arrow_back Genshin Impact: задания 
Song of the Welkin Moon: Act VI
Melting Moonlight in the Morning Mist
Seek her name within the boundless sea called "the past"...
Go through the gate Nicole opened once you are ready
Ineffa:
I have confirmed that you are all in good health. With that, my work is now complete. Congratulations are in order.
Varka:
It's good to know you're all well. Puts me at ease.
Explore the space ahead
Paimon:
Are these people...?
Nicole:
Judging by their clothes, they appear to be phantom Hyperboreans from the distant past.
Paimon:
That could mean they have some clues about the Moon Goddess's name, right?
Paimon:
Hey there, could you tell us what the Moon Goddess's name is?
Xsayazantus:
Hmm?
Paimon:
Uh, sorry. That's probably a weird question, huh... How do we explain this?
Xsayazantus:
The moons are long gone, and their goddesses are dead. Their names no longer mean anything.
Xsayazantus:
When a new Moon Goddess is born, we will surely know her name.
Xsayazantus:
We have used every last resource at our disposal. All that remains is to wait, patiently and quietly...
Xsayazantus:
...
The Knave:
Were the people of the past all this devout? Hmm. It looks like this phantom doesn't intend to converse with us any further.
Lauma:
Surely, the new Moon Goddess he speaks of must be Columbina.
Lauma:
Alas, Kuutar's birth came long after the age in which he lived.
Traveler:
Salvation did not come.
Paimon:
Mm... But, um... Maybe if we... find a phantom from a more recent age, they might know Columbina's real name?
Lauma:
True. Keep an eye out. We should be able to tell which era they're from by the clothes they wear.
Traveler:
Nicole? Nothing to say on the matter?
Paimon:
Yeah... You've been pretty talkative this whole time.... What changed?
Nicole:
Oh... Nothing, I'm fine. You all make good points.
Nicole:
When the Hyperboreans speak of moon goddesses, they mean the three from truly ancient times. I can't imagine they would know anything about our current Moon Goddess.
Nicole:
There once was a time when the moon goddesses blessed them greatly and protected them from harm. So, when the war between the gods and dragons plunged the world into chaos, it seems they looked once more to the moons for help, praying for a new goddess to be born.
Paimon:
Yeah, that checks out.
The Knave:
Let's continue on. Who knows what else we may discover.
Examine the painting on the wall
Paimon:
Ooh, there's a whole bunch of artwork in here... Seems pretty old. Nicole, this is probably your area of expertise — what do all these paintings mean?
Nicole:
Let me see... Hmm.
Nicole:
To understand these murals requires some knowledge of the history surrounding the war of funerary flame. I shared a little of this with Lauma before.
Lauma:
Hmm... Yes, I think I follow. The dispute between the moon sisters, the transformation by Nibelung...
Nicole:
Oh, no, it's no trouble! I'd be delighted to share the tale again!
Paimon:
A—Alright then...
Nicole:
Teyvat's three moons and their goddesses were brought into being by the will of Nibelung, the then-ruler of Teyvat.
Nicole:
But when the Heavenly Principles came, they changed the world completely, down to its very foundations.
Nicole:
The moon goddesses were nowhere near strong enough to challenge this entity. But the Heavenly Principles did not view them as heretical entities that had to be removed.
Nicole:
Essentially, the three moons existed to keep this planet alive and operational, which did not directly conflict with the Heavenly Principles' aims. Nevertheless, the inherent precariousness of this arrangement would soon be revealed...
The Knave:
Nibelung returned, yes?
Nicole:
He did, and thus began the war of funerary flame. A battle for dominance between Nibelung and the Heavenly Principles.
Nicole:
Discord would soon emerge between the three moon sisters. One would voice the opinion that they should follow Nibelung, for it was he who first hung the moons in the sky.
Nicole:
Another would argue that taking sides in the conflict would only bring the world closer to ruin. There was no telling where it would lead.
Nicole:
Especially since their creator had returned bearing the perilous power of the Abyss.
Nicole:
Nibelung would eventually discover their disloyalty. He had all three imprisoned before transforming the moons into weapons with which to fight against the Heavenly Principles.
Paimon:
What? Weapons!?
Nicole:
Yes. The very moons that had once defended the planet became instruments of death and destruction, striking terror into the hearts of all living things.
Nicole:
And although the Heavenly Principles and the three moon sisters had once been at peace, it now seemed that the moons posed an unacceptable threat to Teyvat.
Nicole:
It is possible that the Heavenly Principles did not know of the goddesses' imprisonment. If so, the weaponization of the moons would surely have been viewed as an intentional breach of the peace agreement.
Traveler:
What happens then?
Nicole:
Regardless of who knew what when, the Heavenly Principles shattered two moons, and flung the other beyond the skies.
Nicole:
Whether the goddesses managed to escape Nibelung's captivity after his fall, nobody knows.
Nicole:
But this much is certain: From that day on, the moons no longer belonged to Teyvat. The rejection slowly drained their power until eventually, they passed away.
Paimon:
So that's the full story...
The Knave:
You say the moons ceased belonging to Teyvat from then on. Why, then, would Columbina be born here?
Nicole:
That is perhaps due to the lingering connection between the Frost Moon, which was not shattered, and this world. You could see it as the three sisters' dying wish.
Nicole:
They never desired war. All they ever wished for was to protect this land.
Lauma:
...I see.
The Knave:
If the final fate of the three goddesses is as you say, then Columbina faces the same grave danger.
The Knave:
Our investigation has yet to bear fruit. We must hurry.
Paimon:
Yeah, you're right. Let's keep going!
Continue exploring
Paimon:
We're finally here... Guessing we'll need to activate this thing?
Nicole:
Indeed. I was a little worried about that at first, but as we got closer, I sensed that the kuuvahki within it flows unimpeded. It should be functioning normally.
Nicole:
The only issue is how to activate it... It's looking a little worse for wear...
The Knave:
What about the cores from some of the other devices we've seen? Can we repair it using those?
Nicole:
In all likelihood, yes. I imagine that would have been the Hyperboreans' backup plan. Let's look for some cores.
Explore the space deeper inside
Nicole:
This is where the people of Hyperborea communicated with the moons.
Nicole:
We need only place the Moon Marrow upon this platform on Moon-Prayer Night, and we shall be able to open a portal to the moon and send our Moon Goddess back home.
Nicole:
The assumption being, of course, that we can find her first.
Nicole:
That's right... You want to know if it's safe there, don't you?
Traveler:
Exactly. It might have been corrupted by the Abyss.
Nicole:
And yet she has no choice but to return. You know this.
Traveler:
Hmm...
Paimon:
That's not the only issue here... This is the end of the line, right? We've explored everything we can.
Paimon:
But despite looking at historical artwork and talking to people from Hyperborean times... We're still no closer to learning Columbina's name.
Everyone:
...
Nicole:
Hmm... If it's not too much trouble, could you tell me exactly what Alice said to you about "finding her name"?
Paimon:
Oh, sure. What she said was...
Alice:
Then your first job is to find it. As a Moon Goddess, I'm sure she must have a name she identifies with.
Alice:
Neither "Columbina" nor "Kuutar" is her true name, and she's never really accepted either of them.
Nicole:
...Is it not also possible that... She has never had a true name? Not at any point in history?
The Knave:
That would be a hard pill to swallow. But at this point, we may have to accept that that is the truth.
Lauma:
No one knows how she came into being, and she certainly doesn't have "parents" in any sense that we're aware of. Perhaps... she was never granted a name at all.
Paimon:
But... Does that mean there's no way to get Columbina back? She's just gonna disappear, and there's nothing we can do about it?
Nicole:
Huh...? Wait... Why all this pessimism? Was it the way I phrased this question? You all seem to be taking this in completely the wrong way...
Traveler:
What do you mean by that...?
Nicole:
Well, just because she's never had a real name in the past doesn't mean she can't have one now!
Paimon:
...What?
Nicole:
Think about what Alice said again. She never once said that you'd have to find a "new" name, did she?
The Knave:
Are you saying what I think you're saying?
Traveler:
You want us to grant her a name?
Nicole:
Yes. Names are anchors that connect us to the world. If she doesn't have one already, then all we have to do is create one! No?
Nicole:
It's like... Ah, yes! Путешественник, when you first arrived in Teyvat, do you think you would have turned around if someone behind you shouted out "Hey, Tumaini!"
Traveler:
No, I wouldn't...
Nicole:
And now?
Traveler:
...!
The Knave:
I understand what you mean.
Nicole:
Life is a long journey. Even the friends and family by our side can change over time.
Nicole:
When people call you by different names, what matters isn't so much the words themselves, but what they symbolize.
Nicole:
And of course... whether that resonates with you.
Traveler:
...
Nicole:
So, close your eyes and picture the Moon Goddess in your mind. If you were to call out to her in this moment, what would you say?
Traveler:
...
Traveler:
Columbina...
The Knave:
Columbina.
Paimon:
Paimon would call her Columbina too.
Lauma:
She has long forsaken everything that "Kuutar" represents... I think... from now on, I should call her Columbina, too.
Nicole:
Well, it sounds to me like you've found your answer.
Paimon:
Are you sure? Is it really that simple? We haven't found her this whole time, and not for lack of trying!
Nicole:
For a journey like this, the process is every bit as important as the outcome.
Nicole:
Had you not searched far and wide, rejecting every other answer you were offered, how could you have come to an answer you felt was finally correct?
Nicole:
Ohh! It all makes sense now... This has Alice's fingerprints all over it...
The Knave:
Are you suggesting that mage knew from the start that Columbina never had a real name to begin with?
Nicole:
Um... I can't say for sure. But I can definitely imagine her chuckling in satisfaction somewhere right now, saying, "Ah, what fun!"
Lauma:
Ah...!
Paimon:
Lauma! Your antlers!
Nicole:
...You should hurry. The festive moon has begun to rise.
Nicole:
Do not worry, for when you called the name "Columbina" just now, I could sense that the power within was enough to summon back the moon goddess.
Paimon:
The power within what? The name...?
Nicole:
Yes, so... the thing is... Ugh... Gah!
Paimon:
Umm... What's wrong now?
Nicole:
This is so annoying! Gah! I really, really, really want to explain how that whole thing works! Starting from the founding principles of Teyvat, and... Oh, I could talk about this for hours!
Nicole:
But...! Deep breaths, Nicole, deep breaths. You're an angel, a sober, sensible, solemn angel who has her priorities straight!
Paimon:
Um... Okay then. Sorry for asking. Clearly a bad call on Paimon's part.
Nicole:
...Anyway! You all need to hurry! Last thing: Remember how it felt when you called out that name.
Lauma:
Then it is agreed...
The Knave:
By the name "Columbina" we shall find her...
