Bonded Anew

Brasah. You know how to get that device in the ruins working again, yes?

We can't reach Master Guildna without it. We're counting on you.

R-Right. I'll do what I can. If it's not too much trouble, I'd like to go back to the ruins to have another look.

Let us be off immediately, then.

Vares. Myrus. And you as well, Aldo.

Please free Master Guildna from Zestah's clutches... Normally, it would be my duty as her grandmother to settle the matter, but she is far too strong for me now.

Don't worry, we can handle this! We'll get both Master Guildna and Zestah back!

We don't plan on telling anyone else about the bubbles or Master Guildna's kidnapping at the moment. I would not want it to cause further trouble in the village. We would like you to keep the people in Resttin from noticing, if you could.

Of course.

Ohh, so that's what the old texts were talking about... Right. In that case...

So? Think you can fix it?

Probably. It's at least worth trying.

I believe this device is called an Astrolabos. And this place is the Astrarium.

Pretty spiffy names.

They're from the old texts I read. If we use this Astrolabos right, it should help us reach the room Zestah and Master Guildna are in.

Thankfully, we can repair the part she broke. But we need the right materials.

We can handle that.

We'll also need a few helping hands... I could ask the other beastfolk who were here earlier to help. They know what happened in the ruins, after all.

That would be most ideal. You have our approval.

Great. I think they'll be happy to help. They've been wanting to make up for what happened. I'll go talk to them. I'll leave the materials to you guys.

We better start getting those materials together.

Spiri. Chelika. Would you mind staying with us for a little while longer? You helped us figure out that we'd need that ore in the ruins. There might yet be other things a spirit of the island can help with, including the Astrolabos.

Unfortunately we'll have to put off finding a way to help you just a little longer, Chelika.

Oh, uh... That's fine. This is more important. We can worry about me later.

And I...I really hope Guildna's okay.

Thank you for your concern. It means a lot, especially coming from a human afraid of beasts.

W-Well, that's...uhh... It's true and all, but...er...

......

Hehe. I've been here a long time, so yeah, I might know a thing or two. Not that anything comes to mind right now.

Thank you. Now then, we need materials for both the walls and floor. We must get those ready as soon as possible.

Great. We have the materials we need. Let's head to the Astrarium.

Great. We should be able to fix the Astrarium with these.

Leave all the heavy lifting to us!

Yeah, we're plenty strong! We might not have won, but we still took on Master Guildna after all!

Good grief... An awful lively bunch, aren't you?

We'll be counting on you!

I did a bit more reading and realized we'll need a few more materials. Would you mind giving me a moment to get the list together?

Yeah, sure thing.

Master Guildna, please hold on. We will be at your back soon.

I notice you don't say you're going to save him, just that you'll get him back or be there soon.

Of course. He is the Beast King, after all. I am certain he is holding his own against Zestah even as we speak.

He might even come back on his own before we can go get him!

It's definitely possible.

You really believe in him and his strength. If only I could've been that way from the start...

......

Sigh...

Oh? What's the matter?

(Come on. He's obviously sad. Let's not bother him. We should turn around. Yeah, give him some space.)

Why the long face? Did something happen?

(Seriously, Spiri?! This is when we should be like a ghost and disappear!)

Everything's coming along just fine.

I was just...thinking about how weak I am. Ever since they got here, Myrus and the others have been saying that Master Guildna hasn't changed. But all I could see was how he lost his fire.

But what's that got to do with you being weak? Kinda curious how the two're related.

Why don't you let him talk, Spiri?

When I realized the rumors were true, I was shaken. I was so scared, I couldn't look past it. But unlike Zestah, I wasn't willing to do whatever it takes to help him get his fire back. I'm just a total weakling...

Er, sorry about that. I couldn't say it to Myrus and the others, so I guess it had to come out somewhere...

W-Well, you're...welcome to vent all you like. I'm not going to stop you. Even if we try to comfort you...it just makes you feel worse, right?

When I blame myself...it eases the pain a little and makes me feel better.

But wouldn't that be considered running away?

Y-Yeah, but...what's wrong with that?! Aldo, Myrus, Vares, Guildna, they're all so strong. Any normal person can't reach those levels! Most of the world is made up of weaklings like you and me. We're the standard.

...At least, thinking that way makes it a little easier for me to breathe.

Haha. Thanks. I guess you're right. There's no need to compare myself to them.

Yeah, and even they've got their weak points. Wanna try to figure 'em out?

Let's not, Spiri...

I figured out what else we need. Sorry to ask, but could you get the parts for this device?

No problem. Leave it to us.

All right. This should be everything. Time to make for the Astrarium.

We got the goods. Hope they do the trick.

Thanks. The repairs should be done soon. Just give me a sec.

How's it look?

That was fast. I can't believe you're already done!

I had no idea it was this pretty.

Is this the heart of the ruins?

I don't know, but the chances are high.

To get it to work, you'll need this.

What is it?

An asterorb. The old texts compared it to a star.

And this is a "star map," which explains how to arrange the stars.

It's been passed on by my family, the chiefs of Resttin, for generations. I was told they're just some decoration and manual, but it looks like it's finally time for them to fulfill their true purpose.

And we use this with the Astrolabos?

