Head to Qlipoth Fort and let Bronya know about the latest details

📍 Jarilo-VI Qlipoth Fort

Compile opinions held by Overworld residents regarding Topaz

📍 Jarilo-VI Administrative District

Serval

Well, well, look who we have here! {NICKNAME} and March, paying us a visit. What's the occasion?

Options

We need your opinion on an important matter.

Serval

Uh-oh, sounds like something serious is happening. You'd better fill me in.

System

You tell Serval about the IPC debt and the choice facing Bronya...

Serval

...What? How is that possible? I need a moment to wrap my head around this...

March 7th

Serval, we're racing against the clock! No time for head-wrapping.

Serval

...

Serval

...It's okay, I've thought it through... If it were up to me, I'd... sign the contract.

March 7th

What!? Hold on, are you serious? I thought you'd be against it for sure!

Serval

Surprised? My reasons are pretty simple.

Serval

Signing this contract would mean we no longer have to worry about "surviving." For most of the residents here, especially those in the Underworld, that would be more than enough to persuade them.

Serval

As for working for the company, pfft, people need to work no matter where they are, right? If the IPC tries to take too many liberties, we can always rise up against them!

Serval

You know, I've always longed for the stars since I was a child, which is why I devoted myself to science and the studying of the Stellaron. If someone told me that I could do whatever research I wanted, with only a small price to pay... I probably wouldn't hesitate.

March 7th

I see... I suppose that makes sense.

March 7th

Thanks for your input. I'll make a note of your opinion.

2010203I0+=1I0

📍 Jarilo-VI Silvermane Guard Restricted Zone

Dunn

Is that {NICKNAME} and Miss March? It's been a while! I didn't think you'd be back in Belobog so soon.

Dunn

It's been pretty hectic in the city lately. All these people dressed in black suddenly showed up, and even the Silvermane Guards have had trouble dealing with them...

Options

We need your opinion on an important matter.

Dunn

You need my opinion? Happy to help.

System

You tell Dunn about the IPC debt and the choice facing Bronya...

Dunn

...So that's who they are. Huh, it's worse than I imagined.

Dunn

The Madam Guardian must be under a lot of pressure... Is there really nothing we can do to assist her?

March 7th

We're here to gather everyone's opinion on the matter. I know this is a little sudden, but we're running out of time. What's your take?

Dunn

Why, I'd refuse the contract, of course! There is no room for compromise!

Dunn

Just look at them — arrogant, stomping around here as if they own the place. How can such people be trusted? Who's to say they won't breach the contract?

Dunn

Faced with this sort of coercion, we must resist them with all our might! Surrendering is not an option!

Dunn

You must warn the Madam Guardian not to allow herself to fall into their trap!

March 7th

A soldier's perspective is always valuable, Dunn.

March 7th

Thanks for your input. I'll make a note of your opinion.

2010203I1+=1I0

📍 Jarilo-VI Administrative District

March 7th

Did we miss anyone in the Overworld? I think we asked just about everyone we needed to.

March 7th

From what I've gathered, it seems like most people in the Overworld are leaning towards signing the IPC's contract.

March 7th

We'd better hurry to the Underworld and see what Natasha and Seele make of it all...

Compile opinions held by Underworld residents regarding Topaz

📍 Jarilo-VI Boulder Town

Natasha

Miss March, {NICKNAME}, what brings you two to the Underworld? And why the long face?

Options

We need your opinion on an important matter.

Natasha

Seems a little out of the blue, but since you came all this way, it must be urgent. Go ahead.

System

You tell Natasha about the IPC debt and the choice facing Bronya...

Natasha

That's a lot of information to take in. Sorry, both of you — I know you're in a hurry, but I need a moment to think.

March 7th

No stress, Nat. Just tell us what you really think.

Natasha

...

Natasha

I've thought about it, and... Well, if I were Bronya, I wouldn't sign it.

Natasha

I won't deny, the offer on the table is a very tempting one... and if we refuse, Belobog will not only have the burden of a huge debt — we may also incite the wrath of a very powerful force...

Natasha

...but even so, a quote I read back in school came to me just now: "Those who are willing to give up freedom for security will end up with neither."

