As Though Caught in a Dream
Last updated 2025-06-15
As Though Caught in a Dream is the first part of the Enchanted Tales of the Mikawa Festival Event.
Steps
- View the Invitation Letter
- Talk to Okuzumeshuu
- Pay a visit to Tenshukaku
- Pay a visit to Ioroi
- Make your way into Inazuma City
- Help the bake-danuki team up (0/3)
- Go to the Yashiro Commission
- Wait until the next day (13:00 – 16:00)
- Go to Mt. Yougou
- Share your play-test experience with Miko
- Talk to contestants from various teams (optional)
- Talk to Paimon
- Defeat the opponents
- Talk to Paimon
Gameplay Notes
- During step 12, the active party will be limited to a trial Traveler aligned to Electro and using a special combat mode (see Tutorials). There will also be a barrier around the area.
Trial Character
| WL | Character & Weapon |
Talents & Artifacts | Attributes |
|---|---|---|---|
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3 |
  Lv. 80 C0 Traveler (Electro) Lv. 80 R1 Prototype Rancour |
|
 Max HP: 25,883 ATK: 2,308 DEF: 889 Elemental Mastery: 0 Crit Rate: 5.0% Crit DMG: 50.0% Energy Recharge: 100.0% DMG Bonus: 31.5% |
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4 |
Lv. 80 C0 Traveler (Electro) Lv. 80 R1 Prototype Rancour |
|
Max HP: 25,883 ATK: 2,308 DEF: 889 Elemental Mastery: 0 Crit Rate: 5.0% Crit DMG: 50.0% Energy Recharge: 100.0% DMG Bonus: 31.5% |
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|
8 |
Lv. 80 C0 Traveler (Electro) Lv. 80 R1 Prototype Rancour |
|
Max HP: 25,883 ATK: 2,308 DEF: 889 Elemental Mastery: 0 Crit Rate: 5.0% Crit DMG: 50.0% Energy Recharge: 100.0% DMG Bonus: 31.5% |
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|
9 |
Lv. 80 C0 Traveler (Electro) Lv. 80 R1 Prototype Rancour |
|
Max HP: 25,883 ATK: 2,308 DEF: 889 Elemental Mastery: 0 Crit Rate: 5.0% Crit DMG: 50.0% Energy Recharge: 100.0% DMG Bonus: 31.5% |
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Dialogue
- (Upon obtaining quest)
- Paimon: Huh? A letter from Miko? What is she plotting this time... Well, let's open it and take a look!
- (Obtain
Invitation From Miko)
- (Obtain
- (Accept the Invitation Letter)
- Paimon: ...Tenshukaku? Why does she want to meet us there? Paimon has a bad feeling about this...
- (Talk to Takeshi)
- Takeshi: Ah, welcome, honored (Traveler). Guuji Yae told me about your visit. Please, come in.
Well, that was a lot easier than last time...- Takeshi: Ahem... The Almighty Shogun is also inside. It's best not to keep her waiting.
- (The player is teleported into Tenshukaku)
- Yae Miko: ...Now, now, there's no need to be so stubborn about this. I'll adjust the budget here, and we'll definitely turn a profit.
- Raiden Shogun: No. We must confirm the official representative before discussing details. There is an order to this that must be followed.
- (If the player has not met Raiden Shogun yet, an introductory note appears on screen)
Raiden Shogun — Plane of Euthymia
The Raiden Shogun, the dignified deity of Inazuma, is also known as "Raiden Ei."
Once, she sequestered herself away in her Plane of Euthymia, seeking to fulfill her promise to her people of an unchanging eternity, leaving her puppet Shogun to enact the plan in her place.
But she has broken with this cycle after witnessing the desires of her people and taking up the dream of one she once knew, and now walks amongst mortals once more.
Where will the new Eternity she sees lead Inazuma now?
- Paimon: From the way she's talking... This must be the Shogun, right?
- Yeah, it's her alright.
- Yae Miko: Ah, little one. It's about time. Come, I have a contract for you to sign.
- Paimon: Whoa! We're not just gonna sign a random contract out of the blue!
- Also, if it's one of your contracts...
- How can I be sure I'm not signing myself up for slave labor or something?
- Yae Miko: Hardly, hardly... Well, "labor" is a part of it, but you will be compensated...
- (If the player has not met Yae Miko yet, an introductory note appears on screen)
Yae Miko — Astute Amusement
The astute and beauteous Yae Miko is capricious and unpredictable in her ways, doing completely as she pleases.
After all, it is boredom that is the true foe of one who has lived for several centuries now.
No matter if you intend to meet the Kitsune Guuji of the Grand Narukami Shrine or the Editor-in-Chief of Yae Publishing House...
If you have come prepared to be made sport of by her, then roll right up!
- Paimon: Hah, so it IS as bad as Paimon thought...
- Raiden Shogun: I see, so (he's/
she's) the representative you selected... (He/ She) would indeed be the perfect candidate for the Mikawa Flower Festival. - The Mikawa Flower Festival?
- Raiden Shogun: When the youkai still roamed the land, they celebrated an event known as the "Mikawa Flower Festival." It was an occasion for drink, laughter, and merriment.
- Yae Miko: We hosted a version of it during the Test of Courage. Unfortunately, due to time constraints, we weren't able to put on a large celebration.
- Yae Miko: So, I got to thinking, why not have another go? This time, with a Mikawa Flower Festival for youkai and humans alike.
- Yae Miko: One that combines human ingenuity with youkai arts to offer the most innovative and thrilling entertainment of our time.... open to all humans and youkai throughout the land.
- Paimon: Entertainment, huh... Wait, kind of like Akitsu Yuugei and Akitsu Haneasobi? Those games were really fun!
- Raiden Shogun: For an important event like this, an official representative is required to preside over the festivities. In the past, the role was usually given to the Guuji, or an individual from the Yashiro Commission. But this time...
- Yae Miko: Neither myself nor the Kamisato family can assume the position, given we represent one side or the other — the youkai or the humans.
- But, aren't I human, too?
- Raiden Shogun: Human you may be, but you posses [sic] a deep connection with the youkai, and you do not hail from this land. That makes you a more neutral option.
- Raiden Shogun: Moreover, you took part in the previous festival during the Test of Courage. In my estimation, there is no better candidate for the role.
- Yae Miko: Plus, your name has the potential to attract an even greater showing... So, are you going to sign this thing, or what?
- Paimon: Huh, you've got a point... Then, let's go ahead and... Wait! Paimon almost fell into her trap!
- I don't work as a festival ambassador for free.
- How much are you willing to offer?
- Yae Miko: Come now, this is for an important occasion, is it not? Even I've chosen to throw profit to the wind. Surely a... selfless hero like yourself wouldn't turn your back on a good cause?
- Raiden Shogun: According to the proposal, the proceeds will be distributed as follows — forty percent to Yae Publishing House and ten percent to the festival representative.
- Paimon: Hey, no fair!
- I want thirty percent.
- Yae Miko: Now, ten percent might not sound like much, but Yae Publishing House is going to great lengths for this occasion, both in time and personnel. All you need to do is show your face.
- ...You say that now, and then you're going to put me to work once I agree.
- Yae Miko: Hah, getting smart, aren't you, little one? In that case, I'll throw in another ten percent from the other half of the proceeds.
- Raiden Shogun: No. The other half is going to the Shogunate — that is not up for negotiation. But, I am rather curious about the supposed "great lengths" you mentioned...
- Raiden Shogun: Unless I am mistaken, most of the personnel and supplies are to be provided by the Shogunate. In that sense, forty percent seems rather high for your establishment, does it not?
- Yae Miko: That Ei... When did she reprogram you to argue back like this?
- Raiden Shogun: Proceeds should be distributed according to contribution. Besides, from the very beginning, you planned to allocate an additional ten percent of your share to (Traveler), did you not?
- Paimon: Wait, so earlier... you were just trying to shortchange us!
- Yae Miko: *sigh* What's the fun in bargaining if you open up with your best offer right off the bat?
- Paimon: Uh... Paimon doesn't see the fun at all, but twenty percent is... acceptable.
- Alright, so what do I have to do as the representative?
- Once the representative is confirmed, the rest of the conversation goes quite smoothly.
