Proxy Business

0-4
Proxy Business

Story Type	Chapter
Phaethon's Story	Business x Strangeness x Justness

Episode

4

Previous	Next
Mutated Corruption	Emergency

Characters

Anby Demara, Belle, Billy Kid, Nicole Demara, Wise

Proxy Business is the fourth episode of the Prologue in Phaethon's Story.

Parts[]

Drop-in Service
A Request from an Old Client
1. The Hare and the Proxy
Sensory Sync
Perfect Timing
A Short Break
Time to Leave
Full Speed Ahead
Tooth Necklace

Steps[]

Talk to Nicole
A new commission. Log in to the HDD system and have a look!

Talk to (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle)
Check out Sixth Street
Go to the newsstand and get a scratch card
General Chop is on Sixth Street. Go and see him.
Susie from the gadget store needs help. I'll go and see what she needs.
Discuss the commission with (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle)
Complete General Chop and Susie's commissions
1. Logistics Disaster
2. The Ultimate Collectibles
Commission accomplished. Go tell General Chop.
Commission accomplished. Go tell Susie.
Take a look at the gadget store.
Talk to (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle) about your next steps
Go meet with Nicole in the parking lot

Dialogue[]

Drop-in Service[]

Meanwhile, in downtown New Eridu.

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

Drop-in Service

Video Summary: A familiar figure rushes into the shop, bringing with them some business.

Story Description: In the video store Random Play on Sixth Street, you were watching the news on TV when Nicole suddenly showed up.

Meanwhile, in downtown New Eridu.

At a video store on the corner of Sixth Street, over in the Janus Quarter...

	TV: ...We're returning now to the scene on Fourteenth street, where an explosion occurred on one of the upper floors of a residential building shortly after the appearance of a Companion Hollow.
	TV: According to our sources, the explosion was set off by Public Security. TV: In their operation against the violent Red Fang Gang, Public Security took extreme measures, including the use of air force weaponry.
	TV: The leader of the Red Fang Gang is thought to have fallen into the Hollow and is [sic] yet to be brought to justice. The head of Public Security has refused to comment.
	TV: The bomb squad is on the way. Please stay away from Fourteenth Street! We'll continue— Nicole: Hey, listen up! I was there when that explosion took place.
	Nicole: This is an emergency! Billy, Anby, and the target of my commission have fallen into that Hollow! Nicole: I need a Proxy’s help! Now!
	Wise: Hello Nicole... It'd be nice of you to knock next time. Belle: I feel like I hear of your urgent needs at least three times a month, Nicole...
	Nicole: You can make fun of me all you want after you help me deal with this crisis. Nicole: Please, legendary Proxy Phaethon!
	Wise & Belle: What trouble did you get yourself into this time?

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Wise / Belle‍), come to the workshop to talk to Nicole.

(Chat with Luckyboo, optional): Luckyboo: It's Friday morning! Have a great day!

(Chat with Bangboo 18, optional): Bangboo 18: Ehn-na nu-na-nah. (I'm on duty at the video store today.); Bangboo 18: Nhu-na nhu-ne-ne! (Hopefully we'll get a lot of orders today!)

(Chat with Wise/Belle, optional): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Calm down, Nicole. Take your time.

(Try to exit to Sixth Street/Parking Lot or use the Hollow Deep Dive System, optional): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): It's not time to do this...

A Request from an Old Client[]

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

A Request from an Old Client

Video Summary: A familiar figure rushes into the shop, bringing with them some business.

Story Description: Nicole, knowing you're the Proxy Phaethon, requested your help in rescuing Anby and Billy from the Hollow. As Nicole's old acquaintance, you took on the commission.

(Chat with Nicole)

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): I just checked. Doesn't look like there's anyone suspicious outside.

Nicole: Don't worry, I wasn't followed! It took a lot to get out of Fourteenth Street unnoticed, but I made sure nobody was tailing me.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): I hope so.

Nicole: I know things've been tight lately with the general election just around the corner.

Nicole: They're really cracking down on Proxies. They set up a hotline and...

Okay, let’s get straight to the point.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Okay Nicole, as long as you (‍get it / understand‍). (‍We can get down to business. / Let's get straight to the point.‍)

Nicole: I need you for an important commission, with pay!

Which creditor is chasing after you this time? ‍^{[This branch needs verifying]}

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): So what's the hurry, Nicole? Which creditor is chasing after you this time?

Nicole: That's not it! I was set up by Public Security and that angry reporter from the Ridu TV!

Nicole gives a brief account of the conflict with the Red Fang Gang.

Nicole:...So Billy and Anby fell into a Hollow.

Nicole: I have to get them out! And I need to get back what I've been commissioned to deliver! It's an emergency, and you're the only ones who can help!

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Why don't you make a rescue application with the Hollow Investigative Association?

Nicole: I... don't want to make us a target for the Association right now. If they found we'd been involved in Hollow raiding, we'd be in big trouble.

Nicole: And it'd take a small fortune to pay those greedy vultures off! But I can't just abandon my squad, right?

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Leaving employees behind... That does sound a lot like Nicole's style.

Nicole: Hey, don't be mean! I allocate a large portion of revenue to the "employee rescue budget"!

Nicole: Look. All in all, my request is simple!

Nicole: All you need to worry about is getting my people and my client's stuff out of the Hollow safely!

Nicole: You don't accept basic Proxy work now? Phaethon?

Nicole: Finish this job, and I'll clear my entire bill in one go!

(Sounds pretty good?) ‍^{[This branch needs verifying]}

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍? / Okay, just this once.‍)

Nicole: Still no good? Then I’ll add... Huh? You’ll do it?

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Come on, you should've held out for that bonus, bro. / ...Damn, you should have waited for Nicole to add the bonus.‍)

(No way. We should try haggling for a better offer)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): You've been dodging your bill for months Nicole (‍, you should think about the interest. / . Have you even considered the interest?‍)

Nicole: Fine, I'll give you a share of the commission payment. Does that cover it?

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Yeah, that sounds about right. / Hehe, that'll do it.‍)

Nicole: Great! There's no time to waste! I'll be waiting for you in the Hollow! Hnngh!

You're injured? You need to rest.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Nicole are you hurt? / Nicole, you're hurt?‍) You should stay and rest a while before heading back out.

Nicole: But! ...Uhh...

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Just listen to my (‍sister. / brother‍)

I think I just heard something... ‍^{[This branch needs verifying]}

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Hm? Did I hear something?

Nicole: N-no! I don’t hear anything!

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Don't push yourself, Nicole. Rest a while.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): We'll need your help to take Eous somewhere close to the Hollow later.

