arrow_back Genshin Impact Quests 
Mushroom Realm Mystery: Act III
Field Fungal Traces
The fateful day of the Epic Feast Showdown has arrived, and you hunger for the taste of challenge.
Head to the venue of the Epic Feast Showdown
Iansan:
Oh, hey! You're here!
Acatl:
It's been a while! When Varesa told me you signed up for the Epic Feast Showdown, I could barely believe it!
Acatl:
Sounds like Varesa might finally be in for a challenge this year!
Varesa:
Ahh... Honestly... I'm not even that good...
Paimon:
What's wrong? Sounds like you're still half-asleep...
Varesa:
Just hungry... It's competition day, so... Gotta show up with an empty stomach...
Acatl:
Not much longer, Varesa. Atolli's firing up the ovens as we speak.
Varesa:
Got it... I can... wait...
Acatl:
Oh, about the competition... Usually, you have to pay for the food if you don't finish.
Acatl:
But, when I heard you two were coming, I talked to Atolli, and we agreed to waive your expenses!
Paimon:
Really!? So, we get to eat for free?
Paimon:
Awesome! Now, we can just take it easy and box-up whatever we don't finish!
Traveler:
Thanks, we appreciate the generosity.
Acatl:
Please, it's our pleasure! You've done so much for Natlan. Just think of it as a small token of gratitude.
Acatl:
When the Abyss invaded, we weren't hit with large waves of monsters, but the volcano became unusually active.
Acatl:
As the Guardians of Tollan, we couldn't stand by and do nothing, so we immediately dispatched a team to the summit.
Acatl:
Varesa was a key member of that team.
Acatl:
Varesa?
Varesa:
Hm? Oh, right! Yes, I was there! I brought so many Saurus Crackers with me that day... Ah, sorry. Not the point...
Varesa:
There were Abyss Tumors all around the summit, agitating the magma and spawning all kinds of monsters.
Varesa:
But, once the Pyro Archon did her thing, we were able to smash them to smithereens.
Iansan:
Looking back on it, the goal was probably to hold us up so we couldn't send reinforcements to the areas around the Stadium.
Paimon:
Good point... Your tribe must be full of great warriors, with all the training you do... The Abyss really is a cunning enemy.
Paimon:
Oh, and you mentioned something about the "Guardians of Tollan." What does that mean?
Acatl:
Hahaha, that is a duty our people have held for generations.
Acatl:
The volcano is very important to us. It brings disaster... but also opportunity.
Acatl:
Our people rose to the challenge of living in this environment, and in return, we get fertile soil and a thriving ecosystem.
Iansan:
That's right! The Natlanese are never ones to shy away from a challenge.
Iansan:
Although, whenever we spot unusual volcanic activity, we always report it to the Stadium.
Paimon:
Oh, so there's a lot more to this place than good food, huh...
Paimon:
Hold on, where did Varesa go? Wasn't she just here?
Iansan:
Oh, y'know, I just saw her leave. I thought someone must have called for her.
Acatl:
Ha, my guess is that she followed the scent of the food straight to the kitchen.
Paimon:
Let's go check on her! Paimon understands the torture of an empty stomach better than anyone...
Iansan:
I'll lead the way.
Go to the kitchen and check on Varesa
Varesa:
That smell... So delicious...
Varesa:
Juicy mushrooms, melted cheese, mouthwatering steak... *salivating*...
Atolli:
Ah, look who it is.
Atolli:
I thought I felt an... intense energy around here. I know better than to get between you and your next meal, haha.
Atolli:
The food just needs a few more minutes. Here, this should tide you over in the meantime.
Varesa:
Wait, is this... braised meat stew? Thank you, Uncle Atolli!
Varesa:
*gulp*... Ahhhhhh...
Paimon:
Varesa! You really did head straight for the kitchen... Um, what's up? You seemed lost in your own world just now.
Varesa:
Oh, it's you... Sorry! I completely spaced out just now.
Varesa:
The next thing I knew, I was all the way over here with a bowl of stew in my hands.
Acatl:
Hahaha, don't worry about it. I think we can all guess what happened.
Atolli:
Prep took longer than usual, so I had to push back the competition. Sorry for making you wait, Varesa, especially on an empty stomach.
Varesa:
No worries, Uncle Atolli! Your delicious soup fixed me right up!
Paimon:
Hehe, that sounds more like the Varesa we know.
Varesa:
I become completely useless when I'm hungry. I really wanted to focus on the conversation back there, but... no luck.
Iansan:
That's perfectly normal. It takes a lot of energy to train the way you do, so you need more food to make up for it.
Iansan:
You two know what I mean, right? Try to do too much on an empty stomach, and you end up feeling weak and lightheaded.
Paimon:
Oh, boy. Paimon's been there before.
Varesa:
So, when is the competition supposed to start? Not sure I can wait much longer...
Atolli:
One sec — I'll go check.
Atolli:
We're all set! Time to gather the contestants, Acatl. The Showdown is about to begin!
Acatl:
Got it!
Acatl:
Let's head to the venue. The food will be brought out shortly.
Varesa:
Finally! I'm so ready to dig in!
Take part in the Epic Feast Showdown
Paimon:
Ahh, it smells SO good! Varesa had the right idea — it's definitely worth the wait!
Paimon:
Yeah... We could MAYBE finish one portion between the two of us, and even that's a stretch. But, one portion each? There's no chance...
Varesa:
Time to dig in! Thanks for the food, Uncle Atolli!
Paimon:
Whoa, hold on! Varesa's plate looks completely different than ours!
Acatl:
Hahaha, I forgot to mention, the competition actually has two levels — the "regular challenge" and the "Varesa challenge."
Acatl:
The Varesa challenge is only for people who have completed the regular challenge in the past.
Acatl:
It's named after Varesa because... well, so far, she's the only one who's been able to finish it.
Paimon:
You're kidding... You had to invent a whole new challenge just for her?
Acatl:
Believe me, if Varesa competed in the same class as everyone else, the winner would be decided before the competition even started. What's the fun in that?
Acatl:
Only one other person has come close to beating the Varesa challenge, and that would be the Pyro Archon herself.
Traveler:
Wait, you're saying Mavuika has done this before?
Acatl:
Of course. She breezed through the normal level, but the Varesa challenge was still too much, even for her.
Acatl:
Back then, it was all part of an investigation. You see, the Pyro Archon covers all expenses at the Weary Inn the night before the Pilgrimage. And, each time, Varesa's tab would show several dozen people's worth of food for a single person.
