Tatara Tales

You cannot afford to delay any longer.

Almost everyone has been evacuated now. Is this not the perfect time to sort everything out?

Mind your own business! Tatarasuna's safety and the smithing operations are our business. Don't you have shrine duties to attend to?

Or are you trying to tell me that metalwork is under the authority of the Grand Narukami Shrine now?

Don't you lecture me! You really think I'd be here talking to you if I didn't have to be?

It's because you aren't doing your job! The Tatarigami's influence is now being felt even by the Sacred Sakura at the Grand Shrine!

That's the only reason Lady Miko sent me out here. To exorcise it.

...What? How is that possible? The Grand Narukami Shrine is nowhere near here...

You are far too dismissive of the Tatarigami's power.

"Praise be to the mighty Electro Archon, the Tatarigami core has proven useful. It can be used as an unlimited energy source. How convenient."

You think that's as far as the issue with the Tatarigami goes, do you?

A problem arises with Tatarasuna's Mikage Furnace... and as far as you're concerned, the most pressing issue is a temporary halt in production?

Right! The fact we've had to halt production is damaging the war effort. This is the most critical issue of all.

...Ugh, forget it. I'm only here to deal with the Thunder Sakura issue anyway.

You may not like what I have to say, but I urge you to be more vigilant in how you're handling this.

You brought in experts from Fontaine to work on the Mikage Furnace, yes?

Most of them have already left, but unless I am mistaken, one engineer has stayed behind for equipment maintenance. What's stopping you from approaching him?

You must mean Xavier. He already approached me, and he and I had a conversation.

But the one managing the maintenance of the Mikage Furnace is Sir Hanbei, and he isn't here. Beyond that, I don't have the authority to divulge any further information.

...That Hanbei? Never mind, this isn't getting me anywhere. Since you place such a great emphasis on authority, then let me put this to you in those terms:

If this situation deteriorates any further, you can expect to be visited by someone with the authority to take this out of your hands.

As much as I appreciate the unsolicited advice, you don't need to worry yourself about this. Once Sir Hanbei gets back, I'll report the situation to him.

Until then, forgive me for abiding by the rules, but I can't tell you anything else.

It's hopeless...

Hello, are you Xavier?

That's right! Xavier's the name and the name's mine! But is it fate fair or foul that we should meet at this time and place? Pray tell, fine lad, who are you?

Adventurer? Ah, a grand adventurer, en route to the stars, the abyss, and beyond, arrives here on the island of conflict and Tatarigami!

On the way here, did you happen to see a protective cover that looks like... a bubble?

No, I didn't.

Oh... Okay then. No, that makes sense, the containment dome's not usually visible — if you want to view it from a distance, you have to employ a specific observation technique...

So how do you do it?

Not with my eyes, that's for sure. I... "view" it by availing myself of this work: the "Mikage Furnace Emergency Response Procedures (Trial Version)."

I've followed the instructions to the letter. Based on the readings given by the instrument, it seems that the dome has been successfully activated.

Ah, one other thing I should mention is that, technically speaking, its official name is the Mikage Furnace Emergency Containment Dome.

Now, as for the Mikage Furnace—

Miyuki already explained.

Fantastic! She is a considerate and capable young lady. Ah, what a blessing it is to become acquainted with one such as her.

But whatever happens, I've now sealed it following the Mikage Furnace Emergency Response Procedures (Trial Version), so the problem is almost certainly contained, to a certain extent...

"To a certain extent"?

Well, it might be 893 pages long, but the trial version has no information on the emergency measures applicable in a wartime scenario...

We need to form an editors' group for a Trial Version: Expanded Edition (1st Issue) and have a detailed discussion on additional emergency scenarios...

Anyway, point being, even though I have followed the emergency response measures, they aren't the most complete... and the environment within the containment dome has turned... hmm... less than ideal, shall we say.

The Mikage Furnace has now ceased operation indefinitely, and that soldier is getting incredibly antsy about it.

Allegedly, Miyuki recently borrowed some of his people to arrange for the evacuation of the civilians. Now that really got him riled up, hahaha...

But if things continue like they are, who knows. Tatarasuna might just turn into a glorious firework visible all the way from my dear home, the beautiful town of Petrichor...

When you say "firework"...

In the worst-case scenario, yes, it could. We've not yet reached that stage, but if it gets that serious...

You'll look to the procedures for further guidance?

Precisely! But considering it mostly deals with insurance claims and lawsuits and the like, I was rather hoping it wouldn't come to that.

Recently, though, the instrument is indicating that the containment dome I activated is a little unstable. But I don't know what or where the problem is...

Back in my beautiful homeland of Fontaine, we would normally have a Vision-wielding expert diagnose the problem.

Then, we would form a dedicated review panel to discuss and raise proposals, approve a solution, then organize the remedial work.

But with Inazuma being the way it is right now, all I can do is try to determine what might be going on through naked-eye observations and my imagination.

In short, you're taking a best guess?

"Best guess"!? My dear boy, please! That is a woefully inadequate representation of what goes on. A fairer description would be "observation and inference drawing on a wealth of professional experience, including analogous previous cases."

Okay, so an educated guess.

Precisely.

So my... ahem, guess is that it could conceivably... potentially? Possibly? Probably be an issue with the device containing the Tatarigami core that is having a knock-on effect on the containment dome I installed.

But even if that's the case, the readings given by this instrument seem off... Something must have happened outside the dome as well...

So you're just missing your Vision bearer, yes?

Um, yes, that's it. Under the current circumstance, in the area around the Mikage Furnace, only a Vision bearer would be... well, safe.

Anyone else would probably make it around three paces.

Except for me, I'm a special case, haha... I'd have croaked about halfway through taking my first step.

In short, if we only knew what exactly was going on with the Mikage Furnace, I'd likely be able to formulate a repair plan. But we'd still need a review panel to approve it...

Wait, it would only take one person to fulfill the function of a review panel... Aha! So we're all set.

