arrow_back Genshin Impact Quests 
Aranyaka: Part III
Nursery of Lost Dreams
When you wake up, Festival Utsava is no more, and Arama is nowhere to be found. Only the faint fragrance from the garland tells you that this was not a dream.
Paimon:
Arama!
Arama:
Nara Traveler, Paimon, you seem fresh, like fresh Zaytun Peaches. But Paimon looks unhappy. Did you have a nightmare?
Paimon:
Paimon was afraid you'd abandoned us!
Arama:
Why would you think that? I've been here the whole time.
Paimon:
B—Because Vanarana is in a dream, and the fun we had at Festival Utsava was like a dream... Paimon was afraid that everything would all go away once we woke up...
Paimon:
We'd be all that's left, just like when we first started the journey...
Arama:
But the things that happen in dreams are real. I have observed Nara before and found that nightmares would make them timid, and that nice dreams would make them happy, just like things that happen outside their dreams.
Arama:
So when Paimon dreamed of meeting us and also dreamed of meeting Vanarana, Paimon, it was as real as doing both in reality.
Arama:
That's right! I'm here waiting for you to go to the Fane of Ashvattha together, to get the Bija, and to make Narana feel better.
Paimon:
...That's true. Bah, Traveler, you must have put weird mushrooms in the feast to make Paimon think about such stuff.
Paimon:
Let's go, then!
Arama:
Wonderful, this place isn't corroded by Marana like Arayama and the others were! Nara Traveler, Paimon, this is the Ashvattha Tree.
Paimon:
Whoa, what a weird-looking tree...
Arama:
That's rude, Paimon! You'll make the Ashvattha Tree mad! This is a very, very mighty tree — the oldest Vasara Tree there is. Even older than any Aranara and their stories...
Arama:
Queen Aranyani sang here — thousands of moons ago, or perhaps even more. She had just left Valuka at the time, and the woods weren't as lush as now, so there was still lots of sand on the ground.
Arama:
Her Ararakalari was more powerful than any Aranara's, since her song was the closest to the Sourcesong. So Ashvattha responded to her call and sprouted from Sarva.
Arama:
Queen Aranyani told Ashvattha that there were many smart, beautiful, yet lonely Nara in the woods and that the children of the forest must increase so that they might become friends with the Nara.
Arama:
Therefore, Ashvattha produced a beautiful and full pomegranate with many seeds inside, the first of which to sprout was Aramuhukunda.
Arama:
That made Aramuhukunda the very first Aranara. Later, all the seeds grew and Aranara spread like leaves on a tree. We and Nara were both people of the forest.
Arama:
That's why the Ashvattha Tree is very powerful and very important! Just like Nara bear Nara children, all Aranara are progeny of Ashvattha and Queen Aranyani.
Paimon:
So that's how it is... Sorry, Arama. The Ashvattha Tree is super impressive!
Paimon:
Paimon didn't mean to! Anyway, what do we need to do now to get the Bija?
Arama:
Right. Just like trees need earth and rain to flourish, dreams and memories are what a Vasara Tree needs. As I mentioned a moment ago, the Ashvattha Tree is the oldest of the Vasara Trees.
Arama:
That's why we've brought three Vasoma Fruits from Araji, Arayama, and Aramaha as offerings for the Ashvattha Tree to bear great fruit.
Paimon:
Araji, Arayama, and Aramaha's Vasoma Fruits? Don't you mean the fruits of the Vasara Trees?
Arama:
That's what they are, yes.
Arama:
Stand closer to the Ashvattha Tree, Nara Traveler.
Paimon:
Whoa...
Traveler:
That's amazing.
Arama:
Yes, all Aranara are descendants of this tree. You're now connected to all Aranara, and you bear their blessings, and so the Ashvattha Tree shall bless you too.
Arama:
For as long as you wear this garland, the Ashvattha Tree will recognize you as a child of the forest.
Arama:
Mmm...
Arama:
Something's wrong with the Ashvattha Tree. It feels a bit weak... This must be because of the Marana that's been showing up everywhere lately.
Arama:
Regardless, we're going into the Ashvattha Tree's dream next, and we'll offer the Vasoma Fruits to the Tree of Dreams. That should rejuvenate it!
Paimon:
So we're doing this like we did back in Ashvattha's Concourses, right? Traveler will reach out and "Woosh," we'll be in the dream!
Arama:
Yes. Very smart, Paimon. So if you're ready, Nara Traveler, reach your hand out and let's enter the Ashvattha Tree's dream.
Traveler:
No problem.
Paimon:
Arama just mentioned Marana... Paimon wonders what we'll see in this dream! Oh well, it's fine! We've got Traveler around, after all!
Paimon:
Finally we are here. Huh... Paimon remembers that we could see this mysterious tree in other Vasara Trees' dreams as well!
Arama:
I'm sorry, Nara Traveler and Paimon. It escaped me that Marana has also corroded the Ashvattha Tree's dream...
Arama:
Countless black pests are corroding the roots of the Tree of Dreams in Sarva. I can feel Marana's hands, shaking the dream to its core.
Arama:
Sorry... I should have known this would've been the case when we saw Marana in Ashvattha's Concourses before.
Paimon:
It's okay! We fixed this easily with Traveler around, didn't we?
Arama:
The Vasoma Fruits should at least restore some of his power. I'm counting on you, Nara Traveler.
Arama:
...
Arama:
Yes, I understand. I didn't think it would be so soon, but I'm aware that I'll know what to do when the time comes.
Arama:
Just like the clouds know that they must release rain, and the rain knows that it must fall to the ground, seeds know that they must grow into big trees and bear lots of plump fruits.
Paimon:
Something's weird about Arama...
Arama:
Oh, I was just speaking to the Tree of Dreams. Huh, so you couldn't hear it.
Paimon:
Paimon's seen Aranakin talking to mushrooms before... But people can't normally communicate with plants, you know?
Arama:
I see! I just learned something new. Thank you, Paimon.
Arama:
Don't worry about the Bija, Nara Traveler and Paimon. Let's just leave the dream for now.
Paimon:
The heart of the Ashvattha Tree is glowing... Is that the Bija?
