Hero Stories: The Weight of Freedom and Responsibility

Do we have all the materials we need to rebuild the town?

Yes, we were able to secure what we needed by trading with the Humans. It wouldn't have been possible if it wasn't for them.

Then I'm glad we opened that small piece of land in the south. Come to think of it, it has been quite some time since the harbor was completed.

At first, only Theranhad soldiers resided there, but we've been getting waves of merchants settling in recently.

Given some time, we'll come into contact with multiple groups of Humans who all hail from distinct regions. Hopefully...that will help dissipate the bad blood between our races.

I believe we can move along with the construction as planned. Just hang in there, everyone.

Now that I think about it, where's Muwi? We're swamped with work right now, but I haven't seen him around these days.

I just returned from the mission you tasked me with.

Ah, perfect timing. But...a mission? What mission?

...You told me to check up on the Humans living in Wicked Land and on Shadow Mountain.

Oh, that's right. I've been so busy lately that I've become scatterbrained. So how was it? There's nothing that warrants action, is there?

The residents of Fire-Fallow Village are looking to take down its walls and expand the village since there are more and more people coming in.

But...I discovered one problem. Strangely, it seems that Wicked are disappearing near the borders there.

I checked whether they were simply moving to Shadow Mountain, but it wasn't the case. I couldn't find any traces of them.

Is that so? Hmm... It's probably nothing, but keep an eye on the situation for the time being, just in case.

I've also compiled this summary of postponed projects. I already took care of them, but I'd like you to give the final sign-off.

I made the right choice keeping you by my side, didn't I? You handled all of it better than I could've done myself.

Maybe I can leave everything to you and enjoy my retirement.

...You flatter me. But, I wouldn't dare try to fill your shoes.

Why not? It's not like I was born to be a leader, it just happened. I believe that a true leader should be someone who is diligent like you or Yulha.

*stumbling*

Are you all right?

Of course, I am. I just felt a bit dizzy for a second there... Maybe I've been pushing myself a little too hard lately...

*collapses*...

Beehoo, wake up!

Hmm... Uhh... This place...? What am I doing here...?

You're awake! You've been unconscious for the past few days. I was beginning to get worried.

Things must've been crazy around here for you to not notice the changes in your body, hmm?

Yulha...? Were you the one who brought me here?

Yes. I came straight from the Prairie when I heard you had fainted.

But what do you mean by "the changes in my body"? I did notice I've been feeling more tired these days.

A portion of the power we've had has begun to wane recently, ever since its source has disappeared from this world.

And because of that, we're reverting to our original states. Of course, it'll gradually affect the others as well.

However, since you and I received the most power...the process is going to be rougher for us than for the others.

Does that mean we're going to revert back to our past spirit forms?

Essentially, yes. But I don't think we'll experience much change appearance-wise.

In any case, I brought you here to where Haerang was created so that you can absorb some of the power of the Wicked. It should help decelerate the abruptness of the change in our bodies.

I'd try to rest easy for a while if I were you. Unless you're looking forward to an early death, that is.

...I don't think I'll ever get used to how you can say such scary things with a smile. It's not like I don't want to heed your advice...but there's still so much left to do.

Leave the rest to me. Instead, why don't you head over to Theranhad when you feel better? The emperor has sent for you.

You've been bound to this land for such a long time. Try to think of this as a vacation that was long overdue.

I'm...not very familiar with Human politics. Wouldn't it be better if you went in my stead? You even have the experience since you met with the Suin not too long ago.

You better watch yourself. I still haven't forgiven you for what you did to the Wicked!

Hmph, what's the point of dredging up the past? Are all Wicked this petty, or is it just you?

Do I really have to tolerate these morons? If it wasn't for Lady Peira's orders...

Wait... Did you just call me a moron? You're just asking for a fight, aren't you?!

Arunka, I think we should intervene...

Let them have their fun, it'll be over with before you know it. Instead, why don't you come here and listen to this?

So, you're saying you can even read complex texts without issue now?

Of course! Bring me anything, and I'll demonstrate the fruits of my studies!

Really? Okay... This here is an ancient scroll that was passed down among the Suin for generations.

I need some help understanding what it says. Every time I try to read it, I just get so confused.

H-Huh...? This is too... Please don't put me on the spot like this...

