#Infinity Nikki Recaps

[daily-nikki]

Ch. 1, Pt. 1 | Rainbow-Touched Land

After finishing [Where Will the Bubbles Go?], Nikki and Momo find themselves in a new land: The Island of Serenity.

The group now needs to see what's going on in this new place that the Puppy Piecey has led them to.

To track your progress and gain more rewards for completing the new main story quest line, you can use the new event page.

This post contains spoilers, pictures, commentary, and dialogue.

[Rainbow-Touched Land] starts Chapter 1: Land of Peace and Purity for us. There are two Pieceys in front of the Warp Spire talking to each other. Nikki and Momo need to ask them about what's going on in this new place that they've been led to.

⋯⋯ Dialogue ⋯⋯

Tiny Treads Bootsie: What's our goal?

Ash: To be... To be Bubble Choir Conductor!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: What do we need?

Ash: Precision, and... and rhythm!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: And do we train?

Ash: Wh-When catching bubbles, we must... focus?

Tiny Treads Bootsie: That's not enough! Listen to me... Bubblebloom, Bubblebloom, a flick of the wrist, catches them all! Conduct to the left, conduct to the right, and the wind will carry the tune. Just aim at the bubbles and conduct to win!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Here, try those bubbles over there.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Who! By the Rainbow Bubbleboom! Are you two...?

Nikki: Hello there, we're—

↪ A human and a Momo

Nikki: I'm Nikki, a human stylist, and this is my companion...

Momo: Hehe! Not a cat, not a stylist... I'm the one and only Momo!

Ash: A living human... I've never seen one before. Fascinating...

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Humans have never been to Serenity Island before! This is as headline-worthy as the Bathing Bliss Festival being postponed. I should write this down now...

Nikki: Bathing Bliss Festival? What's that?

Tiny Treads Bootsie: It's the grandest festival on Serenity Island! It only happens when Bubbleblooms blossom. When they do, bubbles fill the sky, and Pieceys line up for a bath! The rainbow spring water washes away all our troubles and stains!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: There's a bathing contest for the village heads, and the Bubble Choir gives a special performance... Oh, Ash was just practicing for the choir conductor audition. We were helping him rehearse!

Nikki: That sounds so fun! But, didn't you just say the Bathing Bliss Festival was postponed?

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Ah, yeah... There's been a recent outbreak of Dirty Thread Disease. To keep everyone safe, the village heads decided to postpone it.

Momo: Dirty Thread Disease? Is that a Piecey sickness? It sounds dangerous!

Ash: It's very dangerous! Infected Pieceys become dirty and grimy, and they get... hallucinations.

Momo: Huh? Nikki, that Puppy Piecey we saw...

Nikki: Oh yeah! We saw a Puppy Piecey outside. He had stains all over and was acting strangely... Have you seen him before?

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Outside?! But we cant leave this place. How could...?

Nikki: You can't leave?

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Hmm, a dirty Puppy Piecey... Haven't seen one of those.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: All the infected Piecey cases in Soakville are being managed by Terra, the village head. Why not go ask her? She might know the puppy you're looking for!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Actually, I need to report to Terra anyway. When I'm done gathering bubbles, I'll head to Soakville and meet you. See you there!

So here in Serenity Island, they aren't allowed to leave and are dealing with some sort of dirty threads disease. The Puppy Piecey that the group saw wasn't supposed to be able to go outside of Serenity Island, because all of the Pieceys are supposed to be stuck there for whatever reason. It hasn't really been explained yet.

The infected Pieceys are being managed by Terra, so Nikki and Momo have to make their way over to her.

⋯⋯ Dialogue ⋯⋯

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Reporting in, Terra! Bubble collection was a success! The bubbles are silky and smooth. Perfect Cleansing Lotion ingredients!

Terra: Hmm, well done1 Once this old Piecey retires, you youngsters...

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Come on, Terra, quit messing around! You've been talking about retiring for years!

Terra: Hey! Don't be cheeky, Bootsie! If you all didn't insist on nominating me every time, I'd have stepped down ages ago...

Terra: Ah! A human? An actual human!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Nikki, Momo, you're here! This is Terra, head of Soakville, and the most formidable "Scrubbing Champ" on all of Serenity Island!

Nikki: Terra, nice to meet you!

Momo: Whoa! Scrubbing Champ?! That sounds impressive.

Terra: That's right! Back in my prime, no one on Serenity Island could out-scrub me. Any Piecey who entered my bathhouse couldn't leave until their fabric was spotless, their threads smooth, and their colors vibrant!

Terra: How about this... Why not hand Momo over to me? I'll scrub his front paws, then his back paws, his back, and his belly... Even his little toes and the tip of his tail will be spotless!

Momo: Ahhh! N-N-No thanks! I may not be a full cat, but I also really don't like baths.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Terra, you're going to scare our guests like that! Besides, didn't I just tell you? They have something important to ask you.;

Terra: Ahem, uh... yes, you're right. Business first then. Business... About that Puppy Piecey you've been looking for... I haven't seen him.

Terra: Normally, all the village's infected Pieceys are given Rainbow Springwater Therapy, and there haven't been any puppies among them...

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Huh? Could he be from that weird group? The ones we refuse to bathe after getting infected. The something-somethings...?

Terra: Hey! Quit talking nonsense, Bootsie!

↪ Pieceys that refuse to bathe?

Nikki: Isn't... bathing a major tradition in Soakville? Why would they...?

Terra: Ayyy... Well, some of those infected Pieceys have started experiencing hallucinations and causing a bit of a ruckus. It's nothing serious, don't worry!

Nikki: That Rainbow Springwater Therapy... is it specially made to cure Dirty Thread Disease?

Terra: That's right. Centuries ago, there was a massive outbreak of Dirty Thread Disease. Nearly every resident of Serenity Island fell ill.

Terra: Thankfully, the Guardian saved us. He left behind two nuggets of wisdom, one of which was Rainbow Sprintwater Therapy.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: The Silvergale's gift, the source of the rainbow, Serenity Spring cleanses all contaminates.

Terra: Back then, the legendary Serenity Spring flowed with Rainbow Springwater, curing everyone and restoring peace to Serenity Island.

Nikki: What an amazing story... So, can we speak to the Pieceys undergoing therapy? Maybe they know that infected Puppy Piecey.

Terra: They're... uhm, well... they're uhm... still in therapy!

Terra: Once their fabric is fully restored, I'll definitely let you meet them and ask your questions. Yes...

Terra: Any, my esteemed guests, as the saying goes, "Event the busiest Piecey needs a good scrub, and even urgent matters require rest to complete!"

Terra: I've prepared a Thuddy Squash Cabin just for you. Bootsie, you're in charge of showing our guests around Soakville and ensuring they get a proper rest at the cabin.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Leave it to me! Nikki and Momo, you two follow me! You'll have a fun and relaxing time for sure!

Thuddy Squash Cabins

⋯⋯ Dialogue ⋯⋯

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Everyone in Soakville lives in these Thuddy Squash Cabins.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Sit just outside your door, sunbathe, and enjoy a bubble bath... How about it? Sounds relaxing, right?

Soakville Bathhouse

⋯⋯ Dialogue ⋯⋯

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Welcome to the Soakville Bathhouse, our favorite spot to relax and bathe!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: The bathhouse is run by Granny Bubbles. My friend Murmur works here too.

Their poor spring water looks like it has an oil slick on top of it.

Rainbow Springwater

⋯⋯ Dialogue ⋯⋯

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Every time I see Rainbow Springwater, i think of the Guardian...

Tiny Treads Bootsie: According to the legend, the Guardian was a Piecey revered by all. He is brave and responsible.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: But, after leaving behind those two nuggets of wisdom, no one knows where he went. Only some legends remain...

High Stonetree

⋯⋯ Dialogue ⋯⋯

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Ah, I almost forgot to show you! Look at the highest place in the distance. That's High Stonetree!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: There's another village on top of High Stonetree called Steamville.

Nikki: Steamville? So there are two Piecey Villages here?

Tiny Treads Bootsie: That's right! I was supposed to take you up there to visit, but recently the path between Soakville and Steamville has had some issues...

Tiny Treads Bootsie: But it's alright. I'm sure the issues will be solved soon!

Going around the Soakville Bathhouse and venturing toward the shoreline, the group runs into Murmur.

⋯⋯ Dialogue ⋯⋯

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Hey, Murmur!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Over here!

Murmur: Huh? Bootsie?

Tiny Treads Bootsie: These are my new friends, Nikki the human and her companion Momo!

Nikki: Hello there, Murmur!

Murmur: Hello...

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Hang on. How come you've not at the Soakville Bathhouse, Murmur?

Murmur: I-I had some personal matters, so I took the afternoon off. But don't worry, I put the cleaning brushes in neat rows and filled the Cleansing Lotion bottles all the way to the top!

Momo: And you scrubbed every Piecey nice and clean?

Murmur: Y-Yes! I made sure everything was ready before I left, so I could take off from work for a bit...

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Are you okay, Murmur? You're acting strange today...

Murmur: It's just I promised Granny Bubbles! I promised her I'd hurry back because the bathhouse has so many guests lately. It needs more Rainbow Springwater and more hadworking Pieceys.

Murmur: I'm sorry! Bootsie, Nikki, Momo... I've gotta go now. I need to get back to the bathhouse to help Granny Bubbles.

Murmur: Bye... Bye bye! Have fun!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Hmm... What in the...? Murmur's acting so weird today!

Nikki: Does Murmur always act like that?

Tiny Treads Bootsie: She's completely different! Murmur doesn't normally talk that much. But today, she met two complete strangers... a human and a Momo... and said over five whole sentences!

Nikki: Murmur's normally a quiet Piecey? That really is surprising!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Yeah... She acted more like her old self just now. She used to always be a bit shy, but was eager to help others. And when she was happy, she would chatter nonstop.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: But after that thing happened, Murmur has become more and more reserved...

Nikki: And what was... "that"?

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Well, a long time ago, before the Bathing Bliss Festival, there was a cave-in at the Steamville Crystal Salt cavern.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Unfortunately, Murmur was there and got trapped! She was missed for several days. We were all so worried... Luckily, she somehow made it back to the village on her own.

Nikki: That's good. Thankfully everything turned out okay.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Yeah! But... the experience left Murmur shaken. Afterwards, she started talking about strange things. Everyone was a little... put off.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: But I thought the strange things were fascinating, even if they were just hallucinations. I even asked if I could write them down so I could turn them into a series of novels!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: But Murmur hasn't talked much since. Maybe... she stopped because nobody believed her stories.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: After that, Murmur became less cheerful. She often went off alone to the Guardian's statue, hugging a whistle and staring vacantly. Sometimes, she spent all day doing it.

Nikki: Seems like... it had a big impact on her.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Yeah... but it's okay! Murmur was really talkative just now. Maybe that's a sign she's starting to feel herself again!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: After that incident, Murmur became very interested in all sorts of legends. Stories about the Guardian and humans... Maybe she was excited about seeing a living human for the first time!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: I'm going to compile the stories you've told me and the Guardian legends I've already collected. Then, I'll give them to Murmur. I'm sure that'll make her happy!

Nikki: Great idea! In that case, let me tell you more stories about humans...

Nikki and Momo told Bootsie many of their stories...

Moving on from the Murmur situation, Bootsie finally shows us to the cabin where Nikki and Momo will be staying.

⋯⋯ Dialogue ⋯⋯

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Here we are. This is the Thuddy Squash Cabin Terra prepared for you.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: She's not big on managing village affairs, but when something needs doing, she's super efficient!

Momo: Hehe! Alright, Nikki! We get to stay in a Thuddy Squash Cabin!