Paimon:
It hasn't been easy, but Rana can finally be healed!
Arama:
...
Paimon:
Huh!?
Arama:
...
Arama:
The Ashvattha Tree has been corroded by Marana and cannot bear any Bija. I have to plant a new Ashvattha Tree in order to help you.
Paimon:
But won't it require a long time to grow from a seed to a tree?
Arama:
Don't worry, the speed of a Vasara Tree's growth has to do with its seed. The Ashvattha Tree has given me all its power, and with the Vasoma Fruits and our shared memory, it will be fine.
Arama:
Thank you, the first Ashvattha Tree. Thank you, Araji, Arayama, and Aramaha. I will utilize your memories to rebuild the path between the new Ashvattha Tree and the dreams.
Paimon:
Do you get the feeling that Arama's different now...
Arama:
Am I? I learned a lot of new things, figured out lots of new words, and obtained a lot of memories.
Arama:
But rest assured, I'm still me, your friend. I will help you for sure.
Traveler:
Then the Bija...
Arama:
Old Vanarana is sealed deep within the Fane of Ashvattha. That's where we'll find Marana's Avatar.
Arama:
It will imbue the land and Sarva with viper venom until everything green turns brown, every flower has withered, every brook is putrid, and every creature is dead.
Arama:
We must destroy it. Only then can a tree strong enough to produce the Bija grow.
Arama:
Are you ready to enter the Ashvattha Tree's dream, Nara Traveler?
Paimon:
Paimon believes it won't be a problem for Traveler!
Arama:
Wonderful, this place isn't corroded by Marana like Arayama and the others were! Nara Traveler, Paimon, this is the Ashvattha Tree.
Paimon:
Whoa, what a weird-looking tree...
Arama:
That's rude, Paimon! You'll make the Ashvattha Tree mad! This is a very, very mighty tree — the oldest Vasara Tree there is. Even older than any Aranara and their stories...
Arama:
The Lord of Verdure sang here — thousands of moons ago, or perhaps even more. She had just left Valuka at the time, and the woods weren't as lush as now, so there was still lots of sand on the ground.
Arama:
Her Ararakalari was more powerful than any Aranara's, since her song was the closest to the Sourcesong. So Ashvattha responded to her call and sprouted from Sarva.
Arama:
She told Ashvattha that there were many smart, beautiful, yet lonely Nara in the woods and that the children of the forest must increase so that they might become friends with the Nara.
Arama:
Therefore, Ashvattha produced a beautiful and full pomegranate with many seeds inside, the first of which to sprout was Aramuhukunda.
Arama:
That made Aramuhukunda the very first Aranara. Later, all the seeds grew and Aranara spread like leaves on a tree. We and Nara were both people of the forest.
Arama:
That's why the Ashvattha Tree is very powerful and very important! Just like Nara bear Nara children, all Aranara are progeny of Ashvattha, of the Dendro Archon.
Paimon:
So that's how it is... Sorry, Arama. The Ashvattha Tree is super impressive!
Paimon:
Paimon didn't mean to! Anyway, what do we need to do now to get the Bija?
Arama:
Right. Just like trees need earth and rain to flourish, dreams and memories are what a Vasara Tree needs. As I mentioned a moment ago, the Ashvattha Tree is the oldest of the Vasara Trees.
Arama:
That's why we've brought three Vasoma Fruits from Araji, Arayama, and Aramaha as offerings for the Ashvattha Tree to bear great fruit.
Paimon:
Araji, Arayama, and Aramaha's Vasoma Fruits? Don't you mean the fruits of the Vasara Trees?
Arama:
That's what they are, yes.
Arama:
Stand closer to the Ashvattha Tree, Nara Traveler.
Paimon:
What...?
Traveler:
That's amazing.
Arama:
Yes, all Aranara are descendants of this tree. You're now connected to all Aranara, and you bear their blessings, and so the Ashvattha Tree shall bless you too.
Arama:
For as long as you wear this garland, the Ashvattha Tree will recognize you as a child of the forest.
Arama:
Mmm...
Arama:
Something's wrong with the Ashvattha Tree. It feels a bit weak... This must be because of the Marana that's been showing up everywhere lately.
Arama:
Regardless, we're going into the Ashvattha Tree's dream next, and we'll offer the Vasoma Fruits to the Tree of Dreams. That should rejuvenate it!
Paimon:
So we're doing this like we did back in Ashvattha's Concourses, right? Traveler will reach out and "Woosh," we'll be in the dream!
Arama:
Yes. Very smart, Paimon. So if you're ready, Nara Traveler, reach your hand out and let's enter the Ashvattha Tree's dream.
Traveler:
No problem.
Paimon:
Arama just mentioned Marana... Paimon wonders what we'll see in this dream! Oh well, it's fine! We've got Traveler around, after all!
Arama:
How did this...
Paimon:
Why would The Withering be in the Ashvattha Tree's dream?
Paimon:
Regardless, we've got to get rid of The Withering as soon as possible!
The Ashvattha Tree has been corroded. But from its fruit, Arama seems to have gained new knowledge, memories, and... manners of speech. According to Arama, you should eliminate Marana's Avatar next so that the new Ashvattha Tree may be born. Only then can the Bija be formed.
Paimon:
*huff*... *huff*... You're flying too fast, Arama!
Arama:
Is that so? Sorry. But based on how you float, you shouldn't be exhausting any stamina.
Paimon:
Paimon must be fully focused to fly, so it is exhausting! Arama, just fly at the speed of a Seelie, alright?
Arama:
A Seelie? In the ancient stories, Seelie were a great race with wisdom and beauty beyond the pale of this earth. They traveled with Nara and taught Nara languages and the philosophy of nature.
Paimon:
Huh? Paimon thought that they were just large but annoying fireflies that lead us around by the nose...
Arama:
Seelie are just empty husks that race left behind. This is because they were born with a curse: If they fall in love with Nara, they shall lose their intelligence and strength, and their bodies will regress.
Arama:
There was once a survivor of that race deep within the golden desert who was friends with Queen Aranyani and the ruler of Valuka. Perhaps there are more stories to be found in the eternal oasis.