Acatl:
The Speaker's Chamber thought something had to be wrong. Maybe there was a mistake in the accounts, or someone was trying to defraud the Archon...
Acatl:
But, once the Archon finally saw Varesa's appetite in action, that was that.
Paimon:
Whoa... Okay, so...
Paimon:
You're saying... Mavuika had these portions, and she just... "breezed through"?
Paimon:
You're right! Let's go! Paimon's gonna defend her honor with everything she's got!
Paimon:
Whoa! Tender, juicy, grilled to perfection... It's delicious!
Varesa:
*eating ravenously*
Paimon:
You gotta try this one, too, Traveler! It's amazing! Ooh, and this!
Varesa:
*eating ravenously*
Paimon:
And this one is... *burp*...
Paimon:
Alright, that's it... Paimon taps out...
Paimon:
All this time, and it doesn't look like we've made any progress...
Paimon:
...Paimon's ready to throw in the towel...
Traveler:
What happened to defending your honor?
Paimon:
Okay — Paimon's tried as hard as she could, but this enemy is too strong...
Paimon:
You know what? There really should be a "Paimon challenge"! Paimon's smaller than the rest of you. It's no fair for her portion to be the same!
Varesa:
Ahhhhhh...
Atolli:
Let's hear it for Varesa, who has once again completed the challenge!
Atolli:
And, with a ten percent increase in portion size, it's a new personal best!
Acatl:
Well done, Varesa!
Iansan:
Amazing job!
Varesa:
Oh, it's nothing! Uncle Atolli's food is just too good. I couldn't stop myself.
Paimon:
You actually finished it... Geez, are you okay?
Varesa:
Hm? Why wouldn't I be?
Paimon:
You don't feel bloated? Or like you're gonna throw up? Paimon's so full, it feels like she's gonna sink...
Varesa:
Oh, nope. I feel good, actually. Satisfied, y'know?
Traveler:
Spoken like a true champion...
Varesa:
Thanks! This is my specialty, after all — not that it's good for anything outside these competitions.
Varesa:
If I'm honest, I'd rather be like you or Coach Iansan — a hero brave enough to stand against the Abyss!
Iansan:
Don't worry, Varesa. For someone as talented as you, it's only a matter of time before you shine in the arena.
Paimon:
Iansan! Did you beat the challenge, too?
Iansan:
Of course! The regular challenge is easy for me. I've attempted the Varesa challenge a few times, too... But, never even came close.
Traveler:
That's still pretty amazing...
Paimon:
Okay, there has to be more to this than just appetite. Is there some kind of trick?
Paimon:
By the end, it was like the meat turned into one big, greasy blob, and it was so hard to keep going...
Varesa:
Oh, that's when you balance it out with some mushrooms! The ones from my orchard.
Varesa:
That's what I did, anyway. As soon as the food came out, I set a few mushrooms to the side, so they wouldn't soak up too much oil.
Varesa:
Or get too mushy. That way, you have something fresh and fruity to balance it out.
Paimon:
Ohh, so that's the secret! Use the mushrooms to cut through the heaviness!
Varesa:
That's right! You tried them yourselves, remember? If it tastes like a fruit, might as well use it like one.
Varesa:
I think more people from outside the tribe would beat the challenge if they knew about that mushroom.
Atolli:
Iansan, some of the contestants are looking for you. Something about being ready to train?
Iansan:
They want to exercise? After all that food!? ...Sorry, everyone. I should intervene.
Paimon:
Yeah, go tell them to take it easy!
Varesa:
Well, how did everyone do, Uncle Atolli?
Atolli:
Almost half finished the regular challenge. I believe that's a record!
Atolli:
Either the contestants are getting more experienced, or my cooking was extra good this time.
Paimon:
Hehe, everything was delicious! Especially when it first came out, all hot and steaming!
Atolli:
Thank you! When cooked at high heat, that mushroom has a special fragrance that really brings out the flavor of the other ingredients.
Atolli:
Oh, and since you're new here, I should mention something else about that mushroom.
Atolli:
It's an excellent addition to any dish, but there are actually two varieties — red, which is the most common, and green.
Atolli:
There's not much to note about the red ones — sell them, eat them, do whatever you want. But, if you see a green one, it must be picked and eaten right away.
Paimon:
Huh? Why's that?
Varesa:
That's just what a scholar from Sumeru said when the orchard first opened.
Varesa:
No one knows the reason. We just do as we're told.
Varesa:
Whenever a green mushroom pops up in the orchard, I pick it and eat it. The flavor is identical to the red ones.
Paimon:
Okay, because that's not weirdly specific at all...
Traveler:
Don't you want to know the reason behind it?
Atolli:
Well... of course! Who wouldn't be intrigued by something like that? But curiosity isn't always a good thing, right?
Atolli:
Oh, by the way, Varesa, I'm almost out of red mushrooms. Could you run to the orchard and grab some more for me?
Varesa:
Of course, Uncle Atolli! I'm on it!
Varesa:
Wanna come with, you two?
Paimon:
What do you think, Traveler? Paimon wouldn't mind working off some of that food...
Paimon:
Paimon will take that as a yes! Alright, let's go! Thanks for the food, Atolli!
Atolli:
Haha, my pleasure! But, try to finish it all next time!
Return to the orchard
Varesa:
Phew, after that meal, I'm ready to tackle anything!
Varesa:
Oh, something on your mind? Is it what Uncle Atolli said about the green mushrooms? Don't worry, he can be a bit... dramatic sometimes.
Varesa:
The green mushrooms don't appear that often. Besides, I check the orchard every day, and if I see one, I eat it.
Varesa:
If anything, I wish there were more around here — means more free mushrooms for me!
Paimon:
Wait... is that one right there? Huh, talk about a coincidence...
Traveler:
So, it really is green...
Varesa:
See? There's nothing special about it except the color.
Varesa:
Gimme one sec. I'll start a fire and grill it right up!
Paimon:
Paimon's gonna pass on this one... She's way too stuffed from earlier...
Traveler:
I wonder why that scholar said what he said...
Varesa:
You mean, why we have to pick and eat the green mushrooms right away?
Varesa:
Mmm... To be honest, I'm curious, too. The scholar looked really serious when he said it, but he never explained the reason behind it.
Varesa:
Uncle Atolli has a point, though. Curiosity can be a bad thing. If we stop doing what that scholar said, something terrible could happen...
Paimon:
You could look into it at least... That's what an adventurer would do.
Varesa:
Yeah, but... my tribe is more important. I love everything about this place. Maintaining the status quo is good enough for me.
