Chapter IV: Act II

As Light Rain Falls Without Reason

Quest List

Like the Faint Moonlight of Yesteryear The Truth, Lost With the Rain When All Return to the Waters

Lyney has been acquitted, but you are not sure about what your next step should be. You decide to take up Navia's offer for a farewell meal to celebrate your cooperation...

Go to Hotel Debord

Navia:

I came here several times with my father when I was little, but stopped eating here as often after growing up. I hope the food here will be to your tastes.

Paimon:

Oh, don't worry, we haven't eaten at a hotel like this in a while. Hehe, Paimon's getting excited already!

Navia:

In that case, I'll go order for us first. Please wait here a moment.

Paimon:

Oho, everything looks so good! People in Fontaine sure know how to enjoy life.

Navia:

Why, of course. Go ahead, try whatever you like. If the food's good, I'll make a group reservation for the rest of Spina di Rosula next time.

Paimon:

And if it's not?

Navia:

Well, ah... Then I'll still bring everyone, albeit with only one dish per table.

Paimon:

You uh, sure have your own way of doing things...

Paimon:

Oh, we called this a farewell meal, but we could also treat it like a victory feast, right? We did just win that case, after all.

Navia:

Ooh, true, very true. In that case... Boss, we'll have another two dishes!

Paimon:

Huh! Paimon didn't mean that you had to order even more food!

Navia:

Hehe...

Paimon:

Speaking of cases, do you think that the mastermind behind the serial disappearances will get caught soon now that this all has happened?

Navia:

We've certainly taken a big step forward, but I feel that's about it. We know that there is an organization that means to dissolve these young women, but we still don't know what they are really after.

Paimon:

If it hadn't happened right in front of us, Paimon wouldn't have ever believed that a person could be dissolved like that...

Navia:

Right? Yet it was because this was such a preposterous notion that the investigation could never really move forward before.

Paimon:

Ugh, if only that guy could've finished speaking... *sigh* We were so close to hearing who was behind it.

Navia:

In such investigations, even the smallest step can seem like a yawning chasm if the trail of clues is cut off.

Navia:

To be honest, I don't have high hopes for any follow-up that the authorities might conduct...

Navia:

It's not that I don't have faith in their ability, it's just that a different perspective is required in some matters.

Navia:

It's easy to guard against and deceive a single, narrow perspective. A shift in thinking is required at such times in order to produce a breakthrough.

Navia:

Which is exactly why the Spina di Rosula exist.

Navia:

Those highfalutin folk are not all-knowing. That's why we exist, to seep into the cracks where filth falls through, where their watch fails them. That's the kinds of problems we solve.

Paimon:

Huh. Seems Paimon thought things were simpler than they actually are...

Navia:

*sigh* It's alright. Well, this was supposed to be a farewell meal, so I doubt you have further interest in this business, right?

Navia:

Let's talk about something else. Like... what are your future plans?

Paimon:

That's true. We didn't have a chance to speak to her after the trial ended. It didn't really seem like the right time or place to do it anyway...

Navia:

I see. So your primary objective — which has been foiled so far — was to have a chat with the Hydro Archon.

Navia:

I've heard that there's a long line of people waiting to meet Lady Furina. I suspect you'll be waiting for quite a while, considering that you missed your chance today.

Paimon:

Yeah, we've heard that she's super popular here in Fontaine, and that it'll be tough getting any of her time.

Navia:

Hmm, well... Would you consider some more... unique ways? Perhaps even methods of, let's say, questionable legality?

Paimon:

Guess that's Spina di Rosula's Boss for you... Chock-full of sketchy ideas. Well, what did you have in mind?

Navia:

Well, one way would be to infiltrate a performance troupe at the opera house, only to abandon your act at the play's climax and ask to speak to her after the performance...

Navia:

I'm sure Lady Furina would be eager to see the ending, and would agree in order to finish watching the play, don't you think?

Paimon:

Uh, could you suggest something a little more... practical? This plan seems pretty hard to pull off. We'd have to go learn how to act, and acting's really hard!

Navia:

Alright, here's another...find a way to conceal yourselves under her bed. Then, wake her up in the dead of night and demand answers. Don't let her go back to sleep until she answers all your questions!

Navia:

I can personally testify that this one works. When I'm sleepy, I'll do anything as long as I can finally get some sleep!

Paimon:

Uh, that might work, but that's not really the problem. The problem is we don't want to get ourselves arrested.

Navia:

Ah, valid point. I overlooked that part. I was just thinking about leveraging a person's desire for sleep.

Traveler:

How can you overlook something like that!?

Navia:

Alright, alright, no more joking around. Perhaps you could... oh I don't know, cut the line when she's on a break.

Navia:

You did defeat her in court, clearing citizens of hers from false accusations — false accusations she had nearly upheld personally. I'd imagine that she feels quite ashamed about the whole thing...

Paimon:

You mean that if we catch her while she's on a break, she might be too embarrassed to refuse? That does make some sense.

Paimon:

Why don't we give it a try after this meal? Y'know, strike while the iron is hot and all...

Navia:

Huh? Paimon, did you drink my Fonta?

Paimon:

Huh? Was this your drink?

Paimon:

Ehehe, sorry about that. Paimon wasn't really paying attention, and the cup was right next to Paimon... Would you like to order another?

Navia:

No, it's fine. We're just about done here.

Paimon:

Alright. Honestly, Paimon wouldn't recommend Fonta anyway. It tastes kinda salty and icky.

Navia:

Is that so? Well, in that case, we'll have to blacklist the Fonta here, then.

Navia:

If we're all finished eating, then I'll go pay...

Paimon:

Yeah, we're stuffed. Thanks for the treat, Navia!

Talk to Navia

Paimon:

Ooh, so... full... Paimon can barely float anymore...

Paimon:

Nah, that would be so... normal. Y'know, like you.

Navia:

Hmm... Okay, as for expenses this month, we're left with...

Paimon:

Hey Navia, what are you doing over there?

Navia:

Oh, nothing, nothing! It was just a meal, y'know. Nothin' the Spina di Rosula can't cover, haha... *sigh*

Paimon:

Let's get ready to try to meet the Hydro Archon again. Bye, Navia!

Navia:

*sigh* So this is goodbye, huh. Well, if you do encounter any other trouble in Fontaine, you're always welcome to contact the Spina di Rosula — I'll give your request the highest priority.

Navia:

In any case, I wish you smooth sailing. I'll see you again, partner!

Paimon:

See ya!

Go to the fountain plaza in front of the opera house

Paimon:

There aren't many people around anymore. Looks like that boat we took to Erinnyes might have been the last one...

A strange, barely audible voice seems to be coming from the fountain...

Oceanid?:

"Vacher..."

Paimon:

Huh, looks like we're back here again...

Paimon:

Huh, Traveler? Are you hearing voices again?

Paimon:

Uhhh... That's kinda spooky. Are you sure we don't wanna come back in the morning?

Oceanid?:

"Vacher... Vacher..."

Paimon:

Hey! Why're you still walking towards it? There might be something nasty in the water...

Paimon:

Huh? Hang on, Paimon can kinda hear a voice... It's calling for "Vacher," right?

Your consciousness is seemingly summoned by the voice...

Paimon:

Hey, Traveler! Stop walking! C'mon, wake up!

Talk to the Oceanid

Oceanid?:

...

Oceanid?:

Vacher? Are you... my dear Vacher?

Oceanid?:

No, wait, you seem to be someone else... Do you know Vacher? Do you know where my love is?

Oceanid?:

I'm... Wait, who am I...? I'm very sorry, I fear I do not know.

Oceanid?:

My memories feel like they have been washed away like a flood. So many fragments dissolved amidst the tide, never to be recovered.

Oceanid?:

How much have I lost? How many things that I once held dear while on land have I since forgotten?

Oceanid?:

Yes, that is what I was once. But now, I am but the consciousness of one who has lost their form.

Traveler:

You lost your form...

Oceanid?:

I do not know how I came to be like this either. I only vaguely remember being covered in light blue water, and then all grew dim...

Oceanid?:

Ah, I also remember going to many places. I loved adventure, loved exploring places of peril.

Oceanid?:

No matter where I went, Vacher would go with me. I knew how dearly he loved me, and I also loved him equally as much.

Oceanid?:

But now... We can no longer go back. The pain of such parting... I never knew how heavy it could be.

Traveler:

So you need me to find him?

Oceanid?:

No! Our reunion no longer has any meaning — there is no way for us to create any new memories.

Oceanid?:

The thought of me gives him no succor, so let it lie forgotten beneath the waters.

Oceanid?:

If you meet Vacher, tell him not to look for me. Tell him to move on — that is the only thing I still remember.

Traveler:

I believe it will be hard for him to forget you.

Oceanid?:

Perhaps that is so... As I was submerged in the waters, losing consciousness, I saw Vacher above the surface. His eyes were filled with such sorrow, such longing.

Oceanid?:

If only I could have comforted him, told him that I did not suffer. Indeed, I had felt a great warmth...

Oceanid?:

Is that what you call it? "Dissolving"? If anything, I consider it a form of "release."

Oceanid?:

It was a state of neither fear nor frenzy, with only an endless peace, like the water's still surface.

Oceanid?:

I could also liken it to being a thirsty person who drinks water for the first time, and only then sees how they have lived for so long in a world of endless want and anxiety.

Oceanid?:

I think I hear your companion. It's time for you to go, I think.

Oceanid?:

Farewell, then. I am glad that you were able to sense my presence. Remember, if you see Vacher, tell him not to seek me out any longer.

Talk to Navia

movie

While you were unconscious, a number of Gardemeks of unknown origin surrounded you, trying to harm you. Navia and her people attempt to protect you, but there are too many foes, and they grow exhausted... Fortunately, Clorinde appears and easily eliminates many Gardemeks. She seems to already be quite familiar with Navia...

Navia:

I should thank you for lending us your sword there, Clorinde. But before I do so, could you explain how you managed to show up here?

Clorinde:

I... followed you. It seemed to me that danger has followed you more closely as of late.

Navia:

I believe that following someone without their knowledge is actually called "stalking," is it not?

Clorinde:

Mr. Callas' last wish was for me to ensure your safety, and I will not betray his trust. He would do the same, were he alive today.

Navia:

Do not... speak of my father.

Silver:

Sorry Demoiselle, I was not strong enough...

Melus:

Thank you for your aid, Ms. Clorinde, but do keep an eye out for your manner of speech. I believe we all wish to avoid unnecessary emotional harm.

Clorinde:

Sorry. I... did not consider your feelings.

Navia:

Whatever. What else do you know? How did you come to the conclusion that I'd be in grave danger?

Clorinde:

I doubt I know much more than you, but I believe that the mastermind behind the serial disappearances is very powerful.

Clorinde:

Your performance tonight will almost certainly attract their attention.

Navia:

Hehe, I'm sure they've known about me. To be honest, I'm shocked it's taken them this long to act against me.

Navia:

And what about these Gardemeks? I thought only those associated with the Maison Gardiennage could control them.

Clorinde:

None of these meka have serial numbers, I was sure to check a moment ago. They are not the ones used by the authorities to enforce the law.

Clorinde:

I can only conclude that some powerful or wealthy party must have obtained them via illegal means, deploying them as a private force of sorts.

Navia:

What, your point being that they're out of the Spina di Rosula's league then?

Clorinde:

Yes. Be careful, and do not act rashly.

Navia:

I will continue investigating no matter what. We will bring the truth to light. That's... my father's true last wish.

Navia:

Regardless, thank you for your help today, Clorinde. But if you get any ideas, tell me first. I don't much appreciate being followed.

Clorinde:

I do not think that they'll strike again any time soon, so I shall stop following you. Good day, all.

Clorinde leaves.

Navia:

Right. I suppose that's the best news we've gotten today.

Melus:

Demoiselle, I believe that Ms. Clorinde was being sincere with you. If we tried, we could attempt to thaw relations a little...

Navia:

*sigh* I know. I just... She's...

Paimon:

Thank goodness! Paimon thought we were done for!

Paimon:

Those Gardemeks came outta nowhere while you were unconscious, and Navia and her gang saved us.

Paimon:

Oh, and there was that Champion Duelist named Clorinde who came out to save us too. We got lucky there. Paimon probably couldn't have fought them off otherwise.

Navia:

Oh, come now, forget all that polite talk. That wasn't really a farewell meal we had back there — not for me anyway. In truth, I hope that every meal we have together shall be a victory feast.

Navia:

As such, we're still partners. There's no need to thank me.

Silver:

It will take... fifty years for me to match Demoiselle's magnanimity.

Melus:

If it were me, I would have joined the Spina di Rosula on account of her goodwill long ago.

Navia:

*sigh* Alright, you two, that's enough...

Paimon:

Actually, Navia, how did you know that we were in danger? You sure did show up in the nick of time!

Navia:

Well, to be honest, you're the one who tipped us off, Paimon.

Paimon:

Huh, really? Paimon contributed somehow? Paimon's even more amazing than she thought!

Navia:

Yes, all thanks to you grabbing my drink by mistake.

Paimon:

Uh... How did that help...?

Navia:

After we parted ways, I was on the way back to one of our bases when I suddenly thought of what you said...

Navia:

That the Fonta tasted "kinda salty and icky."

Navia:

Fonta only comes in sweet flavors, so how could it have tasted salty? The color of the drink, if I recall, had also been a bit off...

Paimon:

So the Fonta had been spiked with Water from the Primordial Sea?

Navia:

Yes. So, if you hadn't drunk that cup for me...

Melus:

Spina di Rosula is preparing the grandest of awards for you as we speak for saving the Boss.

Paimon:

Huh, really!?

Navia:

I sent people to Hotel Debord to investigate, but whoever did this left no trace at all.

Navia:

That's when I figured out that you might be in danger, and hurried here as quickly as I could.

Paimon:

But why would they go after us too? All we did was defend Lyney in court and help clear his name. Ugh, now we're caught up in this mess too, aren't we?

Navia:

Well, you did foil a plan that they were probably pretty proud of, and almost got their name in the process.

Navia:

Speaking of which, did anything strange happen when you drank the Primordial Seawater?