Allow me to take a look.

Huh? But it doesn't look like you have a Vision...

I have my ways.

Is that so... Alright, you've swayed me. It's not technically proper procedure, but we shan't achieve anything by just sitting on the issue.

And I suspect that if we left that soldier to handle it, his report would still be sitting in his superiors' chest of drawers gathering dust as the island was being blown sky-high.

Let me pack up here, then we'll head off. In any event, we need to get closer to the Mikage Furnace to get a better idea of the situation.

Perhaps you could go and investigate the surrounding area while I'm packing up. These strange readings must have something to do with whatever's happening in the Mikage Furnace.

Pack up? Has that been approved by a review panel?

Actually, as representative of the present review panel, I have already granted myself authorization to pack up and strike camp. So no need to worry about that.

Phew... The situation looks stable, at least...

The situation with the Mikage Furnace?

Yes indeed. From my observations, the internal build-up of Tatarigami energy doesn't seem too high.

The reason I initially activated the dome was to stop people from going inside. Mostly because of the legal liability it puts on us...

Basically, if too much energy accumulates inside, then this dome is completely usel—

Ahem! Heh... The main thing here is that everything's looking good right now, so it's happy days.

No need to pore over mundane details at this point. So, how is the dome looking?

It's got three rifts in it, and a whole load of Fatui.

Rifts... Wait a moment, F—Fatui? What are those sly Snezhnayans doing all the way out here?

You've got that right. But if the current issues with the Mikage Furnace are the Fatui's doing, then that complicates things...

Goodness gracious. How can this be happening!

I'm just a humble engineer. I only wanted to come here to do a little research, do some filming, get a taste of Inazuma's delightful culture, et cetera...

How did I go from that to being caught up in this whole mess!?

It began as a simple technical issue. Then that soldier turned up and all of a sudden it's somehow a process issue!

Then, somewhere during said process, it transforms again into an Inazuman domestic affair that outlanders are strictly prohibited from interfering in.

And now the Fatui are here. If it goes on like this, the nature of this problem is going to change quite radically indeed!

It's all the Fatui's fault.

Ugh... Whatever, I'm here now, and I'm the only person capable of resolving the issue with Mikage Furnace.

Technically, ignoring it would be a compliant decision both in terms of process and in terms of who has jurisdiction over it. But I can't just leave it unresolved.

Perhaps I just need to accept that for a researcher, this is just the way life is... or as we say in Fontaine, c'est la vie!

If the Fatui are really here to try and get their hands on the Tatarigami energy inside the Mikage Furnace, then the containment dome should be a major stumbling block to their plans.

Were those rifts also...

Indeed. There is no doubt in my mind that the Fatui are at least tangentially related to those rifts. Hmm, I see... So it's those cracks in the containment dome that are causing my instruments to give these anomalous readings...

I must say, they are very stealthy. They managed to make it all the way here, damage the dome, and access the inside of the Mikage Furnace without anybody finding out.

The Fatui are good at acting in the shadows.

If that's the case... There's a real possibility here that they've already made it inside...

If they're left to their own devices in there...

Are the Fatui really so reckless? If it exploded, they would share the same fate as everyone else...

I wouldn't put it past them.

Dear me. They are truly... daring. First things first, we must find a way to scare them off.

Give me a moment to think...

I've got it! Since they decided to sneak inside the Mikage Furnace quietly, it must mean that they wish to avoid a direct confrontation with the Shogunate.

So all we need to do is make some sort of big, dramatic gesture to make them think that the Shogunate is already onto them.

That might just make them much more cautious in their approach, which will make our investigation much easier.

"Dramatic gesture"?

Do you know of the Kamuijima Cannon? It's a big gun built using the latest technology, powered by Electro.

The Shogunate had a few of them installed on this island for military purposes, since this is where the front line was. But as the war went on, things changed, and now they're currently sitting there unused.

"Things changed"? What, exactly?

You'd have to ask our soldier friend. But I'm sure he'd only tell you that he's "not at liberty to disclose classified military intelligence."

If you want my take, I think the Shogun's Army underestimated the sophistication of their enemy.

They installed the Kamuijima Cannons hoping to halt Sangonomiya's advance with overwhelming firepower.

But although the Kamuijima Cannon does indeed pack quite the punch, it has a limited field of fire and is not very mobile.

Most importantly, big artillery guns like these need several people to operate them, and maintenance is a real headache.

Trying to defend the Mikage Furnace and the Kamuijima Cannons at the same time meant that our soldier friend and his comrades were spread much too thinly.

So ultimately, it actually gave Sangonomiya an opportunity. After making it past the Kamuijima Cannons' field of fire, they quickly took down the forces guarding the Mikage Furnace.

Before the Shogun's Army could get emergency reinforcements to the Mikage Furnace, they had already withdrawn from there and started attacking from a different direction.

Constantly being dragged back and forth kept the Shogunate's forces fully occupied, so when the Mikage Furnace started having problems, they were forced to halt production.

Meanwhile, the Kamuijima Cannons installed in the wild became essentially useless against the kind of tactics employed by Sangonomiya's side.

Suffice it to say that as far as the fight on this island went, Sangonomiya had the upper hand.

So did Sangonomiya damage the Mikage Furnace?

Hmm, I don't think so. They should be well aware that the Tatarigami sealed inside wouldn't treat Sangonomiya or the Shogunate any differently from each other if the Mikage Furnace was destroyed.

All they want is to continuously harass and attack the Mikage Furnace to be a nuisance to the Shogun's Army and slowly wear them down.

I wonder who it is that is planning all these precise attacks from Sangonomiya's side...

Well, that's enough chit-chat. Whatever the case, the Kamuijima Cannon will definitely cause an unimaginable ruckus, which is just what we need.

And as a result of some miraculous coincidence... I actually know how to operate the cannon...

Does this miraculous coincidence have to do with Fontaine?

