The group followed the siblings to their home where there was a person waiting. His name was Freminet.

Lyney: This is our current abode.

Freminet turns to them.

Lyney: Ah, Freminet, you're home. Where did everyone else go? I have some new friends that I would like to introduce.

Freminet: Oh, they all just went out a moment ago.

Lyney: I see. Everyone is getting busier now that "Father" will be returning soon. I suppose that can't be helped...

Lyney: Allow me to introduce you to my little brother, Freminet. He is a phenomenal diver.

Freminet: Uh, hello...

Seele: Hello

Paimon: Nice to meet you! Paimon is Paimon, and this is Aether.

Seele: My name is Seele Volleri.

Patrick: You can call me Patrick Erwan.

Jeanne: I am Jeanne D'Arc.

Marie: Viva La France! Call me Marie Antionette!

Charlotte Corday: I am Charlotte Corday. It is nice to meet you, Freminet.

Bronya: Bronya Zaychik.

Neptune: I am Neptune!

Noire: I'm Noire. It's nice to meet you.

Blanc: You can call me Blanc.

Vert: Hello. My name is Vert. Pleased to make your acquaintance.

Nepgear: I'm Nepgear.

Uni: My name is Uni.

Rom: M-My name is Rom.

Ram: I am Ram!

Kiana: My name is Kiana Kaslana!

Mei: My name is Raiden Mei.

Freminet: Interesting names you have.

Paimon: You sound very proud to have a diver as a brother, Lyney.

Aether: Lyney sure seems to have a big family.

Jeanne: And a talented family too.

Lyney rubs the back of his head laughing.

Lyney: Haha...

Freminet: Uh, Lyney... Could you come here for a moment?

Lyney: Hmm? What is it, Freminet? Do you have something to tell me?

Aether: It's alright, you go ahead.

Freminet talks to Lyney on the side. It sounded unpleasant and serious.

Lyney: Hmm... Okay, I see.

Patrick: (Sounds like something bad and serious.)

Paimon: Is everything alright?

Lyney: Oh, it's nothing, we were just discussing a little housework. Sorry for the interruption. Before I forget, our new friends and I collected more materials to make Magic Pockets. Were you able to get any, Freminet?

Freminet: Yes, I went diving and gathered lots of materials. I was about to give them to you.

Lyney: That's our Freminet, always quick with the underwater work. Alright, I'll take these to the workshop.

All of a sudden it started to rain.

Lynette: Looks like... rain.

Mei: This is unexpected.

Paimon: Oh, you're right. But wasn't it clear and sunny just a moment ago? Hmm... Fontaine's weather sure is weird.

Lyney: Hehe, I'm afraid that's just how it is here. It often rains on days when there are trials being held in the opera house, but don't worry, it'll clear up soon enough.

Seele: I've experienced things like this before when in Fontaine the last time. It rains when there are trials as Lyney said.

Freminet: ...

Paimon: Hmm? What's wrong, Freminet?

Freminet: There's a legend about the rain that I tend to believe...

Neptune: Tell us!

Freminet: It's said that a Dragon of Water once resided in Fontaine. Though we don't know where the dragon went, every time it weeps, the skies will cloud up and pour out rain. When I was a child, my mother told me that if I wanted to go outside and play, I should yell toward the sky at the top of my lungs... "Hydro Dragon, Hydro Dragon, don't cry!"

Aether: Could that Hydro Dragon be the elemental dragon of Fontaine?

Vert: Oh. Like Dvalin Azhdaha, and Apep.

Patrick: Another one of the elemental dragons of Teyvat...

Paimon: If it's an elemental dragon, then having the power to make it rain wouldn't be very unusual.

Mei: Like how the Raiden Shogun made it rain and caused heavy storms in Inazuma.

Paimon: Let Paimon try something...

Paimon looked up at the sky and said the something Freminet said while the camera zoomed out from her.

Paimon: "Hydro Dragon, Hydro Dragon, don't cry!"

Nothing happened.

Paimon: ...

Lyney: Heh... doesn't seem to be of any use. It is just a legend, after all.

Jeanne: Sorry Paimon.

Lynette: You know, you might be a more popular magician if you understood the concept of "romanticism"... or could at least play along.

Lyney: Sorry! It might be because we've never met the Hydro Dragon. Perhaps it can't be comforted by the words of strangers.

After some time, the rain stops.

Lyney: It rained for longer than I suspected... Uh, it's already getting late.

Paimon: Was there something you needed to do, Lyney?

Lyney: Yeah, some preparations for the show at the opera house. I need to find a way to catch the last aquabus of the day. On the day of the performance, just ride the aquabus to the island of Erinnyes. I'll have Lynette meet you at the fountain in front of the opera house.

Aether: Sounds good. You go ahead, Lyney.

Neptune: See you at the performance.

Freminet: Oh, uh... Are you leaving now?

Lyney: What is it, Freminet? I'm in a hurry. Oh, I get it. You feel nervous delivering the materials for the Magic Pockets, is that it? Perhaps we could trouble our new friends to help us take these materials to the Beaumont Workshop and deliver them to the owner there? I'm afraid that Freminet can be quite introverted... And the boss there tends to be pretty talkative. Freminet has always been a little afraid of her.

Patrick: (I know how that feels. I'm pretty introverted in my real life too.)

Jeanne: Oh sure we can do the job, Freminet. Just leave it to us.

Paimon: No trouble at all. Don't worry, we're on the case!

Freminet: Sorry for the inconvenience. I'm quite useless when it comes to such tasks... I'll think of a way to make it up to you.

Paimon: Oh, no need, no need! This'll be a walk in the park for us.

Freminet: Thanks again, you two. I really can't deal with that lady...

The party leaves while Lyney and Lynette go their own way. Patrick and Jeanne were at the front while Aether carried the materials. The group took in more sights of Fontaine.

(Beaumont Workshop)

Paimon: Hello? Is there anyone here?

The owner hears them and then walks to them.

Estelle: Oh, hello there. New customers? Looking to buy, or do you need something made? Or perhaps you're just looking for a chat with me?

Paimon: Oh — no, we're just here to deliver some materials. Here they are. They're for making... uh, what were they called again?

Jeanne: Magic pockets, Paimon.

Paimon: Oh! Magic pockets.

Estelle: Ah, these must be for Magic Pockets. I could tell right away, I've already made several orders' worth now.

Aether: Do we need to pay?

Estelle: No, no need. They've already prepaid several batches worth. When they told me what they'd be using them for, I even offered them a discount.

Estelle: But they insisted on paying the full amount, saying that I had a business to run... Hehe, it seems both their hearts and their pockets are made of gold.

Paimon: Whoa, so is Lyney actually loaded?

Neptune: He could be.

Estelle: I can't say for sure, but who knows... Maybe there's good money to be made being a magician in Fontaine.

Paimon and Nepgear took notice of the machine behind Estelle.

Paimon: Hey, is this machine what you use to make stuff here? It looks really advanced...

Estelle: Why use your hands when a machine can do the work? It would be a waste not to use the latest technology, and wasting is a kind of crime.

Nepgear: You can say that again. It's wasteful not to use a machine you own. And I can agree with you that's it's a crime. Especially when a machine is neglected for so long.

A background of machines rusting away being neglected appears behind Nepgear being replaced with more images as she speaks.

Nepgear: They just rust away. Being neglected and forgotten. They just rust in corners and rust outside being exposed to the elements just rusting away. Deteriorating. It's a terrible crime to leave a poor machine to rust and be forgotten and never be used again! Some people don't care about what happens to machines and just leave them rusting away and!...

Neptune slides in and hugs Nepgear.

