Rover receives a call from Zhezhi outside the Pioneer Association Building

Zhezhi: “Rover, it's almost time for the dispute hearing. I... I still hope you'll come with me. I don't mean to burden you, but if you'd like to come, please meet me at the Public Security Bureau entrance.”

—-

*Rover heads to the Public Security Bureau to meet with Zhezhi.

Zhezhi is seen kneeling, speaking to a cat*

Zhezhi: “I didn't expect such a big crowd at the hearing… Hmm... S-should I take the stand myself? What do you think, little kitty? Ah, maybe we can do a little show of... um... paws. Raise your left paw if you think I should testify, or your right paw if…”

The cat raises its left paw to clean itself, ignoring Zhezhi’s comments

Zhezhi: “W-wait! You raised your left paw before I even finished my sentence... No, that doesn't count. Let's try again. Okay, if you raise your right paw, I'll... let someone else handle it.”

The cat licks its right paw, still seemingly ignorant of Zhezhi’s presence

Zhezhi: “Hmm... right paw, huh? Well... I did actually want to tell everyone the truth myself. Let's give this another shot.”

Juyao: “Ms. Zhezhi, the hearing is about to start. If you would, please join us.”

Zhezhi: “Now? Y-yes, Madam Juyao! I... I'll be there in a minute!”

Rover calmly approaches Zhezhi in the meantime

Rover: “Hi, Zhezhi. I've made it.”

Zhezhi: “Rover, oh, you're here! It's... it's really nice to see you! And... I appreciate you coming. I just handed over all the evidence we gathered from Mingyan's studio and the Exile's camp to the Patrollers. Now the Shanyun Art Exchange can't deny the fact they were producing and trading art forgeries. But... there is one more thing. The Patroller said we still need someone to testify in the hearing.”

Rover: “Do you want me to testify?”

Zhezhi: “You're really kind, but... um, I'll be fine to do this myself. You've already helped me so much, even just having you here is a huge relief. Some things, I've got to face on my own. That said... I, uh, didn't... didn't expect there would be so many spectators coming to watch… If I get nervous and mess up any details, could you please help to remind me?”

Rover: “No problem.”

Zhezhi: “Thank you! Having you here helps, more than you know. It's about time. We should probably go in, huh?”

—-

*[Different Dialogue Option]

Rover pumps their fist, attempting to encourage Zhezhi

*****Rover: “You can do this. I believe in you.”

******Zhezhi: “Eh? B-but... I've... I've never spoken in front of so many people before… H-how about... you do the talking, and, um, I'll add details... if, if I have to?”

Rover: “Actually, I kind of forgot the details… We wouldn't want my lack of artistic expertise to give the Shanyun Art Exchange a chance to turn the hearing against us.”

Zhezhi: “You're right... Then... I'll... I'll do it myself…”

Rover: “Relax, I'll be here if you need me. Don't worry, I've got your back. Just remember, you're the only one who can lay out the truth—the whole truth— for everyone to see.”

Zhezhi: “...You're right. I was the one who chose to uncover the truth behind this case. I can't back down now, not when it matters most. I'll give it my all, I promise. Let's go.”

Rover and Zhezhi enter the Public Security Bureau Courtroom


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