Golden Slumber

Quest List

Lost in the Sands An Introduction to Indoor Archaeology The Secret of Al-Ahmar Dreams Beneath the Searing Sand

In Aaru Village, there is a merchant from Mondstadt who needs help from adventurers.

???:

Oh! Hello there! Judging from your attire, I take it you're not from around here? We don't get a lot of other outsiders here, I clocked you as being from somewhere else the moment I laid eyes on you.

???:

*sigh* Making a living here is tough for outsiders.

Paimon:

From what you're saying... You're also from somewhere else, aren't you?

Bonifaz:

You can tell? My name's Bonifaz. My associate and I traveled to Sumeru City from Mondstadt to trade in some supplies. We're in the desert on the request of a researcher from the Akademiya.

Paimon:

You came to the desert from Mondstadt to do business...?

Bonifaz:

Of course. Since you managed to make your way to a place as remote as this, you two must have been around the block too, I suppose?

Paimon:

Of course! And we know your hometown pretty well too!

Bonifaz:

Well now! Then speaking of which, you must also know what sets us Mondstadters apart from others.

Bonifaz:

That's right! What we Mondstadters value most of all is freedom.

Bonifaz:

How does that saying go again?

Traveler:

"Go with the wind"!

Paimon:

...Come on, it's actually "let the wind lead"!

Bonifaz:

Yes, right, right! That's the one!

Bonifaz:

When the north wind began to blow, some dandelion seeds were blown across the sea to Inazuma, while others were swept away to Liyue.

Bonifaz:

As for me, I guess I was favored by the Anemo Archon. I didn't stop at Liyue and got blown all the way to Sumeru.

Bonifaz:

The climate and way of life here might be a far cry from that of Mondstadt, but I'm here, and I intend to make the best of things.

Paimon:

Paimon gets it... But you just said that it's hard for outsiders to make a living here, right? Did something happen?

Bonifaz:

Oh, well, I accepted that Akademiya researcher's commission, didn't I...?

Bonifaz:

Tirzad — that's the researcher's name. He took two mercenaries with him to look for some ruins, probably for some archaeological research. I don't really know much about Akademiya stuff.

Bonifaz:

In addition to providing them with some supplies, my associate and I also rented a few Sumpter Beasts out to them.

Bonifaz:

Nachtigal, my associate, was worried that they'd struggle to steer the Sumpter Beasts, so he decided to go with them.

Bonifaz:

We originally arranged to use a Dusk Bird to send messages every once in a while, so that I could be informed of their progress or raise supplies to send to them as the situation required.

Bonifaz:

We did exchange messages this way at first, but I haven't heard a peep from them for the last two days...

Paimon:

Paimon hopes there wasn't any sort of accident...

Bonifaz:

That's what I've been worrying about! That's why I was thinking about posting a commission with the Adventurers' Guild, but as they say, what good's a distant well when you're already parched...

Paimon:

Oh? Well, isn't this a coincidence!

Traveler:

We're licensed adventurers.

Bonifaz:

So, you're young adventurers! But the desert is still a dangerous place. Wouldn't it be better for locals or adventurers with more experience to do this...

Paimon:

Are you underestimating us? Hmph! You've left Mondstadt, so maybe you're out of the loop...

Paimon:

But you should know that Traveler isn't just any ordinary adventurer. He's an Honorary Knight of the Knights of Favonius!

Bonifaz:

Huh? Wait. Then you must be... the celebrated Traveler...?

Paimon:

Oh! Then you have heard? That's right, this is the renowned Traveler! And Paimon is the famed Paimon!

Bonifaz:

Goodness gracious! Please excuse my rudeness! I never expected to meet a big hero in a place like this! And... And a little hero, too!

Bonifaz:

In that case, I have nothing more to say. I just worry that you may have some other important missions at hand, like saving a city or something, and don't have the time for a menial commission like this one...

Paimon:

Uh... It's not like we're always doing over-the-top stuff like that... We take ordinary commissions, too!

Bonifaz:

You mean you'll take this commission? That's fantastic! I knew heroes had hearts of gold. Of course you wouldn't turn your backs on someone at death's very door!

Paimon:

We haven't agreed to anything yet... And anyway, don't just throw "death" around like that, you'll jinx people!

Bonifaz:

Ah... Then I'll just have to return to the city alone and submit a commission to the Adventurers' Guild... But by the time someone accepts the commission, those four could already be... Alas...

Paimon:

Hmm...

Bonifaz:

If you two could take a little time out of your busy schedules to take this commission, I'll definitely come up with some way to make it worth your while! Right, that researcher from the Akademiya is also quite the generous client...

Bonifaz:

I can picture it now: Just as they run into some trouble, Traveler, a true hero, descends from the heavens to save them!

Bonifaz:

That should secure you double the payment, right? This deal is a sure bet!

Paimon:

Hm... What do you think we should do, Traveler?

Traveler:

If they're in danger, we have to help them.

Bonifaz:

Great, fantastic! There's hope for my Cyrus yet!

Paimon:

..."Cyrus"?

Bonifaz:

Yes, Cyrus is the name of one of the Sumpter Beasts I rented to them.

Paimon:

Huh? "Cyrus"? But isn't that...

Traveler:

Does the actual Cyrus know about this?

Bonifaz:

...Huh? W—Well...

Bonifaz:

...Haha, it's fine, just don't tell him! No one will know!

Bonifaz:

Ahem, anyway, the researcher and the others left the village and headed west. The trails here are a bit hard to make out, but you should be able to find them by following the footprints.

Bonifaz:

I'll leave the rest to you two!

Katheryne:

Traveler, Paimon, it's good to see you! I've got an urgent commission I'd like to give you two.

Katheryne:

The commissioner is a Mondstadt merchant who is currently in Aaru Village. According to him, his associate and the Sumpter Beasts they leased out to an Akademiya researcher have been missing in the desert for a while now...

Katheryne:

He's hoping that a highly experienced adventurer can take this commission and confirm the status of his associate and the Sumpter Beasts.

Katheryne:

You're both highly experienced adventurers, so a commission like this should be a cinch for you, I hope?

Paimon:

Missing in the desert... That certainly is worrying. Let's go take a look, Traveler.

Katheryne:

The commissioner is named Bonifaz, and he's still in Aaru Village now. He can fill you in on the specifics. Safe travels, you two.

Paimon:

Excuse me, are you Bonifaz? We're with the Adventurers' Guild...

Bonifaz:

Oh! Hello there! But looking at your attire, you aren't locals, are you? I was under the impression that the Adventurers' Guild would send local adventurers who might be better apprised of the situation.

Bonifaz:

*sigh* That said, I'm not from around here either. Making a living here is tough for outsiders.

Bonifaz:

My associate and I are both Mondstadters. We originally traveled to Sumeru City to trade in supplies, and only came here at the request of a researcher from the Akademiya.

Paimon:

You came all the way from Mondstadt to the desert to do business...?

Bonifaz:

Of course. Since you came somewhere as remote as this desert, you two must have been around the block too, I suppose?

Paimon:

Of course! And we know your hometown pretty well too!

Bonifaz:

Well now! Then speaking of which, you must also know what sets us Mondstadters apart from others.

Bonifaz:

That's right! What we Mondstadters value most of all is freedom.

Bonifaz:

Right — what I meant to say was that what we Mondstadters value most is freedom.

Bonifaz:

How does that saying go again?

Traveler:

"Go with the wind"!

Paimon:

...Come on, it's actually "let the wind lead"!

Bonifaz:

Yes, right, right! That's the one!

Bonifaz:

When the north wind began to blow, some dandelion seeds were blown across the sea to Inazuma, while others were swept away to Liyue.

Bonifaz:

As for me, I guess I was favored by the Anemo Archon. I didn't stop at Liyue and got blown all the way to Sumeru.

Bonifaz:

The climate and way of life here might be a far cry from that of Mondstadt, but I'm here, and I intend to make the best of things.

Paimon:

So that's how it is... Still, could you tell us more about the commission you posted at the Adventurers' Guild?

Bonifaz:

Oh, well, I accepted that Akademiya researcher's commission, didn't I...?

Bonifaz:

Tirzad — that's the researcher's name. He took two mercenaries with him to look for some ruins, probably for some archaeological research. I don't really know much about Akademiya stuff.

Bonifaz:

In addition to providing them with some supplies, my associate and I also rented a few Sumpter Beasts out to them.

Bonifaz:

Nachtigal, my associate, was worried that they'd struggle to steer the Sumpter Beasts, so he decided to go with them.

Bonifaz:

We originally arranged to use a Dusk Bird to send messages every once in a while, so that I could be informed of their progress or raise supplies to send to them as the situation required.

Bonifaz:

We did exchange messages this way at first, but I haven't heard a peep from them for the last two days...

Paimon:

Paimon hopes there wasn't any sort of accident...

Bonifaz:

That's what I've been worrying about! And that's why I decided to post a commission with the Adventurers' Guild — and well, here you are.

Bonifaz:

But the desert is very dangerous, and you two seem so... young. Are you sure you can handle a place like this desert?

Paimon:

Are you underestimating us? Hmph! You've left Mondstadt, so maybe you're out of the loop...

Paimon:

But you should know that Traveler isn't just any ordinary adventurer. He's an Honorary Knight of the Knights of Favonius!

Bonifaz:

Huh? Wait. Then you must be... the celebrated Traveler...?

Paimon:

Oh! Then you have heard, after all! That's right, this is the renowned Traveler! And Paimon is the famed Paimon!

Bonifaz:

Goodness gracious! Please excuse my rudeness! I never expected to meet a big hero in a place like this! And... And a little hero, too!

Bonifaz:

Paimon:

Uh... It's not like we're always doing over-the-top stuff like that... We take ordinary commissions, too! Besides, we've already accepted your commission, haven't we?

Bonifaz:

Well, that's great! Right, as for your payment... I'll definitely think of something! That researcher from the Akademiya has also been quite generous...

Bonifaz:

I can picture it now: just as they run into some trouble, Traveler, a true hero, descends from the heavens to save them!

Bonifaz:

That should secure you double the payment, right? This deal is a sure bet!

Paimon:

Hmm... What do you think, Traveler?

Traveler:

If they're in danger, we have to help them.

Bonifaz:

Great, fantastic! There's hope for my Cyrus yet!

Paimon:

..."Cyrus"?

Bonifaz:

Yes, Cyrus is the name of one of the Sumpter Beasts I rented to them.

Paimon:

Huh? "Cyrus"? But isn't that...

Traveler:

Does the actual Cyrus know about this?

Bonifaz:

...Huh? W—Well...

Bonifaz:

...Haha, it's fine, just don't tell him! No one will know!

Bonifaz:

Ahem, anyway, the researcher and the others left the village and headed west. The trails here are a bit hard to make out, but you should be able to find them by following the footprints.

Bonifaz:

I'll leave the rest to you two!

Paimon:

There's a cavern here. C'mon, let's check it out.

Paimon:

(He's dressed like an Akademiya researcher, but why does he reek of booze...?)

???:

Th—Think you can mess with me and scam me?! *hic*

???:

J—Jebrael, you useless dolt! How long have we been going? You know... only to get stuck...

???:

Ugh... If it wasn't for this busted stone slate...

Paimon:

(Whoa, Paimon thinks he's drunk! There's no way we can talk with him now. Let's go ask someone else.)

Paimon:

Hello, we're...

???:

Did you guys... also fall down here?

???:

The desert's no place for outsiders. If you have a way back, I suggest you take it as soon as possible.

Paimon:

(Looks like talking to us is the last thing he wants to do... Let's try someone else.)

Paimon:

(Could this be Nachtigal, the associate that Bonifaz was telling us about?)

???:

Uh...

Paimon:

(Oh? He doesn't seem well. Paimon thinks he's resting... Let's not disturb him...)

Jeht:

Father, I'm back! Oh? Is Nachtigal doing better?

Jeht:

Right, Paimon and Traveler told me all about what happened! How can you just ignore people, father? Really, when is that temperament of yours ever going to change?

Jeht explains the situation to the three of them.

Paimon:

That means we've completed Bonifaz's commission, right? After all, he only asked us to confirm the safety of the archaeology team as well as that of the Sumpter Beasts...

Tirzad:

Bonifaz!

Paimon:

Wh—What happened!?

Tirzad:

Bonifaz and Nachtigal are colluding to blackmail me... *sob*... That despicable Mondstadter came all the way to Sumeru just to extort me, I swear...

Paimon:

Is he still drunk...?

Nachtigal:

Mr. Tirzad, was the price not already agreed upon after our discussion? You even confirmed it yourself, so why are you telling a different story now?

Tirzad:

I usually have my hands full with research matters, and I've never dealt with business people such as you before. How was I supposed to know the rules around pricing...

Tirzad:

If Jeht hadn't told me that you highballed me, I'd still be foolish enough to think that I scored a great deal!

Nachtigal:

Well...

Jeht:

*sigh* I'm really sorry, Nachtigal. Father had told me after the fact that I shouldn't have shared it with Tirzad.

Jebrael:

Eh...

Paimon:

Oof... Why's Paimon getting the feeling that Jeht managed to offend all three people by saying that?

Tirzad:

That's it! I'm... I'm laying you all off! There's a limit to how much bullying I'll take! *sob*

Jeht:

That's not fair, Tirzad! Nachtigal and Bonifaz are in the wrong here, but father and I didn't do anything wrong!

Jeht:

Besides, didn't we only get stuck in this place because you insisted on coming here? Then you started throwing tantrums after that fall and drank even though you clearly can't hold your liquor...

Jeht:

You might have the body of an adult, but you've been acting like a little baby. Haha.

Tirzad:

You... You!

Paimon:

Jeht, that's enough. Tirzad looks like he might faint from rage! Now isn't the time to fight. What we should be doing is putting our heads together so we can get ourselves out of this mess.

Tirzad:

Ooh! Someone's talking sense... So, that crook Bonifaz commissioned you to come look for me? And you're famous adventurers, you say?

Tirzad:

Well, I'd like to hire you to get me out of this archon-forsaken place. At this rate, forget my research, even my very life will be cut short!

Tirzad:

Since you're famous adventurers, surely you're more reliable than they are?

Paimon:

(Is this the double payment Bonifaz mentioned...? What should we do, Traveler?)

Traveler:

Now's not the time for bickering. Let's focus on getting out of here first.

Paimon:

You're right, finding a way out together is what's most important right now. Any other complaints can be addressed once we're somewhere safe.

Jeht:

That's right. See, Tirzad? If you could think as sensibly as Paimon, we wouldn't have gotten ourselves stuck in this situation.

Paimon:

Jeht...

Jeht:

I just explored a little bit up ahead and found what looks to be ruins. Maybe there's an exit leading to the surface in there?

Tirzad:

Desert ruins don't constitute a safe place! And I'm not going anywhere with such unreliable people...

Paimon:

But you're a researcher, aren't you? Shouldn't you be thrilled to have ruins to investigate?

Tirzad:

I—I'm an Indoorsology researcher! I should be working indoors and poring over documents... Unlike some adventurers who go stark raving bananas when they see a pile of old ruins...

Jeht:

Oh, you...

Jebrael:

Don't waste your breath on him, Jeht. Just let him stay here if he wants to.

Jeht:

But father...

Jebrael:

He's our employer, so he has the right to decide what he does and doesn't want to do. We just have to do our jobs.

Paimon:

Ah, there he goes...

Jeht:

We'll come back after father and I find a safe path. If he doesn't want to come with us, then he can just wait here!

Paimon:

And now there goes Jeht... What should we do?

Traveler:

We can't just wait here.

Paimon:

You're right, let's go find a way out of here.

Tirzad:

Are... Are you going to ditch me? The payment for the commission is negotiable, so don't leave me here with this crook from Mondstadt...

