Vi

Explorer’s Association

[Story, start of game]

Kabbu: ...Or at least, those were the stories I was told in my land.

Kabbu: Despite many unfortunate incidents, tales of your people helped me keep my adventuring spirit alive.

Maki: Rest assured, Kabbu. They are not mere legends, but real history.

Maki: This Explorers' Association, and all the explorers who risk their wings for glory, are proof of that.

Kabbu: Then, Sir Maki, would you consider my earlier offer?

Maki: Kabbu, I respect your passion. But I take missions of the highest danger. An unproven warrior is not fit to accompany my team.

Kabbu: Unproven!? Maki, I've bested many hardships in the north!

Maki: Or so you say. Your knowledge of our culture, and your passion for exploring are as true as my blade's edge, Kabbu.

Maki: But, I would ask you to not press the issue - this is not the place to cause a scene.

(minibubble) Kabbu: Ngh...

Vi: WHAT? Care to say that AGAIN!?

Eetl: As I said, we cannot allow children to explore! Much less Snakemouth Den!

Vi: I'M NOT A KID!

Maki: ...So much for that. Would you accompany me, Kabbu? It is my duty to investigate.

Kabbu: Hm? Well, if you insist.

Maki: Eetl, bee, lower your voices! What is the matter?

Vi: This guy's calling me a kid, says I can't explore!

Eetl: Shouting isn't going to change the rules, you child!

Vi: Shut it. It's not about age, it's about skill!

Vi: I'm Vi, the best explorer the Hive has ever seen! I'm not some random bee!

Kabbu: An explorer bee?

Vi: Yeah. Got a problem? Saying bees can't explore? Expected honey and paint?

Kabbu: I didn't say that, but…

Maki: Silence, please. This guild of ours is no place for petty squabbles.

Eetl: Look. I can't just give a permit to some bee. Much less without a partner. Teams should be a duo of explorers, you know?

Vi: I'm worth like four bees, okay!?

Kabbu: ...Hey. Vi.

Vi: What do you want?

Kabbu: Why don't we join forces? We both wish for a permit, yet lack a companion.

(minibubble) Maki:...

Vi: What, do I look that desperate? I don't even know you!

Kabbu: I have a promise I must keep, and for that I must explore. How bad could it be?

Vi: Well... It can't be worse than having to stay put. Deal.

Eetl: Wait, you two are just crazy! You won't last a second at Snakemouth!

Vi: I'll prove you wrong!

Maki: No.

Maki: You are both, most likely, mere novices, ruled by your strong emotions…

Maki: I have no doubt that if you left today, you would return inside a bag.

Kabbu: Sir Maki. Although you outrank me in spades, you shouldn't underestimate me.

Kabbu: I...went through quite a bit to get here.

Vi: Yeah. Bugs like you that look down on others are really annoying!

Maki: Hmm. Very well. I shall test your resolve.

Vi: Test us, huh? Who named you king of this joint?

Maki: The Ant Queen herself, for she has knighted me as her Royal Blade!

(minibubble) Eetl: Not again...

Kabbu: I accept your challenge! Vi, get ready!

Vi: Watch your own horn, I was born ready!

Kabbu: Vi, our opponent is no amateur. Would you like to review some combat tips?

Textbox: Sure.

No need.

Vi: See? We're doing great!

Kabbu: Don't let your guard down, Vi. After our turn ends, the enemy's next!

Vi: I know! And if I press |button,4| at the right time...

Textbox: Pressing |button,4| a bit before an enemy hits you reduces damage received!

Textbox: With perfect timing, you'll reduce even more damage!

Vi: O-ow! What the heck!? You trying to kill us or something?

Maki: Hmph. If you can't handle that much, you should surrender. Go home, and guard honey with your silly toy!

Vi: Toy!? Argh. Now I'm mad!

Kabbu: We should pay him back, tenfold!

Vi: It's time to use a skill! They're just like attacks, but you select them from the yellow flower!

Vi: Skills require us to use our TP (Teamwork Points), though. So watch out for how many we have left!

Kabbu: We should patch your wounds too, using items from the blue flower.

Textbox: Toggle between commands using |button,2| and |button,3|!

[post-fight]

Kabbu: S-such skill with the blade!

Maki: ...You pass.

Vi: What!?

Maki: You performed well enough. I could feel your desire to see the world through your attacks.

Maki: I am no one to keep you from your Explorer Permit. Eetl, you may grant it to them.

Eetl: I get no say in this, huh?

Eetl: ...But Maki IS the Queen's Blade. Here, you can have it.

Vi: I did it! Snakemouth Den is going to be all mine! All the riches, all the glory!

(minibubble) Kabbu: Er, we did it.

Maki: Snakemouth Den, it lies to the west of the association. A simple path, although filled with danger.

Maki: There is much treasure to be found, but its jaws have claimed many.

(minibubble) Kabbu: Treasure, huh...

Kina: MAKI!!!

Kina: Seriously, brother! How long are you going to keep me waiting!?

Maki: My apologies, Kina.

Maki: Vi, Kabbu, I must be going now. As you can see, duty calls me. May you succeed in your mission.

Vi: What a weird bunch.

Kabbu: He ended up causing quite the scene himself. That fighting prowess... How many years must he have trained?

Vi: ...So uh. I'm Vi, I guess. From the Hive near the big tree.

Kabbu: Oh! I am Kabbu. I moved in just one moon ago, from the north.

Vi: Cool.

Kabbu: Indeed.

Kabbu: Um, Sir Maki said Snakemouth was to the west, right? Should we get moving?

Vi: Right! Yeah! Let's go right away! Don't fall behind, okay?

(minibubble) Eetl: ...…

Eetl: Hey, wait you two!

Vi: Something wrong?

Eetl: You know what the goal of the Snakemouth expedition is, right?

Textbox: Of course!

Nope.

[First talk]

Artis: Phew... Finally done. Sometimes work just doesn't stop coming!

Vi: Uh, okay. Who are you again?

Artis: Excuse ya! I'm Artis, and I keep this place running.

Kabbu: Oh? Thank you for all your hard work.

Vi: Uh, yeah. Thanks.

Artis: So you two faced Maki, eh? Bet ya found it a tad too easy?

Vi: You know it!

Artis: Heh. I see you lot like challenge. One sec, I have this one thing... Please take it.

Textbox: You got a Medal! These artifacts help you by giving different effects.

Textbox: To equip Medals, go into the Pause Menu by pressing |button,8|, and select Medals and Stats.

Textbox: Once there, you can equip Medals to different party members using |button,2| and |button,3| to switch who you are equipping to.

Textbox: Medals cost MP to equip, be sure to check how much you have left!

Kabbu: What is this? A Medal?

Artis: Let's say it should make things more interesting for ya. The higher the risk, the higher the reward, as they say.

Artis: If you defeat any powerful enemies while wearing it, come see me, alright?

Vi: I won't say no to free stuff! You've got a deal!

Kabbu: Thank you for entrusting us with it. Take care, Artis.

Artis: Safe exploring, folks. Remember to check in every now and then.

Zasp: Hm. Good showing. Not many stand Maki's blade.

Kabbu: Why, thank you. I assume you've endured it as well?

Zasp: Anyone who belongs to this association can say at least that much.

Vi: Woah. So everyone here is crazy strong!

Zasp: Or they've found a reliable partner to carry them.

Vi: What? You trying to say something?

Zasp: Not at all. If you're offended by it, it only shows your insecurity.

Vi: What's your deal!? You wanna fight!?

Kabbu: Enough! Vi, we just got granted our permit. Let's not get into trouble.

(minibubble) Vi: Grr. Fine.

Zasp: Heh. Good luck, you two. You'll need it.

[First talk]

Gen: Oh, Eri, why must Maki be so dreamy?

Eri: Have you gone mad, Gen!? He's so arrogant!

Vi: You tell her, Eri.

Kabbu: Pompous as he was, he was at least kind enough to test us.

Eri: Oh, no. He does that to everyone. You see this once a week.

Gen: Oh, Maki… such a show off~

Vi: Argh! That stupid, roleplaying wannabe gatekeeper! I'll show him!

Kabbu: This will not stand!

Kabbu: I shall challenge him to a duel to the death, our honor on the line!

Gen: H-Hey! You don't have to go that far!

Vi: Oh, um, he's just kidding! Right, Kabbu?

Kabbu: Err, yes. Of course. "Kidding". I was most certainly only jesting.

Gen: You better have been!

Vi: Let's just go, Kabbu.

Vi: Heh. Couldn't stop me from exploring, could you?

Eetl: You can be sassy at me if you want, but I was just worrying about you.

Kabbu: Give him some credit, Vi.

Kabbu: Exploring isn't a game. Many...have been lost while searching for treasure.

Vi: I know that! But we're not going to be one of those.

Vi: Even Maki thinks we're decent.

Eetl: I hope his intuition is right.

Kabbu: As do I. Let's not be careless, Vi.

Vi: We'll make it back, don't worry.

Vi: Hey, why're you hitting that crystal? You could break it, y'know?

Celia: Huh? You REALLY don't know?

Vi: Just tell us why.

Levi: Forgive my partner Celia, her mouth is most loose.

Kabbu: This is an Ancient Crystal, correct? They're unique to this land.

Levi: Correct. They can store the record of previous travelers, if you smack them with something.

Levi: This crystal is yellow, so it will even heal your wounds!

Vi: You expect me to believe that? All that awesome stuff for hitting a rock?

Levi: Heh. You are one of little faith.

Celia: Come on, Levi. Show 'em!

Levi: It is done.

Vi: W-Woah! It really works! This must sell for a fortune!

Celia: All you'll get for this crystal is prison time.

Levi: Only the Ant Queen can authorize placing these rocks in public spaces.

Levi: Even if you find one in the wild, they are too heavy to be carried by a single bug.

Vi: There goes that idea…

Kabbu: Still, their properties are amazing! Let's use them when we can, Vi.

Vi: Yeah, sure. Let's get a move on.

Levi: Best of luck!

(minibubble) Celia: ...Best of luck.

Snakemouth Way, Entrance

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: I've grown quite fond of this area. It's just so scenic!

Vi: Well, at least when it's not raining.

Kabbu: It's a good thing rain is so uncommon. It gives us ample time to prepare.

Kabbu: Let's enjoy the view while we're here.

Snakemouth Way, Outside Chuck’s

Kabbu: Excuse me, bug of old complexion. Is everything alright?

Vi: Hey! Kabbu! We're supposed to be adventuring! Snakemouth Den? Endless riches?

Kabbu: Sorry, Vi. I cannot ignore an old bug in distress.

Chuck: First of all, name's Chuck. And I bet I'm younger than both of ya! But if you've gotta know...

Chuck: I'm almost done arranging my cozy rest space for travelers going to Snakemouth Den. I just can't pull out this darn weed!

Vi: You call this cozy?

Kabbu: Chuck, Snakemouth Den is more dangerous than rain on a wedding day. Shouldn't you be warning travelers?

Chuck:...Look, will you help me or not?

Vi: I'm not doing any pulling. At least not for free.

Kabbu: Hm. Watch this, Vi. If I press |button,5| near small bushes or rocks...

Vi: Woah! Nice.

Kabbu: Something like this is no match for my horn!

Chuck: I'll be! You actually helped me! This made my week!

Vi: You've got a reward ready, right?

Kabbu: But Vi! Helping others is already its own reward.

(minibubble) Kabbu: And you didn't do anything.

Vi: It's really, really not.

Chuck: Hohohoh. No worries. Helpful bugs deserve gratitude! I ain't got much, but please take this.

Vi: Berries, so many berries!

Chuck: Use 'em to buy something nice later, alright?

Kabbu: Thank you, we surely will. We'll be going now. Make sure to warn others of the danger!

[Ch 1, trying to go through to Chuck’s Abode or back the way you came]

Kabbu: Where are you going? Snakemouth is through the north west!

Vi: Uh, yeah. I knew that.

[Overworld spy, pre-snakemouth completion]

Kabbu: This is one of the Ant Kingdom's outskirts.

Vi: You know what it's not? Snakemouth Den. Let's go!

Snakemouth Way, Corridor

[Overworld spy]

Kabbu: There are spiked bushes everywhere.

Kabbu: I should be able to cut through these with ease.

Vi: Just watch yourself. I don't want to patch you up if you get hurt!

Snakemouth Way, Outside Snakemouth

[Story, first entrance]

Kabbu: This is it. Snakemouth Den.

Vi: It doesn't look that scary, you know?

Kabbu: According to rumors I have heard, it is the grave of a thousand explorers.

Kabbu: Having ended countless journeys, many a song have been written about its dangers.

Vi: F-For real?

Kabbu: Its interior must be absolutely riddled with monsters and death traps. We must be extremely cautious.

Vi: Geez, way to sell it to me, Kabbu.

Vi: But the higher the danger, the better the treasure!

Kabbu: Hm. It's true that the artifact is likely to be inside. But are simple riches worth such a risk to you?

Vi: Stop trying to scare me off. Let's get in there!

Kabbu: (...I must make sure she stays safe.)

[Overworld spy]

Kabbu: Snakemouth Den... The grave of a thousand explorers. Ender of…

Vi: Look, I get that it's scary.

Vi: You don't have to say the whole thing every time.

Kabbu: Yes, I must! Anyone going in must be aware of the danger!

Vi: Just get a move on.

Snakemouth Den, Bridge Room

[Story, First entrance]

Kabbu: There is much more light here. This room must be quite near the cracked ceiling. What a surprisingly cozy entrance!

Vi: Uh huh...Hey, Kabbu? Do you really have to comment on every small thing?

Kabbu:!!! I...I'm sorry.

Vi: H-Hey, don't look so sad! Err, how about this?

Vi: If I wanna know more about where we are, or about something or someone near us...I'll just tap |button,9|. Sounds good?

Kabbu:...Very well. I will make sure to have information at hand for when you do.

Vi: Cool. Now, let's keep going!

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: Snakemouth Den is quite dangerous, but this room's quite cozy.

Vi: Let's go before you jinx it!

[Story, Walking up to bridge]

Kabbu: The bridge seems to be out. How are we going to cross?

Vi: Well, that's it. Game over. Let's go back.

Kabbu: Wait, Vi. Hold on! It's too soon to give up! There must be a way…

Vi: Duh. I was kidding, you know? Look over there!

Vi: It's one of those ancient switches! We just need to hit it!

Kabbu: You can just fly over to it, right?

Vi: That's too much effort. I've got a better plan.

Vi: My mighty Beemerang! I just need to get in front with |button,6| and press |button,5| to throw it!

(minibubble) Kabbu: That again?

Kabbu: I will trust you with this, then. Give it your best shot!