Nikki: What a cozy cabin... Thank you, Bootsie, and thank you, Terra!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Hehe, you're the most special guests Soakville has had in centuries!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: You can rest here or explore the village as much as you like. Just don't wander too far. Leaving the village might cause problems.

Momo: Huh? Is it dangerous outside Soakville?

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Well, usually it's super peaceful. But the path leading to Steamville has been broken recently, and there's the Dirty Thread Disease issue... Everyone just thinks it's best to stay cautious.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Besides, Serenity Island hasn't always been so harmonious.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: A long, long time ago, during the Great Mending Era, there were a lot of injuries. Everyone had to work hard together to mend their terrifying wounds.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Then came the Dirty Thread Disease outbreak, which was truly awful. Without the Guardian's wisdom and the Silvergale's protection, I don't know how we would've gotten through it...

Nikki: I didn't realize Serenity Island had such a tough past...

↪ Ask about long, long ago

Nikki: So, what happened back then? Why did everyone on Serenity Island get hurt?

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Well, it was because... because...

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Ah, it was so long ago I really can't remember. Like the Guardian's disappearance, we don't really know for sure. All we know is that after leaving his wisdom behind, the Guardian never appeared again.

Nikki: Earlier, Terra mentioned the Guardian left two nuggets of wisdom. What was the other one?

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Ahem, the Guardian said, "Never set foot upon the Misty Peak, nor stir The Silvergale from His sleep."

Tiny Treads Bootsie: So, on Serenity Island, the Misty Peak is strictly off-limits. No one's allowed up there!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: The elder say it's because the sacred Silvergale lives up there. But, some of my friends are in the "Piecey Adventure Club". they think it's because there's...

Tiny Treads Bootsie: ...an Esseling that eats Pieceys!

Momo: Ahh!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Hehe, did I scare you? Don't worry, it's just a legend!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Alright, I've got to help move some Bubble Essence. That's a super important ingredient for the Cleansing Lotion! I'll also drop by the bathhouse to check on Murmur...

Now Nikki can finally get some rest in her cabin after such an exciting day of trying to figure out wtf is going on. Girl, we all are, don't worry.

⋯⋯ Dialogue ⋯⋯

Nikki: Err... Huh?

Nikki: You came to Serenity Island too... Hey! Your bell is still...

Nikki: Huh? Wait, wait!

Nikki: Momo, wake up! That strange Puppy Piecey is here! Let's check it out!

Momo: Oof. Ugh...

In the middle of the night the Puppy Piecey reappears with a sad look on its face. Nikki decides to go after him and thus starts the next quest: [The Bell Rings at Midnight].

[ironrose-stylistlegion]

i hate when i get comments on videos that are disrespectful but also objectively funny.

like you shouldnt phrase your request for more story recap videos as literally just saying "chop chop, story girl"

that is rude 🫵🫵 i don't know you 🫵🫵

however ☝️ it did make me laugh.

[lostpimplepatch]

Where can I get a full recap of the Shining Nikki plot? It’s so intriguing and I want to understand the Nikkiverse before I get super into infinity Nikki. The game’s style really isn’t for me though so it’s really hard to get through it. I can’t even find a voiced play through of it all :/

[nikkigameslore]

Pinned

This is a side blog, I decided to make it because it seems infinity nikki has drawn a lot of new players, and a lot of them are confused about what is going on with this pink haired girl.

And in case it isnt clear I'm adding this note here: this blog supports lgbtqia+, poc, and people of all religions, backgrounds, and color. It is not for anyone who spreads hatred of any kind. I love the lore and I love sharing it but I will not hesitate to block people who spread hatred.

A Brief recap from the previous two games:

Nikki is a pink haired girl from earth who was summoned to Miraland by the queen of the Lilith kingdom, (in Shining Nikki this is called Ninir) in order to change the fate. Here she learns about the blood curse: nobody in Miraland is able to use violence because of the extreme pain and weakness is causes so disputes are solved by styling battles.

A lot happens. She meets and loses many friends, is betrayed by people she thought were friends and in the end she isn't able to change fate.

This leads to Shining Nikki where she is sent back in time to year 0 of Miraland in order to save it once again. Except this time she has you, her friend and the god of styling and beauty to help her out.

Important things:

7 Nations

Miku and the Blood Curse

Star Sea

Tales from Miraland (event stories)

Infinity Nikki Lore

Shining Nikki Lore

Love Nikki Lore

Nikkiverse Explanation

Pride Fits

[cosmic-phantom-cafe]

With the newest hsr update 3.0 all I have to say is

I do like the new world it super cool but this is like a more personally me thing- I cannot do the quest specifically long dialogue and non-skippable dialogues. It’s more of because I’m juggling with like 4 other games (Genshin, wuwa, infinity nikki) i like havinf skip dialogue omly because it makes it more manageable for my end of managing four games. Plus I’ll recap it at some point on YouTube

The Herta looks so good! I do like her gameplay just I’m more of a DOT and maybe remembrance? I really like dot mechanics and also my favorite paths are nihilily and remembernce- I am tho trying to get lingsha since I have firefly and well one break almost break team might as well get a break team start up

[deltaengineering]

that was the winter anime 2021 that was

Still not quite ready for a dozen posts about how terrible the likes of Combatants Will Be Dispatched are, sorry. Watch Vivy though, it owns. Here’s some more things that are (mostly) good. As always, worst to best.

Yatogame-chan Kansatsu Nikki S3

Yatogame has long run out of hot Nagoya facts and its ensemble comedy never amounted to much, so now it seems mostly content to just spam more and more wacky character designs. About the only thing that it has left going for it is that 3 minutes a week are more effort to drop than to watch, so I expect them to make a movie next. 4/10

Go-toubun no Hanayome S2

Quints is a weird one. S1 was a barely good enough (i.e., well above average) implementation of the ages old harem chestnut. S2 is actually better at the core of its appeal, since it gives all the characters a sharper profile (things like taking Nino from joke to badass and making Ichika a villain are no mean feat), but it does pay a steep price for it. You see, to deliver a steady drip feed of meaningful character moments it apparently has to rush through the source material at a breakneck pace, which completely wrecks the "story" part of this story and makes every episode seem like a recap. And it still keeps wasting precious time on vestigial nonsense like its framing device and the Kyoto flashback scenario that was already the worst part of S1. But by far the most annoying aspect is its insistence on keeping all the options valid, since it prevents any real progress and makes everything seem arbitrary and pointless. So sure enough, after a season of much ado we still don't end up anywhere — you can't really raise the stakes if all at stake was "who wins" to begin with. It's watchable and even enjoyable scene-for-scene but it's getting harder and harder to call it a solid show overall. 5/10

Skate Leading Stars

I was watching this primarily because I didn't like Yuri on Ice much and wanted to see if something that is a blatant attempt to cash in on it would be better — because while YoI delivers on one aspect (being hella gay), it really is an absolute shambles of a sports show. And sure enough, Skate Leading has none of the auteur appeal of YoI, but it just works much better. In particular I appreciate how it managed to make me care even a little about a cast of assholes, which is a nice contrast to the nauseatingly ingratiating way YoI tries to make you love its characters. Also, Skate Leading is just generally cheap and unambitious, so not susceptible to trying hard and painfully flaming out on the presentation side like YoI is. But at some point you gotta let go of these comparisons and on its own Skate Leading is... just fine, I guess? Competent, mildly engaging, not very memorable. And that's probably where it loses to Yuri on Ice in the end after all, even if I think it's "better". 6/10

Idoly Pride

Idoly Pride sold itself on me with a really good (and hilarious/tragic) first episode that was just too bizarre to ignore — I mean, how can you ignore GHOST IDOL MANAGERS. Well, the majority of the show isn't like that. It's a competent and solid version of the idol franchise show, yes, but it really had more potential than that. Especially midseason, it gets lost in these dozens of characters, and while they're all likeable, it does seem like a waste of a good story just centered on Mana/Kotona/Sakura. By the end it comes back around to the heart of the matter with a Maeda-style sob story, which could be a disaster but seasoned veteran Jukki Hanada makes it work anyway. Overall, there's quite a bit of ridiculous hacky melodrama in this, but quite honestly that's the best part and I wish it would concentrate more on it. The rest is just okay. 6/10

Yuru Camp S2

Yuru Camp is still likely the best pure iyashikei show when it gets down to business. Compared to S1 though, this seems to happen less and less. At its peaks (i.e., basically any quiet moment with Rin) it's at least as good as ever, and there's some good cast additions like Mini-Inuko, but it appears that Yuru Camp simply has run out of things you can do with camping and it fills up the time with other... stuff. This stuff includes the generic school club shenanigans it was never particularly good at, and a gigantic helping of crass consumerism. Yeah, I would say the majority of Yuru Camp is just a straight up infomercial at this point, which itself ranges from the perfectly acceptable (which cute anime isn't about food constantly), to the sketchy (I don't know whether the Izu tourism board cut this production a fat check, but if they didn't, Yuru Camp still gives its best effort to make it seem that way) to the highly irritating – I am aware that camping requires gear and you can't just ignore that, but you most definitely do not require whole arcs dedicated to talking about raising funds for the purposes of acquiring the Lamp of Comfy Happiness at your friendly local Caribou™ either. Not to mention an arc where the aforementioned lame school club does the same, for double irritation. Make no mistake, this show is so riddled with scenes that beg for a solution to embed affiliate links in video files that it makes me wish I was watching something as anticapitalist and underground as Love Live. And irritating really is the last thing a show with this core concept, as stellar as it is at that, can afford to be. Bummer. 6/10

SKOO the Infinity

Skoo has one really huge asset: ADAM, its magnificent villain. It also has one really huge liability: Reki, its not magnificent protagonist. To be more specific, it's very good at anything outrageous, physics-defying and silly, such as most scenes ADAM is in, and quite bad at anything serious, dramatic (in a serious way) and down to earth, such as most scenes Reki is in. So, what's the verdict? Well, the rest of the cast is more ADAM-like, and Reki's co-protagonist Langa is fine as the straight (yeah, right) man. The tedious buddy drama is a comparatively small part of this show, and at least it pays off quite well in the end. Seriously, I was ready to give this a 6, but the final episode is probably the best one of the show, in all of its aspects. That's really not something you see often. Skoo's a great time. Except when it's not. 7/10

Non Non Biyori Nonstop

Speaking of the rare good ending, what about we gave one of those to a slim and inconsequential slice-of-life show? NNB has always been solid, comfy and amusing quality with a couple of standout moments (usually something with Renge), and Nonstop has that plus an ending as conclusive as any show of this type is ever going to have. Besides, it does a lot of things right by focusing on more characters than the central 4 (especially Konomi has great material in S3), it expands the universe just enough to not get stale, and it moves things forward — It's definitely a lot better than the movie, is what I'm saying. Apart from that, well, we're three seasons in, if you have any interest in this you probably don't need me to explain what's good about NNB at this point. Bonus points for being nothing but an ad for the manga. 7/10

Wonder Egg Priority

Oh boy, so here's the big one. Wonder Egg is the rare Meaningful Arthouse Show About Real Issues You Guys, as you might have heard. And well, the long and short of it is that it's a very good show with quite a few glaring problems (besides not actually being finished due to production issues, but what we have is enough of an ending to be able to meaningfully talk about it). In particular, one problem: WEP is, at its core, one of these metaphorical Magical Girl-ish series that are just a thin layer of abstraction over coming-of-age or societal problems. The issue is that "metaphorical" in this case means "literal" and "thin" means "basically nonexistent". This show is not subtle regarding what it's about, at all. This is a double-edged sword — on the positive side, some things really should just be said aloud, and I'm really, really fucking tired of the Ikuhara style of "here's some wacky things, maybe a blog post will eventually tell you how it's actually about the most important thing ever" obfuscation — if it's really so important, just spell it out. On the other hand, there are limits to this and when a second, different Ai appears I don't really need a voiceover line telling me that yep, this show is about parallel universes now. WEP spells out many important things, but it also spells out many things that are implicitly clear or better left vague. Not to mention that with being so obvious up front, the show's tendency to leave figuring out what it's actually saying about it up to the viewer can leave the wrong impression. Again, I settled on the opinion that it's subtle after all where it counts the most, but you might easily get the impression that it pulls its punches (Ikuhara does this the exact other way around — once you figure out what the fuck he's talking about it's abundantly clear what he's saying about it).

