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Polkka Beneath the Moon's Oracle
You discover an island affected by kuuvahki turbulence near Hiisi Island...
Paimon:
*cough cough* We finally made it out... Ugh, Paimon didn't expect that collapse... That was so scary! Good thing we managed to find another exit...
Paimon:
But with all that noise just now, Verna must have heard it too, right? Paimon had better hurry back and bring her here before she tries to dig into the cave. She might get herself trapped...
Taking advantage of her ability to fly, Paimon goes around the other side of the mountain and brings Verna over, all while explaining to her everything that just happened...
Verna:
Huh? It c—collapsed!? Oh no, how did this happen... 旅人 and Paimon, are you both alright!?
Paimon:
You mean you didn't hear that huge noise just now?! And it's a little late to say "are you alright," isn't it? We're standing here, aren't we?
Verna:
Haha, sorry... I was busy calibrating Kraka III, so I wasn't paying attention...
Verna:
Indeed, you have proven exceptionally trustworthy, 旅人 — more so than even myself as a priestess. Had I encountered such circumstances, I fear I would have been at a complete loss.
Verna:
Alright, let's see what you've been up to, little Krakas... Well, aren't you a right troublemaker! You found the pieces, but didn't come back on time, so 旅人 and Paimon had to turn this place upside down just looking for you!
Paimon:
Well, they found the pieces, but got stuck on their way back... Don't you think you might've messed the settings up somewhere, Verna?
Verna:
Certainly not! I'm a direct apprentice of the famous "Papa Wrench," and the finest mechanic on Hiisi Island! There's no way I'd mess up a simple recall function... Nope! Definitely not!
Paimon:
Don't think Paimon didn't hear you hesitate! And let's face it — bad recall function or not, they didn't return, and that's a fact!
Verna:
Oh, but they have returned. You two reliable souls did bring them back, didn't you? Now all we have to do is toss this fragment up like you did previously, and everything should go off without a hitch!
Paimon:
You're seriously sidestepping the issue here...
Verna:
As the sacred prayer goes: "O, great father of genesis, forger of the tripled moons! Let your wrath right that askew throne, that the fair one may become thy..."
Verna:
Become thy... uh, what comes next?
Verna:
Argh, forget the chant! Scientifically speaking, no matter the problem, a few good whacks will do the trick! Percussive maintenance, go!
Paimon:
That's right! Whether it's Treasure Hoarders, Specters, or troublemakers from who knows where — just whack 'em a few times and you're good to go... Wait, how's any of this even remotely "scientific"?!
Paimon:
No matter how Paimon looks at it, something about this plan feels off... Are we sure we won't accidentally blow the whole island sky high?
Verna:
Haha, you're a funny one, Paimon! Nobody would be silly enough to blow their own home apart, right?
Verna:
Rest assured! I've been secretly... ahem, I mean, I've been thoroughly researching this for a long time, and can vouch that it is a very reliable plan! And we did test it once just now, didn't we?
Paimon:
*sigh* Guess we've got no choice but to try at this point...
Paimon:
Huh? What's that over there...?
Verna:
Eureka! See? I told you to trust in the power of science...
Aila:
...You arrive at last, hero of "Elysium."
Verna:
Whoa! There's someone else here too!?
Paimon:
Hold on... This one seems familiar... If Paimon's memory serves, she gave us directions last time, when we ran into that giant crab!
Paimon:
But now she's shown up again... Hey, who are you, really?
Aila:
I am the dawn's first breath upon the world's weary brow, the final draught of nectar drawn from a bitter well. I am mother to all, and daughter to all...
Verna:
Eh? Let me think... That does sound like part of a rite — but it's a verse only a Moonchanter is allowed to recite...
Verna:
Hmph, a true priestess would never get the sequence of their prayers wrong. Another fraud in a borrowed robe — I've seen plenty of your kind!
Verna:
Last time it was a woman called Hidimbi, she too dressed the part, played the role, and fooled quite a few...
Verna:
But tough luck for you, imposter — you've got a real priestess right here! And I can see through your disguise!
Aila:
...Do the mask's carvings determine the actor's worth? What matters is that she sits in that seat, and thus she plays the role...
Aila:
In this sublunary sphere, are we not all masked? It is merely that some veils can be seen, and others, not...
Paimon:
Woah... That sounds profound. If nothing else, she sounds more priestess-y than you, Verna...
Verna:
Hey! What's that supposed to mean?
Traveler:
I can't help but agree...
Verna:
Ugh, you outsiders are so easily tricked — ignore the sweet words and look past the surface for once, why don't you?
Verna:
Ugh, never mind! According to my calculations, you're the one who hid the fragment we came to find. Isn't that right?
Verna:
That's no trinket for common hands. Hand it over, or... or I'll use the Moon Goddess's favor to give your head a very enthusiastic blessing!
Paimon:
Are you a priestess or a thug, Verna!?
Verna:
What, you want me to bow, kiss the forehead of this scammer, and sing her a dainty hymn while we're at it!? Now's not the time for etiquette!
Aila:
...Your desires unfurl before me like threads... And I have traced their destined weave.
Aila:
But this is no place for us to speak. Walk with me, and I shall lay bare the tapestry.
Verna:
Huh? Kraka III, you're back already?
Verna:
That's weird. You didn't collect the fragment, so why are you here so soon...?
Paimon:
Uh... Hello?
Verna:
Ah! I'm sorry, I'm sorry! Please let me explain! There's a really good reason I'm dressed like this — it's not heresy or anything, I swear!
Paimon:
Wah! Paimon hasn't even said anything yet!
Verna:
Huh? Oh, you're just an adventurer from the outside... By the Moon Goddess's silken locks, I thought you were— Wait a sec! Why are you dressed like that? And acting like it's totally normal, to boot!?
Verna:
Wait... You must be... You're the one the Moon Maiden holds dear... Talented beyond belief and totally unfazed, even with all this kuuvahki turbulence...
Paimon:
Uhh, about that... Well, Paimon thinks we can just skip over the details. But seriously, why are you dressed like that? What are you doing here? And what even is kuuvahki turbulence?
Verna:
Ah, pardon my rudeness. Ahem! "I am she who serveth the Frost Moon, born of the tides, and bearer of the High Priestess's mantle beneath the moon's silver gaze. In this sublunary sphere, I am known as Vernadska."
Verna:
But you two can just call me Verna. I'm currently on a very secret mission to restore balance to the kuuvahki here. So, if I may — how should I address you both?
Traveler:
In this sublunary sphere, I am known as 旅人.
Paimon:
Copying the way she talks? Really? Fine, fine — ahem! In this sublunary sphere, Paimon is... Paimon! Ugh... That was super embarrassing...
Paimon:
And wait, you mentioned you're on a secret mission... It's not very secret if you just tell us immediately, is it? And calling yourself a "High Priestess" while dressed like that? You ain't fooling anyone, Miss...
Verna:
Well! You can't judge a book by the cover it wears, yes? We, too, have had scammers parading around Nasha Town in Frostmoon robes they clearly "found" somewhere.
Verna:
Oh! I know! A demonstration of our ancestors' blessings should convince you of my identity! Bear witness... Hi-yah!
Traveler:
...?
Paimon:
Uh, 旅人? Seems to Paimon like we bore witness to a whole lot of nothing...
Verna:
...Oops. I forgot this outfit wards off kuuvahki. Hang on, I'll take it off and try again...
Verna:
Oh, but with the turbulence afoot, I might get a little nosebleed without my suit... Well, since it won't take long, I guess I'll be fine!
Verna:
Okay, first I'll undo this strap here...
Paimon:
Wait, wait, wait! No need to go that far! We believe you, just keep the suit on!
Verna:
Great! Does that mean you two would be willing to help me with my mission?
Paimon:
Uh, 旅人, did Paimon pass out for a minute or ten? Why's she suddenly asking us about some promise we've never heard about? She's gotta be a fake, Paimon's sure of it...
Verna:
I told you, I'm not faking... Ugh, forget it. Let's put my identity aside for now. Like they say, small slips sink big ships.
Verna:
If we leave the kuuvahki turbulence alone, we'll have a catastrophe on our hands before long!
Traveler:
Then you should get more people to help.
Verna:
Unfortunately, I can't. The others don't have my level of resistance. If I call in backup, they'll be dealing with much, much worse than a simple nosebleed. That's why having helpers like you two show up is a rare stroke of luck!
Paimon:
Alright, fine! We're adventurers, and we don't say no to folks in need, even if you seem a bit... unreliable. But even Paimon can tell something's definitely off here. Maybe we can help!
Verna:
Excuse me? I'll have you know I'm the most reliable priestess there is! And you two seem even more reliable, so I'll share this super-duper reliable, foolproof plan with you!
Verna:
Let's cut to the chase — those two rotating boulders are the cause of this kuuvahki turbulence.
Verna:
Ever since the time of the first Moonchanter, Lady Aila, the kuuvahki in Thunderclap Reef has always been unstable. But things have gotten worse since those two large rocks fell from the sky...
Verna:
As the scripture says: "O Moon Maiden, even the immutable laws set by the dread Sovereign of the Firmament shall bend to your song, and even the tides of time and heaven's signs will..."
Verna:
Will... Uhh... what was the next line again? Oh well, I'm sure you get the idea!
Paimon:
Paimon gets the idea... that you're super unreliable!
Verna:
Oh, come on, forgetting one little verse in a prayer doesn't make me a bad priestess! Besides, we're not counting on prayers to fix this — we're using science!
