BGM: Twilight

A solemn hallway sprinkled with the flickering of dying lights; a man walking into the shadows.

This place hasn't been visited for a long time. Perhaps this is the first time intentionally. The man wears no identifiable clothing for the halls themselves are masking this. All that can be seen is a single bag hanging from his fingertips as he strides forward.

The musky scent of mold continues to strike ones nostrils the deeper progress is made. Eventually in the distance a door comes into view. Directly next to it, as if placed by some presence, stands a feminine silhouette. It too masked by whatever powers drain this hall.

“…” The man silently words a couple of lines after presumably making eye contact with the silhouette. He finishes with holding up his bag in an attempt of conveying his point. An eerie bow, as if a single slide in an animation is made by the silhouette. A slow movement guides the hand of the silhouette to the door handle. Slowly, it deliberately stops after opening it merely a crack before finally daring to reach the length of the hinges.

As if scribbled onto with ink the room was covered in black lines overlapping one another until it reached one solid color. The inside no longer appeared to be a room at all, but an endless void of darkness reaching out as far as you could see. Despite this inside a few meters away from the entrance sits a single chair and many toys left scattered about on the ground.

The man slowly walks into the room, carefully avoiding stepping on any of the toys. He puts his bag down and takes a seat before the door slowly closes behind him. Despite the state of the room the man appears to be fully aware he is now sitting in the middle. It is the toys; even if it appears to stretch forever the toys will only be able to go as far as the ground reaches. With this same logic he knew he wasn't alone.

Directing his chair slightly in one direction, he faces the top left corner of the room with determination. In the corner, not unlike the rest of the room was… something. It sat, practically oblivious to the man playing with yet another toy. The man began to mouth more sentences in the direction of this thing, however to no avail. This place wouldn’t allow something as simple as that.

Finally, the man pointed to the toys, and then to his bag. Suddenly, it stopped. Finally reaching a reaction, the man pushed further. Why was it here? It obviously isn't satisfied with anything it has been given so far…

After if answering the shape moved its mouth this time. The man moved forward to try and better grasp whatever it was trying to communicate. What was it? He had to know. As the man brought his face close enough… it opened its eyes. One by one, eyes opened up all along its body. With a snap the toy it had been playing with fell into pieces. The man has gotten his answer.

The answer should have been obvious the moment he stepped into the room. There was no reason to apply the same logic he thinks with in comparison to this creature. This thing wasn't unsatisfied with anything, after all…

This is what the man thought as he went back to his chair while once again tip toeing around the corpses.

“…breaking them is the most enjoyable thing in the world to this thing.”
The man continues to ponder as the monster continued to play.

-----

The cool breeze ruffles your hair as the boat accelerates through the murky ocean. No more are any cloudy blue filled skies, but simply a dark overcast with an unpleasant shade of grey. Raising your head back to the correct position you can see the rest of the boat from your current seat at the very back. You are riding on the small speed boat that was waiting for you back in Niijima. In the front of the boat is the cheerful captain who you met upon boarding.

Bring your arms down from the railing and into your lap allows your vision to meet your trusty suitcase. Out of impulse you decide to open it and get a view of what brought you here in the first place. Unlocking it with your own personal code you quickly find the envelope sealed with a wax seal. You remember how it all came to this just a few days ago…

You work as a lawyer for a large company in Tokyo. One day your boss had been informed that the great Ushiromiya Kinzo had passed away. Due to some particular persuasion on Kinzo’s part before he died, your boss 'decided' to bring the copy of the will to the island and read it for the family despite it going against protocol. Or at least, that is what you believe must have been the case before he pushed the job on you. Not that you mind really.

Kinzo’s instructions were very exact, and you are to read the will after dining and until that time the wax seal and envelope is to remain intact. You hold up your hand and take a look at the fancy watch around your wrist. It is currently 6:12pm October 4th 1985. You place the envelop back into your suit case which also contains paper, pens, your passport, loose change, toiletries, a complete change of clothes, and finally a novel.

Checking the horizon reveals the private island in the distance. It will be a few minutes before you dock.

>>15483
Place the sealed envelope within the inside pocket of my coat. It is best that I do not lose this item.

"Captain, it's already 6:12. I'm already late, and I really must be there before dinner ends."

>>15484
You walk up to the front of the boat and get the attention of the boat captain.

"Hmm? Late? No worries there sonny, the family likes to have late dinners. If I recall correctly they start around seven."

>>15485
"I see. It just seems like my nerves are getting to me. I once read a story about a visitor to an island owned by a rich family, a story which did not have a happy ending. Y'see, the visitor was unidentifiable because everyone who should have known about him coming that day were either dead or missing.

So how long have you been working for this family? You know anything interesting about them that could help me?"

>>15486
The captain seems to be lost on you story about another rich family but quickly response to the following question.

"Ah, yes I have been employed as the ferryman between these islands for about ten years now. As for the family... well I would say just keep some common sense about you, with Kinzo dying there will be high tensions running between his children..."