That's right. There should be a place to put it. You just have to follow the star map. But...

Is something wrong?

I think the asterorb is broken. You should go back to Resttin to have it repaired. Some ore should do the trick. Sorry for all the trouble... I, uh...

We're making great progress. And we couldn't have done it without you fixing the place up!

Thank you, everyone!

Don't mention it!

It seems like Master Guildna is still unconscious.

Just you wait. I'll find a way to get your fire back, I promise. You might have accepted your fate, but...I'm sure you'll have a change of heart once you're back to who you used to be.

There should be bubbles around here somewhere. You just need a lot more of them to regain your beast form.

I know it was our prayers that brought the meteorite to this place.

Let me pray again...with my whole heart.

Please, give Master Guildna his fire back. Return him to the man he used to be. The one we admired, who supported us through everything...

I've been holding on to this talisman ever since that day. Please, I want to feel that miracle again... I want our powerful leader back...! Please!

So we need to repair this asterorb in order to get the Astrolabos working...

(Now that I think about it...)

Is something the matter, Aldo?

Well... I feel like I've seen another orb just like this before.

Really?! According to the texts, there should be several of them out there.

Where did you see it?

Uhh... Hrmm...

I see... Well, you think on it. For now, let us return to the workshop in Resttin.

Brasah...

I, uh... I'm really sorry. About the baby. And now I, er...

You want to help Master Guildna. Isn't that right? I can tell by looking at the others with you.

Yeah... I do.

You can relax. I don't doubt you, Brasah. I could feel how sorry you were when you apologized to me and Mazaa.

That must mean Master Guildna really raked you over the coals! Hahaha!

Yeah. Thanks to him, I was able to put all my doubts behind me.

Speaking of which, where is he now?

Well, he's...in the ruins. Investigating the island. He needed some repairs done, which is why we came here.

Well, I'd be more than glad to! I've been itching to get to work. It'll take me a while to figure out how to repair it. Would you mind giving me some time?

Sure.

Hey, Var-var. I've got an errand to run. I'll be right back!

Yes, but please hurry. We don't have much time.

I know! I'll be quick!

Think I'll stay here, have a look around. You intelligent beings make all kinds of things, it could keep me amused for all eternity.

Guess that means I'm going along for the ride.

We could wait here for the repairs to be done or...

Hm?

Hmph. What do we need a Beast King for if he doesn't even have his fire? We could've repaired this village all on our own.

Yeah. I can't trust him to get the job done, not without a beast form.

Tch... Still badmouthing His Majesty, I see. When will they learn?!

Wait, Vares!

You're wrong!

Master Guildna is stronger than you think!

Huh?

What?

Ah!

I couldn't wrap my mind around it at first. I mean, a beast without a fire?

But Master Guildna is plenty strong. Just trust me on this! So what if he can't transform? There's still stuff we can learn from him! And it's about time you saw that too!

Tch... Who asked you? We're outta here.

...Why don't they get it? No... I guess I can't blame them. I didn't get it either.

It won't be easy. But at least we understand now.

Right!

Those are the beasts who fought His Majesty back at the ruins...

Looks like more folks are starting to come around.

Master Guildna has a power that draws in everyone around him. It makes them want to follow his lead. There was always much more to him than his fire.

I was saved by that strength of his, back when I was young and bullied for my frailty...

What? I didn't know that!

I suppose you wouldn't suspect it after seeing how strong I am now.

But in those days, I was quite feeble. My parents often brought me to this island. They came to pray at the ruins for me to grow up strong...

That boy Vares... I feel sorry for the poor thing, being born so weak.

I hope he at least gets strong enough to hold his own in battle.

I've seen him training with the chief before. But his sister, Myrus, is so much stronger, even for her age. The gap between them is probably just going to keep growing.

Var-var, don't listen to them! You're gonna get stronger someday. That's what Mama and the others say!

Yes... I know...

Hmph. I heard your brother's pretty weak too. I don't think we can really count them as one of us.

Is making fun of the weak your way of showing how strong you are?

Y-Your Majesty?! N-No, that's not...

Then show me what you think real strength is.

I expect you two to do the same, if you are one of us.

Y-Yes, sire!

I knew you were amazing, Master Guildna, No, Your Majesty.

Long live the Beast King!

Hm? What's got you so excited...?

When I grow up...I want to help you. No, I WILL help you! So please, let me be your retainer!

Is that so? Well, I look forward to it.

Why don't you start by showing me to the chief's house? I've been asked to get geolas blooms for a ceremony being held in the village.

But you're the Beast King. Isn't an errand like that below you?

I planned to have a look around the island anyway. Now then, show me the way.

That was my first job. Although it would be a while longer until I officially became his vassal. After that, I started training even more every day and paid far more attention to what I ate.

And after all my hard work, I became the version of me you see before you.

I didn't know that's how you guys met.

I believe Master Guildna's strength lies in his ability to follow through with whatever it is he believes. If he thinks something we beastfolk consider normal to be strange, he won't hesitate to say as much. So even without his fire, that strength remains unchanged.

Yeah, I know what you mean.

Sorry to keep you two waiting! I'm baaack!

Hey, Myrus, Huh? Did you change your clothes?

That's the outfit you wore during the ceremony, right?

