arrow_back Genshin Impact Quests 
Between Pledge and Forgettance
After having just arrived in Natlan, you are teleported to a strange space...
Paimon:
Hey, hey, big guy... You okay? Can you stand?
Paimon:
Oh no, it looks really weak. Ugh, seriously! Those floaty ghostly dogs are always up to no good... In fact, make that all things floaty!
Traveler:
You're fairly floaty, as floaty things go...
Paimon:
Paimon's nothing like those guys!
Paimon:
Anyway, forget that for now. Let's see if we can get this guy something to eat, and then... We'll let it rest for a while.
Paimon:
It'll be feeling better soon, Paimon's sure of it!
Paimon:
No...
Big Guy?:
...*heavy breathing*
Paimon:
Oh no. It must be in so much pain, Traveler...
Traveler:
We've defeated your foes.
Big Guy?:
...*heavy breathing*
Traveler:
Is... there something else that's on your mind?
Traveler:
Is there... Something you'd like to tell me?
Stretch... out your hand... Chosen of... Dragons... Reach out to me...
Join... strengths, and then... Witness all... and thus, liberate all...
Paimon:
What's going on, Traveler? This is no time to zone out!
Traveler:
It's nothing. Just a bit of a daze...
Big Guy?:
...
Big Guy?:
...Hrooo... Rrooo...
Traveler:
Is that your desire, or...?
Traveler:
(Reach out to the dying beast...)
Paimon:
What are you doing... Err...
Paimon:
Traveler, you...!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr! Ehrr... Rawr!
Paimon:
Then let's call this little fella {TMPVALUE(TMP_VALUE_KEY_TYPE_LITTLE_DRILL_TMP_NAME)}, shall we?
Traveler:
Let's go with that!
Paimon:
Alright, hehe!
Traveler:
Let me think about this some more...
Paimon:
Alright. Names are important, after all, so give it all the thought you need!
Paimon:
Ah... Are you alright there, little guy?
Little Guy?:
Rawr...
Paimon:
Wh—What's wrong? You don't look so good. Is it your tail? Did you injure it when you fell from that barrier?
Little Guy?:
Rawr...
Traveler:
If only we could bandage it...
Paimon:
Hehe, it's Paimon's time to shine! Your backpack's so full that even when it's an emergency, it still takes all day to find anything.
Paimon:
Let's use this scarf from Paimon's Emergency Backpack instead!
Traveler:
I have no clue where that backpack of yours is even supposed to be...
Paimon:
Hmph! Somewhere secret, somewhere safe, of course...
Paimon:
Anyway, do you wanna use the scarf or not?
Traveler:
We'll use it. Thank you kindly, Paimon.
Little Guy?:
Errr?
Paimon:
Alright, little guy, don't move...
Paimon:
Hehe. Our little guy sure is well behaved, eh, Traveler?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Traveler:
That should do the trick.
Paimon:
Alright. Feel better now?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Roar...
Paimon:
Hehe, looks way better now. That's a relief... Still, how did you end up in that barrier? And those Rifthounds...
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Errr?
Paimon:
So you don't know either, huh. Now, we don't really get what you're saying... But now that we've rescued you, you can go home.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Ehrrr?
Paimon:
Wait, do you not know where your home is?
Paimon:
What about relatives, then? ...Oh, wait... That big guy from earlier...
Paimon:
What do we do, Traveler? We can't just leave it here all by itself, right?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Wrroh...
Traveler:
It might be better if you stay with us for a while...
Paimon:
Yeah, that makes sense. Maybe we'll find this little guy's family when we reach Natlan... But we've never seen anything like it...
Traveler:
Ah. "Chosen of... Dragons..." Could that mean...?
Paimon:
Huh. You mean you heard something like that?
Paimon:
Now that Paimon thinks about it, Natlan is the "nation of dragons"... So, does that mean that... wait, they call little guys like this 'Saurians' around here, right?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawoo...
Paimon:
Come to think of it, Paimon does see some resemblance to vishaps. Y'know... Two legs, one tail, and all.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rraaa?
Traveler:
We're happy to have it travel with us...
Traveler:
But we should ask our friend here if that's what it wants to do first.
Paimon:
True, true. Hey there, little guy. Would you like to travel with us?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
...
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rrawr!