Verna:
Based on my calculations, those two stones are filled with powerful kuuvahki energies, which is why the balance here is particularly messed up.
Verna:
The solution's simple. We're going to fight fire with fire! If we use other kuuvahki-charged fragments and hit those boulders at precise angles...
Verna:
...we'll be able to counteract the disruption and calm the turbulent kuuvahki down!
Traveler:
An exquisite plan, truly!
Verna:
Right? See, this is why the Moon Maiden favors you, 旅人! You've got a sharp eye for genius!
Paimon:
Hmm, Paimon doesn't really get all this calculating and analyzing, but Paimon's not sure she can trust anything you say, Verna...
Verna:
Well, we won't know unless we try! But there's a problem — Kraka V and Kraka VII, who went looking for stone fragments, still haven't come back...
Paimon:
V and VII? Now that you say that, Paimon does remember you mentioning a Kraka... III, was it?
Verna:
That's right. Kraka V and Kraka VII are its successor models. These little fellows are amazing helpers. If only the original, Kraka I, was still around... well, that's a long story for another time.
Verna:
I wish I could go find them myself, but my nose started bleeding like crazy after I took a few steps in...
Paimon:
And that's where we need to step in, right?
Verna:
Oh my, Paimon! You're just as warm and kind as you look! Thank you so much for volunteering to help me!
Paimon:
Paimon's not doing this just for you! Th—This is for everyone's sake!
Paimon:
Wait, why'd Paimon say something like that...? Umm, in any case, everything will be okay as long as we help find Kraka V and VII and those stone fragments, right?
Verna:
Yes, and once you've collected the stone fragments, just toss them up onto those two large stones! That's the beauty of a proper scientific solution — it works no matter who tries it!
Verna:
Alright, my ever-reliable 旅人 and Paimon, I'll be counting on you!
Verna:
We found it! See? I told you to trust in the power of science...
Aila:
...You arrive at last, hero of "Elysium."
Verna:
Whoa! There's someone else here too!?
Traveler:
Who are you?
Aila:
I am the dawn's first breath upon the world's weary brow, the final draught of nectar drawn from a bitter well. I am mother to all, and daughter to all...
Verna:
Eh? Let me think... That does sound like part of a rite — but it's a verse only a Moonchanter is allowed to recite...
Verna:
Hmph, a true priestess would never get the sequence of their prayers wrong. Another fraud in a borrowed robe — I've seen plenty of your kind!
Verna:
Last time it was a woman called Hidimbi, she too dressed the part, played the role, and fooled quite a few...
Verna:
But tough luck for you, imposter — you've got a real priestess right here! And I can see through your disguise!
Aila:
...Do the mask's carvings determine the actor's worth? What matters is that she sits in that seat, and thus she plays the role...
Aila:
In this sublunary sphere, are we not all masked? It is merely that some veils can be seen, and others, not...
Paimon:
Woah... That sounds profound. If nothing else, she sounds more priestess-y than you, Verna...
Verna:
Hey! What's that supposed to mean?
Traveler:
I can't help but agree...
Verna:
Ugh, you outsiders are so easily tricked — ignore the sweet words and look past the surface for once, why don't you?
Verna:
Ugh, never mind! According to my calculations, you've hidden the fragment we're looking for inside this Moon Mirror, isn't that right?
Verna:
That's no trinket for common hands. Hand it over, or... or I'll use the Moon Goddess's favor to give your head a very enthusiastic blessing!
Paimon:
Are you a priestess or a thug, Verna!?
Verna:
What, you want me to bow, kiss the forehead of this scammer, and sing her a dainty hymn while we're at it!? Now's not the time for etiquette!
Aila:
...Your desires unfurl before me like threads... And I have traced their destined weave.
Aila:
But this is no place for us to speak. Walk with me, and I shall lay bare the tapestry.
Paimon:
Huh? Where did she go? She just disappeared...
Paimon:
That strange lady... who exactly is she? She doesn't seem like a bad person...
Verna:
Scammers never seem like villains when you first see them. That's exactly how they pull the wool over their victims' eyes!
Verna:
Who knows where she stole our garb from... but she can't fool me. I knew she was a fake the instant I laid eyes on her!
Paimon:
Paimon doesn't get all this religious stuff... but even though she talks funny, she sounds so gentle and kind...
Verna:
I—I can speak more gently too, you know!
Verna:
That imposter just happens to have a nicer manner of speech, greater skill in channeling the Moon Goddess's blessing, and more experience with using the Moon Mirror...
Verna:
...
Paimon:
...
Traveler:
...
Verna:
Ugh, alright, alright! I know she looks more like a Frostmoon priestess than I do!
Verna:
But that doesn't matter now — I'm the real one and she's the fake! What matters is catching up to her and taking that fragment back!
Verna:
Let's follow the Moonlane up this way. It may be an old method with zero scientific basis, but since we're out of options, we might as well!
Aila:
...We meet again, hero of "Elysium."
Verna:
Get it right — It's heroes, plural! Now hand over the fragment, imposter!
Aila:
...Is what you seek not right before your eyes?
Verna:
Haha, I knew you wouldn't give up without a fight! Guess I'll just have to give you that blessing to the head — Wait, what did you just say?
Verna:
You're just... giving it to us? Then why have us come all this way in the first place?
Aila:
Because this is where it must happen. Fate demands it. I have waited too long, endured too much, all for this moment. All for the birth of a "god"...
Aila:
But it matters not. Soon it will end, and the newborn "god" will drape the world in true joy...
Traveler:
What are you even talking about?
Aila:
...Via... I have glimpsed it in the mirror of stars. There is no place for her in a world where the "god" has now been born...
Verna:
First off, it's Verna, not Via! Don't you know it's rude to— Wait, you weren't talking about me, were you?
Aila:
Indeed. So then — do what must be done. The ending you seek awaits.
Paimon:
Wait, wait, wait. We're not here to hurt you or anything! You're just so vague and cryptic all the time — it's getting on Paimon's nerves!
Paimon:
And what's with the kuuvahki turbulence around here? Why is that fragment in your hands? This "ending we seek" would sure be nice with an explanation of... well, anything!
Aila:
...Patience. Once all comes to an end, we will meet again.
Paimon:
Eh?
Aila:
You seek answers, do you not? When the moment comes, the path ahead will open.
Aila:
Well then, I shall await you at the Court of the First Edict.
Verna:
Huh? But isn't the Court of the First Edict already...
"O nightingale, O nightingale, who soars above pale ridges and frozen plains..."
"Have you heard the songs of evening prayer? My dearest nightingale..."
Verna:
Hey! Stop right there!
Paimon:
Whoa, 旅人, watch out! Looks like something's woken up!
Paimon:
W—What should we do? Doesn't look like we can leave through here... Wait, Paimon sees some light over there! Maybe there's another way around?
Verna:
Argh! This is unbelievable! Who does this fraud think she is!? The nerve of her — taking control of a sacred Frostnight Scion and turning it against us...!
Verna:
Anyway, first things first — let's gather the remaining kuuhenki on the island, extract the last fragment from the Moon Mirror, and stabilize the disturbance once and for all!
Verna:
Anyway, first things first — let's gather the remaining kuuhenki on the island, extract the last fragment from the Moon Mirror, and stabilize the disturbance once and for all!
Verna:
Alright, my ever-reliable 旅人 and Paimon, I'll be counting on you! Once you've collected the stone fragments, just toss them up onto those two large stones!
Paimon:
Ah! What's going on now? The kuuvahki feels even more unstable than before!
Verna:
No need to panic! This is just... a minor technical issue. Nothing to worry about!
Verna:
We've successfully adjusted the kuuvahki from a chaotic state to a reversed chaotic state. Now we just need to nudge it back to normal!
Verna:
Think about it this way: If things have already gone from bad to incomprehensible, there's no room left for it to get any worse, right?
Paimon:
Your explanation is what's incomprehensible! How can you stay so calm when everything's falling apart?
Verna:
B—Because panicking won't help! Staying calm... l—lets us think clearly and find a way out of this mess...
Verna:
I—I'm sorry, I'm sorry! I lied! I'm totally freaking out, I'm just trying to look like I'm not! 旅人, Paimon, what in the Moon's name are we supposed to do!?
Paimon:
So you're just going to dump the problem on us now? Hey, if you're really a priestess of the Frostmoon Scions, don't you have some kinda prayer or spell that can stop the storm?
Verna:
You say it like such things exist! Ugh. That's why we place our trust in science... Yes, we've still got science, don't we? Now let me check...
Verna:
Aha, just as I suspected! Kraka III's readings suggest a source of faint kuuvahki traces nearby, almost identical to that of the other fragments.
Verna:
If the first two fragments tipped the kuuvahki into a reversed chaotic state, then the third one should be able to bring it to a state of minimized turbulence... Yep, that has to be it!
Verna:
Ha! So it was just a miscalculation after all! I knew the plan itself was absolutely foolproof. 旅人, Paimon, this way!
Paimon:
Looks like we don't have any other leads... Might as well follow Verna. Come on, 旅人!
Verna:
See? All according to plan. The kuuvahki turbulence has been neutralized!
Paimon:
That was NOTHING like your original plan! With all the accidents along the way, Paimon can't tell if you're optimistic or just shameless!
Verna:
I'll take that as a compliment! After all, being pessimistic and risk-averse won't get us through situations like this.
Paimon:
Okay... Fair enough. But Paimon can't help but wonder, why are you out here all on your own? Shouldn't the other Scions be helping out in some way?