- Yae Miko: Games have always been a central part of the festival, and both Akitsu Haneasobi and Akitsu Yuugei were extremely popular.
- Yae Miko: So, the plan is to host an event where the attendees have forty-eight hours to create a game of their own. We'll have new and exciting entertainment in no time!
- Paimon: Ohh! Everyone loves fun games! You won't have to worry about attracting humans and youkai to the event!
- Raiden Shogun: That is the general plan. I'll leave you to iron out the finer details and contact the participants.
- Raiden Shogun: This is a critical time for the Shogunate's new development plans, and the survey team is returning momentarily, so I must turn my attention to them.
- Yae Miko: Got it, got it. We'll see you later, then.
- Where to now?
- Yae Miko: Hmm... Chinju Forest. Let's pay a visit to our old friend, Ioroi.
- (The player is teleported to Chinju Forest)
- (Enter Chinju Forest)
- Yae Miko: Oh, but before I forget, you should eat this Kitsune Meal first.
- Paimon: Whoa, it smells so good... Hmm... Oh, and also kind of like fried tofu, for some reason?
- (Approach Ioroi)
- Ioroi: Eek! The smell of humans... Nothing to see here, just a statue... Huh? Wait, why do I smell kitsune...
- (If the player has not met Ioroi yet, an introductory note appears on screen)
Ioroi — "Hidden Protector of the Grove"
Once the world-renowned bake-danuki king, Ioroi was later appointed as "Protector of the Grove" by Her Excellency, the Shogun, and thus tasked with the protection of the Chinju Forest.
Five hundred years ago, with the coming of the great calamity, the Kitsune Saiguu "challenged" Ioroi to conceal himself within the Chinju Forest under the guise of a game of Hide-and-Seek.
After sensing that something was wrong, Ioroi started wreaking havoc to lure out the Kitsune Saiguu, even going as far as to steal the ward of the Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual. In the end, he was sealed away by the onmyouji Kamuna.
- Yae Miko: Remember us, Ioroi?
- Ioroi: Ah! It's you youngsters... And... YOU! Hmph, the nasty kitsune who turned Chinju Forest into the playground for her Test of Courage!
- Paimon: Oh, Chinju Forest is supposed to be Ioroi's territory, right? No wonder he's so mad...
- Ioroi: Exactly! How could you hold a Test of Courage without inviting me!?
- Paimon: Ohhhhhh, so THAT's what he's angry about!
- But, um, sealed away like this...
- Could you even participate?
- Ioroi: ...*ahem* Anyway, what brings you all here? Something to discuss?
- (Okay, so he avoided the question completely...)
- Yae Miko: Hehe, I actually came to apologize about the Test of Courage.
- Yae Miko: It was my mistake not to invite more youkai to the ceremony. So, for this Mikawa Flower Festival, I knew I had to extend a personal invitation to the bake-danuki.
- "Kichiboushi": Huh? The Mikawa Flower Festival?
- Shousei & Gyoubu Koban: Yes!!! The Mikawa Flower Festival!!!
- (If the player has not met Kichiboushi & Shousei & Gyoubu Koban yet, an introductory note appears on screen)
Kichiboushi & Shousei & Gyoubu Koban
Kin of Ioroi, these three little tanuki were once sealed alongside him in stone. They emerged together with him after breaking free from the seal.
Mischievous and lively, they are able to perform some basic spells and love playing Hide-and-Seek with people.
- Paimon: Huh!? Kichiboushi, Shousei, Gyoubu Koban... Where did you come from!?
- (And why can we understand them all of a sudden...)
- (Is it because of the Kitsune Meal? On second thought, better not to ask.)
- Ioroi: Hmph! Never trust an apology from a kitsune! Or an invitation, for that matter! It's just a silly festival... So what if there's delicious food!? Or fun games!?
- "Kichiboushi": Yum yum!
- "Shousei": Fun fun!
- Ioroi: That's enough, you two! Don't fall for the kitsune's cheap tricks! Such hopeless innocent cubs...
- Yae Miko: What a shame... I was hoping to take you all to the festival, but it would seem Ioroi disapproves.
- Yae Miko: I suppose it makes sense... Poor Ioroi, stuck in this statue all alone while the rest of you got to have fun. How sad that would be...
- "Gyoubu Koban": Poor Ioroi!
- Ioroi: E—Excuse you! I am Ioroi, the Kakushigami of the bake-danuki! I'm just... um... Ah, yes! Just worried the cubs will get distracted and stray from the tanuki path...
- Yae Miko: Ah, I should also mention, I was hoping the bake-danuki could help the humans take their games to the next level, talented as you are in the art of transformation.
- Yae Miko: In Inazuma, only the bake-danuki can hope to match the kitsune in that area.
- Ioroi: Match!? The kitsune could never rival the transformative gifts of the bake-danuki!
- Yae Miko: ...Ah, well, I was thinking of using the bake-danuki as the symbol of the event in promotions and such. But, alas, it would seem you don't like that idea, Ioroi.
- (Miko turns around as she speaks, as if about to walk away after Ioroi's rejection)
- Yae Miko: No matter — I shall simply seek the help of the kitsune. When the time comes, all of Inazuma will know the kitsune stepped in to accomplish what the bake-danuki could not...
- Ioroi: W—Wait!
- Yae Miko: Heh.
- What an obvious strategy...
- Yae Miko: It worked, didn't it?
- Ioroi: Ahem... My dear cubs, transforming into things that already exist is only a small fraction of what it means to become a great bake-danuki...
- Ioroi: To even get a quarter of the way through your training, you must be able to turn into things of your own invention, just like when I turned into a gigantic ramen bowl that could fly...
- Ioroi: So, go forth and seize this opportunity, so you can advance the name of the... Ah, no, I mean, advance your training!
- Ioroi: Not all humans are bad and scary — some are good, just like these youngsters. Go with them and transform into things you've never tried before.
- Yae Miko: Don't worry, Ioroi. The little tanuki are safe with me.
- Ioroi: You're the one I'm worried about...
- Paimon: Well, we're here, too! We'll make sure they don't, uh... stray from the path!
- Ioroi: Hm... I'll hold you to that! Now, Kichiboushi, Shousei, Gyoubu Koban, while you're out there, always listen to—
- "Kichiboushi": Yep yep! Always listen to White Fur!
- "Shousei": And (Mr./
Miss) Yellow Fur! - "Gyoubu Koban": And Auntie Pink—
- (Miko gives the tanuki a scathing side-eye)
- "Gyoubu Koban": ...*ahem* Miss Pink Fur!
- Ioroi: Ah, I almost forgot, given their level of training, speaking to humans will be a problem. Just a moment, I'll cook up a few Bake-Danuki Meals to keep on hand.
- Yae Miko: No need. Here, Miss Pink Fur prepared a special Kitsune Meal for you all. It will give you the ability to speak to humans.
- Ioroi: Mm!? Y—You stole our tricks, too? A—And changed the name!?
- Seemingly oblivious to Ioroi's loud sounds of protest, Miko prepares a completely non-suspicious feast...
- "Kichiboushi": Mm! Yum yum!
- "Gyoubu Koban": Nom nom! Mmm!
- Ioroi: *sigh*... Is it really that much better than mine...?
- Yae Miko: Splendid! That should make our lives easier. Now, we can head into the city and start forming the teams.
- Teams?
- Yae Miko: Well, we need more than bake-danuki power to design these games... Hmm, two humans per team should suffice, I'd say.
- Yae Miko: Now, I need to discuss the layout of the venue with the Yashiro Commission. I'll leave the team recruitment to you.
- Put to work already...
- Guess I need to earn that extra ten percent...
- Paimon: Hold on, you're not taking part, Miko? You're really gonna sit out on the fun? You, of all people...
- Yae Miko: Hehe, making games is nowhere near as fun as playing them. Besides, working through the night certainly isn't my idea of a good time.
- "Kichiboushi": Making games?
- "Shousei": Working?
- "Gyoubu Koban": Through the night?
- Yae Miko: ...Anyway, this time, I'm going to wait for the fun to come to me. See you later, little ones.
- (Talk to Ioroi, optional)
- Ioroi: Kichiboushi and the others are young, so their speaking ability is limited... I miss the days when the bake-danuki could run circles around the humans.