In fact, this show is so good at subtle, quiet character moments that it calls into question the need for big huge fighting fantasy layer in the first place, especially since I'm not a fan of the fantasy designs and the fights aren't great. Sure, they look impressive on a technical level (this show is very good looking in general), but the lack of actual impact or rhythm makes me think this is not made by people who are very familiar with action and maybe they should have asked some seasoned shounen veterans for this — or just, you know, not do it. They can (and do) impress with character acting in quiet scenes just the same. And while Ai's character story actually does pay off quite nicely by the end we got, and Momoe and Rika are also handled well, Neiru's backstory is significantly less good, not to mention the whole Frill subplot regarding the show's mythology that they introduced just before (and that's the part to be resolved at a later date), which is a huge can of worms. We'll see how well they handle that, I suppose, but as it is it's a weird and vestigial detour that doesn't add much besides thematic headaches.

But yeah, apart from all that — I like it, a lot. Great character writing in the details, cool looks for the most part, tons of ambition, and a message that I consider to be appropriately handled — for the most part, and for now. Not quite ambitious arthouse anime at its finest, but also not a pretentious disaster like Sarazanmai, Monogatari et al. 8/10

[greyreign]

Flobo and Frank are joined by our newest member of the panel, Nikki Bailey, to break down this week’s Star Trek: Discovery.  We talk Michael’s family reunion, Leland getting taken over by control, Georgiou fighting on the side of the angels and more.  Join us! RSS Feed: https://ift.tt/2HWjxPu ABOUT STAR TREK WEEKLY: Star Trek Weekly, is a weekly podcast for fans of Star Trek. Hsoted by Kari Lane, Frank Moran, and Christian Bladt, the team will be breaking down each episode of Star Trek Discovery during the seasons, and in the off time covering classic episodes and topics related to the Star Trek Universe year round! ABOUT STAR TREK DISCOVERY: Star Trek: Discovery is an American television series created for CBS All Access by Bryan Fuller and Alex Kurtzman. It is the first series developed specifically for that service, and the first Star Trek series since Star Trek: Enterprise concluded in 2005. Set roughly a decade before the events of the original Star Trek series and separate from the timeline of the concurrent feature films, Discovery explores the Federation–Klingon cold war while following the crew of the USS Discovery. Gretchen J. Berg and Aaron Harberts serve as showrunners on the series, with producing support from Akiva Goldsman. Sonequa Martin-Green stars as Michael Burnham, the first officer of the USS Shenzhou and later the USS Discovery. The new series was announced in November 2015, and Fuller joined as showrunner the next February. In addition to Fuller and Kurtzman, who wrote for previous Star Trek series and films, respectively, the crew includes several other previous Star Trek creatives. Fuller wanted to make an anthology series, beginning with a prequel season to the original series, but CBS asked that he make a single serialized show first. In October 2016, after further disagreements with CBS and struggles with other commitments, Fuller left the series. Berg and Harberts took over day-to-day production using a mythology and broad story arc established by Fuller, while Goldsman joined then as support. The production put emphasis on carrying on the legacy of the previous series, including making efforts to feature a diverse cast. The values and designs of the Federation were updated for the series, but were expected to evolve towards those of the original series throughout Discovery's run. The show also heavily features the Klingon species, with the intent of exploring the central conflict from both perspectives. The Klingons were redesigned for the series, with influence from their previous appearances, the original inspirations for the species, and the novel The Final Reflection, as well as research on biology and evolution. The Klingon language is also extensively used. Discovery is filming in Toronto, and has filmed on location in Jordan. Follow us on https://ift.tt/1jP4mm4 "Like" Us on https://ift.tt/MGC1nl Buy Merch at https://ift.tt/23ZFJdV Make sure to subscribe to AfterBuzz! - http://youtube.com/afterbuzztv HELPFUL LINKS: Website - http://afterbuzztv.com Apple Podcasts - https://ift.tt/1oPDN6B Follow us on Twitter - https://twitter.com/afterbuzztv Like us on Facebook - https://ift.tt/2GMc8SQ See on us Instagram - https://ift.tt/1nTv3G5 Merch - https://ift.tt/23ZFJdV ABOUT AFTERBUZZ TV: Created by Emmy winner Maria Menounos & producer Keven Undergaro, AfterBuzz TV is the digital broadcast network dedicated to producing live and on-demand after-shows, news and coverage for nearly every TV show featuring expert recaps & interviews with cast & crew.Star Trek Discovery Season 2 Episode 11 “Perpetual Infinity” | AfterBuzz TV https://youtu.be/d5GMCLyI7Rs

[daily-nikki]

Ch. 1, Pt. 2 | The Bell Rings at Midnight

After finishing Ch.1, Pt. 1 [Rainbow-Touched Land], Nikki and Momo are now on the search for the Puppy Piecey in the middle of the night. Where will it lead them this time?

To track your progress and gain more rewards for completing the new main story quest line, you can use the new event page.

This post contains spoilers, pictures, commentary, and dialogue.

[The Bell Rings at Midnight] continues Chapter 1: Land of Peace and Purity for us. This chapter has been about giving us some insight into the fact that something is up on Serenity Island and everything may not be as great as the Pieceys would first have you believe.

The search for the Puppy Piecey leads the group over to a little island in the Rainbow Lake. Nikki and Momo come upon a scene already in action.

⋯⋯ Dialogue ⋯⋯

Granny Bubbles: Terra? Here again?

Terra: Ah, Granny Bubbles, until the Heart of Spring is restored, I can't scrub a single Piecey.

Granny Bubbles: Those infected Pieceys you sent over are fine, but you're the one stressing every day. Your fabric has gone all rough! Come by the bathhouse sometime for a proper soak!

Terra: Once I've sent all our infected Pieceys to Steamville, I'll definitely swing by! I'll let Macy handle all the stress for me.

Granny Bubbles: You stubborn Piecey! Worried about everyone but still acting like you don't want he responsibility.

Granny Bubbles: Fine. Fine. I'm heading back to prepare for the Bathing Bliss Festival. Once you've sorted these issues, everyone will soak and scrub to their heart's content!

Terra: If only the Guardian... was still here.

Terra: Holy Cleansing Lotion! What... How are you here?! Ahem, I mean, what nice weather tonight, haha...

Nikki: Sorry, Terra we weren't trying to eavesdrop. We just happened to be passing by.

Nikki: We overheard you talking about sending the infected Pieceys to Steamville. Did something happen?

Terra: Ah... I can't hide this for much longer. I might as well tell you.

Terra: The thing is... the Rainbow Spring Therapy completely failed.

Nikki & Momo: What?!

Terra: Granny Bubbles and I just can't work out why the therapy that saved Serenity Island before is... completely useless now.

Terra: We scrubbed and scrubbed the infected Pieceys in Rainbow Springwater. i even used my best scrubbing techniques! But the contamination won't budge... Not even a little!

Terra: I have no choice but to send them to Steamville to try their Crystal Salt baths. It's made from a super concentrated crystallized essence of Rainbow Springwater. It just might work.

Nikki: But... the path to Steamville is cut off.

Terra: Yes, "Like a threadbare cloth scrubbed once too hard, a single tear is all it takes."

Terra: Earlier, when you asked to talk to the infected Pieceys, I turned you down because I didn't want you to find out that the therapy wasn't working. I'm sorry for deceiving you...

↪ Express understanding

Nikki: We get it. You were only trying to avoid causing panic! What matters is the repair and getting the infected to Steamville.

Momo: We can help!

Terra: Ah, such a kind human and noble Momo! But, the Heart of Spring's buds have been tainted with Dark Essence. We haven't even found the contamination's source, let alone figured out how to purify it...

Momo: Purify?! That's what Nikki does best!

Nikki: I have a purification ability. Let me try!

Terra: Oh! Honored guests! You're truly more valuable than aged Cleansing Lotion and bubbles1

Terra: If you can resolve this issue, anything that Soakville can possibly offer is yours! I'll even... I'll... I'll give you...

Terra: I'll give you my title of "Scrubbing Champ!"

Momo: That's the most valuable thing here?!

Nikki: Such an important title shouldn't be given away so lightly! Don't worry. I, the "Purifying Champ," will definitely solve this contamination problem!

Nikki: Speaking of which, we do have a small request... We ran into that Puppy Piecey again earlier. have you seen him anywhere?

Terra: Huh? No, I haven't. I asked the infected Pieceys for you earlier, and they also said they hadn't seen him.

Terra: Wherever that puppy came from, it's even harder to figure out than my secret "Eighteen Scrubbing Techniques."

Nikki: So strange... But, the most important thing now is resolving this Heart of Spring issue!

Terra: I'm counting on you! When morning arrives, I'll have Bootsie show you around. Hopefully, we can get this all sorted out.

We're let in on the fact that the dirt is so bad on these infected Pieceys, that the old way of curing the disease no longer works. It's like nuclear dirt or something. Nikki is gonna try to help out with her magical Purifying ability that she has. I don't know if the new players are given any of the back story on the ability outfits or if they just kinda get them now. The ability outfits are pieced together throughout Nikki's exploration at the beginning and are to be used to help save Miraland. I guess it works with the new beginning of the game that they're going with.

Now it's off to find Bootsie in the morning.

⋯⋯ Dialogue ⋯⋯

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Nikki, Momo, Terra told me everything! You can purify Dark Essence?! That's incredible!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: It would be great if you could fix the Heart of Spring. I can't wait to find Auntie Jasmine and the others.

Momo: Is that a friend of yours from the village on High Stonetree? I think it's called... Uh...

↪ Steamville

Nikki: I remember! It's called Steamville! Steamville and Soakville... Ah, I think I've figured out the naming strategy...

Nikki: Maybe I'll rename my hometown and say I'm from... "Nikkiville!"

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Wow, what an amazing name! How about I include a character from Nikkiville in my new novel? Someone with powerful purification skills and a super cool cat-like companion...

Nikki: Bootsie, do you enjoy writing stories?

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Hehe, that's right! If you ask me what the best thing on Serenity Island is, I'd say it's... stories and friends!

Nikki: So, is you favorite thing sharing stories with your friends?

Tiny Treads Bootsie: That right! Every now and then, my friends and I get together at the "Bubbly Tales Club" to share all kinds of stories.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: We planned to meet in Steamville this time, with Ash, Murmur, and the others. But then the heart of Spring issue came up, and it got postponed.

Nikki: It sounds like such a fun event! What's the story you're preparing?

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Tadaa! It's my latest masterpiece, The Monster Who Refused to Bathe! A tale about a Piecey that hates baths.

Momo: What a scary name! Hmm, a Piecey that hates baths. I feel like I've heard that before...

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Because I said it before! Actually, I recently heard about a bunch of infected Pieceys that refused to take Rainbow Spring Therapy. they say all kinds of strange things.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: To avoid bathing, they've formed a group and are hiding in the wilderness!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Everyone thinks the Dirty Thread Disease is causing them to hallucinate, making them act so oddly. People call them the Rinse-Free Rebels.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: I've been wanting to ask Terra about them to gather more story material. You two were there last time, remember? But Terra keeps dodging my questions...