Well... Haha... I won't get deeper into it, but we do have other technologies besides just maintaining and producing equipment...

Are you going to fire at the Furnace directly?

As I've said before, the containment dome is meant for stopping people from entering.

The Fatui have already broken through. That much you've seen with your own eyes. Though it may seem like it's just a few small tears... The truth of the matter is that the dome is actually barely holding up.

If they're left unchecked, even if the Mikage Furnace is alright, they'll definitely find other ways to cause problems.

If we don't destroy the dome, we'd have to go through the three tears that the Fatui made to repair the Mikage Furnace.

We'd be fish in a barrel for those Fatui to shoot.

But if we destroyed it altogether, not only would it shock the Fatui and provide us with an advantageous opportunity...

It would also allow for us to have more routes to choose from.

Besides, if we can repair the Mikage Furnace in time, everything will return to normal even if we do destroy the containment dome.

Have a little in faith in me, and in the marvelous technology of my homeland Fontaine.

Come, let me mark the locations of the Kamuijima Cannons for you on your map...

Don't we need to prepare some projectiles?

Normally, we would, and the Cannons use a very special type of projectile.

That's why the Shogunate is so lax about leaving these huge cannons in the wild.

But as I've said before, I happen to know how to operate this sort of cannon. What I also know is how to make use of Electro to bypass our projectile-related limitations...

But since neither of us has a Vision, if we are to get a hold of some stable elemental power...

We should go ask the Treasure Hoarders if we might "borrow" a few of those curious, small bottles in which they seal some...

Don't worry, I can control the elements.

What? But you're not a bearer of the Vision... Hmm, I guess we all have our own little secrets, eh? I shan't pry.

Goodness me, they don't beat about the bush, do they...

Their lack of care for the delicacies of law are really...

Ah. Well. *cough* The further they are from me, the better.

It seems like their target is Tatarigami energy, which is within the Mikage Furnace.

Go check up on the status of the storage device inside the Mikage Furnace while the Fatui are distracted by all this ruckus we're making.

If you encounter any Fatui, why, take them out.

I have every confidence in your abilities.

Did you find the device?

Yes, and I took a picture of it.

Let me take a look... Good, good. it hasn't suffered too much damage.

If all the other emergency systems are working normally, most of the energy circuits inside the device should have been cut off already. That I would consider great fortune, even amidst our many miseries.

Hmmm... I have a few more preparations to make, and I also need to give the problems we face here at the Mikage Furnace some thought...

Come find me after a while. We still have a lot of work to do here.

You're back. My, my, that was loud — my ear drums are still ringing.

After hearing the cannons, the Fatui will most certainly suspect that the Shogunate has become aware of their activities.

Still, something seems off here... why hasn't Tatarigami energy begun to leak out after the containment dome was destroyed?

Could it be that some of the Mikage Furnace's systems are still operational and have already purified some of the energy?

Or perhaps the Fatui are collecting that energy...

Whatever the case may be, please take this opportunity to go and find out...

W—Watch out! It's the Fatui!

Is there something I can help you with?

What's all this "Mikage Furnace" and "Tatarigami" talk?

It's just a small problem. We need a little time to sort out...

You're an adventurer, aren't you? This place isn't suitable for you or your ilk. Get out of here.

*sigh* How did it come to this...

What this "Mikage Furnace" that you guys were talking about earlier?

You're an outlander, aren't you? You've got some terrible luck to have traveled to Inazuma at this time...

That island is called Tatarasuna. It's a smelting plant for Jade Steel, which is used to forge weaponry.

Are you aware of the legends of Inazuman swords?

The Jade Steel manufactured here is the reason that Inazuman swords are as sharp and durable as they are.

No need to worry, this can hardly be called confidential military intelligence.

After all, the Tenryou Commission feels that having the ability to forge powerful weapons is something they should flaunt.

A few years ago, for the purpose of expanding production capacity, they hired a team of consultants from Fontaine. They built the Mikage Furnace, a machine that can fully harvest the powers of the Tatarigami.

We've warned them countless times not to let their guard down when it comes to the Tatarigami, but they decided to go ahead with the project anyway.

After the Mikage Furnace started production, most of the consultant team returned to Fontaine. Only Xavier, who we just mentioned, stayed behind in Inazuma.

But during one of the previous battles, something went wrong with the furnace. The part that stored the corrupt Tatarigami energy became extremely unstable...

Work was halted in Tatarasuna and everyone was evacuated shortly after.

Xavier took emergency action, and he seems to have set up a containment dome around the Mikage Furnace.

It's only a temporary solution, though. He's probably still on the island now, trying to figure out a way to solve the problem for good.

Meanwhile, the Shogunate is only concerned about restarting production as soon as possible. I hear that they're even considering calling the consultants from Fontaine back again.

But I don't think they'd be willing to come under the current conditions in Inazuma...

And it just has to be that Hanbei guy in charge of this whole thing, doesn't it...

Who's Hanbei?

A... manager, you could say. Always going on about procedures, articles, and applications...

His first reaction is never to find the solution to the problem. Instead, it's about what forms should be filled out, and which powerful individual needs to be informed about the incident beforehand.

He's probably in the city right now preparing to submit whatever forms he can find.

I really don't know if he's actually aware of the severity of the situation...

*sigh* I just hope that Xavier or our craftsmen can find some way to solve the problem.

If something were to go wrong with the Tatarigami inside the Mikage Furnace...

Well, if that happens, you should probably leave the island.

This all sounds pretty serious.

That's true... But didn't she mention that someone named Xavier is trying to find a solution?

Why don't we go and take a look? It'd put our minds at ease if we could help take care of this, wouldn't it?

The Fatui... What are they doing here...

Well, I came to Inazuma with the consultant team. In truth, I'm just your everyday engineer.

To be honest, my real reason for being here was to shoot a "dokumentari film" on-site at the Mikage Furnace for the purpose of promoting our nation's technologies.

