"Oh, is that so? I suppose you found me very useful as a Titan."

"Huh?"

"I provided a home... carried you from place to place... Not to mention the salvaging crane{{footnote: That anchor.}} stuck you-know-where."

Scratching his head, "That's not really what I meant! It's just that you were so big and dependable. Like a dad, or, well, a real grandpa. Besides, I knew you in that form for most of my life. Everyone else only really knows you like this, but I'm not used to it."

Pyra: "Rex has a point. The time when I knew you before, Azurda, is very faint in my mind. This is the Gramps I'm used to."

"Tora cannot imagine big Gramps!"

"Poppi never seen big Gramps, so also cannot picture."

Rex: "Right? That's what I thought. It's all about what you're used to."

Gramps, thinking, "Hmm... I'll give you the benefit of the doubt. Though I know you're really just pining for the days when you could travel in comfort on my back."

"Oho! You prefer me this way?" The excitement in his voice don't subside.

"It's cool to have you riding on MY back for a change! Just hearing you encourage me from behind reeeeeaaaaally sets my heart at ease. And when you were big, we couldn't just, y'know, hang out or- walk together. I like being able to stay close."

"I see, I see..."

Pyra noticed, "You look rather pleased, Azurda."

"If I were to be honest, Rex's helmet is a little cramped. Not to mention the jolting and bumping and bouncing around. It's enough to make me lose my lunch at times. But... hearing Rex- say that, for the first time it made me- think that perhaps this- was- actually a good thing."

"I'm sorry about the jolting. Looks like I've gotta get used to this situation too."

"That's all right, Rex. I'll keep the words of encouragement coming! I shall endeavor to become... ever more reliable."

"Ummm... Actually, if you're planning on nagging me constantly, maybe I'll pass..."

Nia agreed, "Yeah, I wouldn't want to have Dromarch's nagging voice in my ear all the time, either..."

Gramps: "Cheeky sods!"

"Oh really?"

"Poppi have access to much varied information. Considering interests of Masterpon, technology info is especially rich. So for Poppi is not issue, following conversation in question. Moreover, if necessary, Poppi could out-geek Masterpon if Poppi try." Her hands and feet jumped and juggled about a lot as she excitedly answered.

"R-right, OK..." So she was the only one... "I'm sorry I doubted you."

"No worry, Nia. Poppi can also hold conversation on favorite bug dishes of Nia."

"You're too kind... I- should point out though, it's not bugs I like, but fish."

"Meh? Poppi apologize. Poppi update her database now. Masterpon not always fastidious in data entry, so mistakes happen."

Heh heh heh, found the culprit, she shouted out, "Tora! I like bugs now, do I?" The look in her eyes.

His fur stood on ends, "Meh-meh! Tora suddenly feel very unsafe. Rex-Rex, we should move on. If we stay here, something bad bound to happen!"

"Like what?" asked Rex, not yet sensing the situation.

"No time to waste, we go!"

"Ho-hoo! Tora very glad you ask! That because- tech used in this Titan battleship is same as what Poppi's muscles and drivetrain use!"

"Poppi is surprised!"

"But however though! Ones that Poppi use are even more improved than these here!"

"Yet more surprise!"

Nia hypothesized, "Are you saying you stole the tech from Mor Ardain?"

Rex: "C'mon, Tora... Is that what you call sporting behavior?"

"Tora take calculated risk in service to cause of scientific advancement..." He reasoned to himself. "As result, not even Ardainian scientists capable of reverse-engineer Poppi systems! So, no worries there!"

Poppi's head dropped to ground, "Upon learning secret of Poppi's birth, Poppi feel sense of unease..."

"Ugh E-everything fine!... Probably! Now Rex-Rex! No time for chit-chat. Let's get going!"

"Hmm... OK then. Poppi leave questions there for now."

"Thanks, Tora." You saved my skin! "I know quite a lot about the Cloud Sea because of my salvaging work, but I'm not so hot on general knowledge. I probably wouldn't have been able to answer anything else..."

Pyra reassured him, "Don't worry, Rex. If you don't know the answer, there's always a chance that I will!"

"Thanks, Pyra!"

"And if even I don't know, we can still fall back on Azurda."

Gramps: "True enough. I've been around for quite a while{{footnote: Ahem, few hundred years of waking moments.}}, so I could most likely answer any questions Poppi might have. And there's Dromarch as well. Between us, I'm sure we could find an answer to most questions."

Rex: "You're not wrong there. If all of us work together, we can figure out pretty much anything!"

Pyra: "I guess it's not just battle where teamwork is important!"

"Yeah!"

Rex: "That's a good idea. I reckon Dromarch is more knowledgeable than I am."

"Ohhhh, you flatter me. I'm- no expert compared to our resident Titan."

Gramps: "Wha- Don't drag me into this!"

"I have no memories of the time, before I bonded with my lady, after all."

"That's no reason to throw me into the cooking pot! What am I supposed to say, if Poppi asks 'Where do babies come from?' or something like that?!"

"Mmmm... Tell her they are delivered by a flying Tirkin.{{footnote: a big-beak bird that wields Iron-age weaponry like spears and wear an armor.}}"

"That kind of quick thinking is why you're a better man for the job."

"Ah, you over-estimate me. Still, if the mighty TItan is not willing, I suppose, we will have to rely on, my lady, instead."

"Hooooooold it, Dromarch. I want nooooo part in this mess!"

Poppi, in the meantime, eavesdropping their conversation and passing the bucks, exclaimed, "Masterpon, Poppi think Poppi already learn something."

"Huh, learn what?"

"This what people mean when they talk about 'passing the buck'!"

Nia was terrified, "You cannot be serious!"

Tora was overjoyed, "Good attitude! Tora will teach maid art of blushy-crushy! Welcome Tora's maidiest assistant!"

"How may I be of service, Masterpon? Tee-hee!" Just the opening is already so maidy.

Pyra was surprised, "P-Poppi?"

Nia: "What the hell happened to you? Is this some kinda malfunction?" Recall, when she wasn't there, what misprogramming Tora had gave her when she first start up.

"Poppi's Maidiest Mode has been activated. Tee-hee!"

Tora: "Hoho! Maidiest Poppi will teach you all about essence of maid behavior."

Standing next to each other, Pyra watched Poppi, she started, "Blushy-crushy, is external magnification of love feelings inside heart. Poppi will teach magic way to magnify love feelings. Chant with Poppi."

"O-OK!"

"Cutey-cutey, lovely-lovely, blushy-crushy, tee-hee!"

Nia was already not feeling right, warned, "Pyra, please do NOT tell me you're gonna..."

She wasn't listening, trying to replicate, "C-cutey-cutey? Lovely... lovely... Blushy... Crushy... Tee-hee!" Except hers was more bland than Poppi's.

"Whop, there we go." Nia felt wanting to throw up at any moments.

"Nnnnn-Not quite! Copy Poppi... exactly!" The judge determined.

"Yes, coach!"

"Please, Pyra... Come back to us... While you still can!"

"Rex-Rex is boy, so he definitely not immune to the... charms of blushy-crushy. It definitely worth Pyra's time to learn essence of maidiness."

"I see... OK, I'm ready! Tora, tell me what to do!" such straightforwardness.

"Uh, Pyra?" Nia was sweating cold sweat.

"Tora will now introduce assistant to help teach essence of maidiness!"

"How may I be of service, Mr. Rex, sir? Tee-hee!"

Pyra was surprised, "P-Poppi?"

Nia: "What is this, Tora, some kinda... malfunction?"

Poppi answered for her, "Do not worry. This just 'Rex-Focused Blushy-Crushy Maximization Mode'. Have a good day salvaging, Mr. Rex, sir! Tee-hee-hee!"

"Mr.Rex... sir?" Nia jumped on her feet.

Pyra felt blushingly red, "S-s-so... this is... 'blushy-crushy'..."

"OK, Pyra, copy what Poppi say."

Side by side, Poppi started, "Mr. Rex, sir, Poppi is blushy-crushy just for you."

Immediately she tried, quite blandly, her feeling of shame shot to max, "Mr. Rex... sir... Pyra- is... blushy-crushy... just for you?"

"No no, no, no! Rex-Rex will never fall at Pyra's feet with such low level of blushy-crushy! Try again, from top!"

Like the boss female manager whom shouted commands, she called out, "Mr. Rex! Sir! Pyra is blushy-crushy! Just for you!"

"Not there yet!"

Nia: "I... I give up. I can't watch this any more."

He turned around and looked at the scene, reflecting his life, answered, "It not clear to Tora anymore... Starting with Grampypon, dearest wish of family was to successfully create artificial Blade. So, it natural that Tora start to wish it too!"

"Well, do you know why your grandad wanted to make an artificial Blade?"

"Surely it because..." He turned around and surprised the group with the most controversy reasoning, "He want to be famous!"

Rex: "That sounds like a lame reason..."

"But Nopon Driver is rare thing! Nopon who become Driver almost sure to become celebrity!"

"Was that your motivation as well, then?"

"Mmmmmeeeeehhhh... Not exactly. Tora want to be like Rex-Rex!"

"Like me?"

"At first, Tora simply yeaaaarn to be Driver, not- think- too much about it. But... after me travel with Rex-Rex and friends, he start to think different! Saving persons in need, facing all challenges... Rex-Rex is Tora's idea of perfect Driver!"

"It... feels kinda strange when you say that to my face..."

Nia wondered, "Rex, a perfect Driver? I'm not convinced. But it looks like you've got a clear goal in mind, Tora."

"Hey, hold on!"

Nia ignored him, continued, "Honestly, that's all you need! Tora, you should keep being a Driver. As- long- as you have goals to achieve, there's no reason for you to stop. And your Blade will help you in that. Poppi shouldn't have to fight alone. You need to be right there with her."

"Ohhh, it fair point... Thank you, Rex-Rex! Thank you, Nia! Tora promise he will striiiive to be best Driver ever!"

"Hoh, Tora been thinking about that a lot. Love towards Blade is important."

"L-l-love?"

Rex was surprised, "Not an answer I was expecting..."

"Tora observe and Tora analyze... And Tora note, all Drivers have love for their Blades! Example, Rex-Rex love Pyra, and Nia love Dromarch!"

"I LOVE PYRA?!!!" Caught him on his feet.

"R-REX LOVES PYRA?!!!" That's Nia's focus.

"Love that Tora feel for Poppi is- also unsurpassed thing. But just because Tora have love, not mean Tora can necessarily be Driver..."

Rex: "Yeah, but still..."

"Hang on, Rex." Nia had a suggestion. "We're getting bogged down here. Can we just- straight up ask Poppi and be done with this?"

"That's a great idea! Let's get Poppi here."

