arrow_back Genshin Impact Quests 
Aranyaka: Part I
Woodland Encounter
The woman who goes by the name of Rana seems to be a Forest Watcher of Sumeru. Accept her invitation and travel to Vimara Village.
Rana:
When you're ready, I'll take you to Vimara Village. It's smooth sailing from there to either Sumeru City or Port Ormos.
Rana:
I'm a Forest Watcher, after all. Escorting travelers is my job.
Rana:
Okay, follow me!
Rana:
It's only been a few days and a new Withering Zone has popped up already. So close to the main road, too...
Paimon:
Ah, Withering Zone again...
Rana:
Traveler and Tighnari disposed of a Withering Zone before? I won't go into how dangerous it is, then.
Rana:
Regardless, lemme mark down the location and radius of effect for now. After I take you to Vimara Village, I'll go to Gandharva Ville and bring Tighnari over to help.
Paimon:
No need, Rana, just leave it to us.
Rana:
No way! The Withering Zone is lethal, even veteran Forest Watchers wouldn't approach it unless absolutely necessary.
Paimon:
Traveler can manipulate the elements, and it should somewhat stave off the Withering's effects!
Rana:
Eh? Now that I think about it, you did show such ability when fending off the Fungi...
Rana:
But still, you shouldn't do that. We can't have you injured by the Withering after coming all this way.
Paimon:
Don't worry, Rana! Traveler has proven to be very reliable in the many encounters throughout our journey.
Traveler:
Leave it to me. It's a piece of cake.
Rana:
*sigh* All right, I understand. I'll wait here. If it's too much to handle, get out of there or call for help, and I'll be there.
Paimon:
Traveler is impressive, right?
Rana:
You're amazing! Incredibly amazing!
Paimon:
You're getting too excited, Rana.
Rana:
Pardon me... Ahem, Traveler... Uh, Mr....
Traveler:
You don't have to be so formal...
Rana:
Okay... So, I wonder if you guys are interested in joining us? I can vouch for you both.
Rana:
It would be great to get powerful, dedicated people like Traveler and Paimon on our side!
Rana:
With you guys, we can better control the spread of The Withering... Sure, you're probably not familiar with the woods, but that shouldn't be too much of a problem...
Traveler:
Wait...
Paimon:
Oh, yeah, speaking of the forest, Paimon's got a question...
Paimon:
Do you remember the wondrous creatures we saw before?
Rana:
Wondrous creatures...?
You quickly describe the wondrous creatures you met previously.
Rana:
Oh, they sound like the mythical Aranara! Small, round, plantlike fairies. They are denizens of the woods and guardians of trees.
Rana:
But we generally dismiss them as just a tale. You sure those weren't just some Shroomboars you saw, Traveler?
Paimon:
Shroomboars?
Rana:
Yeah, that's an animal you'll see only in the forests of Sumeru! They are round, green beasts that live in the forest. We'd use them to find precious mushrooms.
Traveler:
Really?
Rana:
Anyway, in all my years in the woods, I've never seen an Aranara.
Rana:
However, you can ask the kids after you get to Vimara Village. They seem to be very into the legend of Aranara.
Rana:
Although children always try to hide their thoughts from adults, you can read their minds like a book.
Traveler:
Just like Paimon.
Paimon:
Hey, that's because we're buddies and know each other very well!
Iosaphat:
It's you! Welcome. Come over for a meal with Rana and the cubs if you get a chance. Got a nice catch today.
Rana:
Allow me to introduce these two impressive travelers who have helped me a lot. And this here is Alphonso, just about the most dependable person in Vimara Village!
Alphonso:
You flatter me, Rana. Anyway, nice to meet you two, and thanks for looking after Rana.
Paimon:
You don't look like a local, Alphonso. Are you a traveler, too?
Alphonso:
Hahaha, you're an experienced traveler indeed, saw right through me at a glance.
Alphonso:
I came as an apprentice from Fontaine, but ended up staying because I really like it here.
Rana:
And it's been years since! Alphonso is practically one of us now!
Rana:
Anyway, how are the kids? They're not running around, are they? I mean, it's not a good time right now...
Alphonso:
They're in the village, waiting for you to return. After Kavus came back...
Alphonso:
Is it really okay to talk about that in front of our guests? Maybe we should talk about it later...
Paimon:
Is it something important? We can come back later...
Rana:
Don't worry. They saved my life, after all!
Rana:
Time is life to me. You saved me time, so you saved my life!
Rana:
Anyway, some of the children in Vimara Village have gone missing recently.
Traveler:
That warrants much more than just an "Anyway"!
Paimon:
This is a very serious problem! Have you notified the sheriff in Sumeru City yet? Is there anything we can help with?
Rana:
Wait, wait, just listen to me! The missing children always came back in a few days, though they don't remember what happened.
Alphonso:
I'd round up a search party every time. Sometimes, we'd run into wild animals, sometimes a Withering Zone, other times, outsiders obviously too tough for us to handle.
Alphonso:
However, we could never find the kids since the woods are simply too big to search, even for Rana.
Rana:
Yeah, but in the end they would suddenly return when no one was paying attention, and couldn't recall anything when asked.
Traveler:
Paimon does that, too.
Rana:
Whoa, so it's normal for kids?
Paimon:
Hey, quit it, you two!
Rana:
Hahahaha! Sorry to digress.
Traveler:
They remembered nothing at all?
Alphonso:
I'm not sure. I think they just don't want to tell us "adults."
Alphonso:
*sigh* Even though I'm only a few years older than them.
Paimon:
Still, that's pretty concerning.
Rana:
Right, so I've been patrolling nearby recently, looking out for anything unusual. That's also why I just spoke to Amadhiah about forming a nightwatch.
Rana:
I also asked Alphonso to keep an eye on the kids...
Alphonso:
Sorry.
Rana:
It's okay. I'd be more concerned if they actually stay put!
Rana:
I'm going to have a word with Iosaphat later. It's his job to watch after Kavus and Sudabeh!
Alphonso:
You ought to take it easy for a while here, Rana. You're the only one who can get through to the kids.
Alphonso:
It's dangerous outside lately. Withering Zone aside, you got the Fatui from Snezhnaya with their armed mercenaries operating in the forest. If something goes wrong...
Traveler:
Fatui?
Rana:
I know, I'll be careful, but I should be on the ball because it is dangerous!
Alphonso:
But even if you could deal with the wild animals, the Fatui are more than you can handle, Rana.
Paimon:
It sounds like Alphonso knows the Fatui very well.
Alphonso:
Oh, I learned about them from the travelers shuttling between Sumeru City and Port Ormos.
Iotham:
It's Rana! Rana is back! With Alphonso too!