Varesa:
I know the truth is important, too. But, I don't have the right to make a decision that could put the people around me in danger.
Varesa:
In other words... *sigh* Deep down, I guess I'm just scared — scared that "change" could mean losing control...
Varesa:
C—Command the truth?
Paimon:
Yeah! We don't have to stop following the scholar's orders. We can start by gathering information.
Varesa:
Hm... You have a point!
Varesa:
Hehe, y'know, you remind me of another hero from our tribe. Her name was Fietena.
Varesa:
Just like you, she was full of courage, and never stopped challenging and exploring the unknown... She's my idol!
Varesa:
Actually, could you give me a moment? All I need is three seconds... Lady Fietena, lend me your courage.
Varesa:
Three, two, one...
Varesa:
You're right! I can't keep running from the truth. I... want to command it, just like you said.
Varesa:
So, where should we start with the investigation? You probably have a bunch of experience.
Traveler:
I think I should taste it first.
Varesa:
Oh, the green mushroom, you mean? The taste is the same as the red ones. There's nothing special there...
Paimon:
Well, Traveler is a lot more... perceptive than most people. He should at least give it a try.
Varesa:
Oh, I see... Then, I'll grill some up right away!
Varesa cooks the mushrooms, and everyone digs in. Just like Varesa said, the taste is the same.
Paimon:
So, notice anything, Traveler?
Traveler:
Nope. No difference in taste.
Paimon:
Just like Varesa said... Guess it was the same for all of us.
A strange voice rings out within your minds...
???:
Finally, a worthy devotee after all this time... Fascinating.
Paimon:
Who... who said that!?
???:
No need for alarm. There is only one among you who piqued my interest, and that is the one with golden hair. Seeing as you all appear to be acquainted, I allowed the rest of you to hear my voice as well.
???:
Now, I shall grant you all the honor of becoming my first subjects in this era.
???:
Now, now... YOU were the ones who wanted to learn more about my origins. I merely granted your wish.
Varesa:
Origins... Wait, YOU'RE the green mushroom!?
???:
Ah, so you do know how to use your brain, young one. You'll excuse me if I have no interest in you — craven and dull-witted as you usually seem.
Paimon:
Hey, watch it, buddy!
???:
Heh, let me remind you, it was your own curiosity that started all of this. I see no reason for me to stand down.
???:
I only granted you this audience because I saw potential in you.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
I am the Sage-Lord of Fungi. Serving me is a great honor, as well as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Paimon:
Hah, Sage-Lord? Good one... Did you come up with that yourself?
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
You mock my name? Hmph, all you do is make a mockery of your own taste!
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Ahem... Of course, the Sage-Lord of Fungi is too dignified for petty arguments with lesser organisms.
Varesa:
Sure doesn't sound like it...
Traveler:
Nope.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
That's enough out of you! What's wrong with you humans? You should be full of reverence at this point...
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Uh, in that case! I don't know what went wrong, but you lack the trust and worship to be my subjects, so we shall have to table that for the time being.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
However, I am willing to share my sagely knowledge with you. I have all the answers you seek.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
As with all seekers of said knowledge, all you have to do is prove your sincerity, and we shall see if you're worthy.
Paimon:
Look, more green mushrooms! Right in front of us!
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
These clones are my most loyal subjects as well as the keepers of my secrets.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
If you want answers, then gather your wits and search for clues. I shall await your summons.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
It might be advisable to brush up on your devotion in the meantime...
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Hehehehe...
Paimon:
The voice is gone... Finally! Paimon had enough of that racket!
Paimon:
Talking in our heads without permission, spewing a bunch of nonsense... Even Ajaw is better than him!
Varesa:
So, do you think what he said was true? About being the Sage-Lord of Fungi and all that...?
Paimon:
Maybe, but most of it sounded like hot air to Paimon.
Traveler:
We may not know who he is, but we know he exists.
Varesa:
True, that conversation in our heads definitely was real...
Paimon:
And it proves these mushrooms aren't regular mushrooms at all. Something fishy is going on!
Traveler:
Which means we made the right call to investigate.
Varesa:
I guess this is the beginning of our hero's journey, then. So, let's make like heroes and get to the bottom of this... so we can command the truth and this mushroom!
Varesa:
Uh, okay, that sounded a lot cooler in my head...
Paimon:
Well, we have one thing going for us — we've faced mushrooms before, and they're pretty pathetic as far as enemies go.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Ugh, such insolence!
Varesa:
Did you hear that? Sounds like someone's mad.
Paimon:
You're spying on us!
Varesa:
...No response. Guess he's not gonna admit it.
Paimon:
Well, he said his "subjects" hold the clues to his secrets... Who knows if he was telling the truth, but we can't just ignore the green mushrooms. So, let's start investigating!
Investigate the mysterious mushroom
Paimon:
Okay, so this one is red... Wahhhhhh!
Paimon:
Fungus! It turned into a Fungus! In Natlan of all places!?
Varesa:
So... this is one of his "subjects"? Hehe, it's kinda cute.
Mushwatalli:
Bull warrior compliment? Much appreciate!
Mushwatalli:
No! Bull warrior natural enemy. Eat. Must resist!
Paimon:
Careful, Varesa! This is a kind of monster from Sumeru. Even though it looks cute, it can still attack you!
Varesa:
A monster? That's too bad. I was hoping we could be friends.
Mushwatalli:
...
Mushwatalli:
Mercy! Mercy!
Mushwatalli:
Food, is sacred! Everything else, waste!
Mushwatalli:
That, all I know. Promise!
Paimon:
It turned back... into a normal mushroom... Um, what's going on?
Traveler:
I guess it told us everything it knows.
Varesa:
You mean, that food is sacred?
Paimon:
Well, that's a whole bunch of nothing. Let's go look somewhere else.
Continue investigating the mysterious mushroom
Paimon:
Oh, a green mushroom... And, it turned into a Fungus. Nice try, but you're not scaring Paimon with that one twice!
Paimon:
Okay, let's go on the initiative! Hey, you — what's the whole "food is sacred" thing about?
Asmu:
As our Sage-Lord stated, you must demonstrate your wits to receive the answers you seek. That means I should be the one asking the questions, not you.
Paimon:
Okay, so it turns out this one can talk... Fine. What do we have to do? Solve a riddle or something?
Varesa:
A riddle? I'm not good at that... Could you, um, give us an easy one?
Asmu:
That sounds like a problem for your friends. Besides, did I say this was up for negotiation!?
Asmu:
Enough chatter. Time for my question.