Verna:
Well... *sigh* Since you've helped me get this far, I suppose I should come clean. This island is... in a way, considered a forbidden place to us Frostmoon Scions. And I may have committed an even greater sin...
Verna:
In our territories, that's not so uncommon. What truly holds people back isn't the walls they see — but the ones they've built within their hearts.
Paimon:
Since when did you get so philosophical?... Hey, wait! Don't dodge the question!
Verna:
Ahem, seriously though... I wanted to try solving the problem using robots. You probably know this already, but most of us Frostmoon Scions aren't exactly big fans of tech.
Verna:
I thought if my plan went well this time, maybe I could finally convince those block-headed... Well, I mean, those very steady, if rather conservative, higher-ups to reconsider their stance.
Verna:
Hold on... I can say that, can't I? Technically, the robots were part of our operation, and since we succeeded, they clearly played their part in our success, right?
Traveler:
Even though the "part" they played wasn't constructive...
Verna:
Hmm... Maybe I'll gloss over that part when I explain it later... *sigh* Still, that probably wouldn't work, would it...
Verna:
But hey! If not this time, then there's always next time. I'll keep pushing forward, and one day these little fellas will make a big difference. I believe they will!
Paimon:
Okay, but before we talk about the future... Those two big rocks, they flew off in that direction, right?
Verna:
They did. And... Hmm. If we go that way, we'll end up at the Court of the First Edict...
Paimon:
The Court of the First Edict... Wait, isn't that where that strange lady — y'know, the one who seemed even more priestess-y than you do, Verna — said she was headed?
Verna:
You're breaking my heart, Paimon! Even now, you still think that suspicious lady's priestess act is more convincing than I am...
Verna:
Ahem, anyway, I'm sure she was just bluffing. Because... Well, the Court of the First Edict was sealed off five hundred years ago.
Verna:
That place used to be one of our sacred sites. Five hundred years ago, Lady Aila, the Moonchanter who witnessed the birth of the Moon Maiden, personally sealed it shut.
Verna:
Forget some outsider con artist — even after generations of Moonchanters, no one has ever broken the seal Lady Aila placed. It's not for a lack of trying... just that no one's ever succeeded.
Paimon:
Ugh, but that leaves us with no clue at all! How are we supposed to track her down now?
Verna:
Don't worry, I've already come up with another brilliant plan!
Verna:
Although... it might need just a tiny bit of prep. Just a little. Probably...?
Verna:
Okay, I'll go clean up the robots first. Thanks for all the help, 旅人 and Paimon!
Verna:
"O fair Frost Moon, weave for me a gentle hymn, and bless the nightingale-hearted wayfarers. For ye have stolen the fell curse of the north wind, and the silver spire that sought to pierce the firmament shall no longer..."
Verna:
Shall no longer... uhh... Haha, well, I never did memorize Lady Aila's prayers properly. Anyway — thank you, and may we meet again!
In the center of the Frostmoon Enclave, you discover a strange large stone...
Kasha:
Thank you so much! It would be great if I could find pretty stones nearby...
Kasha:
Hmm... Doesn't seem to be this one either...
Kasha:
Oh, hello there, Big Bro. I don't think I've seen you before... or the white fae lady next to you.
Kasha:
Welcome to the Frostmoon Enclave! Is there anything I can help you with?
Paimon:
Nope, we just got curious, seeing you out here all alone like this. By the way, Paimon's Paimon, and this is 旅人!
Kasha:
So it's Mr. 旅人 and Miss Paimon! Hmm... Y'know, you two don't look like you're from Nasha Town.
Paimon:
Yup! Super awesome adventurers, at that!
Kasha:
Must be nice though — traveling around with your best friend, seeing the world together...
Paimon:
It really is! We've been to so many places already! What about you? What were you doing out here just now?
Kasha:
I was looking for pretty stones.
Paimon:
Oh, Paimon gets it! You collect them, right? You're not the only one — some grown-ups are super into that too!
Kasha:
Nope! I'm gonna use the pretty stones to bribe Mai into kidnapping me.
Paimon:
Okay, that makes sen— wait, what!?
Traveler:
That's... definitely not what I was expecting...
Kasha:
Hmm? You've never heard the story of the legendary thief Reed Miller and the fae princess? But Mai told me it's super famous outside...
Kasha:
"Come, lady with moonlit eyes, let me steal your heart with this jewel that matches your gaze, and whisk you away from this gilded cage..."
Kasha:
I'm not really sure what it means, but... if you give someone something they like, that means you can go on an adventure with them, right?
Traveler:
That's not what it means at all...
Paimon:
Y—Yeah... It actually means... Uh... anyway, it's not exactly a story for kids!
Paimon:
By the way, who is this Mai you're talking about? Telling kids strange stories like that... That sounds kinda questionable!
Kasha:
She's not a bad person! And she's about the same age as me.
Kasha:
She's an adventurer too, just like you two! I caught her sneaking around near camp once, so I made her tell me a story.
Kasha:
For some reason, she seemed to think we were some scary cult of weirdos who sacrifice kidnapped kids to the Moon Goddess. She tried to act all calm while begging me not to kill her...
Paimon:
What kind of weird misunderstanding is that...?
Kasha:
Right? I have no idea where she even heard something like that. It's so strange. But since it sounded kinda funny, I didn't bother correcting her.
Paimon:
That's exactly why you should've corrected her!
Kasha:
Anyway, in exchange, she promised to be my best friend and told me lots and lots of stories about the outside world.
Kasha:
Mom and Dad never let me read stories from the outside world, saying only non-believers would like such worthless things... But Mai's stories were really interesting!
Kasha:
Like the fisherman who fell in love with a fae, the thief who died three times but escaped from the Lady of the Underworld thrice, and the changeling who longed to become human...
Kasha:
There were kind people, not-so-kind people, and really, really bad people. Rich or poor, good or evil... in the end, everyone dies in misery.
Traveler:
Okay, yeah, your parents have a point... those are pretty messed up.
Paimon:
Yeah, definitely not the kind of stories you tell kids...
Kasha:
But I'm not a kid anymore. Mai also said that the outside world's way too dangerous for someone like me...
Kasha:
Which is kinda rich from her. She can't even use the blessing of the Moon Goddess, and she's about the same age as me.
Kasha:
Still, it's fine! I'm super smart, anyway. Before I caught her, she kept muttering about some "stone"... That means she must be looking for pretty stones, right?
Kasha:
If I find some pretty stones, I bet I can bribe her with ease! Just like how Reed Miller lured the fae lady away, she'll take me away from here, right?
Paimon:
Can you not say "bribe" like that? You're just giving your friend a nice gift — that's totally normal! No need to make it sound weird!
Paimon:
Well, we'll be looking around this area anyway, so if we find any pretty pieces, we'll bring them back to you.
Kasha:
Wow, really? Thank you so much!
Kasha:
I know I'm not a kid anymore, but I still need to grow a bit to reach that high. Could you give me a hand, 旅人?
Paimon:
We're back! Kasha, would you consider this a pretty stone?
Kasha:
Wow, that was fast! You really are professional adventurers. You're amazing!
Paimon:
Hehe, most stuff's easy-peasy for us! Short of exploring some crazy-deep underground labyrinth, or taking photos at spots thousands of miles apart, maybe...
Kasha:
Mmm... Hmm?
Paimon:
What's wrong?
Kasha:
Hmm... It's a beautiful stone, sure, but I feel like it seems to be attracted to this big stone...
Paimon:
Really? Paimon doesn't feel anything at all.
Kasha:
I'm not really sure either... It's just a vague hunch, I guess.
Kasha:
It's like... how Mai mentioned that Reed Miller encountered the fae princess through the guidance of the Moon Goddess. I guess this premonition of mine must be something similar...?
Paimon:
Wow, is this what they call foresight? But wait — Paimon's pretty sure the Moon Goddess wouldn't bother with something like that... She's probably way too busy for that kind of thing!
Paimon:
So... what does your premonition tell you to do?
Kasha:
Hmm... For example, that we should put this stone back there?
Kasha:
I know I'm not a kid anymore, but I still need to grow a bit to reach that high. Could you give me a hand, 旅人?
Kasha:
Wow, I was right! As soon as we put the two stones together, something really awesome happened!
Paimon:
Umm, but now the stone we just found is gone...
Kasha:
Oh, it's okay! I was only trying to find fragments like that so I could bribe Mai in the first place...
Kasha:
Now that we've got this whole new story about a flying stone, the stone itself doesn't really matter anymore. Since Mai loves telling stories, I'm sure she'll be way more excited about this tale than just some old rocks!
Kasha:
Thank you so much, 旅人 and Paimon! Things didn't go exactly as I imagined, but I'm really happy with how it all turned out!
Kasha:
Oh! And here's a pretty stone I found earlier. I think it's really beautiful, so I want you to have it as a thank-you gift!
On Hiisi Island, the angler Pekkani finds himself puzzled by an unseen force disturbing his catch...
Pekkani:
Twenty-five... twenty-six...
Paimon:
Hmm? What are you counting?
Pekkani:
Shhh! Keep it down... Ah, forget it. Not like I was gonna catch anything anyway.
Pekkani:
Come on, kid, isn't it obvious? I'm timing my cast. What, did you think I was waving this rod around to cast spells or something?
Pekkani:
Haha, you're giving me too much credit, young man. I'm barely half a Frostmoon Scion. Not even an acolyte. Just a regular guy with no kuuvahki power to speak of.
