Flame Dancing In The Dark

I never intended to come back here until I'd broken the curse... But now that I'm here, doesn't the smell of the water just soothe the soul?

You were born in the Acteul temple, right?

Yes, I've lived my whole life by the clear, blue water. Worshiping the water spirit, Undine.

No way! You were raised in Acteul as one of Undine's?

But Salamander says you were born from his flames. So why were you raised in a water temple?

Salamander never mentioned any of this...

Blazes! Maybe he doesn't even know himself?

When you don't know, ask.

So let's get going! Someone at the temple must know the answer.

Hey, wait up!

Don't leave us behind!

The temple's a short boat ride away.

So that's a boat? Wow, it looks like so much fun!

I wanna ride it now! C'mon, let's go!

Just don't get too excited, okay?

Here we are! This is the temple.

Everyone, I'm back!

Huh?!

A-Aisha?!

Y-You're back! Y-You're really back?!

Yup! Long time no see!

Eeep, it's really you! We've found you, we've finally found you! Thank goodness!

And you've brought guests! A boy and some, erm...cute little creatures!

High Priestess! We need you right now!

High Priestess! Aisha's back!

They're a little more lively than I was expecting.

Aren't they just? They're all such lovely girls.

So you're back.

Bubble...blaze?

And you're looking as glowing as ever, High Priestess. It's making me kinda nostalgic.

You had us so worried when you left the temple without a word!

I never thought we'd meet again.

Aisha...

You naughty girl!

Eeek!

Your angry roar ringing in my ears, like a bolt of lightning, showing me the true beauty of nature. How I've missed this!

Now is not the time for nostalgia! How could you be so selfish? We searched high and low for you, Aisha! We thought we'd hear complaints about your musical noise pollution and we'd find you right away! But no, there was nothing! Not a single whisper of you or your noise-making!

Ah... People mistook her music for the screams of an apparition, that's why.

An apparition?

Well, I suppose it does sound more like an unholy beast than it does music...

Swordsman, I want to thank you for bringing Aisha back to us safely. And I want to apologize. I'm sure she's been a lot to handle.

N-No, you're mistaken!

We didn't bring Aisha here. It was her own decision to come.

It was?

There's something I want to know.

And what would that...

Oh! Those creatures, you're...

Bubble-blaze! You recognize us?

You're the great fire spirit Salamander's minions, right?

That's us all right! Aisha! Someone from your family knows who we are!

I know, I didn't expect that. But this means...

This thing you want to know... I think we can help you. I guess it's time for the talk. How much have you heard?

Just that I was born from the flames of the great spirit Salamander's tail. And...a man told me that these flames were impure. But I never got to ask what that meant.

Ohh... So sorry about that!

We didn't want you to have to hear about it... So we wanted to find you before he got to tell you anything...

So that's why you charged into him as soon as he started talking!

Yup. We thought, if we could get in his way...

And then take you straight to Salamander...

So you did it out of concern for me? Aren't you two just the sweetest? Who'd have thought such tiny things could have such big hearts!

That's us!

Are you sure you're ready to hear this? You may have a vague understanding already, but I don't think you're going to like what you hear...

Nonsense! This treasure chest full of unknowns may come with risks, but leaving it unopened is simply not an option! How I'll feel once I've opened it... Is just a fun surprise! A gift for the future me!

This girl, honestly...

Aisha...

You may not need my advice... But if when you hear this...

......

Actually, never mind.

Eh? You're so strange, Aldo.

Not as strange as you...

Okay! Let's open up this treasure chest together!

Ooh, good idea! Then it will be double the fun!

Very well. Let me tell you about your past. About when we first met you... Though you were yet to be you back then...

What a lovely day! Something good's gonna happen, I can feel it!

Right! My daily chants were the best ever today!

That's great! And I'm having SUCH a good hair day!

Ooh, you are! It looks so pretty!

Today must be our lucky day!

Hm?

Ack!

There's a shady character in front of the temple!

After him!

Wait!

What's this?

This power!

*huff* Gah! He vanished into thin air!

We've got to tell the High Priestess! Oh? What's that?

Huh?!

Fire, fire! Get the chalice!

Okay, we've moved it. But...

There's something...

Eeek!

What's going on here?

High Priestess! The flame, it's...it's...

I heard about the suspicious person. So this is the flame, is it? I'll deal with this. You all stay back, it could get dangerou...

Huh?

The flame transformed into a baby? But...how?