Asmu:
Why are all the mushrooms in this orchard willing to become the subjects of the Sage-Lord?
Paimon:
Aw, man... How are we supposed to know?
Varesa:
Because... you're his clones, right? I remember him saying something like that.
Asmu:
Alas, no wits in sight. The answer could never be that simple!
Traveler:
Because... he's a "fun guy"?
Asmu:
What!? How did you get that so fast?
Varesa:
Oh... It's that kind of riddle...
Paimon:
Sumeru mushrooms... Of course. Paimon can't believe she didn't think of this possibility.
Varesa:
Wait, does that mean everyone in Sumeru is into puns? Huh, is it because the people are so clever?
Paimon:
No, no, we just, uh... have a lot of experience with these kinds of jokes.
Asmu:
Well, since you have proven your wits, I will now answer your question.
Asmu:
The act of eating is not only a physical necessity, but also a sacred ritual.
Asmu:
Mushrooms like us are the Sage-Lord's intermediaries. Incinerating our flesh forges a spiritual connection between you and the Sage-Lord himself.
Varesa:
Oh, so that's why he could speak to us in our heads.
Paimon:
So, you're saying, if we want to talk to him again, all we have to do is... eat more mushrooms?
Paimon:
No, wait! Don't turn back into a regular mushroom! Too late... And all we have is another cryptic message.
Varesa:
Well, if eating is a sacred ritual, maybe we need to perform some kind of ceremony with special tools or something...
Paimon:
Oh, good thinking, Varesa! Let's try and ask the other mushrooms.
Paimon:
Oh, but we should probably pick this one first, since it's a green mushroom.
Continue investigating the mysterious mushroom
Paimon:
Hey, there're two Fungi over there! Looks like they're discussing something.
Huzziya:
Have you figured out how you're going to test the humans?
Ammuna:
Of course! Any random question should do the trick. They don't look very smart to me.
Huzziya:
Wow, cool! You green-caps are so wise, just like our Sage-Lord. I'm so jealous...
Ammuna:
Hmph, it's all progressing as expected. I know exactly what they're going to ask:
Ammuna:
"Oh, please, PLEASE tell us how to conduct the ceremony!"
Ammuna:
And I shall respond, "Hmph, nothing in life comes for free. You have two choices — answer a question about the stars and moon above, or the dark abyss below."
Huzziya:
Ooh! And they'll say, "Noo, I'm stumped. I can't think anymore or my cap will explode into spores!"
Ammuna:
They're humans, idiot. They don't have caps or spores.
Huzziya:
Oh, right... duh...
Ammuna:
And then I'll say, "Hah, you can't even answer the most basic of basic questions? Come back after you've studied for a few more decades!"
Huzziya:
Hah, yeah! A few more decades!
Ammuna:
Of course, they're so dense, it might actually take them that long to realize that, if eating is a ritual, then obviously... the ceremony is the cooking.
Huzziya:
I mean, obviously it's the cooking! Hahaha!
Varesa:
Uh, did they just give us the answer?
Ammuna:
Ah! Who goes there!?
Paimon:
And you think we're the dense ones? Look in the mirror, buddy!
Huzziya:
Eek, a floating pale organism! Out of nowhere! My cap almost burst into spores!
Paimon:
No, wait — don't disappear! At least explain yourselves first!
Paimon:
So, we passed the test? Where's the sense of accomplishment?
Paimon:
So much for "gathering our wits"... We didn't have to use our brains at all.
Paimon:
Oh, well... The important thing is, the Sage-Lord of Fungi wants us to use cooking to establish a stronger mental connection with him.
Varesa:
That sounds right... Uncle Atolli did say, when you cook this mushroom, the higher the heat, the better the fragrance.
Paimon:
Right! That was the case when you grilled them in the orchard, too! Heat really does release their flavor!
Paimon:
Okay, let's give it a try!
Traveler:
Sound like a plan, Varesa?
Varesa:
Definitely... But, we should probably explain the situation to Uncle Acatl and the rest of the tribe first.
Paimon:
Good call! It's best for everyone to be prepared!
With hearts as one, you and Varesa set out to investigate the true identity and intentions of the Sage-Lord of Fungi.
Return and inform people in the tribe
Chief Acatl gathers people from the tribe to hear Varesa's report on the mushrooms.
Acatl:
...
Atolli:
...
Iansan:
...
Paimon:
Okay, so it felt pretty normal in the moment, but hearing it back does sound kind of... ridiculous.
Traveler:
This silence speaks volumes...
Acatl:
So, the mushrooms in the orchard are sentient? What a remarkable discovery!
Iansan:
Yeah, without your investigation, who knows what could have happened?
Xoctli:
Thanks for looking into it, and for collecting all this information!
Varesa:
Phew, what a relief... I was worried it sounded like I lost my marbles...
Acatl:
Hahaha, it does sound far-fetched. After all, none of us have ever spoken to a mushroom.
Acatl:
But, we know you're not one to lie, Varesa. Besides, the origin of the green mushrooms has always been a mystery to us.
Acatl:
Thanks to you, we now know something sinister could be going on. So, we should do our part to help!
Iansan:
Yeah, just let me know if there's anything I can do!
Paimon:
Wow, that didn't take much convincing...
Traveler:
Thank you, everyone.
Atolli:
Oh, wait, you said the mushrooms need to be cooked on high heat, right? I can do that for you right now — I'll be quick.
Atolli:
Alright, I'm back! I used cast iron, so it should be hot enough!
Paimon:
Whoa, it smells delicious! Suddenly, Paimon's hungry again!
Varesa:
W—Well, here goes nothing...
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Hmm...
Paimon:
Wait, that's his voice!
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Hahaha, looks like you stumbled upon the right path, but this temperature does not demonstrate even a fraction of the sincerity I require.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Did you really think some common stove could generate enough heat to earn the acknowledgement of the Sage-Lord?
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Humans are such a disappointment. You can solve my riddles when the answers are handed to you on a silver platter...
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
But, as soon as there are no more hints... not a shred of intelligence in sight.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Do try and use your brain this time, hehehe...
Atolli:
H—How did it go? Did you hear the voice?
Paimon:
Ugh! Annoying menace of a mushroom!
Paimon:
The Sage-Lord of Fungi said the heat's still not high enough. Hmph, Sage-Lord of nitpicking, more like!
Acatl:
Not high enough, huh... I guess that means we need a more powerful source of heat.
Acatl:
Attention, everyone! We need items that can generate intense heat. Anything you can find!
