Through the Mists

...Maybe I just wish that all will go well with him...

It's been so long since I've seen him...

Who knows... Now that I think about it, I pity him.

Sayo left him behind and left the Sea of Fog. I'm afraid...

Doesn't seem like we can be of any help here...

I wonder how Big Brother Kama's doing...

Whatever the case, old man, just mind your own mushrooms.

Hey now, the Fluorescent Fungi are the good stuff, alright?

I'll bring some for you once the ceremony's over.

Uh, well, much obliged. If not, never mind my eyes, I think my mind might be going too.

Why, I can barely tell Kito and Kina apart at this point.

...Whatever the case, don't concern yourself too much with what happened to the Kama family...

I know, I know.

Oh, you're back.

I really hope you've brought the Maushiro this time... Or else...

...Or else my novel will never get written!

Oh, come on! A commission of this level was a piece of cake for us!

C'mon, Путешественник, let's show her the Maushiro we found!

Let's finish this commission, get paid, and head over to Kiminami Restaurant for a good meal...

...Wait a moment.

Paimon feels like she's had this conversation before. Is it just Paimon's imagination?

And it's good that it is, too!

I... Is this it? Is this how I, Sumida, will obtain the Maushiro?

Really now, asking me to walk all this way. If this wasn't about "a once-in-a-century find..."

Eh? We've only walked a few steps away from Bantan Sango's storefront, haven't we?

It's not a storefront.

Eh...?

Bantan Sango is my house of wisdom. The world comes to Bantan Sango, not the other way around.

There it is. No. 7 of the lines that President Sango wishes she could say someday.

But since cases tend to come to her, she's never had a chance to say it...

H—Hey, you don't have to say so much, Ryuuji!

*cough* Anyway, regarding Tsurumi Island...

Ah, you're here. Let me introduce you. This is the renowned Путешественник...

You can, uh, skip the "renowned" bit.

And Paimon's Paimon!

Ah, so this is the legendary Путешественник...

Well, your deeds have far surpassed the domain of your average adventurer, that's for sure — indeed, your adventures are what all adventurers' dreams are made of!

Right. Let's get to the point. The reason I've asked everyone to gather here is to exchange information about Tsurumi Island.

My latest work...

Is to unravel the secrets of the island.

It seems that we could count on you after all, Путешественник.

Agreed. You certainly do have good judgment, being able to prevent Miss Sumida from going off topic like that.

(Paimon feels a bit sorry for Miss Sumida...)

*whimpers* I'm sorry...

Well, to get back to the point, out of all the people affected by incidents related to "Maushiro that should have been found going missing"...

I was only able to find the detectives from Bantan Sango and Mr. Roald.

It is also true that we were unable to successfully retrieve the Maushiro.

Well, I'll solve the mystery for you. Ryuuji must have misplaced it.

Not at all. I did lose my way many times after arriving on Tsurumi Island, but I did eventually find a Maushiro in an open area on the island.

You must be speaking of the ceremonial site...

As for the details, I no longer remember them well.

Every time I try to do so, it's as if there's a fog in my head that prevents me from remembering the details of what occurred on Tsurumi Island.

Could it be that the fog that shrouds the island found its way into Ryuuji's head after he breathed too much of it in?

...

...

...

Well, here's what I experienced. At the time, I was trapped on Ritou with no way to cross the checkpoints.

This was when Miss Sumida contacted me and commissioned me to help her "go to Tsurumi Island to gather reference material and look for a Maushiro."

So you don't have a permit, Mr. Roald?

Shh...! Come on now, these... less than legal dealings need not be spoken of so loudly.

Kama's really something, huh?

As long as it's asked of him, Kama will get it done.

But if you don't ask him, he won't do anything.

Like Ryuuji, I fear that I can't remember much about what occurred.

I took Kama's advice and walked through a large gateway into the fog... and I met a friendly child. There was... some sort of ceremony as well.

A kid, you say... Was his name Ruu?

Ruu...? I don't quite remember. We did make the trip in a hurry, after all. Why, I even left my diary behind in Ritou.

The records clearly state that what civilization once existed on Tsurumi Island has been utterly destroyed, and yet there was still a child there.

I could've sworn that after a few other hurdles, I did finally get my hands on a Maushiro.

"Could've sworn"?

Well, it does seem that Roald reported back to Sumida convinced that he had brought the item in question, while the truth was that he didn't have it. "Could've sworn" does seem to be the operative phrase here.

I'm very sorry. That's why I write diaries, you know? To compensate for my untrustworthy memory.

Well, I say that, but I do often lose those very diaries as well. So there you go...

(Huh. You know what? We've discovered quite a lot of journals and diaries out in the wild. Does that mean that there's a ton of people with poor memories out there in the world?)

To be honest with you, what concerns me the most about these incidents isn't the missing Maushiro, but the fact that you met locals on Tsurumi Island at all.

According to the "Tales of Distant Seas," there can be no doubt that Tsurumi Island was utterly destroyed several millennia ago.

The monstrous bird of thunder was slain by the Electro Archon upon Amakumo Peak in Seirai Island. That was why the Asase Shrine was built — to suppress the leftover power of that giant bird.

Wait... Is this the Thunderbird we've heard about in the past?

President Sango, this doesn't have anything to do with the case...

No, it does. Although I've never gone to Seirai myself, the fallout from the Thunderbird's death resulted in the strange phenomena that can be found on Amakumo Peak. When you add this together with the existence of ley line disorders, which have since become common knowledge as well...

Only one conclusion remains, and thus it must be true — that the strange occurrences that you experienced must be related to Tsurumi Island itself!

Huh...

You know, this is all very fascinating...

But it won't be of any help!

You really do know a lot, Sango!

Of course, I am Sango of Bantan Sango Detective Agency, after all. If you wish to take on matters of all sorts, then you must have knowledge of all sorts.

Hmm... I do also feel that this gathering hasn't resulted in any meaningful conclusions, though...

Other than Mr. Roald and Bantan Sango, all the others I contacted believe that Tsurumi Island has some unique ley line disorder, or that it might even be haunted. None of them were willing to involve themselves any further.

Perhaps I should take the commission back. *sigh* Maybe the writer's life is not my destiny after all...

No, that won't do!

After hearing you say so much about "The Chronicles of the Sea of Fog," Miss Sumida, Paimon's now very, very curious to know what happens next!

As a detective, I do not believe in such things as "destiny."

Everything happens for a reason, and all occurrences follow their own unique logic. "Destiny" doesn't come into it at all.

As long as we can find out what happened...

Then we can... Actually, you know what? What are we doing this for again?

To encourage Miss Sumida, of course.

No, that can't be it!

We're here to find the Maushiro and give it to Miss Sumida to finish the commission, aren't we?

That's right! If she cancels the commission now, we'd have run around the whole place for nothing!

That's the most important bit, huh?

Well, just leave it all to us, Miss Sumida!

Hmm... You're right. It's early days yet to be giving up.

Even the great Takizawa Kyouden muddled through life for thirty-three years before he read the...

Miss Sumida, you're welcome to share your writing anecdotes next time you commission us. But for now, we shall take our leave.

Yup, I'm tired. Bantan Sango's courtyard is still the best.

And as an adventurer, I feel obligated to challenge the fog over Tsurumi Island once more. Well then, let us meet again in the island's depths, Путешественник. Ad astra abyssosque!

Looks like I need to improve my social skills on top of my writing ones, huh...

Aw, cheer up! Don't worry about the whole Maushiro thing. We'll get it done!

The Maushiro... It's the key to writing "The Chronicles of the Sea of Fog (Working Title)"...

Ah...

It's you, Путешественник — and Paimon too...

You went missing earlier. I thought that you'd ended up like all the others...

Others, you say?

That's right. I met other outlanders before as well. But they all went missing, and then they never came back.

There was a man in green, and another guy who called himself a "detective"... I wonder what's happened to all of them...

Huh, those people sure sound like Roald and Ryuuji, don't they?

They're both fine.

We met them both just a while back!

That's good... I was afraid that they'd gotten lost in the fog or gotten eaten by those monsters that look like dogs...

Nah, that won't happen! They've got the skills, y'know? Well, sorta.

Still, we did encounter a whole lotta weird stuff after splitting up with you, Ruu...

We don't know where the Maushiro we found's gone either.

The Maushiro? You should still have it on you, I think. I can feel its power on you.

What?

I once heard Grandpa Mata say...

...So the Thunderbird's feathers were the original "Maushiro"?

That's right. I can feel that same sort of... power from you, I guess?

Huh, speaking of feathers, Paimon's reminded of something...

Ohh, that's right! That did happen.

Huh? Looks like something's shining...

Wow...

That's pretty amazing.

Yup. These feathers are the best kind of Maushiro around.

That said, Paimon doesn't think this is what Miss Sumida's looking for...

Man-made Maushiro do not have this kind of power, but since this is the "original form" of such Maushiro, it should have some special abilities. Perhaps it can even see the spirits of the dead.

That's kinda hard to believe — well, Paimon says that, but we've done all kinds of weird stuff many times before anyway...

Let's try using it!

This... This is...

Huh... Does that mean that the commission's complete?

Probably.

Anyway, since we gave Ruu our word, let's head over to the ceremonial site and have a look.

No take-backsies with kids, remember? Paimon doesn't wanna become a lousy adult!

You count as an adult?

Well, compared to being a kid, Paimon sure is closer to being an adult...

I mean, Dusky Ming's a kid, but she's pretty old, you know?

Ugh, counting's hard. Let's just skip the details, shall we?

I hope that... No, the Great Thunderbird will surely be pleased with the ceremony this time...

After all, this is the only child that she has shown favor to in all these years...

Eminent Priest, Ruu has yet to arrive.

...This is the final day. Let him wander for a little while longer.

But the Great Thunderbird has already returned to Mt. Kanna!

Is that so? Then truly, our time is limited...

Is there anything we can help with? Ruu's our friend.

Well then. Wakukau, Oina, Autake...

Please look for him in these places. I believe that you might find him there.

Leave it to us! We'll find Ruu for sure!

Wakukau Shoal, Oina Beach, and Autake Plains...

Forgive my forwardness, but I do not think these are places where a child should go...

That is true. But these are his favorite spots.

It was at Autake Plains that Ruu encountered the Great Thunderbird, wasn't it?

Yes. When we were together, he would often talk about the times he went fishing with Ipe by the shore at Wakukau, and how he would pick seashells at Oina with Sayo and the Kama family's boy.

Sayo... That loudmouth. She always talks about the world outside the Sea of Fog. We should've left her outside the fog with nothing but three days' rations, just like our forebears used to do.

If we had, Kama wouldn't have ended up like that, either...

This is all past tense now. There's nothing more to be said.

I must continue making preparations for the Thunderbird's descent. I leave the rest to you.

As you wish.

"Bwoooom!"

...This Maushiro makes such an odd sound...

Uhh, how should I describe it? Would it be easier to just make some sound up like you suggested, Paimon?