Paimon:
Hmmm...
Arama:
Yes. So you see... at their prime, the Seelie were probably faster than a storm. Plus, isn't Paimon tired? We can rest while I tell stories about Sarva.
Paimon:
You even know how to be evasive now, Arama. You've really changed...
Arama:
Anyway, this was our first homeland. Aranara used to live here before the disaster, and many Nara had visited us.
Paimon:
Before the disaster... Are you saying that...
Arama:
Yes, and you've been to the second Vanarana. Meanwhile, Marana's Avatar is imprisoned by three seals deep within this place.
Arama:
Three Inscriptions of Remembrance are needed to undo the first seal. While the landscape here is a little different from the memories I received, I have a rough idea where they are.
Arama:
Anyway, Marana is very dangerous. Nara Traveler, Paimon, I recommend we match each other's pace. Let me know when you're ready to set out.
Paimon:
Three seals, and we must find three Inscriptions of Remembrance just for the first seal... This is so troublesome. Why does everything have to be done three times?
Traveler:
They don't call it "The Rule of Three" for nothing...
Paimon:
Yeah... If Ruu were here, Paimon's sure he and Arama would become friends real quick...
Arama:
Ruu?
Paimon:
Yes, he's a friend of ours.
Arama:
I see. I too wish to meet Nara Traveler and Paimon's friend. A Nara who's friends with both of you is for sure a great Nara.
Arama:
But it's alright. The past and the future meet in Sarva. A day will come when I'll have the honor of meeting this Ruu and becoming friends with him.
Arama:
By the way, there are actually four seals imprisoning Marana. The first seal is the Door of Vana, which is right behind us.
Traveler:
Let's go.
Paimon:
Yeah! It feels like we have so much to do! Let's get moving!
Paimon:
*huff*... *huff*... You're flying too fast, Arama!
Arama:
Is that so? Sorry. But based on how you float, you shouldn't be exhausting any stamina.
Paimon:
Paimon must be fully focused to fly, so it is exhausting! Arama, just fly at the speed of a Seelie, alright?
Arama:
A Seelie? In the ancient stories, Seelie were a great race with wisdom and beauty beyond the pale of this earth. They traveled with Nara and taught Nara languages and the philosophy of nature.
Paimon:
Huh? Paimon thought that they were just large but annoying fireflies that lead us around by the nose...
Arama:
Seelie are just empty husks that race left behind. This is because they were born with a curse: If they fall in love with Nara, they shall lose their intelligence and strength, and their bodies will regress.
Arama:
There was once a survivor of that race deep within the golden desert who was friends with the Lord of Verdure and the ruler of Valuka. Perhaps there are more stories to be found in the eternal oasis.
Paimon:
Hmmm...
Arama:
Yes. So you see... at their prime, the Seelie were probably faster than a storm. Plus, isn't Paimon tired? We can rest while I tell stories about Sarva.
Paimon:
You even know how to be evasive now, Arama. You've really changed...
Arama:
Anyway, this was our first homeland. Aranara used to live here before the disaster, and many Nara had visited us.
Paimon:
Before the disaster... Are you saying that...
Arama:
Yes, and you've been to the second Vanarana. Meanwhile, Marana's Avatar is imprisoned by three seals deep within this place.
Arama:
Three Inscriptions of Remembrance are needed to undo the first seal. While the landscape here is a little different from the memories I received, I have a rough idea where they are.
Arama:
Anyway, Marana is very dangerous. Nara Traveler, Paimon, I recommend we match each other's pace. Let me know when you're ready to set out.
Paimon:
Three seals, and we must find three Inscriptions of Remembrance just for the first seal... This is so troublesome. Why does everything have to be done three times?
Traveler:
They don't call it "The Rule of Three" for nothing...
Paimon:
Yeah... If Ruu were here, Paimon's sure he and Arama would become friends real quick...
Arama:
Ruu?
Paimon:
Yes, he's a friend of ours.
Arama:
I see. I too wish to meet Nara Traveler and Paimon's friend. A Nara who's friends with both of you is for sure a great Nara.
Arama:
But it's alright. The past and the future meet in Sarva. A day will come when I'll have the honor of meeting this Ruu and becoming friends with him.
Arama:
By the way, there are actually four seals imprisoning Marana. The first seal is the Door of Vana, which is right behind us.
Traveler:
Let's go.
Paimon:
Yeah! It feels like we have so much to do! Let's get moving!
Mural:
(A slightly crude mural of Aranara with a golden Aranara among them. They seem to be happily celebrating something.)
Paimon:
Wh—What was that? Was that Ararakalari? It just...
Arama:
No, it wasn't. Paimon needed help, so I hit the Marana very, very hard. I'm very pleased to say that I eliminated that evil tumor.
Arama:
May we never meet again, evil tumor.
Paimon:
If hitting a Tumor of the Withering very, very hard can destroy it, the Aranara should be able to deal with The Withering once and for all, right?
Arama:
No, it has to be hit very, very hard, specifically. Most Aranara aren't that strong.
Arama:
Many, many suns must pass, then many, many moons must pass. When seed turns to tree, when stream turns to river, only then will an Aranara possess such strength.
Paimon:
Paimon gets it now. But y'know, you're speaking normally again, Arama...
Arama:
Used too much strength just now. So, many words, many memories, gone with the wind.
Paimon:
Oh... Paimon remembers someone saying that memories are Aranara's bank of strength...
Paimon:
Paimon was just trying to eliminate The Withering here...
Arama:
It's fine! Used energy will come back slowly. I've absorbed the Ashvattha Tree's memories, so I recover even faster. We destroyed Marana's evil tumor, very good, very good.
Arama:
The seal is nearby. Many different Ararakalari here keep Marana's Avatar in. So, it sent the evil tumor to damage the seal.
Arama:
That looks like Aradasha's stone lock...
Paimon:
And this... This is the flower that sealed Ashvattha's Concourse...
Arama:
Oh! It's Arayama's flower. In the past, many Aranara fought Marana here, and together they sealed this place.
Arama:
Marana's Avatar is very, very deep underground. Break this seal, then break the next seal, and we can face it and defeat it.
