Harvest Beneath the Ashen Sky — A Genshin Impact Fan-Quest
As the Collective of Plenty prepares for its Harvest Festival, you and Paimon return to Natlan for one last visit before setting off for Snezhnaya. But what began as a peaceful vacation soon takes an unexpected turn when a member of the tribe disappears as the volcano grows more unpredictable by the day…
Before you read…
Welcome to my very first fanfic! This story is written as a Genshin Impact quest centered around the Collective of Plenty in Natlan. It takes place after the Archon Quest Truth Amongst the Pages of Purana and before the events of Snezhnaya. Just wanna put that out there :3
Some things to note…
Lumine is the intended Traveler for this story.
This is a non-shipping fanfic. If you wanna interpret certain moments as ships, knock yourself out. Just know that wasn’t my intention.
This story will be released in parts, following the structure of an in-game event quest line. New acts will be added as they are completed.
This story may reference past Archon Quests, Tribal Chronicles, and limited-time events. This story is written to be enjoyable on its own, but readers familiar with these quests may notice additional references, callbacks, and bits of character context along the way.
To get the most out of this story, it’s recommended that you’ve completed:
Archon Quests
Inazuma — Provides important background on the Sakoku Decree and Inazuma’s history.
Sumeru — Provides context for several references made throughout the story.
Natlan — Introduces many of the characters and locations featured in this story.
Nod Krai — This story takes place after these events and references them throughout.
Tribal Chronicles
Collective of Plenty — Highly recommended for Iansan, Varesa, and the tribe itself.
Scions of the Canopy — Optional, but recommended for Kinich and Ajaw.
Limited-Time Event (Optional)
Simulanka — Optional, but recommended for a few references and callbacks later in the story.
Original Character Notice
This story will include one original character who serves as a supporting member of the cast. While he is important to the story, the focus remains on Genshin Impact's canon characters and their interactions throughout the event.
Content Warning (currently irrelevant except for the last part)
This story may contain a bit of angst in parts that have yet to be added. Nothing is described graphically, and nobody dies, but some characters do end up in situations that are… less than ideal. In the wise words of Caine Digital Circus, “I can’t tell a compelling story where nothing bad happens!” But either way, if you’re not a fan of stories with a little emotional turbulence, consider this your friendly warning. For convenience, here’s a list of potential content warnings that may be relevant to some readers:
Describing injuries
Mentions of blood
Ajaw
If any of the themes listed above are likely to make your reading experience less enjoyable, please keep them in mind before continuing. The final item, in particular, has been known to cause headaches.
Reminder that this is my first time writing fanfiction, and my first time writing full dialogue sequences. If anything is out of character, then this is me apologizing in advance: Sorry!
Now without further ado, let the adventure begin!
Paimon: “Hey, Traveler! So Paimon was thinking… Snezhnaya is supposed to be freezing cold, right? Like, even colder than Dragonspine! So... wouldn’t it make sense to enjoy the warmest nation in Teyvat while we still can?”
Paimon: “We could stop by Natlan one more time and visit the Collective of Plenty! We can say hi to our friends there… and maybe enjoy some delicious Natlan food while we’re at it! Hehe~”
Paimon: “Let’s stop by the Adventurers’ Guild first! Paimon wants to see if Katheryne has anything new for us!”
Objective: Go to the Adventurers’ Guild in Natlan.
Paimon: “Hey, isn’t that Kinich over there? Paimon KNEW coming here was a good idea! Let’s go over and say hi!”
Ajaw: “What are you waiting for?! Take it! Take it already!”
Kinich: “I’m thinking.”
Ajaw: “Thinking?! What is there to think about? Look at the reward! Reasonable pay, urgent request, and it specifically asks for someone experienced with rough terrain. That’s practically your job description!”
Kinich: “That’s exactly why I’m thinking.”
Ajaw: “UGH! There you go again! ‘Hmm, let’s consider the risks.’ ‘Hmm, let’s think this through.’ Must you overanalyze everything? Just take the commission!!!”
The Traveler and Paimon walk up to Kinich.
Paimon: “Kinich! Long time no see!”
Traveler: “We aren’t interrupting anything, are we?”
Ajaw: “oh YES YES YES! Reinforcements! Quick, back me up here! Tell this idiot he’d be making a HUGE mistake by skipping this commission!”
Paimon: “Wait, slow down! Paimon and the Traveler just got here! You can’t expect us to take your side when we don’t even know what you’re arguing about!”
Ajaw: “Great, JUST GREAT! Now there are TWO of you?! Must everyone insist on knowing every tiny detail before doing anything?!”
Kinich: “Ignore him. The Collective of Plenty posted a commission. Apparently, someone went missing near the volcano, but the search was interrupted when the volcano became unusually active. The terrain became unstable, so they requested someone familiar with dangerous environments… which Ajaw insists is me.”
Paimon: “Woah, that sounds really serious! You sure you can handle this one on your own? Kinda sounds to Paimon like Ajaw’s just trying to get you killed…”
Ajaw: “WHAT?! How dare you accuse the Almighty Dragonlord, K’uhul Ajaw, of such a horrible thing! We are merely encouraging our servant to embrace a glorious challenge that will put his survival skills to the test!”
Kinich: “I have to admit, Paimon has a point. The way you initially described this commission makes it sound like you’re expecting me to be buried under a mountain.”
Kinich: “You two really don’t need to worry. I can assure you, Ajaw isn’t going to get his wish.”
Paimon: “Ehhh... maybe! But Paimon still remembers all those times the Traveler almost got crushed by falling rocks! And if the volcano is more active, then it’s way more dangerous than usual! You sure you don’t want us coming with you?”
Kinich: “If you want to help, I’m not going to refuse your offer. All I mean to say is that I’m capable of handling this job on my own. The last thing I want is one of you getting hurt.”
Paimon: “Hey, you can’t blame us for being worried! You were about to run off to a dangerous volcano all on your own! We were planning to visit the Collective of Plenty anyway! Let us help with the search while we're there!”
Traveler: “Not to brag, but I’m pretty good at finding things.”
Traveler: “You should let us help.”
Kinich: “Understood. If there’s nothing else you need to take care of, then we should head out. Iansan’s waiting for us.”
Paimon: “Oh, right! We still need to talk to Katheryne! That was the whole reason we came here!”
Paimon flies over to Katheryne
Katheryne: “Ad astra abyssosque. Welcome to the Adventurers’ Guild.”
Paimon: “Hey Katheryne! Got any news for us?”