Natasha

Living in the Underworld has taught me that this phrase is true. I'd rather trek through the frigid Snow Plains than live in a beautiful cage.

March 7th

...Wow, that's a pretty convincing argument...

March 7th

Another vote for the against pile. Thanks for your insight, Nat.

2010203I1+=1I0

📍 Jarilo-VI Robot Settlement

Clara

Miss March, {F#big sister}{M#big brother} {NICKNAME}! What brings you to the Underworld?

March 7th

Hey there, Clara! Huh? Is Svarog not around?

Clara

Mr. Svarog went out for a walk with a lady called Topaz...

March 7th

What!? Topaz!? Do you know where they went?

Clara

I'm not sure... but Mr. Svarog promised he'd be back soon...

March 7th

Ugh! What now, {NICKNAME}? Svarog's super logical, we should definitely get his opinion...

Options

At least Clara's here.

Clara's opinion is just as important!

March 7th

True. Dan Heng's always saying that Clara's really insightful for her age.

Clara

Huh? Miss March, do you want to ask me something?

System

You tell Clara about the IPC debt and the choice facing Bronya...

Clara

...

Clara

Uhh... That's complicated... I don't know what to say...

March 7th

It's alright, Clara, no pressure. Just tell us how you feel about it.

Clara

...

Clara

I... I think if we have a choice for the future, it should be everyone's decision.

Clara

Because... when I was playing with Hook, The Moles, and the other kids... We talked about our dreams...

Clara

Everyone has different dreams. If we accept Miss Topaz's offer, then doesn't that mean our dreams will never come true?

Clara

Just taking away people's dreams like that... I don't know... It feels wrong.

March 7th

You're right. Children see the world as a place where anything is possible...

March 7th

...just the thought of our lives being predestined from birth makes me shiver!

March 7th

Thanks, Clara. Your thoughts mean a lot to us.

2010203I1+=1I0

📍 Jarilo-VI Boulder Town

Oleg

None other than the saviors of Belobog! To what do I owe the pleasure? To be honest, I'm surprised you even remembered an old geezer like me!

Oleg

But... I can tell by the look on your faces you're probably not dropping by to say hi.

Options

We need your opinion on an important matter.

Oleg

Let me guess — something to do with these unruly people in black showing up everywhere?

Oleg

Well, ask away! It just so happens I'm curious about them myself. Maybe I can be of some help.

System

You tell Oleg about the IPC debt and the choice facing Bronya...

Oleg

I see...

Oleg

...That's a tricky situation alright... a lot for anyone to handle, let alone someone as young as Lady Bronya.

March 7th

Mr. Oleg, out of all the people we know in Belobog, you have the most life experience. What do you think we should do?

Oleg

Wanna hear the truth? I'm afraid great ambitions and lofty plans no longer hold much appeal for an old-timer like me.

Oleg

If this "IPC" does indeed possess the magical power to restore Belobog back to its former self overnight, then I think the answer is clear.

Oleg

Have you considered the opposite? What about if we refuse? The reconstruction plan already sounds like an endless endeavor. With the added burden of a massive debt... How's that something we can manage on our own?

Oleg

What worries me most is how Lady Bronya will handle the backlash from her people. Will she be able to withstand the criticism? Is she prepared to carry the weight of a tarnished reputation for years to come?

Options

Bronya... "The Last Supreme Guardian..."

I think she can handle a little criticism.

March 7th

Huh, I guess I never looked at it from that angle... I wouldn't wish that title on anyone.

March 7th

I think so too. But could you imagine having to hear names like "The Traitorous Ruler" for the rest of your life?

March 7th

Thank you for your thoughts, Mr. Oleg. Another vote for the "for" pile.

2010203I0+=1I0

Head to the Great Mine and ask Seele about what she thinks

📍 Jarilo-VI Great Mine

Seele

Back so soon? Any news?

Seele

A—Are you feeling alright, {NICKNAME}? You look a little uneasy.

Options

We need your opinion on an important matter.

Seele

Important matter, huh...?

Seele

I can tell from your tone this isn't gonna be a lighthearted chat... but I'm ready to hear it.