After Poppi arrived, Rex asked, "Hey, Poppi. What would you do- if Tora said- he wanted to quit being a Driver?"

"Poppi probably break down in tears, is what!"

"Oh, meh-meh-meh-meh! Tora work to be best Driver he can!" And he went back playing with Poppi. Tora and Poppi behind them, Rex exclaimed, "Well, that was pretty easy!"

"Ugh! I've just got no patience for this sorta- non-problem."

Tora was impressed! Poppi said nothing.

Tora was speechless! Poppi was impressed.

"Well... it seems a tad rude- to go on about my old Driver in front of my current one... But I've heard he was quite the remarkable man. Naturally, I'm curious."

"He was one of the good guys, all right. He had big muscles, a big voice, and an even bigger heart. It was Vandham who taught me the basics of being a Driver. More than that, in fact. He taught me all about Blades, how to fight, the way of the world... I didn't know him for long, but he taught me the most important things I know."

"Is that right? He was the kind of- solid, powerful, and dashing sort that is irresistible to the opposite sex, I'll wager."

"Ermmm, I'm not sure if he was that much of a hit with the ladies. But he was a great guy, that's for sure."

"Hmmm... I feel the loss of my memories- of him- very keenly."

"Well, don't worry, Roc. Like I said before, the people of this village are carrying on what he started. And so are we. I hope I can become as good as him some day. I may still have a way to go. But just you stick with me, Roc, and one day, you'll see!"

"I don't doubt it."

"I wouldn't say that. After all, it's not like I have any memories of my time in this village. But I believe something lives on here. Something of Vandham, and- of myself. When I think about it, I can't help but- get a tad sentimental."

"Yeah, I know what you mean. It's like the village is full of memories. Memories of... you, memories of Vandham."

"I wonder how he and I used to spend our days..."

"I think... you probably both lived pretty normal lives, really."

"Normal?"

"That's right. Vandham was the everyday sort, you know? I mean, he'd get up in the morning, see to the kids, then he'd just eat a big sausage sandwich. Evening, he'd drink a beer and- chat about what he was up to. Then he'd just get a bit sleepy, and go to bed. I think that's what he was trying to build here. A place where people could just... live normal lives. I think that's what both of you were always fighting for."

"Fighting for a normal life? Then perhaps even now, that... normal life is what the people of this village hold most dear... Tell me, Rex... Would you say Vandham... was a 'kind'- person?"

"Kind, errrrr... I mean, he was straight up with everyone. Maybe even blunt sometimes. But he was a real gentle giant. He'd probably get mad at me for saying it, but I think he was a lot like a father. He's someone that I looked up to. Someone I'd like to be like someday."

"I can see you hold him in great regard, Rex. I only wish I could have met him myself."

"He did everything he could to protect us. I bet he's still watching over us from somewhere, even now..."

"Well, in that case, I'd better make sure he always sees me at my best!"

"Yeah, I reckon if we don't live up to his expectations, we'll be in a RIIIGHT rollicking someday!"

"Thank you! Tora cannot wait!"

"All right, Tora, listen up. To become a responsible adult, here's what you need to do. Firstly, you've got to take good care of your tools!"

"Ah, Tora very good at that! Runs Poppi's diagnostics every day!" He held out his wings to stop Rex from speaking more.

"Indeed. Masterpon keep Poppi in impeccable state of maintenance."

"Secondly, you've got to take good care... of your friends! If you don't have friends to rely on, you'll be in trouble when a big job comes around!"

"Hum hum hum hum hum, Tora see. Tora always work alone until now, so- that point- still a little new to Tora."

"And most importantly, number three!"

"Yes, yes?"

"Correctly triangulating wreckage coordinates!"

"Ah, of course! Tora can see that very important!" He answered without thinking; then it struck his conscious, "One moment. Wreckage coordinates?"

"That's right. If you mess up the coordinates, all the prep you've done goes down the drain. You might lose out on any loot you could've got otherwise..."

"Ohhh..." Tora is not salvager, meh!

Gramps quietly reminded, "Um, Rex. Isn't that salvaging you're talking about?"

"Huh? Yeah, why?"

Tora raised up his wings, "One moment, please! Why Rex-Rex talking about salvaging?"

"You wanted to know about adventure, yeah? And what greater adventure is there than salvaging?"

His wings fluttered, "Tora want to know Driver wisdom! Have no use for salvager wisdom! Meh!"

"WHUH?!!"

"Masterpon, it seem that ask Rex about art of being Driver not bear fruit."

Gramps added, "After all, Rex is a rookie too..."

"Tora is disappoint..."

"I really thought you were thinking of being a salvager, Tora..."

He turned his back on Rex immediately, not giving face, "Meh, it fine. Tora ask Nia." Immediately, he walked away.

"H-Hang on, Tora! Let me... Let me try again!" And he went after him.

"Right!"

"Does it bother Masterpon when someone say he no good at weapon pass?" Poppi wondered.

"Of course it bother Tora! I mean, weapon pass is crucial element of Driver-Blade coordination. If someone say me not so great at that, Tora's self-esteem plunge is par for course!"

"I know where you're coming from, but... Uh, maybe that's all the more reason to ask Nia? She's the experienced one around here..."

Tora felt disappointed, "Mehhhhh... Tora get it. Will ask and come back."

After he returned, he passed on wisdom of Nia, "Nia just say, with time, body of Driver learn to do it by muscle memory..."

Poppi felt disappointed this time, "Answer seem somewhat... dismissive?"

"Ah, that's a shame... Hey, but, maybe- I can still help? I think Pyra and I manage OK, so..."

"Actually, Nia refer to Rex-Rex as well."

Poppi had memorized her exact phrase, proudly repeated, "Poppi believe 'the kid's green as freshly mowed grass himself'... were her exact words."

"Seriously?!!! That's what she thinks of me?"

"Oh chin up, Rex-Rex."

Poppi: "Indeed! Have much time to live and learn!"

"Yeahhhh!!! We'll get there!"

Gramps commented, "He says he'll help, but then he's the one who needs pepping up..."

"Torna? It was all... centered around Jin. Not exactly structured, though. But we all had our assignments."

"What was yours, Nia?" wondered Pyra.

"I was..."

Rex interrupted her, "Naptime specialist?"

"Shut it! I was, uh, general- support. I hadn't been there long, so- I- mostly just helped out with whatever."

"Hah. Not much of a change, then."

Dromarch agreed, "It is, as you say."

Nia lashed out at him, "Stop making it sound like I'm some useless layabout!" Then she felt the need to explain herself, "I mean, I can make ruska dumplings and stuff, so..."

Cooking! Pyra immediately invited, "Well then, maybe we could cook something together?"

"Mm-hmm! OK, you're on!"

Dromarch had worries, "My Lady, are you sure that's err..."

She decided to use action to prove it, "Both of you'll sing a different song when I stuff your faces with my food!"

Cold sweat ran down Dromarch's manes, "(sigh)... You have best steel yourself, Master Rex. My lady's cooking... is not what anyone would call... 'conventionally tasty'..."

Rex backed up a sec, "Ugh... Maybe I shouldn't have riled her up..."

"The smallest unit in the Ardainian army's structure... is the ten-soldier decade. It includes eight foot soldiers, alongside the squad leader and a deputy. Six to ten of these decades can then form a unit called- a century. But eight- is the usual number."

"Haaaaaahhhh, neat..."

"Mm hmm..." He rubbed his face as he showered in pride. "Master Rex, you did ask for a 'good one', correct?"

"I did."

"Would you not say that was a 'good one', then?" He wanted a specific praise, LOL...

But Rex was so confused, "Uhhhhh, which part?"

Dromarch reminded him, "(sigh)... I said that commonly, eight decades form a century. Eighty men... and yet, they are... a century."

"Ohhhh, now I get it!"

Nia quietly suggested, "Rex, he's done his best, so just throw him a bone, will ya?"

"Ahh yeah, no, that was a VERY good one! Uh-huh, VERY good."

"I have- doubts- about your sincerity..."

Pyra: "I suppose that would help keep the sand out..."

"I've got a spare you could borrow. You wanna try it on? Actually, I guess Nia's the only one who it would really fit."

"Go on then, I'll give it a try. If it really is useful, we can buy a whole bunch of 'em sometime!"

After wearing it, Dromarch commented, "My lady... That suits you- surprisingly well..."

"Oh shuttup." She was wearing a golden-brown version of Rex's blue ones, including the helmet. "So this is what it's like for Rex when he goes salvaging, huh?"

"Keeps the sand out pretty well, right?"

"Well, yeah, it does that... But I can't really see. Peripheral vision's awful in this thing. It's hard to move about in, too." She tried to do a battle stance.

Pyra concluded, "It might not be very practical for combat..."

"Yeah, I don't think I could fight like this."

Tora concluded, "Looks like genius idea of Rex-Rex not so genius after all."

"Well it was worth a try..."

Poppi was disappointed, "Rex not even try to solve problem?"

"Well I mean... listening to you guys talk about it does make me think that the sand and dust is a problem. But then I realize it never actually bothered me until you mentioned it. It's not like it's making our attacks miss or anything, right? I think we're fighting as well as we ever have. It's a bit of an irritation, but it's not causing any actual problems."

Pyra agreed, "I suppose you're right..."

Nia too, "Yeah, I guess its not actually slowing me down."

"Right? So I think as long as we keep our spirits strong, we can make it through this just fine."

Pyra cheered, "Well said, Rex! I'll do my best to keep going then!"

Nia: "I'll try and keep my mind off it too."

Of course, everyone had forgotten who had started the conversation and quacked in the first place. Rex suggested, "All right! Let's keep moving, guys!"

Pyra, high in spirit, "Right!"

Poppi wondered, "Is this really solution?"

Tora: "Is best solution!"

"Was there, now?"

"Our two governments could've just talked, got to know each other, become friends... We could've worked together on this! Just- like- you and me. We were enemies at first, sure, but now we're allies, fighting on the same side. If our nations could've done the same, it wouldn't have had to come to war!"

"Perhaps so. If everyone in this world thought like you do, terror and strife wouldn't be so commonplace."

"Well, come on... You're not just gonna give up, are you?"

"What do you mean?"

"If there's no need for strife, then we should just get rid of it. Rex told us, right? If we reach the World Tree, there'll be no need for fighting any more."

"You think Elysium is the answer to all our troubles, do you?"

"I don't care if people laugh, call it a pipe dream, or whatever. I'd rather be an optimist than just despair at the state of the world."

"Hahah! You have a point."

"I hope you'll lend us your strength to reach that goal, Mòrag. It'd be grand if we could count on your support."

"I will! They call me the Empire's finest, and I- intend- to prove it."

"What do you mean?"