Atolli:
I'll see what I can do.
Iansan:
Leave it to me!
Varesa:
We should take a look, too.
Paimon:
Definitely! We're not super familiar with this area, though. Do you have any ideas?
Varesa:
Hmm... Nothing concrete, but we could check around the volcano.
Varesa:
It spews out all kinds of stuff. Maybe there's something we can use.
Paimon:
Awesome, let's go! Paimon's gonna find something scorching hot and then throw it at that stupid mushroom's face!
Look for the high-temperature materials needed
Varesa:
Hey, there should be some Avatars of Lava somewhere along this path...
Varesa:
Their cores are really hot. It might be just what we need.
Paimon:
Y'know, when you think about how everyone jumped to help us like that, it seems like your tribe has been suspicious of the green mushrooms for a while.
Varesa:
Yeah, but without you, we would have never gotten this far. I mean, tons of people have tried that mushroom without a weird voice talking in their head.
Paimon:
Right... So, even if you wanted to investigate, you had nowhere to start...
Varesa:
Yeah, this opportunity was a long time coming! Plus, the Sage-Lord's arrogant attitude definitely triggered my tribe's competitive spirit.
Traveler:
Yeah, competitions seem to be a thing here.
Paimon:
Umm... Varesa doesn't seem competitive most of the time, though. Outside of training and fighting monsters, at least...
Varesa:
Yeah, well... I don't really like fighting or competing, to be honest. Simple day-to-day happiness is what matters to me.
Varesa:
Still, I've learned a lot from Coach Iansan. She taught me that strength is a means rather than an end.
Varesa:
We get stronger so we can use our strength when it counts — like during the Abyss invasion. Having the training to master my Vision meant that I could do something to stop it.
Varesa:
So, no matter how scared I feel, I know I have to be brave, because people are counting on me.
Varesa:
Thanks. It's a work in progress. I can only hope that, one day, I can be as brave as Lady Fietena.
Varesa:
Alright, we should keep looking.
Talk to Varesa
Varesa:
Done and dusted! This core should be perfect. Look! The phlogiston inside it is still active!
Paimon:
Ooh, let's see... Whoa, hot!
Varesa:
A few more chunks like this, and we should be good. C'mon, let's keep heading up.
Talk to Varesa and obtain the material
Paimon:
What a great haul! A bunch of Seeing Eyes and this thing the weasel used to spew out fire!
Varesa:
I think that's its back armor! It shoots out phlogiston, so it can pretty much attack from all directions.
Varesa:
My dad told me about them once — creatures that live in the volcano. I can't believe we actually ran into one!
Varesa:
This piece of armor might produce even higher temperatures than the Seeing Eyes. Hehe, we'll get those mushrooms super hot this time!
Traveler:
Nice fighting back there, by the way.
Varesa:
Oh, well... Even though I don't like fighting, sometimes, you don't have a choice. So, I've tried to figure out a bunch of different ways to get myself in the zone.
Varesa:
For example, I've read a lot of stories about heroes, and my favorite hero has always been Fietena — the one I mentioned before.
Varesa:
Fietena's most iconic feature was her mask, so I decided to make one just like hers.
Varesa:
So, now, whenever I wear the mask, it's like there's a little piece of her with me. If I want to honor her legacy, I have no choice but to be brave.
Varesa:
At the same time, though... I guess it's kind of like a crutch. Kind of like, I'm hiding behind her strength.
Paimon:
Oh, you really think so?
Varesa:
Really? It's just...
Varesa:
I feel like... I need to take it off one day and face things alone.
Varesa:
But, the longer I put off taking that step, the more impossible it feels. I... don't know if I have it in me.
Paimon:
Yeah, YOU had the courage to make that decision, and that's what adventuring is all about! Fighting is just a small part of it.
Varesa:
Oh...
Paimon:
Besides, Paimon thinks you're doing a great job! Just take your time — it's not a race.
Varesa:
Thanks for believing in me, you two. I've learned so much!
Varesa:
And, I won't give up, not until I can face things on my own!
Varesa:
Phew, after that pep talk, I feel like my appetite is back in full force!
Paimon:
You're hungry already? Paimon hasn't even finished digesting her last meal!
Varesa:
C'mon, let's head back to the tribe. We'll earn that mushroom's recognition this time, for sure!
You've finally found some key materials. All that's left is to cook the mushroom and see what happens...
Return to the tribe and prepare to cook the mushrooms
Paimon:
We're back! And we found a bunch of stuff to use!
Acatl:
Great! We're almost done with the preparations on our side, too.
Atolli:
I've managed to get these iron chunks red-hot. We should be good to go.
Iansan:
Yeah, and since we need really high temperatures, I brought the best stove I could find!
Xoctli:
And I've got a bunch of buckets of lava on standby if we need more fuel, hahaha.
Traveler:
It's like we're gearing up for a fight, not cooking a few mushrooms...
Paimon:
Yeah, but the things we brought aren't your typical cooking utensils either...
Acatl:
Well, that mushroom started it, right everyone? Disrespecting Varesa and our guest of honor...
Camotli:
Yeah! We'll see what sort of excuses it can come up with this time!
Varesa:
Thanks for the help, everyone. It really means a lot.
Atolli:
Alright, let's see what we have here... Huh? The armor of a Furnace Shell Mountain Weasel? Don't tell me, you went into the volcano!?
Paimon:
No no, it erupted out of nowhere, and the weasel appeared, and then... Well, anyway, we got this in the end.
Atolli:
Either way, this is something special. Back when I was training to be a chef, I studied the effect of temperature on different ingredients.
Atolli:
This kind of armor produces intense localized heat. It's great for fish because you can get a nice sear on one side without overcooking the other.
Atolli:
Anyway, let's get started! The mushrooms are all ready to go.
Xoctli:
Alright, let's go!
Paimon:
Whoa, the fragrance is so much more intense... And, what's with this weird mist?
Paimon:
Wait, no... Something's not right...
Atolli:
Anyway, let's get started! The mushrooms are all ready to go.
Xoctli:
Alright, let's go!
Paimon:
Whoa, the fragrance is so much more intense... And, what's with this weird mist?
Paimon:
Wait, no... Something's not right...
Witness the illusion
Paimon:
Where are we? Where did everyone go!?
Varesa:
I have no idea. We just showed up here... I can't see the others anymore...
You can vaguely hear Acatl's voice...
Acatl:
Huh? Is something wrong?
Paimon:
Th—That's Acatl... Chief! We don't know where we are!
