When the Stars of Ingenuity Shine

Here's some good news

Ruan Mei's at the space station

Ruan Mei?

Ruan Mei?

Genius Society #81, Ruan Mei

Good news?

Why is this good news?

It's good news to me.

Can I meet her?

Can I meet her?

Ask her yourself.

I called her and Screwllum here to talk about some important matters.

Come back when you're free and introduce yourself to her. That way she knows who's the person that's been testing the Simulated Universe.

Remember to show Ruan Mei some respect. You don't usually get many chances to meet her.

Accepted Mission

When the Stars of Ingenuity Shine

Talk to Herta[]

Mission Description

As the Simulated Universe receives another update, the space station remains bustling with activity. This time, several prominent figures from the Genius Society have all arrived at the space station! You receive a message from Herta, who informs you that Ruan Mei has also arrived at the space station. It's time to go meet her...

Master Control Zone

(Upon arriving at the Master Control Zone): ▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (Ruan Mei... a name that's both new... and familiar.)

(Approach Herta): ▶ Herta: I thought member #4, Polka Kakamond, had gotten rid of most of the Society members. I didn't have a lot of hope for this... Oh? Look who's here.; ▶ Asta: You're back, (Trailblazer)?; There's quite the crowd here today...; ▶ Herta: Of course. This is a summit between three geniuses.; ▶ Asta: It's a special time — all departments are preparing to welcome distinguished guests from the Genius Society.; ▶ Asta: Madam Ruan Mei doesn't like fanfare and probably wouldn't appreciate a crowd to welcome her, so I asked the researchers to keep things simple.; ▶ Herta: I took her to see the portraits of the Society members a few days ago. I wanted to have the researchers make one for her as well, but she declined the offer.; ▶ Herta: I don't get it. Whatever. As long as she's happy.; ▶ Asta: I heard Miss Ruan Mei likes snacks and pastries, so I asked the researchers to prepare some traditional desserts from the Blue. All of them seemed to tickle her fancy.; Would I be able to meet Ruan Mei?; ▶ Herta: Of course, go find her yourself. She borrowed the Phase Flame to do some research as soon as she got here — haven't seen a trace of her since.; Is Ruan Mei a great person?; ▶ Herta: That's like asking "Is Herta a great person?" The answer is obvious!; ▶ Asta: Miss Ruan Mei is the very image of a scholar. I heard she once took a little vacation on a desert planet. By the time she left, she'd miraculously created a boom in the local ecology!; ▶ Herta: She just wanted somewhere uninhabited to experiment with her "Life Helix System." Ruan Mei is certainly very talented, but she hardly interacts with anyone. She lives like a hermit. Pity.; ▶ Herta: Anyway. What more needs to be said for someone smart enough to become Herta's research partner, hmm? Hurry up and head out, (Trailblazer). See if you can find her.; Where is Ruan Mei right now?; ▶ Asta: I'm not sure, but she doesn't seem to get around much. She spends most of her time between the master control zone and the railway platform. Maybe you can start your search there?

Messages
Herta Surveillance Team

You Already Know Me invited Take-Ultimate-To-The-Face to the group chat

You Already Know Me

Ok, invited

Spill

Rich_Knowit

Looks like we're in for some juicy news

Oh?

Got the deets?

Rich_Knowit

Don't leak this from the chat

Ruan Mei's coming to the space station!

...She's already here.

...Isn't she already here?

You're getting slow with your gossip

Rich_Knowit

You really are something

Bill Portcullis

But we're still preparing for the welcome ceremony

Rich_Knowit

Ruan Mei doesn't appreciate it

Licenseless Space Driving

I heard she's a loner even among the geniuses

Bill Portcullis

So all our work was for nothing?

Why didn't you give a heads-up ahead of time

Licenseless Space Driving

Herta's also turned a blind eye to what she does

That's the "big shot" special treatment

It's okay

It's okay. Other big shots will show up sooner or later

Bill Portcullis

Hmm, I'll be waiting then

Stop working hard

This is what you get when you work hard

Bill Portcullis

You seem pretty enlightened

Rich_Knowit

Apparently Miss Ruan Mei's personality isn't all that great

Bill Portcullis

Word? Is there ever a genius who's normal?

M-Robot

Screwllum seems pretty chill

Bill Portcullis

Ok fine, I'll give you that

(Talk to Asta, optional): ▶ Asta: Miss Ruan Mei is the very image of a scholar. I heard she once took a little vacation on a desert planet. By the time she left, she'd miraculously created a boom in the local ecology!

(Talk to Herta, optional): ▶ Herta: Anyway. What more needs to be said for someone smart enough to become Herta's research partner, hmm? Hurry up and head out, (Trailblazer). See if you can find her.

Find Ruan Mei[]

Step Description

The space station has been bustling with activity lately. With the latest update to the Simulated Universe and the gathering of prominent figures from the Genius Society, everyone seems to have their own agenda. You can't help but feel that there might be some unexpected events on the horizon.
You don't know Ruan Mei's exact location, so you have to look for her...

Supply Zone

(Approach Ruan Mei): ▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (There's someone next to the railway platform. Could she be...?)

(Idle quotes): What a beautiful starry sky...; At long last!; So lively...; I heard that a big shot is coming soon.; Come on, time to eat, I'm starving.; So this is the space station!; I heard that Madam Herta...; Huh, what Genius Society?

(Cutscene plays)

▶ Ruan Mei: Hello. I hope I didn't startle you.

▶ Ruan Mei: This is a work habit of mine — using touch to open my senses and letting the details of your biological existence flood into my brain helps me understand your construction as a living organism.

▶ Ruan Mei: Such is the basis of deconstruction and reconstruction. Do not be concerned. You are very healthy — in fact, impeccably so. A perfect experimental specimen. I like perfect experimental specimens.

We finally meet.

▶ Ruan Mei: Yes, I'm happy to meet you too. We've met before in the Simulated Universe.

There's a bit of cake on the corner of your mouth...

▶ Ruan Mei: Oh? Really?

▶ Ruan Mei: I expect the views here had me lost in thought...

▶ Ruan Mei: I don't usually go in and out of the space station, and only discovered today that it was blessed with such calm, open views. It is a wonderful fit for the sweet fragrance of lotus leaves, plum blossom, sticky rice, and frosting sugar.

▶ Ruan Mei: Come here. Look, the blue planet is directly below us. It is so full of life. This dessert is very delicious. Here, take half.

Take a bite.

No, I'm good.

▶ Ruan Mei: You don't like it? I worked very hard on it. You should at least have a try.

▶ Ruan Mei: Delicious desserts remind people of how flowers look when they bloom. Ingest this dessert one bite at a time, and the sweetness will linger in your mouth.