But seeing the furnace's current state, I think it's best if I didn't shoot that film...

Why are the Fatui interested in the Tatarigami?

There should be something about this in the "Mikage Furnace Emergency Response Procedures (Trial Version)" somewhere...

Ah, hello there. I fear I'm not done with the preparations yet. Did you have something you wanted to ask me?

Well, I came to Inazuma with the consultant team. In truth, I'm just your everyday engineer.

To be honest, my real reason for being here was to shoot a "dokumentari film" on-site at the Mikage Furnace for the purpose of promoting our nation's technologies.

But seeing the furnace's current state, I think it's best if I didn't shoot that film...

Please do go to check out our surroundings. I feel that these abnormal readings must surely have something to do with what's happening within the Mikage Furnace.

Hmm, those two seem to be arguing about something... Things look quite tense...

Paimon thinks they mentioned something about the Mikage Furnace.

Maybe something's happened to this island! Let's go ask those two over there.

Is there something I can help you with?

What's all this "Mikage Furnace" and "Tatarigami" talk?

It's just a small problem. We just need a little time to sort it out...

You're an adventurer, aren't you? This place isn't for you or your ilk. Get out of here.

If something were to go wrong with the Tatarigami inside the Mikage Furnace...

Well, if that happens, you should probably leave the island.

It's hopeless...

*sigh* How did it come to this...

What is this "Mikage Furnace" that you guys were talking about earlier?

Ah, it's you, Traveler. You've got some terrible luck to have traveled to Tatarasuna at this time...

Tatarasuna is a smelting plant for Jade Steel, which is used to forge weaponry.

Are you aware of the legends of Inazuman swords?

The Jade Steel manufactured here is the reason that Inazuman swords are as sharp and durable as they are.

No need to worry, this can hardly be called confidential military intelligence.

After all, the Tenryou Commission feels that having the ability to forge powerful weapons is something they should flaunt.

A few years ago, for the purpose of expanding production capacity, they hired a team of consultants from Fontaine. They built the Mikage Furnace, a machine that can fully harvest the powers of the Tatarigami.

We've warned them countless times not to let their guard down when it comes to the Tatarigami, but they decided to go ahead with the project anyway.

After the Mikage Furnace started production, most of the consultant team returned to Fontaine. Only Xavier, who we just mentioned, stayed behind in Inazuma.

But during one of the battles, something went wrong with the furnace. The part that stored the corrupt Tatarigami energy became extremely unstable...

Work was halted in Tatarasuna and everyone was evacuated shortly after.

Xavier took emergency action, and he seems to have set up a containment dome around the Mikage Furnace.

It's only a temporary solution, though. He's probably still on the island now, trying to figure out a way to solve the problem for good.

Meanwhile, the Shogunate is only concerned about restarting production as soon as possible. I hear that they're even considering calling the consultants from Fontaine back again.

But I don't think they'd be willing to come under the current conditions in Inazuma...

And it just has to be that Hanbei guy in charge of this whole thing, doesn't it...

Who's Hanbei?

A... manager, you could say. Always going on about procedures, articles, and applications...

His first reaction is never to find the solution to the problem. Instead, it's about what forms should be filled out, and which powerful individual needs to be informed about the incident beforehand.

He's probably in the city right now preparing to submit whatever forms he can find.

I really don't know if he's actually aware of the severity of the situation...

*sigh* I just hope that Xavier or our craftsmen can find some way to solve the problem.

If something were to go wrong with the Tatarigami inside the Mikage Furnace...

Well, if that happens, you should probably leave the island.

It's hopeless...

What's the matter?

旅行者! I never expected to see you here. What a wonderful surprise!

I'm here to help out.

To help out, you say? Well... I'm truly grateful for your kindness, and it's nothing short of a blessing to meet a good gentleman like you right here and now.

But, with all due respect, as for the problem I'm facing right now... even though you look quite skilled, I don't believe there is any help you can offer...

After all, we cannot fix the Mikage Furnace with just two very kind hearts...

On the way here, did you happen to see a protective cover that looks like... a bubble?

Not really.

Oh... Okay then. No, that makes sense, the containment dome's not usually visible — if you want to view it from a distance, you have to employ a specific observation technique...

Not with my eyes, that's for sure. I... "see" it by availing myself of the "Mikage Furnace Emergency Response Procedures (Trial Version)."

I've followed the instructions to the letter. Based on the readings provided by the instrument, it seems that the dome has been successfully activated.

Ah, one other thing I should mention is that, technically speaking, its official name is the Mikage Furnace Emergency Containment Dome.

Now, as for the Mikage Furnace—

Miyuki's already explained.

Fantastic! She is a considerate and capable young lady. Ah, what a blessing it is to become acquainted with one such as her.

Please give me the short version.

...Basically, it's a super-smelter built using Fontaine technology, powered by a Tatarigami core brought over from Yashiori Island.

Due to the impact of the war, the Mikage Furnace is now in an extremely unstable state...

But whatever happens, I've now sealed it following the "Mikage Furnace Emergency Response Procedures (Trial Version)," so the problem is almost certainly contained, to some extent...

"To some extent"?

Well, it might be 893 pages long, but the trial version has no information on the emergency measures applicable in a wartime scenario...

We need to form an editors' group for the "Trial Version: Expanded Edition (1st Issue)" and have a detailed discussion on additional emergency scenarios...

Anyway, point being, even though I have followed the emergency response measures, they aren't the most complete... and the environment within the containment dome has turned... hmm... less than ideal, shall we say.

The Mikage Furnace has now ceased operation indefinitely, and that soldier is getting incredibly antsy about it.

Allegedly, Miyuki recently borrowed some of his people to arrange for the evacuation of the civilians. Now that really got him riled up, hahaha...

But if things continue like they are, who knows. Tatarasuna might just turn into a glorious firework visible all the way from my dear home, the beautiful town of Petrichor...

When you say "firework"...