And now they're actually fighting... *sighing* Am I going to have to be the one to intervene...?

...Interacting with other races is an exhilarating experience. I truly want you to have that as well, Beehoo.

Oh boy, her expression is telling me that she won't take no for an answer. Who knew she cared about me this much...

Well, it wouldn't be such a bad idea to take a break. Since it's Theranhad, I guess it'll be like a trip down memory lane.

I knew you'd come around. I'll have Juni and Muwi accompany you on your travels.

Me too...? But I'd rather stay here by your side, Yulha.

There is still much I have to do here. I've no time to squander.

Are you saying you're fine with sending Beehoo off on his lonesome, knowing that he's still unwell?

Let's go together, Muwi. You've also been bound to this land for as long as I have.

...Very well. Allow me to accompany you.

*snickering* Everyone is leaving as planned. Finally, I can relax without any disturbances.

It always took so long to get here by road. I never thought we'd get here so soon by sea.

Well, the two regions aren't that far apart. That, and we also had a very seasoned captain.

I, on the other hand, find those pieces of wood amazing. To think that these would make you guys look like Humans...

It's not that amazing once you know how to make them. Anyway, who did you say was going to pick us up?

She's...an odd one. I don't know how she knew, but she actually came down to the office and said we'd never find a better guide than her.

...

Look at their unique outfits. They're certainly not from Natalon. Are they some of the so-called tourists from Ritania?

Someone who's free and unbound to any place. Oh, how I envy them. I used to dream about that type of freedom.

Hey, how long are you going to stand there with that stern look on your face? Loosen up a little, will ya? Just imagine you're on a vacation.

I cannot. Especially when I'm escorting Beehoo in an unknown land like this. I need to be on guard at all times to protect hi...

Haha, all right. Just do whatever makes you feel comfortable. But I can assure you, nothing dangerous will happen!

Beehoo, you've arrived safely!

Oh? Our guide was Dana? Well, she was right about it being impossible to find a better person for the job.

You two know each other? That means...

Shh, it's probably what you're thinking. But please keep that between us, okay?

No worries. At least times have changed, or else we'd be having a whole other "conversation" right now.

We have some time on our hands before heading north. So, how about I give you a tour of the south?

...How did you even know our schedule? In any case, I'll be taking Yuchan with me to visit the office.

In the meantime, enjoy the sightseeing. Just make sure you stay out of trouble.

Well, look what the fox dragged in! How long's it been?

The last time we saw each other was before that whole spat between Beehoo and Yulha...so, yeah, it's been a really long time.

I'm not against catching up, but we should get moving. We can't stand in the harbor like this forever.

As peachy as ever, aren't you, Mr. Buzzkill? Don't you worry. I've stayed up for five days straight coming up with an itinerary that's absolut...

Sorry, Dana. I have no doubt you did an exemplary job, but there's a place I'd like to visit first... Is that all right?

A-Absolutely haphazard! My itinerary is the literal definition of haphazard! Of course we go where you want, Beehoo!

Ah, haha... It's not someplace really notable, though.

Everyone, run for your lives! It's the W-W-Wicked!

They're not talking about us, are they?

Grrr...!

Phew... Nope, I don't think they were talking about us!

Juni! This is not the time to be flippant.

Those younglings... They're so...enraged. My voice can't even get through to them.

That's quite a large group. Where do you think they're coming from? Moreover, I think it'll take some time for the emperor's army to get here...

We should step in, otherwise, they're going to start hurting the Humans.

If that happens, it could reopen the old wounds between our races.

Subdue the Wicked and protect the Humans.

And...be careful not to damage your wooden talismans, everyone, lest they find out who we really are.

...Relocate the Wicked captives to the designated area. Make sure you don't make any mistakes.

Affirmative. We'll take care of it right away.

The rest of you, get me a damage report. Find the ones who made a run for it and capture them.

Phew. Thanks to the emperor's army arriving, that situation was resolved without too much of a hassle.

What's going to happen to the Wicked who were captured?

This incident was quite unusual, so I'm not too sure, but I think they're going to be held in the office until they calm down.

But no harm will come to them, so you can rest assured. There was a royal decree that has prohibited such actions since the war.

That's a relief.

