|
Spoiler Alert!
These tabs contain full Fate Episode cutscene scripts with major spoilers about the character. View these tabs at your own discretion.
|
Chat Noir Steals the Show!
A security detail is assigned to Vyrn, but then a second, identical (Captain) appears. Vyrn fools the fake (Captain) with a trick question, after which the fake reveals himself to be Chat Noir.
The Grandcypher is currently moored in a harbor, for even airships need to rest their wings.
Swans slumber away by the lake shore, indifferent to the white fog that surrounds them.
Meanwhile, the crew is lost in dreams of their own as they lie in their warm, down-filled beds.
It's a peaceful morning scene that could put a smile on anyone's face.
Morning eventually passes. The crew, trying to suppress their yawns, awake to the afternoon sun.
Vyrn: Morning, Lyria. We slept in pretty late today.
Lyria: Good—yawn—morning, Vyrn. I still feel sleepy for some reason.
Lyria: Ah, good morning, (Captain)!
(Captain), Vyrn, and Lyria exchange pleasantries on the deck, when they spot a scrap of paper on the ground.
Lyria: What's this? There's something written on it.
I will be paying Vyrn a visit in the evening.
Phantom Thief Chat Noir
Vyrn: Huh? Is that all it says?
Lyria: Oh! This must be a letter about Chat Noir's next target!
Vyrn: Now wait a minute, just wait a minute here! Why am I the one he's after?
Lyria: I don't know! But if we don't do something, you're going to get kidnapped!
Just then, a shadow appears behind the group.
Vyrn: Yipes!
Katalina: And just who exactly is going to kidnap Vyrn?
Vyrn: Katalina! You scared me!
Lyria: Eep! Where did you come from, Katalina?
Katalina: Vyrn? Kidnapping? Don't make me laugh!
Katalina: None shall lay a single finger upon Vyrn for as long as I, Katalina Aryze, draw breath!
Vyrn: Hahaha! With you around, I've never felt safer, Katalina!
Vyrn: Well... We don't have much of a choice, do we? I guess we'll have to see what Chat Noir wants.
Lyria: Yeah! It should be fine if everyone shows they mean business!
Katalina quickly takes charge as Vyrn's bodyguard.
Night falls and the crew waits on the deck of the Grandcypher, where a trap net has been set.
Katalina: It's late. When is he going to show up?
Lyria: Yawn. He needs to hurry up. It's already bedtime.
Vyrn: Sigh. Why does he have to make this such a hassle?
Katalina: Heh, perhaps he's scared of my perfect bodyguard detail.
Katalina: The day is almost over. Our victory is close at hand!
Just then, the door of the cabin slowly begins to open.
And who should appear from the cabin but (Captain).
Katalina: Huh? (Captain)?
Lyria: Oh my gosh! What's going on?
Vyrn: No matter how you look at it, this has got to be Chat Noir's handiwork!
Two (Captain)s stand on the deck of the Grandcypher.
Both of them face each other and accuse the opposite person of being a fake.
Katalina: Confound it! Which one is the real (Captain)?
Vyrn: They're like mirror images! There's gotta be some way we can tell them apart.
Lyria: What do we do? Um, let's see... The real (Captain) is...
Vyrn: Is it the (Captain) who's been here with us the whole time, or is it the (Captain) who just came out of the cabin?
Katalina: Hold on, you two! You're trying too hard to make judgments using your instincts.
Katalina: Vyrn. Ask (Captain) a question that only you and the real (Captain) would know the answer to!
Vyrn: That's one way to do it!
Lyria: It's a test of the memories you two share, Vyrn!
Vyrn: Okay, here goes! Ready?
Vyrn: What's my favorite way to eat apples?
Vyrn: (I'm countin' on you, (Captain). The real you should know the answer.)
- Apple juice!
- Apple pie!
- Apple jam!
- Candied apples!
Choose: Apple juice!Vyrn: Well, you did make it for me that time I got sick.
Vyrn: I was really touched by your kindness.
The (Captain) who had been with them since the beginning answers Vyrn matter-of-factly.
Choose: Apple pie!Vyrn: That's true. You did learn how to make apple pie from that super-skilled granny.
Vyrn: You've been baking pies for special occasions ever since!
The (Captain) who had been with them since the beginning answers Vyrn matter-of-factly.
Choose: Apple jam!Vyrn: I don't remember when exactly, but we got too many apples once, so you made them into jam.
Vyrn: And it was so good on freshly-baked bread!
The (Captain) who had been with them since the beginning answers Vyrn matter-of-factly.
Choose: Candied apples!Vyrn: That takes me back. We bought it from a stall at a festival.
Vyrn: I accidentally dropped mine in the mud, so you gave me yours instead.
The (Captain) who had been with them since the beginning answers Vyrn matter-of-factly.
Continue 1On the other hand, the (Captain) who came from the room has not yet answered and continues to stand in silence.
Vyrn: Ahahaha! I've figured it out!
Katalina: Really?
Lyria: So who's the real one, Vyrn?
Vyrn: Ahem. The real one... is you!
Vyrn points to the (Captain) who had come from the cabin.
Katalina: Huh? That's the real (Captain)?
Lyria: What makes you so sure?
The (Captain) who had come from the cabin finally speaks.
The answer to Vyrn's question is silence.
Vyrn: Yep! (Captain) passed the test without saying a thing!
Vyrn: You wanna know what I like the best? Raw apples!
The other (Captain), the one who been there the whole time, shows no surprise at Vyrn's answer.
Vyrn: The jig is up, Phantom Thief! Show yourself!
As soon as Vyrn finishes, the other (Captain) leaps into the air before alighting nimbly on the edge of the airship.
Chat Noir: Heh heh heh. Well done. I must commend you on seeing through my ruse!
Chat Noir: You were able to see through my disguise... Hm, perhaps I've underestimated you.
The crew gathers around the real (Captain), and they all turn their attention to Chat Noir.
Lyria: Thank goodness. Are you all right, (Captain)?
(Captain) reassures Lyria with a nod.
Katalina: There's still something I don't understand. We were with (Captain) the entire time!
Vyrn: That's right! When did they switch places?
Chat Noir: Very well. Allow me to explain.
Chat Noir begins to reveal the whole story.
Chat Noir: To answer your question, I had switched places with (Captain) from the very beginning.
Vyrn: How's that possible!
Chat Noir: What a wonderful reaction. I filled the ship with sleeping gas earlier this morning.
Vyrn: Aha! That's why we all overslept today!
Chat Noir: Once I had you all in a deep slumber, I donned my disguise and infiltrated the ship.
Chat Noir: Then I tied up the real captain and locked them up in the bilge.
Chat Noir: Finally, with the switch complete, I placed the letter for you to find with everyone none the wiser.
Katalina: But if your goal was to kidnap Vyrn, why didn't you do it when we were all asleep?
Chat Noir: Heh heh heh. My goal was never to kidnap Vyrn.
Chat Noir: My real goal was to confirm the capabilities of your crew, (Captain), with my own eyes.