Nikki: Pieceys refusing the bathe... Oh... If the Dirty Thread Disease keeps spreading, who knows how bad it could get? It might even become life-threatening!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Exactly! If we ever find them, we have to convince them to return.

Momo: Nikki, we should hurry up and purify the buds of the Heart of Spring!

Nikki: Yeah! On it! Bootsie, do you know where the buds are?

Tiny Treads Bootsie: The Heart of Spring buds are scattered across the wilderness. I'm not sure where they are exactly, but I do have two closer friends who know everything about them.

Momo: Wow, you're really friends with everyone on Serenity Island!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Hehe! When you're ready, come find me at the Water Quality Lab. I'll introduce you to them there!

The quickest way to start the cutscene is for Nikki to use to Warp Spire next to her cabin. It starts the next cutscene automatically.

⋯⋯ Dialogue ⋯⋯

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Nikki, Momo! These are the water quality monitors of Soakville, senior members of the Piecey Adventure Club, and my good friends... Frank and Stan!

Stately Stan: Hello.

Flashy Frank: Wow! We have guests? A human, a big kitty... A human!

Nikki: Hello... new friends with so many impressive titles!

Momo: You look identical, but you give off completely different vibes...

Flashy Frank: Huh? We're different? How? I think we're pretty much the same! Aren't we alike, Stan? How are we different?

Stately Stan: Frankly, messing around like this... just won't stand!

Flashy Frank: Fine, fine... You never play with me. Nikki, you three will, right? I got lots of stuff from the Rainbow Spring... scraps of cloth, buttons, patches, hair clips. and scraps of cloth!

Nikki: Wait, why were there so many things at the Spring?

Momo: And you said scraps of cloth twice!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Alright, Frank, normally I'd totally play with you, but today we've got important things to do! Nikki wants to know where the contaminated buds are. She can help purify them.

Stately Stan: Purify them? Great!

Stately Stan: It's spread to four places: by the Guardian Statue, in the Old Ruins, the Bubblebloom Field, and the Brewing Workshop. The order doesn't matter, and neither does the severity...

Nikki: Order? Severity?

Stately Stan: Sorry... Since I became a water quality monitor, I've never encountered a problem this big. The buds are contaminated, the Heart of Spring is weak, and the paths are cut off. I...

Flashy Frank: The buds are on Stonetrees! Stonetrees are tall! Taller than humans! Much, much taller!

Nikki: What?

Stately Stan: Oh... are you saying the buds are high up on the Stonetrees? Pieceys can float up, but it's hard for humans to reach them, right?

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Exactly! The Stonetrees in the wilderness are much taller than those around Soakville. Even we Pieceys struggle to float up there...

Nikki: If floating isn't an option, then...

Flashy Frank: Springblooms! Springblooms of course! We can... "Woosh" and fly right up there with those!

Stately Stan: I see. Follow me...

Stately Stan: There're many small Springblooms growing on the Heart of Spring's roots. When awakened, they shoot small water spouts, similar to those from the Hear of Spring itself.

Stately Stan: Master riding the Springbloom waterspouts, and you'll be able to reach higher places and move around the wilderness much easier.

Flashy Frank: Whooosh! Plop!

Momo: That "plop!" It wouldn't happen to be the sound of us falling, would it?

Tiny Treads Bootsie: No wonder you're a senior explorer in the Piecey Adventure Club, Frank. You really know your way around the wilderness1

Nikki: Thank you! Now that we know this, I'll be able to purify those buds in no time.

Stately Stan: Be careful out there, Stay safe.

I love how Nikki already knows the Piecey's titles without being introduced yet.

After this interaction, a new ability outfit is unlocked in Nikki's Heart of Infinity that needs to be crafted before she can use the waterspouts.

Now that Nikki has her new ability outfit, she's ready to start Purifying some buds to try and help out the Pieceys in need.

[daily-nikki]

Chapter 2: The Song of Devotion & Joy - Shine! Party King! Part 2

Infinity Nikki Version 1.4 [Revelry Season] Availability: March 25, 2025 - April 28, 2025 Prerequisites: [Chasing the Cursed Mask] quest completed

[Part 1, Part 2]

After completing event exclusive quest Chapter 1: The Feast of Chaos and Revelry - [Chasing the Cursed Mask], this quest becomes available immediately in your missions. Finishing this quest opens up a lot more event exclusive content to do.

Keep Reading for more. Includes story, dialogue, pictures, commentary, humor, spoilers.

Part 1 left off with us seeing Morda tell the crowd about his cowardice and it keeping him back from sharing his singing with the other Faewish Sprites even though his voice is beautiful.

At the end of the cutscene we see that Moosda was off to the side of the stage watching Morda the entire time and couldn't believe the courage he was seeing from him at this moment. After Morda is done with his speech and the cutscene ends, Nikki and Momo make their way to the side of the stage where Morda and Moosda are seen talking to each other.

► Dialogue

• Morda: I can't believe it! Moosda, you're finally awake! • Moosda: I heard you, Morda. "I'll keep on trying, and I'll keep being brave." Pretty good, huh? • Morda: Uh... You're making me blush now. Stop it. • Momo: Hehe, isn't it a little too late now to start getting shy? • Nikki: Moosda, are you feeling better? • Moosda: Much better! I don't feel dizzy anymore. I have so much energy now. • Moosda: Kodibo told me that Nikki and Momo saved me. I suppose that must be you two. Thank you so much! • Morda: It was all my fault, I'm sorry, Moosda. If it wasn't for me... • Moosda: I know what happened. We're good. And if you've decided to be a superstar, you can't be moping around! • Moosda: Speaking of which, this little accident actually helped me catch up on some much-needed sleep! • Moosda: By the way, have you seen the Carnival Mask? When i woke up, it wasn't with me. I hope we didn't lose it... • Morda: It's safe. It's safe. I've got it with me.

Morda returned the Carnival Mask to Moosda and told him about everything that happened.

• Moosda: Wow, so much happened. I just took a nap, and not only did the Mask get a new feature, but it also got a new name! what was it again? The Wickedly... Something... • Momo: The Great Wickedly Kind Mask! • Moosda: How do you remember such a long name? • Nikki: There's only one question left. Why does the Mask keep flying around? • Momo: One more thing—if the Carnival Mask reflects the wearer's deepest desires, why didn't anything weird happen when Moosda wore it, huh? • Moosda: As for why the Mask flies around, I think it's because a decoration ball fell from high up and hit it, causing some kind of energy disturbance. • Moosda: This kind of thing has happened before. The book says that after a while, the Mask will just go back to normal. • Moosda: As for why nothing strange happened when I wore it... Hmm... It might be because, I have strong self-control. • Morda: Is that really why? I knew you were amazing, Moosda! • Momo: You're way too gullible! That's definitely not the reason! • Moosda: Haha, I was just kidding. I think the reason nothing strange happened, is because my deepest desire has always been to be a top-tier music producer. • Moosda: Whether or not I wear the Carnival Mask, I just want to be on stage performing music, that's all. • Momo: You didn't experience anything strange? No weird illusions, like what Morda just saw? • Moosda: Oh, you mean the Illusion Zone? In there, I'm the best music producer in Miraland, with audiences from all over the world cheering for me. Performing is everything to me... • Nikki: So, the space we entered earlier is called the Illusion Zone... • Moosda: You're really special. You're the only ones who've ever been able to enter the Illusion Zone. • Moosda: The book says the Timeworn Pillar is the source of the Mask's power. If you want to continue exploring the Illusion Zone, maybe you should start there. • Moosda: Alright, no more questions for the time being. For now, let's head to the Starlight Stage... and get ready for the climax of the Carnival Party!

Moosda tells the group about how they might go about getting back to the Illusion Zone later. For now, Nikki and Momo make their way to Starlight Stage to see the climax of the Carnival Party.

• Moosda: Welcome one and all... to the Wish Carnival Party! Hahaha! Of course, if you miss this one, it's not the end of the world... • Moosda: Just wait a few hundred years, and you'll be able to join the next vibrant generation at the party. But I should warn you... don't throw your back out on the dance floor! • Moosda: You may not know this, but not long ago, the Carnival Mask went missing! • Moosda: But don't worry, we don't need to turn the Wishing Woods upside down, or soak ourselves in Silken Lake, thinking about how to apologize to everyone, because... • Moosda: Nikki and Momo already helped us find the Mask! • Moosda: After all this, we'll send a mysterious gift to our friends, Nikki and Momo! But for now, let's give them a round of applause! • Moosda: Also, we've made a new discovery about the Carnival Mask during this event. It has the ability to reflect the deepest desire of its wearer and "fulfill" it. • Moosda: It might be your obsession, your wish, or your secret longing... • Moosda: I know this sounds tempting, but I need to warn everyone, the desires fulfilled by the Mask are just illusions, not reality. • Moosda: Overindulgence will only make you a prisoner of the Mask, and cause chaos. • Moosda: So, while I've decided to allow the Mask to be borrowed and worn, I must warn everyone... there are risks involved, so please use it with caution. • Moosda: As your host, that's all I have to say. Now, let's hand the stage over to our newly crowned Party King—Morda! • Morda: Me? • Morda: No, no, no! Moosda, what's going on? You're the Carnival's Party King! • Moosda: According to the rules, the Party King is the one who can get everyone hyped and lead the celebration. You've already proven you can do that, so you're definitely the Party King! • Morda: I can't do it. You're the only one who can be the Party King. • Nikki: Uh, you guys might want to decide quick, the Carnival Mask might fly away...

• Momo: Come on, Nikki, let's light up the dance floor!

Everyone was swept away in a sea of celebration, letting go of their worries, shedding their burdens, and rediscovering their confidence. Amid the thunderous music, they basked in the intensity and freedom that belonged solely to that moment...

• Momo: Wah! How did I change back? I wasn't done enjoying it yet... • Nikki: Me too! I never knew you were such a good dancer! • Nikki: But it's okay! Whether or not you have long legs, we can still dance together! In my heart, Momo will always be my best dance partner and my best friend!

What a party! Everyone got to have a little more confidence at the end of it all. Even freakishly long Momo. Afterwards we're invited to Party Mode which will reload the game. Tons of new content opens up to enjoy for [Revelry Season], so that's just the beginning.

[daily-nikki]

Chapter 2: The Song of Devotion & Joy - Shine! Party King!

Infinity Nikki Version 1.4 [Revelry Season] Availability: March 25, 2025 - April 28, 2025 Prerequisites: [Chasing the Cursed Mask] quest completed

[Part 1, Part 2]

After completing event exclusive quest Chapter 1: The Feast of Chaos and Revelry - [Chasing the Cursed Mask], this quest becomes available immediately in your missions. Finishing this quest opens up a lot more event exclusive content to do.

Keep Reading for more. Includes story, dialogue, pictures, commentary, humor, spoilers.

This quest is automatically added whenever you finish the previous [Chasing the Cursed Mask]. Nikki and Momo are sent back to the main stage to give the Carnival Mask to Morda. Walking up to Morda on the east side of the island automatically starts a cutscene.