Nachtigal:

I've kept quiet up until now, but Bonifaz and I are not crooks. What shady businessmen would offer such comprehensive after-sales care?

Nachtigal:

Think about it, Mr. Tirzad, we could have simply received our payment and left it at that. But instead, we let ourselves end up in the same boat as you!

Tirzad:

...I guess that makes sense? But I'm not staying here either way — I'd feel more comfortable in the company of experienced adventurers.

Paimon:

But you're still rip-roaring drunk... Why don't you stay here and sleep it off first?

Tirzad:

I am not drunk! I'm fine! I'm coming with you guys! Don't leave me behind... *sob*

Paimon:

Uh... Th—Then we should get going. We should be able to catch up with Jeht and the others.

Nachtigal:

I'll wait here for now — I doubt the road ahead will be suitable for the Sumpter Beasts. Good luck.

Paimon:

Hello?

???:

Oh? Are you the newly fallen?

Paimon:

Huh? What do you mean "newly fallen"?

???:

Oh? Do you have a way out?

Paimon:

Huh? We accepted Bonifaz's commission to come look for Tirzad's archaeological team...

Jeht:

Bonifaz? That merchant from Mondstadt? I know him. So, you want to find the archaeological team, huh? Let me think... Oh, isn't that us? I'm Jeht. Tirzad... sort of hired me.

Paimon:

He said that he hadn't gotten any word from you guys in a while, and he was worried that something might have happened to you, so he asked us to come and check things out.

Paimon:

Paimon wonders if he was the one who was taking a break...

Jeht:

Are all Mondstadters so paranoid? What do you mean "a while"? It's only been a day...

Jeht:

If it weren't for that bad fall and the heatstroke that Nachtigal had, we'd also be trying to find a way out.

Paimon:

So, this pit is...

Jeht:

That's right, the desert is an incredible place. One minute, you're looking at solid ground, the next, you step directly into a trap. And as you can see, we're trapped here now.

Jeht:

Did you guys just get here? Or do you have another way out? Still, we've searched all over this place, and there doesn't seem to be any way back to the surface.

Traveler:

We have a wind glider.

Jeht:

A wind glider! I heard Nachtigal talk about them before. They sound pretty great! To be honest, I'd love to give flying a try too! Wait a minute, now that I think about it, your lil' friend here doesn't seem to even need a wind glider to fly!

Jeht:

Can you teach me, lil' friend? How can I be as footloose and free as you? Er... I mean, as floaty?

Paimon:

Paimon is nobody's "lil' friend"! Even Bonifaz knows that Paimon is famous!

Paimon:

And Traveler here is just as famous as Paimon!

Jeht:

All right, my renowned lil' friend Paimon, can you teach me? What do I have to do to float freely through the air like you?

Paimon:

Uh, Paimon doesn't really have an answer for you there... Traveler...?

Traveler:

If you practice hard enough, maybe a miracle will happen.

Paimon:

You can't just wake up one morning to find yourself floating!

Jeht:

I see, so you must've hired Paimon to teach you how to fly, didn't you, Traveler? But since you're still using a wind glider, I suppose you haven't trained enough, huh...

Jeht:

Once you train enough, I'm sure you'll finally be able to fly freely without needing a wind glider!

Jeht:

You seem like a really good teacher, Paimon! Can I hire you to teach me, too? Hey, Traveler, how much Mora will I need to hire Paimon?

Paimon:

Wow... You've got a wild imagination, huh? We don't have that sort of relationship.

Jeht:

Huh? But isn't it just like how Tirzad hired my father and me? And Nachtigal too! Surely I can also hire you as long as I have the Mora to spend?

Traveler:

Paimon is my companion.

Paimon:

That's right! Paimon won't leave Traveler's side.

Jeht:

Oh, that's a shame, then.

Jeht:

By the way, have you seen Tirzad and my father?

Paimon:

We have, but...

You explain the situation with the others to Jeht.

Jeht:

Haha, I see. As I said before, Nachtigal must be having a tough time, what with the bad fall he took plus the heatstroke.

Jeht:

As for my father, well, he's got a nasty temper — don't take it personally. And as for Tirzad, he's basically been throwing a tantrum since things stopped going smoothly.

Paimon:

That said, grouchy kids don't usually get that drunk...

Jeht:

You're not wrong, Paimon! Haha. Sometimes father will have a few glasses as well, but I've never seen him get drunk before.

Jeht:

How about this? We can go back together and I'll explain everything to my father. You guys don't wanna stay here too long, do you?

Bonifaz:

Nachtigal doesn't worry me so much, but I do hope Cyrus comes back safe and sound...

Paimon:

We're here! Tirzad decided to come exploring with us.

Jeht:

What now? You mean that researcher actually changed his mind?

Tirzad:

Ugh...

Jebrael:

He knows the pros and cons, so naturally, he came along.

Jeht:

All right, well, you'll get the chance to show off your skills soon enough! How should we enter the interior of the ruins? This is a researcher's specialty, right?

Jeht:

This should be a piece of cake for you, right, Tirzad?

Tirzad:

O—Of course! I might be an Indoorsology researcher, but something as basic as this can't be too different from what's written in the books...

Tirzad:

Watch this!

Tirzad:

...Hmm, this is... There! That should do it...

Paimon:

Whoa, the door really opened!

Jeht:

Well, that's Mr. Tirzad for you!

Tirzad:

Heh, that's what sets us professionals apart from the amateurs.

Paimon:

Paimon wonders what it's like inside. Let's go in and take a look!

Tirzad:

Who are you? *hic* Thanks, but I'll pass. I can't manage another sip.

Jebrael:

If there's nothing else, leave as soon as possible.

Nachtigal:

It's a good thing nothing happened to Cyrus, or Bonifaz would be a weeping wreck.

Nachtigal:

*whimper*

Tirzad:

We've been walking around for a while without making any progress, so why don't we take a little rest?

Jeht:

Are you kidding? It's hardly been any time at all and you're already thinking of resting?!

Tirzad:

I said it before, didn't I? I'm an Indoorsology researcher! I should never have come out into the middle of nowhere like this...

Paimon:

Wait a minute, Paimon's confused. Wasn't the archaeology mission your idea?

Paimon:

Jeht, Jebrael, and Nachtigal only came because you hired them, right?

Tirzad:

Yes, that's correct.

Paimon:

Huh? So it was your idea, then why have you been dragging your feet this whole time?

Paimon:

If we didn't know the truth, Paimon would think that Jebrael must've kidnapped you to get some legendary treasure in the ruins or something.

Jeht:

Haha, you're funny, Paimon! My father may be a grump, but he'd never do something like that.

Jebrael:

...

Paimon:

...D—Don't get mad at Paimon. Paimon's only telling it like it is!

Traveler:

Don't bully Paimon.

Jeht:

I'm sorry. My father really isn't a bad guy, believe me.

Paimon:

Then why is Tirzad so unmotivated?

Tirzad:

*sigh* It's because I don't care for the topic at all. If it wasn't for this accursed stone slate...

Tirzad:

I'm always told to be original in my research and to find material that no one has ever worked on before.

Tirzad:

"What's the value or meaning of research if everyone is just following the herd or reproducing each other's work?" — or so I've been told.

Tirzad:

But what am I compared to such a long-standing academic tradition and all my seniors in research? I'm no academic genius, so what can I think of that others can't?

Tirzad:

There are no academic gaps left these days that I can identify and fill...

Paimon:

Uh... Paimon doesn't really get academic stuff either, but since this is your job, you should take it seriously.

Tirzad:

I do! I give it my all! Why else would I have spent so much Mora to come to this archon-forsaken place...

Tirzad:

Heh, it's funny, but this Scarlet Sand Slate was actually the research project of a relative of mine...

Tirzad:

She was originally a young researcher with limitless promise, but one day, she left the family behind and eloped with some wild boy from who knows where.

Tirzad:

I heard that they fled into this desert back in those days. Unfortunately, I was a kid then and only saw her a few times. I can't even remember what she looked like.

Jeht:

All the more reason to buck up! Since you're researching the same thing, there's a chance for a reunion, isn't there?

Jeht:

Fate is an unpredictable thing, after all.

Tirzad:

Haha... Even if we really did meet again, and even if we really recognized each other, how could I even face her?

Tirzad:

The way I am now, I'm no different from a stray dog, living off the scraps thrown away by others...

Tirzad:

Since I'm incapable of constructing any new theories, all I could do was take my chances in the field and see if I could dig up any new materials to base my paper on.

Tirzad:

Though, when it comes to King Deshret, the academic community has long since concluded that he was just another self-destructive tyrant...

Tirzad:

Speaking of which, she must have left this stone slate behind when she left back then because even she knew this lousy thing had no research value.

Tirzad:

Haha, and yet I took it to be a treasure! Haha! This silly stone slate! I must have been out of my mind to think I'd really be able to stumble upon something.

Paimon:

Uh... Still, Paimon doesn't think you should lose heart!

Paimon:

Because... Because, um, we often make surprising discoveries while exploring ruins like these! Right, Traveler?

Paimon:

Although those might not be much use to Tirzad...

Tirzad:

None of you have ever done serious academic research. How could you possibly understand me or the difficulties of being a researcher...

Jebrael:

Stop talking like a child. The Akademiya might control the path to academic publication, but they don't have a monopoly on knowledge itself.

Jebrael:

If this is all you know about King Deshret, then you should have abandoned academia from the very beginning, because it's clear you won't get any results.

Jeht:

Father...

Tirzad:

You? You're just a paid mercenary, what right do you have to comment on my ideas?

Jebrael:

So far, you seem to have very little in the way of professional credentials as a researcher. That much you already admitted yourself.

Tirzad:

Me? I'm—! You... You!

Tirzad gets so worked up that the blood rushes to his head, causing him to faint...

Paimon:

Uh-oh, what happened? Will he be okay...?

Jeht:

We should keep a closer eye on him after this and not let him drink any more. He must not have completely sobered up yet when father made him so mad that all the blood rushed to his head.

Jeht:

That was weird, though. Why'd you have to get so mad at him?

Jebrael:

...We can't stop just because he keeps dragging his feet.

Paimon:

Huh? But we can't just leave him here either...

Jebrael:

I'll stay behind to keep him safe. Meanwhile, you and Jeht keep looking for an exit.

Paimon:

Well... what should we do now, Traveler?

Traveler:

Time's a-wastin'.

Paimon:

You're right... Let's keep exploring, then!

Jeht:

Leave Tirzad to my father, you'll have nothing to worry about. I'll come with you guys!

Tirzad:

(He looks like he's in a lot of pain, we probably shouldn't wake him up...)

Paimon:

How familiar!

???:

Beep?

Paimon:

Whoa! It's moving!

Jeht:

Hmm? Looks a lot like the one we just knocked down. Still... it doesn't look like it's going to attack us.

Jeht:

On second thought, it can float in the air just like Paimon. Does that make them distant relatives?

Paimon:

Paimon would sooner be related to a pigeon!

???:

Beep... Beep?

Paimon:

This thing's making weird noises again... Where's that sound coming from, anyway? And is it really not going to turn on us out of the blue? Traveler, don't let your guard down.

Jeht:

Can you try talking to it, Paimon? Look, you two are about the same size, so you should be able to talk to each other, right?

Paimon:

How is Paimon supposed to talk to it?! Oh! You're messing with Paimon on purpose, aren't you?

Jeht:

Tee-hee.

???:

Beep-boop. Beep.

Traveler:

It looks like some sort of device.

Paimon:

Sh—Should we pick it up and try using it?

???:

Beep...!!

Paimon:

Eek! Gah, you scared Paimon!

Jeht:

It doesn't seem to want to do that.

Paimon:

Eh? Can you understand it, Jeht?

Jeht:

Um... I can't understand the meaning, but I can get... the feeling?

Paimon:

Wh—What a weird thing...

???:

Beep-beep, beep.

Jeht:

Oh? I think it's a lot like you, Paimon. You both look really cute!

Paimon:

Paimon told you, we're nothing alike!

Jeht:

Well, yeah, you're round and cute, Paimon, and it seems a little... pokey? But it's still very cute!

Paimon:

Ugh... Paimon totally doesn't get your standards for "cute"...

Paimon:

Now isn't the time for this, Traveler.

Jeht:

The way I see it, Paimon doesn't get it, but Traveler does.

Jeht:

I don't know why it's here or what it's used for... But maybe Tirzad will understand if we can get him to take a look at it.

Jeht:

You... Hmm? What should I call you anyhow?

???:

Beep-boop?

Jeht:

Paimon floats, but you're a little lower off from the ground, so... I'll call you Benben!

Benben:

Beep-beep!

Jeht:

You like this name, too? That's great!

Paimon:

How do those two even communicate...

Traveler:

Jeht's amazing.

Paimon:

She is amazing, in a weird sort of way.

Jeht:

Benben, it must be boring hanging around here by yourself. Why don't you come with us? Needless to say, Traveler is pretty great, too.

Jeht:

As for Paimon... She might act a little superior, but she's a good kid who thinks about her companions. You'll definitely come to like her in time.

Paimon:

Paimon doesn't act super-anything! Anyway, Paimon's not gonna fly lower for anyone! Otherwise, Paimon will breathe in a whole load of sand...

Jeht:

Come look for my father with us. He may look mean, but actually... Well, he actually is kind of mean. But that's just how he is with outsiders! He's nice once you get to know him!

Jeht:

And even though Tirzad's a useless researcher, he's not actually a bad guy. Right, and you might even be able to save his research, Benben!

Benben:

Beep-boop?

Jeht:

Well? Wanna come with us, Benben?

Benben:

Beep... Bee-eep!

Jeht:

That's great! It said yes!

Paimon:

Really? Are you guys really talking to each other?

Jeht:

Don't worry, Paimon. Benben and I are already joined at the hip! Right, Benben?

Benben:

Beep-beep!

Jeht:

Hehe, well, let's go back to where my father is. Maybe Tirzad has already woken up.

Paimon:

Provided he doesn't open up his eyes only to see Jebrael and get so mad that he passes out again...

Jeht:

Haha, you never know!

Jebrael:

Let's get a move on, enough dawdling.

Jebrael:

Don't stick your nose into other people's business... especially when your employer's concerned. I believe I've taught you better than that.

Jeht:

B—But I think they're no longer "other people," are they?

Jeht:

I can feel a breeze... The exit must be close by! Keep looking. We'll be out of here in no time.

Paimon:

Woohoo! We can finally leave!

Paimon:

...Although it's certain to be nothing but sand for miles around out there.

Traveler:

At least we'll be able to see the sky.

Paimon:

That's true!

Tirzad:

Where... Where do you guys get all that energy from? First it's exploring, then it's fighting... Let's slow down a little...

Jeht:

You and father are the same age, aren't you, Tirzad? How many times have we stopped to rest so far?

Jeht:

The mind of a child, the body of an old man... Geez.

Benben:

Beep beep... Bee-eep.

Tirzad:

I told you, I'm an Indoor... forget it. I'm the employer, so just listen to me!

Everyone rests with Tirzad for a while.

Paimon:

Oh? If it isn't Nachtigal!

Nachtigal:

There you are. When the door on the other side suddenly opened, I knew you'd found an exit. I brought Cyrus and the others over.

Paimon:

Wow, that was pretty brave of you! What if it wasn't a shortcut at all, but a trap?

Nachtigal:

...

Nachtigal:

Heh, you've got a point.

Paimon:

You mean that it didn't even occur to you?!

Nachtigal:

Well, everything worked out fine in the end. We've reunited, haven't we? That's enough. By the way, we've got a new member here? That's great!

Traveler:

That's a free Mondstadter for you.

Paimon:

But it's better to be cautious at times like this!

Jeht:

But isn't it great that we don't have to double back to rendezvous? Now we can find the exit together!

Jebrael:

Follow the wind and find your way out. But don't let your guard down.