Neptune: Nep. Jr! Calm down! Stop rambling!

Nepgear stops what she was doing noticing Neptune then the background disappears.

Nepgear: Sorry. I just couldn't help thinking about what happens to poor machines.

Estelle: You do make a valid point. I can agree with you on that. It's a terrible crime to neglect machines and leave hem rusting away. As it would be wasteful not to use a machine you own in Fontaine.

Paimon: But where does a big machine like that get its power from?

Nepgear's excitement returns.

Nepgear: That's what I'd like to know!

Estelle: Ah, well... It's a little complicated, I'm not sure I can put it in layman's terms for you... But basically, everything we usually use here in the city is powered by Indemnitium. It's a type of energy that's produced from trials.

Nepgear: Indemnitium?

Paimon: Huh? How can trials produce energy?

Estelle: Well, I'm not completely sure of all the details myself, but basically... When a trial is in session, the Oratrice Mecanique d'Analyse Cardinale harvests people's belief in justice, and converts it into energy to be used all around Fontaine.

Paimon: So that's what its other function is? Paimon heard that the Oratrice was created by the Archon to make judgments.

Nepgear: Now that's interesting.

Paimon: But Paimon still doesn't get it. How could something unreliable like people's beliefs be turned into a stable power source for these machines?

Aether: Well, Venti and Nahida both said... The gods rely on belief to obtain power.

Neptune: That's how it works with us CPUs too. People's beliefs in us in our dimension produces share energy which gives us power which fuels our nations.

Noire: It's also how were to transform into our HDD forms too. Because without share energy or people giving faith to us. We can't transform.

Patrick: That's how it pretty much works. Without people giving faith to a deity. They have no power.

Paimon: Oh, yeah! So that means the Hydro Archon relies on the machine to take the energy created by belief and turn it into power for all of Fontaine, right?

Estelle: Even though I've never heard anyone really put it that way before, it sounds like it makes sense.

Estelle: Besides Indemnitium, we have another type of energy called "Pneumousia."

Everyone: Pneumousia?

Estelle: It isn't produced by the power of the Archon, but it is unstable by nature. Even now it still cannot be widely used by civilians.

All of a sudden, 4 suspicious men walk up to them.

Truand: Heh, I thought I'd find you hard at work, but here you are chatting the day away... Since you're already talking, I'm sure you wouldn't mind a few words with me.

Estelle: Y—You again? Didn't I already promise you that I'd have the Mora I owe to  by next month? Why are you hounding me now?

Truand: Yeah, but how do we know that you won't go running off by the end of this month? I want fifty percent. Today. Wait, no... seventy percent.

Estelle: Huh!? You...

Paimon: Seems business isn't so great for the workshop... We've already finished our job and delivered the materials. Maybe now's a good time to leave?

You're right.

Sounds like a usual case of someone owing somebody else money.

Patrick: She could get beat up.

Seele: We know but we mustn't get involved.

Ram: But there are 23 of us and only 4 of them. We can take them

That's when an unexpected guest shows up.

Childe: Hey, hold on! Before you go around trying to collect payments, why don't you settle your own debts first? If Confrerie of Cabriere wants to poach clients from , that's fine, but I'm afraid you still owe the bank a hefty sum of Mora. So why don't we work things out between us first before you get back to your little conversation here?

It was Tartaglia. Childe. Number 11 of the Fatui Harbingers.

Truand: Ah, you're from Northland Bank? But we said we'll pay everything we owe next month. Why are you hounding me now?

That's when Childe notices the party

Childe: Oh, Travelers! I didn't think I'd run into you here in Fontaine. What are the chances!?

Paimon: We're surprised to see you too!

Sakura: We haven't seen you since Inazuma when we were in that labyrinth.

Childe: It has been a long time since the last time I've seen you people. And I see that your group has gotten larger with some missing.

Kallen: They're doing other things and can't join us.

Childe: I see.

Childe turns his attention to the CPUs, CPU Candidates, and Servants.

Childe: I've heard about you from what you've helped my good friends did in Inazuma and Sumeru.

Childe turns his attention to Tamamo No Mae.

Childe: If I remember correctly, you're Tamamo No Mae. Right?

Tamamo: Mikon~ Yes that's me!

Childe: I seem to remember you from the labyrinth.

He turns to Jeanne.

Childe: And you must Jeanne D'Arc.

Jeanne: Yes I am.

Childe: The two of you are Marie Antionette and Charlotte Corday.

Childe turns his attention to the Gamindustri residents.

Childe: You're called Neptune.

Neptune: Yes I am! Everyone's favorite!

Noire: Not exactly.

Childe: You must be Noire.

Noire: That I am.

Childe: You must be Blanc.

Blanc: Yes I am.

Childe: You must be Vert.

Vert: Oh yes I am.

Childe: If I'm not mistaken you must be their little sisters. Your called Nepgear, Uni, Rom, and Ram.

Nepgear: Those are our names.

Uni: Correct.

Rom: Yes we are.

Ram: We are their little sisters.

After introductions, Paimon asks Childe a question.

Paimon: What are you doing here in Fontaine? You didn't want to stay in Snezhnaya?

Sakura: We thought that you may have gone home after we met the last time in Inazuma.

Aether: We sure seem to have run into a lot of friends today.

Jeanne: Fontaine really is a curious place.

Childe: Haha! Long story short, I've already been in Fontaine for some time now, and honestly, things have been pretty boring. But it seems that fate brought our paths together today. Not only will I have some good friends here now, but ones who always seem to find trouble. Either way you look at it, it seems things are going to get a lot more interesting now.

Paimon: Pretty sure we'd want to avoid anything that you'd find interesting... Besides, our trip here has gone pretty well so far, right guys?

Patrick: Right.

Aether: I think we've already weathered enough storms for now. I don't mind a little excitement every now and then.

Truand interrupts them.

Truand: Ahem, uh... Hey you, Northland Bank boy. Aren't you forgetting something?

Childe: Don't interrupt. It's not often I run into my friends like this. Why don't you wait for me over there for a while?

Neptune: Yeah don't interrupt!

Truand: You kidding? Aren't you the one looking for us? You really expect us to sit and twiddle our thumbs while you catch up with your friends? Listen to me, boy. If you want your Mora, fine — why don't you come and take it?

Childe: Hey, I just said not to interrupt. Oh, by the way, guys... The last time I took Tonia and Teucer ice fishing, Teucer said...

Truand lost his patience and got angry.

Truand: HEY!!! That's way over the line! Alright, boys! Let's see who has to pay up now!

Childe: Ugh, can't you at least let me finish one sentence? Fine, though the bank told me not to get rough with our clients... You're the ones who started it! This is an act of self-defense. You lot will have to be my witnesses, okay?

Aether: Okay, sure.

Patrick: Go ahead, they're all yours.

Paimon: Paimon's sure this won't take long.

Childe fights against Truand and his men using his Hydro abilities. Patrick couldn't help but speak in his mind as he had mixed feelings about Tartaglia.

Patrick: (He is definitely here to steal the Hydro Archon's Gnosis. Just like in Liyue. He thought he had the Geo Gnosis only to find out that Signora and Zhongli used him. As much as he is acting as our friend now. Once something happens where he tries to steal Farina's Gnosis. He's going to act as our enemy.)

Patrick clenched his fist.

Patrick: (I refuse to let him steal the Gnosis.)

Jeanne grabbed his left hand feeling his anger to calm him down. Patrick took notice and the thoughts went away, just as Childe had Truand and his men beaten.

Truand: What's your deal, brat...? How are you so strong if you're just a staffer from Snezhnaya's Northland Bank? ...Wait, don't tell me you're—!