Paimon:
Then we'll throw her the best Moon-Prayer Night party ever!
Traveler:
And at last, we will send her home.
Go to the Silvermoon Hall
The Damselette:
I... can barely move anymore...
The Damselette:
My consciousness... is fading away...
The Damselette:
Have they come back out? I... I'd love to see them one more time...
You headed to Silvermoon Hall to call out to the fading Damselette using the name "Columbina." Finally, recognizing the name that she favors so well, the Damselette returned to the world as "Columbina Hyposelenia."
Talk to Columbina
Traveler:
Columbina Hyposelenia. That's a wonderful name.
Columbina:
I never thought that "Columbina" would become my real name.
Columbina:
But after I met you, and my other friends, the things that this name stood for slowly began to change.
Columbina:
It went being from a Fatui codename... to "something my friends call me."
Traveler:
(How much she's changed since we first met... She never used to share her innermost thoughts.)
Columbina:
Hmm? What is it? Why aren't you saying anything?
Traveler:
I'm just so happy for you.
Columbina:
Hehe, thank you. So, where's everyone else?
Traveler:
We can go and meet them very soon. Everyone went to different places to try calling your name.
Columbina:
Great. I'd like to thank them as well. Everyone's done so much for me — searching for my name, entering those ancient ruins...
Traveler:
Huh? Wait, so you were...
Columbina:
Yes, I was there. Not physically, but my consciousness was still holding on. I followed you the whole way.
Traveler:
...Starting from when?
Columbina:
You turned around and called out my name while you were in Nasha Town. Do you remember?
Traveler:
(Ah, so that's what that was...)
Traveler:
(I could've sworn I felt someone pat me on the back... And deep down, I think I knew that it was Columbina.)
Columbina:
Let's go. We don't want to keep them waiting.
Traveler:
Sure. In that case, come with me.
Columbina:
Ah, but...
Traveler:
Hmm?
Columbina:
Before that... Could you call my name one more time?
Traveler:
Haha...
Traveler:
Sure. Come with me, Columbina Hyposelenia.
Bring Columbina with you and meet up with your companions
Columbina spreads the good news to your friends by way of small animals and kuuhenki...
But since not everyone speaks critter sign language, some friends took longer than others to get the message.
Lauma:
...! Columbina! Oh, this truly is wonderful...
Columbina:
...! L—Lauma... I can't... breathe...
Varka:
Haha, just in time for Moon-Prayer Night! It's good to have you back, Miss Columbina.
Paimon:
Yeah! We were worried sick!
Columbina:
Thank you, my friends. With your help, I now have a name that belongs to me.
Nefer:
Columbina Hyposelenia... Where's the second half from? You added it yourself?
Columbina:
That's right, it means...
Lauma:
Born beneath the moon.
Columbina:
Yes, and by extension, it can also mean "born beneath this world."
The Knave:
A fine name.
Nicole:
Ahem! Now, as much as it pains me to interrupt this beautiful reunion, I feel obliged to remind you that... the Moon-Prayer Night celebrations in Nasha Town have already begun!
Nicole:
Don't you want to enjoy the festivities? There's so much to see and do! ...And some of the ambient lighting and entertainments were sponsored by the kind souls in the Hexenzirkel!
Paimon:
Nicole? Uh... Why've you turned into a Dodoco?
Columbina:
So you're Ms. Nicole... Thank you for helping us, and for helping me find my name. It's nice to finally hear your voice.
Nicole:
You're quite welcome. Guiding lost people to hidden treasure is what we Seelie do.
Nicole:
And if you ask me, spiritual treasures are far more precious than material ones! Chests are all well and good, but this? This was what it's all about! Ah, so satisfying!
Paimon:
Uhhh...
Nicole:
Hehe. Anyway, I had to go help Alice — it seems like she ran into some trouble. That's why I couldn't be here in person.
Nicole:
But don't worry! We're with you in spirit! We'll be celebrating right along with you.
Nicole:
Keep an eye out for the Hexenzirkel's festive stalls in Nasha Town! I think you'll like what we came up with. Alice said she even managed to rope "B" in this time.
Lauma:
The Frostmoon Scions have also prepared various attractions. I believe Aino, Ineffa, and their crew are setting things up as we speak.
Lauma:
On that note... Nefer, about that request I made...
Nefer:
It's all in hand. Jahoda is on site to ensure that everything goes off without a hitch.
Lauma:
Wonderful. In that case... Путешественник?
Traveler:
Got it.
Columbina:
...Huh?
Traveler:
Come on, Columbina. It's time to celebrate the best Moon-Prayer Night ever.
The Moon-Prayer Night has come. On this final night, what memories will she leave behind?
Talk to your companions
movie
Guided by her friends, Columbina arrived at Nasha Town for the Moon-Prayer Night festivities they had organized for her...
Columbina:
This feels like... the surprise of my life.
Traveler:
Do you like it?
Columbina:
I do. I never imagined I'd ever get to enjoy Moon-Prayer Night with everyone so freely...
Paimon:
Hehe, if you're happy, we're happy!
Nefer:
Quite a strategy you came up with — hide the tree in the forest... It's not your usual style, Lauma. Is there something about Moon-Prayer Night that enhances what's in your head as well as the antlers on top?
Lauma:
Apparently so. It even inspired a perennial penny pincher to use their resources for a greater cause. It truly is a magical festival.
Nefer & Lauma:
...
Columbina:
(I see it now. This bickering is actually a sign of a strong relationship.)
Durin:
Huh? What's everyone doing here?
Durin:
Oh! Miss Columbina! You're back!
Columbina:
Yes. I'm fine now... thanks for your concern.
Paimon:
How's your progress with Alice's assignment?
Durin:
Very well indeed. I've never heard her sound so excited.
Traveler:
Isn't she always quite excitable?
Durin:
Not like this... This time, her excitement seems more serious. Seems like she's had a major breakthrough.
Durin:
She said she'll contact us once she knows more. In the meantime, we're free to relax and have some fun.
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
Enjoy the time off while it lasts. I have a feeling that our next task won't be so simple.
Lauma:
Mm... I should go. I still have a few things to attend to at the Frostmoon Scions' stall.
Nefer:
And I think I'll take a look around. With any luck, this once-in-a-year festival will come with once-in-a-year opportunities.
Paimon:
Hold up a second, where's Varka?
Lauma:
I believe he made a beeline for The Flagship the moment he entered Nasha Town.
Paimon:
Ah. That's Mondstadters for you — they know what they want when festivals roll around...
Lauma:
Goodbye for now, Columbina. I hope you have a wonderful night.
Columbina:
I will.
Paimon:
Hehe, well in that case, don't just stand there — get out there and have some fun! You'll definitely get a warm welcome at every stall!
Paimon:
Oh, also — take this map with you. It's a guide to the festival.
Paimon:
The Frostmoon Scions' stall is over here. Lauma's invited a whole bunch of cute animals to celebrate too.
Paimon:
Over there is the Hexenzirkel section. Alice seemed more excited than anyone about this festival, so she insisted on making it a grand affair.
Paimon:
Oh, and then there's the Nasha Town local specialties, including... actually, forget that, better if you go check them out for yourself!
Columbina:
Thank you. It looks like a lot of fun.
Traveler:
Enjoy your Moon-Prayer Night.
Columbina:
You're not coming with me?
Paimon:
We'll be around! But don't you wanna browse by yourself for a bit first?
Columbina:
Um...
Paimon:
Yup! If you find something you like and wanna try it out together, just give us a shout — we'll be right with you!
Paimon:
Otherwise, just relax and enjoy yourself! There's so much on offer, so try to experience as much as you can... and don't forget to stuff yourself with all the delicious festival food!
Traveler:
We'll probably run into each other while we're browsing.
Columbina:
Haha. Alright, then... Off I go.
Traveler:
Have fun!
Enjoy "Moon-Prayer Night: Balloonimals"
Jahoda:
(Wow. The Frostmoon Scions' stall looks kinda plain, but it's pretty cool once you get into it.)
Jahoda:
(I don't go to Hiisi Island much, but it's got that, like... "olde worlde" cultural feel.)
Jahoda:
(Heh, and if culture means we get more festivals, I'm all for it!)
Columbina:
Hello, Jahoda.
Jahoda:
Whoa! Columbin— Uhh, hello, Moon Goddess!
Jahoda:
(That was too close! I almost gave the game away in front of the staff! ...Wait, what's the deal with her shoes? They don't make a sound when she walks! I could do with a pair of those...)
Columbina:
Do you like balloons too?
Jahoda:
Balloons? Oh... you mean those.
Jahoda:
(What's so fun about balloons? I'm not a kid anymore... They're probably more up Aino's alley.)
Columbina:
Yes. The animals seem very curious about these strange flying objects. I was drawn here by their voices.
Columbina:
I recently learned a fun new game you can play with balloons, so I decided to come and give it a try.
Jahoda:
A new game...?
Columbina:
Hello.
Reetta:
Ah, welcome home, Moon Goddess. Here to buy some balloons?
Columbina:
Yes. Could you give me a few that haven't been inflated yet?
Reetta:
Hmm? Are you sure? ...I guess it's not a problem, but...
Columbina:
Yes please. Thank you.
Jahoda:
(Uninflated balloons? But those are just... little rubber pouches. What does she want with those?)
Columbina:
Would you like to play the balloon game, Jahoda?
Jahoda:
Huh? Uh, sure, I guess? How do you play it...?
Columbina:
Wait here a moment.
Jahoda:
Oh...
Jahoda:
(Ugh... This is so weird. What have I gotten myself into now?)
The Knave:
Hmm? I thought I saw Columbina nearby.
Jahoda:
(Uh-oh! That's... The Fourth Harbinger! ...Although, she's helped us out quite a bit. She's good people, right?)
Jahoda:
(Is she looking for Columbina? Phew. Guess that's my ticket out of here. I'm not sure my heart can take being sandwiched between two Harbingers!)
The Knave:
...
Jahoda:
(Which stall is she checking out? Oh, it's that other Frostmoon Scions one — try on the headgear, see what it's like having antlers or animal ears for a day.)
Jahoda:
(I wouldn't be caught dead wearing that stuff... So embarrassing. I have enough gear to carry as it is...)
Jahoda:
(Wait, what!? She put it on!?)
The Knave:
(...How peculiar. This would take some getting used to... I wonder if this is what it's like for Lynette?)
Zirnytsia:
It really suits you, Ma'am.
Zirnytsia:
(What is this? She was so intimidating a moment ago, but now... Dang, she's really rockin' those ears! How does she make 'em look so cool?)
The Knave:
(Hmph... I suppose I may as well keep them on for now. All part of the festive experience.)
The Knave:
Hmm?