Katheryne: “At the moment, there are no new requests or messages for you. However, I see you’ll be accompanying Kinich on his commission. In that case, there are a few additional details you should know before heading to Atocpan.”
Paimon: “Additional details? Did Kinich leave something out when he was talking to us?”
Katheryne: “Not exactly. The Adventurers’ Guild has received several reports regarding the volcanic activity in the area. While eruptions are not uncommon in Natlan, the recent increase in activity appears unusual.”
Paimon: “So the volcano really has been acting strange...”
Katheryne: “According to the reports, repeated tremors have caused some areas of the terrain to become unstable, and rockslides have become much more common. Several routes near the volcano have become more dangerous than usual.”
Traveler: “That about matches what Kinich told us…”
Paimon: “Yeah, but the way you just described it makes it sound way more serious than Kinich’s version!”
Katheryne: “Indeed. Please exercise caution while assisting with the search.”
Paimon: “We will! Thanks a bunch, Katheryne!”
Paimon: “Alright, we should be ready now!”
Kinich: “Good. Let’s get moving—
Kinich pauses. He looks around.
Kinich: “Wait, where’s…”
Kinich turns around just in time to see Ajaw attempting to slip away. The moment he realizes he’s been spotted, Ajaw immediately abandons all attempts at subtlety and speeds off.
Paimon: “HEY!!! HE’S GETTING AWAY!”
Paimon chases after Ajaw, with the Traveler and Kinich close behind. Unfortunately for Ajaw, he had forgotten one important detail: if he was going to insist that Kinich take the commission, he couldn’t exactly complain when Kinich expected him to come along.
Objective: Chat with Kinich
Ajaw: “uggGGHHH! CAN’T YOU WALK ANY FASTER? ARE YOU TRYING TO BORE US TO DEATH? oh, WHY did the Almighty Dragonlord, K’UHUL AJAW, have to get dragged into this? CAN’T YOU HANDLE THIS YOURSELVES?!?”
Kinich: “You’re not staying with Ifa, and you’re not bothering Mualani. Don’t forget that you insisted I take this commission, so you’re helping whether you want to or not.”
Ajaw: “HEY! I AM NOT SOME KIND OF STUPID PET WHO NEEDS BABYSITTING! I AM THE ALMIGHTY DRAGONLORD, AND— HEY, WHAT ARE YOU—?!”
Kinich cuts Ajaw off mid-rant and seals him away. At least for the time being, peace and quiet return to the mountain path.
Kinich: “You know, I wasn’t expecting to see you two back so soon.”
Paimon: “Huh? ‘Soon?’ Paimon feels like we’ve been gone forever!”
Kinich: “It has been a few months, yes. After we saw you off to Nod Krai, I figured your next stop would be Snezhnaya. What brings you back to Natlan?”
Paimon: “Hehe… Paimon might’ve talked the Traveler into making one last stop before we start our coldest adventure yet.”
Kinich: “…I can’t say I’m surprised.”
Kinich: “After everything that happened in Nod Krai and Sumeru, it's understandable to want a break from it all. It’s good to see you both made it back safely.”
Paimon: “You’ve already heard about all that? To Paimon, it feels like it just happened yesterday! Word sure does travel fast, huh?”
Kinich: “When two nations are thrown into crisis back-to-back, people tend to notice.”
Kinich: “From what I’ve heard, both crises were directly caused by The Doctor. I knew that the harbingers weren’t all as honorable as The Captain was, but even so…”
Paimon: “Yeah… it was definitely a lot to deal with! But don’t worry! He’s gone for good this time!”
Paimon: “It took a whole lot of people working together to stop him, though.”
Kinich: “I can imagine. Even for the Traveler, someone like the Second of the Fatui Harbingers would have been too much to handle alone. It’s good to know that he won’t be causing any more trouble.”
Kinich: “On that note, I’m rather curious about your travels. If you don’t mind, I’d like to—”
Before Kinich can finish, the ground begins to shake, and a loud rumbling starts coming from the mountain.
Paimon: “Waaah! Look out, the volcano’s gonna erupt!”
Kinich: “We need to get out of the open. Follow me.”
Objective: Take cover from the volcano
The Traveler, Paimon, and Kinich all take cover under a small ledge near the path, and stay there until everything calms down. Meanwhile…
Inside of a dim cave, small rocks tumble from the ceiling as another rumble echoes through the mountain. The entrance is almost completely blocked by a recent rockslide, leaving only a small gap where the faintest bit of light slips through. The path outside is completely inaccessible.
An injured saurian rests against the cave wall, carefully keeping weight off one of its legs. A gloved hand reaches out and gently strokes its neck, accompanied by a young-sounding male voice that comforts the little saurian.
???: “…Easy…”
The saurian lets out a weak whine.
???: “Hey… It's gonna be okay, buddy. I'm sure help is coming.”
Another rumble echoes through the cave as more dust and pebbles fall. The hand instinctively shields the saurian’s head.
???: “…We just have to wait a little longer.”
The rumbling and shaking from the volcano slowly subsides, and everything begins to calm down.
Paimon: “Is it over? Tell Paimon it’s over!!!”
Traveler: “It’s over, Paimon.”
Kinich: “…Something about that eruption just now felt off.”
Paimon: “Huh? What do you mean?”
Kinich: “I can’t say for certain, but it didn’t feel like a normal eruption.”
Paimon: “Huh… Katheryne did say that the volcano has been doing some strange things lately. But, Paimon didn’t notice anything weird.”
Traveler: “Probably because you were too busy panicking to notice.”
Paimon: “Hey! Paimon wasn’t— …okay fine. You got her there, she was pretty freaked out…”
Kinich stares off into the distance, studying the volcano closely. He then turns back to the Traveler and Paimon.
Kinich: “There’s no point in standing around. Let’s get to the tribe, quickly. We need to make sure everyone is alright.”
Paimon: “Yeah, sounds like a plan!”
Objective: Go to the Collective of Plenty
Iansan: “Oh good, you’re here! Hopefully the trip wasn’t too difficult…”
Paimon: “Hey, don’t worry about that! We’re fine! But what about you and the rest of the tribe? Is everyone okay? That eruption was HUGE!”
Iansan: “We’re all okay. Everyone around here knows what to do when the mountain acts up. We’re pretty used to it.”
Iansan: “By the way, Traveler, Paimon, it’s nice to see you again! What brings you back to Natlan?”
Iansan: “If you came for the harvest festival, I’m afraid you’ll have to wait a little longer. As you’ve probably noticed… we’ve got more pressing matters to deal with.”
Traveler: “Actually, we’re here to help.”
