

📍 Herta Space Station Storage Zone

The secret letter indicates that the Xenohydro is active in the storage zone. Investigate this zone to see if you can find any clues.
🏃‍♂️
Move
Capote
Capote
I've always been a rather magnanimous person. In fact, here is a chance for you to regain my favor... As long as you are willing to apologize for your behavior!
Lamina
Lamina
I didn't do those things...
Capote
Capote
You want to deny the truth!? Lamina, Lamina, you're getting more and more dishonest! Let me help you remember—
Capote
Capote
The mustard in my lunch box, the big hole on the back of my uniform, and this boring letter in reply to the female researcher. Aren't they your doing?
Lamina
Lamina
It's true I'm the only person who handled those things, but...
Capote
Capote
And when I was reporting to Miss Asta, you suddenly shouted, "Mr. Capote, it's too late. The Wubbaboos are still waiting for you to play with them!" You made her think I was colluding with Curios and not doing my job.
Lamina
Lamina
But I was just stating a fact...
Capote
Capote
We should keep it only between you, and me! How many times have I told you that? You were just going against me on purpose!
Capote
Capote
Forget it. I don't think you are going to repent at all. One day, when you're sick of this place and your future is gloomy, you will come crawling back to seek help from me.
Capote
Capote
Just keep praying that by then, I haven't replaced you with a Renona, an Elena, or a Barbara... or someone else, hmph!

Comfort Lamina who has been verbally abused

The Xenohydro doesn't show up, but you happen to witness Master Capote, a person of much renown in the space station, verbally abusing Lamina, the researcher from the Department of Ecology, who has been in the storage zone for a long time. Your words of comfort touch her, so she offers you help in finding the Xenohydro.
Lamina
Lamina
When can I become braver?
Lamina
Lamina
Oh, it's {NICKNAME}, the hero of the space station. I've heard so much about you. I didn't expect to have the opportunity to see you up close.
Options
What are you doing here?
You did all those things?
I have a letter for you to read.
Lamina
Lamina
I... I was Mr. Capote's secretary.
Lamina
Lamina
But recently, I made a few mistakes when I was running errands for him. So he sent me here to work on the Curio sorting assembly line.
Lamina
Lamina
I'm so sorry, you must think I am a joke...
Lamina
Lamina
You heard it all... Although, I don't remember doing the things Mr. Capote accused me of.
Lamina
Lamina
I also suspected someone else, but everything showed that I was the only one who touched Mr. Capote's things.
Lamina
Lamina
Maybe "Lamina's law" is really true. In the Department of Ecology, they have a saying, anything that Lamina "can" screw up, Lamina will "screw up."
Options
Don't rush to judgment yet.
That's an interesting law!
Lamina
Lamina
{NICKNAME}, do you think... there's another explanation for this? Surely not...
Lamina
Lamina
Come on, how would you feel if it was called the "{NICKNAME}'s law."
Lamina
Lamina
Sure, but knowing me, I probably won't be much help...
Lamina
Lamina
Well, if I understand correctly, where it says, "An inquiry into spirit traces," it seems to be referring to the Xenohydro, a kind of Curio from our department. And "to be an accomplice" seems to be some kind of accusation.
Lamina
Lamina
{NICKNAME}, why are you asking me this? Are you investigating the escape of the Xenohydro?
Options
It's in the storage zone.
Maybe it's impersonating you?
Lamina
Lamina
Oh!? Really... I've been hanging around here lately, but I haven't noticed anything unusual.
Lamina
Lamina
Huh!? Did it do those things that Mr. Capote is accusing me of? But why...
Lamina
Lamina
As for the rest of the letter, please forgive my ignorance, but I really don't understand it.
Lamina
Lamina
But now we know it's in the Storage Zone, and this area is only so large. Maybe we can take the initiative and make a list of the possible suspects.
Lamina
Lamina
I'm quite familiar with this place. There are one or two places I know that are inaccessible where the Xenohydro may be hiding. I can take you to have a look.
Lamina
Lamina
Actions are better than words. If you don't mind, {NICKNAME}, follow me.

Follow Lamina to the Xenohydro's hiding place

Lamina keeps her promise and helps you look for the Xenohydro. After arriving at its first potential hiding place, you decide to wait here... Although you know you might find nothing in the end.
🏃‍♂️
Move
Lamina
Lamina
Ahem, ehem, this room smells humid... It seems the Xenohydro really was here.
Lamina
Lamina
{NICKNAME}, come quickly. This place is secluded and it's a good vantage point. You can watch the whole room from here.