▶ Ruan Mei: I hope you like it too.

You ate Ruan Mei's snack.

▶ Ruan Mei: So, what do you think? I can certainly prepare more for you. It's become somewhat of a tradition to bring strawberry pastries when I visit Stephen Lloyd. His attendance seems quite dependent on them.

▶ Ruan Mei: Mmm, an outstanding dessert. Ten grams of cubed sugar, one dried and salt-preserved plum blossom. Baking and cooking are the same as nurturing a universe. The heat must be controlled, planning must be meticulous, and one must not panic... no matter what happens.

▶ Ruan Mei: Unfortunately, there are still too many people in the space station. The clamor is not fitting for desserts. By the way...

▶ Ruan Mei: (Trailblazer), do you remember what my "research" is about?

Only that it's about biology.

Something about nurturing lifeforms...

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): No. My research area is short stories about toilets.

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (...?)

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (What's going on... what am I... talking about?)

▶ Ruan Mei: I see. What a cute hobby.

▶ Ruan Mei: But remember, the next time something like this happens it's crucial to mask your expression until you've ascertained the situation. If not...

▶ Ruan Mei: ...you'll be full of weaknesses that others can see through.

▶ Ruan Mei: Let's try again. Now, (Trailblazer), what else would you like to ask?

What do you mean...

What did you do to me...

What did you feed me...

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): The dessert was tasty. I would like more.

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (...?)

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (Wh—Why can't I say what I want to say!?)

▶ Ruan Mei: You have quite the appetite. Alright, I'll give you the recipe.

▶ Ruan Mei: Come and have a walk with me. A stroll is the most appropriate post-dessert activity.

Follow Ruan Mei[]

Step Description

The space station has been bustling with activity lately. With the latest update to the Simulated Universe and the gathering of prominent figures from the Genius Society, everyone seems to have their own agenda. You can't help but feel that there might be some unexpected events on the horizon.
Ruan Mei's demeanor strikes you as peculiar, and she appears to have something to tell you...

Supply Zone

(Follow Ruan Mei): ▶ Ruan Mei: As the masses depart, there's an enveloping calm here, just like in the "No Man's Land" I've ventured to in the past.; ▶ Ruan Mei: (Trailblazer)... Can you imagine a completely lifeless world?; ▶ Ruan Mei: From there, you can glimpse the stars that lie at the very edge of the horizon.; ▶ Ruan Mei: Following its celestial trajectory, the great teal star illuminates an endless sea of white across both the sky and land.; ▶ Ruan Mei: My mother and I navigated calm glaciers looking for signs of life on that world... and encountered many bizarre phenomena.; ▶ Ruan Mei: It was like finding the single correct piece in a mountain of jigsaw pieces. The process was convoluted and unimaginably difficult, but it was touching and enthralling as well.; ▶ Ruan Mei: From then on, whenever I come across a familiar scene, I find myself pausing to take it all in.

▶ Ruan Mei: My apologies, it appears my words have left you perplexed. Please, don't be on edge — I bear no ill will. I haven't interfered with your linguistic faculties — such an act would be impolite... I merely made a minor adjustment.

▶ Ruan Mei: A few days ago, I made my interest in you known to Herta. My intention is for you to serve as an "assistant." Based on our interactions within the Simulated Universe, I firmly believe you fit the bill.

▶ Ruan Mei: I find extending trust beyond myself is challenging. A single error in detailed research can generate issues, and I despise matters that escape my control.

▶ Ruan Mei: Therefore, I added Anti-Truth Serum to this dessert. It will not harm you. However, you will be unable to say what you truly think when answering questions related to me.

▶ Ruan Mei: Treat it as a layer of protection. This will shield my research and your personal safety. Once the problems have been dealt with, I'll give you the antidote.

▶ Ruan Mei: I can also reward you as compensation for being my assistant. I will fulfill your every wish.

Problems?

▶ Ruan Mei: Yes... problems wrought by my own hand.

You don't trust me.

▶ Ruan Mei: Does that bother you? I believe we will be able to be frank with each other, but that needs time.

I'm still upset.

▶ Ruan Mei: Then I'll grant you even greater rewards.

▶ Ruan Mei: When I first arrived on the space station, I borrowed the Phase Flame from Herta — it's an invention of member #29 Sserkal. I hoped to be enlightened by other Society members' results.

▶ Ruan Mei: A surge of creativity led me to explore the cultivation of life on the space station.

▶ Ruan Mei: In my imagination, these lifeforms would be a new variety that are born as geniuses. I planned to name them after Lambda, member #8 of the Genius Society...

▶ Ruan Mei: I don't know where it went wrong. They possess their own sentience, but are nowhere near geniuses.

▶ Ruan Mei: Moreover, my "free-range" approach seems to have backfired. In a lab leak incident a few days ago, some of these "little lifeforms" ran away and scattered all over the space station.

▶ Ruan Mei: I do not wish for Herta or Asta to be involved in this. Therefore... I'm hoping you can assist in recovering these little lifeforms.

You can try trusting me, you know.

▶ Ruan Mei: I do trust you.

Why don't you want them to know?

▶ Ruan Mei: This has nothing to do with them. Besides, the more people involved, the more problems there will be.

Okay...

▶ Ruan Mei: The researchers are still treating these entities as visitors... I want to steer clear of making my presence known, so as not to cause undue disturbances.

▶ Ruan Mei: I entrust this to you. Once the little lifeforms are collected, simply find a proper place for them. The researchers in the Department of Ecology should know about this and provide you with suitable advice.

Get information from the researchers[]

Step Description

Ruan Mei, the master nurturer of life, asks you to recover the "little lifeforms" that are running amok on the space station. She even goes so far as to feed you an "Anti-Truth Serum" to ensure you don't reveal this matter.
What could she be thinking?

Master Control Zone

(Talk to Ruan Mei, optional): ▶ Ruan Mei: As the masses depart, there's an enveloping calm here... just like the "No Man's Land" I ventured to in the past.; Did you do research there?; ▶ Ruan Mei: Yes. My mother and I once spent 11 long polar nights there.

(Talk to Ecology Researcher)

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: What? A place where the space station stores "dangerous experimental results"?

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: Why would anyone want to know that... Wait! Did someone send you here to try to get things out of me?

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: I'm not doing any private business on the space station! I have absolutely no knowledge of any special hiding places. And I certainly haven't sold any old junk, rare treasures, or discarded Curios or anything like that!

I didn't even ask...

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: Hmph, I'm not hiding anything at all! You're the sneaky one! What do you want?

Ruan Mei asked me to do this.