Rana:
Hee, here comes trouble!
Alphonso:
Anyway, think it over, Rana.
Iotham:
I picked a bunch of Starshrooms for you, Rana!
Rana:
Iotham, didn't you promise me to never wander outside the village? The Rishboland Raja will come and get you if you don't behave!
Iotham:
I'm big now and I'm not scared of anything!
Kavus:
Did you catch the Gator Raja this time, Rana?
Sudabeh:
I want to hear some tales from the woods, Rana!
Rana:
Well, I didn't see the Gator Raja this time, but I brought you a golden lion and a silver...
Rana:
Silver what, though...?
Traveler:
Another lion?
Paimon:
Aroo! Hehe, our colors match pretty well.
Iotham:
Silver Dusk Bird!
Kavus:
Silver Bass!
Sudabeh:
Super Silver Specter!
Paimon:
???
Traveler:
Calm down, Paimon.
Alphonso:
All right, stop picking on them. Traveler and Paimon are my friends.
Paimon:
*exhale* Paimon's not going to get mad at kids... Regardless, you know a lot of animals!
Iotham:
That's right! Rana would tell us stories every time she's back. She told us about a huge, huge gator last time, and the Sumpter Beastlord!
Sudabeh:
And the Rishboland Raja that couldn't be caught!
Rana:
That's right, and it will come and get you if you don't behave!
Children:
Oh no!
Paimon:
(Everyone in the village sure seems to get along!)
Traveler:
(If only it could always be like this...)
Rana:
Anyway, my friends here came from a place far far away! Why don't we let them tell a story today?
Traveler:
Sure, I guess...
Paimon:
Sure, our trip to Sumeru has been a very eventful one!
Kavus:
Yay! Let's all go to Rana's house!
Iotham:
The last one there is a Specter!
Alphonso:
Be careful going over the bridge, don't fall into the water!
Rana:
Let's go!
Amadhiah:
Ah, friends of Rana, sorry about before. I must apologize for my aging eyes.
Amadhiah:
You mean the round little plantlike fairies? I think I saw them before, but when and what was it...?
Traveler:
Are they called Aranara?
Amadhiah:
Aranara... Probably. I might have heard stories before, but I'm too old to remember for sure.
Amadhiah:
The forests of Sumeru are very big, teeming with countless wondrous creatures. But one won't miss what they're destined to find.
Amadhiah:
However, if I was destined, I shouldn't have forgotten about them, either. So when was it...?
Paimon:
These kids ran faster than birds could fly...
Rana:
You guys are getting good at running. It's going to worry me sick if you run away someday.
Iotham:
We won't run if Rana's here!
Sudabeh:
I'm going to marry Rana when I grow up!
Kavus:
Wait, didn't you promise to marry me? Liar!
Rana:
Hahaha, we'll sort this out later! You'll meet more people when you grow up, people more impressive and better than me.
Rana:
For instance, Mr. Blond here is way mightier than me, and has met many great people along their journey from far away, right?
Kavus:
Have you been traveling a long time?
Sudabeh:
Rana said you'd tell us stories!
Traveler:
Sure, I guess...
Rana:
You got the tiger cubs, then. I have a meeting to go to. You kids be good to him and stay put till I come back.
Children:
Okay!
Paimon:
All right, on to the stories... You're Iotham, right? What story would you like to hear?
Iotham:
Stories about dragons! Alphonso said they are ancient and very powerful!
Kavus:
Sea monsters! I heard there's a lot of big monsters in the sea!
Sudabeh:
I want stories about a distinguished lady who is smart and powerful!
Traveler:
This girl...
Sudabeh:
I want to be like Rana when I grow up, so I want to hear stories like that!
Paimon:
They all want different stories...
Paimon:
Hey... Isn't there someone that knows stories of the eight-headed hydras, silver-haired banshees, and the wicked abyss dragon? Paimon thinks everyone would be happy if that person was here.
Paimon:
How about this, we know a lot of stories, and we'll tell them all!
Traveler:
(We can ask them about the mysterious creatures while at it.)
Paimon:
(True, these kids might know things adults don't, and about how they went missing...)
Paimon:
As a trade, Iotham, Kavus, and Sudabeh, you'll tell us what you know too.
Children:
Sure!
Iotham:
I want dragon stories! Alphonso told me they exist in the world! He said a huge, evil dragon lives in a place called Mondstadt!
Paimon:
Yeah, we know about that!
Iotham:
So what is that dragon like? Alphonso said it is terrifying and pillages Mondstadt!
Paimon:
Hmm... How should Paimon put it?
Traveler:
"This is a tale of friends resolving their misunderstanding..."
Paimon:
Ahem, here it goes: A long, long time ago, in a kingdom faraway, a big dragon with huge wings and sharp fangs laid in deep slumber.
"When the dragon woke up, it saw the world had changed."
"Growl!" The dragon announced. "I'm mad now and I'm going to wreck your little houses and keeps!"
"The dragon wasn't actually bad but was tricked by an evil sorcerer into thinking everyone's bad."
"Then one day, two travelers arrived..."
Paimon tells the story of the azure-blue dragon in a way that really engages the kids.
Paimon:
...So, with everyone's help, the travelers removed the curse from the dragon and helped it find its friend.
Iotham:
Wow, I had thought dragons were terrible and would eat Sumpter Beasts and people!
Iotham:
How big is the dragon, though? Big like a house?
Traveler:
Big enough to swallow Paimon in one bite.
Iotham:
If Paimon is the white lady? I guess the dragon isn't that big, after all.
Paimon:
Hey, Paimon might be short, but she's got a big brain!
Traveler:
And a big appetite too.
Paimon:
Hmph, Paimon can swallow the whole Vimara Village in one bite, just like the dragon!
Iotham:
Wow! If that's true, we can fly around inside a dragon's belly!
Iotham:
When it gets hot, we'll go to the Snezhnaya that Alphonso talked about, where it snows! When it's rainy season, we'll go to Valuka, where Granny Jehiet is from!
Paimon:
Valuka?
Iotham:
Oh, that's a desert! Anyway, when I grow up, I want to travel everywhere like you!
Paimon:
That's right! Travel and make friends. Just like how we traveled and got to know you! Can we ask you a few questions, Iotham?
Traveler:
Ask about the mysterious creatures in the forest.
Paimon:
Rana told us they could be Aranara. Have you heard anything about them, Iotham?
Iotham:
Uh, about that...
Iotham:
No, I heard nothing about Aranara.
Traveler:
They look like cabbages.
Iotham:
On second thought, yeah, they do! Hahaha!
Paimon:
Eh? So you've seen Aranara before?
Iotham:
Actually, I've heard about them in Granny Jehiet's stories!