Ooh, looks like there's another Thunderbird statue here. C'mon, Путешественник, let's give our feather a try!

There seem to be some missing stones over there... Let's find the matching stones and return them to their places. That should be the ticket!

...That's just weird. And the priests on the drawings up there don't look like Grandpa Mata or the others at all.

Yeah, it's super weird!

Hey there!

I've got a guess!

They're not paying us any mind at all! Paimon's gonna get mad!

We might as well listen in...

Hah, it's time for Big Brother Kito's wild guesses! Alright, what've you got this time?

These murals depict a time before the Sea of Fog. A long, long time ago, there was no fog over the world, so everyone could see what was up there!

Up there, they could see these round- and pointy-shaped things, and these mountain-like things! That's why these ancient murals look the way they do!

That's some imagination you've got there, Kito!

Hehe.

But not a word of this to Grandpa Mata or Granny Una! We'll be in for an earful otherwise...

Yup, I know!

"Round- and pointy-shaped things"... Are they talking about the moon and stars depicted here on the mural? The fog's so thick here, it's no wonder that they couldn't see 'em.

So the children of Tsurumi Island thought this way, huh. Paimon wonders what else they believed?

Ahh... So this is a Maushiro?

You know, I can't help but feel a bit disappointed.

Eh!?

Ah, I'm sorry. I'm just thinking that it lacks, you know, that sense of destiny.

This is an artifact retrieved from the wreckage of a civilization from which no laughter or song has been heard for thousands of years. To think that I would get my hands on it so easily...

...

That's right! It took a lot of effort for us to get this! Don't you make it out to be some simple matter!

S—Sorry!

A—As expected of the legendary Путешественник...

And what about Paimon, huh?

And the renowned Paimon!

I mean, you completed a commission that even famed adventurers and detectives could not, and so smoothly at that!

Impressive! Yes, very impressive! You know, I was even thinking of changing the name of my novel from "The Chronicles of the Sea of Fog" to the "The Tales of Путешественник and Paimon!"

Hmm, Путешественник and Paimon, Paimon and Путешественник... It doesn't feel like it rolls off the tongue very well. I think my editor might reject it...

Oh, I know! Why don't you change your names to "Fog" and "Sea" respectively?

Eh?

What?

Uh, hahahaha, I was kidding, just kidding! I mean, getting back on topic, even highly-experienced outlander mercenaries couldn't get this Maushiro. It's just absolutely amazing that it came into your hands this way.

Hmm, even "Shinzen," widely regarded as the strongest character in "The Three Young Nobles," would be no match for you.

Of course, a small minority believe that "Hakushuusai" is stronger still, but if they read the work preceding that, "The Prison Official"...

Ugh, please, spare me the flattery.

...I suppose.

You suppose?

Well... Truth be told, I'd like to hear about your adventures on Tsurumi Island.

It must have taken some twists and turns for you to get a hold of the Maushiro, right? I'm sure that some of those parts might be worth writing about...

Actually, we've got some questions that we'd like to discuss as well...

Huh, is that how it is...

Even though Tsurumi Island has already been destroyed, certain people and periods of time will play back at abnormal speeds, just like wraiths might. Not to mention how the passage of time within the fog is very different from how it might pass in the outside world.

We haven't actually talked about that yet...

But those people are not ghosts in the traditional sense, but are instead "occurrences" being replayed over and over, and so they do not notice the visiting protagonist. Amidst all this, a mysterious boy...

The "protagonist"?

So those who took the commission in the past could not retrieve the Maushiro because they received a fake "Ghost Maushiro" instead.

I see. So that's how it is. I understand now.

Hmm, you know what? I think you two have some writing talent!

This is very interesting indeed, but some aspects of this story are quite rigid and unconducive to the development of the setting. Still...

"Setting"? What's that?

Oh, don't worry about it. I think that with some time and some polish, this story will definitely sell well!

Aratani should like this sort of story, too. Maybe I'll even get a contract with Yae Publishing House!

Ahh, my days of professional writing are coming soon, aren't they... No, no, I haven't even decided on a pen name yet. Or maybe using my real name like Mr. Nine does might be cooler...

...

Sumida's been mumbling all kinds of gibberish for a while now. Is she alright...?

...That's right, my commission isn't over just yet.

Whether true or false, I still require more stories concerning Tsurumi Island...

...A—And if possible, I'd like to know more about him... About Kama, that is.

I—I mean, he is my reliable partner, isn't he? We've sailed through wild storms, just like the legendary Ako Domeki Zaemon and Janome Gonbei...

You mean the time you almost died?

...Uh, well, the legends do say that Ako Domeki was saved by Janome many times.

In any case, I want to learn more about Kama.

I—I mean, he's just got that "keeping his true power a mystery, only to join the protagonist's party in the closing phases of the story" feel to him, you know? I think it'll be well worth writing such a character into the plot.

He certainly is very mysterious...

I accept your commission.

Thank you...!

Well then, please continue your exploration of Tsurumi Island...

...Oh, this? Well, the secret to fishing is patience.

...

No, no, it's not boring at all. I love fishing.

He sounds like he's talking to someone.

...

The fish don't sing, but if you sing to them, I'm sure they can hear you.

Not that this means they wouldn't eat you too, of course!

...

No problem. Once you're older, I'll teach you how to fish.

But when you grow up, you've got to teach me the secret of the Ishine Script. I mean, this is knowledge that only gets passed through the priestly families — you know, your family.

For example, the words on those rocks...

Wow! It appeared!

Huh, to think that Ishine Script had this kind of power. Perhaps it's related to the ley lines in some way... How unexpected.

...

You're right. The previous priests did have a sense of humor, huh?

...Why do I like fishing? Hmm, let me think about it for a moment...

If I had to put my finger on it, it's because fishing makes me feel like this ocean and the rest of the world are connected. That way, this island doesn't feel so small, even though we can't escape the Sea of Fog.

And... Uh, how should I say this? I guess I've also fished up all kinds of interesting stuff along the way.

Like for example, the knowledge that you love to sing in secret.

Oh, is he talking to Ruu?

Th—That's true, yeah... We've really seen a lot of weird stuff while traveling together, huh?

C'mon, it's nothing to be embarrassed about. You sing pretty well! I feel luckier just listening to you, you know?

...

You wanna sing for Makiri? Sure, but I mean, why d'you need to ask me?

...

Alright then. If you're going to Oina Beach, say hi to Kama and the others for me.

Careful now, if you get lost in the fog, just play the Maushiro. I'll come find you for sure.

Hey there.

Oh, it's you, Ruu.

Huh, that's the weird "Kama" from before...

Sorry to disappoint you, but I've picked every last seashell off this beach today!

I mean, wasn't our intention to give them to him so—

Hey!

Ah.

Hehe, maybe I should say instead that you've come at just the right time.

I mean, aren't there some rocks with that... Uh, whatever you call that writing again, on them.

I remember you saying that the order was very important, Ruu. So if we mess the rocks' order up...

They call it the Ishine Script. I've said this before, I don't think this is a good idea.

And Ruu's here too. I don't think he'll let us do this, considering that he's the son of the priest and all...

...

What? You wanna join in?

Hah! See? I always knew Ruu wasn't some stick-in-the-mud!

Alright then, let's do this!

Hahaha, this is real funny, watching a future priest touch these stones just like the records say they should... and then coming up blank in the end.

I still think this isn't right.

Pfft, this guy's a bore. You know what? Let's not hang out with him. Let's go ruin-delving with Kito and Kina!

Actually, Ruu, since you're pretty friendly with those two, could you remind them to please take care of themselves?

I, too, believe that there are green lands beyond the Sea of Fog, and humans too, and that there were people and history before the Thunderbird came, but someone needs to record the things that happened in our village.

Tch. You're such a killjoy.

You know what, Ruu? You should grow older faster.

If you were the priest, I'm sure you'd lead us all out of the Sea of Fog to see the outside world...

I wonder, can I wait for that day to come?

...

Ah, right. Kama said that he saw you at the Autake Plains the other day.

You've gotta be careful over there. The fog is thickest in that area — you fall off the cliff and that's the end for you!

Mm. If you really do have to go, take me with you.

That's right! Kama over here's got a brain like a rock, but he's no ordinary rock — he's got a sense of direction!

You know, Ruu...

Would you like to come with me?

...

I'm serious! The world outside this fog really does exist!

I've seen people come in from the outside. Once, there was someone who came to the island, lost their way in the fog, and injured themselves in a fall as a result.

That person told me all sorts of things about the outside world. He said that he came from an island on the other side of the sea. There's no fog there — only rolling green lands, a blue sky, and a golden sun.

He said that the Thunderbird always flies from our island to his, and it was the sight of the Thunderbird in flight that made him want to come over and see what it's like here.

...

I know, right? I found it really mysterious, too!

So how about it, then? Wanna come with me? This place is just too stifling.

Grandpa Mata isn't a bad person, but he just isn't willing to doubt our ancestors' words. But as for me, I want to go see what the outside world is like!

Anyway, I hate the idea of offering people to the Thunderbird... And I'm sure the Thunderbird probably hates it too.

...

Well, about Kama... That's true, huh. If we left him alone here...

But I get it. If you've decided to stay, then I'm sure this place will become a better one thanks to you!

Huh, it's Ruu!

If I sing here, no one will discover me, right...?

Hmm... Maybe I should go deeper inside!

Curious tunes, tiny human. Afraid not of thunder and storms?

Ruu seems to be talking to someone...

Ah, he's gone...

The fog here... really is super thick...

Speaking of which, Paimon wonders what's happening back with Miss Sumida? It seems like she mentioned that she intended to gather all those who took up her commission to meet and discuss some stuff with us...

Well, let's go look for her, Путешественник!

Hmm. You know what? I have another guess.

Ooh, look at you, Big Brother Kito, you've got two guesses in a row!

Shh... Shh!

(I wonder... Does Grandpa Mata also not know about what happened so long ago?)

(Wow! Now that's an exciting thought.)

(Just think about it, Kina... He said that a long, long time ago, when the darkness fell, the Great Thunderbird protected us using the Sea of Fog.)

(But if it was that long ago , Grandpa can't have seen that for himself, whether it be the sights up there, or the outside world itself...)

(I think that even the belief that the Great Thunderbird is protecting us with this fog might be fake!)

(That's mighty bold of you, Kito! But... you might be right!)

I need to reflect on how I speak to people...

...

Everyone's gone...

We've met bake-danuki on the other islands before... Could this all be a big trick of theirs!?

Ooh, now Paimon's getting angry!

Let's take stock of the situation first, shall we?

Well, of course!

If we have to keep trudging through all this cloud and fog, it had better be worth it!

So we got the Maushiro.

Even though we don't know if it'll disappear or not...

Hopefully, we can get it back to Miss Sumida this time!

There's a person here who looks a lot like Kama...

He looks like him and he's also got the name to match. Very suspicious...

Time passes strangely on Tsurumi Island...

Hmm. Now that you mention it...

When we spoke to Ruu, it felt really weird, like time was passing differently for him and us...