Nicole: Ohhh? Deploying your "Bangboo Double," huh? Okay!

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Bro / Hey‍), can you tend to Nicole's wound? I'll go debug the HDD and help you with the prep work to infiltrate the Hollow.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Well then... Let's get down to business!

(Talk to Sibling, optional): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): There you are, (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / brobroText for Belle‍).; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): The system has been checked and the target Hollow located. We can get to work anytime.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): You can move to the side of the computer if you're ready.

(Talk to Nicole, optional)

Nicole: Who would have known that a mere strongbox could lead to such a huge mess? Hmph, I gotta demand extra fees from the client!

How's your wound?

Nicole: It doesn't hurt anymore. Thanks! You've got good bandaging skills.

Be careful when you're working next time.

Nicole: I... I've always been careful! This is just a one-time thing! Stop saying you feel you might see me on the news one day!

Nicole: I should head off. Don't worry, I'll place your Bangboo Double at the designated location.

(Attempt to leave Random Play, optional): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): It's not time to do this...

(Talk to Luckyboo, optional): Luckyboo: It's Friday morning! Have a great day!

(Talk to Bangboo 18, optional): Bangboo 18: Ehn-na nu-na-nah. (I'm on duty at the video store today.); Bangboo 18: Nhu-na nhu-ne-ne! (Hopefully we'll get a lot of orders today!)

(Access the HDD): AI: Authentication verified. User login: PHAETHON; AI: New urgent commission detected. Target Hollow location has been marked.

The Hare and the Proxy[]

Commission Description

Nicole of the Cunning Hares rushed into the store, claiming to have an urgent commission for Phaethon.
Though it's rare for a Proxy to have direct contact with a client, Nicole is a regular who owes us a lot in commission fees...
Since it seems urgent, let's help her this time.

Sensory Sync[]

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

Sensory Sync

Video Summary: Proxies all have their own expertise, and Phaethon's trump card is... transforming into a Bangboo!

(A Cutscene plays): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Hello, can you hear me Nicole? You can put Eous through now!; Nicole: Okay! Right, little one, off you go then~; Eous: Ehn-na!; Nicole: Done! Bangboo's on the way!; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Well then, can we begin?Well then, can we begin?Text for Wise / So, can we start it up?So, can we start it up?Text for Belle‍); (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Uh-um; Eous: Ehn...! En-na nhu!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): We need to calibrate the Hollow data (‍first‍) before starting the rescue.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Let's look for a Bangboo Workbench nearby.

(Tutorial): AI: Press to activate Bangboo View.
(Approach the Supply Box to show Hollow Supply Box tutorial)

(Approach the Bangboo Workbench)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): This is it! Let's start connecting

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Found it — the Bangboo Workbench!)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (The city is equipped with many of these Bangboo-specific devices. In the event of a Hollow disaster, the authorities upload the most basic Carrot — Hollow Observation Data for evacuation — into the workbench, allowing Bangboo to retrieve it for citizen rescue missions.)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Since Hollow environments change rapidly, our local Hollow database needs to be frequently calibrated using Carrot data to ensure calculations are accurate.)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (No time to waste — get the data quickly!)

Connect now!

(Load into Marcel Maze)

Just a second.

(Exit dialogue)

(Upon entering the Marcel Maze): Male AI: "Loaded to Visualized Space."; Male AI: "Target: Collect Hollow observation data."
(Show Marcel Maze Tutorial)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): The data's hidden around here (‍somewhere‍). Let's move!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Careful, don't fall into the Data Abyss.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Based on my experience, just follow the signposts.

(Tutorial): AI: Press or to move Eous to new locations

(Get to the end of the Marcel Maze): Male AI: "You are approaching the observation data."; (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Voila!

(Return to the Hollow): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Data acquired! The local database has been calibrated, and the nearby spatial structure mapped out!); (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Let's see... there seems to be a spacial fissure nearby. The data on the other side of the fissure shows slight fluctuations — could it be human activity?); (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (It's highly likely Billy and Anby are on the other side of the fissure. Let's head there and check it out.)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): The Cunning Hares might be on the other side of the fissure.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Let's go investigate.

Perfect Timing[]

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

Perfect Timing

Video Summary: Proxies all have their own expertise, and Phaethon's trump card is... transforming into a Bangboo!

(A Cutscene plays): Billy: Huh?! We're back here again?; Billy: Damn, another fight?! At the rate my ammo's depleting, I can say goodbye to my efficiency bonus...; Anby: Incoming, get ready; Anby: Hmph?; Billy: Wait, that wasn't me!; (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Hey, all! Over here!Hey, all! Over here!Text for Wise / Hey, guys! Over here!Hey, guys! Over here!Text for Belle‍); (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Nice work, allNice work, allText for Wise / Good work, allGood work, allText for Belle‍); Anby: It's a scarf-wearing, talking Bangboo...; Billy: Ohhh! You're—; Billy: Phaethon!; Anby: Phaethon!

A Short Break[]

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

A Short Break

Video Summary: Proxies all have their own expertise, and Phaethon's trump card is... transforming into a Bangboo!

Story Description: On the way out, everyone took a short rest, and Billy couldn't stop praising your ability to sync with a Bangboo to enter the Hollow.

The Cretan Hollow, somewhere at the old metro junction.

Anby: I can't hear that superior Ethereal anymore.

Billy: Uh, great, I feel like my legs' pistons are gonna break!

Anby: I propose now is a good time to take a break. Is that acceptable, Proxy?

I'm already lying down!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Eous needs to run some debugging, so I'm gonna lay down. / Eous needs some debugging anyway, so go take a load off.‍)

Anby: You and Billy can rest, I'll take the first watch.

You all rest. I'll take the first watch.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): You all rest. I'll take the first watch.

Anby: Thanks, Proxy.

Billy: That was dangerous. It's crazy what a powerful monster that Red Fang dude mutated into.

Billy: It's all thanks to you, Manager. You got us out of there in the nick of time.

Billy: As expected from Phaethon! Reliable as always!

I'm just doing what any Proxy does.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍You flatter me. I'm just doing what any Proxy does. / Hehe, you flatter me. I'm just doing what any Proxy does.‍)

Anby: I figured, to save money, Nicole would've left us to fend for ourselves. Hiring the great Phaethon to get us out is quite a surprise.

A few more compliments and I might give you a discount.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): A few more compliments like that and I might just give you a discount.

Anby: Really?

Billy: I think the Proxy was just trying to be polite, Anby.

Anby: Speaking of the commission fee, I thought with Phaethon being so expensive, Nicole would've left us to fend for ourselves. I didn't think she'd actually hire you.