Chat Noir: Based on what I've seen from this little exercise, I would say that your capabilities are the real thing.
Vyrn: Uh, I think you might have just pulled a fast one on us, to be honest.
Lyria: Yeah. We were completely fooled.
Katalina: Indeed. We'll have to beef up security around here after this.
Chat Noir: No, wait. Your defenses are adequate. If you're careful, that is.
Chat Noir: But above all else, I'm most impressed by the way your captain managed to get out of my trap and escape from the bilge.
One has to wonder why Chat Noir's being so nice to the crew.
Chat Noir: Heh heh heh. I'm honored that you acknowledge me as your rival.
Chat Noir: I predict many more mysteries coming your way. Heh heh heh heh.
Chat Noir: Bwahaha! Bwaahahaha!
Chat Noir leaps off the side of the airship, his wild laughter growing fainter as he descends.
Vyrn: Hey! Wait, Phantom Thief!
Like a fleeting scent on the wind, the Phantom Thief disappears.
Then, they see him flying away in a small airship.
Chat Noir: Ladies and gentlemen, I bid you adieu! We shall meet again!
(Captain) and company can only stare as the ship disappears into the horizon.
Lyria: That was something. He's more interesting than I thought!
Vyrn: I bet he rehearsed that exit.
Katalina: But he said more mysteries are to come. It's not over yet, is it?
Vyrn: Sigh. I bet that guy's just an attention seeker.
Vyrn: Geez, and now he's got his eyes on you too, (Captain).
(Captain) lets out a deep sigh.
And that's how (Captain) came to be followed by Chat Noir.
The Art of Thievery
The crew tackles two simultaneous requests to recover stolen jewels for the countries of Akoku and Ukoka. Chat Noir offers his services and takes them to a location that might provide clues to help them complete their tasks.
Some time later, (Captain) and company receive two requests of a peculiar nature.
The first request comes from the country of Akoku. Their national jewel has been stolen by their neighboring country, Ukoka, and they want it returned.
The second request comes from the country of Ukoka. Their national jewel has been stolen by their neighboring country, Akoku, and they want it returned.
These incidents threaten to trigger a conflict between the two countries, who already have a history of animosity.
Lyria: Hrm. Doesn't it seem strange to get two requests that are almost exactly the same?
Vyrn: Obviously. There's gotta be a reason for this.
Chat Noir: Heh heh. That's quite a conundrum, I dare say.
Lyria: Yeek! Chat Noir?
Vyrn: Whoa! Where did you come from?
Chat Noir: Wherever enigmas appear, I shan't be far behind.
Lyria: That's amazing! How do you do that?
Chat Noir: Ahem. I can't tell you that, Lyria.
Chat Noir: Now then, I believe I have a clue for you. Would you be so kind as to follow me?
(Captain) nods in approval.
Chat Noir: Thank you. Let's be on our way.
The Art of Thievery: Scene 2
They arrive at a hideout used in underworld affairs. Two suspicious men appear with the stolen jewels, and the crew moves to take them back.
Chat Noir leads the party to an empty room that seems to be purposely hidden from the public.
Vyrn: What is this place?
Chat Noir: This is a hideout used by people in the underground world.
Lyria: This is kind of exciting! I wonder what we're going to find here.
Chat Noir: Well, we'll have to wait and see. Hm? Sounds like we're not alone.
The party hides in the shadows and watch as two suspicious men walk into the room.
Suspicious Man 1: Hehehe! I can't believe how great this is going!
Suspicious Man 2: Yeah, I never thought we'd get our hands on these treasures!
Each man pulls a jewel from a pocket hidden in their clothing.
Vyrn: Don't tell me those jewels are—
Chat Noir: Yes, those are the stolen jewels we're after.
Lyria: But how did you know they would be here?
Chat Noir: Oh, I have my ways.
Chat Noir: Now then. What say we get those jewels back, shall we?
The Art of Thievery: Scene 3
Chat Noir believes the mastermind behind the theft is his former master, who taught him how to be a phantom thief. For the time being, the crew sets out to return the stolen jewels.
Suspicious Man 1: Grr... Who are you people?
Suspicious Man 2: And what are you doing here?
The crew gets the jump on the men and apprehends them before they have a chance to act.
Vyrn: You jerks! Are you the jewel thieves?
Chat Noir: No, these are just lackeys. The real mastermind is somewhere else.
Chat Noir: Now then, I've got a question for you. Who are you working for?
Suspicious Man 1: Look, we were only told to deliver the goods!
Chat Noir: Calm yourselves. We don't intend to harm you. That is, of course, if you tell me what I want to know.
Chat Noir: And I only want to know one thing: the name of the one pulling the strings.
Suspicious Man 2: I don't know anything about the boss! Please, ya gotta believe me!
Chat Noir: Humph. I knew it'd be pointless to ask. Our opponent isn't one to be caught so easily.
Chat Noir: (Captain), let's depart for now.
The crew returns to the airship upon Chat Noir's request.
Vyrn: So do you have any idea who this mastermind is?
Chat Noir: Judging from what I've seen, it's probably the one who taught me how to be a phantom thief.
Lyria: You had a teacher, Chat Noir?
Chat Noir: We no longer have ties.
A rare serious expression crosses his face.
Chat Noir: In any case, we must return these jewels at once.
Chat Noir: Heh heh. It's so easy to slip through security and pilfer these days. Let's go, (Captain).
The Art of Thievery: Scene 4
When the crew arrives to return the jewels, they're already too late; the two nations have already fired shots. Chat Noir succeeds in defusing the conflict, but when he's lauded, he states that he helped simply because the theft didn't match his style.
(Captain) and company race against time to return the stolen jewels.
But the first shots of battle have already been fired along the border of the two nations.
Vyrn: Shoot! We're too late!
Lyria: But they should stop if we give them the jewels. Isn't that right, Chat Noir?
Vyrn: Oh great, he just got into his airship and flew off somewhere!
Vyrn: Looks like we're gonna have to do this on our own!
The crew makes a beeline for the front line, where the two rulers are engaged in a staring match.
Vyrn: Hey, hey! Wait a minute, you guys! We've got your precious jewels right here!
Lyria: Please listen to us, everyone! You don't have to fight anymore!
Bearing the national treasures, the crew attempts to persuade the two kings to stop.
King of Akoku: You're too late. We've already declared war!
King of Ukoka: Verily. And we won't withdraw either!
The crew's pleas fall on deaf ears, and the two armies continue mobilizing for a full-scale war.
Just then, a torrent of flower petals bearing a sweet aroma rains down atop the confused soldiers.
Vyrn: What's going on?
Lyria: Wow... It's so pretty.
Everyone, from soldiers to kings, looks up to the skies to see where the petals are coming from.
Chat Noir: Ladies and gentlemen!
Chat Noir: Who should appear on the battlefield of this idiotic war but Phantom Thief Chat Noir!
Vyrn: Huh? He pops up out of nowhere right in the middle of a war?