Traveler:
Leave the seals to us.
Paimon:
Arama! We're back! How are you feeling?
Arama:
Oh! I've built up some strength! I'm fine! I can sense that the seal is broken. Now, leave the rest to me.
Arama:
There's so much sand here. I think it used to be stone and soil. But Marana took away the life and moisture in the soil, turning it into sand.
Arama:
Aranakin hates sand. If only he could see this!
Paimon:
See what?
Arama:
See sand vanish!
Paimon:
There aren't any clues...
Arama:
I see. But this place is very calm, very good.
Paimon:
Yeah. But it must be really difficult for you to keep the ring up and fend off The Withering, Arama...
Arama:
I'm fine! Being with Nara Traveler and Paimon is a very happy thing. I won't forget!
Arama:
I recovered some strength while resting, so I remember now! This used to be Aramuhukunda's home!
???:
Hello, Arama, Nara Traveler, and Paimon.
Paimon:
Whoa! Where did you come from...
Arama:
You're Aramuhukunda...
Paimon:
...Aren't you that mysterious Aranara we met during Festival Utsava? That Aranara who speaks unlike any other Aranara?
Aramuhukunda:
You still remember. That gladdens me. Nara Traveler made a garland from my flower and the flowers of many Aranara. To me, that is a great honor.
Arama:
Aramuhukunda! I've heard so many stories about you, and I played with you in the memories of Arayama and the others!
Aramuhukunda:
Then you've inherited their memories, I see. As a past friend of theirs, this fills me with pride.
Arama:
Yes... But during the battle here, many memories vanished, like fruits falling to the ground or clouds blown away by the wind...
Aramuhukunda:
I see. They won't be sad about it, and you have no reason to either. There's no end to the precious memories you can create and the strength you can gain while you're with your friends.
Arama:
Yeah, I understand...
Paimon:
Arama was really impressive when he took down that Tumor of the Withering with just one punch! He did the same to a Ruin Grader too! He really helped a lot!
Aramuhukunda:
Very good, Arama. It's just as I heard in Sarva... You're a brave Aranara.
Aramuhukunda:
Nara Traveler, Paimon, you've come. Intentional or not, it fills me with great pride. I've always wanted to hang out with Nara friends here.
Aramuhukunda:
Worry not, I know why you're here. The Ashvattha Tree told me many things, before it used what strength it had left to give Arama the fruit of dreams.
Aramuhukunda:
Go through that cave and you'll arrive at the place where we defeated and sealed Marana hundreds of years ago. It hasn't fully recovered yet, but there's no time to lose.
Arama:
Yeah! We've gotta break the last seal and defeat it as soon as possible! Only then can a new Ashvattha Tree grow to produce the Bija.
Aramuhukunda:
And I am the final seal. I am the one who's keeping an eye on Marana's Avatar, and yet its strength still seeps through the sand like water, creeping through Sarva.
Aramuhukunda:
I will undo this last seal and open the path for you. I'm certain that you can defeat it and put an end to this final enemy.
Paimon:
Alright! Traveler, Arama, the seal's gone! Thanks, Aramuhukunda!
Aramuhukunda:
Do not worry. Rather, it is I who should say thank you. Nara Traveler, Paimon, I have a question for you before you go...
Aramuhukunda:
I've been busy preparing an environment comfortable for Nara, just for your visit. But I've not traveled alongside Nara for far too long, so I do not trust my own judgment.
Aramuhukunda:
Nara Traveler, Paimon, do you like this place?
Paimon:
Hmm... It's really nice and relaxing. There isn't anything to eat, but Paimon thinks it's pretty nice! What do you think, Traveler?
Traveler:
I like it.
Aramuhukunda:
...You're not very fond of talking, quite unlike Nara Varuna. She kept talking about her brother. She was a terrible example for Arapacati and the others.
Aramuhukunda:
If I have time, and with your help, I can definitely do better. But based on the current circumstances, I'm afraid time is of the essence for you and the Nara friend you want to help.
Aramuhukunda:
My only regret is meeting you in an age like this one.
Aramuhukunda:
Or I should say that, had we met in another age, I could have introduced Nara Varuna to you. How wonderful that might have been.
Arama:
But I wouldn't have been able to meet Nara Traveler and Paimon if they came from a different age!
Aramuhukunda:
Indeed. So this is fine. It was a little short, but I'm still very happy to have had a conversation with you. Thank you.
Aramuhukunda:
Nara Traveler, Paimon, go on ahead. I have something to give to Arama.
Arama:
...I understand. Nara Traveler, Paimon, please go on ahead! I'll be right behind you!
Paimon:
Alright, be quick, or we'll defeat Marana's Avatar on our own!
Paimon:
*huff*... *huff*... You're flying too fast, Arama!
Arama:
Is that so? Sorry. But based on how you float, you shouldn't be exhausting any stamina.
Paimon:
Paimon must be fully focused to fly, so it is exhausting! Arama, just fly at the speed of a Seelie, alright?
Arama:
A Seelie? In the ancient stories, Seelie were a great race with wisdom and beauty beyond the pale of this earth. They traveled with Nara and taught Nara languages and the philosophy of nature.
Paimon:
Huh? Paimon thought that they were just large but annoying fireflies that lead us around by the nose...
Arama:
Seelie are just empty husks that race left behind. This is because they were born with a curse: If they fall in love with Nara, they shall lose their intelligence and strength, and their bodies will regress.
Arama:
There was once a survivor of that race deep within the golden desert who was friends with the Lord of Verdure and the ruler of Valuka. Perhaps there are more stories to be found in the eternal oasis.
Paimon:
Hmmm...
Arama:
Yes. So you see... at their prime, the Seelie were probably faster than a storm. Plus, isn't Paimon tired? We can rest while I tell stories about Sarva.
Paimon:
You even know how to be evasive now, Arama. You've really changed...
Arama:
Anyway, this is Old Vanarana, and it was the home of Aranara for hundreds of years before the disaster. We once hung out with Nara here.
Paimon:
Before the disaster... Are you saying that...
Arama:
Yes, and you've been to the new Vanarana. Meanwhile, Marana's Avatar is imprisoned by three seals deep within this place.