Find a spot with a clear view of the opposite side

Lamina
Lamina
Well... Are you sure we want to ambush it here? We can try making a trap, it's one of our standard procedures in the Department of Ecology.
Options
How do you make a trap?
Ambush it in person.
Lamina
Lamina
This may not be wise... According to the A Guide to Species in the Astral Realm, the Xenohydro is very cautious and stealthy. If we simply wait for it, it's probably just a waste of time.
Lamina
Lamina
{NICKNAME}, why don't I show you how to make a trap?
Lamina
Lamina
Tightly connect the two disposable kinetic arms. Once the prey steps within range of the power arm, all that awaits them is doom.
Lamina
Lamina
To make a disposable kinetic arm, we need to find many intricate parts, Strange Matter of Destruction and Phase Flame...
Options
I am glad you have such a good memory.
Sounds like fancy material.
By that time the Xenohydro will have died of old age.
Lamina
Lamina
No, astral ecology is a rigorous and beautiful discipline of knowledge. I am simply conveying its charm truthfully.
Lamina
Lamina
But you reminded me that it'll be difficult to gather all the materials quickly.
Lamina
Lamina
It's okay. In the past, we could take as much as we wanted from the Department of Implement Arts. But now we are short of materials, it'll be hard to collect everything we need soon.
Lamina
Lamina
Well, it won't take quite that long. The Xenohydro has a pretty long lifespan... But we probably shouldn't put ourselves in such a passive situation.
Lamina
Lamina
Anyway, we'd better ambush it ourselves.
Lamina
Lamina
We may have to wait for a while. Why don't we have a chat to kill time, {NICKNAME}.
Options
Why do you work for Capote?
How do you see yourself, Lamina?
That's all for now.
Lamina
Lamina
You're not the first person to ask me this question... Except for his fans, many people have a bad impression of Master Capote. They think he is loud and obnoxious.
Lamina
Lamina
But I have been with him for the longest time. I know that Mr. Capote is not a bad person in nature. He is just naturally gifted in many aspects, so he can't understand other people's difficulties sometimes. In short, he is just spoiled by fate.
Options
How can you be spoiled by fate?
You're still defending him.
Lamina
Lamina
With his unusually handsome appearance, his great talent for research, and his lovable outgoing nature... Everything has always worked out well for him. So it's normal for him to think the world revolves around him.
Lamina
Lamina
No, no, I'm just stating what I see. Since my childhood, my family has always taught me to focus on the positive, so that life wouldn't be so gloomy.
Lamina
Lamina
Not to mention he did give me a job that lets me get closer to the real research work in the Department of Ecology. Although the price was to work as his secretary...
Lamina
Lamina
Me? I... I'm just an ordinary researcher. Even that sounds like an exaggeration.
Lamina
Lamina
Because... I only got into the space station in my sister's place... Of course, Mr. Capote doesn't know about that.
Lamina
Lamina
My home planet is quite poor in resources, and most families can only barely support one person to go on a space journey. My sister was qualified to come to the space station, but she gave me the only chance in the family and in her life.
Lamina
Lamina
It's a pity I am such a failure. If my sister were here in the space station, she would be able to make a name for herself. So how do I see myself? I can't... Or dare not answer this question at all...
System
System
You and Lamina wait there until very late. The dew has turned to frost, and your belly is empty.
System
System
But nothing happened.
Lamina
Lamina
We can't just wait here forever...
Lamina
Lamina
*sigh* No sign of the Xenohydro... Maybe it left a long time ago?
Lamina
Lamina
We can look for traces left by the Xenohydro in the room and use them to work out when it was last here.
Lamina
Lamina
Time to walk around and change my mood...

Investigate
System
System
Can the Xenohydro surf the Internet? You didn't expect to find such an absurd scene.
System
System
There is research data about the Xenohydro left on the screen, showing that the Xenohydro was once here learning about itself.
System
System
At the bottom of the page, there is a line of unsubmitted words:
System
System
"*gurgle* Nonsense, you'll never catch me!"