Oh! Right, and he met Ryuuji and Roald, didn't he?

The people here can't seem to see us.

Is that so? Hmm, Paimon did get a weird feeling as well when we tried talking to them.

They didn't even look at us at all! So rude!

...That's all, right?

Ugh, thinking is so tiring.

I was the only one doing the thinking, though.

That's not true! Paimon tried her best!

Yup, let's go back and look for Miss Sumida.

If we meet Kama along the way, let's ask him some questions as well.

...I'll bury this here. This is where we met each other, after all.

I'll leave the Maushiro that I couldn't pass to you then over here.

If I wish to bid this... whatever this place is, farewell, I can't bring anything with me — that's what you told me before you left.

*sigh* So he's left Tsurumi Island already...

I hope he's doing alright...

...

Well! Today's the day of the ceremony, so we shouldn't dwell on unhappy things!

I've made an agreement with Kapatcir that I'll go see her soon. Everyone's going to help me get ready, too, so I've gotta go.

Thanks for helping me out with the Perches! With your help, the ceremony is sure to go great this time!

Hehe, of course!

Hmm... If you don't mind, could you help me look for Grandpa Mata at the ceremonial site?

Even though our perch problem has been solved, there are other things we need help with. The ceremony is a very important event, after all. Lots of preparations need to be done first.

Huh, is that so? The last time we went to make an offering at the Perch, he was gone.

Gone? No, this is such an important ceremony. There's no way he'd leave it half done. I mean...

Ah, it's nothing. In any case, please help me out!

*sigh* What do you think, Путешественник?

Thanks, you two!

Well then, let's meet again later!

Ah, wait a moment.

Yup! We've gotta make sure that we've still got that Maushiro.

If not, this trip is gonna be a wash as well!

Phew, that's great! It didn't go missing this time.

Alrighty then! Back to Miss Sumida's we go!

Hmm, looks like we've gotta go look for Ruu again, huh?

According to what they said earlier, Ruu could be at Wakukau Shoal, Oina Beach, or the Autake Plains...

Ugh, why are all these names so annoying to remember...

The location closest to us is...

Seems like it should be Wakukau Shoal, right?

Well then, guess that's where we're starting!

Paimon feels cheated, though. Ruu asked us to come here, and now the people here want us to look for him.

Well, if you say so, Путешественник, let's do it!

We've got the Maushiro already anyway... As long as it doesn't disappear for no reason again.

Uhh, Paimon's getting nervous... It's like that time with Dusky Ming...

Huh. You're right. Paimon's sorry, Dusky Ming!

Ah, it's Big Brother Kama. I wonder how he's doing now.

Eh? Kama?

Your deeds on Seirai Island have been reported to me by Miss Etsuko. You've done very well.

But back on topic, the Guild has received a commission of even greater difficulty than that which you accomplished on Seirai. I wonder if you'd be interested...

The person who commissioned this quest is a Miss Sumida. As for the details, it might be best for you to get them straight from her.

Well then, ad astra abyssosque! I await the completion of your next feat.

Ah, hello there. Might you be the illustrious Путешественник?

And Paimon's the illustrious Paimon!

Alright then. So, tell me, have you ever "obtained the mightiest sword in the village"?

The Harbinger of Dawn counts, I guess?

Yeah, didn't we get that swordTriumphant Harbinger of Dawn that Points Towards Victory from Kaeya that one time?

Hahah, that does sound very strong. Maybe even a bit too deliberately so. Still...

Have you led a life surrounded by beautiful men and ladies?

Well then, did you defeat a giant dragon not long after your story began? Or perhaps, did you get wrapped up in some crisis upon which the survival of a nation hung? Have you ever faced off against "an elite antagonistic force with a numbered ranking scheme"?

Well, I can't say I haven't...

But hang on, what do you mean by "not long after your story began"?

Or are you, perhaps, in fact a traveler from "another world," just like the main character in "Flowers for Princess Fischl"?

Wait, what?

Hmm, I can't feel that sense of "destiny" that a protagonist should have from you.

Y'know, when Katheryne said this was going to be harder, did she mean that communicating was gonna be harder?

That's it, I'm leaving.

Eh!? Wait! Don't go!

Katheryne told me so much about you, so I assumed that you'd be more like a light novel protagonist, you know?

But in truth, I suppose such people are hard to find...

My name's Sumida. As for my pen name... I haven't finished thinking about it yet. I've got plans to take part in this year's "This Novel Is Amazing!" As such, I need a reliable adventurer to help me make a trip to Tsurumi Island.

Tsurumi Island?

That's right. Now, the name of my novel is currently "The Chronicles of the Sea of Fog." The broad strokes of its plot are as such: a nameless young man and his adventures in a nation shrouded in perpetual fog.

Well, the plot details are currently still in the works. But my eventual goal is to write an epic novel that can move hearts and souls, like "Kino's Travels"!

That's...

Yup, it's that very same "Kino's Travels"!

In which an outlander named Kino who doesn't quite fit in anywhere strides across many strange lands. She meets all sorts of people, and she is drawn into all kinds of wicked plots and all manner of cruel wars. Yet each one of her adventures shall someday coalesce into shining gold...

Paimon doesn't quite get it, but it does sound like she's talking about you, Путешественник...

So, about your commission...

Ah, right. Sorry, I got off topic.

Actually, I've been reflecting on that habit of mine quite often. It seeps into my writing as well, to the point where I once wrote over 20 pages before ever getting to the point.

At that time, I wanted to use the legend of the Kitsune Saiguu ushering people into the underground halls of Araumi to save them from a disaster as the basis for a tale about her new incarnation's peaceful life amongst the people of Hanamizaka...

So what do you need me to do on Tsurumi Island?

My bad, my bad... So, please go to Tsurumi Island and find a way to bring a Maushiro back to me. This is a traditional instrument of the civilization native to the island, which has been lost for several millennia now.

As to why I need one, the — fictional, obviously — plot of "The Chronicles of the Sea of Fog (Working Title)" takes place on Tsurumi Island, and when a nameless young man sets foot upon it—

Let's go, Путешественник.

—They hear a strange sound but it's actually the sound of the traditional Maushiro recording in folktales so please I want to properly describe its sound and that's why I need a real Maushiro!

You actually stayed on topic.

Nah, she was almost about to go off on some tangent or another. Still, do you really need a real Maushiro just to write a novel, Miss Sumida? Wouldn't a "dududu" or a "phweeet" do just fine if you needed to describe the sound it makes?

Writing is a most serious endeavor. You must treat the things you are describing with the utmost respect.

For example, if you wish to describe Balethunder, you must go to Musoujin Gorge to experience it! That's the only way you can maintain authenticity and credibility!

That sounds very dangerous.

True, and I almost died back then, too. If I hadn't instructed Kama to get me out of there if he saw that something was going awry...

I was laid up in bed for a few days after that rescue. Everything I could see, everything I threw up... It was all purple.

But now that I think about it, the fact that everything I threw up was purple might've been a result of my only being able to see in purple at the time.

Sounds more like you had too much Lavender Melon to eat.

...

Huh. Now that you mention it, that's true. I should compare and contrast the two experiences next time.

In any case, this letter is for you. Pass it to a man named Kama in Ritou, and he will take you to Tsurumi Island.

Please, this year's "This Novel is Amazing!" grand prize is at stake!

What is it?

Sumida sent us.

Another one, huh?

Another?

...It's nothing. Since Lady Sumida has recommended you, I have no complaints. Are you ready to go to Tsurumi Island?

Then let us go while the weather remains clement.

After two round trips, you should know which way to go now.

Thanks, Kama!

No need to thank me. These were Lady Sumida's instructions, after all.

Actually, Paimon's kinda interested to know...

...

I have ferried people and goods to Tsurumi Island, and also to the lands across the ocean.

It makes no difference to me. So long as Lady Sumida asks it of me, I will do it.

Sounds like a long story.

...

I've said too much.

Well then. Farewell.

Are you ready to head back?

Good. Hop on, then.

Are you ready?

Then let us go while the weather remains clement.

Yikes!

Uh, I didn't mean to scare you...

You're... an outlander...

And you've got... a little floating girl with you too! That's awesome! I haven't seen any outlanders in soooo long!

Paimon's not a "little girl" or whatever. Paimon's Paimon! And who're you, kiddo?

My name's Ruu!

Uh, either way, the important thing here is...

To remind this kid to get to a safe spot.

No, no, we've got to figure out who the "littler" person is here! How many years old are you, Ruu?

Umm... What does "years old" mean?

That's the number of years that've gone by since you were born.

The number of years? Let me count...

Several thousand, maybe! Sorry, I can't remember anything more specific.

Uh...

Um...

How do you count "a year," if I might ask?

Hmm. A year passes whenever I hear the thunder, of course. Just like everyone counts it.

Whaaaa...

(Hold it just a minute there. Didn't Sumida say that Tsurumi Island's civilization has vanished for several millennia now?)

(And his way of counting years is so weird!)

(It's probably because they can't see the sun or moon due to the giant fog.)

Still, you've come at exactly the right time! Today's the day of our big ceremony!

Kapatcir will definitely be pleased to have new and rare guests taking part.

Who's that?

My good friend!

So there'll be a ceremony?

Sounds like a lot of fun!

Exactly! Everyone tells me that I'll be the star of the show this time, too!

But we'll need to do some things before the ceremony can start!

Either way, Путешественник, Paimon, come with me!

Wow! So this is Tsurumi Island? This...

...Looks really sad! What's with this huge fog!?

Kama, do you know that... Uh, what is it again?

"Kino's Travels"?

Yes, Lady Sumida has mentioned it before.

No! That's not what Paimon means! Paimon's talking about that Maushi-something that Sumida asked us to come look for!

Kama, do you know where we should start looking?

If he knew, Sumida wouldn't need our help.

Ugh, this is so annoying! Does Paimon have to do everything herself!?

I think you're forgetting who does the heavy lifting around here...

It's best to enter through that great gate over there, lest you get lost in the fog all too easily.

I will wait for you here.

Look for me once you secure the Maushiro. I will send you back.

Let me introduce you to Big Sister Makiri and Big Brother Ipe.

Hello there, I'm Путешественник.

Hey there, Paimon's Paimon!

Hmm~ the Perch seems to be in a good state. This year's ceremony should go well.

Oh come on, less talking, more offering.

After all, the Perch is the keystone to the ceremony. This is the tree upon which the Great Thunderbird once descended.

Grandpa Mata said that the maintenance of the Perch indicates our respect and worship towards the Great Thunderbird. If it is damaged...

I know. That said, this year's ceremony leaves a bad taste in my mouth...

And the fact that I'm the only one doing work over here makes it worse!

You know what, I think I get this guy.

Well, you are very reliable, Путешественник.

Eh~ you're just too reliable, Ipe. What's more, this is my first time making offerings to the Perch.

Yeah, yeah, whatever. Anyway, the next step is to touch the Perch. Then, help me look for feathers around this area.

"Feathers"?