► Dialogue

• Nikki: Morda, we found the Carnival Mask! • Morda: Wow, it's my first time holding the Mask. It feels so heavy... Everyone was right—you two really can do anything! • Morda: It must've been hard to find the Carnival Mask. I don't know how to thank you enough... • Momo: It wasn't too bad... Nikki and Momo shared all the things that happened while searching for the Carnival Mask with Morda... • Morda: I bet it was thrilling! But... did Valenbo really say she's going to start a new trend with her Esseling-themed designs? • Nikki: Yep, she's made up her mind. She's not going to care about what other think anymore and is going all in on creating more Esseling-themed outfits. • Morda: Really? That's awesome. If only I... if only I had that kind of courage... • Nikki: Hmm? What did you say? • Nikki: By the way, we have something else to discuss. It's about the Carnival Mask... • Momo: Speaking of which, I came up with a new name for the Mask—The Great Wickedly Kind Mask! • Morda: Wickedly Kind... Uh, that's kind of a long name... Why did it need a new one? • Nikki: We think that when the Faewish Sprites wear it, the Carnival Mask is more than just the Cursed Mask from the rumors. • Nikki: While it's true that bad things happened to everyone who wore it, each of them also saw their truest inner desires because of it. • Nikki: Some let go of their obsessions, some rediscovered their original purpose, and others gained courage or strengthened their resolve... • Momo: Exactly! It causes chaos while also helping people! That's why it's super fitting to call it the Great Wickedly Kind Mask! • Morda: That name's way too long to remember, but yeah, from what you've said, it does seem to be true... • Morda: But, how could the Mask show its wearer their truest desires? Is this for real? How does that even work? • Nikki: We're not sure yet. Maybe we can ask Moosda when he wakes up. • Nikki: Oh yeah, Morda, hold the Carnival Mask tight. It flies away easily.

Oopsies! Our girl Nikki forgot to tell the little Faewish Sprite that the mask likes to take off on its own. I was thinking it was a little obvious that we don't want this mask flying around again. Morda did have his side complaint about not having courage which was alarming as hell given what we've seen the mask do already. Nikki was just like, "what?"

So the mask takes off and the group has to chase down Morda this time.

► Dialogue

• Momo: It's happening again! Arghhh! Great Wickedly Kind Mask, just you wait! I will definitely catch you again!

Momo is not the mood for this mask to be giving Faewish Sprites any good hallucinations. We need to save the grand climax of the Wish Carnival Party because that's way more important than just one individual Faewish Sprite getting their wish. Morda's just flying around the statue in the middle of the main stage, so it's not to difficult for Nikki to track him down.

When Nikki and Momo finally reach Morda, they get transported to an extremely vibrant music world.

► Dialogue

• Momo: Darn it, where did that mask go? Nikki, where are we now? • Nikki: Looks like some Faewish Sprites are performing over there. Let's go check it out.

Make sure that you can hear the sound if you haven't been listening to the new music and voice over already. The party beats inside of the world that Nikki gets sucked into are really fun. The platforms also make sounds, etc. This area also has a really cool glitch effect that you can take pictures with while you're there.

After walking a little ways in, Nikki runs into a scene being displayed off of the path that she can listen in on.

► Dialogue

• Morda: Lala, lalalala... • Morda's Dad: Honey, come listen! Morda's singing is beautiful! • Morda's Mom: I know! just hearing it feels like my while being is headled. • Morda's Mom: Kid, you must keep singing. We've got your back. • Morda: Mm! I'll keep singing, and one day... one day I'll become a world-famous star!

Looks like we're being faced with Morda's failed ambitions as a world-famous singer on this trip.

Going along the platform Nikki comes across another scene. This time it's between Morda and Moosda.

► Dialogue

• Moosda: Morda, come quick! I talked to the Faewish Sprite at the Wish Celebration Center, and he agreed to let us perform together on stage! • Morda: I'm so nervous. Moosda, how's my hair? Is my cloak okay? And... • Moosda: Alright, calm down. If you're too nervous, just imagine the audience as Wishing Orbs. • Morda: Don't be ridiculous! Okay... shall we get ready to hit the stage?

Our poor Morda can sing really well, but we're starting to find out that he also has stage fright that is keeping him from being able to feel comfortable performing in front of a bunch of people.

► Dialogue

• Morda: Just imagine the audience as Wishing Orbs... as Wishing Orbs... Wishing Orbs... • Morda: Lala, lalalala... • Confused Audience: Is he singing? Why does it sound so shaky? It's not great, is it? • Impatient Audience: Yeah, what's going on? Does he even know how to sing? • Morda: Why is this happening? The stage... the stage is terrifying...

Yes, the stage is terrifying when faced with bad customers, Morda.

This is the last little neon sign scene that we get to see before running back into Morda at the end of the course.

► Dialogue

• Nikki: Morda? Wait... were you the one we heard singing earlier? • Morda: That's right! Are you here to watch my performance? This is my big debut after becoming a superstar, the moment my dreams come true. I'm going to give it my all! • Momo: Performance? A superstar? Is this really Morda? Where the heck are we...? • Nikki: I remember us trying to remove Morda's Mask to stop the chaos, but the moment we touched it, we ended up here... • Nikki: And Morda just mentioned dreams coming true again... So, could this place be...? • Momo: An illusion the Mask created for Morda! • Momo: No wonder everyone who wore the Mask seemed so lost in their "dreams". Who would want to wake up from something like this? But... it's all fake... • Morda: What's fake? What are you talking about?

↪ Encourage him to take off the Mask

• Nikki: You should try taking off the Mask and see for yourself. Everything you're seeing here is created by the Mask. It's not real. • Morda: An illusion? No... even if it is an illusion, I don't care! • Morda: Without the Mask, I'm just a sensitive, cowardly person. I can't be a superstar, and I can't step onto my dream stage! No, I don't want this! • Nikki: Maybe... would you be willing to tell us what happened? Your singing is so captivating I bet anyone who hears it would applaud and cheer for you. • Morda: Really? Aside from my parents and Moosda, no one's ever praised me like that before. • Morda: When I was little, everyone said I had a talent for singing, but the truth is, I'm not suited for performing. The spotlight just won't accept me. • Morda: I still remember the first time I stepped out onto a stage. The nervousness gripped my throat so tightly, I couldn't even say a single word, let alone sing. • Morda: Even though Moosda kept encouraging me to try again, deep down, I knew I'd never be able to stand on stage and bring joy to an audience like a true superstar... • Nikki: Besides, you've already done it! I just know, you didn't freeze or tremble with nerves. • Morda: It's all thanks to the Carnival Mask. There's no way I could've done it on my own. • Morda: What's that? • Momo: That's cheering. The audience is chanting your name! • Morda: W-what? Are you saying that everyone... everyone heard me singing? • Nikki: Yes, while the world created by the Mask is an illusion, I don't think that it's entirely a bad thing. All those cheers, really are for you. • Nikki: Take off the Mask. I'm certain you can still stand on stage with courage and be the brightest superstar without it. • Morda: You're right, Nikki. No matter what happens, I should give it a try!

Morda bravely took off the Carnival Mask, and his figure vanished from the Illusion Zone...

Morda thought that he couldn't perform at all without the mask because he was too cowardly. After hearing cheer emanating from huge phonograph horns, his mind starts to change.

After Nikki and Momo leave the Illusion Zone and go back to the real world, they're greeted to cheers for Morda. He did it!

► Dialogue

• Faewish Sprite Audience: Wow, that's amazing, Morda! • Faewish Sprite Audience: Why have we never heard him sing before? He's great!

While the cheering continues, the group approaches Morda on stage.

► Dialogue

• Morda: I'm not dreaming, am I? Are they really calling my name?... • Momo: Of course it's not a dream! If you don't believe me, pinch yourself and see if it hurts.

Morda reached out and pinched Momo hard...

• Morda: Oh no... I don't feel anything. • Momo: Waaah! Of course not! You pinched me, not yourself! • Morda: They're all... They're calling my name! • Morda: The stage isn't rejecting me. It's a miracle... • Nikki: It's because you chose the stage and accepted it. The moment you wore the Mask, you didn't shy away. You chose to embrace your deepest desire. • Nikki: Now, answer the call. Whether it's the stage in front of your or the Faewish Sprite audience, they're all waiting for you. • Momo: Alright! Go for it, Morda! • Morda: Thank you all for your applause, and thank you for liking my song. • Morda: I...I'm a coward. i get scared of the stage, scared of being in crowded places. When everyone's eyes are on me, my mind goes completely blank from nerves. • Morda: I used to think there was nothing wrong with avoiding things, but I don't think that way anymore! • Morda: I'll try to get used to the stage. I won't run away anymore... because, I really do love singing. • Morda: I hope that one day, everyone in the Wishing Woods will hear my voice, and I can stand on a bigger stage, bringing joy to even more people. • Morda: I don't know when that day will come. It might be years, it might be decades... maybe even a hundred years... But I'll keep on trying, and I'll keep being brave! • Moosda: Am i seeing things? Is that Faewish Sprite on stage Morda?

Morda used his time with the crowd to tell them that he is gonna keep working on his dreams instead of giving up out of cowardice. Moosda can't believe his eyes.

To be continued in Part 2.

[daily-nikki]

Chasing the Cursed Mask: Part 2

[Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5]

Keep Reading to see more. Includes storyline, dialogue, screenshots, and commentary.

Nikki and Momo are making their way to the floating island to see what's going on with the Faewish Sprites party.

Nikki and Momo have to make their way across the water from the shore using lily pads to reach the Floating Wish Isle where they see a chaotic scene. They make their way over to Morda and see next to him another Faewish Sprite that is laying unconscious on the ground.

► Dialogue

• Morda: Where is the doctor? I'm so worried... If they don't come soon... Oh, Moosda... • Morda: It's all my fault... Not only did I cause Moosda to fall unconscious, but the Mask is now... Oh... What do I do if the party gets canceled because of this? • Momo: Unconscious? I thought you were having a party! How did he faint? • Morda: Wait... Who are you two? • Nikki: I'm Nikki, and this is Momo. We heard the Faewish Sprites were throwing a Wish Carnival Party, so we came to check it out, but this isn't really what we expected... • Morda: It's all my fault. If I hadn't spaced out while moving that decoration ball, my friend Moosda... He'd still be on the stage rehearsing right now... It's all my fault... • Nikki: Slow down. Take your time and tell us what happened. Maybe we can help. • Morda: Oh, thank you so much... I was moving a decoration ball, and Moosda was rehearsing on stage, getting ready for the highlight of the party... • Morda: He was so captivating on the stage. I got so caught up in his performance that I forgot I was holding the decoration ball. I was about to clap, but when I let it go, the ball... • Momo: It feel and hit your friend on the head, right? • Morda: Yes... i saw him fall on the stage. I was so shocked that it took me a while to snap out of it. Oh... I contacted Dr. Kodibo from the Delicious Wish Clinic. • Nikki: That sounds so intense.... Where is the doctor then? Is she on the way? • Morda: It's been a while now... I don't know if something happened to her. Does she not want to come? Or is it because of me? Wahhh... • Nikki: Waiting won't solve anything. Momo and I will help look for her. If something has happened, we can also help. After all, saving lives is the priority. • Morda: Really? Thank you so much! Dr. Kodibo should be coming from the Wishing Woods. Head that way to look for her. • Momo: Got it. Leave it to us. We'll be back as soon as we can! • Morda: That's great! I'll be here waiting.

The group is headed back to the mainland to find the doctor that still hasn't arrived for Moosda who was knocked unconscious by his clumsy friend who just wanted to clap for him while holding a huge decorative ball.

While jumping across the lily pads going towards the mainland, the group spots a Faewish Sprite in uniform on the shore. Momo is also feeling like the music is making him lose his hearing because of how loud it is, forgetting that they are at a festival grounds where the Faewish Sprites are celebrating.

► Dialogue

• Momo: Ugh... The music is so loud, Nikki. I think my ears are ringing... • Nikki: This is what gives it the carnival vibe! The Faewish Sprite ahead looks like she's wearing a uniform. Let's ask her, maybe she knows where Dr. Kodibo is.

Once Nikki and Momo have reached the shore, the uniformed Faewish Sprite beckons them over to join their fitness dance.