Traveler:
Can we ask Granny Jehiet?
Iotham:
No...
Paimon:
All right, we'll drop it. Rana and others are very worried about you kids, Iotham. Have you gotten lost in the woods recently?
Iotham:
No, I know the woods very well. There's no way I can get lost!
Iotham:
But Sudabeh and Kavus did. Everyone was worried, but not me, because I know Arana would take them home.
Paimon:
Arana? Who's that?
Iotham:
Uh, I mean Rana! Rana would find them and take them home!
Paimon:
(That's suspicious, but Paimon doesn't think we can find out more...)
Paimon:
Let's change the topic! Why are you interested in dragon stories, Iotham?
Iotham:
I want to be great like a dragon, then I can help Rana and Alphonso. They work very hard. It always takes a long time for Rana to patrol the woods.
Iotham:
Alphonso goes out there when no one's looking too. I can help them as soon as I grow up, so they can spend more time in the village.
Paimon:
Paimon gets it! You're a great kid, Iotham!
Rana:
I'm back, Grandpa Amadhiah!
Amadhiah:
Rana! You know, the job of a Forest Watcher is important, but you should come around more often.
Rana:
Yeah, I know. I patrol the forest so that those "tiger cubs" can hang out in the woods safely. It was just a mess right now.
Paimon:
There are tigers in Vimara Village?
Amadhiah:
"Tiger cubs" refers to Iotham and his friends. By the way, your voice... I don't think I've ever met you. Do we have visitors?
Rana:
Oh, yes, Grandpa Amadhiah. These two are...
Rana gives Amadhiah a brief rundown.
Amadhiah:
Ah, I see. Welcome to Vimara Village, and thanks for helping Rana out.
Rana:
I plan to form a nightwatch, getting Alphonso, Bahram, and Aurelius to safeguard the perimeter as a group.
Amadhiah:
That's a great plan. It's for the good of the children, after all.
Traveler:
Has something happened in Vimara Village lately?
Paimon:
Oh? Could it be related to the round plantlike creatures we saw before?
Amadhiah:
What are you talking about? That sounded like a cabbage from your description.
Rana:
It's okay. We're just a little uneasy from some recent events.
Amadhiah:
I've spent my whole life in Vimara Village and never saw anything like this. *sigh*
Amadhiah:
I won't bore you with my stories. Please watch over Rana. She's always been a troublemaker since she was little.
Amadhiah:
She got lost in the woods once when she was seven or eight, for a couple of days...
Rana:
Hey now, Grandpa Amadhiah!
Amadhiah:
Fine, fine. You be a good host now, Rana. Don't let our guests down.
Rana:
For sure!
Rana:
It's only been a few days and a new Withering Zone has popped up already. So close to the main road, too...
Traveler:
Withering Zone?
Rana:
Oh, that's a "disaster" unique to Sumeru. It's a force that emerges in an area and kills all living things within.
Paimon:
It's true, all of the plants died.
Rana:
Yeah. Tighnari would be able to eliminate it if he was around. But for someone like me, who doesn't have a Vision and cannot control the elements, it's very dangerous to go into a Withering Zone.
Rana:
Regardless, lemme mark down the location and radius of effect for now. After I take you to Vimara Village, I'll go to Gandharva Ville and bring Tighnari over to help.
Paimon:
But can't you control the elements? What was it? Oh yeah, "Prepare to be blown away!"
Paimon:
Since you can control the elements, you should be able to help!
Rana:
Eh? Now that I think about it, you did show such ability when fending off the Fungi...
Rana:
But we still shouldn't try. Withering Zones are lethal, and even veteran Forest Watchers wouldn't approach one unless absolutely necessary.
Paimon:
That might be the case, but Traveler has proven to be very reliable in the many encounters throughout our journey.
Traveler:
Leave it to me. It's a piece of cake.
Rana:
*sigh* All right, I understand. I'll wait here. If it's too much to handle, get out of there or call for help, and I'll be there.
Kavus:
Sea monsters! I heard there's a lot of big and peculiar monsters in the sea!
Kavus:
Like the fish that's as large as an island, or the squid as long as a river, and the story about the puppet and the whale! Also, the turtle carrying an elephant on its back!
Paimon:
You've heard a lot of stories! Why the interest in sea monsters?
Kavus:
When I grow up, I want to be a sailor, going on seven voyages and discovering uncharted islands and lands! That's why I want to learn about sea monsters. This way, I can defeat them one day!
Kavus:
Wow! That's so cool! Did they find any treasure? Any tales of adventure?
Paimon:
Not sure, but Paimon does have a sea-monster story.
Paimon:
Ahem. Once upon a time, there was a sea serpent with many heads living in the ocean! It was taller than a mountain when it stretched out its neck...
"The serpent didn't behave, so a god trapped it on the sea floor under rocks to prevent it from making waves and destroying the harbor."
"After a long while, the serpent woke up and griped, 'Curse you, despicable god!'"
"'I'll wash all your houses and treasures out to the sea and make them mine! Roar!'"
"Then it rose up to higher than the mountains and caused a tidal wave..."
Paimon tells the story of the people in the flying castle fighting the sea hydra together in a way that really engages the kids.
Paimon:
And that was how everybody worked together to defeat the serpent and protect the city!
Kavus:
So the serpent has been defeated? What a shame, I wanted to beat it myself when I grew up!
Traveler:
That's the spirit!
Kavus:
Of course! I'm older than Iotham and Sudar, I have to be stronger than them so I can protect them.
Kavus:
I promised to tell you what I know after hearing your story. So, what would you like to know?
Traveler:
About the mysterious creatures in the woods...
Kavus:
Oh, there's a lot of them in the forest! Like the legendary Sumpter Beastlord — it isn't like any ordinary Sumpter Beast and will attack intruders!
Kavus:
And the Rishboland Raja that snatches bad children away! But I'm old enough to know Rana made that up to scare the kids.
Paimon:
They all sound interesting, but we'd like to know about the round, plantlike fairies called Aranara. Do you know about them?
Kavus:
Oh, Aranara...
Kavus:
Never heard of them, but I know about the Gator Raja! It's a very, very big gator in the woods that has lived for a long, long time and is very, very cunning. There was this one time...
Paimon:
(That didn't sound convincing...)
Traveler:
(Never mind...)
Paimon:
Wow, Paimon can't believe there's a gator like that! Do you go into the woods often, Kavus?
Kavus:
Yeah, I used to, but not lately, since I got lost in there once. At least that's what the adults said.
Traveler:
"That's what the adults said?"
Kavus:
Because I don't remember anything. I went into the forest to see my friend and share stories about my sister, then... I just can't remember what happened.