- Ioroi: Hold on, how were you able to understand them from the start? Does that mean the Bake-Danuki Meal from last time is still working...? Hah, take that, sneaky kitsune!
- Ioroi: Speaking of... *sniff, sniff* That kitsune is gone, yes? Good. I have a request, young one. Come closer...
- Ioroi: You must protect the cubs from that sneaky kitsune at all costs!!!
Step DescriptionEveryone is busy preparing for the Mikawa Flower Festival...
- (Approach the Inazuma City teleport waypoint near Tsukumomono Groceries)
- "Kichiboushi": Eek! A city!
- "Shousei": So many houses! So many humans!
- "Gyoubu Koban": Gotta farm beans! White Fur, Yellow Fur, how do we farm beans?
- Paimon: Form teams not "farm beans"! Uh... It's kind of hard to explain...
- It's like, finding people with similar interests.
- Paimon: Yeah, that's right! People with the same taste. Y'know, into the same thing. It's easier to come up with a game that way.
- "Kichiboushi": Taste the same... Got it!
- "Shousei": Easy peasy! White Fur, dumb.
- "Gyoubu Koban": Farm beans that taste the same!
- (The three bake-danuki scurry off in different directions)
- Paimon: No, wait! That's not... And, they're gone. In different directions, too! *sigh* Let's go after them!
- (Approach "Shousei," Arataki Itto, and Thoma outside Komore Teahouse)
- Thoma: ...Wait, you're saying he's not one of Ushi's friends?
- Arataki Itto: Whoa, pump the breaks... I thought he was your friend.
- (If the player has not met Arataki Itto yet, an introductory note appears on screen)
Arataki Itto — Hanamizaka Heroics
Make way, people! Arataki Itto, head of Hanamizaka's Arataki Gang, rolling right up!
Behold these awesome horns, the suave smile, and the rich, velvety voice! That's the leader of the Arataki Gang for you!
Whether spinning tops, kendama, bug-fighting, or cards, all the kids' games...
*cough* Well, either way, Arataki Itto knows 'em all! Yup, he knows it all!
How's that? Cool, huh? So, wanna join the crew?
- "Shousei": Hehe, long-horned oni and short-horned oni!
- Arataki Itto: He... He talks!
- Paimon: Shousei! There you are!
- "Shousei": White Fur! Yellow Fur! Shousei found White Fur and Yellow Fur number two. Both great youkai! Both like to play!
- Thoma: Great youkai... So, he thinks I'm an oni, too?
- What's going on?
- Arataki Itto: Listen, I was just playin' some Genius Invokation with my good bro Thoma during his time off...
- Thoma: And then, out of the blue, this... Shousei appeared right in the middle of our match.
- "Shousei": Shousei loves to play! Long-horned and short-horned Oni also love to play! We taste the same, hehe!
- Arataki Itto: We what now?
- I can explain...
- You briefly explain the situation to Itto and Thoma...
- Arataki Itto: Oho! The Mikawa Flower Festival! Shoulda opened with that, compadre!
- Arataki Itto: Man, the Arataki Gang really hard-carried the last one. We'll turn this one into somethin' special, too!
- Paimon: Hitotsume Kozou and the others did all the work, Bull-chucker. You're really lumping them in with your gang?
- (An introductory note for Hitotsume Kozou & Youko & Kappa appears on screen)
Hitotsume Kozou & Youko & Kappa
Little youkai who have been living out in the wilderness. Though they lack strong powers, they long for the once-vibrant festivities of the Mikawa Flower Festival.
Drawing inspiration from the classic game of Akitsu Haneasobi and hoping to recreate the festival's former splendor, they have set up the game of Akitsu Yuugei for people to enjoy together.
- Arataki Itto: I—It's called doing them a favor... Besides, they look up to me. I'm like a cool older brother...
- Paimon: Hmm... Hitotsume Kozou and his friends did come up with the Akitsu Yuugei game during the last festival. There's no reason not to invite them this time!
- Arataki Itto: Woo, the crew's gettin' back together! I'll round 'em up, hahaha!
- Thoma: ...Technically, I'm on vacation, but I'm happy to assist the Yashiro Commission with the festival.
- Arataki Itto: That's what I like to hear! Alright, let's round up those three little fellas and start workin' on the Almighty Arataki Great and Glorious Akitsu Yuugei Game...
- (The camera pans to Kuki Shinobu, who seemingly appeared out of nowhere)
- Kuki Shinobu: Not so fast.
- "Shousei": ...Hornless oni?
- Kuki Shinobu: We have an advertising job to finish, remember, Boss?
- (If the player has not met Kuki Shinobu yet, an introductory note appears on screen)
Kuki Shinobu — Mender of Tribulations
"Deputy of the Arataki Gang, Legal Consultant, Expert Chef, Expert Tailor... Kuki Shinobu."
The many qualifications Shinobu has passed exams for, big and small, are printed on the face of her namecard, and her fields of expertise are many indeed.
"...Please contact me at Hanamizaka if the Gang's members do anything discourteous, and the matter will be fixed within three days."
You can see the emotion behind these words in the way they were written on the back in a hand so strong that you can see their outlines on the card's front face. You can't help but wonder if it is "matters" or "people" that are going to get "fixed."
- Arataki Itto: Huh?? We... We do!?
- Kuki Shinobu: Re-shoots, follow-up work... There's still a mountain of things to do.
- Arataki Itto: Oh, well... uh...
- (Shinobu glances at Thoma before addressing Itto)
- Kuki Shinobu: *ahem* Look at Thoma here, kind enough to help with the festival even during his vacation. I would think the Boss of the Arataki Gang would show even more dedication to his work, but y'know, that's just me...
- Arataki Itto: Uhh... Umm...
- Thoma: Hah... Looks like your time is spoken for, my friend.
- Thoma: Wrap up what you need to do, and we can finish our match at the festival. Best of both worlds!
- Arataki Itto: *sigh*... Alright! Those errands are a piece of cake. I'll be back in no time!
- Arataki Itto: Oh, but first, I should introduce you to Kozou and the others. Then, you can head to the festival... without me.
- Kuki Shinobu: Then, let's get a move on! No use standing here talking about it — go make those introductions. We have stuff to do... Sorry, (Traveler) and Paimon. I'm sure we'll see you later.
- (Itto trails after Shinobu as they walk away up the south road)
- "Shousei": Hornless oni, so scary...
- Thoma: Hahaha...
- (Approach "Kichiboushi" standing on Sayu in her Muji-Muji Daruma form behind Uyuu Restaurant)
- "Kichiboushi": White Fur! Yellow Fur! Over here! Kichiboushi found big, sleepy tanuki!
- Hate to break it to you Kichiboushi, but...
- Sayu: Hey... I'm a mujina, not a tanuki!
- "Kichiboushi": ...Ohhh, mujina youkai that can turn into tanuki?
- Sayu: No, wait... I'm not a mujina or a tanuki. I'm Sayu!
- (If the player has not met Sayu yet, an introductory note appears on screen)
Sayu — Mujina Ninja
Sayu, a ninja of the Shuumatsuban, is a petite figure skilled at skiving.
She is well-trained in many arts of concealment and covering her tracks, and she uses these to evade work and look for places to nap during the day.
This is not laziness, of course! Rather, she is simply spending time on more important matters, such as sleeping more, so that she can grow taller... Or at least, that's how Sayu would rationalize things.
Also, the animal her clothes are based on it is a mujina, not a tanuki. You'd better remember that!
- "Kichiboushi": Tanuki... Mujina... Sayu... So many transformations! Sayu is youkai?
- She's a ninja, not a youkai.
- Sayu: I don't transform at all! I've been a human this whole time! Who is this guy, anyway? Popping up out of nowhere right when I found a spot to sleep...
- Paimon: Ehehe... Sorry, this is probably the first time Kichiboushi has ever seen a ninja...
- (Yoimiya pops out of a nearby bush)
- Yoimiya: Ah, the Big Tanuki and the Great Mujina Youkai are facing off! The rumors around Hanamizaka were true!
- (If the player has not met Yoimiya yet, an introductory note appears on screen)
Yoimiya — Frolicking Flames
The present owner of Naganohara Fireworks. Hero to the children, Queen of the Summer Festival — also known as Yoimiya.