[open bridge]

Kabbu: Well done, Vi. I wasn't expecting you to do that!

Vi: Um, yeah! Of course! Just as planned!

Kabbu: Let's continue. I am glad to have a reliable partner.

(minibubble) Vi: Super reliable!

[initial sign reading]

Vi: "Leave this place, for beyond this point lies great danger."

Vi: "We have already lost one of ours to this wretched place…"

Kabbu: Curses! This coziness was an illusion. Our path won't be easy, that much is for sure.

Vi: No place full of treasure's ever been safe.

Kabbu: So many have fallen looking for riches... Let's find the treasure quickly, so no one else ventures in here.

Kabbu: (I will do this for them.)

Snakemouth Den, Door Room

[Overworld Spy, before falling]

Kabbu: We've reached a dead end.

Vi: But it's ancient ruins, so not really.

Kabbu: Right. If we leave no stone unturned, we will open a path!

[Story, Complete puzzle]

Kabbu: A mushroom?

Vi: What!? We did all this for THAT!?

Vi: Seriously? It wasn't even a rare item. Heck, it wasn't even a rare mushroom!

Vi: Who designed this place!? I will sting them in the face! I'll tear the place DOWN!

Kabbu: Come now, Vi. Unfortunate as it may be, let's pick it up and start looking again!

(minibubble)Vi: Grr!!!

[Pick up mushroom]

Kabbu: Huh? What?

Kabbu: IYAAAAAAAAAAAA-

Vi: Phew. That was close.

(minibubble) Kabbu: Hrgrgh...

Vi: Kabbu! Are you okay!?

(minibubble) Kabbu: Mrggfgh...

Vi: I guess he is. Hmm…

Vi: This is the perfect time to go home. I don't like the look of that place...

Vi: But I'm his reliable teammate…

Vi: ...I'm going to regret this…

Snakemouth Den, Fall Room

[Story, initial entrance]

Kabbu: Nghgh…

Vi: No rush. I can wait.

Kabbu: Oof! I am lucky this mushroom broke my fall.

Vi: I would have carried you, but you seem really heavy…

Kabbu: I assure you I am lighter than I seem.

(minibubble)Vi: Uh huh.

Vi: Anyways, this place is really creepy.

Kabbu: I must agree. And there doesn't seem to be a way back up for me. We will have to look around.

Vi: Let's be careful, okay? You were almost a goner!

[Overworld Spy, before rescuing Leif]

Kabbu: We're trapped. Well, I am.

Kabbu: How shameful, to make Vi come to such a dangerous place.

Vi: Look, I can take care of myself. Don't make me regret coming with you.

Kabbu: Sorry, I shouldn't undermine your choice. Let's press forward!

[Story, walk up to web]

Vi: Yikes... Is that a moth?

Kabbu: By the Queen! What a terrible fate... A moment of silence, in solidarity for a fallen explorer.

Leif: ...

Leif: Zzz...

Vi: WAIT! HE'S ALIVE!

Kabbu: Quick! We must free him!

Vi: Okay, I'm just going to see if the Beemerang can cut through web…

Kabbu: I will make sure there are no other surviv-

Kabbu: Vi! Watch out!

Vi: A... A... A spider…

Kabbu: How could a beast so huge sneak up on us!?

Vi: Kabbu! We've got to run! Treasure ain't worth this!

Kabbu: It's not that! We can't abandon this poor moth to his fate!

Vi: I...I...

Kabbu: Vi! Vi, wait! Curses!

Kabbu: This has to be some cruel irony… However, I can't give up, even if I'm alone!

[fight leave]

Kabbu: I-It's too much by myself, after all...

Kabbu: Everyone, I...I failed. You wasted your hopes on me…

Kabbu: Vi!?

Vi: Look, I-

Kabbu: By the holy jaws of the Queen, Vi! You left me to my fate! You are vile!

Vi: H-Hey! I was going to apologize! And I came back, right?

Vi: You pushed me away from the web, but I still left, so I'm-

Kabbu: I will properly scold you later. The situation is dire, but I've got a plan.

Kabbu: We will attack the web holding the moth while battling the spider.

Vi: And we bail when we free him?

Kabbu: Precisely. Except we'll run together, this time. Without leaving anyone behind.

(minibubble) Vi: I apologized already!

Vi: H-Here it comes. Let's do this!

[post-battle]

Vi: Alright! We did it!

Kabbu: Begone, wretched beast!

Vi: Kabbu! I'm done here!

(minibubble) Kabbu: Well done!

Vi: Let's get outta here!!!

Kabbu: Leave us alone already, monster!

(minibubble)Kabbu: Huff... Huff...

Vi: Gee, glad it's too fat to come in here.

Vi: Um, Kabbu? Sorry for running away…

Kabbu: ...Sigh. Very well. You are forgiven, Vi. It was understandable.

Vi: Took you long enough! Most people would be crying at getting rescued!

(minibubble) Kabbu: …

(minibubble) Leif: Cough cough

Kabbu: Let's turn over a new leaf, Vi. This moth is our priority.

(minibubble) Vi: …!

Kabbu: You're awake!

Leif: …

Leif: ...Mjaj? Ajeukx, yrdiuf. ...Ghsiaoenbx?

Vi: What the... Hey! You okay? You hit your head?

Leif: Jsgsn. Sjaika? Hsjaosidjs...?

Kabbu: Could this moth be speaking in an ancient tongue? Perhaps he is of the fabled tribes lurking underground.

Leif:...N-no. We can speak Bugnish.

Vi: Do you need like, a minute?

Leif:......No.

Leif: We are fine now.

Kabbu: Thank goodness, you had us quite worried.

Leif: Where are we? Where is the spider?

Kabbu: Right...let's get you up to speed.

Leif: Truly? It seems we owe our life to you, Vi.

(minibubble) Kabbu: Seriously!?

Vi: No big deal. It sucks that we're trapped, though.

Kabbu: Were you looking for treasure as well, alongside fellow explorers? Err, what's your name?

Leif: Leif is fine. And somewhat. A scouting mission, in fact.

Vi: You've got some luck to be alive... Did you learn anything scouting? About the artifact?

Leif: Artifact? If it is here, it's probably ahead.

Kabbu: If we work together, we will surely find both it and the exit!

Leif: We have little choice. We will accompany you.

Kabbu: Can you fight?

Leif: ...Not really part of scouting.

Vi: Seriously!? You came into this place without knowing how to fight!?

Kabbu: Make sure to stay behind us, so we can protect you.

Leif: How reassuring.

Vi: Ok. We've spent too much time here. Let's look for the exit!

[Overworld Spy, post-Leif rescue]

Kabbu: This is that blasted spider's den.

Kabbu: I really don't want to stay here any longer.

Vi: No kidding. Can we just go?

[trying to walk back the way you came, ch 1]

Vi: You wanna get eaten by the spider!? We're not going back!

Snakemouth Den, Lake

[Overworld Spy, pre-Leif magic]

Kabbu: This room seems surprisingly straightforward.

Vi: No issues here. I needed a break from all the death traps.

Leif: It's a good chance to stretch our legs.

Kabbu: Leif. If you need to take a break, let us know. Vi will carry you.

Vi: That is not happening.

Leif: Oh, the fatigue, it kicks in...

Vi: I said it's not happening!

[first look at the tablet signs, in any room]

Vi: What a weird tablet. It’s written in an even weirder language…

Kabbu: It seems to be ancient script.

Leif: Hmm… These letters look familiar to us. We should be able to decipher it.

Leif: Let us check it again.

[Story, walk by exit]

Kabbu: Nice work, everyon-

Kabbu: Leif! Watch out!

Vi: What the heck!?

Kabbu: By the great antcestors... what kind of sorcery is that!?

Leif: We, uh, are unsure? This is new.

Vi: You seriously expect us to believe that!?

Leif: We mean it, it's the truth.

Kabbu: Magic's no common feat. There are less than ten known sorcerers in history!

Vi: You're not some criminal with a HUGE bounty, are you?

Leif: You seriously believe that?

Kabbu: We will talk later. I take it you can fight now?

Leif: We'll try.

[battle]

Kabbu: Wait, everyone.

Kabbu: Now that we're a trio, let me share a useful technique.

Kabbu: With turn relay, picked from the colorful flower…

Kabbu: One of us can lend our turn to another.

Leif: How is that useful? It sounds tedious.

Kabbu: Well, for example, we could let Vi attack twice to knock down flying enemies.

Vi: Heh. You should let me attack three times! I'll take them all on!

Kabbu: You shouldn't abuse it like that, though.

Kabbu: The exhaustion will reduce your attack power by 1 every time you act in a round.

Vi: Grr. Fine.

Leif: Well, it sounds mildly useful... We'll try it out.

Kabbu: Now, on your guard!

[post-battle]

Kabbu: Goodness, that magic isn't a joke.

Leif: It's pretty cool.

Kabbu: If you truly couldn't do it before, this den is hiding more secrets than I first thought.

Vi: Everything's just too suspicious. I don't believe Leif yet.

Leif: We're telling the truth. If we had ice magic, that accursed spider wouldn't have caught us.

Kabbu: I say, let's focus on getting out alive. We can collect our thoughts when we're safe.

Leif: Very well. If you need us to freeze anything, press |button,5| while we are leading.

Vi: I guess it's fine for now. Onward! I can almost smell the treasure!

[Overworld Spy, post-Leif magic event]

Leif: The spores in this room are quite nice.

Vi: Yep. Blue and pretty.

Vi: Like that convenient ice magic you pulled off here.

Kabbu: It's made you more than formidable at combat.

Vi: If anything, it'll be easier to get out now.

Kabbu: Indeed. If we stick together, we should be able to do it.

Leif: As long as we can keep control over it...

Snakemouth Den, Underground Door

[Story, first entrance]

Vi: EEP!

Vi: It's not funny! I'm all soaked now!

Kabbu: S-Sorry, Vi. I couldn't help it. It seems the ceiling's dripping…

Vi: Ugh, why is there so much water in here!? Under us, above us…it doesn't make sense!

Leif: Hm. This is good, though.

Kabbu: What do you mean?

Leif: If it's water...

Leif: Then it can be frozen.

Kabbu: Impressive! If you can do that, it opens a lot of options for us!

Kabbu: I bet I can push them with my horn, as well.

Vi: That's pretty cool, Leif!

Leif: Mhm. Enemies, the water around us... Even though they seem like obstacles, we can exploit them for our own benefit.

Kabbu: Let's give your ice magic a try on all we can find.

[Overworld Spy, pre-door opening]

Vi: This room is gigantic!

Kabbu: Indeed. It's hard to know where to go.

Leif: When in doubt, go left.

Vi: No way, right is right!

Kabbu: Given the way this cave has been laid out…

Kabbu: I believe we will have to go both ways.

Leif: What a drag…

Vi: No joke. Let's rest up and then explore some more!

[First examine of the roach statue sign, during story]

Leif: The craftmanship on this statue is pretty good. Compared to everything else, at least.

Kabbu: That it is. It's a shame this monument outlived its creators.

Vi: Yeah. You only hear about roaches in folk tales nowadays…

Leif: Pardon? When did the roaches disappear?

Vi: A bit before I was born, I think.

Leif: So pretty recently?

(minibubble) Vi: HEY!

Kabbu: It was indeed quite a recent event. No one knows for sure the how or why, however.

Vi: This is depressing talk. We should really find a way out!

Leif: (...This can't be right...)

[Overworld Spy, post-door opening]

Leif: The door's open. Hopefully there's not another trapdoor…

Kabbu: The one before got you as well?

Leif: Yeah... We fell straight unto the floor. The rest is history.

Kabbu: (Not a mushroom...?)

Vi: Okay. I'll go check it out first.

Vi: If there's another trap, I can just fly out of it!

Kabbu: Heh. Thank you, Vi.

Snakemouth Den, Underground Right A

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: This place is full of switches, how impractical.

Vi: Must've sucked to live here.

Kabbu: The residents probably didn't frequent this area. It's most likely security for the giant door.

Leif: A giant door wasn't secure enough?

Vi: Well, whatever. If they're guarding it that much... there's got to be something valuable behind it!

Snakemouth Den, Underground Right B

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: This level of security is excessive.

Vi: My Beemerang's paint is getting ruined from hitting all those switches!

Kabbu: It's quite the impressive trinket. I half expected it to break, but it's so reliable!

Leif: Good, cuz Vi's pretty puny.

Vi: What was that!? You wanna go back into the spider web!?

Kabbu: ...We're almost at the end. Please keep your fights for when we get out.

[hitting the big crystal switch]

Kabbu: Is everyone alright?

Leif: Did we cause the tremor?

Vi: I guess. It was a pretty big switch.

Kabbu: We must have made progress in unlocking the door. Let’s keep going!

[hitting the second switch]

Vi: Alright! That’s two switches!

Leif: Pretty sure the door should be open now.

Kabbu: Good! Let’s make our way back to the door!

Snakemouth Den, Underground Left A

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: Hey, I see some geysers!

Kabbu: Weird, I thought geysers were supposed to be hot, yet this room is very cool.

Kabbu: This place is very strange.

Leif: At least we should be able to freeze them.

Vi: Yeah, and maybe ice cubes won't melt when touching them!

Kabbu: Hm. The possibilities we could do with those two pieces of knowledge together…

Snakemouth Den, Underground Left B

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: This room is really tall, isn't it?

Vi: How does this even fit in this cave?

Kabbu: That trapdoor we fell through must have been deceptively deep.

Vi: Hmm... are we really going to be able to get out of here?

Vi: Not to be a downer or anything. I'm just kind of worried.

Leif: Thinking about it isn't going to change anything.

Kabbu: ...Leif is right. Our only choice is to push forward. That is our only way to get out.

Vi: Yeah. You're right. Sorry about that.

Vi: Let's keep going!

Snakemouth Den, Mushroom Pit

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: There's so many cool mushrooms! I wonder how much they'd sell for.

Leif: They aren't that special.

Kabbu: Hmm. Don't be cranky, Leif.

Kabbu: There are quite a bit of bouncy shrooms in here.

Kabbu: We can fly as high as our hearts wish to! Soar to UNSEEN HEIGHTS!

Vi: Uh... Are you okay there, Kabbu?

Kabbu: Y-Yes, I apologize. I got excited.

Leif: Let's put that energy into our goal.

Snakemouth Den, Treasure Room

[Overworld Spy, pre-battle]

Kabbu: By Venus! Have we finally…

Vi: It's the treasure room! We did it! We super ultra mega did it! Yeah!

Leif: It's too early to celebrate.

Kabbu: Leif is right. This place has been consistently dangerous. We must stay vigilant.