Jeht:

Okay... got it!

Mirsad:

I thought it'd be a short and even bland trip into the desert. But we instead got ourselves into something so crazy. It was a little scary, but I can't say I dislike it.

Omid:

I just wanted to make some easy Mora so that I could start a business, but the job almost cost me my life...

Jeht:

Father, I brought another new friend back! Look, this is the friend we just met, its name is Benben.

Benben:

Beep.

Jeht:

Oh, Tirzad's awake. Looks like things are going well with father.

Tirzad:

I don't know how you came to that ridiculous conclusion, but... let's not discuss that for now. What I'm most concerned about now is, what is that thing?

Jeht:

Didn't I just introduce you? This is our new friend, Benben.

Tirzad:

This doesn't seem like something that could be classified as a "friend," could it?! Doesn't this look a little like the same thing that just attacked us?

Jeht:

...

Jeht:

You don't have a lot of friends, do you, Tirzad?

Tirzad:

No, I don't... Wait, what does that have to do with this?

Jeht:

You're way too uptight! You just need an open mind, and you'll be swimming in friends in no time. Isn't that right, Benben?

Benben:

Beep.

Tirzad:

And you're too lax!

Paimon:

So, you don't know what Benben is either, huh?

Tirzad:

It... must be related to the guards here. I don't know exactly how to operate it, though.

Tirzad:

But this unique model doesn't attack outsiders and can even communicate to a certain extent... I don't remember reading anything about this.

Jeht:

Tirzad!

Tirzad:

Wh—What is it?

Jeht:

Isn't that amazing news?

Traveler:

This is the "material that no one has worked on before."

Tirzad:

...?

Tirzad:

Wait a minute, could it be? No, it's too early to celebrate just yet... Maybe I was too narrow-minded and just happened to not see any relevant prior research on it...

Tirzad:

Maybe someone has already published ten treatises and thoroughly studied Benben's genealogy...

Paimon:

Why does this guy always jump to the worst conclusions...

Jebrael:

Wait a minute, something doesn't seem right about it.

Benben:

Beep... Beep...

Jeht:

What is it, Benben? Are you—

Paimon:

Ooh! Benben seems to be reacting to Tirzad's stone slate!

Jebrael:

Tirzad, pick the stone slate up and walk towards Benben.

Tirzad:

I hired you! Don't tell me what to do...

Paimon:

Whoa...

Jeht:

Ooh, Benben! You're amazing, Benben!

Benben:

Bee-eep. Beep!

Benben:

Beep-boop... Beep, Bee-eep!

Paimon:

Paimon doesn't completely understand what it's saying, but it seems happy!

Jeht:

A small portion of the slate lit up. What does it mean? Do you have any idea, Tirzad?

Tirzad:

Hmm... It's hard to say, only a portion was lit up. Besides, I've told you all before...

Jeht:

Rigor is key to academic research, and you don't want to jump to conclusions, right?

Tirzad:

O—Oh, yes, that's true.

Jeht:

Heh, looks like we'll just have to find a way to light up the rest of the stone slate. Right, Benben?

Benben:

Beep... Bee-eep.

Tirzad:

Hold on, I have a serious request to make of you, Traveler.

Tirzad:

Ahem, this has nothing to do with Jebrael or Jeht, so I kindly ask that you give us some space.

Jeht:

Huh? You gonna reveal some kind of secret? C'mon, I wanna hear it, too!

Jebrael:

Jeht, mind your own business.

Jeht:

But father, we're all companions here. Doesn't that make it our business?

Jebrael:

...

Jeht:

Fine! I'll give you all the space you want. Let's go, Benben.

Benben:

Beep.

Jeht:

Hey, are you done whispering to each other yet?

Jebrael:

Tirzad's ready to set off now. We should find an exit as soon as possible.

Tirzad:

I don't need you to speak for me. Um... That said, I am indeed ready to set off whenever.

Jeht:

Great! It's been a productive day, and I've got a feeling that we'll find a way out in no time! Benben and I will go on ahead. Everyone else can follow us.

Paimon:

Jeht and Benben sure have hit it off. That's... good, right?

Paimon:

What's the matter? Why are you getting so serious all of a sudden...

Tirzad:

Can you... help me take care of this stone slate?

Paimon:

Huh? Isn't it really important?

Tirzad:

It is, and that's why I want you to take care of it! And to be honest, seeing it light up like that makes me uneasy...

Tirzad:

I don't trust myself if something were to happen. Besides, that weird thing also seems to have some sort of response to it...

Paimon:

That weird thing... You mean Benben? Wouldn't it be better to give the stone slate to Jeht to look after?

Tirzad:

No! Ahem... I mean, absolutely not.

Tirzad:

How do I put this? Alright. I don't trust Jebrael. I feel like he has an ulterior motive... and since Jeht is his daughter, they're obviously going to be in the same camp.

Paimon:

Jebrael might be a man of few words, but Paimon thinks he's very reliable. Could you be overthinking this, Tirzad...?

Tirzad:

Jeht said it before, he's from the desert. Can you really trust the desert people? I'd sooner believe that Bonifaz didn't defraud me.

Paimon:

Hmm... What do you think, Traveler?

Paimon:

It can fit carrots and cabbages, so one more little stone slate shouldn't be a problem, right?

Tirzad:

Thank you! You're the only ones I can rely on in this vast sea of sand!

You receive the Scarlet Sand Slate that Tirzad entrusted to you.

Paimon:

Fine, we'll take care of it for you for the time being.

Tirzad:

You're a huge help!

Tirzad:

I've said what I've got to say... Ahem, it's time to look for Jeht and the others.

An Introduction to Indoor Archaeology

You have left the pit with the archaeological team. Now it is time to head over to the oasis Jebrael mentioned and get ready to camp there.

Paimon:

Paimon never thought that there'd be such a place in the desert...

Nachtigal:

A gem on golden satin...

Tirzad:

It's quite safe around here, right? Ugh, I can finally relax.

Jeht:

Can Benben get wet? It shouldn't be a problem, right? Actually, let's just keep it away from water...

Benben:

Beep?

While Tirzad is resting, the rest set up a campsite.

Nachtigal:

*sigh* If only I had a glass of Dandelion Wine right now. Praise be to the oasis!

Nachtigal:

Speaking of "Dandelion," that's also the name of one of our Sumpter Beasts. We named it so because its fur is more fluffy than others, and it sheds so much fur...

Nachtigal:

But I don't think it really likes its name. It shakes fur all over Bonifaz whenever he calls it Dandelion...

Nachtigal:

Could it be that it's just not fond of names from Mondstadt? Would it prefer a name from Sumeru? Something like Tirzad...?

Jebrael:

...

Traveler:

Jebrael, what do you think about these ruins?

Jebrael:

You should ask Tirzad. He's the professional here.

Jebrael:

...I'm just a brute. All I know about King Deshret are old stories that no one wishes to hear.

Jeht:

So, Traveler, I heard from Nachtigal that you beat up Stormterror and were made an Honorary Knight for that achievement?

Tirzad:

Pardon me, but while you are quite skilled, are you really that powerful?

Paimon:

Of course! Traveler's a hero in Mondstadt!

You tell them about your adventures in Mondstadt.

Jeht:

That's amazing!

Tirzad:

Well, books have been my only companions since I can remember, and I've never had the chance to travel far. Actually, this is my first time traveling so far from home...

Jeht:

Right, Tirzad's an Indoor... an Indoorsology researcher, eh? Wow, that sounds so lame.

Tirzad:

Uh, I don't want to admit it, but my life has been bland if compared to all of yours.

Tirzad:

Just like this desert. It's practically impossible for those who lack strength to find a single unoccupied oasis.

Jeht:

If you're so unhappy, then why not do something else? How about being a traveling merchant like Nachtigal?

Jeht:

Or do something you're good at, like me and my father. That's not bad at all, isn't it?

Tirzad:

Haha, it's not that easy. I come from a family of academics, so I've been receiving training like this since I was a child.

Tirzad:

Like how a farmer's son learns to farm, or a blacksmith's son learns to strike iron, while I'm not doing great and can't compare to the talented and established researchers of my family...

Tirzad:

But as things stand, I'm afraid I can't just do something else.

Tirzad:

Uh, I guess I drank a little too much earlier. Why am I even telling you all of this? Well, just laugh if you want to.

Nachtigal:

I think you're being too stubborn. There's always a choice in life.

Nachtigal:

I mean, just look at Bonifaz and I. We weren't born as traveling merchants, and no one in our families has even been to Sumeru...

Nachtigal:

But we're still here with the northern wind at our backs. We don't regret our choice at all. Seeing the boundless world unfold before our eyes fills us with a sense of freedom.

Jeht:

Yeah, I, too, think that you're taking things a little too seriously, Tirzad.

Jeht:

Right, like the relative you mentioned earlier... Didn't she give up her family's rules, traditions, and everything else to live the life she wanted to?

Jeht:

Maybe she's somewhere in this very desert just like us, bathing under the milky white rays of moonlight and braving the dry night breeze while looking back at the great day she just had.

Tirzad:

*sigh* If only I had an iota of her courage...

Jeht:

I never knew making decisions would be this difficult because I've never given them any thought. I think I've lived the life I wanted for as long as I can remember.

Paimon:

That's really...

Traveler:

Making choices is never easy.

Jeht:

Is that so?

Traveler:

Choosing one means giving up on the rest.

Paimon:

Wait, is this like saying that there are ten tasty dishes in front of Paimon and that choosing one will make the other nine vanish? Oh no... If only there were ten Paimons to choose one each!

Jebrael:

It's like the branches on a tree. While they come from the same roots, their endless division makes it so that some may not touch each other for decades or even centuries.

Jebrael:

Only when the entire tree withers and its trunk decays will those separated branches finally meet in the soil.

Jeht:

Speaking of which, why did you choose to leave the desert, father? You rarely mention your past, so I see all this very differently from Tirzad...

Jeht:

I don't have family traditions, and I don't even remember my mother's face. I only have you, and you only have me. There is no large tree and no branches that tie us together.

Jeht:

You might have left the desert long ago, and this might be my first time seeing it for myself, but I have this feeling that we are like grains of sand here in the desert.

Jeht:

No family, no objective... But what we are is pretty free. Haha!

Paimon:

Jeht...

Jebrael:

The desert holds only the past. It has no future. If what lies beneath the sand and wind can be described as the truth, then I can only say that it perhaps isn't something that will bring joy to everyone.

Jebrael:

I gave up the path of seclusion, not because it's a mistaken path, but because I found a better path. Jeht, I hope you'll be able to take that bright path.

Jeht:

I don't really understand you. If the path of sand isn't what you desire, then why accept Tirzad's commission? Don't tell me it's because you want to take a look at your past.

Jeht:

I think you just can't forget the desert and the hot winds that sweep it.

Jeht:

The strange thing is that I have no memories of the desert, but coming here makes me feel like I've returned home all the same.

Jeht:

I love the sand, just like I love Paimon and Benben.

Jeht:

This is a place with hope too. I'm sure of it. Isn't finding Benben proof of that?

Jeht:

Hehe, it'll be a new day tomorrow. The ruins ahead are still waiting to be explored.

Jeht:

Keep your chin up, Tirzad! No matter what others say, I think you're a brave person. You've taken that first step and left the comforts of your home.

Jeht:

Now, just do as you've already done, and take the second step, then the third...

Jeht:

I'm sure you'll get to that place where no one has been, and find that... special research material of yours!

Tirzad:

Huh... Even you can occasionally say some nice things, eh, Jeht?

Jeht:

Haha! I'm just speaking my mind. After all, I'm as free as the sand.

Jeht:

But even the freest sand should rest at an oasis. It's getting late, so let's get some rest.

Jebrael:

I'll be on lookout tonight.

Jeht:

Heh! I'll sleep well with you on lookout, father.

You hear Jebrael softly and casually singing a peaceful tune as you fall asleep. Maybe it's an old local song.

O stars high above the wasteland; O nightingales weary from the day; It's time to take off the crown of roses; Cleanse yourself with wine made from grapes. Sleep, close your eyes; Yon golden slumber summons thee, wandering sand; Drink not that bitter salt water; For the sorrows of tomorrow have gone away.

Tirzad:

*sigh* Camping out in the desert is terrible.

Paimon:

Oh, c'mon... Why are you being so negative again?

Tirzad:

Well, the two of you are adventurers. Let's talk about you instead, Jeht. H—How can a young girl like you endure sleeping on the sand while dressed like that? I just can't figure it out for the life of me.

Jeht:

Tirzad, you're such a pampered guy. Tell me, will even a bean placed under ten mattresses disturb your sleep?

Tirzad:

Of course not... Anyway, why would anyone sleep on ten mattresses?!

Jeht:

Haha! I don't know. Perhaps it might be a hobby of the wealthy, for all you know? But you should have expected that you'd have to camp outside. What else can we do, anyway? Go back the way we came?

Tirzad:

Of course not! The material we gathered yesterday isn't enough to write anything good. Forget submitting it to the Akademiya, just reading it at the square would get me ridiculed.

Jeht:

Oh! Looks like you've still got some spirit, eh?

Tirzad:

O—Of course! This huge ruin is right before me. It must be the Khemenu Temple! As a researcher, I must go in and have a look, right?

Tirzad:

And there is... is this...

Paimon:

Benben?

Tirzad:

Right, Benben... What a strange thing...

Benben:

Beep-beep!

Tirzad:

Uh, I mean... Such an extraordinary thing might even be closely linked to King Deshret's civilization... If that's true, I can't turn a blind eye to it.

Tirzad:

Going back the way we came would be worse than putting a bean beneath my mattress. You may as well have me sleep atop a hundred Benbens! I'd never sleep again!

Paimon:

...A hundred Benbens... Th—That really would hurt.

Tirzad:

Anyway, before I collect enough material for my paper... Ahem, I mean, until I figure everything out... I shall not leave.

Tirzad:

I've paid all of you very well too, so... If we do encounter danger, I'm counting on you to earn that pay!

Jeht:

Hey, come on, aren't we already companions on this journey? Of course we'll protect you in the face of danger — my father and I are professionals.

Paimon:

Yeah! Traveler is amazing too! You have nothing to worry about!

Tirzad:

Who knows what the future holds...

Jebrael:

Better to be safe than sorry.

Jeht:

Father?

Jebrael:

The merchants can rest in the oasis while we're away.

Nachtigal:

Gladly.

Jebrael:

We've discussed our contingency plans, but we must bury some of our supplies before we leave.

Jebrael:

In the worst-case scenario, the merchants may be forced to leave... This way, we'll still have some supplies to come back to even if that happens.

Paimon:

Huh? Is that really necessary?

Jebrael:

Underestimate the sand and you'll pay with your life.

Jeht:

Since it's father, he definitely has his reasons. Well, it's always a good idea to prepare for every possibility.

You do as Jebrael says and carefully bury some supplies.

Jeht:

This should do, right? Let's set out, then!

Tirzad:

S—Slow down... My hangover isn't...

Jeht:

Haha! Tirzad, you better hurry up, or someone else might publish a paper about this before you!

Tirzad:

...Don't say things like that!

Paimon:

Traveler, you ready? Let's go too!

Jeht:

Huh? I thought it would be smooth sailing this time, but we still have to figure out a way to get the door open...

Tirzad:

Isn't that good news? At least that means no one's ahead of me. Even if they may have chosen the same subject, I got here first!

Jebrael:

The Akademiya's researchers aren't alone in coveting King Deshret's relics.

Tirzad:

What do you mean coveting? I'm doing legitimate research, approved by the Akademiya! Don't you dare compare me to Treasure Hoarders!

Traveler:

Let's just find a way through the door.

Paimon:

Oh, Traveler, do you remember how Benben somehow made the stone slate light up?

Paimon:

Let's have a look at it. We might even discover a clue!