Inazuma has yearly festivals that all feature fireworks painstaking made by her. Her creativity itself burns hot and brightly, and brings people endless, incomparable joy.
Yoimiya's heart has yet to lose its childlike innocence, and she often plays simple but evergreen games with the children, or goes with them to find some shiny objects. The purity of these children brings her great happiness.
Though fireworks are fleeting things, their radiance remains in peoples' hearts. This miracle is momentary yet also eternal, and this is how she "protects" those around her.
- Sayu: Not this again... It's just Sayu!
- Yoimiya: Oh... Haha, no youkai, huh. My bad, Sayu. I rushed over here are [sic] soon as I heard the rumors. Guess I got a bit carried away...
- Sayu: *whimper*... And there goes my nap...
- "Kichiboushi": Hahaha, silly humans. Much to learn.
- Yoimiya: Whoa, hold on... Is this guy... a real youkai!?
- His name is Kichiboushi.
- Yoimiya: Well, hello there, Kichiboushi!
- "Kichiboushi": Mm! This human... really really warm!
- Yoimiya: Uh... warm?
- Warm... personality-wise, I'm guessing?
- Yoimiya: Oh, hahaha... Well, what brings you to Inazuma City, Kichiboushi? We don't often get bake-danuki around these parts.
- Paimon: Boy, where do we begin...
- You briefly explain the situation to Yoimiya.
- Yoimiya: Ahhh, I see. You're recruiting people to develop games for the Mikawa Flower Festival...
- You interested?
- Yoimiya: Well, duh! C'mon, Sayu! Let's do it together!
- Sayu: ...Ugh! Right when I was trying to run...
- Sayu: About that... um... I'm pretty busy... uh... practicing ninjutsu and such...
- Yoimiya: Oh, I heard the bake-danuki are great at ninjutsu! Rumors has it, with a single thought, they can grow taller than a house! Is that true, Kichiboushi?
- Sayu: Taller than a house? I've never heard of a ninjutsu like that...
- "Kichiboushi": It's not ninjutsu, it's bake-danuki art! We don't grow taller than house!
- Sayu: S—See...? I knew it wouldn't be that easy...
- "Kichiboushi": We grow taller than mountain!
- Sayu: EH!?
- Yoimiya: Sayu...?
- Sayu: S—Sorry... Just thinking about something sensei always said: "You can't just focus on drills, Sayu. You need to push the limits of what you know about ninjutsu."
- Well, this is as good an opportunity as any.
- Sayu: I... I guess...
- "Kichiboushi": Farm beans, success?
- Sayu: A—Alright, let's go discuss this ninjutsu... Ah, no. This bake-danuki art of transformation! The one you're going to use for the festival!
- Yoimiya: Yes! I've always wanted to go to a festival with you, Sayu! Let's go to my place to brainstorm! We can even set off some fireworks when we're done!
- Sayu: Uh... I'll pass on the fireworks. They're terrible for my sleep...
- (Approach "Gyoubu Koban," Gorou, Sangonomiya Kokomi, and Yumemizuki Mizuki behind Aisa Bathhouse)
-
- (Gyoubu Koban approaches the rear of the bathhouse and peaks around one of the planters. The Traveler and Paimon walk up behind him.)
- Paimon: Huh? Gyoubu Koban? What are you doing?
- "Gyoubu Koban": Spying on great youkai! Great youkai whisper about something with humans!
- (The Traveler and Paimon crouch down behind the planter.)
- ...A great youkai?
- ???: ...So, what do you think? Are you interested in our proposal?
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: Hmm, the idea has a lot of promise, but I'm afraid there are no natural hot springs on Watatsumi island. And, the cost of heating them artificially is a bit too—
- (If the player has not met Sangonomiya Kokomi yet, an introductory note appears on screen)
Sangonomiya Kokomi — Pearl of Wisdom
Sangonomiya Kokomi is the Divine Priestess of Watatsumi Island, and is the highly-skilled strategist of the resistance forces.
"Things will be alright as long as Her Excellency is here," is what the people of Watatsumi say, and it is a great comfort to them all.
This young lady is at great pains to meet such expectations and also manage Watatsumi Island's affairs at the same time.
It is only in little moments of stolen leisure that she can lay down her duties as a "shrine maiden" and read some books that "Kokomi" enjoys.
- ???: One second. I believe someone's listening... Hello over there — you're more than welcome to join, but a face-to-face conversation is more appropriate, don't you think?
- "Gyoubu Koban": Eek! Great youkai found us!
- (The Traveler stands up.)
- Paimon: I—It's just us!
- Gorou: (Traveler)? Paimon?
- (If the player has not met Gorou yet, an introductory note appears on screen)
Gorou — Canine Warrior
A valiant general of the resistance when the Vision Hunt Decree was in effect, Gorou is nicknamed the "ever-victorious pointy-eared general."
In his eyes, the people around him are not only his brave soldiers, they are also his beloved companions. They are like treasure to be cared for and protected.
The land that sustains them, his all-important comrades, the faith that keeps them going... These are the most precious things for Gorou, to whom he devotes his loyalty and courage.
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: There's no need to be nervous, you two. It's not like I think you're corporate spies.
- (If the player has not met Yumemizuki Mizuki yet, an introductory note appears on screen)
Yumemizuki Mizuki — Embrace of Enchanting Dreams
A clinical psychologist and one of Inazuma's yumekui-baku, known for their ability to feast on human nightmares.
Her investment led to the opening of the Aisa Bathhouse, an Inazuman indoor hot spring where guests can unwind with a unique combination of relaxing baths and delicious cuisine, as well as professional psychotherapy services.
If something's been on your mind, you should consider confiding in Mizuki — she'll do her best to drive away those nightmares.
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: As for you... It's been a while since I've met one of your kind. What's your name? Is Ioroi doing well?
- "Gyoubu Koban": Eek...!
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: Huh...
- Paimon: Oh, uh... This is Gyoubu Koban. It's his first time visiting a city, so he's a bit shy around strangers.
- As for Ioroi...
- He's the same as always.
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: So, still sealed in that statue, then? I suppose it can't be helped...
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: Nice to meet you, Gyoubu Koban. My name is Yumemizuki Mizuki. I'm a yumekui-baku. We're youkai, just like you.
- "Gyoubu Koban": Great youkai is... surprisingly friendly?
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: Ah, looks like he was scared that, as a "great youkai," you were going to do something terrible to him for interrupting our secret meeting.
- So, it was actually a secret meeting...?
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: Not exactly, no. We were discussing the potential of opening a new branch of the Aisa Bathhouse on Watatsumi Island.
- Paimon: Oh? Aisa Bathhouse is expanding to Watatsumi Island?
- Gorou: Well, tourism is one of the areas we're hoping to expand. We've been discussing the possibility with Miss Mizuki for quite some time.
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: Still, given the lack of natural springs on Watatsumi island, we're looking at high operating costs. And, if it's not different enough from the main branch, I worry about its ability to draw in customers.
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: All valid points. We do need to differentiate the brand. We could place a greater emphasis on physiotherapy...
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: Or add some popular activities, such as carefully designed "games"...
- "Gyoubu Koban": ...Games!
- Paimon: Uhh... Games? In a bathhouse?
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: Of course! Games are often used in psychological treatment to put patients at ease.
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: Anyway, the topic of games really seemed to pique your interest... Is there something going on?
- Ahem, allow me to explain...
- You briefly explain the situation to everyone...
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: I see... A new kind of Mikawa Flower Festival. Miss "Fried Tofu With All the Frills" is as ingenious as ever.
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: Miko, huh... I knew I smelled scheming in the air...
- Gorou: Oh, uh... That lady again? W—Well, there's a lot of work to do on Watatsumi Island. So, we probably don't have time for something like that... right, Your Excellency?
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: Hmm... I do think there's potential in turning Watatsumi Island into a tourist destination.
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: We could use the festival as a proof of concept and establish a partnership with Miss Mizuki. If people are drawn to our game, that would mean a lot of positive publicity, which would benefit us in the long term.
- Gorou: Ah... B—But, aren't Aisa Bathhouse and Yae Publishing House business rivals?
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: Rivalries aside, I have no qualm using Yae Publishing House's resources to our advantage.
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: Besides, if I remember correctly, you have a connection to Yae Publishing House as well, don't you, General Gorou? You work on the That's Life column?