Jahoda:
(She's coming this way!)
The Knave:
How do you do, Miss Jahoda?
Jahoda:
(Oh geez, don't talk to me while wearing that thing! Where am I supposed to look!?)
Jahoda:
Oh, uh... Hey there.
The Knave:
I'm looking for Columbina. Have you seen her?
Jahoda:
Ah, sh—she, she just... Huh!?
Columbina:
Hehe.
Jahoda:
(W—W—Wait, is THAT what she meant by "balloon game"—)
Columbina:
...Hyah!
The Knave:
!
Jahoda:
...
Jahoda:
No fair, how come I get caught in the crossfire!?
The Knave:
An ambush from the rear? Is this a declaration of war, Columbina?
Columbina:
Would you like to play too, Arlecchino?
Jahoda:
(Seriously!? Are they gonna start some beef right here, right now?)
The Knave:
Gladly. That said, I believe there is another who would like to join.
Jahoda:
...! Boss! Boss Nef! Thank goodness! You've gotta get me outta here, things are kicking off big time!
Nefer:
Hello there. I'd like ten... No, make that twenty balloons, please. Uninflated.
Jahoda:
...Huh?
Nefer:
Miss Moon Goddess, I hope you're prepared to pay the price for assaulting my employee?
Columbina:
Haha. Welcome to the game, Nefer.
Nefer:
Just to be clear, let's keep this a fair fight, okay? No strange powers, please and thank you.
The Knave:
Naturally.
Nefer:
Hmm? Don't just stand there, Jahoda — aren't you going to team up with me?
Jahoda:
Huh? Do I have to?
Nefer:
Of course. Don't forget, the Curatorium has a reputation to uphold.
Jahoda:
...I knew something like this was gonna happen!
Enjoy "Moon-Prayer Night: Spirit Sugar Sculptures"
Kaarina:
...Sunny days! I prefer sunny days!
A Talking Magic Lamp (?):
Aw, well you are as warm as the sun itself, Moon Goddess.
A Talking Magic Lamp (?):
Very well, I believe your spirit animal has to be...
A Talking Magic Lamp (?):
...This most adorable Chic Badger.
Kaarina:
Wow! Thank you, Mister Talking Magic Lamp!
A Talking Magic Lamp (?):
Haha. Have a very happy festival, Moon Goddess.
Paimon:
Flins? That's you, isn't it?
Flins:
Shh. It's our little secret, my dear Путешественник and Paimon.
Paimon:
Uh... Okay, sure, but... Why are you here selling sugar sculptures?
Flins:
Everyone celebrates in their own way. After gazing into the Abyss and spending time around gravestones all year, what better way to relax than to see sunny smiles on the faces of the living?
Flins:
Besides that, I like to think of myself as a fair judge of character. I daresay matching personalities to confections suits me rather well.
Paimon:
That's not what Paimon was talking about! Aren't you afraid that your true identity might be exposed?
Flins:
Hmm? Should I be? There is all manner of magic in the air this Moon-Prayer Night, thanks to the work of the great mages.
Flins:
I see Miss Columbina is hiding in plain sight — why should I not do the same? Why miss this rare opportunity to enjoy a special evening in my true form?
Paimon:
Fair enough, you've got a point there. People who don't know you will probably think you're just a talking lantern.
Flins:
Haha... Well, now that we see eye to eye, what brings you here? Not a search for your spirit animal, I presume?
Paimon:
Ah, well actually... Here, see for yourself!
Flins:
Oh, this is... how wonderful. A beautiful idea.
Paimon:
Yeah. We just met Varka, and he said that having everyone draw their own section was kinda boring... so he did your bit for you.
Flins:
Haha... Ah, Varka. Ever the maverick. I see his artistic skills are... truly one of a kind.
Flins:
In that case, I shall paint something on Mr. Albedo's behalf in a short while.
Paimon:
What? Why not now?
Flins:
...Ahem. Welcome home, Moon Goddess.
Paimon:
(...! That was close...)
Columbina:
Hello, Flins.
Paimon:
...She recognized you right away!
Flins:
Haha, what keen eyes you have, Miss Columbina... Um, especially considering they are shut.
Columbina:
I did not see you. Rather, I sensed you. I can sense the fluctuations in kuuvahki all around me.
Flins:
One would expect no less of the Moon Goddess. Might I interest you in some candy?
Columbina:
Yes, please.
Flins:
Excellent, I shall make some for you right away.
Columbina:
...Hmm?
Flins:
Something the matter, Miss Columbina?
Columbina:
...What about my "spirit animal"? All the other children carrying sugar sculptures are talking about it.
Paimon:
(Wait, is she taking the test seriously?)
Flins:
Ah, my apologies. How could I neglect that?
Flins:
You are quite right, Miss Columbina. Every one of us has a magical creature living in their heart. Would you permit me to help you find yours?
Columbina:
Yes, please.
Flins:
...Do you prefer the day, or the night?
Columbina:
Night.
Flins:
Which of the four seasons is your favorite?
Columbina:
Winter.
Flins:
Think of a perfect day. What is the weather like? Sunny? Rainy? Or perhaps, cloudy?
Columbina:
Rainy in the morning, sunny at night.
Paimon:
(...What kind of answer is that!?)
Flins:
Forests, lakes, and open seas — which do you prefer of these?
Columbina:
I like them all.
Flins:
Imagine you opened your very own shop. What would you sell there?
Columbina:
Hmm... Moonlight, I think.
Paimon:
(Wow. Paimon would totally shop there.)
Traveler:
How much would it sell for?
Columbina:
It wouldn't cost anything. You'd just need to visit.
Flins:
Aha. I believe I know what your spirit animal is...
Flins:
Here. For you.
Paimon:
Ooh, it's a kuuhenki!
Flins:
Indeed. A free-spirited being with a deep love for all things here in Nod-Krai, who selflessly lends her aid to as many people as she can reach.
Flins:
It is the perfect fit for you, Miss Columbina.
Columbina:
Heh. Thank you.
Flins:
Haha. It would be my honor, Путешественник.
Flins:
But you shall have to forgive me. We have known each other for quite some time... I doubt there is any answer I could give that would come as a surprise to you.
Flins:
So, instead... would you accept this sugar sculpture as a token of our friendship?
Columbina:
It's a lantern...
Paimon:
Um... Heyyy, uh, why don't you two go enjoy your candy over there? Paimon wants to try out this "spirit animal" thing too! Right, Flins?
Paimon:
(C'mon, play ball, gotta get this drawing done!)
Columbina:
But I want to hear Paimon's answers...
Paimon:
Ah! But... it'll probably take ages! Paimon's a... complex soul! Uhh... And we don't want your candy to melt while you wait, huh?
Columbina:
Oh... Okay then.
Paimon:
Phew...
Flins:
Nice excuse, Lady Paimon. That was some quick thinking.
Paimon:
Yeah, no thanks to you! A little help next time?
Columbina:
...
Columbina:
(It's sweet... Is that... Lakkaberry? I wonder what flavor Путешественник got...)
Kaarina:
This way, this way! It's the candy-selling lantern!
Lemetti:
I'm coming!
Columbina:
(Ah! Of course...)
Columbina:
Путешественник, maybe we can share?
Traveler:
...Share?
Columbina:
Yes. I found out recently that people share their food sometimes, so I'd like to try it. Or... is that a no?
Columbina:
Thank you.
Columbina:
...
Columbina:
Hmm... Yours is a little more sour than mine. Here, you try it.
Columbina:
Are you sure?
Columbina:
Haha... Amazing...
Traveler:
What is?
Columbina:
My sugar sculpture has shrunk, yet my heart is filled with feelings of sweetness.
Columbina:
...I will remember this feeling.
Traveler:
Would you like another bite?
Columbina:
Sure.
Enjoy "Moon-Prayer Night: Wishing Slips"
Katya:
"I wish for a never-ending supply of Lakkaberries..."
Katya:
What a humble wish. Probably written by a child...
Katya:
Hmm? Is that Lauma the Moonchanter...?
Lauma:
...
Katya:
"I wish that the Longplume Ibises would stop biting me..."
Katya:
Oh dear. Poor Lauma...
Weasel Thief:
♪
Lauma:
Alright. I'll write that one down for you.
Forest-Patrol Hound:
~
Lauma:
Mm-hmm. I got it.
Columbina:
While everyone else is celebrating Moon-Prayer Night, you're as busy as ever...
Lauma:
I don't mind. It's rewarding work. A good kind of busy.
Lauma:
My antlers are at their heaviest tonight, and the kuuvahki waves are especially strong...
Lauma:
But as I help these dear friends hang their wishes up, I feel a great peace within myself that is hard to describe.
Lauma:
You see? They are all such beautiful wishes.
Lauma:
...And they are ones that we can fulfill by our own strength.
Columbina:
Do you blame me, Lauma? I want to hear your honest answer.
Columbina:
It is by the help of so many people that I can return to the moon... But I feel as though I've hardly done anything in return.
Lauma:
You've done plenty, Columbina.
Lauma:
I say this in earnest, both as someone who knows your history... and also as a friend, who has seen what you've been through.
Columbina:
What about as a Moonchanter?
Lauma:
Hah... I feel proud to honor our Moon Goddess's wish, and I'm sure any Moonchanter in history would have felt the same way.
Columbina:
Thank you for your kind words, Lauma.
Lauma:
But...
Columbina:
Hmm?
Lauma:
...Since you asked for my honesty, I won't lie to you. My feelings are mixed right now. Besides pride, I also feel...
Lauma:
I suppose it's... a reluctance to let go.
Lauma:
Once you return to the moon, we will be far apart, and separated by a false sky.
Lauma:
I'm sure those of us left behind will gaze up at that sky, yearning for the moon once in a while... just as you used to do.
Columbina:
I will miss you, Lauma. I will miss you all.
Lauma:
Hmm...
Columbina:
I hope to stay in touch. I will try and find some way to send messages down from the moon.
Lauma:
Perhaps you could use kuuvahki?
Lauma:
I've heard Jahoda say that signals can be sent using long and short waves, or strong and weak lights.
Columbina:
Hmm... That sounds a little complicated. What if we forget what the signals mean?
Lauma:
We could prepare a codebook beforehand, but... Heh, you're right. It wouldn't really suit you.
Lauma:
Still, whatever happens, I believe that you will find your own unique way of communicating with us.
Lauma:
And now that I think about that, my heart feels lighter.
Columbina:
Because you trust in me?
Lauma:
Yes, I have faith in you, and in the power of truth.
Lauma:
In my experience, the truth tends to be difficult. But that's what makes it stand out from what is false.
Lauma:
So, I'm confident that your thoughts and your love will shine through the curtain of lies. We will know it when we see it.