Anby: If you hadn't come, I'm afraid we wouldn't have made it out of that Ethereal's territory. Thanks for coming to the rescue.

Billy: Speaking of which, I've always wanted to ask about that device in your store, you know, the one that lets you sync with Bangboo and communicate in real-time within a Hollow!

Billy: That's some serious tech! Even Public Security and the Hollow Investigative Association can't do it!

Billy: With a trump card like that, why didn't you just join the Association?

Billy: Whatever way you look at it, working with us Hollow Raiders has to be more dangerous than the profit is worth.

Oh, ahem...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Heh, well... / Ahaha, about that...‍)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Billy is right. Due to the unique nature of the Hollows, traditional communication signals are unable to transmit to the outside — a challenge all Hollow exploration agencies have yet to solve.)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (But our specialized equipment, the HDD, uses smart lenses implanted in (‍our eyes / my and my brother's eyes‍) to allow communication within the Hollows.)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (It's something we inherited from "a certain place," but revealing where we come from would only put us at risk.)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): ((‍Belle / My brother‍) and I still have something we need to do, and to achieve that goal, we need to venture deep into the Hollows.)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍(We had to start out as Proxies because we couldn't risk a background check from any official agencies. We're working hard to get money and intel.) / (The identity checks by official agencies were too strict, so we had to start out as Proxies. We're working hard to get some money and intel together.)‍)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (In the past, the authorities turned a blind eye when it came to Proxies, but (‍recently, things have been becoming increasingly difficult.) / it's been getting tougher lately.)‍)

Ethereal: ——%￥￥#...#￥%!!

Anby: That sounds like an Ethereal.

Billy: So soon? I only just sat down!

Anby: We have to get out of here.

Anby: Unless, Billy, you'd like to stay here forever? That new Starlight Knight Belt you wanted? I guess I'll place it at your grave next year.

Billy: When you say things like that with that poker face of yours, I can't tell if you're joking or not!

Let's get moving. Follow me.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Let's get moving. Follow me.

Anby: Leave any combat along the way to us.

Billy: You just focus on leading the way. Of course, it'd be nice if you lend a hand if battles get a little too intense.

Working with you two is like watching a comedy show.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Working with you two is like watching a never-ending sitcom.

Anby: Is that why you keep letting Nicole hire you on credit?

Billy: Uhh... I don't know if I should be happy about that or not...

Billy: But now's not the time. We should get out of here before those Ethereals catch up.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): The exit is just ahead, follow me!

Billy: Finally! We can get outta here!!

Anby: There's still enemies nearby. Don't let your guard down.

?: ...*$%—!!

Anby: Ethereals!

Time to Leave[]

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

Time to Leave

Video Summary: Proxies all have their own expertise, and Phaethon's trump card is... transforming into a Bangboo!

(A Cutscene plays with Anby and Billy fighting some Ethereals)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Keep it up! We're almost there!

Anby: I'm fine, but Billy's wallet might be crying...

Billy: I've got goosebumps... It's so powerful!

Anby: Can you even get goosebumps, Billy?

Billy: It's a metaphor, alright?! Let's just focus on the enemy.

Full Speed Ahead[]

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

Full Speed Ahead

Video Summary: Proxies all have their own expertise, and Phaethon's trump card is... transforming into a Bangboo!

Story Description: After successfully finding an exit from the Hollow, you disconnected from the Bangboo. Anby and Billy met up with Nicole waiting outside the Hollow.

Billy: Manager! Which way should we go?

We keep moving forward.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): We keep moving forward.

Billy: Keep moving forward, roger that! Wait... Forward?!

Full speed ahead!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Full speed ahead!

Billy: Understood! Full speed ahead! Wait... Ahead?

Billy: But that's a wall in front of us! Smash it? You wanna smash through it? I don't have that kind of firepower right now...

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Don't worry. Just do what my (‍brother / sister‍) says.

Billy: That voice... Oh! It's the other Phaethon!

You're finally online. Took your time...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): You're finally online.(‍ / Took your time...‍)

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Sorry, I was checking to make sure the Hollow exit was stable. / Apologies. I was confirming the Hollow exit was stable.‍)

Don't take over my channel like that.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Don't jump onto my channel all of a sudden, Belle. It's not good for my heart. / Seriously, can you not jump on my channel all of a sudden? You scared me.‍)

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Sorry(‍, sorry‍). Since you're synced with the Bangboo, this is the only way we can communicate.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Billy, Anby, can you hear me? My (‍brother / sister‍) was right about the escape route(‍ / just now‍).

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): You know space inside the Hollows is totally distorted. That means...

Anby: —A way out may look like a dead end. But a dead end may also just be a dead end.

Billy: Thanks for the explanation, Anby...

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Anyways, our escape route after getting out has been arranged, you can trust us.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Hey (‍bro / Belle‍), you can cut the connection now.

I'm hanging up now.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍I'm hanging up now. Talk soon~ / Let's call it. Talk soon~‍)

See you at the store. Good luck, you two.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): See you at the store. Good luck, you two.

Sensory synchronization has been disconnected—

Anby: It's gone quiet...

Anby: It became a regular Bangboo.

Billy: Why would they de-sync at a time like this?

Anby: Going straight forward. Brace for impact.

Billy: We're gonna crash! We're gonna crash! We're gonna crash!

With a strange sense of release, the two pass through the wall as though it's nothing.

Anby: The oppressive weight of Ether is gone.

Billy: We're out... We're finally out! Aha!

(BEEP BEEP—)

Nicole: Phaethon got the time and location spot on...

Nicole: Hey, you two! Get in the car!

Billy: Boss!

Tooth Necklace[]

The following is recorded in the Video Archive

Tooth Necklace

Video Summary: The rescue mission was a success, but without the strongbox the commission is far from over.

Story Description: To retrieve the strongbox and further clarify its value, Nicole commissioned you to crack Silver's flash drive. The Cunning Hares took on the task of locating the strongbox in the Hollow.

Nicole: You're here! Perfect timing!

That was fast.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): That was fast Nicole, did you run a red light again?

Nicole: No. We just passed a normal green light, R255 in the RGB scale.

It took you so long.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Honestly, Nicole? / You didn't time it very well, Nicole.‍) We've been waiting for quite a while.

Nicole: That wasn't fast enough? I put my foot down through every normal R255 green light.

Nicole: Oh right, I made sure I wasn't followed the whole way.

Billy: Anby, what does an R255 green light look like?

Anby: It's the same color as your jacket.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Nicole, they've both been extracted. I guess it's time to pay up.

Nicole: Not so fast! That's not what we agreed on.