Paimon:

Well, it can't be a coincidence that Traveler fainted just now. He said that he heard that voice calling for "Vacher" again...

Paimon:

Oh, and this time Paimon heard it too, but it was real faint. Does this situation have to do with the Primordial Seawater, then?

Paimon:

Does that mean the Primordial Seawater raises someone's sensitivity to Hydro when it's used on people who are not from Fontaine?

Navia:

That doesn't sound like too much of a bad thing, to be honest.

Traveler:

I also gained some new intel.

Paimon:

New intel? While you were out cold?

Navia:

Well, let's hear it, shall we?

Navia:

Oh? That is important.

You tell everyone about what happened while you were connected to the Oceanid's consciousness.

Navia:

Vacher... That name doesn't ring a bell. I suppose he hasn't stepped forward as a witness in court lately.

Navia:

Since he saw that young woman dissolve, he was at least at the crime scene.

Navia:

But he never gave testimony or any information regarding people dissolving in the Primordial Seawater. Could he have been threatened...?

Navia:

Yes, thank you. This is very important information indeed. We will continue to investigate.

Navia:

Oh!? You mean... You'll help us investigate?

Paimon:

Well, you did say that our farewell meal didn't really count. That means we're still partners, right?

Paimon:

And besides, we're in this now whether we like it or not. You're not gonna let these people who targeted us get off the hook so easily, are you, Traveler?

Melus:

Demoiselle, do try not to look quite so pleased. You are the face of Spina di Rosula, after all.

Navia:

Ahem! You talk too much. Well, in that case, let's head back to one of our bases, shall we? I'll arrange accommodations for you.

Navia:

We also have some plans to go over, and hopefully we can deepen our bonds as partners... But we'll take that one step at a time, I guess.

Silver:

Don't worry, you two. With us around, our base is definitely secure.

Go to the Spina di Rosula stronghold

Navia:

It's right up ahead, but... Let's make sure we weren't followed first.

Silver:

I've been keeping watch, Demoiselle. I haven't spotted anyone suspicious thus far.

Navia:

Very good, but let's not let our guard down for now.

Melus:

I shall find rooms for our respected guests.

Navia:

Thank you, Melus. Now, let's continue, Traveler.

Go to the accommodations Navia arranged

Paimon:

So, uh, this is your base? It's not quite what Paimon imagined...

Melus:

Your accommodations have been arranged. Under the present circumstances, I can confidently say it's the best we have.

Navia:

Heh, well, our funds have been a little tight lately...

Navia:

After all, we don't allow illegal or unethical profiteering. In fact, our funds often come from the citizenry who support us.

Paimon:

Seems like it's tough times for everyone... But if you have the support of the people, that does sound like it's worth it.

Navia:

To be honest, our financial situation was a lot better back when my father was in charge a few years ago. I'm afraid I'm not quite his equal...

Paimon:

Your father... He was the previous boss of Spina di Rosula, right? How did he...

Melus:

Demoiselle, if you'll allow me to explain...

Navia:

No, I'll explain it myself. I suppose I couldn't run from this topic forever, and as partners, this is something I hope they can understand.

Navia:

My father's name is Callas. Yes, the same one they call "Callas the Unfaithful" in the streets.

Navia:

Three years ago, he was accused of murdering his own friend, but he chose a duel to defend his honor instead of standing trial. He died in the Duelists' Ring.

Paimon:

Oh no...

Navia:

But I do not believe my father was a murderer. I'm sure he was set up...

Navia:

At the time, I believed that if he only stood trial and was duly investigated, something amiss would crop up and prove his innocence.

Navia:

But strangely, he not only requested the duel himself, but rumor has it...

Navia:

...That even after being seriously injured, to the point where he could be deemed as having lost the duel, he refused to surrender, determined to die in the arena.

Navia:

Three years later, I still don't understand why he did that...

Navia:

How could he protect his honor if he's dead? If anything he gave up his chance to defend himself.

Navia:

The closest piece of info I have is that my father had been investigating the serial disappearances case at the time of his death.

Paimon:

Ah, so that's why you're so determined to get to the bottom of that case!

Navia:

That's right. I've also tried to investigate the murder my father was implicated in, but I haven't found a single new clue in my countless reviews of the investigation records.

Navia:

However, I believe that if the murder case is related to those behind the disappearances, they must know something.

Navia:

I must know what really happened. Was my father coerced? Framed? Even if he really did kill his friend, I must get to the truth.

Navia:

*sigh* If only he'd been more open with me when he was still alive.

Navia:

He even hid the fact that my mother died due to complications when giving birth to me...

Navia:

And now here I am, investigating his death. You really are a handful, aren't you, Papa?

Traveler:

You know, we're quite alike in this regard.

Silver:

Demoiselle, please... If there is anything I can do, anything at all...

Melus:

I also will never believe that Master Callas murdered anyone. There are none whom I respect more than the two of you, Demoiselle.

Melus:

Master Callas did so much good in life... yet all it took was one murder case for him to be dubbed Callas the Unfaithful...

Melus:

Even our supporters decreased greatly due to that incident, hence our strained finances at present.

Paimon:

Wait. If Callas was such a good man, wouldn't people at least be a little suspicious when he was accused?

Navia:

No, perhaps people just revel in that kind of "drama." It's not something exclusive to people from Fontaine, really. Everyone's like that.

Navia:

People love watching the evil turn over a new leaf, but they also enjoy watching good people fall into an abyss from one slip-up just as much.

Paimon:

But how could... Never mind. If Callas was really falsely accused, we have to find the truth. He didn't deserve to have that happen to him!

Melus:

There is one other thing. Master Callas' opponent in the duel... was Ms. Clorinde.

Paimon:

Oh. Her? Well then, isn't that as good as saying that she was the one who killed him?

Traveler:

No wonder the mood was a little strange between the two of you...

Paimon:

Yeah, that's not the sort of thing you can just let go and move on from...

Melus:

Ms. Clorinde has always placed great emphasis on the honorable nature of the duel. If her opponent doesn't yield, she will not stop, either.

Melus:

She knew Master Callas beforehand, and greatly respected him, but seeing how he was resolute in the arena...

Melus:

There was only ever one choice she could have made...

Navia:

It's not that I don't understand her at all, but I... I just can't deal with this yet.

Paimon:

Don't worry, Navia! Paimon knows how you feel — you don't have to force yourself to do that.

Melus:

Afterward, Ms. Clorinde told us that at the start of the duel, Master Callas requested that she ensure Demoiselle Navia's safety.

Melus:

Yes, that is our understanding as well.

Navia:

*sigh* Oh Papa, what madness drove you to ask the person who killed you to take care of me...

Navia:

Alright, anyway... that's the information I wanted to share with you — even if it did sound like I was just complaining towards the end.

Navia:

Thanks. You two should go and rest. This was quite a day, after all.

Paimon:

Yeah. Paimon's beat...

Silver:

Please, relax and get some sleep. We will ensure you rest soundly.

Rest in your room

A peaceful night passes under the Spina di Rosula's protection...

Paimon:

*yawn* Paimon slept so well! This place feels almost too safe...

Paimon:

Huh? Navia? Where did the other two go?

Navia:

I sent them back to Poisson, it's Spina di Rosula's place of origin and where we have our headquarters. There's not much for them to do here at the moment.

Paimon:

Paimon gets the feeling that you're just trying to get them off your back...

Paimon:

But never mind that, when did you get back? Were you waiting here the whole time?

Navia:

No, I just returned after going out for a while. I did some investigating yesterday regarding the name "Vacher."

Paimon:

Wait, so you didn't sleep at all!?

Navia:

How could I after having such critical new evidence appear?

Paimon:

Uh, guess Paimon wasn't speaking for everyone just now, huh...

Navia:

Unfortunately, this name seems to have been wiped from existence. It doesn't seem to have a match anywhere.

Navia:

I suspect that those behind this have already taken steps to hinder an investigation from this angle — but that does prove that this Vacher person is a key witness in the incident.

Paimon:

Does that mean we're too late, though?

Navia:

No, there is one ray of hope, one place in Fontaine that they would find almost impossible to threaten, no matter how much they wanted to.

Navia:

And that is the archives kept by Chief Justice Neuvillette. A place where detailed files on all the cases in recent years are kept.

Navia:

If the... Oceanid you met is one of the young women who went missing recently, we should be able to find some related information there.

Paimon:

So Neuvillette maintains an archive of case files? Guess that's the hardworking Chief Justice for you...

Paimon:

In that case, let's go talk to him, shall we?

Navia:

...

Paimon:

Hmm? Aren't you coming along, Navia? Did you get tired?

Navia:

*sigh* No, it's nothing. Let's go see the honorable Chief Justice.

The Truth, Lost With the Rain

You're now involved in the "serial disappearances of young women" case, whether you like it or not. From the new intelligence you gained from your encounter at the Fountain of Lucine, you and Navia prepare for the next step in your investigation...

Go to the Palais Mermonia

Navia:

The place we're going is called the Palais Mermonia. The office of the Chief Justice is on the fourth floor.

Go to the Chief Justice's office

Sedene:

Halt! Please state your business here. The Chief Justice is presently occupied with official matters.

Paimon:

Huh... This place does look pretty heavily guarded. Guess that proves that Neuvillette's files are really secure!

Navia:

Hey, don't you recognize us?

Sedene:

Huh? Who are you? Just to be clear, I don't care who you are or who you might be related to, our rules make no exceptions.

Navia:

See? They've got great discipline, too.

Paimon:

Yep yep, Paimon can tell!

Sedene:

...If you're just here to crack jokes, I can point you towards the exit. Unlike some, we're busy, so please leave if you don't have a reason to be here.

Navia:

No, no, what I meant to say is, shouldn't you remember us from a few days ago? We were at the trial of the Great Magician Lyney.

Sedene:

Ohhhh! Yes, I remember, I read about it in The Steambird. You... You must be Lyney's attorneys. It's all coming back to me now.

Navia:

We're here today to report and archive some information on a follow-up case.

Sedene:

Huh? Is that even a thing...

Navia:

Of course! Don't worry, we're here on official business. You can trust us.

Sedene:

Alright, then I'll let you through. The Chief Justice is just inside.

Navia:

Thanks so much!

Talk to Neuvillette

Paimon:

Um... Sorry to barge in, Monsieur Neuvillette. We only lied to get in because we didn't know any other way...

Neuvillette:

It's alright. Please let me know how I may be of assistance to you.

Paimon:

Uhh, so you're not mad at us?

Navia:

We're looking for a man called "Vacher." He may have been an eyewitness in the serial disappearances case. If we can find him, we may be able to unearth some key information on the case.

Neuvillette:

Ah, I see. In that case, please wait here a moment while I browse through the files.

Paimon:

Who knew that Neuvillette would be so easy to talk to...

Neuvillette:

Unfortunately...

Neuvillette:

I'm quite certain that no one by the name of "Vacher" has been involved in any case, criminal or civil, in the past several years.

Neuvillette:

There are no records of him either in the files or in my memory.

Paimon:

Traveler, what if it was really all just a dream?

Navia:

Is that so... Alright then, thank you so much, Monsieur Neuvillette. We'll take our leave now.

Neuvillette:

Ahem...

Neuvillette:

...Miss Navia, I can understand how you feel.

Neuvillette:

Your father, Callas, was a truly exceptional man. We deeply regret his passing.

Navia:

...

Navia:

And what are you trying to say, Monsieur Neuvillette?

Navia:

Are you trying to console me? Extend your sympathy? Or just express some tendril of regret...

Navia:

No... You are not trying to do any of that. I can hear it in your voice. There's no emotion behind your words — you only said those things because you felt like you should.

Neuvillette:

...

Navia:

It's just like last time. After my father took his place in the Duelists' Ring, I pushed through the guards to talk to you as a last resort...

Navia:

You even told me then that you thought there was something fishy with the case, yet you still allowed the duel to go ahead.

Navia:

In your eyes, the value of a human life is nothing compared to those cold laws you hold so dear.

Navia:

If you truly regret my father's death, then why didn't you call a stop to the duel!?

Navia:

Why didn't you... give me the power to stop him from throwing his life away, why did you just let him die, despised and hated by all...

Navia:

Everything was hanging on a thread at that moment... Just the tiniest effort could have changed everything.

Navia:

There are still so many things I never got to tell him... So many questions he still owes me answers to...

Navia:

If you really have no heart, then just look me in the eyes — I, Navia, will show you the true meaning of "regret"!

Neuvillette:

...

Neuvillette:

...I'm sorry, Miss Navia.

Navia:

You and my father are truly alike. You'd keep all kinds of things in your heart, and never say a word to anyone.

Navia:

It's not so much that you can't feel, but that you would never express anything.

Navia:

Oh well... In any case, everyone already knows full well the apathy of the Chief Justice.

Navia:

My apologies for taking my emotions out on you, Monsieur Chief Justice. Let's go, Traveler and Paimon.

Leave the Palais Mermonia

Paimon:

Navia... Are you okay?

Navia:

I'm fine...

Navia:

Ah... rain... It's raining.

Paimon:

You're right... Wasn't it still sunny when we went into the building? And there shouldn't be any active trials today, how strange...

Navia:

Now that I think of it... On the day my father was convicted of murder, it was also raining.

Traveler:

Rain...

Paimon:

What is it, Traveler? Did you think of something?

Navia:

Yeah, he was outside... It was uncovered and the rain could fall there. Why? Do you think the rain could have affected the crime scene?

Navia:

That thought has occurred to us before. We've even expanded the search area to try to account for that, but didn't find anything of value.

Traveler:

But there was something you didn't know at the time.

Navia:

Oh? Wait, you don't mean...!

Traveler:

The fact that people can be turned into water.

Paimon:

So you're saying that the true murderer could have been turned into water? And then got washed away with the rain...

Paimon:

Yeah... And if that's what had happened, then no one would have believed your dad even if he explained what he saw to the authorities!

Navia:

I really think I've found a true genius for a partner... You're completely right, how did I not connect the dots earlier...

Navia:

Alright, let's go to Poisson! With this new lead in mind, we'll get to the bottom of my father's case for sure!

Paimon:

Yeah! We're gonna make progress for sure this time!