Paimon: “Yeah! We were originally coming here just to relax before we went to Snezhnaya, but then we ran into Kinich and heard about the situation, so we figured we’d lend a hand!”
Paimon: “Plus, after seeing what the mountain’s been like…there’s no way we’d let him head up there alone!”
Ajaw, having escaped his time-out, quickly joins the conversation.
Ajaw: “It’s not too late to back out you know! Go on, scram! That way, when things go HORRIBLY WRONG, IT’LL JUST BE KINICH WHO DIES! MUAHAHAHA!”
Kinich, ignoring Ajaw: “I appreciate the concern, but I’ve handled worse. As long as we stay alert, we’ll be fine.”
Paimon: “So… what exactly happened? Kinich filled us in on the basics, but we still don’t know the whole story!”
Paimon: “After that eruption, Paimon has a feeling this isn’t going to be as simple as finding someone who got lost. Just what the heck is going on up there?”
Ajaw: “Oh? What’s this? Are you getting cold feet already? Don’t tell me the Traveler’s little sidekick is scared of a few fiery pebbles!”
Paimon: “HEY! PAIMON IS NOT A SIDEKICK! PAIMON IS EMERGENCY—”
Traveler: “Go on…”
Paimon: “…P-PAIMON IS THE GREATEST TRAVEL GUIDE IN ALL OF TEYVAT!!! And she is NOT afraid of pebbles!”
Ajaw: “HAHAHA! What courage! What bravery! Such a mighty declaration from one who just moments ago was trembling in fear over a few small rocks.”
Paimon: “WHY YOU!— UGH! Keep it up and Paimon’s gonna start calling you… uh… O- Obnoxious flying gecko! Yeah… YEAH!”
Ajaw: “Gecko? GECKO?!”
Ajaw: “HAVE YOU FORGOTTEN WHO I AM?! I AM THE ALMIGHTY DRAGONLORD, K’UHUL AJAW! A BEING OF ANCIENT POWER AND UNMATCHED GRANDEUR! I HAVE SOARED THROUGH THE SKIES, COMMANDED RESPECT FROM MORTALS, AND—”
Kinich: “Ajaw…”
Ajaw: “—AND I WILL NOT STAND HERE AND BE COMPARED TO SOME COMMON LITTLE—”
Kinich: “Ajaw.”
Ajaw: “...”
Kinich: “Stop provoking Paimon before I put you in time out again… not sure how you even got out in the first place…”
Kinich: “Iansan, go ahead. I’d also like to hear the full story.”
Iansan: “Alright. Recently, Varesa came to me looking for help. A friend of hers went up the mountain to look for one of his Tatankasaurs after it wandered off.”
Iansan: “Before he left, he asked her to keep an eye on his farm and said he’d be back in a few hours… but the thing is, he still hasn’t returned.”
Iansan: “We organized a search not long after. We followed the route Varesa said he’d taken, but before we got very far, another tremor hit the mountain and a huge rockslide came down, blocking the path and forcing us to retreat for the time being.”
Iansan: “Sending more people up there would’ve only put them in the same danger, which is why I posted a commission with the Adventurers’ Guild. We needed someone experienced enough to navigate terrain like that without turning one missing person into several. I didn’t think it would take a whole day to get picked up, though…”
Kinich: “My apologies. I didn’t see the commission until this morning. Had I found it sooner, I would’ve come immediately.”
Iansan: “Don’t worry, it’s fine. You’re here now, and that’s what matters. I’m still a bit surprised that it was you who accepted it though.”
Kinich: “The reward was generous enough to catch my attention. But even if it hadn't been, I wasn’t about to leave an entire tribe to face something like this alone. I’m not exactly an adventurer, but I’ve seen my fair share of jobs involving dangerous terrain.”
Ajaw: “Ugh, and somehow, EVERY time, you make it out unscathed. BUT NOT THIS TIME! No, no, no! This time, fate itself has prepared your demise! A raging volcano, collapsing cliffs, and countless opportunities for disaster! Yes, I can feel it! This is the one! THIS is the day the Almighty Dragonlord, K’uhul Ajaw, is freed at last from this miserable arrangement!” *maniacal laughter*
Paimon: “That’s just exaggeration, r- right?”
Kinich: “The danger is very much real. We should be careful going up the mountain.”
Iansan: “Yeah, and we can’t just stand around and hope for the best. We need to find Ikita as quickly as we can and make sure he comes back safely.”
Paimon: “Wait, hold on, Ikita? That’s who we’re looking for, right? Isn’t that an Inazuman name though?”
Iansan: “It is. He came to Natlan a few years ago. It was supposed to just be a short visit, but then Inazuma closed its borders, and he couldn’t return home. Varesa helped him through those first few months, and once he got back on his feet, he made a home around the tribe. He’s been living here ever since.”
Kinich: “I think I might have seen him around a few times when the tribes were rebuilding. He certainly doesn’t look Natlanese. I guess that explains it.”
Paimon: “So he was stranded here? That’s awful… Paimon can’t even imagine how scary that must’ve been…”
Paimon: “Hang on, Inazuma’s borders have been back open for a few years now. Shouldn’t he have been able to return? Why’s he still here?”
Iansan: “I don’t know the exact reason myself, but you might be able to ask Varesa if she knows. Though, I believe you’d have better luck asking Ikita himself once you find him.”
Paimon: “Got it! So now we need to talk to Varesa, right? Do you know where she is?”
Iansan: “She should be at her orchard right now. But if she isn’t there, then she’s over at Ikita’s farm. It’s not far from here.”
Kinich: “Good to know. If that’s all, then we should get there as soon as possible. Time is of the essence.”
Kinich takes off in the direction of Varesa’s orchard as soon as the Traveler confirms that she’s ready. Paimon is totally caught off guard by how quick they both left.
Paimon: “H-HEY WAIT, SLOW DOWN! WAIT FOR PAIMON!”
Objective: Look for Varesa near the tribe
Varesa: (Iansan posted the commission yesterday, didn’t she? Why hasn’t anyone come yet?)
Varesa: (There’s so many adventurers in Natlan… is there really no one willing to help?)
Varesa: (Ikita… please be okay…)
Multiple sets of footsteps can be heard rapidly approaching the orchard.
Varesa: “Huh? Wait, could that be… *gasp* Adventurers!”
Varesa jumps up from where she was sitting and rushes to greet the group coming to help with the commission. She’s clearly been waiting for a while, judging by how restless she seems. She spots Kinich first, and immediately knows the commission is in good hands.
Varesa: “Kinich! Thank goodness. I was starting to think no one was going to take the commission.”