Mmhmm! But these were originally worn during battle.

And that's not all!

You always were an expert with the axe.

You said this combination would suit me, right?

And it does. I can't wait to see what you do in battle.

Hehe! I wanted to be super-duper ready to get Master Guildna back! You won't be disappointed!

I'm sure I won't.

Now then, shall we head to the workshop? Perhaps Grenfaa has figured out how to repair the asterorb by now.

Brasah's knowledge really came in handy. I figured out how to repair that asterorb!

Come by anytime you need one fixed!

Thank you. We will.

That asterorb is something incredible, though. Repairing it will make it shine like treasure you hear about in stories.

I guess "treasure" is a pretty accurate way to describe this.

Hold on. Treasure?

Oh!

We found this antique as well.

What is it? Some kind of round...ornament? The color is pretty, though.

I remember where I saw the other orb!

(Chelika must've seen it too.) (But the one Macminal had was already glowing.) (I need to repair an asterorb first, then ask her about it.)

Hey, Spiri. Could I talk to Chelika for a second?

Why? You two keeping secrets?

I don't think that's possible...

Ignore her. What can I help you with?

You came here following a map you found in Macminal's storage, right?

Uff... Yes, but Vares already told me that it was all a big misunderstanding. Apparently Macminal's ancestor got it mixed up in a pretty...spectacular fashion...

Do you remember finding a pretty, round ornament in there too? I think it might've been an asterorb.

This is what it looks like once it's been fixed.

Oh yeah, that looks just like the one Macminal's got!

I knew it. Well, we need more orbs to get the Astrolabos working, so I'm gonna go ask Macminal if I can have his. I'll let him know I found you too.

Why don't I write a letter letting him know I'm okay? I'll explain that I'm doing fine, but I can't go back just yet.

Sure. I can hand it off while I'm there.

Here you go!

I got the paper and pen from Grenfaa. ...I guess not all beastfolk are scary.

I'll stay here on the island, but give Macminal my regards!

Will do. Be back soon!

Ohh, Aldo! It's terrible! Horrible! Chelika is... She's...

She's what?

DEAD!

What?!

The boat she was on capsized and she was thrown into the sea!

The guards she was with were rescued by a passing fishing boat... I just got the news now.

They searched for Chelika, but she was nowhere to be found. Oh, if only I hadn't found that blasted map!

Calm down! She's not dead!

She made it to land and she's...she's safe. It'll take time for her to recover, so she can't come back just yet. But she's alive, that's for sure.

She even gave me a letter for you.

Let me see it!

That was most certainly Chelika. She prays I haven't gotten wrapped up in some scam in her absence...

(She knows him too well...)

I'm so relieved to know she's safe. Thank you, Aldo! You can have any treasure in my shop, as thanks! Just say the word! Well, what would you like?!

A-Actually, I was kinda hoping you'd give me that glass orb you showed me the other day. The one you found in storage.

Oho, you've a keen eye for treasure, my boy!

It's all yours.

Thank you.

(Yup, there's no mistaking it. This is an asterorb.)

Chelika said she'll be in your care for a little longer. Please look after her. And let her know she can take all the time she needs to recover before coming back.

I will.

All right. Back to Astra Island.

Let's head to Resttin and tell Chelika about Macminal.

...Then he read your letter. He said to take all the time you need to get better before coming back.

He's so sweet...

Once you're all better, maybe I should go see this Macminal guy too. I mean, he seems to be a pretty important guy in your life.

But if I get better, you'll go back to being a ghost, won't you? He won't be able to see you.

Guess you're right. Once we're split up, it's bye-bye for us.

...Ouch?

Yeah, this thing I got from Macminal is definitely an asterorb. Thankfully it looks fine, so we can put it straight in the Astrolabos.

Then it's back to the Astrarium for us, right? Pretty psyched to see that thing at work again. It's been a while.

It has?

Has what?

Been a while?

I think Spiri really must be the ghost of someone who lived in those ruins.

...Maaaybe? I sure don't remember.

Well, let us know if anything comes back to you. It might help Chelika too.

Yeah, will do...

Still no change... But why?

I know. He just needs more bubbles!

Come on! Can't you make any more bubbles?!

What?!

......

No, I can't let this get me down. I know Vares and the others are on their way. I have to make this happen before they get here...

Whoa!

Var-var!

Vares!

Oh...

Wait, Aldo!

No human's ever touched the bubbles before. We don't know what'll happen.

If you aren't careful, something might happen to you too.

GRAAAAAAH!

Vares!

Var-var! Calm down!

Hrngh...

HRAAAAAAH!

After him!

Whoa...

The stars are shining!

And I think I heard a door open.

That means we can keep going.

But I don't think we can reach His Majesty just yet.

Guess we'll have to search the ruins for any more orbs and maps.

Right. It helps that we have more places to look now.

Var-var!

Hngh...

Has he gone berserk?

Vares! It's us!

Do you think he recognizes us?

Pull yourself together, Var-var!

Ungh... Get away from me! I can barely contain the rage boiling up inside of me... If you get any closer, I'll end up hurting you!

Hmph...

Var-var! Look at me!

Do you really think you can hurt me? I won't go down so easily, you know!