Columbina:
Thank you... Now, could you help me hang up my wish?
Lauma:
Is this...
Columbina:
I wish that all who dwell in this moonlit world can find a place to belong, and I wish that I shall one day see my friends again.
Columbina:
It's two wishes... I hope that's not too greedy of me?
Lauma:
Not at all. And I think you speak for us all with the second one.
Lauma:
I shall continue to pray until the day that all of these wishes come true.
Enjoy "Moon-Prayer Night: Tale Ring Saga"
Metta:
But I was aiming right at it...
Dori:
Ah, what a pity. I saw it with my own eyes — you were so close, so, so very close...
Metta:
That's not true! It dodged outta the way right as I was about to snag it!
Dori:
I'm sorry?
Metta:
You heard me! This paper frog can move! I swear!
Stream:
...
Dori:
Dear, oh dear. What are you saying? How could a paper frog move? Unless you believe there really is magic in this world?
Dori:
But even if I, the mere humble merchant that I am, knew such magic, surely I would not use it on a paper frog! I'd sooner give Mora legs, so it could walk right into my purse.
Dori:
My dear, dear customer... Why not have one more try, hmm? This time, I'll give you... 12% off! A very generous discount for one of my most regular customers!
Dori:
Just think about how much experience you have under your belt now! You're sure to win the next one!
Metta:
Um...
Metta:
Darn, I used up all my coins. I'll be right back — just gonna fetch some more from my house!
Dori:
Take your time! But, uh, don't take too long. This event is Moon-Prayer Night only. Miss it, and you'll have to wait a whole year before I'm back.
Dori:
Next customer, please. Welcome!
Columbina:
Hello.
Dori:
(Whoa, whoa, what's this bigwig doing over here!? Ugh, how do I tell my employees not to go running around this time... Shooting them a glance won't work — I haven't known them long enough!)
Columbina:
Dori?
Dori:
Why hello there, Miss Columbina. Would you like to play my ring-toss game? The rules are very simple, and it's easy to get the hang of...
Columbina:
How much for a round?
Dori:
Oh, first time's free! Not a single Mora! After that — well, we can cross that bridge if and when we come to it...
Dori:
But with your sharp eye— I mean, sharp skills, I'm sure you'll win all the prizes in one fell swoop!
Dori:
(That was an obvious enough hint for them, right? Right...?)
Columbina managed to get rings to land around most of the prizes...
Dori:
Let's see now, let's see...
Dori:
Wow, very good. That's the highest score we've had all night!
Dori:
And here's your prize. Now, how about another round? As for the cost...
Durin:
Happy Moon-Prayer Night, Miss Columbina.
Columbina:
Happy Moon-Prayer Night, Durin and Hat Guy. Are you here to play the game?
Durin & {REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
Yes.
No.
Durin:
...
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
...
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
You said we were just coming here to say hello...
Durin:
I did, but then I recognized a few more people as I got closer.
Stream:
(Do my eyes deceive me? Is that...?)
Padisarah:
(It's our little dragon! He's all grown up!)
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
Tsk... Someone's popular.
Dori:
Well now, since you came all this way, why don't you try out this lovely game we have going? First try is free!
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
He'll have a go. I'll pass.
Dori:
Uh... It's only one free try per customer, you can't give your try to him...
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
I'm aware.
Durin:
How has Elder Almond been lately?
Padisarah:
He's in great shape! He goes for a run in the forest every morning to stay fit and healthy.
Stream:
He tried to go boat racing with Firecracker a while back... But he couldn't even make it onto the lotus leaf. Firecracker was in fits of laughter...
Padisarah:
How about you, little dragon? Can you still fly?
Durin:
Yes, I can.
Padisarah:
But you've become less chatty. Has growing up been tough on you?
Stream:
We call that "maturity." You know, the thing people sing about!
Stream:
"The knight wields a sword of stone, to defend those hearts that are made of gold."
Stream:
Stone is very heavy. That's what keeps him from talking too much.
Padisarah:
That's awesome! I wanna be a knight when I grow up, too! Ring, here I come! Hah!
Wheel:
Ah, the hat-wearing man. I never thought I'd see you again. You seem more determined than when I saw you last on the train.
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
If you say so.
Wheel:
I do say so. The people you once helped see it clearly... it's because you are once again on the right track.
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
...
Wheel:
May the engine in our hearts propel us to the station of our dreams.
Esnoir:
I can move! I can move now, Rozel!
Dori:
(What are they doing, running into the rings like that...!?)
Dori:
You got them all so quickly...
Dori:
(I have never seen anything like this in all my travels. Is this guy actually an old friend of theirs?)
Dori:
(But how? They're origami animals and clockwork people from a fairy tale! Getting to know them would be quite an arduous task, unless... they share a hometown?)
Dori:
(Hmm... I have to get to the bottom of this. Next time I see the Great Mage Alice, I shall demand answers!)
Durin:
Thank you, Dori. I had a lot of fun.
Dori:
Heh, so... now for your prize... Hmm, where did I put it? Give me a moment to... dig it out...
Dori:
(Ohh, sweet grand prize... How I wish I didn't have to let you go!)
Dori:
(Good thing I've already turned a profit from the customers earlier in the night. Otherwise, I'd have wasted all my hard work...)
Metta:
Okay, *panting* I'm... I'm back!
Metta:
What!? ...I leave for two seconds and someone's already claimed the grand prize!?
Dori:
Ahaha, well, uh... Mm, these things happen, y'know? Perhaps you'd be interested in one of the other prizes instead? We've got all kinds of wonderful goodies here!
Metta:
Ugh...
Columbina:
Hmm... Is this the thing you wanted?
Columbina:
Here, you can have it.
Metta:
Huh? But...
Columbina:
Don't worry about it. It will be happier with you.
Metta:
Thanks so much, Miss! ...Uh, I mean — Moon Goddess!
Dori:
(Oh, goodness gracious, Columbina! Give me strength! How am I supposed to make any more money from this child at this rate!?)
Vesa:
Daddy, look! That's the game I was telling you about!
Dori:
(*sigh* Forget it. She is the Moon Goddess, after all... I'll think of some other way to swing this. Maybe I can try to hook this new kid...)
Vesa:
Huh? Oh... Someone already won the grand prize...
Durin:
...You can take mine if you want.
Dori:
What!?
Dori:
(Why, why, why? Why are all these bleeding hearts coming here to ruin my business!?)
Durin:
Happy Moon Prayer Night, everyone.
Columbina:
Happy Moon-Prayer Night.
Enjoy "Moon-Prayer Night: Dodoco's Whirly Gig"
Jacek:
Dodoco's Whirly Gig! Come check out Dodoco's Whirly Gig!
Jacek:
Ah, welcome home, Moon Goddess.
Columbina:
Might I ask what this is?
Jacek:
Ah, it's a very special amusement sponsored by the great mage herself! Ride on a soft and furry Dodoco, and embark on an unforgettable adventure!
Jacek:
(I say that, but I'm just following a script, here... Who is this mage, anyway? And what the heck's a Dodoco?)
Columbina:
I'd like to ride.
Jacek:
No problem. But, uh... are you by yourself?
Columbina:
Is that not okay?
Jacek:
Oh, no, it's fine. It's just that each Dodoco can accommodate two passengers. Would you like to bring a friend along?
Columbina:
My friends...
Columbina:
...!
Paimon:
...That should do it. Now we just need to get everyone else to draw something on it too.
Paimon:
But we gotta keep it a secret from Columbina...
Columbina:
...Путешественник.
Paimon:
...!
Traveler:
Um, yes?
Columbina:
I want to go on that ride. Will you join me?
Traveler:
(A spinning Dodoco? Ah, I see. It's a ride for two.)
Traveler:
Sure.
Columbina:
Let's go, then.
Traveler:
Uh, one moment!
Paimon:
(...Don't worry! Paimon will do the rounds. You go have fun!)
Traveler:
(Thanks, Paimon!)
Columbina:
Hmm...?
Columbina:
Alright. I think we have to wait in line over there...
Jacek:
Please take your seats. For safety reasons, you mustn't try to leave the ride before it comes to a complete stop.
Jacek:
Alright, you're all set! I wish you both a wonderful journey!
Traveler:
(You can always rely on Alice for weird and wonderful gadgets...)
Columbina:
...
Traveler:
What did you think?
Columbina:
Not bad... It reminds me of riding a Moonlane.
Columbina:
Sometimes, the kuuhenki circle around me like this, playing their beautiful melodies.
Traveler:
Aw. That sounds so sweet.
Columbina:
Yeah. I'm going to miss them.
Traveler:
(...)
Traveler:
(I wonder what Columbina will find on the moon? ...Perhaps even she doesn't know...)
Traveler:
Does it... scare you at all?
Columbina:
...It does.
Traveler:
...
Columbina:
I've felt scared in the past, too. But this is a little different.
Columbina:
...You know something? I got to see a lot of fascinating things during my "disappearance."
Columbina:
I saw how the Frostmoon Scions act around their families... so different than how they used to act in my presence. And I also saw how they interact with their friends.
Columbina:
It made me curious at first. Why do people act so sincere when they're worshiping gods, but save their truest, warmest feelings for each other?
Columbina:
Slowly, I came to realize that... it's because they trust one another. They know, deep down, that they'll be accepted for who they are — all of it, the good and the bad.
Traveler:
Your friends accept all of you, too.
Columbina:
I know. I knew it the moment you started calling out my name.
Columbina:
What I fear now is the end... I fear losing all this the very night I have gained it.
Traveler:
You won't lose us...
Columbina:
Hmm...?
Columbina:
...
Columbina:
Thank you for this conversation... Thank you for listening to me.
Columbina:
Don't worry. This fear I have, and the unknown that awaits me — they cannot hurt me. Not when I possess a treasure far greater.
Columbina:
I just... want you to remember this version of me, the real me, on this final night together.
Jacek:
Dear passengers, Dodoco's awesome adventure has come to a close. Please leave in an orderly fashion, and we look forward to seeing you again in the future!
Jacek:
...Hmm? Don't want the journey to end, huh?
Jacek:
Don't worry, you two. There's always another adventure waiting just around the corner.
Enjoy "Moon-Prayer Night: Dodoco's Boom-Bastic Holiday"
Columbina:
A soft and furry creature that bounces and jumps...
Mischievous Dodoco:
Welcome home, Moon Goddess.
Columbina:
Ah, this one talks, too...
Mischievous Dodoco:
Ahem. Allow me to introduce myself. I am a Dodoco from a distant archipelago — the most mischievous of all my Dodo-brothers and Dodo-sisters!
Mischievous Dodoco:
When the going got tough, I powered through, and when I met obstacles, I boomed them away!
Columbina:
That sounds like a lot of fun.