- Gorou: Oh, well... Yes, I do...
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: ...If our venture is to focus on games, then as future business partners, I'm sure you would appreciate an opportunity to see what I can do.
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: Hehe, an astute observation, Miss Mizuki. Well, shall we? Getting down to business is often the quickest way to bring people together, after all.
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: ...Agreed! Then, why don't we discuss some of the finer details before the festival begins?
- (Gorou sags in defeat)
- Gorou: Oh, but... Um... *sigh*... Alright... Then, I guess I should—
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: Actually, Gorou, I was hoping you might attend to the business on Watatsumi Island in the meantime. Just as you said, there is quite a bit to be done...
- Gorou: Huh...?
- (Gorou gives the Traveler a questioning look)
- She's giving you an out.
- She's giving you a way to avoid Miko.
- Gorou: ...Of course!
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: In addition, I'd like you to encourage the people of Watatsumi Island to attend the festival. It's a celebration for humans and youkai alike...
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: ...So, that includes our people as well. This should be an occasion that brings people together.
- Gorou: ...Understood! Leave it to me, Your Excellency.
- (After finding all three bake-danuki)
- Paimon: Okay, that should be enough teams! Time to report back to the Yashiro Commission!
- (Approach the Kamisato Estate)
- Hirotatsu: Miss Kamisato, this is the list of the stage materials for your review...
- Madarame Hyakubei: Miss Kamisato, I have your schedule for tomorrow...
- Kamisato Ayaka: Hmm... The list looks fine. As for the schedule, let's move the meeting with the Tenryou Commission up a little. They're in charge of festival security, so that should take precedence.
- (If the player has not met Kamisato Ayaka yet, an introductory note appears on screen)
Kamisato Ayaka — Frostflake Heron
The lady of the Yashiro Commission's Kamisato Clan, Kamisato Ayaka. Dignified and elegant, intelligent and tenacious.
All know that her character is unimpeachable, and that she is a gentle and approachable soul deeply loved by the people.
This is because she often represents the Yashiro Commission as it conducts affairs among the common folk.
But while she is often viewed as a restrained, collected individual, few understand that beneath the fame and the name, the young girl's heart is still filled with an unknown tenderness and loveliness.
- Paimon: Whoa, she looks super busy... Should we come back later?
- Kamisato Ayaka: Hm? Oh... (Traveler)!
- You seem busy.
- Are we interrupting?
- Kamisato Ayaka: ...Oh, no. You're fine. You caught me just as I was finishing up, actually.
- Kamisato Ayaka: Lady Guuji said you're the official festival representative, and you've been busy recruiting participants... So, I should do my part too, right?
- Kamisato Ayaka: For large events like the Test of Courage, Brother usually does most of the organizing. But this time, I wanted to take some work off his back.
- That should be a big help!
- Kamisato Ayaka: I hope so!
- Paimon: Oh, speaking of the recruitment, we found a bunch of people! We should be good to go!
- Kamisato Ayaka: Oh, already? That was fast... I wasn't sure we would find enough participants. I thought I might have to sign up myself...
- Oh, well there's still time...
- I could go and ask...
- Kamisato Ayaka: Oh, don't worry about it. I can only focus on so many things, anyway. If we have enough people, I should stick to organizing.
- Kamisato Ayaka: I suppose I'm a little sad about not taking part... But, I'm looking forward to the festival all the same.
- Kamisato Ayaka: When the time comes, perhaps we could check it out tog—
- Hirano: Miss Kamisato! Another letter from the Kanjou Commission!
- Kamisato Ayaka: Ah! Coming! ...Sorry, duty calls. We'll have to talk about our plans another time.
- Kamisato Ayaka: My brother's the one overseeing the teams. I believe he's in the courtyard with Lady Guuji. You can go in when you're ready.
- Paimon: Thanks, Ayaka! See you later!
- Kamisato Ayaka: See you later.
- Paimon: Wow, Ayaka's really working hard... Guess we should follow suit. You're the festival representative, and that makes Paimon the representative of the representative. So, in other words, let's do this!
- (The Traveler walks into the courtyard)
- Yae Miko: Ah, it's about time... I could hear you talking outside.
- Kamisato Ayato: I apologize for not greeting you upon arrival. The Lady Guuji and I were discussing something urgent.
- (If the player has not met Kamisato Ayato yet, an introductory note appears on screen)
Kamisato Ayato — Pillar of Fortitude
The young but accomplished clan head of the Yashiro Commission's Kamisato Clan, Kamisato Ayato, is gentle and polite in his manners, and is a highly capable operator.
On the surface, he seems like a down-to-earth, elegant, and proper fellow who does not enjoy public appearances or showing off.
But those who know him well know never to underestimate him — for it was he who steadied the Kamisato Clan ship when the previous Commissioner had fallen gravely ill.
His present position is not one that could have been secured without extraordinary skills or brilliance. So, beware his immaculate smile all the same.
- Paimon: Oh, don't worry about it! We were talking to Ayaka, anyway.
- Yae Miko: Heh, now that young lady is one enthusiastic volunteer, especially when she heard about your involvement, (Traveler). Solved our personnel problem in one fell swoop...
- So, you took the opportunity to order her around as well?
- Yae Miko: Hardly... It was entirely her decision. Besides, you really think I could order her around with her big brother standing right there?
- Kamisato Ayato: I do hope she gets what she wants out of the event... Now, I see the bake-danuki are no longer with you. I assume that means the teams are set?
- Yep. Here's the situation...
- You explain what happened to Ayato...
- Kamisato Ayato: Heh... Long-horned oni and short-horned oni. Those are some interesting names.
- Kamisato Ayato: I was hoping Thoma would use the festival as an excuse to relax, but it would seem he refuses to remain idle.
- Kamisato Ayato: He even signed up as a participant... Well, here's to hoping the game development is enjoyable, at the very least.
- Yae Miko: ...Ah, Mizuki signed up, too? Along with the "Sole of the Deep"? Now, this is getting interesting... I knew it was a good idea to put you in charge of recruitment, (Traveler).
- Paimon: They're planning to use your festival to promote Aisa Bathhouse!
- Yae Miko: Oh, is that so? Then, perhaps I should up the ante...
- Paimon: So, Ayato... Is everything set on your end, then?
- Kamisato Ayato: Yes. The Yashiro Commission will be in contact with each team and arrange for lodging, food, equipment, and travel.
- Kamisato Ayato: We will also determine the overall theme for the games, which will be announced forty-eight hours before the opening of the festival.
- Yae Miko: Yes, yes, that's all well and good. I just have one small adjustment...
- ...That doesn't bode well!
- ...That REALLY doesn't bode well!
- Yae Miko: Hehe, why so anxious? I'm just trying to keep things exciting! When we're ready to announce the theme, come to the festival grounds at the foot of Mt. Yougou. We'll see you there.
- (Talk to Ayato again, optional)
- Kamisato Ayato: The Lady Guuji is very... imaginative. There's no telling how the festival will end up in the end.
- She can be a handful...
- Kamisato Ayato: I wouldn't go that far. Though outlandish at times, her ideas usually contain strokes of genius that can be quite practical in the end.
- Kamisato Ayato: Besides, with you and Ayaka involved in the event, trust that I will intervene if things get out of hand. You need not worry.
- (On the next day)
- Paimon: The theme for the games is being announced today, right? Who knows what Miko's got up her sleeve... Let's go check it out!
- (Talk to Asari, optional)
- Asari: Were all these decorations and items created by bake-danuki? Youkai sure are awesome!
- (Talk to Komura, optional)
- Komura: Gah, I'm so full... Shouldn't have taken a kitsune on in a Kitsune Ramen eating contest, of all things...
- (Approach Kujou Sara)
- Kujou Sara: ...Though the festival has yet to begin, the game development process is sure to attract a crowd.
- (If the player has not met Kujou Sara yet, an introductory note appears on screen)
Kujou Sara — Crowfeather Kaburaya
The active chief general of the Tenryou Commission. Decisive and valiant in battle.
If the Raiden Shogun is the great thunder of the heavens, then Kujou Sara is the lightning that cannot be parried. The lightning flashes first, and the thunder swiftly follows.