Eh, didn't Grandpa Mata tell you about it? Part of the process is removing all foreign elements from the Perch.

Basically, the power of the Great Thunderbird will accumulate within the Perch, and it will carry off foreign substances that infiltrate Tsurumi Island in the form of "feathers."

Afterward, the fog will purify those feathers. After all, the fog protects our island, and will not let anything pass through the sacred barrier around us.

That's why we need to find the scattered feathers and bring them back to the Perch.

Oh~ I see, I see. I get it now.

...Did you really?

Probably~

(Big Sister Makiri's just pretending to not get it.)

So we just need to find those feathers, right?

So we just need to find some weird looking feathers.

It's made using the Great Thunderbird's power, so if you have keen elemental senses like Ruu does, finding them would be a cinch.

Really? Isn't Ruu lucky~

Hehe.

...

Don't be silly.

Oh. Sorry.

C'mon, you two. Let's go find those feathers! If you help make offerings to the Perch, I'm sure Kapatcir would be happy.

Uhh... Alright then. Let's just touch that perch first, shall we?

Well, that's done.

Nice!

You're back!

We're back!

The Perch looks really happy. I'm sure Kapatcir will be really happy too!

That said, who is Kapatcir?

My friend!

Kapatcir loves to hear me sing. I'll be singing for her during the ceremony!

Путешественник can sing too! Well, his singing turns Glaze Lilies into Whopperflowers, though.

That's amazing!

Uh, Paimon, that's not what happened...

Oh, you need a Maushiro? Well, we'll be heading to the ceremonial site soon.

They're going to put all the Maushiro there during the ceremony. I bet Grandpa Mata is going to need help making offerings at the other Perches, too.

Well then. See you both later!

Not coming with us?

I've got some preparations to make for the ceremony. I'll be meeting Kapatcir there, after all!

Everyone's been looking forward to this ceremony, too! I won't disappoint them!

Well, seeya later then!

Hello there!

We're here to take part in the ceremony.

Ah, when will we be ready to hold the ceremony? Preparations for the Perch on Ipe's side should already be complete.

He's there with Makiri, so there shouldn't be any issues.

We've finished making the offerings to the Perch over there!

But there are three more Perches. Who knows how the preparations there are going...

We can go have a look at those.

Where are those three other perches?

I hope that... No, the Great Thunderbird will surely be pleased with the ceremony this time...

Eh?

...

Aw, c'mon! Why's he ignoring us?

We're here to help, too!

Well, that's all the Perches settled. Guess they can start the ceremony without a hitch now, huh?

Mm-mm, after hearing Ruu talk about it so much, Paimon's getting all excited!

Even if you don't wanna go, we've got to be there if we wanna get that Maushiro.

...Eh? Where'd he go?

Hmm, looks like there's something over there...

Oh, you're back.

I really hope you've brought the Maushiro this time... Or else...

...Or else my novel will never get written!

Oh, come on! A commission of this level was a piece of cake for us!

C'mon, Путешественник, let's show her the Maushiro we found!

Let's finish this commission, get paid, and head over to Kiminami Restaurant for a good meal...

What? Gone?

That's impossible! We just got it!

*sigh*

That can't be...

Looks like it happened to you, too... What a headache.

Don't take it too hard.

To be honest, I haven't given you full disclosure either. I did commission other people before sending you.

Adventurers, veteran soldiers, members of Sumeru's Eremites, students of the Iwakura Art, problem-solving specialists from the Yorozuya...

I even hired a very experienced Treasure Hoarder... Went by "Captor" or something. I think he went off to Mondstadt after we parted ways...

Huh, now that I think about it, such a motley crew would've made for a good story. A team of people with diverse backgrounds, characters, and abilities adventuring together...

—Uh, hold on! This isn't the time for such thoughts.

Woohoo, look who's controlled their urge to go off-topic!

Regardless, they, like you, took this job from me, but they all wound up being unable to retrieve the Maushiro that they could've sworn they got.

At first, I thought that they were all just making excuses for their lack of ability. But now that even you, the legendary top-rated adventurer whom the Guild recommended so strongly to me, also encountered this issue...

An unattainable commission, vanishing Maushiro...

"Would make a good story," right?

...That is true, but right now, all I want is to finish writing "The Chronicles of the Sea of Fog (Working Title)"!

Honestly, I'm pretty concerned as well.

Still, Miss Sumida, since Tsurumi's civilization has been lost for so long, there shouldn't be anyone who's heard the sound of the Maushiro, right?

If you just say that it makes a "phweeet" noise, no one could tell the difference!

The Maushiro, huh...

"When I awoke, a [insert Maushiro sound here] echoed through the bone-ashen fog that surrounded me. I felt as if I were in a dream, so I kept lying there. The sand lay against my cheek, telling me that my dream was set on a beach."

"[Insert aforementioned noise here] grew ever louder, and only then did I recall, like a lightning bolt piercing the fog, that promise I made with a friend. Only then did I recall that this world was not all beaches and sea, but cities and trees also..."

I'd give that passage an 8 out of 10.

...I'm talking about how I won't be able to write this passage if I don't know what a Maushiro sounds like!

As a novelist, this is unacceptable! Unacceptable! Ugh!

Uh, don't worry, Paimon gets you...

I suggest hiring someone else.

Oh, don't be like that! Paimon's really interested in Tsurumi Island, too...

If you don't mind... I can contact all the other people who took this commission before. Perhaps a discussion might yield some kind of breakthrough...

Don't worry, I won't decrease your pay over this!

Paimon reckons this is a great idea! What do you think, Путешественник?

No harm in trying.

Wonderful! You have my gratitude.

Thank you... Thank you so much for your trouble.

I'll contact the people I commissioned before. Give me a while to prepare, and then we'll meet back here.

Is this the Maushiro?

Nice! Guess Ruu didn't trick us after all!

Well, I suppose that's this commission done.

Still... Paimon feels cheated!

And what were you cheated out of, exactly?

They said there'd be a ceremony! And we helped them out with so many things, too!

True, but there is one thing that's still very strange...

There should've been more people here, but it looks like all of them have vanished...

And all those people felt like they had a few screws loose, anyway...

Whatever. Let's go look for Kama first.

He should be waiting for us at the entrance.

Anchors aweigh!

You're back. Do you have the Maushiro?

Him? ...Well, it all started when I heard Tang Wen mention Wangshu Inn's Almond Tofu. I thought it would make for a good addition to my novels. For example...

...Um, I mean. So he's a reliable man who can get you to all sorts of places with eyes. He can even pass through the storms of a sealed nation.

He's got that "keeping his true power a mystery, only to join the protagonist's party in the closing phases of the story" sort of feeling to him, you know? I've worked with him many times.

Ah, hello there. Might you be the illustrious Путешественник?

And Paimon's the illustrious Paimon!

Alright then. So, tell me, have you ever "obtained the mightiest sword in the village"?

Have you led a life surrounded by beautiful men and ladies?

Well then, did you defeat a giant dragon not long after your story began? Or perhaps, did you get wrapped up in some crisis upon which the survival of a nation hung? Have you ever faced off against "an elite antagonistic force with a numbered ranking scheme"?

Well, I can't say I haven't...

But hang on, what do you mean by "not long after your story began"?

Or are you, perhaps, in fact a traveler from "another world," just like the main character in "Flowers for Princess Fischl"?

Uh...

Hmm, I can't feel that sense of "destiny" that a protagonist should have from you.

Y'know, when Katheryne said this was going to be harder, did she mean that communicating was gonna be harder?

That's it, I'm leaving.

Eh!? Wait! Don't go!

Katheryne told me so much about you, so I assumed that you'd be more like a light novel protagonist, you know?

But in truth, I suppose such people are hard to find...

My name's Sumida. As for my pen name... I haven't finished thinking about it yet. I've got plans to take part in this year's "This Novel Is Amazing!" As such, I need a reliable adventurer to help me make a trip to Tsurumi Island.

Tsurumi Island?

That's right. Now, the name of my novel is currently "The Chronicles of the Sea of Fog." The broad strokes of its plot are as such: a nameless young man and his adventures in a nation shrouded in perpetual fog.

Well, the plot details are currently still in the works. But my eventual goal is to write an epic novel that can move hearts and souls, like "Kino's Travels"!

That's...

Yup, it's that very same "Kino's Travels"!

In which an outlander named Kino who doesn't quite fit in anywhere strides across many strange lands. She meets all sorts of people, and she is drawn into all kinds of wicked plots and all manner of cruel wars. Yet each one of her adventures shall someday coalesce into shining gold...

Paimon doesn't quite get it, but it does sound like she's talking about you, Путешественник...

So, about your commission...

Ah, right. Sorry, I got off topic.

Actually, I've been reflecting on that habit of mine quite often. It seeps into my writing as well, to the point where I once wrote over 20 pages before ever getting to the point.

At that time, I wanted to use the legend of the Kitsune Saiguu ushering people into the underground halls of Araumi to save them from a disaster as the basis for a tale about her new incarnation's peaceful life amongst the people of Hanamizaka...

So what do you need me to do on Tsurumi Island?

My bad, my bad... So, please go to Tsurumi Island and find a way to bring a Maushiro back to me. This is a traditional instrument of the civilization native to the island, which has been lost for several millennia now.

As to why I need one, the — fictional, obviously — plot of "The Chronicles of the Sea of Fog (Working Title)" takes place on Tsurumi Island, and when a nameless young man sets foot upon it—

Let's go, Путешественник.

—They hear a strange sound but it's actually the sound of the traditional Maushiro recording in folktales so please I want to properly describe its sound and that's why I need a real Maushiro!

You actually stayed on topic.

Nah, she was almost about to go off on some tangent or another. Still, do you really need a real Maushiro just to write a novel, Miss Sumida? Wouldn't a "dududu" or a "phweeet" do just fine if you needed to describe the sound it makes?

Writing is a most serious endeavor. You must treat the things you are describing with the utmost respect.

For example, if you wish to describe Balethunder, you must go to Musoujin Gorge to experience it! That's the only way you can maintain authenticity and credibility!

That sounds very dangerous.

True, and I almost died back then, too. If I hadn't instructed Kama to get me out of there if he saw that something was going awry...

I was laid up in bed for a few days after that rescue. Everything I could see, everything I threw up... It was all purple.

But now that I think about it, the fact that everything I threw up was purple might've been a result of my only being able to see in purple at the time.

Sounds more like you had too much Lavender Melon to eat.

...

Huh. Now that you mention it, that's true. I should compare and contrast the two experiences next time.

In any case, this letter is for you. Pass it to a man named Kama in Ritou, and he will take you to Tsurumi Island.

Please, this year's "This Novel is Amazing!" grand prize is at stake!

What is it?

Go through the great gate over there. This used to be one of Tsurumi Island's traditions.

If not, you'll get lost in the fog very easily.

Oh, Путешественник!

What's happened?

The fog... If it's as Grandpa Mata says, and the fog is so powerful that nothing can invade Tsurumi Island, how do things from the outside get into the Perches?