Lyria: It's just like Chat Noir to make a grand entrance!
Chat Noir: Heh heh. Sorry to have kept you waiting, (Captain).
King of Akoku: What! Who do you think you are? I will not stand for this interference!
King of Ukoka: All units, capture these fools!
Lyria: Oh no! This is terrible!
Vyrn: Oh for crying out loud! Calm down and listen to us!
The soldiers turn their attention to the crew, ready to attack.
Chat Noir: Could you do me a favor and put those dangerous toys away?
Chat Noir twirls his cane, and the weapons the soldiers are holding instantly turn into flowers.
Akoku Soldier: Yipes! What just happened?
Ukoka Soldier: Urgh! He uses magic?
King of Akoku: Did you use that bizarre power of yours to steal our jewel?
Chat Noir: Incorrect. I present to you the accomplices of the true culprit.
The two suspicious men who were captured earlier are brought before the two rulers.
King of Ukoka: What! Tell me... what's your game?
Chat Noir: If you're asking me what I want...
Chat Noir: This jewel heist doesn't match my artistry, wouldn't you agree?
King of Akoku: Your artistry? What are you talking about?
Chat Noir: A certain phantom thief has fabricated this war so that you two would destroy each other.
Chat Noir: That person is the only one who would be pleased by the onset of war.
Chat Noir: Well? Are you going to continue fighting knowing what you know now?
The two kings are clearly disturbed by Chat Noir's revelation.
Chat Noir: Whichever country falls, the thief plans to oust that country's king and usurp the throne.
Chat Noir shows off his prowess, first disguising himself as one king and then the other.
King of Akoku: This is outrageous!
King of Ukoka: To think that such a thing were possible...
Chat Noir: Heh heh heh. Do you understand now?
Chat Noir: I have faith in your Royal Highnesses to come to an equitable consensus and put an end to this madness.
King of Akoku: Sigh, I understand. Let's do as he says.
King of Akoku: I trust you have no objections, King of Ukoka?
King of Ukoka: I have none, King of Akoku. All units, stand down!
King of Akoku: Soldiers, withdraw now!
Chat Noir successfully persuades both kings to withdraw their forces.
Thanks to his actions, an otherwise certain war is averted.
After returning safely to the airship, Chat Noir is showered with praise by the crew.
Vyrn: You know, I have a totally different impression of you now after what happened!
Lyria: That's right! You're a very kind person!
Chat Noir: Heh heh heh. Thanks Vyrn. Lyria.
Lyria: But why did you suddenly decide to help us?
Chat Noir: You mean, back at the battlefield?
Chat Noir: That heist clashed with my style.
Chat Noir: I had to put a stop to it for my own sake. It's as simple as that.
Lyria: So you were doing it for yourself...
Vyrn: Well, as long as he's helping us do good deeds, isn't that good enough?
Lyria: Hmm... Yeah, I guess you're right!
Lyria: We're counting on you, Chat Noir!
Chat Noir: Hah hah hah! We shall meet again! I bid you adieu!
With that, Chat Noir disappears right before their eyes.
Chat Noir: (It's just as I thought. I need to be more powerful.)
Chat Noir leaves with renewed zeal, preparing for the day when he confronts his former master.
The Crew's Treasure
One day, (Captain) succumbs to a coma from poison. The only clue to the culprit is the method of crime, which has strange similarities to that of Chat Noir. While Barawa, Detective Rick, and other members of the crew are scrambling to help, Chat Noir makes a visit to Catherine's cafe. The phantom thief reveals the identity of the culprit to be none other than his former master, the criminal artist Reinbach.
Detective Rick: The incident happened two days ago in the early hours of the morning. The first one to discover the captain was the lizard—er, the dragon Vyrn.
Detective Rick: (Captain) was already in a coma and wouldn't wake up. Even crew members with the appropriate expertise were unable to pinpoint the cause.
Detective Rick: As of now, the captain is still undergoing treatment. It seems there isn't much progress yet...
Detective Rick: But thanks to the doctors, they've found that particular compounds may have been used to cause the coma.
Detective Rick: In other words, they suspect the crime went as follows...
Detective Rick: The culprit sprinkled poison all over the captain's room, which (Captain) breathed in upon returning.
Detective Rick: But (Captain) did great in opening the window right when things were getting hazy from the poison.
Detective Rick: Thanks to that, no one else suffered the same fate, and there's still hope that the captain will wake up.
Detective Rick: If more of the poison had been inhaled, I'm sure the consequences would've been much more dire...
Detective Rick: Some crewmates flew into a rage and immediately rushed out to find the culprit... It was complete chaos.
Cathy is quietly listening, taking in Rick's dejected expression and lack of energy.
Cathy: Does that mean they already know who the culprit is?
Detective Rick: You'd think so, but no... There isn't any evidence left at the scene. Whoever's responsible is highly skilled, that's for sure.
Detective Rick: To be honest, a regular crew would still be clueless as to what's going on. It's impressive they even figured out there's someone to blame.
Detective Rick: Right now, the only hint we've got is the fact that Chat Noir's infiltrated their airship in a similar way before.
Cathy: He has?
Detective Rick: Yep. He once released sleeping gas in (Captain)'s room, then switched himself with the captain under a disguise.
Detective Rick: There were no injuries or damages sustained in the process, so the crew didn't report the incident. But it was executed in exactly the same way.
Detective Rick: Though there's quite a difference in the consequences this time.
Cathy: Is Chat Noir the suspect then?
Detective Rick: Well, Barawa insisted that Chat Noir's definitely the wrong man. And I have to agree.
Detective Rick: There was no letter beforehand, and the incident just seems like it was purely for the purpose of harm. It's not something Chat Noir would do as a phantom thief.
Detective Rick: I don't need Barawa to tell me that Chat Noir's not our guy—I know instinctively he's not our main suspect, even if the bureau thinks otherwise.
Detective Rick: But I still believe there's something we can take from the fact that the culprit copied a phantom thief's methods... It's just that I've got nothing past that.
Cathy: You're in a pinch, huh?
Detective Rick: I am... Practically at the end of my wits. I'm so desperate I've had to enlist Barawa for help as a favor...
Cathy: You're actually working with Barawa?
Detective Rick: I had no other choice.
Detective Rick: You didn't hear this from me, but it seems like the Bureau of Investigation's looked into it and they're convinced it's Chat Noir.
Detective Rick: But Barawa doesn't think so, and for once, he might actually be onto something.
Cathy: Why do you think so? Wouldn't that go against the bureau?
Detective Rick: It's unclear who let slip that information on Chat Noir. The timing of it is mighty fishy as well.
Detective Rick: It feels like someone's pulling the strings here. Oh, don't worry—I won't get in trouble for doing my own thing on the side.
Detective Rick: Anyway... sorry for dumping all that on you, Cathy.
Cathy: It's fine. That crew's helped me out before, so I'm happy to listen.
Detective Rick: Glad to hear. Actually, I'm here to ask you for a favor.
Cathy: What kind of favor?