Childe: Oh, now you notice? It's a little late, don't you think? Just make sure you understand that you don't mess with Northland Bank, got it?

All of a sudden, just as he was going to use his Hydro powers again, Childe's Hydro Vision loses its glow.

Childe: ...Huh?

Party: Huh?!

Truand: Now's my chance!

Truand tries to attack Childe but gets knocked out.

Childe: Huh... That was weird...

The party checks on him.

Patrick: What just happened?

Aether: Are you feeling alright?

Jeanne: What's wrong? What happened to your Vision?

Childe: I'm not sure... It's as if I suddenly lost control of my Hydro powers when I needed them. Maybe there's something wrong with my Vision?

Paimon: Strange, how could that happen? First time Paimon's ever heard of someone losing control of their Vision.

Patrick: Just how did a Vision suddenly lose it's glow?

Childe: Never mind, it doesn't matter. If I wanna stay sharp, I shouldn't be relying too much on my Vision anyway. Besides, I always have my Delusion in case I need it.

Patrick: You'd better not use your Delusion too often. Or else using it too much will get you killed.

Aether: I don't have a Vision, so don't ask me.

Paimon: So what are you doing in Fontaine, Childe? And don't say it's work for Northland Bank!

Childe: Well... I guess it's because I've been in a bad mood lately.

Mei: A bad mood?

Paimon: Huh? What kind of reason is that? Wait, since when do you feel down about anything?

Childe: Haha, I dunno... Maybe I still have a lot to learn about myself. But recently, there seems to be some sort of restless power stirring inside of me... And I don't know why, but every now and then I feel like I'm in a terrible mood...

Paimon: Maybe you losing control of your Vision just now is connected with that power you're feeling inside?

Childe: Hmm, that is a possibility.

Aether: So about this power... Do you have any idea where it came from?

Childe: I can't remember if I've ever mentioned it before, but when I was fourteen, I fell into some unknown abyss...

Childe begins to explain some of his backstory about his abillities and when he fell into the abyss as everyone listened.

Childe: It was during that time I learned nearly all of my abilities. The one who took me under her wing and taught me was named Skirk. She was always quiet and very mysterious. Nobody knew where she came from or what she had been through, and she was always very strict when teaching me combat techniques. One time, I asked her why she was willing to take me on as an apprentice. From what I could make of her answer, it was... Because I had awakened "it," and traces of "it" remained on me. She said that all my combat training would be useful in the future.

That's when Paimon asks Childe a question.

Paimon: But what is "it"? What did you awaken?

Childe: She never explained that, but my guess is that it's related to a dream I saw when I had just fallen into that abyss.

Jeanne: What was the dream about?

Childe: In my dream, I was in the deepest depths of the sea, and the boundless seabed was all around me. But in front of me appeared a whale that was so massive I felt like I couldn't breathe.

Paimon: A whale? Oh, that sounds familiar... When we fought against you before, you summoned a huge whale that seemed to leap at us! Is that the one?

Childe: Hehe, that's just an abstract form of a whale that I create using my elemental powers. It takes that shape because the scene I dreamt of the whale has always been stuck in my mind. I'll never forget it...

Paimon: So you used the whale as inspiration for one of your moves? Huh... Seems a little twisted to Paimon.

Patrick: Your constellation is a Narwhal which is a type of whale. So I wondered why your move was not shaped as a Norwhal and is instead resembling a blue whale. So I guess that answers it.

Aether: It's very possible that... The power inside you is connected to your incident in the abyss.

Paimon: So why don't you just go ask your master? Maybe she knows the answer.

Childe: You make it sound so easy. Ever since the incident I experienced there, I've never stopped searching for Master Skirk and that unknown abyss. But it's been years now and I've still found nothing. There isn't even a trace of the place where I remember falling into the abyss.

Paimon: Ooh, it sounds like some kind of ghost story.

Childe: Yeah, I'm out of leads at this point, but there's nothing more I can do. It seems that strange encounters in this world tend to be elusive like that.

Patrick: And I take it that's why you were brought to the Fatui?

Childe: Yes that's right. My father took me to the Fatui because my abilities were causing problems in my home. And thankfully things were solved and I was able to become who I am now.

Childe remembers something.

Childe: Oh, seems the time really flies when I'm talking with you... I just remembered I have somewhere else I need to be, so I should get going.

Paimon: What, more work for the Northland Bank?

Childe: No, it's more of a personal appointment. Lately, I've been sparring with some of Fontaine's official Champion Duelists whenever I'm feeling bored.

Paimon: Official Champion Duelists? You mean it's their job to duel?

Childe: Yep. In Fontaine, before a criminal goes to court, they're given one chance to defend their honor by requesting a duel with an official Champion Duelist. The Champion Duelists are all powerful fighters selected from among the nation's best, and the duel itself is a no holds barred fight with no specified stopping point...

Seele: I've heard about that too. People have the chance to defend their honor and avoid a trial.

Childe: So engaging in such a duel is regarded as a symbol of defending your honor. If a criminal manages to win the duel, they'll be acquitted, but if they lose, they'll have no choice but to stand trial. And the worst case scenario is that you're simply killed in the duel. Though it's rumored that Fontaine has a death penalty, from what I can tell, no one has ever been officially sentenced to death.

Jeanne: That's kind of a relief.

Patrick: We can only hope.

Childe: So really, the only people who opt to duel are those who have suffered a grave injustice in being accused, or those who greatly value their honor. Otherwise, why gamble with your life?

Paimon: So do many people actually get out of their trials by winning the duel?

Childe: Apparently it's exceedingly rare for anyone to actually win. Fontaine probably enacted this system as a way to show that the nation respects the honor of its citizens. Besides, none of the Champion Duelists are to be trifled with... Which is exactly why I was itching to face them as soon as I got to Fontaine. Apparently the one I'm meeting today, Clorinde, is the strongest of the Champion Duelists. I had been asking her for some time before she finally agreed to face me today.

Paimon: Well, that's Childe for ya... Paimon feels like we've heard that name somewhere before. Clorinde, huh...

Kiana: We have met her before. The one who pointed her guns at me.

Aether: When we met the Hydro Archon.

Childe: Oh, before I forget, I want you to have this.

Childe throws his Hydro Vision to Aether then he catches it.

Paimon: Huh? Your Vision! You're seriously just giving it away!?

Childe: I'm just worried that it could become uncontrollable again. I'd be pretty upset if it got in the way of my duel, so I think I'll be better off without it for now.

Patrick: Oh very well. We'll look after it.

Childe: Besides, I just need you to hold onto it for a short while. I'll come retrieve it when I have some time later.

Some of the group members made faces and crossed their arms.

Paimon: Paimon knows what you're up to! You just want an excuse to come talk to us again, don't you?

Patrick: So do I! We know what you're up to and refuse to let you do it!

Childe: Haha, whatever gave you that idea? I'll be in touch, later.

Childe leaves them.

Paimon: Huh, that sneaky guy... He said he's been feeling down lately, but he seemed the same as ever to Paimon.

Patrick: And since he's here. That means that he's here to steal the Hydro Archon's Gnosis.

Everyone turns their attention to Patrick.

Patrick: Come on. It's obvious why he's here in Fontaine. To steal the Hydro Archon's Gnosis.

Paimon: Oh. Paimon didn't think about that.

Patrick: He's a Fatui Harbinger and when something bad happens around an Archon, the Fatui act as our enemy and always do something bad and evil.

Aether: You shouldn't jump to conclusions just because he's a Harbinger.