Nicole: The commission was: "My people AND the client's item." You've only completed the first half!

Don't worry, I remember.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Don't worry Nicole, we remember. It's just a joke.

Nicole: I knew Phaethon was the most reliable and trustworthy!

Oh? We also need to do that?

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Oh? We still have to bring something back? Do you remember that, (‍Wise / Belle‍)?

Nicole: Hey, talking like that isn't good for your reputation, you know?

Nicole: The commission isn't over until we get that strongbox back!

Anby: According to what we saw before extraction, the strongbox should be in the territory of a highly dangerous Ethereal.

Anby: The White Star Institute has it registered as Dullahan, a superior Ethereal.

Billy: That's the one! That Red Fang dude was unlucky. His Ether corruption must've been pretty intense, considering he's become such a dangerous Ethereal.

Billy: Anby and I tried to grab the strongbox, but that guy was so tough! We didn't get the chance before we got extracted.

Billy: What exactly is in that box? Is it worth all this effort?

Nicole: Uh-huh... We'll find out soon enough. Take a look at this!

(Tooth Necklace added to the Workbench)

(A necklace from Nicole. This red fang seems like the insignia from a certain street gang. And judging by the exposed metal part, it's not just for decoration.)

A tooth necklace? For me?

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍A tooth necklace? For me? I love it! / That's a nice piece of jewelry, thanks, but it isn't enough to cover the debt.‍)

Nicole: What're you talking about? It's a mini storage device. It's Silver's. I picked it up in the building before I got out of Fourteenth Street!

Is this a flash drive that's made to look like jewelry?

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle)}: (‍So, it looks like a necklace, but it's actually a flash drive? / So, it's a weird-looking necklace that's actually a flash drive?‍)

Nicole: That's right. It's a mini storage device. It's Silver's. I picked it up in the building before I got out of Fourteenth Street!

Nicole: I noticed it before, he always had it on his person, so it must contain something important!

Nicole: I bet it has something to do with the strongbox!

Anby: But it's suffered some damage.

Billy: ...Yeah, look at all those burn marks!

Nicole: Phaethon, can you do some of your magic using that complicated computer of yours?

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): The HDD is mainly used to process Hollow data. But if we only need to export what's in the flash drive…

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Oh! Hey bro! Maybe / Hey sis, maybe‍) I could try to recover the data with Inter-Knot's computing power.

Nicole: Great! It's a deal, then! We'll try to locate the strongbox in the Hollow. We'll come find you when we learn something new!

Nicole: Let's just go our separate ways until then.

Nicole: Don't forget to extract the data from the flash drive though!

Billy: See ya, Manager!

Anby: Goodbye.

Nicole: Phaethon, I have something to discuss with you!

We don't offer discounts on our commission fees.

Anby: Manager, you know Nicole like the back of your hand...

Nicole: Wait, listen to what I have to say first! I won’t mess with the official price. Just open an alternate account on Inter-Knot and give me a discounted price like before...

Billy: Proxy, please give us a discount or Nicole won’t let me eat. Cry as you say this.

Nicole: Don't read out what's in the brackets! Anyways, we really need the discount. It's just a liiittle money. It's nothing to you Phaethon, right?

Urgh, fine.

Cunning Hares Nicole Demara: Partnership Established

(Idle quotes): Billy: Anby, Nicole arranged a rescue, she got the best of the best! She really cares about us!; Anby: Half the cost of the Proxy is coming out of our paychecks.; Billy: Really? She even left half of our salary? What a sweetheart!

(Chat with Nicole, optional): Nicole: That's it then. We'll snoop around to find the strongbox, and you guys fix the damaged flash drive.; Nicole: Let's move onto the next step once we're both done!

(Interact with Box of Miscellaneous Items, optional): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Our old odds-and-ends box? I haven't looked in here since moving to Sixth Street.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): We don't need anything right now, so maybe there's no reason to open it at all.

(Interact with Parking Lot Door, optional): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): I lost the key, so I've never been able to open the door.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): I still haven't found it, maybe it was dropped on the street somewhere, or forgotten in a box at home somewhere...?

(Interact with Metal Gate, optional): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): At first, I just installed this gate to keep people out of the parking lot.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): But since then, the stray cats have never once come to play.

(Try to exit to Sixth Street, optional): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): It's not time to do this...

Commission Description

You've registered a secondary account and noticed an intriguing commission on Inter-Knot. Talk to (Sibling) about it.

(Chat with Luckyboo, optional): Luckyboo: It's Friday afternoon! Have a great day!

(Chat with Bangboo 18, optional): Bangboo 18: Ehn-na nu-na-nah. (I'm on duty at the video store today.); Bangboo 18: Nhu-na nhu-ne-ne! (Hopefully we'll get a lot of orders today!)

(Try to exit Random Play, optional): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): It's not time to do this...

(Talk to Sibling): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Well, that's that. Every time a regular asks for a discount, we have to use an alternate account for the billing. I'm sure you're used to it already though.Well, that's that. Every time a regular asks for a discount, we have to use an alternate account for the billing. I'm sure you're used to it already though.Text for Wise / I just can't with them. Every time a regular asks for a discount, we have to open an alternate account to bill them, but you must be used to it by now.I just can't with them. Every time a regular asks for a discount, we have to open an alternate account to bill them, but you must be used to it by now.Text for Belle‍); (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍We deleted the last alternate account after we finished using it. This time, you can use my info to create a new account again.We deleted the last alternate account after we finished using it. This time, you can use my info to create a new account again.Text for Wise / We deleted the last alternate account after we were done with it. You can use my info to create a new account again!We deleted the last alternate account after we were done with it. You can use my info to create a new account again!Text for Belle‍); (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Open Inter-Knot and register an alt account~

(Enter a UserName): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Inter-Knot posts often contain all sorts of information.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Now, let's take a look at those posts.
(Open (Commission) Logistics accident! In URGENT need of a Proxy!!)

(Upon checking Inter-Knot Level tab): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): You can view your Inter-Knot level here.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Level up to claim corresponding rewards.