In the worst-case scenario, yes, it could. We've not yet reached that stage, but if it gets that serious...

You'll look to the procedures for further guidance?

Precisely! But considering they mostly deal with insurance claims and lawsuits and the like, I was rather hoping it wouldn't come to that.

Recently, though, the instrument is indicating that the containment dome I activated is a little unstable. But I don't know what or where the problem is...

Back in my beautiful homeland of Fontaine, we would normally have a Vision-wielding expert diagnose the problem.

Then, we would form a dedicated review panel to discuss and raise proposals, approve a solution, then organize the remedial work.

But with Inazuma being the way it is right now, all I can do is try to determine what might be going on through naked-eye observations and my imagination.

In short, you're guesstimating?

"Guesstimating"!? My dear boy, please! That is a woefully inadequate representation of what goes on. A fairer description would be "observation and inference drawing on a wealth of professional experience, including analogous previous cases."

Okay, so an educated guess.

Precisely.

So my... ahem, guess is that it could conceivably... potentially? Possibly? Probably be an issue with the device containing the Tatarigami core that is having a knock-on effect on the containment dome I installed.

But even if that's the case, the readings given by this instrument seem off... Something must have happened outside the dome as well...

So you're just missing your Vision bearer, yes?

Um, yes, that's it. Under the current circumstances, in the area around the Mikage Furnace, only a Vision bearer would be... well, safe.

Anyone else would probably make it around three paces.

Except for me, I'm a special case, haha... I'd have croaked about halfway through taking my first step.

In short, if we only knew what exactly was going on with the Mikage Furnace, I'd likely be able to formulate a repair plan. But we'd still need a review panel to approve it...

Wait, it would only take one person to fulfill the function of a review panel... Aha! So we're all set.

Allow me to take a look.

Huh? But it doesn't look like you have a Vision...

I have my ways.

Is that so... Alright, you've swayed me. It's not technically proper procedure, but we shan't achieve anything by just sitting on the issue.

And I suspect that if we left that soldier to handle it, his report would still be sitting in his superiors' chest of drawers gathering dust as the island was being blown sky-high.

Let me pack up here, then we'll head off. In any event, we need to get closer to the Mikage Furnace to get a better idea of the situation.

Perhaps you could go and investigate the surrounding area while I'm packing up. These strange readings must have something to do with whatever's happening in the Mikage Furnace.

Pack up? Has that been approved by a review panel?

Actually, as representative of the present review panel, I have already granted myself authorization to pack up and strike camp. So no need to worry about that.

Hello there, my dear, gallant boy! I have good news and bad news regarding the Mikage Furnace. Which would you like to hear first?

The good news is that the core's only suffered some minor damage. It is still within my power to fix it.

The bad news, however, is that the Fatui poking around in there don't seem to appreciate this piece of good news.

They very much seem to be searching for a way to get their grubby hands on the Tatarigami core.

But if we let them meddle any further, the Tatarigami's power will get out of control. This entire island will be blown sky-high with us still on it.

However, if we focus solely on the Fatui, the Tatarigami energy built up inside the containment dome will eventually reach its limit all the same...

So we need to deal with both of them at the same time?

Well... Put simply, academically speaking, in an objective sense...

We are facing two separate problems here: the Fatui and the Tatarigami.

But with how the situation is inside the Mikage Furnace, whichever problem we choose to tackle, we're likely to have to face the other in the process.

So, ultimately, the fact of the matter is—

You mean to say, "yes."

Um, yes, that's correct. We need to deal with both of them at the same time.

But one step at a time. As the Liyue saying goes, "don't rush to eat hot tofu, or you'll burn your tongue."

How come you know Liyue proverbs?

We've been to Liyue before. I'd consider this little gem of wisdom a souvenir from the trip.

I have a lot more of these souvenirs where that one came from. I must confess to having imbibed all of my "souvenirs" from Mondstadt, though... they were really very good.

Let's get back on track. I have a teensy-tiny plan to fix this Mikage Furnace situation, but I will need your help.

You got it!

Ha! Forthright and ready for a fight! That's what I like about you!

Ahem. I digress. Now, hold on to these Sensor Beacons, if you please.

I need you to place them in a number of locations for me.

What these Sensor Beacons will do is gather data on the density and distribution of Tatarigami energy within the Mikage Furnace. Once armed with this data, I should be able to come up with a more detailed plan.

Leave it to me, then.

I shall leave it in your hands, indeed.

I will mark the locations for the beacons on your map. I'll be counting on you, Traveler!

Hopefully this is as far as the situation escalates...

Have you placed those beacons?

Yep.

Well done, now all we have to do is to let them collect the data.

I was part of the design team for the Mikage Furnace. By placing beacons in these locations, we can gather data on almost all the areas inside.

Hmm, you know, if we set up purifying devices in these locations, our troubles would be over overnight.

If Mr. Flois knew half of what had happened here, he'd go completely ballistic...

Alright, thanks for your help. Please take these as compensation.

Ahem, one other thing... I may possibly, probably, definitely need you to help me retrieve the beacons again at some point over the next few days.

I don't have a Vision, after all, so I can't simply stroll into somewhere with such a high concentration of Tatarigami energy.

Not to mention that those, hmm, rough-and-tough Fatui folks are still there. I honestly think you are the only person on this whole island capable of dealing with them and the furnace at the same time.

It'll take a while longer...

Have you gathered all the necessary data?

Ah, it's you! Wonderful. We haven't quite collected all the data we need yet. I believe it will take a little more time.

That said, I've taken this opportunity to think about the structure of the emergency purifier...

Just a last-minute trick I've pulled.

According to our previous discussions, we must deal with a two-pronged problem: the Fatui and the Tatarigami within.

I trust you will be able to deal with the Fatui. My part in this, therefore, is to deal with the Tatarigami energy.

This emergency purifier is a device that I have had purpose-built for that task. However, I'm going to need your help to complete it.