Detective Rick: I was wondering... would you consider paying a visit to the crew?
Detective Rick: Sometimes seeing a fresh face can help raise people's spirits.
Detective Rick: Who knows? (Captain) might even wake up from the delicious smell of your coffee and cooking.
Cathy: All right, I'll give them a visit tomorrow then.
Thanks, Rick.
Detective Rick: I'm the one who should be thanking you! It'll give me peace of mind to have you there with them.
Detective Rick: Now I can really focus on the investigation!
Cathy: Go give it your best shot.
Detective Rick: You got it! Thanks for the support, Cathy. I'm gonna go catch the culprit and make them whip up an antidote straightaway!
Detective Rick: I'll see you later! And I'll definitely come back to eat next time with (Captain) and the rest in tow!
Cathy: Sure. I'll be waiting.
His motivation rekindled, Rick rolls up his sleeves and exits the establishment.
Once the detective has left Kitten Cafe behind, Catherine lets out a sigh.
Catherine: Sigh... Time to close shop for the day.
Catherine: Rude of him to not place a single order throughout his entire visit. Wouldn't you say, Chat Noir?
Chat Noir: Awfully rude. Would you mind if I ordered something?
Catherine: I suppose if it's something small. Like I said, the cafe's officially closed for the day.
Chat Noir: A glass of milk then.
Catherine: Heh... You've got a childish side, don't you? Would never have guessed from your appearance.
Chat Noir: Ah, come to think of it... I do believe this is our first time meeting face-to-face, Nightsmoke.
Catherine's eyes narrow slightly as she slides a freshly poured glass of milk toward Chat Noir.
Catherine: Well, I've got a new job to attend to, so this better be worth what little time I have.
Chat Noir: It certainly is.
Chat Noir: Would the name of the culprit be worthy of your time?
Catherine: Let's hear it. Who is it?
Chat Noir: My former mentor, the criminal artist Reinbach.
Chat Noir: However, there's the possibility that someone else was there to execute his plan. What's more, the one who brought about this entire situation...
Chat Noir: Is none other than myself.
The Crew's Treasure: Scene 2
Chat Noir believes that the incident stems from Reinbach's disappointment in him, and that the criminal artist is using the antidote for the poison as bait to manipulate the crew. Chat Noir asks Catherine to steal the antidote to save (Captain) while he confronts Reinbach himself. He sends a letter to his former master, promising to steal his eyes once more.
Reinbach—a self-proclaimed criminal artist whom Barawa and (Captain) have faced off against before.
Under a perfect disguise as the chief of Auguste, he once ensnared the crew with a premeditated crisis.
However, the man has not shown himself in public since then.
Catherine: Reinbach... I've heard the name before. So you were his apprentice.
Chat Noir: We are no longer teacher and student... though, unfortunately, the past is not so easily erased.
Catherine: From what I've heard, Reinbach doesn't seem like the type to remain attached to any of his former apprentices.
Chat Noir: It seems I was a special case. He wanted me to be his successor.
Chat Noir: I lost both of my parents when I was young and was left without a single relative. That's when that man appeared in front of me, posing as someone charitable.
Chat Noir: I was suddenly presented with a choice between an orphanage or a family. And being the child that I was, I decided to put my trust in him.
Chat Noir: Needless to say, that was a mistake. Reinbach was not there to perform charity, but to brainwash me into following in his footsteps.
Chat Noir: After being taken in, I was thoroughly educated on his criminal techniques.
Chat Noir: How to handle weapons, how to move efficiently, methods of disguise and hypnosis...
Chat Noir: My entire world during my childhood was consumed by the ways of crime taught to me.
Chat Noir: Maybe "consumed" is a bit of an exaggeration. I also learned to read and write as part of my basic education—although you could say that was also for the purpose of criminal activity.
Catherine: Impressive how you managed to break out of the brainwashing.
Chat Noir: Reinbach apparently saw the makings of a good successor in me... but as it turns out, I didn't have everything it took to be one.
Chat Noir: The first time he made me accompany him on one of his jobs, my entire body froze in disgust. I finally understood what I'd been training for.
Chat Noir: From then on, I only thought about how I could get away from him. By the end, all I felt was rage and fear.
Chat Noir: Yet, if he had not taken me in, I wouldn't be here. I should be thankful that he did...
Chat Noir: Or perhaps... it would've been better if he never did. Then (Captain) wouldn't have gotten involved in all of this.
Catherine: So why is he suddenly launching an attack on the acquaintances of his beloved former apprentice?
Chat Noir: This is merely a theory, so take it with a grain of salt. I believe there are two main reasons.
Chat Noir: One is his disappointment in me. He's rather unhappy about my phantom thief business, you see.
Chat Noir: Called it "childish crime."
Catherine: Did he now? That's something I can't quite let pass.
Chat Noir: What he desires from me is more gruesome in nature.
Chat Noir: But I'm a phantom thief, and I'll continue to be so. Moreover, I haven't been involved in anything big as of late.
Catherine: Come to think of it, it's been a while since I've heard anyone receiving one of your pretentious letters.
Chat Noir: After an encounter in Auguste, I've been occupied with looking into Reinbach. It's unlikely that he hasn't realized by now.
Chat Noir: There are many aspects in which I don't fulfill his ideals... and now he's taken drastic measures to express his frustration and disappointment.
Chat Noir: The information that detective had is probably a leak from Reinbach. He's trying to lure me out into the light.
Catherine: Right, I can see that. What's the second reason?
Chat Noir: Reinbach is an armchair criminal—he uses others to do his gruesome work for him rather than dirtying his own hands.
Chat Noir: Much like (Captain) has gathered quite a group of admirers, so too does Reinbach have devoted followers...
Catherine: Are you saying that Reinbach wants to bait the crew with the antidote?
Catherine: Seems unlikely there's anyone stupid enough to fall for it.
Chat Noir: I'm of the same opinion. But Reinbach is not someone who races toward the finish line. He'll take his time and place a second—even a third—trap.
Chat Noir: Haste hinders one's judgment. But if we don't do anything, who knows if (Captain)'s condition will get worse...
Catherine: Time is on the other party's side then.
Catherine: Have you got a plan?
Chat Noir: Putting (Captain)'s well-being into consideration, I'd like to resolve the situation as soon as possible.
Chat Noir: I'll have to stand up against him as a phantom thief. Might be imprudent of me to think so, but this could be the perfect chance.
Chat Noir: If I capture Reinbach, then I can finally let go of my own misgivings.
Catherine: Won't you be walking right into his trap though?
Chat Noir: I'm the phantom thief Chat Noir. There's no need to worry.
Chat Noir: Besides, I'm left with no other choice. (Captain) needs saving.
Chat Noir: And that's where I'd like to ask something of the master thief Nightsmoke.
Catherine: And what would that be?
Chat Noir: I'd like you to acquire either the antidote or the poison that was used. I'm certain both exist somewhere.
Chat Noir: I'll share what I know so far from my investigations. The same information has been given to Barawa, so feel free to use that to your liking.