Arama:
Three Inscriptions of Remembrance are needed to undo the first seal. While the landscape here is a little different from the memories I received, I have a rough idea where they are.
Arama:
Anyway, Marana is very dangerous. Nara Traveler, Paimon, I recommend we match each other's pace. Let me know when you're ready to set out.
Traveler:
Let's go.
Paimon:
Yeah! Three seals... It feels like we have so much to do! Let's get moving!
Paimon:
*huff*... *huff*... You're flying too fast, Arama!
Arama:
Is that so? Sorry. But based on how you float, you shouldn't be exhausting any stamina.
Paimon:
Paimon must be fully focused to fly, so it is exhausting! Arama, just fly at the speed of a Seelie, alright?
Arama:
A Seelie? In the ancient stories, Seelie were a great race with wisdom and beauty beyond the pale of this earth. They traveled with Nara and taught Nara languages and the philosophy of nature.
Paimon:
Huh? Paimon thought that they were just large but annoying fireflies that lead us around by the nose...
Arama:
Seelie are just empty husks that race left behind. This is because they were born with a curse: If they fall in love with Nara, they shall lose their intelligence and strength, and their bodies will regress.
Arama:
There was once a survivor of that race deep within the golden desert who was friends with Queen Aranyani and the ruler of Valuka. Perhaps there are more stories to be found in the eternal oasis.
Paimon:
Hmmm...
Arama:
Yes. So you see... at their prime, the Seelie were probably faster than a storm. Plus, isn't Paimon tired? We can rest while I tell stories about Sarva.
Paimon:
You even know how to be evasive now, Arama. You've really changed...
Arama:
Anyway, this is Old Vanarana, and it was the home of Aranara for hundreds of years before the disaster. We once hung out with Nara here.
Paimon:
Before the disaster... Are you saying that...
Arama:
Yes, and you've been to the new Vanarana. Meanwhile, Marana's Avatar is imprisoned by three seals deep within this place.
Arama:
Three Inscriptions of Remembrance are needed to undo the first seal. While the landscape here is a little different from the memories I received, I have a rough idea where they are.
Arama:
Anyway, Marana is very dangerous. Nara Traveler, Paimon, I recommend we match each other's pace. Let me know when you're ready to set out.
Traveler:
Let's go.
Paimon:
Yeah! Three seals... It feels like we have so much to do! Let's get moving!
Inscription of Remembrance:
...
Traveler:
(Try to sense the memories within the inscription...)
Inscription of Remembrance:
...Ah, so you too are a child of the forest. Since you're reading my Inscription of Remembrance, Marana is gone, right? Or perhaps you're here to put an end to it?
Inscription of Remembrance:
There are many stories I wish to hear. Is Araja's dream beautiful? Are Arana and Aramani doing well? I'm sure the new songs born into this world are absolutely beautiful!
Inscription of Remembrance:
Oh, there's no rush to tell me anything. For I hear no more and see no more. But fret not, for we shall meet in Sarva.
Inscription of Remembrance:
When the time comes, you can take your time to tell me the stories of the earth! This inscription is the work of Araji, Arayama, and myself — our pride and joy. It's yours now...
Inscription of Remembrance:
"May the new dreams never experience Marana's corrosion."
"And may the old stories be forgotten alongside it."
Inscription of Remembrance:
...
Traveler:
(Try to sense the memories within the inscription...)
Inscription of Remembrance:
Araji really wants to see Vanarana filled with many, many flowers again, and birds on green trees while Nara sing with us under the trees.
Inscription of Remembrance:
Marana really is terrifying, but thinking about scenes like that makes it less scary. Arayama said that Araji is very brave, and that Araji should think about happy things when afraid.
Inscription of Remembrance:
So Araji decided on the inscription's content, with the hopes that it will bring courage to you who have come to Vanarana that is beautiful no more...
Inscription of Remembrance:
"May the green fields and mountains never wither."
"May the streams stay clear and the flowers remain in bloom."
Paimon:
Is this the seal? What a huge tree hollow...
Arama:
Yes, it's all thanks to you that I've been able to witness Old Vanarana, and lay eyes on our original home. Thank you, Nara Traveler and Paimon.
Arama:
...Thank you, Aramaha, Araji, and Arayama, thank you for guarding the seal. Marana eventually managed to escape to the outside world, but it's not your fault.
Arama:
Now, I shall undo the seal which has existed for hundreds and thousands of moons...
Arama:
May the new dreams never experience Marana's corrosion, and may the old stories be forgotten alongside it.
"May the new dreams never experience Marana's corruption, and may the old stories be forgotten alongside it."
"May the green fields and mountains never wither. May the streams stay clear and the flowers remain in bloom."
"Friends will stroll through the forest again. That which is good will return, and the painful memories will vanish. Just like a stream purifying itself or a withered tree sprouting once more."
Paimon:
The seal's been lifted! Is the path forward... downward?
Arama:
Yeah, the second seal is up next. Let's go.
Arama:
Nara Traveler, would you like to rest?
Arama:
Aradasha is very strong. In the stories, a very, very long time ago, there was once a metal beast the size of a mountain, and it could spit fire like shooting light beams.
Arama:
But Aradasha bested the beast and imprisoned it with a lock of stone! He saved many Aranara!
Arama:
His legend was as dazzling as the sun, and many Aranara wished for their Ararakalari to be as powerful as his!
Paimon:
Paimon never thought that there'd be such a deep space beneath the sands...
Arama:
The earth is made of soil, stone, sand, and tree roots. So if sand is removed, a very, very large space will appear. Aranara, Nara, and animals can move within it.
Arama:
But more sand should have vanished to make more space and let us go deeper. Bad sand.
Paimon:
Paimon saw many ruin machines while descending... So a fierce battle really did occur here...
Arama:
Yes. The monsters here and the monsters in the Ashvattha Tree's dream, I've seen them in the memories too — the black dogs and huge metal beasts.
Paimon:
Let's look for a way to go further down!
Arama:
Okay!
Arama:
Bad sand. Rough and coarse. Ugh, green grass won't grow from it.