Paimon:
Anyway, this is the first time Paimon's seen someone time their fishing down to the second...
Pekkani:
Well, what matters is your fishing technique, not how long you stand on the shore. Old Ilmari never got that — no wonder he never caught anything.
Pekkani:
Hmm? So I take it you two must be treasure hunters?
Paimon:
No, we're adventurers... But we do take on work. Do you need something?
Pekkani:
Pretty much. As long as you're up for getting paid to do a job, who you are is all the same to me. I've got something you could help with — if you've got time.
Pekkani:
You see, I'm the best angler on Hiisi Island by a long shot. No one, not even successive generations of Moonchanters, could surpass me in fishing...
Paimon:
Really? That's amazing... Wait, that doesn't mean anything! Fishing isn't even part of a Moonchanter's job!
Pekkani:
Still, even with all this skill, I haven't caught a single fish lately. Makes no sense, right?
Pekkani:
So obviously, the problem isn't with me, but with the environment. Just as it is with the cursed Eye of Kratti, there must be something underwater affecting the fish.
Paimon:
Seems like quite the leap in logic...
Pekkani:
Anyway, I was hoping you two could check the nearby waters, see what's scaring the fish off. Don't worry, you'll be properly compensated for your efforts.
Paimon:
Well, since there's a reward involved, we'll take a look around... but no promises we'll actually find anything weird, okay?
Pekkani:
Please, check the area and see what's scaring the fish off.
Pekkani:
Hey, did you see that? I don't even know what happened — one moment, I was looking away, and the next thing I knew, that big rock just flew off!
You explain what happened earlier...
Pekkani:
Oh my! I have no idea what any of that means, but if you can pull off something that amazing, you must have the Moon Maiden's favor!
Pekkani:
Oh, the Moon Goddess protects! She protects indeed! Now I can fish here to my heart's content — so long as that annoying bard doesn't bring his pet over or, Goddess forbid, start singing...
Pekkani:
As promised, here's your payment. Although I haven't caught any fish lately, I've reeled in all kinds of other stuff, some of which should be worth quite a bit...
Pekkani:
Not that Mora's much use around Hiisi Island anyway, so it's all yours. Thanks for your help — now, it's time to fish in peace!
You run into Vernadska, the self-proclaimed priestess, again on Hiisi Island. This time, she's trying to get into a sanctum...
Verna:
Oh! It's 旅人 and Paimon! Nice to see you again!
Paimon:
Um... Miss Priestess, have we met somewhere before? You don't seem that familiar to Paimon...
Verna:
Hey! It's me! Seriously, we met not long ago... Can't you recognize me by my voice?
Paimon:
Oh yeah, it's you! You're the one from back when— Uhh... Wait, who are you exactly? This is starting to sound like some kinda weird scam...
Verna:
Aww, my adorable little Paimon didn't even recognize me... That really stings. But I'll let it slide — after all, you did call me "Miss Priestess." I guess it's fair, since I never took off my helmet back at Thunderclap Reef...
Paimon:
Wait, hang on! Don't tell Paimon... you're Verna!? You're really, actually a priestess from the Frostmoon Scions!?
Verna:
E—Excuse you! That's a weird way to say hello! Seriously, you won't find a priestess more reliable than me anywhere else! There was never any reason to doubt me in the first place!
Verna:
Ahem! Anyway, this must be the Moon Maiden's guidance at work — how else could I be so fortunate as to run into you both at a time like this?
Verna:
Exactly! That's what we call fate. "With her silver spindle, she weaves paths as one, whether they be of the rich, or the—" Uh, or the...
Verna:
Anyway, let's forget about all that. 旅人, Paimon, you remember what that imposter said before, right?
Paimon:
You mean that priestess-looking lady who seemed more legit than you? She said she'd be waiting at the Court of the First Edict... or something like that?
Verna:
Ahem... That "more legit than you" bit was totally uncalled for. But since you've got such a good memory, Paimon, and since you're both going to help me out later, I'll let it slide!
Paimon:
Hey! Paimon hasn't agreed to help you out yet! Why is it that every time we talk to you, we end up second-guessing reality...?
Verna:
Uh, don't sweat the details! More importantly, I've already come up with a flawless, super-ultra reliable plan. We'll catch that imposter in no time!
Verna:
Think about it. She said she'd be waiting in the sealed-off sanctum no one can even get into, right? So obviously...
Verna:
She wants us to get curious and break the seal, letting her sneak in and snatch whatever treasure's inside!
Verna:
And my super-foolproof plan is to turn the tables on her! Once we open the gates of the sanctum, she'll definitely show up, and that's when we'll catch her!
Verna:
Pretty solid plan, right? I'd say it'd hold up just fine against those top-notch detectives from Papa Wrench's books!
Paimon:
Seriously?! That sounds even crazier than the plan you had at Thunderclap Reef! You just told us no one's been able to unseal the Court of the First Edict for centuries!
Verna:
Only because they didn't have me, along with the super reliable tag-team combination that is the two of you!
Verna:
After we parted ways, I've been thinking... Since the Court of the First Edict was sealed by kuuvahki, maybe we can disrupt it the same way we did at Thunderclap Reef...
Verna:
And so— Ta-dah! See? I had my little Krakas look for more of those special fragments, and I pieced them all together!
Verna:
And the moment I managed to distract Eveliina, bam! You two showed up! Tell me we're not fated to reunite!
Paimon:
Fated? More like fatal! Are you sure this won't mess up the weather on Hiisi Island like it did back at Thunderclap Reef?
Verna:
No worries! This time, I'll be in full control of the kuuvahki. And besides, everything turned out just fine back at the Reef, didn't it?
Verna:
Now then! 旅人, Paimon, prepare to witness the miracle of science!
Paimon:
W—Wait! If someone's gotta throw it, let us do it! If we leave it to you, this already sketchy plan's bound to get even sketchier...
Verna:
Hehe, just like I predicted! See? As long as we follow the guidance of the Moon Goddess, everything'll fall right into place!
Paimon:
Well, if you say so... But are we really sure it's a good idea to open up a place that's been sealed for centuries?
Verna:
Oh, it'll be totally fine! You've got the most trustworthy priestess of the Frostmoon Scions right here, there's absolutely nothing to worry abou—
Ehrnrooth:
Krodo! Did you see where those suspicious intruders were headed?
Krodo:
They took off toward the Court of the First Edict. Not many places to hide around here, after all.
Rahetar:
Hmph. You two, check on the seal. I'll inform the Lady Moonchanter. Let's see them try getting away...
Rahetar:
Causing trouble in the sacred lands of the Frost Moon... They've got a death wish! The only way they're getting out of this in one piece is if they're somehow the Lady Kuutar herself...
Paimon:
Uhh... Verna? Still wanna tell us "there's absolutely nothing to worry about"?
Verna:
I... Uhh... Ahaha! Yep! That's right! There's absolutely nothing to worry about! Now that the seal's been opened, all we have to do is set a trap and wait for that imposter to walk right into our hands...
Verna:
...I'm sorry, I'm so sorry! There's absolutely everything to worry about! I should never have messed with the seal... What do we do now?! Help me, 旅人, please! *sobs*...
Paimon:
Exactly! Well, since the seal's already broken, we might as well head in and take a look... But Verna, you'd better remember to say sorry to everyone in the Frostmoon Scions when we're done here!
Paimon:
Umm... Verna, where are we? This doesn't really look like a sanctum...
Verna:
Yeah, it really doesn't... Ahem! I mean, that's not important! Don't worry! This place has things that resemble Moonlanes, so that means the Moon Maiden is still guiding us... p—probably!
Verna:
Let us follow the path illuminated by the moonlight, and leave the rest to the will of the moon.
Paimon:
That actually sounded pretty priestess-y coming from you, Verna... Wait, no! Isn't that just a fancy way of saying "I don't know what to do, let's just leave it to fate"?!
Verna:
Hey! What do you mean "pretty priestess-y"? Have you ever met a priestess who's anything less than super priestess-y?
Verna:
You've gotta have as much faith in the Moon Maiden's guidance as you do in the power of science! Besides, it's not like we've found any other way down...
Verna:
Come on, I told you there's nothing to worry about! See? This is the power of science!
Paimon:
Hurray! The power of scien— Hey, wait a second! You almost had Paimon fooled! This has nothing to do with science! It was just 旅人 tossing the fragments up there!
Verna:
Well, since the super reliable 旅人 is also someone who believes in science, I guess that explanation works too.
Verna:
Alright! "Since the Moon Maiden has spun a silvery path for us, what awaits beyond the threshold must be..." Umm... wait, how did the rest of it go again...?
Verna:
Ahem, anyway... since the Moonlane has appeared, it means our plan is working fine. All we need to do is follow it. This is the guidance of the Moon Goddess... Yep!
Paimon:
A—Are you sure? Paimon thinks there's a good chance this path doesn't lead to our destination, but rather somewhere higher up...
Verna:
Come on, Paimon, come on! You've got a super reliable priestess and a super reliable adventurer on your side — what's there to worry about?
Verna:
We'd better get moving, before the other priestesses show up— Ahem, I mean, while the Moon Goddess is still showing us the way! Onward and upward!
Verna:
Hmm? It's awfully quiet... Ehrnrooth and Uncle Krodo aren't here either. Weren't they hot on our trail?
Paimon:
Maybe all the noise we made earlier got their attention, and they ran off to check somewhere else?