Very strange. I'll have to research your flame, and where you came from. But this power...I'm sure it...

But that means, that man...

High Priestess!

I made a toy for the baby! It makes a rattling sound!

And I made one that makes a clacking sound!

You're clueless, all of you. If you want to comfort a baby, you've got to make funny faces!

Okay, there's only one way to find out which is best! We'll let the baby decide!

Honestly, ladies. You're far too fond of the baby. Have you done all your training for the day?

Of course we have! We would never neglect our duties!

Good girls. Then sure, go ahead.

Yay!

Huh?!

What's wrong?

HUH?!

Everyone! I can finally say words now!

But why so sudden? And it's like my field of vision has suddenly expanded. Strange, isn't it? And I was just sleeping in that thing, how come it's so small?

H-High Priestess? Is that...

What's wrong? I've never seen you look this way before.

Oh, I almost forgot! There's something I wanted to ask you.

Could you give me a word to represent the entity that is me? You all have one, and I've been so jealous.

AISHA!

Stop right there, little miss! It's not safe for you! You're going too fast!

Where'd this water flow in from? It has to have come from somewhere! I wanna find out for myself! I won't rest until I've seen the source of this current!

Eeek! Aisha!

No... She's drowning! SHE'S DROWNING! Quick, we've got to pull her up!

AISHA! Get down from there!

Isn't the sun just incredible? Do you think I could ever reach it? If I climbed high enough, do you think I could touch that dazzling ball of light?

If you touched the sun, it would burn your fingers right off!

Now get down from there already! How did you even get up there in the first place?

Fine! Wonder what'll happen if I jump?

AAAH!

Don't jump!

What a funny looking creature! What is it? Why's it breathing so heavily?

Maybe if I get a little closer I'll...

No, no, no! Don't do that, okay? I really mean it this time!

Please? Just this once? Be good just this once?

*huff* *puff*

She's so unpredictable, so restless. She will be the death of me.

So cute! I remember what you're called. You're a butterfly. Heehee, let's play together.

She seems to have quieted down playing with the butterfly, thank goodness.

Is she always going to be this reckless?

You know, someone once told me. That however difficult parenting may be... Children will always grow up so fast. Perhaps these stormy days will soon be behind us.

Maybe someday we'll look back on these days and laugh about how tough it was. But it's a little hard to believe right now.

It is... Still... I can't imagine an adult Aisha. I wonder what she'll be like?

Maybe she'll grow to be a sensible young woman. And we can round up on her and tell her how naughty she used to be.

Heheh! And then she'll get all embarrassed and beg us to stop.

Ooh, sounds like you're having fun. What are you talking about?

Oh, Aisha! *giggle*We were just talking about yo...

What the?!

HUH?! HUUUHHH?!

What's wrong? Oh, before I forget! I found this while I was chasing the butterfly.

What is it? It's absolutely captivating.

Th-That? Um... It's a sacred artifact that decorates the altar. It's an instrument...

Huh?! Aisha? Is that you?

What an interesting question! I am me, but... Time changes everything, so the me of but one moment ago may not be the me of right now.

What? I wasn't asking you a riddle, I just meant...

You said this was a sacred artifact? And an instrument? My very soul is strangely captivated by it. It's stirring up within me a feeling I don't recognize. It's as if I've been reunited with the partner of my destiny from outside this world.

I can barely understand what she's talking about...

We can't understand her and she's fixating on random things. This is definitely our Aisha.

Oh, I understand. You want me to play you? Then I shall do so. Trust in me, my dear.

What are you doing? You're going to play it?!

Aisha, wait! That is a sacred artifact! You can't just play it! Besides, High Priestess says no one's ever managed to get it to play...

Wait! But that would mean...

Given Aisha's origins, maybe she will be able to play it.

She's been such a mischievous kid I almost forgot, but Aisha's flame...

Which would explain why she was so drawn to the instrument.

Okay, Aisha. Give it a try. Play us something.

As you wish. To you and this sacred artifact... I shall dedicate this song of reunion.

Aaargh?!

Gaaah!

Wait... Ugh... Gah... Stop... H-High Priestess! High Priestess, quick!

Guaaagh! What is that? What is going on?!

And that's all of it.

I want to go over it, but it was all so intense that I don't know what's what...

She was talking about the fateful day I first encountered my instrument.

No.

So basically, erm... There were a LOT of things that stood out to me, but according to this... Aisha was born from a flame, and grew from baby to child to her current form extraordinarily quickly?