But how did those younglings get here? Did they sneak onto a Human boat? That would have been nearly impossible...

What unnerves me is that I felt the faint yet distinctive power of the Shift Bell from them.

Perhaps this has something to do those missing Wicked that Muwi was talking about.

Huh? Wait, where are Muwi and Juni?

...You're right. I can feel it, too...one of their talismans was destroyed.

Maybe they were captured along with the younglings.

*sighing* This is exactly why I told them to be extra careful.

I guess we have no choice but to go down to the office now. I'm sure we can figure something out if we talk to Hasol.

We should hurry, then. We don't know what kind of trouble Juni may cause.

No, Muwi is with her, so there's no need to rush. Let's just take this time to sightsee while we make our way there since it's just the two of us.

Just the two of us...? *tail wags excitedly* I'd love to!

H-Haha... I get that you're happy, but how about not clinging to me so... There are quite a few people staring at us.

First off, why don't we visit the place I mentioned? It should be...

Ah, this place was actually on my itinerary! Perfect, it's on the way, too.

This is where all the southerners used to gather. People call it Loner's Square or Reunion Square...

What a surprise. I wasn't sure if I'd ever see it again, but here it still is.

Are you talking about that big tree over there? Of course! Rumors say that Silvana blessed it herself way back when.

So, it's become a tradition for everyone who visits Theranhad to write a wish on the stone wall surrounding the tree.

...And they believe Silvana will grant those wishes.

Eh? You've heard about the rumors surrounding this tree before?

...Because I was the one who planted that tree wishing for the well-being and prosperity of mankind.

This place is truly shaping up to be a habitable village, thanks to you. You've done so much for us, and even graced us with this gift.

No, it's not from me but Silvana herself. If you're ever in need of help, give your prayers to that sacred tree.

I'm certain she will tenderly look down upon you.

Would you mind if I asked what you wrote on the stone wall? It's written in a language we cannot comprehend...

Ah, haha... I just wrote a small wish of mine. It's something that I, too, wish would come true one day.

Heh... To think that such a small, selfish action I made that day would cause such a ripple effect...

Apparently, this one here was the first wish ever written. Hmm, now that I look at it, it really is your calligraphy.

But I can't make out what you wrote. What did you write here?

Haha, I'd be surprised if she could. It's written in characters that only a handful of spirits use.

Unfortunately, I can't tell you. A wish won't come true if you say it out loud.

I'm so curious...but okay, if you say so. Then, shall we head to the government office now?

Let's. Juni and Muwi's patience has probably run thin by now.

I'm sorry, let me get this clear. So, you're saying that no Wicked were brought in?

We haven't received any reports of such an incident at the harbor. Not a single officer was dispatched that way today.

...I see. Then what about my other request?

Ah, about that... She said it'd be difficult for her to meet you here, so she left you this address instead.

She asked that you come as discreetly as possible.

What do you think is happening? I'm certain the ones who captured the Wicked earlier today were wearing the southern soldiers' attire.

Considering the fact that she asked us to meet her somewhere else...this whole situation seems to be taking an unexpected turn.

Oh, and right on time! I'm surprised you guys found your way to a place as remote as this without too much of a hassle.

There was no one on your tail, right? Like...

If you're concerned about the Theranhad soldiers who have been tailing us since we left the office, we already lost them.

It looks like you've already begun to suspect something's amiss.

...We've figured out that the soldiers are smuggling the Wicked somewhere.

But the question is why? Are they trying to kill them all despite the royal decree?

No, not to kill per se, but in one way or another, they will be as good as dead in the end though...

Contrary to the tranquil atmosphere, these streets in the southern region are filled with thugs.

Even some of the soldiers take part in the delinquency.

You're talking about the ones that Yoonryoung and Adin took care of, aren't you? Weren't they completely routed out?

They sure were. But these thugs are like cockroaches. Some of them must have escaped back then and are just now crawling back out of their holes.

So what exactly are they doing with the Wicked after capturing them?

...They're either forced to partake in underground cage fights or auctioned off as rich people's playthings.

What...? This is the first time I've heard of something like that.

As it should be. They've opted for much more clandestine methods ever since they were nearly wiped out.

We still haven't been able to single any of the soldiers out for their corruption. The reason I joined you on the way here was actually to help Hasol out with her investigation.