In what way?

We will need some special materials to ensure this device functions smoothly within the Mikage Furnace.

Crystal Marrow, which contains an inert form of Tatarigami energy, is an ideal candidate for this task.

In truth, the secret of the famed Jade Steel is that a special method is used to add this very material during the forging process to increase the strength of the metal.

Of course, the special method in question is a trade secret.

If memory serves, this crystalline ore can be found nearby. Please help me obtain three chunks.

I've got it.

Well then, you have my thanks. Remember, it's 3 chunks of Crystal Marrow — bring them back once you've got them.

Do you have those 3 Crystal Marrow chunks for me?

Have you got your hands on 3 Crystal Marrow chunks yet?

Thank you, truly! These shall form the basic structure of our device.

Now, all we need to do is wait for our beacons to collect enough data.

Once we have that data on hand, I will make a few tweaks to this device accordingly.

Once all is ready, let us put a decisive end to this incident.

Hopefully this is as far as the situation escalates...

Ah, such perfect timing, Traveler! The data has almost all been gathered, and it is now time to retrieve our beacons!

That I shall, that I shall. Best to be quick, and sneaky too. Don't let those Fatui spot you!

If we are able to acquire this data, then this should make our job a lot easier.

How did it go? Do you have all our beacons?

Got them all right here.

Bravo! Now, just give me a moment while I modify this device.

I must say, the Fatui have been acting more and more strangely recently. They seem to be gathering around the core of the furnace.

Hopefully, they aren't hatching some other dastardly plot. Or should I say, trying to do something that we won't be able to mitigate...

Now, all we need to do is wait for our beacons to collect enough data.

Once we have that data on hand, I will make a few tweaks to this device accordingly.

Once all is ready, let us put a decisive end to this incident.

Finally! At long last, it is done! Fortunately, I remember these specifications...

So, we're going in to purify the Tatarigami energy, then?

Well, as much as I would love to get in there and wrap this up, we must not act so rashly when faced with the Tatarigami.

Moreover, some of the required materials I simply could not find, so I had to make do with some last-minute substitutions. The result being that the reliability of this device is somewhat...

Hmm. Well, let me just say that "in some circumstances, it may not achieve the desired efficacy."

It can be used normally just fine, yes, but I doubt that it can withstand any accidents. The slightest jolt will likely knock some of the components out of place...

As such, we still require a little more preparation before we can put our new friend here to work.

I'd like you to go near the Mikage Furnace and record some data for me.

Thank you very much. I'll be waiting for you here.

I wonder if Inazuma did appointed a project manager for this whole Mikage Furnace business...

So, have you scouted the situation out?

That I have.

Great! Let me see...

We're in luck, it seems. The Mikage Furnace is quite stable, and the energy within is not yet over-saturated.

At this level of concentration, my device will still hold out.

Do we need to purify all that energy?

If this device could do that, why, I would have applied for a patent long ago. But our fine friend here can only decrease the energy level in a localized area.

However, the reason for the deactivation of the Mikage Furnace and the failure of even its auto-restart program is the high saturation of Tatarigami energy.

As long as we find the area with the highest concentration and purify it, we should be able to restart the core.

At that point, the Mikage Furnace should restart, and beyond that point, any further issues will not be our concern.

That's the plan. But before we execute it, I still have a few final preparations to make.

The Fatui are acting more and more strangely. They seem to be gathering around the core of the furnace.

Hopefully, they aren't hatching some other dastardly plot. Or should I say, trying to do something that we won't be able to mitigate...

Oh! Uh, Traveler... Things do not look good.

The Fatui within have concentrated their forces near the core. It seems that they have discovered something.

Surely they don't intend to breach the core's defenses... No, we can no longer afford to delay. We must move now to initiate functionality tests.

Functionality tests?

By that, I mean that we must test our machine friend's purification abilities. I have no intention of moving it into the furnace only to find that it will not function.

To that end, please help me find 3 Onikabuto, if you will.

I want to place them near the Mikage Furnace, which will cause them to be tainted by Tatarigami.

Then, we will retrieve them, and use this purification device to cleanse them.

This is the test I have devised.

Where do I find these Onikabuto?

Hmm... normally, they are found in Electro-rich environments...

I have also heard that they can survive near the Mikage Furnace. What hardy little critters they are...

Why don't I just snag some from in the furnace, then?

Well, you could do that, but if you were to take Onikabuto directly from the Mikage Furnace for testing...

To tell you the truth, I worry about the reliability of my little machine...

It is best to work through tests step by step, after all.

Ahem, well then... please help me find 3 Onikabuto, if you will.

So you do. Just 3 is fine!

Ah, my machine friend, let's hope that you do fine...

Ah. How's it going? Have you caught those 3 Onikabuto?

They're right here.

That should do, then, yes. Thank you! I shall begin tests immediately.

I wonder if Inazuma did appointed a project manager for this whole Mikage Furnace business...

Ha, magnificent! The tests went very smoothly indeed. The onikabuto have been completely purified!

Well then, let's...

All we need to do now is to plan our route inside, and we can begin in earnest. However, we must avoid those Fatui... it seems that we'll have to take the long way.

This thing is rather bulky, so it would be best for us to ensure that there are smooth paths for us to take as we move it inside.

As such, I'd like you to re-enter the Mikage Furnace to investigate. If you encounter any broken paths, please help to restore them a little.

I have yet to decide our route, but having more roads open to us could not hurt, surely.

I'm no expert in fixing roads, you know.

You don't have to restore them to... well, perfect reliability. Just place a layer of wooden planks down so that we can move this device across.

Ah, you can just grab the wooden planks from nearby. I'll remain here and try to make our machine as reliable as it can possibly be.

Let's hope that everything goes smoothly. The sooner we settle this affair, the better. Who knows what we will happen if we delay further...

Alright, then. Have you checked our roads?

They're as smooth as can be now.

Alright. Th—Then let us set off after a brief wait...