Jeht:

Huh? What's Tirzad's stone slate doing with Traveler?

Tirzad:

Well...

Jebrael:

Traveler here's an expert adventurer with much more experience in ruin mechanisms than Tirzad. Giving him this important item will help us make the best use of it.

Tirzad:

Ah! Yeah! That's it! That was my intention exactly!

Jeht:

Is that how it is? Fine, you do have a point.

Jeht:

So, Traveler, have you figured anything out?

Traveler:

Nothing so far...

Paimon:

Uh... Well, Traveler does know nothing about research.

Tirzad:

It's never too late to learn. You see, despite being well-read, I'm as clueless about this thing as you. I suppose I must continue improving myself.

Traveler:

If I spend ten years working hard at the Akademiya...

Tirzad:

Ten years of hard work won't do anything for a layman. Just forget it!

Paimon:

Huh? But you'll never know if you don't give it a try!

Jeht:

Wait, Benben's acting a little strange.

Benben:

Beep... Beep...

Jeht:

Maybe Benben can open the door?

Benben:

Bee-eep. Beep!

Paimon:

Whoa! It's actually opening up!

Tirzad:

I didn't expect Benben to be able to do that...

Benben:

Beep— Beep!

Jeht:

Hehe, I think Benben's saying that it's capable of more than that.

Benben:

Beep!

Paimon:

Paimon gets the feeling that Benben is much more useful than the stone slate... Or maybe we should ask this instead: Will this stone slate really be of any use?

Tirzad:

Of course it will! It has to... I might lose my mind if it's of less use than Benben!

Jebrael:

Be patient, it's too early to make any judgment yet.

Paimon:

Tirzad:

Well, you're right, Jebrael! A shortsighted researcher is bound to amount to nothing! Patience is a virtue!

Paimon:

Ugh... But neither Paimon nor Traveler are researchers...

Paimon:

Well... That is true...

Jeht:

That's enough. It doesn't matter who did it, all that matters is that the door opened, right?

Jeht:

Now that the door's open... You're eager to go inside, aren't you, Benben?

Benben:

Beep! Bee-eep!

Jeht:

Alright! Tirzad Archaeological Team! Let's go!

Benben:

Beep-beep!

Jebrael:

Let's advance with caution.

Tirzad:

Oh, I know. We should be fine if we stay close to Traveler, right...?

Paimon:

C'mon, Traveler, let's get moving!

Paimon:

Hmm, Benben's been milling around the door, but nothing's happening this time.

Benben:

Beep... Beep beep...

Jeht:

It seemed to have been talking to the doors earlier.

Tirzad:

Stop that nonsense! Doors can't speak!

Jeht:

But something like Benben shouldn't be able to speak either, right?

Tirzad:

Uh...

Paimon:

That's true! Huh, guess Paimon's unknowingly accepted that Benben can speak as well... But can beeping really be considered speaking?

Jeht:

As long as communication is achieved, it doesn't matter if the language used is something we're familiar with! For example, animals have their own languages, and the sand has its own language too.

Paimon:

But if we don't understand it... Paimon's curious! Paimon really wants to know what Benben is saying...

Jeht:

Just ask Benben if you're curious! Benben, what were you talking to the door about?

Benben:

Beep... Beep-boop, beep, bee-eep! Beep beep... Beep!

Jeht:

Oh, I see.

Paimon:

Whoa! Jeht, you understand it?

Jeht:

Haha! Of course not! It's just as I mentioned before, I can sense some of its emotions.

Jeht:

But once you can understand Benben's emotions, trying to guess what Benben's saying isn't that difficult!

Paimon:

Well... To be honest, Paimon didn't sense or understand anything... Traveler, did you?

Paimon:

What? Really?

Jeht:

Hmm... Well, no one has been here in a very long time.

Tirzad:

Oh, of course.

Jeht:

Someone has been here, but they weren't able to open this door.

Paimon:

Yeah, even Benben can't open it.

Jeht:

The door is protecting something very important, and so much time has passed that it has almost forgotten how it used to open.

Jeht:

People used to come here, long, long ago, and some would even pass this way many times a day.

Tirzad:

I mean, it's such a huge door after all. People used to walk here, huh? Hmm...

Jeht:

Oh, it must have been a mischievous cat that no one could catch, which is why so many people passed through here.

Tirzad:

Huh? Wait a minute! Did the door tell Benben all of that?

Jeht:

Of course not. They're just guesses I made based on Benben's emotions.

Tirzad:

You... I—I almost believed you! If I had unknowingly included it in my paper, wouldn't everyone laugh at me once I publish it?

Tirzad:

H—How will you make it up to me when that happens?!

Jeht:

Hahahaha! Tirzad, that would be your own mistake. As a researcher, you should be able to distinguish the authenticity of the materials you collect!

Tirzad:

Ugh!

Paimon:

(That was close! Paimon almost believed her too...)

Traveler:

(Thank goodness we don't have any papers to write.)

Benben:

Beep?

Jebrael:

We have a long journey ahead. Let's stop wasting time and get moving.

Tirzad:

Right. This place is huge and filled with doors. If we do this in front of every door, who knows how long it'll take us to finish...

Jeht:

Wouldn't that be perfect? You aren't fond of camping outside, but this place has walls, a ceiling, and even the research materials you want!

Tirzad:

King Deshret's civilization fell due to tyranny, and this place is probably his mausoleum. I'd rather spend two weeks in the desert than spend a single night here!

Jeht:

Uh, Tirzad, do you and King Deshret have...

Jebrael:

Jeht.

Jeht:

Oh, alright! Nachtigal and the others are still waiting for us at the oasis. Let's continue exploring!

Jebrael:

What is it?

Paimon:

It isn't anything important...

Traveler:

Whose gravestone is this?

Jebrael:

...

Jebrael:

Who knows. Maybe it belongs to a nameless researcher who once tried their luck like Tirzad, but didn't roll high like he did.

Jebrael:

King Deshret's secrets rarely reveal themselves to mortals.

Jebrael:

Tirzad gave you the stone slate, right?

Paimon:

Uh, how did you know?

Jebrael:

Keep it safe.

Traveler:

Is it important?

Jebrael:

You can't be unaware of its value, surely?

Traveler:

Well, its value to whom?

Jebrael:

...To our employer, of course. After all, he is depending on it to write his paper.

Jebrael:

Anyway, let's head back. We shouldn't keep Jeht and the others waiting for too long.

Benben:

Beep... Bee-eep?

Tirzad:

Ugh, I'm exhausted. Moreover, besides Benben, we haven't made any other discoveries, and that makes my exhaustion all the worse for it.

Paimon:

Huh? This place is huge, and we've seen so much on the way here! Paimon's sure there's a lot to write about, right? Even if Paimon doesn't really know much about these things...

Tirzad:

Neither of you are a researcher, so of course you don't understand. What we've witnessed this whole time can only be considered as proof for existing research, except Benben...

Tirzad:

How should I explain this to a non-researcher...?

Tirzad:

Let me put it like this: I want my paper to get approved by the Akademiya's review... It's like love!

Tirzad:

Let me explain!

Tirzad:

Ahem! A paper must stand out to pass the review. Just imagine that you're pursuing your ideal partner. If you're no different from the other candidates, then how will you capture their heart?

Paimon:

This analogy sounds like a real stretch, y'know...

Jeht:

The way Tirzad thinks is really strange. In my opinion, a couple just has to consider each other suitable. There's no need to compete with others.

Traveler:

We're still talking about academic reviews, aren't we?

Tirzad:

Ugh... I shouldn't have made that example. Just forget what I said!

Jebrael:

I guess this is where our little chat ends. It'll be more efficient if we split up and look for clues.

Tirzad:

An archaeological expedition with no hope in sight. *sigh* Who cares about efficiency?

Jebrael:

That stone slate has lit up once. We'll definitely find a way to make it light up completely. We just have to not give up.

Tirzad:

But how can you guarantee that? Wait, so you really do know something, don't you?

Jebrael:

What I do know is that there may be hope if we continue forward, but we'll leave empty-handed if we turn back now.

Tirzad:

Well... That is true.

Jeht:

Tirzad, stop worrying about this and that. An Indoorsology researcher like you has finally gotten the opportunity to enter some ruins, so just treat it as a chance to view some of your seniors' research subjects for yourself.

Tirzad:

...You're right. I should be more professional. But even if we're going to split up, I want Traveler to stay close to me!

Traveler:

Okay...

Tirzad:

I'll have nothing to worry about with you around.

Jeht:

Haha! There's no danger here! And while you might be a researcher, you're terrible at puzzles. You'll just be a burden to Traveler.

Tirzad:

Exploring ruins has never been my forte! But if I'm given enough time... And pen and paper! Then such problems will be no problem at all!

Jeht:

Alright, alright. Anyway, just shout "help meeee!" if you're in danger or something...

Jeht:

One of us will get there in time. Probably.

Tirzad:

What if none of you do?

Jeht:

It's as impossible as breaking open ten bad eggs in a row for breakfast.

Tirzad:

I think you need some lessons in mathematics, Jeht... I can introduce a teacher to you once we return.

Paimon:

That's strange! What's a ship doing in here?

Traveler:

Might it make sense because this is an "ocean of sand"?

Tirzad:

Perhaps a river used to flow through here, but it dried up? Or perhaps... this boat was not made to be used by the living?

Tirzad:

I'll have to head back and do some research on the geographical changes here to confirm my theory...

Jeht:

*sigh* Benben seems to have a lot to share with doors. If only my father and I could do the same...

Jebrael:

...

Jebrael:

Have you found any clues? I haven't made any progress over here just yet.

Tirzad:

Great! As expected of my assistant! No mechanism or puzzle shall ever be your match!

Traveler:

No need to exaggerate...

Paimon:

Traveler is impressive, but you should help out too, Tirzad!

Jeht:

Speaking of which, didn't you complain about being exhausted and not discovering anything so far? How are you this motivated now?

Tirzad:

Ahem! It's because my researcher's intuition tells me that we're about to make a breakthrough!

Paimon:

...Researcher's intuition?

Traveler:

Is it like an adventurer's instinct?

Paimon:

Oh! Paimon gets it! That's the ability to predict that there will be an ambush at the corner or a trap behind a door, right?

Jeht:

Then you'd better be careful, Traveler. Father, let's prepare for battle as well.

Tirzad:

What are all of you talking about? The researcher's intuition I mentioned is based on vast knowledge and careful observation. It's akin to a flash of genius!

Tirzad:

But what you've said does make sense. My consideration is lacking in that aspect. Well, if there's danger... I'll be counting on all of you to do the jobs I hired you for, then.

Omid:

Phew, finally got the chance to put my feet up. I should really plan ahead for my next job now...

Nachtigal:

Let's take this opportunity to inspect our supplies... We've gotta use the Dusk Bird to send Bonifaz a letter and tell him we're safe now.

Jeht:

Father seems a little... Maybe he's recalled his past life in the desert. If only he'd tell us some stories of his past at night.

Jeht:

Is this... a mural?

Tirzad:

Whoa! Haha! Bwahahahaha!

Paimon:

Hey, Tirzad! Are you alright?

Tirzad:

Me? Of course I am. I'm terrific! I've never felt better!

Tirzad:

Since Paimon and Traveler aren't from around here, it's understandable that you don't recognize its worth.

Tirzad:

As for Jebrael and Jeht, uh... I guess it's a knowledge issue? No, it isn't something you should have knowledge about.

Tirzad:

Paimon, let me test you for a moment. What can you discern from this mural?

Paimon:

Uh, there are many people? And... and something like a sun and an eye...?

Tirzad:

*sigh* I guess Paimon has no talent for this.

Paimon:

Why did you even ask if you already knew that, huh!?

Tirzad:

And what about you, Traveler? What do you see in this mural?

Tirzad:

It is symmetrical... But this isn't a matter of style alone. It symbolizes a solid structure, a rule by force.

Tirzad:

The sun and the eye symbolize King Deshret. Beneath him are the "seven pillars," so we call them, that hold up King Deshret's pyramid of authority.

Tirzad:

As for his subjects... They are insignificant. They dare not express any complaint. They are forced to submit.

Tirzad:

But even so, they couldn't escape destruction...

Paimon:

Hmm... Is that really the case?

Tirzad:

Come now, how can I be wrong? The theme of this mural fully conforms to the depictions of King Deshret in everything I've ever read.

Tirzad:

A terrifying king who used absolute and supreme authority to keep all his subjects beneath him.

Jeht:

Hmm... But this mural feels so peaceful to me. Everything feels so orderly, and everyone has their own place and duty. Isn't that good?

Tirzad:

What? What kind of crooked interpretation is that?

Tirzad:

...Jeht, you can make up stories about Benben talking to doors, but deciphering murals and the history of King Deshret's civilization is my area of expertise.

Jeht:

But...

Tirzad:

Now, I won't hear any buts. Everything I have said has been proven by prior research... and this mural will become part of Vahumana too.

Tirzad:

Of course, I'll be the one to write it.

Jebrael:

Jeht isn't entirely correct, but you... You know very little about the sand.

Tirzad:

Ha! You've hardly said more than a few words all this time, yet you're standing up for your daughter now? I may not be a match for you in a battle of strength, but I have Traveler by my side!

Tirzad:

Traveler, you'll take my side, won't you?

Traveler:

Uh...

Paimon:

That's not appropriate! We're all traveling together... No, we're all companions on this expedition. Even if our opinions differ, we shouldn't fight over it, right?

Tirzad:

What? Together? I started this expedition, and I paid for it. All of you are employed by me.

Tirzad:

Moreover, I'm the only one with formal academic training. A layman has no right to speak on academic issues!

Jebrael:

...One who only draws from others can hardly call himself an independent researcher.

Tirzad:

Oh? Then let's hear your "unique" insights.

Jebrael:

This destroyed kingdom was once strong and beautiful. It may be difficult to believe... that all of this was built in the desert.

Jebrael:

And you only see the obedience revealed on the surface, but fail to notice the direction of the people's hopes.

Jebrael:

It was their hope which tied the people of the sand to King Deshret. They thought this would help them overcome the calamity, but we know the outcome of that.

Tirzad:

Heh, even delusions should have limits. Are you trying to overturn all prior research? I don't think there's sufficient evidence for any of this nonsense.

Jebrael:

Well, what a coincidence. I, too, do not think that the opinion of a struggling researcher who came here out of desperation holds any weight.

Tirzad:

Y—You...

Tirzad:

I never knew you had such a sharp tongue...

Jeht:

Father...

Traveler:

Arguing won't change a thing.

Paimon:

Exactly! Paimon can't figure out what you're arguing about, but if it's academic, there's always room for discussion, right? So, put your differences aside for now...

Traveler:

You can't convince each other anyway.

Paimon:

Yeah, so let's continue our investigation! Perhaps... Uh, perhaps we'll discover more clues, then we can see who is right and who is wrong, alright?

Tirzad:

Ugh! This is infuriating! I shouldn't have discussed academics with a layman!

Paimon:

Whoa! What's going on?!

Tirzad:

Whatever it is, it isn't my fault!

Traveler:

This path looks like it leads upward.

Jebrael:

I don't see any traps.

Paimon:

Paimon wonders where it leads... But staying here won't change anything either, so let's continue, shall we?

Tirzad:

I wonder if a paper can be written from Benben and Jeht's interactions... But which field would it belong to?

Tirzad:

There still hasn't been anything worth writing about... Would Benben come if I tried to take it back with me?

Tirzad:

Hey, now you're acting just like Jeht. That thing... Ahem, I mean Benben, can only prove its true worth when it becomes research material for me.

Jeht:

Benben seems to know this place well, and for some reason, "doors" seem to hold a special place in its heart?

Jeht:

But if that's true, then which door is its pair?

Benben:

Beep?