Arama:
There's a very, very huge Valuka outside the forest, and there are Nara in it. Nara must be suffering.
Arama:
Nara Traveler! Paimon! I'm glad you're alright!
Paimon:
Yeah! Paimon's fine! But Traveler always has it rough! Are you alright?
Paimon:
Paimon didn't expect to see a space like this here... Paimon doesn't sense The Withering either...
Arama:
This should be the final seal. Thank you, Nara Traveler and Paimon, for coming here with me. Marana's Avatar should be close by now.
Arama:
Once we defeat Marana's Avatar, I'll plant a new Ashvattha Tree, and then it'll produce the Bija for us.
Paimon:
Then let's finish this! We'll help Rana and complete Arana's request.
Arama:
Yes!
Arama:
But I don't have enough memories. I don't know how to undo this seal...
Paimon:
Don't worry, it's not a big place. Paimon's certain we'll find something if we look around!
Paimon:
Arama, you rest and build up your strength! You'll need it if you plan to fight Marana's Avatar!
Arama:
Alright! I'll rest well!
Mural:
(A mural of many Aranara with their fronts — or backs — facing something strange. There's a golden Aranara with them.)
Mural:
(A mural of many Aranara with their fronts — or backs — facing something strange. There's a golden Aranara with them...)
Mural:
(No, there seems to be a change in the mural. There are two golden Aranara now.)
Mural:
(A mural of some Aranara forming a circle.)
Mural:
(Four Aranara, one golden Aranara, and a column... Or is that a tree trunk? It's hard to tell since the drawing is rather vague.)
Mural:
(...The scene looks somewhat familiar.)
Mural:
(A mural of three Aranara and a golden Aranara. They seem to be entering a huge whirlpool.)
Aranara House:
(This seems to be the home of some Aranara, and looks just like those houses in Vanarana. But its "owner" is nowhere to be found.)
Aranara House:
(If Aranara don't need to rest, why do they need houses?)
Vine Thicket:
(Vines that have completely sealed the path off. There doesn't seem to be a way through.)
Pool:
(Cool and clean water. It's impossible to tell where the water came from.)
Arama:
If only Nara Traveler was here very, very long ago. Then you could have fought the huge metal beasts with Aramuhukunda, Aradasha, and the others!
Arama:
While Nara Traveler was fighting just now, I could sense that the huge metal beast was very bad. It absorbs Marana's strength and grows stronger.
Arama:
It would be exhausting for Nara Traveler if the battle went on. Then I remembered! In my memories, Aradasha used this Ararakalari to trap and destroy many huge metal beasts.
Arama:
So, I tried his Ararakalari, and I hit it very, very hard.
Aramuhukunda:
...I'm glad that you understand. Arama, help your friends, and let the new Ashvattha Tree become the anchor of Aranara's dreams once more.
Arama:
I'll live up to your legacy. Aramuhukunda's name has filled us with courage since many, many moons ago, and that will not change for many, many moons to come.
Arama:
We will defeat Marana's Avatar. With your memories, I hear everyone call out to you, and it fills me with more than just courage, with pride as well.
Aramuhukunda:
I believe in you. Like clouds know they have to release rain, the rain knows that it must fall onto the ground. Meeting all of you made me realize... that the time has finally come. I'm very happy.
Aramuhukunda:
Now, I can finally return to Sarva and meet Nara Varuna again.
Chair:
(This looks like a very ordinary chair.)
Chair:
(...But both its size and workmanship clearly indicate that it's meant for humans, and not for Aranara.)
Baggage and Books:
(It looks like something you'd see in an adventurer's camp. But the books are full of crooked drawings, mostly of Aranara doing something.)
Baggage and Books:
(Speaking of which, why are adventurers so fond of bringing a stack of books with them when they go camping? Never mind the fact that their tents are open in all directions and block neither wind nor rain... Why must they bring a stack of books?)
Arama:
Nara Traveler, Paimon, I recommend we match each other's pace. Let me know when you're ready to set out.
Paimon:
Yeah! Three seals... It feels like we have so much to do! Let's get moving!
Inscription of Remembrance:
...
Traveler:
(Try to sense the memories within the inscription...)
Inscription of Remembrance:
We will be victorious. The living will overcome the dead, and we'll meet again one day in Sarva.
Inscription of Remembrance:
"Friends will stroll through the forest again. That which is good will return, and the painful memories will vanish. Just like a stream purifying itself or a withered tree sprouting once more."
Inscription of Remembrance:
...This is my inscription. Goodbye.
Now, only the final enemy awaits vanquishing. Continue forward. Never, ever, stop moving forward.
Arama:
Now that we have destroyed Marana's Avatar, peace should be restored in the forest. Well, I said "we," but it was mostly due to your efforts and courage. Thank you, Nara Traveler.
Arama:
Each flower is connected with the heart of an Aranara. One could even say that a garland of these flowers woven together can form the door to "Mahavanaranapna."
Arama:
As long as it connects us, we can support you when you are in need, lend you strength to conquer nightmares, help you through dark days, and fill the void in your heart.
Arama:
There are those who no longer dream and thus can no longer see us, those who have accepted fate and stopped searching for the way forward, and those who wallow in fear and pain. Their hearts have hardened, unable to get help from these flowers.
Arama:
It's because Nara Traveler is kind and honest, and because Nara Traveler is Nara Traveler, that the garland could serve its purpose.
Arama:
Nara Traveler is Aranara's friend. We won't leave our friend alone to fight Marana and eliminate all evil for a brighter and purer world.
Paimon:
Well, Traveler is Paimon's best friend, so of course he's the best person ever! Anyway, Paimon guesses this Withering business has been settled once and for all then, right?
Arama:
Marana should fall into slumber now that its avatar has been destroyed. But in a matter of decades, perhaps centuries, it will wake up again.
Arama:
It's because Marana's memory has been left in Sarva. Unless that can be completely removed, the memory of "death" that dwells in all things will eventually bring it back again.
Arama:
...But this will take a long time. I believe that by then there will once again come someone as golden as the sun, just like Nara Traveler and Nara Varuna, so I wouldn't worry about it.