Hey. Are you...

I... I'm thinking! I'm thinking of all the things that could possibly happen, you understand?

For example, what we'll do if those masked lunatics have already extracted the core when we enter.

They might shove it into some Ruin Guard, causing it to go berserk and send us all flying.

Or maybe, some sort of elemental creature might emerge as we are purifying the Mikage Furnace, and might devour the core in a single bite.

And in the worst case scenario, that legendary serpent might use this opportunity to resurrect itself. Then we'd be doomed! It'd be game over! Game over!

Ah! Um, sorry, I... My old habits are acting up again. I always envisage the worst case scenarios...

I'll make some plans, and once the time comes, let us go and put an end to this.

Please go well, please go well, please go well...

These Onikabuto should do. Thank you! I shall begin tests immediately.

The purification device, backup components, a map of our route, and the data from our beacons...

I believe that's everything... Hold on, let me check my memo and see if anything is missing...

Beacon data, route map, backup components, purification device...

M—My apologies. This is my first time entering this area. Usually, my realm is logistics and data...

And at the most, I would operate machines remotely.

*sigh* I'm really in over my head this time, it's like... trying to drive a duck up a ramp. Have you ever heard that Liyue saying?

It basically means asking someone to do something beyond their ability... Though I'm not sure what's so difficult about getting a duck up a ramp.

Ah, ducks, such elegant, gentle creatures. The sight of them gliding silently along the mirror-sheen waters of Fontaine comes to mind most strikingly at this moment...

Ugh, alright, let's go. If this device works normally, it should be able to constantly purify the Tatarigami energy in a small area around it.

This way, we should be able to enter the disaster zone together. We'll stick to our previous plan: you deal with the Fatui and I'll deal with the Mikage Furnace... Let's go.

Oh, good heavens... this is my first time entering this sort of place without any protective measures...

Still, we've actually made it here, so that is good. In fact, it's great! Almost beyond my estimations.

This was as high as my estimations could go for this eleventh-hour solution.

In my estimation, this cobbled-together fellow here would have failed on us halfway through.

Afterward, I would have been rendered unconscious by the Tatarigami energy... well, either that or because I'd have scared myself silly...

Either way, I kept a small piece of paper in my right trouser pocket. As long as you followed those steps, you'd be able to take me to safety outside.

Wait... did I tell you about that piece of paper?

Not at all.

Uh, right. Well, never mind, now you know.

Alright, I'll check the device one more time and then we can continue.

Ah, curses, curses...

It seems like we're now missing about... one, two, three components.

They're not key parts, so the device is still working.

But if we wish to proceed, we have to find a way to get them back.

These components should still be on the path we took to get here. Please help me look for them. I'll be here waiting.

Got it.

I'll leave it up to you, then. I'll be waiting for you here.

Oh, I shouldn't have set my expectations so high...

Ah, you're back. Have you found all the components?

I did.

That should do the trick. Phew... Let's continue onward. I know of a spot that shall be most ideal for our "final check."

This is both the key step, and our proudest moment as a team!

Any product must undergo a final phase of tests before it can be released into the market.

I mean, those few components did come loose earlier. If we don't check the device again, I cannot help but feel uneasy.

Alright. Let's proceed, shall we?

Nothing dropped this time, right? Okay, good, it seems not.

This is where we're conducting our "final check"?

Indeed, this is the place. Let's turn our purification device up to full strength right here.

However, I must warn you that it can get just a teensy bit noisy when operating at full power.

I believe that this might displease our Fatui friends around the Mikage Furnace ever so slightly... Do you understand what I mean?

Indeed! An excellent division of labor. Now, allow me to start it up.

Let the final check begin!

*cough* Those lawless lunatics! Try them in court, I say! Try them!

A... a most safe spot... *cough*

But let's get back on topic. According to the data that the beacon in my hand just gathered, the energy level in this area has fallen greatly.

Based on the current state of our device and its performance, I would say it passes the final check.

Now, we can truly get down to business. Come, let's head to the spot where the real work can begin. It's time to finish this.

This is the spot. The part of the Mikage Furnace that stores the core is right above us.

My data also indicates that the concentration of Tatarigami here is also the highest.

As long as this area can be settled, the Mikage Furnace's systems can start running again, which will return everything to normal.

Finally, we're at this step. I must say, I'd quite have liked to use my Film Kamera to record our actions here.

It's a shame that you can't.

It's alright. I can find some people to re-enact the events that transpired here.

The name of this film... Hmm. Now I've heard that Inazumans often call their stories "something-something-Tales."

As such, a fitting name for this film would be...

"Tatara Tales."

Bravo! Yes, "Tatara Tales" it shall be!

Alright then. You know the drill, Traveler...

I'll handle the Fatui.

And I'll deal with the Mikage Furnace.

Hahaha, this exchange between us will surely become an iconic moment in the film.

Well, start the device once you're ready. Then, let us give "Tatara Tales" the perfect ending it deserves!

It's... it's finally over... The Mikage Furnace should have resumed operation.

Let's head to the top and see what the situation is like.

Bravo! Right, I shall repair it immediately. Let me see, this component goes here...

Please go well, please go well, please go well...

The Mikage Furnace is back to normal already, huh...

Oh, you already know?

Your deeds at the Mikage Furnace have already been reported to me.

I cannot take any action without orders from Sir Hanbei.

Alright, alright. I imagine that our good man here must have his fair share of troubles, what with having a superior who values rigorous process so highly and all.

What's more, I suspect that our previous actions only went over so smoothly due to the aid of this Mr. Hanbei.

And of course, it's not as if this soldier was of no help to us at all. After all, those few doors...

Thank you for your help, Mr. Xavier.

*cough* Well, it was mainly the work of this Traveler. If not for them, I doubt that I would have achieved anything at all.

Is that so...

Thank you, Traveler. I... apologize for my previous attitude towards you.

Thank you, again, for protecting this island.