Navia:

Do you want to go with me now, or do you want to head over by yourself later?

Navia:

Great. Let's go, then.

Talk to Navia

Paimon:

Woah, what a huge ship! Why would a ship be anchored at a place like this?

Navia:

Hehe, there's no need to be so surprised. While it may look like a ship, it's actually Spina di Rosula's headquarters.

Navia:

My father was the one who asked for it to be built like this. Perhaps our taste in exterior design is the only thing we occasionally had in common.

Navia:

A gigantic and glamorous ship embodies discovery, opportunity, ambition, and conquest. It symbolizes Spina di Rosula's bright and limitless future.

Traveler:

I think I'm starting to get why you like it.

Paimon:

And Paimon thought you were bluffing when you said Spina di Rosula had a glorious past!

Paimon:

Paimon was confused why a group with such a history would live in the sewers...

Paimon:

But now that Paimon has seen this ship for herself, she's been convinced!

Navia:

Well, Poisson is where Spina di Rosula began, after all. It's our main base, our home.

Talk to Melus on the ship

Navia:

Melus, we're back!

Melus:

Apologies for the wait, Demoiselle, and our most important partners.

Melus:

You said before that you still had some business at the Court. What brings you back to Poisson so quickly?

Navia:

Uh, about that... it's because my partner here reminded me of something really important. You see, what if my father's case had something to do with Water from the Primordial Sea?

Navia:

You still remember, right, Melus? On that night, it was raining...

Melus:

Yes, the case was quite similar to that of Mr. Lyney's. Both were what you'd call "impossible murders."

Traveler:

Could the mastermind be the same person?

Paimon:

Could you tell us a bit more about what happened before?

Navia:

Yeah, of course. Many years ago, something called "Sinthe" began to gain popularity in Poisson.

Navia:

At a glance, it was a kind of drink that could excite your mood and produce many pleasant hallucinations.

Paimon:

Wait, didn't that Garde guy who turned into water also mention that the Primordial Water could be used to produce some kind of potion?

Navia:

Yes, he did. Considering what we know now, it's almost certain that Sinthe is created using Water from the Primordial Sea.

Navia:

If you drink Sinthe for an extended amount of time, you'll suffer many side effects, such as losing the ability to focus or control your emotions.

Navia:

And if you were to stop drinking it completely... you'll experience flashes of paranoia and anxiety, while lacking energy to do anything. It's an extremely dangerous substance.

Navia:

As he oversaw Poisson, my father was compelled to put a stop to Sinthe abuse, and called for a complete ban of it.

Melus:

Boss' uncompromising attitude incurred the Sinthe vendors' wrath, but no matter how much they threatened or bribed him, he refused to yield.

Melus:

Not only that, Boss became determined to find the mastermind behind the Sinthe operation, and put an end to the problem once and for all.

Navia:

Yes, but the enemy was very cunning, so he could never get anything out of the dealers, all of whom only sold the stuff and weren't privy to the rest of the operation.

Navia:

Recognizing that, my father decided to contact the dealers in secret, and cultivate personal relationships with them. Finally, he was able to convince someone to become his informant.

Navia:

The man's name was Jacques. He felt greatly ashamed about his work after seeing many families destroyed by Sinthe abuse.

Navia:

That night, my father hosted a banquet at this countryside estate. He planned to meet up and exchange information with Jacques over some food.

Navia:

But then we heard two gunshots from the courtyard. We raced to the scene and found my father, still holding a gun, and Jacques, who was already dead on the ground...

Paimon:

Huh!? How did that happen? Weren't they on the same side?

Navia:

Sounds just like Lyney's case, doesn't it? In both cases the culprit seemed obvious, but neither appeared to have any motive at all.

Navia:

Looking back on it, though, I now believe the most important clue was something we all overlooked at the time — there were pieces of clothing left at the scene.

Traveler:

So they could have belonged to someone who got dissolved?

Navia:

Precisely. It's all thanks to you that I made the connection now. Back then, we all just thought they were some costumes that Jacques used to disguise himself at the banquet.

Navia:

But considering it now, it's almost certain that they belonged to a third person at the scene. With one extra person, we'll also need to reconsider why the two shots were fired.

Navia:

You're right, we still don't know what happened, but my intuition tells me that we're on the right track to figuring it all out. I'm finally headed towards the truth...

Melus:

Jacques was an empathetic man who was infinitely remorseful for his past actions. It's unlikely that he turned on Boss with zero warning.

Melus:

I think this "third person" is probably the key to the full truth.

Melus:

On that note, however... Even though this will not please you, Demoiselle, as your and your father's butler, I must still offer a word of warning.

Melus:

Our opponent is insidious and cruel. They are extremely difficult to deal with, and Boss has already lost his life trying to bring them to justice.

Melus:

Even though Spina di Rosula has lost most of its former glory, Poisson has welcomed a new time of peace, and we have been allowed to live out our lives...

Melus:

There's no need to follow your father's path. It would be both wise and in line with Boss' wishes to step back and give up on the case.

Navia:

If that's indeed what he wished for, then he should have told me that himself.

Navia:

Was I not the closest person to him? And yet, I was the one most kept in the dark.

Navia:

What was the point of him dying without sharing any of the secrets he knew? Did he manage to protect anything in the end?

Navia:

Sinthe is still here, "Callas the Unfaithful" is still his epithet, and Spina di Rosula is barely getting by. Nothing has changed.

Navia:

Did he think I'd just accept his meaningless death, and live out my life just as meaninglessly?

Navia:

I've never accepted that, ever. Not since that day, and certainly not now.

Navia:

I want to find out the real answer for everyone's sake. For the missing girls... for the victims... and for myself.

Paimon:

Navia...

Melus:

This is indeed the best moment to act. Your partner appears to be quite reliable, and more importantly, Demoiselle, I think you're also ready to take this on.

Navia:

So you do know something else, Melus.

Melus:

Yes, I do. In fact, even before that banquet, Boss already knew of the connection between Sinthe and the serial disappearances case.

Melus:

But what drove all the tensions to the boiling point was the revelation that you, Demoiselle, had been selected as the next target to "disappear."

Navia:

What...

Melus:

Boss also didn't tell you that he had been diagnosed with a rare illness. The doctors told him that he had no more than five years left to live...

Melus:

And the serial disappearances case caused him great anxiety.

Melus:

Five years was nowhere near enough time to resolve this long-standing conflict, but once he passed away, all the danger would pass onto you.

Melus:

Knowing all of this, he decided to use one final intimidation tactic before his death. He claimed to have already gotten his hands on some key incriminating evidence for the other side, and even told some members of Spina di Rosula about the details.

Melus:

But as long as you remained safe, he would not share the evidence with the public.

Melus:

If something were to happen to you, then he and all those he had told would immediately expose all they know about Sinthe and the disappeared victims.

Paimon:

Right, so nobody would be able to get off scot-free...

Melus:

As we've seen, Boss' tactic has worked. Even though Boss has been gone for a long time, the other side has not tried to take Demoiselle's life.

Navia:

No, I don't believe it! He never appeared to look sick to me!

Melus:

No father wants their daughter to see them weak and haggard, especially someone as proud as Boss.

Melus:

To him, dying in a duel and suffering lasting dishonor as "the Unfaithful" were still far preferable than losing face in front of his daughter.

Navia:

Argh!

Navia:

...So he chose to die in silence so that he could protect me?

Melus:

I'm afraid you're not understanding this correctly, Demoiselle. What Boss wanted to hand to you was not a parasol, but a sword.

Melus:

If Boss' spirit could hear you telling me that you want to find the answer for the sake of everyone involved...

Melus:

I'm sure he'd be extremely proud.

Navia:

That fool, couldn't he have just given it to me straight...

Navia:

No, he might have set up everything precisely because... he never thought I'd be able to understand him...

Navia:

Is that the amount of confidence he had in me? And what if I was never able to make it to where I am now...?

Traveler:

He gave you the choice to live how you want.

Navia:

Yeah, I suppose that's true... With the way he'd set things up, if I had wanted, I could have just lived out my life without a care in the world.

Navia:

But thankfully, he rarely talked to me about complex matters, and thus understood little of me as a person. In this case... he really didn't need to give me an easy way out.

Navia:

Melus, what was the key evidence that he shared with you?

Melus:

It's the location where Sinthe is produced. Essentially, it's the enemy's headquarters.

Melus:

When he was threatening the enemy, Boss didn't share the specifics of the incriminating evidence he found.

Melus:

But if you want to use it against the enemy, you'll still have to take several things into consideration.

Paimon:

Why? If we know where the place is, can't we just go storming in?

Melus:

You mustn't forget that we're fighting against a mysterious and dangerous organization that's been in operation for decades.

Melus:

There's no telling what might be lying in wait at their headquarters. We also have no idea what kind of evidence we may be able to find inside, nor what people we may be able to capture.

Melus:

But a single visit to their headquarters would be tantamount to a formal declaration of war.

Melus:

The worst case would be that we leave empty-handed, but also open ourselves up to full retaliation.

Paimon:

Then in that case, why not work with the Fontaine authorities?

Melus:

Well, you saw one of them dissolve during Mr. Lyney's case. We have no idea just how thoroughly they may have been infiltrated.

Navia:

That's true... Seems my father really had no choice...

Navia:

But things are different now. It should be a lot easier to prove the other side's guilt now that we've connected Sinthe with the disappearances case.

Paimon:

You sound like you've put a lot of thought into this, Melus!

Melus:

I am the butler, after all. I live but to serve the Boss and Demoiselle's will.

Melus:

I've always been willing to take on any kind of risk for your sake, but considering my relative lack of ability, I've spent my time keeping secrets, performing basic investigations, and waiting for the right time to come.

Navia:

Thank you for all of that, Melus. Have you discovered anything new in the past few years?

Melus:

Let me think... One conclusion I came to was that the enemy must be quite familiar with Spina di Rosula, or at least, have an informant planted here.

Melus:

When I announced orders to the organization's members on Demoiselle's behalf, I used to deliberately keep a few people in the dark, and observe the reactions of the Sinthe vendors.

Melus:

If the vendors didn't change their plans, then the individuals informed of our orders must be innocent. If the vendors packed up and fled, however, then someone must have given them the news.

Melus:

After several rounds of testing and investigative tracing, I've narrowed the suspect list down to three people.

Melus:

The first is Florent, Spina di Rosula's senior adviser.

Navia:

Huh? Florent?

Melus:

Yes. Surprising, isn't it? He was one of the people Boss trusted the most, which also means that he was someone who understood Boss really well.

Melus:

Thanks to his position within Boss' innermost circle, he always knew our upcoming plans, and could thus avoid capture this whole time.

Melus:

There's someone else like him, too. Marcel, the head of Confrerie of Cabriere.

Navia:

Uncle Marcel...

Traveler:

What is this "Confrerie"?

Melus:

It's a guild in Poisson. Boss helped it to grow to its current size and prominence.

Melus:

In the beginning, they were only reselling some daily goods, but now, they're one of the richest guilds around with a lot of business connections in the city.

Paimon:

So, they're like a sister organization of Spina di Rosula?

Navia:

Yes, you can say that. When we were fighting against the Sinthe dealers, they provided us with plenty of support.

Navia:

It's a bit difficult to imagine someone using their own money to hunt down themselves...

Melus:

The final suspect is Thierry, the man responsible for coordinating information between Spina di Rosula and the Gardes.

Melus:

Although the Gardes mostly leave us to our own devices, there are still many activities we have to report to the local authorities.

Melus:

Since Thierry is always in the know about our current activities, he could theoretically always plan one step ahead.

Navia:

I see... These are all people who I communicate with quite regularly.

Navia:

To think that the enemy we've been fighting against has been right next to me all along, among those I trust the most... It's almost too hard to believe...

Melus:

If you want to investigate them, please take every precaution to not alert the quarry. Judging from our experience, the enemy is extremely cautious.

Navia:

Of course, and thank you, Melus. You've provided us with a lot of great information.

Melus:

You're too kind, my lady. I'm just doing my duty.

Melus:

Ah, and before I forget, proving Boss' innocence would also mean clearing him of blame in Jacques' death...

Melus:

After that incident, Jacques' wife and daughter were taken into the Spina's care. They still live in Poisson today.

Melus:

If it might help, you could also pay them a visit. I can make the necessary arrangements.

Paimon:

Aw, thank you so much, Melus! You really are the best!

Navia:

A new case awaits, my dear partner.

Traveler:

Leave it to me.

Navia:

I hope we can work together to uncover the truth, and end this case once and for all.

Visit Jacques' family

Melus:

It is settled, then. Please excuse me, and enjoy your conversation at your leisure.

Navia:

Thank you for arranging everything for us, Melus.

Coralie:

Excuse me, Miss... Do you need anything from us?

Adele:

...

Navia:

Huh!?

Paimon:

Hey, Navia's all quiet... This isn't like her at all.

Traveler:

Let's not bother her for now.

Navia:

I'm sorry that I only came to visit after all this time. After what happened... I didn't know how I was supposed to face the two of you.

Coralie:

Ah, if it's about that, there's no need to apologize. After my husband died, Spina di Rosula sent us a lot of Mora and support. I understood your guilt and apology to be genuine.

Navia:

But aren't all of those things nothing compared to the loss of Jacques?

Navia:

I can understand the kind of pain that comes with losing a father so needlessly.

Adele:

...You don't understand at all.

Navia:

I didn't know how to face you because I didn't know what I could possibly bring as a consolation gift.

Navia:

I know only the full truth could bring closure to you — and to all of us.

Adele:

Mhm...

Coralie:

I'm sorry... I appreciate the sentiment, but you don't have to carry all that guilt.

Coralie:

On the matter regarding my husband, my daughter and I have more or less found our answer already...

Navia:

Would you mind sharing it with me? I really can't believe that my father could ever bring himself to shoot Jacques.

Coralie:

I always knew that my husband's money was earned through others' suffering. He told me countless times that if he could turn back the clock, he would never go into the Sinthe business again.

Coralie:

He had many regrets, and felt that he took the idea of providing for his family too literally. For the longest time, he thought Mora was everything.