Yes. Oh, and I should add. When we found Aisha as a flame... That was only two months ago.

WHAT?! You're saying...

Yes. Aisha here...

Is a newborn. A two-month-old baby.

You're kidding me!

Why are you so surprised? Oh, maybe I never said.

It's true, barely any time has passed since I was born to this world. The days I spent with everyone at the temple were so vivid, every day so interesting. I may not have been here long, but I love this temple and everyone in it from the bottom of my heart. But when this curse befell me, I didn't want to drag any of them into it...

Aisha...

You're not cursed, Aisha.

Huh? But Aisha said a curse was put on her? One that made her lose control of herself and hate everything?

Yeah. I really can't help it. This intense power I can't control...

Oh, honestly! I already told you! You're just...

Going through the terrible twos!

Th-The terrible twos?

Weird name for a curse, don't you think, Aldo?

It's not a curse! It's a phase all children go through!

What is it then?

When children start to grow up, they acquire new emotions and start to become more assertive. At first, they move from doing what their parents say to slowly acting on their own feelings... Not that Aisha was ever the type to do what we told her... This newfound independence is usually asserted by rejecting things, and declaring a hatred of them. This normally happens around age two, hence the name, terrible twos.

Okay... I think I follow.

This is a period when children learn about emotional control, so we tried to be considerate of her.

But she's always been all over the place. She's grown up weirdly, she thinks weird thoughts. I mean, what kind of child mistakes this phase for a curse and runs away from home? Don't you know how worried we were?

So what you're saying is, this isn't a curse, it's something all children experience?

All children experience this? That's so fascinating! But why? Why is it necessary to give us all such inexplicable emotions?

No one gave you these emotions. They come from inside you.

Or, at least... *sigh* I may as well mention... This fascination you have with every single thing you see and touch is known as the "why phase."

There's another phase?

Oh, how interesting!

Children are incredible, huh?

Though in part, I think this is just how you are. You're naturally inquisitive. Anyway, there's your curse for you. So there's nothing to worry about. You can come home. But back to the topic at hand. You wanted to know about where you came from?

Yeah.

You said before that some suspicious guy left a flame outside the temple, and that turned into Aisha?

Was that a flame from Salamander's tail?

I suppose so. When we first saw the flame, we knew that it harbored extraordinary power. This is the temple of the great water spirit, Undine. And I felt something akin to her power in the flame, though of a different nature completely.

But... The flame contained a chaotic torrent of power that couldn't be described as pure fire crystals.

A chaotic torrent of power? What do you mean?

I asked the small water spirits in the temple about Aisha's flame. They knew nothing of this torrent of power, but in unison... They told me about the man who had run off from the temple.

Who was he?

He... He was a former spirit. A sinner.

A former spirit?

When a spirit commits a sin, their energy and power changes. Sometimes, they turn into a demon. And that was the feeling they got from this man.

The spirits told me... Because he stole the great spirit's flame out of greed, he broke taboo and turned into a demon. I don't know why he stole it, but it seems that he came to our temple in order to get rid of it. This is mere conjecture, but the fact that he chose this of all places to discard it... Must have been because this is a temple of water, the opposite of the fire spirit's power.

I see... So that's what he meant by an impure flame. The flame was stolen. And that flame was me. Which would explain why the flame held such chaotic power.

Aisha...

I see the connection now. And the sinning spirit...

Was that man from before, wasn't it? Judging from how you two reacted toward him, and the feeling I got from him, it would make sense.

Oh!

Guh...

It is. You're right.

So that's why you were so eager to protect me. Thank you, you lovely little things.

It was our pleasure!

Did he touch you?! Did he attack you? Are you okay? You're not hurt?

Heheh, I'm fine, don't worry. I know where I came from now. I just have one more question.

Ask away. I don't wish to hide anything from you anymore.

I played for these cute little creatures in Nadara Volcano. When I did so...

They grew enormous and violent. They lost their entire sense of selves.

Was that because of the chaos in my power?

Salamander's minions grew enormous and turned violent? They lost themselves? I don't know for sure about that. But as you say, they were influenced by the torrent of chaos through the sacred artifact.

It's not impossible. At the very least, it must be connected somehow to the great spirit's power within you.

Oh...

Aisha...

Thank you. That's all my questions answered.

You don't need to thank me. A mother should answer her daughter's questions. Besides, this wasn't so many questions compared to normal.

Haha! You're not wrong there.

So, Aisha... I think it's time we took you to see Salamander. I'm sure he'll know something about your power.