There's not a soul I can trust in this city right now. That incident with the Wicked earlier, too...it only occurred because some of them escaped while being sold off to another continent.

...And then, Muwi and Juni ended up being swept up in the process.

I really didn't want you to get involved in this affair since you're here as the emperor's guest...

*sighing* I guess there's no helping it now since those two were captured. To be fair, it would be reassuring to have some support on this matter.

It's not much, but this is the information we've gathered about those thugs.

An airship leaving for the northern region will be here tomorrow. Just don't do anything too dangerous and let me know if you find anything.

...All right. I'll try.

I-I don't know anything. Go bother someone else!

They seem to know something...but they're evidently too scared to talk.

It seems the thugs have an iron grip over this area. What should we do? We haven't been able to find a decent lead yet...

Pssst, hey! You two! Interested in the "Dark Footprint?"

I think I can help you out if you know what I mean. Whaddaya say?

That would depend on the veracity of your information. And how did you even know who we're looking fo...

You've got a deal. Do you plan on telling us your info here?

No, I'll take you to their base. It's not very far from here, so just follow me.

We're almost there. Just a little bit farther.

My thoughtless comment earlier could've ruined everything.

Never mind that, just keep your guard up. They're going to show themselves any second now.

Ta-da, here are the people you were dying to meet. Say hello to my family!

So you're the insects that have been asking around about us... Wait a sec, you're Dana, the information broker.

Who's that scrawny little punk next to you? You got yourself a boyfriend or something?

B-Boyfriend? We're not...! Well, not that that would be a bad thing... But still...

Dana, there's no need to react to their idiotic provocations.

Well, *clearing throat* they did show themselves as you said they would, Beehoo.

I have no desire to fight you. If you just answer my questions, no one will have to suffer.

Haha, "no one will have to suffer." That's funny. Let's see if you can still talk like that after this!

You would bite the hand that's trying to feed you? Then you leave me no choice.

See? I told you! I knew we did the right thing by following them here.

Fine, fine, you win. It wouldn't have been easy for just those two to face off against those numbers.

Beehoo! Dana! It's nice to see you again! But what brings you all the way out here to Theranhad?

What are you two doing here...?

...How about we catch up after we deal with these clowns?

Hehe, okay. It's been a while since I got some exercise.

So, you're back south for the Summer Shrine restoration celebrations.

Yeah, though I wish we could've stayed a little longer for the festival in Khan... It's a bummer.

Sounds like you had a good time traveling Natalon.

Absolutely! There are still so many places I haven't visited yet, but everywhere I did go was awesome! So this one time...

I admire the way she can smile so brightly even though she bears a burden as heavy as the Sword of Four Seasons...

Although I had to return sooner than I had planned, I'm glad I did since I was able to help you out today.

But what in the world is going on? Why did they attack you?

It seems they were just some grunts. The only thing I could find was this encoded message which appears to be some kind of order.

It would've been nice if we were able to figure out where those captured Wicked were being held.

But I wouldn't say we're totally out of luck here. This message clearly indicates a location.

Ah, that place is...

Let's see... Here it is. It's written in the corner in teeny-tiny handwriting.

You're right. You've got a keen eye, Adin.

Well, I briefly hung out with them in the past. So I had a hunch where it might be.

To think that they'd hide messages like this on the stonewall...

It's written in code, but it isn't very hard to decipher. It says they need to split up and meet at two different places just after midnight.

I think it's likely that the kidnapped Wicked are being held there.

Two different places... The sun is about to set. I don't think I will have enough time to find Hasol.

We'll take the forest outside the village. You should go to the village and look for them from the inside.

No, that's not really necessary. I can tell you two have something else you should be doing instead.

Please let us help you. There's nothing more important than saving the Wicked right now!

You heard her, right? You can trust we'll do our part. Besides, Dana will know her way through that village.

Thank you. I promise I'll return the favor later.

Those blockheads, how could they make such a stupid mistake...?

Ugh... I can't see a thing. It seems they've placed a bag over my head.

There's no excuse for their sloppiness. Think about what happened at the harbor...

But the rope around my wrists is quite loose. All right, if I do this...

...Where am I? It doesn't look like a prison or holding cell of any sort.

There's no one here but me. I don't see Juni or any of the other Wicked.

