Doctor, might these be the books and documents you were looking for? No, no need to thank me, I'm simply glad to be of help. How would I have known what you needed? Heheh. That would be... secret.

Phantom and I certainly have... our similarities, in what we've been through. Though now he pursues the truth, I only wish to be far removed from it.

Doctor. About that lady who came to borrow your books... was her name Mint? She seems to be curious about a great many things. Curiosity in excess usually invites disaster, you see, and I have my reservations.

It is quite the relief you were with us last mission, Doctor. I find myself dazed by the sight of you when you command. As if something crosses past the curtain of night and the stirring stars, leading your way...

Dance, music. Both soothe the soul, twin arts calling on us to focus and follow. But at times, too great a fixation can be our undoing. Such stories were already far too plenty where I formerly lived. Even I... am no exception to the rule.

Doctor? What are you standing there for...? I see... you overheard me talking with someone...? Cease with the jests, please. There is no one here... but me.

You wish to learn of the Crimson Troupe's affairs? Of course, I know of them all. But take caution, Doctor, for should you stray like they from the proper path... or come near to too many of them, you may be taken hold of. And that is not, whatsoever, desirable.

Here you are once more. Please, sit. Be reassured that I will not drive you out. So, what's the matter this time? Could Hibiscus have made another healthy meal? Or is Sideroca bound to whisk you away for training again?

My stories are hackneyed, bereft of novelty. Likely, not as engaging as you imagine. You would like to hear them nonetheless? Very well. Then I will tell you tales... but in exchange, Doctor, would you grant me a request?

Doctor. Doctor? Beg pardon, I know I should not disturb your rest... but it is far too still here for me to fully be at ease.

I envisaged the scene in which we would formally meet, Doctor, and this very moment brings it to life. Operator Shalem, pleased to make your acquaintance.

At times, I do feel the battlefield and the stage resemble one another, in ways.

Promotion, did you say...? Ah, I'm sorry, it just startled me. Thank you for your acknowledgement, Doctor.

Unlike him, still wreathed in his struggle, I had long since fled the past, never to concern me again... yes, Doctor, so I once hoped.

Worry not, coordinating with others is a strength of mine. So long as nothing untoward happens...

I may lack for power, but I will do all that I can.

Everyone, follow me, please.

See those on the stage... knowing nothing of their fates.

Fret not.

Their future is clear to see.

I hope we may resolve this peacefully.

To kill and to be killed, to do battle. Far too many plays are penned on these themes.

And may this end as swiftly as can be.

The path you all now walk bears not one hope.

Surely, your skulls... would be mesmerizing to see, right?

Hahahaha... haha, hahahahahahaha...

This is far beyond my wildest dreams. The best outcome, Doctor.

It is done. Be at ease, for no danger remains. Well done, Doctor.

Our mission is complete, Doctor. As for those who escaped... they have their own fates to meet.

Haste not; ponder leisurely. We still have opportunities.

Shall we rest here a while? How about some music?

Ah... I'm sorry, I was lost in thought.

Doctor, could you hold my coat for me briefly? I'll be done in a moment. My thanks.

Arknights.

Some dance and song is all it takes—days like these never fail to tempt art into showing a hint of its beauty, such that more would bow to it. A grand performance is about to begin, Doctor, and when the time has come, will you be able to recognize the true me beneath the limelight?

Welcome, Doctor. Indeed, I knew you would surely come.

I have to wear this...? Are you sure, Doctor? I don't recall this sort of adornment being called for on the stage... Very well... And dance with you? That would be a little... Oh my. Excuse me, Doctor. The steps here should go like this... Here, let me show you.