Thanks, you little cuties.

But... Can you give me a little time first? There's so much new information swimming around my head. I'd like to get my thoughts together.

I want to be by the water, away from the temple. I'll be back later.

Aisha...

We're worried about her.

Yeah. I've never seen Aisha look that way before. She said she was going to the water away from the temple. Lake Tiilen, maybe?

I'll go after her. You wait here.

Good luck!

I'm glad she has you. You're good friends to her.

Wha?! Us? We're just...

Are we her friends? Can we call ourselves that?

Definitely. Thank you for worrying about her. Why don't you wait here with me?

Okay!

Thanks, Aisha's mom!

Heheh, I'm not her only mom here.

Hey, stop pushing!

Why? We can leave now!

But she'll know we've been eavesdropping! We can't...

I DO know you've been eavesdropping.

Eeek?!

Come out and wait with Aisha's new friends.

Bubble-blaze!

Yes, High Priestess!

Tell us what Aisha's like when she's outside the temple!

How did you meet her? How did you become friends?

Was she doing well in the outside world?

Bubble-blaze! (Her family...is just like her!)

Aisha!

Aldo? What are you doing here?

Umm... Well...

You looked a little anxious. It didn't seem like you.

Anxious? Me?

Oh... I was feeling something I've never felt before. It's like the ground is crumbling away beneath my feet.

Is that anxiety?

I can't feel what you're feeling... But I think so.

Oh.

Thanks, Aldo... You're such a genuine person.

Y-You think? You're gonna make me blush.

Do you want to talk about it? When you're feeling anxious, it's always better to talk to someone. Maybe we can find a solution, or change how you're feeling.

You share your anxieties with others?

When I heard about my origins... It never crossed my mind that the little Minimanders might be worried about me.

By your origins...you mean your birth from the stolen flame?

Yes. When I heard about it, it didn't particularly hurt. It didn't affect me at all, really. If he hadn't stolen the flame, I never would have met everyone at the temple. And I never would have met the Minimanders...or you, Aldo.

No, I guess not.

So that's not where this anxiety stems from.

What's making me feel this way... Is what if my power and my music... Are like poison to the Minimanders, to the spirits? It was just a hunch before, but now it really seems true.

Aisha...

It is fascinating. But I don't like that my power makes people suffer. I have never grown giant or lost myself, so I have no idea what it's like.

But it must be terrible, right?

Yes, I think so.

So how about we and the Minimanders go to see Salamander?

About that... I'm scared. Salamander's basically the same creature as the little Minimanders, right? I don't know how my power will affect him. What if, in chasing after the truth, I do it again...

......

I don't know what my own powers are. I never have. But that doesn't mean I can't feel them. There's something strange lurking inside me... Like a small storm. It's this torrent thing coiling itself around me, all the time. All these different elements... I don't think they were meant to coexist.

This thing, it's raging within me all the time. I always used to think that this was a curse, too.

I like this world. I may only be two months old, but this place is so beautiful, so radiant. All the people, the creatures, the spirits...they're all so precious. I want to always be here.

But... If this power is like poison to some, and I let it loose on this world... Then maybe I should leave. Go somewhere where it's just me, where there's no one I can hurt.

Aisha.

Do you want to know about your powers?

Well...

It is fascinating, as I said before. But...

Then let me ask you one more thing. Do you like performing your music?

Of course I do! I love it!

And how about the temple folks?

I love them too, of course.

Then you shouldn't leave. There's only one thing you can do.

"This treasure chest full of unknowns may come with risks, but leaving it unopened is simply not an option."

"How I'll feel once I've opened it...is just a fun surprise! A gift for the future me!"

So let's open up this gift! Even if you're scared, or anxious, you're not alone. You have me, the temple folks, and even the Minimanders. So trust me. Nothing bad will happen. I won't let it. So go where your curiosity takes you, Aisha. Just like always.

We'll be right behind you, doing whatever needs doing.

Aldo... Thank you. You're the sweetest guy ever!

I don't know about that. I'm just saying what anyone else would say. Besides, I don't actually mind watching you dart about the place from whim to whim.

Teehee! Oh, you!

But you're right! It's not like me to cower in the face of the unknown. I'm a curious child, and I want to throw myself into whatever comes my way!

That's the spirit!

Thanks, Aldo. How about a song to thank you for being so supportive?

No, I'm fine.

You can be so cold sometimes.

But okay! Let's go back to the temple! Let's open up this treasure chest!