Coralie:

So when Mr. Callas came to him with a proposal, he accepted it almost immediately.

Coralie:

He tried to be as careful as he could, but even so, he was still found out by the higher-ups...

Navia:

They found out about his betrayal?

Adele:

Papa didn't say that exactly, but Papa did tell me that I should never be ungrateful.

Coralie:

Before he left that day, he told me that he had no choice. It was only later that I realized it was his final farewell to the two of us.

Coralie:

I don't know that for sure, but you could say that's... the conclusion I eventually came to.

Coralie:

Which is why I'm the one who should feel guilty. Callas had always taken great care of us, both when he was still alive, and after he passed away...

Coralie:

Even if he fired the shot that killed my husband, it was likely in self-defense. It is impossible for me to hate him for what he had done.

Adele:

But Mama, why is Papa still the bad guy if he did the right thing?

Adele:

Papa always wanted to be a good man, so why did he have to do a bad thing in the end?

Navia:

Well, things aren't always as they seem. You still feel like your Papa was a good man, right?

Adele:

Yeah, Papa was a really good man. The best in the whole world...

Navia:

Then you should hold onto that. If a good man had to do a bad thing, then he must have had his reasons.

Navia:

Regardless of whether he left you a parasol or a sword, he must have done so to give you a better life.

Adele:

Oh...

Navia:

Thank you for everything you've told me. I will definitely find the truth. The current state of things is not something I'm willing to just sit back and accept.

Coralie:

Thank you. I'm very grateful to hear this from you.

Coralie:

Even though your personality is quite different from your father's, your determination when you speak is really similar...

Navia:

...You really think so?

Navia:

That's the first time anyone's said that to me.

Talk to Florent

Florent:

Greetings, Boss. How may I be of assistance today?

Navia:

I'm sure you've heard about what happened at the opera house? Someone got turned into water right in front of us...

Florent:

Yeah, I've heard... With something that dramatic, I'm sure journalists will milk it for all its worth, and it'll be all the talk for the next several weeks.

Navia:

It also reminded me... On the day that the incident happened with my father, it was raining outside, and we found some clothes left at the scene...

Navia:

After my partner here put the dots together for me, I feel like we should try to reopen his case.

Navia:

Can you do me a favor and try to recall what happened that night?

Florent:

Hmm, let me think... Mr. Callas was feeling pretty upbeat that day, so he was drinking and bantering away with us at the table.

Florent:

After that, he told us that he wanted to go get some fresh air, so we let him go without thinking much of it. Who knew that we would hear two gunshots ring out right after...

Florent:

My first reaction was that Mr. Callas' life was in danger, so I grabbed my holster and made a mad dash towards the scene.

Florent:

But when I got there, it was already too late. Mr. Callas was standing over a dead body with a gun in his hands. All we could do was look back and forth at each other, not knowing what to say...

Navia:

So you also remember two gunshots, then?

Florent:

Indeed. The Gardes said the first shot didn't hit anyone, while the second killed Jacques... but I've never really bought that explanation.

Florent:

Reason being, Mr. Callas had left his gun on the table. I even made sure to confirm that before running to the scene.

Florent:

But according to the Gardes, that doesn't mean he couldn't have had other guns on his person.

Florent:

About the clothes left at the scene that you mentioned... Do you think there was a third person there who was turned into water?

Traveler:

It's very possible.

Navia:

At least from our perspective, my father had no reason to kill, so he would also have no reason to bring an extra gun with him.

Navia:

The gun he was holding probably belonged to Jacques, or a third person on the scene.

Florent:

Yeah, that makes a lot of sense. So you're saying... Mr. Callas ended up with the gun because he seized it from one of the other guys?

Florent:

But hold on, if that's what had happened, then why didn't he share the truth with any of us?

Florent:

He didn't even want to face the Oratrice Machine, and chose instead to prove his honor in a duel...

Florent:

Did he lose all faith in the courts after seeing someone dissolve right in front of his eyes?

Navia:

About that... Melus told me a thing or two, so I think I can understand why he committed to the duel.

Navia:

I'll tell you everything once the whole truth has been revealed.

Florent:

I understand. Then, I'll leave Mr. Callas' honor in your hands, Boss.

Florent:

And if I may just say one more thing... The whole "Callas the Unfaithful" epithet has been a thorn in my side since the day it was invented.

Florent:

Many people have laughed at me for still calling him "Mr. Callas" even after so many years have passed.

Florent:

But it was Mr. Callas' trust that allowed me to rise through the ranks of Spina di Rosula and live the life I lead today.

Florent:

No matter what others might say, he'll always be the man I respect the most, and he'll always be my Boss.

Navia:

Don't worry, I will definitely find the truth.

Navia:

You and all our other comrades at the Spina deserve to know the truth as well.

Go to the Court of Fontaine and speak to Thierry

Navia:

Hey, Thierry. It's me.

Thierry:

Oho, now what brings you here, Miss Navia? I've heard that you made quite the name for yourself at the opera house.

Navia:

Haha, so you've caught news of that already?

Thierry:

Oh, okay... Hey, I'm also a member of the Gardes, you know. The way you make it sound, people would think I was sent off to Poisson because I had done something wrong.

Navia:

Are you sure there isn't a little bit of truth in that? Under normal circumstances, shouldn't you have been called back to the city already?

Thierry:

Haha, I mean, where I work is really up to me. Let's just say I enjoy the ambience of Poisson.

Thierry:

Callas did a fantastic job running the town, building Spina di Rosula from the ground up, and clearing many obstructions in my way.

Thierry:

It would be next to impossible for me to find a similarly easy but high-paying job in the city.

Thierry:

Anyway, enough chitchat, are these two friends of yours? You here for some formal business?

Navia:

Ah yes, these two are my partners.

Navia:

What happened at the opera house made us realize that Lyney's case and my father's may be related. We're trying to re-investigate the details of my father's old case.

Thierry:

Ah, I get it. You think there might be more to the case now that we know people can be dissolved into water, right? I was also flabbergasted when I first heard of it.

Thierry:

If you want to go through the original files from your father's case, I can help you look for them.

Navia:

That'd be much appreciated, thank you. Actually, I have another question — do you have the authority to dispatch Gardemeks?

Thierry:

Of course! Without them, I couldn't possibly handle Poisson on my own.

Thierry:

Why do you ask? We definitely can't use them to forcefully get more evidence for your father's case.

Navia:

Well, you see, just recently we were attacked by a horde of unnumbered Gardemeks in the city.

Navia:

So if you hypothetically wanted to do something against me, all you would need to do is get rid of the meka's serial numbers and send them after me...

Thierry:

Hahaha, then you think too highly of my abilities. "Dispatching" meka is very different from "controlling" them.

Thierry:

If I had to make an analogy... when you order a dish, the chef will make it for you. You can ask the chef to cook, but not to massage your shoulders, or carry your baggage.

Thierry:

If you try to make unreasonable demands, the chef would just think you're out of your mind and ignore you completely. The same goes for me and my Gardemeks.

Thierry:

Removing a serial number is also not as easy as you might think. There are a lot of complex steps to it, and it's almost impossible to keep it a secret.

Thierry:

So I can promise you — those meka were definitely private units.

Thierry:

They're certainly not cheap, so whoever their owner is must be super rich, powerful, or both. Now that you mention it, though, being in the Sinthe business would definitely be profitable enough to afford this...

Traveler:

Makes sense.

Navia:

Haha, then you're officially in the clear, Thierry.

Thierry:

Ahaha, thank you for the vote of confidence, Navia.

Thierry:

Jokes aside, I'd like to wish you all the best with your investigation.

Thierry:

I'll be staying in the city for a little while, so just come find me if you need any support from the Gardes.

Contact Marcel

Calcagni:

Hello, how may I help you?

Navia:

I'm here to see Marcel. Could you please let him know? You can just say Navia is looking for him.

Calcagni:

Sure, I will let him know right away.

After waiting for a while, Marcel arrives in a hurry.

Marcel:

Navia, hello! Sorry to keep you waiting. I'm not as young as I used to be, so my legs are giving out a bit.

Navia:

It's alright, Uncle Marcel. There's no need to stress.

Navia:

I just wanted to talk to you briefly about what happened in the opera house. I'm sure you saw everything too, right?

Marcel:

Yes, I've never seen anything so strange.

Paimon:

Oh, you were at the opera house, too?

Marcel:

That's right, I went there with Navia to see the magic show. Who knew it would turn into a whole murder mystery...

Marcel:

I also witnessed your marvelous sleuthing work. Quite impressive.

Marcel:

To beat the Hydro Archon at her own game on her home turf... I can already imagine everyone in Fontaine discussing your exploits over a few glasses of wine.

Paimon:

Oh, Paimon doesn't want to become the talk of drunkards...

Marcel:

Hahaha, apologies, it's just how Fontaine is as a nation. Everyone loves drama and theatrics.

Navia:

Uncle Marcel, you've also noticed that other thing, right? The fact that humans can dissolve in water...

Marcel:

Yes, I was reminded of your father's case right away. Is that what you're investigating now?

Navia:

Exactly. I still don't have much solid proof, but I can sense that the other side has already begun to act.

Marcel:

Oh, and what makes you say that?

Navia:

We were attacked on Erinnyes by some unnumbered Gardemeks, and there was also an attempt to get me to drink Water from the Primordial Sea.

Navia:

If not for the vigilance of my partner, I probably wouldn't even be here talking to you right now.

Paimon:

You're giving us too much credit! Wasn't it you who protected us?

Marcel:

Alas, it seems things are heating up again. The peace that Callas sought so dearly will soon become a thing of the past.

Marcel:

But rest assured, Navia, Poisson will always remain a safe haven for you. If you're scared, you can always return there.

Marcel:

If anyone dares to lay their hands on you there, the Confrerie of Cabriere will use its funds to the last Mora to bring them to justice.

Navia:

Thank you, Uncle Marcel. But I don't intend to go into hiding. I'm going to strike while the iron's hot.

Navia:

Do you have any new thoughts on my father's case?

Marcel:

Hmm, about that... Sorry, my age's catching up with me, so it'll take me a while to recall my memory.

Marcel:

The Confrerie was responsible for that banquet, so I was out and about the whole time making sure things were running smoothly. I didn't even have the time to drink with the guests.

Marcel:

Then I heard the sound of a gunshot, and the rest was history.

Navia:

It's okay, no need to push yourself. We'll ask around some more, see if there are any valuable clues elsewhere.

Marcel:

Sounds good. Just let me know if you ever need Mora.

Marcel:

All my wealth comes from Callas' patronage and support. I'll spend however much it takes to clear his name.

Go over the clues with Navia

Navia:

We've talked to all three suspects, purely based on their conversations with me...

Paimon:

None of them sounded particularly suspicious.

Traveler:

Yeah, none of them really stood out as a suspect.

Navia:

I suppose that's to be expected, though. If a single conversation's all that's needed to find them out, then my father wouldn't have needed to investigate the case for so many years.

Navia:

Anyway, even though we didn't make a breakthrough, let's still compile what we were able to find.

Paimon:

Hmm... But where should we start?

Traveler:

Jacques' motive.

Paimon:

Ah, you're right! Florent mentioned that Callas probably only ended up with the gun because of circumstance. Hmm... that makes sense.

Navia:

According to Jacques' family members, he already told them that he had been discovered and that he had no choice before he left home that day.

Navia:

Hmm, if I had to guess, he probably received an order from the Sinthe boss to kill my father. Had he refused, he and his family's lives would have been forfeit.

Paimon:

So, Jacques fired the first shot?

Navia:

Oh? And why is that?

Paimon:

Ooh, that's a good point! Jacques probably already knew that he was just being used as a tool for murder. And once he had completed his mission, he'd be of no more use to his boss...

Navia:

So, what would make more sense from his perspective would be to turn his back on the order, and seek protection from my father.

Traveler:

Seems the third person was the one who derailed everything.

Navia:

Makes sense, but without evidence, that's still just a theory...

Navia:

Besides Jacques, the attack from the Gardemeks has been bothering me quite a bit as well.

Navia:

It's obvious that our enemy has become more antsy after the secret of the Primordial Seawater was revealed.

Paimon:

Do you think he knew, even then, that we'd follow this lead to the end?

Navia:

Given everything that's happened since... it's quite possible.

Navia:

But who among the three suspects would have the ability to control privately owned Gardemeks?

Traveler:

Florent.

Navia:

Florent? It is true that he was closest to my father, and thus had the best chance of learning about his dealings with Jacques...

Navia:

But as Spina di Rosula's adviser, his work mostly deals with personnel and security, so he shouldn't have much means when it comes to finances.

Paimon:

So you're saying he's too broke to afford a meka army?

Navia:

Exactly, he can't. And even if he could, I don't think he would be able to dispatch a whole group so quickly.

Traveler:

Thierry.

Navia:

Thierry, you say? Hmm, it is possible that he's figured out a way to convert the Gardemeks for personal use...

Navia:

But I didn't feel like he was lying when he was talking to us about the meka. I also don't think he'd be able to keep that kind of tampering under wraps.

Paimon:

Yeah, had he actually tampered with the meka, we'd be able to prove it with a simple check of the Gardes' inventory.

Paimon:

If the meka were taken from the Gardes, it should be pretty easy to find out when and how that happened.

Traveler:

Marcel.

Navia:

Uncle Marcel? Hmm, my father did really trust him, and they worked together on a large number of projects. Maybe that's how he got to know Jacques.

Navia:

And with funds from the Confrerie, he could also afford a large number of Gardemeks...

Navia:

It's still really hard for me to imagine, though. After all, Uncle Marcel has been around since I was just a child...

Navia:

Also, wouldn't this mean he has been spending a whole lot of Mora and energy to fight his own Sinthe business?

Traveler:

Maybe it was someone else...

Navia:

Ugh, who could it be...?

Traveler:

I think...

You analyze the information regarding potential suspects, and believe the most likely suspect is Marcel.

Navia:

You know, if you think everything through, Uncle Marcel is indeed the most suspicious of them all...

Paimon:

Could we be missing other suspects? Melus didn't know about the people turning into water thing when he narrowed it down to these three, did he?