Investigate
System
System
In the silver cabin, there are several hairs left from the Xenohydro's sparse fur.
System
System
Apparently, although it is free, the Xenohydro still returns to the Storage Zone to sleep. You can't help but wonder if it has Stockholm syndrome.
System
System
The description of the collectible item nearby has been painted over. This is a sign of anger and frustration exhibited by the escapee.

Discuss the potential hiding places with Lamina again

You have gained nothing at the first of the suspected hiding places. Lamina keeps her promise and helps you look for the Xenohydro. Under her guidance, you step into the trap set by the Xenohydro. Thankfully, Lamina brought some healing potions with her. The surprise monster attack turns out to be a fabricated pitfall.
After a series of failures, you decide to change your strategy and re-examine the Letter From Locus Silentii. You head to the place the letter points out, and you won't miss again this time.
Lamina
Lamina
The hair is completely dry, and the date on the screen is from a long time ago
Lamina
Lamina
Looks like it won't be coming back. Let's keep looking elsewhere.

Follow Lamina to the Xenohydro's hiding place

🏃‍♂️
Move
System
System
(There's also a strong watery smell here... But where's Lamina?)
System
System
(Let me deal with these monsters first!)

Disable the Xenohydro's trap

System
System
(Darn it, I seem to have fallen for the Xenohydro's trap!)
System
System
(The monster's surprise attack caused some serious injuries...)
Lamina
Lamina
{NICKNAME}! Don't worry, I'll treat your wounds. I have a lot of medicine on me. It was originally given to Mr. Capote by his fans among the medical staff. He didn't want it, so he gave it to me.
Lamina
Lamina
How's that? Are you feeling better now?

Discuss the potential hiding places with Lamina for the last time

Lamina
Lamina
I found a monster wandering around here, so I hid away. It's my fault that I didn't warn you. That's why you fell for the Xenohydro's trap.
Options
Stop blaming yourself.
That crafty Xenohydro.
We can't go on like this.
Lamina
Lamina
I know... I feel like I haven't really been helping so far, and the Xenohydro is still no where to be found. And I can't think of anywhere else. So... should we give up?
Lamina
Lamina
It must have guessed that someone is going after it, so it sets up a trap along the way. It's hidden and we're exposed. It could be more dangerous if we go ahead. So... Should we give up?
Lamina
Lamina
I underestimated the situation... We put in so much effort and almost got seriously hurt. So... should we give up?
Options
It's time to reexamine the letter.
📖
Letter From Locus Silentii
Lamina
Lamina
*sigh* Back to square one... Anyway, the useful information should be in the paragraph "An inquiry into spirit traces, a glance into the site of storage. Even with iron shoes worn out unearthly, one has to visit the three depths." Can you see anything useful?
Options
Site of storage?
Worn out unearthly?
The three depths?
It's all coming together now.
Lamina
Lamina
It's somewhere in the Storage Zone. The two places we've found so far both meet these conditions...
Lamina
Lamina
In this sentence structure, the focus should be on the object... Wait a minute, "unearthly" does sound familiar.
Lamina
Lamina
{NICKNAME}, do you think Unearthly Marvel has anything to do with it?
Options
Makes sense!
What's that?
Lamina
Lamina
Um! I think so, too. Therefore, this "iron shoes worn out unearthly" refers to passing through the road built by Unearthly Marvel.
Lamina
Lamina
Don't you remember? I heard from Mrs. Hinkel that you once used Unearthly Marvel to help her repair major road defects.
Lamina
Lamina
I think it was when you first arrived at the space station. At the time, word of a "young busybody" was spreading around the space station.
Lamina
Lamina
So this "iron shoes worn out unearthly" refers to the road built by the Unearthly Marvel?
Lamina
Lamina
Since "worn out unearthly" is a condition, then "the three depths" should be the second condition.
Lamina
Lamina
Literally, it means going through the depths of three rooms.
Options
Why didn't you say this earlier...
That's it?
Lamina
Lamina
Well... Maybe it's the unraveling of the Unearthly Marvel that suddenly sparked my realization...
Lamina
Lamina
I think so... Solving riddles is like solving magic tricks. Once you know the answer, you would think it's an insult to your intelligence, but that's just the illusion of hindsight.
Lamina
Lamina
So if the letter is correct, the Xenohydro should be hiding in a place where there's Unearthly Marvel, but also you have to pass through three rooms to get there.
Lamina
Lamina
*sigh* If you still insist on continuing, I'll help you to the end.
Lamina
Lamina
This time, we won't fail.