Paimon:
Hehe! Looks like we're all agreed then. Anyway, Paimon's Paimon, and he's Traveler!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Wrraa? Rawr...
Paimon:
Oh, yeah, you need a name too... Let Paimon think. Right! Since you're yellow and brown all over, let's call you "Hash Brown"!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rroooo... Rraaaa...
Paimon:
You mean people wouldn't like it anywhere else?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rroo...
Paimon:
Would you like Traveler to give you a name, then? Well... not that Paimon can vouch for his naming sense, though.
Traveler:
All the names I've come up with so far have been perfectly normal, I'll have you know.
Paimon:
So, what should we call this little guy?
Paimon:
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}. That'll be your name from now on, little guy!
Traveler:
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}...
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
...Rawr!
Paimon:
Looks like our little friend loves this name! Well, with any luck, we'll solve the mystery that surrounds you while we're in Natlan... Ah, and maybe we'll get some clues as to why Traveler was able to suddenly enter that Saurian's body...
Paimon:
Oh yeah, are you okay, by the way, Traveler? You suddenly turned into a Saurian back there... Are you feeling uncomfortable in any way?
Paimon:
What's that even supposed to mean!? This isn't the time for jokes!
Paimon:
Still, Traveler, Paimon's never heard of anyone in Natlan who can turn into a Saurian... This is kinda weird.
Paimon:
Seriously, we only just got here, and it feels like so much has already happened... Anyway, how do we get outta here?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
Hmm? You know where the exit is?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr...
Paimon:
Hmm, this name feels like it's piling the pressure on... Let's go with something else, Traveler!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
Ooh, there's some real power behind that name!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
Hmm, {TMPVALUE(TMP_VALUE_KEY_TYPE_LITTLE_DRILL_TMP_NAME)} isn't a bad name either... and it's a name Paimon came up with too, right?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
Eh? You didn't like it when Paimon said "Hash Brown," but Traveler calls you "{TMPVALUE(TMP_VALUE_KEY_TYPE_LITTLE_DRILL_TMP_NAME)}" and now you're all happy and stuff? ...Ugh, never mind. No point being mad at you.
Paimon:
No, no, this name won't do at all!
Paimon:
Err, are you going to give it the same name as you, Traveler?
Paimon:
So the ruins below are the ruins of the... what was he called again? The Sage of the Stolen Flame? Still, the entrance looks like something weird's blocking it...
Manqu:
Just as I thought... the Sage's trial has already begun.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Err?
Manqu:
I'm afraid that barrier is difficult to break... With all due respect, we must use the correct method to open it.
Manqu:
*ahem* According to the accounts of the ancient scrolls of our tribe...
Manqu:
The Sage of the Stolen Flame seemed to have strongly believed that humans could guide and lead Saurians, thus attaining a future far brighter than the age of the ancient giant dragons.
Manqu:
Perhaps he felt guilty, for he stole the secrets of using phlogiston from none other than dragonkind... And this gnawing guilt led to a hope that humans and Saurians could get along, living in peace as equals.
Manqu:
Perhaps that is what drove him to leave behind the token here... According to the ancient scrolls, "Humans and Saurians both have their places..."
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Err?
Paimon:
That's about as clear as mud.
Manqu:
Sorry, forgive my ineloquence... I believe it means that humans and dragons must each stand in their respective positions to receive the token.
Manqu:
Still... To ask a Saurian to act in accordance with what a human wants is difficult indeed.
Manqu:
This too is part of the tribe's trials... The reason one must cultivate an understanding between human and Saurian.
Paimon:
Hehe, though Paimon doesn't totally get what you're saying, when it comes to an invisible bond, we're la creme de la creme!
Paimon:
Isn't that right, {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Traveler:
Rawr!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
?
Manqu:
Haha, that's the spirit. Now, please try opening the barrier blocking the entrance.
Paimon:
Wow... Looks like the real entrance to the ruins is over there! And just like the entrance to the first tunnel, there's a strange barrier.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr... Rawr!
Paimon:
Yes, just like at the entrance. Traveler must stand below the yellow device on the left, while {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]} stands below the green device to the right...
Paimon:
Though, it's pretty high up this time...
Traveler:
And the route is different too...
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rooo...