As the adopted child of the Kujou Clan, she is swift and stern... That is how most people see her.
And to her, aiding the Shogun in realizing Eternity is her foremost goal, even if she knows that she will not be around to see it come to pass.
- Kujou Sara: It is the Tenryou Commission's responsibility to maintain security and order throughout the entirety of the proceedings. So, remain vigilant. Understood?
- Haruto: Yes, Ma'am!
- Paimon: Hey, Sara!
- Kujou Sara: Oh, it's you. It's been a while.
- Paimon: You guys are here early! There's still three whole days until the festival starts...
- Kujou Sara: Correction — there's a little over forty-eight hours. Besides, many patrons are already here to observe the development process. Festival security starts now.
- Paimon: Wait, but what about the Statue of the, uh... Almighty... Narukami, uh... Ogo— Eh, you know the one. Won't you miss out on it again?
- Want us to buy one for you?
- Kujou Sara: ...Heh, no need. All Statues of Her Excellency, the Almighty Narukami Ogosho, God of Thunder being sold at this event are an old model.
- Kujou Sara: And as it turns out... I already own five of said model at home.
- Paimon: Ah, okay... Well, that's definitely more than enough...
- Kujou Sara: Yes, I only own five Statues of Her Excellency at any given time. That is my maximum.
- Kujou Sara: Any more, and I'm afraid I would not be able to afford them the proper care.
- Paimon: Oh, THAT'S the reason?
- Kujou Sara: ...Personal matters aside, I heard you are the representative for this event. You should proceed to the stage and speak with the Lady Guuji.
- Paimon: Oh, right... Looks like we're running out of time. Let's go, then! See you later, Sara.
- Kujou Sara: Goodbye.
- (The Traveler and Paimon walk off)
- Inoue: ...Ma'am! We have a message from Commission headquarters. They need you to return as soon as possible!
- Kujou Sara: Headquarters...? Now, of all times? Alright, keep watch in my absence. I won't be long.
- (The Traveler and Paimon walk up to Miko)
- Yae Miko: Ah, you're here! Now, we can get the ball rolling...
- Are we late?
- Yae Miko: Right on time, I'd say. I was just about to announce the theme for the games.
- Uhh, what's that thing behind you...?
- Yae Miko: Oh, this? Just a little something to spice things up.
- Yae Miko: So... stay tuned!
- (Somewhere nearby in the festival venue)
- Thoma: Hmm... We should be getting close, right?
- Sayu: So sleepy... Can't wait any more...
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: A theme decided by Miko and the Yashiro Commission... What's it gonna be...?
- (Miko walks up on stage)
- Yae Miko: One thing we all share... is our capacity to dream.
- Yae Miko: Outlandish fantasies of the mind, nostalgic memories of the past, or telling reflections of our inner selves...
- Yae Miko: In a similar sense, games also blur the lines between fantasy and reality. Just like our dreams, the bounds of possibility are as limitless as our imagination.
- Yae Miko: ...With that in mind, your task is to create a game within the next forty-eight hours centered around the theme of "dreams." The genre and style are completely up to you...
- Paimon: Okay... Nothing too crazy so far...
- Yae Miko: And, to provide some additional motivation...
- (A samurai walks up on stage and places the award on a pedestal)
- Yae Miko: The winning team will be awarded the Tanuki Game Award!
- Yae Miko: As well as a generous sum of Mora... AND a sponsorship from Yae Publishing House to fully develop the game and promote it throughout all Inazuma!
- "Kichiboushi": Mm!?
- "Shousei": A—All Inazuma!?
- "Gyoubu Koban": Thump thump... *squeal*!?
- Yae Miko: In the interest of fairness, the evaluation committee will decide the winner based on attendee feedback as well as the opinion of our festival representative.
- Yae Miko: Now, with that out of the way, let the game development begin! The forty-eight hour countdown... begins now.
- Although Miko's sudden announcement leaves people reeling, the teams quickly get to work...
- Yae Miko: Hm, looks like things are going well. We've just started, and it seems like all our teams have a plan.
- Yae Miko: Plus, with the transformative powers of the bake-danuki, bringing those visions to fruition should be a lot easier.
- Yae Miko: As the festival's most important judge and representative... You should go check on the progress, don't you think?
- I really didn't see that coming...
- Me as the main judge? Really?
- Yae Miko: It all comes down to fairness, as I said. I worked with the Yashiro Commission to come up with the theme, so the judging must go to someone else.
- Yae Miko: No need to stress, though. It's all fun and games, is it not? Just choose the one you enjoy the most.
- Yae Miko: Of course, if it's appearances you're worried about, you could always... Oh, I don't know... check in on the teams and ask about their ideas?
- What do you mean "appearances"?
- I plan to take this seriously, like I always do.
- Yae Miko: Hehe, and that proves that I picked the right person. Go on, then – I won't keep you.
- (Opens the event menu)
- (After the cutscene)
- Paimon: So, you need to pick the "best game," huh... Well, why don't we take a look around to get a feel for things? Then, we can go talk to Miko!
- (Talk to Miko before talking to all the teams, optional)
- Yae Miko: Oh? Back so soon? Did you want to withhold judgment until they're done?
- Hmm, I think I'm good. I don't need to make a call right away.
- Yae Miko: Ah, you don't want to judge an unfinished product? Well, that does make sense...
- Yae Miko: There are fun things to do at some of the stalls nearby. You can check them out while the contestants work on their games.
- You spend some time perusing the stalls and play-testing "Bunshin Phantasm," "Akitsu Harpastum," and "A Little Fox's Daydream."
Soon, night falls. - (Skip to step 11)
- Hmm, guess I should go back and check things out some more...
- Yae Miko: That's the spirit! Give the games another look, and I'm sure one of them will speak to you. Go on, now.
- (Talk to Thoma, Hitotsume Kozou, Kappa, or Youko, optional)
- Thoma: Alright... Let's add another elemental reaction here...
- Hitotsume Kozou & Kappa: Boss Thoma is the best!
- Thoma: Heh, that's nice of you, but it's all thanks to Akitsu Yuugei that I came up with this in the first place, and that was all you...
- Youko: Anything for Boss Thoma!
- Paimon: Whoa... Guess this team really hit it off...
- Thoma: Oh, hi there, (Traveler) and Paimon.
- Paimon: Looks like you're getting along great with Kozou and the others! Guess a "fixer" can work with just about anyone, huh...
- Thoma: Haha, I have Itto to thank, actually. He introduced me to Kozou and the others after you left that day.
- Thoma: We didn't get to see each other much during the Test of Courage, but they're a very friendly group of youkai...
- Thoma: All I had to do was mention the Mikawa Flower Festival, and they agreed to help right away. They even showed up bright and early this morning.
- Paimon: That makes sense! It was their dream to host the Mikawa Flower Festvial [sic].
- Hitotsume Kozou: ...Yep! That's right!
- Youko: Yeah, totally! We've been dreaming about it for a long time!
- Paimon: So, what are you planning for the game? It kinda sounded like you're making a sequel to Akitsu Yuugei!
- Thoma: Hmm... I suppose it's a spiritual sequel of sorts? It's a combination of Akitsu Yuugei and Mondstadt's Ludi Harpastum...I call it, "Akitsu Harpastum."
- Thoma: It's pretty simple, actually. Just swing the racket to hit the balls back where they came from.
- Paimon: Uhh, but what does that have to do with the theme?
- Thoma: Haha... Good question. The Lady Guuji did say that reminiscing about "nostalgic memories" is a form of dreaming, right?
- Thoma: For many years after leaving Mondstadt, the only place I could experience Ludi Harpastum was in my dreams...
- Thoma: Once I was old enough to go back on my own, too much had changed... My age, my mindset... Whatever it was, the Ludi Harpastum of my childhood was gone.
- Thoma...
- Thoma: So, I suppose you could say, "Akitsu Harpastum" is a childhood dream many years in the making.
- Thoma: Oh, and in the play-test stage, I added a few characters that often appear in fairytales and dreamscapes.
- Thoma: ...Hopefully, that reinforces the theme a bit more, haha. Wanna give it a try?
- Sure!
- "Shousei": Haha! White Fur, Yellow Fur, get ready!
- (Opens "Akitsu Harpastum: Dreams Doubled" challenge menu)
- "Shousei": Haha! White Fur, Yellow Fur, get ready!