Acatl:
What? I know it's hard to see through this mist, but aren't you here at the tribe with the rest of us?
Traveler:
So, you didn't feel anything strange?
Acatl:
No... What are you feeling?
Traveler:
(This must be the Sage-Lord's trick, but it's only affecting the three of us.)
Traveler:
(But... Why us and not the others?)
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Because you are the only worthy devotees, of course.
Paimon:
Evil jerk of a mushroom! So, this is what you look like!
Varesa:
Huh... He does look a bit more evil than the other mushrooms we met.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
I am no longer concerned with your insolence. On the contrary, I am satisfied with your performance. So, as promised, you shall have the answers you seek.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Of course, I have a goal of my own. Let me reiterate once more: the great Sage-Lord of Fungi — that would be me — is extending you the honor of becoming my subjects.
Paimon:
Hmph, the only way anyone's serving you is on a platter!
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Now, now, don't be hasty. It's inadvisable to speak in absolutes. You refuse only because you have yet to witness my miracles.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Cherish this opportunity. It may not come again.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
As you know, Teyvat is not a peaceful place. The gods wage war against one another, monsters roam the land, humans live in squalor...
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
But, then, humanity discovered me and learned that I could grant them unlimited power to fell even the most fearsome of enemies.
Soletl:
If we wanna become strong, we just have to eat this!
Teoxoletl:
Woohoo!
Teoxoletl:
Those monsters are no match for me!
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
And, so, the humans worshiped me as their savior, and in return, I revealed my identity as the Sage-Lord of Fungi.
Paimon:
You really expect us to believe that? Besides... As far as enemies go, a few puny Fungi aren't all that "fearsome"...
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Such arrogance! Take that back and apologize before I lose my temper!
Paimon:
Heh, you wish!
Varesa:
I mean, those monsters really don't look that scary — not the kind you need a "miracle" to defeat, anyway...
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
You insignificant mortals boast of strength? Very well, then prove it!
Talk to the Sage-Lord of Fungi
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
W—Well fought. You see? You ate a fair amount of my clones, and now look what you can do! Hmph, my eye for subjects is as discerning as ever.
Paimon:
Huh, weren't we "insignificant mortals" just a second ago? Weird...
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
I'll admit, you're not entirely useless, but my miracles are even greater than you can imagine.
Paimon:
No, don't just— Ugh, another cryptic one-liner and another disappearing act. It's gotta be a mushroom thing at this point...
Paimon:
Well, what should we do? Follow him?
Varesa:
Yeah, let's go. I think he's trying to tell us a story, although I'm not sure if I like the plot...
Continue to watch the illusion
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
I soon became humanity's faith and, with my power, created countless clones with which I could bestow upon them an endless source of sustenance.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Food is a scarce resource. A faith that provides for the needs of the flesh is the most practical and noble of all!
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
And as my subjects gave themselves in service, either as civilians or warriors, I rewarded them with mushrooms in proportion to their contribution. The most exceptional among them could receive as many as twenty mushrooms a day!
Paimon:
That's it?
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
What are you insinuating? Are mushrooms not enough?
Varesa:
Well, it's possible people couldn't afford to be picky back then...
Paimon:
Yeah, but now, even saurians have more options than that...
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Sustenance and strength... Such are the pillars of faith. So, what do you think? A pretty enticing offer, wouldn't you agree?
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Once you become my subjects, all you have to do is build a civilization dedicated to the mushrooms, and then—
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
What do you mean, "what happened next"?
Varesa:
Right! If the humans dedicated themselves in service to you, then shouldn't you have your own tribe at this point? Or even your own nation?
Varesa:
But, I've read a lot of woven scrolls about the heroes of Natlan, and I've never come across anything about some kind of mushroom savior.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Of course not! I was in a different nation at the time. I don't suppose you know their history, too...
Traveler:
We've been to Sumeru.
Paimon:
Yeah! And we didn't hear anything about a mushroom civilization.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
I never said it was Sumeru! I have no idea where that assumption is coming from...
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
A... A trivial detail! You know what? You don't deserve to know what happened next!
Traveler:
Then you don't deserve our faith, either.
Paimon:
Yeah! If you want us to respect you, stop being so secretive!
Varesa:
True, if we don't know how the story ends, it doesn't hold much weight, now does it...
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
*frustrated grumble*
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Alright, fine. Same rules as before — if you want the truth, you'll have to use your wits to earn it!
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
If you fail to prove your worth, good luck getting another detail out of me!
Paimon:
Ugh, he ran off! C'mon, after him!
Varesa:
Oh, uh-huh... Right!
Paimon:
He jumped down from here! So, it looks like we just need to—
Traveler:
Hold on.
Paimon:
Something wrong, Traveler?
Traveler:
There's something off about his motive.
Paimon:
Off... how?
Varesa:
That's how I feel, too... Based on his personality, if he won't tell us how things turned out in the end, it must be because it's not something he can brag about.
Varesa:
Besides, how did he even get from Sumeru to Natlan? Seems like he's avoiding that subject, too...
Varesa:
And, through it all, he still hasn't given up on recruiting us... Even though he's in for a rude awakening.
Paimon:
Yeah... He seemed pretty annoyed with our questions. Why not just kick us to the curb?
Varesa:
But... why?
Paimon:
Alright, sounds like a plan! Let's go!
Witness the memory's afterimage
Paimon:
Backed into a corner, huh...
Varesa:
We've got you this time!
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Oooow!
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
That hurt, you know!? You humans have such violent tendencies!
Paimon:
Huh? How did we lose him!?
Varesa:
*sigh* Not again... Although, I think I pulled something off of him...
Paimon:
Huh, a ball... of mist? Oh no, it's spreading!
You behold a memory fragment from the Sage-Lord of Fungi...
Mushriwaili:
They're gonna eat us...
Mushrial:
Gonna eat us...
Mushriu:
Eat us...
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Ungrateful humans...
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
At this rate, I won't have any clones left...
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
The more my clones are consumed... The less power I have... The situation grows dire.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Why must the humans eat so much!?
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Phew, my power is all but spent, but it was still enough to control a single human, at least...
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Now, all of Sumeru knows how scrumptious my mushrooms are, so if I want to grow... I must relocate.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
And, if I want it to happen fast, I need suitable environmental conditions.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
You! Take me somewhere hot! The hotter, the better!
Chatraka:
Yes, my lord!
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Is this the place, human?
Chatraka:
Yes, this is a volcano in a land far to the west. The temperatures here get very high. It should be a most suitable location for your lordship to regain his strength.