Mirsad:

Every time I stumble upon an oasis, I can't help wondering who put this stretch of water here. It's almost as if they mean to provide a rest stop for adventurers.

Omid:

Where should I open my shop? Port Ormos or Sumeru City?

Omid:

And what should I sell? Wine or coffee?

Omid:

Ah, it's you. Are you leaving? Farewell then, and safe travels! Don't get yourself into a trap or something again!

Mirsad:

Ah, I'm so jealous of you. Unlike us, who can only stand here staring at the sand, you can venture into the depths of the ruins to find out what's hidden in those big guys.

Mirsad:

How I wish I could travel to different places and meet different people, just like you.

Mirsad:

I've always wanted to visit that cathedral in Mondstadt. My boss mentioned it several times, but I never had the chance...

The Secret of Al-Ahmar

Tirzad accidentally opened the hidden passage behind the mural. No one knows where it may lead...

Paimon:

Paimon feels even smaller now that we've gotten closer... Paimon feels as insignificant as a grain of sand...

Tirzad:

That was also one of King Deshret's means of ruling. Building huge spectacles to instill the idea that his subjects are small and insignificant into them, thus achieving the objective of domesticating them.

Tirzad:

The act of using huge amounts of manpower to build such a spectacle in the desert is a testament to King Deshret's tyranny.

Benben:

Beep... Beep... Bee-eep beep...

Paimon:

Whoa! So Benben can even open a door this huge?

Tirzad:

It's difficult to say! Maybe it just opened on its own! It may... it might have nothing to do with Benben.

Paimon:

Gah, why's he being so stubborn?

Tirzad:

Then explain to me how this thing... Benben opened the door. What's the logic behind that?

Paimon:

Hmm... Paimon doesn't know either!

Jeht:

Hmm, Benben? What is it? Do you want to go inside? Is there something you're familiar with in there?

Benben:

Beep... Beep...

Jebrael:

A grain of sand is insignificant, but an ocean of them possesses immeasurable strength. Researcher of blind faith, do you really have the courage to set foot into the sands?

Tirzad:

We're already here! So of course we must go inside!

Tirzad:

...

Tirzad:

Still, my researcher's intuition is telling me that the danger ahead is incomparable to the dangers we've faced so far!

Tirzad:

I doubt I can trust either of you desert dwellers, so Traveler, I'm counting on you to keep me safe!

Paimon:

Come on, it's just some differences of opinion. It isn't that serious, is it?

Tirzad:

Hmph! You don't get it at all! A collision of views in academics is no different from a battle!

Paimon:

Sheesh, this guy's really getting more annoying by the minute!

Jeht:

So, are all of you done? It's not that easy to hold Benben back...

Traveler:

Sorry.

Paimon:

So, Benben really wants to go inside, huh? Let's stop delaying then.

Paimon:

Wow! These ruins are magnificent!

Tirzad:

Those aren't ordinary ruins. If the records are correct, they should be King Deshret's Mausoleum. It's where the tyrant is buried.

Paimon:

Uh... Sh—should we still go forward, then?

Jebrael:

All questions have an answer, and all answers slumber here.

Tirzad:

Hmph! I will do this, even if all I achieve is showing some ignorant mercenaries the error of their ways...

Paimon:

Uh... Traveler, let's head over carefully!

Paimon:

Traveler! Hey, Traveler!

Traveler:

What happened?

Paimon:

Oh, thank goodness! You're finally awake!

Paimon:

Uh, Paimon doesn't know what happened either. We were here when Paimon woke up. Maybe it was a trap?

Paimon:

...Anyway, let's go look for the others!

Jebrael:

It's a pity that Ufairah will never get to see this...

Paimon:

(Ufairah? Paimon's never heard him mention that name.)

Jeht:

Phew! Thank goodness Benben's alright... Seriously, stop rushing off so quickly! What if you got into trouble?

Paimon:

Huh? Should that be called an injury or a malfunction?

Jeht:

Agh, does it matter? There aren't any doctors or technicians here anyway.

Benben:

Beep?

Paimon:

We do have a bunch of angry adults, though.

Jeht:

Haha, you're absolutely right about that!

Tirzad:

I'm not angry. This place is full of evidence! It will not take long to prove that I'm right. I mean, look at this huge coffin! Tsk tsk...

Tirzad:

...Wait. What? How do we get this thing open?

Paimon:

Paimon can't figure out if he's brave or cowardly...

Jebrael:

What are those?

Paimon:

The huge statues here... Don't they look like guards? They're so intimidating! Tirzad, Paimon thinks it's best if you don't touch anything here...

Tirzad:

They're just rocks. We have nothing to fear from rocks... Aha! There may be a mechanism around here somewhere... Let me take a look!

Jebrael:

...We should split up and search for clues.

Jeht:

*sigh* Father feels so unfamiliar right now. What's going on? Benben, do you know why?

Benben:

Bee-eep?

Tirzad:

The material I've gathered so far... They should be enough for two chapters... Wait, will that really be enough?

Tirzad:

Oh! Traveler, as impressive as always! I'll definitely credit you if I'm able to publish my paper successfully.

Tirzad:

Ahem, although what we're about to do is disrespectful, it's all done for academic progress. I promise it's not for selfish gain!

Tirzad:

Huh?

Tirzad:

Wait! Huh? There's...

Paimon:

There's nothing in here!

Tirzad:

How is this possible? But these diagrams... Wait, wait a minute. Let me think.

Tirzad:

...

Tirzad:

I get it now. This has to be an illusion.

Tirzad:

Of course King Deshret knew that inquisitive researchers like me would come with the desire to get to the bottom of things and uncover all his secrets.

Tirzad:

So, of course he wouldn't let others get to them that easily. Thus, he built this huge mausoleum and prepared so many... doors, and rooms.

Tirzad:

He even went so far as to prepare illusions like this to mislead us.

Tirzad:

The most important things wouldn't be placed in such a conspicuous spot! Moreover, this place is too low, way too low...

Tirzad:

The real treasure is definitely higher up. It must be in a place closer to the sky...

Jebrael:

What utter nonsense.

Tirzad:

Oh? Well, let's hear what you think, then!

Jebrael:

I may not be able to say what exactly it's for, but I know for sure that what you say is untrue.

Tirzad:

Hmph! Does someone like you even have the right to say that I only draw from the work of others? You don't even have the intelligence to use the work of others!

Jebrael:

Indeed. But I am still convinced that you know too little about these sands.

Tirzad:

Stop going on about the sands! What you see is the truth! J—Just you wait! I'll find solid proof that you can't refute!

Tirzad:

Up! Let's go upward!

Paimon:

Traveler, let's find a way up. Paimon's worried that Tirzad will get himself into trouble if this goes on...

Tirzad:

Theoretically, this should be where King Deshret's "organs" are stored...

Tirzad:

But just like before, nothing "physical" is stored here.

Paimon:

Huh? What do you mean?

Tirzad:

Oh... I have a theory, but I need more evidence to prove it.

Jeht:

Father, what do you think? I'm sure you know something, right? Even if you didn't tell me or anyone else...

Jebrael:

The stone slate is the key, but it cannot open all doors. Even the key must first receive "acknowledgment."

Benben:

Bee-eep! Beep—

Tirzad:

Oh, Benben's link to this place is obvious, but what do you mean, the stone slate must receive "acknowledgment"? That's just absurd.

Jeht:

Benben, who do you think is correct?

Benben:

Beep...

Tirzad:

Now that I've calmed down a little, I can understand why Jebrael is challenging my views. You said that he was once from the desert...

Tirzad:

Perhaps some experiences, maybe even verbal, have been treated as "knowledge." Not that they are true knowledge, of course, and naturally, there are no academic records of such things.

Tirzad:

His superstitions are understandable considering the society he lived in.

Tirzad:

But Jeht, do you really think that Benben's... uh, "words," are worth believing? These are, after all, words that came out of nowhere instead of an actual academic researcher, you know?

Jeht:

Huh? But Benben has helped a lot on our trip. As for you, Tirzad... You've been nothing but talk!

Jeht:

I doubt your speeches, high-flown though they sound, are even entirely correct. I get the feeling that my father knows more, and that if he would just tell us everything he knows...

Tirzad:

Repeating something wrong a thousand times won't make it right!

Tirzad:

Traveler, Paimon, you are adventurers with vast amounts of experience. And unlike that father-daughter pair, you have no link to this place... So, who do you think is right?

Paimon:

Whoa! You can't just spring that on us!

Tirzad:

But no one here can really understand Benben.

Paimon:

Even if you asked us, we wouldn't be able to answer a question like that...

Paimon:

Instead of worrying about differing opinions, why don't we focus our attention on a real problem! Like...

Paimon:

Oh right, didn't the stone slate light up earlier? But there are still so many blank spots on it! So, do you think we'll find clues about this stone slate here?

Paimon:

Why don't we take a look at the stone slate, Traveler?

Benben:

Beep...

Paimon:

Whoa! It's shining! Looks like it's opened up a new passageway, too!

Jeht:

So it really is a key.

Paimon:

But if you look closely, there still are empty patches! Hmm... Tirzad, can you tell us about the symbols on it now?

Tirzad:

Uh... I'll have the answer once they're all lit up. It's still too early now. I can't jump to conclusions...

Jeht:

Haha, you know, that does make sense! If the people of the past were fond of using inverted sentences, we may come to a completely opposite conclusion if we don't have all the information.

Paimon:

Uh, y'know, Paimon kinda doubts that would happen!

Jebrael:

...

Tirzad:

Ahem! Since the passageway to the next place has shown itself, we have no other choice but to push forward.

Paimon:

Uh, will things really go that smoothly? Paimon keeps having the feeling that something is leading us forward...

Traveler:

Going back the way we came is an option...

Tirzad:

How can we turn back at this point? My masterpiece just needs some final touches! Just that tiny piece of decisive proof! I expect all of you to stay until the end.

Paimon:

Should you really call a decisive piece of evidence tiny?

Paimon:

*sigh* Paimon may not know whether Jebrael or Tirzad is correct, but we'll definitely get an answer if we continue, right?

Paimon:

Traveler, let's be more careful from now on.

Tirzad:

*sob* You're finally here! My savior!

Tirzad:

I woke up to find myself in this place, and my whole body felt like it was falling apart...

Tirzad:

That wasn't even the end of it! I went to great lengths to finally find Jeht and her father, but the Fatui attacked again!

Paimon:

Whoa! That's terrible!

Jeht:

Paimon, Traveler, did you see Benben on the way? B—Benben is gone! I searched all around the area to no avail...

Paimon:

We didn't, did we, Traveler?

Traveler:

We didn't.

Jeht:

Then... Benben must be up ahead. It's the only one left alone now, so we must find it soon!

Tirzad:

There's no need to be so anxious. The way I see it, it probably only got lost because it likes running off by itself so much.

Jeht:

Benben has helped us so much! It's part of our group! I don't know about you, but I wouldn't be so cruel as to abandon a companion!

Jeht:

I must find Benben...

Jebrael:

Its capabilities are undeniable, Tirzad. I'm sure you're aware of that.

Tirzad:

Even you, Jebrael...?

Tirzad:

Fine, you win! Let's find Benben first. But... I'm leaving if we encounter the Fatui again!

Paimon:

Speaking of which, what are the Fatui doing here? Is this some kind of archaeological hotspot?

Tirzad:

Huh? That's impossible! I wouldn't have chosen this place if it were such a hot research topic.

Paimon:

True. After all, you've said yourself that you aren't a very great researcher.

Paimon:

You probably wouldn't stand a chance against those elites!

Tirzad:

Hey! It's called avoiding battles where victory isn't guaranteed.

Jebrael:

Either way, this place may be more troublesome than we expected. Let's advance carefully.

Samail:

Ha! I was wondering when you would get here, my dear Jebrael.

Tirzad:

Huh?

Samail:

And here you are, just as I expected, even without an invitation from me. Oh, how long has it been since we last spoke face-to-face?

Samail:

Even my fingers on both hands aren't enough to count the years. What about you? Do you remember, Jebrael?

Jebrael:

...

Paimon:

Whoa! That guy seems really strange! But it looks like he knows Jebrael?

Samail:

How cold. Is our reunion after so many years apart not worth a glass of wine and a toast?

Samail:

You know I don't hold the past against you. Either that, or I'm not "Samail the Straight Shooter"!

Samail:

There's still a place for you in Thutmose. Just say the word and everything can go back to how it was. Indeed, we can even go claim the debt that Babel owes us!

Tirzad:

...I knew it! I knew Jebrael wasn't a good person! He's a—actually old friends with someone like this?

Jeht:

Nonsense! Father may have kept some things from me... B—But I believe he has his reasons.

Samail:

Haha! That really hurts, Jeht.

Jeht:

Huh? How do you know my name?

Samail:

How could I not? Why, Jebrael, you've got such a cold heart! And it's "like father, like daughter," I see.

Samail:

Ah, dear Jeht, you may have forgotten me. But luckily, I still remember it very well.

Samail:

I held you in my arms when you were just a little baby. With the moonlight on one side and the bonfire on the other, just like your parents...

Jeht:

How come...

Samail:

It seems like Jebrael didn't tell you anything at all, huh? Come on, that can't be! Jebrael, couldn't you even tell your own daughter the truth?

Samail:

Oh, well, I suppose I shouldn't have been too shocked. After all, we did call you the "Treacherous Grit."

Samail:

As I listened to my subordinates reporting to me about the responses of the foreign merchants in the oasis, I started to wonder who gave them such wisdom, yet only instructed them without explaining anything at all.

Samail:

But even I could never have imagined that little Jeht's place in your heart is no different than those foreign merchants — mere strangers to you!

Samail:

You don't even dare to tell her about your past. Why? Are you afraid she'll hear about your history of betrayal and look down on you?

Jeht:

Father...

Jebrael:

Samail... To be honest, I'm quite relieved to see that you're still the same lippy fellow I remember.

Jebrael:

...Now, I have nothing to worry about if I beat you to the point where you'll leave of your own accord.

Samail:

Haha! So you are afraid! You're afraid that this ghost of your past will seek you out for the debt you owe.

Samail:

But of course, I have the right! The secrets of Al-Ahmar belong to the Thutmose! Yet you took the "key" and betrayed us! You betrayed all of us grains of sand!

Samail:

Just look at yourself! You're with children and cowards! Hah! Where's the ferocity you once had? Has it flowed away like sand flows out from between the fingers?

Jebrael:

Enough! Hand Benben over.

Samail:

"Benben"? Oh, that mechanical creation?

Samail:

Hahahaha! Hey, did you all hear that? Jebrael actually calls this thing "Benben"!

Samail:

Unfortunately, these Snezhnayans aren't our old acquaintances, or this would be much, much more amusing.

Jebrael:

Hand over Benben, or else...

Samail:

Or else what? Jebrael, is this even necessary? Ultimatum after ultimatum... Have you finally changed your mind? Do you plan to finally sit down and catch up with me?

Samail:

Oh, right, do you remember what happened to Ufairah? Haha, you haven't forgotten, right?

Samail:

It's fine. Even if you've forgotten, I can help you refresh your memories... Again and again...

Paimon:

What the heck is this guy saying?

Samail:

We do have another way to communicate, don't we? Come on, Jeht, why don't you and that kid over there lend him a hand? After all, Jebrael is much weaker than he used to be!

Paimon:

Traveler, that guy Samail looks strong... But we have to give him a good thrashing so we can get Benben back!

Jeht:

Benben! Are you alright?

Benben:

Bee-eep! Beep...

Paimon:

It seems fine, but a little sad?

Tirzad:

Hey, Jebrael! Y—You'd better tell us the truth right this instant, or we'll have to go our separate ways!

Tirzad:

Samail is clearly some manner of a villain... But he was being so friendly with you, and even with Jeht. So, are you... are you part of the same group?