The boat captain goes on to give you a loose list of Kinzo's children and their respective spouses. He also tells you of their children.

>>15487
I try a trick I read about in the aforementioned story. If it doesn't work, I'll simply wait until we arrive at Rokkenjima.

Kinzo is not dead.

Last edited at 14/07/27(Sun)08:05:03

>>15488
Your blue seems to sputter out and break in half. I guess that won't work.

You wait another minute before the boat arrives on the island. It pulls up to a dock on a large beach and you quickly disembark with all your things. Upon leaving you can see a maid walking towards you from down a pathway into the forest.

The boat captain calls out from on top of the boat, "Give my regards to the family, I need to hurry back before this storm catches me. See you!"
With that the boat slowly edges away from the dock and leaves you.

It is at this time the maid reaches you and gives a quick bow.

"Welcome to Rokkenjima. We have been expecting you Mister Archer. I am to guide you to the mansion."

>>15489
"What would this pretty little lady's name be?"

After confirming her name, I'll follow her

"Well, let us make haste before the storm ruins our evening."

Last edited at 14/07/27(Sun)08:23:54

>>15490
The maid answers you question briskly, "My name is Reinon. If you will." She says before directing you to the forest path. Reinon walks slightly to the side and in front of you.

Climbing steadily through the cliff side the pathway continues into the forest. Under the thin canopy you can hear a faint drizzle beginning, for now at least it is quite tame. Looking in front of you it seems the path will continue on for quite a bit and in turn take a while before you make it to the destination.

>>15491
"Hmmm... the path must have been made to be winding intentionally...... Ms. Reinon, is there any quicker way to get up there? Perhaps cutting through the forest in a straight line? It seems that the rain has already begun, and I've forgotten my umbrella."

>>15492
"My apologies, there is not. We will be there shortly."

After a few more minutes you make it to a small stone staircase that produces you into a large garden with a large western style mansion in the distance. The rain doesn't seem to be as heavy as you would expect, but it is probably safer to get inside before it really comes down.

As if thinking the same thing you can see a group of people standing from an arbor in the middle of the garden and prepare to leave before they see you and Reinon arriving. On a close inspection you can see that these are most likely Kinzo's grandchildren.

The one in the green suit speaks up first "Ah, Reinon this is?"
Reinon quickly introduces you although it seems they already knew who you must be.
They quickly introduce themselves one by one, Battler scratching his head as Ange is too scared of the new person to come out from hiding behind him.

The girl you now know as Jessica gives a polite bow. "Despite the matter which you are here on I hope you enjoy your stay."

"Nice to meet you all. Let us not dilly dally here, the storm shall soon be upon us."

I'll follow them all inside.

>>15495
You and the rest of them quickly head into the large mansion via the double doors at the front of the mansion.

BGM: Moonlit Night

Upon entering you get a grasp of the large main entrance hall you have now entered. At the end you can see a staircase leading upwards to the other floors. Also there are two hallways on the left and right side. To your left is a set of double doors currently closed. To your right is a large portrait of a foreign women in a elegant dress and right beside it a large portrait of stern looking man. You recognize that one as Kinzo as you had seen pictures of him before.

In the middle of the hallway stands a man and a woman who notice your group enter.
"There is the man of the hour," the man states before walking over to you. "I'm Rudolf, and this is Kyrie my wife." She gives you a slight bow.

>>15496
"Nice to meet both of you. These portraits are quite nice. Is this one not that of the testator, Mr. Kinzo? Who is this portrait on the left? There is quite a stark age gap between the people depicted in these portraits."

>>15497
"Ah, right that thing. Father always liked to tell us how he built his fortune from the ground up with the help of a witch. He had this portrait made years ago as some sort of monument to her." Rudolf explains.

Kyrie begins, "The age gap is probably because he wanted to remember her as a witch forever. It is likely that it was some mistress who passed years ago."

"Oi," Rudolf turns to her with a concerned look, which she responds with a sly shrug.

"Well anyway," continues Rudolf, "That's that. We should probably bring you to Krauss and the others now."

>>15498
I follow Rudolf

Last edited at 14/07/27(Sun)09:34:28

"Hey kids," Rudolf says as he waves over to address the cousins. "If you want you-" he starts before he is cut off by Battler quickly interrupting.

"Hey Jessica, they will just be talking business, lets go upstairs for now."

"Ah, well I presume that would be fine." Jessica mumbles. The cousins quickly leave your group and head up the main staircase.

Rudolf lowers his hand a bit dejectedly, and slowly continues to the door on the left hand wall. Before you enter another maid quickly slips out of the room and walks by you after given a quick bow. Reinon follows behind her in suit.

>>15500
You enter the parlor as the door closes behind you. It is a nice open room with various seating arrangements. One half has nice comfy chairs and couches while the other has a small table to sit around. It appears there is also another door at the very far end. In the corner there is a tv which is currently off.

Six people seem to be in the room save yourself, Rudolf, and Kyrie. Three men and three women.