Chatraka:
I shall now find a good place to plant you, my lord, so that your mycelial majesty may take root in this fertile land.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Yes, proceed.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Huh? An earthquake?
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
No, a volcanic eruption!? Aaaargh!
Paimon:
...
Traveler:
...
Paimon:
So, that's how it ended. No wonder he tried to hide it from us, that's... pretty embarrassing.
Varesa:
I thought he said people formed communities around this mushroom and used it as their main source of food...
Paimon:
Yeah, but it looks like his following got too big, and he couldn't keep up with the demand.
Varesa:
Huh, he used the mushrooms as his main recruitment tactic, but then the situation got out of control...
Traveler:
And, it seems like his power is proportional to the number of clones he has.
Paimon:
Which means, the more mushrooms the humans ate, the less powerful he became, right?
Varesa:
Wow, so his following didn't last long.
Paimon:
Nope, which explains why there aren't any records about some kind of mushroom civilization.
Paimon:
In the end, he mind-controlled a human to bring him to Natlan and then got buried under a pile of volcanic rocks...
Varesa:
Yeah... For who knows how long...
Varesa:
When we were talking to him earlier, he seemed kind of... out of touch, y'know?
Paimon:
Well, he has been living under a rock, so... that checks out.
Paimon:
But, clearing out this area for your orchard finally allowed him to start regaining his power.
Varesa:
Yeah, that sounds right. My parents always thought it was so weird that mushrooms kept popping up around the orchard no matter what we did... Now it makes sense.
Varesa:
Wait, but... If everything we saw is true, that means this mushroom has mind control powers or something? That's a recipe for disaster.
Traveler:
Hmm...
Paimon:
Hold on, do you remember what he showed us? A group of humans worshipping a giant mushroom... It just doesn't make sense! They must have been mind-controlled!
Paimon:
But, when he started running out of power, he couldn't keep it up!
Varesa:
Oh, yeah! Maybe that's why he doesn't seem to be able to control us, either.
Paimon:
Oh? Why?
Varesa:
Alright, then let's find this mushroom!
Talk to the Sage-Lord of Fungi
Paimon:
We've got you this time, nasty mushroom! We know all your schemes!
Traveler:
Maybe try hiding them a bit better next time.
Varesa:
We thought you were just a mushroom that happened to taste good. But, now we know how dangerous you are, so we have to stop you!
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Hm, it would seem you're not completely devoid of intelligence — fitting for my future subjects. Still, you're overlooking a very important detail.
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Did you think I was running away because I was scared? This is a world of my creation. My will rules supreme!
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
My "schemes" have been exposed you say? No matter. My goal has already been achieved.
Varesa:
What!?
Sage-Lord of Fungi:
Hmph, although I prefer to call myself the Sage-Lord of Fungi, in the human tongue, I am known by another name.
Bifrons:
You now behold the god, Bifrons! The sole protagonist in this endless carnage!
Traveler:
So, you're a god.
Bifrons:
Indeed! Foolish, shallow, and ungrateful humans, have you forgotten your savior during this time of war? I am the god who's protecting countless of your kind during this Archon War!
Bifrons:
You have no food with which to satiate your hunger, no means with which to counter the hordes of monsters. And the gods loom overhead, capable of reducing you to ashes with a simple snap of their fingers.
Bifrons:
Just one word, and you could have had my protection. But, now, that opportunity is lost forever, and you only have your own stupidity and arrogance to blame!
Bifrons:
No matter. My plan has already succeeded.
Bifrons:
What you saw when you cooked the mushrooms was not mist, but spores... set to sprout into green mushrooms very soon.
Bifrons:
And that's where their true power lies... Because, given a bit of time to grow, green mushrooms will multiply exponentially.
Bifrons:
You see, considering my current level of power, I had no way to create a large number of clones... Unless, of course, I had access to a source of extreme heat.
Bifrons:
And you delivered one to me on a silver platter! That was my plan all along.
Paimon:
So, you kept running away from us because... you needed to buy time?
Bifrons:
Precisely. Before long, the green mushrooms will multiply at an unstoppable rate, allowing me to return to the peak of my power.
Bifrons:
Then, I shall reclaim my dignity and status as a god, achieve victory in the Archon War, and take revenge on Sumeru!
Paimon:
You have no concept of time, do you... News flash, the Archon War is old news, buddy.
Bifrons:
Nonsense! Is that not the source of your suffering?
Bifrons:
All I hear in this land is "war" this and "war" that. If you fear the Archon War, all the more reason to cower behind the protection of a god!
Paimon:
Pretty sure they're talking about the war against the Abyss...
Bifrons:
Huh?
Varesa:
The Archon War... I guess I've heard about that once or twice, but only from outlanders.
Bifrons:
Hah! I see what's going on here. You're using lies and trickery to befuddle me!
Bifrons:
You know, my original plan was to imprison you here until the end of time, but now, I have a better idea...
Bifrons:
Once nothing is left of this land but an endless field of mushrooms, I'll set you free — you get the honor of witnessing that despair in person.
Bifrons:
Now, I was going to offer you a glimmer of hope by allowing you to pledge yourselves to me and take on the burden of managing my kingdom...
Bifrons:
But now, the deal is off!
Traveler:
It was an empty deal from the start.
Bifrons:
What did you say?
Varesa:
The Traveler explained everything. The only reason I could hear you is because I've eaten so many mushrooms over the years.
Paimon:
Yeah, and Paimon ate a whole bunch during the competition! Paimon's small, so it didn't take as many mushrooms for her to be affected!
Paimon:
Point being, most people would have to eat a monstrous amount of mushrooms to even hear you over the buzz of a mosquito!
Paimon:
So, you latched onto us, a group of people who could actually hear your voice. In other words...
Traveler:
You're too weak.
Varesa:
You said your mushrooms need time to grow. Which means... You don't have enough power to keep us here.
Bifrons:
I may not have my former strength, but keeping a few humans right where I want them is a small task. Unless you think you can take on a creature as vicious and powerful as the Jadeplume Terrorshroom!?
Bifrons:
Because you definitely can't... right?
Traveler:
Forget about him.
Paimon:
Let's get out of here.
Varesa:
Yeah, if he was telling the truth, we need to get back to the tribe as soon as possible.
Bifrons:
No, no, no, you must be bluffing. A few measly humans couldn't possibly be that powerful... And what's this about a war against the Abyss? Hey! I want answers!
Paimon:
*sigh* Paimon's not gonna waste one more word on this guy. Let's go.