That's because those foreign substances come from within the ground. The fog can't stop things that come from there, which is why we need to make offerings and purify the Perches.

Huh. And here I thought the fog could do anything.

It's the same for things in the sea. I've fished up some weird stuff before.

Huh. Feels like we've gotten our bearings now, huh?

Yup, even though the fog hasn't dissipated yet.

Eh? There's a kid over there...

Do Inazuman kids all run off to deserted islands to play when they've got time on their hands?

Yeah, and let's ask about the thing Miss Sumida asked us to get in the meantime.

Even if it was only just once, I'd love to leave the Sea of Fog and see what lies beyond...

Are you an idiot? It's utter darkness out there.

Didn't the priest say that if we leave the fog, our souls will become lost shadows that roam the Realm of Silence beyond?

If it wasn't for the Great Thunderbird using the fog to protect the island, we'd have been goners long ago.

I know, and that's why we hold ceremonies to thank the Great Thunderbird for its protection.

...But aren't you curious about the outside world anyway?

There were those who tried to leave this place and follow the Great Thunderbird's light to seek new lands. None of them returned alive. You do remember the Kama family's boy, don't you, old man?

Oh, how could I forget...

Perhaps I simply wish that all went well with him...

We're back!

It's about time you returned.

Have you brought the item that Lady Sumida asked for?

We did.

It went surprisingly well.

...

Is something wrong?

Nothing. I'll send you back now. Are you ready to depart?

Good. Hop on, then.

Where's that Ruu kid gone off to?

Seriously now. It's almost time, and we can't start without him.

I hope that... No, the Great Thunderbird will surely be pleased with the ceremony this time...

...

Kina, the old mural that we found previously...

Yeah, that's right. That weird round shape, and all those nut-like shapes around it...

I asked Grandpa Mata about them. He told me that this was what the ancient world looked like... before it was swallowed up by the darkness.

To protect Tsurumi Island, the Great Thunderbird created the great Sea of Fog such that even the darkness would lose its way and become unable to enter the island.

...Yeah, that's cool and all, but what's that got to do with those shapes?

That's so weird, right? Not to mention how the priests on the drawings up there don't look like Grandpa Mata or the others at all.

Yeah, it's super weird!

What's the matter?

We ran into some very concerning things on Tsurumi Island...

Your point being?

That's none of your business.

You've already helped Lady Sumida find the Maushiro, so there is no need for any further association between us.

Yikes, how cold. Actually, Miss Sumida's commission isn't over yet. She wanted us to continue investigating Tsurumi Island.

Alright. I understand.

Huh? And now he's so willing all of a sudden...

"Kama" is my family's... Just consider it my clan's name. Our ancestor was from Tsurumi Island.

What!? Why didn't Miss Sumida tell us any of that?

Gasp! Shock! Lightning crackle, lightning crackle!

That's because I never told her.

But why—

Because she never asked. If she asked, I would have told her. But since she hasn't, I'm simply her boatman.

I follow her to Yashiori Island to gather reference material. I smuggle snacks from Liyue. I listen to her read books. I think this is a good deal.

So then, about Tsurumi Island...

My ancestor could not stomach what was happening on Tsurumi Island and left.

So he built a small boat and followed the path of the so-called Thunderbird.

He went to Seirai island...

That's right.

My ancestors lived on Seirai Island for a long time. Some time later, the Thunderbird destroyed Tsurumi Island, and even later on, it was killed on Seirai. The island became nigh-uninhabitable then, so we migrated to Kannazuka.

Koseki Village and Asase Shrine...

Asase Shrine was constructed to suppress the Thunderbird's power, or so I heard, while Koseki Village was built to house those who had relocated to Seirai to make offerings at the shrine.

Our family was lucky enough to survive these various catastrophes, and so we began working in Tatarasuna. Afterward, having despaired of the way in which the then-inspector acted, my ancestors resigned and moved to Narukami Island.

Previously, we even made a tidy sum of Mora in Ritou doing business... but by the time it came to my father's generation, we had little to our name but a pile of debts.

You really remember history very clearly...

Each generation of our family will tell our story to the one that follows. We have a strong oral tradition.

It is said that this was due to our earliest ancestor claiming that he had given up everything — save for the reason he had left in the first place.

Before my father passed on, he claimed that we were the last scions of the people of Tsurumi Island, although that hardly counts for much.

We were no illustrious clan, like one might consider the Hiiragi or Kamisato to be. The only thing he left to me was a single small boat.

Why did your ancestor leave Tsurumi Island?

We hold that it is because the Thunderbird showed favor to a certain child, which the priests then decided to sacrifice to it.

Our ancestor could not accept such a thing, so he left. He originally wanted to take the child with him, but it seems that the other party stayed of their own accord.

That must've been really hard for him...

So the unnatural occurrences on the island...

They must be the result of very large-scale ley line disorder. It is said that the sound of Tsurumi Island being destroyed could be heard all the way from Seirai.

...Was the Thunderbird really that powerful?

Considering that it could reduce Seirai Island to such a state...

My father did take me to Tsurumi once, to "see where it all began."

Apparitions of the past would appear amidst the Sea of Fog, illusions replaying past events — namely, the final ceremony held on the island, albeit one in which the flow of time is all wrong.

The Thunderbird then destroyed Tsurumi Island, resulting in a great storm... and then it started all over again.

So that's the reason why those people didn't take any notice of us at all? Because they were all illusions of the past?

How bizarre.

There's no meaning in speaking to the islanders. They are simply shadows created by the ley line disorders.

However, there is one exception, which is the child who was the offering to the Thunderbird. I believe this to be the "Ruu" you spoke of.

But... But... That means we've got to save him!

I wouldn't worry about this. They are all ultimately illusions created by the ley lines.

No wonder the Maushiro disappears...

Huh, so the whole "Ghost Maushiro" thing Miss Sumida talked about was true!

...But never mind all that! Paimon thinks we should at least try to help Ruu!

Even if he is an illusion, he's still Paimon's friend.

Mm. Well, it doesn't matter to me either way. I have no love for Tsurumi, nor do I have any for my father's talk of bloodlines and history.

...

Hmm, if I were Lady Sumida, I would say something like: "If the cycle of the Sea of Fog can be broken, then that 'history' may also be ended."

"It would make a good story!"

Haha, very funny.

But you didn't laugh...

Really? I did, in fact, find it quite interesting.

W—Well, sure... Either way, thanks for telling us all this stuff, Kama!

Lady Sumida commissioned you.

I have said enough, I believe.

Isn't Ruu lucky~

...

Don't be silly.

Oh. Sorry.

And the fact that I'm the only one doing work over here makes it worse!

That's Ipe and Makiri. Looks like they're making offerings to the Perch.

Ooh... Paimon has an idea.

They said that the Perches are key to the ceremony, and so people need to make offerings there and protect them.

Well, the ceremony won't be able to continue if we destroy the Perches, right?

But they're illusions of the past...

Well, even if that's so, don't you think it's worth a shot?

Since these islanders love their Thunderbird and perches and stuff so much, let's just give wrecking 'em a go!

They said that these perches contain the Thunderbird's power, right? Maybe they'll react if we blow them away...

Ooh! It works! It really works!

C'mon, let's go get the rest!

But we've met Ruu, haven't we? That isn't something that happened in the past.

Let's keep going!

Ah, it's you two...

Have there been any new developments?

...

Mm, I've got it. Now, let's break this down simply...

According to your plot, the flow of time in Tsurumi Island does not match that of the outside world. If it were me, I certainly would — as you have — ascribed this to a special ley line disorder.

I doubt that such a ley line disorder could occur naturally, so... Let's just say it fell from the skies? Maybe it was a fragment of Celestia, or something...

Which then mixed together with the lightning storms created by the Thunderbird to create these phenomena—

—And I'd give this plot a 4 out of 10, maybe. It's usable, but it's hard to execute. There should be a more elegant way of writing this...

What do you mean when you say "plot," anyway...

Oh, don't worry about it. It's nothing of particular note...

So if we want to push the story forward, we need a few more plot points in play — for example... "The Tsurumi tragedy was born from a misunderstanding."

That's what I'd write, anyway.

For example, the priests and Ruu might have taken the Thunderbird's favor upon Ruu as a sign that it wanted him as a sacrifice, but in truth, the Thunderbird might have just liked him in particular.

I suppose the resolution to such a plotline would simply be to find a way to convey Ruu's feelings to the Thunderbird.

...

Well, I can't say for sure, but I don't think there's any problem with this progression, per se. I remember a very popular series that ran for at least a few dozen volumes with this plot as the basis for its story!

You just need to find some ways to continuously insert various happenings that pose obstacles to the misunderstanding's resolution and allow it to fester! Why, that book...

Could we get back on topic?

Oh. Right. Sorry...

But according to the developments you've mentioned, since the Thunderbird was vanquished on Seirai Island, and Ruu himself is but a shade of the past, then you can only avert this catastrophe via some mystical means.

Hmmm, this... This really is quite hard to write. There are so many things that would be hard to explain. Unacceptable. "The Chronicles of the Sea of Fog (Working Title)" can't be that sort of story...

Do you have any other ideas, Путешественник?

Mind if we say something about Kama for a moment?

Oh, you've seen him around, then?

...Wait, what? Kama is a descendant of Tsurumi Island's natives?

L—Let's go look for him — right now!

That should be all of those perches.

Let's hope that's enough to stop the ceremony.

We've got no clue where Ruu is...

Well, if we want to be sure that we've disrupted the ceremony...

Huh, that's right! Ruu always wanted us to take part in that ceremony...

Let's hope it doesn't end the same way this time.

Ruu! You're alright...

Путешественник, Paimon...

Why... Why did you do this?

Eh?

I thought that the two of you were good, strong people...

And that you'd be different from the others! You came back to look for me, listened to everything I said... I thought that the ceremony would go well this time... But...

We want to stop the ceremony! That way, you'll be safe!

But you're not helping!

Back then... Something happened. Something went wrong. Things were going so well...

But then I woke up. I found that the island had become like this. Everyone was weird. No one could see me. No one could hear me!

Then after a while, a storm would start, and it would be super scary. At these times, only Wakukau, Oina, and Autake wouldn't be struck by lightning. I'd hide there and wait for the storm to end.

But once the thunder stopped, everything would repeat all over again. I would wake up — and everyone would be doing the same things.

Kapatcir's missing, too. I couldn't find her, not even on Mt. Kanna.

The ceremony must have gone wrong. We must've made her angry.

That's why I prepared another ceremony, and another, and another. But it always ends the same. That's why I had the idea of bringing in people from the outside.

I thought that... you were my friends, and that you'd help me...

Actually, hold on a moment. Who is Kapatcir, anyway?

That's what I've been thinking, too.

Other people call her the Thunderbird. She's our guardian deity.

If the ceremony goes smoothly, Kapatcir will be pleased. That way, everyone will be happy.

In the past, Kapatcir paid no attention to the people who were offered to her. But I'm different...

That's why I have to make sure that the ceremony goes well. That way, everyone can go back to normal and live their lives again.