Vi: Last one to the treasure is a FAT STINKBUG!

Kabbu: Fat!? V-Vi, wait!

Leif: …

[Story, walk towards pedestal]

Kabbu: Could this be the artifact? Some sort of mask?

Vi: It doesn't really seem special. Or valuable.

Leif: Sueska? Mijrelf ytrik...

Vi: L-Leif?!

Kabbu: Are you alright!?

Leif: Y-Yes... This mask has very potent magic. We reacted strongly to it…

Kabbu: That settles it, then. This is probably the real artifact.

Vi: Dibs. Leif shouldn't touch it anyways.

Kabbu: The Queen has claimed it already, Vi.

(minibubble) Leif: The Queen...

Vi: Yeah, yeah. Whatever.

Textbox: You have found the Ancient Mask!

(minibubble) Vi: Eep!

(minibubble) Kabbu: What!?

(minibubble) Leif: Oh dear.

Kabbu: Curses! It's a trap!

Vi: We need to leave!

(minibubble) Leif: And quickly.

Spuder: SCREEEE!!!

Kabbu: YOU!

Vi: S-Seriously!? The spider!?

Kabbu: This is the worst possible timing!

Leif: We disagree. It's the perfect time for payback!

Leif: If it won't let us escape, we might as well defeat it.

Vi: B-But last time we had to run!

Kabbu: We are stronger now, Vi. And Leif is with us. Some battles we cannot run from!

Vi: G-Gah! Alright! Let's take it out, before the room floods!

[Post-Battle]

Kabbu: We... We did it! For real this time!

Kabbu: Heheheh... Hahahaha!

Kabbu: We really did it! What a scare...but working together, we were victorious!

Kabbu: We did it…

Leif: Thank you. We don't know much of what's happened to us. But beating up that spider was great stress relief.

Vi: No problem! I was gonna beat it up anyways!

Vi: And we got the treasure, too!

Kabbu: C-Curses! We forgot about the flood!

Leif: We should probably leave while we can.

Vi: ...Aw, heck.

All: Aaaaaaaaaaah!

Golden Path, River

Kabbu: Ngh... What...

Kabbu: Vi! Leif! Are you alright!?

Vi: Ugh! I'm all soaked!!!

Vi: Cripes, we really got lucky.

Kabbu: I'm a bit hazy... We got the artifact...then that spider attacked.

Vi: Eep! The artifact! I dropped it!

Leif: …

Vi: Leif! Did you grab the artifact!?

Kabbu: Seriously, Vi!? Worry about the artifact later! Let's make sure Leif is okay first!

Leif: *Cough*. Next time, we'll just freeze the whole dumb river.

Kabbu: Phew. I'm so relieved to see you well.

Vi: So? Did you catch the artifact or…

Leif: Uh, the artifact... It's over there.

Vi: Alrighty! Not a scratch!

Leif: Your concern is touching, Vi.

Vi: Oh, drop it. You look super fine!

Kabbu: Well, at least we've completed our mission!

Kabbu: Uff. We're going to need a good rest.

Vi: After we figure out where we are…

Leif: If we recall, this is close to the Ant Kingdom. We should get back to the city pretty quickly.

Leif: ...It's nice to feel the sun again. It'll be good to go back.

Kabbu: Honestly, Vi may be raving about the artifact. But saving you is the true victory in my eyes.

Leif: Um, thanks?

Vi: Geez, calm down over there! Let's report to the Queen and get our reward!

Leif: (Elizant…)

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: This place is a bit...unkempt.

Kabbu: This used to be the popular route to the Golden Hills, but the northern path is preferred nowadays.

Vi: Eh, at least it's a quiet place. No issues with me!

Explorer’s Association

Eetl: Oh! It's you guys!

Eetl: Oh Goddesses! You're alright! I couldn't stop worrying, ever since you left!

Kabbu: It was a...rocky journey. What with the flood.

Vi: No kidding! I don't wanna see rivers for a while!

Leif: We're glad to finally be out of there, at least.

Eetl: Rivers!? You're some lucky bugs!!!

Eetl: But uh...Vi, Kabbu, who's this?

Kabbu: Oh! Eetl, this is Leif. We found him trapped in Snakemouth.

Eetl: So you DID make it into Snakemouth!?

Eri: Honestly, we thought you'd bail. Going to Snakemouth is crazy!

Leif: Bailing would've been a good idea, really…

Vi: Well, we did! And we got the artifact!

Eetl: Ah haha! Nice one, Vi. The river must have shaken up your hea-

Eetl: I-Impossible! You actually made it into Snakemouth's depths!?

Vi: Yeah! We did it! In your face, Eetl!

Leif: How sportsbuglike.

Kabbu: Vi, it is folly to boast.

Vi: It's folly to tell me I can't do something!

Gen: Um, so is it like, the real deal?

Eetl: Yeah. It's quite like another artifact we've been looking into. That must be the genuine deal.

Eetl: (...It's just like Neolith was saying…)

Kabbu: Hmm?

Eetl: I was just thinking that you should go see the Queen right away! She will be beyond ecstatic!

Leif: It has been some time since we last saw the Queen…

Leif: ...Wait. Actually, looking around, we don't recognize that structure over there. Was it built recently?

Eetl: What, you mean the association? It has been there for many moons!

(minibubble) Leif: ...?

Eetl: You are not from around here, are you?

Leif: We are. We recognize this place. But something feels off…

Vi: You're just fuzzy from the cave! I bet it'll come back to you!

(minibubble) Leif: (…)

Kabbu: Eetl, what about Leif? I heard that exploration teams can only have two members.

Eetl: Oh, that! Well, it's unusual. But you did conquer Snakemouth. It's been a goal for ages…

(minibubble) Leif: (...Ages?)

Eetl: I suppose that... Alright. With my authority as the association's caretaker, in honor of your feat…

Eetl: I grant you, Team Snakemouth, the perk of being able to have three members!

Kabbu: Team Snakemouth?

Vi: A proper explorer team name!

Leif: Uh, yay.

Eetl: Well, that's that! Let's go see the Queen! She must know that the artifact was found!

Gen: Oh, I'm so jealous! I hope the reward is good!

Vi: Heheh. It better be!

Kabbu: Let us go, then.

Leif: Yes, a walk through the plaza should help.

Leif: (We need more information...)

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: Ah, it's nice to be back in the outskirts.

Kabbu: Indeed. It's a relief to return to the association safely.

Leif: Was this area built pretty recently?

Vi: Uh...I haven't been out here that long, so I don't really know.

Kabbu: Regardless, it makes me pretty nostalgic.

Kabbu: Back then, everyone thought Vi was a small helpless child!

Vi: Stop! This nostalgia trip is over!

Leif: ...

[trying to go anywhere but towards the Queen with Eetl]

Eetl: Hey! Where are you going?! The city is through the north!

Vi: We know! We know!

[Spy Artis]

Kabbu: That's Artis the Mantis. He is the accountant of the association, and someone who loves challenges.

Kabbu: I've heard he gives prizes to members that have accomplished difficult tasks recently.

Vi: By the time we're done, he won't have any prizes left to give out!

[first talk]

Gen: Hey, Team Snakemouth!

Eri: You had Gen and I worried, you know? Good to see you up and running!

Leif: ...The river was not pleasant.

Vi: Yeah, we got super lucky…

Kabbu: Thank you for your concern!

Eri: Concern is the least we can show.

Gen: Your team is so reliable...maybe we'll have to ask for help sometime!

Vi: Mmm...maybe. For a good reward!

Kabbu: ...Nonsense, Vi. Fellow explorers have our help anytime!

Eri: Awesome! I promise we'll ask if we ever need help.

Leif: Sure…

Vi: You're gonna bankrupt us, Kabbu.

Vi: But meh. Time to go questing again!

Leif: Let's stay away from rivers...

[Spy Gen or Eri after talking]

Leif: Gen and Eri seem a bit unreliable.

Vi: It's good to know they have our back, though!

Kabbu: Indeed. This camaraderie is what being an explorer is all about!

[Spy Cricketly]

Kabbu: Cricketly's one of the members of the traveling caravan. I've heard she is pretty hot-headed.

Vi: No kidding, you can already tell by her looks!

Kabbu: She does have a soft spot for her husband, though.

Kabbu: It seems we shouldn't judge people by their appearances.

[Spy Huscada]

Kabbu: Huscada's one of the members of the traveling caravan.

Kabbu: He is always managing trades and sometimes calming his wife down.

Vi: How did someone like him end up with a hot-headed cricket like her anyway?

Kabbu: Vi, we shouldn't pry into other people's affairs!

Kabbu: ...Even if I am curious about that too.

[Spy Dib or Leby]

Kabbu: These two truly embody sibling squabbles.

Vi: That's because she keeps acting like he's a kid!

Vi: He's super able to do whatever he wants!

Leif: Vi, we can't help but feel you're being biased.

Vi: Hmph. Think what you want.

Ant Kingdom, Main Plaza

Eetl: Alright, everyone. The palace is through that gate ahead.

(minibubble) Leif: (It's… the same… ...but different… Even the walls look older...)

Vi: Let's hurry it up, then! It's big reward time!

Kabbu: Ready to go, Leif? You seem a bit pale.

Leif: You don't need to worry. Let's go...

Ann: I wish I could just make Fry cook Honey for dinner every night…

Leif: Mmm. Agreed. Maybe we should give him two honey drops instead of one.

Vi: D-Don't do that! It's dangerous!

Kabbu: What harm could some more honey do?

Vi: Look. Don't ask me. Just don't do it.

[Spy Ann]

Kabbu: Oh, Ann! She grows every time I see her!

Kabbu: She's such a great bug - she listens to all my stories without complaining!

Leif: That sounded really sad.

Vi: We're not being...too mean to Kabbu, are we?

[Spy Pillbug]

Kabbu: This is a Pillbug.

Kabbu: Its tiny, round and docile nature makes it a very popular pet.

Leif: A pet, huh…

Kabbu: Pillbugs are also obedient, and simply adorable!

Leif: Maybe we could…

Vi: Don't even think about it. We're not getting one!

[Spy Tod]

Vi: Tod's growing big and strong!

Kabbu: He's such an adorable kid!

Leif: So small. To think we looked like that, once.

Kabbu: You must've been cute as a baby, Leif.

(minibubble) Vi: I'm not walking into this one. I must preserve my cute baby image!

Kabbu: I can easily imagine a small, grumpy, sleepy Leif.

Leif: ...And you must have been a chubby whiner, Kabbu.

[Spy Janet]

Kabbu: This Ant...I've never seen her before!

Kabbu: Or maybe I have? She seems to have no characteristics to make her stand out.

Leif: How tactful.

Vi: That's Janet, Kabbu. Remember?

Kabbu: By the holy spikes of Venus! I forgot Janet!

Leif: So cruel, Kabbu. So cruel.

Kabbu: I...I must go apologize...

[Spy Guard]

Vi: I think this is Ant Guard...seven?

Vi: Ant Guard number four used to occupy this post, but management must have switched them around.

Kabbu: She probably won't have an issue with us, well behaved as most of us are.

Vi: I heard that!

Ant Palace, Bridge

Maki: Oh, if it isn't Eetl. Vi and Kabbu too.

Eetl: Maki! Perfect timing!

Maki: The news spread quickly. So, you two succeeded? You conquered Snakemouth?

Maki: You've made a friend, even…

(minibubble) Leif:...

Vi: You bet we did! You were all worried for nothing!

Maki: It seems my intuition was correct. I'm quite relieved…

Maki: I have arranged a meeting with the Queen for you. She is expecting us right now.

Eetl: Well, since Maki is going with you, I guess it's back to work for me.

Kabbu: Thank you for accompanying us, Eetl.

Maki: No problem. Stay out of trouble, alright?

Maki: Well then, let us go. Lead the way!

[Spy Ant]

Kabbu: This Ant is always here, looking at the palace.

Vi: Doesn't she have anything better to do?

Leif: You're one to talk.

[Spy either Ant Guard]

Leif: Standing watch over the castle every day…

Vi: Must get super boring, right? Right?

Kabbu: Now, you two. All honest work is good work.

Leif: Easy for you to say. You spend the whole day exploring.

Vi: Yeah. I'd like to see you try being a receptionist!

Kabbu: I-If it is to make ends meet...I would endure...!

[Overworld Spy, regular]

Kabbu: What an impressive view. I am glad we are enjoying it together.

Leif: It's impressive how well the palace stood the test of time.

Vi: ...I wonder if the Hive's been remodeled, or something…

Ant Palace, Main Room

Left Door Guard: Halt. Only palace dwellers are allowed beyond this point. Have a good day.

Vi: Geez. I wanted to get mad, but she was way too polite!

Right Door Guard: Only palace dwellers are allowed beyond this point. Get out.

Vi: What's her problem!?

[Story, walking in with Maki]

Ant Lieutenant: Maki. There you are. You know the Queen hates waiting.

Kabbu: Please forgive us for the delay.

Vi: We're ready, though!

Maki: Then you wouldn't mind if we stepped right in?

Leif: No objections. The sooner we answer our doubts, the better.

Guard: That'll do. Let us proceed, then.

Ant Palace, Throne Room

Lieutenant: You now stand before Your Majesty, Queen Elizant II.

Leif: (So it's true.)

Elizant: Hmm. So you're the brave ones who've found the Snakemouth Artifact?

Elizant:...Wonderful. So very wonderful!

Elizant: Lieutenant, you are dismissed. You have your own business to attend to.

(minibubble) Lieutenant: As you wish, my Queen.

Elizant: Time is precious. Let us not waste it. The artifact. You may hand it over.

Textbox: Reward first!

Meh. Fine.

Elizant: Ah... A clue into the Everlasting Sapling my mother spent her life looking for…

Elizant: Such beauty. Beauty which should belong to the Ant Kingdom...

Zaryant: Here, you've earned this.

Vi: W-Woah! This is a ton!

Elizant: Brave explorers! You've performed a valiant task. Your place in the history of our kingdom is assured.

Maki: Congratulations. It is praise well-earned!

Kabbu: O-Of course! Thank you, Your Highness!

Vi: Heheh. First bee in the hall of fame!

Leif: Uh. Thanks. Could we ask something, though?

Elizant: I suppose we could afford time for one question. What would it be?

Ant Guard: YOUR HIGHNESS!!!

Zaryant: What? What is this fuss about!?

Ant Guard: U-urgent news! Confidential information! It's about... that!

Elizant: That, you say? Come hither.

Elizant: !!! I see...

Elizant: Maki. I leave you to your mission. While you're at it, inform Artis that the next expedition is confirmed.

Maki: Of course. I shall move out at once, Your Highness.