The man furthest to the right who you assume is Krauss stands up and greets you. "Thank you for coming Mr Archer. We have been anxiously waiting for you."

The women wearing some sort of chinese dress says just enough so everyone can hear, "Some a bit too much I would say." Resulting in Krauss's face momentarily twitching a bit. They go around introducing themselves.

Krauss and Natsuhi sit on the right. Eva and Hideyoshi closest to them on a different coach. Beside them Rudolf and Kyrie take a seat. And opposite from Krauss, sits Rosa. Stand next to the entrance is a servant who is not introduced. He is a tall older man with a stern face.

Krauss continues, "I hope your trip had no problems. I assume you have everything in order?"

>>15501
"My boss was the one who took the last will and testament of Kinzo. He entrusted me with this sealed letter, therefore even I do not know the precise details of the will and testament contained within. I am under strict orders to read this immediately following dinner tonight.

Hopefully this rain will let up before late tomorrow. I'd fall behind in work if I were here this entire weekend. But as long as it seems that I must remain a guest tonight, I may as well make proper introductions.

I am Quintus Septimius Florens Tertullianus. Call me Archer for short. It is my pleasure to make all of your acquaintances."

>>15502
The members of the family aren't really phased by your introduction and quickly continue.

"Yes Dinner. Genji, check on Gohda to see how the food is coming along. I believe it should be ready soon." Krauss asks of the Butler who was standing at the door.

"Of course," he says quickly and leaves the parlor.

Krauss begins to speak again, "It was a shock of course when Father passed a few weeks ago. It is a great loss for our family."

"Yeah perhaps now it is," Rosa states.

Eva quickly pounces on the chance to respond, "And what do you mean by that Rosa?" she asks.

"Now, now, she is right you know." Hideyoshi interrupts.

Krauss once again deciding to lead the conversation speaks to you. "Its true, until recently... well we didn't really have a very good relationship with Father. Only in the past few years did he start to change. He seemed more happy here and there. Ultimately at the end it was a shame we couldn't see more of that side to him."

Eva mumbles something in Krauss's direction but you can't quite pick it up this time.

They continue to talk after that about small trivial things from there on out. It is clear to you that, in this large mansion on a private island it is natural. This room is incredibly tense. Despite all the kind words they carry for Kinzo you can tell they are worried.

After a few minutes Genji returned and announced that dinner is ready to be served.
Rudolf asks Genji to go fetch the kids. Everyone is currently standing up to head to the dining room.

>>15503
BGM: Novelette

Your group walks into the main hall and heads past the staircase to the back of the mansion where the dining room appears to be. Inside is a very long table with multiple chairs and various plates and cutlery laid about. Around the walls of the room are various cabinets with cups and other dishes.

The members of the family quickly take their seats in what appears to be in order. The seat at the entrance at the room has been left empty perhaps in memory of Kinzo. You are sitting at the very end of the table opposite of said chair.

Soon the cousins return and take their seats, shortly followed by the sounds of dining carts being pushed through the hallways. A very large man and another maid come into view and greet the family.

"Good Evening everyone," the tall man calls out rather excitedly. "Today I have made an excellent feast in order to tempt your palates." He continues to flamboyantly explain his dishes as he goes around the room. "Rosa last time you said there was some issues so I made this individual dish specifically so that wouldn't happen again."
"Ah thank you Gohda, you are too kind." Rosa compliments.

Eventually he prepares everyone's dishes with the help of the maid and everyone starts eating. Looks like you have a selection of roast beef and other various delectables in front of you. It certainly looks good.

>>15504
"Krauss, earlier you had asked for Genji, who I am assuming is the older butler, to check on Gohda to see how the meal was going. Therefore, I assume Gohda refers to the chef? I've never been great with names, can you perhaps give me a run down of all the servants?

>>15505
"That is correct. Currently on staff we have five servants in total; Genji, Gohda, Reinon, Asune, and Sanon."

Besides this interaction, there doesn't seem to be much talking going on as everyone is thoroughly enjoying Gohda's cooking. The chef himself is simply standing over by the entrance smiling as he watches the rest of the people eat, the maid who Krauss states is Asune standing right beside Gohda.

>>15507
I'll eat dinner. There's no telling how long I may have to sit in a study passing my turn later on.....

If nothing else eventful happen, I'll just wait until I get the chance to read the contents of the envelope.

>>15508
You begin to eat the food and as you expect, it meets your expectations as possibly the best food you have ever had.

Eventually everyone finishes their meals and expresses their praise for the food and to Gohda. "Come now Asune let us clear table." Gohda calls to the maid who has been aiding him. "Yes~" she responds just as enthusiastically as Gohda. Soon the two of them have cleared the room and they both leave for a short period of time before returning with Genji and the other two female servants. It looks like this is everyone.

"Well then, I assume here is fine? Or perhaps we should move to the parlor?" Krauss asks the family. None of them seem decisive on the matter since it doesn't seem like much importance.