Big Brother Ipe and Big Sister Makiri will get married, and Kina and Kito will grow up and become great adventurers!

And once things are better here, Big Sister Sayo will come back! Big Brother Kama, too! And Dad will no longer have to be afraid of Kapatcir's wrathful lightning!

And everyone would realize that the outside world isn't a bad place, because there are good people like you in it...

...So why? Why did you ruin the ceremony?

Because this isn't right!

That's not true! This is right! Don't... Don't come back here again!

There's going to be another storm. I—It's going to be super scary!

Just go already! I don't want to see you ever again! *sobs*

...

No use staying here.

Mm. You're... You're right.

Let's go.

Th—That was close!

We barely managed to get out...

S—So this is the storm that Kama talked about...

It could've been a result of us destroying the Perches.

That's true. They did have power in them after all...

Uh-oh! If it's storming out there, Ruu might be in danger...

Maybe, but... Paimon's still worried.

Well, let's double back and see if we can find him, then.

Indulge my curiosity for a moment... Since you're a descendant of Tsurumi Island's people and your family seems quite interested in handing down their history...

Would you know how to make Maushiro, by any chance, Kama?

It's totally okay if you don't, by the way! It was a long time ago and all...

I do. My grandfather taught me how to make them — and how to use them, too.

What... Uh... Then why did I spend all that Mora to hire people...

*cough* So then, is there anything else you can tell me about the Maushiro?

They make "bwoooom" sounds.

I—I think I already knew that. Is there anything else?

They are made of wood, and have no special requirements in that regard. Yumemiru Wood, Otogi Wood, they will all do.

Let me think, was there anything else... Ah. If you give a Maushiro you made personally to someone, that is considered a marriage proposal.

What!?

That's not bad, actually. I'll include that into the story!

All that talking has tired me out.

Best of luck to you.

Ruu's not here...

Maybe he's deeper inside.

We need to find him, and quick! If not, the islanders are gonna sacrifice him to the Thunderbird!

According to what Kama said...

Yeah, Paimon knows that all the things happening here are illusions that constantly repeat themselves.

But if that's the case... doesn't that mean that Ruu's been sacrificed to the Thunderbird Archon-only-knows how many times?

That's... That's just too sad! We've got to help him, no matter what!

You're right. Let's do this.

Yeah!

...It is as Путешественник says. I am a descendant of the Tsurumi Island natives.

Why didn't you tell me that earlier? All those times I got you to send those people there...

You never asked, Lady Sumida.

*sigh* Well, that is just how you are, but...

...

Nor will telling Tsurumi's story edify anyone.

My father clung to that story till his dying day. From the time I was young, he would often take me there. It's a gloomy place, one filled with nothing but terrible memories.

But had you asked me, Lady Sumida, I would have told you.

...You're right. If I had been more willing to ask for his opinion and trusted him more, I wouldn't have had to do this in such a roundabout fashion.

I'm sorry, Kama.

It's alright.

W—Well then, as a remnant of Tsurumi Island, what do you think of this? "The last scion of Tsurumi returns to his desolate homeland, only to be caught up in the twisted weft of time..."

Simply put, you hear the call of your ancestors and head into the mists of Tsurumi Island. Following the sound of the Maushiro, you traverse the fog, only to realize as you approach the site of that millennia-old ceremony...

...That you've become the same ancestor who bore your name all those years ago! There, you experience the island's final day — until violet lightning and roaring thunder rend the skies!

Then you awake — only to have the same day begin again!

Well, what do you think? Is this plot "This Novel Is Amazing!" grand prize-worthy?

Will this really work...?

It's not that impressive.

Hmm, I get it, I get it. You probably greatly value Tsurumi's history, so it's no surprise that you might be offended by my fictional appropriations. So, how about this, then...

I'm not talking about that. Tsurumi's history doesn't matter that much to me.

I just feel that this plot doesn't grab me as much as the "Toki Alley Tales" or "Kino's Travels" that you read to me before. Nor does it quite flow as freely as "The Three Young Nobles."

Uh... Um, that was... blunt of you.

Sorry.

N—No, don't apologize at moments like this. That just feels even more hurtful to me as a writer...

Sorry, I shouldn't have apologized.

Aghhh! This is so annoying — but most annoying of all is the fact that I can't refute your critique.

Don't give up, Miss Sumida...

Yes, I know. I will do that. Kama's heard a lot of stories, after all. If he finds them interesting, I'm sure my editor will, too!

Paimon's the same.

Eh? Paimon... was just thinking.

Paimon's never giving up, mind you! Paimon's just thinking... Could we try the method that Miss Sumida just mentioned?

Eh? What did I say? I've already forgotten...

We could give it a go...

But you're the one who said not to give up, Путешественник! Paimon won't, either!

And anyway, didn't we agree to go have a good meal at Kiminami Restaurant once we finish this commission?

I don't think I follow, exactly, but it's good to see that Paimon's so spirited.

Hehe, you're talking to the illustrious Paimon, after all!

Well then, about this commission of ours...

We'll continue plumbing the depths of Tsurumi Island's mysteries.

Alright. In that case, I look forward to your next report.

How do you adventurers say it again? Ah, right. "Ad astra abyssosque," Путешественник!

This is the last possible location.

Ruu—

Ruu— We're here to help—

Ruu—

Ru... u...

Eh? What's that weird noise...

Yikes! Monsters! Be careful!

Eh? Kama? What are you doing here?

Yeah, the sky's looking all strange and stuff...

"This" Tsurumi Island is about to be destroyed. And then, everything will start again.

Ah, that's the thing that you talked about yesterday...

However, it seems that things are even more serious than when I came here previously. Perhaps it's because you destroyed those perches...

The name of the child you're trying to help... it's "Ruu," right?

If we want to break the cycle and free Ruu, now is the time.

That's why I'm here. To help.

Did Miss Sumida ask you to do it?

No, I've come here of my own accord.

What!? You're volunteering, Kama?

I don't know why either. I just feel like... I should be here. How should I describe that feeling... Ah. Right. It's like this.

"Perhaps I simply find it intolerably shameless for me to play the fly on the wall as you boldly step into Tsurumi Island."

"Perhaps I believe that even illusions have feelings, and so I would do ill in allowing them to suffer in this cycle."

"Or perhaps I simply think that I might help Ruu by breaking this perpetual ocean of fog, and in fulfilling the wishes of my ancestors I shall be freed from the 'history' that binds me."

Huh. Kama, since when were you...

So eloquent and loquacious?

Yes, Lady Sumida did speak these words. When I told her that I would like to help, she suddenly gained a spark of inspiration.

I did not understand what she said, but I believe that since Lady Sumida said so, then that must be how things are.

That sounds like her style alright...

Still, Paimon thinks yesterday's events have probably made Ruu too angry to talk to us...

I know. Lady Sumida said that "In this manner, the bloodline spanning millennia shall..."

Could we lose the verbatim quotes?

We shall. I believe that "Kama" — that is to say, I — can speak to him.

Hmm...

Well...

It's true that you do look just like the illusory Kama that we saw earlier.

Ruu did also mention that being unable to speak to those illusions weirded him out and worried him.

So being able to talk to you should cheer him right up!

Hmm, but where do we find Ruu...

You know, he did mention...

Ooh, you're right!

Wakukau, Oina, and Autake... He did mention that these places wouldn't be hit by lightning under these circumstances.

And those would be his hiding spots where he'd wait out the storm.

Well, let's go looking, then. Let's start with Wakukau Shoal.

Kama seems pretty enthusiastic today, eh...

Kama!

What is it?

Were you about to say that the Thunderbird is dead or something?

What? No! I was going to talk about a story that Lady Sumida told me.

Who do you take me for, seriously? How could I tell a child like Ruu such a thing?

P—Paimon was just... Well...

Ugh, enough already! So, about getting Ruu off Tsurumi Island...

He says that he can't leave this place...

Perhaps Tsurumi Island sustains his existence in some way...

Hmm... If that's the case...

From what we've learned so far, the strange happenings on Tsurumi Island were caused by the Thunderbird destroying it.

It feels like we can follow this line of reasoning to find a solution...

We could use the Thunderbird's feathers...

Ah!

Paimon gets what you're trying to say, Путешественник! If the state of Tsurumi Island now is due to ley line disorders caused by the Thunderbird's power...

Then this feather, which also has that same power, might be able to sustain Ruu's existence.

Are we on the same page?

Basically.

...

You know what? I think you'd get along with Lady Sumida just fine.

Huh, Paimon's not sure if you're complimenting us or...

She told me a story once, about a god of fertility who dwelt within the wheat fields, and who would travel afar with a human...

Paimon doesn't wanna be mean or anything, but you're picking up her habit of going off topic, Kama...

But whatever the case, since we've decided what to do, let's just give it a try! It's better than nothing, after all!

Agreed. Well, if you don't mind, I shan't accompany you on this particular trip.

I'd like to take this opportunity to have a look at the place where my ancestors once stayed.

But it's storming outside...

I know. I'll be fine, don't worry.

I mean, we live in Inazuma. Stormy days are our bread and butter.

...I thought Kapatcir had forgotten about all this...

I thought that this happened because she didn't approve of the ceremony. Because she didn't like me...

You said that she was your friend.

Friends don't forget their friends' words that easily!

She's been waiting for you to sing for her all this time.

Yes, you're right.

I did tell her that I would sing for her.

But I haven't seen her in an awful long time now...

...

(Should we tell him? Y'know, that the Thunderbird was killed on Seirai Island...)

Um, so, Ruu...

The Thunderbird has—

—Migrated to Seirai Island!

Uh, Y—Yeah, that's right! Didn't we tell you before that we saw this huge storm-cloud and a shattered mountain on Seirai Island?

That's where the Thunderbird lives now! Y'know, we wanted to go up to Amakumo Peak to see the awesome face of the Great Thunderbird...

But the Thunderbird was super busy...

That's right, and she's had lots of baby thunderbirds too! They're all up in the clouds right now, though, and they don't come down much!

Baby thunderbirds...?

So there's this vortex-like storm cloud over Seirai Island...

Yeah! That's formed by Kapatcir and the little thunderbirds as they play and fly in circles!

...

Wow, that's amazing! I mean, I've never seen it with my own eyes, but it already sounds unbelievably amazing!

Kapatcir must have been even mightier than I imagined!

And we did say before that we'd go outside on adventures together, didn't we?

Yes, I remember. You did say that we'd go see other places, Путешественник.

Wanna go to Seirai Island together?

Even if she's busy and you can't see her...

Wow! Could I really?

Of course you can.

Yup, we had an agreement, remember? Путешественник's not one to go back on his word!

Awesome!

But I've tried leaving Tsurumi Island before, and I always end up back here again...

Eh? Huh. That is a bit of a problem...

There has to be a way. Let's discuss the matter.

Paimon would like to ask Kama some things as well! Hang on a sec, Ruu.

?

Alright!

You're back!

Ready to go?

Yup! Anytime!

Well then, touch this Thunderbird feather first...