Tirzad:

I knew it... I knew it all along! You agreed to my commission without even asking about the details. It's because you had a plan, right?

Tirzad:

You plotted with Samail to trick a simple and ignorant researcher like me to uncover the secrets here for you!

Tirzad:

And even used your own daughter to gain my trust for the sake of that goal, didn't you?

Tirzad:

And you, Jeht! That naivety and ignorance of yours was just a facade that Jebrael made you put on, wasn't it? And what an actress you were, indeed...

Paimon:

Tirzad, you're too much! Paimon thinks that Jeht really was in the dark about this, but as for Jebrael...

Tirzad:

Paimon! You too, Traveler! Wake up! It's my kindness and gullibility that made me fall for their lies. Don't follow in my footsteps!

Jeht:

What are you talking about? I'm no actress...

Jeht:

And you, father! This isn't the time for secrets! I, too, want to know the truth...

Jebrael:

I won't make excuses for my "betrayal," nor do I think that I made the wrong choice.

Paimon:

Y'know, Paimon remembers Samail calling Jebrael something like that...

Traveler:

"Treacherous Grit."

Jebrael:

Yes, there's nothing to hide there. I was once one of the sand people, Thutmose. No matter what it was in the past, now...

Jebrael:

Anyway, Samail is a madman through and through. He will stop at nothing to achieve his objectives.

Paimon:

That was obvious enough...

Jebrael:

...My wife, Jeht's mother, was killed by him.

Jeht:

So that's what happened... Is that why you never ever mentioned her?

Jebrael:

Your mother... was a researcher too. If it wasn't for me, she would have had a brighter future...

Jebrael:

At least she wouldn't have lost her life at such a young age...

Jebrael:

Tirzad.

Tirzad:

Wh—What? I won't just believe a word you said.

Jebrael:

That's reasonable. It was I who concealed my motives, so I brought this upon myself.

Tirzad:

Hmph! At least you've got some self-awareness!

Jebrael:

But no matter what, I'll protect you until this commission is over.

Tirzad:

No way! It's obvious that Samail has a bone to pick with you! If you stay with me... I don't want to be targeted by someone like that!

Jeht:

Tirzad, you're being stupid again. That's just an old grudge between them. His current priority is definitely King Deshret's treasures. Why would he have taken Benben otherwise?

Jeht:

So, he'd come for you even if my father wasn't here. After all, you have the key to solving everything.

Tirzad:

...I do? Wait. The stone slate!?

Tirzad:

Good thing I gave it to Traveler for safekeeping... I knew it wasn't something safe!

Paimon:

Hey!

Jebrael:

It's not just the stone slate, but your intelligence too. The knowledge you possess as a researcher is something he covets.

Tirzad:

I—I don't want to be targeted in a place like this!

Paimon:

Yup! You can rest at ease with us here!

Jebrael:

There's no time to lose. The longer we delay, the more time he'll have to prepare.

Jebrael:

He's like a viper crawling through the shadows, and his blades are like a viper's fangs. We cannot show any weakness to him... Otherwise, it'll lead to fatal consequences.

Tirzad:

...I hope you'll keep your word.

Paimon:

Well, as far as Paimon is concerned, Paimon thinks that staying united is even more important now that we've finally gotten Benben back! Look! There's still a long way ahead, right?

Paimon:

But it's strange. What's Samail doing here? What they want should be up there, right?

Jebrael:

I'm sure he has a plan. Or perhaps we missed some clues around here...

Paimon:

Oh, then we absolutely can't allow our differences to delay our expedition! Let's go!

Paimon:

Traveler and Paimon will take the front! All of you, keep up!

Jeht:

That room's... I wonder if it was a trap. Why did it send us here?

Tirzad:

It's common practice to attempt to expel trespassing outsiders. If you want technical details, you'll have to wait until I return and ask some Kshahrewar experts...

Jeht:

Oh, but I wonder: If King Deshret was a tyrant like you say, why wasn't that a lethal mechanism instead?

Tirzad:

We're just lucky that we haven't encountered one yet! And I hope that we never do...

Tirzad:

Look! We can continue our expedition on this path. I don't want to give up when we've finally found some clues about the stone slate.

Jebrael:

Shh... Those guys down there aren't friendly. We must find a way around them to proceed forward, or...

Paimon:

It's the Fatui and the Eremites again! Y'know, Traveler, Paimon's been thinking... Did they kidnap Benben?

Jeht:

We've got to rescue it!

Jebrael:

Jeht! Calm down.

Tirzad:

Are you kidding? I'm just an ordinary researcher. I've come here to solve academic problems, not to fight!

Paimon:

But we wouldn't have been able to get here without Benben... And Tirzad, you'll never be able to solve those academic problems of yours without Benben, either!

Jeht:

That's right! We've got to rescue it, even if it's just for the sake of completing our expedition! You're not afraid of them, right, Traveler?

Paimon:

Don't worry, Traveler's an expert at dealing with the Fatui! But we should still be careful!

Jeht:

This should be the last place...

Paimon:

Traveler, let's take a look at the stone slate. If things go the same way as before, there may be clues about the stone slate here.

Tirzad:

This is...

Jeht:

It lit up as expected, and... there's a map?

Paimon:

Tirzad, these symbols on the stone slate should be your area of expertise, right? So, isn't it time to give us an explanation?

Tirzad:

Yes, these inscriptions are most likely texts of praise. Someone in an exalted position like King Deshret would naturally be fond of things like this.

Tirzad:

Look! All these wonders are an attempt at whitewashing his rule.

Paimon:

Whitewashing, you say... But Paimon remembers you saying something different earlier!

Traveler:

"Rule by force," you said!

Paimon:

Exactly! You spoke of submission and terror before — and you sure sounded convinced then, too!

Tirzad:

Wh—What do you mean? These are conclusions I came to after careful analysis and reasoning. Just look at it! What would it be if not an attempt at whitewashing?

Tirzad:

It's very common for rulers to sugar-coat all their deeds. Since this entire ruin was made by King Deshret, it's not that hard to imagine that this is its purpose, right?

Tirzad:

Reflecting on your own shortcomings in your work... Well, we researchers do that.

Tirzad:

Though they mostly just write a few hypocritical lines in the acknowledgments of a research paper and call it a day.

Tirzad:

And you know what? They're just pretending to be modest. Why would any academic really believe that they're incompetent, anyway?

Tirzad:

...

Paimon:

Traveler, somehow Paimon gets the feeling that he's hurting himself with his own words there...

Tirzad:

Ahem, I must admit that Jebrael's analysis did give me some inspirations...

Tirzad:

But! An outstanding researcher should be able to accept the opinion of others when they are correct. Needless obstinacy will make it impossible to make an academic breakthrough! Don't you think so too?

Paimon:

You've said everything that can be said from either side. Is there even anything left for us to say?

Traveler:

And here we see the researcher's ability to twist facts in its natural habitat...

Tirzad:

It's nothing of the sort! This is the deepening of understanding! *sigh* Your inability to realize that shows that you still have a long way to go.

Jeht:

Speaking of ways, is the place marked on the map our next destination?

Tirzad:

Yes, I think it's where all treasures meet, and all secrets end.

Tirzad:

Of course, it will be the end of our grand adventure too, and the penultimate chapter of my masterpiece!

Tirzad:

While I really wish to obtain all the answers at this instant, my body is exhausted...

Jeht:

Nachtigal and the others are still at the oasis... Oh, right, Samail's subordinates reported to him about merchants. Do you think they were attacked?

Tirzad:

Oh no! I almost forgot that!

Jebrael:

I told them what to do if something like that happened, so they... should be fine.

Paimon:

Whoa! That's a first. Paimon's never heard Jebrael sound so uncertain.

Paimon:

Hmm, let's get back to Nachtigal's group as soon as we can then. It'll be bad if they are in hot water that they can't get themselves out of!

Dreams Beneath the Searing Sand

The merchants and their Sumpter Beasts waiting in the oasis might be in danger. Hurry back to the camp in the oasis to secure Nachtigal's safety.

Nachtigal:

Wonderful, Cyrus seems to be in a good mood. Windwheel Aster's looking good too.

Nachtigal:

It got the name Windwheel Aster because it kept spinning on the ground after knocking some kegs over... I wanted to name it Keg, but Bonifaz was of the opinion that it wasn't a nice name.

Nachtigal:

"Since we have Dandelion, it makes sense to have Windwheel Aster, right?" is what he said.

Nachtigal:

I know he's my friend, but I really can't compliment his taste in names.

Jeht:

Benben, stop running off with bad people. Once Tirzad has uncovered all the secrets here, he can head back and write his masterpiece... And you can come home with me and father.

Jeht:

Just like how Paimon stays with Traveler, I'm sure you and I will be best companions. Hehe.

Nachtigal:

I'm just so happy that you're all alright too. *sigh* They really came at us. Luckily, Jebrael gave us some instructions beforehand, so they didn't make things too difficult for us.

Nachtigal:

If Bonifaz had Jebrael's wisdom, then perhaps our business would be doing much better than it currently is.

Tirzad:

You think too highly of him, then. Wisdom? He's one of them. I'll bet it's experience talking!

Jeht:

Father wouldn't do something like that!

Jebrael:

There's no need to argue with him, Jeht. It's my fault.

Jeht:

I don't care what happened in the past! As far as I'm concerned, you have nothing to do with Samail now, and that's enough for me!

Nachtigal:

What's going on? I thought a night in the oasis might bring all of you closer together. Why are you at each other's throats again?

Paimon:

It's a long story...

You tell Nachtigal everything...

Nachtigal:

...I see. But I don't have the right to comment on it.

Paimon:

Oh? Why's that?

Nachtigal:

Well, that's because Tirzad is the one who's paying me. No matter who I support, I'll be in a difficult spot.

Nachtigal:

If I support Jebrael, Tirzad will probably scream at me to get lost.

Nachtigal:

But if I support Tirzad, then we'll be without Jebrael in this world of sand and bandits...

Nachtigal:

Traveler, what would you do in a situation like this?

Paimon:

Well, Paimon really wants to believe Jebrael, but he hasn't told us much about his past either.

Paimon:

That weird guy popped up and claimed to be his old companion, but Jebrael didn't even deny it...

Traveler:

There can be no trust without honesty.

Paimon:

Right, if you'd just tell us the truth, Jebrael, Paimon believes that everyone can be understanding!

Paimon:

Anyway, Jeht's his daughter. Paimon really can't imagine someone who raised Jeht as being a bad guy...

Nachtigal:

Hmm, I believe that the most important thing right now is to get Tirzad to trust Jebrael.

Tirzad:

What? You're a merchant. You should know the value of trust! Even in the world of academics, researchers who engage in misconduct will be stripped of their research qualifications.

Tirzad:

Just ask yourself, would you trade with someone who cheated you in the past?

Nachtigal:

Oh, about that... I would decide based on the circumstances. Haha, I dare not speak for others, but Bonifaz and I have much more flexible moral standards.

Nachtigal:

After weighing the risks and the benefits, we usually choose to take the risk. We wouldn't have accepted your commission otherwise.

Tirzad:

Ugh, you guys!

Nachtigal:

I think I said this before, but you sure are stubborn. Forget about Samail for a moment and ask yourself a question. Has Jebrael ever done anything to harm you?

Tirzad:

...No, I don't think so.

Nachtigal:

Then hasn't he proven himself through his actions?

Paimon:

You know, when you caused all that commotion after getting drunk, it was Jebrael who stayed and took care of you, Tirzad.

Tirzad:

Hmm...

Traveler:

This isn't the time for fighting amongst ourselves.

Paimon:

Yeah, we haven't even found the place marked on the map yet.

Paimon:

Jebrael is definitely the person in our group who knows the most about the desert. It'll be difficult for our expedition to proceed without him leading the way.

Tirzad:

...Fine! I'll do it for you. I know I can trust you two, Paimon, Traveler. I'll trust you again.

Paimon:

Alright! The Tirzad Archaeological Team is back together again!

Jebrael:

We still have time. We should travel to the next oasis and rest there in preparation for the next leg of this expedition.

Jebrael:

I... I'm willing to explain, to repay you for your trust. But the journey is our current priority.

Jebrael:

...

Jebrael:

Samail is watching us, so we aren't safe right now. I may not want to admit it, but he knows me just as well as I know him.

Tirzad:

Now that our bellies are full, what other excuses do you have? Let's hear them! And what did you slip to Nachtigal earlier?

Tirzad:

You'd better not be thinking of using the merchants to send messages to the enemy!

Nachtigal:

Tirzad, you're being too hostile. No one's going to talk if you act like that.

Nachtigal:

It was just a note on some trivial matters. It's with the luggage that you won't be able to take with you. You can have it once you return safely.

Jeht:

He can be hostile all he wants. I'm angry too! Forget Tirzad, even I've never heard about my father's past!

Jeht:

I refuse to believe he's an evil person, but it's his secretiveness that caused all of this.

Jeht:

None of this would have happened if he told us everything from the beginning! Ugh! Now I don't even know where to start.

Traveler:

Maybe we should start with his relationship with Samail?

Tirzad:

Exactly! I can't sleep in peace without getting to the bottom of that...

Jebrael:

All of you heard Samail, yes? Well, he was telling the truth.

Jebrael:

Just like him, I was a member of the Eremite band named "Thutmose." However, I betrayed him and Thutmose both.

Jeht:

Did you do it because of mother?

Jebrael:

N—No, that's not it. I thought I'd never have to mention this to anyone ever again... In the end, it was all my fault.

Jebrael:

There were ill feelings between me and Samail, but I only regarded myself as an insignificant grain of sand. I did as Thutmose needed of me.

Jebrael:

Ufairah was a capable researcher, and the Thutmose coveted her wisdom. They hoped to use her knowledge to solve the puzzle Al-Ahmar left behind.

Jebrael:

So, I "invited" her to the desert and explored many ruins with her.

Jebrael:

Our years spent exploring together did bear some fruit. But... it wasn't enough for Thutmose.

Tirzad:

And was Jeht included in those "results"?

Nachtigal:

Ahem! Come on, Tirzad, some things are best left unsaid.

Tirzad:

I'm making a reasonable inference here...

Jebrael:

...As I said, there were ill feelings between Samail and me.

Jebrael:

After Jeht was born, I kept asking myself if I could still wholeheartedly carry out the missions Thutmose gave me as I had been doing in the past.

Jebrael:

Could I still tolerate what Samail was doing?

Jebrael:

In the end, Ufairah and I decided to use hitting a bottleneck in her research as an excuse to take Jeht away from the desert, and away from Thutmose.

Jebrael:

But Samail saw through my weakness.

Paimon:

Ah! It can't be...

Jebrael:

A researcher that can't unlock the secrets of Al-Ahmar is worthless to Thutmose...

Jebrael:

He even thought that I would have no reason to leave Thutmose once Ufairah was gone.

Jeht:

Father...

Tirzad:

I... What...! How do you even sleep at night after witnessing things like that?

Jebrael:

I... I do my best.

Traveler:

So our encounter with Samail was a coincidence?

Jebrael:

Yes... and no. Thutmose will never give up an opportunity to unlock Al-Ahmar's secrets. I thought that we might encounter them, but I never expected that we would run into Samail.

Paimon:

Those Fatui too! Paimon wonders what wicked plots they and Samail are hatching together!

Jebrael:

He will stop at nothing to achieve his objectives. That's the kind of person Samail is.

Traveler:

Then what's your goal on this trip, Jebrael?

Jebrael:

My goal?

Nachtigal:

Honestly, I wouldn't be surprised if he was here for the Mora! After all, someone like Tirzad who's foolish and rich... *cough* Uh, I mean generous, is pretty hard to come by.

Tirzad:

I'm not drunk, you know! I heard it all!

Jebrael:

Perhaps it's as Jeht said. Coming to the desert is like returning home, and in the end, I'm a grain of sand. I was born here, and I shall be buried here as well.