Verna:
Aha, I get it now! This must be Lady Aila's divine guidance. Even my luck's looking up now that I'm with someone as reliable as you, 旅人!
Paimon:
Okay, okay, save the celebration for later! You do remember you still owe everybody else an apology for the trouble you caused, right?
Verna:
Apology? ... Ahem, r—right, yes, of course I do! I'm not the type to get so caught up in reading Lady Aila's records that I forget everything else!
Verna:
I swear by my mortal name in this sublunary sphere that I'll give everybody a proper and heartfelt apology! It's just... Uh, I'll need to think carefully about how to phrase it first...
Verna:
Oh! And while we were at work earlier, I came up with a super scientific plan!
Verna:
Since I have to apologize anyway, why don't we finish checking out the sanctum first before looking for Lady Lauma? That way, we can save time and make my eventual apology more efficient!
Rahetar:
A sound plan, I should say.
Verna:
See? The power of science is— wait, huh!? Aunt Rahetar? When did you get here?
Paimon:
Waaah, you scared us! Umm... We didn't mean to sneak into the Court of the First Edict! It's just... Verna said...
Rahetar:
No need to explain. This place may be sealed, but it is not forbidden territory. If outsiders like you were able to enter, then perhaps it was the will of the moonlight.
Verna:
Exactly! This is all part of the Moon Maiden's sacred guidance! Just like the poems say—
Rahetar:
As for you, Vernadska, you're coming with me. The Lady Moonchanter wants to see you — in person.
Verna:
Huh!? Wait, no, Aunt Rahetar, didn't you just say—
Rahetar:
As a priestess, you acted without permission, broke the rules, and tampered with taboos. Aside from outright murder, you've flouted every major law we have.
Rahetar:
Now come. Or would you rather the Lady Moonchanter come fetch you herself?
Verna:
Uhh... 旅人, Paimon! I'll explain everything later! I swear! But first, I—I'll need—
Before Verna can finish her sentence, Rahetar drags her off...
Paimon:
...
Traveler:
...
Paimon:
Well... She sure dug that grave nice and deep for herself, didn't she?
Paimon:
Still, we've got no idea what this Lady Aila wanted us to do. But this sword she left behind...
Paimon:
Uh... If it was meant for us, we might as well hang onto it for now. Looks like a real Frostmoon relic, anyway.
Paimon:
Hmm, something about this place feels off compared to what Paimon imagined a sanctum would be... It doesn't feel all that sacred. Smells kinda funny instead...
Verna:
Haha, well, it has been sealed for 500 years, y'know? Scientifically speaking, rusted metal giving off a blood-like smell isn't too surprising.
Verna:
By the way, the hymns say that before Lady Aila sealed it, this was where all the Frostmoon followers held their ceremonies! So it's super sacred, really!
Paimon:
Calling it "super sacred" just makes it sound less sacred by the minute!
Verna:
Oh, come on, don't get hung up on the wording! Look over there — that's the Verdant Crest! Legend says it's the sacred tree that witnessed the birth of the Moon Maiden!
Verna:
And that pool over there... Uh, if I'm guessing right, that should be the ever-flowing White Spring, blessed by Lady Aila herself!
Paimon:
Do you really have to guess? Also, are you sure you didn't just make those names up?
Verna:
Hey! I might be a fairly reliable priestess, but even I've never seen these sacred relics from five hundred years ago with my own eyes!
Verna:
Nor did I ever think I'd get to see something this historically significant... I'm so lucky. All thanks to you, 旅人 and Paimon!
Verna:
Yes, yes, no problem! I'll do whatever you say, 旅人!
Verna:
Just standing in place does feel like a waste, though... Since we're here, why not take a quick walk around?
Paimon:
Hmm? There's something beneath the water. Is that a sword?
Verna:
Huh? Why would there be a sword here? ...Wait. Hold on. Could this be the ritual sword forged from Hyperborean moonlight that Lady Aila supposedly left behind...!?
Verna:
The blade that was used to offer up the very first drop of blood under the new moon... Whoa!
Paimon:
I—It's a kuuhenki... Hmm, does it want us to follow it?
Aila:
Ah, you're here. Wait, that will get the altar dirty...
Paimon:
Eek! When the heck did you get in here? We were the ones who opened the seal first... right?
Verna:
You're right... But this isn't just "off." It looks like this is a residual image left behind by the Moon Goddess's blessing...
Verna:
And it's been left inside the Court of the First Edict... Maybe this... might be the first Moonchanter herself, Lady Aila...
Traveler:
Is that really possible?
Verna:
S—Scientifically speaking, it's impossible — but if this is truly Lady Aila, then it wouldn't be surprising for her power to be unscientifically potent...
Verna:
Oh my days... I can't believe I kept calling THE Lady Aila an imposter... Thank the Moon Goddess she can't hear me anymore...
Traveler:
And that explains why her words were always so hard to understand...
Aila:
There, that should do it.
Traveler:
(This power... is the Lady Aila before us really just a lingering image?)
Unknown Voice:
...What did you do, Miss Aila?
Paimon:
Aaahh! W—Where did that voice just come from?!
Verna:
Hmm... Maybe it got recorded along with the first Moonchanter's image? I mean, even the Moon Goddess's blessing couldn't be precise enough to capture just one person's voice, right?
Aila:
Hehe... There's no need to be so tense. That woman who shares my bloodline surely showed you a few of these low-brow tricks before, hmm?
Aila:
This is merely a blessing that records awareness, so that the brave warrior over there can hear our words.
Paimon:
P—Paimon's not dreaming, is she? Paimon swears she just looked right at us!
Verna:
Come on, Paimon, you're most definitely dreaming. What we're seeing now was recorded five hundred years ago, there's no way she could actually see us...
Unknown Voice:
"Over there"? But I don't see anyone...
Unknown Voice:
Ah, never mind. I probably wouldn't understand even if you explained it to me. And whatever tangled past lies between you and her... I'm in no position to judge. Regardless, thank you for your help, Miss Aila.
Unknown Voice:
Lovia should have known better. The wounds left in the wake of the atrocities that old witch inflicted upon you both run deep — of course, the scars fester with resentment. What surprises me is that she trusted you so deeply.
Paimon:
Uh, Verna, who's this Lovia they mentioned? Paimon feels like she's heard that name before...
Verna:
She was the leader of Frostmoon Scions five hundred years ago, but she was stricken from memory for the sin of blasphemy. Normally, only senior — and super reliable — priestesses like me would even know about her...
Paimon:
Uh, if even someone like you knows about her, then it can't be that much of a secret, can it...?
Verna:
Hey! Rude! What do you mean, "someone like me"? But seriously, her identity should be top secret. Ordinary followers and folks from the outside aren't supposed to have even heard that name.
Aila:
Resentment? For what? Everything you and I went through was always meant to be. There is no past or future — because the past is the future.
Aila:
Your gaze is upon me now, but all you can see is this one fleeting moment. Thanks to Lovia's blessing — the blessing of our ancestors — I can see every moment.
Aila:
Your arrival... Lovia's end... all threads of a tapestry too vast for me to tell. And yet — how it thrills me.
Aila:
She trusted me because I heeded her every word. And when the Lady of the Underworld guided my hand to sever her thread... Even then, she should have rejoiced.
Aila:
As for you... You'll be leaving this place soon, won't you, Mr. Solovei?
Unknown Voice:
My role here is finished. The believers outside already hail you as their new prophet... and at last, you no longer need to endure the suffering imposed on you.
Unknown Voice:
I still have things I must do. I need to uncover that mad monk's true intentions. For my fallen friend and the people of this land, he must pay for what he has done.
Unknown Voice:
With Lovia's years of secret correspondence with him as evidence, tracing his steps should be much easier. Once again, thank you for your help, Miss Aila.
Aila:
Ah, so you still don't know a thing... but that's alright. You will soon enough.
Unknown Voice:
I'll take that as an encouragement.
Aila:
To me, it's already happened. Twice shall that serpent fall — first strangled by the flesh of the faithless, then shrinking away before the light you and I ignite together.
Aila:
But you shan't be the one to cut off its thread, because that fate does not belong to you.
Unknown Voice:
I don't believe in fate. I'll just do what I can.
Aila:
Then do what you can. Before the lanterns are lit, I will be here waiting — for you are the hero meant to protect "Elysium."
Aila:
And you... Forgive me for drawing you here this way. Your thread simply would not catch in the loom of this sublunary sphere, so I had to guide you with those stones. Fitting, for they are just as out of place in this world as you are.
Paimon:
Huh... Huh!? Verna, what's going on? Are you still sure she isn't talking to us!?
Verna:
W—Well, not anymore! Those stones we saw earlier only fell recently... how could Lady Aila have known about them five hundred years ago...?
Aila:
By way of apology, I left the last sword forged by the apostle of the golden city using moonlight in the ever-flowing White Spring. After centuries, any bloodstains on its blade should have been washed away.
Aila:
Please accept this humble gift. Though your fate remains unclear to me, I choose to believe you are the hero of this sublunary sphere — the one destined to fell the undying serpent on our behalf.
Aila:
This will probably be the last time we meet. If you follow the light and find those who share my bloodline, then you will come to understand my words.
Unknown Voice:
...Are you... talking to someone?
Aila:
It's nothing. Now, please don't let me keep you any longer, Mr. Solovei. I must begin sealing this place at once.
Aila:
I hold no resentment toward Lovia. But our children must not be stained by her sins.
Aila:
That's why the evil and corruption she wrought must be buried... I will seal them all here. This, too, is a part of our preparation for the birth of a god.