Navia:

Melus has always been very reliable, and his judgment of others' trustworthiness has been fair and well-considered. When he laid out his case for the three, the rationale he gave me made a lot of sense as well.

Navia:

The suspect is knowledgeable about the Spina's internal affairs, has the means to dispatch meka to assassinate us, and possesses significant intellect and foresight...

Navia:

Even if I don't want to believe it, I'm starting to see how things could all tie back to Uncle Marcel.

Traveler:

He is someone who's very close to you, after all.

Paimon:

Well, we still have another trump card on top of all the theorizing and speculating!

Traveler:

The Sinthe production base!

Navia:

Yes... Melus did say that charging straight in there would be extremely risky, but we don't have any other options right now...

Navia:

We'd need far more solid proof before we can hope to go charging in on our enemy.

Thierry:

Navia, here you are... *panting*... I've been looking for you.

Paimon:

Huh? Aren't you the guy from the Gardes? Did something happen?

Thierry:

Yeah, news came from Erinnyes just after you left! We've got another trial on our hands!

Navia:

Wasn't that place built specifically for holding trials? What's so newsworthy about this one?

Thierry:

I know, I know, but they said the person they're putting on trial is a Fatui Harbinger called Tartaglia!

Traveler:

Wait, Childe!?

Navia:

What? Is that someone you know?

Paimon:

Yeah, we know him, maybe even a little too well...

Thierry:

Well, he's been accused of being the true culprit behind the serial disappearances case. It's absurd, don't you think?

Navia:

Wait, how? None of our investigations have had anything to do with him.

Thierry:

That's what I thought was strange about it... So I came to tell you the news right away.

Thierry:

If the charge against him stands, then it'll be next to impossible to get the Gardes to support any of our planned investigations.

Navia:

Right, because they'll think they've already found the culprit...

Thierry:

Yeah, and it'll be a lot harder then to clear Mr. Callas' name.

Navia:

I understand. Well, partner, what do you think we should do? We still haven't found any conclusive evidence...

Paimon:

Uh... Erm...

Traveler:

Let's split up.

Navia:

Hmm, split up? What do you mean?

Navia:

Hahaha, just as expected of my partner!

Navia:

Since this is a trial about the serial disappearances case, the culprit's attention will be focused on Erinnyes, leaving his home base wide open...

Navia:

You're right, this is our best opportunity. Alright then, let's do this. I'll stall them at the opera house and charge Marcel as the true culprit.

Navia:

I won't have any chance of making that charge stick though, unless we find more evidence. It'll be up to you to make it back in time and hand the decisive evidence to me.

Traveler:

Leave it to me.

Paimon:

We'll help you just like you helped us in Lyney's trial!

Melus:

Demoiselle, please allow us to accompany you.

Silver:

I'm ready.

Navia:

Melus, Silver... when did you two get here!?

Melus:

We heard that you'll be leaving Poisson and figured that you might require our assistance.

Melus:

It's our hope that your confidence will be bolstered with the two of us by your side.

Navia:

Hahaha, thank you so much. Then, let's make haste for Erinnyes! Paimon, Traveler, I'll see you at the opera house!

Paimon:

See you then!

When All Return to the Waters

Your investigations did not bear much fruit, but a new suspect has been hauled up for trial at the opera house. You and Navia must split up and do your best to uncover the truth...

Go to the place Melus mentioned

Paimon:

Now that Navia has set out for Erinnyes, we should also get going!

Paimon:

The location has already been marked on the map, so let's head over.

Find the entrance to the "headquarters"

Paimon:

According to Melus' info, the Sinthe production base is underwater...

Paimon:

Let's go and try to find the entrance!

Talk to Paimon

Paimon:

Finally found it... So this is the entrance that leads to the Sinthe production base... It sure doesn't seem out of the ordinary at all...

Paimon:

Ah, you're right... An important place like this is bound to have a ton of protective measures and mechanisms.

Paimon:

Navia's probably arguing up a storm right now to stall for us...

Go to the opera house to identify the culprit

Meanwhile, inside the Opera Epiclese...

Neuvillette:

It would appear that I must repeat my question again, Mr. Tartaglia.

Neuvillette:

Do you accept the charge that you are the true culprit behind the serial disappearances case?

Childe:

To be perfectly honest, I don't understand your country's complicated court system, or the reason why I'm being charged with something I've never even heard of.

Childe:

However, I did hear that people who have been charged can choose to participate in a duel to clear their name. Is that right?

Childe:

In which case, as long as I accept the charge, I can have an all-out fight with that Champion Duelist Clorinde, right?

Childe:

I've gotta admit, that's one of the most enticing offers I've ever received.

Childe:

When I privately sparred with her last time, she was obviously holding back... Real disappointing.

Furina:

Hey, don't you understand? You're currently the prime suspect for a major case! This isn't the place for you to be looking for fights.

Childe:

Ooh? Sounds like the Hydro Archon wants to lecture me on the ways of the opera house...

Childe:

Then why don't you duel me, too? I'm the kind of student that learns best in the heat of battle.

Furina:

A—Ah, no no no, that's not what I meant...

Neuvillette:

Alas, it would appear that communication with the defendant is going poorly, and we have made very little progress.

Neuvillette:

In that case, let me explain everything from the very beginning again. The goal of this trial is to determine the culprit behind the serial disappearances case...

Navia:

That case had nothing to do with him! You've got the wrong man!

Surprised Audience Member:

Huh!? What's going on?

Doubtful Audience Member:

Why is she interjecting again?

Confident Audience Member:

Hah, I told you it couldn't be one of the Fatui Harbingers!

Neuvillette:

Miss Navia, this is the second time you've interrupted the court proceedings. I only tolerated your behavior last time because you were able to provide the court with a key eyewitness.

Neuvillette:

But that was an exception rather than standard court protocol. I can very well charge you with contempt of court for your interjections.

Navia:

Please, did you ever think I had any respect for this place's pointless theatrics?

Navia:

We can put that discussion aside for now, I'm not here to argue with you. I'm here to charge the true culprit behind the serial disappearances case.

Navia:

And if my charges prove true, then Tartaglia here will be proven innocent by default, correct?

Childe:

Oh? A young lady has charged in and offered to clear my name, how fascinating. Well, I'd gotten half bored to death by all these rules and procedures anyway, so I'll take you up on that offer.

Childe:

So, Your Honor, is there nothing else for me to do now?

Neuvillette:

You may take a seat for now in the audience, but that doesn't mean the suspicions against you have been lifted.

Neuvillette:

Now then, Miss Navia, who is the person you would like to charge instead?

Navia:

That person is...

Navia recalls the information you jointly investigated and analyzed in detail, and believes the most likely suspect is Marcel.

Navia:

Marcel, the head of Confrerie of Cabriere!

Confused Audience Member:

Huh? What confrerie? Never heard of them in my life.

Thinking Audience Member:

I've heard of them, but... weren't they Spina di Rosula's sister organization?

Ecstatic Audience Member:

Ooh! Is this going to be friends-to-enemies type situation!?

Neuvillette:

Please let me remind you, Miss Navia, that charging someone is an incredibly serious matter. Committing to the charge also means taking on the legal responsibilities associated with it.

Neuvillette:

And if the charge fails, depending on the circumstances, you may also be charged with the crime of making a false accusation. Knowing this, do you still wish to charge this man?

Navia:

Yes, I do.

Neuvillette:

In that case, I declare the charge to be valid. Miss Navia and attorneys, please take your places on the court.

Neuvillette:

Members of the Gardes, please contact Mr. Marcel right away so that he may stand trial.

After some time, a shocked and confused Marcel is brought to the stands.

Neuvillette:

Mr. Marcel, you will not require an attorney, is that correct?

Marcel:

Ah... Apologies, it all just happened so quickly, I still haven't figured out what's going on.

Marcel:

I think an attorney won't be necessary. This is probably just a misunderstanding between me and Navia.

Neuvillette:

Very well. In that case, since both sides have now arrived, Miss Navia, please present your charges.

Navia:

I would like to take everyone back to three years ago, to the case of "Callas the Unfaithful."

Navia:

Only through elucidating what really happened in that case can we connect all the dots for the serial disappearances case.

Marcel:

Navia, do you really think I was the one who killed your father?

Marcel:

Come on, why would I do that? Callas was my benefactor, and remember, both you and I only ran to the scene when we heard the sound of a gun.

Marcel:

If that's enough to make me a suspect, wouldn't that make everyone at that banquet a suspect as well?

Furina:

I, uh... I think there's no point in getting into the specifics right now. The audience doesn't even have the big picture yet. Even I'm... ahem, struggling to remember some details of that case.

Navia:

Exactly correct, Your Honor. I must refresh everyone's memory about that case before I can explain my charge and reasoning.

Neuvillette:

I see. In which case, I will recount the findings about that case as originally recorded by Maison Gardiennage.

Neuvillette:

On the day of the murder, Spina di Rosula hosted a large banquet in a countryside estate owned by the Confrerie of Cabriere.

Neuvillette:

During the banquet, all attending guests heard two gunshots from the courtyard.

Neuvillette:

When the guests arrived at the scene, they found the primary suspect, Callas, holding a gun, while his acquaintance, Jacques, lay dead from a gunshot wound.

Neuvillette:

The Gardes' investigation did not recover any other firearms from the scene. As a result, they concluded that the suspect's first shot must have missed, while the second must have taken Jacques' life.

Neuvillette:

The suspect did not dispute this conclusion, and also declined to defend himself in court. Instead, he chose to prove his innocence through a duel.

Neuvillette:

Callas was defeated by Champion Duelist Clorinde in the ensuing duel, and soon succumbed to the injuries.

Neuvillette:

These are the known facts about the case.

Navia:

(The one with the motive to kill was Jacques, not my father, and even so, Jacques still had no reason to pull the trigger.)

Navia:

(In truth, the third person shot Jacques first, and was shot in turn by my father when my father seized the gun from him.)

Navia:

(After that, the true culprit turned the third person into water, erasing all traces of him from the scene.)

Navia:

Thank you for the summary, Your Honor. Of course, the Gardes' conclusion appeared quite sensible to us at the time.

Navia:

However, we should revisit the case now that we've gained new information about the abilities of Water from the Primordial Sea.

The intelligence you gained regarding the Water from the Primordial Sea supports the hypothesis that there was a third party involved.

Navia:

A pile of clothing was found at the scene. The Gardes once believed they were used by Jacques as a costume to disguise himself...

Navia:

But now, it is clear that the clothes were proof that there was a third person at the scene, and that they were turned into water after committing the murder.

Navia:

Since it was raining that day, the culprit was confident that they could use the rain to wash away all traces of their dissolved accomplice.

The testimony you gathered from Jacques's family indicates that he did not have sufficient motive to murder Callas.

Navia:

The testimony of the victim's family confirms that Jacques had thoughts of assassinating Callas when he set out for the banquet.

Navia:

However, in the end he reconsidered, and instead shared everything with Callas, hoping to seek the latter's protection.

Navia:

Unfortunately for Jacques, the true culprit had already considered this possibility, and had sent out another assassin.

You investigation believes that the unexplained clothes found at the scene earlier mentioned in the case records belonged to the third person.

Navia:

This assassin first shot Jacques, then turned to shoot Callas, only for Callas to wrestle the gun from him and kill him instead.

Navia:

Realizing this, the true culprit caused the hired assassin to dissolve into water, leading everyone to believe Callas was responsible for Jacques' murder. This is the true version of events.

Canny Audience Member:

Ah, so that's what happened...

Surprised Audience Member:

Wait, you're telling me something as dangerous as Water from the Primordial Sea has been used for all these years?

Marcel:

What a great theory. It also explains Callas' and Jacques' respective motives... I guess they didn't shoot each other after all.

Neuvillette:

Mr. Marcel, you are the one being charged with a crime. You should provide a rebuttal if you wish to prove your innocence.

Marcel:

But I think I agree with everything Navia just said. In fact, there was nothing in her speech that directly implicated me...

Furina:

Th—Then, may I ask some questions? In my opinion, we primarily need to determine two things...

Furina:

One, do you have the evidence to back up your claims?

Navia:

I'm afraid not — at least, not at this very moment.

Scornful Audience Member:

Boo! Hahaha, if you don't have any evidence, you should just go home!

Navia:

I may not have the evidence with me, but I know where I could go to collect it. If we look up the deserted clothes against a record of people who went missing at around the same time...

Navia:

We should be able to find a match.

Navia:

Considering the serial disappearances case, the Gardes probably kept careful records of all missing persons from around that time, regardless of age or gender.

Furina:

That makes sense to me... Monsieur Neuvillette, I would consider this to be a reasonable investigative direction.

Navia:

Why do I feel like Furina's acting a little differently today?

Silver:

Maybe she's scared of embarrassing herself again?

Melus:

Alternatively, she's become more diligent after charging an innocent citizen in the last trial.

Furina:

My second question has to do with the ensuing duel. If the truth is indeed as you described...

Furina:

Then why didn't Mr. Callas explain himself in court? If he had testified that a person had been dissolved, he could have at least mounted a defense.

Navia:

I've thought about this too, and the answer is actually pretty simple — he felt there were things that were more important to him.

Navia:

The dissolving power of Water from the Primordial Sea is an important secret for the true culprit of the serial disappearances case.

Navia:

My father could have exposed it for all to see, but he chose to take it to the grave.

Navia:

At that time, Spina di Rosula was in dire straits, and his reputation had already been shattered. He had no guarantee that going forward with the truth would allow the culprit to be brought to justice.

Navia:

What was certain, however, was that it would paint a gigantic target on my back.

Melus:

Boss once told me that Demoiselle had already been selected as the next target of the serial disappearances case.

Furina:

What!?

Navia:

If the secret had gotten out, the culprit would have fought an all-out war with the Spina right there and then. I wouldn't have been the only one in danger — all of us would have stood to lose our lives.

Navia:

Of course, the Gardes might eventually figure out the truth of the matter, and determine that we were in the right...

Navia:

But what good would that do? How can a hollow verdict protect anyone?

Navia:

Had this opera house ever given my father any kind of confidence in its brand of justice, Spina di Rosula would have had no reason to exist!