Okay!

Aisha! You're back!

I am. My head's a little clearer now.

You're looking yourself again. Have you chased the blues away?

I have, thank you. Minimanders, I am ready to see Salamander. Will you take me to him?

You bet!

Salamander's in Purgatory right now! Let's go!

Okay let's go. You two, Aldo, and me.

I'm no longer running away from home, but I still need to head out for a while. Will you wait for me?

Of course we will! This is your home, after all.

Do be careful though!

And make sure you tell us all about your travels when you get back!

Teehee! I will!

You're free to go wherever your curiosity takes you. But don't you dare get yourself hurt or go disappearing again, okay? Promise your mothers.

I promise. I love you all.

Please, protect my daughter. And take care.

We will. Thank you!

Okay, guys...

Time to gooo! Bubble-blaze!

This way, over here!

Coming!

Welcome to Purgatory! This is...

Our home! Salamander's place is a short walk from here. Down this path...

Over there, huh?

Yup! So let's all...

There's a favor I'd like to ask you both. You don't mind, do you?

A favor? What's the favor?

Just...

Huh? Okay...

Okay... Yup. Got it!

Really? Don't push yourselves, okay? It could get dangerous.

Heheh, we're made of stronger stuff than that!

This'll be a piece of cake! Don't you worry about a thing!

Look after Aisha for us!

Make sure you take her to Salamander! Bubble-blaze!

Huh? Oh, right!

See ya later!

What did you ask them?

Heheh. It's a secret.

Lead the way, Aldo! This was the path, right?

Yeah. Salamander will be just up ahead.

Ooh, I can't wait!

Aldo! Look at this weird grass! I wonder what it is.

Aisha, wait! That's the wrong way!

Oh... Aldo! There's a shiny stone over there! Wait right there, Aldo! I wanna fetch it!

Cut it out, Aisha! There's monsters that way, you can't...

Aaargh! AISHA!

I did tell her to go wherever her curiosity took her. Urgh. She does not make this easy though.

ALDO!

Wha?! What is it this time, Aisha?

You have returned. Daughter of my flames.

Is that Salamander?

Y-Yeah! (I'm so exhausted I didn't even realize we were here.)

Ah, so you're the one I'm after! This is amazing! Just being near you, I can feel our souls resonating! Even if I didn't know that I came from you, I bet I could have worked it out from this feeling alone!

Your cute little Minimanders brought me here. You called me here, didn't you?

I did. You are my daughter, reincarnated from my stolen flames. The reason I called you back...

Was because I want you to serve as my representative, as the other half of my being.

You want her to serve?

Well, that's not really what I was expecting. I did partly come here because you summoned me, but there was also something I wanted to ask you.

But, erm... Why don't we start with your thing? It sounds incredibly intriguing!

Is that so? Very well.

Are you aware that the power of the spirits living in the mortal realm is starting to wane?

It is? No, I had no idea.

We Phantom Elementals once lived in the mortal realm, sharing our power with the spirits living there. But that was before. Now, we live as phantoms in Purgatory. Our absence from that world has caused the spirits and our minions to lose their power. But this isn't happening at the same pace. For some, it is a drawn-out, gradual process... For others, it disappears in the blink of an eye. Everyone is different.

I see. So the spirits have lost their source of power, that is, the great spirits, and they are now in trouble?

I understand. But why call on me?

The flame that was stolen from my body died when it left Purgatory.

Huh?! Because it lost power?

Indeed. But then... The spirits floating between Purgatory and the moral realm cocooned the flame.

And those spirits...

They were the dispersed souls of spirits who could not maintain their form in the mortal world. When they dove to protect my flame, the once extinguished flame was rekindled... And that's how you came to exist within my flames. You responded to the spirits' prayers.

You acquired a human form, being in the mortal realm. And you became your own person, yet you possess the same level of power as I had when I lived there.

So it's almost as if you've come back to the mortal realm yourself?

Precisely.

I think I see. Basically...

Now that you're a phantom, you want me to protect the spirits in the mortal realm in your stead?

Indeed, daughter of the flames. I have no choice but to remain here, so I want you to be the source of their power instead. Your power should be able to greatly intervene with the other spirits. Restore their broken forms, and breathe new life to their withered souls. Your flames are their bonfire.

Bonfire?

...... I think I understand the significance of my flames, and my power.

But, I'm afraid... I cannot do as you ask.

Why not?

Well...

I played your little minions my music. And then...