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): You're so cute! Can I get an autograph?

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (...So I really can't say anything about her.)

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: Autograph? What are you on about!? You're freaking me out!

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: I won't talk to you if you don't tell me why you're here.

I heard there are some problems on the space station.

Ruan Mei is asking for me to recover the leaked experimental specimens.

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): I'll solve the space station's problems!

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (...So I really can't say anything about her.)

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: ...Oh, that? You've got pretty good contacts if you know that already. The space station is a mess. Everyone's already swamped as it is, and now out of nowhere, there are a bunch of little creatures popping up.

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: If you want to solve the problem, go check out the storage zone. Then you'll understand.

Head to the storage zone[]

Step Description

Ruan Mei, the master nurturer of life, asks you to recover the "little lifeforms" that are running amok on the space station. She even goes so far as to feed you an "Anti-Truth Serum" to ensure you don't reveal this matter.
What could she be thinking?

Storage Zone

(Approach marked location): ▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (There are so many people... this seems to be the place)

Check out the disturbance[]

(Approach Implement Researcher)

▶ Implement Researcher: Molten Cheese Tart is the best! Its outlook is infectious! Its positive mood has influenced us all!

▶ Implement Researcher: What's our slogan again? One: Stop complaining, change your attitude, and use the delicious Molten Cheese Tart to stop the flow of negative energy.

▶ Implement Researcher: Two: Energize yourself, increase your capacity for action, and walk on the path of Molten Cheese Tart's absolute conviction.

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: Our creed: Molten Cheese Tart is the best!

Who is Molten Cheese Tart?

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: Oh praise be! You don't know? Molten Cheese Tart is Madam Ruan Mei's top fan! This is how it preaches. Those who offer their love are expressing admiration and affection for Miss Ruan Mei.

What about Screwllum's followers?

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: Let me tell you something, Mr. Screwllum's followers are all very logical, but they're just awaiting the arrival of the mechanical aristocracy.

What about Stephen's followers?

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: Who?

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: Hmph, since you're so interested, I'll tell you how to secure an audience with the honorable Molten Cheese Tart. You'll need to work hard to get there.

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: You need to plaster hearts wherever Madam Ruan Mei has been. If you're sincere enough, the honorable Molten Cheese Tart will show itself!

(Optional) Try to create life[]

(Investigate tablet, optional)

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: Hey, guess what I got my hands on? Word on the street is that this is the downgraded version of Ruan Mei's life cultivation formula.

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: It says: 10 carats of ingenuity, 1 tonne of practice, 30 particles of starquake, and a few drops of poisonous liquor from Madam Yu Qingtu. Rumor has it that it once created a talking chair! Not a particularly intelligent one, but boy did it have a sharp tongue — they dismantled it and used it for firewood. Can you believe it?

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: Let's give it a shot, shall we? First things first, we need to pick out the ingredients.

A constantly burning passion

A confidence that came out of nowhere

Courage to drink 2 bottles of Kapo-Kali in one go!

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: Hmm... we need to add some other good stuff in. But don't go overboard...

IQ

EQ

Beauty

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: Mm... and now we mix them together. Wait! It says on the recipe: "Ruan Mei makes different expressions when nurturing life..."

Ruan Mei frowns

The corner of Ruan Mei's mouth twitches

Ruan Mei is suppressing her emotions

Ruan Mei is expressionless

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: Yikes... take a look at what you just cultivated.

(If "Ruan Mei frowns" was chosen)

You have nurtured a copy of a Trotter!

▶ Replicated Trotter: Oink oink!

(If "The corner of Ruan Mei's mouth twitches" was chosen)

You have nurtured a copy of a five nut milk-flavored lifeform!

▶ Milk Almond Lifeform: Woof woof woof!

(If "Ruan Mei is suppressing her emotions" was chosen)

You have nurtured a coriander sesame paste lifeform!

▶ Coriander Sesame Paste Lifeform: Eeep, eeep...

(If "Ruan Mei is expressionless" was chosen)

You have nurtured a copy of a Phase Flame!

Replicated Phase Flame: Hehe!

(Optional) Ask around for information about Ruan Mei[]

(Idle quote): Department of Ecology Researcher: Madam Herta doesn't care about her at all...

(Talk to Ecology Researcher, optional)

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: Ruan Mei, member #81 of the Genius Society — a resounding name in science and the veritable epitome of lifeform cultivation. Researchers here have heard so much about her for so long!

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: But once she arrived on the space station, she just took over everything. And what did Madam Herta do? Absolutely nothing...

Herta is spoiling Ruan Mei.

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): Never fear, the Galactic Baseballer is here!

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (...I can't even say that?)

Took over everything?

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: Yes, she's treating this place like her backyard! She's leaving her research notes all over the floor!

▶ Department of Ecology Researcher: The end result? Everyone's obsessed with getting their hands on them...

(Idle quote): Insight Researcher: I heard that when Ruan Mei is researching...

(Talk to Researcher of the Department of Insight, optional): ▶ Insight Researcher: Ruan Mei likes to listen to the space station radio during her research.; ▶ Insight Researcher: Some of us younger researchers are her superfans — we're always scanning different frequencies to find out what her tastes are! Do you know her favorite tunes, by any chance?; Ruan Mei likes to listen to new-style opera.; Ruan Mei likes to listen to new-style storytelling.; ▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): No idea. I just listen to comedy skits.; ▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (...So I really can't say anything about her.); ▶ Insight Researcher: As expected. You look like you belong in a comedy skit yourself.

(Idle quote): Insight Researcher: Ruan Mei's preferences...

(Talk to Researcher of the Department of Insight, optional)

▶ Insight Researcher: I heard Madam Ruan Mei is very picky when it comes to snacks. (Trailblazer), do you know what her favorites are?

Ruan Mei likes plum blossom cakes that are freshly salted.

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): I don't know about her, but I loooove fermented herring.

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (...So I really can't say anything about her.)

▶ Insight Researcher: Did I ask about your favorites? Also, that's disgusting — what's wrong with you?

I don't know.

▶ Insight Researcher: Fine. Ugh, what a headache...

Perform a mysterious summoning ritual[]

(Open Graffiti Tutorial)
(Spray graffiti on highlighted area): Ruan Mei's creation jumps onto the table!

Talk with Ruan Mei's creation[]

Step Description

Ruan Mei's "life creations" are actually pastries with a life of their own! They have even developed their own "emotions," "thoughts," and "will"...
Now you have to find a way to recover them.