Kinich: “Sorry to keep you waiting. We came as soon as we could.”
Varesa: “‘…We?’”
The Traveler and Paimon catch up, stopping beside Kinich.
Paimon: “Hi Varesa!”
Varesa: “Traveler and Paimon? I… definitely wasn’t expecting to see you here!”
She smiles, though the worry on her face never quite disappears.
Varesa: “I’d love to catch up on your recent adventures and why you’re in Natlan, but… I’m guessing you’re here because of Ikita. Has Iansan already explained everything to you?”
Paimon: “Mm-hm! Paimon can tell that you’re really worried about him. Don’t worry! Paimon’s sure that he’s fine. Maybe he just ran into a bit of trouble on the way back!”
Traveler: “We’re going to find him. I promise.”
Varesa lowers her gaze for a moment.
Varesa: “…I hope you’re right.”
She looks back toward the volcano.
Varesa: “But, with everything that’s been happening… I can’t help thinking this is more than him simply getting lost.”
Varesa: “…If he was caught in one of those rockslides…”
She falls silent.
Paimon: “Varesa…”
After a moment, she shakes her head.
Varesa: “No. Thinking like that isn’t going to help him.”
Kinich: “Agreed. Worrying about what could have happened isn’t going to help us find him.”
Kinich: “The less time we waste here, the more time we’ll have to bring him back safely. We don’t want the volcano to get in our way during the search, so it’s important that we get this done quickly.”
Kinich: “If we're going, then we should leave now.”
Paimon: “Right. No more wasting time!”
Varesa nods, then turns toward the mountain.
Varesa: “Come on. I know the route he would’ve taken. I’ll lead the way.”
Objective: Follow Varesa
Paimon: “So, you’re sure this is the way Ikita went?”
Varesa: “Yeah. He told me where he was headed before he left.”
Paimon: “He just… told you and went off on his own?”
Varesa: “Pretty much. His Tatankasaur, Tanuki, wandered off, and he was worried he might have gotten himself into trouble.”
Varesa: “He said he’d go look for him, bring him back, and then come home. He even told me not to worry, and that he’d probably be back before I knew it.”
Paimon: “Ah… so he thought it would just be a quick trip.”
Varesa: “Yeah. That’s why this is so strange. Ikita knows these mountains well from all the times he’s had to drag that saurian back. He wouldn’t just disappear without a reason.”
Traveler: “What’s Ikita like?”
Varesa: “Hmm… well, he’s a really kind person. He’s always looking for ways to help, even when nobody asks him to.”
Varesa: “He’s friendly, patient, and he treats everyone with respect. Ever since he started living at the tribe, he’s always tried to give back however he can.”
Paimon: “Sounds like he’s pretty easy to get along with!”
Varesa: “He is. Maybe a little too much, sometimes.”
Paimon: “Too much?”
Varesa: “He’s always trying to take care of everyone else. When he told me his saurian companion had wandered off, I offered to help him look for it.”
Varesa: “But he refused. He said he didn’t want to trouble me with something that was his responsibility.”
Paimon: “Seriously? He turned down your offer to help? Bet he regrets that decision now, huh?”
Paimon: “Wait, no, sorry… Paimon shouldn’t say that. You’re probably worried enough already…”
Varesa: “It’s fine, don’t worry about it. You’re right, though… I can’t help but wonder if things would’ve gone differently if I had gone with him.”
Varesa: “He’s always willing to lend a hand when someone else needs it… but when it comes to accepting help himself…”
Paimon: “Hmm… now that Paimon thinks about it, the Traveler has met a few people like that.”
Paimon: “Like Bennett! From the sounds of it, he’s pretty similar to Ikita. He’s always cheerful, friendly, and ready to help anyone who needs it. But he’s always worried that his bad luck will cause trouble for other people, so he usually tries to handle things on his own.”
Varesa: “Oh, Bennett? I think I remember him! Wasn’t he that adventurer from Mondstadt? Iansan and I showed him around when he came to visit the tribe.”
Varesa: “And I think you’re right. He and Ikita are pretty similar, especially when it comes to helping people. I don’t know him on the personal level that you do, but your description does remind me of Ikita quite a lot.”
Paimon: “Well now Paimon’s even more curious to meet this Ikita person!”
Varesa: “Oh, um… when we do find him, please don’t tell him I said any of this.”
Varesa: “He doesn’t really like when I bring it up. I think he gets uncomfortable when people point out that he’s always helping others, but rarely lets anyone help him.”
Traveler: “We know someone a bit like that in Liyue as well.”
Traveler: “He’s always helping us, but he doesn’t like to talk about his own struggles much.”
Paimon: “You know, you’re a bit like that too, Kinich! Well, sort of.”
Kinich, who had been quietly listening to the conversation, looks back at them.
Kinich: “…Excuse me?”
Paimon: “You heard Paimon!”
Paimon: “You’re always telling the Traveler to come to you whenever she needs help. Difficult commissions, dangerous enemies… anything! But when it comes to you…”
Paimon: “Well, Paimon can’t remember the last time you reached out to us for help! It’s always us making the decision on our own after you try to push us away.”
Kinich is quiet for a moment.
Kinich: “I’m not ‘pushing you away,’ I’m just making sure you understand the risks before you get involved.”
Traveler: “Maybe that’s true… but when you told us the commission was dangerous, and that you could handle it yourself…”
Traveler: “…it felt like you were trying to convince us not to come with you.”
Kinich pauses.
Kinich: “…That wasn’t my intention.”
Kinich: “I was explaining the situation. The mountain is dangerous, and anyone who chooses to come along should understand that.”
Paimon: “Just because a job is super dangerous doesn’t mean we can’t help you with it! Besides, you should know not to underestimate the Traveler by now!”
Kinich sighs slightly.
Kinich: “I’ve never underestimated the Traveler’s abilities. I know what she’s capable of.”
Kinich: “But the mountain doesn’t care how strong someone is. A single misstep can be enough to put anyone in danger.”
Kinich: “So if I have the ability to handle a situation myself, there’s no reason to put someone else at risk.”
Varesa: “You know… all you’re doing is proving Paimon’s point.”
Kinich: “…How so?”
Varesa: “You’re explaining why you think you can handle things yourself.”
Varesa: “But, that’s exactly what Ikita does. He’s always willing to help someone else, but the moment someone tries to do the same for him, he starts worrying that he’s asking for too much.”
Traveler: “You’re never a burden just because you need someone else’s help.”
Traveler: “We’re all in this together, remember? No one fights alone.”