Kavus:
When I came to my senses, I was back in the village already. My father held me tightly while everyone was around me, asking me if I was hurt, hungry, or thirsty. Then they wouldn't let me go there again.
Traveler:
You should listen and not go there.
Paimon:
Mm... But you have a friend in the forest? Doesn't everyone live in the village?
Kavus:
Yeah, a friend to everyone, lives in the forest. Taught us many things, like what wild fruits we shouldn't eat, and which trees would let us climb on them.
Paimon:
Mm-hmm, so what is that friend like?
Kavus:
Well...
Kavus:
I can't tell you. I'm sorry. Although we're friends, I made a pact with Sudabeh and Iotham.
Paimon:
(Paimon guesses it's a secret between the kids...)
Traveler:
(I think we just hit a dead end.)
Paimon:
Okay, we understand. Now, be a good boy and don't play outside the village!
Kavus:
Of course! I'll be a good big brother to Sudabeh and Iotham!
Paimon:
What story would you like to hear, Sudabeh?
Sudabeh:
Any story will do! But I'd like it to have a distinguished lady who is smart and powerful. Well, she doesn't have to be a distinguished lady, but the character's got to be determined and loving.
Sudabeh:
Like Princess Cinnamon who left her palace with a tiger in the fairytale!
Traveler:
That's a lot of demands...
Paimon:
Well, Paimon knows several ladies who fit that description, but somehow they all have connections to Electro...
Sudabeh:
Electro is good. It makes plants stronger and bear more fruit.
Paimon:
You know a lot, Sudabeh! So, where should Paimon start...
Paimon:
Paimon can go with the story of Miss Lisa, but Paimon'd prefer another one...
Paimon:
Ahem. In a place far away, on the other side of the ocean, there was a lady general and a shrine maiden.
Paimon:
Oh yeah, making the shrine maiden a priestess, and the general a queen should help you understand it better.
Sudabeh:
Are they both distinguished ladies?
Paimon:
Yeah, they both are!
"Once upon a time, in a kingdom far away, there was a very beautiful and powerful queen. But war came, and although the queen won, she also lost many friends."
"She cried and cried, '*sob* I'm going to make a robot and have it work for me. Then I shall live alone in the palace forever and not make any more friends so I won't lose them!'"
"'Beep. Copy that. Working now,' replied the robot, who then began running the kingdom for the queen. Then some bad guys started to scheme!"
Sudabeh:
Where does the priestess come in?
"Ahem. The queen had a pretty and powerful priestess friend, who couldn't bear to see the queen go on this way."
"That was when a traveler came to the kingdom. He and his companion were both smart and brave."
"So the priestess thought, 'Ack-ack-ack! They are agile and resilient. If they're willing to help...'"
Paimon tells the story of the queen and the priestess (both of whom are distinguished ladies) in a way that really engages the kids.
Paimon:
...In the end, the lonely robot was still working hard, but that's another story.
Sudabeh:
Everyone was so awesome! Even though that traveler wasn't a distinguished lady, he was still strong. That's what I want to be when I grow up.
Paimon:
Paimon's sure you can do it! But if you don't behave and get lost out there, then none of that will happen!
Traveler:
Very smooth of you, Paimon.
Sudabeh:
Yes, I'll behave and won't wander outside.
Traveler:
What happened when you got lost before?
Sudabeh:
I don't remember. I just went into the woods to gather herbs.
Paimon:
Herbs?
Sudabeh:
Yeah. Alphonso said there's a herb to improve grandpa's eyesight. He has trouble seeing things lately and can't even see people coming his way. So I wanted to help grandpa.
Traveler:
Did Alphonso send you?
Sudabeh:
No. He warned me not to wander into the forest too, but I wanted to help, so I sneaked off. Then I don't remember the rest.
Paimon:
Nothing at all?
Sudabeh:
Nothing. When I came round, I was already home. My brother said everyone was worried. I know what I did was wrong and will never sneak off into the woods again.
Paimon:
That's right, good girl. Speaking of the forest...
Traveler:
About the mysterious creatures in the woods...
Sudabeh:
I don't know anything about them!
Paimon:
Whoa, that was fast!
Sudabeh:
What do you mean by "mysterious"? If I know what they are, they're not mysterious. If I don't, I wouldn't be able to tell you. Sorry...
Paimon:
That actually makes a lot of sense... But what Paimon wanted to ask about is round, plantlike fairies...
Sudabeh:
Round and plantlike... Oh!
Paimon:
Did that ring a bell, Sudabeh?
Sudabeh:
Uh, no! That sounds mysterious!
Paimon:
Hmm... That's a shame, because Rana said she would love to know what an Aranara is!
Sudabeh:
Oh, she wants to know too? Then...
Paimon:
She does! Also, didn't the priestess in the story say, "Ack-ack-ack! Don't be a tantrum-throwing child who refuses to talk to others!"
Traveler:
"Ack-ack-ack!"
Sudabeh:
Okay... The priestess and the queen are really great friends.
Sudabeh:
But like how they trust each other, I think Rana would understand why I can't say it.
Sudabeh:
When I'm old enough to understand a lot more, I'll tell Rana and you two. But no, not now.
Traveler:
Well, I hope you can grow up healthy and happy.
Sudabeh:
Thanks!
Paimon:
Alright, then, we won't ask more questions. Just be a good girl and don't wander around.
Sudabeh:
Mm-hmm! Thank you for the story, I love it very much. I'm going to be smart, pretty, and strong just like the priestess!
Sudabeh:
Then I'll marry Rana!
Paimon:
*sigh* It seems they know about the mysterious creatures but just don't want to tell us...
Paimon:
Come on, they're kids, not villains! Just treat it as a secret they don't want the adults to know.
Paimon:
We're staying in Sumeru for a while and will have time to look into it.
Rana:
I'm back! How did it go? Was it fun?
Iotham:
It was fun! They told us a story. Dragons actually don't eat people, Rana!
Rana:
Oh yeah? That's good to hear. I was worried a dragon might fly over here and eat you all some day!
Children:
Oh no!
Paimon:
Storytelling is kinda fun!
Traveler:
I think so too.
Rana:
Okay, you should go home now. It's about time to eat. Iosaphat said he caught good stuff in the water today!
Kavus:
Come with us, Rana! And both of you too!
Rana:
We've got business to tend to, but thanks for the invite.
Sudabeh:
I want to eat with Rana...
Rana:
I'll be there next time! Come on, you've got to go now or Iosaphat is going to finish it all by himself!
Children:
Okay! Bye, Rana, bye, you two!
Rana:
Stick around for a minute, Iotham. I want to talk to you.