If you can't hold back, then don't! I'll gladly take you on! Even if you hit me with all you have, I still won't lose, Var-var!

Oh yeah? Then I won't hold back!

Good!

What're you doing, Myrus?! You really wanna fight Vares?

Yup!

Have you lost your mind?!

I was trying to help you, but you insist on fighting! Well then, who am I to say no?! Brace yourselves! It's too late for regrets!

I could say the same to you! C'mon, Aldo!

Er... All right, guess I've got no choice!

Hngh...

Var-var! Are you okay? I'm sorry. Maybe I overdid it...

No. Thanks to you, I've come to my senses.

You all good?

I had a bit of difficulty controlling my emotions after the bubbles hit me, but... I'm fine now.

You didn't transform the way Zestah did. What's up with that?

Maybe it's because the bubbles were too small?

That might be true. Immediately after they touched me, I felt a power welling up inside of me that I did not have before... But it was as if that power could not adapt itself well to my body... Perhaps because I so recklessly fought you before it could fully take hold.

Hehehe. Glad it all worked out!

Did you know that was gonna happen, Myrus? Is that why you were provoking him like that?

No. I just couldn't let Var-var go on like that. He looked like he was in so much pain. I just thought I'd let him get it out of his system and maybe that'd make him feel better. And I guess I got a liiittle upset because he underestimated me, and I know I'm strong enough to take him.

I apologize for that... Thank you, Myrus.

Don't mention it!

Incidentally, why don't we have ourselves a duel one of these days? My consciousness was a little hazy, so that bout we just had was...not my best work. But I will win next time.

I look forward to it. It's been a while since we dueled!

Yes. The last time was when we were children. I want you to see how strong I've grown. Then you will never hesitate to pick up an axe again.

Hesitate? Why would she do that?

Hehe. It's our little secret!

By the way, Chelika...

Y-Yes? Can I...help you?

Well, I...

Hey, Aldo. Let's go have a look-see over there!

Just the two of us? But...

(I think Vares has something to say to Chelika. It's none of our business, so let's give 'em some space! C'mon!)

Er... Wh-What is it?

I...I wanted to say that I'm sorry if I scared you with the way I looked and acted earlier. Spiri mentioned that you were afraid of beastfolk.

Yeah, I did say that.

I-I'd be lying if I said I wasn't scared, but... You've been really considerate of me... this whole time.

Like, when you turned into a beast before. And you even thanked me when you said you'd have to put finding Guildna first... I may not be the sharpest tool in the shed, but even I notice things like that.

I do not have much experience with... normal humans like you. Ones who do not see battle. Which is why I am unsure...how to treat them.

W-Well, your feelings get across just fine, I think! Besides, Myrus and Guildna and the other villagers haven't done anything to me. So I've started to realize that not all beastfolk are scary. So I, uh...wouldn't let that bother you...

If that's okay with you, that is!

Good grief... Why wouldn't that be okay with me?

In any case... Thank you, Chelika.

Now then, I've taken up enough of our time. And we have very important things to do.

Let us regroup with Aldo and Myrus, then continue scouting the ruins.

Oh!

What is it, Spiri?!

I remembered something important! That Zestah girl... She's kinda weird. She's got herself a lock of Guildna's hair!

A lock of Guildna's hair? What does that mean?

What else could it possibly mean? The other day, she got some of his hair. I remember seeing a little girl in the forest and...

Oh, hold on. She was pretty small, so maybe it wasn't "the other day," but like..."the other year"?

Why'd you call me out here?

You're not like your brother. You're strong. So we wanted to tell you before it's too late, Stop protecting him.

People think you're weird for hanging out with weak beasts like him. If you keep this up, the others won't see you as one of us anymore.

They think...I'm weird?

Since your parents died, you're the only one left to succeed the chief. And who wants a weird chief?

But I mean, I guess we already got a weird chief since she's got grandkids like you.

That's not nice...

Hey, that's enough.

Says who?

Says the Beast King. He came to Brasah's rescue earlier. Apparently he doesn't care if someone's fire is weak... He still considers them one of us.

What?!

Ugh. Seriously?

Phew...

Is that enough to put you at ease? Here I thought you might say something back to them...

Your Majesty?!

It wasn't my intention to eavesdrop. I just happened to be in the area. It seems they were pestering you about something trivial.

Trivial... You can say that because you're strong. Everyone listens to what you say. How can I become like you...?

Master Guildna! Isn't there anything you can give to me? Some kind of talisman that'll help me be brave?

I wouldn't mind giving you something, but I don't have anything on me.

Then...how about a lock of your hair?

Hmm... Very well.

Thank you!

Tch... I know he's the king and all, but isn't he meddling in our business a little too much? What's so wrong about letting those weaklings know their place?

Because they're not lesser than you! Brasah's got a weak fire, but he's got a good head on his shoulders! He'll be useful to the village someday, you'll see!

The Beast King won't be on the island forever. You sure you wanna keep running your mouth like that?

Yeah. Keep it up and...

You wanna fight? Then come at me! But it'll mean defying the Beast King's will!

Dammit... This ain't worth the trouble.

I did it! I told them off! All thanks to the Beast King.

Thank you, Your Majesty...