Paimon: “Exactly! Don’t be afraid to reach out if you ever need anything. We can’t just let you help us all the time and never do anything in return!”
Kinich opens his mouth as if he's about to speak, but after a moment, he simply falls quiet.
Varesa sighs
Varesa: “Ikita would really benefit from this conversation, you know. Let’s hope we find him soon…”
Silence follows.
The group continues along the mountain path, the sound of their footsteps filling the quiet.
Kinich remains silent. He doesn’t seem upset. If anything, he seems to be thinking carefully about what was said.
After a while, Kinich slows to a stop. The Traveler notices a moment later and turns back. Varesa stops as well.
Kinich looks toward the Traveler.
Kinich: “Traveler?”
Traveler: “Yes?”
Kinich: “…”
Kinich: “…If I ever find myself in a situation where I need help… I’ll reach out.”
Kinich: “To you, or to someone else I trust.”
Kinich: “That’s my promise to you.”
The Traveler smiles softly, remembering how Kinich had once asked her to make the same promise.
Traveler: “I’m glad to hear that.”
For a few moments afterward, neither of them says anything. Varesa waits quietly, giving the moment a chance to settle before leading the group onward. The Traveler takes one last glance at Kinich before turning her attention back to the mountain path ahead.
Varesa: “Alright, let’s keep going. If we're lucky, he won't be much farther.”
After a bit more walking…
Varesa: “This should be the area…”
Kinich: “Then let’s not waste anymore time. We can cover more ground if we split up.”
Paimon: “Yeah, that seems like the smartest thing to do. Be careful guys! Don’t go too far!”
Objective: Search the area for clues
The Traveler and Paimon search the surrounding area while Varesa and Kinich investigate nearby paths.
Look for clues (1/3)
The Traveler notices several large rocks scattered along the path, their positions seeming unnatural.
Paimon: “Those rocks look like they fell recently…”
Paimon: “Could something have happened here? Let’s move them and take a look!”
After clearing away the rocks, Paimon looks around the area.
Paimon: “Nope… nothing here.”
Paimon: “But that’s probably a good thing! We REALLY wouldn’t want to find him under one of those…”
Paimon: “Let’s keep looking.”
Look for clues (2/3)
As the Traveler and Paimon continue searching the area, they hear a faint rustling sound coming from a nearby bush.
Paimon: “Huh? What’s that?”
The leaves continue to move, drawing their attention.
Paimon: “Wait… something’s in there!”
The Traveler approaches carefully, only for a small bird to suddenly fly out from the bushes, causing Paimon to let out a startled yelp.
Paimon: “O-Oh… it’s just a bird… That scared the heck out of Paimon…”
Paimon: “No luck here either… Let’s keep looking.”
Look for clues (3/3)
The Traveler and Paimon continue searching the area, following every possible lead they could find. Just as they were beginning to wonder if they had missed something, Paimon spots something.
Paimon: “Wait, Traveler, look over there!”
Near a fallen log, something fluffy was barely visible among the rocks and grass, and it appeared to be moving. The Traveler cautiously approached the spot, but before they could get any closer, whatever was behind the log suddenly jolted awake, staring directly at them.
Paimon: “Ah! A Hilichurl?!”
The Hilichurl immediately grabs its weapon and charges at them.
Paimon: “Look out! It’s going to attack!”
Objective: Defeat the attacking monsters
The Traveler quickly draws her weapon, preparing to defend herself. The Hilichurl attacks without hesitation, forcing her to shift her focus from the search to the unexpected threat.
The noise soon attracts more enemies from deeper within the mountains. What began as a single encounter quickly turns into a larger battle.
Just as the Traveler was beginning to gain the upper hand, an Abyss Mage emerges among the monsters. The Traveler’s expression hardens. The Abyss was not something she had expected to find this far up the mountain. Still, she didn’t have time to question it. She focuses on the battle ahead and continues fighting.
The sounds of combat echo through the mountain paths, eventually reaching Varesa and Kinich. They quickly make their way back toward the Traveler’s location, only to find the battle nearly over. As they arrive, the Traveler strikes the final blow against the Abyss Mage, the creature letting out one last cry before disappearing.
Varesa: “Huh? Why is the Abyss here?!”
Paimon: “Varesa, Kinich! You’re back!”
Varesa: “We heard a lot of noise coming from over here and came as quickly as we could. What happened?!”
Kinich: “More importantly, are you and Paimon okay? Neither of you got hurt, right?”
Paimon: “Paimon’s okay! She mostly just stood to the side while the Traveler fought the monsters…”
Traveler: “I’m fine. It was just a couple of Hilichurls, nothing serious.”
Traveler: “But… I’m a bit worried about that Abyss Mage…”
Varesa: “Yeah, so am I… Especially with what’s going on with the volcano. I could just be overthinking things… but it’s getting a bit too similar to what happened during the war.”
Varesa: “Wait, if the Abyss Order is out here, then that means—”
Varesa: “…We have to find Ikita. Who knows what kind of trouble he could be in?”
Kinich: “Varesa, you know Ikita’s abilities better than most.”
Kinich: “He fought alongside you during the war, and he has a Vision. We have no reason to assume the worst.”
Paimon: “Wait, he has a Vision? How come we’re only just now finding this out?!”
Traveler: “What element does he have? We might be able to track him with Elemental Sight.”
Varesa: “…Elemental Sight! Of course! I hadn’t even thought about that!”
Varesa: “Ikita’s Vision is Dendro. But, I can’t think of a reason for why he would need to use it, unless…”
Traveler: “The Abyss Mage I fought was weaker than I expected.”
Traveler: “I think someone had already fought it before we arrived, but it managed to escape.”
Varesa: “You mean, you think Ikita had been fighting it?”
Kinich: “If she’s right, then he may have left something behind. We’d better check.”
The Traveler closes her eyes and activates her Elemental Sight. For a moment, the world around her fades into muted shades, revealing faint traces of elemental energy that had long since escaped the notice of the naked eye.
Just as they had hoped, a trail of faint Dendro energy stretched farther up the mountain path. Though much of it had already begun to fade, there was still enough left to follow.
Paimon: “Woah! There’s Dendro energy all over the place!”
Varesa looks over the trail carefully.
Varesa: “So Ikita really was here…”
Kinich: “We must be getting close. Let’s keep going.”
The group follows the trail of Dendro energy farther up the mountain path. At first, the traces remain scattered, appearing only in small patches along the way. But the farther they go, the stronger the lingering energy becomes.
Before long, their path is interrupted by a large pile of volcanic rock blocking the road.
Paimon: “This must be from that rockslide Iansan mentioned… ugh, what a mess! How are we supposed to get through?!”