Leave the illusory world
movie
You return to the tribe to find it teeming with mushrooms. Everyone seems rather panicked save Acatl, who appears to have a plan. He calls for the chef, Atolli, who beseeches the residents to pick all the mushrooms they can find. He then goes hog-wild in the kitchen — very quickly, plate upon plate of piping-hot mushroom dishes populate the dining table.
You bring Varesa to the table, and she grabs a spoon with which to begin her battle. Everyone joyously devours the feast set before them, and thus is the Sage-Lord of Fungi's scheme to bring about a resurgence of its people foiled — all's well that ends well, as they say.
Talk to Varesa
Varesa:
Ahhhhhh~ What a great meal! Thanks, everyone! I feel like a whole new me!
Acatl:
And, with that, we took care of all the green mushrooms!
Acatl:
Now, care to tell me what happened earlier? It was lights out for all three of you...
You tell the chief everything that happened.
Acatl:
Someone... planted a god in Varesa's orchard, and she's been eating it ever since?
Paimon:
Yeah. We know not every god that's still around is super strong, but this one reached a whole new low.
Traveler:
I can't imagine the bar getting any lower than that.
Varesa:
Also, didn't he have his facts all wrong? He kept going on about some kind of... "Archon War"?
Acatl:
Ah, well... Natlan was never part of the Archon War, so it rarely comes up around these parts. It makes sense that you don't know much about it, Varesa.
Paimon:
Whoa, whoa, whoa, hold on! Are you serious?
Acatl:
Of course! The in-fighting between the dragons pretty much took over everything, so there was no room for the gods to join in.
Traveler:
Makes sense.
Paimon:
Yep, that checks out. Living under a rock all those years, mushroom-god wakes up, thinking it's still the Archon War and tries to use that to convince people to worship him...
Varesa:
Hehe, little did he know, our lives are much better now than in the age of the dragons!
Paimon:
So, what do we do now? It can't be easy to slay a god...
Varesa:
I guess it's back to business as usual. As long as we keep picking the green mushrooms, that god is just a tasty mushroom at the end of the day.
Varesa:
Actually, um, Traveler... Can I borrow you for a minute?
Traveler:
Sure thing.
Varesa:
Alright, here's good. So, um, it's not anything super important. I just wanted to thank you... from the bottom of my heart.
Varesa:
Your encouragement gave me the courage to investigate the green mushrooms and helped me resolve a threat to my tribe.
Varesa:
And, maybe this sounds weird, considering everything... But, it was a really awesome adventure! I had fun!
Traveler:
Me too.
Traveler:
It's an adventure I'll remember for a long time.
Varesa:
Oh? Why's that?
Varesa:
You're right!
Varesa:
I never thought my appetite would save the day... It's pretty surreal.
Varesa:
But, it's like you said — all it takes is a little patience and perseverance, and my time will come!
Varesa:
If I start to doubt myself in the future, all I need to do is think of this experience and everything I've learned along the way.
Traveler:
Yep! You got this!
Paimon:
Hey, you two!
Paimon:
Acatl was saying that, since a scholar from Sumeru warned the tribe about the mushrooms, someone there must know about the mushroom god.
Paimon:
Should we go check it out? Couldn't hurt to get more information...
Varesa:
Oh, good point! But, if we're heading to the Akademiya, I need to get permission from Uncle Acatl first.
Paimon:
Right, and it's not a quick trip. We have to cross the whole desert.
Varesa:
Good idea! Let's check it out!
Head to the Stadium of the Sacred Flame to seek help
After hearing your story, Katheryne heads to the Speaker's Chamber to check if there are any scholars in the area...
Paimon:
Oh, Katheryne's back! And... isn't that Tighnari!?
Katheryne:
Word from the Speaker's Chamber was that an Amurta scholar happened to be conducting research in the area. So, they helped me to get in touch.
Tighnari:
It's been a while, you two. So, you're the ones looking into the Sage-Lord of Fungi...
Paimon:
Yep! You're an expert, so you must know all about him, right?
Tighnari:
Of course. To those in the Amurta darshan, his case is a well-known part of ecological history.
Tighnari:
His power is tied to his number of clones, so at one point, he possessed a truly fearsome form. But, as his clones diminished in number, he got smaller and smaller, until he couldn't hold onto physical form at all.
Tighnari:
And so, he became impossible to track. Scholars could only keep tabs on him by monitoring what remains of his clones. Now, I'm learning his true form fled to Natlan...?
Varesa:
Yeah, the mushrooms started popping up in our orchard not too long ago.
Tighnari:
Well, from what I've heard, he has very few clones right now, so there's nothing to worry about. Feel free to use the mushrooms as you see fit — they really are delicious.
Tighnari:
Of course, in the interest of research, I would prefer to send a few scholars from my darshan to monitor the situation every so often. What do you say?
Tighnari:
I wanted to get your permission before submitting a formal request to the Speaker's Chamber.
Varesa:
Of course! You're welcome any time, hehe. That's a huge help, actually.
Varesa:
I wanted to ask, though... You said "what remains of his clones"... Does that mean there are clones outside of Natlan? Even now?
Tighnari:
Oh, yes. There's a huge one beneath The Chasm.
Tighnari:
Xamaran is its name. Its mycelium structure is stunning, and it's capable of human speech.
Paimon:
Whoa, that sounds amazing!
Tighnari:
It took a long time for Xamaran to grow into this form. Luckily, Xamaran isn't a green-cap mushroom so there's no danger to us.
Tighnari:
And, I believe its mind has been separated from the mushroom god for a very long time. I doubt there's a connection between them anymore.
Paimon:
We should go see Xamaran one of these days!
Varesa:
Ooh, I'll come! It'll be nice to interact with a friendly mushroom for once!
Tighnari:
Hehe, "friendly" is right, so this one is definitely not for eating!
Varesa:
I would never!
Paimon:
Xamaran!?
Varesa:
Y—You know that name?
Paimon:
Yeah, Paimon calls it "Sheeshroom"... It's absolutely huge! Way more impressive than the puny Sage-Lord.
Tighnari:
It took a long time for Xamaran to grow into this form. Luckily, Xamaran isn't a green-cap mushroom so there's no danger to us.
Tighnari:
And, I believe its mind has been separated from the mushroom god for a very long time. I doubt there's a connection between them anymore.
Paimon:
We should go see Xamaran one of these days!
Varesa:
Ooh, I'll come! It'll be nice to interact with a friendly mushroom for once!
Tighnari:
Hehe, "friendly" is right, so this one is definitely not for eating!
Varesa:
I would never!