She started ranting, "You didn't have to act so high and mighty. You coulda been humble. But no. I dunno if you were refusing to show weakness, or if you just felt you were better than us, but you put your damn pride above all other things and chose to invade. Am I wrong? You started a war. Wanting to save lives, you ended up losing lives. How backwards is that? If you can't make enough food, why not just... bow your head and ask if you could share? I mean, we were enemies once, but now we understand each other. How could a sodding government not even think of it?"

She wasn't angered by it, kept her calm, "A point well made... But the world is not as straightforward a place as that. Sometimes the most- obvious- way is the most difficult to take."

"Cor... People are such a pain..."

"No question..." She didn't realize{{footnote: on the word 'people'}}. That's exactly why I want to support the boy, and other upright people like him.

"You mean Rex?"

"A world with no strife... Can you imagine something so wonderful, if it were true? And if there's anyone who could ever make it true, it's him. Every age needs its own dreamers to forge new paths, after all."

"Ahah! You're full of surprises, Mòrag. You always struck me as straight-laced. But here you are, believing in the Elysium story."

"It's not just little boys and girls that follow their dreams, is it? I too want to see the fruits of this dream you all share. That's why I'm with you."

"Well, whatever your motive, it's nice to have you with us, Mòrag. Yeah, I think we can make good use of the Empire's finest!"

"Please do! No matter what path we tread, I'll be there to help you on the way..."

Perhaps sensing what's she gonna say, Pyra immediately suggested, "Oh, no, that's fine! I'm happy to do the messy part. I just need you to tell me the steps, and then if you could add the spices..."

"Well, if that is all, I suppose it should be... fine..."

Brighid heard the wobbery in her voice, asked, "Are you certain, Lady Mòrag? About the spices and everything?"

"D-d-don't you worry... Have- some- faith in my taste buds."

In front of the stove, they were looking at it. Pyra asked, "Right then. So, first, how should we cook it?"

"A fine question. Many would eat it grilled, or sliced raw, but I hear it tastes best in a stew."

"Sounds great! Well then, Mòrag, can I ask you to get the stock ready?"

"Of course! If I recall, that's- made- by- boiling the guts..."

"I think I can leave you to it then! I'll go buy the other ingredients."

"Roger."

Looking at the fish, Mòrag was self-questioning, "Hmph... Brighid?"

"Yes, Lady Mòrag?"

"Do we have to begin by gutting this ugly little creature?"

"Well, I should think so. Can you do it?"

She backed a step, "Erm... I'm not even really sure which part the guts are..."

"That would be the parts on the in-side. Consider using a knife..."

"Right... Brighid?" After she cut it open, she called out once more.

"Yes, what is it now?"

She jumped back, exclaimed, "The heart! The heart- is still- beating! What should I do? Should I deliver the coup de grâce?"

Can't back away now, she gave the confidence, "I-i-indeed! That- seems wise. We don't want it fighting back."

"Brighid! It's... looking at me with THOSE EYES, and moving those lips, like it's accusing me of something. IT'S CURSING ME FOR TAKING IT'S heart! It's NO USE... I CAN'T TORMENT the dead any further. BRIGHID, I'll leave the rest to you."

"Wait just a minute! You can't force me to do your dirty work!"

"I'M SORRY, but... I must!"

"Lady Mòrag! Are you deserting in the face of the enemy?!"

Brighid warned for the final time, "Lady Mòrag, if I may. Is this really- wise?"

"Oh! Don't you worry yourself." She had said it, she must made it come true.

Pyra was excited, asked, "Shall we start by gutting the fish, then?"

"Ex-cuse me?"

"What's the matter?"

"Gut it? Gut. This. Creature?"

"Well, yes. We can't exactly cook it like that."

"MM HMM! Understood. Life is a battlefield. Let us commence."

"Show it who's boss, Lady Mòrag!" Brighid cheered for her.

"Mhmph! Brighid!"

"Yes?"

"Please hold down its head."

"Wh-wha...?! No, I, er, that is... I'd rather not... touch it."

"It's just... a little tricky to make the incision when it keeps... staring at me..."

"Qu-quite true, b-b-but..."

"FOR THE LOVE of the Architect, DO IT! Please, at least cover its eyes for me!"

"Y-y-yes, Ma'am. We cannot let a mere fish get the best of us! ERRRRRKKKKK!!!" She screamed thereafter.

"What's wrong?!"

"It...It looked me in the eye! Is this thing still alive?!"

"Can it be? Then I must end it before it strikes!" She pulled out her truncheon, as if the battlefield was even harder than a real one.

Brighid warned, "It's opening its foul maw?! Lady Mòrag, the enemy means to eat us! Quickly, the finishing blow!"

"VERY WELL! HELLFIRE!!!"

Pyra exclaimed, "NO, WAIT! I-If you do that, the food will be..."

But it was too late. They'd destroyed the enemy of their heart that looms larger than it really. Tucked her truncheon back to her sides, she asked, "Well, Brighid?"

She agreed thick-faced, "As befits the Flamebringer. The foe is extinguished... without a trace."

"Phew. Our mission here is done."

Pyra was jumping up and down, "What do you think you're doing?! There's nothing left for us to eat!"

Mòrag tried to understand his request, "You want- all four of us- to bathe- together?"

"Of course yes! Or, is there some... problem?"

Zeke answered, "No, ummm, me and Rex are game, but urrr Mòrag, uh..." How do one explain? He didn't even notice?

Mòrag relieved his explanation, "You three go on ahead. I- shall- abstain- for now."

Tora still didn't get it, encouraged strongly, "Mòrag so reserved... Come on, all go together!"

Rex asked Zeke, scratching his head, "Is it possible that Tora doesn't know Mòrag is a woman?"

Zeke shared his experience the other way, considering the options, "Well, it's not like I could tell a Nopon woman apart, except from the clothing... And with Mòrag wearing men's clothes, maybe it's no wonder the little guy got confused. Orrrrr... Maybe he just doesn't really care one way or the other?"

At the center scene, Tora was still trying to convince her, "Mòrag, it OK! Take moment to breathe, then come with!"

Straight in his face, "I refuse."

Without listening further, he continued to urge, "Look, Tora understand. Lots of Nopon not like baths, too. Maybe- Mòrag afraid Mòrag drown? But- hygiene veeeeeery important! Have to soak, to get nice and clean."

"I do like water, and I am not- filthy... But on this matter, I will not bulge."

"Ohhh how friend Mòrag be so stubborn, with hot spring right before eyes! Come on, Mòrag! Drop clothes like man, and jump in hot spring! Tora not have all day!"

She now ask straight in his face, "You know I'm a woman, don't you?"

His fluttering wings froze in mid-air, "Meh... meh... mehmehmehmehmehmehmehmehmeh?!!! Wo-wo-wo-woman?!!!"

"Yes. I'm a woman, Tora."

"Mehmeh-mehmeh?!!" He turned around and asked, "Rex-Rex! Zeke! You know this?!"

Rex: "I mean, at a glance..."

"Well, for Tora, this discovery of century! Have to tell Poppi and others!" After he went away to share the news, the rest gathered in a circle.

Rex: "well, that's that then, I guess?"

Mòrag: "My... I did not expect this when I woke up today."

Zeke suggested, "Hey Mòrag, how about next time you put on a skirt and some heels?"

She replied calmly, "How about you die in a fire, Zeke."

Mòrag: "I think I'll excuse myself this time."

"Mòrag not want to bathe with Tora?" He felt disappointed.

"Please don't take this the wrong way. It is just... this is a very delicate matter, I'm sure you understand."

"Is because Tora is Nopon?"

"Nooo! Of course not! That's not it at all! I-I just, I have other... Ugh!"

Zeke now get into the play, "Oh, Mòrag... Why've you gotta be so stubborn? Why not just play along and make Tora's little dream come true?" Or maybe, your dream come true?

"Bolt it! How dare you make light of me!"

Tora still don't understand, "Mòrag... maybe worried about feathers in bath? Then no need! Tora is younggggg, not drop feathers so easy!"

"Uhm, no, th-that's not the problem..."

"Then there only one explanation... Mòrag really do hate Tora?"

"Ngh... N-no, that's not true..."

Zeke urged her to reveal herself, "C'mon Mòrag. Tora's almost crying here."

"Urkkk..."

"If Mòrag not hate Tora, then, why not want to wash each other's backs...?"

"Oh, for the... Fine! Let us bathe together!"

"Huh?" Rex and Zeke jumped on their feet. What the heck is she even speaking?

Zeke: "Seriously?"

Only Tora's fluttered wings exclaimed how happy he got. "Tora score!"

"But I will bathe in my clothes! And that- is non-negotiable!"

Zeke: "Uhhh, good luck trying to explain this to the bath attendants..."

Gramps go forward anyways, and he'll know what it meant by 'best'. "One day, one of the local kids- was attacked- by a monster. Without thinking, Rex jumped in to help him."

Nia noted, "That's our reckless Rex!"

Rex: "That's your story? Of course I'm gonna help someone in danger!"

Pyra was eager for more, "What happened after that?"

"Both Rex- and the kid- had to be rescued by the villagers."

She was surprised, "Huh? Wasn't- Rex meant to be the one doing the rescuing?"

"That was his plan. Unfortunately, he just ended up in the same hot water."

Nia laughed out loud, "Hah! Rex, you genius!"

"That night, I heard Rex- bawling his eyes out. Was he in pain from his wounds, I asked. But he replied, 'No, I just wish I'd been able to save my friend.' Injury held no fear for him, but the anguish of not being able to save his friend... was unbearable."

Nia can't understand, "And he cried about that?"

Looking at him, Rex: "What's the big deal? Kids cry. It's normal!"

Pyra: "No, Rex. Nia is impressed! Aren't you?"

"Sure. I was surprised at your bravery. Even- at- that age..."

"We admire you, Rex." Pyra repeated.

"Aw, stoppit! You'll make me blush!"

Gramps: "Ho ho ho. I told you it was a good story!"

Gramps therefore teased, "So you won't mind me telling them- about the time you wet yourself- when there was a monster attack?"

Everyone jumped on their feet, Rex exclaiming, "HUH? NO, THAT'S NOT-"

Pyra already heard it, "W-wet yourself?"

Nia labeled, "Rex, you baby!"

"That was just when I was a kid! I don't do it anymore! Don't even think about carrying on with the story, Gramps!"

Nia got excited, "Awww, c'mon! We wanna hear!"

He looked for support, "No! Pyra, pleaseeeee... You don't want to hear it, do you?"

"Ummmm... Actually, I kind of do..."

"HUH?!"

Gramps started something unexpected, "This is a story about the time one of the local bullies- fell foul of a monster. Rex didn't hesitate. He packed up and..."