Elizant: You three...I'll bless you with a head start. Zaryant, brief them about the Golden Hills expedition.

Zaryant: Heed me. Reports state that an ancient artifact lurks in the Golden Hills.

Zaryant: This is a small rural settlement behind our kingdom. It can be reached through a tunnel south from the Explorers' Association.

Vi: Uh, isn't that Bee Kingdom territory?

Elizant: Do not dare interrupt us again, child.

Elizant: The Bee Kingdom is our close ally. They are, of course, aware of our expedition.

Elizant: Now... Talk to the locals, obtain information, and seize the artifact. No matter the cost.

Elizant: Have you understood my command?

[Of course!]

Zaryant: Alright then. Take this map, just in case. Although, I'd hope you know how to head south...

Leif: Err, thanks. So, about our question…

Elizant: Whatever it was, I am sure it can wait. This is of utmost importance. Head out!

(minibubble) Leif: Tch...

Zaryant: Do not make Your Majesty repeat herself. Move out!

Vi: Geez, alright. Let's go!

Kabbu: Indeed. It'd be unwise to anger our Queen...

Textbox: Chapter 2: Sacred Golden Hills

Leif: …

Zaryant: You three! Stop bothering the Queen and go!

(minibubble) Vi: Geez…

[Spy Elizant, post-first meeting]

Leif: ...Elizant II…

Vi: You probably shouldn't keep staring.

Kabbu: It was a long briefing. You'll have a chance to speak to her later!

[Spy Zaryant]

Kabbu: Zaryant... The royal guard is truly an imposing figure.

Leif: With a name like that, it's like it was decided from birth…

Vi: I mean, wasn't it? Ants are weird…

Kabbu: I'm not an expert, but she does seem quite different. Maybe it's genetics?

Leif: We're probably better off not knowing.

[Spy Ant Guard]

Kabbu: It seems this ant guards the throne room's entrance.

Vi: Woah, she looks grumpy!

Leif: Looks like she's never had any fun in her life.

Kabbu: Y-You're both being too harsh...

[Overworld spy]

Leif: The throne room hasn't changed, but the atmosphere's completely different.

Vi: What d'ya mean?

Leif: It's a bit somber. They've covered some of the other Queens, too…

Kabbu: Bugaria's history isn't perfect. It's a shame that there have been issues between the kingdoms.

Vi: That'd be weird. Going from full peace to nowadays.

Leif: (History can prove cruel…)

[Spy Elizant, between leaving the first meeting and ch6]

Leif: ...Elizant II…

Vi: You probably shouldn't keep staring.

Kabbu: Leif, she may not be perfect, but she's trying.

Leif: Our respect is something she must earn, as did the late Queen.

Vi: Okay, okay. But stop staring, before they jail us!

Leif: (It's that fear which separates them...)

Ant Palace, Main Room

Vi: Alright! We did it! Look at all these berries! Heheh…

Kabbu: Hehe. I got a big scare earlier, but I have to admit... We did really well!

Vi: We've got to celebrate! Maybe in the Golden Hills festival!

Kabbu: T-That's right! How fortunate that our expedition would line up with such an occasion!

Leif: …

Vi: Uh, Leif? You could pretend to be happy or something.

Leif: Vi...Kabbu... May we confess something?

Kabbu: Hm?

Leif: When our team left for Snakemouth…

Leif: The Queen was Elizant the First.

Vi: WHAT!?

Kabbu: W-What!? Leif, that is not possible!

Vi: Y-Yeah! I wasn't even born when the new Queen took the throne!

Leif: It's… it's the truth.

Leif: The plaza has changed, there's a new Queen, we can't find our team anywhere…

Leif: We've been trapped for...decades? We don't even know.

Leif: We hoped we were just fuzzy, but walking around has confirmed it.

Kabbu: Leif...!

Leif: And this new Queen, she rubs us the wrong wa-

Vi: S-Shh! You can't just say that in here!

Leif: Elizant the First was kind and understanding... This new Queen doesn't quite live up to her.

(minibubble) Vi: ...

(minibubble) Kabbu: ...

Leif: ...Sorry. Too much has happened. We didn't get a chance to ask anything, either.

Vi: Yikes, what should we do? This isn't normal at all…

Kabbu: Leif...

(minibubble) Leif: ...

Kabbu: I cannot understand the pain you are feeling. Probably there is no one who can.

Kabbu: But come with us. Maybe as we explore, we'll find the truth behind what has happened to you!

(minibubble) Leif: The truth...

Vi: Uh, yeah! Maybe there's clues around, or something…

Leif: ...Alright. Once again, we're left with little choice. You're fun to be around, at least.

Vi: Well, yeah!

Kabbu: Thank you, Leif. Together, we conquered Snakemouth…

Kabbu: And together, we will figure this out!

Leif: For now, let's focus on this mission. We'll be okay.

Vi: Alright! Let's head on south, for clues and glory!

(minibubble) Kabbu: (Leif...)

[Overworld spy]

Kabbu: The palace... I was fortunate to be born in a time when explorers can visit it.

Leif: True. Back then, the Queen had to personally extend an invite…

Vi: Oooh. Did you get to visit, Leif?

Leif: Yeah. We were one of the first non-Ant teams willing to explore…

Leif: Although we all know how that turned out.

Kabbu: S-Sorry.

Leif: It's okay. Shall we go?

[Spy either door guard]

Leif: Now that's a big door.

Vi: I bet there's huge treasure on the other side!

Kabbu: Hmm...not quite. Ants have their own society isolated within this anthill.

Kabbu: There are probably housings and other structures for them to come back to after a hard day of work.

Leif: There's probably a lot of hoarded food, too.

Vi: Not listening. I'm not giving up on my big treasure dreams!

[Spy Ant Lieutenant]

Vi: The laiu... lieu... the ant captain's really cool!

Kabbu: Lieutenant, Vi.

Vi: ...As I was saying, pretty cool!

Kabbu: Maki, Zaryant... The Queen has quite a dependable ensemble.

Leif: We just hope they follow out of more than obligation.

[Spy Miner Ant]

Vi: Hmmmmmmm…

Kabbu: Um, what is it, Vi?

Vi: This is a miner ant, right?

Leif: Seems like it.

Vi: But she's not mining at all! She's just guiding people to the mine!

Vi: It's like studying to be a chef, but having to work at the bank!

Leif: You've made us feel a bit sorry for her…

Kabbu: Don't be like that, you two. Maybe she doesn't even like mining, and this is her dream job! Guess we'll never know...

Ant Palace, Library

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: This is the Library! A sea of knowledge! History in page form!

Vi: Meeeeeeeeeh…

Leif: We have a lot of catching up to do. Wonder if there's magic books, too…

[Spy Libren or Brooke]

Vi: These two are like night and day, huh.

Leif: We can relate to Brooke's angry power reading aura.

Kabbu: Oh, then I'm Libren's joyful search for new stories!

Vi: You're both just nerds.

[First talk]

Libren: Hey, explorers! It's so good that you've dropped by!

Leif: Uh huh. We're looking for this book - "The 20 Ways of-

Libren: W-Wait! That's Brooke's job!

Libren: I'm the head of the Explorer Fact Hunt!

Vi: You...hunt facts? You can't smack facts…

Libren: …

Kabbu: Please tell us more!

Libren: Right. Yay! Look, it's simple. This world is filled with "Discoveries"!

Libren: I'm sure you've seen at least one already. Super special places!

Libren: If you donate Discovery info to the library, we'll reward you!

Vi: Deal. How much info do you want?

Libren: The library will reward you for every 5 Discoveries you find. It includes berries, Medals and other goodies!

Libren: So it's good to drop by often!

Kabbu: It's like a fun school game! I'm in!

Leif: ...Sure, we're in. But could you help us find that book now?

Libren: Nope.

(minibubble) Leif: Tch...

[got all discoveries]

Libren: Wow...50 Discoveries! You're all true explorers!

Vi: Heheheh. Get ready for the next reward!

Libren: Well, not really. That's kinda all we had.

Vi: Huh?

Libren: The Queen's budget covered 10 rewards. The program's complete!

Kabbu: It feels like forever, but we did it!

Leif: Welp, without rewards Vi ain't gonna donate anything else.

Libren: That's fine. You've all helped so much! Thank you!

Vi: Well, it was pretty good while it lasted!

[Quest: Lost Books]

[First talk]

Brooke: Hey. What's your business?

Leif: We'd like to read some history books, if possible.

Brooke: Tch. They've...gotten lost.

Kabbu: Lost? How is that possible?

Brooke: We lent them out to the Bee Kingdom... But blasted bandits attacked the caravan!

Brooke: Now they're just scattered across Bugaria.

Leif: So, uh, what can we do?

Brooke: If you find any, make my life easier and return them. Then you'll be able to read them!

Vi: The nerve! They just want us to do the clean up for free!

Kabbu: Still, this is important to Leif. Let's help out.

Leif: Mhm. We don't really have another choice.

[bug ranger plush]

Brooke: Oh...! Is that THE Bug Ranger plushie?! The limited one?!

Kabbu: I-Indeed... are you a fan of the Bug Rangers?

Brooke: Well... yes. I love reading the comics.

Vi: Looks like you found a new friend, Kabbu!

Kabbu: Hehe... it's always nice to find other people that like the Bug Rangers!

[turn in last lore book]

Brooke: One...ten...twenty…

Brooke: Woah. You've gone and returned all of them!

Leif: We can read in peace now.

Vi: That took way too long! Can't you give us something for it?

Brooke: ...Alright, alright. You did go through quite a bit.

Brooke: I've got this on me, I hope it helps you out.

Vi: Eh, it'll do.

Kabbu: Thank you for letting us still use the premises.

Brooke: Help yourselves. It's always nice to see others read.

[first look at portrait]

Kabbu: What a masterful painting. It truly captures Elizant's graceful demeanor.

Vi: Grace, huh. I guess the new Queen has more of a power aura!

Leif: Mhm. Elizant was as kind as they came. Even some monsters would be friendly in her presence.

Leif: Her voice was soothing, and she saw the future in a bright light.

Kabbu: It must have been an honor. I must say I am envious of you having met her.

[Spy Ant]

Leif: Her reading speed's quite impressive.

Kabbu: "The Flower We Lived By." Oh dear, I'd been meaning to buy this one!

Vi: Ugh, that one's super sappy. You read that stuff?

Kabbu: It's that promising bee author's first book! Even if she hadn't polished her work yet…

Kabbu: I really want to know what her beginnings were like!

Leif: Hmm. If you vouch that hard for it, we'll give it a go.

Vi: Okay, okay. I don't like it, though.

[Spy Reeves]

Leif: Mjarsks hajwbkorsu htyrlek...

(minibubble) Vi: Oi!

Kabbu: LEIF! What's wrong!?

Leif: ...Nothing. We just reacted to this guy's geek energy.

Kabbu: ...DON'T YOU TOY WITH OUR CARE FOR YOU!

(minibubble) Leif: Sorry~

Ant Palace, War Room

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: I've heard of this place. It's the War Room!

Vi: So what, they fight in here?

Kabbu: Err, no. This is a place to discuss strategy and missions…

Vi: Should just call it the Mission Room, then!

Leif: Vi's observations are, as always... very on point.

Vi: What's that supposed to mean!?

[First Talk]

Rebecca: Oh dear. Ellie is so stressed nowadays!

Leif: ...Wait...you're Rebecca, right?

Rebecca: Hmm? Yes, my dear. Just a humble caretaker…

Vi: Uh, you know her?

Leif: Yes! Rebecca, do you remember us? It's Leif! We scouted Snakemouth Den…

Rebecca: Hmm…

(minibubble) Kabbu: Leif...

Rebecca: I'm truly sorry. I can't seem to remember you... We must have met very long ago.

Leif: Curses.

Rebecca: Now, dear. It's no problem! We can be friends still. Although I have little to offer.

Leif: N-No, it's not that. We'd be pleased to be friends.

Rebecca: Hohoh! Wonderful! I don't get too many visitors... This must be fate!

(minibubble) Vi: ...

Leif: We'll, um, come back. We're on a mission for now.

Rebecca: Come back soon, dear!

[Spy Rebecca, after speaking to]

Kabbu: So Rebecca was around, even in the early days?

Leif: Yeah. She was taller but dressed the same.

Vi: She's really stuck around...I've never met a bug so old!

Leif: Right here.

Vi: Eep! U-Um, sorry!

Kabbu: Heheh.

Leif: Really?

Kabbu: ...I thought it was funny.

Ant Mines, Tunnels

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: Just what is Elizant up to with all these tunnels?

Kabbu: It seems the Queen hopes to connect many parts of Bugaria with these Ant Tunnels.

Vi: It's gonna make clearing quests a breeze!

Leif: Sure hope there's not an ulterior motive…

[Spy Overseer/Miners]

Vi: The miners look cool. Way cooler than they need to!

Leif: Might as well do their job in style.

Kabbu: (Should we work on our style more...?)

[Spy Guide]

Kabbu: Is there a need to wear a cloak inside a mine?

Vi: It's super dusty! We should wear cloaks here too!

Leif: Eh. We bet she just wants to look mysterious...

[Quest: I want a Souvenir]

[something else]

Vivi: That's...not what I had in mind.

Vi: Don't get picky now. Give us the reward!

Vivi: Sorry. Can you really not bring something else?

[Bee hat]

Vivi: Oh! That's really cute!

Vi: But I'm cuter, right?

Vivi: You are! All Bees are SO CUTE!

Vivi: ...Err, thanks. Here you go.

Vivi: found this while digging here, but it should be useful to you.

Leif: It'll be pretty good.

Kabbu: We're glad we've made you happy!

Vivi: Hee hee...it is so cute! I am totally wearing that once I get my leave! Thank you very much!

Ant Mines, Break Room

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: Whew. I'm beat. Let's rest up!

Kabbu: This break room's for the miners!

[Spy any but ! Sign ant]

Vi: The miners look cool. Way cooler than they need to!

Leif: Might as well do their job in style.

Kabbu: (Should we work on our style more...?)

Ant Kingdom, Main Plaza

Leif: Sorry about that.

Kabbu: Heheh! Well now… Leif, after all you've gone through, you must be famished!

Vi: ...Welp, he ain't the only one!

Kabbu: We should grab something to eat.

Leif: Yeah. It would also be a good time to prepare for the trip, would it not?

Vi: Yup! And the commercial area is right over there!

Kabbu: Indeed, and it's got it all! Medals, Items, and even a Chef!

Leif: With all that's been going on, a little shopping wouldn't be the worst.

Vi: Just go easy on the budget.

Vi: Anyways, let's go hit up Fry for some food!