(Exit Inter-Knot): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍Alright, our secondary account is set up.Alright, our secondary account is set up.Text for Wise / The account's already setup? You're so fast, Wise.The account's already setup? You're so fast, Wise.Text for Belle‍); (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍I just accepted the task on Inter-Knot for you, Belle. But don't forget to click on the posts and handle them on your own in future.I just accepted the task on Inter-Knot for you, Belle. But don't forget to click on the posts and handle them on your own in future.Text for Wise / I already accepted the task on Inter-Knot for you. Next time though, you'll have to do it yourself!I already accepted the task on Inter-Knot for you. Next time though, you'll have to do it yourself!Text for Belle‍); (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍...Wait a moment, judging by the ID and content of this commission, it seems like we know this person. If I'm not mistaken, it should be General Chop from the Waterfall Soup....Wait a moment, judging by the ID and content of this commission, it seems like we know this person. If I'm not mistaken, it should be General Chop from the Waterfall Soup.Text for Wise / Wait a moment, looking at this post's ID and content... Could the client be General Chop from the Waterfall Soup?Wait a moment, looking at this post's ID and content... Could the client be General Chop from the Waterfall Soup?Text for Belle‍); (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍I should've realized we knew him sooner. When I accepted the task just now, I completely forgot to switch accounts...I should've realized we knew him sooner. When I accepted the task just now, I completely forgot to switch accounts...Text for Wise / General Chop is a good friend of ours. Wise, why don't you go see him?General Chop is a good friend of ours. Wise, why don't you go see him?Text for Belle‍); (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍From General Chop's perspective, the one taking on the request is a new Proxy named (Proxy)(Proxy)Player's nickname. He might find it a bit suspicious.From General Chop's perspective, the one taking on the request is a new Proxy named (Proxy)(Proxy)Player's nickname. He might find it a bit suspicious.Text for Wise / He should be at the Waterfall Soup right now.He should be at the Waterfall Soup right now.Text for Belle‍); (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍In that case, Belle, why don't you go see General Chop and explain the situation? You can ask more about the commission too.In that case, Belle, why don't you go see General Chop and explain the situation? You can ask more about the commission too.Text for Wise / Wise, why don't you go to General Chop's place and let him know. You can get more details about the commission too.Wise, why don't you go to General Chop's place and let him know. You can get more details about the commission too.Text for Belle‍); Alright, I'll go right away.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Good job! Oh, by the way, Susie from the Box Galaxy gadget store just contacted us. She said she had something to ask of us...; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): I wonder whether it's Susie or the gadget store owner who needs our help... (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍), could you check on them?"
(Workbench Unlocked)

Commission Description

Using the Inter-Knot alternate account, you received a commission from General Chop, your neighbor on Sixth Street. Go out and meet him.

(Exit Random Play)
(A Cutscene introducing Sixth Street Plays): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍(Might as well make my routine stop at the newsstand for a scratch card, wonder how my luck will be today...)(Might as well make my routine stop at the newsstand for a scratch card, wonder how my luck will be today...)Text for Wise / (Okay, now that I'm out the door, let's start with the daily ritual—scratch cards at the newsstand!)(Okay, now that I'm out the door, let's start with the daily ritual—scratch cards at the newsstand!)Text for Belle‍); (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (It might just be a freebie for an annual newspaper subscription, (‍but I could win something good. "You gotta follow your dreams," as Belle always says.but I could win something good. "You gotta follow your dreams," as Belle always says.Text for Wise / but it's still a chance to win something nice. After all, you gotta follow your dreams every day!but it's still a chance to win something nice. After all, you gotta follow your dreams every day!Text for Belle‍))

Commission Description

Let's go to the newsstand for a scratch card to test your luck today.

(Talk to Billy, optional)

Billy: Huh? If it isn't the manager!

What are you doing?

What about Nicole?

Billy: I booked in a complete overhaul for Old Smokey, and they'll clean her up too while they're at it!

Billy: Most of my recent commissions involved some emergency maneuvers, so I have to make sure she's kept in top shape.

Ever thought of upgrading to a new vehicle?

Billy: A new car? What are you talking about... Old Smokey's part of the family! She's guided us through many a life-or-death situation. How could we just replace her!

Billy: And besides, she's in her golden years now with limitless potential. She ain't past her use-by date, no way!

My mistake.

Billy: Oh yeah — Nicole went to get in touch with her contacts at the Hollow Investigative Association.

Billy: Her acquaintance will help find a way to isolate the location of the strongbox inside the Hollow. We'll regroup once everything has been confirmed.

Billy: So looks like we'll be leaning on you once more when the time comes. You are Phaethon the legendary Proxy, after all!

Don't say that name in public.

Keep it down!

Billy: O—Oh yeah... I forgot. Sorry!

(Talk to Anby, optional)

Anby: Nicole asked me to buy some supplies for the next commission.

What did you buy?

Anby: A gallon of Bomb Cola, a UAP Chips fun pack and some Ol' Captain Jerky, a supersize bottle of Nitro-Fuel, and some Rocket Popping candy...

...Maybe you should check with Nicole first.

Did you get the right shopping list?

Anby: Hmm? But this shopping list is the one Nicole gave me.

Anby: Celebrative snacks for a successful commission are Cunning Hares tradition.

Anby: Nicole says, "Following me is the best strategy! You guys just start planning the after-party!"

Anby: I trust her.

Then I won't bother you.

(Exit dialogue)

(Interact with Video Game Festival Poster, optional): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍This thing looks just like a frog?!This thing looks just like a frog?!Text for Wise / Whether this thing is a butt or a frog...Whether this thing is a butt or a frog...Text for Belle‍); (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Belle said it was a butt. If the game festival organizers were to hear that...Belle said it was a butt. If the game festival organizers were to hear that...Text for Wise / We had a big fight about it. Of course, I won~We had a big fight about it. Of course, I won~Text for Belle‍)

(Interact with Trash Can, optional): Strange Trash Can: (Every now and then, you hear strange rattling noises coming from inside that odd trash can.); Strange Trash Can: (Curiosity starts to gnaw at you, tempting you to open it up and uncover its secrets.; Strange Trash Can: (But your reason is telling you: Run! Run away from it!)

(Interact with Ask, optional): Ask: Ehn-na! Nuh-ehn-ehn-ne, Ehn-nana!
(Sorry, 141 is temporarily closed for renovation!)

(Interact with General Chop, optional): General Chop: I make the best noodles.; General Chop: You must try it in the future.

(Talk to Howl)
(A small cutscene plays): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): You can scratch one card each day.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Wonder if I'll get the grand prize today.

(After getting a scratch card): (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍(My luck's pretty good today. Belle's gonna make me buy her lunch once I tell her this story. But I shouldn't dwell on that, let's get down to business first.)(My luck's pretty good today. Belle's gonna make me buy her lunch once I tell her this story. But I shouldn't dwell on that, let's get down to business first.)Text for Wise / (Ooh, I'm on a hot streak today! Guess I get to show off to Wise later. But let's get down to business first.)(Ooh, I'm on a hot streak today! Guess I get to show off to Wise later. But let's get down to business first.)Text for Belle‍); (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (First, I'll head to the noodle shop to see General Chop about the commission, then off to the gadget store to find Susie.)