Mischievous Dodoco:
Doesn't it just! Ah, but then the trouble started.
Mischievous Dodoco:
Recently, I found a lovely beach, the same, beautiful jelly color as my hometown, and so I dove in to have a look...
Mischievous Dodoco:
Only to find it overgrown with seagrass, and nasty little Spikey Fish everywhere, looking to turn me into a Dodoco kebab...
Mischievous Dodoco:
I made it back to shore by the skin of my teeth, but my tail tail was sorely hurt!
Columbina:
Couldn't you just... boom them away?
Mischievous Dodoco:
Oh, I wanted to, believe me! But I've heard that you, Moon Goddess, can understand animal-speech.
Mischievous Dodoco:
The last thing I wanted was cause a gigantic fuss and get taken to court by a school of Spikey Fish. I'd be driven out of these waters for good! And my winter holiday would be ruined!
Mischievous Dodoco:
And so, dear Moon Goddess, I was wondering if you might lend me your allegiance...
Columbina:
Are you roping me into a crime?
Mischievous Dodoco:
Ahaha! Let's call it a once-in-a-lifetime, carefree adventure. Does that sound better?
Columbina:
...
Alice:
All the festival-goers tonight are dressed up as the Moon Goddess. But there's nothing to say that the Moon Goddess can't disguise herself as a Dodoco, is there?
Alice:
Besides, this is your home. You should be free to be whoever you wish.
Columbina:
I'm afraid I'm not well acquainted with Dodocos, Madame Mage...
Alice:
Oh, that's quite alright! We Dodocos are innocent, happy creatures with a free-spirited nature.
Alice:
Many, like myself, are mischievous troublemakers. Others are lazy souls who like nothing better than to lie down on a nice rock and take a nap.
Alice:
In our eyes, every creature who yearns for happiness and freedom is a Dodoco!
Alice:
But perhaps in yours, we Dodoco are... a fluffier and more mischievous breed of kuuhenki?
Kuuhenki:
?
Columbina:
Yes, that is a much easier image to follow.
Alice:
Wonderful! Then let's play. Grab onto my tail tail, and follow me into the sea! Time to settle some scores with the bad guys!
Alice:
Remarkable talent!
Columbina has successfully cleared the mini-game: Dodoco's Boom-Bastic Holiday.
Alice:
So, what do you make of it?
Columbina:
The use of Jumpy Dumpties doesn't come as naturally to me as kuuvahki. But their unpredictability makes it fun.
Columbina:
I think they call this... novelty?
Alice:
Indeed! And how did it feel, blowing those pesky nuisances away?
Columbina:
Not bad.
Alice:
Any guilt?
Columbina:
Hmm? What do you mean?
Alice:
Wonderful! Lovely answers to all three questions. You've passed the safety test! Now, I can give this special bomb to you as a souvenir.
Alice:
Remember, if you find any meanies living on the moon, you can use this to boom them into oblivion!
Columbina:
I will.
Enjoy "Moon-Prayer Night: Bing-Bang Dodoco"
Varka:
...I wouldn't say it's "unfair," exactly.
Varka:
I mean, your voice goes right into peoples' heads. How would you explain that to the kids?
Varka:
You can't just explain it away as magic...
Columbina:
Is something the matter?
Varka:
Ah, Miss Columbina! No, nothing you need to worry yourself about...
Nicole:
Ah, impeccable timing! Stick around for a second, Miss Columbina. I need your input on something.
Nicole:
This self-proclaimed knight of justice has yet to give me a satisfactory answer. I, for one, would like to hear your verdict on the matter.
Varka:
Ahem... Hey now, I left The Flagship just to help you out, Ms. Nicole...
Columbina:
What's going on?
Nicole:
So, Alice and I are both using long-range remote control spells that work on similar principles, allowing us to attend this festive fair in Dodoco form...
Nicole:
Sorry, let me backtrack a little — while similar, there are some key differences.
Nicole:
Alice, being a great mage, wanted her Dodoco to reflect something of her own charm and mystique, so she adjusted the way its tail moves when it spins around.
Nicole:
An entirely gratuitous move, in my opinion. I hardly see how anyone is going to notice that.
Nicole:
If anything, I'd say that anyone who stares intently enough at a Dodoco's tail to notice such a small detail is someone we ought to be highly concerned about.
Nicole:
I only say this to emphasize that my question has nothing to do with tails. Now that we're clear on that... Why is Alice's Dodoco permitted to interact directly with the children celebrating Moon-Prayer Night, while mine is not?
Columbina:
Your voice speaks directly into people's minds...
Varka:
See? Exactly what I said.
Nicole:
...
Varka:
Ms. Nicole?
Nicole:
Ugh... I can't stand it!
Nicole:
I know, that probably makes me sound like a whiny child acting out in front of their parents... hmm, and it's a little embarrassing now that I think about it...
Nicole:
But hey, I've said it now. I can't take it back — that would be even more embarrassing!
Nicole:
...Also, don't go reading too much into that analogy. It was off the top of my head. I'm actually an awful lot older than either of you...
Columbina:
Ms. Nicole, are you saying that you'd like someone to play the game you've prepared?
Nicole:
Eh, I'm not so invested in that. It's just something cobbled together using items I borrowed from Alice. She probably didn't even make them herself.
Nicole:
The point is, I want to know everyone's thoughts after they receive their prizes! But as you've said, I can't just ask...
Nicole:
I've been biting my lip for so long! And I've had no one to vent my frustrations on.
Nicole:
*sigh* I thought this was going to be a nice, straightforward festival where I'd get the chance to guide people to treasure...
Columbina:
Well, can I play? I can't guarantee that I'll win a prize, but...
Nicole:
You will?
Columbina:
I'd like to try.
Nicole:
Then what are we waiting for? Let the game begin!
Varka:
(...It's like they forgot I was ever here. Hahaha.)
Columbina has successfully cleared the mini-game: Bing-Bang Dodoco (Miss Nicole's Special Edition)
Nicole:
Congratulations, Miss Columbina! With your great wisdom, you have overcome every obstacle in your path and conquered the great challenge posed to you by Fate.
Columbina:
Fate?
Nicole:
Well, something to that effect. If you'd prefer something more poetic, it could be... "the icy winds," or "the dawn"... anything you like, really.
Nicole:
...You could even go with "the challenge posed to you by Dodoco," if that's what you're into. Anyway, you can take or leave my suggestions. Moving on...
Nicole:
All my hopes are now resting on this.
Columbina:
Can I... open it now?
Nicole:
Stop teasing me! Please, I'm begging you — no more talk, just open it.
Columbina:
...
Columbina:
Wow... What a lovely sculpture. Classic and cute at the same time... Thank you, Ms. Nicole. I'll always treasure it.
Nicole:
Ahhhh, there we go... Music to my ears...
Nicole:
You have my sincerest gratitude, Miss Columbina.
Nicole:
Thank you for sharing your precious time with me and fulfilling my wish.
Columbina:
Don't mention it.
Columbina:
You've all done much to help me, and still I'm the one receiving all these gifts...
Enjoy "Moon-Prayer Night: Lunar Oracle"
Barbeloth:
Welcome home, Moon Goddess.
Barbeloth:
Oh? You're the genuine article. Alice was right. This Moon-Prayer Night was worth watching after all.
Columbina:
Another one that talks...
Barbeloth:
Greetings, pleased to make your acquaintance. I am the Hexenzirkel member they call "B" — Barbeloth Trismegistus.
Columbina:
Columbina Hyposelenia. Pleased to meet you too.
Barbeloth:
Hyposelenia... Mm, a fine name indeed.
Barbeloth:
Now then, Miss Columbina... Do you wish to hear a mage's divination?
Columbina:
Divination... The Frostmoon Scions used to ask me what would happen in the future. Is this like that?
Barbeloth:
From the perspective of the one seeking answers, perhaps.
Barbeloth:
As you look to your journey ahead, if you seek to understand the unknown, resolve your doubts, and soothe the confusion in your heart... Divination could be for you.
Columbina:
The unknowns on my journey...
Barbeloth:
Of course, if one wishes to peer into "fate," then hydromancy is the more precise option.
Barbeloth:
But that is a complex affair, and to relegate that majestic art to the status of a festive amusement would seem somewhat uncouth. Besides... it is sometimes better to not know "fate" with great certainty.
Barbeloth:
Hence, I shall use the suitably festive Lunar Arcana to tell your fortune instead. It is more popular with the youth in any case.
Columbina:
Lunar Arcana...
Barbeloth:
Indeed. Unlike hydromancy, this will only display possibilities and trends.
Barbeloth:
People like think of themselves as creatures of agency and free will. Peering too far and too clearly into the future is detrimental to both body and soul.
Columbina:
I'd like to give it a try.
Barbeloth:
Of course you may. Come then. Take a seat, Miss Columbina.
Barbeloth:
Before we begin... Are there any specific questions you would like to ask?
Columbina:
Hmm... Let's stick to general possibilities and trends, like you suggested.
Barbeloth:
Ah, very well. Then I shall use the basic Lunar Arcana deck.
Barbeloth:
Now, try to relax. Cast your mind upon the things you have experienced, and the things you are soon to experience. I will shuffle the deck.
Columbina:
...
Barbeloth:
Would you like to the cut the cards yourself?
Columbina:
...You do it.
Barbeloth:
No problem. Now then, to make things easier for the seeker — that is to say, you — I shall decipher the cards from your perspective.
Columbina listened to the divination of the witch Barbeloth "B" Trismegistus.
Barbeloth:
Please, draw the first Lunar Arcana. This represents "destiny," and is the foundation for the divination as a whole.
Columbina:
...
Barbeloth:
Now, draw your second card. This will stand for the "past," the sum of all your experiences that have come before.
Barbeloth:
And now the third Arcana. This is the "present," your interpretation of the current moment.
Barbeloth:
Finally, the last card. This shall speak of the "future," which... Oh?
Columbina:
Hmm? A... kuuvahki pulse?
Barbeloth:
Fascinating. I've never encountered this before in my role as a diviner. Something has exerted an influence upon this card, causing it to leave its designated position.
Columbina:
...
Barbeloth:
What do you make of this, Miss Columbina? Perhaps this is the guiding hand of fate in action.
Barbeloth:
Of course, if you wish, you can choose to deny the validity of this card and draw the "future" for yourself.
Columbina:
...No, it's fine. Let's go with this one.
Barbeloth:
A bold decision. I must say, I'm looking forward to the results.
Barbeloth:
Well then. Let us flip the Lunar Arcana in sequence, and see what emerges.
Columbina:
Sure.
Barbeloth:
First, "destiny." Ah, no surprises here. The card that represents yours is "The Moon."
Columbina:
The Moon...