Ant Kingdom, Residential

[Story, ch2 feeding Leif, post talking to Fry]

[If empty inventory]

Leif: We didn't quite think this through…

Leif: ...We're...not going to make it...too hungry...

Vi: …

Kabbu: L-Leif, hang in there!

Vi: …

Leif: To be defeated this way...after all we went through…

Kabbu: LEEEEEIF!!!

Vi: Fine! Fine, I'll help! Stop being so dramatic!

Vi: Here, Fry. Cook this up!

Leif: We're...saved...!

Kabbu: Vi... You had this on you the whole time?

Vi: ...Look. Emergency rations are important, okay?

Vi: And this seemed like an emergency, so…

Leif: Vi...Thanks.

Fry: Hahahaha! What amazing friendship! I'll put everything I have into this dish!

[make glazed honey]

Vi: Glazed Honey is just the best! It's honey, but even better!

Kabbu: Mmm... A bit sweet for my taste.

Leif: We'll eat anything, really... Except a Mistake.

[make mushroom salad]

Leif: Ah... Our favorite. Fate has smiled upon us.

Kabbu: The textures work so well together!

Vi: ...A bit too savoury. We shoulda put honey in it!

[make smoked shroom]

Kabbu: Ah... Nothing like a plain smoked shroom. Healthy, yet filling…

Vi: It's such a boring meal though... Needs some honey!

Leif: We're just grateful to have a full stomach at this point. Thanks.

[make mistake]

Leif: Tsk... We are desperate. We have no choice…

Kabbu: Ngh... For the sake of the mission, we must eat…

Vi: (Poor them. I'll just eat some of my secret stash later!)

[make none of the above]

Leif: Hmm... This looks really tasty. Thanks.

Vi: Can't explore on an empty stomach!

Kabbu: It's nice to be able to share like this…

Leif: Huff... We feel just like new. Literal ages since we ate something. And we get hungry real fast, so…

Kabbu: We'll definitely eat here again. It's been nice to share.

Vi: Sounds good. But it's time to get back to the mission!

Vi: We've gotta go south, to the Golden Settlement! Off we go!

[Overworld Spy, before going to Underground Tavern]

Vi: This is the commercial area, the best area of them all!

Vi: There's a Medal Shop, a Chef…

Vi: And Madame Butterfly's store! No other store can compare!

Leif: Commerce excites you too much, Vi.

Vi: Heheh. And there's a little something else. But I can't tell you what it is!

Kabbu: I suddenly feel like leaving no stone unturned…

[Overworld Spy, after cutscene of Levi and Celia giving access to Underground Tavern]

Vi: This is the commercial area, the best area of them all!

Vi: There's a Medal Shop, a Chef…

Vi: And Madame Butterfly's store! No other store can compare!

Leif: Commerce excites you too much, Vi.

Vi: Heheh. And there's THAT place for even more business!

Kabbu: Hopefully we can do most of our business out in the open...

[Checking entrance to Underground Tavern, first time]

Kabbu: Hmm? What is this place?

Vi: Heheh. Check THIS out!

(minibubble) Knock knock…

Reed: Entry Code.

Vi: 2 - 4 - 0 – 5!

Reed: Last month's code is no longer valid after... the incident. Please use the new code.

Vi: WHAT!?

Leif: That was great, Vi.

Vi: Shut it!

Vi: Hey! Let me in! It's me, Vi! Ask Shades about me or something!

Reed: There's no one here, unless you know the code. Scram.

Kabbu: This place seems...shady.

(minibubble) Knock...

Kabbu: Excuse me, what is this place?

Reed: ...! Vi, you brought others with you!?

Vi: Ha! So you do know me! Open up now! Or I'll tell everyone about this place! Seriously, I'll RUIN you!

Reed: Try it, Vi. You won't last a night after you do.

(minibubble) Vi: E-Eep!

Kabbu: Seriously, what is happening here?

Reed: If you know what's best for you, you better stay away. All of you.

Leif: Well, that was a fun detour. Thanks for the good time, Vi.

Vi: Hmph...I guess we'll have to find the new code somewhere.

Vi: Maybe someone we help out comes here too!

Kabbu: Err...sure. But let us not get too sidetracked.

[Spy Underground Tavern Entrance, after gaining access]

Kabbu: An entrance to a shady place. I am uneasy doing business there.

Vi: Don't worry, you have me here, don't you?

[Spy Amber]

Vi: This is Amber, an Ant working for the Item Storage Association!

Leif: That bag looks really heavy.

Kabbu: Ants can carry many times their weight. It is quite inspiring.

Leif: Such strength... Perhaps we were born as the wrong bug…

Vi: You don't get to complain, you can shoot ice!

Kabbu: Please, do not fight in front of Lady Amber. Her work is stressful enough already.

[Spy Madame Butterfly]

Kabbu: This is Madame Bu-

Vi: It's Madame Butterfly! She's got the best prices in the whole kingdom!

Kabbu: Ahem.

Vi: Oh, sorry. I always get excited when I come here.

Vi: Everything's so cheap, and Madame Butterfly's so pretty!

Vi: I bet she's super rich, too…

Leif: Everyone has a role model.

Kabbu: Indeed. Let's make sure to shop here for what we need.

[Spy Seedling Slayer]

Vi: Pfft. Who boasts about beating up Seedlings? A little kid could do it!

Leif: That armor looks cheap, too. Oh lord.

Kabbu: Could you not be this judgmental?

[Spy Mun]

Vi: Geez, Mun's still in the same spot as always.

Kabbu: Still gossiping, huh.

Vi: Yeah, that can't be a good look!

Leif: You two can't talk...

[Spy Miner Ant]

Kabbu: It's weird to see a Miner Ant out in the surface.

Vi: I wonder what they'll build here.

Leif: Maybe a house for us.

Kabbu: This is the commercial area, Leif. That is unlikely.

Vi: Details. A house is just what we need!

Kabbu: ...I'm just going to end the conversation here.

[Spy Termite]

Kabbu: What a fanatic! Some bugs truly live to equip Medals!

Vi: Medals ARE awesome! Wish they were cheaper, though…

Leif: Costing a bit less MP wouldn't be the worst, either.

[Spy Merab]

Vi: Merab's the owner of the Medal shop! He traveled everywhere for his collection!

Leif: Which he is now selling at high prices.

Kabbu: Indeed. It's surprising that he would part with his possessions, but I won't judge.

Kabbu: After all, these will be quite useful on our journey.

Vi: Travel, treasure, and power! Now that's the life!

[Spy Beetle]

Kabbu: Poor fellow. It must be rough being so preoccupied while traveling.

Leif: That's what explorers are for. Post an escort quest, or something.

Vi: But then you have to pay a reward!

Leif: As opposed to dropping berries all over Bugaria?

(Minibubble) Vi: Fair.

Dan: Ah... Cooked Danger. The most exquisite of dishes…

Leif: Aren't those poisonous?

Dan: To someone such as I, poison is nothing.

Leif: Hmm. We will have to try one as well…

Vi: Uh, no. We really shouldn't.

[Spy Dan]

Vi: This Beetle's always at Fry's. He eats pretty much anything…

Leif: Ah, a true gourmet. We may have things in common.

Vi: Yeah. You're both weirdos, alright.

Leif: ...

[Spy Oma]

Kabbu: What is this bug doing here?

Leif: It's cute sleeping like that…

Vi: Uh. Well... Fry isn't complaining, so I guess we can just leave him here.

[Spy Fry]

Vi: This is Fry, the fly!

Vi: Most chefs live in the royal castle, but he chose to work here.

Vi: Though, I don't get it. He could make more profit at the castle.

Kabbu: He probably just wants to see his fellow, common bug smile.

Leif: There has to be more to it than that…

Vi: What matters is I'm really hungry. Let's get him to cook for us!

Leif: We could go for a Mushroom Salad.

Kabbu: Hmm, a Cooked Shroom would do me good.

Vi: What's with you and shrooms? Aphid Omelette all the way!

Kabbu: Let's make sure we have the proper ingredients, first.

Ant Kingdom, Main Plaza

[examine founder portrait, first time]

Leif: Ah, the inn founders.

Kabbu: Indeed. We owe these cozy beds to them.

Kabbu: They'll be happy to know that every new owner took care of the inn with equal passion.

Leif: Say, why do you think that is?

Leif: How they could work just as hard for something they didn't create?

Kabbu: If you ask me, I think it's not about being the founders.

Kabbu: They probably shared the same ideals, that's all.

Vi: You two are getting all sappy. Sounds like nap time!

Kabbu: Yawn ... Maybe I am a bit tired…

Leif: Shall we call it a night?

[First time talking]

Vi: Hey, Utter! Got any quests for me?

Utter: Why, yes I do! Looking for the quick and dirty ones, ain't ya Vi?

Kabbu: We would like to see any and all available ones, if possible.

Vi: Ugh, those are almost never worth it.

Kabbu: Nonsense, Vi. Helping others is its own reward.

Leif: Oh. How noble... It's moving, really. Kinda.

Utter: Alright! I will make all quests available for you lot.

Vi: Well... Here's hoping for good rewards!

[Spy Utter]

Kabbu: Utter helps with the Notice Board.

Kabbu: He makes sure to keep the board in pristine shape, and to alert others of new posts.

Kabbu: I hear sometimes he helps out people himself!

Leif: Seems like an outstanding citizen. Vi could learn a thing or two.

Vi: I'm as outstanding as it gets!

[First talk]

Samira: Sob... Sob...

Kabbu: Excuse us, fine lady. Is everything alright?

Samira: No! N-no , it's not. I've been trying to play in the theater for so long…

Samira: And I felt like I could f-finally do it... But now Mothiva's so popular...they only want her.

Samira: They said I'd never be as good as her... And now I don't know what to do, or how to make money.

Vi: So what? If someone says you can't do something…

Vi: You prove them wrong! And they'll beg for forgiveness!

(minibubble) Kabbu: Vi!

Vi: If you enjoy it...just play! Just do what you can! Who needs that dumb theater!?

Samira: Y-You're right!

Samira: I just need to get fans of my own! Um...I'm hoping you'll be my first!

Samira: If there's any songs you like, I can play them for you. P-please bring berries and come hear me play soon!

Kabbu: Vi, that was fantastic!

Leif: You being so uplifting... We must say we're surprised.

Vi: I was just being honest! You don't have to make such a big deal about it!

Kabbu: I assure you you've made a big difference today!

Vi: Yeah, whatever...It's all up to her now, you know?

Leif: She'll be fine. Let us drop by later and see what she can do.

[Spy Samira, post-talking]

Vi: Samira's been doing good.

Leif: We do pay well.

Vi: Geez, it's not just that. Other bugs come to hear her play too!

Kabbu: Heh. I hope she gets a big following soon.

[Quest: Inn Review Required]

Innkeeper: Oh, customers... Welcome.

Vi: Heya. We've come to write a review!

Innkeeper: Oh, by the Queen! Really? I am so glad you've come!

Leif: Be glad after the review.

Innkeeper: Our standard fare is 3 berries a night.

Innkeeper: So for you three, that would be 9 berries - with a free Honey Drop on the house!

Innkeeper: But since you're writing a review for the Inn, you can stay here for free tonight.

Vi: For free? I won't complain, but…

Leif: Trying to bribe us already, huh.

Innkeeper: O-oh, um…

Kabbu: Worry not, Innkeeper. We will accept your generous offer.

Kabbu: Please make sure we have the same experience as all your guests.

Kabbu: And we will keep the price of stay in mind for our review.

Innkeeper: Phew. Alright, then. Your room is upstairs. I hope you'll have a lovely night!

Leif: We hope so, too.

Innkeeper: Please come talk to me when you wake up, so I can get your review.

[Talk after waking]

Innkeeper: G-Good morning! Did you sleep well?

(minibubble) Vi: Hmmm...

(minibubble) Kabbu: Hmmm...

(minibubble) Leif: Hmmm...

Innkeeper: Gulp...

Vi: I slept pretty well. The Honey Drop you left was great!

Leif: We haven't had a bed so cozy in years. Or any bed, really. It was good.

Kabbu: It...it was great, yes.

(minibubble) Kabbu: (M-My bed hurt my back...)

Innkeeper: Alright! Service's still got it! I needed the confidence boost...

Vi: You're great! I can't wait to come again!

(minibubble) Leif: Mhm.

Innkeeper: Heheh. Come back anytime!

Kabbu: Y-yes... Of course...

[examine statue, first time]

Leif: The first settler's statue... It's nice to see this hasn't changed. Got a nice coat of paint, too.

Vi: Hmm, isn't it weird? I heard the Queen led everyone here.

Vi: How come she didn't make a statue of herself?

Kabbu: Apparently, the Queen was heading in a different direction when this ant got lost.

Kabbu: Rather than abandoning it, she decided to return with her people to find the ant.

Kabbu: When they finally regrouped... They were standing in this very soil.

Vi: Huh. So this whole town was built thanks to a clumsy ant?

Leif: Life works in mysterious ways.

Kabbu: The first Queen was extremely humble. Even if that ant hadn't gotten lost…

Kabbu: I'm sure she would have wanted this statue. It resonates with the people.

Vi: Meh. When I rule the world, every street will have my cute face in it!

Leif: ...Goodbye, Your Majesty.

[Quest: Lost Toy]

[Give bug ranger plushie]

Tod: W-whoa, is that a green Bug Ranger plushie?! Can I really have this?!

Kabbu: VI! GIVE IT BACK!

Vi: Hee hee hee!

Tod: Aw man, what a bummer!

[Give ball]

Tod: You really found it! Thank you! Mom won't get angry now…

Tod: Please don't tell her I went out by myself, either, pretty please?

Tod: Here, have this for helping me out!

Vi: Alright! Another good deed, another reward!

Leif: Now, stay out of trouble. Don't worry your mother.

Tod: I promise... Thanks again!

Kabbu: Heheh. What a nice kid.

Ant Kingdom, Theater

[Overworld spy]

Leif: Ain't this place fancy.

Vi: A bit too fancy. It's straight out of the Bee Kingdom. Yuck.

Kabbu: You know, Vi... for someone who cares so much for treasure, you dislike most high-class establishments.

Vi: It's just too pretentious! Use money to eat good food, or go on a trip!

Vi: I hate when bugs use money just to look important!

Leif: Ah, Vi. You're not too bad after all.

Vi: What's that "after all" supposed to mean?

Kabbu: Just take the compliment, Vi. Just take it.

[Spy Fuzzo]

Kabbu: Fuzzo's part of the traveling caravan that comes through Bugaria.

Vi: What's he doing here anyway?

Leif: This place will fill up with fancy folk. Maybe he is selling expensive items.