Patrick: And I'm not. Every time we've foiled a Fatui's plan. We thought we stopped them from stealing a Gnosis but then a Harbinger shows up then ruins everything and satisfaction gone once again. So until then we must stay on guard around him.

Mei: I guess it is hard to trust him after the things he did to us back in Liyue.

Neptune: But so far he hasn't shown any signs of hostility towards us. And now he's got his own problems now. So for now we should lighten up around him.

Seele: She's right big brother. We know what you're feeling about the what happened to the Gnoses but we need to change the subject.

Patrick: ... Alright...

Paimon: Thank you. Well, seems we don't have much to do for now... We might as well walk around and see the city before Lyney's performance!

Nepgear: That's what I've been wanting to do.

French servants: Us too!

Everyone held their fists up.

Everyone: YEAH!

[There should be a GIF or video here. Update the app now to see it.]

Under Paimon's enthusiastic leadership, they walk all around the Court of Fontaine... Jeanne, Marie, and Charlotte Corday were happy to be in Fontaine which was based on France. Nepgear was checking out the machines and was buying spare parts and already made machines and tools. She was in excitement because of how much she loved machines. She had her own tool box with her. Vert dragged Noire into a clothing shop called Chioriya Boutique followed by Marie and they were trying on different dresses much to Noire's embarrassment. The camera showed lots of different camera shots of Vert sliding curtains to the side showing her, Noire, and Marie in different Fontaine dresses. Uni was going to a place that sells weapon parts wanting to see what types of guns Fontaine sells. Kiana and Mei were having time together by themselves. So were Bronya and Seele. And Kallen and Sakura too.

Patrick was walking with Jeanne D'Arc. They were holding hands. Being his other most favorite servant in FGO, Jeanne accepted his feelings and affections just like many other servants Patrick favorited. He preferred her over Jalter/Avenger Jeanne D'Arc Alter because Ruler Jeanne D'Arc was innocent, pure, nicer, friendly, and was the holy maiden of New Orleans. And Jeanne was one of the three faces of the "Fate" series with Saber and Mash.

Jeanne: Being in Fontaine reminds me of home in France.

Patrick: It's beautiful here, isn't it?

Jeanne nodded, her eyes sparkling with delight as they took in the majestic architecture.

Patrick: Fontaine was based on France. Your home country.

Jeanne: Yes, it is quite similar. Though it's a bit... different.

Patrick: Yes it is. More steam punk, more fantasy, more magical...

Jeanne: And more watery.

Patrick chuckled.

Patrick: True, it's not quite the same as the France you know, but it has its own charm.

Jeanne: Indeed, it does.

Their conversation was light, filled with shared smiles and gentle laughter as they strolled along the streets.

Patrick: I've known about you for a long time since I watched you in "Deadliest Warrior".

Jeanne: Ah, that show. That's how you first heard of me when I fought against William the Conqueror.

Patrick: Yes, and it was quite the battle. But here, you're not fighting, you're just enjoying the sights.

Jeanne: It's a refreshing change. Plus, it's not every day I get to go on a date like this.

Patrick: I know. You're one of my most favorite servants.

Jeanne blushes slightly at his admission, looking down at their intertwined hands.

Jeanne: Patrick, I'm honored. Your kindness means a lot to me.

Aether and Paimon were at a newspaper stand.

Paimon: Wow, who could have seen that coming!? The reporter who was barely around for most of the story was the murderer all along!

Aether: Hey, don't blurt it out, Paimon... It's rude to spoil the mystery for everyone else.

Paimon: Ah, sorry... Paimon was just surprised, that's all. Whew, Paimon never saw that twist coming... The murder mystery novels here are amazing!

Aether: Never thought I'd see the day when Paimon would enjoy reading... Do you have any idea how long we were loitering here...

Paimon: The whodunits here in Fontaine are a lot different than the light novels you see from . Both have their merits, but Paimon thinks this style of novels are more... well, novel! It's so exciting to reach the moment when the mystery is uncovered! Especially in the one Paimon was just reading, you should buy a copy and read it, too!

Aether: I'm good. You already spoiled who the murderer is.

Paimon: Oh, sorry about that... Paimon will be more careful next time.

Paimon: Hey, shouldn't we be heading to the opera house to see Lyney's performance soon? It's almost time for the show to start, so we should get going. Lyney said that the opera house is on Erinnyes, so let's go ride the aquabus!

Everyone met up at the Aquabus on the Nadia Line that was going to take them to the Opera Epiclese.

Paimon: Ok. That's everyone.

Jeanne: Let's go. One at a time.

Everyone got on board. Some sat down while some stood up while the Aquabus moved.

Jeanne: How was the Court of Fontaine for some of you?

Some of them had sparkles around their heads

Vert: Oh it was beautiful. So many glamorous dresses I tried on. The many different teas and sweets tasted great.

Neptune: The different flan and pudding in Fontaine tasted great!

Marie: I felt like I was in France again! Oh Viva La France! I tried on many different dresses! And

Nepgear had some machine pieces out.

Nepgear: So many different machines! I went to so many places for parts and machines! I want to get to building and inventing right away!

Neptune: Not yet, Nepgear. Wait till after we see Lyney's performance.

Blanc: The books in Fontaine had some great stories to tell.

Uni: The weaponry here is quite advanced. So many different types of guns! We could learn a thing or two for our own inventions.

Nepgear: Yes we can, Uni!

As the aquabus approached Marcotte Station, the grandeur of the Opera Epiclese grew larger in their view. The anticipation in the group was palpable as they chatted about what kind of performance they were about to witness from Lyney.

(Marcotte Station)

The Aquabus dropped them off at Marcotte Station as they got off and walked down. They went down the steps then passed by a water fountain. Then they went up more steps then went onward on the walkway as they went right and arrived at Fontaine of Lucine and saw the Opera Epiclese.

Paimon: Whoa, now this is fancy! The Opera Epiclese... What a place to hold a performance, no wonder Lyney and Lynette were looking forward to it.

Patrick: It's quite the sight indeed. Fontaine's architecture is truly inspiring.

Seele: It's as I remember it the last time I was here with Water's Edge.

As they approached the large fountain in front of the Opera Epiclese, Jeanne spoke up with a sense of wonder in her voice.

Jeanne: This place... it's like a dream come true. The elegance and grandeur remind me so much of France.

Paimon: Huh? Looks like there's a lot of people standing around the fountain up ahead.

Joliot: O Archon... please bless us with a bright and healthy child. We pray—

Irimia: ...I don't know why you always feel the need to ask so much... I'll be happy as long as our child is healthy, and lives a peaceful life.

Joliot: Hehe, I guess if they're our kid, then there's no doubt they'll turn out smart.

Kiana: Sounds like they were praying to Furina to give their child a healthy and peaceful life.

Patrick: That's what married couples do. They pray to gods for a healthy child to be born and to live a peaceful life.

Neptune: That's how it always is. Married couples pray to us CPUs too.

Paimon: Maybe this is one of the customs in Fontaine? There sure are a lot of couples here...

All of a sudden the group except Paimon heard voice.

???: "Vacher..."

Aether: Huh?

Paimon: What's wrong?

???: "Vacher... Vacher..."

Aether: Did you just say something, Paimon?

Paimon: No, Paimon didn't say anything. Are you hearing things?

Everyone was confused.

Sakura: Someone just spoke to us.

Kallen: But we don't know who it was.

Aether: Strange... Whose voice was that just now...?

That's when Lynette walks up to the group interrupting their thoughts.

Lynette: Welcome to the Fountain of Lucine. All the water flowing through Fontaine converges here. It's customary for newlyweds to come here and wish for children.