Navia:

But by staying silent, we retained the ability to deter our opponents, and continue the stalemate.

Navia:

I was also able to become Spina di Rosula's president, which made me harder to target, as well as giving me more time to grow and learn.

Navia:

And once I have figured out the truth and stepped up to the challenge, I will do what this opera house cannot, and restore my father's truth and honor back to him!

Furina:

So... You mean to say... Your father intended to die in the Duelists' Ring?

Navia:

That's right.

Furina:

Do you have any proof?

Navia:

Of course.

Navia:

All you need is to ask his opponent, Clorinde.

Clorinde:

...

Navia:

I don't need your apology, your guilt, or your support from the shadows. You don't have to do anything for my sake.

Navia:

But since he entrusted his will to you, Clorinde, you should tell us the truth about his sacrifice.

Furina:

Erm... So... During the duel, did you believe that Callas was intending to die?

Clorinde:

Yes, I did.

Clorinde:

As a Champion Duelist, I've fought many battles, and taken a countless number of dishonored lives.

Clorinde:

In my line of work, I've seen all kinds of people give their all for the faintest hope to continue living. Some were determined, others passionate, and some even manic and twisted.

Clorinde:

Just one look and I can tell if a duelist is hoping to live, or if they're looking to die.

Clorinde:

I hereby swear on my name and honor as a Champion Duelist that Mr. Callas never intended to leave the Ring alive.

Navia:

...

Furina:

Since that's your testimony, I have no more questions. It appears there really are good grounds to reopen this case...

Neuvillette:

I concur. However, Miss Navia, you still have not explained the link between your father's case and the serial disappearances case.

Approving Audience Member:

Right? What she said was fascinating, but kind of beside the point...

Astonished Audience Member:

Wait, weren't they just talking about the serial disappearances case!?

Navia:

Of course, Your Honor. The two cases are connected via a matter of timing.

Navia:

In my father's case, the culprit intended to kill both Jacques and Callas. As a result, they planned to act after hearing two gunshots.

Navia:

And at the end of Lyney's trial, the culprit also only dissolved the victim in front of everyone because they realized they were at risk of being identified.

Navia:

The culprit could only time their actions so precisely if they were already at the scene.

Navia:

Coincidentally, Marcel attended both the banquet and the trial.

Marcel:

So that's why you suspected me... *sigh* Even after hearing your reasoning, I still can't help but find it a little preposterous.

Marcel:

I'm used to it, though. You've always been an impulsive and sentimental child, Navia. It's one of your most endearing traits.

Silver:

No need to appeal to pathos.

Marcel:

I won't try to refute your points one by one, but even if everything you just said was true, can you prove that I was the only person present at both events?

Marcel:

On top of that, does a person have to be physically present to control the timing? Can't someone remotely monitor the place?

Navia:

Ah...

Approving Audience Member:

Oof, don't know what she can say to that...

Marcel:

I know that even with that, you might still think you can reduce the list of suspects with some further investigations, until I'm the only one left on the list.

Marcel:

Alas, who won't feel at least a little hurt by an accusation of murder from a girl you see as your own daughter?

Marcel:

But if I were to dismiss this completely, you'd also think I'm not being considerate of your feelings. Ah well, let Uncle Marcel teach you another lesson.

Marcel:

Do you know what the biggest flaw in your reasoning is?

Navia:

I suppose you're going to tell me anyways...

Marcel:

It's "timing," again.

Marcel:

I'm a businessman by trade. From that standpoint, there's no reason for me to kidnap young women. It's a high-risk action with nothing to gain.

Marcel:

In addition, I left my home in Snezhnaya when I was young to come to Poisson and work in some trade. My business only thrived when I received Callas' patronage.

Marcel:

But the disappearances began before I ever stepped foot in Fontaine.

Navia:

Ah...

Melus:

I do apologize, Demoiselle. This was my mistake.

Navia:

No, it's not your fault. I'm sure he had come prepared...

Marcel:

Is there anything else you'd like to say? Would you like to check the date of my first business license against the first known case of the serial disappearances?

Marcel:

You can also take a look at my border entry records, or ask my friends and family when I left Snezhnaya for the first time.

Marcel:

Could those records and testimonies do something to appease the unspeakable anguish in your heart?

Sighing Audience Member:

Seems like she's got the wrong guy...

Excited Audience Member:

At this rate, Navia will be convicted for falsely accusing him.

Marcel:

I think you've done a superb job of dissecting your father's feelings as he neared the end of his life.

Marcel:

But aren't you going against all of his wishes and expectations right now?

Marcel:

He wished for you to become more rational, collected, and conscientious, instead of dwelling only on your own feelings.

Marcel:

Once you've learned to be more considerate of others' feelings, and to stop rushing headlong into things, you'd have met most of his expectations.

Navia:

This isn't just about me, and it never has been...

Navia:

The biggest difference between me and the rest of the victims is that I still have the ability to search for the truth, while that same agency has long been taken from them.

Navia:

The people whose families were destroyed by Sinthe abuse, the people who lost their loved ones to the serial disappearances, and the people who suffered tragic ends due to their sense of justice...

Navia:

Many people's images are flashing before my eyes. I'm sure some are coming to those of you in the audience as well...

Navia:

And whose image do you see, Marcel?

Navia:

Is it a man named "Vacher"?

Marcel:

...!?

Navia:

Oh? So you do know that name.

Marcel:

I'm merely surprised you'd suddenly say the name of someone I've never even heard of.

Navia:

I was waiting for you to say that.

Proceed deeper within to investigate

A little while earlier, at the entrance to the Sinthe production base...

Paimon:

Phew... After all that, we finally made it to the innermost sanctum.

Paimon:

Though as expected, the mastermind isn't here...

Paimon:

Ah, that's right! Then let's hurry up and find some evidence so we can get back to the Opera House and help Navia!

Look for clues in the headquarters' depths

Paimon:

Whoa, there's so much Sinthe here! And so many bottles of ingredients that probably just contain the Waters of the Primordial Sea...

Traveler:

There are so many...

Paimon:

Hmm... "Mixing-in-Progress" ... "Ready-To-Drink" ... "Stock Sample" ... Huh, they've also got all the Sinthe pretty clearly labeled.

Paimon:

Whoa, there's even fruit-flavored Sinthe!?

Traveler:

Well, that definitely proves that this is where they produce Sinthe.

Paimon:

Yep, it's super obvious!

Look for clues in the headquarters' depths

Paimon:

What's all this... Ah, it's a bunch of really cute things!

Paimon:

Pink accessories, a hair tie, a necklace, even a makeup box...

Traveler:

There's a name, too.

Paimon:

Oh, Paimon sees it too. But... why are all these cute things labeled with different girls' names?

Traveler:

They probably belonged to the victims.

Paimon:

Huh!? You mean, the girls from the serial disappearances... they were brought here!?

Paimon:

And then, they were turned into water...

Paimon:

And all these boxes of things... these names... that means... This is terrible...

Look for clues in the headquarters' depths

Paimon:

What's this over here? Looks like some kind of place for research.

Paimon:

"Experiment number sixteen aims to verify Jakob Ingold's research conclusions on the Primordial Sea, and use his theory as a foundation to achieve a breakthrough."

Paimon:

"The experiment was a failure. No individual managed to resurface from the Water from the Primordial Sea. Female specimens twenty-two, twenty-three, and twenty-four were dissolved..."

Paimon:

Waaaaaah!!!

Traveler:

Calm down, Paimon.

Paimon:

Sorry, Traveler, Paimon will try her best! It's just that P—Paimon's never read something so scary before...

Paimon:

How can someone write something that terrible in such a matter-of-fact tone!?

Paimon:

You read the rest... Paimon's too scared to keep going...

Paimon:

So that's why he did all of these experiments...

Paimon:

But did he really think he'd be able to find a way just by dissolving people over and over? That's just insane!

Paimon:

Huh? Isn't that the name you heard by the fountain? Paimon thought... he was an eyewitness in the serial disappearances case?

Paimon:

Ah... You mean, Vacher is the one who did all of these... ugh, experiments?

Paimon:

So that's it... Vacher was no victim, but personally took his lover and...

Paimon:

No, that's not it either... If that's the case, why would he want people to resurface from the water?

Traveler:

There must be more to this than meets the eye.

Paimon:

In any case, Paimon will write it all down...

Look for clues in the headquarters' depths

Paimon:

Let's see what's written here... Nothing escapes Detective Paimon's eyes!

Paimon:

Hmm, Callas... Navia's father! This seems to be an investigation report on him.

Traveler:

It's probably related to his and Jacques' case.

Paimon:

Mhm... hmm... Yep, it's about finding someone to assassinate Jacques and Callas, because of a lack of confidence that Jacques himself would go through with it...

Paimon:

This should prove the existence of the "third person," right?

Traveler:

Is there anything else?

Paimon:

Hmm... "We have still not determined the exact content of the key information Callas has passed on to certain members of his organization."

Paimon:

"The old dog's a real menace to deal with. Even if he abides by the promise he's made to us, he will still have the upper hand."

Paimon:

"He can act whenever he wants to make our lives miserable. The only option left is to remove him from the picture entirely."

Paimon:

"I concur. Let's send someone to kill him. He won't declare war as long as we don't touch Navia."

Paimon:

Seems like we've got a bunch of correspondence between the higher-ups...

Traveler:

They planned this well in advance.

Paimon:

*sigh* They're all just so evil...

Look for clues in the headquarters' depths

Paimon:

Oh look! There's an important-looking basin over here... and it's full of water!

Traveler:

That must be the Water from the Primordial Sea.

Paimon:

That means this is where they make all the Sinthe! And that special water is the main ingredient.

Paimon:

If you dilute it with normal water, you'll get Sinthe, but the pure stuff can dissolve a human...

Paimon:

Paimon will take notes on this incriminating evidence!

Analyze the clues you've found with Paimon

Paimon:

We've looked at almost everything here, and it seems like our theories were spot on! But...

Traveler:

Who really is this "Vacher"...?

Paimon:

Yeah, we haven't found anything that reveals his true identity...

Paimon:

No wonder even Neuvillette wasn't able to find anything... Whoever it is probably destroyed everything to do with that name a long time ago...

Paimon:

That way, even if we bring all of this back to the Opera, we won't be able to identify the true culprit.

Paimon:

Sure thing! Paimon won't admit defeat to this guy either!

Look for clues related to "Vacher"

Paimon:

You take that side, and Paimon will take this side. Check everything carefully! We'll find something for sure!

After some time...

Paimon:

Ugh, nothing at all! And Paimon can't even find snacks either!

Traveler:

Paimon, I found it.

Paimon:

Woah, really? Let Paimon see!

Paimon:

"Vigneire"... Isn't that Vacher's lover's name?

Paimon:

Then, you found her diary? Let's see...

Paimon:

Aw, it's just a normal diary chronicling their love story. She was so sweet too, Paimon feels even worse for her now...

Paimon:

So many... A whole page's worth! But they're all crossed out. Was she unhappy with all of them?

Paimon:

The final name she decided on was...

Paimon:

"Marcel"!?

Paimon:

Wait, but Marcel's pretty old... Has this case been going on for so long that he's Vacher and Vigneire's grown son?

Paimon:

H—Hey! Paimon still hasn't figured it out yet!

After obtaining the final piece of key evidence, you race back to the Opera Epiclese...

Confront Marcel

Navia:

And whose image do you see, Marcel?

Navia:

Is it a man named "Vacher"?

Marcel:

...!?

Navia:

Oh? So you do know that name.

Marcel:

I'm merely surprised you'd suddenly say the name of someone I've never even heard of.

Navia:

I was waiting for you to say that.

Paimon:

Naviaaaa! We're baaaack!

Navia:

As expected of my partner! I just knew you'd return in the nick of time!

Neuvillette:

Just how often do you intend to flout the rules of this court...

Furina:

It's alright, Monsieur Neuvillette. Given their confidence, I expect they've found the crucial evidence.

Traveler:

You say you've never heard of Vacher...

Traveler:

But the truth of it, Marcel, is that you've always been Vacher!

Marcel:

Huh!?

Paimon:

We've investigated your lair, and we already know everything!

Paimon:

After your lover, Vigneire, was dissolved, you kept abducting young women to experiment on in hopes of bringing her back to you!

Paimon:

You even created "Marcel" as a new identity, and destroyed all records of your past as Vacher!

Furina:

So that's it... Even the villains in opera performances rarely go that far...

Furina:

And with that, Marcel's motive has now been established...

Navia:

This information regarding your past also dismantles your prior "timing" defense.

Navia:

Well, Marcel, do you know where you went wrong?

Marcel:

...

Navia:

You fixated your gaze on the lover that passed away, instead of paying attention to the living people around you.

Navia:

So you never noticed how we changed, or how we grew as individuals.

Melus:

You also never understood Boss' real expectations for his daughter.

Silver:

Or our determination to see things through.

Marcel:

Your... determination... Hah... Hahaha...

Neuvillette:

Mr. Marcel, please speak up now if you would like to defend yourself. Otherwise, the trial will move onto the next stage.

Marcel:

Do you think... Do you really think I wanted to do any of this?

Marcel:

Pay attention to you? What for!? Have you ever paid attention to me? Ever empathized with my pain? Ever known how it feels to watch the love of your life dissolve right in front of your eyes!?

Marcel:

No one helped me — no one even believed me. All those decades ago, even the officers from the Maison Gardiennage were laughing at me...

Marcel:

They said there's no way a human being can turn into water, so I must have gone mad from grief! Vigneire's death was brushed away by all of you as if it didn't matter at all!

Marcel:

Well, now you know, don't you!? Hah, well, it's too late now! All those who were dissolved are gone forever!

Marcel:

You only have yourselves to blame! You set up this ornate opera house in pursuit of your so-called justice, your beloved drama, while turning a blind eye to the suffering of the people!

Marcel:

Vigneire is dead! We promised each other that we would always be together — wherever she goes, I will follow!

Marcel:

But I'm not from this blasted place, so I can't be dissolved, no matter what I do!

Paimon:

H—Hey, is that Water from the Primordial Sea that he's drinking!?