Let's think about this for a second. A group of soldiers detained the Wicked, and Juni's talisman was smashed in the process.

I was gathered along with the others...while trying to protect her.

Just take care of it, will you? If the word gets out that we kidnapped this Human, the soldiers...

He's staring right at me. I told you to tie him up properly!

There's no way they're part of the emperor's army. Something's up.

Hey, what're you thinkin' so hard about, hmm? Just stay still and we might not kill you.

Should I go look for Juni and the other Wicked right now? No, I should observe and figure out what's going on a bit more before making any rash decisions.

Huh? What is this sound...?

Krrrrrrrrr!

Wh-What?! You didn't lock them up properly either? Keeping them in the cage was your only job!

Did they escape? I don't who they are, but they're still enraged.

If they injure any of the Humans, Beehoo will be put in a very difficult position.

I hate to do this, but I've got to knock them unconscious for a moment.

...

What's up with this one? What, you wanna duke it out?

Krr...

My right-hand man almost got me killed, but some hostage saves my life? What's going on?

...I only did what needed to be done.

I don't know why you're here, but I was actually in need of someone capable... Looks like you're in luck.

How would you like to work for me?

If Taeyou deciphered the message correctly, it should be around here. But there's not a soul in sight.

Is it possible that we're searching the wrong place?

...We still have some time left until sunrise, so let's just calm down a little and check out the surroundings one more time.

Wait, someone is approaching.

Dana, there you are. I was looking for you everywhere!

Who are you? How did you know we'd be here?

Eeek... Wh-What's going on? Please put me down!

Beehoo, that's one of my associates. I had him scout the area for me.

*clearing throat* Sorry about that... So, did you find anything?

The Dark Shoeprint, or was it Footprint? Whatever their name is, they are headed to the harbor through that alleyway over there.

And they're carrying tons of suspicious-looking boxes!

Carrying boxes to the harbor... It looks like we found them. There's no time to hesitate.

Won't it be too dangerous for just the two of us?

Don't worry. Since there's no one around, we don't need to suppress our power, and we can fight in our original forms.

Ah... then we won't have any problems. But still, we should make a contingency plan.

Go find Hasol and Yuchan. Have them come to the harbor. But you must not alert the government office.

At this hour? I spent the whole afternoon looking for them and I couldn't find them... And what do you mean I can't alert the office?

Just find them at any cost. If you can make it work, I'll give you a bonus next month.

Oh, is that a promise? I'll bring them to the harbor right away!

Something doesn't feel right... Hopefully it's nothing.

We could've just sent this product along with the regular shipment in the morning like we normally do... Why must we do this in secret during the dead of night?

You know why. Security has been strengthened because of the incident this morning. To top that off, the wizard is demanding the goods right away.

Don't forget, the boss is furious because some of the goods got away, so I think it's best for us to keep our heads down and do as we're told.

What do you mean? He's been in a really good mood today. I heard him saying that despite the losses, he's finally managed to find a decent bodyguard...

Wha-? Where is this fire coming from...? Huh? The magic runes on the boxes are igniting!

Wait... That means they'll be...loose...

O-Over there! The one with the tails is giving us a nasty look.

...Now that I'm certain, I don't have to hold back.

CRACK!

Phew, getting out of there took a minute. I have no idea what happened to the box though. It didn't even budge when I punched it with all my might before...

Beehoo? Dana? Aha! You're here to rescue us!

Are you all right? Hey, where's Muwi? I thought you two were taken together.

Oh he...

You useless idiots, I came over here to check up on things, but this... Ugh, we'll take it from here. Hurry up and carry the merchandise to the harbor. Now!

Hmm, you two look different. Are you here to rescue your fellow Wicked? Hehe, I'll take you two too to make up for our losses!

Beehoo, there's something I need to tell you. Muwi...

Now is not the time for conversation. Go release the captured Wicked while I fend the enemy off.

Ah... Okay!

I told you to be on time! What is everyone doing here anywa...

Ack... What's going on? It's a total mess out here. Come on, get up! Get those Wicke, I mean goods!

He seems to be the leader of this "Dark Footprint" posse.

...This situation will resolve once we get rid of him.

Beehoo, you need to be careful! Beside him, that's...