Paimon gets startled.

Paimon: Waah! Lynette! You scared Paimon! When did you get here?

Lynette: Lyney asked me to wait here for you, remember?

Paimon: Ah, right...

Aether: By the way, Lynette... We except Paimon seemed to hear a faint voice just now.

Lynette: What do you mean? There are a lot of people here right now.

Aether: It seemed as if... The voice was coming from the fountain.

Paimon: Huh!? Hey, you're not trying to scare Paimon, are you? Besides, it's the middle of the day, it's not the time for eerie things...

Kallen: We're not. It's just that you're the only one that didn't hear the voice.

Lynette: Hmm, I see... I might be able to tell you something that could help explain the voice you heard. In fact, you might not be imagining things at all. I suspect that what you heard is a result of your hypersensitivity to the Hydro element. Others in my family have had similar experiences.

Paimon: It's because of their sensitivity to the Hydro element? But what would hearing a voice have to do with elemental power?

Jeanne: That is a good question, Paimon.

Lynette: When do you cry, Paimon?

Paimon: Wait, what? What does that have to do with anything?

Lynette: Just answer me. When do you cry?

Paimon thought.

Paimon: Uh, when Paimon's really sad... Oh, and when Paimon's super happy. Oh, and also when Paimon's really, really scared.

Lynette: Then you should understand that tears... contain your most intense emotions. Like I just mentioned, the Fountain of Lucine is where all the flowing water in Fontaine converges. Even the tears that fall to the ground will eventually gather here. So maybe what you heard was the intense emotion coming from someone's tears.

Aether: Huh, that's an interesting explanation. (I'm not sure whether I buy it, though...)

Paimon: So what did the voice say?

Aether: It seemed to be calling out someone's name.

Patrick: That was all the voice said. Just a name of someone.

Paimon: Huh, if you were hearing their emotions, then Paimon wonders what happened to them.

Lynette: Rather than worrying about them, we should worry about my brother first.

Neptune: Oh yeah. Lyney's performance.

Lynette: Don't let that calm look of his fool you, he tends to get pretty nervous just before a performance. So chatting with Lyney might help him relax a little before he goes on stage.

Paimon: Oh right, that makes sense. Let's go in and see Lyney!

The group follows Lynette to the Opera Epiclese where they enter through the large tall doors and went inside where Lyney was waiting for them.

Lyney: Ah, everyone, good to see you all. I knew you would come.

Marie: Thank you, Lyney.

Paimon: Are you kidding? We wouldn't miss it for the world. We've been looking forward to it!

Rom and Ram: We're excited to see your performance!

Lyney: Hehe. I can tell, judging by how early you've arrived. But you're actually right on time. The audience still hasn't started entering the venue yet, which means now is the perfect chance for us to take you to the best seats in the house. Wait just a moment, I'll fetch the tickets.

Lyney goes to get the tickets while everyone was talking while waiting for Lyney then he comes back with the tickets.

Lyney: The opera house has assigned seating, so you always have to make reservations. I've already reserved your seats, and here are your tickets.

Lyney hands out one ticket each to the group.

Marie: We got front row seats!

Neptune: Yay! Front row seats!

Vert: Oh this is fabulous! Front row seats!

Valkyries: Front row seats!

Paimon: Ooh! Front row seats! Thanks, Lyney!

Lyney: Don't mention it, there's no need to keep thanking me...

Patrick: Well people must always be respectfully and thank people for doing something for them. It

Lyney: I know that. But there's no need for that.

Patrick: Normally when coming to theaters, my father prefers balcony seating over front row seating. Mostly because it's a better view of the stage.

Lyney: It is a nice view from seating above.

Patrick: Yes it is. And my father always makes reservations a few months in advance.

A man shows up and call out to Lyney.

Cowell: Hey, Lyney! Could you come over here and take a look at this?

Lyney: Oh, I'll be right there. Seems there's an issue with the stage props over there. That's Cowell, my assistant, calling me. I'll go lend him a hand.

Patrick: Sure.

Aether: Best get busy.

Paimon: Yeah, we'll just go to our seats. You go ahead, Lyney.

Lyney and Lynette leave the group while the group enters into the theater itself.

Marie: Wow! Look at this place!

Patrick: I've sen many different theaters with the best architecture but this one is amazing.

Charlotte Corday: Just like the theaters in France and the rest of Europe.

Jeanne: The Hydro Archon must really love it here and enjoys watching the performances.

Nepgear notices the strange machine on the stage.

Nepgear: I wonder what that machine is?

Paimon: Ooh, these should be our seats. C'mon, let's sit down.

Everyone sat down at the front row. But things got awkward quickly as there was a mysterious man at one of the ends sitting next to Aether just silent.

???: ...

Paimon: Uhh...

Aether: ...

Group: ...

Paimon: Heh...

???: ...

The group whispers to each other.

Paimon: Hey, guys... Maybe we should strike up a conversation with the person next to us? Since we're sitting together and the rest of the place is practically empty still, it's kinda awkward if we don't say anything.

Patrick: I don't know if we should.

Seele: He's familiar. I feel like I've seen him somewhere before. But I can't remember where.

Jeanne: Something feels peculiar about him.

Aether: You're up, Paimon.

Paimon: You little... Of course you put this on Paimon...

That's when the man spoke.

???: Excuse me, I did not realize you felt awkward. I am terribly sorry. I would be perfectly happy to chat with you if that's what you would like.

Everyone was shocked.

Jeanne: Oh, yes sir. We would love to.

Paimon: Oh... uh... So you heard all of that, did ya? Boy, you sure have good ears, Paimon thought she was keeping her voice down. Ah! Wait, that's not it, Paimon's sorry! Um, Paimon's the one who was being rude talking under her breath like that. Uh, so let's talk, but... uh... what should we talk about?

Aether: (This is getting even more awkward...)

Paimon: Uh... Oh, Paimon's got it! You're also here early and sitting in the front. Are you a friend of Lyney's, too?

???: A... friend, you say? Well, if Mr. Lyney would like to be my friend, I would be more than happy to reciprocate.

Paimon: Oh, so you're not friends with Lyney, then... Whew, this is getting more awkward by the second. Ah, Paimon nearly forgot to make our introduction...

Paimon: Nice to meet you, Paimon is Paimon, and these are Paimon's friends.. We just arrived in Fontaine.

Everyone introduced themselves one at a time.

???: It is an honor to meet you people. I have heard of your deeds across Teyvat. And as required by proper etiquette, I will also introduce myself. I am...

Lyney appears and interrupts.

Lyney: Oh, Monsieur Neuvillette! What an honor it is to have you here to see my show!

Neuvillette: Ah, Mr. Lyney. I should say it is in fact an honor for me to see your performance in person.

Paimon: Wait, Neuvillette? Could he be...

Lyney: Hmm? I saw you all chatting just now, but it seems you still don't know who Monsieur Neuvillette is. Allow me to introduce you to Fontaine's Chief Justice.

Seele: Oh now I remember his face! I have seen him before!

Lyney points to the seat above the stage.

Lyney: That seat is always reserved for him. It wouldn't be too much to say that he's the symbol of justice and honesty here in Fontaine.

Paimon: Whoa! Sorry for being so rude just now. Paimon had no idea you were such an important person...

Neuvillette: No offense taken. Being Chief Justice is merely what I do for work. Nearly every person has their usual reserved seat, so I am not so special, really. And by the way, I should probably let you know, even though I would prefer not to...

Up in the VIP seats was the Hydro Archon Furina. Which causes everyone to look up.