"Gramps, pleaseeeee stop!"

Nia was still lingering on the thought, "Is wetting yourself reaaaally that embarrassing?"

"SUPER EMBARRASSING!!! Nia, don't tell me it's never happened to you!"

"Urgh..."

Pyra don't want the fire to burn on her, suggested, "Maybe we should hear a different story."

Gramps got the idea wrong, "Oho, you'd like to hear an even more embarrassing story?"

Rex: "No! Stop! Don't encourage him, Pyra!"

She was confused being misunderstood, "Huh? I just want to know as much about you as possible, Rex."

Nia: "Well said! Drivers and Blades should know everything about each other."

Rex: "Yeah, well, there's everything and there's- EVERYTHING. Can we please just drop it?"

"Yeah. Hmmmm. Sure." Is that it? "But y'know... That's just a façade. It's what they want you to see."

"A façade?"

"Yeah, exactly. Like, you know Gormott's a colony of Mor Ardain right now. Well, the only reason the town looks so lively is 'cos Mor Ardain has a military base here. Most other settlements in Gormott, everyone's doing hard work like farming and lumberjacking. And most of what they produce, they export to Mor Ardain. It's quite a tough life here. A lot of folks are struggling."

"Mmm..." That kept him thinking deep.

"And it's not just Gormott, either. I've seen a good few dark underbellies on my travels, no doubt about it."

"Did you ever try to help those people out?"

"Ahhh, so many times. I had it in my head that the Zekenator had the power to fix anything. But, fancy sword skills and titles... They aren't much use to most folks. I was trying to save the world alone. But what happened is that reality bit me on the arse."

"Hey, don't look at it like that!"

"Huh?"

He encouraged, "Sure, maybe you don't have the power to save the whole world right now. But there are definitely people out there you have helped. Me- and Pyra, for a start. So Zeke, don't ever give up. Don't forget, you've got some people you can count on now."

"Yeah, you're right. You really are. I dunno what I was thinking. It's not just the Zekenator now. I've got you guys watching my back. Some of the things I couldn't do back then might even be possible now."

"Right? So let's keep doing what we can. All of us, together."

"Yeah! I just gotta put my back into it." Then his shout shocked Pyra and Pandoria, whom also climbed up with them, watching the other side (the fields) from the top. "LOOK OUT, WORLD! THE ZEKENATOR'S COMING TO ROCK YOUR SOCKS OFF!!!! Hoooh! That sure felt good. Your turn, Rex! Let your manifesto out!"

"Ermmm..." Like that? Don't you feel embarrassing? But he went forward, "I'm gonna get Pyra and Mythra to Elysium, or die trying!"

"YEEEEEEEE HAAAAAAHHHHH!!"

Pandoria was so confused, asked softly, "What are you two doing?"

Pyra added, "You're embarrassing me..." But they weren't listening, feeling excited at their manifesto, became close brother for a moment.

"Fonsett's a peaceful village, right? War hasn't really reached it?"

"Yeah, that's right."

"Problem is, most villages in Alrest can't say the same."

"What do you mean exactly?"

"Listen up, chum. What you see on the surface? That's not the whole story. A lot of places that look like they're doing well, have a lot of people suffering in the shadows."

"Even here in Gormott?"

"Sure as. You can see Torigoth doing great, same as the other towns where there's an Ardainian army base. But most other settlements in Gormott? They scrape by on hard labor like farming and lumberjacking. And most of what they produce, they export to Mor Ardain. It's quite a tough life here. A lot of folks are struggling. And it's not just Gormott, either. I've seen a whole bunch of places like this, and they make me realize how powerless I am."

"Huuuuh" Felt heavy in his heart, the way he spoke it. He encouraged, "Zeke, you aren't powerless. You never stop wanting to help people. Even though, you're thinking about the people who reaaaaally need your help. Exactly how a future king should think."

"Heyyyy, don't take the piss." He waved it off.

"I mean it. I'm all spent just worrying about the people right in front of me. Pyra, Mythra, Nia, Gramps... But it seems like you're always worrying about the wider world. Like, people whose names you don't even know! It's something I reaaaaally admire about you, Zeke. I hope I can learn to care as much as you do."

"Man, you always know what to say. You're such a... focused guy."

"Haha. Gramps said I should pay more attention to the world around me, though."

Unbeknownst to them, Pandoria and Pyra had climbed up and were overhearing their conversations now, "Tell you what then, chum. While you focused on your main goals, I'll keep an eye on the big picture on you."

"Yeah, I know I can count on you."

"Damn right you can!"

Pandoria was impressed, "Ohhh, what a pair."

Pyra: "I find it really inspiring."

"Yeah! I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little inspired."

"Right? Obviously! I knew you'd know what's what."

Pandoria urged, "No need to worry about hurting his feelings, Pyra. You can be honest."

"I am being honest! I think it's a very creative name."

"Uh? No way... You're kidding, right?"

Zeke was extremely proud and satisfied, "Finally, somebody who ACTUALLY understands! At least SOMEONE does. Go on, Pyra. You need a title as well."

"Huh, me?"

"Yes! Something that really captures the spirit of who you are."

"Steady on, my Prince. Pyra doesn't want a stupid name."

But Pyra urged on, played with the game, "OK! Lay it on me, Zeke! Gimme that title!"

Pandoria sighed, "Someone's gotten carried away..."

"Right then. From now on, Pyra, you shall be... Pyra von Aegis, OMEN OF RETRIBUTION!!!" He thought for a short moment before giving her the nickname.

She thought of it carefully, "Pyra von Aegis, Omen of... Retribution?"

Pandoria: "Uhh... really, Pyra... If you don't like it, you shoulda just said so."

"I love it! To be honest, I don't really know what it's supposed to mean? But it's so cool!" she exclaimed.

Pandoria can't believed what she just heard, "What on Alrest is going onnnnn? These two are incorrigible!"

"Right? Just like I thought. Pyra GETS me. In fact, maybe YOU should just be my Blade!"

"A-ahh hahahah... I think I'm good, thanks." Not on that, sorry...

"Huh?"

"You're very amusing, Zeke, but Drivers need to be a lot more than amusing."

"What?"

Pandoria finally found her laughing point, "AHAHAHAHAHAH!!! You're going to need an Ice Art for that burn. That was worth the wait. It's gonna take him some time to recover."

"URK!!!" He went down to the floor in extreme heart pain.

"My Prince?!" Pandoria acted as if she's gonna lose him.

With intense heartache, he exclaimed, with barely enough oxygen to survive, "Too... too blunt. It struck me... right to my very heart..."

Pandoria couldn't help joking, "Hang in there! It's just a flesh wound! You're going to be just fine!"

Pyra don't understand the joke, worried, "Huh? Is Zeke OK?"

As if he's gonna immediately pass away, he answered, "No... Remember me well, friends..."

Pyra started panicking, "What?! I-I'm so sorry! I-I didn't mean... I just let my thoughts SPILL out of my mouth without THINKING!!!"

"(cough cough cough)"

"My Prince?!"

Pyra: "Um, what's happening? I, er, should I get help?"

Pandoria was so deep in the joke, exclaimed, "Pyra, you monster! You're KILLING him here!"

Zeke agreed, "_Who would have known that- Pyra could be so deeply cruel..."

"That wasn't my intention at all! I-I'm sorry! I just thought- that the joke wasn't up to your usual standard..."

"ARRRRRHHHHHCCCKKKKKK!!!" Pinch straight to his heart twice!

"MY PRINCE?!!! A mortal blow! It's going to take him some time to recover from that..."

She jumped back at such inferences, "LOVE?! Where the hell'd you pull THAT one out of? Ehehehe...."

Dromarch interpreted her reactions as, "Ah, yes, I see. You pretend to dislike him while secretly harboring feelings."

Brighid added to the fire, "Maybe it's time you should be more honest with yourself?"

She couldn't even reject their notion, "Oh, for the... you've got to be kidding me! Y-You couldn't be more wrong!"

The more she tried to reject, the more sure they were of her feelings, "There's no need to be shy, my dear. As a fellow Blade, I'll be happy to keep this just between us."

Dromarch agreed with that, "Quite so. We will keep your little secret from your beloved Prince- until such time as you see fit."

Her voice is all weak and not getting through, "I'm trying to tell you, it's not like that!"

Brighid already convinced herself, and no other 'facts' would unconvince her, "Ohhhh, you're so cute when you get embarrassed."

Dromarch too, "Hmhm! I quite agree..."

"Hey! Stop that! Don't you give me that knowing smile! Ungghhhh, curse you, my Prince, and your unlucky nature!"

"Oh yes, he's such a frightful little sonny Jim..." She replied unconsciously, then suddenly picked it up consciously, "WAIT, who're you calling his mom?! At least go for big sister or something!"

Dromarch: "Ahhh, what a comeback! What im-peccable comedic delivery!"

"Hahah, you like it? You've gotta have a sharp wit when you're dealing with that guy. But comedy aside, it all comes back to his blasted bad luck. If you have to deal with some of the stuff I've been through, you'd be worrying like an old maid, too. When it really counts, he can be a proper hero, but the rest of the time... I just don't know what to do with him."

Brighid: "It wouldn't be Zeke without a little bad luck, though, would it?"

Dromarch: "I quite agree. It's an integral part of his identity!"

"Yep.. and ain't that just the worst thing?" asked Pandoria. "(sigh) The things I put up with for my Prince..."

"Well, I mean... As a prince, of course you're gonna want to protect your country and your people. But... is that really enough?"

"What do you mean?"

"This world, it's stretched to its limit. We've both seen that on our travels."

"Mmmm?"

"Now, my old man, he closed off our country from the outside world. Why? To protect his people. But that's not a real solution. That's just running away from reality. Maybe you can protect your own people like that, for a while. But when the world ends, you're just as dead. I just couldn't bring myself to agree with the way he does things."

She listened for him to finish without interruption, asked thereafter, "And... that's- why you left?"

"Yeah! If I can use my power to help save the world, even a little. I figured, that's what I have to do. Help the people who need it. Of course, I was younger then, with naïve ambitions. In the end, I just wound up learning how powerless I really am."

"But you haven't given up yet, have you? You're still trying to save the world."

"Course I am. If you don't have the power, you gotta try even harder. If you can't do it alone, then you gotta find some friends to back you up. Mòrag! You're one of those people, right? Someone I can count on."

"Hahah, I'm with you, Zeke." she supported him.

That makes him quite angry, "THAT'S THE ONE!!! That's exactly what my old man used to say. But, is that really enough?"

"What do you mean?"

"This crazy world's right at its limit. If it carries on like this, it's done for. My old man... He chose to close his eyes to the outside world and only think of the safety of our country."