Arama:
Today's forest has a bright future ahead. As long as what remains of Marana is cleared, the children of the forest will be able to enjoy abundant sunshine and rain.
Paimon:
Well... Anyway, now that Marana's Avatar is destroyed, the next step is to plant a new Ashvattha Tree for the Bija, right?
Arama:
Yes. Please wait here for a moment while I fetch Arana.
Paimon:
Arana... Right, we've gotta use Arana's memories to produce the Bija...
Paimon:
But isn't Arana around Vimara Village? How are we gonna...
Paimon:
And there Arama goes...
Paimon:
Whoa!
Arana:
Nara Traveler and Paimon, Arana sensed your battle against Marana's Avatar. You and Arama are very brave.
Arama:
I've received Aramuhukunda's memories. Through them, I learned how to use Sarva to travel through the forest in a flash. This particular Ararakalari is called "teleportation."
Arana:
Arama is amazing. Aramuhukunda must be so glad that you were the one receiving his memory. Arana hasn't teleported in a long, long time either.
Paimon:
Next, we need to plant a new Ashvattha Tree, right? Paimon remembers that Arama talked about some seed thingy...
Arana:
Seeds know that they have to grow into big trees and bear lots of big fruits... Thank you, Arama.
Arama:
No problem. I will grow into a new Ashvattha Tree, bear the Bija using your memories and dreams, and use my roots to reconnect the corroded bridges between dreams.
Paimon:
Wait. What are you guys talking about?
Traveler:
Arama is the "seed."
Arama:
Having absorbed the memories and energies of Aramuhukunda, the Ashvattha Tree, and the Vasoma Fruits, I have now become the strongest "seed" in the forest.
Paimon:
Eh? Paimon doesn't understand...
Arama:
I was planning to build up my memories with my own eyes and body for several decades or centuries, and then embrace the land again to grow into a beautiful Vasara Tree.
Arama:
If it weren't for you, I wouldn't have had the honor to heal the forest by destroying Marana's Avatar, or become the king of the Vasara Trees by collecting all these precious memories.
Paimon:
Ah, so... the Vasara Trees in Ashvattha's Concourses were all once Aranara?
Arama:
Yes, they were once Araji, Arayama, and Aramaha. The Vasoma Fruits are their memories.
Paimon:
But if you turn into a tree, Arama, you would lose the ability to run, talk, and sing...
Arama:
Though I did not spend many days as a seed, the days I spent with you are ten times, no, hundreds of times more precious than the days I spent before.
Paimon:
That's not fair... Paimon still has plans to hang out with you...
Arama:
I see... I understand, Paimon. Nara Traveler and you are my friends. This will never change...
Arama:
With all these memories and energies I've received, I'm now able to see many scenes and stories in Sarva. Let me tell you one.
Paimon:
Okay...
Arama:
Hidden in the golden sandstorm, the eternal oasis was devoid of life. The oldest ruler of all plants, whom no Aranara had had the pleasure of meeting, lay dormant in the sand.
Arama:
The vegetation that once covered it had all died and been reduced to grains of sand. Just as Marana whispered: All good things must vanish.
Arama:
But you should know that as dark as night is, the stars still shine and the sun will still rise. Death longs to dominate all, but life will not fade.
Arama:
Just like the yellow leaves that fall down shall nourish Cuihua Trees, their fruits shall sustain Sumpter Beasts, foxes, and forest boars, while they shall feed Rishboland Tigers in turn. And so, the forest always teems with life.
Arama:
Once, the land was polluted with toxic blood. Like Nara, Aranara too thought that was the end of the world, but now even the memory of it is gone. The forest is even more luxuriant than it was in the time of Greater Lord Rukkhadevata.
Arama:
In the end, all that remains is beautiful. Those who part will come to meet again in Sarva.
Arama:
One day, our dreams and memories will intertwine and blossom on the numberless branches in Sarva. Wouldn't that be great?
Paimon:
Paimon understands, but...
Traveler:
Paimon.
Paimon:
Okay... Alright. Paimon understands! You're the best seed, Arama! You'll definitely grow into a great and beautiful tree!
Paimon:
And... and even when you've turned into a tree, please don't forget Paimon and Traveler, and the adventures we had together!
Traveler:
Thank you, Arama.
Arama:
Thank you, Nara Traveler and Paimon. It's been a great pleasure to meet you.
Arama:
Arana, I promise I will turn your memories into the most beautiful and robust Bija.
Arana:
I believe you, Arama.
Paimon:
Arama...
Arana:
Arama has grown into the new Ashvattha Tree. It's small now, but the roots are deep and strong. After many, many moons, it will surely grow to be big and beautiful.
Paimon:
Arana, you once said that memories and dreams are Aranara's source of strength. If you give those memories up, you'll forget Rana, won't you? And the children of Vimara Village too...
Arana:
Yes. But friends are more precious than memories. You can always make up for lost memories, but not a lost friend.
Arana:
I want to help Narana. She has the same name as Arana. She is Arana's friend.
Arana:
And even if Arana doesn't remember, you will. As long as you remember, your memory will one day grow into a ripe and robust fruit...
Paimon:
Paimon understands...
Traveler:
What should we do?
Arana:
Arana has taught you the Rhythm of the Great Dream. Do you still remember it, Nara Traveler?
Arana:
Just play this song to Arana and Arama.
You claim the Bija.
Paimon:
We finally got it. The precious Bija...
Paimon:
Yeah. Now all we need to do is to give it to Rana, right?
Arana:
...Who are you?
Arama:
Now that we have destroyed Marana's Avatar, peace should be restored in the forest. Well, I said "we," but it was mostly due to your efforts and courage. Thank you, Nara Traveler.
Arama:
Each flower is connected with the heart of an Aranara. One could even say that a garland of these flowers woven together can form the door to "Mahavanaranapna."
Arama:
As long as it connects us, we can support you when you are in need, lend you strength to conquer nightmares, help you through dark days, and fill the void in your heart.
Arama:
There are those who no longer dream and thus can no longer see us, those who have accepted fate and stopped searching for the way forward, and those who wallow in fear and pain. Their hearts have hardened, unable to get help from these flowers.