- Next time for sure.
- Thoma: Haha, I almost forgot! You're an important figure in this event! Well, don't let us keep you. Come back any time!
- (Talk to Thoma, Hitotsume Kozou, Kappa, or Youko again, optional)
- Thoma: Hmm, we need to fine tune some things if we want to take home that award... Should we add a few more mechanisms?
- Hitotsume Kozou: Anything for Boss Thoma!
- Youko: Boss Thoma is the best!
- Kappa: Great idea, Boss Thoma!
- "Shousei": Boss Thoma is best!
- (Talk to Sayu or Yoimiya, optional)
- Paimon: Wow! Look at this! You've made so much progress already!
- Yoimiya: Hehe, all credit to Kichiboushi! We just told him what we wanted, and he made the set in no time!
- Sayu: He helped with the gameplay, too... All we had was a prototype, and now it's ready for play-testing already. His skills are amazing...
- "Kichiboushi": Hm! Kichiboushi, amazing!
- Very amazing!
- Paimon: So, um... how do we play? It doesn't seem super obvious...
- Yoimiya: The board is infused with youkai power! All you need to do is place your hand on it to enter the "dreamscape"... At least, I think that's how it works, right, Kichiboushi?
- "Kichiboushi": Orange Fur, very smart!
- Paimon: So, you could say your game unifies human ingenuity with bake-danuki magic to create a scene that is completely illusory... Very creative!
- "Kichiboushi": White Fur, suddenly use many big words...
- Sayu: You sure sound official all of a sudden, Paimon... Are you trying to act like a real judge?
- Don't mind her.
- Paimon: Hm... This new style of game development deserves a name! How about "Unreal"? Ooh! Or "Unity"?
- Could you tell us about your game?
- Yoimiya: You betcha!
- Paimon: ...Hey, a little acknowledgment would be nice!
- Yoimiya: Although, Sayu's the better person to ask! "Bunshin Phantasm" is her brain-child, after all.
- "Bunshin Phantasm"?
- Sayu: Yeah! It's based on a dream I had... In the dream, I learned to make bunshin, and I made them do all my work for me.
- Sayu: With my clones around, there was no reason for that lady to come find me, so I could sleep as long as I wanted...
- Paimon: So even when you're asleep, you dream of getting more sleep...
- Sayu: It's just... I got so excited at the prospect that I actually woke myself up... *sigh* If only I could make bunshin in real life...
- I have a feeling...
- Your clones might not want to work any more than you do...
- Sayu: Well, then... Even if some get caught, the others could take a nap in the meantime, right?
- Paimon: But if your clones do all the work, doesn't all that fatigue transfer back to you in the end?
- Sayu: Oh, well, um... When you put it that way... I don't know anymore...
- Yoimiya: All dreams are nonsensical and complicated in their own way. But that's what makes them interesting!
- Yoimiya: Anyway, that's our game — "The Most Wonderful Bunshin Phantasm: Mujina Body Doubles to the Rescue!"
- Paimon: What's a... mujina body double?
- Sayu: That's a long story... Wanna just give it a try?
- Sure!
- Sayu: Awesome! All you have to do is put your hand on the board and close your eyes...
- (Opens "Bunshin Phantasm" challenge menu)
- Sayu: Awesome! All you have to do is put your hand on the board and close your eyes...
- Next time for sure.
- Yoimiya: Ah, right! You have other teams to check out! All good! Whenever you're ready to play, just touch the board, and you're good to go!
- (Talk to Sayu or Yoimiya again, optional)
- Yoimiya: Just think, all the kids in Inazuma might have a chance to play our game! Ah, I'm so excited! We have to win!
- "Kichiboushi": Have to win!
- Sayu: O—Or, we could take a more laid back approach? I mean, we shouldn't jeopardize our sleep or anything...
- Yoimiya: Hm, you have a point... The most important thing is to have fun.
- Sayu: Oh, and learning a ninjutsu to grow taller! *ahem* I mean, learning new ninjutsu in general, hehe...
- (Talk to Mizuki or Kokomi, optional)
- Paimon: Hey there, Mizuki, Kokomi, and Gyoubu Koban! How are things going over here?
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: Not bad — we've made a lot of progress. Miss Mizuki is very experienced, and Gyoubu Koban's abilities are simply astonishing.
- "Gyoubu Koban": Piece of cake! *click click*
- Paimon: Experienced, huh... That must put you at a huge advantage! Is it because you use games in your work?
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: Hmm, I'm not sure it gives me an advantage, per se... The games I use are for clinical purposes, not entertainment.
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: But if we want that award, we need something a lot more fun. So, my experience only goes so far.
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: That reminds me... The Yashiro Commission chose "dreams" as the theme of the competition. Do you think that was targeted at us?
- Paimon: Huh, using "dreams" to test a dream-eater... Yeah, it does sound like some kind of challenge...
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: They knew we wanted to use this as an opportunity to advertise our game. But, now, it's a competition...
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: Which means, if we lose, our game will be completely overshadowed by the winner.
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: And if we win, she gets a share of the profits as the primary investor... Miss "Fried Tofu With All the Frills" is on the top of her game.
- Paimon: Wow... That's a lot of scheming...
- "Gyoubu Koban": Mm? Screaming?
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: On the other hand, if we do win first place, the prestige will help us get the word out, which should increase the popularity of the bathhouse on Watatsumi Island.
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: As for Yae Publishing House's sponsorship... As long as we win the competition, we get to decide the terms.
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: Winner takes all, huh... I suppose it works both ways. This definitely has the Lady Guuji written all over it.
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: My guess... is that she's doing all this for the entertainment factor — for fun, basically.
- "Gyoubu Koban": Mm! Fun, fun! Gyoubu Koban likes fun!
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: Heh, well said. I suppose that's the purpose of a game, after all. For now, let's focus on making our game the best it can be.
- Paimon: Good idea! So, what kind of game are you gonna make?
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: We're calling it, "A Little Fox's Daydream." Basically, you play as a fox navigating between sweet dreams and nightmares in search of delicious fried tofu.
- I think I might know who the "little fox" is supposed to be...
- Paimon: Yeah, looks like that fox takes some inspiration from, uh... real life...
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: Well, the design was Miss Mizuki's idea, but I'm completely on board. Sometimes, the only way to meet a challenge is with a challenge of your own.
- (Fighting fire with fire, huh...)
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: That's the definition of fun, don't you think? So, wanna give it a try?
- Sure!
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: Wonderful! Right this way...
- (Opens "A Little Fox's Daydream" challenge menu)
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: Wonderful! Right this way...
- Next time for sure.
- "Gyoubu Koban": Next time, next time! That's a promise!
- (Talk to Mizuki or Kokomi again, optional)
- Yumemizuki Mizuki: Oh, here's an idea... Let's make the final checkpoint of this stage a ramen stand.
- "Gyoubu Koban": Hm? Ramen stand? Why?
- Sangonomiya Kokomi: Let me guess... another callback to the real-life Lady Guuji?
- (Talk to Ayaka, optional)
- Kamisato Ayaka: I can't believe I finished everything in time... That was close.
- Organizing a competition out of thin air...
- That must have been a lot of work.
- Kamisato Ayaka: Yeah... It was a very last-minute change of plans. We had to get a bunch of supplies ready, like the Tanuki Game Award, which took a while.
- Kamisato Ayaka: If only I had a bit more time, I'm sure I could have made it look better...
- (Talk to Ayato, optional)
- Kamisato Ayato: The Lady Guuji's decision to turn this into a competition certainly was... unexpected. But, I digress... What do you think of the award?
- It's very cute.
- Kamisato Ayato: Is that so? Hehe, make sure to let Ayaka know you think so.
- It's alright...
- Kamisato Ayato: Ah, well... It was a bit last minute...
- (After talking with all the teams)
- Paimon: Alright — we checked out each of the games! Wanna give any of them another go? If not, let's head back and find Miko.
- (Talk to Yae Miko)
- Yae Miko: Well? Did you get a good look at all the games?
- I think so.
- Yae Miko: Oh? And what are your thoughts? I'm all ears.
- (Proceeds to the next step)
- Yae Miko: Oh? And what are your thoughts? I'm all ears.