Traveler: “Varesa?”
Varesa: “Shouldn’t be a problem for me. Stand back!”
Varesa steps forward without hesitation, and with a powerful strike, she breaks through the fallen rocks, opening a path for the group to continue. Beyond the rubble, the Dendro traces grow stronger. The signs of a struggle become impossible to miss — damaged ground, scattered debris, and marks left behind from a battle that had taken place not long ago.
Paimon: “Woah… what happened here? It looks like there was a huge fight!”
The Traveler follows the trail of Dendro energy through the battlefield, watching as the fading traces become stronger with every step. Before long, they converge beneath a massive pile of volcanic rock, sealing off the entrance to a cave. She looks to see if there’s an opening anywhere that might let her see in through, but alas, it’s completely blocked.
At the same time, Varesa searches the surrounding area, hoping to find anything that might explain what happened. Among the scattered debris, something catches her eye. She walks over and picks up a torn piece of light green fabric, brushing away the dust until a familiar botanical pattern comes into view.
Varesa: “Wait…”
She turns the fabric over in her hands, her expression growing increasingly uneasy.
Varesa: “…That’s…”
Traveler: “Everyone, come look at this!”
The others gather around the Traveler, looking toward the collapsed cave entrance.
Without hesitation, Varesa steps forward, preparing to clear the rocks.
Varesa: “I’ll break through.”
Kinich: “Wait.”
Varesa freezes and looks back at him, confused.
Kinich: “If Ikita is on the other side of those rocks, breaking through without knowing where he is could put him in danger.”
Varesa looks back at the collapsed entrance, realizing what he means.
Varesa: “…Oh…”
Traveler: “There should be another entrance nearby. Let’s check there first.”
The Traveler leads them just around the corner to the second entrance, which just like the first one, is sealed off by volcanic rocks.
Paimon: “Aw, come on! This one’s blocked too?!”
Kinich steps closer, examining the fallen rocks. Unlike the first entrance, this side is not completely sealed. A small gap remains between the rubble, barely wide enough to see through.
Kinich: “I have an idea…”
Kinich summons Ajaw.
Paimon: “WHAT?! Why would you let him out?!”
Kinich: “Ajaw?”
Ajaw stares at the narrow opening in the rocks, his expression twisting into immediate annoyance.
Ajaw: “Ugh, FINE! But if I get stuck, I’m blaming you! The Almighty Dragonlord, K’uhul Ajaw, was not made for such humiliating tasks!”
Ajaw grumbles as he squeezes through the narrow opening, clearly unhappy about being sent through such a small space.
Kinich: “Tell us what you find.”
Ajaw: “Yeah, yeah, whatever.”
Ajaw disappears into the cave. Inside, he floats through the dark passage, grumbling to himself as he searches.
Ajaw: “Unbelievable… sending ME to crawl through tiny cracks. The disrespect…”
He continues deeper into the cave until he spots something ahead. A person lies motionless on the ground, with a small saurian sitting beside him.
Ajaw flies closer, looking the person over.
Ajaw: “Hmph. There you are.”
He floats down in front of him.
Ajaw: “Rise and shine, farmer boy!”
After a moment, the person slowly stirs. His eyes open, and he looks up at Ajaw.
Ajaw stares back, completely unimpressed.
Ajaw: “Speechless, are we? Can’t blame you. The mere presence of the Almighty Dragonlord, K’uhul Ajaw, is enough to leave anyone in awe—”
“AAAAAAAAAA—”
Outside the cave, everyone freezes.
Paimon: “What the heck was that?!”
Varesa: “IKITA!!!”
Without hesitation, Varesa charges through the rocks, forcing her way into the cave.
Paimon: “Wait, Varesa! Be careful—”
Varesa disappears into the cave.
Paimon: “…and she’s gone.”
Paimon looks toward the entrance, then back at Kinich and the Traveler.
Paimon: “Shouldn’t we go after her?”
Kinich: “Let’s just give her a moment.”
The three remain outside, waiting for Varesa to return.
Ajaw: “—What’s with that expression?! You’re looking at the Almighty Dragonlord, K’uhul Ajaw, you know! Have you really never seen someone as magnificent as us before?!”
The person remains frozen, still trying to process the fact that the thing in front of him is somehow alive, floating, and talking.
Ajaw: “We expected fear, perhaps. Awe, definitely. But this?!”
Ajaw floats closer, narrowing his eyes. “Do you have any idea how rare it is for someone of our greatness to personally come to your aid?! Show some respect!!-”
Before Ajaw can finish, the sounds of a loud crash followed by hurried footsteps echo through the cave. The person flinches and turns toward the entrance. His eyes widen when he sees Varesa rushing towards him.
???: “Varesa…?”
Varesa: “Ikita!”
Varesa rushes over and immediately looks him over, checking for any obvious injuries.
Ajaw watches the reunion in silence, clearly not happy about having his monologue interrupted. But instead of making a fuss about it, he lets out an annoyed huff and quietly flies off, deciding he’d rather just wait outside.
Varesa: “Are you hurt? What happened?”
Ikita: “I… I'm okay, I was just… resting.”
Ikita looks at the Tatankasaur resting beside him. “But… Tanuki—”
Varesa: “I know, Tanuki’s hurt. We’ll get him to Ifa, I promise. But what about you? You don’t look fine!”
Ikita: “Varesa, I’m fine, really! You don’t have to worry!”
Ikita pushes himself to his feet, deliberately straightening up to prove that he can stand. As he does, he subtly tugs his sleeve down, an action that does not go unnoticed. Varesa’s eyes narrow, focusing on whatever he’s trying to hide from her.
Varesa: “Let me see your arm.”
Ikita: “H- Huh? Why?—”
Varesa grabs his wrist before he can finish. Ikita instinctively tries to pull away, but the difference in strength is very much not in his favor.
Ikita: “Varesa, wait—”
She pulls his sleeve back, revealing a poorly bandaged cut just below his shoulder. Ikita winces—not from the pain, but from the realization that his attempt to hide it has completely failed.
Ikita: “It’s really not that bad—”
Varesa gently touches the edge of the bandage.
Ikita: “—Ow!”
Ikita immediately winces and pulls his shoulder away.
Varesa stares at him for a moment.
Ikita: “…”
Varesa: “…Anything else you want to tell me about?”
She reaches up and carefully takes hold of his torn bandana.
Varesa: “Maybe this?”
Ikita glances down at it.
She pulls out the scrap of fabric she found and holds it up beside the torn edge.