Storage Zone

(Talk to Ruan Mei's Creation): ▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): Um... so this...; ▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): ...is the "little lifeform" Ruan Mei made?; ▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (...Woof! Woof! Woof!); A researcher appears out of nowhere next to you...; ▶ "Creations' Translator": I am humbled to meet the Molten Cheese Tart!; ▶ "Creations' Translator": What are you frozen in place for? Oh, you don't understand the honorable tart? That's okay! No worries, for situations like this, we've specifically concocted a Synesthesia Beacon!; Activate the Synesthesia Beacon.; ▶ ▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Wakaka — I'm a genius! A genius among geniuses!); It actually made my voice!; Immediately deactivate the specific Synesthesia Beacon.; ▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (...Woof! Woof! Woof!); ▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (That was way too risky...)

▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Purring)

▶ "Creations' Translator": Molten Cheese Tart says, "Madam Ruan Mei has finally recognized my ingenuity!"

▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Purring)

▶ "Creations' Translator": Molten Cheese Tart says, "Does Madam Ruan Mei recognize me as a masterpiece?"

▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Purring)

▶ "Creations' Translator": Molten Cheese Tart says, "Madam Ruan Mei still has not recognized me as a lifeform that passes the requirements. I need to work harder!" Ah! Such an enthusiastic Molten Cheese Tart!

▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Purring)

▶ "Creations' Translator": There's a kind of attachment reserved for the creator. To the world, you are but one person. But to me, you are the entire world — Ahh, Madam Ruan Mei!

▶ "Creations' Translator": Hey, you. Yes, you — don't you have anything you wanna say to Molten Cheese Tart? You should at least express how you would like to follow Molten Cheese Tart! We wouldn't want to mistake you for an agent of Gray Bean Paste, would we?

I follow Molten Cheese Tart.

▶ "Creations' Translator": Good. You have great taste!

I like Gray Bean Paste!

▶ "Creations' Translator": Get lost and get as far away from here as you can!

There's no way Ruan Mei would like you!

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): You heartless dessert.

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (...I almost forgot, I can't say anything about Ruan Mei.)

▶ "Creations' Translator": You! Shh! Quiet!

▶ "Creations' Translator": Oh, the honorable Molten Cheese Tart may have a crispy exterior, but deep down inside, it's incredibly sensitive and delicate.

▶ "Creations' Translator": It's working so hard just to get Madam Ruan Mei's attention!

▶ "Creations' Translator": You see, the honorable Molten Cheese Tart has always been fighting against Gray Bean Paste in terms of flavor. The honorable Molten Cheese Tart is a firm believer that people's lives need to be optimistic.

▶ "Creations' Translator": They both hope to receive Madam Ruan Mei's recognition and have been working so hard.

How did Ruan Mei make desserts into lifeforms...

▶ "Creations' Translator": You need to call it the honorable Molten Cheese Tart!

You like the taste of Molten Cheese Tart?

▶ "Creations' Translator": Of course. It's not like we have any followers of Gray Bean Paste here.

▶ "Creations' Translator": All the ones who came here to stir up trouble have been converted by us. They went from refusing Molten Cheese Tart to loving it.

▶ "Creations' Translator": This is called "conceptual annexation of tastes."

▶ "Creations' Translator": It's genuinely puzzling. Despite Molten Cheese Tart's remarkable qualities, why hasn't Madam Ruan Mei acknowledged it? It's clear that it yearns for her love.

What kind of "love" though?

▶ "Creations' Translator": Love from the creator to her creation? Familial love? Doesn't sound right... romantic love? Definitely not!

▶ "Creations' Translator": I don't know! Expecting me to understand "love" is like asking me to map the farthest reaches of the universe!

▶ "Creations' Translator": Remember, as long as love is your compass, you're on the right track. And in the wise words of the honorable Molten Cheese Tart: Love must be shouted from the rooftops!

Can I talk alone with Molten Cheese Tart?

▶ "Creations' Translator": Th—That depends on if the honorable Tart agrees to it...

▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Purring)

▶ "Creations' Translator": Oh? The honorable Molten Cheese Tart has agreed!

You try to communicate with Ruan Mei's creation and get it away...

Messages
Ecology Researcher

Ecology Researcher

You can throw those little monsters in here.

Are you serious?

...

Are you serious?

I think you're lying.

...

You can't be serious, right?

Ecology Researcher

Dead serious.

Ecology Researcher

This is a one-way passage, with the other end connected to the storage zone.

It's extremely safe.

Accommodate Ruan Mei's creation[]

(Investigate toilet)

You realized Ruan Mei's creation cannot be put in at all...

▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Purring)

It opens its innocent eyes wide. You now have to explain to it that this has to be done in order to send it back to Ruan Mei's side...

Confess! Why are you stirring up trouble on the space station!

▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Purring)

It seems to believe that only by being passionate can it earn Ruan Mei's approval.

Confess! Do you like molten cheese tarts?

▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Purring)

It seems to believe that this is a flavor that can bring happiness.

▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Purring)

It seems resentful for being an "unqualified" life form.

▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Purring)

It seems eager to achieve great things! It wants to fully embrace its own philosophy and is inviting you to join in!

You have to be firm, believing this is the best place for it...

Tenderly activate the teleporter.

Callously activate the teleporter.

Ruan Mei's little lifeform was ruthlessly flushed down the john. It will be safely transported to storage zone.

Messages
Ruan Mei

(Visitor Verification)

(Trailblazer), how's your progress?

Sorry to interrupt

Come back first

An emergency's come up that requires your help

Speak with Ruan Mei[]

Step Description

Ruan Mei's "life creations" are actually pastries with a life of their own! They have even developed their own "emotions," "thoughts," and "will"...
You've done well, but it seems Ruan Mei has new requests...

Herta's Office

(Talk to Ruan Mei)

▶ Ruan Mei: You're here, (Trailblazer).

▶ Ruan Mei: Herta called Screwllum and I to the space station to discuss some important topics. She also sent an invite to Stephen, but he didn't reply and Herta didn't seem to want to wait any longer.

▶ Ruan Mei: And now... I wish for you to attend this meeting with me.

Why with me?

▶ Ruan Mei: I don't want Herta to worry herself over these frivolous matters, even though she probably wouldn't care anyway.

▶ Ruan Mei: Just in case, I want someone who will be on my side — in other words, you.

▶ Ruan Mei: Help me — it'll be easy. Just remember: My secret stays with you. Don't pry too much, and keep your expressions in check.

Alright...

▶ Ruan Mei: Alright, let's go.

Let me think...

▶ Ruan Mei: Alright. There's no rush.

Attend the meeting with Ruan Mei[]

Step Description

Herta, Ruan Mei, and Screwllum: a gathering of geniuses never seen across the span of history! Scenes like this don't happen every day!
You are curious as to what games or contests take place between such individuals...