"Alright if no one has any objections," Krauss resumes, "Archer, please begin." All eyes are on you now.

>>15510
I open and read the letter's contents

>>15511
You break the seal on the envelope and find inside what is obviously the will, but also another envelope with yet another seal on it. The additional envelope has a line of text written on the outside "See enclosed document before opening." You quickly begin reading out loud the will.

1985 January 6th.

I, Kinzo Ushiromiya of sound mind and body will now declare this as my last will and testimony.

I shall leave everything in my possession including my land, wealth, fortune, and the title of head of the Ushiromiya family to my granddaughter, Ushiromiya Jessica. For with my old age I can see no good in my children and firmly believe that she can do justice to which I cannot. Finally, the enclosed envelope is not to be read by anyone but Jessica, and should be given to her after this document has being read.

Wear the one winged eagle of the Ushiromiya family with pride.

The will is then signed with signature, crest, and a finger print in blood. Terumasa Nanjo and Genji Ronoue are signed as witnesses.

There is a slight pause, before voices of outrage fill the room.

Hideyoshi is the first of which you hear, "This is some sort of joke right?"
Rudolf chuckles as he reclines in his chair, "Joke? I doubt it I wouldn't put past father to do something like this."
"I knew something like this would happen, Krauss what is your plan here?" Yells Eva.

Krauss and Natsuhi both seemed just as shocked as the rest of the family. Krauss quickly recovers with grin, "What nonsense are you talking about Eva? That will was hand delivered by Archer. I couldn't have touched it!"

Rosa joins into the fray as well, "Oh how convenient, I'm sure it wouldn't be too hard to bribe a few people. Genji did you watch Father write this? Can you confirm this is what he wanted?" Genji confirms that this is the will Kinzo asked him to sign.
"Listen now," Krauss interrupts, "Just because Father has more faith in Jessica doesn't mean your going to lose out. I have no problem helping you all out now, of course it will cost you."

The adults continue to bicker while you can tell the kids and servants are getting pretty disturbed by the whole event. Seems like they instantly jumped on each other the moment the tension was released. Blaming each other and even yourself. Before you can consider standing up for yourself someone else literally stands up...

>>15512
BGM: Scorpion Entrails

"SILENCE!!!"

A ferocious yell stops everyone dead in their tracks. The sound emitted certainly was loud, but there was something more to it. Something that everyone in the room instinctively stopped before even seeing the source.

At the end of the table Jessica is evidently the one who yelled. She stands up straight, with eyes that could make a grown man whimper; which apparently it has.

"You are all a disgrace to this family. Always scheming for money and biting at each other like a pack of animals. No wonder why Grandfather didn't trust the lot of you. You would all be a disappointment to him!"

The others can't react. They continue to stand in shock. Krauss begins muttering, "W-what, you dare speak to-"

"SHUT YOUR MOUTH! I will not sit back while you try to extort our family. Not one of you are worthy of grandfather's wealth and I will not become a puppet like grandfather once was!"
Jessica pushes back her chair, not before taking the additional envelope that was inside, and walks to the end of the room. "Genji, come with me."

"Yes Master," he quickly responds with a bow and the both of them leave the room.

Again silence engulfs the small space which all these people stand. Even you seemed to have been holding your breath through the affair.

"T-that... was..." Rosa manages to squeeze out before stopping short.
"Father..." Krauss says as if finishing the sentence, before collapsing into his chair and beginning to rub his temples.

>>15513
After a few minutes everyone regains some composure. The servants leave to continue their duties and the cousins(minus Jessica) decide to head to the guesthouse to play cards. You are told the cousins will show you to your room. Seems like the adults have no use for the messenger after that scene. You are in the hallway right outside of the dining room with Battler, George, and Ange currently preparing to leave.

>>15514
Follow them to my room.

Last edited at 14/07/27(Sun)16:57:26

>>15515
You and the cousins leave the mansion and head to the guesthouse.
As you walk Battler apparently can't help but talk about what just happened.

"Jessica... isn't always like that, right?" he asks while turning to look at George.
"No, not at all. I've never seen her so worked up before. Although I can't really blame her given the situation. She was affected by Kinzo's death more than the adults, that is for sure."

"Man he really did start to turn a new leaf? I kinda wish I could have seen it," Battler responds.

"Jessica looked really really scary." Ange pipes up. "Ah don't worry Ange, I'm sure she is fine. There is just a lot of pressure on her right now." Battler says before patting Ange's head.

>>15516
"Jessica lives here on Rokkenjima right? The close proximity with Kinzo must have meant that she would have plenty of opportunity to interact with her recently turned kind grandfather...."

>>15518
"That's true," Battler says as he turns to face you, "I believe she has lived on the island her whole life so it makes sense."

This time George address you. "I'm sorry you had to see that side of our parents. It was a little harsh but I think Jessica being the head should help the family deal with their problems."

The group continues to chat a bit before making it to the guesthouse. It appears to be much smaller than the mansion with about 10 rooms or so. They take you through the first floor hallway and up to the second floor. They stop in front of the room right beside the staircase.