Chat Noir stands up and flings a single notebook toward Catherine.
Catherine: Well-prepared, aren't you?
If you're leaving the poison itself to me, then what are you going to steal?
Chat Noir: You'll have to watch and see.
That's assuming, of course, you do your part.
Catherine: Please. I never disappoint.
Reinbach: This is all he writes after so long? His unwillingness to compromise even in this situation is appalling.
Reinbach: You've failed my expectations, Chat Noir.
Reinbach glares coldly at the letter in his hands, from which the faint smell of perfume drifts.
Letter: "To my dear former teacher: I shall come to take your eyes once more."
Reinbach: I'd very much like you to take them from me. After all, at this rate, I'd have no choice but to throw it all away...
Reinbach: Both you and the apparatus for your corpse.
The man sinks back into his chair, his lips curling into a faint smile as he closes his eyes.
The Crew's Treasure: Scene 3
Five days after (Captain)'s incident, Jamil is chasing after Reinbach on his own. Reinbach promises to hand over the antidote if Jamil agrees to help him with his crimes. Unable to reach an agreement, the criminal artist decides to retreat, his thoughts turning back to Chat Noir.
Five days have passed since (Captain) fell into a coma. Meanwhile, in an alley tucked away on an island somewhere...
???: Huff, huff...
???: Not so fast.
???: Grah!
Jamil: I don't have much time left to me by my master. Don't take up too much of it.
Jamil: This is your last chance. The man who hired you, Reinbach—where is he?
Reinbach's Minion: I d-don't know... I'm just doing what he told me to do...
Jamil: Very well. Then I have no further use for you.
Reinbach's Minion: ...!
Jamil: I've impaired your throat and your legs. But worry not—they'll heal with time.
Jamil: However, I would advise you not to involve yourself with that man anymore. For your own sake.
Casting his cold gaze on the quivering henchman in front of him, Jamil sheathes his dagger.
The moment he found (Captain) unconscious, Jamil had left the Grandcypher by himself in search of the culprit.
Eventually, he learned of the name "Reinbach" from Barawa and Rick and tracked down the criminal's subordinates.
???: Splendid work. Truly a survivor of the renowned Urzhuwan Clan who once served the Erste royal family.
Jamil: ...!
Reinbach: No need to be on your guard. Did you not want to see me? Jamil of the Urzhuwan.
Jamil: You know of me... Are you Reinbach?
Reinbach: I am. But wait—oho. You've crushed his throat and knees, I see...
Reinbach's Minion: ...!
Reinbach: You've spared his life, but broken his body very precisely. I'm at a loss, frankly.
Reinbach: If you'd simply killed him, all would have been over and done with. Instead, you've left me with defected goods...
Reinbach: Cleaning up is rather troublesome, you know?
Reinbach delivers a harsh kick straight into the stomach of his collapsed henchman, who lets out a muffled scream of pain.
Jamil: ...!
Reinbach: Did you refrain from killing because you promised your dear captain so? How faithful of you.
Reinbach: Well, I suppose that's only to be expected of the Urzhuwan. Even more so after you were rescued from Erste.
Reinbach: But can you afford such mercy? By my calculations, your precious captain should have little time left, despite your ministrations.
Jamil: I cannot fail to keep my promise, even if my master does not wake... or hovers on the brink.
Jamil: I will save my master in spite of it.
Reinbach: You? Haha... What will you do? Threaten or even torture me?
Jamil: If the necessity arises.
Reinbach: I have to say, I'd rather not be subjected to your torture at this age.
Jamil: I, too, would like to avoid it if possible. You'd do well to hand over the antidote if you have it with you.
Reinbach: As a matter of fact, I do have it. It's my trump card for any negotiations that should occur, after all.
Reinbach reaches into his chest pocket and takes out a small vial.
Jamil: Is that...
Reinbach: The antidote you seek, yes. Drinking this should alleviate any symptoms of the poison immediately.
Reinbach: But I'd like to use this to strike a deal that works for the both of us.
Reinbach: Resorting to violence here would only cause more reason for trouble later, wouldn't you agree?
Jamil: What are you saying?
Reinbach: I will give you this antidote. In return, you'll help me with my work.
Jamil: I don't kill.
Reinbach: I won't ask you to assassinate anyone, of course.
Reinbach: There isn't a shred of artistry in that kind of thing. Art must be witnessed by many.
Reinbach: I'd like you to prepare the base—a canvas, if you will—for my magnificent artwork.
Reinbach: Crimes are quite straightforward. You take the time to make the appropriate preparations—that's plenty of work for you already.
Jamil: Why don't you give me the antidote first so that I can test the effects of it on my master?
Reinbach: Do you doubt me?
Jamil: I have no reason whatsoever to believe you.
Reinbach: True. Hm, mutual trust is essential in business...
Reinbach: I've no reason to trust you either, and I highly doubt you'd be willing to betray your captain.
Jamil: Why offer to negotiate when you know that already?
Reinbach: Let's say I merely wanted to give you my regards first. Negotiations, in essence, should be planned for in advance.
Reinbach: Haste makes waste, as they say. Why don't we give each other some time to think on it?
Jamil: My master does not have the luxury of time.
Jamil: Do you think I'll let you get away knowing full well that you possess the antidote to the poison?
Reinbach: And you assume I'd show myself in front of you without any sort of preparation?
Reinbach: Catch me if you can.
Jamil: Stop!
A number of Reinbach's subordinates swarm in to block Jamil's way.
The sound of clashing metal follows, echoing through the alleyway.
Reinbach: The seeds of doubt have been sown into the sole survivor of the Urzhuwan Clan. I'm quite satisfied with the outcome.
Reinbach: Now, what has my dear apprentice been up to? This farce will not entertain me for much longer.
The man's gaze sweeps across the darkness, an elated expression spreading ominously across his face.
Misdirection
While Jamil is occupying the attention of Reinbach's subordinates, Chat Noir appears in front of the mastermind himself, explaining how he had disguised himself as one of Reinbach's subordinates earlier. The criminal artist unveils artillery he had prepared for this very confrontation and uses the antidote as leverage. Reinbach finally tells Chat Noir that he had been responsible for the accident that killed the phantom thief's parents long ago.
Successfully fending off his pursuers, Jamil follows Reinbach's tracks until he arrives in front of an old mansion.
The place appears abandoned, with not a single person in sight.
Jamil: (It could be a trap... but there's no time to waver.)
Jamil: (I just need to do what I need to do!)
Steeling his resolve, he steps inside.
Jamil: ...
Jamil: Would it be safe to assume that your master is not here?
A number of figures emerge from within the shadows in response to Jamil's question.
Jamil: I've lost him... I will have to ask Seox to offer his guidance in the art of tracking again.
Jamil: But this situation is fine by me. I can fulfill my original obligation this way.
Jamil: Maybe knocking all of you out can lure the animal from its den once more...
Jamil: Two birds with one stone.
Reinbach: Violence, once resorted to, will eventually become routine.