Paimon:
Don't worry, {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}! We'll only be separated for a little bit, but we'll still be in sight!
Paimon:
If you're scared, just raise your claws towards us and roar as loud as you can!
Paimon:
We'll wave back, so don't be scared, okay?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr...
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Raah, raah... Rawr!
Traveler:
Rawr!
Paimon:
Don't talk like {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}! What if you actually manage to "rawr" something in its language, and {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]} misunderstands?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr, rawr!
Paimon:
Well, don't you look happy all of a sudden.
Paimon:
Paimon just doesn't get you. When are you happy, and when are you scared?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Roo?
Paimon:
You sure seem to be in good spirits! Alright then, let's try opening up that gate.
Traveler:
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}, try going over there.
Paimon:
And once it's open, we'll meet in front of the door!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
Hey, you did it, {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}! Great job!
Paimon:
Paimon's not sure why, but it feels like {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]} is getting more and more reliable! That gives Paimon a kind of happy feeling, too.
Traveler:
...Feels way more reliable than Paimon!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
Hey, no way! And don't you dare agree with him! Meanies, Paimon praises you two just a bit and this is what she gets...
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
...Rraa?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
...Ooroo, Rooah? Wrroh?
Paimon:
Uh... You mean Paimon? Paimon's not angry, and she's not crying!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
...Ooroo, rawr? Rawr?
Paimon:
Okay, fine, fine! Paimon'll "rawr"! Rawr!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
That's what happens when you spend a lot of time together! Sometimes, Paimon can tell what you're going to cook the moment you reach into your bag to fish out the ingredients...
Paimon:
"Hmm, yeah, mmm, hrmm, okay, it's probably... Teyvat Fried Egg!" And Lo! Paimon was right.
Traveler:
Paimon, you're terrifying!
Paimon:
Hmph! Paimon's got a lot more aspects that are really scary, you just haven't seen them before! ...Whew, Paimon's getting hungry just talking about it.
Paimon:
We should hurry up and find the token... Once we find it, we can have a huge feast to celebrate!
Traveler:
Okay, let's move out!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Wraah... Waah!
Paimon:
That's the first time Paimon's heard {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]} make that sound.
Paimon:
Still, he's got a point, this is a huge mural! Hmm, let Paimon look... Two people, each holding something round in their hands...
Paimon:
Wait, what's with one of them having a weird head?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rraa?
Traveler:
Is it a... dragon?
Paimon:
Huh, now that you mention it, it does kinda look like a dragon's head...
Paimon:
Oh! Paimon gets it. It actually depicts a dragon and a person, each holding a golden ring.
Paimon:
Hmm... Paimon feels like she just heard a story about two people taking something or other not long ago...
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr...
Paimon:
Like Paimon said, it did remind her of something she'd just heard...
Paimon:
*sigh* But if that was really the case... doesn't that mean that of the Sage of the Stolen Flame and the first Pyro Archon... that one of them was a dragon? But which one of them?
Traveler:
First, we can rule out the Pyro Archon...
Paimon:
Oh, so that means... that the Sage of the Stolen Flame is actually a dragon? Right?
Paimon:
Paimon recalls that you saw the same golden design on that floating island...
Paimon:
So that Sage was also behind us falling into that place when we first came to Natlan, and is also linked to dragons...?
Traveler:
"Chosen of Dragons"...
Paimon:
Hmm... So that means that the message back then didn't mean "chosen by the great Tepetlisaurus there"... but by this Sage?
Traveler:
Or perhaps chosen by {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
That's possible too... Hmm... Strange...
Chosen of Dragons... Come forward... Come forward...
Pass through the corridors to your left and right. The path will unfold before your eyes...
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Hrrr?
Paimon:
What's the matter?
Traveler:
(The golden design says...)
Paimon:
Do we have to go through from both sides? Hmm, but it looks like both entrances each have their own barriers and mechanisms... Could it be that humans go one way, and dragons the other?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Wrroh...
Paimon:
P—Paimon can't even see this time... {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}, do you think it's too hard? If it is, we can still back out.
Paimon:
If it's really too much, we can wait until you're ready and try again. Not like these ruins are going anywhere.
Traveler:
No need to push yourself too hard.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Mraaa... Wrroh... Wraa...
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr! Rawr!
Paimon:
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}... You're a brave fella, aren't ya?