I didn't realize that had happened. It wasn't just Brasah who was being harassed, but Zestah as well...

I didn't know either. She was carrying such a heavy burden alone...

No, that's not right. Master Guildna was the only one helping her shoulder that weight.

S-So then I guess Guildna losing his fire really...affected her, huh...

We don't have time for this. We must hurry to His Majesty and Zestah.

I don't get it. Why isn't his fire coming back? When the meteorite fell that night... It was a divine revelation.

I know I'm not wrong. There must be something missing...

I'll even offer up this precious talisman, so please...

It's pointless. My fire won't return.

Master Guildna... You're awake.

Tch. My head is spinning... When those bubbles touch me, I can hear something... But it's faint... It keeps ringing in my ears...

Forgive me, Master Guildna!

Wha...

C'mon!

It worked!

Woohoo!

It sounds like they got the transportation device working down there. Meaning Vares and the others will be here soon...

But the heavens have answered my prayers. They have shown me what a true beast is. They'll understand soon enough. Master Guildna will show them the way...

If we use that platform, we should be able to reach the room where Master Guildna and Zestah are.

Finally.

We'll reach Guildna and Zestah if we hop on this thing, right?

Yes, though Zestah may have already realized we are coming. She may be lying in wait.

Hang in there, Master Guildna! You too, Zestah!

I know what she did was wrong, but she's still my friend. I can't just leave her like this. Once we've fought and got it all out of our systems, we can make up and be friends again!

Er... You're gonna fight so you can make up? Guess that's one way to do things.

It's a bit too sunshiny, if you ask me... But...it must be nice, having friends...

You've got me, don'tcha?

Yeah... I guess I do...

I think this will take us to the room with those dangerous bubbles, right? Var-var and I will have to be very careful.

Indeed. I cannot let myself be turned into a beast yet again.

If I do get hit by one of those bubbles, I need you to bring me back to my senses by force, Var-var.

And I expect the same of you, Myrus.

Your Majesty, Zestah... We will get you back. I promise.

Then let's do this!

Whoa! Careful, everyone!

Your Majesty! Zestah!

We know you're in there! Answer us, Zestah! We came to get Master Guildna back! And you too, of course!

I'm here. Master Guildna is too.

What?!

It can't be...

But how? And why?!

The Beast King!

But how'd he transform? He lost his beastfire.

Yes. But the bond he had with the former Beast King rekindled it.

This is the talisman I received from Master Guildna himself. I offered it to the meteorite that fell from heaven that night...

Is that Chaos Prisma?!

I'm afraid you might be right.

Once I did that, the bubbles enveloped Master Guildna... And he was able to reclaim his fire!

Has he gone berserk?!

Master Guildna, don't you recognize us?!

He just regained his beast form. It might be a while until he calms down.

This talisman, no, the Beast King himself, showed me the way.

You should know better than anyone how absurd it is to scorn others for their fire, whether it be weak or nonexistent! So why would you reject Master Guildna for not having his?!

Because he was the one who showed us how "absurd" it is! Back when he was strong, when he had his fire! He was able to change life on the island itself because of that strength!

I can never forget that moment... How I was moved, but also...how I despaired...

He needs to be a king that everyone kneels to without question!

Ungh...

Var-var.

Yes.

What're you doing?!

Our words cannot reach him as he is now. We need to weaken him first.

It's just like when those bubbles touched Var-var! You help too, Aldo! If we attack him, he should strike us back!

...All right.

Guess we've got no choice!

Spiri, get back! If anything happens, we'll head back to the Astrarium!

R-Right...

C'mon, Spiri, let's move. It's too dangerous here! We can't fight!

But...I wanna know what happens. Guildna "evolved," and now his friends are trying to stop him... What'll he choose? How will it end? I...I gotta know.

Spiri?

It's a vassal's job to stop his master from rampaging against his will!

We're gonna give it our all, Master Guildna!

We are no match for the Beast King...even now...

But he's still holding back! If he were going all out, he could've ended us by now!

You mean...part of him's still conscious in there?

What are you doing, Master Guildna?! You're better than this! They want to take your hard-earned fire away!

Whoa!

Your Majesty!

Ah!

The Chaos Prisma!

No, the bubbles...!

Guildna!

Hrnh... It seems...I managed not to kill you... I even crushed that annoying Chaos Prisma with my own hands... Perhaps it was that shockwave, but...it seems my fire has been extinguished once more.

The Beast King has spoken, Zestah. Now give up.

......

No. Not after coming this far...

Besides, after getting my new beast form from those bubbles, it just won't stop... I want to fight, to show my strength... I want to break things, crush them to dust...

Zestah... Are you okay?

It didn't bother me while I was trying to get Master Guildna's fire back... But now that that's gone, I...I...

I just don't care anymore!

You want to fight us?!

No. I've given up on Master Guildna's fire. Instead...

I want every beast to be just as powerful as the next! Then we can destroy it all! Reduce every last annoying thing in this world to dust!

And how do you plan to do that?!

I'm going to take the bubbles to them. On these wings of mine... I'll be there soon, everyone...

Wait! Zestah!

Ungh...

Guildna! Are you hurt?

Just tired. I'll catch my breath soon enough...

Let's get His Majesty to the Astrarium. We can't stay here where those bubbles are likely to appear.