Commission Description

General Chop is at Waterfall Soup on Sixth Street. Find out the details of the commission he's posted.

(Talk to General Chop)

General Chop: Argh, how annoying!

What's the matter, General Chop?

Are you closed today?

General Chop: Ah...! It's you.

General Chop: Sorry, but I can't take your order right now, and all because of Pegasos Logistics!

General Chop: The ingredients I ordered haven't arrived yet. I just ran a track and trace on the order. Apparently, they somehow sent everything into a Hollow!

Is it because of a Hollow disaster?

General Chop: It must be. The ingredients are no big deal, and I've already bought replacements elsewhere. It's just...

General Chop: I hope nothing happens to that poor courier. I don't even know his name, but he's my regular guy and I feel responsible for him.

General Chop: I've already posted a request on Inter-Knot to find the truck. A Proxy named (Proxy) accepted the job earlier, the account is new though so I'm not sure if it's reliable or not.

(Point to yourself)

General Chop: Huh? You're the one who accepted the job? I'm so flustered. I should've come directly to your store for help.

Actually, I'm the one who accepted the job...

General Chop: Huh, you're the one who accepted the job? (Proxy) is you? Ohhh, I see. You created a new account to make certain things easier.

General Chop: I got so flustered earlier. I should've just come directly to your store for help. I shouldn't have wasted time on Inter-Knot.

General Chop: Since you've accepted the commission, I can relax a little! Now, I'll leave the whereabouts of the truck to you.

General Chop: However, until I'm sure the driver is safe, the noodle shop won't be opening... I can't cook while I'm worried like this!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Looks like we'll have to head into the Hollow. For safety's sake, it might be better to bring along some Agents we know.)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Maybe we can ask Anby and the others for help? Although they might still be recovering since they only just came back from the Hollow...)

(Open Agent menu): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Let's go and raise the levels of our Agents.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Next, we're going to level up the Agent.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Use Investigator Logs to quickly increase an Agent's EXP.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Complete all the preparations before entering a battle.

(Idle): General Chop: Transcription missing

(Talk to General Chop again, optional): General Chop: Pegasos doesn't usually run into trouble... What's going on today!; General Chop: If there were no Proxies in New Eridu and we had to rely solely on the Association... let me tell you, their procedures will leave your head spinning!; General Chop: (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍), I'm counting on you to find that transport in the Hollow.

Commission Description

Contacted by Susie from the gadget store, it seems to be a commission, possibly from the gadget store owner. Check it out.

(Talk to Susie)
(A cutscene plays): Susie: *stretch* Ah! Hello and welcome!

The Toy's Whereabouts[]

Special Event

The Toy's Whereabouts

Video Summary: The gadget store had commissioned you to find a lost W-Engine in the Hollow and gives you a new W-Engine as a reward. In order to support Cunning Hares with their less-than-desirable financial situation, we gave this gift to Anby.

Susie: Ah, (‍Wise / Belle‍), you're here! Perfect timing! My boss says I'll need your help with something!

What is it?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): What is it?

Go ahead~

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Could you elaborate? This isn't the first time I'm helping your boss. / Go ahead. This isn't the first time I'm helping your boss.‍)

Susie: He wanted the message to be delivered verbatim, so here it is: *clears throat*

Susie: "I've found a new way to source awesome new gadgets. I'm sure you'll like them. If you're willing to help, they should be available in the store soon."

You sound just like your boss...

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): You sound just like your boss...

What do I have to do?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): What do I have to do?

Susie: Wait, I'm not finished yet! *clears throat*

Susie: "This new path is blocked, and I've lost communication with the assistant I sent there. Could you help me sort it all out? I'll send more details soon."

Susie: That's it! Everything my boss said!

(As expected, it's about W-Engines...)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (I see. There's something wrong with the gadget store's underground W-Engine business. A batch of goods must've fallen into a Hollow and they need me to clean this mess up.)

Susie: I'm not sure exactly what happened, but it sounds like there was a problem with the gadgets they call W-Engines. Aren't they the ones you and your friends are collecting?

Susie: Since it's such an urgent request, boss said that apart from the regular payment, I can also give you a sample as a thank-you gift. Hope you like it!

(Wait a second, isn't it—)

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Wait. This texture... This batch of goods must be—)

Anby: ...The latest W-Engine equipped with the fourth-generation synchronous conduction device. It can release ultrasonic waves that effectively resonate with the active wavelengths of various Ether weapons.

Anby: According to official data, the average initial weapon performance can be improved by up to 44.21%, and the combat survival rate of personnel equipped with such gear can be increased by at least 30%.

Anby!? What are you doing here?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): Anby!? What are you doing here?

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍Keep it down... Susie may be working here, but she has no idea W-Engines are weapons. Better not say stuff like that in front of her. / Shhhh— Susie may be working here, but she has no idea W-Engines are weapons! Don't say stuff like that in front of her!‍)

Susie: Huh? Ultrasonic waves? Weapon performance?

We're talking about a game!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍It's nothing, we're just talking about a game... You probably didn't know that, Susie, but you can use W-Engines to play board games, where each W-Engine has different stats assigned. / Oh, it's just a game... You probably didn't know that, Susie, but you can use W-Engines to play board games. Each W-Engine has different stats assigned.‍)

Susie: Ohhhh, is it similar to playing pool? W-Engines are round after all.

It's the latest slang!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍This is just how gadget enthusiasts speak to each other. We often use combat-related terms to describe gadget rarity. / Oh, this is just how gadget enthusiasts speak to each other! We often describe gadget rarity as if it's combat power or something.‍) ‍^{[verification needed]}

Susie: I see. No wonder I sometimes hear W-Engine buyers arguing which one is the strongest.

Susie: Guys, hang on a sec. The boss just texted me, and he has a message he wants me to share with you:

Susie: "Looks like I've found a connoisseur. Good gadgets truly shine in the hands of someone like you. If you purchase one when the shipment arrives, I'll give you an exclusive customization."

Susie: Whoa, who would've thought the boss would get involved himself!

Anby: Thanks, but there's no need.

Anby: I do want to buy a new W-Engine, but even with the account balances of the three of us Cunning Hares combined, we wouldn't be able to afford the latest model.

Then I'll do you a favor.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍In that case, I'll do you a favor — the boss is about to give me one as a thank-you gift. It won't be of much use to me, so I'll pass it on to you, Anby. / In that case, I'll do you a favor. The boss is about to give me one as a thank-you gift. It won't be of much use to me, so I'll pass it on to you.‍)

I happen to have one.