Kabbu: We should speak to him, perhaps he has something of use.

[First talk]

Fuzzo: Heh. You look like smart bugs.

Leif: Some of us are.

Kabbu: Can we help you?

Fuzzo: Heh heh. Sure you can. I've got an offer you just can't beat.

Vi: Gold? Some legendary berry?

Leif: Perhaps a powerful Medal?

Fuzzo: Heh heh. Take a look... at THIS!

Kabbu: ...! Is...is THAT...!?

Fuzzo: Indeed it is, you bunch. This is a LIMITED print edition of the Green Bug Ranger!

Fuzzo: Only 10 of them were ever made!

Vi: Eh. It's alright, I guess.

Leif: ...Bug Ranger?

Kabbu: P-please, esteemed merchant... name your price!

Vi: Oi, Kabbu!

Fuzzo: Heh heh. For you, how about 40 berries?

Kabbu: Hngh! A bit steep…

Vi:...Kabbu, if you spend all the berries we made in Snakemouth here, I'll never forgive you.

Kabbu: ...…

Leif: Kabbu.

Kabbu: D-Don't worry, you two.

Kabbu: I shall save up and buy it myself.

Vi: Fine. It's your own money.

Fuzzo: Heh heh. I will be waiting.

[We’ll take it!]

Fuzzo: Heh heh. Nice doing business with you.

Kabbu: Hehe.

Vi: Well? Are you happy now?

Kabbu: I am happy beyond words!

Leif: We don't see the appeal of this doll.

Vi: You've been missing out!

Leif: ...Sorry for being so uncultured.

Kabbu: They're just actors, but they inspire young bugs all over the land. Even in the north!

Leif: The power of propaganda.

Vi: They're good, alright? And sometimes they do reruns at this theater!

Kabbu: Say, Leif. Next time they're in town, we can all go watch them!

Kabbu: Maybe you will take a liking to the Blue Ranger!

Vi: No way! Yellow Ranger is the best!

Leif: ...Heh. Thank you. It sounds like a fun time. We'll take you up on that.

Kabbu: (...Heheheh. It's so soft.)

M.M.: OH, BUGLIET. YOU SHINE SO BRIGHTLY...

Kabbu: Hello, what are yo-

M.M.: OH BUGMEO, YOU DAZZLE ME SO!!!

Leif: Heh, yo-

M.M.: BUT WHY THEN, MUST FATE COME BETWEEN US!?

Vi: As much as I want to keep this going, we should probably just go.

[Spy M.M.]

Vi: Oh, I know this guy. It's M.M.!

Leif: That's not a real name, is it?

Vi: Nah, but no one knows who he really is!

Vi: No one has seen him without his mask!

Leif: Half of his face is visible…

Vi: That part is a mask too!

Leif: What?

Kabbu: Unbelievable! I must go rip the mask off myself!

Vi: No! You're staying right here with us!

Ant Kingdom, Residential

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: There's a lot of houses here now.

Kabbu: Is that so? How was it back then?

Leif: It was only the fountain. This was more of a social spot…

Vi: Huh. They turned a park into housing?

Leif: As more people came in, it was inevitable. But we do miss the park…

[Spy Ant]

Vi: Ants can grow hair!?

Leif: Those are leaves, Vi.

(minibubble) Kabbu: (Really?)

Kabbu: R-Right…

[Spy Eophi]

Kabbu: Leaves can grow in such pretty patterns! What a cute mask!

Leif: And they never grow exactly the same. He's lucky.

Vi: It makes every mask more valuable, too!

Bomby: He-Hey! Ain't you a cutie Bee!

Vi: What?

Leif: It's called flirting, Vi.

Vi: I didn't ask him to!

Bomby: Ho-Ho! I couldn't help myself!

Vi: I'm leaving. Bye.

[Spy Bomby]

Leif: That's a pretty charming dude.

Vi: He's gotta pick who to charm better!

Cicada: Woah. you're Team Snakemouth, right?

(minibubble) Vi: Yup!

Cicada: Be careful when heading out to the wild! Some flying creatures are so sturdy, it takes two hits to bring 'em down!

Vi: No probs. I'm the queen of multi-hit super smackdowns!

[Spy Cicada]

Kabbu: Hmmmmmm…

Vi: You okay there?

Kabbu: Look at the middle green coating covering its chest!

Kabbu: Maybe I should stick some leaves on myself...and try to emulate the look?

Leif: Were you seriously thinking about that?

[Spy Alex]

Vi: I agree with this guy, totally. Water sucks!

Leif: If an artifact's underwater, we're done. We quit.

Kabbu: ...Yeah. I will not pretend I would not be discouraged.

[Spy Banker, pre-opening account]

Vi: A bank, huh…

Kabbu: Sounds like a good idea to open an account, in case something happens to our berries.

Vi: I don't know. I don't trust anyone else with my berries. What if they run away after we give them a bunch?

Leif: This bank is endorsed by the Ant Queen. We believe we used to have an account here ages ago.

Leif: ...But we are sure they have terminated our account ages ago, too...

[First talk with banker]

Banker: Oho. First time here, aren't you?

Banker: Welcome. I offer banking services here.

Banker: Annoyed when your wallet is full and no longer has space for that berry?

Banker: Panicking when thieves steal your hard-earned money?

Banker: Then my services are just for you!

Banker: I can offer you an account here at my bank to keep your berries safe when you're out doing whatever you do.

Vi: I don't know... I like my berries close to myself!

Banker: This is the kind of attitude that makes you never move forward in life!

Banker: Look, if you keep your berries here, you might even get some interest every now and then.

Banker: You'll earn a small percent of your account every 30 minutes! It's free money!

Vi: Free money's even shadier!

Banker: Just think about it, won't you?

Banker: So? What do you say? It is 50 berries to open an account with me.

Textbox: Sign me up!

I will keep my berries.

[Sign me up!]

Banker: That will do nicely. Thank you.

Banker: Your account is ready. Talk to me whenever you want to do an operation.

Vi: This better pay itself off later...

[Spy Banker, after opening account]

Kabbu: See, Vi? There is no problem here.

Vi: Hmph. What if after we put in a huge deposit they just steal our money and run to a hot spring or something!?

Kabbu: Come on... Have more faith in our land's bank system!

[balance goes to 500/+]

Banker: Woah, you've really saved up! You've reached 500 berries in your account!

Vi: Well, yeah. Saving up's really important!

Banker: You're now a platinum member!

Vi: That sounds like...w-what's the reward!?

Banker: Your interest's been doubled! And you get this fancy card!

Vi: Alright! I'm gonna get way better return on investments!

Kabbu: Vi, did you not trust the bank?

Leif: ...You know about returns on investments?

Vi: ...Look, what matters is we're getting rich! Heheheh.

[Spy Ant]

Kabbu: You know, this is a pretty good spot to sit in.

Vi: Perfect for some music!

Leif: Or for long team discussions... Let's enjoy it.

[Quest: Book Return!]

[first talk]

Ali: Oh, hello there! Are you explorers?

Kabbu: Indeed, good sir. We've taken your request.

Ali: Oh, thank you! I really, really need you to return this book to the palace library for me.

Ali: It's...quite past the return date!

Vi: Huh? You're not an Ant though, right? How'd you take it out?

Ali: Oh, I asked Gen and Eri to get the book for me. They seem to be busy, so they can't return it.

Ali: Here's the book. You're really helping me out here!

Vi: Bleh, I hate being an errand Bee…

Ali: The reward will be quite worth it! So please make haste, for the sake of my record…

Ali: Oh, and, deliver it to Libren, ok? Brooke's scary enough without turning in late…

Leif: Sure thing. Leave it to us.

Ant Palace, Library

[talk Libren]

Libren: Welcome to the library! How can I help you today?

Kabbu: We have a book to return.

Libren: Oh? Thank you!

Libren: It is a bit overdue...but I will forgive you as explorers are always busy.

Libren: Thanks for your patronage!

Leif: Alright. Let's return to Ali and get our reward.

OR

[talk Brooke]

Brooke: Oh, hey. It's you. Did you find any books?

Brooke: Wait, that book is WAY overdue!

Kabbu: W-we apologize.

Brooke: Apologies won't cut it! Although Gen and Eri were the ones that picked it up, right?

Brooke: Ooooh… they're going to hear the END of it!

(minibubble) Vi: Eek!

Leif: Well, book's delivered. Let's go back and get our reward.

Ant Kingdom, Residential

Ali: Oh, you delivered it! Thank you!

Leif: It was a walk in the park.

Vi: Now you get to deliver our reward!

Ali: Of course. This should be enough, I think!

Vi: Nice! Hard, cold berries!

Ali: By the way...I-I do have another book I need returned... I kinda forgot…

(minibubble) Vi: Seriously!?

Vi: This is like, super inefficient! We're charging double!

Ali: S-sorry! I gave you all the spare berries I had, though…

Kabbu: It's alright, Vi. We can return it after a briefing!

Vi: That's not the point!

Leif: Just this once, Ali. We'll definitely charge next time.

Ali: T-Thank you... I'm very grateful!

Ant Palace, Library

[Quest: Awful’s Beauty]

Reeves: A Bee, a Beetle and a Moth? You must be explorers to enter this library.

Leif: Says the Wasp. We saw your request.

Kabbu: You're, um, searching for terrible books. Correct?

Reeves: That's right.

Vi: But why? Aren't they like, bad?

Reeves: ...Yes. But there's some sort of...angry comfort in witnessing their poorly composed narratives.

Leif: We're not here to judge, so... Any leads on these books?

Reeves: Not really. I reckon other cultured bugs with a collection have bad books lying around.

Reeves: They usually let bugs take them for free.

Vi: Yikes, you can't even sell those books…

Kabbu: We must do this job, team! This fellow is the only one who'll give them a good home!

(minibubble) Leif: Calm down.

Reeves: I've made this library my den. I'll be here if you find something.

[second]

Reeves: Tch. "Our Twisted Summer".

Reeves: Why was so much time spent setting up all those characters!?

Reeves: There are AT LEAST three characters not mentioned post page 75. This includes the main character!!!

Vi: Uh...So it's like good bad?

Reeves: It's atrocious and disgusting. Perfect for my bookshelf. Here's your reward.

Reeves: One more should sate my urges...Let me know if you find more.

[third]

Reeves: That...THAT COVER… "Axis Invert"...!

Reeves: NO! THIS ONE'S TOO AWFUL!

Kabbu: Sir, please remain calm. This is a library!

Reeves: This book was perfect. Such a beautiful story…

Reeves: Incredible prose! Tight pacing! Amazing characters!

Leif: ...And it's a bad book?

Reeves: IT WAS ALL A DREAM! AND THEN A ROCK CRUSHES THE MAIN CHARACTER!!!

Vi: Yikes…

Reeves: This is too much, even for me. I'll destroy it later…

Reeves: Thank you for everything, explorers. Here's my last reward.

Vi: Uh, hope you enjoyed them…

Reeves: Let's say I did, shall we? I'll see you around.

Explorer’s Association

[Spy Eetl]

Kabbu: Eetl watches over the quest board and helps teams with their tasks, correct?

Leif: So it seems. We can't imagine him questing, though.

Vi: He's gotta relax more, too!

Kabbu: Vi, please don't cause him any trouble.

Vi: I won't! ...As long as he doesn't cause ME trouble.

[first talk]

Kina: Oh no... Maki went off by himself? Again!?

Leif: We saw him in our meeting with the Queen…

Vi: Didn't he go off to the Golden Hills?

Kina: Ugh, no luck. I've already checked!

Vi: A-Already!?

Kabbu: Kina, your brother is one of the most respected explorers. He will be okay!

Kina: I know, I know…

Kina: But the nerve of him going without me! We're an unbeatable team! What if he needs me!?

Leif: Maybe he wanted some alone time?

Kina: WHAT WAS THAT!?

Kabbu: Holy Goddesses!

Leif: Uhh... nothing. Nothing at all.

Kina: That's what I thought!

Vi: S-She's scaring me. Let's get out of here!

[Spy Kina, after talking]

Kabbu: Dear me... Kina's always worrying about her brother, maybe a bit too much?

Leif: Can't blame her. Maki keeps running off by himself.

Vi: S-she gets a bit scary. I don't blame HIM!

[Spy Guard]

Vi: Is this the soldier that was guarding the Snakemouth Gate?

Kabbu: Hm... No, this seems to be someone else.

Leif: How can you tell? Most soldiers look alike.

Kabbu: It's the glimmer in her eye! The aura she radiates!

Vi: ...There's numbers on the armor.

[Quest: Parts Delivery]

Eetl: T-Team Snakemouth! You picked up my quest!?

Kabbu: Is...that bad? We'd just like to help…

Eetl: No, um, I just figured you were busy with more important stuff.

Vi: Don't sweat it! If it pays we'll do it!

Eetl: A-Alright. Thanks a lot. Your team is more reliable than I expected.

Eetl: It's a pretty simple job, really. Take this package.

Textbox: You got a Package!

Textbox: A package from Eetl. You shouldn’t see what’s inside.

Leif: What's in this?

Eetl: Don't open it, okay? Just deliver it!

Eetl: My friend's a diver ant in the Bugaria Pier east from the Association. To reach it, just keep walking!

Vi: Do you wanna pay us now, or is your friend gonna?

(minibubble) Kabbu: Vi!

Eetl: She'll be waiting with a little something. No worries.

(minibubble) Vi: Cool.

Leif: We'll get going then. Good luck with the paperwork.

Metal Lake, Bugaria Pier

[Package]

Div: Ah! He got the thing, finally.

Vi: What is it!? A super rare Medal!?

Div: Just a part to improve my gear. You gotta thank Eetl for me.

Leif: ...Why'd he make such a big deal out of it, then?

Kabbu: What matters is it's been delivered safely!

Vi: What matters is the reward, Kabbu. The important part!

Div: This should 'bout cover the walk. Thanks to you too.

Leif: We don't see why you'd want to go underwater but...good luck with your gear.

[Overworld spy]

Vi: Woah. I'd never actually seen the pier up close before!

Leif: Up close, Vi?

Vi: Mhm. You can kinda see it from all the way up in the Hive…

Kabbu: It must be exciting to see those far off lands!

Vi: I mean, kinda... But after Snakemouth, I ain't too fond of the water.

Leif: Say the word, and we'll freeze the whole ocean.

Kabbu: N-Now, it's enough to just tread carefully…

[Inspect wheel, first time]

Leif: What's this...uh... We don't really know how to describe it.

Kabbu: It's a steering wheel, Leif!

Leif: ...A what?

Vi: It's to drive boats around in the water!

Leif: ...Hmm. Even when you explain it, it's hard to imagine how it works.