Neuvillette: There's someone sitting up there in the VIP seats that has been striking a pose for quite a while now... I believe she's trying to give you a most elegant and impressive first impression. So I think you should take notice of her sooner rather than later, otherwise she may become flustered.

Furina: Hehehehe...

Neptune waves her hand.

Neptune: Hello Lady Furina!

Furina waves back.

Furina: Hello everyone!

Paimon: Huh? Oh, it's Furina, the Hydro Archon. She sure has a smug and satisfied look on her face. Guess she has no idea that you saw right through her act.

Neuvillette: Very good, that is for the best. No need to pay her any more attention, we may now enjoy the show.

Neuvillete sits back down.

Paimon: Huh, so is this what things are like between the Chief Justice and the Hydro Archon?

Seele: I believe so. They seem to work together most of the time.

Lyney: Alright, please wait just a moment longer. I've pretty much finished my preparations and the performance will start as soon as the audience has made their way to their seats.

Paimon: Yay, the show's finally about to start. Ooh, Paimon can hardly wait! Paimon's never seen a real live magic show before!

Everyone sits back down.

The crowds enter the venue, and the curtains open for the show to begin... The lights dimmed down as Paimon was excited.

Paimon: Oh! They're dimming the lights, the show must be starting!

Neuvillette: ...

Jeanne: Paimon, keep your voice down.

Paimon: Ah... sorry. Paimon will try to stay quiet, hehe.

The spotlight shines down on the stage then Lyney comes on the stage.

Lyney: Welcome, one and all, to the Opera Epiclese! I am the star of today's show, Lyney!

The crowd claps their hands then Lynette also comes on stage.

Lyney: And over here is my sister, Lynette, who will be working as my wonderful assistant. Please, let's give her a warm welcome!

Lynette: Hello, everyone.

Lynette didn't seem happy at all or excited to be on stage. The crowd claps their hands again.

Lyney: Haha, I know she may seem to be a little sleepy right now, but that's just a sign that she's nervous.

Lynette: Whatever.

Patrick whispered.

Patrick: Did she not get any rest?

Jeanne: Judging from her eyes, it look like it.

Lyney takes a few steps forward.

Patrick: Doesn't feel like it. She doesn't seem to be excited to perform at all.

Lyney: Now, some of you may be thinking: Two Vision holders who can freely manipulate elemental powers performing magic is not true magic at all. So, I would like to take a moment to assure you that elemental powers will have nothing to do with what you will witness on the stage today.

one of Lyney's other assistants comes on stage wearing a mask then the siblings hand him over their Visions and Cowell walks off the stage with their Visions.

Lyney: Both Lynette and myself have removed our Visions for the show. That way, even the gods won't be able to help us.

Paimon: Oh, good point. That's what makes the show real magic!

Patrick: Without having to use elements.

Bronya: Or other types of magical abilities.

Tamamo: It just wouldn't be a magic show without make believe with no actual magic.

Lyney: Now, without further ado, let the show begin! Lynette will now exit the stage to make some preparations.

Lynette walks off the stage to make the preparations.

Lyney: I know you might miss her, but don't worry, she'll be coming right back on stage momentarily... Perhaps in an unexpected way. I'm sure she'll be stealing the spotlight soon enough. Oh, and before I forget... There's one more thing I should say. You never know what can happen in the blink of an eye.

Patrick started to feel uneasy.

Patrick: I've got a bad feeling about this.

Lyney: A magician's greatest skill is making things disappear or appear. The possibilities are endless.

Lyney takes off his hat, bows to the audience, flips it then shows that it is empty, then he flips it again and makes it hover in the air. He taps the hat making playing cards fall out. Rom and Ram were happy seeing that as typical children would when watching a magic show. Lyney taps his hat more times as more cards fall out. Then he grabs his hat as a pigeon comes from summoning as he puts his hat back on. Then he does some card tricks.

Patrick: He's talented.

Kallen: And knows how to pull off magic tricks well.

Lyney: But this isn't what you came for. These little tricks? You've seen them all before. So it's time for something truly extraordinary. Don't you think?

Paimon was amazed. As were the others.

Seele: Oh yes.

Lyney: This one's a little tricky.

He summons another White Pigeon from his hands and it flies towards the ceiling. Another spotlight shines above on something. A water tank descends from the ceiling, with Lynette sitting on the top.

Lyney: Using this water tank I shall make my sister vanish completely. Right before your very eyes.

Clorinde could be seen next to Furina doing her job as a guard, guarding Furina. Lynette jumps into the tank and waves from inside. The crowd claps their hands.

Lyney: It's actually quite simple. She'll just turn into air bubbles and float right out of the top...

The lid closes and locks shut. Everyone got concerned with worried faces. Lynette tries to open the lid from the inside but it wouldn't open.

Lyney: Oh no. I told them to check all the props carefully. With the lid on, even air can't escape... An amateur magician would be getting very nervous right around now. Hehe. Luckily it's me on stage! So let me show you what a true virtuoso can do

Lyney snaps his fingersand a stream of bubbles clouds the water tank. Lynette disappears, leaving only her dress floating in the water. There was a mix of claps and gasps. Even Furina gasps.

Kiana: Where did she go?

Vert: Now now. Let's not jump to conclusions.

Lyney: Lynette? Are you still there? Don't go too far. We don't wanna use up all our magic.

Lynette: Hi. I'm back.

Lynette reappears on stage. The crowd applauds and the duo bow.

The feeling in Patrick subsided.

Patrick: (I guess I was jumping to conclusions too soon. I thought that an attack would happen during the performance.)

Paimon: Whoa! What in the world just happened!? How did he do that!? Paimon didn't see him do anything! Wasn't Lynette inside the water tank? How did she disappear and then reappear out of nowhere!?

Patrick: It doesn't matter, Paimon. And it's a secret on how magicians do their magic shows. That's for you to figure out.

Marie: Viva La France! What a show!

Aether: No wonder he's a famous magician.

Neuvillette: If we could see easily see through his tricks, then that would mean that his skills are lacking. To appreciate magic, you should focus on the show happening on stage rather than getting caught up in trying to see that which has been intentionally hidden.

Patrick: Exactly. You shouldn't be figuring out how they do their magic shows.

Paimon: Ah, guess you're right. Paimon couldn't believe her eyes when Lynette reappeared. Amazing!

Lyney speaks to the crowd.

Lyney: Thank you, thank you, everyone. I'm glad you enjoyed that performance... But our magical journey has only just begun. I've prepared even more astonishing surprises for everyone here. The magic of transformation and disappearance can go far beyond what you've just seen. I'm sure many of you are thinking that escaping the water tank was impressive enough, but Lynette is still my assistant, after all. In which case, I have ample time to make all necessary preparations. So for my next trick, I will require the participation of one lucky audience member.

Lyney: Please, if my assistants could bring out the magical boxes now...

One of Lyney's assistants brings out a large box onto the stage.

Lyney: There are two boxes, and only two boxes. One is here, and one is there in the aisle among the audience.

The other box was in the aisle.

Lyney: I'm sure many of our clever audience members have already guessed our next magic trick. A swap! Our lucky audience member and I will each enter a magic box. After one minute, we will each emerge from the opposite box. Now please, everyone pay very close attention to the box you see here. Don't give me any chance to make a move!

Paimon: Wow! How's he gonna do this? Hey, do think this is all magic tricks, or does Lyney have actual superpowers?

Jeanne: He possibly does have magical powers other than elemental magic, Paimon.

Neptune: He could have more magical abilities.

Aether: Let's watch and see. I'm sure we can spot how he does it...

A machine appears next to Lyney.