Mòrag don't see how that's wrong, "A king's first duty is to protect his nation. I don't think I can blame him for the choice he made."

"Well, yeah... But is it really OK to just think of yourself? Can you really be happy when you're shut up in your own world like that? If we carry on like this, our whole world has had it. And you can't have a country without a world. That's why his attitude drove me crazy! Sitting doing nothing as the whole shebang falls down... That's no way for anyone to live. I can't just give up on the future like that. That's why I left Tantal. And that's why I can't go back, not until the world is safe."

"Ahah... You're a remarkably straightforward man. Honestly, I'm a little jealous of the way you can follow your heart so freely."

"Hey, what are you saying? It's not like it's hard. You should try it yourself -- just say what you think!"

"Hah!" Her pride couldn't let her do that, her worries for what others might think of her couldn't do that, her position as Special Inquisitor couldn't do that. Can she? "Straightforward guys like you and Rex are all very well, but I think someone needs to attend to the finer details."

"Jeez, you let me have it with both barrels there... But thanks."

"You can count on me for that, Zeke!"

"Well, I mean, I'm sure most women look feminine and cute next to you, Mòrag, but..."

Hah, she already got the comparison, "Are you trying to insult me?"

She jumped back, "N-n-no, not at all! Sorry, I'm not good with words..."

"Umph!" Let you go this time.

"But, don't you think I'm kind of- plain- next to Pyra and Brighid?"

"It's true that the two of them- do have a certain healthy vigor about them."

As if she got her conformation, "Right? Sometimes I- feel like I- need to up my game a bit when it- comes to looks."

"I see! And you thought I must know all the tips and tricks to keep one's appearance in tip-top shape."

"N-no, no, I wouldn't come to you for that kind of advice." When you're not one yourself, hah! "It's just... you dress like a guy, right?"

"Oh!"

"So I figured you probably have a good idea of how men think."

"Ahahah. I see."

"Yeah, I knew you'd understand! So tell me, from your point of view, what have Brighid and Pyra got- that I haven't?"

She strictly rejected, "Forget it. We're done here." Too much insult for the day, repeated again and again and again.

She was surprised, "Huh? Wait a sec, Mòrag! Weren't you gonna help me? Oh, c'mon, you're such a tease!"

She giggled at the misunderstanding, "Uhuhuh!!! Oh, Mòrag, you're so funny."

"Huh?"

"That's not it at all! I wasn't confessing my love or anything. I just wanted to ask you about my femininity."

"Really? You came to ask me... about femininity?"

She exclaimed, "You dress like a dude but you're so pretty. You must know a thing or two. Your hair, your skin, your nails... Always so on point."

She was impressed, "You have better eyes than I gave you credit for."

"I just notice that stuff. I'm a girl Blade, after all."

"I see... Sounds like there's some man that you want to notice you, Pandoria."

She strictly denied, "NO NO NO! Nothing like that! I was just watching youuuu and Brighid, and- wondered what kind of stuff you do to- look so sophisticated."

"Is that so?"

"No word of a lie!"

"Huh! Both Brighid and myself import Elastifying Tonic and Freshening Gel specially from- Argentum."

"Mm hmm!"

"Titan-Oil Hand Cream also comes in very useful."

"I see, I see..." When was the last time Zeke ran out of gold and couldn't make himself a contact lens for his other eyes ahem ahem?

"I'll ask Zeke- if he can buy some for you too, in future."

She jumped on her feet, "What? No, don't do that!"

"Ohhhh???"

"Let's- keep this- on the down-low, OK? Nobody needs to know!"

Zeke agreed, "Yeah, that might be the best solution."

She recalled, "He used to sleep in my bed back in the day, anyway. It'll be fine."

Nia was relieved, "I guess that settles it. Thanks, Pandoria!"

"You can count on me!"

"Hang on, though. You- said- he used to sleep in your bed 'back in the day'... Just how long have you had this turtle?"

She looked to Zeke for affirmation, "Ohhh... It hasn't been as long as me and old Princey here, but... it's been- quite a while, I think?"

"Huh. It's just that he's so small. I always assumed he was pretty young. So what would you do if he grew up to be Dromarch-sized?"

Zeke couldn't believe "The things that go through that head of yours..." Dromarch-size, do you really mean it?

"Watch it, you." she snarled at him.

Pandoria agreed that "He wouldn't be quite so portable if that were to happen."

"Right? It got me wondering, would you guys- stick together even then?"

Zeke don't see anything different, "Why? I could ride around on top of Turters instead!"

Pandoria: "You mean like Nia and Dromarch?"

"Yeah! That sounds pretty sweet, right?"

"You'd probably get left behind. A lot." blurted Nia sincerely and bluntly.

Pandoria: "And how?"

Zeke: "Yeah, you know what? I'm just gonna be glad that Turters stayed this size."

"Flip it?" Nia wondered, how do they do that?

"On its head?" Zeke wasn't sure what she meant. On Turters head?

"Yuh-huh." The message didn't get through, but she took it for granted that it did. "I mean, Turters is one of the gang too, right? So I figure, me and Zeke can't keep hogging him forever. He doesn't belong to any one person. He's a precious mascot, to each and every one of us. So what I say is, why don't we all pitch in on looking after him?"

Zeke: "Oh, right! Great idea!"

"Riiiight? If Nia's helping us out too, there's no problem with Turters sleeping in her bed."

She was mad, "Hold it, hold it! This isn't solving the issue of how I get some sleep. You can't just lump it all on me. Get someone else to help."

Zeke thought for a while, suggested, "Hmmm... Maybe Dromarch could look after him?"

Pandoria agreed, "Could work. He's basically a big fuzzy pillow."

Now that they thought of it, Zeke had another idea, "Actually, the same goes for Tora!"

"More like a little fluffy pillow, but yes!"

Nia was impressed, "Hey... Are you two actually just fed up- of taking care of Turters?"

Zeke was surprised, struggled to find reinforcements, "HMMM?!!! P-Perish the thought! Right, Pandy?"

"Yeah, we love Turters. Sometimes I forget to feed him, but he's great."

"I'm starting to understand why he comes running to me every night..."

"That's very pessimistic. You always are too hard on yourself, Aegaeon. I- think- Emperor Niall was hoping you would protect Alrest, and not- just- him. Rather than keep someone as excellent as you cooped up in Mor Ardain, he preferred to have you contribute to the well-being of the world at large."

"Hmmm. I see. He thought my knowing of my past role in Mor Ardain would... hinder that."

"That's what I think."

"I see... I may not have been able to meet the Emperor, but... just talking to you, Brighid, has given me strength."

"You mean, that an adept Blade should serve the world, not a single country?"

"Yes, precisely."

Brighid was impressed, "You can be quite brazen sometimes."

"I was hesitant to say it myself..."

"But I do think you're probably right. That's why the Emperor didn't want you to know too much about your role here. He feared if you did, it may- hinder you from achieving that purpose. "

"I see... I may not have been able to meet the Emperor, but... just talking to you, Brighid, has given me strength."

"Always glad to help. For what it's worth, I can't wait for the day when you're back by the side of the throne."

"Are you worried for him?"

"Maybe somewhat. Anyone can aid the Emperor in his duties, but to keep him safe... takes someone truly- special. Up until now, I felt secure knowing that His Majesty was protected by myself, Lady Mòrag, and you."

He thought for a while, agreed, "Certainly... The sooner things fall back into place, the better. When all is said and done, I will return to the throne room. You and me both, Brighid. We will help see this through."

"Right. I'll be counting on you."

"You got it! I never saw him eat anything that spicy. Even a hint of spice would have him running for the latrine!"

"Bwhmhmhmhmhm! So Addam had a little kid's tastes too."

Zeke shot back in disbelief, "You're kidding me! You can't tell me stories like that! I grew up idolizing Addam, and now I can't get that image out of my head!"

But not Nia, she asked in full curiosity, "Hey, Mythra. Do you have any other funny stories?"

"Funny stories? I wonder if I can remember anything."

"So, like, what was Addam's real favorite food?"

"Well, that would be... Pan-Fried Tartari."

"Just like Rex!" Nia exclaimed.

"Yeah! Addam would just light up at the sight of it."

"I really sounds like the Great Hero was just a big kid when it came to food. Anything else?"

Zeke went into depression, "STOP! STOP! I CAN'T TAKE ANYMORE!!! Can you please leave at least some of my admiration for him untainted?"

Nia don't understand, "What do you care? Addam was just a guy like anyone else." Then she teased, "Look who's the big kid now, Shellhead!"

"You arse, Nia. You're loving this, aren't you? Dammit! I'm going to have to reread 'Addam, the Great Hero' to scrub my mind."

Mythra agreed, "Yep! It's a total marketing gimmick. A load of bull, in other words."

Nia felt cheated, "Bloody liars! The cheek of it!"

Zeke had faith, "Steady on just a second, chaps. It's not definite that they're lying."

"Huh?"

"Even if this wasn't Addam's favorite food, you've still gotta hand it to them. Keeping 500-year-old traditions alive is a pretty noble thing. So what if they did exaggerate? Maybe... Addam had a bite when Mythra wasn't looking and thought... 'this is jolly tasty'."

Nia urged, "No need to get so worked up, Shellhead."

"Who's worked up? It's nothing to me. I'm just saying, don't go around calling ancient recipes a lie for no reason!"

Mythra seemed to read the situation, "Ahhh, OK, I see what's going on here. I've a sneaking suspicion that this might be Zeke's favorite food..."

"Wha-" and he looked away, not willing to face the clever girl.

And she revealed more, "Oh, is it your favorite because you believed their shtick about Addam?"

"Arrrrgh..." Two arrows in his heart.

Nia finally got it, laughed till her belly hurt, "BWHMHMHMHMHMHM!!! Busted! Is that why you took it to heart? You're like a little kid!"

He started panicking, trying to protect his final image, "Wh-wh-what's wrong with that?! I grew up believing this was Addam's favorite food! It's been enchanting kids for 500 years now! I'm not gonna let the words of one Blade take that away!"

Mythra: "Sure! But that still doesn't change the fact that Addam didn't like spicy food. He'd never eat this stuff of his own volition."

"ARRRRRRGGGGHHHH!!" Millions of arrows in the heart, he collapsed on the ground. "You're shattering my image of him! My precious childhood innocence... I don't believe anyone or anything anymore..."

Nia urged and offered, "Don't be like that, Shellhead. Cheer up, I'll buy you an embercake! Hah!"

"We didn't end up paying monetary compensation, but- it- was a possibility."

Brighid estimated, "If we had, it would likely have come to around- 40 billion G."

"Oh! Much expensive!"

"Could make 1,000 Poppis with that money."