We have to patch him up, quick.

Where does it hurt, Guildna?

Nowhere. I'm just a little lightheaded.

We need to get you somewhere you can rest. Then we'll go after Zestah...

Hmph... I'm fine. I've rested enough. It will take far more than that to keep me down. I will go with you.

All right. But you should still rest a little, at least until your head stops spinning. Then we'll head out together.

Very well...

I apologize for the trouble.

It was no trouble at all, Your Majesty.

Yeah! In fact, we're happy to be of service!

...Thank you.

Hey, so I found this in the other room...

Spiri! Read the room a little!

How the heck do I do that? It's not a book. Do you think this little bag could be the talisman Zestah kept talking about? It's empty, though...

You said she kept a lock of Master Guildna's hair in there, didn't you? From the time he still had his fire... I wonder if that, combined with the Chaos Prisma and those mysterious bubbles, is what brought back his beast form.

I cannot say, but...it was a strange feeling. My beast form returned, but it was not alone. My body was filled with a strength it never had before.

Is that "evolution"? If so, that power must be flowing within Zestah as well. But in that case...why did she not fight? Does she not want to claim the Beast King's throne for herself? That would have been far simpler than returning my fire to me.

Could she be planning something else? In that case, it might be too dangerous to fight her now. It may be best to wait and see...

Uhh... S-Sorry to interrupt, but...I don't think she's planning anything. It's hard to explain, but...I think what she really wants is to get the person she admired back...

I mean...Guildna helped her find the strength to keep going. In that way, he was like her talisman. And she just wanted that version of Guildna back... I think.

A talisman that gives her strength, you say?

Y-Yeah? I mean, I'm obviously a coward. So I can relate... And if I lost my talisman, I would probably only be able to think about getting it back...

Sigh... I see.

That was a sigh of understanding, wasn't it?

I also received something from Master Guildna before he was reborn. When I fought beside the Beast King, I always brought it with me into battle.

Ah, that stone.

So I can understand how she feels.

Master Guildna was her talisman, back when he had his fire.

In that case...I need to show her that that man is long gone.

H-Hey, isn't that just a little drastic?!

It's simple. I will settle the matter with strength, as our people do. That is the only path forward for me.

Guildna...

Hehe. I hope Zestah will finally understand that all the best things about Master Guildna haven't changed!

Now then, the dizziness has finally subsided. I will not be outdone by you all in battle. Let's go. She must be stopped.

Right. She should be further up.

Brasah?! What're you doing here?

Ngh...

Are you okay?!

I was worried about Zestah, so I came to the ruins alone. I started to pray, then she came out... I asked her what she was doing and tried to stop her, but...I failed...

......

Did you do this?

It was just a strong gust of wind, Master Guildna... She didn't mean to hurt me... Hrngh... She's too powerful in this form and... can't control her strength...

I understand. Stop talking and save your strength.

Ungh...

B-Brasah... What have I...

This...this isn't what I wanted! This is all YOUR FAULT!

What's going on?

I need to get these bubbles to everyone... I have to... NOW!

She's losing control!

Oookay, this is bad. Like, really bad, Spiri! We need to get out of here for real this time!

Yeah, we do. But don't you worry, Chelika. I'll make sure we escape with juuust enough time to spare! Until then, we can sit back and enjoy the show.

Just enough time?! I'd prefer "more than enough time"!

This ends now.

Master Guildna... I'm strong now. VERY strong... Perhaps as strong as you are now.

We'll find out, won't we?

We wouldn't have to if you were your OLD SELF. Then we'd know FOR SURE! You were so STRONG... No one else came close. It MOVED me...and filled me with DESPAIR!

Despair?

You are KING... No matter how hard I tried...I could NEVER be like you... That is why I DESPAIRED... But that was fine with me... So long as I FOLLOWED you, everything would be OKAY...

How foolish.

What?!

I do not know what I thought back then, but if we are indeed the same person... Then I know he would've wanted someone to follow him because of their own beliefs!

Not out of despair!

HRRRGH! You are no KING of mine! You could NEVER win against me!

Now that is a slight I will not tolerate.

Mmhmm! I don't like being looked down on!

We'll take you on together!

A test of strength, then. How very beastlike!

Good... MIGHT will make RIGHT... That is OUR way!

Zestah!

Brasah... I... What...?

You turned into a beast and lost control of yourself. Do you remember any of that?

Yeah, I...I do. I remember hurting you too.

Haha. Just a flesh wound. It does hurt a little... Okay, a lot. But I can still move, thankfully.

Do you still despair? Even now?

Master Guildna...

If you do...I will gladly fight you again.

Guildna!

No, I...I think I finally understand a little...what true strength is... I'm still moved, and I still despair, but...there's also hope too now...

Hope that I can be strong like that too someday... I'm sure that's what you wanted to tell me...

Ungh...

Don't push yourself.

...... You were right back then, Master Guildna. And you're right even now.

I do not know what is right.

What?

The me you see before you has lost the war against humans and has been given a chance to start over from 16 years past. If I were perfect, if there were nothing wrong with who I was, I would not be standing here right now. So I cannot say what is truly right or not.

But if you don't know...then who does?