"This is your room I believe Archer. The key should be inside already. Later tonight a servant should be stationed in the servant room downstairs so if you need anything you can call them or just go down and ask." George gives you the number to call.

"We will be playing cards in this room over here. You are welcome to join if you wish." says Battler. The three of them enter the other room and leave you in the hall standing in front of the door to your room.

>>15519
Explore the nearby area. Knock on all the doors to see who is around.

>>15520
You find the other doors to be open and get an idea of the general area and rooms. Seems like at the moment there isn't any one besides yourself and the kids, at least on this floor.

Last edited at 14/07/27(Sun)18:39:22

>>15521
Check downstairs, if no one else is around, I'll go talk to the cousins (sans Jessica)

>>15522
You check the downstairs to find it has a bit more variety. You don't try to go into much depth with your search however. You fail to find anyone else in the guesthouse.

There is a dining room which bares a rather similar resemblance to the one in the mansion, which has a tearoom attached to it filled with cupboards and cabinets of tea cups and other tea related objects such as filters, kettles, spoons, sugar, etc.

The lobby has a similar table however also has a large bar built into it with a large variety of drinks behind. There are also a few couches on the other end of the room.

The servant room has a few desks and a coffee table in the middle with chairs accompanying it. Behind a paper screen there is bed in the room, presumably for servants to sleep when on call during the night. There is also another door in the servant room which was locked.

You head back up to the cousin's room and enter. "Ah, Archer. Decided to play after all?" Battler asks. You can see them shuffling cards.

>>15523
"Yeah, may as well pass the time a bit. That cousin of yours is certainly something else. The demeanor, the temperament, this is something not unlike what the famous Ushiromiya Kinzo was supposed to be like.

So why is it that your grandfather would bequeath his entire estate to a grandchild when all four of his children were still alive?"

>>15524
BGM: Stuffed Animal

"Beats me," shrugs Battler as he passes you some cards. He tells you you guys are playing old maid(using the joker card). After getting rid of your pairs your hand is:

2, K, 7, 5, 8.

Ange takes from Battler and gets a pair. She only has 3 cards remaining after George takes one from Ange and doesn't seem to get anything.

"Well if Jessica has been here with Kinzo the whole time maybe she has more knowledge on this type of thing then we would expect." George explains.

Your turn, George has 8 cards in his hand. Pick a number.

Pick the third card

"Do you think that maybe we should go speak with her? There are many things that come to mind given such a quick change in one's status.

A fool and his gold are soon parted

Power tends to corrupt

Well, either way, it is unlikely this will go over smoothly. Perhaps the presence of their children will ease the parents into less disagreeable states......."

Last edited at 14/07/27(Sun)19:37:06

>>15526
You get a 5, that's another pair. Battler takes your 7 and gets a pair as well.

"Hmm, knowing Jessica I believe she'll want to be alone for a while. She'll come around in a bit." George says.

"Are you sure George? Archer has a point after all." Battler adds.

Ange takes one from Battler and then George takes one from Ange, getting a pair.

"At the very least the adults won't be very interested with talking to us. I think Jessica's actions today stopped them fighting better than we could ever do." George concludes. Battler seems to agree with George. Ange staying silent during all of this naturally.

George holds up his hand again. 6 cards. Pick a number.

Last edited at 14/07/27(Sun)20:52:42

>>15527
Take the fifth card

"My primary concern is that the adults were merely shocked at Jessica's composure. Aside from Krauss and Natsuhi who will theoretically benefit directly from their daughter's promotion, I doubt any of the aunts and uncles will be content just sitting by and watching Jessica dictate the course of the family.

So am I the only guest on this island? There was another witness, Terumasa Nanjo, listed on the will; who exactly is that?"

>>15528
You get a 2 which gives you another pair. Battler takes one from you, leaving you with a single King left.

"Nanjo used to be grandfather's personal physician. He lives back on Niijima now. I remember uncle Krauss saying that grandfather paid him for his work over the years instead of adding anything into his will. Grandfather must have already known he was going to pass.

So yes, you are the only guest on the island."

Ange takes one from Battler. George takes one from Ange and gets a pair. He now only has 4 cards. Pick a number.

>>15529
"Krauss, Natsuhi, Jessica, Eva, Hideyoshi, George, Rudolf, Kyrie, Battler, Ange, Rosa, Maria, Genji, Gohda, Reinon, Asune, Sanon, and myself

We have a total of 18 people here."

Take the second card

"Thanks for the game, and the information. I'll have to teach you all tiến lên sometime.

Better get going back to the mansion. My boss would have my head if our clientele ended up hating us based on this outcome."

Go downstairs, grab an umbrella, and head over to the mansion (assuming I don't run into anybody along the way)

>>15530
You grab a card... and find it to be a King after all.

BGM: Fir Trees

After being surprised by your sudden victory and odd comment they bid you farewell and continue to play amongst themselves. You leave the guesthouse with umbrella in hand and make your way to the mansion. The rain isn't merely a light sprinkle at this point.