Lyney: The lucky audience member will be generated by this random number selector. It selects numbers entirely at random. Even I don't know who will be chosen to participate.

Lyney: Now then, let's begin.

Lyney activates the machine and the numbers spin.

Lyney: Ah, let me see... row seven, seat three. Congratulations! You now have the chance to experience magic firsthand for an entire minute!

The spot light shines on the chosen person.

Lyney: Please, come forward. My assistant will take you beside the magic box.

The woman gets escorted to the box in the aisle by the assistant.

Lyney: I'm sorry, it might be a little cramped inside, but no need to feel nervous. We've carefully arranged everything for you to be as comfortable as possible. You don't need to do anything. But no matter what strange things may happen, don't come out of the box.

Lyney: If the magic is interrupted, who knows where you might end up? You might even find yourself in the Fortress of Meropide.

Audience: Oh, okay...

Lyney: Alright, before I enter the magic box, there is one more thing I need to ask the audience to do. Could you all give me a countdown?

Lyney: Like this... Sixty, fifty-nine, fifty-eight... Just keep counting down. You can go a little faster or slower if you like. I won't be able to see anything in the pitch-black box, so I'll be relying on your voices to know when time is up. Oh, and no tricks now. If you quickly count from sixty in just thirty seconds, then I'll be in a tough spot.

Paimon: Ooh, Paimon kinda wants to count faster after hearing him say that, hehe...

Aether: I'm sure Lyney's prepared.

Mei: With the whole crowd counting together, you couldn't even if you wanted to.

Lyney: No, no, that won't do... I can see it in your eyes, you still can't be trusted! Let's practice together.

Lyney: Come on, repeat after me. Sixty, fifty-nine, fifty-eight...

Everyone repeated after Lyney.

Crowd: Sixty, fifty-nine, fifty-eight...

Lyney: That's right, perfect! Keep it going! Alright, I'll see you all on the other side once you've finished counting.

Lyney enters the box.

The crowd starts counting down but Neuvillete does not.

Paimon: Fifty-four, fifty-three, fifty-two...! Why aren't you counting, Neuvillette?

Neuvillette: I'm counting in my head. I think things are exciting enough in here as it is. Merely a consequence of my identity and personality. Do not worry about me. Just enjoy the show.

Paimon: Oh, alright. You looked so serious that Paimon thought you might be feeling uncomfortable or something.

The crowd continues to count down.

Crowd: Forty, thirty-nine, thirty-eight!

Garrick: Mr. Lyney, are you all right in there? Is everything ready?

Lyney speaks from inside the box.

Lyney: Yes, I'm fine, I'm fine... I'm just double checking the direction of the magic. It would be a disaster if we get sent to the wrong places, for example, mid-air right above the audience.

Paimon: Even though he's saying that, Lyney doesn't seem nervous at all.

Blanc: I think it's all part of the show.

Aether: Maybe he's just supremely confident in his abilities.

Noire: Depending on their level of talent and skill based on how great they do their shows.

???: BANG!!!

All of a sudden there was a bang.

Nepgear: What was that?

Paimon: Huh? What was that noise? Did you hear it, too?

Kallen: We all did.

Neptune: Did it come from the stage?

Aether: Maybe it was just to divert our attention.

Paimon: Not sure... Anyway, it doesn't seem like anyone's worried about it.

Crowd: Twenty-five, twenty-four, twenty-three!

The assistant Garrick asks Lyney what the problem was.

Garrick: What's wrong, Mr. Lyney? I can still hear you moving in there.

Lyney: I seem to have accidentally knocked over a decoration. I'm trying to fix it, but it's pitch black in here, I can't tell left from right.

Garrick: Never mind the decorations, there's no time for that. The show is what's important.

Lyney: No, that's unacceptable, I want my show to be perfect. Don't worry, we still have twenty seconds. Hear them counting?

Crowd: Nineteen, eighteen, seventeen!

Lyney: Ah, it seems things aren't quite going as planned. I apologize, everyone.

Lyney: It feels like you're all starting to count faster, but that's alright. I know it can be tiring to do such a long countdown.

Lyney had little time left.

Lyney: Ten seconds and change is still plenty of time.

The crowd counts down from nine.

Lyney: Almost there now... Whew. Swapping two people is harder work than you might think. Even a master magician like me. Can't guarantee I'll get it right the first time... Hey, wait! Is this the back one? I can't tell. They both look the same inside!

Garrick knocks on the box on-stage.

Lyney: Huh? Nope, that's not it. I'll try again...

The crowd laughs and continues to count down from seven.

Lyney: Hey, slow down! Honestly...

Lyney bursts out from the box on stage.

Lyney: Uh... Whoops! That doesn't count!

Lyney goes back into the box and Garrick closes the doors to the box again.

The crowd counts down to zero and the spotlight on the box off-stage turns on. The crowd gets up to look and applauds when they see Lyney appear from a bright white light in the box.

Lyney: Ta-da!

Lyney points at the box on the stage and stage pyrotechnics turn on.

Garrick bows and begins to walk away from the box. But the volunteer does not step out. The water tank falls onto the box, both shattering, and water from the tank floods the stage. The crowd screams and panics.

Paimon: What happened!?

Rom: She isn't dead is she?

Ram: She can't be!

An arm sticks out of the rubble and a red stage assistant mask floats out. Lyney looks on in shock.

(Cinematic ends)

Furina: Huh!?

Furina was shocked too.

Excited Audience Member: Is this... part of the show? Mr. Lyney, you're going to use magic to fix the stage now, right?

Lyney: What happened...

Paimon: Oh no, maybe this isn't part of the show... The girl was still in that box, right?

Patrick: She couldn't have been still in the box. Something wen't wrong.

Neuvillette: This performance is over! Medical staff, with me. Gardes, secure the scene and detain all the performers. Seal the exits, no one is allowed in or out at this time!

Furina: Yes, th—that's right! If this was just an accident, then we must investigate the cause. But if this was all part of some scheme, then... then those accountable will not escape the judgment of the God of Justice!

Neuvillette: No need to be alarmed. We'll get to the bottom of this soon enough.

After some time, the Gardes complete their investigation.

Neuvillette: Unfortunately, the person who was in the magic box has been pronounced dead. His name was Cowell, one of the assistants in Lyney's magic troupe. Apparently, the fireworks on stage ignited the ropes that were suspending the water tank, which then caused the tank to fall onto the stage. As of now, we are still not sure why we found Cowell in the box rather than the guest from the audience. And after an initial search of the area, the Gardes have confirmed that the girl is nowhere to be found. It appears that this incident was not merely some mishap with the performance. And there are many indications that it is connected with the case of the serial disappearances of young women.

Surprised Audience Member: Th—The serial disappearances case!?

Paimon: Ah, that's the case that Charlotte mentioned before!

Patrick: So it is true. young women really are disappearing.

Aether: And to pull it off like this... In front of an audience including the Archon and Chief Justice.

Neptune: Now that's evil.

Furina speaks up.

Furina: Hehe. I know, I know the truth! I can see through the whole thing... Really, using such a shallow and obvious mystery as his "finale"... Did he really underestimate us that badly? I say that our powerful magician, Mr. Lyney, is now the prime suspect for the serial disappearances case.

Lyney: Huh, but why me? This whole thing was an accident!

Furina: This all occurred during your magic show, did it not? The missing girl disappeared after being chosen, did she not? The deceased is one of your assistants, is he not? Now that I think about it, that whole speech about magicians making things disappear was nothing more than a provocation, a bald-faced challenge!

Patrick: OBJECTION!

Patrick shouted out like Phoenix Wright. He had to help defend Lyney.