For good luck? Sure!

So, up there, that's...

That's right! The Thunderbird... Kapatcir's up there in the sky.

She's a little busy and can't come down to hear you sing. But if you do, Paimon's sure she'll hear you!

Mmhmm.

Путешественник, Paimon...

Actually, I know all about it. Or should I say I've guessed what happened to Kapatcir... and to me.

Oh...

Well, Ruu, we...

No, it's alright. I'm so glad I got to know you! I mean, you even got me off Tsurumi Island to see the world outside!

I could never have imagined that I could do this in the past. You're both really awesome!

The clouds in the sky, the super special grass, and rocks up in the air. These were all Kapatcir's doing, right? She's so cool, too!

Even the air smells different. I mean, I'm not used to it, but it's amazing!

...

Well then, the weather's not the same anymore, but I've come to sing you a song, Kapatcir.

Well, that's finally over...

Phew, Paimon really broke a sweat back there!

Uh huh, and you were doing the fighting, eh?

Oh, come on, Paimon's palms were getting all clammy watching you fight!

Wow, I saw everything! That was so cool, Путешественник! So cool!

You truly were impressive. That was very eye-opening.

Hmm, Paimon's still concerned about something...

Why... would there be this sort of monster here...

We fought one before back on Amakumo Peak.

Yeah, Paimon remembers that one too, but...

We seem to be forgetting something important...

The "feather."

Ooh! That's right!

What's this gotta do with feathers?

So earlier, we took a commission from the Adventurers' Guild and went to Seirai Island to investigate...

...A talking cat?

Wow! A talking cat? Really?

Uh, that's... not the main point!

So while we were investigating Amakumo Peak, we defeated a monster just like this one, after which we got this special feather.

Oh, so that's where you got your Thunderbird feather, Путешественник...

That means that the Thunder Manifestations that appeared here and on Amakumo Peak must have something to do with the Thunderbird.

If Sumida were here, she'd say something like...

"This plot is getting too complicated."

Heh, funny.

You don't look like you found it funny, Kama.

No, no, I did find it quite amusing.

Still, Paimon thinks that we've got a good picture of what's going on now, eh, Путешественник?

Well, almost, but...

True, we should go confirm our suspicions anyway.

Ah, it's so beautiful...

If only I could have seen such sights together with everyone...

Ah, but I'm happy just to be able to do it with you two!

Still, the world beyond the fog is amazing! I never knew the sky was so high up or so large.

I wonder what the places Kama went to were like...

We can go see those places.

That's right! The outside world is a reeeally big place.

We've met lots of interesting and nice people along the way, too. You'll hit it off with them in no time!

There's loads and loads of awesome food, too! Sweet Madames, Almond Tofu, Sticky Honey Roasts...

Ooh! Sweet Madames sounds like they'll be great!

That's right, we've had a ton of those in our journey, haven't we, Путешественник?

Ooh, yeah! We also met a certain Tone-Deaf Bard during our journey. He loves music too.

Paimon's sure you two would be the best of friends. Maybe you'll even perform together in Mondstadt's city square!

And... And... We can take you on adventures! Путешественник's a real ace at that! We'll go to all sorts of places, like the super high-up Wangshu Inn...

Yup, I know, and I'd love to follow you all outside as well.

...

Thank you, Путешественник, Paimon.

It's all thanks to you that I was able to fulfill my promise with Kapatcir. And... I guess everyone doesn't look all weird anymore.

I'm sorry.

I thought that you'd broken the Perches, and I blamed you for that... Even though you're both good people.

It's alright! We've been on lots of adventures and got ourselves into a ton of misunderstandings. Don't take it to heart.

And even if you don't wanna travel with us, we've got friends who'll take care of you! We know a young lady your age in Mondstadt's Knights of Favonius...

So... Please leave Tsurumi Island with us, Ruu...

I... When we went to Seirai Island to sing for Kapatcir, I could feel that a piece of me was in that feather.

That's why I'd like you to take that feather of hers on your travels.

This way, I can travel with the two of you as well. We'll even bring Kapatcir with us, too!

We'll go see the outside world, and we'll hear what songs they have to sing.

But...

Paimon.

Yup, you don't have to worry about me!

It was great going outside, but it was real tiring, too...

I'd like to rest for a bit. You can go on ahead first!

Oh, that's right! Could you please thank Big Brother Kama for me?

We will. See you around.

Yup! Let's meet again.

...

We'll definitely meet again!

So this is the heart of Tsurumi Island...

I should bring Lady Sumida next time. I'm sure this sight would inspire her.

...You know what? This story is even more bizarre than the plot of "The Chronicles of the Sea of Fog (Working Title)."

Also, stop calling me "Lady" this and "Lady" that already. You're an important friend of mine.

Understood, Lady Sumida.

Oh, come on... Should I call you a pedant for the ages, or...

Hello there.

Oh my, oh my! It's the legendary Путешественник...

"And Paimon's the legendary Paimon!"

...

Huh, funny. Shouldn't she make some retort at this juncture? This feels like we're departing from her character profile somehow...

"Character profile"?

Basically, that's what we call a combination of "image, traits, and history." Characters must adhere to the behavior prescribed in their profiles, or they will seem, well, out of character.

S—Sorry...

So, what about Ruu...

Ruu says he's thankful to you.

Is that so? I see.

Wait, what happened? Why am I the only person who seems out of the loop here?

Ugh, never mind. Let's not stand around here. A change of scenery is in order, I think!

How about Kiminami Restaurant?

Sure. I'll pay. Consider this treat courtesy of a future contracted writer with Yae Publishing House and winner of the "This Novel is Amazing" grand prize!

Phew! I sure haven't sung in a long time. That was great!

I'm sure Kapatcir heard me, too...

I'm sure she did.

Let's head back, then.

I'd like to send this feather back to Kapatcir's home.

Well then, anything you want to eat? Don't be shy, now!

You too, Kama! As for me, I'll start with a Tri-Flavored Skewer...

Phew, Paimon's full. Feeling much better now, too!

Thank you, Miss Sumida!

It's no problem. I've been troubling you all this time, after all.

The commission has been successfully completed. Indeed, I'd say the results far surpass my expectations...

I'd only wanted to get one Maushiro at first to use as reference for my writing.

But thanks to your perseverance, I not only got that, but also the story of the Sea of Fog, and of the millennia-spanning wait of a young lad on Tsurumi Island.

Mm... If my writing was better, this story would win me the "This Novel Is Amazing!" grand prize for sure!

But Kama's also changed quite a bit... I'd say these are all far more important than the completion of "The Chronicles of the Sea of Fog (Working Title)."

We've also met some important friends...

We didn't have a chance to travel with Ruu, but like he said, we'll definitely meet again.

...

He'll keep his word.

Yup! Paimon's sure he will. After all, he waited for so long just to keep his other promise!

Well then, Miss Sumida, when will we get to read "The Chronicles of the Sea of Fog"?

Uh, well, this...

I've decided to stop writing it for now.

Wait, what!? But we worked so hard to...

Ah, no, it's not an issue with you. Please don't misunderstand!

I wish to go traveling next.

To gather more reference material?

I... I learned something very important during this commission.

In the years prior to this, I lived only to create and write.

I learned fishing from Kujirai to write about a character who fishes for a living. His character profile was that of a masterful warrior who secluded himself in a fishing village and lived a peaceful life there, until...

Ahem.

Oh, right. Sorry... I almost went off-topic again. So, in order to better describe parties conducting illicit activities under a fictional national lock-down, Kama and I created a smuggling network that bypassed the Outlander Affairs Agency.

...

Well, it was mostly Kama's doing. And we discarded that work due to a writing bottleneck, which eventually resulted in the collapse of that network.

...

I've always been like this. I stopped fishing because I stopped writing that fisherman character. I went to apprentice at the Grand Narukami Shrine because I wanted to write about a shrine maiden's work...

But I understand now that I cannot just live, learn, travel, and adventure for the sake of writing novels.

I must live, learn, travel, adventure, and extract stories from there from which I shall write novels.

Kama was not born as the last son of Tsurumi Island for the sake of a story. Nor did Ruu stay in the Sea of Fog for so many years to be featured in a tale...

And that's not why the two of you adventure and travel either, right? When I heard Miss Katheryne describe your adventures, I thought to myself...

That you're just like the main character Kino in "Kino's Travels" and her companion "Hermos." The only difference is that no one has written your story. You are the story itself.

A pair of outlanders who don't quite fit in anywhere, whose names are Путешественник and Paimon! They stride across many strange lands and meet all sorts of people. They are drawn into all kinds of wicked plots and all manner of cruel wars. And each one of their adventures shall coalesce into shining gold...

As Paimon has mentioned before, such a blurb would definitely suit you two.

As such, aside from asking you two to help me gather reference material, I also wanted to understand you more — so that I might find the "seeds of a story" in the future.

And I think I've found it. The seeds of a story are to be found in life and one's travels, and not in the character profiles, flowcharts, setting maps, and definitely not in things that you learn just to learn how to write them.

As such, I've decided to stop writing and start traveling.

Until the time comes when the "story" begins to sprout... And then, I'll...

...Have an easy win in the "This Novel Is Amazing!" competition and become a writer contracted by Yae Publishing House!

...

...

Kama, will you come with me?

We don't know where we're going, nor do we know when we'll return to Inazuma. We might even encounter many dangers. But that's exactly why I'd like you to stay by my side!

Of course, it's fine if you're not willing. I mean, everyone has their own lifestory to leadtell.

I don't mind...

No. That's not right... I'm more than willing. Let me come with you!

Kama's... really changed...

That's great! Then let's be off!

Eh!? So suddenly?

Well, a real journey is one that's full of pleasant surprises and little accidents, right?

This... might be a bit too surprising... But still, please take care of yourselves!

No worries! I'm sure we'll be alright no matter what happens so long as Kama's around.

Take care.

Thank you. Goodbye.

If we should meet again, then let's do so where the sunset meets the sea. Then, I'll see if your soul, which shines so clearly like a diamond, has had any dust laid upon it or not.

?

It's the famous closing lines of "The Vagabond Novice: Yamabuki Iro no Houroutan." Well then, Путешественник, Paimon, let's part ways here.

Huh, how strange. I've only been away for a while, but it feels like it's been ages...

I'm back, and so is Kapatcir.

Everything's better now, and it's all thanks to you two. I... I'm truly blessed to have had the chance to call you both my friends.

How I wish I could join you on your journey.

But... I'm really tired right now. I need to sleep.

So please go on ahead! I'll just be resting here for a while.

We'll meet again someday for sure!

Ah, it's so beautiful...

If only I could have seen such sights together with everyone...

Ah, but I'm happy just to be able to do it with you two!

The world beyond the fog is amazing! I never knew the sky was so high up or so large.

I wonder what the places Kama went to were like...

We can go see those places.

That's right! The outside world is a reeeally big place.

We've met lots of interesting and nice people along the way, too. You'll hit it off with them in no time!