As you walk the path and past the rose garden you do not see anyone else on the way there. Upon entering the main entrance to the mansion you can hear a few voices coming from the parlor's closed doors. Seems like they are discussing, at the very least it certainly isn't as hectic as it was in the dining room from the sound of it.

>>15531
Before you can decide what to do you can see Reinon come down the main staircase. She catches your eye in and quickly walks up to you. In a manner quite unlike the cold first encounter with the maid she whispers, "Archer, I wasn't here. If Genji comes looking please don't tell him you saw me."

As if on cue footsteps are heard from the top of the staircase and before you can respond Reinon quickly heads in the direction of the main entrance; seems you lost sight of her.

Genji makes it to the bottom of the staircase and sees you standing there. "Pardon the inquiry Mr. Archer, but have you seen any of the other servants recently?"

>>15532
"I'll trade you, information seems to be rather valuable in this day and age.

I simply wish to know why Kinzo chose Jessica. You were one of the witnesses, and you seem to be the most influential servant. Did Jessica and Kinzo have a really good relationship later in Kinzo's life?"

>>15533
After a few moments of silence he opens his mouth.

"...I'm afraid I live to only serve my master. I had no reason to question his decisions..."

He seems like he is about to continue however something catches his eye.

"la la, la la" Asune walks out of one of the rooms down the left hall signing a merry tune. Genji instantly starts walking in her direction. Asune, who now opens her eyes long enough to see him coming quickly freezes in place before turning around to sprint.
Genji however catches her by the collar and comically starts to drag her away to the servant room. "Nooooooo Genji please guesthouse duty is sooo boring! Ahhhhh" she whines as the door to the servant room closes and you no longer can hear them. Seems like you missed your chance.

"Hey!" Reinon seems to have returned. On a closer inspection there is a closet right next to the entrance that she was hiding in. "You were going to sell me out weren't you?"

>>15534
"Except that if that played out as I had wanted, he'd have been sent the wrong way. I'd have gotten the information I desired and looked like your hero. Either way, my distraction seems to have helped you, perhaps you can answer my questions in exchange.

Why Jessica? Is it really that Kinzo became kind in his later years and just so happened to become closest to the grandchild that was within closest proximity? Or am I missing something important here? Any insight would be helpful, whether it may seem like it to you or not."

>>15536
"What are you, some sort of detective? The few times I saw them together they seemed like your typical grandchild and grandparent, so putting his trust in Jessica doesn't seem very hard to swallow."

Reinon checks her watch and continues, "Well I guess this island can be boring so you would have to find some way to entertain yourself. Anyway, if you would excuse me."

Reinon beings to walk away down one of the hallways, she is still in range if you wish to ask her anymore questions.

>>15537
"One more question if you would, please. How many people are on the island right now? From what I count, I believe it is 18.

Krauss, Natsuhi, Jessica, Eva, Hideyoshi, George, Rudolf, Kyrie, Battler, Ange, Rosa, Maria, Genji, Gohda, Reinon, Asune, Sanon, and myself. Is this correct?

Y'see, it's kinda been bothering me. The old boat captain told me that Rosa had an eight year old daughter named Maria.... did Rosa not bring her to this family gathering for some reason?"

>>15538
"Ah, I don't believe Maria is here this year. I heard she was sick so Rosa left her with someone to take care of her."

Reinon then leaves down the hall on the right side of the mansion and you are left alone in the main hall. To reiterate; there is a hallway on the left leading to one half of this floor in the mansion and another on the right leading to the other. You can see a few doors leading to different rooms down each one. In the middle are two shorter hallways that go beside and behind the main staircase, the left of which you already know goes to the dining room.

>>15539
Let's check the inside of the parlor first.

I enter the parlor

>>15540
You go up to the parlor and can hear the adults talking from within.

"...sten, I already checked the hospital for the amount and that is just how much you will need. Eva on the other hand you can't just expect me to break my ties with companies like that," you hear Krauss say.

"Oh yes you can you just don't want to admit it," Eva explains.

Seems they are still talking business. You open the door and all the talk immediately stops.

Krauss address you, "Archer is it? Do you need something?"

>>15541
"I'm concerned. My boss will have my head if this negatively affects our firm. I wanted to know if there was any other way in which I could help. Legal advice, especially pertaining to familial matters, is my specialty.

Speaking of which, where are these fabled grandchildren at? The boat captain had told me there were five, yet Jessica and Maria are currently unaccounted for."

>>15542
"I believe we can handle this ourselves. Genji informed me that Jessica wishes to spend some time alone in her room for now. As for Maria..." Krauss says before looking over to Rosa.

"Ah, Maria caught a bad flu and she didn't come this year."

"And there you have it," Krauss finishes, "If you would excuse us."
After that they figuratively force you out of the room and close the door.
Looks like you'll need to occupy your time elsewhere.