Leif: Back then, boats were way simpler.

Vi: Well, you DO have to study a lot to drive a boat…

Leif: We feel quite outdated…

Kabbu: Keep your head high, Leif! There's so much to discover in this pier!

Vi: Yay...learning...

[Spy Dan]

Leif: We meet again…

Vi: He really is everywhere!

Leif: Hope you won't mind if we stay for a snack.

[Spy Server]

Leif: Pier food's got a certain something.

Vi: It's, uh, saltier?

Kabbu: It must be something in the area's water, perhaps?

Leif: As long as we don't get food poisoning, it's fine.

[Spy Ant]

Vi: These ants are nuts! Who even wants to go into the water!?

Leif: Agreed. It's nuts.

Kabbu: I'm not saying I want to swim, but... Isn't there a thrill to overcoming our insect limitations?

Kabbu: To break through the limit, to explore frontiers we never dreamed of reaching!?

Vi: Nuh-uh! I wanna stay dry!

Leif: There, there. It's gonna be okay, Kabbu.

Kabbu: Siiiiiiigh.

[Spy Div]

Kabbu: That device looks quite fascinating! I won't lie, I feel the need to try it on…

Leif: It looks like it'd fit you just fine. Maybe you should ask.

Vi: No way! His horn would slice through it!

Kabbu: ...! I didn't consider that…

Leif: You sliced through his hopes, Vi.

(minibubble) Vi: Oops...

[Spy Eyepatch]

Kabbu: That poor sailor…

Leif: What do you reckon happened to him?

Vi: Dunno... It's just the sea.

Kabbu: I feel like it'd be best if we didn't try to figure it out. It could be most unpleasant.

[Spy Blue]

Leif: This bug's fashion sense is impeccable.

Vi: What about me?

Leif: You're doing just fine.

Vi: Oi, just say I look good!

[Spy Captain]

Vi: Grr…

Kabbu: Err, Vi?

Vi: How can they charge so many berries for a boat ride? It's insane!

Leif: We thought you hated the water, Vi.

Vi: You don't get tired on a boat. And it's way less tiring than flying to an island!

Kabbu: The boat must be quite expensive to maintain…

Vi: I don't care! It's too many berries!

Kabbu: Guess we'll have to save up, or wait for a better deal.

Explorer’s Association

[Ruigee file, first talk to Eetl after completing Parts Delivery]

Eetl: Woah! Hold up! Something crazy's going on!

Vi: Uh, what?

Eetl: How're you still Rank 1!?

Kabbu: Is that...not normal?

Eetl: It's not! You're not gaining EXP from battles! Maybe some mysterious force is preventing it…

Leif: Probably magic. But eh, we're doing fine…

Eetl: You're doing fine NOW! Without ranking up you won't learn skills or expand your item pouch!

Vi: We're missing a bunch of rewards! How do we fix it!?

Eetl: I can't lift the curse, but I CAN rank you up through the power of paperwork! ...And berries.

Vi: Uh, can't you do it for free?

Eetl: Sorry. Keeping the association running has its own costs. You get it, right?

Eetl: So don't be cheap! Come to me for ranking up, we'll discuss what happens from then on!

[after getting level 27]

Eetl: Incredible! You're all MAX RANK now!

Vi: Neat! Is there a MAX REWARD!?

Eetl: Uh, not really. Only Maki's team has reached it before…

Leif: Boo.

Eetl: Anyways, you're now full fledged explorers! Congratulations!

Kabbu: Thank you, Eetl. We wouldn't have managed it without you!

Eetl: Just doing my job, stay safe, everyone!

Snakemouth Way, Outside Chuck’s

[Overworld spy, post-Snakemouth]

Kabbu: Ah, this is where we met Chuck.

Vi: Oh yeah. Where did he go anyways?

Leif: Well, he couldn't have gone far?

Kabbu: He mentioned building a "cozy" space for explorers. He must be nearby!

[Spy Guard]

Vi: Hey, isn't this the Ant we met at the gate near the association?

Kabbu: Indeed. It seems she was reassigned here after we found the artifact.

Vi: She looks so bored. I guess nothing really happens here.

Snakemouth Way, Chuck’s Abode

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: Hmm. So this is Chuck's Abode?

Vi: Uh huh. I think he calls it a hut though.

Kabbu: Is there really any difference?

Leif: For someone so well spoken to make such a basic mistake…

Kabbu: W-What?

Leif: It's just such a shame.

Kabbu: Stop playing games, Leif. Tell me the difference. I demand it!

Leif: Eh, there's no time. We'll tell you later.

Kabbu: N-Noooooooo!

[Spy Chuck]

Leif: It's some old bug.

Vi: Yeah, whoever that is.

Kabbu: Vi, you know fully well that's Chuck!

Kabbu: His hut has been coming along well, we should say hi.

Vi: Before he takes a nap.

Leif: Or he croaks.

Kabbu: *Grumble.*

[First discussion with Chuck]

Chuck: Hey. It's good to see ya again. You've made a friend, too!

Leif: We're friends?

Vi: Of course we are!

Kabbu: Indeed. After all we've been through, we can trust and depend on each other.

Leif: ...We can get used to that.

Chuck: Hohoho. I'm only glad that you didn't get hurt exploring. Found any treasure?

Vi: Yup! As expected from me!

Chuck: Now nobody can tell ya you're just a little rookie. Stay proud!

Kabbu: Thank you, Chuck. Your hut is progressing nicely as well.

Leif: The hammock looks nice to sleep in.

Chuck: Drop by anytime, and you can sleep for free!

[Quest: I Want a New Taste]

Chuck: *Grumble...*

Kabbu: Chuck, we saw your posting on the quest board.

Chuck: Oh! It's you guys. Ya did? Any luck? I'm starving!

[give]

Chuck: Oh, my dear goodness. It's beautiful!

Chuck: *chomp chomp*

Chuck: Whew. Thanks, you all. Yer always helping me out.

Chuck: I was so desperate I ate a raw Mushroom. Never really liked them…

Leif: No problem. The breakfast platter is one of our favorites.

Vi: A bit too savoury for me…

Chuck: I've got a better reward for ya this time!

Chuck: That might look like a plain rock, but it packs a punch!

Chuck: Just like me when I don't have food…

Kabbu: Thank you, Chuck. It was nice to see you again.

Chuck: Be safe, now! If you ever feel tired, I'd be glad to lend my place to you!

Outskirts, East

[Overworld Spy, during story]

Vi: This place ain't too shabby.

Kabbu: It's a popular hangout spot for tourists. And for, well, the Ladybugs.

Leif: With them, it's more like they have nowhere else to hang out…

Vi: Did the Queen really have to keep ALL of them out?

Leif: Don't ask us.

Kabbu: ...These are things we cannot control. It's best that we focus on our mission.

Outskirts, Cave Of Trials

[Overworld Spy, before putting in Mysterious Piece]

Kabbu: What a peculiar cave.

Vi: Huh... There's nothing here! Just a rock!

Leif: ...We can feel magic coming off this cavern. It's hiding something.

[Overworld Spy, after putting in piece]

Kabbu: What an incredible device! It projects images!

Vi: I've seen a few like this in the Hive. They're really cool!

Leif: ...Can a projection reward us...?

[Spy Roach Hologram, before giving permit]

Vi: Woah! Is that a Roach!?

Leif: It's just a projection, Vi.

Kabbu: Still, it feels so real!

[first talk]

Roach: Fhrosk? Xenuakela! Xenuakela! Taraemi derante no kinoxinra!

Kabbu: Ah, the Roach dialect!

Vi: Come on, Leif! You've gotta translate!

Leif: Uh. This accent is really weird. Let's see…

Roach: Deranto te daqueda ni firosk.

Roach: Teterande da…

Roach: Translation Complete.

Roach: Welcome! Welcome challengers! Welcome to the Cave of Trials !

Leif: Guess we won't need to translate, then…

Roach: Here, you can challenge many enemies you've faced before in succession , in return for prizes and glory!

Vi: Prizes!? Glory!? Aw yeah!

Kabbu: This must be an ancient Roach training simulator!

Roach: Indeed! Shall we start a test run?

Roach: ...ERROR! No Data Available!

Vi: Bleh. It's busted.

Roach: -Loading Backup Assistance Message…

Roach: Oh, fret not, challengers!

Roach: All we need is a Crystal that has recorded any battles you have fought!

Kabbu: A crystal that recorded our battles?

Leif: It must be something that has been with us since the start... But what?

Roach: Do you have a crystal that has recorded your fights up to this point?

[give permit]

Roach: ................Data reading completed. Trial system online.

Roach: Please speak to me whenever you are ready to start the program or you have any questions about the system.

Vi: Alright! It's prize, glory, and uh... Holo-trainwhatever time!

[Spy Roach, after giving permit]

Vi: Woah! Is that a Roach!?

Leif: It's just a projection, Vi.

Kabbu: We can start the trials by talking to this very realistic hologram. Get ready, everyone!

Outskirts, Bridge to Lost Sands

[Overworld Spy, pre-lowering bridge]

Leif: Hmm...the route to the Lost Sands.

Vi: What's got you thinking, Leif?

Leif: Eh, not much. We're just glad to see they've built a bridge. Even though it's raised.

Leif: We used to have to hop on a bunch of small rocks. Seems the river's swept those away.

Kabbu: Personally, I'm grateful it was lowered when I came to the Association.

Vi: I wonder why it's up now, though...

[Overworld Spy, post-lowering bridge]

Leif: Hmm...the route to the Lost Sands.

Vi: What's got you thinking, Leif?

Leif: Eh, not much. We're just glad to see they've built a bridge.

Leif: We used to have to hop on a bunch of small rocks. Seems the river's swept those away.

Vi: Woah, that sounds super fun!

Kabbu: Personally, I'm grateful it was built when I came to the Association!

[Spy Gen and Eri]

Vi: It's Gen and Eri!

Kabbu: They seem stuck. Let us find a way for all of us to cross!

[lower bridge]

Gen: Woah, thanks!

Eri: Mhm. We were stuck here for a while.

Vi: It wasn't much!

Gen: We'll get going now. See you in Defiant Root!

Kabbu: Be careful, now!

Outskirts, Before Lost Sands

[Story, ch3, walking in]

Kabbu: The Lost Sands... It's been a while.

Vi: They're way too huge. It's gonna take ages!

Leif: It'd be nice if we could move just a bit faster…

Kabbu: ...Well, why not just run?

Kabbu: If we tap |button,5| twice with me at the front…

Kabbu: I'll give it my all!

Vi: Bleh... Whatever gets us outta there faster.

Leif: We'll try to keep up, Kabbu.

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: It feels like just yesterday, when we crossed this gate.

Kabbu: With the current Wasp situation, it's become quite fortified.

Vi: Uh huh. It's a really big wall, too.

Kabbu: ...Imagine if all the sand poured out into the Ant Kingdom!

Leif: Let's not, Kabbu.

[Spy Ant Guard]

Kabbu: This Ant guards the Lost Sands gate.

Leif: What, that's it?

Kabbu: I...I don't know what else to say.

Vi: Stop wasting time! Get a move on!

[Spy Neil]

Kabbu: That hat...would it not worsen the heat?

Leif: Apparently, it keeps you quite cool.

Vi: Seriously? I don't think I'd look good with one, though...

Golden Path, River

Neo: SOMEBODY, HELP!!!

Neo: I-I told you, you savages... I don't know anything...

Wasp 1: Hmph! The renowned Professor Neolith doesn't know anything!?

Wasp 2: Spill the beans about the artifacts or pay with your life!

(Minibubble) Neo: Oh gods...

Kabbu: Stop! I will not allow this injustice any longer!

(Minibubble) Neo: K-Kabbu...

Leif: Assaulting someone who can't even fight... You have no dignity.

Wasp 2: Stay out of this. We will eliminate any who get in the way!

Vi: Who do you think you are!?

Kabbu: You've made your choice. To protect my friend...I'll take you down!

(minibubble) Leif: Friend?

Wasp 1: You only have yourselves to blame for the pain you're about to suffer!

Levi: Halt!

Levi: Those crooks are soldiers from the Wasp Kingdom!

Celia: We'll help out!

Wasp 2: It doesn't matter how many of you appear! We will complete our mission, for the Wasp King!

Levi: Focus your efforts on one of them, we will handle the other one!

Vi: We didn't need your help! ...But thanks! Let's go!

[post-battle]

Wasp 2: Blast it all... We underestimated them...!

Wasp 1: We must report this at once! Count your blessings, explorers! You won't be so lucky next time!

Kabbu: Thank you. It would have been a steep fight without your help.

Levi: Think nothing of it. Explorers must support each other.

Neo: What a scare... Thank you all so much!

Neo: I really thought I'd croak before finishing my research…

Kabbu: Neo! I am so glad you're alright!

Neo: Kabbu, it was thanks to your timely appearance! This has to be fate!

Vi: So uh, who's this Professor Neolith guy?

Celia: You don't know?! Professor Neolith is the leading authority in archaelogy!

Vi: Oh! Nice to meet you!

(minibubble) Vi: (...Archaelogy?)

Neo: Aw, shucks! I'm not that famous!

Kabbu: Neo and I met in the Lost Sands while I...travelled to the Ant Kingdom. He helped me find my way.

Neo: It was nothing, compared to saving me from that ambush!

Neo: Coincidentally, I was examining this tunnel, linking the outskirts to the Golden Path.

Neo: I never expected to get assaulted! Although a less visited path does lend itself to it.

Celia: From what I overheard, they seem to be looking for artifacts as well?

Levi: I'll have to make sure to report that upon our return…

Neo: The wasps have behaved for a few moons, but they can't be planning anything good.

Neo: If it's going to be this unsafe, maybe I should cancel this trip and head back…

Celia: Professor, we're on a journey to the Golden Hills. We would be glad to escort you.

(minibubble) Kabbu: There goes my chance...

(minibubble) Vi: Phew...

Neo: Oh! Thank you!

Leif: We're on our way there as well, so we'll catch up to you eventually.

Neo: Heheh. It'll be a fun festival with everyone there!

Vi: Let's play some of the games later, Neolith!

Kabbu: Neo, stay safe. Let's hang out later!

Golden Path, Tunnel

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: This place is dreadful. Pretty sad, if you ask us.

Vi: It's not like anyone comes here often, you know? It does the job.

Kabbu: Indeed. If we cross quickly, we can leave behind this gray scenery.

Golden Path, Cable Car

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: Ah, the Golden Hills! I have heard many stories about this place. They say Goddess Venus keeps this area in pristine weather!

Leif: Where are all these leaves falling from, anyways?

Vi: Just look up! That's the Bee Kingdom's tree!