Rana:
I'm concerned about you. The forest hasn't been the same lately. The animals are getting aggressive and more Fungi have popped up. Same with the Withering Zones, which keep appearing.
Rana:
Don't go picking mushrooms anymore, okay, Iotham?
Iotham:
Don't worry, I know where's safe and not safe. What's more, Starshrooms are tasty, and they give you the energy to keep working hard.
Rana:
No, Granny Jehiet and I are both worried. Promise me that you won't run around out there before I figure out what's going on.
Iotham:
Okay...
Rana:
That's a good boy, Iotham. You'll be great when you grow up. All right, go eat with Kavus and others.
Iotham:
Got it.
Rana:
I hope they'll grow up safe and sound.
Rana:
What do you think about these kids, Traveler?
Traveler:
I've seen worse.
Rana:
Yeah, I understand. Regardless, I hope they'll grow up safe and sound.
Rana:
My patrol is actually not done yet. I've still got to check out the west, and...
Rana:
And I have a favor to ask. Traveler and Paimon, would you mind coming with me?
Paimon:
Eh? Why?
Rana:
I spotted some Withering Zones there with no one to check them. I'm very worried about kids wandering into one. Traveler, now that you're here, will you give me a hand with that?
Rana:
Please, though I have nothing to repay you with...
Traveler:
I'll take that nice axe of yours.
Paimon:
Hey! He is only joking. We don't need payment, right, Traveler?
Rana:
So you will help? I really appreciate it! I don't know how I can make it up to you. You've done so much for me...
Paimon:
Well, we're not going to ignore those in need.
Rana:
Mm! Let's go, then!
Iotham:
So dragons don't eat people or Sumpter Beasts! I have to let Alphonso know next time.
Kavus:
When I grow up, I want to be a great sailor like Sinbadacus!
Sudabeh:
When I grow up, I want to be strong, smart, very pretty, and take Rana as my bride.
Alphonso:
The mission... I don't want to do it... What should I do? If the kids... Rana...
Traveler:
(Let's leave quietly.)
Jehiet:
Hey, it's the visitor Rana brought. Welcome.
Jehiet:
We don't have much in the village except a quiet life, so put your feet up and relax.
Bahram:
Welcome. The kids are excited to see visitors too.
Alphonso:
Welcome to Vimara Village, Traveler. Everyone is family here. If you stay, Iotham and his friends will treat you like a real brother.
Traveler:
How do you know my name?
Alphonso:
Rana probably mentioned it. Anyway, hope you'll enjoy your time in Vimara Village.
Rana:
Come on, Traveler, let's go whenever you are ready!
Rana:
Sure! It's not far to the west.
Rana:
The best thing about my house is that I can sneak out of it without anyone noticing. That's how I've been running off all the time since I was a kid.
Rana:
Alright, back to business. Traveler, let's go whenever you are ready!
Rana:
Sure! It's not far to the west.
Rana:
Come on, Traveler, let's go whenever you are ready!
Rana:
Sure! It's not far to the west.
Rana:
Traveler, I'll wait here. If it's too much to handle, get out of there or call for help, and I'll be there.
You and Paimon put in a good amount of hard work to sort your stories into a version that the children might find interesting. Thankfully, they like your stories. Although they don't seem to have told the truth about the mysterious creatures, this isn't the time to go into detail. Now, go with Rana to clear out some Withering Zones. You're doing this so the children of Vimara Village can play safely, after all.
Rana:
Whew, it's nice to have the chance to do something. This should help with our problem a little.
Rana:
Besides, watching you fight made me realize that I still have a lot to learn, Traveler! Like footwork... and timing too...
Rana:
An experienced traveler like you is just... absolutely amazing!
Rana:
Thank you so much, really. That reminds me, how's your condition, Traveler? After taking care of so many Withering Zones, do you feel dizzy or nauseous or anything?
Traveler:
Nothing I can't handle.
Rana:
Here we are.
Paimon:
What's that round thing at the edge, the thing that looks like a small cabin?
Rana:
Oh, that... I'm not sure where it came from, but you see them all the time in the forests of Sumeru. Maybe it's some kind of ruin!
Rana:
Strange, since you've asked, I seem to have heard about this kind of house and its resident. Who was it again... It wasn't that researcher who's in Satyavada Life...
Rana:
Oh, never mind! Traveler, Paimon, wait here for a second! I'm gonna go tidy up the campsite, get a fire going, and get some ingredients ready!
Paimon:
Let us help you!
Rana:
I can't have that! I was the one who asked you to come and help clean up the Withering Zones...
Paimon:
Just think of us as trainee Forest Watchers! What do you need us to do, Rana?
Rana:
Well, if you insist, Paimon... Hmm... Could you help me get some firewood then?
Paimon:
All you need is some wood chopped? That's nothing, Traveler could do that.
Traveler:
No, we'll need to collect some dried branches...
Rana:
That's right, you know your stuff, Traveler! You'd make a fine Forest Watcher!
Paimon:
Is that so? Hm... Okay, got it. Let's go, Traveler!
Rana:
You guys are back! I'm almost done here as well.
Paimon:
Will these be enough, Rana?
Rana:
Yep, that's more than enough!
Rana:
Oh, right! One of our camping traditions is to have the most esteemed person in the group light the campfire.
Paimon:
Leave it to us!
Using the supplies stored at the campsite and the ingredients gathered along the way, Rana makes a pot of richly fragrant curry.
Everyone stuffs their faces.
The rest is packed up in containers for later use.
Rana:
...Ahh! It's so good. Curry tastes even better after hard work.
Paimon:
Paimon doesn't care about such things!
Paimon:
Still, this curry is so aromatic. What if the smell draws some critters or hilichurls over here?
Rana:
"Curry, curry, in the air~ Hungry children it's time to come home~♪"
Rana:
This is a children's song from Sumeru. There's something free about curry — each family adds different ingredients and spices depending on how they make it. So, each family's curry has its own flavor.
Rana:
So, when we were little, we could smell a curry and tell whether it was made by our parents.
Rana:
But once we got older, we couldn't tell whose curry was whose anymore. They all seem about the same.
Rana:
But still, you know that it's time to go home and eat when you smell curry!
Paimon:
"Curry, curry, in the air~♪"
Traveler:
"Hungry children it's time to come home~♪"
Paimon:
The stuff you make also has a different aroma, Traveler!
Rana:
Oh? Is that so? I'd like to try!
Traveler:
Sure, I guess...
Paimon:
But we've just eaten so much of this curry. Let's make something next time!
Rana:
Okay...
Paimon:
That reminds Paimon, why do you have to pick up branches instead of chopping down trees when you want to start a fire? Does the Dendro Archon punish people who cut down trees? Wah... Traveler, what do we do!?