>>15543
"Jessica is in her room, huh? Well Usually people put the bedrooms above the ground level."

Go up the main staircase and begin looking around. A quick trip down the hall for anything out of place. If nothing, start knocking on doors systematically.

>>15544
You make it to the second floor and take a look around the general area.

Directly upon reaching the level in front of you is a double door with various glass panes leading out to a balcony that hangs off the front of the mansion. Similar to the first floor, a hallway runs through the middle of this area; each with various rooms on either side. Beside the top of the staircase you can see access to the third floor from here as well.

You start knocking on doors but none of them result in any response. There was five rooms on the left side and three on the right. Other than what appeared to be a bathroom on the left side all the doors are currently closed.

>>15545
Up to the third floor to look for abnormalities and knock on doors.

>>15546
You make your way to the top only to find a small lobby area with a single large door. It is has much more detail put into it than any of the other rooms. It wouldn't be a leap to assume the whole third floor is behind this door.

>>15547
"Looks important."

Knock knock

>>15548
No response.

>>15549
"Jessica? It's just me, your lawyer. I was hoping we could speak for a bit. It's rather important to document the handing over of assets."

>>15550
Yet again, no response.

"She really isn't in there... my guess was wrong, she must be on the main floor."

Go back to the main floor to go knocking on doors, this time announcing myself to hopefully avoid being ignored

>>15552
You head down to the second floor in order to attempt a second try, however as you reach it you can see Kyrie in the hallway. She takes notice of you and provides a greeting.

"Hello Archer, what are you up to?"

>>15553
"I'm having a bit of trouble locating Jessica. It's probably because the layout is entirely unfamiliar to me. Either way, I really needed to speak with her about finishing the process to hand over all the assets.

Are you folks taking a break? I really will be up shit creek if I go back with everyone in this family mad at us, perhaps a chance to deliberate can ease tensions."

>>15554
"I decided to check on Jessica as well. I asked Genji again and he informed me that Jessica went for a walk wishing to be away from the rest of us. Judging from her empty room that seems to be the case." She says while pointing to one of the rooms on the right side of the second floor. "I imagine she went to the guesthouse.

Yes, my husband and I are currently taking a break. The others are still at it."

>>15555
"Hope you don't mind if I tag along?"

>>15556
"I believe she must have ordered Genji to cover for her, so I've given up looking for now. If you do see her try not to push her too hard, I imagine she is more frail than that scene in the dining room would lead us to believe."

She then explains she will head back and leaves you in the hallway.

I'll explore the first floor more in depth. Walk down the hall, check rooms, get a general sense for the layout.

>>15558
You head down to the first floor and start on the left side of the mansion. There are three doors down this hall and you know one to be the third door to the parlor.

The one further to the end appears to be a bathroom, and beside that door you can tell is the kitchen. You can see various dishes and pots laying around the well suited room. Cabinets lining the walls and a large kitchen island in the middle of the room. There are also various appliances that you would expect in a kitchen such as a stove, oven, microwave, fridge, etc. You can see Gohda washing the dishes as he hums a tune. There also seems to be a back door to this room that leads outside.

Gohda sees you peeking and begins a conversation, "Ah! Mr. Archer good evening, is there anything this humble servant can help you with?" he says quite happily.

>>15559
"I was wondering if you could help answer a few questions. Y'see, I'm rather perplexed at the current state of affairs. Jessica was given the title of headship while the four children of Kinzo argue like vultures. Exactly how close were Jessica and Kinzo? What brought on her sudden change of personality in the dining room? Has it yet been arranged as for who all will be staying where between the mansion and the guest house?"

>>15560
"The scene in the dining room shocked me, I had heard rumors of the conference being this bloodthirsty but this was my first time so I really didn't expect it. I don't really know much about Jessica and Kinzo, I only saw them together when I went to deliver his food, from then on Genji would take it in so I only caught glimpses. I'm sorry that I can't be of more help, you see I only recently have been employed here. Due to some circumstances I was out of a job when Krauss offered for me one. He truly saved my career..."

Seems he has gone off in his own little world explaining just how happy he is now. He soon returns to reality.

"Oh my, so sorry. I don't know what came over me. I should get back to work, do you need anything else?"

>>15561
"So you would deliver the food, but never actually got to see Kinzo? Genji was a middle man between you and the head of the family? Have you ever actually met Kinzo?

The reason I ask is because I never got to meet Kinzo either. My boss was his personal attorney, the job of reading the last will and testament was pushed onto me due to other pressing matters for my firm."

>>15562
"I saw him of course. I meant that I rarely saw Kinzo and Jessica together outside of the study when I went to deliver the food."

Unless you having any more pressing matters with him, Gohda would return to his work.

>>15563
You leave Gohda and return to the hallway.

You can see at the other end of the mansion(the side you had yet to search) Eva and Hideyoshi enter one of the rooms. You also see Genji talking to Rosa who also enters her own room. Genji, who is carrying a pile of sheets from one of the rooms, enters another which is adjacent from the room Eva and Hideyoshi entered.