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (‍I just so happen to have one on hand. It's a thank-you gift from the boss. It won't be of any use to me, so you can have it. / I just so happen to have one on hand. It's a thank-you gift from the boss. Since it won't be of any use to me, you can have it.‍) ‍^{[verification needed]}

Anby: Really? This will make dealing with that superior Ethe... I mean, player, a lot easier.

Susie: Oh? It sounds like you're planning to meet other W-Engine players? Don't worry, with the boss's skillful customization, you'll be sure to leave a lasting impression! Just hold on a sec~

Susie walks into the store, and after a while...

Susie: Sorry to keep you waiting. The gifted sample has been modified.

(New Modified W-Engine added to the Workbench)

Anby: Yeah, I like this design.

I'm glad you like it!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): I'm happy you like it. I hope it serves you well.

It suits you!

(ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): The design and color are perfect for you. It will surely work wonders in your hands!

Anby: Thank you. And the boss, too. I'll treasure it.

(W-Engine Tutorial Starts): Anby: Now that I have a new W-Engine, I'll try it out.; Anby: Let's navigate to the Agents screen.; Anby: Go to my equipment screen.; Anby: This device is not yet equipped with a W-Engine.; Anby: Select Equip to place it.; Anby: Equip the "Exclusive W-Engine" to activate a special appearance in battle.; Anby: By the way, you can also Enhance your W-Engine.; Anby: Next, select the Enhance button.; Anby: Use enhancement material W-Engine Battery.; Anby: Let's check what an Enhance does, Proxy!
(Open Exclusive W-Engine Effects Tutorial)
(Close menus): Susie: From the look on your face, you seem to like the owner's gift. That's good.; Anby: When it came to investing in W-Engines, Nicole only put in enough for "peace of mind." She'll be overjoyed when she finds out.; Tell her to spend money in the right place.; Tell her she owes me again.; Anby: Sure, I'll let her know.; Anby: Prox... Manager, besides purchasing W-Engines, I have to make preparations for other missions. See you.; Anby leaves...; Susie: (‍That's all, Wise. We'll leave our shop's goods to you then.That's all, Wise. We'll leave our shop's goods to you then.Text for Wise / We don't have anything else with the Manager, Belle. I'll leave the store's goods in your capable hands.We don't have anything else with the Manager, Belle. I'll leave the store's goods in your capable hands.Text for Belle‍); Let your boss know it'll be okay.; I'll take care of everything as soon as I can.; (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Now that we've received the gift, let's head to the Hollow and retrieve the missing W-Engines. They're worth a lot.); (ProtagonistProtagonistWise / Belle): (Since Susie has no idea about her boss's "side gig," let's be careful not to spill the beans when discussing the commission with her.)

(Idle): Susie: I'll leave the restocking up to you!

(Talk to Susie again, optional): Susie: It's about time the new gadget's released, but now something like this happens...; Susie: I really need your help, (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍)! Otherwise, the store's revenue this week is gonna...

Commission Description

Go back to the video store and talk to (Sibling) about the commission you just took on.

(SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍You've accepted the commission. Are you going to enter the Hollow now?You've accepted the commission. Are you going to enter the Hollow now?Text for Wise / You already met with General Chop and Susie to sort out the commission? That was fast, Wise.You already met with General Chop and Susie to sort out the commission? That was fast, Wise.Text for Belle‍); (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍As Proxies, we can roam freely within the Hollow, which isn't easy, for most people at least.As Proxies, we can roam freely within the Hollow, which isn't easy, for most people at least.Text for Wise / As Proxies, we can move around in the Hollow freely. That's something most people can't boast of being able to do.As Proxies, we can move around in the Hollow freely. That's something most people can't boast of being able to do.Text for Belle‍); (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): But still, we need Agents with combat experience, like the Cunning Hares, to handle Ethereals and other dangers.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): As usual, you should get in touch with trusted Agents to accompany you.
(Signal Search has been unlocked)
(Start Signal Search tutorial): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Press L-ALT to show the cursor.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): You can quickly obtain Agents or W-Engines via Signal Searches.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): The Stable Channel has special events for new citizens.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Let's take a look at other events.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): After a certain number of Signal Searches, you can select an Agent to obtain.

(As Wise, talk to Belle again, optional): Belle: I suddenly had this thought. the job of a Proxy couldn't be replaced by advanced AI systems, right?; I don't think so.; Belle: I agree! Even without the communication issues in the Hollows, guiding those who are lost and finding paths out is what being a Proxy is all about, right? Even though we're not the ones physically going in, and we gotta rely on Eous.; That's not bad, though?; Belle: Ladies and gentlemen, my brother just uttered something completely lame! But fear not, for Phaethon will not succumb to advanced AI systems!

(As Belle, talk to Wise again, optional)

Wise: Phaethon consists of two people, but taking action within the Hollows depends more on you.

What's with the sudden praise?

Wise: I'm just stating facts.

Wise: It's your turn for the dishes. Just remember to approach your chores with the same dedication you bring to the Hollows. Don't try to escape last minute.

Back me up here Wise!

Wise: Are you spouting all that nonsense just to find a way to weasel out of doing the dishes today?

Wise: Leave the support work on the HDD and cooking to me, Belle. You can just worry about the dishes.

Commission Description

Use the Hollow Deep Dive System to complete the commissions "Logistics Disaster" for General Chop and "The Ultimate Collectibles" for Susie.

(Enter the HDD): AI: Authentication verified. User login: PHAETHON; AI: I noticed that you've taken on two different types of commissions, Master.; AI: Exploration Commission: Venture into the uncharted depths of the Hollow. It's essential to navigate your paths on the monitor array through the HDD.; AI: Combat Commission: With your path laid out, all you need to do is fight and eliminate the threats in the Hollow.; AI: Outstanding Commissions: 2

(Upon choosing a commission): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Enter "Select Squad" to choose Agents for this mission.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): You can use "Quick Config" for more convenient operations.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Now, let's choose the first Agent to deploy.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Next, select another Agent to join the battle.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Once you're ready, you can confirm the selection.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Here you can view the Agent's Specialty and Stats.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): By pairing Agents' Specialties and Stats, you can achieve unexpected effects.
(Show Stun Specialty and Attack Specialty Tutorial and About Agent Specialties Tutorial)

(Complete a commission): AI: Commission completion verified. Info archived.; AI: Outstanding Commissions: 1

(Complete both commissions): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): You got the commissions done real quick. (‍Nice one, Wise!Nice one, Wise!Text for Wise / Impressive, Belle!Impressive, Belle!Text for Belle‍) You should go tell Susie and General Chop.