Ikita: “…”
Varesa: “Ikita…”
Her voice softens.
Varesa: “We found all kinds of stuff out there. Broken rocks, Dendro energy… it looked like there'd been a huge fight.”
Ikita looks away.
Varesa: “…So, please. Just tell me what happened.”
Ikita looks down for a moment before finally sighing.
Ikita: “…okay… I’ll tell you. Just, please don’t freak out.”
His voice is shaky as he recounts what happened, despite his attempts to keep himself composed.
Ikita: “…When I found Tanuki, and was about to come back, we… we were ambushed by the Abyss…”
Ikita: “There were so many of them. I managed to fight most of them off, but… I got hurt, and they just kept coming. I was barely able to keep them back. I tried to retreat through here, but of course, they followed me in.”
Ikita: “And as if being cornered by Abyssal monsters wasn’t enough, the stupid VOLCANO erupted! And then the entrance collapsed, and-”
His voice falters.
Ikita: “And… Tanuki’s leg got stuck under one of the rocks.”
Ikita: “…I-I took care of the monsters first. Then I… tried to get Tanuki out.”
He takes a shaky breath, forcing himself to continue.
Ikita: “It took a while, but I managed to free his leg and patch him up as best I could. He was exhausted, so... I stayed with him.”
Ikita glances toward Tanuki again.
Ikita: “We’ve been stuck here since then. I tried getting through the rocks with my polearm, but it wasn't doing anything. And Tanuki's too young to break through them, especially with his leg hurt.”
He gives a small, tired shrug.
Ikita: “So... we didn't have much else to do.”
His voice becomes quieter.
Ikita: “He fell asleep beside me about an hour ago. So, I figured I'd rest too.”
Ikita falls silent. For a moment, the only sound in the cave is Tanuki's quiet breathing.
Ikita: “…I’m really sorry, Varesa… I didn’t mean to scare you so mu—”
Varesa: “Ikita, just… shut up. You don’t need to apologize for that. None of this was your fault.”
Ikita's expression slowly softens.
After a few seconds, he finally relaxes, carefully wrapping his arms around her in return.
For the first time since he became trapped in the cave, he allows himself to stop worrying about what might happen next.
Eventually, Varesa pulls back just enough to look at him.
Varesa: “…I'm glad you're okay.”
Ikita gives her a small, tired smile.
Ikita: “…I thought you said I wasn’t okay.”
Varesa: “Oh my gods, just shut up!”
Ikita lets out a quiet laugh.
Varesa: “…Alright, come on. It’s time we got out of here, don’t you think? The Traveler and Kinich are still waiting for us. They’re the ones who helped me find you.”
Ikita: “Wait, slow down, you don’t mean THE Traveler, do you? The golden haired one with the silver haired companion? She helped you look for me?”
Varesa: “Mh-hm! We’re actually friends! I could have sworn I told you…”
Varesa: “Anyway, like I said, she and Kinich are waiting outside.”
Varesa glances over at Tanuki, who is still resting on the ground.
Varesa: “Come on, little guy. Let's get you out of here.”
She carefully scoops Tanuki up, supporting his injured leg so she doesn't put any unnecessary pressure on it.
Ikita: “Are you sure you can carry him?”
Varesa: “Of course!” Varesa adjusts her grip, settling the young Tatankasaur comfortably against her. “Besides, you've already done enough.”
Ikita gives her a small nod.
Ikita: “Alright.”
He takes one last look around the cave before turning toward the entrance.
Varesa: “Come on. Let's go home.”
Varesa smiles and starts toward the exit, carrying Tanuki carefully in her arms. Ikita follows close behind.
After a few moments, they finally emerge from the cave. The Traveler, Kinich, Paimon, and Ajaw are waiting outside. Paimon and Ajaw are still bickering, but the argument comes to an abrupt stop when they notice Varesa.
Paimon: “Varesa! You're back!—Wait, is that him?!”
Paimon flies closer, looking Ikita over with a mixture of relief and concern. Meanwhile Ikita stares in awe, struggling to believe that the people in front of him are the legendary Traveler and Paimon.
Paimon: “So you’re Ikita? We searched all over for you! Paimon was starting to think we’d never find you!”
Ikita: “Yeah… sorry about that. I didn't exactly plan on getting trapped in a cave.”
Paimon: “You don't have to apologize! We're just glad you're alright!”
Ikita: “Yeah… Varesa said the same thing.”
Ikita gives her a tired smile, then looks past her toward the Traveler.
Ikita: “So… you’re the Traveler?”
Traveler: “The one and only.”
Ikita: “Wow… it's so nice to finally meet you.”
His attention shifts to the Tatankasaur resting in Varesa's arms.
Ikita: “Although, I'd really like to get Tanuki to Ifa before we do any actual introductions.”
Paimon: “Aww… poor thing. What happened to his leg?”
Ikita: “He got caught under some rocks when the cave collapsed. I managed to get him out and patched him up, but… it’s still pretty bad.”
Paimon: “Oh… then we should definitely get him to Ifa as soon as possible.”
Varesa: “Yeah. Let's not keep him waiting any longer.”
Kinich steps forward.
Kinich: “I can bring a message to Ifa, if you’d like. I’ll let him know it’s urgent.”
Ikita looks toward him.
Ikita: “Oh! You’re… Kinich, right? I think Varesa mentioned you.”
Kinich: “Correct.”
Ikita: “I guess I owe you one then. Varesa told me you were the one who picked up the commission.”
Kinich: “Actually, Ajaw was the one who pointed it out.”
Ikita glances toward Ajaw.
Ikita: “Really?”
Ajaw: “And what a waste of time it turned out to be!”
Paimon: “Huh?!”
Ajaw: “This so-called ‘dangerous’ commission promised all sorts of excitement, and what did we actually get? A few hilichurls, some rubble, and a farmer who decided to take a nap in a cave!”
Ajaw turns his attention back to Kinich.
Ajaw: “And after all that, you don't even have a single scratch! We were promised danger! Where was it?!”
Paimon: “Hey! You can't seriously be disappointed that Kinich didn't get hurt!”
Ikita looks between Paimon, Kinich, and Ajaw, clearly confused.
Ikita: “Uh… Am I missing something?”
Varesa: “Eh, don’t worry about it. Ajaw's just like that.”
Ikita glances back at Ajaw.
Ikita: “…Right.”
Kinich glances toward Ikita's arm, his attention catching on the makeshift bandage beneath his sleeve.
Kinich: “That needs to be changed.”
Ikita looks down at his arm.
Ikita: “Oh, this? Ah, i- it’s really not a problem, I can do it when we get back. It’s fine.”