Follow Lamina to the Xenohydro's hiding place

🏃‍♂️
Move
Lamina
Lamina
{NICKNAME}, look, after passing through the road that was repaired with Unearthly Marvel, we entered the deepest part where the three rooms are connected...
Lamina
Lamina
This is the so-called "the three depths"... Come on in!
🏃‍♂️
Move
Lamina
Lamina
I finally got you, {NICKNAME}... Or should I call you... Xenohydro!
Lamina
Lamina
Good thing I was on guard. As early as a few days ago, the real {NICKNAME} had already warned me that there may be a Xenohydro wreaking havoc in the near future. I didn't expect you to come so soon.
Lamina
Lamina
Let me see, I can just take care of you, bypass Mr. Capote and hand you over to Miss Asta, so I don't have to be a slave anymore...
Options
What are you talking about?
I'm not the Xenohydro!
I should have guessed...
Lamina
Lamina
I'm saying that after all that, the real {NICKNAME} and I finally caught you, Xenohydro!
Lamina
Lamina
I've caught you, Xenohydro! If you are not Xenohydro, then who that is standing over there?
Lamina
Lamina
I caught you, Xenohydro! Enough nonsense. If you're not convinced, sort it out with {NICKNAME}.

Another Me
Another Me
I finally caught you, Xenohydro. You won't get away this time.
Options
You're the Xenohydro.
Why impersonate me?
People in the space station will believe me.
Another Me
Another Me
I don't think so. You see, we both have two eyes and a mouth. We sound the same and act the same way.
Another Me
Another Me
Since there is no fourth person present, whoever Lamina thinks is the Xenohydro, is the Xenohydro.
Another Me
Another Me
I should be asking you that. I'm {NICKNAME}! The official crew member of the Astral Express, the walking Stellaron vessel...
Another Me
Another Me
The invincible conqueror of the Antimatter Legion, the infamous rising star of the cosmos. Who do you think you are impersonating, Xenohydro?
Another Me
Another Me
Aren't you using my face to take advantage of my reputation so you can conduct scams in the space station?
Another Me
Another Me
Believe? What a joke. Not even Lamina believes you right now, let alone the others.
Another Me
Another Me
I warned her earlier that someone might pretend to be me to get close to her. Do you have any proof that you are not the Xenohydro?
Options
I have a baseball bat.
I can bash you to a pulp.
She and I are partners.
You just got yourself exposed.
Another Me
Another Me
Baseball bat... what's that? Can you use it to prove your identity? Or is it the only one of its kind in the universe?
Options
It's my body.
It's an artifact.
Another Me
Another Me
Huh? Isn't your body the Stellaron? So it's an external object?
Another Me
Another Me
I get it, you're the stellaron vessel, fine, but you even have this bad boy? Hey, it's like those guys with the scripts in the space station before. It's pretty cool.
Another Me
Another Me
Is that the kind of violent thug you are? Hey, you don't want to ruin this pretty face, do you?
Another Me
Another Me
I advise you to lay down your arms and hand yourself over. Life in the Storage Zone is not so bad. Last time, Mr. Wen Mingy almost went in. You two may keep each other company in the future.
Another Me
Another Me
Yeah, let's see what the third-party witness says... Lamina, it's your call.
Another Me
Another Me
Lamina? Why aren't you saying anything!? Did you suddenly find your conscience? You want to back out now? *gurgle*
Another Me
Another Me
*gurgle* So what? {NICKNAME}, I don't think you really understand the situation.
Options
What's the situation?
Don't underestimate me.
Another Me
Another Me
*gurgle* For crying out loud. Are you two serious!? Do I have to spell it out for you?
Another Me
Another Me
Oh... well fine. Then tell me, what's going on now?
Options
Do I have to spell it out?
Lamina is the accomplice.
You want me to take your place as the Xenohydro.
Another Me
Another Me
Don't play games with me! I don't think you understand the situation.
Another Me
Another Me
That's right! Good one, {NICKNAME}! But you only guessed the first half of our plan.
Another Me
Another Me
That's right! Well done, {NICKNAME}! You saw through everything.
Another Me
Another Me
I had long guessed that someone would come to investigate my whereabouts, so Lamina and I decided to lure the investigator here, kill them and then hand them in as the Xenohydro, then we'll finally be free.
Another Me
Another Me
But I didn't expect you to come. Lamina was soft. She wanted to give you a chance. And so we changed the plan from "elimination" to "persuasion"—
Another Me
Another Me
Now if you want to leave this place, you only have two choices. Either obey and go to Storage Zone in place of me, or die and then go to Storage Zone instead of me.
Options
Why did Lamina help you?
I have a third option.
Another Me
Another Me
Jeez, is that really what you're worried about? At a time like this? You know what? As your opponent, I feel insulted. *gurgle* I'm gonna teach you a lesson!
Another Me
Another Me
What's that? To kill me? *gurgle* You talk big! I'm gonna teach you a lesson!
⚔️
Combat
⚔️
Combat