How dare you try to make money off of the lives of the Wicked. I've sworn I wouldn't harm Humans again, but I'm going to make an exception for you.

Oh, this one's got a pretty mug. Rich collectors are going to have a field day when they see you.

Quit dreaming and face your death, criminal.

You think you're going to kill me? We'll see about that.

Urk...

Haha, I knew I got the right guy. This one's a keeper!

Muwi, it's a relief you're safe. But what do you think you're doing? Are you truly trying to protect that scoundrel?

...

Is he being controlled by the Shift Bell?

I see...then I've no other choice. My condolences, Muwi, but please bear with the pain.

Have I used too much of my power as a Wicked? I can feel the strain on my body. Even Muwi is difficult to handle right now.

But I can't back down...

Please don't push yourself, Beehoo.

You're conscious...?

Everything I'm doing is for the sake of the Wicked, I promise. Juni will explain...in more detail.

And...my apologies.

Urgh...!

Haha, finally that headache's been dealt with. Sales will be off the charts this month if I sell him too.

Boss, Hasol is coming this way with the emperor's army.

What a shame... Just grab what we have and let's scram!

Ugh...

You're awake. Thank you... Thank you, Silvana!

...How long have I been out?

Not for too long. You know, I thought I asked you to stay out of trouble multiple times...

If we hadn't shown right in the nick of time, you would've been captured.

Sorry...about that.

I'm quite surprised to see that the taciturn one turned out to be a traitor.

Who are you calling a traitor? Muwi is no such a thing!

Please, read this, Beehoo. While I was being held, Muwi secretly gave it to me.

A letter... What does it say?

Well... I'd tell you, but I don't know how to read...

...I pegged him as someone who does nothing but follow orders. It looks like he can be bold when he needs to be.

"For the sake of the Wicked"... So that's what he meant.

The sun is rising. We need to hurry. According to this letter, we're already short on time.

...Are you saying you're going to stop supplying the ingredients because of the incident this morning?

It is what it is. We do have other methods of getting things done...but we've got more eyes on us than before.

As a matter of fact, I'm just coming from a huge fight with them. So I need to lay low for a while.

You idiots. The way you handle things just baffles me. Y'know what, maybe I'll go look for another supplier.

Now, now. You and I, we're in this together. Besides, none of this would've happened if you managed to make that Shift Bell thing properly.

All you gave me were fragments. Restoring the Shift Bell took more than just putting it together as if it were a broken tool. What I gave you is better than what most others could make of it.

So that foreign wizard restored the shattered Shift Bell, and that's how they've been hypnotizing the Wicked...

In any case, we swept up all the Wicked in the city and are loading them up now. Just make do with this batch until things calm down.

...Hey, that grey-haired guy keeps glancing at us.

That's my new guard. Don't mind him. He's just being vigilant since that's his job.

Hmm, something's fishy. There's something about his aura that's familiar...but I can't pinpoint it. It almost feels like...he's not Human.

There are fewer boxes than what the leader mentioned. That means not all of them are here yet.

But the ship is going to set sail at the scheduled time, along with my chance to save my people and bring those perpetrators to justice.

...I hope Beehoo and the others make it here before that happens.

Why hasn't that that batch from our outskirts base arrived yet?

Boss, a report just came in. Our base in the forest was totally destroyed by two strangers.

What? Who could do that...? This doesn't bode well. The boxes we brought to the harbor, are they all loaded?

Yes. We can depart any time now.

Okay, wrap things up. We need to hightail it out of here as soon we deliver the goods!

Easier said than done. We've got company.

Looks like someone gathered all the South's trash here at the harbor. Good, this will certainly make things easier.

Beehoo, please, you must get some more rest. Let us handle the situation here.

No, if I don't do anything right now...

I'll never be able to forgive myself for dismissing Muwi's report.

Oh, you delinquents dare stuff ME in a cramped box? C'mere, let the great Juni knock you into next month!

There's no way out. Urgh, I guess that leaves me no choice but to leave Theranhad!

Stop sputtering nonsense, you clod. Are you expecting me to smuggle you in?

...Why argue? Neither of you will be leaving.

No Human has strength like this. So my hunch was right, you're a Wicked.

You've been hiding your identity until all those Wicked had time to regroup... You're a sly one.