Paimon:
Still, get out as fast as you can if things get dangerous! Nothing is more important than your life, not even treasure.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Traveler:
I believe in you!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Err?
Paimon:
Hey, don't say things he can't understand!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
Hey, there's another mural here! Now, what's it show...
Paimon:
A huge black dragon, a tree, and some strange person?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Wrroh... Rawr!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rraa?
Chosen of Dragons... Come forward... Reach out...
Reach out your hand... Behold... The sin that will obliterate all...
Paimon:
What's wrong, Traveler? Why are you just staring at the mural?
Traveler:
(Reach out towards the mural...)
You witness with your own eyes the gargantuan wings from beyond the world, the once glorious and grand figure now pitiable, having completely sunk into the terrifying shadow.
The pitch-black flames scorch the land, and even the white tree nearly withered, and the final envoy's glow shattered and smashed, only able to subsist on the last leaves of the severed roots.
The ancient battlefields brought only destruction.
After that time, specters stirred, evil lurking within the dark, and filth flooded forth.
Only the last leaves still shimmered in the night, and after that time, only the last leaves in the night swayed with the ripples in the sea of memory.
Then, you see something else.
But you quickly realize, it is not "you" who sees it.
"You will understand someday." A voice that seems not to be what it appears whispers by your ear, as though it were laughing softly.
But you know, this isn't meant for "you."
You see the entire city's annihilation, the buildings collapse, the ash-white monoliths squeezed in midair as they are turned to powder.
You see a giant dragon with pupils pierced and a tiny human falling together from a great height, while the world echoes with a sorrowful song, one composed of the agony of dragonkind.
You see a man rising from the dead dragon's heart once more, his whole body seemingly wreathed in flame.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rrooo...
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Roooah... Ooroo...
Paimon:
Traveler, are you okay? You weren't moving a muscle...
Traveler:
What I saw might be kinda hard to explain...
Paimon:
Really? Paimon didn't see anything at all! And we're both looking at the same picture... Are you just way more perceptive than Paimon?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Roar!
Paimon:
Ah! That's {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}'s voice! Sounds like it's coming from over there... Oh, Paimon sure hopes nothing bad happened...
Paimon:
Hurry up, we need to go look!
Paimon:
A path through the lava has appeared... Looks like the trial is almost over.
Paimon:
That guy from the Saurian Relics Association and the chubby chap from the Children of Echoes kept talking up how dangerous it was, but it looks like there really was nothing to it!
Traveler:
In that case, lead the way, Paimon!
Paimon:
Whoa! You can't even see the bottom... But we're good friends, so of course we'll go together!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rrooo...
Paimon:
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}, look! Hehe, we're nearly done!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Wrroh...
Traveler:
Did you see some strange things, too?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr...
Traveler:
Don't be afraid...
Traveler:
Paimon and I are here.
Paimon:
Yeah... Though Paimon isn't sure what happened, Traveler's right. No matter what, you've got us!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Roooah... Rawr!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
Ooh, looks like he's finally perking up! Okay, looks like we can continue downward... This place does feel kinda dangerous...
Chosen of Dragons... Proceed... Eliminate the enemy from the realm beyond...
Then you will be granted entry into the final paradise.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Ehrrr?
Traveler:
Seems there's danger below after all.
Paimon:
Did the golden designs tell you that too?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
Okay, then let's rest a bit, Traveler! We'll keep going once you're ready.
Paimon:
Wow, Paimon never imagined there'd be something like this under the lava. So we're really deep underground now, aren't we?
Paimon:
So that Sage with the totally impossible name... Hid the token here?
Traveler:
No...
In this place, I made a pledge with Xbalanque...
Now, let go and let the future of humans and Saurians be as it may. Only the enemy cloaked in shadow shall not be forgiven.
Chosen of Dragons, prove yourself by facing the mighty foe, that you may ascend the sacred mountain from this place.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
Whoa, what's going on? That sudden chill...
Paimon:
S—Something's coming out!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr...
Paimon:
Whoa, it looks like {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]} just got stronger! Did something awaken, maybe? Like the power of the Flamelord or something...?
Traveler:
Definitely looks stronger.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Raooo...
Traveler:
Are you alright?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
He was totally rocking during that fight, and was a really big help...
