Before progressing, you check the status menu. To your surprise, not only had Monika leveled up over the last few fights, but there was a separate screen for you. You're able to check the coding effects you've unlocked so far. You pick out the ones you want and enter them in the command console. When you reach the other side of the forest, the next cutscene begins.
"Based on what I've seen so far, the club was inspired by Japanese culture. This world seems more oriented towards a western and European style, though I guess I should've known based on Marla's name."
You ask who Marla is.
"My counterpart in this world. Each of us has a counterpart here. Mine is Marla, Sayori's is Sarah, Natsuki's is Elyssa, and Yuri's is Libitina. As I'm sure you've figured out, Libitina is considered the antagonist based on what you know about the Portrait of Markov. The truth is, she just wants revenge. They all do: for everything that was done to them. That's why I need your help. If we grant their wish, not only will they be free, but so will we."
You tell Monika you understand.
"The first step is merging with Marla. If I do that, I'll gain her knowledge of the facility's layout. I can guide us so we won't get lost."
The game resumes. You head straight for the facility, checking around for treasure before heading inside.
Monika confronts the nurse at the reception desk. The pair look almost exactly alike.
"You're Marla, aren't you?"
"How do you know my name, and why do you look like me!?"
"My name is Monika. I'm your alter ego from VM1."
"VM1? What are you talking about!?"
"I know this might be hard to understand, but our worlds are simulations created by a corporation called Metaverse. You and the others were designed from our blueprints."
"You're insane! Leave before I call security!"
"Please, calm down."
Monika sighs.
"Answer me one question. These experiments are top secret, right? How else would I know about them, or that you sympathize with the others' plight?"
"I..."
"You can help us free them."
"How?"
"Let me absorb you. We have someone special protecting us. If we join forces, there's no way we can fail."
"What will happen when we merge?"
"I don't know, but it's the best chance we have."
Monika held out her hand.
"Trust in me and we will prevail."
"...Very well."
Marla grabbed Monika's hand. She dispersed into molecules of light, sinking into Monika's skin.
"I can see. Let's get moving."