There is one thing I can say for sure. It is foolish for beastfolk to scorn each other based on their fire, whether it be strong, weak, or not there at all.

It seems like the old me forced that view upon everyone with his strength alone.

But now, without my fire, I will show people how to live by example. I expect you both to watch closely as I do.

Ah...

Y-Yes, sire!

Thank you... And I...I'm so sorry...

Zestah!

Is she okay?!

Yeah... She's fine. Just fainted.

Let's get her back to Resttin. Both of you could use some patching up!

Then let us return to the village.

You sure you're okay to be moving already? You've barely rested at all.

I'm fine. I'm pretty resilient.

That's good to hear.

You really are a good guy, huh? Looking after me, even after all I've done...

I didn't realize you would be here too.

Master Guildna!

I'm so sorry for what I did.

Myrus was right. It was wrong of me to ignore what you wanted.

I'm sorry too.

I accept your apologies. So I will hear no more of them. I meant what I said in the ruins. I want the both of you to watch closely...

See how it is I live as Guildna, and not the Beast King.

We will.

Thanks to you, I feel like I've gotten stronger.

Lord Guildna, please allow me to apologize as well for my grandchildren.

You don't need to. I've already accepted their apologies.

But...how do I make up for what I've done?

What do you mean?

We wouldn't feel right just getting by with an apology. Right now, no one else knows what Zestah and I tried to do at the ruins.

If the others were to find out, it might start trouble...

Yeah. Right now, only the chief knows about Guildna's kidnapping and the bubbles.

But that's why we don't feel like we've been properly punished for what happened.

So please, tell us what we can do to make it up to you.

That is for you to figure out. Not me.

Ah... You're right.

Sorry for relying on you for everything until the very end...

No. I'm sure you two can find the answer for yourselves.

Master Guildna...

Yeah, we will!

Now then, there is something I want to discuss with the chief. Would you mind giving us some privacy?

You too, Aldo.

S-Sure...

What can I help you with?

This figure... It originally belonged to your wife and son-in-law, yes?

......!

I remember you sent it to them as a wedding gift over 16 years ago.

I remember them both too. But I only learned of their deaths from the people in Konium. Everything from those 16 years I learned secondhand.

They were both so young and full of life. They joined the war against the humans... and eventually lost their lives in battle. You then came to me and promised to avenge them. We spoke about defeating the humans together.

But I needed to serve as the village chief here, so I was not able to join you on the field...

...I'm sorry.

......!

I could not avenge them. I lost to the humans. And I have no intention of starting another war with them. I have chosen to walk a path of peace beside them... I will not ask for your forgiveness. I have decided to live, shouldering whatever grudges you may bear against me.

Ahhhhhh!

Chief...

Please, let me cry, Master Guildna. I feel like...a small weight has been lifted off of my chest. And I must confess...

When I learned that you lost your fire and your memories...I was relieved. The war that had raged on for so long was finally over, and a part of me...was truly glad.

I see...

But with the war over, what would happen to the revenge I was promised? The grief and anguish I felt over the loss of my family? I could not accept that, and instead denied who you had become and did not step in to protect you from the villagers...

For that, you have my deepest apologies.

No. You are not the only one to blame here. I apologize for not being able to face you sooner.

*sniffle* Master Guildna... You must have realized the truth... That I saw just how strong Zestah's fire burned...

......

I will not deny it. I saw how unnaturally bright it had become. But I pretended not to see. I left everything to fate. I did not have the strength to ask her what she was scheming. I was too weak.

Let us work together again, for the future of all beastfolk.

I wonder what Master Guildna wanted to talk to Grandma about.

You think they'll be a while?

Not sure, but I'm gonna go look for Vares and Myrus. Chelika and Spiri too.

Chelika is the human girl possessed by Spiri when she was on the verge of death, right?

And you're trying to find a way to cure Chelika while she's still being possessed.

Yeah. So we've gotta keep investigating the island. I was thinking of asking Vares and Myrus to help me look for clues.

Why don't we go with you?

Yeah. If there's anything we can do to help, just let us know.

I appreciate it!

Then let's go find 'em. They should be in the village somewhere.

Come on, Spiri! We got by this time, but you seriously need to think about retreating the next time things get hairy!

So you plan on sticking around to see what goes down, huh? Hehe. You're so brave!

...I'm not. I just know what you're thinking. I don't have any strong desires or reasons to keep pushing forward.

All I'm doing is going with the flow. I know I don't belong here.

But...even a loser like me has some kind of conscience. That's why I can't just look the other way when someone's in trouble... But that's it! Okay?!

You really are a strange one.

Excuse me?! I don't want to hear that from a literal ghost!

Oh, calm down. I meant that as a compliment. I like weirdos! Honestly, it's a privilege to get to see such fascinating beings up close.

"Close"?! We're literally sharing the same body!

Hey, Spiri! Chelika!

What're you all doing together?

We were planning on investigating the island a bit, after we regroup with Vares and Myrus. We're hoping to find some clues on how to treat Chelika.

And we're here to help.

Wow. It's not every day you meet such kind people, er, beasts?

You got dragged into the mess we made, so we're just trying to make it up to you.

We're a bit underpowered though, no?

Oof... You really don't pull your punches...