System

You tell Seele about the IPC debt and the choice facing Bronya...

Seele

...

Seele

I... think I get it. At first, I thought it was just a few IPC ruffians overstepping their boundaries...

March 7th

Yeah, you didn't think the future of Belobog was at stake, right?

Seele

Right... I need a little time to process this...

March 7th

As it stands, the votes are even. Your opinion will make all the difference.

Seele

...

Seele

...In that case... I... I abstain.

March 7th

Huh!?

Options

Your vote is extremely important...

You have to shoulder this responsibility.

Seele

I've thought about it... This responsibility rests on Bronya's shoulders, not mine.

Seele

No, this responsibility rests on Bronya's shoulders, not mine.

Seele

No matter the choice she makes, she has far greater foresight than I do — she can see the bigger picture more clearly than I can.

Seele

The vote is tied. If I were to give you my view, it would tip the scales and possibly impact her final choice.

Seele

I'll respect whatever decision she makes, but... it's not my place to make it for her.

March 7th

...Understood, Seele. This is a difficult decision to make, and everyone feels differently about it.

March 7th

It's times like these that a leader must stand up and do what's needed...

Seele

Right... It's Bronya's decision. She knows what's at stake — she won't run away from her duty. I trust her wholeheartedly.

Seele

If she asks you, just let her know my reasoning. She'll understand.

📍 Jarilo-VI Qlipoth Fort

🏃‍♂️

Move

March 7th

Whoa, the fort's packed... I've never seen this many people here before.

March 7th

Geez... I can barely even hear myself think!

Return to Qlipoth Fort and report to Bronya

Bronya

March, {NICKNAME}, you're back.

Bronya

So... what's the verdict? What do the people think?

March 7th

We talked to people in both the Overworld and Underworld. The final result was... a tie.

Bronya

I see... I suppose everyone has their own way of seeing things. I can't say I'm surprised.

Bronya

...What was Seele's perspective on the matter?

Options

She's behind you, whatever you decide.

She thought it wasn't her place to say.

Bronya

...I should've known. That sounds like Seele alright.

March 7th

Did you come to a conclusion with the ministers? It's so loud I can't tell what anyone's saying...

Bronya

It's pretty much the same situation here. Neither party is willing to compromise.

Bronya

The time has to come to make a decision... This chaos cannot be allowed to continue any longer.

🎬

video

➿

Unknown

Options

Do you have a solution, Himeko?

Couldn't you have come a bit sooner?

➿

Unknown

➿

Unknown

➿

Unknown

Head to the Corridor of Fading Echoes and see where Bronya wants to take you

📍 Jarilo-VI Corridor of Fading Echoes

🏃‍♂️

Move

Topaz

What a dismal sight. This district... Have you been here before?

Bronya

Yes... This is where we put an end to it all...

Himeko

...And then began again.

Bronya

That's right.

Bronya

Kyle, sorry for the delay. Are we clear to proceed?

Soldier Kyle

The path ahead is clear, Madam Guardian. You and your companions can proceed north without hindrance.

Bronya

Excellent. The mountain road ahead is a little treacherous, watch your step.

Bronya

...Let's go.

📍 Jarilo-VI Pillars of Creation

March 7th

...What is this place? We've never been here before, right?

Bronya

Mm, we've only recently discovered this domain.

Bronya

Let's keep moving forward. What I want to show you is just ahead.

Follow the path to the Pillars of Creation

Talk to Bronya and Topaz

Bronya

Miss Topaz, you mentioned accountability...

Topaz

Don't worry, it's nothing I can't handle. There are more important things than titles and ranks — finding the best solution is what matters most.

Options

Will they cut your pay?

Won't you get fired?

Topaz

If that's what they want to do, then so be it. I've long passed the stage of working just for money.

Topaz

Haha, that's unlikely. At most, they might lower my rank and reduce my bonus a bit. But don't worry, I work for far more than just a paycheck.

Bronya

Thank you so much for all you've done, {NICKNAME}. I never thought we'd drag the Express into a crisis again, much less one that might cause a rift between you and the IPC.