Looks like they finished up talking. Now that you think about it you are starting to get tired as well; that trip must have taken a lot out of you.

>>15566
Go talk to Genji

"Hey, I'm kinda lost at the moment. Any chance you can help explain the layout of the mansion a little better? I'm also hoping to try and figure out who among the family and servants is staying in which room."

>>15567
You follow Genji and knock on the door that he just entered.

Upon Genji opened the door a small electronic bell goes off. From what it looks like this seems to be the servant room. There is a large desk with various items on it at the back beside the window. Beside that on the wall is a small metal box. A coffee table is in the middle of the room on top of a large rug surrounded by couches. There are labeled lockers in the back corner with a bulletin board beside it. On the other side there is a sink, fridge, cabinets, and a small oven with a kettle on top of it.

Sanon sitting on the couch while you ask Genji about the mansion layout. He informs you that Krauss's family sleeps on the second floor and that the rest of the family is staying in the various guestrooms on the first floor. The servants sleep in their quarters which is on the way to the basement.

>>15568
"Thank you, Genji. You've been a tremendous help. Any chance you can do one last favor and escort me to Krauss's room? I wish to speak with him regarding future affiliation with my firm."

>>15569
"I'm afraid I have been told that Master Krauss has already prepared for bed. The rest of the family have also decided to finish their business and turn in for the night. I can tell him in the morning that you wish to talk further if you wish."

>>15570
"Alright, thanks."

Go knock on Rosa's door

>>15571
You leave the servant room and head over to the room you were told had Rosa in it. After a short knock she opens the door.

"Ah Archer. What is it?"

"You're the youngest, right? What was Kinzo like? There are legends of the head of the Ushiromiya family among the business entrepreneurs as the best and brightest in all of Japan. Likewise, he has been known to refuse interviews and to be very secretive. I'm not sure if the person he was when he promoted Jessica is the same as the person he was when you grew up...."

>>15573
She doesn't seem very happy that you are disturbing her about something like this but she responds anyway.
"Father was strict, now that he is dead I can see he simply wanted to raise us to lead the family in order to carry on his legacy. His tough approach didn't work however and did more harm than help.

In the end he never really blamed himself for the matter and I resent him for that. At the very least the few times I did see him before he eventually passed he was certainly happier than I remember as a child. Not by much mind you."

Rosa covers her mouth with a big yawn before continuing, "Archer if you just want to talk can't you wait until tomorrow? It is getting late." She says polite however obviously agitated.

>>15574
"Thank you, and sorry to disturb you. Good night."

Head back towards the guesthouse.

Time to check in on the children.

>>15575
You leave Rosa and let out a big yawn as she closes the door. Seems it is contagious.

You continue to the guesthouse, on your way you don't see anyone. You enter the first floor hallway which hasn't seem to have changed since you left it.

Check in on the servant's quarters

>>15577
You open the servant room door and find Asune sitting in a chair reading some magazine. She quickly notices your entrance and stands up, not before hiding her reading material behind her back.

"G-good evening Mister Archer, how may I help you?" she squirts out while giving a hasty bow.

"Wasn't Reinon scheduled to work the guesthouse tonight? I heard Genji mention something about it. Well, either way, I wanted to ask what Kinzo was like before he passed. How long did you know him for?"

>>15579
"Well, um, Genji usually just picks the first one of us he finds. He is pretty inflexible about it too.

I didn't talk to him much, so I wouldn't say I knew him. The old master was a bit...intimidating."

>>15580
"Who seemed to get along with him best, aside from Jessica? Were there any servants aside from Genji that Kinzo seemed to particularly like?"

>>15581
Asune pauses a moment to think a bit.

"I dunno. I remember the Master being pleased with Gohda's cooking though. He didn't care much for any other servants assuming they did their jobs."

>>15582
"How long have you all been working here? Gohda mentioned less than a year. What about you, Reinon and Sanon?"

>>15583
"Hmm... I think Reinon was first, then I arrived which was about 4 or 5 years ago. Then Sanon came about half a year later... I think."

After that the phone in the room rings.
"Wah! Sorry, I need to take this." She then goes and answers the phone. After a short interaction, mostly of her simply agreeing, she tells you that she has some work to do and leaves.

You feel rather tired at this point.

>>15584
One last stop, to visit the cousins.

Go up to the cousin's room

>>15585
You go upstairs and knock on the door. Following a quick "Enter" you turn the doorknob.
Upon opening the door you can see George, Jessica, Battler, and Ange in the room.

"Oh, welcome back Archer, what are you up to?" George says with a smile. From the look of things they had been playing some board games as well as cards, but are currently in the process of cleaning up.

>>15586
"Well I was just about to head off to bed, it's getting late. Figured I should check in on you folks, though I'm sure you can take care of yourselves.

I was wondering if you could tell me anything interesting about Sanon, Reinon and Asune. Are Sanon and Reinon pseudonyms? What about Asune? And how long have they been working here?"