I see. So it caused them to grow violent?

This was what I came all this way to ask you about. It's clear from this, as well as what you said, that my power has a huge influence on the spirits.

But the issue is... It's not a good influence. I won't be pouring power into these broken souls. I'll be doing the opposite.

I was born from the impure flame as you know, and I...

No. The raging torrent within you, your chaotic power...it is not because of your impure birth.

What do you mean?

It's not because she was born from the stolen flame?

My flames are absolute. They cannot be made impure by the child of man. The reason your power is proving so difficult is because you are not in control of your own self.

I'm not?

First, you came into this world by somewhat unusual means. Then, you grew under water's protection. The very opposite of the power that should have been protecting you. And you have only had this life for a short while. You're still being consumed by your own power. Or rather, your soul doesn't recognize your power as being your own. Your power is not inherently evil. You just don't have control over it.

Oh!

Teehee! I guess you're right!

Aisha?

Oh, Aldo! I'm positively quivering with joy right now! I'm so glad I was brave enough to open up this treasure chest. And it's all thanks to you! My power was just waiting for me to tune it up a little!

Right!

And great fire spirit, Salamander, other half of my being.

I swear to you, I will control this power! For me, my loved ones, and for you dear spirits! So talk with me! And play this torrent with me!

I have no reason to refuse. I must confess, I am rather enjoying having another self.

Born of my flames, the raging fire of a soul different from mine. Don't waste your flames. Let them blaze before me!

Hah... Hah...

Teehee! This is so much fun!

My other self... The torrent of power flowing through your body is changing. Had you noticed?

Oh!

Yeah! There's something different about you!

I feel it... That which once consumed me is now melting into my soul.

Aldo, my other self...

Let's see what my power can do!

Wha?! Y-You want to use that to find out?!

What other way is there? There's no need to over-complicate this. Music tells you all there is to know.

My power shall reveal itself through sound. You could say that the sound of the spirits is true power itself. I wish to hear the timbre of my other self.

Salamander! Do be careful!

But of course! Now let me serenade you!

Guuaaagh!

Un...believable...

It's definitely different from before. But, hm...

What do you think, my other self?

Your...music... How do I... put this? Ack... I don't have the words... To describe that noise... However... It is not evil... It's just... If you don't mind me saying...

(Even Salamander's at a loss for words.)

I know what you're trying to say. My music has improved significantly. Yet, I still can't control this power completely.

My goodness! What is going on here?

Undine?!

That's Undine? The water spirit we worship at the temple?

It felt like my soul was being torn apart, like every single living being was screaming in unison. I was so shocked by this terrible sound that I had to see what was causing it. What happened here, Salamander?

Undine... That noise was...

Your power was steeped in the color of sorrow. Do you truly harbor such despair? Ever since we Four Great Elementals were resurrected as phantoms here in Purgatory... We have avoided interfering in each other's business, just as when we were alive. But even a Great Elemental can be dragged down by sorrows deeper than the sea. I'm so sorry I never noticed before.

(It sounds like even Undine's criticizing her performance, even if she's not intending to.)

No, Undine...

Fascinating! You felt sorrow cutting through you as you heard my music? Could you tell me why? Where did that feeling come from, great water spirit Undine?

Ooh, I'm so happy right now! I've lived my whole life under your divine protection, Undine. The masters of fire and water, the two powers that define my life, are both here before me! This is so exciting!

Who is this girl?

Oh... I sense a small piece of my power exuding from your body. How can such a tiny frame hold such a torrent of power and chaos? That sad timbre I heard before, that was you, my child?

How hard it must be on you, tormented by such an uncontrollable storm.

Come, let me embrace you, let me calm your raging power.

Undine?!

I couldn't ever wish for more! Just talking to you is more than I ever thought possible! Touch my soul with your kindness, oh Undine, mother of the calm, blue waters!

Phew, I'm feeling better already! Thank you for letting me reach your soul too, Undine. I will dedicate this next piece to you and your loving compassion.

Eeek!

Not again!

After two battles, the apparition's screeching has only gotten more powerful.

This is incredible! The indescribable chaos within me has calmed, I can feel it. You within me, you have such vivid forms now...

Wait, are you saying you've managed to control your power? (But it still makes the same excruciating racket as before?)

Yes. For the first time ever, I can see each and every string of power so vividly. But...

Something is still missing.

The final string to her bow, so to speak.

Yeah, that's exactly it! Who needs words to speak when you're a part of me already? If I could just pluck the last string, I know I'll be able to play a whole new sound.