Lamina
Lamina
It seems you and I are destined to go down together...
Lamina
Lamina
Sorry, {NICKNAME}... I'm the accomplice in collusion with the Xenohydro. I'm willing to accept my punishment.
Options
What on earth is going on?
Lamina
Lamina
...
Lamina
Lamina
You know me. You know what kind of person Lamina is.
Lamina
Lamina
No talent. No achievements. I can barely prove my value by doing the most trivial jobs.
Lamina
Lamina
But working on the assembly line all my life... It's fine for me, but how can I face my family?
Lamina
Lamina
They have sacrificed everything for me so that I can come here. Do I repay them... by being a cleaner?
Lamina
Lamina
I can't, and I am not shameless enough to do that. Capote was my first springboard to success, the only springboard. Although I had to rely on him, it's still a decent job in the Department of Ecology.
Lamina
Lamina
I once thought that if I just served him well, I would at least get a chance to succeed. Hard work always pays off, right?
Lamina
Lamina
Until the Xenohydro impersonated me to prank Capote and make a mockery of him.
Lamina
Lamina
It's like a mirror, it showed me my pitiful appearance, so humble, so weak, so... powerless.
Lamina
Lamina
It also taught me a valuable lesson. Even Lamina can liberate herself from the constraints of others and live like a person.
Lamina
Lamina
For the first time, I found that I was willing to trade my mediocre future for a free and unrestrained life.
Lamina
Lamina
So I let it all happen, until the rumor that someone in the staff harbored the Xenohydro became widespread. They called for severe punishment for those who did not report relevant information...
Lamina
Lamina
That's when I realized that my personal wishes were not important. I can just be a low-level researcher, but I can't let the space station drive me out.
Lamina
Lamina
I can't ruin my family's last bit of expectation for me.
Lamina
Lamina
When I heard that someone began investigating the Xenohydro and its accomplice, I made up my mind to eradicate my opponent and protect myself.
Lamina
Lamina
Finally, I decided to be brave for once, but I didn't expect to be hampered by the bond between us. If only it was someone else who came here.
Options
I can understand why you did it.
Your bravery is wasted in the wrong pursuit.
Lamina
Lamina
Thank you, {NICKNAME}. But I'm not saying this to get your forgiveness. I was just... talking to you as a friend, getting things off my chest.
Lamina
Lamina
Is it? Maybe. When a person is pushed to a dead-end, wit might appear cold and heartless. But it's just survival instinct.
Options
You said a lot of things that are unlike the Lamina I know.
In fact, everything is written in the letter.
Lamina
Lamina
Maybe it's because I suppress myself too hard. I am always focused on other people's needs and have forgotten to look inside myself.
Lamina
Lamina
If I could see myself in other people's eyes earlier, my life might be different. If it wasn't for the Xenohydro, then it was the letter.
Lamina
Lamina
I had already figured that the "accomplice" in that letter was referring to me. It's just that I didn't really... have the courage to face it.
Options
Better off alone...
Than to be an accomplice.
One day, as they turn around...
A path will be lit by the radiance of the stars.
Lamina
Lamina
...
Lamina
Lamina
"Better off alone than to be an accomplice. One day, as they turn around, a path will be lit by the radiance of the stars."
Lamina
Lamina
I completely ignored these words earlier. Is this letter... meant to persuade me?
Lamina
Lamina
So from the beginning, the informant tried to persuade me to give up my conspiracy with the Xenohydro and live my own life independently...
Lamina
Lamina
In other words, independence does not only mean leaving the Xenohydro, but also Capote and my weaknesses.
Lamina
Lamina
...
Lamina
Lamina
Now I understand. Although this realization has come a little too late.
Options
You've committed a crime. You must be punished.
I can let you and the Xenohydro go.
You still have a chance, but the Xenohydro must be returned.
Lamina
Lamina
I understand. I'll go back with you and accept due punishment.
Lamina
Lamina
But before that, I will prove to you that I have really changed because of this experience.
Lamina
Lamina
Really? Thank you, {NICKNAME}. I will keep a closer eye on the Xenohydro and stop him from endangering the space station.
Lamina
Lamina
I will also prove to you that I have really changed because of this experience.
Lamina
Lamina
You mean, you won't tell them who the accomplice was? Thank you, {NICKNAME}.
Lamina
Lamina
I will cherish the opportunity you gave me and I will also prove to you that I have really changed because of this experience.