Simulated Universe

(Idle quote): Herta: Why hasn't Ruan Mei come?

(Approach marked location): ▶ Herta: Hi, Ruan Mei, I've been waiting for you. Oh, you're here too? Looks like you two have become quite friendly.; ▶ ▶ Screwllum: It's good to see you, (sir/madam). Affirmation: This reunion has happened earlier than my calculations predicted.; ▶ Herta: Though you weren't invited, I welcome you to remember this historical moment, (Trailblazer). How long has it been since three geniuses were in the same room together? And how long will we have to wait for it to happen again?; ▶ Screwllum: Affirmative. Discounting our discussions on the Simulated Universe, our interactions are scarce. I look forward to the innovative ideas that may emerge from this juxtaposition of minds.; (Cheer passionately); (Bow politely); ▶ Herta: Let me get straight to the point. I think it's time to find another partner for the Simulated Universe.; ▶ Ruan Mei: ...You wish to kick Stephen out?; ▶ Herta: No, of course not! Stephen doesn't want to get involved and voted to abstain — whatever. Look, I respect the way people want to live, but he doesn't have the chance to be involved in this decision-making anymore.; ▶ Screwllum: Question: Are we introducing a fifth partner for the Simulated Universe?; ▶ Herta: Yes. A fifth genius.; ▶ Herta: The reason for our gathering is clear to everyone present. What else could prompt such a gathering of brilliant minds except for the "answer"?; ▶ Herta: No one can refuse the secret of the Aeons, not even Zandar. We'll definitely get a response.; ▶ Ruan Mei: What if the responder is Polka Kakamond?; ▶ Herta: That'd be great! Hey, Lord of Silence, are you listening? I'm member #83, Herta, and I want to meet you. I believe you and I will have a lot to talk about.; ▶ Screwllum: It's unlikely we'll hear from Polka Kakamond. She's been off the grid for quite some time.; ▶ Screwllum: Probability: Member #64, Dr. Primitive, may appear.; ▶ Herta: That's a hard pass. Given Dr. Primitive's shady research practices and his tussle with the Galaxy Rangers, the IPC will surely turn this into a media circus... he can get lost. I'd prefer it if the Simulated Universe remained scandal-free.; ▶ Herta: What about Yu Qingtu? Are you still in touch with her, Ruan Mei? Is she still alive?; ▶ ▶ Ruan Mei: ...Can we ask (him/her) to leave if we are to discuss this topic? The process will be long... and boring. There's no need to take up other people's time.; ▶ ▶ Herta: Of course. You brought (him/her) in, after all. It's up to you.; ▶ Ruan Mei: Alright, let me walk you out.

▶ Herta: Aaaand what the heck is this?

▶ Ruan Mei: Seems like a programming error.

▶ Herta: (Trailblazer), this fragment of Ruan Mei — have you seen it in the Simulated Universe before?

Yes.

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): The Simulated Universe is my home!

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (...?)

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (I'm speaking nonsense again...)

No.

▶ Ruan Mei: It's probably an isolated glitch.

▶ Herta: Fine, I'm used to turning a blind eye to these things — it makes life easier. I am curious though... are you gonna keep it, Ruan Mei?

▶ ▶ Ruan Mei: I probably will. Records indicate (Trailblazer) likes this Occurrence.

▶ Herta: Alright, I agree. As long as it helps you with your research, you can do whatever you want.

Follow Ruan Mei[]

Step Description

Herta, Ruan Mei, and Screwllum: a gathering of geniuses never seen across the span of history! Scenes like this don't happen every day!
Ruan Mei calls you aside. Looks like you won't be able to hear any more snippets of exchanges and proposals between the geniuses. You have more important things to do right now anyway.

Simulated Universe

▶ Ruan Mei: Come along, (Trailblazer). I'll see you out.

▶ Ruan Mei: It appears I was overthinking things. Impulsive behavior is pretty characteristic of her after all.

(Optional) Talk with Herta and Screwllum[]

(Talk to Herta, optional)

▶ Herta: What's wrong? You're not leaving?

Will there be a fifth genius joining?

▶ Herta: Depends on who they are.

I want to know about member #4, Polka Kakamond.

▶ Herta: Female. Wears a fashionable scarf. I find her rather fascinating.

(Talk to Screwllum, optional)

▶ Screwllum: The air in the space station has a pleasant quality. Affirmation: Knowledge flows within it.

Will there be a fifth genius joining?

▶ Screwllum: We anticipate the inclusion of a different perspective. I await our esteemed guest and shall offer the highest courtesies — I'm confident that our discussions will generate illuminating insights.

I want to know about member #64, Dr. Primitive.

▶ Screwllum: Dr. Primitive's true identity is not known to me. His previous transgressions against humanity lead some to conclude he may be an inorganic entity. Affirmation: All beings, organic or otherwise, should value peace.

How long will you be staying on the space station?

▶ Screwllum: I will stay for a while longer. Lady Asta has recently expressed concerns regarding disturbances on the space station. Conclusion: Extended observation is necessary.

Speak with Ruan Mei[]

▶ Ruan Mei: Thankfully, it was just a minor scare. Still, meetings give me such a headache... It seems I'll have to stay put for a while.

▶ Ruan Mei: I see that you've recovered the lifeform in the master control zone. Thank you, well done.

I didn't end up saying anything.

▶ Ruan Mei: I was simply being overly cautious. It is a habit of mine. Apologies.

Is there something I shouldn't hear?

▶ Ruan Mei: No. You misunderstand. While Herta is tied up in meetings, you might find it more convenient to roam the space station.

▶ Ruan Mei: There are some things that I must tell you now. If I wait for the meeting to finish... then it might be too late.

▶ Ruan Mei: The retrieval of my lifeforms isn't complete yet. There's more than just one, and some are stored in a sealed zone.

▶ Ruan Mei: Herta uses that place to welcome visitors from across the stars, or to welcome members of the Genius Society. However, due to the Legion's invasion, it is no longer open to the public.

▶ Ruan Mei: And now my "headache" is stored there.

There are other zones in the space station?

▶ Ruan Mei: There's much you don't know about the space station, and even more about Herta.

▶ Ruan Mei: But there is some information I can give you. That place is also used to welcome non-humanoid visitors and has a shuttle that connects to outer space.

So Herta gave you permission to use this place?

▶ Ruan Mei: She gave me permission and said no more.

▶ Ruan Mei: I'm giving you my access card. Give me your hand, and I'll input your fingerprint into it.

▶ Ruan Mei: Stay vigilant, (Trailblazer). Should you come across a threat you can't handle, just alert me. I'll come to your aid, no matter what.