Jebrael:

Ufairah and I were like a bird and a fish, but Al-Ahmar's secrets allowed our fates to intertwine. Now, you and I, people from different lands, are again here for those very same secrets.

Jebrael:

I didn't mention all of this to you because it was my own selfish dream, and it had nothing to do with Jeht. I didn't want to make her bear any burdens she doesn't have to.

Jebrael:

Tirzad, we hold different opinions on Al-Ahmar, but you are one of the researchers from the Hindi Clan. As long as we reach the throne...

Paimon:

...The throne?

Jebrael:

Our destination tomorrow, Khaj-Nisut, is where Al-Ahmar's throne lies. According to the legends of the desert, only the chosen are worthy to kneel before the throne...

Jebrael:

The times have changed. If I have a chance to look upon the Golden Slumber that Al-Ahmar promised... I'll be able to fulfill the lifelong wish that Ufairah and I share.

Jebrael:

To that end, I will do as we agreed and protect you to the end.

Tirzad:

Hmm... alright. Our side would be the weaker by far if it were just Traveler and me.

Paimon:

Hey! How could you forget about Paimon!?

Tirzad:

I don't think you can be included in any estimation of our group's strength.

Paimon:

Hmph! Paimon's definitely stronger than you, though!

Tirzad:

Anyway, I have new worries now... Jebrael, don't you have revenge on your mind at all? I know you've repeatedly promised to protect me until the commission is over, but...

Tirzad:

The loss of your wife isn't something you can just laugh off, is it...

Tirzad:

If we meet him again... No, I think we definitely will. Even I know that he'll be waiting in ambush for us at our final destination.

Tirzad:

At that time, what will your priority be? Will you take a step forward to get revenge, or step back to keep us safe?

Paimon:

C'mon, Tirzad! Stop putting people on the spot like that!

Tirzad:

It's a very realistic question! And it's linked to my survival, so of course I have to pursue an answer...

Jebrael:

If taking revenge on Samail could bring Ufairah back to life... A good deal like that...

Jebrael:

...Even if I had to gut him ten times... even a hundred times! I wouldn't hesitate at all.

Paimon:

Umm...

Jebrael:

Hah, but this is a meaningless delusion that even Al-Ahmar would pay no attention to. I can only pray she has found peace amidst the endless ocean of sand...

Jebrael:

A man chained by hatred cannot raise a daughter.

Jebrael:

That's why I left the sands behind me, so that Jeht could get away from all of this... and those feelings that will not edify her.

Jeht:

Father... I—I didn't know anything. I even said that you did all this because you couldn't forget the desert and the hot winds here...

Jeht:

If you hate it here, let's just leave right now! Forget Samail...

Jeht:

To be honest, I want to know about the past, I want to know how you and mother met each other and fell in love, I want to know what you and mother had been through, the sweet memories and everything else...

Jeht:

But... if bringing up these memories will bring you sorrow, then I'd rather not hear about them. Just leave them buried here!

Jeht:

I'll stop liking the sand, and I'll stop treating this place as home...

Jeht:

We've been together since I can remember. Nothing in this world is more important to me than you... So long as you're well, we can be at home anywhere...

Tirzad:

Wait, wait, you can't leave! Our expedition isn't over yet!

Traveler:

But you were sooo suspicious of them just a while ago...

Tirzad:

Th—things change! I fully trust Jebrael now. He certainly isn't on Samail's side, at least. Uh, he isn't, right?

Jebrael:

Don't worry, I won't quit halfway.

Jebrael:

Perhaps a day will come when I shall meet her again in the Eternal Oasis.

Jebrael:

When that day comes, spring water will replace salt water, joy will wash away the pain, roses will never wither, and the feasts will never end...

Jebrael:

But that day is still very, very far away. It will definitely not be now... She knows that I have a mission to complete.

Jebrael:

I will assist you in unlocking the secrets of Al-Ahmar and protect you until the end. Samail will not obstruct us, because I will clear him out of your way.

Jebrael:

As for Ufairah... If I have the chance, I'll tell you everything, Jeht. Time will gradually filter away the bitter impurities... though I'm not good with words.

Jebrael:

...I may not be able to even convey a thousandth of her beautiful qualities. But if you're willing to listen... I will tell you everything I know.

Jeht:

M—My head's a mess. Father, can you sing that song again? "O stars high above the wasteland..." It always calms me.

Jebrael:

It's a song that Ufairah deciphered from Al-Ahmar's texts.

Jebrael:

"O stars high above the wasteland, O nightingales weary from the day. It's time to take off the crown of roses; Cleanse yourself with wine made from grapes."

Jebrael:

I'll take the night watch. Don't stay up too late.

"Sleep, close your eyes; Yon golden slumber summons thee, wandering sand; Drink not that bitter salt water; For the sorrows of tomorrow have gone away."

Tirzad:

Phew... We're finally here.

Tirzad:

But... Is the alcohol still clouding my mind, or has the sand distorted my vision? Is this really the place we're looking for? I can see Khaj-Nisut... but it feels like I also don't.

Jeht:

Actually, I've been meaning to ask... You clearly can't hold your alcohol, so why are you so fond of drinking?

Benben:

Beep... Bee-eep?

Tirzad:

...I'd hoped it would prove my fountain of wisdom, but it makes my world spin instead. Ugh... You're right, I really should slow down a little.

Tirzad:

But I'll be fine. Nachtigal gave me some invigorating drinks before we left, so I'm as clear-headed as can be.

Traveler:

It feels like we're missing a little something here.

Tirzad:

"Just a little" might be an understatement. Khaj-Nisut is where it should be, but it seems to be refusing to show itself to us...

Paimon:

And what's that supposed to mean?

Jebrael:

Shh, look over there.

Paimon:

It's the Eremites! They got here before us...

Tirzad:

Huh? What should we do? Avoid them?

Jebrael:

No, let's go have a little "chat" with them.

Tirzad:

But we didn't get along the last time, and we even fought each other. Can we even talk to them now?

Jeht:

Haha! Tirzad, do you think we're going over there to invite them for tea?

Jeht:

We're going to communicate in our own way, of course! And if all else fails, we'll "talk" with our fists. It is what my father and I are best at.

Eremite Mercenary:

Who are you? Hah! The researcher and the traitor? Good! Give us the stuff Samail mentioned!

Paimon:

Give you what? We don't owe you anything!

Eremite Mercenary:

Hmph! Acting dumb won't save you! Take this!

Paimon:

Whoa! Well, looks like negotiations have broken down!

Omid:

Okay, I've made up my mind! I'm going to Port Ormos. I haven't yet decided on what business to go into, but I'll figure that out after seeing what other people are doing there.

Omid:

I'll inform the boss once I'm back in Aaru Village. Although he always complains that he's short on crew, I guess he'll be alright with Mirsad to help him.

Jeht:

How strange... It feels like they didn't go all out. What did they mean when they mentioned Samail's orders?

Paimon:

Is it about Benben? Benben did get taken away before.

Benben:

Bee-eep!? Beep...

Jeht:

Hmm, it is possible. Besides Tirzad, we must protect Benben well too.

Jebrael:

They probably stayed for a while. Let's look around, there might still be some clues.

Paimon:

Jebrael! We found this, though we're not sure if it's a useful clue...

Jebrael:

When I was still with the Thutmose, we used to leave messages for each other in code just like this.

Paimon:

Oh! So you can read it, Jebrael?

Traveler:

Samail should be aware that he can.

Paimon:

Huh? Th—Then is all of this a trap that Samail set for us?

Tirzad:

I knew your past would come back to bite us...

Tirzad:

*sigh* Come on, Benben, why don't we just return to Sumeru City now? It is quite regrettable that my paper won't have its final two chapters, but I can always return again if I'm still alive.

Benben:

Beep?

Tirzad:

Next time, I should get help that has a clean background...

Jebrael:

We can use this against them.

Paimon:

What do you mean?

Jebrael:

We're the latecomers here. They've been here for quite some time, and they've made some discoveries, of course.

Jebrael:

They just lack something crucial, so they can't advance.

Jebrael:

And we just happen to have what they need.

Jebrael:

Yes, and the stone slate.

Jebrael:

Instead of taking them from us, they have a better way to get what they want.

Traveler:

Oh, so they'd like to sit back and claim the fruits of our work?

Jebrael:

Yes, they'd prefer it if we solved everything for them.

Tirzad:

Oh! I get it! They're the people in joint research projects that contribute nothing but take all the credit when it's time to present your findings!

Jebrael:

But they won't be able to get what they want if we get stuck here too.

Jebrael:

So, we can use this against them.

Jebrael:

...We can't avoid a fight once everything has been uncovered. But Jeht, Traveler, neither of you will run from a fight, right?

Jeht:

Of course. I've decided to punch that guy in the face when we meet again.

Traveler:

The Eremites are nothing.

Paimon:

Yeah, we've fought worse.

Tirzad:

Sorry to interrupt... But there must be a safer method, right?

Tirzad:

Just think about it, the ruins have been here for years, so just a few months... or even a few years won't change anything! We can come back later!

Tirzad:

*sigh* Using their plan against them is a bad idea. All four of you do seem so full of confidence, but that's because you're skilled fighters.

Tirzad:

But there are just too many of them. Paimon can fly away and hide if things go south, but what about me?

Tirzad:

For safety's sake, we should return to Sumeru City and draw up a plan... No, even Aaru Village would be fine!

Jebrael:

Those Thutmose folks may believe in King Deshret, but that doesn't mean they won't touch the ruins. If he can't do it through ordinary means, Samail will use other means...

Jebrael:

If they solve King Deshret's puzzle before us, these ruins probably won't be the same when you return, Tirzad.

Tirzad:

What!? But they're all relics!

Jebrael:

They may be precious relics to you researchers from the Akademiya, but they clearly aren't to the Thutmose. It's all just a process, a phase...

Jebrael:

They only care about the final objective... Results are what matters to them.

Jebrael:

Tirzad, do you still not get it? We have no other choice now.

Tirzad:

*sob* It saddens me to think that I won't get to celebrate my success because I'll have to face the fangs of that venomous snake who will leap out of the shadows...

Jebrael:

He may be in the shadows, but we're prepared for him. I won't let him touch you.

Jebrael:

According to this coded letter, Al-Ahmar's throne only shows itself to the worthy who have passed the three trials.

Paimon:

The three trials... Maybe that refers to the buildings all around us? Y'know, there are so many huge statues here, Paimon's worried that they'll just come to life...

Traveler:

Maybe the trial is to defeat them.

Tirzad:

I can only hope that you're wrong...

Jebrael:

What is this place?

Samail:

Jebrael! Haha, you're here!

Samail:

I knew it... I knew it! We are the twin blades of Thutmose, our lives dedicated to uncovering the secrets of the Golden Slumber...

Samail:

You took the long way around, but it doesn't matter anymore. We've met again here, at the end of that path.

Samail:

You were just lost before, but the sands of the Thutmose always return before Al-Ahmar's throne!

Samail:

Like the dehydrated thirst for a spring, only the illusion of the Eternal Oasis can relieve our agony...

Jebrael:

I'm inside... the Golden Slumber promised by Al-Ahmar?

Samail:

Oh... You are not "us" yet.

Samail:

...It's fine. Soon, there'll be no "you." "You" will become a part of "us." This meaningless talk will be unnecessary then.

Jebrael:

No, no! I'm here to stop you! My mission is to protect... I must protect Jeht and the others...

Samail:

Why? Why care about such trivial matters? Great power is right before you, it's like a torrent in the desert. Don't you feel it?

Samail:

You should obey. Al-Ahmar's will is our will. The Thutmose's dreams are our dreams.

Jebrael:

No! Ufairah taught me that I'm not just some part of you, I'm an independent person! I have my own dreams... I won't go back!

Samail:

Jebrael, why don't you understand? Love is just a fever. I even eliminated the infection for you. Has the heat made you lose your mind?

Jebrael:

You're the one who's lost their mind, Samail, not me. The Golden Slumber that Al-Ahmar promised us isn't like this... It's not a sad place with only "we" and no "I."

Samail:

I'm not sad. I know what I want. My dream is to be one with the Thutmose.

Samail:

Yet you, the warmth of another... I despise such feelings. It makes you weak.

Samail:

Your betrayal was like a blade in my chest. But I obtained Al-Ahmar's wisdom, and that wound I thought would never heal is nothing but a memory now.

Samail:

You've realized it too, haven't you? That drowsiness... Al-Ahmar is summoning you into the dream. Stop arguing meaninglessly with me. Come, fall into deep sleep...

Samail:

When you awaken again... No, when "we" awaken again, nothing will be left standing in our way. The Thutmose's dreams will be fulfilled.

Jebrael:

...No, you're my enemy! My dream is... is...

Samail:

"We" are the dunes, and you are a grain of sand. We are one. You know this.

Jebrael:

No, I'm the "Treacherous Grit"! I abandoned the Thutmose and chose a different path...

Samail:

You took the long way around, but you reached the correct destination. Admit it. This is the dream hidden within your heart.

Jebrael:

...I wanted to return to this place?

Samail:

Yes, you did. There is no hatred here, only eternal peace. No bitter salt water, only an endless spring.

Samail:

Sleep, Jebrael, sleep.

Jebrael:

...

Jeht's Voice:

(...Father! Father!)

Tirzad's Voice:

(H—His body has disappeared. He's not coming back... Jeht...)

Paimon's Voice:

(This can't be...)

Jeht's Voice:

(I refuse to believe it! He always keeps his promises! He promised to tell me about my mother... All of you heard him! He wouldn't lie to me! He never lies to me! *sob*...)

Jebrael:

...I refuse to yield. Jeht is right. I'm a man of my word. I promised to protect them... until the end!

Samail:

...

Samail:

...I see. Your ties to the mundane inhibit you. Just like that infection, I just have to eliminate them...

Tirzad's Voice:

(...The door is open? It must be Jebrael! It's still shaking, Jeht! It's dangerous here! We can't stay, or else his sacrifice would mean nothing...)

Jeht's Voice:

(Leave if you want! Father... Father will be back. He'll be so sad if he couldn't find me when he wakes up... I won't leave him!)

Samail:

Hmph! How foolish! But these trivial troubles will vanish with the wind soon.

Jebrael:

I won't let you win!

Jebrael:

Haha! I finally get it... Samail, you're right. There will be no "me," only "us"...

Jebrael:

But you're not the only one who can decide "our" will!

Samail:

You can't be serious...

Jebrael:

Samail, the twin blades of Thutmose are equal. So... die here with me!

Jeht, forgive me. You'll have to go on alone from now on... No, I'm sure you won't forgive me. After all, it's my first time breaking a promise to you. I hear the voices of many here. I think I hear Ufairah too. She's humming the song of her home. Oh... If only you could hear it too. Why couldn't I have told you a little more about her? Her soft curly hair... and that innocent smile of hers. I have so many things I want to share with you, but I'm no longer able to distinguish if they are my memories... or "our" memories...

Sorry...

Mirsad:

*sigh* Am I too old to start a new career as an adventurer now? That being said, I won't know until I try.

Mirsad:

Omid'll definitely take me for a madman if I tell him. That's why I'd better only inform my boss. Please keep the secret for me...

Paimon:

Yeah, we're obviously inside... But where's the throne?

Tirzad:

Why would you think the throne would be facing the entrance? It isn't a receptionist's desk. Hmm, actually, I feel like I shouldn't say such... Uh, disrespectful things in a place like this.

Tirzad:

Anyway, King Deshret's throne should be in a more "dignified" place, or in simpler terms, a place that's higher up.

Jebrael:

The mechanisms here probably stopped working a long time ago. We've got to find a way to reactivate them.

Paimon:

Ooh... Paimon can't wait to see what the throne looks like.