Tell the lead researcher about the Xenohydro conspiracy

📍 Herta Space Station Master Control Zone

You've decided on what to do with Lamina and the Xenohydro. After telling Asta about their conspiracy, you find that the lead researcher already knows everything. More precisely, she seemingly orchestrated it all.
By casting you as an actor in her little play, she managed to make the lost researcher see the error of her ways.
Asta
Asta
You're back. Did you conclude the matter?
Options
I got the Xenohydro back...
Asta
Asta
Well, don't worry, the Xenohydro is of secondary importance... Is that Lamina standing with Capote over there?
Angry Master Capote Fan
Angry Master Capote Fan
You fraud. You trampled on our sincerity.
Heartbroken Master Capote Fan
Heartbroken Master Capote Fan
Oh, Master Capote used to be so perfect, and now he is just another deceitful celebrity...
Wen Shiling
Wen Shiling
Master Capote! I can't believe you eat mayonnaise. That's disgusting! Give me back the gifts I gave you!
Capote
Capote
Lamina, why did you invite all these people?
Lamina
Lamina
I didn't invite them here. I just told them the fact that I was the one who replied to all your fans.
Capote
Capote
Everybody calm down, let me explain later... Lamina, you don't want the benefits I give you at all anymore, do you?
Lamina
Lamina
That's right, I don't want any of it. From now on, I won't help you cook, wash your clothes and shoes, write your letters, or be your puppet. Get it?
Lamina
Lamina
If you want to find me, remember to ask my secretary Mr. Nonexistent for a number.
Asta
Asta
{NICKNAME}, what do you think of this?
Options
I don't know what they are arguing about.
She'll be able to look after herself.
You seem to know the back story.
Asta
Asta
I didn't think you can be so tight-lipped, but now, we should be honest and clear this up.
Asta
Asta
Yes, thanks to your mediation. Not only did you ensure her safety, but also encouraged her to change.
Asta
Asta
I thought I was careful, but you still noticed.
Asta
Asta
...Oops, "Like the risk of falling into the depths when trying to mount the sky." I didn't use any rhymes or enough alliteration for this line. It's still not good enough.
Asta
Asta
Hehe, to tell you the truth, the Cryptologist From Locus Silentii is none other than yours truly. This letter took me more than ten days to write, and I asked Mr. Wen for advice. It wasn't easy.
Asta
Asta
After I wrote it, I couldn't find the right person to get it delivered. Fortunately, the Xenohydro is just a prankster, and there's no rush to retrieve it.
Asta
Asta
Then you appeared, {NICKNAME}. And you turned out to be the best candidate. So I came up with the idea to let you and Lamina share some experiences together, see where it takes you.
Asta
Asta
But now you should also understand that Lamina is actually a kindhearted girl and she deserves another chance.
Options
You are also very kind.
She is bound to turn over a new leaf.
Why go around this massive circle?
Asta
Asta
Well, now that my objective has been achieved, I announce the Xenohydro case is officially over. Here is your reward. Thanks for all your help.
Asta
Asta
Please come back to the space station more in the future. Don't forget, there are a lot of people who've received your help here, and many traces of your hard work throughout the place.