Rana:
Oh, no! It's because fresh wood has too much moisture in it, so it's hard to light. Also, the Dendro Archon isn't that petty!
Rana:
Still, our teachings in Sumeru also say to respect nature and the forest, because we are the forest's subjects. So are the birds and beasts, and...
Rana:
...
Rana:
In the end, the forest will remember.
Rana:
"...Even if you grow up and forget, don't fret. The forest will remember."
Traveler:
The forest will remember?
Paimon:
Eh... Rana, what's wrong?
Rana:
Eh? Oh... I felt like I almost remembered something that was lost in my memories for a long time. Something warm and precious, but I couldn't remember it all... Just those two lines...
Rana:
Dang it, it's like when you have to sneeze, but it just won't come out. How infuriating!
Paimon:
Some things are harder to remember the more you try to remember them!
Paimon:
Just ignore it, and after a while, it might suddenly come back to you when you're doing something else!
Rana:
I'll try. Thanks again for watching those kids in the village for me before. They're like my little brothers and sisters.
Rana:
The oldest one is Kavus. He wants to travel the world by boat when he grows up. Sudabeh is his little sister, she says she wants to be just like me. It's a little embarrassing, hehe.
Traveler:
I don't think there's anything embarrassing about that.
Rana:
Then there's Iotham. I'm more worried about him. He was raised by Granny Jehiet after being abandoned in the village.
Paimon:
Eh? So Iotham was...
Rana:
Yes. I was still just a little girl back then. One day, the adults discovered that a traveling couple who'd been staying in the village were gone. All they left behind was this teeny tiny child.
Rana:
I always used to worry about him. But now, he and Kavus and the others are like a family. Alphonso also looks after him, just like a real older brother would.
Traveler:
About what you and the children were talking about before...
Paimon:
Yeah, now that you mention it, when we were telling stories to the children, we also asked around...
Traveler:
About the "Aranara"...
Rana:
Ah, that's the round, plantlike little fairies you mentioned before...
Paimon:
Hmm... They said they didn't know, but they were acting like they were hiding something about the "Aranara."
Rana:
Hmm... I don't know much about these creatures myself, but I'll tell you the part I heard. First of all, they're much like you described: round and plantlike.
Rana:
The forest is vast and deep here in Sumeru, and it's constantly changing, like a gargantuan beast. So, even locals will lose their way, let alone travelers.
Rana:
Legend has it that there are countless bizarre and amazing creatures in forests like this, and the most famous among them are the Aranara, which, supposedly, means the "forest people."
Rana:
The Aranara are related to the Dendro Archon and are the guardians of the forest. They're the bridge between people and trees. They also have the ability to enter dreams.
Rana:
...But for the people of Sumeru, dreams are very rare.
Paimon:
That sounds amazing!
Rana:
Agreed. They might not say it in front of the adults, but I think they really like the legend of the Aranara. Who knows, maybe they've seen an Aranara while playing in the forest.
Rana:
It's normal for children to have secrets amongst themselves that they keep from grown-ups. So long as they can grow up healthy, and become strong, kind, and good adults...
Traveler:
Also, about kids going missing...
Rana:
Ah, about that... Eh? Do you have any clues?
Paimon:
We were also really worried, so we asked around! The kids said that they were in the woods, and the next thing they knew, they were in Vimara Village. They couldn't remember anything that had happened before that.
Rana:
That's right. Kavus and Sudabeh suddenly appeared in the village after going missing for a few days. Everyone was worried sick while they were gone, Alphonso even organized a search and rescue team...
Rana:
*chuckle*
Paimon:
What is it, Rana?
Rana:
Now that I think about it, it was actually kinda funny. Remember what I said about curry before? Alphonso made the search party take curry into the forest with them so the children could smell it.
Rana:
Anyway, we didn't find Kavus or Sudabeh, but they came home on their own. And with the whole memory loss situation... something about this whole thing just doesn't feel right...
Rana:
So, I've been patrolling the forest and ruling out any elements that could harm the children. Iotham is the only one left who hasn't gone missing, so I have to protect him.
Traveler:
About Alphonso...
Paimon:
Oh, speaking of him... Alphonso seems like he's really popular in Vimara Village! He organized the search party, and the kids talk about him all the time...
Rana:
Oh, him? He's like an older brother to them. We've treated him like family since he arrived in the village a few years ago.
Rana:
According to him, like Iotham, he doesn't have any family, so he sees this place as his real home. Iotham also sees him as his actual big brother.
Paimon:
Paimon gets it...
Rana:
If you two stayed in Vimara Village, I know they'd be very happy to have another big brother and big sister!
Rana:
Like I said before, if it's possible, I hope that you can join the ranks of the Watchers. And we will patrol together. What do you think?
Traveler:
Well, I'm actually traveling to find someone...
You briefly explain the reason for your travels to Rana.
Rana:
I see. I understand how you feel, Traveler. I also had a friend who was very dear to me vanish out of nowhere. But they...
Rana:
Well, that's not important. The blonde girl you're looking for... I feel like I've heard about her somewhere before. Let me think...
Rana:
...Nope, I can't remember. I'm sure someone told me a story about a blonde girl before... Just like gold... and called a "Nara" or something...
Paimon:
(Paimon feels like Rana's memory isn't too good.)
Traveler:
(That's what happens when you grow up.)
Paimon:
There's no need to force yourself, Rana. Paimon hopes the kids in Vimara Village are doing okay...
Rana:
Well, I'm very happy that I could meet the two of you. I'm sure the children feel the same way!
Rana:
You're not only skilled but also so kind, and I'm so moved that you would worry about my little brothers and sisters in Vimara Village! I'll keep an eye out for the person you're looking for!
Rana:
Then, when you finish your journey, come to Sumeru! We can patrol the forest together!
Traveler:
...
Rana:
Okay, but think about it. If only I could have met you and Paimon earlier...
Paimon:
Tee-hee, you are making Paimon blush!
Rana:
Zzz...
Traveler:
(I think she's asleep.)
Paimon:
(She can even sleep while sitting upright! Is this some special training Forest Watchers get?)
Paimon:
(She must be exhausted. Hehe, looks like Rana doesn't have our stamina. Do you want to take a rest, Traveler?)
Traveler:
(Yeah, I'm gonna have a little nap, too.)
Paimon:
(Sleep well!)
Rana:
Besides firewood, we have sufficient supplies of everything else here... Ah, Traveler, you're back! Have you collected enough firewood?
Traveler:
Not yet...
Rana:
It's fine, leave it to me. Just stay here and rest up! Let me just clean up here and I'll go right away!
Rana:
Alright. Thanks.
Rana:
Oh, Traveler, you're back! I was so worried...