And what's missing is...

Aishaaa!

We're baaack! Whoa, what the?! U-Undine's here? Why is Undine here?

Don't worry about it.

I'm so glad you're back safe!

As if there was ever any doubt! We did as you asked...

Let me go!

Only if you behave!

We got him for you!

Thank you! I'm so glad you found him.

You again? Just leave me alone! You and I don't...

I know everything. You stole Salamander's flames and threw me out at the water temple. You were once a spirit, but you transformed into this for your sins.

You knew? I see. So, what? Why'd you bring me all the way here? For Salamander and Undine, two of the Phantom Elementals, to punish me?

No, of course not! I was worried about you. Why did you break a taboo like that? Why steal Salamander's flames?

...... I... I was scared. Of my body slowly crumbling away. Ever since the Four Great Elementals vanished, spirit power got less and less stable... A meager little spirit like me wasn't strong enough to even maintain my own body.

Oh... (That's exactly what Salamander said before.)

......

I felt my physical form breaking away, melting into the world. Spirits may be meant to return to nature... But I couldn't bear the thought of this life being taken from me, for no real reason at all.

My life was already fading, so there was nothing left to fear. I snuck into Purgatory. And I stole Salamander's flames. Then I ran to the mortal realm. But I had already fallen. I could no longer die a spirit. I was a monster, my body was no longer my own. The flames I stole were of no help to me now, no matter how strong they were. So I threw them away. I went to the place most out of reach for the fire spirit, the water temple. I thought the flames would go out. But just when I was about to throw them in the water, someone appeared.

Oh...

I knew it. You were scared. Tormented by an unstoppable fear. When we met, I sensed such fear and panic in you. And also a little anger, and a desperate resignation filled with self-loathing.

I assumed that your sin would be playing a part in these emotions. So I wanted to bring it to light.

Grr! Are you making fun of me? Because I can't take this anymore! It's all right for you! Born of the powerful flames of a great spirit, you have no danger of disappearing! You don't want to help me, you just want to look down on me from your lofty heights! You drag me here and stomp all over me, just to satisfy your own curiosity!

I understand why you might think that. But the truth is, there's not much that I can actually do for you. That's why I brought you here, to hear how you were feeling.

My other self, you said before that my flames are not impure.

I did, yes.

But a spirit stealing your flames is a sin?

That's another matter. That is a matter of spirits and stars. It has nothing to do with my own personal feelings.

I understand. But you do feel sorry for him, don't you? You feel bad that you were unable to do anything. Don't you?

Whatever I say now, it's too late. There is nothing I can do for him anymore.

Thank you. That's enough for me.

Aaargh?!

Ugh!

Aldo! Minimanders!

Haha! Even as a monster, my life will soon be over. You know that, right? That's why I tried to trick you. So that I could steal the humans' life force and live longer.

Yes, your life light... It is starting to dim.

That doesn't move you? How heartless. Aren't you appalled at yourself for creating a monster? Heheh... A monster like me?

You...

Aisha!

Agh!

By the way... Do you like music?

Huh? No, don't you even think about it! If I heard your music in my current state, I'd definitely...

Listen. I want you to hear this.

Urrrghhh!

Aaarghhh!

Aisha! You're affecting Salamander, too!

......

(If my music and I...) (Can reach out to that fear...)

Nnh?

The music...

It's... What's...happening?!

My body, it's... My power!

That was incredible!

Power's blazing through us!

Bubble-blaze!

Aisha... That was truly beautiful. I can hardly believe it.

Oh, Aldo. Are those tears I see in your eyes?

Yeah, well... It was so emotional.

And the chaos has gone from your music!

I feel so good! Look, look!

Bubble-blaze!

Oh, I'm so glad! You're so fired up.

And you've returned to normal, too.

Oh!

I-I'm back. ...... I, erm... Th-Thank you. I never thought I'd be in this body again. Or rather... I thought you were stirring things up without a plan. I was wrong.

To be honest, I didn't really think it would work.

Huh?!

It's just... I was curious. I wanted to see what color your soul would be if I got rid of all your sadness and fear.

Y-You were just curious?!

It's a beautiful color. If my music helped you get your true form back... Then I couldn't wish for more than that.

Ohhh! You're really something! But you're not getting another thank you out of me!

...... Can I really live as a spirit again?

Of course you can! What other choice is there?

B-But...

If the truth of the stars allows, live on as you did.