Tell the lead researcher about the Xenohydro conspiracy

You've decided on what to do with Lamina and the Xenohydro. After telling Asta about their conspiracy, you find that the lead researcher already knows everything. More precisely, she seemingly orchestrated it all.
By casting you as an actor in her little play, she managed to make the lost researcher see the error of her ways.
Asta
Asta
You're back. Did you conclude the matter?
Options
Sorry, I couldn't catch them...
Asta
Asta
Well, don't worry, the Xenohydro is of secondary importance... Is that Lamina standing with Capote over there?
Angry Master Capote Fan
Angry Master Capote Fan
You fraud. You trampled on our sincerity.
Heartbroken Master Capote Fan
Heartbroken Master Capote Fan
Oh, Master Capote used to be so perfect, and now he is just another deceitful celebrity...
Wen Shiling
Wen Shiling
Master Capote! I can't believe you eat mayonnaise. That's disgusting! Give me back the gifts I gave you!
Capote
Capote
Lamina, why did you invite all these people?
Lamina
Lamina
I didn't invite them here. I just told them the fact that I was the one who replied to all your fans.
Capote
Capote
Everybody calm down, let me explain later... Lamina, you don't want the benefits I give you at all anymore, do you?
Lamina
Lamina
That's right, I don't want any of it. From now on, I won't help you cook, wash your clothes and shoes, write your letters, or be your puppet. Get it?
Lamina
Lamina
If you want to find me, remember to ask my secretary Mr. Nonexistent for a number.
Asta
Asta
{NICKNAME}, what do you think of this?
Options
I don't know what they are arguing about.
She'll be able to look after herself.
You seem to know the back story.
Asta
Asta
I didn't think you can be so tight-lipped, but now, we should be honest and clear this up.
Asta
Asta
Yes, thanks to your mediation. Not only did you ensure her safety, but also encouraged her to change.
Asta
Asta
I thought I was careful, but you still noticed.
Asta
Asta
...Oops, "Like the risk of falling into the depths when trying to mount the sky." I didn't use any rhymes or enough alliteration for this line. It's still not good enough.
Asta
Asta
Hehe, to tell you the truth, the Cryptologist From Locus Silentii is none other than yours truly. This letter took me more than ten days to write, and I asked Mr. Wen for advice. It wasn't easy.
Asta
Asta
After I wrote it, I couldn't find the right person to get it delivered. Fortunately, the Xenohydro is just a prankster, and there's no rush to retrieve it.
Asta
Asta
Then you appeared, {NICKNAME}. And you turned out to be the best candidate. So I came up with the idea to let you and Lamina share some experiences together, see where it takes you.
Asta
Asta
But now you should also understand that Lamina is actually a kindhearted girl and she deserves another chance.
Options
You are also very kind.
She is bound to turn over a new leaf.
Why go around this massive circle?
Asta
Asta
Well, now that my objective has been achieved, I announce the Xenohydro case is officially over. Here is your reward. Thanks for all your help.
Asta
Asta
Please come back to the space station more in the future. Don't forget, there are a lot of people who've received your help here, and many traces of your hard work throughout the place.
I saw a Xenohydro.
Asta
Asta
You're back. Did you conclude the matter?
Options
I got the Xenohydro back...
Asta
Asta
Well, don't worry, the Xenohydro is of secondary importance... Is that Lamina standing with Capote over there?
Angry Master Capote Fan
Angry Master Capote Fan
You fraud. You trampled on our sincerity.
Heartbroken Master Capote Fan
Heartbroken Master Capote Fan
Oh, Master Capote used to be so perfect, and now he is just another deceitful celebrity...
Wen Shiling
Wen Shiling
Master Capote! I can't believe you eat mayonnaise. That's disgusting! Give me back the gifts I gave you!
Capote
Capote
Lamina, why did you invite all these people?
Lamina
Lamina
I didn't invite them here. I just told them the fact that I was the one who replied to all your fans.
Capote
Capote
Everybody calm down, let me explain later... Lamina, you don't want the benefits I give you at all anymore, do you?
Lamina
Lamina
That's right, I don't want any of it. From now on, I won't help you cook, wash your clothes and shoes, write your letters, or be your puppet. Get it?
Lamina
Lamina
If you want to find me, remember to ask my secretary Mr. Nonexistent for a number.
Asta
Asta
{NICKNAME}, what do you think of this?
Options
I don't know what they are arguing about.
She'll be able to look after herself.
You seem to know the back story.
Asta
Asta
I didn't think you can be so tight-lipped, but now, we should be honest and clear this up.
Asta
Asta
Yes, thanks to your mediation. Not only did you ensure her safety, but also encouraged her to change.
Asta
Asta
I thought I was careful, but you still noticed.
Asta
Asta
...Oops, "Like the risk of falling into the depths when trying to mount the sky." I didn't use any rhymes or enough alliteration for this line. It's still not good enough.
Asta
Asta
Hehe, to tell you the truth, the Cryptologist From Locus Silentii is none other than yours truly. This letter took me more than ten days to write, and I asked Mr. Wen for advice. It wasn't easy.
Asta
Asta
After I wrote it, I couldn't find the right person to get it delivered. Fortunately, the Xenohydro is just a prankster, and there's no rush to retrieve it.
Asta
Asta
Then you appeared, {NICKNAME}. And you turned out to be the best candidate. So I came up with the idea to let you and Lamina share some experiences together, see where it takes you.
Asta
Asta
But now you should also understand that Lamina is actually a kindhearted girl and she deserves another chance.
Options
You are also very kind.
She is bound to turn over a new leaf.
Why go around this massive circle?
Asta
Asta
Well, now that my objective has been achieved, I announce the Xenohydro case is officially over. Here is your reward. Thanks for all your help.
Asta
Asta
Please come back to the space station more in the future. Don't forget, there are a lot of people who've received your help here, and many traces of your hard work throughout the place.