Rana:
I was afraid you and Paimon had run off... or worse, that those alligators from before came back for revenge and hauled you both away!
Paimon:
Are alligators really that scary!? We saw that you were sleeping, so we went to take care of some other things...
Rana:
Sorry, I didn't even realize that I had fallen asleep, hehe...
Rana:
Not really, I just ate a lot and was feeling so relaxed that I just...
Rana:
Ahem! Here's a little Forest Watcher trivia for you: When searching for missing people in the forest, we make sure to feed them something that's easy to digest when we find them.
Rana:
Digestion consumes stamina. That's why you feel sleepy easily after eating. Or at least, that's what the Akademiya researchers say.
Rana:
Traveler, Paimon, have you rested? You worked so hard yesterday...
Traveler:
We slept like babies.
Paimon:
Yeah! Don't worry about us!
Rana:
Are you sure? Okay then... Thank you so much for yesterday. I feel much better now that you're here.
Paimon:
Heh, you can count on Traveler! Is there any work left to do today, Rana?
Rana:
Let me see... I think we're just about done here, let's head back to Vimara Village! We can check in on the situation on our way back.
Paimon:
Okay, let's go!
Rana:
One of our camping traditions is to have the most esteemed person in the group light the campfire.
Rana:
Why the tradition? Probably because in the era of darkness, fire was a symbol of warmth and courage.
Traveler:
The era of darkness?
Rana:
Right. The origins of the Forest Rangers go way back. The earliest rangers were the forest king's royal guards! I heard that they once walked in forests where there were real tigers.
Rana:
Later, Khaenri'ah fell, and thus began the era of darkness.
Rana:
But not many documents have survived the cataclysm, so no one really knows what exactly happened. Still, I want to see a real tiger!
Rana:
Withering Zones are dangerous. If it gets to be too much for you, be sure to leave and take some rest.
Rana:
Ahh... I slept so well! I don't even remember falling asleep, sorry about that, hehe...
Rana:
Not really, I just ate a lot and was feeling so relaxed that I just...
Rana:
Ahem! Here's a little Forest Watcher trivia for you: When searching for a missing person in the forest, you want to feed them something that's easy to digest when you find them.
Rana:
Digestion consumes stamina. That's why you feel sleepy easily after eating. Or at least, that's what the Akademiya researchers say.
Rana:
Traveler, Paimon, have you rested? You worked so hard yesterday...
Traveler:
We slept like babies.
Paimon:
Yeah! Don't worry about us!
Rana:
Are you sure? Okay then... Thank you so much for yesterday. I feel much better now that you're here.
Paimon:
Heh, you can count on Traveler! Is there any work left to do today, Rana?
Rana:
Let me see... I think we're just about done here. Let's head back to Vimara Village! We can check in on the situation on our way back.
Paimon:
Okay, let's go!
Paimon:
Yup, that should be enough!
Paimon:
Let's go find Rana!
Rana:
Here we are. When I was little, I would often take this road to go down to the river valley to play.
Rana:
The Withering Zones are appearing so quickly now, and Tighnari and the others are too busy to deal with them in time. But it's a good thing we have you here now.
Traveler:
Leave it to me.
Rana:
Okay! You made clean work of those Withering Zones before, but they're still dangerous. If it gets to be too much, be sure to leave the realm and take some rest.
Rana:
It's good to have you here. But still, don't push yourself.
Rana:
Zzz... Help find them... Curry...
Rana:
This Withering Zone's expanding...
Rana:
Regardless, I'll leave it in your capable hands just like before, Traveler. Just don't overdo it...
Rana:
Thanks, Traveler.
Rana:
Forest Watchers are also tasked with protecting the ecosystem. Recently, potentially because of the Withering Zones, the alligators have become... shall we say, unusually manic.
Rana:
Not only have they been invading other animals' territories, but they're reproducing at a faster rate. If this goes on, they won't just be a danger to the children, but to the forest's ecosystem as well.
Rana:
Luckily, your opponent isn't a Withering Zone this time. It's my time to shine, hehe. You rest up, Traveler, leave this one to me.
Paimon:
We're coming to help too!
Rana:
Is it really okay...? That's great then, I'll finally get to fight side by side with you!
Rana:
Here we are. When I was little, I would often take this road to go down to the river valley to play.
Rana:
The Withering Zones are appearing so quickly now, and Tighnari and the others are too busy to deal with them in time. But it's a good thing we have you here now.
Traveler:
Leave it to me.
Rana:
Okay! You made clean work of those Withering Zones before, but they're still dangerous. If it gets to be too much, be sure to leave the realm and take some rest.
You have taken care of the Withering Zones marked by Rana as well as the Spinocrocodiles. The children at Vimara Village should be safe now. Head back with Rana.
Rana:
I'm so glad you both could come with me. Still, I'll need to report the expansion of the nearby Withering Zone to Tighnari.
Paimon:
Eh? Is that... the kid from Vimara Village?
Rana:
Eh? Iotham! Wait up!
Rana:
Iotham... What happened...
Iotham:
Wah, Rana... and Traveler...
Paimon:
Eh? What're you doing in... a Withering Zone... And there are so many monsters...
Rana:
...
Rana:
No... There's no time...
Rana:
Darn it! Traveler, let's do this together!
Rana:
Iotham, wait here and don't move! We're coming to rescue you!
Rana:
Whew... Hah... Finally...
Iotham:
Rana... Waaah...
Rana:
Iotham... It's okay, little man, there's nothing to cry about. Look... If I can tell them about what I felt in the Withering Zone... to those Akademiya researchers... they'll be able to take care of The Withering for good...
Rana:
And... did you see... me fight? No... did you see Traveler fight? Be sure to thank him...
Paimon:
Rana...
Paimon:
Rana, you'd better rest now...
Rana:
Ha... haha... it's fine. I just feel a little dizzy, that's all. And a little tired...
Iotham:
Rana... I'm sorry...
Rana:
Wh... What are you talking about? You're my little tiger, so no more crying! You're okay, aren't you? Does anything hurt, Iotham...? Do you feel dizzy, weak, or...
Iotham:
I'm fine, but Rana, you...
Rana:
It's nothing... I'll be fine. I'm a battle-hardened Forest Watcher, after all! Let's go!
Rana:
Don't worry about me... You guys go ahead.
Fatui Sergeant:
...Who are you people? Don't get in our way.
Rana:
Hmph, I should be asking you that question! I'm a Forest Watcher here, and I'm in the middle of searching for a missing child. State your names!
Rana:
Huh? So, these are the Fatui that Alphonso mentioned? State your business.
Fatui Sergeant:
Alphonso...? Whatever, don't think you'll be getting out of here without a fight!