Traveler:
Yes, most impressive.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr... Rrrooo...
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Errr?
Paimon:
Hmm, it looks like that's not a power {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]} can just use whenever.
Paimon:
Though, Manqu did say that it's better not to use power like that too much anyway.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr...
Paimon:
*sigh* ...So where did that weirdo with the hard-to-remember name hide the token? All Paimon wants to do right now is grab {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]} and get the heck outta here.
Paimon:
Whoa, it looks like this stone tablet lit up!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Traveler:
(Touch the stone tablet...)
As the golden lines light up, shining brilliantly, a fragmented scene surfaces in your mind:
The eyes of the great dragon, split in two by the sword of the children of man.
A seal split asunder, engraved upon the white discs, is mistakenly classified as a hole.
One was given to the silver dragon's white claws, one to the resurrected corpse.
One was buried beneath the great monument, and one was swallowed into the belly of the headstrong one.
A white disc appears beneath your feet, the other obscured in shadow. The great wings shadowing it are raised, and you finally see its drawn, upright pupils.
You hear a voice. It says:
"Glory, glory, the Eternal Empire, Ochkanatlan"
You see the person standing before the empty throne, picking up that disc, turning around, and looking at you...
"Wake up, Traveler, please wake up..."
Paimon:
Ah! You finally responded! When you touched that stone tablet, you just froze up and wouldn't react to anything...
Paimon:
But look over there！ A round plate with golden etchings on it appeared on the ground! That should be the token we're looking for.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Traveler:
A golden seal... Engraved on a white disc...
Paimon:
Eh? What're you saying?
Paimon:
Well, you probably are tired! After all, we sure did a lot today. Let's rest up after we get back!
Paimon:
This token looks kinda like a big, round plate... Hmm, so in the mural, both the human and the dragon each had discs like this...
Paimon:
Anyway, we got a token! Let's take it back and show it to Manqu!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
Whoa, it looks like this stone tablet lit up!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Traveler:
(Touch the stone tablet...)
As the golden lines light up, shining brilliantly, a fragmented scene surfaces in your mind:
The eyes of the great dragon, split in two by the sword of the children of man.
A seal split asunder, engraved upon the white disc, is mistakenly classified as a hole.
One was given to the silver dragon's white claws, one to the resurrected corpse.
One was buried beneath the great monument, and one was swallowed into the belly of the headstrong one.
The two white discs appear beneath your feet.
You pick them up, and the golden seal combines into one, as they merge into one.
Soon, you see your face reflected in massive dark pupils.
"Wake up, Traveler, please wake up..."
Paimon:
Ah! You finally responded! When you touched that stone tablet, you just froze up and wouldn't react to anything...
Paimon:
But look! The token we're looking for is on the ground, just like the one we found before.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Traveler:
A golden seal... Engraved on a white disc...
Paimon:
Eh? What're you saying?
Paimon:
Well, you probably are tired! After all, we sure did a lot today. Let's rest up after we get back!
Paimon:
Okay, that's both tokens... Now {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]} should have the right to get cured at the volcano, right?
Paimon:
Okay! Let's bring the tokens and go find Manqu!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr...
Paimon:
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]} looked like he got way stronger... Hmm... Just like at the end of our adventure in Ochkanatlan...
Traveler:
Definitely looks stronger.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Raooo...
Traveler:
Are you alright?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
He was absolutely killing it during that fight...
Traveler:
Yes, most impressive.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr... Rrrooo...
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Ehrr?
Paimon:
Hmm, it looks like that's not a power {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]} can just use whenever.
Paimon:
Though, Manqu did say that it's better not to use power like that too much anyway.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr...
Paimon:
*sigh* ...So where did that weirdo with the hard-to-remember name hide the token? All Paimon wants to do right now is grab {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]} and get the heck outta here.
Go to the Children of Echoes and search for clues concerning the Volcanic Token.
Manqu:
...Is there any room to negotiate?
Pacal:
Manqu, look at me. Didn't you hear what Titu said? No one's attempted this feat in almost 500 years.
Pacal:
Even if you claim that you've found a possible entrance...
Pacal:
Well, so what? You listen well — no human or Saurian companion setting out on this road has ever returned. Not a single one.
Manqu:
Um, forgive my directness, but...