You're most welcome.

Wait. You're... a blond... traveler? Just a moment. I think I remember that...

H—Hey! Guess who's welcome? You're welcome!

Uh, well, yes... Regardless, I'd like to thank you all for your help.

Hahaha. Well, Traveler, look at you!

Now, now, don't be so humble. If it weren't for you, I would have been stuck outside just watching events play out.

However, I do have a question for you, Mr. Soldier.

I recall you telling me previously that your most rigorous superior had to return to the city to hand in those most complicated documents. I imagine that was a terribly grueling ordeal...

But now that the Mikage Furnace has returned to normal, I wonder where he might be...

Hmm, well, as to what Sir Hanbei is busy with... one of our superiors, a man named Mikoshi Genjirou, came by earlier to ask me for a detailed report.

After listening to my report, Sir Mikoshi Genjirou became quite interested in this matter.

According to what he said afterwards, our mutual superiors have also found Sir Hanbei's work ethic to be quite praiseworthy.

They have thus decided to appoint Sir Hanbei to the post of foreign attaché to Sumeru.

I have heard that he will be staying there, ensuring that the most vital supply line of Mushrooms between Inazuma and Sumeru shall remain open and smooth.

A most critical role indeed.

Of course. Sir Hanbei is a perfect fit for such a key post.

Sir Hanbei is presently awaiting orders in the city, waiting for the right time to set off.

Ah, that's wonderful! Good for him. Still, having lost such a fine gentleman, however shall we fill the gaping void that is his now-vacant post?

I recommended a few people suited to the job.

It was decided that a craftsman named Yousuke would be in charge of all future maintenance work on the Mikage Furnace.

Ah, that sets my heart at ease. But still, let us not speak of that anymore...

Now then, Mr. Soldier, please give my share of the remuneration to this Traveler as well.

Ah, yes, Traveler, this is also for you. Please take it.

This is a blueprint that I previously purchased from a certain craftsman.

I had plans to bring this blueprint back to my homeland as a souvenir...

But it seems that I shall be staying in Inazuma for a while. I doubt that I will be returning any time soon.

So, I'll give it to you as a gift.

Thank you.

Haha, you're most welcome, my friend!

You've been a great help to me. Please allow me to invite you as my first viewer when I finish Tatara Tales.

Oh, and I have another simple favor to ask...

The Tatarigami here has thinned out so much as to be harmless. Looks like the Mikage Furnace is back in business!

If those Fatui want to get their hands on the Tatarigami energy, then the only way they can do it now is to use those cannons to fire on the Mikage Furnace directly.

But since that would be tantamount to an act of war, I doubt they would do it, no matter how insane they might be.

Regardless, the Mikage Furnace is safe for now, so neither we nor this island's treasures are about to get blown sky-high any time soon.

I'm looking forward to watching "Tatara Tales."

Hahaha, I'll be sure to do justice to your image through this film.

I might also have to hone my craft a little by making a few short films.

But of course, this is all talk for later. That soldier named Toranosuke promised me "commensurate remuneration" for completing this task...

Let's return now, and claim our "commensurate remuneration" from our fine soldier friend.

The Mikage Furnace is back to normal already, huh...

Oh, you already know?

Your deeds at the Mikage Furnace have already been reported to me.

I cannot take any action without orders from Sir Hanbei.

Alright, alright. I imagine that our good man here must have his fair share of troubles, what with having a superior who values rigorous process so highly and all.

What's more, I suspect that our previous actions only went over so smoothly due to the aid of this Mr. Hanbei.

And of course, it's not as if this soldier was of no help to us at all. After all, those few doors...

Thank you for your help, Mr. Xavier.

*cough* Well, it was mainly the work of this Traveler. If not for them, I doubt that I would have achieved anything at all.

Is that so...

Thank you, Traveler. I... apologize for my previous attitude towards you.

Thank you, again, for protecting this island.

You're most welcome.

Ah, don't be so humble. If it weren't for you, I would have been stuck outside just watching events play out.

However, I do have a question for you, Mr. Soldier.

I recall you telling me previously that your most rigorous superior had to return to the city to hand in those most complicated documents. I imagine that was a terribly grueling ordeal...

But now that the Mikage Furnace has returned to normal, I wonder where he might be...

Hmm, well, as to what Sir Hanbei is busy with... one of our superiors, a man named Mikoshi Genjirou, came by earlier to ask me for a detailed report.

After listening to my report, Sir Mikoshi Genjirou became quite interested in this matter.

According to what he said afterwards, our mutual superiors have also found Sir Hanbei's work ethic to be quite praiseworthy.

They have thus decided to appoint Sir Hanbei to the post of foreign attaché to Sumeru.

I have heard that he will be staying there, ensuring that the most vital supply line of Mushrooms between Inazuma and Sumeru shall remain open and smooth.

A most critical role indeed.

Of course. Sir Hanbei is a perfect fit for such a key post.

Sir Hanbei is presently awaiting orders in the city, waiting for the right time to set off.

Ah, that's wonderful! Good for him. Still, having lost such a fine gentleman, however shall we fill the gaping void that is his now-vacant post?

I recommended a few people suited to the job.

It was decided that a craftsman named Yousuke would be in charge of all future maintenance work on the Mikage Furnace.

Ah, that sets my heart at ease. But still, let us not speak of that anymore...

Now then, Mr. Soldier, please give my share of the remuneration to this Traveler as well.

Ah, yes, Traveler, this is also for you. Please take it.

This is a blueprint that I previously purchased from a certain craftsman.

I had plans to bring this blueprint back to my homeland as a souvenir...

But it seems that I shall be staying in Inazuma for a while. I doubt that I will be returning any time soon.

So, I'll give it to you as a gift.

Thank you.

Haha, you're most welcome, my friend!

You've been a great help to me. Please allow me to invite you as my first viewer when I finish Tatara Tales.

Oh, and I have another simple favor to ask...