Patrick: Lyney could not have done this! He's a magician and he would never do something like that!

Seele: Yes, Lady Furina! He would never kidnap women!

Neptune: It must have been someone else who is trying to frame Lyney! You shouldn't be jumping to conclusions!

Furina: You dare object to the God Justice?! I know a criminal when I see one! The one who disappeared was a women and the other victim was a man!

Paimon: That can't be right... How could Lyney do this? He was in the box on stage the entire time. We could even hear his voice.

Rom: Lyney could not have done it!

Paimon: Besides, before the show he told us that he would like to catch the criminal behind the disappearances. He couldn't possibly mean catching himself!

Aether: It's hard to believe all this happened during the show.

Neuvillette: Save discussion for a later time, please. Lady Furina, may I assume that your comments just now constitute an accusation against Mr. Lyney and his associates and that you are pressing charges?

Furina: Huh? I just think that he... Well, I, ah, think it might be a little early to talk about formally pressing charges...

Patrick: Yes exactly! It's too early to jump to conclusions!

Excited Audience Member: But what Lady Furina said just now makes perfect sense! Looks like she's gonna personally deliver justice!

Admiring Audience Member: A kidnapping and murder carried out under the cover of a magic show. Lady Furina said it all.

Jeanne: Wait! No! Stop jumping to conclusions!

Furina: *cough* Ahem, uh... I mean... of course, my dear people! But what excites me even more than the obvious truth before our eyes... is the opponent I'll be facing.

Furina: That's right, I mean you, travelers. You will support Lyney, won't you? After all, he was the one who helped you the first time we met.

Aether: We trust Lyney.

Patrick: We will prove his innocence!

Furina: Haha, then there's no problem at all. You know, the travelers and I already had a duel the first time we met. But with Lyney's help, our little duel ended in a draw! Hehe... But draws really are the most boring possible outcome... So no more draws! Between us, there must be a clear winner and loser. And what better place to hold such a riveting showdown and decide the true victor than here, on the grandest of stages, the Opera Epiclese!

Paimon: Huh? It wasn't a draw, she obviously lost last time...

Seele: That's her unique personality for us.

Neuvillette: I understand. Charges have now been pressed, and as such, a trial is in order. Well, travelers, seems Lady Furina has set you in her sights. But, putting her dramatic rhetoric aside for a moment, I would like to ask you...

Neuvillette: Are you willing to act as Mr. Lyney's attorney and defend him in this case?

Group: Yes, we are.

Neuvillette: Very well. The trial will be held a day from now in the opera house. Both sides may investigate the scene to build their cases and search for the truth. Lyney and his troupe are all potential suspects and shall remain within the opera house. The audience may begin to leave in an orderly fashion once they have been cleared by the Gardes.

Furina: A day isn't that long. Let's see what kind of case these big-shot outlanders can build in such a short amount of time. Hehehe, I'm really quite looking forward to hearing it.

Everyone is dismissed and the audience begins to leave along with Furina and Neuvillette. The group got together.

Marie: We better do something. Lyney could get locked up in prison for a life time or even worse. Get executed by getting hanged.

Jeanne: Marie, let's not worry too much on Lyney's fate. We still have time to prove his innocence.

Bronya: Yes we do. We need to find evidence and play detective.

Seele: Right, we need look for clues! Maybe we can find something.

Paimon: Yeah we must! But first let's check on Lyney first!

The group goes to check on Lyney and Lynette.

Paimon: Lyney!

Lyney: Sorry about everything that happened just now, were you frightened?

Paimon: Of course, who wouldn't be scared after witnessing an accident like that?

Ram: We did get scared.

Lyney: Yeah, I'm a little shaken up myself... How could this happen? And poor Cowell...

Lyney: I know you already claimed that you would defend me, but now it's just us talking... Tell me, do you think I could possibly be the murderer?

Aether: No.

Patrick: The accident was not your fault. Someone may be trying to frame you. But don't worry, Lyney . We'll prove your innocence to the Hydro Archon.

Jeanne: We'll prove your innocence as Patrick said before. Because that's what friends do.

Lyney: Good to hear... Thank you so much for trusting me. I'm sure everyone sees me as the biggest suspect at this point. But if you ask me, the whole things is mysteries layered upon mysteries, such that all that's left is confusion. I don't know whether what happened there on the stage was purely an accident or not... and I don't know why poor Cowell was in the box. As for how that girl chosen from the audience could suddenly disappear, I'm afraid I don't have any answers, either. If someone tampered with my performance, then we need to figure out what they did.

Patrick: Maybe someone did tamper with your performance. That's something we'll figure out.

Lyney: Even a skilled and knowledgeable magician like myself couldn't pull all that off in just one minute.

Aether: Yes, it is very strange.

Mei: But there's no denying what happened.

Paimon: Which is precisely why we need to investigate. As this book says, "The impossible could not have happened. Whatever happened must have been that which is possible."

As Paimon spoke she randomly puts on a pair of glasses.

Group: EHHH?!

Aether: Where did you get those glasses?

Paimon: Paimon bought them when we were reading at the bookshop in the city earlier. Pretty cool, huh?

Neptune: Oh yes they are.

Patrick: Wait you didn't use...

Paimon: Don't worry, Paimon used her own savings to buy them. It wasn't from our travel funds.

Lynette: I think they look cute on you, Paimon.

Paimon: You have good taste, Lynette. Hehe!

Lyney: Haha, that's the right attitude. Feeling depressed isn't going to help me now, I need to get back to my normal self. But with the Gardes watching our every move, it's going to be especially difficult for Lynette and I to prove our own innocence.

Bronya: Allow us to join in, Paimon.

Bronya removes her hat then puts on a Detective hat then strikes a pose. Bronya does the same thing and replaces her hat with a detective hat of her own. Then Patrick puts on a detective hat like what Shotaro Hidari from "Kamen Rider Double" would wear. Then Patrick and Blanc also strike a pose.

Blanc: We'll solve this mystery and find the real culprit.

Patrick: And bring the culprit to justice.

Bronya: We'll prove your innocence, Lyney.

Paimon was surprised.

Paimon: When did you get those?!

Blanc: We made them. And you can't be complete without wearing a detective hat as in most murder mystery novels I've read and wrote.

Lyney: Thank you guys. Good thing you agreed to be our attorneys, thanks for that. We'll be counting on you.

Lynette: Yes, thank you so much.

Patrick: We won't let you down.

Aether: We're used to this sort of thing.

Neptune: You can count on us to prove your innocence!

Jeanne: We'll be your shield.

Paimon: Yeah, just leave it to us! Oh, since we're going to start investigating, Paimon has a question first. Where did Lynette go during the performance?

Lyney: Ah, well... I'm afraid that would involve some of our essential trade secrets as magicians...

Lynette: The secrets behind our magic are past saving, Lyney.

Noire: Exactly. You can't prove your innocence unless you tell us what you both have been doing.

Lyney: I suppose you're right. The truth behind our tricks is going to be important evidence that will be weighed during the trial. Ah! 'Tis truly a pity. As a magician, our magic show is a work of art. We've poured countless hours and spared no effort in perfecting it. But if revealing our secrets will help you uncover the truth behind what happened, then it will be well worth it. We should go somewhere else if we're going to discuss our magic tricks. We'll go speak with the Gardes, and in the meantime, you can go investigate the stage and the seating areas.

Paimon: Alright, let's go have a look while the investigation teams are still here. Detective Paimon is on the case!

Neptune holds her fist up.

Neptune: Yeah let's solve this mystery!

Everyone in the group holds their fists up.

Everyone: YEAH!