Rana:
Well, looks like we're not gonna be able to talk this one out!
Rana:
Thank goodness you were here, Traveler...
Rana:
Looks like Alphonso wasn't kidding, these Fatui guys are dangerous...
Rana:
Anyway, we can talk more about that later. Iotham must be somewhere deeper in the cave. We'd better keep moving.
Alphonso:
Iotham? Why are you... and Traveler...
Paimon:
It's urgent, so we'll make this quick...
You quickly explain what happened.
Alphonso:
...I see. Iotham, you go rest up.
Iotham:
Okay. I'm sorry, Alphonso...
Alphonso:
It's fine, what matters is that you're okay... Wait here a moment, Traveler. I'll go with you as soon as I prepare some medicine.
Traveler:
There's no time. This is the location, head there as soon as you can.
Paimon:
Yeah, we have to hurry back to look after Rana...
Alphonso:
Eh? Wait...
Paimon:
...Eh? Paimon's sure this was the place...
Paimon:
Rana! Can you hear Paimon?
Paimon:
No answer... Darn it! What happened?
Paimon:
Hm...? These traces...
Paimon:
We'd better follow them... Maybe they're clues left for us by Rana.
Rana:
...
Paimon:
Hey! Rana! Can you hear Paimon?
Rana:
...
Paimon:
What's going on here...? Could it be that Ara-thing Iotham and Rana were talking about? What was it called again?
Paimon:
Ah, yes, right, that was it! Paimon thinks they said it could resist the Marana corrosion or something...
???:
Yes. Nara smart. Ararakalari can resist Marana.
Paimon:
Woah!
???:
Woah!
Traveler:
Isn't this the thing we saw before...?
Paimon:
Phew... You scared Paimon! Paimon thought you were a talking vegetable...
Arana:
Not vegetable, Arana. Arana is friend, Aranara.
Traveler:
"Aranara"...
Paimon:
Eh? Did you say Aranara? Now that Paimon's really looking at you, Paimon thinks we really have seen you before...
Traveler:
"Arana"...
Paimon:
Paimon thinks we heard this name when Iotham was telling that story before...
Arana:
Yes. Nara Iotham is Arana's friend.
Arana:
Aranara are children of the forest, we live with trees. Not like you, Nara Traveler. You are the child of dandelion, always traveling.
Paimon:
How do you know Traveler's name?
Arana:
How Arana knows, not important. But Arana wants to help Narana, this very important.
Traveler:
Narana... That's almost a tongue-twister.
Paimon:
You want to help Rana? What do you need us to do?
Arana:
Thank you, you good Nara. She is Arana's very important friend. So, Arana will protect her.
Arana:
But that is not enough. To heal Narana, we need Bija. Nara Traveler must go to Vanarana and ask everyone to help get Bija.
Traveler:
Bija...
Arana:
Narana got corroded by Marana, very serious. Bad bugs are biting tree roots. Trees will wither, fruits will rot.
Arana:
Nara's life is like tree, bad bugs, like Marana. Only Bija can make Narana better.
Paimon:
Uh... So, we need to go somewhere called "Vanarana" and come up with a way to get this Bija, right? Then we can heal Rana?
Arana:
Mm-hmm.
Traveler:
Then Rana's current condition...
Arana:
No worry. Arana will be here and fight Marana corrosion. So, Rana will not get worse.
Arana:
But with no Bija, Rana will not get better either.
Arana:
Follow the forest path, keep going towards where water comes from, then you will reach Vanarana.
Arana:
Then sing.
Traveler:
Sing?
Traveler:
(A melody is rising up in my mind...)
Arana:
This is the Rhythm of the Great Dream. Sing it to enter Vanarana.
Arana:
Enter our dreams, our world.
Rana:
I'm sorry... Traveler, Paimon, I need to rest... Wait for me, Iotham.
Paimon:
Rana, are you really okay...?
Traveler:
We'll go get help...
Rana:
No, no, it's fine... I just need... a little rest...
Iotham:
I'm sorry, Rana... I'm sorry...
Rana:
Really... How many times do I have to say it? I'm fine! But I'm very angry...
Rana:
You promised me... that you wouldn't go into the forest. Once I'm all rested up, I'll teach you a lesson about breaking promises... you little rascal...
Iotham:
Waaah... Alphonso said that the mushrooms here are huge! And I just wanted to bring you some fresh mushrooms to eat... to give you energy...
Rana:
Dummy... You didn't need to do that. Just thinking of you guys gives me energy...
Rana:
Still, hahaha... the mushrooms here really are huge... They'd definitely taste great in a curry...
Traveler:
Did Alphonso let you come here?
Iotham:
No... Alphonso also told me not to go running off. But I wanted to give Rana something tasty to eat, so I...
Rana:
Alphonso wouldn't do that, he's Iotham's big brother...
Paimon:
Paimon understands... But Iotham, how did you get stuck in the Withering Zone?
Iotham:
When I was in the forest, I thought someone was following me... I got scared, I thought it was Marana's Avatar... So, I just kept running... *sob*
Iotham:
And I ended up running into Marana...
Paimon:
?
Rana:
That's... The Withering.
Iotham:
Oh... Yeah, The Withering.
Traveler:
"Marana's Avatar"?
Iotham:
Uh-huh. It does bad things in the world for Marana... It's a big black thing...
Paimon:
Marana... What a strange name.
Rana:
Mm... How did I know that Marana is The Withering...? Dang it... everything's spinning...
Rana:
Iotham, what was that green thing just now?
Iotham:
...
Iotham:
That was Ararakalari... It can protect people from the corrosion of Marana.
Traveler:
More and more things I don't understand...
Rana:
This is... a kind of forest magic. It's also a kind of music... It's an Ara...
Traveler:
What is it?
Paimon:
Don't worry about that, Rana, you need to rest!
Rana:
It's on the tip of my tongue, but...
Iotham:
I'm sorry, Rana, I'm sorry... I'll never run off like that again, I'll be good and stay home...
Rana:
I know. You'll become smart, healthy, and you'll know right from wrong... It's just like knowing which mushrooms you can eat, and which you can't...
Iotham:
I know... I know... I'm sorry...
Rana:
Know that Marana is bad, and... the forest is good... Become a strong and good person, help people who need help... just like Traveler and Paimon...
Rana:
And don't forget... the forest will remember...
Paimon:
Wah, this is bad, Paimon thinks Rana's condition is getting worse!
Traveler:
I'll go get help.
Rana:
Eh? Oh... I'm fine, really... I just need to rest for a little while...
Rana:
Traveler, please... take Iotham back for me...
Paimon:
Okay. Let's go, Iotham. Don't move, Rana! We'll be right back!