Witness the scene of the fans of Master Capote having their hearts broken

Through Asta's effort and with your help, Lamina understands the meaning of independence.
Master Capote is the only loser in this incident.
Listen
Capote
Capote
Sorry, everybody, don't listen to that woman... Let's not gather here. We don't want to disturb the researchers and attract any unnecessary attention from security.
Angry Master Capote Fan
Angry Master Capote Fan
Everyone in the space station knows that Lamina is your most trusted secretary. What she said must be true!
Heartbroken Master Capote Fan
Heartbroken Master Capote Fan
Lamina is the leader of your fanclub to some extent. If even she has left you, then maybe you're really not worth it...
Angry Master Capote Fan
Angry Master Capote Fan
Forget it, there's no point staying here any longer. Can we get our hearts back? Can we get back our laughter and tears? Can we get back our hopes and dreams!?
Heartbroken Master Capote Fan
Heartbroken Master Capote Fan
I think we should go back and let our hearts heal.
Capote
Capote
Miss... uh... researcher is right! Please go back for now.
Options
Her name is... uh?
Don't you all have to work?
Learn from this lesson.
Angry Master Capote Fan
Angry Master Capote Fan
Oh, see? He doesn't even know our names.
Angry Master Capote Fan
Angry Master Capote Fan
So what's your name? Why don't we find a place to drink Kali-Kapo later? I need to vent!
Heartbroken Master Capote Fan
Heartbroken Master Capote Fan
Okay... Okay, but I'm afraid I won't be able to stop my tears as soon as I start to speak...
Heartbroken Master Capote Fan
Heartbroken Master Capote Fan
How can I be in the mood to work? Woo...
Wen Shiling
Wen Shiling
Are you asking me? There is really not much research work today.
Wen Shiling
Wen Shiling
To be honest, Master Capote really disappointed me. Can't believe I wanted to give all the good things in the Department of Implement Arts. Now it seems we might as well give them all to...
Wen Shiling
Wen Shiling
Nah. I should just go play with little Adler.
Capote
Capote
Who are you anyway... Mind your own business...
Angry Master Capote Fan
Angry Master Capote Fan
Oh, he can't even remember our names. I'm afraid it's hard for him to remember this lesson.
Wen Shiling
Wen Shiling
Oh? Can't Master Capote even remember what gift he got from me? Oh no, I have to get back. If those old guys in Implement Arts catch me, it'll get ugly.
Capote
Capote
My ladies! Listen to me, please just go now.
Capote
Capote
Well, I'll send you all a letter of condolence later to mend your hearts. Don't worry, it will be written by myself personally.
Angry Master Capote Fan
Angry Master Capote Fan
Urgh, who wants that. It will take me forever just to deal with your previous ghostwriter letters.
Heartbroken Master Capote Fan
Heartbroken Master Capote Fan
Oh fine, just give me one. It'll complete the collection...
Angry Master Capote Fan
Angry Master Capote Fan
Hey everybody! Nothing to see here, let's bounce!
Capote
Capote
I don't know why Lamina threw that tantrum all of a sudden. There must be an accomplice or someone behind the scenes.
Capote
Capote
Alas, I don't have time to think about it. I still have a lot of consolation letters to write.

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