Aila:
We are all tainted by sin... How could we ever hope to behold the moonlight in its purest form?
Paimon:
She vanished...
Verna:
So... just like back at Thunderclap Reef, it was Lady Aila who guided us to break the sanctum's seal, all so you could retrieve the sword she left behind, 旅人...
Paimon:
Huh? Come to think of it, Miss Alia said something similar to us back at the Pillar of Embla...
Verna:
Oh, I see, I see— wait a moment. I don't recognize that name. Who is this Alia?
You briefly explained to Verna about the battle alongside the Ratniki...
"Twice shall that undying serpent rise again, but thrice shall he be struck down..."
"And at last shall he be laid to rest by the heroes of the sublunary sphere..."
Verna:
Wow... I'm still not totally sure what just happened, but you've taken down that undying serpent either way, yes?
Traveler:
That's right, I am the hero foretold in the prophecy!
Verna:
Heh, I know, right? I knew that even back at Thunderclap Reef! You don't need a prophecy to prove it — you've always been someone I could count on!
Verna:
But... who is this Alia, anyway? She says she's from five hundred years ago, but I've never seen that name in any records from back then...
Verna:
Well, whatever! Since Lady Aila brought it up, let's go find that sword!
Paimon:
Hmm, this must be the sword Aila was talking about, right?
Verna:
Yes, yes! This is the sacred blade the first Moonchanter used to offer the very first drop of silver blood to the New Moon — a truly blessed sword of purity!
Verna:
Ugh, I really want to investigate this place thoroughly... But if we hang around too long, Ehrnrooth, Uncle Krodo, and the others might find the entrance too...
Paimon:
Actually, with all the noise we made just now, there's probably no one on this whole island who hasn't been drawn this way...
Verna:
Ugh, well... Since we've got the sword and the seal's already broken, I'll just have to find another time to study it properly!
Verna:
Hmm? It's awfully quiet... Ehrnrooth and Uncle Krodo aren't here either. Weren't they hot on our trail?
Paimon:
Maybe all the noise we made earlier got their attention, and they ran off to check somewhere else?
Verna:
Aha, I get it now! This must be Lady Aila's divine guidance. Even my luck's looking up now that I'm with someone as reliable as you, 旅人!
Paimon:
Okay, okay, save the celebration for later! You do remember you still owe everybody else an apology for the trouble you caused, right?
Verna:
Apology? ... Ahem, r—right, yes, of course I do! I'm not the type to get so caught up in reading Lady Aila's records that I forget everything else!
Verna:
I swear by my mortal name in this sublunary sphere that I'll give everybody a proper and heartfelt apology! It's just... Uh, I'll need to think carefully about how to phrase it first...
Verna:
Oh! And while we were at work earlier, I came up with a super scientific plan!
Verna:
Since I have to apologize anyway, why don't we finish checking out the sanctum first before looking for Lady Lauma? That way, we can save time and make my eventual apology more efficient!
Rahetar:
A sound plan, I should say.
Verna:
See? The power of science is— wait, huh!? Aunt Rahetar? When did you get here?
Paimon:
Waaah, you scared us! Umm... We didn't mean to sneak into the Court of the First Edict! It's just... Verna said...
Rahetar:
No need to explain. This place may be sealed, but it is not forbidden territory. If outsiders like you were able to enter, then perhaps it was the will of the moonlight.
Verna:
Exactly! This is all part of the Moon Maiden's sacred guidance! Look, Aunt Rahetar, we even found something Lady Aila left for—
Rahetar:
As for you, Vernadska, you're coming with me. The Lady Moonchanter wants to see you — in person.
Verna:
Huh!? Wait, no, Aunt Rahetar, didn't you just say—
Rahetar:
As a priestess, you acted without permission, broke the rules, and tampered with taboos. Aside from outright murder, you've flouted every major law we have.
Rahetar:
Now come. Or would you rather the Lady Moonchanter come fetch you herself?
Verna:
Uhh... 旅人, Paimon! I'll explain everything later! I swear! But first, I—I'll need—
Before Verna can finish her sentence, Rahetar drags her off...
Paimon:
...
Traveler:
...
Paimon:
Well... She sure dug that grave nice and deep for herself, didn't she?
Paimon:
But since we've already taken down the undying serpent, I suppose that means we've fulfilled the task the first Moonchanter entrusted to us, right?
Paimon:
Hmm... this must be the sword Aila was talking about, right? How about it, 旅人? Did you figure anything out?
Verna:
Ugh, looks like we really will have to investigate this whole place, huh? But if we hang around too long, Ehrnrooth, Uncle Krodo, and the others might find the entrance too...
Paimon:
Actually, with all the noise we made just now, there's probably no one on this whole island who hasn't been drawn this way...
Verna:
Ugh, fine, guess we've got no choice... We've got the sword now, and Lady Aila didn't exactly tell us what to do next. Let's get out of here first and figure out the rest later!
Aila:
Ah, you're here. Wait, that will get the altar dirty...
Paimon:
Eek! When the heck did you get in here? We were the ones who opened the seal first... right?
Verna:
You're right... But this isn't just "off." It looks like this is a residual image left behind by the Moon Goddess's blessing...
Verna:
And it's been left inside the Court of the First Edict... Maybe this... might be the first Moonchanter herself, Lady Aila...
Traveler:
Is that really possible?
Verna:
S—Scientifically speaking, it's impossible — but if this is truly Lady Aila, then it wouldn't be surprising for her power to be unscientifically potent...
Verna:
Oh my days... I can't believe I kept calling THE Lady Aila an imposter... Thank the Moon Goddess she can't hear me anymore...
Traveler:
And that explains why her words were always so hard to understand...
Aila:
There, that should do it.
Traveler:
(This power... is the Lady Aila before us really just a lingering image?)
Unknown Voice:
...What did you do, Miss Aila?
Paimon:
Aaahh! W—Where did that voice just come from?!
Verna:
Hmm... Maybe it got recorded along with the first Moonchanter's image? I mean, even the Moon Goddess's blessing couldn't be precise enough to capture just one person's voice, right?
Aila:
Hehe... There's no need to be so tense. That woman who shares my bloodline surely showed you a few of these low-brow tricks before, hmm?
Aila:
This is merely a blessing that records awareness, so that the brave warrior over there can hear our words.
Paimon:
P—Paimon's not dreaming, is she? Paimon swears she just looked right at us!
Verna:
Come on, Paimon, you're most definitely dreaming. What we're seeing now was recorded five hundred years ago, there's no way she could actually see us...
Unknown Voice:
"Over there"? But I don't see anyone...
Unknown Voice:
Ah, never mind. I probably wouldn't understand even if you explained it to me. And whatever tangled past lies between you and her... I'm in no position to judge. Regardless, thank you for your help, Miss Aila.
Unknown Voice:
Lovia should have known better. The wounds left in the wake of the atrocities that old witch inflicted upon you both run deep — of course, the scars fester with resentment. What surprises me is that she trusted you so deeply.
Paimon:
Uh, Verna, who's this Lovia they mentioned? Paimon feels like she's heard that name before...
Verna:
She was the leader of Frostmoon Scions five hundred years ago, but she was stricken from memory for the sin of blasphemy. Normally, only senior — and super reliable — priestesses like me would even know about her...
Paimon:
Uh, if even someone like you knows about her, then it can't be that much of a secret, can it...?
Verna:
Hey! Rude! What do you mean, "someone like me"? But seriously, her identity should be top secret. Ordinary followers and folks from the outside aren't supposed to have even heard that name.
Aila:
Resentment? For what? Everything you and I went through was always meant to be. There is no past or future — because the past is the future.
Aila:
Your gaze is upon me now, but all you can see is this one fleeting moment. Thanks to Lovia's blessing — the blessing of our ancestors — I can see every moment.
Aila:
Your arrival... Lovia's end... all threads of a tapestry too vast for me to tell. And yet — how it thrills me.
Aila:
She trusted me because I heeded her every word. And when the Lady of the Underworld guided my hand to sever her thread... Even then, she should have rejoiced.
Aila:
As for you... You'll be leaving this place soon, won't you, Mr. Solovei?
Unknown Voice:
My role here is finished. The believers outside already hail you as their new prophet... and at last, you no longer need to endure the suffering imposed on you.
Unknown Voice:
I still have things I must do. I need to uncover that mad monk's true intentions. For my fallen friend and the people of this land, he must pay for what he has done.
Unknown Voice:
With Lovia's years of secret correspondence with him as evidence, tracing his steps should be much easier. Once again, thank you for your help, Miss Aila.
Aila:
Ah, so you still don't know a thing... but that's alright. You will soon enough.
Unknown Voice:
I'll take that as an encouragement.
Aila:
To me, it's already happened. Twice shall that serpent fall — first strangled by the flesh of the faithless, then shrinking away before the light you and I ignite together.
Aila:
But you shan't be the one to cut off its thread, because that fate does not belong to you.
Unknown Voice:
I don't believe in fate. I'll just do what I can.
Aila:
Then do what you can. Before the lanterns are lit, I will be here waiting — for you are the hero meant to protect "Elysium."
Aila:
And you... Forgive me for drawing you here this way. Your thread simply would not catch in the loom of this sublunary sphere, so I had to guide you with those stones. Fitting, for they are just as out of place in this world as you are.
Paimon:
Huh... Huh!? Verna, what's going on? Are you still sure she isn't talking to us!?