- I want to look around some more...
- Yae Miko: Oh? Well, hurry back. Don't keep me waiting for too long!
- You share your play-test insights with Miko...
- Yae Miko: Mmm, fascinating... Which game are you looking forward to the most?
- Sayu's "Bunshin Phantasm"...
- Yae Miko: Bunshin, huh... I'm not surprised she's interested in learning that ninjutsu. I suppose I could find an opportunity to teach her...
- Paimon: Wait, you know how to make bunshin!?
- Yae Miko: Well, if it's conjuring a body double to sit at the shrine in my place, that's child's play. I'm sure plenty of youkai can do the same.
- Yae Miko: Ah, but best not let Nana find out... Pretend I didn't say anything, okay?
- Thoma's "Akitsu Harpastum"...
- Yae Miko: Akitsu Harpastum, huh? I'm sure that will be a nostalgic experience for many people.
- Yae Miko: Hmm, perhaps a Mondstadt spin on an Inazuman classic will be... Dare I say, a breath of fresh air...
- Yae Miko: What do you say we drag Ei out here so she can join in on the fun?
- Mizuki's "A Little Fox's Day—"
- Yae Miko: Hmm?
- (Traveler): (You quickly cut yourself off upon sensing a sharp look from Miko.)
- Yae Miko: What an interesting take on the theme... Tell me, did it come from Miss "Sole of the Deep" or my dear, old friend?
- You're not going to charge them for using your likeness, are you...?
- Yae Miko: Heh, not a bad idea. But, I'm more interested in seeing how this plays out, which means... turning a blind eye, for now.
- Paimon: Well, we had to pick one, but honestly, all the ideas were pretty good...
- Yae Miko: It's still early days, so there's no rush to make a decision. Plenty of novels at Yae Publishing House have opened on a high note, only to lose the plot halfway through.
- Yae Miko: You can pick your favorite game once everyone's done with their work.
- (Later, at night)
- Paimon: Wow... Time really flew by today! It's so late already...
- Paimon: The game booths were cool, but the food was even better! There were vendors selling Dango Milk, Tricolor Dango, Rice Cake Soup, you name it!
- Of course you care about the food the most...
- Paimon: Hehe, Paimon saved a skewer just for you! Here, before it gets cold!
- It's not something you just didn't finish, right?
- Paimon: N—No! Of course not! If you don't want it, Paimon will eat it herself!
- (Traveler): (You enjoy the soft and chewy texture of the snack. With the excitement of the festival all around you, it almost tastes sweeter than usual.)
- Paimon: Tastes great, right? Which means... We should come back for more tomorrow!
- So that's why you saved one for me...
- You've run out Mora to buy it yourself.
- Paimon: Hehe... Wait! Do you see that up ahead? What's someone doing out this late...
- ???: ...
- Paimon: Huh, their clothes look kinda weird... Oh, could they be one of those costumed actors Miko mentioned?
- ???: ...Heh...
- Paimon: Hey! Hello there! Are you also here for the festival?
- ???: ...Hyah!
- (The mysterious figure attacks the Traveler and Paimon)
- Paimon! Watch out!
- Paimon: Waaaah!!!
- (The Traveler dodges the attack, dropping the unfinished dango skewer, which stabs into the ground)
- (Opens Tutorial)
- (During the battle)
- Paimon: What was that for!? They attacked us out of nowhere!
- Paimon: Something's not right about this... B—Be careful, Traveler!
- (After defeating the opponent)
- ???: ...
- (Traveler): (Is that it...?)
- ???: ...
- (The Traveler's vision becomes distorted and they see the kairagi attacking them again)
- (Traveler): (...!)
- ???: ...Hyah!
- (Traveler): (So fast!)
- ???: ...
- (The Traveler looks down and sees a dagger stabbed in the ground)
- (Traveler): (When did this dagger get here?)
- ???: ...Heh...
- (Traveler): (Hold on, I know this feeling... I've felt it several times before...!)
- (The Traveler realizes that the dagger is lodged in the same place as the previous dango skewer)
- ???: ...Hyah!
- (Traveler): (I'm in a dream!!!)
- (Lightning strikes in front of the Traveler, and they come to their senses and see Paimon)
- Paimon: ...(Traveler)! Hey! Are you alright!?
- ...What just happened?
- Paimon: Well, you fought that strange person and made them disappear. But then, all of a sudden, you started backing up like you were super afraid of something...
- ...I'm fine now, don't worry.
- Paimon: Phew... You nearly gave Paimon a heart attack...
- (Traveler): (I saw a dagger, but it was Tricolor Dango the whole time... So, it was all just a nightmare?)
- (Traveler): (Luckily, I heard the sound of thunder in the dream. Otherwise, it probably would have taken me a lot longer to break out of the nightmare...)
- Paimon: Also, what was with that thunder just now? It came out of nowhere, and it's not even raining!
- Huh...?
- Paimon: What's wrong?
- (Traveler): (So the thunder... wasn't part of the dream?)
- (Traveler): (Who was that person...?)
- (The camera pans to a cliff overlooking the scene, where Ei is sparking with Electro)
- Ei: ...Has a "Nightmare" returned to Inazuma once again?
- (At the festival venue)
- Asari: Hey, Komura! Time to go. The stalls are closed, so let's head home for the night!
- Komura: ...
- Asari: Hey! Did you hear me? No more gaming tonight. We can come back tomorrow!
- Asari: ...Komura, Komura!
- Komura: ...
- Asari: Um... Komura?
- (Komura appears behind Asari with his arm over Asari's shoulder)
- ???: What's with the yelling? I can hear you just fine. Let's go.
- Asari: ...Huh?
- Komura: ...What? You're not coming? Why are you giving me that look?
- Asari: Komura, weren't you...
- Asari: Over there... just now?
- (Quest completes)
Tutorials
You will be unable to use Elemental Skills or Bursts during combat, but you will obtain new abilities known as Parry and Veilbreak.
When using Parry, the Traveler will raise their weapon in a defensive stance, greatly decreasing DMG taken. Parry has a fixed CD.
When using Parry, the Traveler will raise their weapon in a defensive stance, greatly decreasing DMG taken. Parry has a fixed CD.
You will gain Verity when you use Normal Attacks and Charged Attacks against your opponent, or when you successfully Parry. Verity will also accumulate over time.
When you max out on Verity, you can actively use Veilbreak to deal massive DMG. Veilbreak can store 2 usages.
When you max out on Verity, you can actively use Veilbreak to deal massive DMG. Veilbreak can store 2 usages.
If you Parry just as your opponent is striking, you can completely negate any DMG that would be done to you and reset Parry's CD. Completing such a "Perfect Parry" against your opponent's attacks will cause you to accumulate more Verity.
When your opponent is about to use Oni Devourer, their weapon will shine brightly. Perfectly Parry this technique to unleash a powerful counterattack and deal great DMG to your opponents.
Trivia
- The "Tanuki Game Award" may be a reference to The Game Awards.
- The introductory note for Hitotsume Kozou, Youko, and Kappa will appear even if the player previously participated in and completed the Akitsu Kimodameshi Event Quests. This makes it the only such pop-up note which does not actually possess a check for a previous quest encounter and instead displays for every player regardless of their quest completion.
Other Languages
| Language | Official Name | Literal Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| English | As Though Caught in a Dream | — |
| Chinese (Simplified) | 如入幻梦 | |
| Chinese (Traditional) | 如入幻夢 | |
| Japanese | 夢入るが如く Yume Hairu ga Gotoku | As Though Inside a Dream |
| Korean | 꿈처럼 Kkumcheoreom | |
| Spanish | Como estar en un sueño | Like Being in a Dream |
| French | Comme piégés dans un rêve | As If Trapped in a Dream |
| Russian | Будто во сне Budto vo sne | |
| Thai | ดั่งอยู่ในห้วงฝัน | |
| Vietnamese | Như Vào Cõi Mộng | |
| German | Als würde man in einen Traum eintauchen | As If You Were Diving Into a Dream |
| Indonesian | Bagai Terperangkap dalam Mimpi | As If Trapped in a Dream |
| Portuguese | Como em um Sonho | |
| Turkish | Bir Düşte Yakalanmış Gibi | |
| Italian | Come in un sogno |
Change History
Released in Version 5.4