Commission Description

General Chop's commission is done. Go tell him the good news.

(Chat with Luckyboo, optional): Luckyboo: It's Friday evening! Have pleasant dreams tonight!

(Chat with Bangboo 18, optional): Bangboo 18: Ehn-na nu-na-nah. (I'm on duty at the video store today.); Bangboo 18: Nhu-na nhu-ne-ne! (Hopefully we'll get a lot of orders today!)

(Talk to General Chop)
(A small cutscene plays): General Chop: (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍), you're back. Come sit down!; Has the shop reopened again?; The courier is safe and sound.; General Chop: By the way, Pegasos called shortly after you went into the Hollow for the commission. They told me the driver had been brought out of the Hollow by someone from the Association.; General Chop: Wait, that means I sent you there for nothing?; Well, it's better to err on the side of caution.; General Chop: (‍WiseWiseText for Wise / BelleBelleText for Belle‍), you're so reliable!; General Chop: Anyway, I thought I'd treat you to a meal once you came back. Now that the ingredients I purchased last minute are here, and the driver's also back, I can finally make noodles in peace.; General Chop: What would you like to eat? Today I'm pulling out all the stops to give you my special!
(Show Waterfall Soup Noodle Shop Tutorial)
(Waterfall Soup noodle shop has been unlocked.)

Commission Description

Susie's^{[Note 1]} commission is done Go tell her the good news.

(Talk to Susie)

Susie: (‍Wise / Belle‍)! You sorted everything out?

Yeah. You can let your boss know.

Your restocking issue has been resolved.

Susie: Great! I'll go tell the boss. Wait a sec!

Susie enters the gadget store filled with excitement and walks out happily a few moments later.

Susie: Boss is so grateful for your help. He asked me to pass on his thanks to you!

Susie: Here it goes, then? Ahem...

Susie: "Excellent. I knew I could trust you. The new toys will be on the shelves very soon."

Susie: "From now on, I'll do my best to help you out if you're buying cool new gadgets or trading in old ones."

You're getting awfully good at impressions!

Susie: I'm not done yet! Ahem...

Susie: "Come to the store whenever you like. The kid will show you around."

Susie: By the way, let me ask you secretly, (‍Wise / Belle‍), that W-Engine the boss gave you, did you give it to that cute girl for fighting...

(...Did I get busted?)

(...Stay calm, and think of how to respond)

Susie: Oh no, no, yeah, I mean, for battling other players, right?

Susie: So, did you win?

...I'm not sure

Susie: You should be able to win, right? The boss even helped with the modifications... The boss's creativity is sure to win!

Of course, we won. A total victory.

Susie: I knew it! With the boss's modifications, it should easily be the best toy!

Susie: *humming*... Our store's toys never lose!

Susie: We're putting some new items on the shelves this time. (‍Wise / Belle‍), are you interested? Want to come in and check them out? You can get first pick!

Susie: It's okay to look around even if you don't plan on buying anything! I'll be waiting for you at the store, be sure to drop by!

(Show Gadget Store Box Galaxy Tutorial)

(Enter Box Galaxy)

(Exit Box Galaxy)

Reply when you receive this message!Please reply when you receive this message.

REPLY

Got itGot it!

What's wrong?Broooooo!

That was fastThat was fast

Looks like you've already met the neighbors.Looks like you've already met the neighbors.

I nearly went out to find you before it suddenly hit me that I could text you.You always take so long to read my texts. I was going to head out and look for you.

REPLY

Did something urgent happen?

Want me to bring something back?

Nope, I just got a DM from Nicole and they'll be coming over to the video store real soon.Nope, I just got a DM from Nicole and they'll be coming over real soon.

Come back once you're done.
By the way, there's some stuff that needs to be done on the new account. Remember to check it out when you're free

(Compendium Unlocked)
(Open the Compendium): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): You can see the missions that need to be completed for a trial here.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Complete trial missions to get the corresponding reward.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Aside from trial missions, it's also important to hone your skills.
(Open the Tactics Tab): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): You can see the different practices you can complete here.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Once you complete a practice, you'll be able to gain certain rewards.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Let's take a closer look.
(Hollow Zero: The Mystery of Arpeggio Fault Unlocked)

Commission Description

Go back to the video store and talk to (Sibling) about what to do next.

(Talk to (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle)): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): (‍BelleBelleText for Wise / WiseWiseText for Belle‍), Nicole says she has a lead on the strongbox and is on her way here!; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): This commission doesn't feel like an easy one. I've gathered some info and uploaded it to the tablet on the workbench. If you need it, feel free to check it out any time.; (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Anyway, if you're ready, head to the parking lot and wait for Nicole.

Commission Description

Everything's ready. Go to the parking lot and meet up with Nicole and the others.

(Idle): (SiblingSiblingWise / Belle): Nicole looks so confident... Could she actually be reliable this time...?; Anby: "Professional"...?; Billy: Alright, now it's time for the main event!

(Talk to Billy, optional): Billy: Yo, we're back!; Looks like things are going smoothly?; Billy: Obviously! The Cunning Hares are professionals when it comes to investigating.

(Talk to Anby, optional): Anby: Mmm... it's a professional look...; What are you muttering over there, Anby?; Anby: Ah, it's nothing. Nicole is waiting on you.

(Talk to Nicole)

Other Languages[]

Language	Official Name
English	Proxy Business
Chinese (Simplified)	绳匠生意 Shéngjiàng Shēngyi
Chinese (Traditional)	繩匠生意 Shéngjiàng Shēngyi
Japanese	プロキシ Purokishi
Korean	로프꾼 사업 Ropeukkun Sa'eop
Spanish	Negocio proxy
French	Activité de proxy
Russian	Бизнес прокси Biznes proksi
Thai	งาน Proxy Ngan Proxy
Vietnamese	Kinh Doanh Kết Nối
German	Proxy-Geschäfte
Indonesian	Bisnis Proxy
Portuguese	Negócio de Proxy

References[]

↑ In Version 1.7, this commission text says "Elfy's commission is done", which is incorrect and confusing. For the purposes of the wiki, it has been corrected to "Susie's commission is done".

Change History[]

Released in Version 0.13

[Edit History]

Version 1.4

A section of dialogue was added in "A Short Break", giving some background on the protagonists.

Version 1.0

A lot of dialogue was updated for the game's release.

Version 0.2.0

Proxy was renamed to Proxy Business.

Version 0.13

Proxy (Act) was released.

Navigation[]

[1] In Version 1.7, this commission text says "Elfy's commission is done", which is incorrect and confusing. For the purposes of the wiki, it has been corrected to "Susie's commission is done".

[Note 1]