Arama:
It's because Nara Traveler is kind and honest, and because Nara Traveler is Nara Traveler, that the garland could serve its purpose.
Arama:
Nara Traveler is Aranara's friend. We won't leave our friend alone to fight Marana and eliminate all evil for a brighter and purer world.
Paimon:
Well, Traveler is Paimon's best friend, so of course he's the best person ever! Anyway, Tighnari also said there'll be no new Withering Zones! Paimon guesses this Withering business has finally been settled once and for all then, right?
Arama:
Yes. May we never meet again, Marana. Many tiny Marana remain in the forest, but we've defeated the greatest one.
Arama:
I can sense that all memories about Marana in Sarva have been completely erased. In this case, even the memory and fear of "death" that dwells in all things cannot bring it back ever again.
Arama:
There are still many things in the world that covet life. But I believe that there will always be someone as golden as the sun, just like Nara Traveler and Nara Varuna, so I wouldn't worry about it.
Arama:
Today's forest has a bright future ahead. As long as what remains of Marana is cleared, the children of the forest will be able to enjoy abundant sunshine and rain.
Paimon:
Well... Anyway, now that Marana's Avatar is destroyed, the next step is to plant a new Ashvattha Tree for the Bija, right?
Arama:
Yes. Please wait here for a moment while I fetch Arana.
Paimon:
Arana... Right, we've gotta use Arana's memories to produce the Bija...
Paimon:
But isn't Arana around Vimara Village? How are we gonna...
Paimon:
And there Arama goes...
Paimon:
Whoa!
Arana:
Nara Traveler and Paimon, Arana sensed your battle against Marana's Avatar. You and Arama are very brave.
Arama:
I've received Aramuhukunda's memories. Through them, I learned how to use Sarva to travel through the forest in a flash. This particular Ararakalari is called "teleportation."
Arana:
Arama is amazing. Aramuhukunda must be so glad that you were the one receiving his memory. Arana hasn't teleported in a long, long time either.
Paimon:
Next, we need to plant a new Ashvattha Tree, right? Paimon remembers that Arama talked about some seed thingy...
Arana:
Seeds know that they have to grow into big trees and bear lots of big fruits... Thank you, Arama.
Arama:
No problem. I will grow into a new Ashvattha Tree, bear the Bija using your memories and dreams, and use my roots to reconnect the corroded bridges between dreams.
Paimon:
Wait. What are you guys talking about?
Traveler:
Arama is the "seed."
Arama:
Having absorbed the memories and energies of Aramuhukunda, the Ashvattha Tree, and the Vasoma Fruits, I have now become the strongest "seed" in the forest.
Paimon:
Eh? Paimon doesn't understand...
Arama:
I was planning to build up my memories with my own eyes and body for several decades or centuries, and then embrace the land again to grow into a beautiful Vasara Tree.
Arama:
If it weren't for you, I wouldn't have had the honor to heal the forest by destroying Marana's Avatar, or become the king of the Vasara Trees by collecting all these precious memories.
Paimon:
Ah, so... the Vasara Trees in Ashvattha's Concourses were all once Aranara?
Arama:
Yes, they were once Araji, Arayama, and Aramaha. The Vasoma Fruits are their memories.
Paimon:
But if you turn into a tree, Arama, you would lose the ability to run, talk, and sing...
Arama:
Though I did not spend many days as a seed, the days I spent with you are ten times, no, hundreds of times more precious than the days I spent before.
Paimon:
That's not fair... Paimon still has plans to hang out with you...
Arama:
I see... I understand, Paimon. Nara Traveler and you are my friends. This will never change...
Arama:
With all these memories and energies I've received, I'm now able to see many scenes and stories in Sarva. Let me tell you one.
Paimon:
Okay...
Arama:
Hidden in the golden sandstorm, the eternal oasis was devoid of life. The oldest ruler of all plants, whom no Aranara had had the pleasure of meeting, lay dormant in the sand.
Arama:
The vegetation that once covered it had all died and been reduced to grains of sand. Just as Marana whispered: All good things must vanish.
Arama:
But you should know that as dark as night is, the stars still shine and the sun will still rise. Death longs to dominate all, but life will not fade.
Arama:
Just like the yellow leaves that fall down shall nourish Cuihua Trees, their fruits shall sustain Sumpter Beasts, foxes, and forest boars, while they shall feed Rishboland Tigers in turn. And so, the forest always teems with life.
Arama:
Once, the land was polluted with toxic blood. Like Nara, Aranara too thought that was the end of the world, but now even the memory of it is gone. The forest today is even more luxuriant than it was yesterday.
Arama:
In the end, all that remains is beautiful. Those who part will come to meet again in Sarva.
Arama:
One day, our dreams and memories will intertwine and blossom on the numberless branches in Sarva. Wouldn't that be great?
Paimon:
Paimon understands, but...
Traveler:
Paimon.
Paimon:
Okay... Alright. Paimon understands! You're the best seed, Arama! You'll definitely grow into a great and beautiful tree!
Paimon:
And... and even when you've turned into a tree, please don't forget Paimon and Traveler, and the adventures we had together!
Traveler:
Thank you, Arama.
Arama:
Thank you, Nara Traveler and Paimon. It's been a great pleasure to meet you.
Arama:
Arana, I promise I will turn your memories into the most beautiful and robust Bija.
Arana:
I believe you, Arama.
Arana:
Nara Traveler, please make it quick. The Ararakalari that Arana left with Narana won't last long.
Traveler:
Are you ready?
Arana:
Yes. I'll be fine.
Paimon:
What's this...
Arama:
This is where the last war ended. We... They crushed Marana's Avatar and imprisoned it here with the four seals.
Paimon:
Looks scary... So is Marana's Avatar in there?
Arama:
Marana has corroded the Vasara Tree that was meant to grow atop it and has gained possession of its bodily form. If left unchecked, it'll eventually eat away at all life on this earth.
Arama:
Since it's not at its full strength yet, now would be the best time to destroy its avatar. With it defeated, we should be able to obtain the Bija.
Arama:
Come, Nara Traveler and Paimon, let's get going.
Paimon:
You're speaking normally again, Arama...