Marcel:

I can't dissolve, can't dissolve, can't dissolve! Hahahaha...

Marcel:

Do you all see? I can't go, I can't follow... So if I can't go where she is, what choice do I have but to try to bring her back?

Marcel:

I did all of that, and in the end, that accursed Callas still got the better of me...

Marcel:

I spent my entire life living on pins and needles, only to get stabbed by his idiot daughter at the very end, ha, haha, hahahaha!

Neuvillette:

The suspect is exhibiting signs of mental distress. Gardes, please restrain him.

Marcel:

Don't touch me! Don't anybody come near me, I still need to save Vigneire, our promise, we made a promise...

Marcel:

Vigneire, Vigneire...

Marcel:

Please Vigneire, don't think badly of me... All I want is to fulfill our promise...

Neuvillette:

At this point, the verdict of this trial is clear. With Mr. Marcel's conviction, the charges against Mr. Tartaglia no longer have any basis.

Childe:

Fine by me. I was in a bad mood, but after a show like that, I'm actually feeling pretty good.

Neuvillette:

Traveler, please submit all the evidence you have collected to the Gardes so that I might review and summarize the truth behind the serial disappearances case.

Neuvillette proceeds to review and compile all the evidence and records...

Neuvillette:

The man now known as Marcel was originally named Vacher, and worked as an adventurer with his partner and lover, Vigneire.

Neuvillette:

During an underwater expedition, Vigneire accidentally came into contact with Water from the Primordial Sea, and was dissolved in front of Vacher as a result.

Neuvillette:

Vacher learned of the Primordial Water's existence through the work of others, and began to kidnap young women for research, with the goal of discovering a method to restore Vigneire back to life.

Neuvillette:

To cover his tracks, he invented the new alias of "Marcel," and began to operate a business in Poisson.

Neuvillette:

During the course of his research, Vacher discovered that a diluted concoction of Water from the Primordial Sea can induce feelings of euphoria, and began to manufacture and market "Sinthe."

Neuvillette:

However, as he accumulated wealth to fund his continued research and expanded the scope, he came into conflict with Spina di Rosula.

Neuvillette:

After exchanging blows with Spina di Rosula for many years, Vacher decided to assassinate their president, Callas, at a banquet.

Neuvillette:

Although the assassination did not go as Vacher expected, he was able to turn Callas into the murder suspect by dissolving the assassin he sent to the scene.

Neuvillette:

And just recently, Vacher attempted to frame Lyney as the culprit of the serial disappearances case using a similar method.

Neuvillette:

However, his attempt to frame Lyney failed, and the power of Water from the Primordial Sea became public knowledge. This case also exposed enough of Vacher's machinations that he was eventually successfully charged in court.

Neuvillette:

Thus concludes the enigmatic history of the serial disappearances case, with the truth revealed to all.

Audience:

(Applause)

Neuvillette:

The Oratrice will now deliver the final verdict regarding the charges against Mr. Vacher.

Everyone waits for the Oratrice's verdict...

Neuvillette:

According to the judgment of the Oratrice Mecanique d'Analyse Cardinale, Mr. Vacher is—

Neuvillette:

—Guilty.

Marcel:

...

Furina:

Gardes, take Vacher away!

Excited Audience Member:

Good! It's what he deserves!

Eager Audience Member:

With that, the serial disappearances case is over now...

Emotional Audience Member:

We really just witnessed history... Who would have thought the true culprit would be such a polite and well-spoken guy...

Paimon:

Yippee!!! We helped Navia bring the bad guy to justice!

Paimon:

He's hurt so many innocent people, now he's finally getting what he deserves.

Paimon:

Huh? Are you okay?

Traveler:

Navia...

Navia:

...

Silver:

Demoiselle, you were absolutely brilliant.

Melus:

The day our late Boss had always hoped for has finally come. You can rest easy now, knowing justice has been served.

Navia:

Yeah... Yeah. It's finally over. It's all thanks to you guys, and my partner.

Navia:

See, Papa? Spina di Rosula's still doing well with me at the helm...

Childe:

Well now, hasn't this been a most delicious piece of drama? The villain has been caught, justice has been served, past wrongs have been righted, and it's a big ol' happy ending...

Childe:

Since it's been such a great show, I'll just let the false accusations against me slide. Either way, I've still got some business to attend to, so if you'll excuse me...

Neuvillette:

Please wait just one moment, Mr. Tartaglia.

Childe:

Oh, what now? None of this has anything to do with me.

Neuvillette:

According to court protocol, since this trial was initiated due to a charge against you, a verdict must also be made regarding the initial charge before the trial can conclude.

Childe:

Ah c'mon, is this really necessary? Haven't you already caught the real criminal? Isn't it time for side characters like me to exit stage left?

Neuvillette:

Please respect the laws of Fontaine. This has always been the rule.

Childe:

Alright, alright, but this sure is a lot of hassle. All I need to do is to stand over there, right? Let's just get this over with.

Neuvillette:

...Through evidence presented in the public trial that was just held, it has been established that Mr. Tartaglia has no direct connection to the serial disappearances case.

Neuvillette:

The guilty party has been identified, and thus, it is logical to suppose Mr. Tartaglia is innocent of the charges.

Neuvillette:

We now turn to the Oratrice Mecanique d'Analyse Cardinale to render the final verdict on the charges.

Neuvillette:

Hmm...

Neuvillette:

According to the judgment of the Oratrice Mecanique d'Analyse Cardinale, Mr. Tartaglia is—

Neuvillette:

...Guilty.

Paimon:

What!?

Childe:

Hey, hey! That's not funny... Didn't you just say I'm supposed to be innocent?

Childe:

What's with this verdict? Is your justice machine malfunctioning?

Confident Audience Member:

Huh!? This has never happened before, the Oratrice... actually returned a different verdict from the Chief Justice...

Contemplative Audience Member:

I mean, have you ever heard of an innocent Fatui Harbinger? Do you think the Oratrice might have just convicted him on general principle?

Doubtful Audience Member:

But weren't the charges about the serial disappearances case? No matter what else he's guilty of, it shouldn't affect the verdict in this case, right?

Neuvillette:

The judgment of the Oratrice Mecanique d'Analyse Cardinale is, by law, the final verdict of the court. We must accept the guilty verdict.

Neuvillette:

Gardes, please take the suspect into custody per court protocol.

movie

The verdict does not satisfy Childe, and he refuses to cooperate with the proceedings. The Gardemeks quickly surround him, and he retaliates with his Delusion's power — something they are clearly no match for. Just as his Foul Legacy is about to activate, Iudex Neuvillette acts to cut the farce short.

Learn about the situation from Neuvillette

Paimon:

Hey, Monsieur Neuvillette, what's going on? Shouldn't he have been cleared already?

Neuvillette:

Apologies, this is also the first time I've encountered such a situation. However, according to the rules established at the conception of Fontaine's court system, the Oratrice's judgment is the final verdict of the court.

Neuvillette:

All I do is follow court procedure. As for why the Oratrice arrived at the conclusion it did, you should probably ask someone more knowledgeable than me.

Furina:

Ah... Wh—Why are you looking at me? I had nothing to do with it...

Furina:

I—I don't know what happened there, either... H—Hey, stop staring at me...

Surprised Audience Member:

...What does Lady Furina mean by that?

Contemplative Audience Member:

She says she has no idea either? But that's impossible... Didn't she create the Oratrice herself?

Doubtful Audience Member:

...Yeah, so are the verdicts reliable or not? Can results like this really be called justice?

Furina:

...

Furina:

Ahem... My dearest citizens, did you really think we'd allow an incorrect verdict to be handed out in this court? Did you really believe that the judgment could be mistaken, or be the result of some sort of random mishap?

Furina:

Don't tell me... you thought even I had been blindsided by the Oratrice's result?

Paimon:

Hmm... But the way she looked just now, it was pretty obvious she had no idea what was going on...

Furina:

However, given the state of things, I shall give you an explanation. Everything that just took place — including my supposed shock and bafflement — was a part of an elaborate performance, with every action meant to stir up drama and excitement.

Furina:

And of course, for every performance, there is a script. Everything has unfolded exactly as I expected from the very beginning. As the embodiment of the very concept of justice, the Oratrice shall never render an arbitrary judgment!

Furina:

If you thought Childe had nothing to do with the serial disappearances case, it is only because you have been blinded by the superficial appearance of innocence...

Furina:

Everything he's done, not to mention the danger he poses, are beyond ordinary comprehension and completely unforgivable!

Furina:

All shall be revealed in time! You will come to understand my noble intentions, as well as the absolute correctness of the Oratrice's verdict. Hahahaha...

Furina:

...Now, having said that, although I hate to leave things hanging in suspense, it is now time for this performance to end. As the lead actress, I shall be the first to take my leave. Toodle-oo~

Neuvillette:

...So she chose to make her escape after all, did she.

Paimon:

Er... So you're saying we shouldn't put much stock in what she just said?

Neuvillette:

Mm, she probably just put on that performance to save face. As for the truth, it's unlikely that she actually has any idea.

Traveler:

Way to pull the rug out from under her...

Neuvillette:

However, please be assured that I will continue to investigate this case in a personal capacity. Just as I promised, if the judgment has been incorrect, we will do our utmost to clear his name.

Paimon:

Alright... Even though we feel pretty badly for him, we'll take your word for it for now.

Paimon:

After all, he's done plenty of bad stuff, so he should have known he'd go to prison someday, right?

Leave the opera house

Esmond:

Hey, what are you doing!? Quick, stop him!

Marcel:

Traveler! Hey! Traveler!

Paimon:

Ahh! Marcel, what are you doing over here?

Esmond:

Stop resisting arrest! Cease, or we'll add another charge to the list!

Marcel:

No, no, wait! I just wanted to ask Traveler something... I'm not looking to run away, please, please just let me ask this one small thing...

Neuvillette:

...Go on.

Marcel:

Thank you... Thank you...

Marcel:

I was being led away when I finally realized something... Where did you first hear the name "Vacher"?

Marcel:

I erased all records of that name... So... Unless...

Esmond:

Are you still trying to prove your innocence? Give it up, you've already been convicted.

Marcel:

A—Ah... Really? You, you did? You're sure? You met her... But how could that be, how did you manage to do it!?

Marcel:

The Fountain of Lucine!? Then... Then she's been so close to me all along!? And I just never...

Marcel:

Please, please give me a chance to talk to her again, just let Traveler take me to the Fountain to see her one last time... This is the last request I'll ever make in my life, you can do whatever you want to me afterwards, I don't care...

Esmond:

What, give you an inch, and you wanna take a mile? Do you think serial killers get to make requests like that?

Paimon:

Hmph, Paimon agrees! Why should we give him what he wants when he's only done a ton of super terrible things?

Neuvillette:

This request, is it worth as much to you as your life?

Marcel:

Of course! Wait, no, it's worth even more than my life...

Neuvillette:

Humans... will they betray the instinct to live just to satisfy spiritual needs...?

Neuvillette:

Very well, I will grant your request.

Esmond:

Your Honor, I fear that...

Neuvillette:

I will go with him. You do not need to worry about any escape.

Esmond:

Ah... In that case, I shall leave him in your most capable hands, Chief Justice.

Marcel:

Thank you... Thank you, Your Honor...

Bring Marcel to the fountain plaza

Marcel:

Is this the place...? You said she's here, but what do I need to do to see her?

Paimon:

Yeah, and even Paimon could hear her after drinking that thing! Didn't you just drink a lot of it on the stage as well? In that case...

Oceanid?:

"Vacher..."

Marcel:

!!!

Paimon:

Yes, that's it! So you heard it too!

Marcel:

Vigneire, it's me! It's me, Vacher!

Oceanid?:

"Vacher... Vacher..."

Marcel:

I'm here, I'm here... Where are you, Vigneire? I'm coming for you, I'm finally here for you...

Paimon:

Hey, wait, be careful, hey, waaaaait!

A familiar voice beckons your consciousness once more.

Talk to "Vigneire"

Marcel:

Vigneire... Is that you? It's me, Vacher... Vigneire...!

Oceanid?:

Vacher... Why did you come... Didn't I say... You don't need to look for me...

Oceanid?:

You... You look a lot older than I remember... How long has it been?

Marcel:

It's been... More than twenty years. I've suffered for over twenty years since the day you left...

Marcel:

All this time, only the thought of bringing you back has kept me alive... Nothing else mattered to me...

Marcel:

Ah, I must be dreaming... Who would have thought I'd get the chance to tell you all of my feelings like this...

Marcel:

Vigneire... You are my everything... I really don't know... how I could live without you...

Oceanid?:

But Vacher... If you ask me, this world would be better off without you.

Marcel:

Wh—What are you saying?

Oceanid?:

If not for you, I would have finished my law degree, and probably become a top-tier attorney one day...

Oceanid?:

If not for you, I would have continued to pursue my love of the arts, and my works would have been displayed in the Palais Mermonia itself...

Oceanid?:

If not for you... I would at least have been able to take care of my mother, and she would not have grown old and died alone, with nothing but the tears on her cheeks...

Oceanid?:

It's all because of your selfishness, Vacher, it's all because of you!

Marcel:

You... Wait, you are not Vigneire... Who are you!?

Oceanid?:

You're right, I'm not Vigneire... I am... the "sacrifices."

Oceanid?:

Every woman who died by your hand... as our bodies dissolved, our consciousnesses flowed back to the Primordial Sea.

Oceanid?:

Our thoughts circulated endlessly within the Primordial Sea, and we were no longer individuals, but we became one, just as streams of water come together in the sea.

Oceanid?:

I'm Crecy, I'm Lemonie, I'm Aisine...

Oceanid?:

The only one I am not... is Vigneire.

Marcel:

Why... But then, where is Vigneire!?

Oceanid?:

She doesn't want to see you anymore... Every tendril of her consciousness is avoiding you.

Oceanid?:

This is what you get for your selfishness! Your selfishness robbed us of our lives and our futures. You said time and time again that you'd do any and everything for her...

Oceanid?:

But did you ever consider whether she'd want to see you do the things that you did? If she would despise you for what you became?

Marcel:

I... I...