► Dialogue

• ???: Parties are fun, but your health is important too. Let's loosen up—stretch your shoulders and neck, move your arms, and get those joints moving! • Momo: She's wearing a uniform and teaching everyone the fitness dance. Nikki, could she be Dr. Kodibo? • Nikki: Just to be safe, let's ask her. • Nikki: Excuse me, are you Dr. Kodibo? • ???: Next up is... the relaxing backbend... And then... And then comes... • Momo: Uh... She's not listening at all. Let's try saying something else and see if we can wake her up. ↪ I'm interested in your fitness dance • Nikki: Your dance is very unique, I'm really interested in it! • ???: The fitness dance is a key part of the Carnival Party, please join me... • Momo: Uh... I think she's even worse now... • Momo: I have an idea, it's definitely going to work. Let me try! • Momo: Ahem, stop dancing! The Wish Carnival Party is over! • ???: What? The Carnival can't be over! I haven't even finished showing the fitness dance I choreographed for it... Ugh, my head hurts... I feel dizzy... • Momo: See? It worked—I knew it would! • Nikki: Sorry to interrupt, but we're here to help Morda find a doctor named Dr. Kodibo. We saw you in uniform and thought you might be... • Kodibo: Yes, I am Dr. Kodibo. Ah, my head hurts, it's all because of that water balloon that that fell from the sky... • Kodibo: Wait, you just said you're here to help Morda find a doctor... Oh no, the patient must have been waiting for so long! Let's go quickly, we'll walk and talk.

I chose to try to snap the doctor out of it by being interested in her fitness dance. Momo assured Nikki that was not the right choice and just made things worse, so of course he took it into his own hands and scares her about the party being over. Thank you for always being there to notice and correct my mistakes, Momo. What a pal. Nikki would've drown by now without him.

I guess the good ol' doctor forgot that there are people relying on them to actually treat other Sprites and not just do fitness dances on the shore. Dr. Kodibo blames the balloon hitting them, awakes from their dancing stupor, and takes off to care for the patient that has been waiting passed out on the stage. On the way over, the doctor continues talking to the group.

► Dialogue

• Nikki: Dr. Kodibo, do all the Faeqish Sprites have to dance at the party? I saw you even have choreography. • Kodibo: Not really. Usually every just joins in the carnival with the Party King. I wanted to use it as an opportunity to promote the fitness dance, so I choreographed it. • Momo: I've been meaning to ask, what exactly does "Party King" mean? • Kodibo: Simply put, the Party King is the Faewish Sprite who leads the entire carnival. Now that Moosda is unconscious, I'm worried about whether the Party can even still go on...

Nikki and Momo have learned from the doctor that indeed their celebration is at risk because of Morda's mistake in knocking out Moosda. Now the group needs to get the doctor over there stat so that everything doesn't devolve into chaos, one presumes.

► Dialogue

• Morda: Dr. Kodibo, you're finally here! Please check on Moosda. He's unconscious... Is he okay? • Kodibo: Sorry... Sorry, something happened on the way here. I'll check on him now! • Kodibo: Phew... Fortunately, I don't think Moosda hurt his head. His vital signs are stable, and there're no major issues! • Morda: Really? Oh... That's a relief... But why hasn't he woken up? • Kodibo: It's common for a person to stay unconscious for a while after fainting. Moosda is very exhausted, likely from lack of sleep, which can delay his recovery. • Kodibo: It's best to lay him flat in a comfortable, well-ventilated environment. That'll help him recover and come around sooner. • Morda: Of course! You're right! Nikki and Momo, it's true. I can't thank you enough. • Nikki: You're welcome. Glad everyone's okay. • Kodibo: Well, I'll take off now. It's strange, though... There've been a lot of Faewish Sprites asking for help today... • Kodibo: The doctors from Bye-Bye Pain Clinic are all out on fieldwork. I was actually planning to practice fitness-dance moves at the Delicious Wish Clinic... — Kodibo leaves. —

• Morda: Phew... I can finally breathe again. I was too nervous and anxious to breathe earlier. • Momo: You're way too easily stressed out. Don't you get dizzy from not breathing/ I'd have passed out by now. • Morda: No wonder I've been feeling a bit dizzy... Ugh... • Nikki: Didn't the doctor say Moosda was fine? Why do you still look so worried? • Morda: Actually, there's another problem... After the decoration ball hit Moosda and knocked him out, the Carnival Mask also disappeared! • Morda: It's far more important than anything else here. Without it, the party can't start... • Momo: That bad? • Morda: In our Faewish Sprite tradition, the appearance of the Carnival Mask signals the start of the Wish Carnival Party. It's a once-in-a-century event. Only the Party King, wearing the Mask, can lead everyone to the climax of the party... • Morda: Without the Mask, nothing can proceed.... It's all my fault.... All my fault... • Nikki: I see.... But since it's already happened, why don't we just come up with a solution together? The Carnival Mask might have just fallen nearby. • Morda: I've already looked... and nothing... I'm so scared... • Morda: You don't understand. There's a rumor that if the Carnival Mask is worn by another Faewish Sprite, it turns into a Cursed Mask... • Morda: It's happened before, and the consequences were said to be terrifying. There entire Carnival Party was ruined... So now only the Party King can wear the Carnival Mask. • Momo: Looks like we need to find the Carnival Mask quickly! • Morda: But Moosda still needs someone to take care of him, and I... • Nikki: I'll find the Carnival Mask with Momo. We don't want the curse to happen, and we don't want the Carnival Party to stop like this. • Morda: Really? Wouldn't it be too much to ask you to do that? You've already helped so much... • Nikki: It's okay, leave it to us. You stay here and take care of Moosda. By the way, what does the Carnival Mask look like, and where should we start looking? • Morda: The design of the Carnival Mask looks very ancient, and very exquisite, like emerald... Oh yeah! It's got two fluffy little pom-poms on it. • Morda: As for where to look... I did hear some Faewish Sprites say there was some commotion on the right side of the Starlight Stage, maybe you can check there... • Nikki: The right side of the Starlight Stage? We'll head there right away to search for the Mask!

Alright, so Morda is a huge screw up. Nikki needs to help this little Faewish Sprite get his shit together so that his mistakes won't bring this massive party they need to throw for some reason to halt. If anyone but the Party King wears the mask that is missing, they can turn its powers against the carnival and it all goes into chaos. The Faewish Sprites would rather be brought to a celebratory climax together with the Party King to successfully return back to their refractory period of 100 years.

To be continued in Part 3.

[daily-nikki]

Chasing the Cursed Mask: Part 1

[Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5]

To start off Revelry Season, we're welcomed back into the game with a brand new storyline to go through to learn more about Miraland, its people, and their activities.

It starts Nikki off by sending her to the Wishtree Square to start her journey of learning about the Faewish Sprites, the Wish Carnival Party, and the feast they are preparing.

Keep Reading for the rest. Includes photos and dialogue.

As you approach Wishtree Square, Nikki and Momo will start to speak.

► Dialogue

• Nikki: Momo, look! Tons of Faewish Sprites are flying around over there! Why did so many of them suddenly appear in Florawish...? Has something happened? • Momo: You're right! How about we go ask Clemente? He knows a bunch about Faewish Sprites.

Nikki and Momo continue to approach Clemente at the Wishtree Square in Florawish next to the Faewish Sprite statue.

When Nikki talks to Clemente, he'll be in the middle of telling a story that she listens in on with Momo.

►Dialogue

• Clemente: "...A powerful melody burst forth, and the Faewish Sprites let loose in dance. Some swayed through the air, others blew giant horns, and a few playfully rolled around on the beach..." • Clemente: "Then, the Party King made his dazzling entrance! Wearing the Carnival Mask, he ignited the crowd's energy from the center of the stage..." • Clemente: "The celebration continued day and night, until the Floating Wish Isle descended, the Mask returned to the lakebed, and the music faded... Then the festival came to an end." • Momo: Wow, it's a new story! It sounds so exciting! • Clemente: It's Nikki and Momo! Well? Did you like the story? • Nikki: We think it's fascinating! The Faewish Sprites in the story sound so unusual, but it feels like we missed the beginning... • Momo: It's so frustrating to only hear half the story, Mr. Clemente, can you tell us how it begins? • Clemente: Haha... The story begins with the Revelry Season... • Clemente: "Whenever the Revelry Season arrives, the Faewish Sprites take a break from their work and let themselves run wild." • Clemente: "They sing and dance, gathering in small groups or immersing themselves in their own little worlds." • Clemente: "Every few centuries, the Carnival Mask rises with the Floating Wish Isle. That's when the Faewish Sprites hold their grandest Wish Carnival Party..." • Nikki: The Carnival Mask? The Wish Carnival Wish Party? I've never heard of them... • Clemente: Ah... I'd love to tell you more, but unfortunately, I've never seen them myself. A Faewish Sprite friend of mine told me these stories... • Clemente: What's intriguing is that the Floating Wish Isle has risen once again, and the Carnival Mask has returned. If you're curious, visit the area near the Wishing Woods to see for yourself. • Clemente: Haha... I'm actually planning to check it out myself. I hope you enjoyed today's story! • Nikki: Thank you, Mr. Clemente! It's a lovely story. We'll head to the Wishing Woods right away!

Once Nikki goes west enough in Florawish, she comes across a bunch of Faewish Sprites celebrating.

► Dialogue

• Momo: Nikki, do you hear the music? The beat is so lively, it feels like the trees around us are swaying along! • Nikki: Yeah! It sounds like it's coming from Silken Lake. Come on Momo, let's check it out!

To be continued in Part 2.

[daily-nikki]

Chasing the Cursed Mask: Part 4

[Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5]

Keep Reading to see more. Includes storyline, dialogue, screenshots, and commentary.

Nikki and Momo are making their way to the Boogie Dance Floor to chase down the Carnival Mask.

When the group arrives at the Boogie Dance Floor, they're greeted to another scene of chaos that's being caused by another Faewish Sprite that has been possessed by the Cursed Carnival Mask.

► Dialogue

• Momo: That Faewish Sprite over there is throwing stage props and seems to be wearing a mask! But he's flying so high—how can we get close to him? • Nikki: Let me think... Oh! Maybe we can jump to a higher place using the boxes. We should be able to get closer!

When Nikki approaches the box that she's going to use to try and reached the Faewish Sprite that is flying around with the mask on, there is a mystery voice asking for help getting out of the boxes you were going to move anyway. Two birds one stone situation.

► Dialogue

• ???: Help! Please get me out! I'm trapped in these boxes! • Nikki: Wha...? Don't worry! We'll get you out right now!

After saving Pamoda, who turns out to be the mystery Sprite trapped behind the box, he'll let the group in on the shenanigans going on at the Boogie Dance Floor.

► Dialogue

• Pamoda: I was so close to passing out, whew... Thank goodness you found me, or who know how long it would have taken for someone else to notice. My voice is nearly shot... • Pamoda: I'm telling you, anyone who hears about this would think it's absolutely bizzarre! • Momo: I've seen a lot of strange things! I've gotta hear how this one tops them all! • Pamoda: I swear, you've never heard anything this bizarre! So, I was moving bozes, feeling a little tired, so I leaned against one of them to rest. • Pamoda: Suddenly, out of nowhere, a Faewish Sprite wearing a mask flew over, shouting something about being a Star Sorter. He grabbed me and shoved me into a pile of boxes... • Momo: Hmm... that does sound really dramatic. Were you just caught slacking off though? • Pamoda: Of course not! I was just resting! I have the right to take a break! • Nikki: The Faewish Sprite you're talking about—was he the one flying in the sky wearing a mask? • Pamoda: Yeah, that's him! He messed up the whole stage! Palida and I worked so hard on the decorations. Now we have to redo everything... • Nikki: So the props in the boxes sorted by color were actually stage decorations? Why would he do that? • Pamoda: Who knows what kind of mood he's in... But then again, during this season, everyone's a bit more carefree, so I guess something like this happening isn't too random. • Pamoda: Ugh, just thinking about it gives me a headache. I really hope someone can stop him. If this keeps going, I can't imagine the chaos that'll unfold. • Momo: Looks like we arrived just in time, Nikki! • Pamoda: Huh? So you're here to... • Nikki: We're here to stop him! And we're going to take that mask right off his face. • Pamoda: Are you saying the Mask is causing all of this? Oh, never mind. I don't want to think about it anymore. With your help, we'll stop this chaos for sure! I'm so sleepy, I need to rest now... • Momo: Do you only think about resting? • Pamoda: Heh heh, the work will get done eventually! When it's time to rest, i take my break! • Momo: Let's hurry up and jump onto the boxes to find that Faewish Sprite in the air, Nikki!