...... Thank you. And... I'm sorry. To you and the girl.

Why are you apologizing? If you hadn't stolen the flame, I never would have existed.

I should be thanking you!

Oh, umm... You think?

You have made your power your own, Aisha. It is quite incredible.

A warm timbre cocooning the sorrow. Your music is like gentle water. It has the power to save spirits.

Return to the mortal realm and watch over the spirits in our place. Go to a temple of a great elemental, and you will be able to hear the voices of the spirits. That could be the water temple, or the fire temple, it matters not which. Both powers have melted as one within your soul. They are both a part of you.

Pretty impressive. This means you'll be a sublime being enshrined in a temple. I'm proud of you, my daughter.

What did you just say?! She's not your daughter!

Yeah! She's our friend! And she's like a big sister to us!

Hey, don't get mad! I was only joking!

Aisha's not even old enough to be your big sister. She's only two months old.

Hey, Aisha...

Aisha?

Oh, sorry.

I was just thinking. And I have an answer... About your request for me to watch over the spirits and remain in an area under your protection.

I'm afraid I'll have to decline.

Huh?!

Aisha?!

Oh. And why might that be?

It's quite simple. I'm too restless! I can't stay in only one place the whole time!

And... This world is so vividly beautiful, so utterly fascinating. Did you know that? All the lives that exist there... All of them lived on this world with their own strengths, shining as bright as they could.

And the spirits are no exception.

It may be true that the source of their power, the Four Great Elementals, is fading. But it would be wrong of me to try to fill the gap you left behind. The spirits can survive without someone leading them. At least, that's what I think.

However, I don't want those that I love to suffer. So, I've decided. I'm...

Going to travel the whole world with my trusty instrument by my side!

You want to go traveling?

Yes! I'll go wherever my curiosity takes me. And I'll dedicate the music flowing within me to all who live in this world.

This way, my music will reach the spirits, wherever they are!

Haha, that's so like you, Aisha!

I don't think any of us could avoid hearing your music, even if we tried.

Great idea, miss! Can we come, too?

We'll be like your attendants! Bubble-blaze!

Are you sure? Nothing would make me happier!

Just know this... You don't need to be my attendants. You're family.

Yippee!

In that case, might I...

Might you, what?

Oh, it's nothing!

Is that your answer?

It is. What do you think?

Do as you think best. I trust your judgment.

Your music was powerful enough to wash away sorrow. I'm sure it will reach all other souls out there.

Thanks, you two.

But before I start my travels, I want to go back to the temple and tell my mortal family about my adventures!

And one more thing, Aldo.

Yes?

I may not be cursed, and I may be traveling for a different reason from before now... But I don't want to have to part from you. Might I continue to accompany you on your journey?

Oh, you want to travel together?

Of course! I'd love that!

Teehee! I thought you'd say that.

So we're going on tour? You know, we've been through so much that I almost feel nostalgic for your old music.

Oh, really?

I guess it was so, umm, invigorating, that I sort of got used to it.

Teehee, you're so cute. I mean, if that's what you want...

Your wish is my command. I'll play you something gloriously triumphant!

A song to celebrate the spirits' bright future, our meeting, and new beginnings! Feast your ears on this!

Guaaghhh!

Wh-Why would you...

Ughhh!

B-But... Her power...is so clear... It feels good!

Ugh! Aisha! What happened to the beautiful music you were playing before?

Well, sure. I may be able to play more songs now, but this one still speaks to me, down to my very soul.

Great...

Such a rapturous timbre. It makes every ounce of my being quiver.

Oh? Wait! I've got it!

Everyone, I've had a revelation! A way to improve it further... I've just come up with a wonderful melody that will transport you to the heavens!

Huh? Oh, erm...

I-I've just remembered, there's somewhere I need to be! Wow, such a shame.

And I-I must return to my own domain! So unfortunate that I'll miss your performance.

Huh? S-Salamander? Undine...

Actually, we um... We've got, erm...errands to run! Gotta go!

See you later!

Oh, umm... Me too! I've got...urgent business to attend to. Bye!

Hey, wait! No, they all left? Ngh! My whole body's numb...

Such a shame! Who'd have thought they were all so busy?

But perhaps it's fate. After all... You're my number one fan. So it's only fitting you'd be the first to hear this piece!

No, Aisha... Don't...

I'd better start before I forget it! This will be my greatest work yet, one to last three days and nights! It will speak directly to your soul!

Uggghhh! Nooo! I can't take it!