Barbeloth:
Indeed. The moon can represent the truth at some times, but deception at others. False peace, destructive calamity, and the world-changing power that lies within.
Barbeloth:
When the Moon is placed on the destiny tile, it indicates that your destiny is not what it may appear on the surface. Instead, it may yet have a hidden side.
Barbeloth:
It symbolizes a journey through the fog, fraught with uncertainty and deception, where one must face inner challenges head on.
Columbina:
I don't understand...
Barbeloth:
Haha, patience, my dear. This is but the first card, which serves as a basis for the interpretations that follow. Our divination will only grow clearer from here on out.
Barbeloth:
Now then. Flip the second card, the one that speaks for the "past."
Columbina:
...
Barbeloth:
Ah, "The Hermit"... but inverted.
Columbina:
Inverted?
Barbeloth:
Yes. "The Hermit" symbolizes solitude, introspection, and the pursuit of truth. When inverted, it represents isolation, truth out of reach, and a path that leads one astray.
Barbeloth:
Combined with "The Moon" as one's destiny, "The Hermit" inverted represents...
Barbeloth:
A choice you made to stand alone in the past. It was a choice made not out of fear or arrogance, but for reasons that others could not perceive.
Barbeloth:
You fumbled through the darkness without a guide. But you did not find your way... rather, you went astray — more than once, it would seem.
Columbina:
(Is this about how I became Kuutar despite not wishing to become a god? And how I joined the Fatui because I yearned for a place to belong?)
Barbeloth:
I suspect only you know the answer to this question.
Barbeloth:
All is not lost. The past is in the past, and so shall it remain. Shall we look into the "present" now?
Barbeloth:
Oh my, "The Lovers." One of the most interesting Lunar Arcana.
Columbina:
What does this one mean?
Barbeloth:
This means that you have had an unprecedented emotional experience. The joy of finding your soul becoming intertwined with that of another... A precious and wonderful thing indeed.
Columbina:
It's true. I've made a lot of friends recently, and they are very good to me. I like them a lot.
Barbeloth:
That sounds lovely. I am most delighted for you. "The Lovers" can also represent important decisions, perhaps related to a parting of ways. Now, if I were to guess...
Columbina:
Yes... My return to the moon...
Barbeloth:
I understand. Parting with friends is never easy, Columbina.
Barbeloth:
But rest assured, this is not the end of your journey. There is always another story waiting to be told. The "future" always lies ahead.
Columbina:
The "future"...
Barbeloth:
Hehe. Well now, it's finally time to flip this most mysterious of cards. Why did it appear? And what does it wish to tell you?
Columbina:
I'm ready.
Barbeloth:
Very well. Flip this card and see what lies on the other side...
Barbeloth:
Oh...
Columbina:
Miss Barbeloth? What is it?
Barbeloth:
...This card is "Death."
Columbina:
...
Columbina:
That doesn't sound very good.
Barbeloth:
It depends on how we interpret it.
Barbeloth:
It is true that it can represent an agonizing death, a complete and utter end. But at the same time, it can also represent rebirth.
Barbeloth:
Do not forget that your destiny card is "The Moon." That lends your future many different potential meanings.
Columbina:
If death spells the end... is it unavoidable?
Barbeloth:
As I have said, divination can only display general trends. It is a rough guide, but it does not show predetermined outcomes.
Barbeloth:
Allow me to summarize it for you.
Barbeloth:
In the past, you may have lost your way, but now, you have gained new connections and new strength.
Barbeloth:
You now face an important decision, one that may bring about a great change in what is yet to be.
Barbeloth:
This change might, in turn, be the end of all things... or their beginning.
Barbeloth:
But remember, everything is subject to change because of "The Moon" present in your destiny. You must see the truth clearly and face your innermost thoughts.
Columbina:
The truth... my innermost thoughts...
Columbina:
Thank you, Miss Barbeloth.
Barbeloth:
Don't mention it. Some people dislike divinations, for fear of glimpsing an ending to their story that they wish was not so.
Barbeloth:
But I can see that you're different. The result of this divination will not sway your decision.
Barbeloth:
This is a rare quality, and one that diviners always hope to see in the seeker. We are here merely to guide, not to exert undue influence.
Columbina:
I understand.
Barbeloth:
Go then, and illuminate your future, Miss Columbina. The moonlight that shines from you now is most captivating.
Enjoy "Moon-Prayer Night: Bitey the Frostfin Whale"
Marionette:
Well, well, look who it is? I heard someone went and disappeared on us the moment we let her out of our sight. They looked all over for you.
Marionette:
Frankly, I didn't think you'd be back for Moon-Prayer Night.
Columbina:
Were you worried about me, Sandrone?
Marionette:
Hah! You'd like that, wouldn't you? Do you even hear what you're saying?
Columbina:
It seems to me like you disguised yourself with festive headgear, just so that you could come see me on Moon-Prayer Night and make sure I'm okay. You didn't even bring Pulonia with you.
Marionette:
You...! I thought you couldn't see!?
Columbina:
I cannot, but I sense the confusion of those around us rippling through the kuuvahki currents.
Columbina:
Based on what I know about you, let me guess what you're wearing. Is it... cat ears?
Marionette:
Shut up! I'm only here to protect the Fatui's interests in this territory. Running into you was pure bad luck!
Columbina:
Really? But you were the one who asked Arlecchino to help everyone find my name...
Marionette:
Columbinaaaa! Just ONE more word, and I'll unscrew your vocal cords!
Columbina:
It's "Columbina Hyposelenia" now.
Marionette:
Tell someone who cares!
Columbina:
I've missed you, Sandrone. The whole time I was gone, I was thinking...
Marionette:
...
Columbina:
...I hope I get a chance to say some ugly words to you.
Marionette:
...Is that supposed to be a joke?
Columbina:
Anyway — let's go play that game.
Marionette:
What? You mean that Frostfin Whale?
Columbina:
Yes. It's some kind of game where you get bitten if you step on the wrong tooth. Seems like fun.
Marionette:
Who in their right mind would wanna—
Columbina:
...Because you're not a scaredy-cat?
Marionette:
Ugh...
Marionette:
Gah! Fine! You wanna play, let's play! Don't complain when I kick your sorry butt!
Columbina:
Lovely. Ah...
Koski:
You old geezer! I'm gonna beat the pants off you, just you watch!
Columbina:
Hehe, I almost forgot. Sandrone?
Marionette:
Mmm? What is it now?
Columbina:
You'd better not lose, or I'm going to beat your head in.
Marionette:
...What!?
The tooth that Marionette stepped on made a peculiar sound...
Marionette:
Ah! Argh!!!
Columbina:
I think you might have picked a bad tooth, Sandrone.
Marionette:
Shut it!
Columbina:
Do you need any help? It seems like you're stuck.
Marionette:
No!
Marionette:
It's just a blasted... toy... How is its grip this strong!?
Columbina:
Haha...
Marionette:
Stop laughing!
Columbina:
Alright. Well, you lost, so just like I promised...
Marionette:
H—Hey! What are you doing!? Are you seriously—
Columbina:
...Hyah!
Marionette:
Gah! Why, you— Just you wait!
Marionette:
Rematch!
Columbina:
Are you alright, Sandrone? That was quite a strong bite. Are your clockwork parts...
Marionette:
Quit your fussing. I don't need it!
Columbina:
Alright. I'll go first this time.
Marionette:
(I see it now. She can sense which teeth are rigged.)
Marionette:
(So I just need to avoid the same ones that she does.)
Columbina:
This one... Hmm, seems fine.
Marionette:
(She avoided that one, then? Hmph, now I've got you.)
Marionette:
Alright. My turn.
Marionette:
...
Marionette:
...What!?
Columbina:
Looks like you lost again, Sandrone.
Marionette:
Wait... There's more than one bad tooth!?
Columbina:
...Bonk.
Marionette:
Stupid game! What idiot came up with this!?
In yet another round, Marionette once again stepped on a broken tooth...
Columbina:
Are you alright, Sandrone? You said some nasty things just now.
Marionette:
Oh, I'm peachy.
Columbina:
Should I let you bonk me on the head as well?
Marionette:
Forget it!
Columbina:
Come on, bonk away. It can be your consolation prize. For losing so badly.
Marionette:
I told you, forget it!
Marionette:
Gah, you've always been so annoying...
Marionette:
Singing right outside my door, inviting yourself to my tea parties, going AWOL... and now you're off to the moon, or something!
Columbina:
...
Columbina:
Of all my days with the Fatui... The times I spent with you, Arlecchino, and Rosalyne... They were my favorite.
Columbina:
I will not forget them, just as I shall not forget this moment.
Marionette:
...
Columbina:
We'll always be friends, no matter where we are, right?
Marionette:
Who'd want to be your...
Columbina:
I'll miss you, Sandrone.
Marionette:
...
Columbina:
...Goodbye, Sandrone.
Marionette:
I'll... miss you too... Columbina...
Paimon:
Sorry? What was that?
Marionette:
Waah!
Paimon:
Waaah! Yeesh, no need to freak out... What's wrong? We've been looking everywhere for you.
Marionette:
What do you want!?
Paimon:
...Whoa, nice ears...
Marionette:
What... do... you... WANT!?
Paimon:
Uh, uh... th—this...
Marionette:
...Huh?
Paimon:
It's your turn to draw something. You're one of her friends too, aren't you?
Marionette:
...
Marionette:
Hmph. Doesn't know how lucky she is...
Paimon:
...Sorry?
Marionette:
Nothing. I'm done. Take it.
Paimon:
That was fast!
Paimon:
Oh, and one more thing.
Paimon:
Last time we spoke, you mentioned you were interested in the Narzissenkreuz Ordo's research. Remember? There were too many people when we last met, so we didn't get the chance to do this.
Marionette:
What are you talking about?
Traveler:
We'd like you have a look at this...
Marionette:
This is— Oh... Alain, Rene... and Mary-Ann...
Traveler:
And this.
Marionette:
Huh... The Holy Blade... A savior's plaything.
Traveler:
You don't approve of their goals?
Marionette:
It's not about whether I approve or not.
Marionette:
These people... They would sacrifice themselves for the sake of the world — especially Alain Guillotin and Rene.
Marionette:
That is something I would never choose to do.
Marionette:
Still... Heh. I didn't know they had any pictures left from that time.
Marionette:
If I'd thought to bring a Kamera, I'd have...
Traveler:
It's okay. We snapped a photo.
Marionette:
...What!?
Paimon:
Yeah, of you being bitten by the Frostfin Whale, and Columbina bonking you on the head.
Marionette:
Tear it up! NOW!!!
Enjoy "Moon-Prayer Night: Kuuhenki Concentration"
Aino:
This doesn't make any sense! How am I losing every single time!? ...Wait, Ineffa! You're cheating, aren't you? Yeah, that must be it!