Pamoda's a lazy ass and Nikki is ready to rip the Carnival Mask right off the face of the Faewish Sprite running amok. She is getting ready to rain down fury on this mask.

Nikki moves the box that was trapping Pamoda up the nearby ramp, jumps off to the leaf shade thing and a cutscene starts with Aneda now being the one who is trapped inside of this mask.

► Dialogue

Nikki was about to approach Aneda when she saw him suddenly swoop down to a lower spot, mumbling something under his breath... • Aneda: Keep going, don't slack off! Sorting, sorting, I love sorting! I'm a Star Sorter... • Nikki: Hello Star Sorter! I'm Nikki, and this is Momo. We wanted to ask... • Aneda: Sorry, it's work hours. I've got a lot of Wishing Orbs to sort, so I'm not doing interviews or answering questions now. • Momo: Wishing Orbs? What Wishing Orbs? • Aneda: Is that a round cat? Or maybe a Delicious Wishing Orb? It has to be a Delicious Wishing Orb. There's no cat in the Wish Inspection Center. Where should I put it...? • Momo: What?! I'm Momo! Not a Delicious Wishing Orb! • Aneda: How could you not be a Wishing Orb when you're so round? No, no, I can't let these little distractions get to me. I must uphold my high standards as a Star Sorter! • Aneda: That... that Delicious Wishing Orb should go in box three! • Momo: I'm not a Wishing Orb! Take off that mask and look at me! What kind of Star Sorter are you? The stage is a mess because of you! • Aneda: A mess? What are you talking about? No, how could a Wishing Orb be talking? • Nikki: Mr. Aneda, there are no Wishing Orbs here. What you're sorting are actually stage decorations. • Aneda: Impossible! This right here... it's a Delicious Wishing Orb, isn't it? Although my supervisor did tell me not to eat the orbs I'm sorting... • Nikki: Mr. Aneda, don't do that! • Momo: You can't eat that! Everything you're seeing is an illusion, it's not real. If you don't believe it, take off the Mask and see for yourself. • Aneda: What mask? There's nothing on my face! I see! You must be my competitors, purposely causing trouble to stop me from becoming a Star Sorter! • Momo: It flew off again! Ugh... This is so frustrating! Next time, I'll be ready! I won't let it slip away again! • Nikki: Mr. Aneda, are you okay?

Now that the mask is no longer possessing Aneda, we get to talk to him.

► Dialogue

• Aneda: Where's my Star Sorter certificate? It's gone! Did any of you see it? Where is my Star Sorter certificate? • Aneda: The dance floor... How did it end up like this? What happened? Wasn't I in the Wish Inspection Center? What's going on? • Nikki: Mr. Aneda, we haven't seen your Star Sorter certificate, and the dance floor turned out this way because... Nikki shared what just happened with Aneda... • Aneda: It was because of me... Oh no, I've ruined the dance floor. I'm going to get fired! • Aneda: What if tomorrow morning, I get fired because I stepped onto the dance floor with my left foot first, or didn't follow the rhythm of the music properly?! • Nikki: Mr. Aneda, calm down. Can you tell us what exactly happened just now? • Aneda: What's the point of saying all of this now? I should just start thinking about where to find a new job after I get fired... • Momo: Don't be so pessimistic! Just tell us. Maybe we can help you. • Aneda: Ugh, It's a long story. I was dancing here with a few friends. Suddenly, everything went dark, and my face... it felt cold... • Aneda: When I came to, I was back at the Wish Inspection Center, and somehow, a Star Sorter badge was hanging on my chest. • Momo: It's definitely the Mask causing all this! But... what exactly is a Star Sorter? • Aneda: A Star Sorter is the highest honor given by the Wish Inspection Center. Only Faewish Sprites who excel at sorting Wishing Orbs both quickly and accurately receive it. • Nikki: Like an outstanding employee? • Momo: Oh, I get it now. • Aneda: By your human standards, that's pretty much it. I'm getting old, and no matter how hard I try, it feels pointless. If I can't become a Star Sorter, I might lose my job. • Nikki: Having to become a Star Sorter just to keep your job? That sounds pretty sad... • Aneda: When I saw the Wishing Orbs scattered everywhere, I thought something was wrong. Then it hit me—this was the perfect chance to show off my skills. • Aneda: But I certainly never expected... That it would all have been an illusion. • Momo: Luckily, there wasn't too much damage. Well, except for turning the stage into a complete mess... Oh wait, you actually sorted Pamoda like a Wishing Orb! • Aneda: It's all my fault. There must have been a reason why I couldn't become a Star Sorter. I need to think about it! Oh no, wait... • Aneda: I should apologize to Pamoda first, then restore the dance floor decorations, and tidy up the prop boxes! • Aneda: Ah... I'm glad you stopped me. Otherwise, not only would I have failed to become a Star Sorter, I'd have ended up a party criminal! • Momo: You've got a strong sense of responsibility! People with that quality are much more likely to succeed. • Aneda: Thank you for comforting me. Actually... I've always tried to encourage myself, because from the very fist day I joined the Wish inspection Center, I... • Aneda: Ugh, never mind. I get a bit sentimental as I grow older. don't mind me. • Nikki: Why do I feel like your desire to become a Star Sorter isn't just about keeping your job? • Aneda: Even dreams can lose their luster over time. Haha, never mind, no one's life is entirely without regrets • Aneda: Well, today was a success. The more I think about it, even if I lose my job, it doesn't seem that bad... • Nikki: When you have a wish, the universe will surely respond! We believe you'll definitely become a Star Sorter in the future. • Aneda: Thank you, I'll take my leave now. I hope you find the Mask soon.

Aneda left... • Nikki: Momo, do you really think that mask... is a Cursed Mask? • Momo: Of course, it's the Mask that caused all this chaos! But... from the way you're speaking, it sounds like you have a different take on it? • Nikki: I've been thinking, both Philbo and Aneda caused a lot of chaos after wearing the Mask, but it seems like they also had their wishes fulfilled in their illusions. • Nikki: From the perspective of the wearer, the Cursed Mask doesn't seem to only bring misfortune... • Momo: Maybe only by getting the Mask can we uncover the truth. I remember it flew in the direction. Let's go take a look.

The poor Faewish Sprites are filled with trauma from all of their mistakes in life. This mask seems to be going around and letting them live out their dreams in the worst possible way at the expense of others. Nikki and Momo really need to help these little guys throw their party so they can cheer up a little and not feel like complete failures. The Faewish Sprites might also want to look at ways to better integrate the older Sprites into their society a little better, but I digress.

To be continued in Part 5.

[daily-nikki]

Chasing the Cursed Mask: Part 3

[Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5]

Keep Reading to see more. Includes storyline, dialogue, screenshots, and commentary.

Morda sends the group to go search not but a few steps away to the right side of the stage that you are standing on. This Faewish Sprite knocked his friend out on purpose so that we would do all of this work for him, and you know it.

There are two Sprites next to each other behind the huge horn of a gigantic phonograph talking to each other about how disgusting the surroundings are with all the water stains and how no one will want to dance around that nastiness.

► Dialogue

• Iriitable Faewish Sprite: Has Philbo totally lost it?! She keeps zipping around and tossing water balloons. She almost hit me! • Angry Faewish Sprite: She's gone nuts, making a mess with all the water stains. Who would want to dance in a place like this? • Momo: Water stains? I feel like I've seen something like this before. • Nikki: It was when we found Dr. Kodibo, she said she got hit by a water balloon that fell from the sky... • Iriitable Faewish Sprite: See? I told you those water balloons could hurt people! • Iriitable Faewish Sprite: Ugh, so annoying! Also, did you see her outfit today? What was that? • Momo: Tell me more. • Angry Faewish Sprite: She seemed to have a mask on her face, but I couldn't quite see what it looked like. It looked super old... • Nikki: Could it have been the Carnival Mask? • Angry Faewish Sprite: The Carnival Mask? Now that you mention it, it does bear some resemblance... This is absurd! She's not trying to be the Party King, is she? Since when does the Party King throw water balloons at people! • Momo: Nikki, things are getting more serious. We'd better find her quickly and stop all this. • Momo: But where exactly did Philbo fly off to? • Nikki: With all the water balloons she's been tossing, she left behind a trail of water stains on the ground. i think we just follow them, we should be able to find her.

These are some dangerous water balloons leaving nasty stains, and on top of it all, the person throwing these devious balloons might just have the Carnival Mask on. All hell could break loose at any moment. The group is off to find Philbo to try and bring and end to these escapades.

► Dialogue

• Philbo: I'm a top firefighter, I can handle any task. There's no Faewish Sprite I can't rescue. • Philbo: Come on Philbo, you can do it. You must do it. • Nikki: "Looks very ancient, very exquisite, like emerald, and it has little pom-poms..." Ah! That's it! That must be the Carnival Mask! Just as Nikki finished speaking, a water balloon suddenly flew toward Momo. Caught off guard, Momo was nearly hit... • Momo: Ugh! No, no... Don't hit me! Whoa! • Nikki: Philbo, can you please stop throwing water balloons? You hit a Faewish Sprite earlier! • Momo: Nikki, you're being too polite! Hmph! With this kind of Faewish Sprite, we can't go easy on them. Watch me. • Momo: You! The one tossing water balloons! I'm Momo, the self-appointed guardian of the Wish Carnival Party! Surrender now! • Philbo: I heard your cries for help! The fire is very serious, but don't worry! As long as I'm here, no Faewish Sprite will be hurt! • Nikki: There's no fire here, and no Faewish Sprite calling for help... She seems to be seeing things. Could the Mask be affecting her? • Momo: It must be! Morda was right, that Carnival Mask has turned into a Cursed Mask, and the Faewish Sprites are all going crazy. This is terrifying! • Nikki: If this continues, it'll cause even more chaos. Let's take the Mask off Philbo's face! Right when Nikki tried to get closer and remove the Mask, it flew away with astonishing speed. Nikki tried to chase the Mask, but Philbo stopped her...

Nikki finds out the the Carnival Mask is causing Philbo to have hallucinations about a fire and that's why she's going around and tossing water balloons amuck. Nikki tries to take the mask off of Philbo and it takes off.

After the Carnival Mask has flown off of Philbo's face to who knows where, you can talk to her again to find out more about what she was going through while the mask was on her face. (At this point I'm calling her Philbo Baggins because I can't stop myself.)