Reinbach: Such behavior will drive you closer to that of the Urzhuwan Clan.
Reinbach: I'm truly looking forward to it, Jamil.
Nonchalant Voice: I don't know about that.
Reinbach: Ah, there you are.
Reinbach's Minion?: Kept you waiting, haven't I?
Reinbach: Oho. I'm surprised you put yourself at such risk.
Reinbach: By the looks of it, at least the wound was real.
Chat Noir: We might've made it a little too flashy in order to deceive you. I must commend Jamil and his handiwork.
Chat Noir: I do feel bad for making him go as far as hitting a friend, but it was necessary given the circumstances.
Chat Noir: I have to say though—your kick was what did the most damage. I've got a broken rib now thanks to you.
Despite his nonchalant smile, beads of cold sweat drip from Chat Noir's brow.
Reinbach: I'm glad I didn't use my gun and went for your stomach instead of the neck. What if I'd accidentally killed you?
Reinbach: It'd be terrible if you started rotting without me realizing... Preserving an already decomposing body wouldn't be the best for room decor.
Reinbach: Still, I'm surprised you were able to find me given your state.
Chat Noir: Jamil graciously agreed to occupy the attention of your subordinates.
Reinbach: That's where your concern lies?
Reinbach: I don't enjoy being looked down on like that.
Reinbach raises his foot and stomps firmly on the ground. The machines behind him immediately begin to move, transforming into three separate devices equipped with artillery.
Chat Noir: (The machine in the middle has one large cannon, whereas the ones on either side of it are equipped to rapid fire. Quite the overkill for self-defense...)
Reinbach: These machines react to movement and have superior precision in shooting any object in motion. I had them prepared for your little friends.
Reinbach: Now that we're standing on even ground, let's hear your reason for coming to see me.
Chat Noir: The reason is obvious: I'm here to save (Captain).
Reinbach: So this is what you want, hm?
Reinbach takes out the same vial he had shown Jamil earlier.
Chat Noir: How about you play nice and give that to me?
Reinbach: You must still be half-asleep to suggest that when you have nothing on your side to negotiate with.
Chat Noir: I do believe you're the one who's looking down on me. It'd be hardly a problem to dodge your shots and take the vial from you.
Chat Noir: You should know that full well, seeing you were the one who taught me.
Reinbach: Heh. Yes, you have a point. But the reason you're bothering with this meaningless talk...
Reinbach: Is because you know there is the possibility that I could simply destroy the antidote entirely.
Chat Noir: ...
Reinbach: You may be able to rush at me to take the vial, but I can either crush the tube with my hand, or conveniently let it slip...
Reinbach opens his hand, letting the vial float midair for a split second before catching it again.
Chat Noir: ...!
Reinbach: I could care less if the vial fell and broke. Why does it matter if a single skyfarer lives or dies?
Reinbach: And that's why you've been waiting for the slightest chance, hoping to distract me with pointless banter.
Reinbach: What a cheap trick. You haven't changed at all since you were a child.
Reinbach: Whenever anything important to you got hurt, you'd grow careless with your thoughts. This has always been the best way to keep you under control.
Reinbach: Back then, you clung onto the simple salvation in front of you. And even now, you come leaping to your death without sufficient preparation.
Chat Noir: Back then? What do you...
Chat Noir: No...
Reinbach: Yes, Chat Noir. You're finally using that brain of yours.
Reinbach: I murdered both of your parents before offering you my hand.
Chat Noir: But... how? They died... in an accident...
Reinbach: Of course it could be nothing but an accident. No one who saw it would be able to say otherwise. Airship mishaps at the port are an everyday occurrence.
Reinbach: An airship charging straight into a couple—right in front of their child—before pulverizing them is not so uncommon.
Reinbach: It all happened so quickly. Two people, turned into nothing but chunks of flesh without even the opportunity to utter their last words.
Reinbach: I can still see the beautiful spectacle, burned forever into my memory!
Chat Noir: Stop it!
Chat Noir lets out a cry, feeling an unbearable ache from deep within his trembling body.
Reinbach's face is lit with exhilaration at the sound of Chat Noir's lament.
Misdirection: Scene 2
When the two fail to come to an understanding, Reinbach destroys the antidote and tells Chat Noir to come back to him. However, Chat Noir sees through his former master's intentions and knows the full antidote must be elsewhere. When Reinbach asks why the phantom thief showed himself when he knew full well the antidote remained hidden, Chat Noir reminds him about the message he had sent ahead of time.
Chat Noir: Why did you go after my parents?
Don't tell me... you already had your eye on me as your successor...
Reinbach: But of course.
Chat Noir: I was a simple child, one you'd find in just about any family. What did you see in me that made you so fixated?
Reinbach: A simple child, you say? I suppose that was true in the beginning.
Reinbach: You were quite the mischievous one at the time, you know.
Reinbach: One day you were accompanying your parents out to a cafe in town for afternoon tea...
Reinbach: Before anyone knew it, you were picking up your parents' things and playing with them.
Reinbach: I sat in a seat diagonally behind you, watching. That day is still burned into my memory.
Chat Noir: What are you...
Reinbach: Despite your young age, you were extremely skilled with your hands. You didn't pretend to be something you weren't—your carefree smile after snatching an object was so incredibly beautiful.
Reinbach: That's when I knew that you would grow to become my equal—no, to surpass me.
Reinbach: It'd be an enormous waste if you merely lived your life as an average skydweller. So I thought to myself, you must start your education as soon as possible.
Reinbach: I started devising the crime immediately. The airship accident was a masterpiece even among the many other crimes I've plotted before.
Chat Noir: That's it? That's all it took...
Chat Noir has no memory whatsoever of the day Reinbach spoke so highly of.
But that was only natural—to Chat Noir's family, it had been just another day in their lives.
Chat Noir: ...
Maybe I was unlucky.
Reinbach: What's that?
Chat Noir: Plenty of children—even just in this town—play with their parents' belongings.
Chat Noir: It just happened that I caught your attention that day. That's all.
Reinbach: You don't understand, do you? I've taken on a number of apprentices besides you, but none went down the route I'd intended for them.
Reinbach: You, on the other hand, have remained on the path of crime, albeit as an amateur thief. Do you still doubt my judgment?
Chat Noir: Yes. Your so-called "judgment" is nothing more than a profound delusion.
Reinbach: Hm. Well, no matter. Not every person with talent is aware of it, after all.
Reinbach: So—have you found a way to break out of this situation?
Without a word, the phantom thief slowly takes a step forward.
But the machines behind Reinbach fail to react to his movements.
Chat Noir: You were the one who taught me how to get past any movement perception.
Reinbach: By sheer force of will?
Chat Noir: Exactly!
Reinbach: There's no beauty in that at all. If you're going to call yourself a phantom thief, you should at least live up to the name.
Reinbach: You are truly a disappointment, Chat Noir.
Chat Noir: Wha...
The muzzles are pointed not at Chat Noir, but at Reinbach himself.
Or rather at his hand, which the man has raised high above him.