Brighid was surprised, "Wow! You're surprisingly expensive too!" 40 million G for a single Poppi? Can you imagine?

"Ehehehe!"

"If not money, what did Mòrag country pay?" asked Tora.

"That just what Masterpon would want."

"If you pay in sausages, how many years supply it take?"

"Hmmm..." How much does a Tasty Sausages cost again? Mòrag estimated, "About a billion years' worth, I suppose."

Brighid read her Driver, accused, "You just made up a large number because you couldn't be bothered to calculate, didn't you?"

Hoof, not tasty sausages. That felt like a relief! "What did Mòrag country pay then?"

"My grave?!" He jumped on his feet. So sudden... "I-I... guess I've never thought about it."

"You're still pretty young, after all." Pandoria explained him away.

"You're calling me old?!" Zeke complaint.

Rex had thought while they fought, continued, "I guess I'd probably like to be buried alongside my parents in Fonsett."

Zeke asked, "How would you fancy here- in Elpys?"

Scratching his head, "Uhhhhhhh... I don't know about that..."

Pandoria don't like it either, clutched herself as if she felt very cold, "Yeah, this place is so big and empty, you'd die of loneliness."

Zeke: "After he's already dead?" Can he even feel loneliness then?

Rex agreed, "I think I'd rather stay close to the people I love. Though it's still pretty weird to think about."

"Wellll, that's a nice way of looking at it."

She calmly and immediately answered, "My manner of burial is already decided. There is a proud Ardainian tradition to-"

He immediately cut her story short, "Yeah, OK, I'm gonna stop you there. Thanks for the predictable answer."

"Wha-?! Then ask me again. I will endeavor to make my response more entertaining."

"Lady Mòrag, I don't think there is any need to..."

"You are aware of how I dislike to be outdone, are you not?"

Zeke agreed to her proposal, "All right, let's do this. Where's your grave going to be?"

Without a moment hesitation, she answered, her hands flung around that almost hit Brighid, and she looked up in the sky full of pride, answered, "A snowman at Theosoir Rear Gate!"

"WHA?!!!"

Pandoria: "Waaaaaaiiiitttt, are you gonna marry into Tantal royalty or something?"

"Wha?! Of course I will not! I-I was just imitating Zeke's amusing remark!!! Perhaps I should have chosen a graveeee (then an idea came to her mind) in Fonsett instead!"

"Whaaaaa?!" Now Rex jumped on his feet.

Brighid face-palmed herself, "That's also not exactly, er..."

"Ugh!" Mòrag gave up.

Zeke laughed, "HAHAHAHAH!!! Looks like Mòrag's got a thing or two to learn when it comes to the funnies!"

Gramps exclaimed, "Ah, to be young and carefree gain. To think they can joke around in a place like this..."

"Ermmmmmm... I don't really know. What makes you ask?"

"Well, I'm a Blade, so I don't really know much about parents. I was wondering what it's like to have them."

He scratched his head, "Mmmm... I'm not sure- how to explain it. All I know about my parents, is what Gramps and Auntie Corinne have told me. Honestly, I have hardly any memory of them myself. It doesn't really feel real."

"Isn't that sort of sad?"

"Not 'sad' exactly... I've just never really thought much about them."

"Oh, I see..."

"I mean, it's Gramps and the villagers who've looked after me this whole time. They're my family. Everyone in the village is. And when you've got all these mums, dads, brothers, and sisters, it's kind of hard to feel sad, you know?"

Gramps teased, "The downside to a big family is that you can't go a day without getting an earful from someone, eh!"

"Hey, give it a rest!"

"Hahahah!" Pyra love to see how they tease each other.

"Yeah, I've been sending money back pretty much ever since I left the village to set off to become a salvager. I mean, take a look around. There's nothing here. Trade with other countries doesn't really cut it, and being self-sufficient only goes so far. What I earn is a pittance, but it's better than nothing, I think."

Pyra was heartfelt, "But it can't be easy for you, either, living the way you do. You shouldn't push yourself so hard."

"Mmmm, I guess. But I can't really leave my family out in the lurch either."

"Your family? you mean the villagers?"

"That's right. Everyone in the village is like family to me. I'll do everything in my power to help them!"

Gramps added, "They're all very grateful to Rex for his work. Never thought a mischievous brat like you'd grow some backbone!"

"Who are you calling a brat?!"

"Hahahah!" Pyra love to see how they tease each other.

"What? What's so funny?"

"Sorry, I didn't mean to be rude. I just couldn't help but admire your way of thinking. I'd love to have a family as big as yours, Rex."

"What are you talking about, Pyra? You're already part of the family."

Gramps finally found the best moment, took his chance, "So can we take this as confession of love?!!! (He literally jumped on his feet.) Very bold of you to do so in front of your parents, my boy!"

Blood rushed up Pyra's cheeks, "Wha-?! Rex, h-hold on a second!"

He tried to deny, busy explaining to Pyra that he don't have the attention to teach Gramps a lesson, "N-no, that's not what I was trying to say! You, Nia, Mòrag, Zeke, and Tora too. You're all... family to me. So there's no reason to feel sad orrrrr lonely, that's what I'm trying to say!"

Gramps cut in again, disappointed at the failed confession, "Uh, so much for the boy having backbone. (Whispering to her). Sorry, Pyra, this one's going to be hard work."

"Heheheheh! That's all right. I've got a surprising amount of patience."

He who cannot hear what they were talking wasn't happy of being left out, "Oi! What are you two going on about? Jeez..."

"Thank you, Pyra. Alas, my brother and I are hardly your average family." She turned around to look at the Great Void, or perhaps, she just don't want to face her, "His Imperial Majesty andddd his retainer, the Special Inquisitor; our stations differ greatly, as- do our ways of life. We couldn't possibly expect to talk like normal siblings..." At least that's what she believed. Though, she'd never asked the emperor herself, and make assumptions based on her own extrapolations instead.

Mythra had instead replaced Pyra, feeling irritated, "Ugggh, give me a break! You think your 'stations' trump your relationship as brother and sister?"

Mòrag jumped on her feet as she turned around, "Mythra?! When did you..."

"I couldn't listen to you anymore. You're family, aren't you? You and Emperor Niall. Emperor or not, he's your brother, first and foremost. What more is there to think about?"

"Urgh. Even so, it has been a long time since we've acted as siblings..." and it felt weird if she were to go back to the past times, she thought. It felt awkward trying to reconcile 'childish' relationship with him.

"Look at me and Pyra! We haven't exactly been in touch all that much. And now? We're rock-solid."

She rebutted, "That's not exactly-"

"Shut it!" She poached at her, stopped her from generating more excuses, "You've been worried about your brother- makes you family enough. Your stations don't come into it! Just woman up, and be a good sister already!"

"Hmm!!! Maybe you're right."

"Of course I'm right. Obviously. Just enjoy some time with your little bro and spoil him rotten. That's it."

"Very well. Then I will strive to be the sister Niall deserves."

"You better be ready the next time you two meet."

"I will. I promise."

"Finally, we've made some progress. You and Rex both get so stuck in your heads, it's infuriating."

"Hahah! Thanks for the pep talk, Mythra."

"You're very welcome!"

"No! That's not it. I would like to spend time with him, no question. But I'm afraid our respective stations- would get in the way..."

"Stations? You mean- because he's Emperor?"

"Indeed. When my little brother took the throne, I volunteered to become his shield. It was then that we cut the familial bonds- between us."

"You poor thing..." How awful is that, she thought.

"Please don't misunderstand. I-I-I do not regret choosing this life. To protect my brother and all of Mor Ardain? There is no higher joy for me."

"Huh... As a Blade, I have no family. But I do looooong for the kind of relations that a family brings. You and Emperor Niall are already connected, and more closely than you might think. But still, y-you don't goooo to see him...? Why? Surely there wouldn't be any harm in just- talking and enjoying each other's company? In all honesty... there's nothing I'd want more."

"Hmm..." That put Mòrag in deep thoughts.

"I think Emperor Niall would enjoy a chance to talk with you, too. I mean, isn't that what family's about? I don't think bonds can be cut as easily as that, you know?"

"I... that is..." She don't know how to rebut.

Pyra urged, "Just try! Go see him! Emperor, retainer... That isn't what counts. You don't need some special reason to go talk to your brother, Mòrag! And I bet he'd appreciate it, too."

She brightened up, "Hah! Indeed. It may well be as you say. It's possible that I was the one who built- a wall between us."

Pyra was excited to help, "You know where to start, right? Tear down that wall!"

"Yes. I'll do my best. Thank you, Pyra."

Brighid: "Well, let's see... As I recall, the guards reported capturing a suspicious man, dressed all in black, and with a- funny accent."

Mòrag agreed, "That's right! They'd stopped him at the palace gates and were about to throw him in jail."

"He was already a shady customer back then, huh?"

Brighid: "It's a good thing the Prince was feeling generous, otherwise it could have been a major diplomatic incident."

Mòrag agreed, "Most certainly. Thanks be to his forbearance."

"That's just like Zeke, though. I can almost picture it now..."

"Heheheheh. That isn't even the worst of my Prince's heroic tales!" The eavesdropping Pandoria came out of nowhere because she could no longer keep quiet. Yet the group weren't surprised.

Brighid wanted to know, "There are worse ones yet?"

She excitedly shared, "Oh yeah, loads! He's pretty much misfortune on legs. Like, when he visited Uraya, they mistook him for a rookie guard, and made us drill for 72 hours straight. My Prince was happy as a clam, said it was a rarrrrre chance to see other countries' training regimens. If you ask me, though, it was beyond awful." She shivered even thinking about it, carted complaining about it, "The grub was worse than Armu kibble, and they didn't even have baths!"

"Calamity indeed."

Mòrag: "Yet, despite that treatment, he let it pass without creating an uproar! Quite the gracious personage, our Zeke."

Pandoria don't see it that way, "Gracious? I think he was just doing whatever he felt like..."

"No, I was curious! I had heard him praised as the greatest Driver in Tantal, after all. I would have liked to spar with him, but at the end of the day I had my duties..."

Brighid: "I was curious about him myself. Truly, a shame."

"And now? You don't wanna spar anymore?"

"No. There is no need. Now I can see him in action at my side. And he is as reliable as they come."

Brighid agreed, "Quite... His personality may be somewhat- unique, but his prowess cannot be questioned."

"Still, that's a shame! I would like to see the two of you go at it!"

"Hmmm..." Mòrag agreed, "Well, if the opportunity arises, I would not mind facing him. Rivalry can benefit both parties. And it can only be helpful to grasp one's allies' strengths, and weaknesses."