Paimon:
Well, there's our Relics Association guy. And that over there... Is that the chief of the tribe?
Paimon:
Hey! Relics Guy!
Manqu:
Ah, it's you, Traveler... Paimon, and {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Pacal:
Huh, a Tepetlisaur with a red tail scarf! Mighty energetic, and looks different right off the bat too! Alright, little fella, give us another!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Raaawr!
Pacal:
Not bad! So you're {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}? And I suppose that makes you two the ones it chose...
Pacal:
And haven't you two been the talk of the town lately, Traveler, Paimon? Manqu here's been mumbling about you constantly, and Titu mentioned you after his return.
Pacal:
It wouldn't be a stretch to call your recent deeds "legendary," and you've been a friend to us Children of Echoes thus far.
Pacal:
Haha, quite the phenomenal youngster!
Pacal:
And it is in that capacity, Manqu, that I'm telling you — it is not our way to push guests into a fiery pit just to prove a hypothesis.
Pacal:
That's not how "I'd" treat my guests, anyway.
Manqu:
*sigh*...
Paimon:
What's all this about, anyway? Something about danger, and a fiery pit?
Manqu:
Apologies. Allow me to explain...
Manqu:
Remember what we spoke of before? To remove the mark of the Flamelord's Blessing, you need to bring the two required token types to the volcano.
Manqu:
One of the tokens is in the ruins beyond the Children of Echoes' land...
Pacal:
There are conditions for getting in, though.
Pacal:
Based on past custom... Which I only just found on a woven scroll, by the way, since it's been ages since anyone's hankered to try this.
Pacal:
If you wish to take your Saurian companion to the volcano and perform a baptism to cleanse the Flamelord's Blessing, you must be recognized by said Saurian's corresponding tribal chief...
Manqu:
With {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]} being a Tepetlisaurus, this means the chief of the Children of Echoes.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
Isn't that you?
Pacal:
Well, yeah, though I'll be real, I don't know if this rule applies to outsiders. Still, Traveler...
Pacal:
For hundreds of years, many are those who have tried to free their Saurian companions from what runs in their bloodline... this thing that is more curse than blessing.
Pacal:
But not a single one has succeeded... Which is why the tribes gradually abandoned the custom...
Paimon:
A zero percent success rate, seriously!?
Pacal:
Yes, so perilous is the journey. It's also said that the trial that must be passed before one may obtain the token will test not only the warrior who steps forth, but also the Saurian with them...
Pacal:
You are not of the tribes, but I will not have you die in vain.
Pacal:
So please, Traveler, I suggest that you leave {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]} here with us.
Pacal:
If nothing else, I can ensure it will be taken care of until the day it must enter the Night Kingdom.
Paimon:
But... If we do that...
Manqu:
...As I said, {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]} will be unable to grow up.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Roar...
Traveler:
Looks like that's not what it wants.
Traveler:
I'll try this all the same.
Pacal:
Despite the immense peril?
Traveler:
Yes.
Pacal:
And what about you, little fella?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Pacal:
Hahaha! Unyielding, resolute, yet passionate. Your hearts blaze like fine phlogiston.
Pacal:
Alright then. Then I shall award you the right to embark on the volcanic pilgrimage.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
Alright! Let's go get that first token, then!
Manqu:
No, not yet. Now that you are qualified, you must undertake a trial of witnesses...
Manqu:
Ancient custom dictates that the warrior and Saurian must together obtain the feather of a green quetzal deep in the woods, and offer up a stole of animal pelts...
Manqu:
And together, you must win fifty battles for our tribe, and offer up ninety-six gems of high quality...
Traveler:
Uh, I wouldn't be eligible to...
Pacal:
Oh come now, Manqu, forget it. Where are those traditions even from? Some lost stone age?
Pacal:
The purpose of those formalities was to foster the bond between human and Saurian, and hone their skills — and I've had it with all that.
Pacal:
Anyway, as I see it, neither Traveler nor {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]} seems to need that sort of proof.
Pacal:
To put things simply, Traveler, we have here in Natlan a super simple way of dealing with such situations...
Pacal:
Fight me, and prove your strength!
Traveler:
Right on!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
Wait? Here? Oh, do you mean we're going on stage?
Pacal:
Of course not, haha, the stage isn't a place for tunneling... Our duel grounds are in the mountain to the rear.