Topaz

A rift? I wouldn't go that far. Also, it's me who's mostly to blame — I didn't keep my subordinates in check.

Options

Mind putting in some good words for me with your bosses?

Is it true the IPC requires you to go through 17 rounds of interviews?

Topaz

Oh? Thinking about a career change?

Topaz

Sure thing! I'll put in the best words I can, {NICKNAME}.

Topaz

17? Oh... I think I might know who you're talking about.

Topaz

You could say he's a special case. For most people the interview process is much shorter.

Bronya

Hehe, I'm glad we're able to discuss some lighter topics.

Bronya

{NICKNAME}, you all need some rest after everything you've been through. I've arranged rooms for you all at the Goethe Hotel.

Bronya

Miss Topaz, if you need somewhere comfortable to stay...

Topaz

I appreciate the offer, but I need to head back and deliver my reports.

Topaz

{NICKNAME}, Miss Bronya, it's been great getting to know you both. I hope we can work together again in the future... only next time under better circumstances!

📍 Jarilo-VI Hotel Lobby

March 7th

I've been wondering, how did you figure out what was happening here on Belobog, Himeko?

Himeko

Well, you know, keeping an eye on the crew is just another part of a navigator's job.

Head to Goethe Hotel for a good night's sleep

📍 Jarilo-VI Hotel Room

{NICKNAME}

(March was looking forward to the Solwarm Festival for ages... Looks like she's missed her chance, this time...)

{NICKNAME}

(I never thought this trip would be so... *yawn* ...tiring. Time for bed...)

📍 Jarilo-VI Outlying Snow Plains

➿

Unknown

???

You only got demoted one rank? Whew, you dodged a bullet there — pretty big project to mess up on. Someone must be looking out for you. Oh, they've already left the call...

???

Ugh, this voice changer is driving me crazy. Let me turn it off.

Topaz

...Aventurine? Why are you still on the line?

Aventurine

Hey, what's with the hostility? It's not like I'm your boss... Oh, wait, I guess I am now? Haha! My apologies — I'm still getting used to my new place in the hierarchy!

Topaz

...Can I help you? If you've got something to say, say it already.

Aventurine

Oh, nothing important — just checking in on you. I told you Jarilo-VI would be a high-risk low-reward case. Why'd you even bother?

Aventurine

In our line of work, having a kind heart can be more of a liability than an asset. If you're not careful, you'll end up leading yourself down a dead-end road...

Topaz

...Anything else? If not, I'm hanging up.

Aventurine

W—Wait, hold on a minute, don't hang up. I get it, you're not in the mood for this conversation right now... Okay, how about this — something that might interest you...

Aventurine

While you were enjoying your playtime on Jarilo-VI, Diamond was busy taking care of the head honcho of the Building Material Logistics Department. That's why he didn't attend today's meeting.

Topaz

Taravan?

Aventurine

That's right, the renowned Taravan — one of the seven board members! He's throwing his support behind us instead of the Marketing Development Department for once. Ha! Oswaldo won't be laughing anymore!

Aventurine

Diamond's been a great help to both of us. Your antics on such a crucial day can't exactly have painted the Strategic Investment Department in a good light, y'know?

Topaz

...

Aventurine

Since you get the point, let's get down to business... I'm currently at Pier Point — there's a major deal that could affect the whole department. I just so happen to need a reliable project manager for the job... what do you say, old friend?

Topaz

Huh, and what prompted the mighty Aventurine to start collaborating with others?

Aventurine

Penacony, what else?

Topaz

...What?

Aventurine

That's right⁓ Now that's the kind of reaction I was hoping for.

Topaz

Hold on a minute... Diamond picked you for this project? I was expecting someone like Opal or Obsidian to handle it — at least somebody higher than rank P46...

Aventurine

Honestly, who knows? "The Family" has some pretty questionable characters. If you ask me, doing business with them is a lost cause.

Aventurine

But as we both know, the IPC does more than just "business deals" — guess it's my time to shine. So, how about it? This is a rare opportunity. Consider it. You never know, you might even be able to make up for your blunder on Jarilo-VI.

Topaz

...

Topaz

...I'll get back to you later.

➿

Unknown