▶ Ruan Mei: Remember, there is a giant... incubator... in the middle of the zone. That's where my "headache" is stored.

▶ Ruan Mei: Once you're back, come find me on the railway platform. Then you'll understand everything.

Leave the Simulated Universe[]

(Exit Simulated Universe)

Take the elevator and go to the secret zone[]

Step Description

The space station has a secret zone? This might just be something not even most the researchers know about. Now you need to investigate alone...

Storage Zone

(Approach elevator): ▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (What would a sealed zone... look like?)

(Take elevator)
(Cutscene plays)

Find the mysterious Little Robot[]

Step Description

The space station has a secret zone? This might just be something not even most the researchers know about. You investigate alone, and find the space filled with many incredible objects...

Seclusion Zone

(Talk to Little Robot)

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: *buzz*

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (What's up with this unit? It looks different from the one in the master control zone...)

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: *buzz* Madam Herta, open zone. *buzz* To welcome, alien species, galactic visitors.

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: High-risk zone, *buzz*. Service staff, inorganic lifeforms, *buzz*.

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Permissions status: Madam Ruan Mei, permissions granted. Madam Herta: Fine. As long as it keeps her happy. *buzz*.

Why are you here?

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: *buzz* I am a twin of the Rice-Frying Robot. I am the Leftover Rice-Frying Robot. *buzz*

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Maintain zone operation. Job of inorganic lifeforms. *buzz*

What is this zone for?

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Class one clearance zone. *buzz*

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Many esteemed guests. *buzz*. May include dangerous persons. *buzz*

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Storage for Madam Herta's dangerous Curios. *buzz*

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Madam Ruan Mei's cultivated lifeforms. *buzz*

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Welcome, *buzz* (Trailblazer). How can I help?

Classification of the robots' jobs.

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Fry leftover rice. *buzz*

Map.

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Basement One. Transit Hub. *buzz*

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Basement Two. Shuttle. Incubator. Dangerous Curio storage. *buzz*

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Corridor, danger, *buzz*.

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Welcome, (Trailblazer). What do you need? *buzz*.

Where would I find the incubator?

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Conclusion: You cannot enter. *buzz* Probability: 50%. Other paths are open.

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Assessment: Seeking directions. *buzz*

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Suggestion: Proceed to basement. Locate records of cultivation path. *buzz*

I want to see visitor logs.

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Madam Ruan Mei *buzz*.

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Alien species, *buzz*.

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: That is all.

Head underground[]

(Talk to Little Robot, optional): ▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Fry leftover rice. *buzz*; ▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Fry leftover rice. *buzz*

(Take elevator)

Continue searching for clues[]

(Investigate monitor): ▶ Ruan Mei: The kindling for the Phase Flame is fascinating. Unfortunately, before the research could be completed, it vanished. I've initiated new attempts.; ▶ Ruan Mei: The growth status of the two samples this time is promising. I incorporated personal taste preferences into the concept, but, I'm uncertain of the outcome of such an action.; ▶ Ruan Mei: They simultaneously possess two sets of emotional traits. They are at once cute, weak, sentimental, and sensitive... yet are also fierce, instigating, demanding, and confident.; ▶ Ruan Mei: Interestingly, they also possess a kind of inclination — a yearning for their creator. It manifests as a natural, inherent emotion — similar to that of a baby towards its mother... Life towards sustenance, or the peculiar bond between humans.

Find the source of the noise[]

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (...Huh? What's that sound out there?)

(Investigate Ruan Mei's Creation)

▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Meow...)

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (...This is the "headache" Ruan Mei mentioned?)

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (It's just a different flavor...)

▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Meow...)

It refers to itself as "Gray Bean Paste"

Are you hiding in the dessert?

▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Meow...)

It claims to be connected with its shell.

You're pretty scary!

Ruan Mei's Creation: (Meow...)

It looks deeply distressed, crying profusely.

Activate the Synesthesia Beacon.

▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: *sob*... *sob*

▶ ▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (I'm not one of Ruan Mei's recognized works... *sob*...)

▶ ▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Too much negative energy... don't like negative energy, *sob*...)

You are a genius in your own way!

▶ ▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (*sob*... Ruan Mei... *sob*)

It seems to believe that its emotional infectiousness is also quite genius.

Everyone feels down once in a while.

▶ ▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (*sob*... Ruan Mei... *sob*)

It seems deeply remorseful, and there's a glint of resentment in its eyes, as if it yearns for Ruan Mei's acknowledgment.

▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: *sob*... *sob*

▶ ▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Why...? Why am I... a failure?)

You gaze at Ruan Mei's creation, which appears to still be waiting sadly for Ruan Mei to come get it.

A hint of compassion tugs at your heart.

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): What's that noise?

▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Meow...)

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): Follow me. It'll be okay.

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (I need to find a place for this little one... That sound seems to be from that locked room. How do I get in?)

Accommodate Ruan Mei's creation[]

Step Description

The space station has a secret zone? This might just be something not even most the researchers know about. You investigate alone, and find the space filled with many incredible objects...

Seclusion Zone

(While walking): ▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Meow...); (It seems to sense your fear and starts humming a song for you...); ▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (In a circle, Ruan Mei's creations join hands with each other.); ▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Ruan Mei intertwines joy and sorrow.); ▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Ruan Mei, Ruan Mei, why do you not turn back to look at us?); ▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Ruan Mei, Ruan Mei, where does your path lead?); ▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (...Is there no place for us, where you're going?)

Continue searching for clues[]

(Idle quotes): Ruan Mei's Creation: Scary...; Ruan Mei's Creation: What strange sounds...

(Approach group of Ruan Mei's Creations, optional): ▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (I never imagined there'd be so many of them...)

(Approach Molten Cheese Tart in the corner of the room, optional): ▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (You're here too? Seems like this is the other end of that one-way path.)

(Investigate tablet): ▶ Ruan Mei: The final days that Genius Society member #23, Acha, spent in the Mechanical City showed me that even the longest of lives, such as hers, have a limit.; ▶ Ruan Mei: I'm now certain that the outcome of this cultivation is: Failure.; ▶ Ruan Mei: Life can exist in thousands of different forms, which means the form itself has no purpose.; ▶ Ruan Mei: These lifeforms are very advanced in their own concepts, and can even trigger chain reactions such as synesthesia... but that is not what I desire.; ▶ Ruan Mei: I am starting to feel lost. Perhaps the question "what is the essence of life" never had an answer? Member #1, Zandar, have you ever felt this lost... or resigned?

(Approach monitor): ▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Meow...); ▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (Are you telling me to keep going?)