Reinbach: I have to admit, the machines are not equipped with mechanisms so advanced that they can tell the difference between you and me.
With an unconcerned expression, Reinbach uses a handkerchief to wipe off the liquid from the broken vial, which has spilled all over his hand.
Reinbach: Oh dear, my apologies. I didn't think twice before moving out of reflex.
Reinbach: But oh well. Nothing to fret about—what difference would the death of a young skydweller make?
Chat Noir: ...
Reinbach: What now, Chat Noir? I'm afraid the ship you're on is sinking. Why don't you come back home, just like the old days?
Reinbach: You've grown up quite a lot, so I'll give you a respectable amount of independence this time. You can even continue your work as a thief if that's what you want.
Reinbach: Your character as a phantom thief could come in handy on occasion.
Reinbach: Now, come back to me. Let's live together again.
Chat Noir: Hah...
Reinbach: ...?
Chat Noir: Hahaha!
Reinbach: (Has he finally lost it?)
Chat Noir: Heh... Hahaha... I was wondering what you had planned—you just want to lure me back?
Reinbach: Don't tell me you've given up, Chat Noir.
Chat Noir: Please. Far from it.
Chat Noir: I've merely ascertained my victory.
Reinbach: What did you say?
Chat Noir: There's something I've discovered since I started pursuing you after the incident at Auguste.
Chat Noir: At your old age, you're infatuated with using others and rarely do anything yourself.
Chat Noir: That's because you're well aware that your own abilities have deteriorated—yet you refuse to place trust in other people.
Chat Noir: Putting this into consideration, I highly doubt you'd leave yourself even the least bit vulnerable to the dangers of confronting an enemy by yourself.
Reinbach: ...
Continue.
Chat Noir: When you came in contact with Jamil, you had a few of your subordinates escort you.
Chat Noir: But you only thought of your subordinates as shields. The only person you trust is yourself.
Reinbach: You know me well.
Chat Noir: In other words, you would never entrust something as important as an antidote to someone who is not yourself.
Reinbach: That would make this vial the real antidote, would it not?
Chat Noir: Actually, that brings us to the matter of your deterioration.
Chat Noir: Needless to say, many members of (Captain)'s crew are perfectly capable of facing you one-on-one and taking the antidote from you. It'd be an easy task.
Chat Noir: Your plan would be in shambles by now if it were anyone but me here.
Chat Noir: The solution to that problem is simple—you don't carry the real antidote with you.
Chat Noir: Or you carry something that can't be administered on its own. It'd be able to alleviate some symptoms of the poison, but not enough to act as a full antidote.
Chat Noir: Either way, (Captain) would not be able to make a full recovery with what you're carrying.
Chat Noir: And that's why there'd be no need to rob you of it, and it would not be an issue even if it were destroyed. That is my conclusion.
Reinbach: Are you sure this isn't a miscalculation on your part? You know I don't care the slightest about your captain.
Reinbach: You don't think I've simply run out of patience for your petty thievery and wanted to put a stop to it once and for all?
Chat Noir: Your true target is the crew members who have gathered under (Captain).
Chat Noir: You created a premise in which they could only save (Captain) if they cooperated with you and let you control them.
Chat Noir: If (Captain) were to die, members of the crew would surely tear off the collars around their neck and turn into beasts.
Chat Noir: That is why you can neither let (Captain) live nor die, settling for a state of limbo.
Chat Noir: The antidote is essential for this. You'd never easily discard such an important trump card.
Reinbach: That is some exceptional deduction. Did you learn it from that oaf of a detective?
Chat Noir: Heh... Maybe I did.
Reinbach: Even if what you said is true, what brings you here then?
Chat Noir: I believe I'd sent a letter in advance.
Chat Noir: I'm here to take your eyes again.
Reinbach: ...
It's time you elaborated more on that, Chat Noir.
Misdirection: Scene 3
Chat Noir's role had been to keep Reinbach's eyes on himself, while other crew members located the criminal artist's base and secured the antidote. Reinbach has no choice but to accept his defeat. He creates an explosion and escapes in the moment of chaos. Days later, (Captain) is making a steady recovery. Chat Noir pays a visit, warning the captain of Reinbach's possible future plans before disappearing out the window.
Chat Noir: You ask why I'm here.
Chat Noir: Shall we say that I'm here to fulfill my duty as a member of the crew?
Reinbach: A member of the crew?
Chat Noir: I'm afraid you went too far and stepped on the tail of a dangerous animal.
Chat Noir: With (Captain)'s life on the line, the entire crew is shaken up. You were successful in doing that much.
Chat Noir: But the members of our crew are not weak.
Chat Noir: Even without any hints from me, they've begun to find a way to expose your crimes and save their captain.
Chat Noir: Reinbach, you've created a lot more enemies for yourself than you realize.
Chat Noir: From royal families to entire countries, the Crew of Enforcers, a mafia group, and renowned masters of every art across the skies...
Reinbach: Sweet of you to warn me, but I'm rather accustomed to having enemies.
Chat Noir: Yes, of course. You're quite formidable yourself. Anyone who faces you should be quite prepared...
Chat Noir: And give themselves the advantage by diverting your attention elsewhere.
Chat Noir: As you've taught me, misdirection is the absolute basic in committing crime.
Reinbach: Thus your letter... and the man from the Urzhuwan Clan.
Chat Noir: I thought it likely that you'd be interested in Jamil, so I asked for his help.
Chat Noir: And sure enough, you took the bait.
Chat Noir: You said earlier that I get careless with my thoughts. Perhaps you're right—after all, an apprentice takes after his master.
Reinbach: Haha... Indeed.
Chat Noir: Thanks to the investigative efforts of the detectives, a master thief as skilled as myself should be stealing the antidote from your base right about now.
Reinbach: Didn't you mention the possibility of the antidote being split into different vials?
Reinbach: Hard to think that you're so familiar with my bases that you'll be able to locate all of them.
Chat Noir: True. I'm not entirely confident I have the locations of all your bases figured out.
Chat Noir: But I trust the intuition and luck of the detectives.
Chat Noir: I believe that they're capable of finding where you're keeping the poison.
Chat Noir: Obtaining the substance should make things a lot easier. We can make an antidote for the poison ourselves.
Reinbach: It's not so simple, you fool.
Chat Noir: There are outstanding doctors and those well-versed in medicine among the crew. I am merely entrusting the task to them.
Reinbach: Trust, trust, trust. That's all you talk about, when all of your actions are nothing more than wishful thinking.
Reinbach: Your relationship with the crew isn't that deep to begin with.
Reinbach: How could you trust a bunch of people whom you haven't even spoken much to?
Chat Noir: You have a point... It's true that I haven't talked much with a lot of my crewmates.
Chat Noir: But every single person in the crew is someone (Captain) has decided to accept.
Chat Noir: I trust (Captain) above all.
Chat Noir: And I know that anyone (Captain) has chosen will have no problem in pulling this off.
Reinbach: I see. It's too bad I haven't got a cure for foolish dreamers like you.