► Dialogue

• Philbo: Did you see that? I just put out all the fires! Now, no more Faewish Sprites will perish in flames, no more tears, and no more endless regrets... • Philbo: I, Philbo, top firefighter at Quick-Flight Fire Station, have finally completed a perfect rescue! • Momo: But there wasn't any fire here, and no casualties. All everyone saw was you crazily tossing water balloons. • Momo: Dr. Kodibo got knocked out by one of your water balloons, and narrowly missed saving someone! • Philbo: What? No, it can't be! • Philbo: How could this be? I was clearly... I was putting out the fire! Philbo looked around, noticing the messy ground and a few injured Faewish Sprites... • Philbo: Impossible... How could it be? There was no fire, not even a spark? Could everything that just happened... have been an illusion? • Nikki: Philbo, can you tell us exactly what happened? • Philbo: What happened just now was exactly like a call I went out on years ago. A towering fire consumed everything, the cries of the Faewish Sprites echoed everywhere, and... then there was nothing but endless despair... • Philbo: The despair was so overwhelming, it enveloped me completely. In that moment it felt like I grew roots, pinning me firmly to the spot... • Philbo: Ugh, I don't really know how to explain this... I usually express myself pretty well... ↪ I get it • Nikki: I understand that feeling. That kind of pain is hard to put into words... The face that you're able to speak about it already shows great strength! • Philbo: Thank you, Nikki. I feel much better now. • Philbo: I probably should talk about it. They say when you share your pain, it starts to lose its hold over you. It becomes less and less frightening. • Philbo: There's a time... I couldn't save a baby Faewish Sprite from a fire. Their cries still echo in my mind all the time. It's like a constant reminder of my failure. • Momo: But fires are terrifying, and it wasn't your fault... • Philbo: That's not the point! If I had noticed earlier, I could have saved that baby's life. It's all my fault... • Nikki: There are always things beyond our control. I'm sure no one blames you, Philbo. • Nikki: As a fighter, you're already doing so much good, and in the future, you'll save so many trapped Faewish Sprites. Stay strong, will you? • Momo: Plus, you have lots of water stains to clean up! • Philbo: Haha, you're right, I've got to clean up the mess I made... and apologize to the Faewish Sprites I hurt. • Philbo: By the way, how did I end up here? I should be dancing on the Floating Wish Isle. Oh, now I remember! I was in the middle of a dance when a mask suddenly flew onto my face. • Philbo: Then... I saw the fire. I thought I could redeem my past failures, but it turned out to just be an illusion... • Momo: It's all the Cursed Mask's fault. Nikki, we have to catch it! • Nikki: Right, but which way did it go? I didn't get a good look before it disappeared... • Philbo: I think it went towards the Boogie Dance Floor. You should check there. After speaking, Philbo began cleaning up the mess. She sent the injured to the clinic and wiped away the water stains. Soon, everything looked as good as new.

Okay, so clearly Philbo is suffering from PTSD and the Carnival Mask is an evil little shit when it's cursed and used that against her. While Philbo is cleaning up, the group takes off to the Boogie Dance Floor to try and find where the Cursed Mask went off to.

To be continued in Part 4.

[daily-nikki]

Ch. 1, Pt. 4 | Purify the buds at the Old Ruins

After finishing Ch.1, Pt. 3 [Purify the buds at the Guardian Statue], Nikki has Purified the first bud and is on the search for the second one inside of the Old Ruins.

To track your progress and gain more rewards for completing the new main story quest line, you can use the new event page.

This post contains spoilers, pictures, commentary, and dialogue.

At this point Nikki has made a new ability outfit that helps her around the new environment using flowers that shoot waterspouts to reach high up places.

She's Purified the first of the blooms that she's after. Now it's time to go to the Old Ruins to find the next one. The Old Ruins is across the stretch of water in the middle of Serenity Island and is more desert-like in appearance.

In the Old Ruins, Nikki is lead to a cave to explore. This cave also holds a new essence for her skills. Once she's through the cave, it's time for her to use her Purification outfit in order to defeat the Esseling that is holding the bloom she's searching for hostage in its dark magic.

After Nikki has saved the bud, there is a bit of a cutscene with Fearless Freddie after reaching the warp spire.

⋯⋯ Dialogue ⋯⋯

Fearless Freddie: Oh wow! Humans live here in the Old Ruins? Haha! What a groundbreaking discovery!

Fearless Freddie: Humans can purify Esselings and are accompanied by round, chubby creatures... When I get back, I'll publish this adventure log, and then I'll definitely become the star of the Piecey Adventure Club.

Fearless Freddie: Ahem... Would you mind coming with me, Human?

Nikki: We...

↪ ...don't live here!

Nikki: We don't live here, but I am a human! My name is Nikki, and this is Momo. We are here to purify the contaminated buds.

Fearless Freddie: Ah, I see... Look like asking Granny Bubbles for leave from the bathhouse was... a waste.

Nikki: Huh? Do you also work at the Soakville Bathhouse?

Fearless Freddie: D-Don't remind this great explorer about that boring job! All I did was scrub, day after day...

Fearless Freddie: Even my signature move, the "Freddie Vortex," only Terra was willing to try it. I grabbed her buttons and did a whopping dry spin! But Terra seems busy nowadays and rarely comes to bathe...

Fearless Freddie: A boring job like that doesn't deserve the cool title of "Soakville Spin-Dry Specialist!" Hmph, it's just as misleading as the Piecey Adventure Rankings!

Nikki: the Piecey Adventure Rankings... What's that?

Fearless Freddie: Huh, you don't know? It's the classic ranking from the Piecey Adventure Club! It ranks all the places worth exploring on Serenity Island by difficulty level.

Fearless Freddie: The Old Ruins are clearly marked as beginner-level, so why are there so many Esselings here?! Hmph! The rankings are flawed! I'll file a complaint! A formal complaint!

Nikki: We heard the bud contamination only started recently. The Esselings probably weren't here before.

Fearless Freddie: Oh, I see1 I know it couldn't be my fault! I'd never fail a beginner-level challenge. It was all just a mixup.

Momo: A great explorer? More like a great excuse-maker...

Fearless Freddie: Hmph! Once I've completed every challenge on the rankings, except the top difficulty, no Pieceys, or cat, will be able to question my status1

Nikki: So, where is the top difficulty location?

Fearless Freddie: That would be the legendary "forbidden zone," Misty Peak!

Fearless Freddie: Never set foot upon the Misty Peak, nor stir The Silvergale from His, uhhh...

↪ Sleep!

Nikki: I remember Bootsie saying this! The Guardian's second nugget of wisdom warns all Pieceys not to disturb the Silvergale's sweet dream!

Momo: "Never set foot upon the Misty Peak, nor stir The Silvergale from His sleep." You really need to get that rhythm right!

Fearless Freddie: Ahem, yes. Anyway, no Pieceys know the way to Misty Peak. Maybe some did, but they never came back down...

Fearless Freddie: Whoa... While I, Freddie, am fearless, I wouldn't dare think about going up Misty Peak.

Fearless Freddie: Hmph, only a foolish little Piecey like Murmur would make such bold claims.

Nikki: Murmur said she's been to Misty Peak?

Momo: Murmur doesn't seem like one to exaggerate.

Fearless Freddie: Hmph, I don't believe it. If Murmur really completed the top difficulty challenge, why stay at the bathhouse listening to Granny Bubbles and doing boring chores?

Fearless Freddie: It it were me, I'd already be a golden explorer, and lead to entire Piecey Adventure Club!

Fearless Freddie: Anyway, today's adventure ends here. There are countless Pieceys waiting for me to wring them dry back home. Ah... It could be, that this is the life a destined great explorer must face.

Fearless Freddie: Human, thank you for your help today. Farewell!

Fearless Freddie is pretty full of himself. He's off to go to his job that he's sneaking out on and Nikki is off to find the next bud in the Soakville Outskirts.

[daily-nikki]

Ch. 1, Pt. 7 | Return to Purity

After finishing Ch.1, Pt. 6 [Purify the buds at the Brewing Workshop], Nikki has Purified all of the buds and it's time for her to wake up the Heart of Spring.

This is the last quest in the Chapter 1 questline.

To track your progress and gain more rewards for completing the new main story quest line, you can use the new event page.

This post contains spoilers, pictures, commentary, and dialogue.

Nikki and Momo have found all of the buds and now she's on her way to the middle of Serenity Island in order to awaken the Heart of Spring.

Once Nikki reaches the top of the stonetree, she is greeted by Granny Bubbles, Terra, and Bootsie.

⋯⋯ Dialogue ⋯⋯

Terra: Nikki, y-you should be village head! The Heart of Spring's water is replensishing!

Nikki: That's great! Oh... By the way, Terra, the Rinse-Free Rebels...

Terra: Don't worry, Murmur already told me. Fortunately, thank to your help, those Pieceys are cooperating now.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: I can't believe that Murmur had such a big secret and didn't tell me...

Nikki: I think it's just that Murmur didn't want to burden you...

Tiny Treads Bootsie: I know! I'm not angry with Murmur. I just feel bad for her. She's always helping everyone, but rarely shares her own feelings. She carries her burdens on her own...

Terra: Ugh, as elders, this is our fault. Back in the day, we were too hard on that silly little Piecey. it must have left a psychological scar!

Terra: And now that she finally found other Pieceys to relate to... of course she'd want to help them too. It makes perfect sense.

Granny Bubbles: But, after all, those things are just hallucinations caused by shock. Silly Murmur, so stubborn...

↪ Speak for Murmur

Nikki: Murmur did tell me a lot about the visions she saw. I understand. It's hard for her to willingly forget...

Granny Bubbles: You're not from around here, so whatever your thoughts are about it, it doesn't hurt me. But for Murmur, as a native of Serenity Island... for her to claim this isn't our home... Oof...

Nikki: Does Murmur think that Serenity Island isn't home to you all?

Terra: Murmur used to say that the places she saw in those visions were different from Serenity Island. No Bubbleblooms, no Rainbow Seals.

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Murmur would just hold that whistle and stare blankly at the Guardian's words: "Serenity Island... home."

Nikki: Having conflicting thoughts to her entire community... that feeling must be really tough.

Terra: Alright! Alright! The Heart of Spring restorations is great news, and the Rinse-Free Rebels' situation is resolved. No need to be so down.

Nikki: Bootsie, haven't you been wanting to take the Bubbly Tales Club to Steamville? Now we can set off right away!

Tiny Treads Bootsie: Yeah!

Terra: Granny Bubbles, the Bathing Bliss Festival you love is just around the corner. What are you looking forward to?

Granny Bubbles: Haha, I bet you're looking forward to showing off your skills!

Terra: Hehe, yeah... Being Bubble Ambassador for this Bathing Bliss Festival was something I worked so hard to snatch from Macy. How could I not look forward to it? But...

Terra: Nikki, I have a favor to ask... If you agree, I'd be happy to pass on this title to you!

Nikki: Terra? Please, go ahead?

Terra: Ahem... The bud contamination issue has been resolved, but the Dirty Thread Disease resurfaced overnight, and we still haven't pinpointed the source. I can't rest east knowing it's still a threat.

Terra: Thankfully, you're here now. Maybe it's the blessing of The Silvergale or the guidance of the Guardian. Either way, having someone with purification abilities like you is exactly what we need.

Terra: Can I ask for your help... by investigating the source of the contamination?

↪ Of course!

Nikki: Of course! For the sake of everyone in Soakville, we'll find the source of the contamination and put an end to this disease once and for all!

Momo: It's my duty as "Bubble Ambassador!"

Nikki: But... I do have a small favor to ask. Could you keep an eye out for that Puppy Piecey? I need to return his bell.

Terra: No problem! I'll make sure to search all over Soakville for you!

Terra: I've been thinking about the contamination source. Our village doesn't seem to have any clues, so we'll have to trouble you to go to Steamville. Their village head, Macy, might know something.

Nikki: The Heart of Spring... is ready!

Granny Bubbles: Nikki, go wake it up! Follow this path, and you'll reach Steamville. The Silvergale... will protect you!

Nikki needs to use her new ability outfit to awaken the Heart of Spring which then shoots out a massive jet of water that takes her to Steamville.

This is where Chapter 1 ends and the beginning of Chapter 2 starts.

Make sure to grab the rewards from the splash page!