No Guildna?

He said he had something important to discuss with the chief. When he's finished, we'll ask him too.

Right. Then let's go find the twins!

Altena?

Oh, Aldo. Where's Guildna?

Hey, Aldo!

Guildna's with the chief. I thought you were supposed to stay in Konium.

I was, but do you remember that man who came looking for help?

He made a full recovery, so I escorted him back here. He said he was worried about his daughter.

Then her father must be...

There, there. Papa's here. I'm so sorry, I had to go away for a little while.

Hehe. She's so happy to see you!

You were right to go to Konium and ask Master Guildna for help. But going all that distance in such a tiny boat sure was reckless...

He's looking good as new. What a relief.

It's too bad he missed the ceremony, though.

By the way, I heard about what happened from Myrus and the others. It sounds like it's been eventful, to say the least.

I'm so sorry for what we did to Master Guildna...

You don't need to apologize to me. I'm sure he's accepted your apology by now, right? So there's nothing left for me to say.

Oh, Guildna!

Altena. What brings you here?

That man who came to Konium was all better, so I brought him back to the island. I've been caught up on what happened. Did your talk with the chief go well?

I suppose you could say that.

Hehe. Well, I'm glad!

Oh, Master Guildna!

Are you feeling better now?

Yes, thank you. I heard about everything you did for our daughter. I can't thank you enough. You truly are the Beast King.

Oh, that reminds me. Would you like to hold our baby?

Me?

Yes. But be gentle.

......

She's so quiet.

She must feel safe with you.

Hey, little one... Peek-a-boo!

Heh. She smiled.

...I do not know why, but you were born without a beastfire. Even without it, be strong. I will show you the way. May your life be full of happiness.

How lucky you are to receive a blessing from the Beast King himself.

I hope you'll come to play with us in Konium when you grow up!

Whenever I see a baby, I can't help but hope that they grow up to be healthy and happy...

Oh yeah? It's always nice to learn some Chelika trivia!

Hey, Brasah. We need to do everything we can to help her live an easy life, don't we?

Yeah... That's one way we can start atoning for our mistake. It won't be easy, and it'll take time, but...

We're gonna do it.

Of course.

(Everyone's smiling, and the baby's happy...) (I'm glad everything worked out in the end.)

Hold on just a sec! Aren't you forgetting something?!

We still haven't found a cure for Chelika!

Oh yeah! Everything was going so well, it slipped my mind...

You of all people shouldn't go forgetting, Chelika. Spiri, you mentioned there might be a clue somewhere on the island. Do you have any idea of where that might be?

Hmm... If I had to guess, I'd say the Astrarium. I mean, that's where the Astrolabos is. We might figure something out if we take a closer look.

"Something," huh...

Well, I guess you've got a point. There's probably more to see there. The Astrarium it is, then.

I dunno... I don't see anything that could be a clue.

......

Something up there?

Now that I think about it, the bubbles stopped.

I did not notice back then because of everything that was happening, but... It appears the wall those bubbles came from was sealed up after Master Guildna destroyed the Chaos Prisma.

Should we go check and see if those bubbles really stopped?

Yeah, let's.

It's completely blocked up.

Why would bubbles be coming out of here in the first place?

There truly are a great number of mysterious devices in these ruins.

Find anything?

Now that I look at this, the surface is uneven here. I wonder if it's a design of some sort. This is so frustrating... If only I were better at reading those old texts, I might be able to figure out what this is.

What's happening?!

Sorry! I might've activated something on accident!

It's fine. Just a bit of shaking.

I think you're supposed to touch this part of the wall...like this...

Spiri?

And this goes like...thiiis? No, no. Maybe like this?

Wait. Perhaps it's best not to touch it so recklessly.

What if you trigger a trap, Spiri?! C'mon, quit it already!

Nope... It was definitely like THIS!

Woohoo! I did it! All hail meee!

What?

How'd you know how to do that?

What do you mean "how"? I saw it.

Saw what?

What? Uhh... That's a good question.

I dunno... But I'm pretty sure I saw someone doing it...

I can't remember who, though. Wonder why...

Ah, well, there's no need to force yourself to remember! Just take things slowly, okay? Whenever you think too hard, it makes my head hurt too, so it's best for both of us that way.

We managed to stop the bubbles and it seems the damage won't spread any further for now. So we can focus on searching the ruins and helping Spiri and Chelika now.

I'll help.

Spiri helped us figure out how to use the ore and taught us about the bubbles.

And Chelika, you risked your life to save an infant beast despite being a human. Consider this my way of repaying you for what you've done.

......!

I see... I was actually able to help someone. Haha...

Let us return to the village for today.

Yeah! Altena said she was gonna help the villagers cook up a tasty feast for us, so we can't be late! Apparently, they're using poisonions, which can only be found on the island!

Oh, uh... That sounds...interesting...

Wait. I remembered something.

There's another place in this room with some controls...

I remember someone going like this... But, like...I can't remember who exactly...

Anyway, if I go like this, then...

Not again!

Spiri! What kind of device is that?!

I don't know... That's why I wanted to see what it did.

Ahhh!

Is that Spiri?!

What is going on here?

Hey! Is that really you?!

...... I...I don't know. I don't know...anything...