Kinich reaches into his pack.
Kinich: “I have medical supplies. We can take care of it here.”
Ikita: “You really don't have to. I can—”
Ikita notices the look Varesa is giving him.
Ikita: “…actually, nevermind.”
Kinich removes the bandage, cleans the wound, and replaces the old bandage with a fresh one, working quickly but carefully.
Kinich: “There. That should hold until you can get proper treatment.”
Ikita: “um… Thanks.”
Kinich: “You're welcome.”
Varesa adjusts her hold on Tanuki.
Varesa: “Alright. If we're all done here, let's get Ikita back home, and Tanuki to Ifa.”
Paimon: “Yeah! And then we can grab something to eat! After all that, Paimon’s starved! And she bets Ikita is too after being stuck in there for so long.”
Traveler: “Leave it to Paimon to think about food above all else.”
Ikita: “Well now that you mention it… I am pretty hungry…”
Paimon: “All the more reason to get food!”
Ajaw: “Hmph. Finally! Can we go? You've wasted enough of our precious time already.”
Paimon: “Hang on, wasn't coming here your idea? You seemed super interested in the commission back at the Adventurers' Guild! What's with the switch-up? First you tried to run away, and now you won't stop complaining!”
Ajaw: “Maybe because this commission WAS A SCAM!”
Kinich: “It wasn't a scam, Ajaw. We were just lucky that we didn't run into any major disasters.”
Ajaw: “UGH, WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT ANYTHING?!”
Kinich ignores Ajaw, turning back to the rest of the group.
Kinich: “Ajaw is right about one thing, though. We've wasted enough time here. Let's go. The sooner we get back, the sooner he can shut up.”
Ajaw gasps.
Ajaw: “WHAT?! How DARE you! After everything I've done for you, this is how you treat me?! Fine! If you want silence, you'll get the exact opposite! I shall personally make sure my glorious voice is the ONLY thing you hear all the way back!”
Kinich: “So, you don't want your fruit juice then?”
Ajaw: “WHAT?!”
Kinich: “If you insist on being noisy the entire time, then I guess you won’t be getting your juice.”
Ajaw's expression immediately turns to one of absolute horror.
Ajaw: “YOU WOULDN'T!”
Kinich: “I would.”
Ajaw: “But—!”
Kinich: “If you really want it that badly, then I suggest you behave.”
Ajaw stares at him, visibly fuming, but surprisingly, doesn’t say anything more.
Kinich simply turns and continues walking. The others follow, with Varesa carrying Tanuki, and Ikita walking beside her.
Ajaw floats after them, grumbling quietly under his breath.
Eventually, the group disappears into the tunnel leading back toward the Collective of Plenty.
As they make their way through the passage, Paimon looks around, suddenly realizing something.
Paimon: “Wait a second…”
She looks back the way they came.
Paimon: “If we'd known Ikita was trapped in that cave, we could've just come through this tunnel!”
Paimon: “We wouldn't have had to go all the way around the mountain, and we could've just broken through the rocks, gotten him out, and been back here in no time!”
Traveler: “We had no way of knowing he was there.”
Paimon: “Yeah, Paimon knows that, but still… talk about taking the long way around.”
After a short walk, the group emerges on the other side of the tunnel. The familiar sights of the Collective of Plenty come into view.
Iansan, who had been waiting for their return, immediately notices them.
Iansan: “You're back!”
Her expression brightens when she spots Ikita.
Iansan: “And you found him!”
Varesa: “Yep! He’s mostly okay, but… we can’t say the same for Tanuki.”
Iansan: “What happened?”
Ikita: “It's a long story…”
Iansan: “Well, I'm just glad you're both back. I don’t need to know the full story right this second, I can tell you’re exhausted. Don’t worry, we’ll get Tanuki to Ifa right away. You take care of yourself first.”
Ikita: “Thank you, Iansan… that really means a lot…”
Iansan: “It’s no problem. You’re part of the tribe, after all.”
Iansan turns toward Kinich.
Iansan: “So, I guess you’ll be heading back to your tribe now?”
Kinich: “Not quite. I was going to bring Ifa here so that you didn’t have to carry the saurian all the way to the Flower-Feather Clan.”
Iansan: “Don’t you want your payment first?”
Kinich: “It’s fine. I’ll come get it later.”
Iansan: “Huh? Really? Never thought I’d hear you say that.”
Kinich: “Is it really that shocking?”
Iansan: “I didn’t mean it like that, I just figured you’d want to take your reward and be on your way.”
Kinich: “That would normally be the case, but I’m not in a hurry right now. Go ahead and give half to the Traveler. With how much she contributed to the search, it’s only fair she receives a reward as well.”
Iansan: “Got it. Be careful on your way back!”
Kinich: “I will.”
Iansan turns to Ikita.
Iansan: “As for you, you should probably go get that wound taken care of. Even with that bandage over it, I can still tell that it’s much worse than you’d like to admit.”
Ikita: “…Am I really that bad at hiding things?”
Iansan and Varesa: “Yes.”
Ikita sighs.
Ikita: “Of course… should have expected that…”
Ikita turns toward the Traveler and Paimon.
Ikita: “Well… thank you. All of you. I don't think I would've made it out of there without your help.”
Paimon: “You don't have to thank us! Just make sure you get some rest!”
Ikita gives Paimon a tired smile.
Ikita: “I'll try.”
Varesa: “Alright, let's get you to a doctor before you decide you're suddenly ‘fine’ again.”
Ikita: “Hey, I wasn’t—”
Varesa: “Nope. No more excuses. Come on.”
Kinich heads off in the direction of the Flower-Feather Clan, while Varesa drags Ikita toward the tribe's medical facilities.
Paimon watches as their companions each go their separate ways, then turns toward the Traveler.
Paimon: “Well… now that that's all taken care of…”
Paimon: “Food?”
The Traveler nods.
Traveler: “Food.”
Paimon: “Hehehe, yay! Paimon’s so hungry, she could eat twice as much food as Varesa!”
Traveler: “Ehh, not so sure about that one.”
Paimon: “Yeah… Paimon was just exaggerating. She couldn’t even begin to compete with Varesa on that…”
At last, everything seems peaceful at the tribe…
…However, that peace is short lived, as the ground suddenly gives a faint, ominous rumble beneath their feet. The Traveler and Paimon both look toward the volcano, knowing exactly what’s about to happen.
Paimon: “Uh oh…”
The volcano looms over the Collective of Plenty, smoke beginning to rise from its summit as the ground begins to shake. It seems this adventure is far from over.