Too little, too late. Nothing changes. Surrender yourselves and pay for your crimes.

This is my chance to finally make some progress with my research... Haha, I'm going to capture you alive. I can do it with this!

How about that? Are you finding it hard to stay focused? You'll soon feel your consciousness slipping away.

Is that...the Shift Bell? Oh no, we must get to Muwi! He may be able to resist for a short while, but it'll take over him soon enough.

I need to step in now...!

I feel so...so tired...

That's it, just like that. He's almost mine!

Be the final instrument to complete my research!

Did you think I was going to let you take my most valued lieutenant?

Wh-What... How are you able to move?

I am not someone who would succumb to a shoddy restoration like that. That relic does not belong in your hands.

*the ersatz Shift Bell shatters*

Hmpf, that matters not. Although...it is a waste that I missed an opportunity to fetch a fine specimen. At least you're not that much of a threat because of those wounds.

Get your filthy hands...off of Beehoo.

Ah, right, you. I'll be showing myself out since I value my life. I must continue this research.

Beehoo, your injuries are deep.

Don't worry about me, go after him. We have to set the captured younglings free...

I'm sorry, but the ship already left the harbor.

It's all right. The situation has already been taken care of.

I dispatched ships to block nearby ports. They're not getting out of Theranhad that easily.

All aboard. All passengers, please proceed to the platform now!

...Why are you guys here instead of Beehoo?

Muwi, she's asking you a question. Answer her.

He left, and I'm taking over his duties here.

Is that so? You've no issue with meeting His Majesty as a representative of the Wicked?

Yes, I have been entrusted with the authority to preside over Wicked Land and our race.

I just want to make sure I heard him right. Did he really say he's leaving Wicked Land...?

I'm having an even harder time comprehending what he said after.

You're joking, right, Beehoo? Of all the candidates, you chose Muwi?

I can't accept it, either. I'm neither capable enough nor qualified to hold such a position.

This is not a spur-of-the-moment decision. I'm pretty sure you've already noticed, but my strength is steadily deteriorating. The recent injuries I've sustained aren't helping either.

I'm going to have to spend a significant amount of time just to recover, and such a state is not suitable for a leader of the Wicked.

I'll do more to support you, so please...

I'm not abdicating my position, it's only temporary. Hmm... Let me rephrase myself, then. It's as Yulha suggested, I'm going to take a vacation.

Since she has her hands full with the Forsaken Lands, I need someone to take over for me during my absence.

The only person who could make it work is you, Muwi. Throughout the years, you are the only other one besides myself that truly experienced the weight of freedom and responsibility.

...From your tone, I know you've already made up your mind. However, I cannot confidently assure you that I'm up to the challenge.

You have a tendency to underestimate yourself. Think about it. Who has been interacting with the Humans living in Shadow Mountain all this time?

I...understand. I'll do my best to live up to your expectations.

Well, don't be too good at your job though. I'll be pretty bummed if I have no place to return to after you win everyone's hearts.

*sighing* Well, it's not like I can go and drag Beehoo back from his "vacation," so I guess we make a living by what we get.

You'd better be prepared though. From now on, you're more than just one individual. You should be aware that you represent your entire race.

You know what? Maybe I should stay back, hehe... I mean, it'd really put us in an awkward position if I make a mistake or say the wrong thing. Better safe than sorry, am I right? Haha...

...Juni, please. You don't have to do anything. Just...stay by my side, would you?

This duty I inherited from you, Beehoo, I swear I will do my best to carry it out. I will not forget the weight of its importance.

The Prairie... I don't even remember how long it's been since I was here last.

Nothing has changed. The smell of the wind, the singing of the grass... It's as it's always been.

But are you sure it's okay for you to leave Wicked Land to Muwi without even consulting Yulha first?

There's nothing to worry about. Yulha may not speak her mind often, but I know her well enough to tell that she thinks highly of Muwi.

And to be completely honest with you, Muwi has been doing the work better than I have been for a while now.

I'm relieved to hear that... So then, have you decided where you're headed?

I've quite a few places in mind. For starters, how about we go meet your sisters? I haven't seen them in ages.

...So that's why you asked me to accompany you...

Haha, you don't seem too happy about it, but humor me this time won't you?

I really want to see all of you together again...after all this time.