(Investigate monitor): ▶ Ruan Mei: Life is countless and varied in form. I firmly believe in that. Its beauty is like a myriad of flowers, and I want to pluck the one that never wilts.; ▶ Ruan Mei: The patterns of all things always have complicated and enchanting exteriors, while their inner essences remain simple and plain. If we were to trace things back to their roots, just one equation would be enough to solve the confusion of all life.; ▶ Ruan Mei: Ever since I was a child, I have always delighted in observing aspects of microscopic creatures... such as the speed with which slime molds devour objects. I have also gazed far and wide across the macroscopic world, investigating the progress of the universe up to this day — it was all very simple.; ▶ Ruan Mei: I wish to discover "the true essence of life," something that all individuals possess unknowingly, whether it is the materialism of their existence or an unknown entity beyond corporeal realms.; ▶ Ruan Mei: To avoid blind faith in science, I cautiously raised a query... Would Ruan Mei be able to peel away external influences? Just like pinpointing a coordinate, would she be able to uncover life's most primordial and beautiful form of existence...?; ▶ Ruan Mei: I thought of one "lifeform" that would truly lie beyond my reach, and that is...

Accommodate Ruan Mei's creation[]

▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Meow...)

(Investigate incubator jar): ▶ Ruan Mei's Creation: (Meow...); Read the record; The duration of sunlight exposure is a crucial factor affecting mood. Basking in starlight has been proven to be an effective method to alleviate negative emotions.; ▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (Sounds fitting...); Accommodate the Gray Bean Paste; ▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): Stay here for a bit.

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (Did something just open?)

Investigate the secret chamber[]

(Talk to Little Robot)

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Hidden room, *buzz*. Only Madam Ruan Mei has permissions. Please submit your ID, *buzz*.

Show Ruan Mei's card.

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Permission granted, *buzz*.

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Select from the below services: 1. Check historical incubation records. 2. Inorganic lifeform companionship chat service.

Inorganic lifeform companionship chat service.

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: This function has been damaged, *buzz*.

Check historical incubation records.

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (Is this...?)

Trailblaze Continuance When the Stars of Ingenuity Shine 1

▶ Ruan Mei: I thought of one lifeform that would truly lie beyond my reach.

▶ Ruan Mei: And that is... an Emanator.

▶ Ruan Mei: I cannot comprehend what an Emanator is.

▶ Ruan Mei: Scholars view them as the executors of the Aeons' power. So, when did it begin, and at what point did they become closer to the "Aeons" than any other lifeform?

▶ Ruan Mei: At first, I tried to create a genius. I failed. That question has no solution yet, and a long journey of discovery still lies ahead.

▶ Ruan Mei: However, Erudition isn't the only Path in the Universe. If we set logic aside, would there be more primitive and pure "Emanators" on other Paths?

▶ Ruan Mei: Of course there would be.

▶ Ruan Mei: Tayzzyronth. I was able to see the beginning and end of The [sic] Swarm Disaster through the Simulated Universe, obtain data on the Imperator Insectorum and their descendants, replicate them, nurture them, and create a brand-new scientific discipline.

▶ Ruan Mei: It is a logical decision. I will certainly succeed. The entity that I reconstruct will bloom into a life never before seen.

▶ Ruan Mei: Will Herta and Screwllum like this experiment? Most likely not. Therefore, before they realize what I am doing...

▶ Ruan Mei: ...I must hurry my work, as well as find a fitting "assistant."

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Permission granted, *buzz*.

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Select from the below services: 1. Check visitor records. 2. Open incubator entrance.

Check visitor records.

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Madam Ruan Mei *buzz*.

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Alien species, *buzz*.

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Man with plaster head, *buzz*.

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (...Seems like there's something new?)

Open incubator entrance.

▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Permission granted, *buzz*.

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (That sound's coming from above!)

Return upstairs and continue your investigation[]

(Talk to Little Robot, optional): ▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Permission granted, *buzz*.; ▶ Fried Cold Rice Robot: Permission granted, *buzz*.

(Approach marked location): ▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (Huh? There's someone in the distance... who is that?)

(Cutscene plays)

???: Here —

???: a genius move!

???: And how will you counter it?

???: *sigh* Only an idiot would ask such a question.

???: Just move this here...

???: You look distressed.

???: Something the matter?

???: If that's the case...

???: ...you better get thinking.

(Cutscene ends)

▶ ???: Are you waiting for a sign? Time is ticking. Descend via the elevator — what you seek is there.

Who are you?

Why are you here?

You know what I'm looking for?

▶ ???: Have you considered whether the answer to your question will be of any relevance to our current predicament?

▶ ???: If a question is of no help, then don't ask it. Time is clearly precious to the both of us.

▶ ???: *sigh* ...Never mind. Allow me to clarify something. I know exactly who you are, and I'm aware you are in Ruan Mei's employ. This was not my intended destination — I just happened to find my way here during my visit and saw what she was up to.

▶ ???: My goals are roughly aligned with yours. Since you're here, I won't intercede... but should you fail, I will be forced to prevent some avoidable misfortunes.

▶ ???: That's all you need to know. Just two paragraphs. Very effective communication.

You're not a bad person after all.

▶ ???: I can't stand discourtesy — even when it comes from myself.

Why do you wear an alabaster head...

▶ ???: Because I can't bear to see idiots. Of course, they wouldn't want to see me either.

Thank you for telling me that.

▶ ???: I can't stand discourtesy — even when it comes from myself.

▶ ???: The real "Ruan Mei's Creation" is hidden in the giant incubator below us.

▶ ???: Go. Take the elevator and bear witness to this "Genius' Masterpiece."

Witness the "big trouble"[]

Step Description

A man masked by a strange plaster sculpture appears in front of you and pointed out Ruan Mei's lies. Her ambitions are far greater than they appear to be! ...
The thing she's cultivating... what is it, exactly?

Seclusion Zone

(While riding elevator): ▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (This is huge... The space station has an area this big?)

(Approach marked location)
(Cutscene plays)
(Begin battle against Starcrusher Swarm King: Skaracabaz (Synthetic)): ▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (An Emanator of Propagation clone!? How can that be...?)

(Phase 2): ▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (It'll destroy the space station...!)

(After the battle)

(Cutscene plays)

???: After 56 seconds, the creature was unable to sustain its own existence and vanished as if it had never been born.

???: The threat is over. Time to get going.

(Cutscene ends)

Find Ruan Mei[]

Step Description

After this perplexing experience, you feel like you understand Ruan Mei less and less. She treats you with closeness but feeds you the "Anti-Truth Serum," concealing her true research purpose all along. She seems reserved, yet her ambitions are immeasurable... What kind of person is she really?

Supply Zone

▶ ▶ (Trailblazer): (Is it over...? I need to get some answers out of Ruan Mei!)