There's loads and loads of awesome food, too! Sweet Madames, Almond Tofu, Sticky Honey Roasts...

Ooh! Sweet Madames sounds like they'll be great!

That's right, we've had a ton of those in our journey, haven't we, Путешественник?

Ooh, yeah! We also met a certain Tone-Deaf Bard during our journey. He loves music too.

Paimon's sure you two would be the best of friends. Maybe you'll even perform together in Mondstadt's city square!

And... And... We can take you on adventures! Путешественник's a real ace at that! We'll go to all sorts of places, like the super high-up Wangshu Inn...

There's also the Grand Narukami Shrine, which is way up high too, and has a big tree that looks like a kitsune! And we can go to Sangonomiya Shrine on Watatsumi Island. That place looks like something out of a dream...

Yup, I know, and I'd love to follow you all outside as well.

...

Thank you, Путешественник, Paimon.

It's all thanks to you that I was able to fulfill my promise with Kapatcir. And... I guess everyone doesn't look all weird anymore.

I'm sorry.

I thought that you'd broken the Perches, and I blamed you for that... Even though you're both good people.

It's alright! We've been on lots of adventures and got ourselves into a ton of misunderstandings. Don't take it to heart.

And even if you don't wanna travel with us, we've got friends who'll take care of you! We know a young lady your age in Mondstadt's Knights of Favonius...

So... Please leave Tsurumi Island with us, Ruu...

I... When we went to Seirai Island to sing for Kapatcir, I could feel that a piece of me was in that feather.

That's why I'd like you to take that feather of hers on your travels.

This way, I can travel with the two of you as well. We'll even bring Kapatcir with us, too!

We'll go see the outside world, and we'll hear what songs they have to sing.

But...!

Paimon.

Yup, you don't have to worry about me!

It was great going outside, but it was real tiring, too...

I'd like to rest for a bit. You can go on ahead first!

Oh, that's right! Could you please thank Big Brother Kama for me?

Okay. Goodbye!

Yup! Let's meet again.

...

We'll definitely meet again!

Путешественник, Paimon, didn't I tell you not to come here anymore...?

It's good to see that you're alright.

But this place is super dangerous! There's thunder and lightning everywhere, and if you get struck by lightning, you'll get hurt! And I don't know why, but it looks like the storm's getting scarier than before...

It must because you hurt that perch... Why did you come back... *sobs*

Ruu...

Kama...?

"I'm back."

Big Brother Kama... Is that really you?

Eh!? Wait, are you an... illusion too, Kama?

Oh. Lady Sumida told me to say this.

...

Come on, this isn't the time for tricks.

Oh. Sorry.

The Kama you knew led a full life after leaving Tsurumi Island. His greatest regret was not being able to help you.

I'm a descendant of his. Путешественник, Paimon, and I are here to help you.

Descendant... Are you his son, then?

I'm afraid you're quite a few generations off...

Wait, I don't get it. Descendants... Does that mean that Big Brother Kama is no longer around?

It's been a long time, you know...

...

What happened to him after he left?

I waited for so, so long, until Tsurumi Island started looking like this, but he and Big Sister Sayo never returned. I've been so worried...

Well, I do know a little about what happened to the Kama you knew. If you'd like to listen, I could tell you.

That'd be great!

...So many things happened in the outside world, huh...

I never knew that the world beyond the fog was so big, or that it had so many people...

The unchanging nature of Tsurumi Island is the abnormal thing here.

Yup, and that's why we're here to help!

Help...

But you destroyed the Perches and made Kapatcir angry...

If the ceremony goes smoothly and she accepts me and our sacrifice, then everything will be fine again...

That might not be what the Thunderbird wants...

But how would you know, Путешественник? You haven't met Kapatcir.

She hasn't come back in so long. She must be angry...

I can't say this for sure, but...

Mmhmm. Let's give it a try.

Huh. So the storm really doesn't reach this place.

But Paimon doesn't see Ruu anywhere either...

Ruu—

Where are you? We're here to help—

...Looks like nobody's home.

Alright.

Ahhhh—

No, no, not like that! We're looking for something more like, "Ruu, it's Kama, where are you"!

Ruu, it's Kama, where are you—

...

Still no response. Ohh, Paimon's getting worried...

Still, why is there no thunder or lightning here?

Well, since it was the Thunderbird who destroyed Tsurumi Island...

Oh, right! The "feather" from before!

Hmm, yeah, that's worth a try. Since Ruu said that it's one of the Thunderbird's feathers, we might get some reaction...

Ah, it flew away...

What happened? Paimon was worried sick, you know...

It seems that I was drawn into the Thunderbird's memories.

Eh? The Thunderbird... The same one that destroyed Tsurumi Island?

Hmm, if that's the case...

It's just like Lady Sumida said. The will of the Thunderbird will resurface.

In that case, the voice that we heard during the battle...

Was it a hallucination?

Nope, Paimon heard it too!

Hmm, Paimon's very curious now. It's almost like the Thunderbird was looking for someone...

Still, that feather sure did bring about some kinda reaction, huh?

Yes, I saw you take out a strange feather earlier. Where did you get that?

Well, this is how it went...

Huh. So the feathers of the Thunderbird were the basis for the Maushiro, and can summon spirits...

I was told these legends by my grandfather as he taught me how to make those Maushiro.

Ooh, so you can make 'em, huh! Then couldn't you just have made one for Lady... Err, Sumida?

Well, because Lady Sumida did not ask. But if I should have the chance to help her in the future, I will mention this matter.

Still, what shall we do next? The direction in which the feather flew away doesn't quite match up with Oina Beach or Autake Plains...

Tsurumi Island is in a lot of danger.

Yes, and we are on borrowed time as well. This will all start again once the thunder stops.

Well, let's forget about the feather's whereabouts for now. We've gotta get to the other spots where there's "no thunder" and look for Ruu there!

Alright then. Next stop, Oina Beach!

As long as we can talk to him, there's hope!

Huh, what's this? Looks like a feather...

(Touch the feather)

Whoa, be careful...

...Путешественник! Hey, Путешественник!

What happened?

That was close. You were just frozen to the spot back there...

This feather's just like the last one.

(Touch the feather)

Don't worry, Paimon will watch over you...

Ruu—

We've chased the monsters away—

Ah, Путешественник, you're back!

This one flew away too.

It doesn't look like Ruu's here either...

The feather's target seems to have been the mountain at the center of the island.

Kama, do you know anything about that mountain?

Mt. Kanna? It was where the Thunderbird reposed.

That place is in fact a hollow cavern from which the Thunderbird would take off into the skies like a violet meteor that could be seen even through the fog.

It was said by the people of Tsurumi Island that the Thunderbird dispersed that mysterious fog to protect the island...

Eh? So you're saying...

(You relate the memories that came to you when you touched the feather.)

...That this fog wasn't created by the Thunderbird?

Huh. Perhaps our ancestors were wrong.

Well, that's understandable, considering that you can barely see the sun or the moon from down here. Maybe the Thunderbird's light was the only light they'd ever see.

Speaking of your ancestors...

Ah, that's right. We saw someone who looked like an ancient version of you, Kama.

Here's what went down...

(You talk about "Sayo" and "Kama" from earlier.)

...And that's what happened. They seemed to be pretty friendly with Ruu.

Hmm. That may truly have been my ancestor.

So, did the ancient Kama meet Sayo after leaving Tsurumi Island?

The records don't say anything about that.

Huh...

Well, where shall we go next?

We'll keep looking for Ruu, of course! Let's see where the next spot is...

The Autake Plains, I think.

Yeah! We've been there before, too!

Well then, let's go!

Curious tunes, tiny human. Afraid not of thunder and storms?

Eh...? Is this... the first time I met Kapatcir?

The adults in the village all said that I can bring peace to thunder and storms.

Huh, this memory is clearer than before... Is that because Ruu is here?

I was too embarrassed to sing in the village, so I came here to practice!

Do you like it? Hehe...

Before you humans learned to make fire, the thundering storm had already swept across the ocean alongside me. With but a flap of my wings, purple lightning will tear through the clouds like serpents. My cry shakes the ocean depths and heart of the earth.

I have heard the songs of the trees, the strains of the cloud and rain, and the melodies sung by the blue flying dragon of the far north. I have heard every trembling chorus of fox and rabbit and worm as I descended upon the land.

But your song is special. It is different from that of the boar, the fish, and the Wen Kamuy.

You're speaking all funny. I don't get it...

But I guess you like my song, then?

I do not know. I only know that I have never heard it before.

Well, then I shall sing you another tune — when you come again with thunder and rain!

Your lives are fragile and puny. Perhaps you shall already have turned to dust before I remember this matter. But if you have not, then you shall sing for me again.

Everything you say is so complicated...

Oh, yes! My name's Ruu. What's yours? Everyone in the village calls you "Great Thunderbird," but you must have a name, right?

A name?

Well, that is... What should I call you? I mean, if I want to sing for you again, and I call out to you, what shall I call out?

I do not know. She gave me a name long ago, but I have forgotten it. I do not need such things, nor have any dared to summon me thusly—

Well, how about this then? Dad... I mean, Grandpa Mata taught me a few new words in the Ishine Script today. Let me try using them to give you a name!

Hmm... Oh! Oh, this should do!

And so I gave her the name Kanna Kapatcir...

Let's name you "Kanna KapatcirGreat Eagle of the Storm," then!

...Ridiculous. Still, it matters not to me.

Well, it's decided, then! I need to get back now, or the adults will worry. I'll definitely sing for you again!

Hah. Perhaps I shall forget you immediately, "Ruu."

Well, I won't forget! See you!

I can leave now, woohoo!

Ah, it flew away...

It flew off to Mt. Kanna...

Are those... Kapatcir's memories?

Well, you did give her a name, after all.

She also remembered my promise to sing for her again.

But... But if that's the case, why did everyone become like this? Why did the village become like this?

Did we anger Kapatcir by not performing the ceremony correctly?

I don't think that this was what the Thunderbird was mad about...

I see. I understand now, more or less.

Well then, I suppose our next stop is Mt. Kanna.

But that's sacred ground. We can't set foot there...

And Путешественник, Paimon, you've already come around three times, and yet things haven't gotten better...

Well, you're the one who talked about "The Rule of Three."

"Good omens must occur three times for good fortune to truly descend."

And "You must forge past obstacles three times to succeed on the fourth."

...You know what? Paimon still thinks this should be called the "Rule of Four" instead!

*sigh* Maybe you're right, Paimon...

True. You've already met with three difficulties, Путешественник, Paimon.

That we have.

...

Alright. I believe you.

And since Kama... I mean, Kama's descendant has also returned, this must mean that good things are in store for us...

But if nothing good happens, I'll be very, very mad, you hear?

Of course. Let's go, then.

...Since you have allowed this one and only song to flow in blood into this earth...

Then until I, Kanna KapatcirGreat Eagle of the Storm, hear that human... "Ruu"'s song once more, may these lands fall under an eternal catastrophe...

So that's what happened.

Huh, so that's what happened. And here I thought...