Brighid got nearer and whispered while Mòrag was busy considering the options, "Rex, a word of advice... Try not to egg Lady Mòrag on. She tends to take people very- seriously."

"My bad..."

"Ngh, I meant... that fight didn't count!"

"Didn't- count? Explain."

"That fight was right after I'd gone up against Haze. You begged me to take you on! So that's why it doesn't count!"

She came to a different conclusion, "I see. You- just don't want to acknowledge your defeat."

"I- told- you, you didn't beat me!"

"This is really childish, Mythra. It seems that you only won narrowly, in most of our other bouts. I don't know how you can be so stubborn!"

"Hmmm... Are you sure your journal isn't just a load of fantasy trash-talk written down?"

That incited her, "Mythra! You want a piece of me? Come get it!"

Dromarch immediately rushed between them, acted as the middle men vowing for peace, "Ladies, please! Making a mountain out of a molehill here, aren't we? There's no need to brawl!"

"We're not brawling." disagreed Mythra.

Brighid agreed, "That's right! We're just training. OK! Ready yourself! After so many years, let me set you straight!"

"I'll make it clear this time. You'll know I'm the better fighter once and for all!" She's determined.

Dromarch saw his attempt failed, tried to convince yet again, seeking help, "Now, hold on! Not so fast! Will someone please intervene?"

"The truth hurts, Brighid. You purposefully waited for a time when I was tired out for that fight! That's a cowardly tactic."

"Shut it! We were pretty evenly matched, my journal said! We're almost level in terms of ability! There's nothing strange about me winning once in a while!"

"Hang on. Why were you recording stuff like that in so much detail anyway? Let me get a look at that journal! I bet it needs a few corrections!"

She felt incensed, "Cut that out! Don't you dare try to taint the truth!"

"Ah... Erm..." Dromarch became the third party trying to calm their quarrels.

"What?" Mythra was shock.

"Speak up!" Brighid ordered.

"Do you really think it's wiseeeee to quarrel like this?"

"This is not- a- quarrel, Dromarch. Withdraw, if you want to retain your whiskers."

Mythra agreed, "That's right. This is just a friendly bit of rivalry. So keep your nose out of it! Brighid! You will know my power today. For real."

"Mythra! You're going to EAT those words!"

"Well now... You two certainly have strangeeee concept of friendship."

"You think the Cloud Sea appeared one day and covered the whole thing up?" Zeke wasn't very convinced.

"Yeaaaaah. The crops wouldn't have grown any more, so people would have had to leave. And everyone would've wound up living above the Cloud Sea instead! Does that make sense?"

"I've got the feeling it's the other way round. You're saying the Cloud Sea caused problems here, so people wound up living on the Titans. But I think the problems here came first, and that's how the Cloud Sea and the Titans were made. And once it became uninhabitable, they went and made a new place to live."

"Hmmm..." Rex considered the possibility of that theory, couldn't come up with a conclusion. So, he turned his attention, "What do you think, Nia?"

"Well, let's see... Who freaking knows?! I mean, this stuff must've happened more than just centuries ago. How're we meant to have any idea?"

"Well, that's why we're speculating, right?" Zeke nudged.

"Yeah, but I reckon it's a waste of time! We still know barely anything about this place. If we want to work stuff out, we should search for more clues."

"Well, that's a fair point. This place is beyond anything we've imagined, after all."

"I think you hit the nail on the head. Some terrible war sounds pretty likely." Zeke agreed.

"But would a war cause THIS much devastation?" Nia wondered. "Maybe it was- some natural disaster or other?"

"Not out of the question, but a natural disaster's not gonna level everything. It wouldn't be this widespread. Take a look outside. Ruin as far as the eye can see."

"Hmm... You could say the same about war, though. What kind of a war could destroy a city this big?"

Rex hypothesized, "Maybe... they had some kind of incredible weapon we've never seen."

Zeke added, "Or just one hell of a lot of 'em. I hear a crazy number of Blades fought in the war 500 years ago."

"You think something like that happened before?" Nia asked.

"Hard to say for sure. I think maybe we need to explore a bit further. This place is beyond anything we've imagined, after all."

Rex: "To be honest, I think it's actually kind of exciting." To salvage not just parts but history, eh!

"That is what you said before." noted Poppi QT. "Poppi has no problem with being called Poppi."

"Good good!"

"We came full circle..."

"Masterpon, Poppi is curious. What is new mode of Poppi like?"

(Nothing here)

"I'm all ears, Tora."

His confidence came back as he speak without blushing, "This not thing that Tora make! Nothing to do with Tora really! This creation of Dadapon and Grampypon. Tora never used!" Ahem, what about the cabinet to your right that's now closed, Tora?

"Is this true, Poppi?"

"Correct. This armor was designed by Masterpon's Grampypon. Masterpon's Dadapon improve design further and perfect its defensive capabilities."

"Huh? Is that right?" Pyra wasn't very convinced.

"That entirely right! Tora not fib-teller!"

But he said too early. With wings widespread, the most shocking revelation came. With arms on both side of her waist, Poppi proudly revealed, "Masterpon put finishing touches in form of tail-wiggle dance protocol."

Brighid and Pyra took a step back from this jerk... "Meeeeehhhhh..."

"Masterpon work feverishly on this feature. Tail-wiggle protocol consume Masterpon's waking hours until he perfect wiggle angle and ear flap rate."

Brighid looked at him, "Oh, is that so? That's... very interesting... Tora!"

Panicked, he reminded, "Poppi! Poppi! Don't reveal Masterpon's secrets!"

She don't understand. "Why not? This excellent opportunity to share Masterpon's research with group."

Brighid agreed, "Poppi's right! Really, this- is- fascinating. Do continue, Tora! I'd especially like to hear about your views on women."

"Mehmeh?!!!"

"Tora, this is indefensible!"

Poppi shared, "Also, tail-wiggle dance protocol created entirely by Masterpon."

"ARRRRRGGGG-Indeed! Tora's scientific passion!"

"I don't think this has much to do with scientific endeavor, Tora! You can't dress Poppi up like this!"

Pyra also don't agree, commented, "Tora, that's not cool."

"Masterpon. Poppi not understand." She dropped her head in confusion.

Panickingly, he warned, "Don't listen, Poppi! Poppi should be proud of very special, one-of-kind armor!"

Brighid can't take it anymore, "Tora, you should get rid of this horrible thing. Pyra, maybe you could just... reduce it to ashes for us?"

Not sure why she don't do it herself, but "OK! I'd be happy to!"

"NOOOOO!!! Do not destroy Tora's wonderful creation!"

Brighid was searching the room when she found the wardrobe. "Come here, Tora! Come here and explain yourself properly!"

"No, no! Stop! Hot! Hot! Meh! Urgh! AHAH It Burns!!!" What happened to his creation or his fur after that we do not know.

"Unfortunately no. Even Dadapon not able to fathom what going on in there. That because the box have note on it saying 'Do not open!'"

Zeke was awestruck, "The... box? I thought 'black box' was some kind of fancy engineer term or something!" Now you're telling me it's a physical black box?

"You want to see?" Poppi QT\(\pi\) asked.

"So, the box is in Poppi's stomach or something? Why don't we open it and see?" Zeke encouraged.

Tora fluttered his wings, "Nooooooo way! That might activate self-destruct mode of Poppi."

Zeke jumped back, "Se-sel-self-destruct?! You can actually do that?"

"Of course." Tora answered for her. "Grampypon thought self-destruct was hero's most daring and noble act. So... best not tamper."

Zeke gloomily commented, "Your Grampypon had some very strange ideas, Tora. Are you OK with that, Poppi? Having a bloody great bomb in your stomach, I mean!"

"Oh, yes. No problem. Bomb is comparatively safe next to Poppi's other functions."

"MEH!!!" Zeke jumped even further, Tora voice trembled at how she spoke so calmly at such.

"Hmm..."

"Meh? What happen?" Poppi QT\(\pi\) was surprised at their reactions. "Zeke? Masterpon? Why you suddenly make selves far from Poppi?"

"In the dark about functions?" she clarified.

"Right. Sure you've not got any hidden abilities kicking about in there?"

"Uh let me see..." She scanned her panels for any more information about it. After a while, she confidently commented, "Function identified!"

Zeke was impressed, "Oh, excellent! Let's see it, then!"

Suddenly, Poppi QT\(\pi\) started barking like a dog, "Woof, woof, woof, woof! Orgh orrrrrrgh, Grrrr, orgh orgh orh..."

"What's going on?"

"Woof woof, orghhh orrrrgh. Dog Mode orrrgh."

Tora fluttered his wings, tried to remind her, "Poppi! That mode is only for park! Tora sealed Dog Mode so people not think Tora some kind of... weirdo!"

Zeke agreed, "Yyyyyyeah. That is more than a little bit weird! I mean, come on, Tora, why don't you just get a real dog?"

"Tora not have time for real dogs."

"Aaaaaaaanyhow, Poppi, surely that's not the only ability you've got? You don't have any hidden function we could use for battle or exploring? Something like that? Even without Tora, you must be able to do a bit of digging around in that black box of yours, no?"

She answered without hesitation, "Negative."

"Negative?"

"Soosoo? My Grampypon?"

"Poppi interested too! Tell us, Masterpon!" They weren't too surprised at the newly arrived guest, and Tora continued the conversation without much hassle,

"Hmm... Honestly, Tora not remember much about Grampypon."

"Oh?" But why?

"Grampypon always locked away in lab, all by self."

"Soosoo make lots of experiment and research?"

"No, usually look at photo books of Blades." Rex don't know what to say about that weird hobby. "Grampypon real stickler for appearance and mannerisms of creations. Grampypon really hung up on details."

"What kind of details, Tora?"

"This not sound very scientific, Masterpon."

"Ah on contrary. Because of Grampypon's book-looking, Poppi is Blade she is today. Grampypon work very hard to get style and poise just right. He had to perfect ether furnace to make his dreams real. Other detail Grampypon liked is self-destruct feature, and hidden devices. Grampypon always hunched over plans, snickering to self. (He proudly said) To little Tora, looked very much like CRAZY mad scientist."

"Butttt, I guess when he invented the ether furnace, his drive and passion paid off." Rex supposed. "There's a lot of talent in your family, Tora. No doubt about it! Poppi's a walking testament to his genius."

"Poppi experiencing very complex emotion right now." Spokes she in very emotionless way.

"Dadapon?"

She approached beside them and added, "Poppi- also want to hear about Masterpon's Dadapon."

"Huh! Dadapon quite an introvert Nopon. Not expert in communication."

"Tatazo always busy with research?"

"Yes! Every day full of research. From morning to night. At graduation party{{footnote: They had a graduation party? They had college?!!!}}, was very lonely. Not many friends to talk to. But brave enough to ask my Mamapon to dance! Very lucky for Tora. This how Tora get born. Mamapon said- Dadapon was so true to self, couldn't say no to him."