Verna:
W—Well, not anymore! Those stones we saw earlier only fell recently... how could Lady Aila have known about them five hundred years ago...?
Aila:
By way of apology, I left the last sword forged by the apostle of the golden city using moonlight in the ever-flowing White Spring. After centuries, any bloodstains on its blade should have been washed away.
Aila:
Please accept this humble gift. Though your fate remains unclear to me, I choose to believe you are the hero of this sublunary sphere — the one destined to fell the undying serpent on our behalf.
Aila:
This will probably be the last time we meet. If you follow the light and find those who share my bloodline, then you will come to understand my words.
Unknown Voice:
...Are you... talking to someone?
Aila:
It's nothing. Now, please don't let me keep you any longer, Mr. Solovei. I must begin sealing this place at once.
Aila:
I hold no resentment toward Lovia. But our children must not be stained by her sins.
Aila:
That's why the evil and corruption she wrought must be buried... I will seal them all here. This, too, is a part of our preparation for the birth of a god.
Aila:
We are all tainted by sin... How could we ever hope to behold the moonlight in its purest form?
Paimon:
She vanished...
Verna:
So... just like back at Thunderclap Reef, it was Lady Aila who guided us to break the sanctum's seal, all so you could retrieve the sword she left behind, 旅人...
Paimon:
But Paimon still doesn't get it. Why would Aila give us her sword? And what's this "undying serpent" stuff all about? We're not gonna have to fight some giant snake next, are we?
Paimon:
Anyway, 旅人, let's retrieve that sword first!
Verna:
R—Right! If someone as reliable as Lady Aila said it, there must be a reason. Maybe it'll all start to click once we get that sword!
You discover a deep pit near the Frostmoon Enclave...
Paimon:
Hmm, looks like this way is blocked...
Paimon:
Wow, it's so deep! Looks like there's an even bigger space down below!
Maite:
...Hey! You two, are you trying to get yourselves killed?
Maite:
Don't just stand there! Get over here and keep your voice down!
Paimon:
Waaah! You scared Paimon! She didn't expect to find anyone else in a place like this... And w—why are you hiding?
Maite:
...Shh! I told you to keep quiet, buddy!
Maite:
But judging by your chubby looks... Hah, you wouldn't happen to be the daughter of some Northland fae lord, would you?
Paimon:
Hey, what do you mean by "chubby looks"!? Paimon's not chubby at all! And Paimon's not fae either!
Paimon:
That's right. He's 旅人, and Paimon's Paimon, his guide! We saw this deep pit and came here to investigate!
Maite:
Yes, yes, of course. You're adventurers, definitely not nobility. We all need to wear some masks, am I right?
Maite:
But since you've all introduced yourselves, I should, for my part, do as decorum dictates. Maite Veliu, heir to the legendary thief Reed Miller. Don't worry, that's my real name.
Traveler:
Whoa! A thief!
Maite:
I—I'm a master thief, not some petty crook, brother! Don't treat me like some cheap con artist! And I won't steal anything from you either!
Maite:
*cough* Anyway... You're really a terrible liar, buddy.
Maite:
Tell me, what kind of guide leads people straight into a deep pit?
Paimon:
W—We did that because we're adventurers!
Maite:
Alright, alright. If I'm not mistaken, you're here for the Crab Tsar's treasure too, aren't you?
Traveler:
Treasure?
Maite:
Oh? Trying to get me to spill the tea, huh? Heh heh, don't underestimate me, brother. I know how we fish for info.
Maite:
It's the most precious treasure hidden in the Crab Tsar's palace below... the stone that can manipulate human desires. This is what I seek.
Paimon:
(Oh, it just hit Paimon after hearing all this talk about thieves and some Crab Tsar — this must be some kind of children's adventure game, right?)
Paimon:
So... uh, how did you know that there's treasure here?
Maite:
Hah, that's a master thief's secret, buddy. What's it gonna be? Interested in a team-up?
Maite:
I've already scouted out the palace routes and have a good idea where the treasure is. But I'm a master thief, not a mercenary. I can't defeat that despicable Crab Tsar all by myself.
Maite:
If I could, I wouldn't be hiding here, waiting for it to lower its guard.
Paimon:
Huh? If you're a master thief, why do you have to confront the palace owner head-on? Wouldn't that make you a robber instead?
Maite:
That shows you're an amateur, buddy. You can't get to the treasure without defeating the palace owner. Hidim— *cough* I mean, that's just how things work in the business.
Maite:
Once we get that stone and sell it for a good price, we'll split it fifty-fifty, and I'll even hook you up with my informant. Interested?
Traveler:
I still don't think stealing is right...
Paimon:
(Um, even though she's being super cryptic about it, we're basically just looking for a stone in this cave, right?)
Paimon:
(It might be dangerous to leave her alone down there. Best we follow her and keep an eye on her...)
Maite:
Right, let's get to it then. Stay close and don't get lost.
Maite:
This way is blocked too, buddy. *sigh* If only we had abilities like those Frostmoon weirdos do...
Paimon:
Huh? Looks like there's no way forward... Where did that big crab escape to?
Maite:
*sigh* This is a problem. These mirrors were left behind by those Frostmoon weirdos. Only they and the Crab Tsar can travel through them...
Paimon:
Um, so that big crab actually went inside the mirrors? It's just a crab, so where did it learn how to do that?
Maite:
Well, it probably has something to do with that cursed stone of desire.
Maite:
*ahem* Better find a wall first, buddy, in case you fall over from what I'm about to tell you! I, Maite Veliu, am actually a member of the Conch Gang, here to gather intel—
Maite:
Hm? What's with that reaction... Have you heard of us before?
Maite:
Anyway, forget about that for now. Just so you know, I've been observing this place for quite some time already.
Maite:
Truth is, His Majesty the Crab Tsar used to be quite docile, and it couldn't travel through these mirrors either — that is, until recently, when it found that stone from who-knows-where...
Maite:
By which I mean that big stone you saw it carrying on its back. Since then, its temperament has taken a... particularly deadly turn.
Maite:
Evil, cruel, easily agitated... Sometimes it even uses its pincers to crush other little crabs, turning this place upside down...
Paimon:
Wait, so the "treasure" you're looking for is actually the stone on its back! No wonder you say we'll have to defeat it first...
Maite:
Heh heh, that's right, buddy! According to the stories, Lovia, High Priestess of the Frost Moon, was also once bewitched by one such stone of desire five hundred years ago.
Maite:
The desperate pleas of Lady Aila moved the master thief Reed Miller to steal that cursed stone, and he captured her heart in the process — why else would she have remained unmarried for life?
Aila:
...I see. Is this what you wish for, Ruler of "Elysium"?
Maite:
Eeek!
Maite:
*cough* No, I—I wasn't scared! I'm the heir of the legendary thief Reed Miller, I... Anyway, identify yourself, now!
Paimon:
Whoa! Y—You're that priestess who appeared near Thunderclap Reef earlier! Uh, Verna said you were a fake, though...
Traveler:
Ruler of Elysium? Are you talking about Maite?
Maite:
Ahaha, stop pulling my leg, brother! Do I look like a person of lordly caliber to you? That title suits you much better, don't you think?
Aila:
...
Maite:
S—So what are you doing in a place like this, buddy? Eyes up — you're all alone, while there's three of us!
Maite:
We are a fellowship of free people, and if you wish to seize us and take us to the Frost Moon, then you're outta luck! Even back when Snezhnograd had the legendary Reed Miller—
Aila:
...Fear not, I am not your enemy.
Aila:
Still, "Reed Miller"... is that the name you have chosen to follow in this sublunary sphere?
Maite:
Hmph, o—of course! Anyway, I've got no interest in plots and schemes in the shadows. What exactly do you want? Out with it!
Paimon:
Yeah, and didn't you tell us to wait for you at the Court of the First Edict earlier?
Aila:
...No, there's no need for such meaningless words. You are only here for the treasure... I know that. I've known it from the beginning...
Aila:
...Cast your gaze that way. Look beneath the mirror. When the mirror shatters, you will find that cursed object that corrupts the hearts of men...
Aila:
...As for me...
Maite:
Hey, wait, don't go!
Paimon:
Whoa, she's gone again... Who in the world is that priestess?
Maite:
I—I don't know either. That one's acting all mysterious, just like Aila from the story... Those Frostmoon folks are always like this, never telling you the whole tale.
Maite:
But I suppose there's no other choice now. Let's follow her advice and go look that way.
Paimon:
I—It flew away...
Aila:
...Have you come... searching for me?
Paimon:
Whoa, it's the priestess from before!
Paimon:
Uh, we weren't exactly looking for you, but... Who are you really?
Aila:
It's always like this, always... Promising to take me away, then always leaving me behind...
Aila:
This time is no different... Asking those questions just to give me false hope so I would stay, waiting for a salvation that will never come... isn't that right?
Paimon:
No, that's not what we meant! Please don't cry... We're adventurers, and we love helping others. If you need help with anything, just tell us...
Paimon:
I—It flew away...
Aila:
...Have you come... searching for me?
Paimon:
Whoa, it's the purple-haired priestess! She's appeared out of nowhere again!
Paimon:
Um, you... could say we came to find you. You didn't reveal your identity earlier when Verna was here... Now it's just us, so you can say anything you want!
Paimon:
Like, you could talk about the whole deal with this "Court of the First Edict"... You said you'd be waiting for us there, so how come you're here?
Aila:
...Guiding the prophesied Ruler of "Elysium" is our mission in the sublunary sphere...