Ineffa:
I am not cheating, Aino.
Aino:
Uh-oh, sounds like Ineffa's turned into a big baloney-bot! I think it's time for some serious maintenance!
Ineffa:
Ah. Moon Goddess. Help me...
Columbina:
Hmm?
Ineffa:
Miss Columbina, Aino is attempting to cheat—
Aino:
What the...!? I'm not the cheater, you're the cheater! How dare you throw it back at me!
Columbina:
Pfft... Hehehe.
Aino:
...Alright, fine! Let's all laugh at Aino! Just wait till I get home, 'cause I'm gonna make a game bot that can win one hundred percent of the time!
Aino:
Let's see you laugh when I come back and beat your butts! Hmph, you'll all have your heads covered in stickers when I'm through with you!
Paimon:
We came to check everything was okay after all that yelling... But, uh...
Paimon:
Pfft... hahaha!
Traveler:
What are you playing?
Columbina:
Whatever it is, it sounds like cheating is allowed.
Ineffa:
Kuuhenki Concentration.
Ineffa:
Each player starts with differently colored kuuhenki. Each round, they draw one kuuhenki from their opponent.
Ineffa:
When a player has two kuuhenki of the same color, they make a pair and can be discarded. Any that can't form a pair must be kept.
Ineffa:
The round ends when a player can't form any more kuuhenki pairs, and that player gets a sticker.
Luonnotar:
!
Paimon:
Ooh! Can four people play as well?
Ineffa:
That is fine, so long as the turn order is fixed beforehand.
Paimon:
Alrighty then! In that case, the two of us will join as one team!
Aino:
Okay... but if you lose, you're both getting stickered! I don't wanna hear any excuses.
Paimon:
Sure. And if we win?
Aino:
If you win... only one of you gets to sticker someone else.
Ineffa:
I have taken to calling this "Aino logic."
Aino:
Hey, lay off me, alright? Okay, so we're starting the game from scratch again, which means all my stickers so far don't count!
Paimon:
Looks like Luonnotar is the Kuuhenki of honor for this game. Anyway, let's go clockwise, starting from Ineffa.
Despite playing many, many rounds of "Kuuhenki Concentration," Ineffa was the only one who wasn't covered in stickers...
Aino:
Let me pick a good one... Hmm, what's it gonna be...
Paimon:
You're looking very pleased with yourself there... What happened to being a huge grumposaurus?
Aino:
Hmph, I won. Duh.
Aino:
Argh! Me again!?
Ineffa:
Don't fidget too much, Aino, or the sticker's going to fall off.
Aino:
I don't care! If it falls off, it falls off!
Aino:
If a pair of kuuhenki get discarded, why not a pair of stickers, huh? Huh?
Columbina:
I've lost.
Luonnotar:
!
Aino:
Sticker! Sticker! Sticker!
Columbina:
Hmm...
Aino:
Cute!
Columbina:
You think so? Shame, I can't see it for myself.
Luonnotar:
!
Columbina:
Uhhh...
Paimon:
What did Luonnotar say?
Columbina:
She said it looks so cute that she wants me to lose a few more rounds...
After many more rounds, everyone's heads are covered in stickers...
Except for one...
Paimon:
Who put these stickers on Paimon's eyebrows? Ugh... She can barely see...
Aino:
Alright, now I think we've got enough evidence to prove that there's a serious problem here!
Traveler:
Agreed.
Luonnotar:
?
Columbina:
Yes. I agree as well.
Aino:
The culprit is... Ineffa!
Ineffa:
Culprit? What did I do?
Aino:
Quit acting dumb, Ineffa! You're not wriggling your way outta this one. I've been watching you!
Aino:
Not only did you remember whose side Luonnotar started at, but every time someone drew a kuuhenki, you were logging it and calculating every last possibility...
Aino:
Which kuuhenki pairs were gone, who had what color kuuhenki in their hand, even our facial expressions... You were keeping track of it the entire time!
Paimon:
Exactly! What Aino said!
Ineffa:
Putting aside the fact that running calculations is not against the game rules... Do you have any evidence to support your allegations?
Traveler:
The evidence is...
Traveler:
Your eyes were shining!
Ineffa:
But that's not against the rules, either...
Aino:
So, she admits it!
Columbina:
She certainly does.
Aino:
Alright, everyone grab a sticker! It's time to get Ineffa back!
Ineffa:
But—
Paimon:
Take that!
Enjoy "Moon-Prayer Night: Hundred-Flavored Moon-Prayer Candy"
Limppu:
Moon-Prayer Candy! Beautiful, tasty Moon-Prayer Candy! Buy a whole box, share it with your friends and family!
Columbina:
(Candy... to share? ...Hmm, I wonder what flavors everyone would like...)
Limppu:
Welcome home, Moon Goddess! Fancy a box of Moon-Prayer Candy?
Columbina:
Sure.
Limppu:
I knew you would! Now, what flavor would you like?
Columbina:
I'm not sure... what flavors do you have?
Limppu:
Is this for yourself, or as a gift?
Columbina:
A gift for my friends.
Limppu:
Ah, I see. In that case, I'd recommend Apple, Lakkaberry , or Midsommar Berry. Those are the most popular.
Columbina:
Do you have Nocturnal Blossom flavor?
Limppu:
Huh. I've seen couples give those as gifts before, but I did not know they were edible...
Columbina:
No? Okay, then... Moonfall Silver?
Limppu:
Uhhh... You did say this was for friends, right?
Columbina:
Um... Maybe Smetana, then?
Limppu:
Hey, now that's a creative idea... I've never tried it before, but if you're happy to wait, I can see about whipping up a batch on the spot.
Limppu:
While we're at it... you got any other ideas?
Green grass. Krumkake. Extra-strong coffee. Columbina describes the flavors that come to mind.
The scent of exotic candy soon draws over the nearby children, who excited form a line. Before long, everyone is brainstorming new ideas for flavors...
Smoked Fish Steak. Berries and Fried Meat. Rain-soaked Moon-Prayer Blossom.
The stall owner, peppered with expectant gazes on every side, lets his courage soar free, and colorful candies are placed in the box one after another.
Limppu:
Here you go. Every flavor you asked for is in there!
Columbina:
Thank you.
Limppu:
Haha, I should be the one thanking you! You brought me a whole bunch of new business! Hehe, it's like a genuine blessing from the Moon Goddess!
Limppu:
I hope you and your friends have a lovely night.
Continue enjoying Moon-Prayer Night, or talk to Paimon
Columbina:
Путешественник.
Paimon:
Hey there, Columbina! Are you done checking out the festive amusements already?
Paimon:
Are you sure you don't wanna look around some more? You might not get another opportunity like this for a while...
Columbina:
...
Columbina:
(Right now, what I'd like to do is...)
Columbina:
You're right... I'm not ready for this night to end just yet.
Paimon:
Yeah, that's the spirit! Take your time, Columbina. The most important thing is to have no regrets!
Paimon:
We'll be right here if you need us!
Columbina:
Okay, thank you.
Continue enjoying Moon-Prayer Night, or talk to Paimon
Columbina:
This was the most fun I've ever had on a Moon-Prayer Night.
Columbina:
Everywhere I went, people were saying "welcome home." And there were friends at every turn.
Columbina:
I only wish it could last longer than one night.
Paimon:
Oh...
Traveler:
Your friends will always be here.
Columbina:
Yes. You're right. I...
Columbina:
Ah, the Moon-Prayer Blossoms...
Kaarina:
Ooh, look, look!
Lemetti:
Moon-Prayer Night is here!
Reetta:
The moon... It's so beautiful...
Domovoj:
Happy Moon-Prayer Night, dear.
Lyylikki:
Happy Moon-Prayer Night!
Kantor:
Happy Moon-Prayer Night.
Lauma:
...
Aino:
...
Jahoda:
...
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
...
The Knave:
...
Marionette:
Hmph...
Alice:
Time flies when you're having fun...
Nicole:
Hmm...
Paimon:
...
Columbina:
Looks like the time has come.
Lauma:
Columbina...
The Knave:
You'll be... heading off now?
Columbina:
Yes... To the ruins you mentioned. And from there... back home to the moon.
Aino:
...Wait!
Paimon:
Aino?
Aino:
At least... at least...!
Ineffa:
Take one of our Craftshop's krumkakes up to the moon with you... Y'know, for a snack!
Columbina:
Haha... Sure. Why not?
Nefer:
The Curatorium of Secrets believes in proper farewells. No story should be left without a satisfactory end note.
Lauma:
Nefer...
Flins:
Farewells are an important affair for the Ratniki, too. We never know when we might meet again.
Varka:
Haha... And here I thought grand farewells wouldn't suit tonight's mood. But I suppose friendly passion is not to be stopped, eh?
Columbina:
...
Paimon:
Hehe, we made a little something for you, Columbina!
Paimon:
Tada!
Columbina:
What is it?
Paimon:
A Moon-Prayer Night greeting card — with drawings by all of your friends.
Albedo:
You did mention that you'd like a portrait done, so I took the liberty of creating one for you.
Flins:
I, meanwhile, did the portrait of Mr. Albedo, and Mr. Varka did the same for me.
Varka:
I mean, I think my work was pretty true to life, don't you think?
Nefer:
The picture of Ashru was my doing. The two of you seemed to get along rather well.
Jahoda:
Wait, was I the only one who did a full-body picture? Ugh... That's so embarrassing...
Aino:
I did the pictures of me and Ineffa!
Durin:
I did my own portrait and one for Hat Guy.
Paimon:
Plus, there's the two mages, Arlecchino, and Sandrone... So if you ever miss us, just flip the card open, and we'll all be right there with ya!
Columbina:
...
Columbina:
I don't know what to say... Thank you so much, everyone... This whole Moon-Prayer Night was more than I could've ever asked for... It is the greatest gift I have ever received.
Columbina:
Ah! Lauma. I've figured it out.
Lauma:
Hmm? Figured what out...?
Columbina:
Remember how the Frostmoon Scions used to use milk as invisible ink to write hidden messages?
Lauma:
That was a very long time ago... Oh! Are you saying...?
Columbina:
Yes. When I miss you all, I shall use moonlight in the same way, to write words that only you can see upon the moon itself.
Durin:
Wow! That sounds lovely.
Nefer:
Quite, but... How will we see them...?
Columbina:
Simply open your windows on nights when the moon shines bright, and the moonlight will naturally flow towards the words I have written.
Flins:
That sounds most fitting indeed. Very true to form.
Columbina:
I'll... try to write them in places that won't disturb your sleep.
Lauma:
I, for one, would sleep all the better for having read one of your messages before settling down for the night.