Oceanid?:

You are a liar, a heartless murderer, and a cowardly narcissist.

Oceanid?:

The only thing you're not... is Vigneire's beloved.

Oceanid?:

From the moment your first victim died, and her consciousness merged with Vigneire's, she has had nothing but pure hatred for you.

Traveler:

(It looks like I didn't meet Vigneire back then either... They must have wanted me to lure Marcel here from the very beginning...)

Marcel:

No... Vigneire, she can't hate me... Let me see her, please, have mercy...

Oceanid?:

You still don't understand? When I said, don't look for me... That came from the real Vigneire, she really doesn't want to see you anymore...

Oceanid?:

But on top of that, she also said that because... it's her final drop of pity for you.

Oceanid?:

She said that because she knew... That if you did come here, "we"... will show no mercy to you...

Oceanid?:

"Vacher"... "Vacher"... "Vacher"... "Vacher"... "Vacher"... "Vacher"... "Vacher"...

Vigneire:

"Drown."

Marcel:

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh—

Later, the Gardes find that the culprit of the serial disappearances of young women case, Marcel, appeared to have lost his soul. However, the final report from the physicians states that he died of a massive fright.

Stroll around the Court of Fontaine

Several days later...

Paimon:

Finally, we have some time to do shopping! Gosh, it's really been a long time since we've been able to relax...

Navia:

Well met, partner! I knew something great was going to happen when I woke up in such a good mood today.

Melus:

Even this weather can't put a damper on the Demoiselle's mood.

Silver:

It's a pleasure to see you both again.

Paimon:

Oh, hey, Navia! It's been a few days, Paimon's already started to miss you!

Navia:

Oho, now that I believe! I'm easy to work with, and always bring home the bacon; who wouldn't treasure having a partner like me?

Paimon:

Haha, sounds like you're really enjoying life these days, Navia! What have you been busy with since the trial?

Navia:

Ugh, it's just been one thing after the other. I've been making non-stop trips between Poisson and the Court since then...

Navia:

Everyone from Spina di Rosula organized a memorial for my father. We never held a memorial when he first died, since everyone knew that even if we held one back then, no one was going to come.

Navia:

This time, though, everyone in Poisson and even many people from the Court all attended.

Paimon:

Ah, so his name's definitely been cleared now! That's what we like to hear!

Melus:

It's been the dearest wish of Demoiselle all along.

Navia:

Hahaha... that blasted stubborn fool, I was right to put my faith in him. I'm so glad I didn't give up on the case all those years ago...

Traveler:

Things turned out as well as they could have.

Navia:

Oh, by the way... I ran into Charlotte just after I left the memorial service.

Navia:

Well, maybe it'd be more accurate to say that I knew that she would be there, and there was no way she'd just let me go...

Paimon:

Eh!? So you know Charlotte too? The Charlotte... journalist from The Steambird?

Navia:

Yeah, way back when I first became the president of the Spina di Rosula, she was all over me, wouldn't take no for an answer...

Navia:

I believe the story was called "The True Heart of Darkness: Secret Tales of the Yellow Rose."

Navia:

To be fair, though, it was a really flattering feature, hahaha... So we've been on pretty good terms ever since.

Navia:

She was trying to lean on our friendship to get me to do an exclusive piece on the serial disappearances case.

Paimon:

Oh, yeah, she told us about that... She's always been super interested in that case, so now, her wish has finally come true too!

Navia:

Anyway, I told her to make sure that when she writes about you guys entering the Opera House with the critical evidence that you both sound really cool.

Paimon:

Hehe, now that's another thing to look forward to! We trust Charlotte's skills with a pen for sure!

Navia:

Oh, and in other news, I also took Clorinde out for a meal.

Paimon:

Oh? Are you two on better terms now?

Navia:

Hmm... While you were investigating Vacher's headquarters, Clorinde gave testimony on my father's behalf.

Navia:

It was thanks to her that we were able to turn the tide, I wanted to thank her... I mean, there's also no point in being awkward all the time... so, we took the chance to reconcile with each other.

Paimon:

Oh, that's great! Paimon also thought Clorinde wasn't actually a bad person. It's always good to have more friends.

Navia:

Anyway, now that the case has finally been solved, perhaps it will slowly begin to fade from the public consciousness.

Navia:

Oh, actually, there's still one last thing I need to do...

Paimon:

What is it?

Navia:

...I should pay a visit to my father's grave, and tell him the truth of what happened, as well as how it all ended.

Navia:

And on top of that, just how much people still look up to him to this day...

Navia:

...That includes me, too.

Silver:

Miss Navia...

Melus:

Indeed.

Traveler:

...Can I come, too?

Paimon:

Mhm, we want to go, too! We also think Callas is a really admirable person.

Navia:

Sure thing. I'd like you two to share the moment with me. After all, without you, there might not have been such a positive ending.

Melus:

Then in that case, everyone, let's be off. Considering the recent weather, we'll be lucky if we can reach Poisson before dark...

Navia:

Yeah, you're right... It's been raining non-stop for a few days now.

Go to the cemetery next to Poisson

Navia:

This is where my father's grave is... To be perfectly honest, even I haven't been back here for a long time.

Paimon:

Huh, there's someone there already... Wait, that figure, it can't be...?

Navia:

...

Paimon:

Isn't that Neuvillette? Why would the Chief Justice be here... Eh, Navia?

Neuvillette:

...Mm?

Navia:

...

Neuvillette:

...My apologies. I should have asked before coming to pay my respects.

Navia:

Don't say that.

Neuvillette:

Sorry about that.

Navia:

Oh, I was trying to say there's no need for you to apologize.

Navia:

I wanted to show my father how much I've grown, but still, I doubt I've grown to the point that even the Chief Justice would feel compelled to apologize to me over and over.

Neuvillette:

In that case... I will stop apologizing for now.

Navia:

You really could use some pointers on understanding human emotions, Monsieur Neuvillette...

Navia:

In any case... why did you come to Poisson?

Neuvillette:

Hmm... Well, ever since that day, I've been turning a question over and over in my head... Just what is justice, anyway?

Neuvillette:

There was once a time when I didn't want to believe that there could be anything more important to humans than life itself.

Neuvillette:

No, rather than that, it's probably more truthful to say I didn't believe humans were capable of resisting the most basic instinct of living things. That they could rebel against their own nature, or consider certain things to be more important than their own lives.

Neuvillette:

Which is also why I didn't stop your father from beginning that fateful duel...

Neuvillette:

I believed that a truly innocent man would never throw away his life like that. That there was nothing... should have been nothing more important than one's own continued survival.

Neuvillette:

But Mr. Callas proved me utterly and decisively wrong.

Neuvillette:

If not for his sacrifice, the serial disappearances case would have remained unsolved to this day.

Neuvillette:

Mr. Callas made the choice he did for his daughter, for his associates, and for many people completely unrelated to him...

Neuvillette:

And in the end, from a certain perspective, one could say that he did it all for the sake of justice.

Neuvillette:

A justice that is higher than... life itself.

Neuvillette:

So, you asked me why I came here.

Neuvillette:

I just wanted to say my apologies to Mr. Callas in person... I should have noticed all of this much sooner.

Neuvillette:

This regret has filled me with a sadness that has haunted me for days.

Neuvillette:

That high and mighty chair in the Opera Epiclese indeed insulates one from many important things. Spina di Rosula, thank you so much for your hard work and perseverance.

Navia:

I... I'm sorry for being mad at you before.

Navia:

So you're actually... One of those types that's cold on the outside but pretty thoughtful on the inside, huh? That reminds me of Silver, one of my guys...

Neuvillette:

Sorry about that. Self-expression is not one of my strong suits.

Navia:

Didn't I just say you don't need to apologize...

Paimon:

Huh, so Navia and Neuvillette seem to have made their peace as well...

Paimon:

Let's not disturb them for now... We can wait until after they're done.

Following Navia and Neuvillette, you also pay your respects to Callas...

Paimon:

Whew... Paimon's never paid respects at someone's grave before, did Paimon do anything rude there?

Traveler:

Well, you're not usually supposed to fly around someone's grave.

Paimon:

Huh? Paimon didn't know that was a thing... But... But Paimon doesn't know what she should do if she can't fly...

Paimon:

Nooo... Paimon hopes Miss Navia won't be too mad...

Traveler:

(Wow, she took it seriously...)

Paimon:

Anyway, Neuvillette is still standing around there... It's not often that we can catch him alone like this, so why don't we go talk to him for a bit? If we can't talk to Lady Furina, we can at least talk to him, right?

Talk to Neuvillette

Neuvillette:

Oh, it's you two. Did Miss Navia invite you to come pay your respects to her father?

Paimon:

Mhm! We ran into Navia on the streets today, so we just followed her here.

Neuvillette:

I see, I see. Then, is there something that I can help you with?

Paimon:

Ah... Um... Well, it's pretty hard to run into you like this, since you're usually super busy, so we figured we could try to ask you a few questions, if that's okay...

Neuvillette:

Please feel free. Though outsiders, you helped us solve one of the greatest mysteries in Fontaine, and it would be my pleasure to return the favor.

Traveler:

About Water from the Primordial Sea...

Paimon:

So at court, the bad guys referred to that special water as Water from the Primordial Sea... But what is it, really?

Neuvillette:

Truthfully, that name is already quite accurate. I can only surmise that Vacher and his ilk only learned of its nature and existence after extensive research.

Neuvillette:

There used to be a special sea on the surface of this planet. The nature of its seawater was rather different from that of the sea we know today...

Neuvillette:

Most of Teyvat's lifeforms were first born in that special sea. You could say it nurtured much of the life on this planet.

Paimon:

Huh, so it really was where everything began... It makes sense to call it "Primordial" then.

Neuvillette:

But today, the Primordial Sea no longer exists on the planet's surface.

Neuvillette:

What Vacher discovered must have been some kind of special case, or a remnant from a truly ancient age.

Paimon:

Huh, so that's how it is... You really know everything, Monsieur Neuvillette. But if that's the case, then why would people, uh, at least people from Fontaine, dissolve in that kind of water?

Neuvillette:

Indeed, why would the Primordial Sea — which was known to engender and nurture life — suddenly reverse itself and devour life instead?

Neuvillette:

To be frank, that also doesn't match my understanding of this world and its laws. There must still be some unknown secrets around the people of this land.

Traveler:

About the "prophecy" that has been circulating around Fontaine...

Neuvillette:

...That the sea levels will rise, and everyone will be dissolved in water, leaving Furina crying alone on her throne, but the sins of the people will be finally washed away for good?

Neuvillette:

Does that appropriately summarize the version you've heard?

Paimon:

That's right! It was Lyney that told us back then, and that about covers all the main points.

Neuvillette:

Yes, up to the present, I think we reached a point where we have no choice but to confront this prophecy directly.

Neuvillette:

Rumors have it that this prophecy is rooted in the last words the former Hydro Archon left to the world before she passed away.

Paimon:

A prophecy... of the former Hydro Archon? Wow, this is the first time that we've ever heard of it...

Neuvillette:

Two parts of the prophecy have already proven correct: the rising sea levels, and the ability of the people of Fontaine to be dissolved. We should be more vigilant, and stay on the watch for further signs.

Neuvillette:

Speaking of the prophecy, Furina has also always taken it quite seriously. Indeed, she has been collecting information and intelligence from across Teyvat for this purpose.

Neuvillette:

If the rumors were true, then perhaps this prophecy is the "conundrum" left to Furina by her predecessor.

Paimon:

But with Furina being the way she is... can we really trust her to solve it?

Traveler:

About Childe...

Neuvillette:

My apologies. My investigation has still not reached its conclusion.

Neuvillette:

However, I still believe the judgment of the Oratrice was not rendered arbitrarily.

Paimon:

Eh? But you also said you thought he was innocent...

Neuvillette:

For many years, I have been quite aware that the Oratrice does not simply mechanically repeat the verdict that I give on each case.

Neuvillette:

As a divinely created mechanism, the people's unified faith in the concept of justice is integrated into it.

Neuvillette:

Not only can it produce the incredible power of Indemnitium, but it likely also possesses other traits... such as self-awareness.

Neuvillette:

Which is all to say I've been prepared for a situation like this for a long time.

Paimon:

Huh, so when Lyney told us that he heard a human voice from the room where the Oratrice's core is stored...

Neuvillette:

I was not aware such a thing had occurred... Perhaps that could serve to prove my conjecture. I will add that to the list of items to investigate.

Neuvillette:

In any case, I am inclined to believe that the Oratrice does have a methodology all its own... We just do not have enough information.

Neuvillette:

Based on Furina's reaction, I doubt even she had any idea what was going on. She managed to bluff her way through it, though, with time-tested twin tricks of bravado and drama.

Neuvillette:

While we do intend to get to the bottom of this, for now, we regret to say that the Fatui Harbinger will just have to bide his time in the Fortress of Meropide.

Neuvillette:

If we did incorrectly convict him of crimes he did not commit, we will most certainly compensate him to the fullest extent allowed by the law.

Paimon:

If you ask Paimon, the only compensation he'll want is a no holds barred fight with you ...

Traveler:

About my sibling...

Neuvillette:

Your sibling? Another blond-haired traveler... I'm sorry, but I've never seen anyone who matches that description.

Neuvillette:

If she ever stepped foot in Fontaine, I'm sure she followed our laws to the letter, and had no reason to appear on the stage of the Opera Epiclese.

Traveler:

I have no more questions.

Neuvillette:

Very well. It was my honor to provide you with what answers I could. I very much enjoyed conversing with you.

Neuvillette:

It will soon be time for me to leave this blissful tranquility behind, and return to Palais Mermonia.

Paimon:

You really are super busy, Monsieur Neuvillette! Paimon thought you only came here to pay your respects today because you had the day off.

Neuvillette:

Crime and villainy do not have the day off, and so justice must work around the clock as well. This is merely the nature of a Justice's work.

Paimon:

Alright, alright, you've got a point.

Paimon:

Huh... Paimon just noticed that the rain has stopped.

chevron_left Chapter IV: Act I

Prelude of Blancheur and Noirceur

Chapter IV: Act III chevron_right

To the Stars Shining in the Depths