(Idle quotes): Cleaning in progress... Please wait.; Growth container fragments have been cleaned up... Processing...; This area has been cleaned. Waiting to execute the next cleaning plan in line.

(Approach Ruan Mei)

▶ Ruan Mei: The meeting of geniuses is over. As for the future of the Simulated Universe... That conclusion isn't important. What's important is your task.

▶ Ruan Mei: You look... upset, correct? I regret my actions. There's no defending what I've done. Time and again, my experiments have fallen short, and they've always yielded predictable results.

▶ Ruan Mei: I made a clone, but it... doesn't hold a candle to the Emanator.

It died on its own.

▶ Ruan Mei: Exactly as predicted: 56 seconds, on the dot.

You didn't have to lie to me.

▶ Ruan Mei: How should I have explained it to you? I'm not good at communicating with others...

▶ Ruan Mei: Restrained by time and place, its code of life could only be considered an incomplete attempt. I managed to replicate the moment it was born, however, it would soon disappear and be reduced to particles.

▶ Ruan Mei: Like every living being, it inevitably faced its demise as it journeyed towards the end — I find no fault in that.

▶ Ruan Mei: However, even the briefest life should have meaning. I want to know the limits of its capacity. It will indicate how far I've gone in a field completely incomprehensible to me.

▶ Ruan Mei: Haha, and it was "a minuscule step" — just as I had predicted.

It almost ate me.

▶ Ruan Mei: I did say that if a danger proved too great for you, I would personally step in to confront it.

Are you going to keep researching?

▶ Ruan Mei: Indeed, this is how I keep the distractions at bay. I have to admit that research once made me obsessive — that wasn't a good period in my life, though I now navigate it much more smoothly.

What about life outside of research?

▶ Ruan Mei: I do not have a life outside of research. People always think this price is unimaginable, but it seems rather acceptable to me.

▶ Ruan Mei: I must admit, I'm not fond of scenarios where everything aligns perfectly with my expectations. An experiment should have its unforeseen twists.

▶ Ruan Mei: That's where the joy lies. Even the most predictable storylines can have their pleasant surprises.

Trailblaze Continuance When the Stars of Ingenuity Shine 2

▶ Ruan Mei: I have to admit that these little ones born in the process... sometimes move me.

▶ Ruan Mei: I see a human-like response in them. It is a concept completely opposite to that of divinity — they have emotions.

▶ Ruan Mei: Emotions may be either positive or negative. However, the love rooted in the depths of their heart is eternal and unchanging.

▶ Ruan Mei: They are still a long way from becoming geniuses and are therefore unable to discern whether this love is one of friendship, romance, or familial love.

▶ Ruan Mei: That being said, can even geniuses tell the difference? I cannot, at least... I do not understand what "love" is and cannot respond to their feelings.

▶ Ruan Mei: (Trailblazer), do you believe my actions were wrong?

▶ Ruan Mei: There is no need to tell me your answer. I just... felt like asking the question. How should I take care of them? Perhaps leaving them at the space station is the best choice.

▶ Ruan Mei: Do I seem irresponsible? I'm sorry. I am often at a loss as to how to face my own creations.

▶ Ruan Mei: The effects of the Anti-Truth Serum will also wear off. If others mention me to you in the future, you can answer however you like, or even pretend you never knew me.

▶ Ruan Mei: After all, your memory of me will soon dissipate like smoke.

Memory... dissipate?

▶ Ruan Mei: Over time, hidden truths tend to surface. Past traumas, which I'd rather leave behind, have made me skeptical about trusting anyone but myself.

▶ Ruan Mei: If I do not want a secret revealed, the most foolproof way is to destroy it. The Anti-Truth Serum will make you forget the brief period we spent together.

▶ Ruan Mei: It won't take effect immediately. It is a slow, intangible process — like the sweet fragrance of lotus leaves, plum blossom, sticky rice, and frosting sugar.

▶ Ruan Mei: Perhaps you will remember someone performed selfish experiments on the space station, but you will no longer remember their identity. Perhaps we will meet again someday, but you won't be able to connect me with the recollection.

▶ Ruan Mei: That way, the connection between lifeforms will be erased. Friendships, secrets, grudges, lies, all will disappear.

▶ Ruan Mei: It will make our lives... more relaxing.

If that is your wish, I will forget you.

▶ Ruan Mei: Thank you.

No, I won't forget you.

▶ Ruan Mei: I believe you.

▶ Ruan Mei: Screwllum will stay on the space station for a while longer. He and Herta still have problems they need to solve. As for me, I'm leaving soon and won't bother with goodbyes.

▶ Ruan Mei: Do you still remember the "No Man's Land" I mentioned? I'm considering a solo trip back there during my research downtime, just to see how things are.

▶ Ruan Mei: I miss member #55, Yu Qingtu sometimes. She used to always make something delicious for me to drink every time we parted ways.

▶ Ruan Mei: I hope I won't meet member #4 Polka Kakamond. That would be quite troublesome.

▶ Ruan Mei: Who knows when the next gathering of geniuses will be? Do you have anything else you want to say to me, (Trailblazer)?

Do you trust me now?

▶ ▶ Ruan Mei: ...I find that difficult to answer. I thank you, (Mr./Miss) Assistant.

I hope you'll come back and visit your creations.

▶ ▶ Ruan Mei: Mm, I promise I will, (Mr./Miss) Assistant.

▶ Ruan Mei: If fate allows and you're interested, upon our next meeting, we could journey to No Man's Land and traverse its tranquil glaciers...

▶ Ruan Mei: ...though I suppose it wouldn't be No Man's Land anymore... What a conundrum.

(Cutscene plays)

(Ruan Mei has become a visitor to the Express. You might come across Ruan Mei when you return to the Express)

(Mission completed)

(Obtain Snack Life ×1)

Post-Mission[]

Messages
Ruan Mei

How are those two doing lately?

Did they learn how to co-exist?

I left it in the space station

I accommodated them in the space station

I taught Molten Cheese Tart to master humility and let Gray Bean Paste have a positive outlook on life

Didn't realize you still cared about them

So, you do care about them

Didn't realize you still cared about them

Mm, a little.

I accommodated them in the space station

I taught Molten Cheese Tart to master humility and let Gray Bean Paste have a positive outlook on life

Thank you, (Trailblazer).

Don't worry about it

Don't worry about it

When would I forget you?

Maybe eventually.

...When would I forget you?

When would I forget you?

Maybe eventually.

I look forward to experiencing new stories with you

Ok, I promise.

In the future, research will still continue.

Right, about the alabaster head...

Right, that alabaster head...

Is he a friend of yours?