Aila:
...I know who you are and what you want. I can see the threads of fate woven by moonlight, so... stop pursuing me. It is pointless...
Aila:
It's always like this, always... Promising to take me away, then always leaving me behind...
Aila:
This time is no different... Asking those questions just to give me false hope so I would stay, waiting for a salvation that will never come... isn't that right?
Paimon:
No, that's not what we meant! Please don't cry... We're adventurers, and we love helping others. If you need help with anything, just tell us...
Paimon:
Huh? Looks like there's no way forward... Where did that big crab escape to?
Maite:
*sigh* This is a problem. These mirrors were left behind by those Frostmoon weirdos. Only they and the Crab Tsar can travel through them...
Paimon:
Um, so that big crab actually went inside the mirrors? It's just a crab, so where did it learn how to do that?
Maite:
Well, it probably has something to do with that cursed stone of desire.
Maite:
*ahem* Better find a wall first, buddy, in case you fall over from what I'm about to tell you! I, Maite Veliu, am actually a member of the Conch Gang, here to gather intel—
Maite:
Hm? What's with that reaction... Have you heard of us before?
Maite:
Anyway, forget about that for now. Just so you know, I've been observing this place for quite some time already.
Maite:
Truth is, His Majesty the Crab Tsar used to be quite docile, and didn't know how to travel through these mirrors, until six months ago...
Maite:
That was when it picked up a strange stone from somewhere and started carrying it on its back. Its temper has taken a deadly turn ever since.
Maite:
Evil, cruel, easily agitated... Sometimes it even uses its pincers to crush other little crabs, turning this place upside down...
Paimon:
Wait, so the "treasure" you're looking for is actually the stone on its back! No wonder you say we'll have to defeat it first...
Maite:
Heh, that's right, buddy! Just like how Reed Miller took the Frostmoon treasure back from the greedy governor, bringing her back to her senses!
Maite:
The duty of a master thief has always been to side with the oppressed, so that they don't have to kneel before any... uh, any crab! So, for all the little crabs...!
Aila:
...I see. Is this what you wish for, Ruler of "Elysium"?
Maite:
Eeek!
Maite:
*cough* No, I—I wasn't scared! I'm the heir of the legendary thief Reed Miller, I... Anyway, identify yourself, now!
Paimon:
Whoa, you scared Paimon for sure! Didn't expect to find anyone else in a place like this... Huh. You look like a Frostmoon priestess...
Traveler:
Ruler of Elysium? Are you talking about Maite?
Maite:
Ahaha, stop pulling my leg, brother! Do I look like a person of lordly caliber to you? That title suits you much better, don't you think?
Aila:
...
Maite:
S—So what are you doing in a place like this, buddy? Eyes up — you're all alone, while there's three of us!
Maite:
We are a fellowship of free people, and if you wish to seize us and take us to the Frost Moon, then you're outta luck! Even back when Snezhnograd had the legendary Reed Miller—
Aila:
...Fear not, I am not your enemy.
Aila:
Still, "Reed Miller"... is that the name you have chosen to follow in this sublunary sphere?
Maite:
Hmph, o—of course! Anyway, I've got no interest in plots and schemes in the shadows. What exactly do you want? Out with it!
Aila:
...No, there's no need for such meaningless words. You are only here for the treasure... I know that. I've known it from the beginning...
Aila:
...Cast your gaze that way. Look beneath the mirror. When the mirror shatters, you will find that cursed object that corrupts the hearts of men...
Aila:
...As for me...
Maite:
Hey, wait, don't go!
Paimon:
Whoa, she's gone again... Who in the world is that priestess?
Maite:
Hmph, who knows. Those Frostmoon folks have always been kinda loony and cryptic...
Maite:
But I suppose there's no other choice now. Let's follow her advice and go look that way.
Maite:
Hah! Nowhere left to run now, huh?
Maite:
I know these grounds like the back of my hand, and I can tell you we've got it cornered. Once we take it down here, this will all be over.
Maite:
What do you say? Are you ready, brother?
Paimon:
Sh—She's gone again... Who in the world is that strange lady?
Traveler:
I don't think she's a good person.
Paimon:
Yeah, she talks weirdly and avoids our questions. She's got a real scary look on her face, too. Maybe she's the one who turned the crab into this...
Paimon:
Hey, wait... Where's Maite?
Maite:
Well, buddy, how's it going? Have you calmed down?
Maite:
*sigh* Seems like it's hiding away out of regret, after all the terrible things it did to the little crabs while under the stone's influence.
Paimon:
That's kind of sad...
Maite:
It's alright. Let it reflect on its actions for now. Those who do bad things must be punished — this is the fate of all evil rulers.
Paimon:
Still, Paimon didn't expect that stone to fly away like that...
Maite:
Well, it's not a bad thing. If it had actually circulated on the market, it might have hurt even more people.
Maite:
Here, have this too. Now that His Majesty the Tsar has become docile once more, my observation notes are complete.
Maite:
And from now on, you're a friend of the Conch Gang. When you dine at the Speranza Restaurant in Nasha Town, just mention the name Maite...
Traveler:
And I'll get my meal on the house?
Maite:
...No, I don't have that kind of pull yet. You'll still need to settle your bills with Big Sis Katya.
Paimon:
Huh? What's the point of mentioning your name, then!?
Maite:
O—Of course there's a point! If Big Sis Katya's in a good mood, she might even buy you all drinks or something...
Paimon:
So it still depends on someone else's mood!
Maite:
*whimper* Th—Then, even if she isn't feeling up to it, I'll still buy you drinks... No, I'll treat you to a meal! I'll have to work a few days for the funds, though...
Maite:
*cough* A promise is a promise, and one good turn deserves another — that's the rule set by the legendary Reed Miller! So take this IOU, buddy!
Traveler:
I don't think she's a bad person.
Paimon:
Yeah, even though she talks weirdly and has a scary look on her face, she seems to be guiding us...
Paimon:
Hey, wait... Where's Maite?
Maite:
Well, buddy, how's it going? Have you calmed down?
Maite:
*sigh* Seems like it's hiding away out of regret, after all the terrible things it did to the little crabs while under the stone's influence.
Paimon:
That's kind of sad...
Maite:
It's alright. Let it reflect on its actions for now. Those who do bad things must be punished — this is the fate of all evil rulers.
Paimon:
Still, Paimon didn't expect that stone to fly away like that...
Maite:
Well, it's not a bad thing. If it had actually circulated on the market, it might have hurt even more people.
Maite:
Here, have this too. Now that His Majesty the Tsar has become docile once more, my observation notes are complete.
Maite:
And from now on, you're a friend of the Conch Gang. When you dine at the Speranza Restaurant in Nasha Town, just mention the name Maite...
Traveler:
And I'll get my grub on the house?
Maite:
...No, I don't have that kind of pull yet. You'll still need to settle your bills with Big Sis Katya.
Paimon:
Huh? What's the point of mentioning your name, then!?
Maite:
O—Of course there's a point! If Big Sis Katya's in a good mood, she might even buy you all drinks or something...
Paimon:
So it still depends on someone else's mood!
Maite:
*whimper* Th—Then, even if she isn't feeling up to it, I'll still buy you drinks... No, I'll treat you to a meal! I'll have to work a few days for the funds, though...
Maite:
*cough* A promise is a promise, and one good turn deserves another — that's the rule set by the legendary Reed Miller! So take this IOU, buddy!
Traveler:
Lauma might know.
Paimon:
Oh right! Since she's dressed like a Frostmoon Scion, Lauma must know her! Let's ask her about it the next time we meet, shall we?
Paimon:
Hey, wait... Where's Maite?
Maite:
Well, buddy, how's it going? Have you calmed down?
Maite:
*sigh* Seems like it's hiding away out of regret, after all the terrible things it did to the little crabs while under the stone's influence.
Paimon:
That's kind of sad...
Maite:
It's alright. Let it reflect on its actions for now. Those who do bad things must be punished — this is the fate of all evil rulers.
Paimon:
Still, Paimon didn't expect that stone to fly away like that...
Maite:
Well, it's not a bad thing. If it had actually circulated on the market, it might have hurt even more people.
Maite:
Here, have this too. Now that His Majesty the Tsar has become docile once more, my observation notes are complete.
Maite:
And from now on, you're a friend of the Conch Gang. When you dine at the Speranza Restaurant in Nasha Town, just mention the name Maite...
Traveler:
And collect my free meal ticket?
Maite:
...No, I don't have that kind of pull yet. You'll still need to settle your bills with Big Sis Katya.
Paimon:
Huh? What's the point of mentioning your name, then!?
Maite:
O—Of course there's a point! If Big Sis Katya's in a good mood, she might even buy you all drinks or something...
Paimon:
So it still depends on someone else's mood!
Maite:
*whimper* Th—Then, even if she isn't feeling up to it, I'll still buy you drinks... No, I'll treat you to a meal! I'll have to work a few days for the funds, though...
Maite:
*cough* A promise is a promise, and one good turn deserves another — that's the rule set by the legendary Reed Miller! So take this IOU, buddy!
Traveler:
I'm ready.
Maite:
Alright, let's do this! Time to show that fellow what a proper, no holds barred frontal sneak attack looks like!
Paimon:
Right! A frontal sneak atta— Wait, can you even call it a sneak attack if we do it from the front!?
Traveler:
Hold on, I need a moment to prepare...
Maite:
No problem, I'll keep an eye on it for you... But try to be quick, buddy.