Paimon:
Exactly! So don't worry about disturbing anyone's sleep. Just promise you'll write to let us know you're okay, alright?
Columbina:
Alright, I promise.
The Knave:
In that case... Columbina, are you ready?
Columbina:
I'm ready.
Columbina:
Very well. Let's go.
It's time to begin the journey home...
Set out on the path back to the moon
Columbina:
This is... this is where the people of Hyperborea used to communicate with the moons...
Lauma:
Eternal Moon, Frost Moon, Iridescent Moon... When the power of all three converge...
Columbina:
The gate to the moons shall open.
Lauma:
Mmhmm...
The Knave:
The Moon Marrows are in position. Only the final step remains.
Columbina:
...I'm sure Nasha Town is livelier than ever at this moment.
Paimon:
Yeah... It's a shame you couldn't be there for it. But it's now or never, right?
Columbina:
It's fine. I'm more than happy with this... my last piece of luggage — my only piece of luggage.
Columbina:
...
Columbina:
I can already feel the moon calling to me.
Columbina:
...
The Knave:
This ray of light will lead you home, Columbina.
Lauma:
From now on, we will at last have a reason to pray to the true moon.
Traveler:
Columbina.
Columbina:
Yes. I'm listening.
Traveler:
Be sure to come back and see us when you get the chance!
Columbina:
Hah... Of course.
Traveler:
But if that chance doesn't come... Then remember that you have friends on this planet — people who will miss "Columbina."
Columbina:
Yes, I will. Thank you for everything you've done for me.
Columbina:
And remember... Come night or day, the moonlight shall always connect us.
Columbina:
... Well then... Farewell, my friends.
movie
Columbina stepped into the beam of light within the Hyperborea ruins. But instead of returning to the moon, she was bound by Fatui Harbinger, The Doctor, who claimed the power of the three moons for himself. Using this newfound power, he froze time, rendering everyone completely immobile — except for you.
In a bid to save Columbina, you engaged The Doctor in battle, but he proved too strong and you were thoroughly overpowered. As the situation turned dire, Columbina opened the Moon Gate and leaped into the "moon's reflection."
As Columbina fell through the Moon Gate, the power of the three moons that The Doctor had claimed became incomplete, and he was forced to retreat...
Discuss what to do with your companions
Lauma:
Are you alright? Do your wounds still hurt?
Traveler:
...
Nefer:
I had someone prepare a little medicine that could prove effective. Take it if you need to.
Durin:
In that case, let me relate the contents of the call we made to Alice after the incident occurred.
Alice:
That Dottore is a crafty one... He distracted the Hexenzirkel by creating a huge fuss at Teyvat's borders.
Alice:
I'd assumed that the cause was an Abyssal intrusion from the outside world — which, in fairness, is a rather common occurrence.
Alice:
But after learning that you managed to influence the phantoms in Nod-Krai, I realized that perhaps this interference could have come from within Teyvat instead.
Durin:
But we weren't able to change their fates...
Alice:
True, you couldn't change how their stories ended. But you did build some "variables" around yourself.
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
Variables?
Alice:
Yes — things you heard that you could not otherwise have learned, ideas that would otherwise have never crossed your mind... All these things are "variables."
Alice:
Of course, most variables usually pale into insignificance with the myriad of possibilities floating around. But the moment you start treating them as building blocks and intentionally stacking them, that changes things.
Alice:
That's what Dottore did, and it's how he created the necessary conditions so that when you activated the portal tonight, it played right into his plan.
Nicole:
However, we have no way of knowing exactly what he did.
Varka:
Yeah. We also need to ascertain Columbina's status.
Durin:
And that about sums it up.
The Knave:
As I suspected, Dottore has disappeared completely. If it's any consolation, he wasn't able to control Columbina as he might have wished to.
Traveler:
I'm afraid that's small consolation, given the reason why...
Paimon:
Oh no...
Paimon:
What? She did what!?
Traveler:
Wait, didn't any of you see her do that...?
Paimon:
All we saw was, Dottore appeared and used some kind of power... The next thing we knew, he and Columbina were gone, and you were falling into the sea.
Traveler:
(I see... The Doctor froze time, which is why only I could move freely.)
Traveler:
(From their perspective, the battle and Columbina's decision all happened in a single instant.)
Traveler:
(So that's the power of the three moons? But why wasn't I affected? ...Is it because I'm a Descender?)
Nefer:
So, Columbina intentionally opened the Moon Gate, and escaped into the same mysterious world as Rerir and Tholindis...
Varka:
Sounds like bad news.
The Knave:
...
Albedo:
Seen in that way, the "Trilunar Syzygy" and Rerir's emergence... Dottore might have been pulling the strings in both cases.
Albedo:
According to Miss Alice, he is attempting to transcend his destiny and finish an experiment that only a god might complete.
The Knave:
...An utter lunatic.
Paimon:
Wait a sec, where's Hat Guy? Seems like he'd wanna be here for this.
Durin:
He took off with the Dodocommunication Device after we spoke to Alice. He said he had a hunch that he wanted to investigate by himself.
Durin:
The look on his face was terrifying... I've never seen him like that before.
Traveler:
(Probably anger and frustration at the fact that Dottore was one step ahead, despite his best efforts.)
Traveler:
(And honestly, I feel the same way...)
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
I'm back.
Durin:
Hat Guy!
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
I went to look for the Hyperborean phantoms again. I think I've gotten to the bottom of it.
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
I got them to talk to Nicole on the other end of the communications line. Turns out, the history they describe is different from how Nicole remembers it.
Paimon:
Really? But how? Surely Nicole can't have been wrong...
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
Because the phantoms are the ones who were deceived. They speak of a "savior" who appeared in their history, one who never should've existed.
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
This savior promised to create a new moon within the false sky, and even bring back their Moon Goddesses.
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
Foolishly, they believed in him, and told him everything he wanted to know about the moons.
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
It's obvious that this was Dottore's doing.
Lauma:
Now you mention it... The first time we entered the Hyperborean ruins, we heard the phantoms discussing their history, and I remember Nicole commenting that something sounded a little strange...
Paimon:
But Dottore shouldn't have been able to get in there in the first place!
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
He didn't. Nicole said that this was an anomalous state triggered by disruptions in the causal connections between phantoms from the same era.
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
The "variables" that Dottore put in place were substantial enough that they even affected phantoms that he never met.
Nefer:
So it's not that their memories were unclear... they'd been tampered with.
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
That's exactly the possibility Dottore was trying to manufacture. He turned these variables into knowledge and engineered the situation so all that knowledge would fall into his hands.
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
Then, he harnessed that knowledge on Moon-Prayer Night... to truly create a "false moon."
Paimon:
How is that even possible?
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
To be precise, he exploited a weakness in the way the spell works.
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
The spell senses kuuvahki to detect the moon's location. So, as long as the "false moon" more strongly resembled a moon than the Frost Moon beyond the skies...
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
That gate would teleport Columbina to the false moon's location... in other words, to Dottore's side.
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
Once he had her under control, the teleportation spell remained active, and he manipulated her power to seize both Moon Marrows.
Lauma:
At that moment, the Moon Marrows disappeared right before our eyes... It was already too late even as we were leaving the ruins.
The Knave:
By then, Dottore had already amassed the power of all three moons.
Paimon:
So... Where does this leave us? What do we do now?
The Knave:
I'd certainly like to know what Her Majesty thinks, now that the concerns I expressed to her have come to pass. But we cannot simply sit and wait for her to decide the matter.
The Knave:
And in any case, it is not the Fatui Harbinger, "Damselette," who sees us as her friends, but rather, Columbina Hyposelenia.
The Knave:
If, even in such extreme circumstances, Her Majesty will not lift the prohibition on Harbingers drawing steel against one another...
The Knave:
Then I will do as my heart demands. I will fight as Peruere instead.
Paimon:
Arlecchino...
The Knave:
Time is short, so I'll make the first move.
Paimon:
Whew, even Arlecchino seems to be losing her cool now...
Traveler:
(I'm sure she feels partly responsible for this... And so do I...)
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
...
Durin:
...
Varka:
Alright, alright, alright. Lose those dejected looks for a moment, and let me get a word in.
Varka:
It looks bad, I won't lie. Very bad, in fact.
Varka:
So Dottore's pulled some real dirty tricks to gain the upper hand — for now.
Varka:
And yeah, it's to the point where even the mages say that his "variables" have affected destiny. I'm not so sure, though.
Varka:
Many have told me that Teyvat's destiny is fixed, and that does appear to be the case. Well, what makes Dottore so sure he'll be the exception?
Varka:
And since he was able to stack these "variables" up, who's to say we can't do the same?
Varka:
You, of all people, should not be discouraged, traveler from afar.
Varka:
This isn't over yet.
Varka:
And you're not alone in that. Everyone here does, whether they've spoken thus far or not.
Varka:
But none of us are the type to sit back and wait for the sun to shine again.
Varka:
That's exactly how a knight should roll — they knock you down, you get back up and get back in it. Don't forget, Honorary Knight, you're a legitimate member of Mondstadt, too!
Traveler:
Hmm...
Paimon:
Varka's right! This is far from over!
Paimon:
Dottore's already way overdue a butt-kicking given his past shenanigans. And after this, he's earned himself a double dose!
Varka:
That's what I'm talking about!
Varka:
How's everyone else feeling?
Lauma:
I'll use kuuvahki to investigate Columbina's whereabouts. I'm not ready to give up either.
Nefer:
Leave the intel-gathering to me. Whatever happens within Nod-Krai's borders, when the Curatorium of Secrets wants to be in the know, we always find a way.
Ineffa:
Aino and I will do all we can to support you. We will attempt to reverse engineer Dottore's actions and seek a breakthrough that way.
Durin:
Alice and Nicole are busy dealing with an emergency at Teyvat's borders, so they can't return just yet...
Durin:
But they're both very angry about this. They've asked Albedo and me to act on the Hexenzirkel's behalf and do everything in our power to fight back against Dottore.
Albedo:
Are you ready, then? We're going to have to conduct a lot of research, even in the early stages.
Durin:
I'll do my best.
{REALNAME[ID(1)|HOSTONLY(true)]}:
As for me, I'm pretty familiar with Dottore's way of doing things, so I can try to predict his next move. I'll help with your investigation.
Varka:
Nice. Looks like we have our basic division of labor.
Varka:
I'll get in touch with Flins and Illuga, get them to have a chat with their Starshyna. Couldn't hurt to bring the Lightkeepers on board as well.
Varka:
At the same time, I'll pass on instructions to the Knights present in Nod-Krai to assist the Lightkeepers and other organizations in ensuring the safety of those living here.
Paimon:
Yeah! We'll show him!
Varka:
That's it, then. Good luck, everyone.