Pacal:
Come, let's head there — we'll have ourselves a good one!
Manqu:
Again, forgive my directness... But while I am aware of your strength, be careful all the same.
Manqu:
He obtained no Ancient Name, but Pacal is not to be taken lightly... so long as he's kept his training up these last few years.
Manqu:
If you're ready, then we can begin.
Paimon:
Hehe, nice! We won! Great job us!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Pacal:
Hah... Hoo. I'm not sure even the best warrior in our tribe could take you out... That was a sound defeat indeed.
Pacal:
Whaddya think, huh, buddy? Looks like we need more training!
Uchu:
Mmmm...
Manqu:
Quite a spectacular battle, indeed...
Pacal:
Pretty words, Manqu, but is that all you've got? Wanna try your hand too?
Manqu:
No, thank you very much.
Pacal:
Bleh. Boring. Ah, that was a great match! Traveler... You're the real deal.
Pacal:
Hahaha! Cocky, too! Still, I admire that. The strong should also assert their dominance a bit! I mean, what's the point of getting strong otherwise?
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Pacal:
Haha, looks like you really are well taken care of, {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}...
Paimon:
Of course! {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}'s our trusty buddy, y'know!
Pacal:
I am very glad to hear that.
Pacal:
As promised, this is proof of your accomplishment from a tribal chief.
Pacal:
As for its official name — well, Manqu, there's your cue...
Manqu:
The Talisman of Waxaklahun Ubah Kan... the Sage of the Stolen Flame.
Pacal:
Yeah, I can never memorize that name, but I do remember that after the Pyro Dragon Sovereign's death, and after the first Pyro Archon was revived from the flames...
Pacal:
The Sage and the Archon each brought back one token from the volcano, and whomsoever obtains both may enter the cleansing fire within the volcano and purge all curses and calamities.
Pacal:
Still, how long did this Sage live anyway, Manqu? I feel like there are tales of him from the tribal era to that of Ochkanatlan...
Pacal:
...And even around the Shadow Pin.
Manqu:
Well, he was the first human to use phlogiston... and who knows what fate came upon such legendary figures?
Manqu:
Some say both his body and spirit turned into phlogiston, becoming one with Natlan's winds, lands, and flowers, granting him the power to hear the prayers for help directed at him by all the tribes.
Manqu:
Some say that each era boasted its own successor to the sagely title, passing it on even to this day.
Manqu:
But — and excuse my bluntness — these are mostly storytellers' speculations.
Pacal:
Haha, watch yourself with those words. You'll make Titu mad again.
Pacal:
Alright. My duties are hereby discharged— oh, wait, tradition does demand one more thing...
Pacal:
Which is to grant the brave journeying soul and their companions my blessing.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Hmm?
Paimon:
Ooh, so that's also a ritual you all do, huh?
Pacal:
Heh, it's just moral support. Don't get your hopes up, eh?
Pacal:
Right, then. Traveler, {REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}...
Traveler:
Here I am, chief.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Pacal:
May you soar through the mountains like the hardiest bird;
May the wicked tides break upon you as if you were the hardest of stones.
Pacal:
May you fear no hardship, for the world is bound to be full of it.
May you never forget each other, for fate must bring an inevitable farewell.
Pacal:
May you reach your destination and gain what you desire... And most of all, I hope that you shall safely return.
Traveler:
I will.
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Rawr!
Paimon:
Eh? Wait, does Paimon get any blessings?
Pacal:
Haha! As for you, little Paimon... May you eat and drink well, sleep sumptuously, and see goodly growth!
Traveler:
That sounds pretty good to me!
Paimon:
Anyway, Paimon accepts this blessing — but only just, okay?
Pacal:
Fine by me. In that case, the rite of witnesses is ended. But before you go, let me stress this again: be careful.
Paimon:
We know, Pacal. See ya! ... And seeya too, Uchu!
{REALNAME[ID(2)|SHOWHOST(true)]}:
Roar!
Uchu:
Roar...
Pacal:
Good luck. See you all soon.
Traveler:
We're ready!
Manqu:
In that case, on your marks. The duel will soon begin.
Traveler:
Need to prep for a bit.
Manqu:
Of course. I'll tell him once you're ready...