"That... (He had to think how to voice his opinions) That's really heartwarming."

"Masterpon, where is your mamapon now?"

"In end, said Dadapon was too true to self, so- Mamapon went away."

"So, it's like they got together and broke up for the same reason." Rex concluded.

"Grampypon and Dadapon always together, working on artificial Blades. Never spend any time with Mamapon. Make her unhappy."

Poppi QT\(\pi\) can relate, "This makes sense to Poppi. Poppi have same problem with Masterpon sometimes."

"Sorry, but there no other way. Very busy making dreams real, living life to max. That what Dadapon always say. But always get very sad when Tora ask him about it. (He dropped his head) When Mamapon left, Dadapon eat and drink like wild beast for 3 days, to... To try to fix sadness."

"That not sound too healthy. Poppi must make sure Masterpon never get that sad, ever..."

"Seems that your dad made a lot of sacrifices for his work. But it was those sacrifices that made Poppi a reality. I guess we have to be grateful for that."

"This give Poppi a funny feeling in ether furnace. Thanks for sharing, Masterpon."

"Ohhh! Poppi! That nice of you to say!"

"Funny not always mean good, Masterpon."

"EXCUSE TORA?!!!!"

Poppi QT jumped backwards, shockingly asked, "If Brighid not have diary, no more Brighid? Poppi thought, even if Brighid go back to Core Crystal, just need to find new Driver, and then Brighid come back!"

"But- is that really true? If I were to return to my Crystal and remain that way for a long time, by the time I was reawakened, all who knew me could be long gone. If the Brighid who lived through that time no longer exists in my memories, or the memories of others, who's to say that I existed in that time at all?"

"Hmmmmm... Might be difficult to prove, that true."

"if nobody knows of my existence, I may as well not have existed. That thought, it- troubles me. After all, it's the time I spend with those dear to me that makes me who I am. The happy memories, the sad ones; all of them together. Without them, I don't think I would be myself. To lose all of that forever, it would be like denying not only myself, but the people I spent those times with."

"Masterpon teach Poppi many things. Poppi not want to forget all that. Masterpon pour everything into making Poppi!"

"Precisely. So, if you hold him dear, a diary filled with memories of him- should be just as precious, because memories are what connect us to others, and to the world we live in."

"Poppi think Poppi understand. Will try best to write good diary! Will fill diary with memories of everyone! Even Brighid!"

"That's very kind of you, Poppi. I'm sure your diary will be wonderful."

Poppi QT don't understand, "Meh-meh? Brighid is Brighid. Why would Brighid be somebody else?"

"Well, imagine if one day you were to forget all of your memories of Tora, and start working for a new master. Would that Poppi still be the same Poppi I am talking to right now?"

"Hmmmmm... Poppi- is Poppi, but that Poppi would be new Masterpon's Poppi. Not the same as Tora's Poppi. Probably would not even wear frilly maid outfits."

"I- see. Well, maid outfits aside, d-do you see what I'm getting at? While my past selves are all Brighid, they are all different Brighids, living different lives, with different people. They're not directly connected to the person I am today."

"Yes. Poppi think- Poppi understand. Brighid want to keep being this Brighid. That why leave diary full of memories."

"Precisely. Even if I return to my Core Crystal and lose my memories, by reading my diary, my new self can hold on to some part of the person I am today. Though of course, this relies on the assumption that Mor Ardain will pass my diary on to my new self."

"Brighid... How can Poppi make sure Poppi's diary gets passed down?"

"A- good question... Tora isn't the most reliable fellow, is he?"

"Masterpon would use diary as pillow for naps and for prop up wobbly table.{{footnote: Better than toilet paper.}}"

"Perhaps you should take the time to think of the best solution to that problem yourself."

"Not only writing memories every day, but also finding best way to preserve... Diary is quite difficult task!"

Mòrag can't deny, "I suppose so."

"As long as this place is safe, our chum can focus on the task he's gotta do. Don't want to let other worries start creeping in to distract him, do I?" He convinced himself.

"Real thoughtful, that is." Pandoria accepted his explanation.

"You said it! I'm the best! Hahahah!"

Brighid: "...and he just had to go and ruin it."

"That's quite the grand statement." Brighid was impressed.

"I reckon an environment like this is the only place a chap like Rex could grow up."

"Oh?" That piqued Mòrag's curiosity.

"Like, if a kid grows up in Alba Cavanich, he's gonna want to join the army, right? Not saying that's bad or anything, but I don't think a kid like that would wind up as the Aegis's Driver. Can't be easy raising the kind of boy who could change the future of Alrest. All the world's nations and establishments aren't gonna foster that kind of potential. But this village? It's cut off from all that. A place of freedom and possibilities."

"Ahhh, I see..."

Pandoria was impressed too, "Once in a while, you actually say some princely stuff!"

"Shut it, you!"

Mòrag: "I have to say, I agree with Zeke. Villages like this have an important place- in Alrest. We must do our utmost to keep them all from harm."

Zeke agreed, "Yeah, you can't have respect without someone to keep it alive."

Mòrag too, "If it were not for the Titan Azurda, this place may truly have been forgotten by the world completely."

Gramps felt his face red, "Weeeellll, I don't think anyone's put it to me quite like that before."

Even Nia praised, "You've done good, these past 500 years."

"Yeah! Good job, Gramps!"

"Ohhh!" Such heartfelt words! "More than anything, at times like this, I just feel thankful that I'm able to travel- with you all- in this form. If I'd remained in my old body, I might never have come here and heard those words!"

Zeke: "I thought you were gonna say something profound, not just baskkkk in the praise!"

"Hohohohohohoh!"

"People from outside of Fonsett village?" Gramps clarified. "None have entered in recent years, but 400 years ago, visitors did sometimes venture in here- with Fonsett youths. It seems people from outside see this place as little more than another ruin to be explored. I tried to talk them out of entering, but they never appreciated my words. Still, I didn't feel it was right to stop them by force. They stood precious little chance of reaching the end, at any rate. Thus it was- that many adventurers entered, never to return."

Mòrag hypothesized, "I daresay their sacrifice also contributed- to the healthy respect the villagers now hold for this place."

Zeke agreed, "Yeaaaah, you don't treat a ruin lightly when folks go in and never come out."

"I don't doubt that that is indeed a part of it."

Nia asked and commented, "You've been watching for 500 years as all this stuff happened, right? I guess that must've been tough going. Sorry for being all... disrespectful and stuff before."

"No need to apologize, Nia. We are all quite used to your foul mouth at this point. And we know you have a kind heart- underneath."

Why do you have to say it so straightforwardly? Nia jumped on her feet, her claws first aim at Gramps but she pulled back at the last moment, said to herself, "I wanna make a snappy comeback, but that would ruin my apology!"

Zeke urged, "Not over there, over here!"

Pandoria: "Look, right there!"

"It's so small, it's difficult to judge. Are you sure you're not imagining it?"

"No imagining going on here! That's Genbu, no doubt about it."

"Hmmmmmm... Is it, though?"

"Brighid?"

"What is it, Lady Mòrag?"

"Well... it's just... I think I may have spotted Mor Ardain down there. Do you think that's really it?"

"What?" Now her driver got infected by their disease of illusion too?

Zeke welcomed, "Oh hey, you found your place too?!"

"Where do you mean?" Brighid was eager. Was she the only one that can't see it? Though, if we consider her eyes were always closed, perhaps we can't complain, though.

Mòrag pointed to a direction, nudged, "Over there -- next to that strangely-shaped cloud..."

"Ah, I see the one you mean."

"Doesn't that distinctive shape look just like Mor Ardain?"

"I- do believe you're right... Those wide plains look just the right shape. And those shapes flying around it- MUST be Titan battleships!" She played along.

"I thought as much... Incredible how one can feel the majesty of Mor Ardain from- all the way up here..."

"Quite right, Lady Mòrag!" she cheered her.

Zeke broke their excitement, "Hold on, you two. Take a closer look. I'm pretty sure that's the Leftherian islands. Mor Ardain doesn't have all that greenery, does it?"

"Ahhh..." Now that it reminded her.

"Urk..." Brighid felt hearthurt.

"Awwwwww, c'mon!!! You're no fun!!!"

Zeke added, "We've come ALLLLL the way to a crazy place like this, the LEAST you can do is ENJOY yourself a bit!"

"I'm in the wrong here? Might I remind you, we did not come here to have fun."

Even Mòrag was persuading her, "Everyone needs to let their hair down once in a while, Brighid."

She turned to her, even her??? "Lady Mòrag?"

"Myself, I have already spotted the Leftherian Archipelago."

"Huh What?!! Those- tiny little islands?!"

Pandoria was excited, "Welllll, WHADDYA KNOW!!! Mòrag's really getting into this! C'MON, PRINCE, we can't let her beat us!"

"No chance of that. Take a look over there."

She turned to where he pointed, puzzled, "Huh? I can't see anything..."

"Look reaaaaalll close. There's a tiny dot right there, see? I'm pretty sure that's Goldmouth, the Argentum HQ!"

Mòrag can't believe what she'd heard, "GOLDMOUTH?!!! Are you certain?!!!" You have such telescopic eyes?

Brighid urged, "Where is this dot? I'm not seeing anything."

But Mòrag answered, "Yes, that must be Goldmouth! I'm sure of it!!!"

Her confidence confused her Blade even more, "You can see it, Lady Mòrag?!"

"Brighid! We must find something new ourselves, else I fear we have lost!"

"When did this become a competition?"

She immediately turned back to the dot, persuadingly spoke, "If that is Goldmouth... Would that be the Maelstrom next to it?!!!"

Brighid had to play by her note, "Um... Well... (I can't see it but) I suppose it COULD be?"

As if she's getting excited, she pointed to somewhere else, urged, "Oh! Look down there, Brighid! The Nopon sailors on board the Maelstrom are waving to us!"

"Whaa...?!!!"

Even Zeke felt a little too... "Urgghhhh, Mòrag, I think you might be pushing it a bit with that one."

Full of confidence, she answered without a blink, "I tell you no lie, I saw it with my own eyes!"

"Seriously?" Her Blade no longer understand whether she's speaking the truth or not. Con artist, bro, con artists! "Ah, Lady Morag... I think- you may just- be seeing Tora's reflection in the window..."

"No, you're wrong! I'm certain it was the crew of the Maelstrom!"

"Hmmm..."

Zeke concluded the competition, "Well, that was a bunch of fun!"

Pandoria added, "Yeeaaaaaahhhh. If I learned one thing today, it's that Mòrag- HATES- to lose."