Paimon:

Everything linked to King Deshret is huge! So that throne is definitely very, very huge, right? Hehe, Paimon wants to take a seat on it!

Benben:

Bee-eep? Beep...

Jeht:

Something seems to be the matter with Benben. It seems like... it wants to go down?

Paimon:

Huh? But Tirzad said the throne is definitely higher up...

Tirzad:

Hmm... to go up, we must first go down. You cannot reach a peak without falling to your lowest, just like...

Traveler:

Just like in life.

Tirzad:

Yes! Exactly! Hah, looks like you've learned quite a bit these past few days you spent with me, eh?

Jebrael:

There's a lot to discuss, but let's set up camp first.

You and everyone else set up the camp in silence. It is already getting dark as you finish your meal...

Tirzad:

...Oh, it's you. Is there anything else you want to discuss?

Tirzad:

To think that I remained doubtful of him until the end. I'm such an awful person...

Tirzad:

Now, all I have for him is gratitude...

Tirzad:

I've never been able to commit before this, whether in academics or in life... But that ends now. I will take the path I believe in, no matter how difficult it may be...

Tirzad:

This is the least I can do to pay my respects to him...

Jeht:

Sorry... I'm still not very good at controlling my emotions.

Traveler:

Don't apologize.

Paimon:

Yeah... We know you're going through a tough time.

Jeht:

Thank you... May your travels be smooth.

Paimon:

Oh, Paimon hopes that everything will go well for you too... Paimon's sure it will!

Bonifaz:

Where are Omid and Mirsad? Are they...

Nachtigal:

Don't worry. They're both fine. It's just that... they have other plans so they won't continue working with us.

Bonifaz:

Huh? What do we do? We can't handle all the work with only the two of us. We've gotta hire more people! But who'd want to come to Aaru Village...

Bonifaz:

Forget it, let's discuss this later. Anyway, Cyrus got back safely. That's at least something to be happy about, right? I'm never letting it go to such a dangerous place again.

Nachtigal:

What are you talking about? We're Sumpter Beast merchants. What are we going to eat if our Sumpter Beasts don't work?

Nachtigal:

You can't simply fill your belly with wind. Even if you could, open your mouth here, and I guarantee that you'll get a mouthful of sand instead...

Bonifaz:

But we can't let Cyrus take risks. You look pretty strong to me, so why don't you carry our goods instead?

Nachtigal:

Paimon:

Hehe, this chair is huge! Paimon feels like just sitting on it is gonna make Paimon super great!

Tirzad:

I may disapprove of a tyrant like King Deshret, but your thoughts might be a little too audacious even so, Paimon...

Tirzad:

Anyway, nothing happened. Huh? Is something lacking? Or perhaps we made a mistake somewhere...

Tirzad:

Hmm... Jebrael did mention that only the chosen may kneel before the throne... M—Maybe we really have to kneel before the throne?

Tirzad:

But I'm a researcher of the Akademiya. I can't kneel before a tyrant's throne! And it's an empty throne, too!

Paimon:

Don't worry, it won't be empty once Paimon sits there.

Tirzad:

You're seriously... Jeht, please, help me with Paimon... Jeht?

Tirzad:

Wait. Where did Jeht go? She was still with us just a moment ago, right?

Jebrael:

Samail...

Samail:

Jebrael, are you still refusing to admit that you are a Thutmose deep down? Self-deceiving makes no difference for people like us, you know it!

Samail:

Al-Ahmar's throne is right before us. Aren't you obsessed with it too?

Samail:

No mere grain of sand can reject the Golden Slumber. Al-Ahmar's promise is the paradise that all of us dream of.

Samail:

Did you think betraying the Thutmose would be enough to deny your nature? Hah! I knew you would be back.

Samail:

Little Jeht, do you see it now? Once he laid eyes on Al-Ahmar's throne, your dear father forgot everything! Even you!

Jeht:

That was my mistake. It has nothing to do with him!

Samail:

Hmph! You're just as stubborn as your father, but your talkativeness... I guess you must've gotten that from Ufairah, huh?

Jebrael:

Samail, we've solved everything for you and brought you to the throne. Your dream... should be fulfilled. Jeht is useless to you, so why keep her?

Tirzad:

I see! So you're finally showing your true colors, huh, Jebrael? "Use their plans against them"? You're just one of them, like I expected!

Samail:

Hahahaha! So this is your choice? Looks like your companions never really trusted you at all.

Jebrael:

Tirzad, your expedition should be over now. We've explored the entire Khaj-Nisut, and you now have all the knowledge you need for your paper...

Jebrael:

We should start considering how to get back safely now... I promised to protect you until the end, and I'll keep my word.

Samail:

Tsk tsk tsk! Such greed!

Samail:

Jebrael, I thought I knew you... But I really don't understand what you're doing right now.

Samail:

You're trying to shoulder every burden! Your daughter's safety! That researcher's commission! And even Al-Ahmar's secrets!

Samail:

I thought you learned your lesson about greed when Ufairah died! Oh, sorry, or should I say "I taught you that lesson when Ufairah died"?

Samail:

Oh! Perhaps you learned your lesson, and you're prepared to pay the price now? Let's see which one amongst them will be the price you pay!

Paimon:

This weirdo keeps saying weird stuff. Paimon's getting confused... Haven't we uncovered everything? And what are Al-Ahmar's secrets, anyway?

Traveler:

And the Golden Slumber...

Tirzad:

Aren't those just desert superstitions? Things like that are... too vague. There's no research value in them.

Tirzad:

They say anyone who gains King Deshret's wisdom is permitted to enter the Golden Slumber, and enjoy eternal peace and happiness there.

Tirzad:

Besides ignorant children... who could take that seriously?

Samail:

Hmph! You third-rate researcher! Oh, if Ufairah were alive, she would have written multiple books by now! Someone like you has no right to talk about Al-Ahmar's legacy.

Jebrael:

...Enough! If you wish to sit on Al-Ahmar's throne, then do as you please. I won't stop you, and I won't let Tirzad do that either.

Jebrael:

I opened the path to Al-Ahmar's throne for you, and I used Tirzad and Traveler to make Khaj-Nisut manifest itself.

Jebrael:

I don't think I owe Tirzad anything. He wanted a paper that could shock the academic world, and now he has material that no one else has. I've helped him accomplish his objective.

Jebrael:

Now, give Jeht to me, and we'll be even.

Samail:

Hmm. I'm really curious. Why are you always so evasive whenever Al-Ahmar's secrets are mentioned?

Samail:

It's an empty throne! Anyone can sit on it. An unqualified and mediocre person won't become great just by sitting on it...

Samail:

That prayer is the key... But of course you know that! Hmm... Well, it all makes sense if you were planning to return alone.

Samail:

Unfortunately, unless you're willing to pay with little Jeht's life...

Traveler:

Nothing is more important than family.

Paimon:

Yeah! Paimon may not know what the secrets of Al-Ahmar he keeps mentioning are... But it doesn't matter if it's the truth, or if it's superstition like Tirzad says...

Paimon:

Both strength and endless wealth are nothing before family!

Tirzad:

What kind of prayer has that much appeal...? I refuse to believe it. But I don't mind listening in. It wouldn't hurt to include it as an anecdote in my paper.

Tirzad:

If something like that can be exchanged for Jeht's safety, then stop hesitating and tell him.

Tirzad:

To be honest, I expected that we might have to fight for our lives to get home... So isn't it great that we can resolve this peacefully?

Tirzad:

I never expected to see such intense superstition... I guess my knowledge is still lacking. Perhaps this superstition, linked to King Deshret as it is, may be worth studying after all.

Jebrael:

...

Jebrael:

"O stars high above the wasteland..."

Jebrael recites the song he sang softly at night in the oasis.

Paimon:

Huh?

Tirzad:

But isn't this...?

Jeht:

...Father?

Traveler:

(Jebrael? Why?)

Jebrael:

(Get ready.)

Samail:

"O stars high above the wasteland," huh? I see.

Samail repeats the "prayer."

Tirzad:

...What is this?

Paimon:

Traveler, he looks so strange! He fell asleep... No, wait! He isn't breathing!

Jebrael:

He got what he wanted. He's inside the Golden Slumber that Al-Ahmar promised, the Eternal Dreamland...

Traveler:

So that's what you meant by the Eternal Dreamland?

Eremite Mercenary:

What happened to Samail? None of you will leave this place alive!

Jebrael:

Traveler, get ready for battle!

Jeht:

Father! What's going on? That prayer...

Tirzad:

Jebrael, you mentioned that Jeht's mother deciphered it from Al-Ahmar's texts... I didn't expect it to be used here...

Tirzad:

But... Is Al-Ahmar's Golden Slumber a way to send his believers into eternal sleep?

Tirzad:

That makes it more terrifying than I ever imagined... I really should get back and update the collective knowledge of the academic world.

Paimon:

Eek, thank goodness Paimon didn't sit on that throne... Guess sitting on a seat that doesn't belong to you really doesn't end well, huh?

Traveler:

I have so many questions...

Jebrael:

Ufairah made this inference about Al-Ahmar's promise...

Jebrael:

Those who offer the correct prayer to Al-Ahmar will be granted entry into the Golden Slumber, but it's a one way trip.

Jebrael:

No one can move freely between the Eternal Dreamland and reality. It seems like Ufairah was right. Samail is gone forever.

Jebrael:

I must admit that it was a very risky gamble...

Traveler:

But all that matters is Jeht is safe.

Paimon:

That's right! Everyone's safe, and that's the most important thing!

Tirzad:

Hmm, let me summarize the overall situation now... Jeht's back safely, and Samail's subordinates have been defeated.

Tirzad:

Samail... He got his wish, didn't he? If he wasn't such a villain, I'd even feel like thanking him...

Tirzad:

Anyway, uh, since he's in the paradise he dreamed of, I don't need his permission to use him as a case study in my paper, right?

Tirzad:

...Hah, all's well that ends well, eh? I, Tirzad, hereby announce that this archaeological expedition has been completed successfully and has yielded great results!

Jeht:

...Is it really over? This doesn't feel real...

Tirzad:

Actually, it isn't over. I mean, the minimum requirement in the commission was to escort me safely back to Aaru Village, right?

Jeht:

Hmm, that's true. Tirzad's commission isn't over, so I can't slack off just yet.

Jeht:

Father and I will be free once we escort Tirzad back safely! Hehe, then we can go wherever we want.

Jeht:

Oh! I'm not talking about the desert, by the way. I mean literally anywhere!

Jebrael:

It's fine, Jeht. I'm willing to accompany you wherever you want to go. As for Ufairah... I'll tell you about her, if you're willing to listen.

Jebrael:

There's her research notes too... But I don't know if you'll be interested in those.

Jebrael:

I was worried about losing them, so I didn't bring them along. I left them and some luggage with Bonifaz. Once we return to Aaru Village and get our luggage...

Jeht:

Well, what are we waiting for? Let's go!

Paimon:

Hmm? Does anyone else feel like something's wrong?

Tirzad:

Something's coming this way!

Jeht:

What's going on? How could this be?

Benben:

Bee-eep! Beep...

Jebrael:

Is it Samail...? Oh no! If he gained Al-Ahmar's wisdom, then even if it's just for an instant, he would have gained Al-Ahmar's authority...

Jebrael:

We must leave immediately!

Jebrael:

We must leave immediately!

Paimon:

The door is shut! Traveler... What do we do?

Jebrael:

We must defeat Samail, who has stolen Al-Ahmar's power. But his physical form in this world must've been destroyed already...

Jeht:

So that makes him formless... Then how can we defeat him? Don't tell me he's invincible in the Eternal Dreamland...?

Tirzad:

U—Unless someone goes to where he is...

Jebrael:

Unless someone stops and defeats him in the Eternal Dreamland... I must... I must protect you...

Jeht:

Father! B—But how are you going to come back? Didn't you say that no one can move freely between the Eternal Dreamland and reality?

Jebrael:

There's no time to lose. I promised to keep you safe, until the end... I can't let you all die here!

Bonifaz:

To think that something like that happened... Anemo Archon bless us all...

Bonifaz:

*sigh* I'm really sorry about what happened to Jebrael. But at least all of you returned safely.

Nachtigal:

I think we may have to reconsider our career as traveling merchants... The desert is a hundred times more dangerous than I expected... Even someone as capable as Jebrael...

Nachtigal:

A nobody like me doesn't have that many lives! Ugh...

Bonifaz:

This may be bad timing, but I have to ask about what all of you plan to do now...

Nachtigal:

I believe Tirzad will be returning to Sumeru City.

Tirzad:

...Me? Yes, I will. I—I should head back and start writing my paper.

Tirzad:

I must... record everything that I witnessed.

Tirzad:

But not for academic glory or anything... Jebrael did as he promised he would, yet I... I've always been avoiding my responsibilities.

Tirzad:

Now it's my turn. I too must shoulder my responsibilities...

Traveler:

And as for this stone slate...

Tirzad:

I've prepared a replica for reference. As for the original... I hope you'll keep it safe for me. I'm not trying to run from danger! It's a commission, you hear it? A commission!

Tirzad:

Just think about it. I'll be completely occupied with my paper soon, but an adventurer like you will never stop adventuring, right?

Tirzad:

If you make new discoveries during this time... Wouldn't we make the perfect team? The thesis material shall be mine, and the Mora yours...

Tirzad:

That's perfect! We'll be making the best use of all our resources!

Paimon:

And Jeht... What do you plan to do now? Do you have any friends you can rely on or something?

Jeht:

Father... He was so busy, he never had the time for anything... He didn't leave anything behind, just that axe he always used...

Jeht:

Father said he hoped he could meet her again in the Eternal Oasis... He said that day was still very, very far away... Liar! He lied to me, and to my mother...

Jeht:

He should keep his own promise! Now I have to fulfill it for him, and... take his axe and mother's research notes, which he kept with his luggage...

Jeht:

...To the Eternal Oasis. I hope they'll find true peace there.

Benben:

...Bee-eep!

Paimon:

Is there anything we can do to help?

Jeht:

Thank you, but... it's alright. While I was taking a quick look through my mother's research notes, I noticed what seemed like casual diary entries on the edges of the pages.

Jeht:

I found out that my father is from this tribe called "Tanit"... So, I plan to look for them... Perhaps they can tell me about my father...

Jeht:

...

Jeht:

Sorry, I just... I haven't... I'm sorry...

Traveler:

Let's give her a moment to herself.

Bonifaz:

Yeah... Anyway, Nachtigal and I will be staying here for a while.

Nachtigal:

We'll think long and hard about our future...

Paimon:

We should be staying in Sumeru for some time too... Paimon just has this feeling that there are so many more secrets to uncover.

Bonifaz:

Come to us if you need anything. We'll do our best to help you.

Nachtigal:

And good luck in your adventures.

Paimon:

The door's closed again? Thank goodness, we made it out in time...

Tirzad:

Jebrael... protected us, but he... *sigh*

Jeht:

*sob* Father...

Benben:

Beep... Beep-boop beep... Bee-eep...

Paimon:

It must be Jebrael who opened the door for us. Without him, we would've been...

Traveler:

He fulfilled his promise...

Tirzad:

This place may not be completely safe... Let's meet up with Nachtigal's group and head back to Aaru Village...

Refusing to give up, Jeht examined the entrance to Khaj-Nisut time after time, only to find the door tightly shut. Behind it was dead silence. Things had happened and were beyond redemption. Jeht, now having but to accept reality, put away Jebrael's axe carefully. It is the only thing he has left behind. We finally managed to persuade her to come back with us to the camp. We then informed the merchants of what happened and returned to Aaru Village...

Tirzad:

*cough* Nachtigal's invigorating drinks really are strong. If you sat me down at a table now, I'm certain I could write a million words in one go.

chevron_left A Long Day in the Mountains: Prologue

Magic Mountain

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Paradise