Reinbach: It appears I expected too much of you. I didn't think you'd trust others so easily.
Chat Noir: I'd say you don't trust others enough.
Reinbach: You dare to lecture me? I stand by my belief that the only trustworthy person will only ever be myself.
Chat Noir: Yeah, I thought so.
Chat Noir takes another step toward Reinbach.
Reinbach: Oh? What're you plotting now, Chat Noir? You plan to kill me yourself?
Chat Noir: I'm only sending you to where you belong...
I'm different from you.
Chat Noir: After all, I'm only a phantom thief.
Reinbach: Is that right? Too bad then. Guess I'll have to end this myself!
Reinbach extends his arm up high once more, triggering the devices behind him to reactivate.
Chat Noir: What are you doing!
Reinbach: Tell this to the crew and your awakened captain!
Reinbach: I underestimated all of you this time. I admit my loss!
Reinbach: My opponent in this game is your entire crew. I'll make sure to remember that!
Reinbach swings his hand down in one swift motion.
Chat Noir immediately makes a dash for his former master—but it is too late.
Reinbach: I won't discard the preservation apparatus for your corpse after all, Chat Noir!
Reinbach: I'll continue looking forward to the day when I can finally put you inside it!
Chat Noir: Reinbaaach!
All three machines take their aim and release their bullets at Reinbach.
Before the phantom thief can reach his former teacher, the blast from the impact of the bullets sends Chat Noir flying.
Chat Noir: Gaaah!
His body is flung back into a stone wall. As Chat Noir loses consciousness from the pain of the impact, he barely makes out Reinbach disappearing into the flames.
Chat Noir: Rrg...
Jamil: Chat Noir. You shouldn't move—you've suffered quite the injury.
Chat Noir: Jamil? Why are you...
Jamil: I heard something detonate just as my battle against Reinbach's subordinates ended.
Chat Noir: Reinbach! Where is he?
Jamil: I'm afraid I arrived too late...
Chat Noir catches a glimpse of the scorched ground over Jamil's shoulder.
Jamil: I searched the vicinity, but I was unable to find any traces of him.
Jamil: It's possible that he was blown away by the explosion...
Chat Noir: No, he's definitely alive. A rather childish trick, but it worked to a certain extent...
Chat Noir: For now, I guess we should just accept our victory this time.
Jamil: Would you deem the mission a success?
Chat Noir: Yes, I think so.
Jamil: Then you will need some medical care immediately. We'll return to the ship after that.
Chat Noir: We can deal with my injuries later. I need to chase after Reinbach... You go back to the ship first.
Jamil: But...
Chat Noir shakes off Jamil and stands up.
Chat Noir: You were a marvelous assistant, Jamil. Thank you for your help, truly!
Chat Noir: Let's meet again!
And with that, Chat Noir vanishes with ease, as if not a single injury hindered him.
A few days later at Kitten Cafe.
Detective Rick: Wheeew, so glad that's over!
Cathy: Shh. Keep your voice down, please.
Detective Rick: Whoops, sorry about that. I'm just so relieved, you know?
Detective Rick: I was really sweating for a while, but looks like it's all good now that (Captain)'s awake. Thanks to you, Cathy!
Cathy: I didn't do anything. You and Barawa were the ones who did the work.
Detective Rick: I mean, sure Barawa's crazy investigation helped a bit—if we can really call it an investigation...
Detective Rick: In any case, looks like the incident even got Nightsmoke and Chat Noir moving.
Detective Rick: (Captain)'s influence knows no bounds, huh?
Cathy: Yes, I guess you could say that. It could be part of (Captain)'s charm.
Detective Rick: Yeah, (Captain)'s a good captain. Speaking of which, have you gone to visit?
Cathy: Not yet. I'm thinking of paying a visit over the weekend.
Detective Rick: Ah, okay. Make the captain something nice to eat, will you? I hear the doctor's been pretty strict.
Cathy: I will. Thanks for letting me know.
Detective Rick: I do feel bad suggesting this while (Captain)'s still in bed, but how about we do a toast? To (Captain)'s recovery.
Cathy: Hehe, sure thing.
Detective Rick: Awesome! All right, chee...
Cathy: Hm? What's the matter?
Detective Rick: Did you start using aroma oil in your cafe, Cathy? I smell something...
Cathy: Oh, yes. I got it from a customer, hehe. It'd be a waste not to use it, so I'm giving it a try.
Detective Rick: Hm...
Rick glances at the small bottle of liquid on the counter.
The bottle is accompanied by a written message: "I chose this scent just for you."
Several days have passed since (Captain) woke from the coma.
Though afflicted by lingering numbness at first, with effective treatment from some crew members, the symptoms soon begin to improve.
Jamil, Barawa, and Rick fill the captain in on the details of the incident from start to end.
Mysterious Voice: You're rather careless for letting someone get in so easily, after all that's happened.
Chat Noir jumps in from the open window.
- I thought you'd come.
Choose: I thought you'd come.Chat Noir: Did you now? I was hoping to surprise you.
Chat Noir: Was it Jamil who told you?
(Captain) gives a small nod before saying thank you to the phantom thief.
Chat Noir: Nothing I've done is deserving of your thanks... I'm the one who got you involved in the first place.
Chat Noir: Actually, I haven't done anything at all. It's all thanks to Nightsmoke, the detectives, the healers, and Jamil.
Chat Noir: What's that? I look pretty beat up for someone who hasn't done anything? Well, don't worry about it.
Chat Noir: If you can crack a joke like that, then I presume you'll be okay. I'm glad.
Chat Noir: Still... stay alert. We don't know what Reinbach's going to do from here on out.
- I'm ready for it.
- He won't get the better of us next time.
Choose: I'm ready for it.Chat Noir: You've got some nerve...
Chat Noir: But I guess you're not the captain of this crew for nothing.
Choose: He won't get the better of us next time.Continue 1Chat Noir: I'm really hoping there won't be a next time...
Chat Noir: But I guess you're not the kind of person who'd just sit around after all that's happened already.
Chat Noir: Good grief. Looks like all I did was rile you up even more, huh?
Chat Noir: Just don't forget that you're this crew's—everyone's—treasure.
Chat Noir: Take care of yourself a little more, all right?
Chat Noir: I'm... almost tempted to steal you away right now to keep you somewhere safe.
Chat Noir leans in, a gentle smile playing on his lips.
Chat Noir: I'm only joking.
Chat Noir: Now, it's time to say goodbye. Barawa happened to catch sight of me coming in, you see.
Chat Noir: Give my regards to Jamil and Nightsmoke. Unfortunate that we didn't have a chance to meet again.
Chat Noir: Oh, and to our dear detective and his assistant too, I suppose.
Chat Noir: Farewell! Until we meet again, (Captain)!
Chat Noir disappears out the window just as Barawa swings open the door with great force, barely missing the phantom thief.
As boisterous chatter begins to fill the room, (Captain) gazes quietly out the window into the night sky.
Tasty Macaroons