Golden Path, Path

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: The Golden Settlement is a pioneer of wind-based energy, isn't it?

Vi: Uh huh. And for heavier stuff, they wind up cranks to move around.

Leif: It's a pretty clever way to move about. The bee engineers deserve some praise.

Vi: Eh, it's nothing special.

Kabbu: Most bees can fly. It's no wonder you wouldn't see the greatness in these inventions!

(minibubble) Vi: Hmph.

[attempting to talk to GS Technician, ch2]

GS Technician: Zzz...

Kabbu: Darn. With the worker sleeping, how will we operate the cranks?

Vi: Leave it to me! Beemerang Express is go! For a small fee!

Vi: ...Of 0 berries!

[Spy GS Technician]

Leif: Sleeping on the job is so lazy... Maybe we should throw some ice on him.

Vi: Oh, we could cover his face with honey!

Kabbu: Stop it! You will do none of these things!

Golden Path, Path 2

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: What a huge gap!

Leif: This place IS known for its hills.

Vi: No problem for me. I can just fly over em!

Leif: ...What about us?

Kabbu: You would not abandon us, would you Vi?

Vi: I apologized for Snakemouth already! I'm not going to abandon you!

(minibubble) Leif:...

Golden Settlement, Entrance

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: The settlement's entrance is so pretty! I just love the sunflowers!

Kabbu: Heheh. It's so unusual to see Vi so...chirpy.

Leif: Make sure she doesn't hear you, or we won't hear the end of it.

[Spy Stickbug]

Leif: So tall…

Kabbu: Hm. I imagine you're not used to that feeling, Leif?

Leif: We've got to admit we aren't. Not to this magnitude.

Vi: Bleh. It's all the same to me. Why is everybody else so tall!?

Leif: More like, why are you so short?

Vi: You wanna fight, Leif!?

Kabbu: (Never mention height ever again.)

[Spy Tanjerin, before talking]

Vi: Woah, that's a huge Tangy Berry!

Leif: No, Vi. That's a beetle...quite a cute one.

Kabbu: What is he doing!!? That rock is extremely heavy!

Kabbu: We must talk him out of it, before it's too late!

[First Talk]

Tanjerin: Huuu...

Kabbu: Excuse me, extremely round beetle!

Tanjerin: Oi! Don't interrupt me! I'm gonna move this rock!

Kabbu: This rock is extremely heavy! You will hurt your horn!

Tanjerin: I'm a fully grown Tanjerin! I can do it. I can move this rock!

Vi: Let the little dude do his job, Kabbu!

Tanjerin: I'm not little! I'll fight you right here!

Leif: It's so cute. How can we feel threatened at all?

Tanjerin: I came from a veeery far land from the right, to prove my might!

Tanjerin: I'll break this rock. Then I'll be the strongest!

(minibubble) Leif: It works that way?

Kabbu: I admire your spirit, but horns cannot withstand such pressure. You should take care!

Tanjerin: My horn can never break, cuz I'm strong! Now, I'm going right back to work!

Vi: It was cute at the start, but now I'm kinda worried…

[subsequent talks]

Tanjerin: Huuu...I can do it...

Vi: That little guy really does look like a Tangy Berry.

Leif: We wonder why?

Tanjerin: I'm not little! And stop interrupting me!

Tanjerin: Besides, everyone looks like this where I come from.

Kabbu: Is that so? ...Well, where are you from?

Tanjerin: The east.

Kabbu: Er, you've told us so. But whereabouts in the east?

Tanjerin: I dunno what that means. The east! I just walked to the left a lot, and got here!

Leif: Oh dear, it's not too smart.

Tanjerin: Shut up! And let me work!

Tanjerin: Sigh...

Vi: Heheh. You don't see Kabbu get mad a lot!

Kabbu: Let's just...go.

[Spy Tanjerin, after talking]

Kabbu: So he came from a far land…

Leif: Any idea of which?

Kabbu: I've heard of one region where bugs look like seeds and berries.

Vi: I've heard of that place too! Err, in fairy tales?

Leif: So those tales could be real…

(minibubble) Leif: ...We should go there someday.

Golden Settlement, Main Area

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: We can kind of see the hype behind the Golden Settlement.

Vi: I know, right? It's such a good place to visit!

Kabbu: And on top of its beauty, the settlement provides many items this region needs.

Leif: Beautiful, AND useful... We have a high respect for this place.

Celia: Seriously, Aria! Open the way!

Aria: The way to the hills is sacred. I will not sully it for any reason.

Levi: Please, won't you reconsider? The wasps could beat us to the punch!

Aria: They tried. They failed. I will not waver in my conviction.

Celia: They...failed?

Aria: I dealt with them, yes.

Levi: Ngh. As rushed as we may be, if there's no danger, I don't think we'll manage to skip the festivities.

Celia: Bummer. Guess we'll have to relax, for once!

Aria: The way to the hills will open after the festivities are concluded.

Aria: Not sooner, not later. You must wait.

Kabbu: That's that, huh...

Vi: You heard her! Relaxing is the mission!

(minibubble) Leif: ...

Vi: That goes double for you, Leif. Let's check this place out!

Leif: Alright, alright.

Kabbu: The main event starts at night time. Let's talk to Aria when we're ready.

[Spy Aria]

Leif: An acolyte, huh. It's so unusual to see someone so deep into their faith.

Kabbu: Well, of all places, the Golden Settlement worships a very specific Goddess.

Vi: And it's worked out pretty good for them!

Kabbu: Indeed. It's not too uncommon to see devout followers around.

Leif: Every place has a different culture, huh.

[Spy Levi]

Kabbu: Levi is formidable. I do have a question though.

Kabbu: Ladybugs have been very supervised after that incident. Levi, however, seems free to move about.

(minibubble) Leif: (That incident?)

Vi: Isn't that just because of Celia? She's probably keeping an eye on him.

Leif: They seemed to be friends. You believe she's merely the Queen's informant?

Kabbu: We have no way to know, unless we ask them.

[Spy Celia]

Kabbu: We really owe Celia. She was a big help against the wasps.

Vi: Eh, they weren't that tough. We woulda been fine!

Leif: That's easy to say, when they did half the work…

[Spy Amber]

Kabbu: Miss Amber's come to the festival too!

Leif: She's from the Storage Service... Pretty sure she's here for work.

Vi: That sucks, having to work on the festival…

Kabbu: Let's make sure to honor her sacrifice by making good use of the service.

[Spy Gein]

Vi: Ugh. This guy.

Leif: What's wrong with him?

Vi: He won't buy our stuff! It's beyond rude!

Kabbu: Vi, you DO know the shopkeepers have no obligation to buy our items, right?

Kabbu: This is a plentiful area, they are probably overstocked more than anything else…

Vi: Whatever. I'll go sell to the caravan. They know a good deal when they see it!

Leif: (Poor caravan...)

[Spy Dan]

Leif: It's that gourmet from the plaza…

Vi: Yup. Anyways, let's go.

Leif: Can't we stay a bit? We wanted to drink some Aphid Dew together…

Kabbu: Leif, you've made friends without us noticing!

Kabbu: I'm...I'm so proud!

Leif: "Friends" may be a bit too strong a word...

[Spy Kut]

Kabbu: Kut is quite the skilled chef…

Vi: But his attitude sucks!

Leif: Normally we'd avoid him out of principle, but…

Leif: His food is actually a grade higher than Fry's…

Kabbu: I'm inclined to agree, regrettably…

Vi: Eh. You know how it is. If you're really good, you can act however you want!

Leif: Let's make sure to get some good festival food, at least...

[Spy Judie, pre-underground Tavern]

Vi: Hey, guys…

Leif: What?

Vi: How do you think she walks? That looks heavy…

Kabbu: Vi! There are things you must never ask!!!

[Spy Judie, post-tavern]

Vi: Hey, guys…

Leif: Hm?

Vi: Doesn't she kind of look like Shades?

Kabbu: Goodness... You're right!

Leif: It IS pretty uncanny…

Vi: Heheh. I'll have to bother Shades about it later!

[Spy Samira]

Vi: Samira's come to the festival too!

Kabbu: It's inspiring to see her put in the legwork to achieve her goals.

Leif: Yeah... Hopefully business will be good during the festival.

Beette: Mmm... This place's stuff is pretty good. But it's just not Bee Kingdom quality, you know?

Vi: Let's go have fun somewhere else.

[Spy Beette]

Kabbu: Vi, you seem to have some beef with this bug.

Vi: Annoying, arrogant, smug... She's everything I hate about the Bee Kingdom!

Leif: You're acting like all bees are like this. What about you?

Vi: I'm an exception. End of story!

Kabbu: (Vi…)

Fuzzo: Tch. This bee is irritating...She keeps leading me on, but won't buy anything!

Vi: She's the worst. I wouldn't take her money at all.

(minibubble) Kabbu: Vi?

[Spy Fuzzo]

Vi: Hey, it's that merchant that hangs around town!

Kabbu: He travels with the caravan, doesn't he? He seems to be striking a deal…

Leif: It's more like he's trying to strike a deal. Really trying.

[Spy Mothiva]

Vi: Wow... It's Mothiva! She is super popular!

Kabbu: Even I have heard of her from my homeland, it is such an honor to even be near her!

Leif: What exactly makes her so special?

Vi: She's explorer by day, performer by night!

Kabbu: Mhm. Most bugs struggle being successful, but it comes easily to her.

Leif: We'll give her music a try sometime, maybe...

[Spy Zasp]

Leif: Who's hiding behind this bush, though?

Vi: S-Shh! He will hear us!

[Spy Tim]

Kabbu: Hmm…

Vi: What's up?

Kabbu: I was once told the bartender of this settlement was an energetic mantis lady.

Kabbu: Suffice to say, this fellow cannot possibly be her.

Vi: Who knows, maybe she quit or something...

Leif: ...Have you all noticed how nosy we get sometimes?

[Spy Sunny]

Leif: What a happy innkeeper.

Kabbu: It really makes you want to stay, doesn't it?

Vi: It makes me wonder how she's not bored...

[Spy Rob]

Vi: Huh, I didn't know ladybugs could have orange wings.

Leif: Yeah, we didn't know bees could be explorers either.

Vi: …

Leif: …

Kabbu: I-It's a joke, V-

Vi: It better be.

[Spy Bub]

Kabbu: Oh, it's nice to see Bub again.

Leif: Again?

Kabbu: Well, yes. I ran into him back in the Lost Sands, and we had some nice talks.

Kabbu: Nothing too out of the ordinary. But back then, it was nice to be able to chat.

Vi: Well, don't let us stop you from saying hi or anything.

Vi: Just don't take TOO long!

[Looking out from the balcony, pre-venus]

Kabbu: Incredible. The view from this balcony is breathtaking!

Vi: Yeah! It's the best thing about Sunset Inn! Totally worth the price.

Leif: It's alright. The Venus statue is really well made, don't you think?

Vi: I think it's a bit creepy. It doesn't have a face or anything…

Kabbu: Vi, no one has seen the Goddess Venus. It would be sacrilegious to paint her face!

Leif: Say, Kabbu. You're not a worshipper or anything, are you?

Kabbu: Not quite. I just like being well informed of the places I visit.

Vi: I bet you went into the palace library to read all about this place, didn't you?

Kabbu: ...M-Maybe.

Leif: Cute.

Kabbu: Hmph. Let us go back to enjoying the view.

[Look out from balcony, post venus-fight]

Kabbu: Incredible. The view from this balcony is breathtaking!

Vi: Yeah! It's the best thing about Sunset Inn! Totally worth the price.

Leif: It's alright. The Venus statue is really well made, don't you think?

Vi: I think it's a bit creepy. It doesn't have a face or anything…

Kabbu: Vi, Aria and our team are the only ones who have seen the Goddess Venus.

Leif: Say, Kabbu. You're not a worshipper or anything, are you?

Kabbu: Not quite. I just like being well informed of the places I visit.

Vi: I bet you went into the palace library to read all about this place, didn't you?

Kabbu: ...M-Maybe.

Leif: Cute.

Kabbu: Hmph. Let us go back to enjoying the view.

Golden Settlement, Residential

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: So bugs do live here! I was wondering where they stayed.

Leif: Well, it's no Hive. But these are pretty cozy.

Kabbu: I wouldn't mind a longer stay, when we find all the artifacts.

[Spy Moth]

Vi: All moths look so different from each other…

Kabbu: Indeed. Leif, using your wings as a robe is quite unique!

Leif: Well, Father did it all the time. We ended up copying him.

Kabbu: I see. Your father must have looked very cool too!

Vi: You could start a fad!

Leif: Eh. It'd be no fun if everyone did it.

[Spy Arie]

Vi: She's so...beeish.

Leif: It's not like she does it on purpose.

Kabbu: Nature loves to play tricks with our eyes. Although it sure enjoys the bee aesthetic.

[Spy Kenny]

Leif: This dude's got style.

Kabbu: He is very accessorized! He must be a Bee Kingdom regular!

Vi: Bees don't really make hats, though. Maybe the glasses.

Kabbu: Hmm. Fashion built from many cultures, then?

Leif: He must be exploring around, too.

Golden Settlement, Farms

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: It's the farms! It's so cool to see everything first hand!

Kabbu: Indeed. The big tree overseeing it is quite the spectacle too. I didn't take you for an agriculture enthusiast, Vi.

Vi: I'm not. But I sure like food... They work hard to make it easy for us!

Leif: You okay there, Vi?

Vi: What!? Can't I ever be grateful for anything!?

[Spy Neo]

Kabbu: Vi, Leif...Thank you.

Leif: What for?

Kabbu: For helping me protect Neo. I am very glad to see him safe.

Vi: Oh, I forgot to ask Neo for a reward!

Kabbu: …

Vi: I...I was kidding! Just kidding, okay!?

(minibubble) Leif: Heh.

[Spy Joy]

Leif: Oh... The aphid farms. It's a joy to be here. This girl has the right idea.

Vi: They're really cute, aren't they!? Shame we can't own one.

Kabbu: We could always get an adorable pillbug. Team Snakemouth's mascot!

Vi: No.

[Spy Manager Ant]

Kabbu: I don't mean to judge, but is this ant doing anything?

Leif: Management must have some value, don't you think?

Vi: Standing around all day, giving orders? Maybe I should be a manager!

Kabbu: Those poor workers...

[Spy Ant]

Vi: It must be rough picking up berries all day…

Leif: Ants are extremely strong, are we right?

Kabbu: Indeed. Objects even I would find heavy are quite manageable for them.

Leif: Then, this job must be like child's play to them.

Vi: This went from worst job to best job pretty quick...If you're an ant, at least.

[Spy Bee Guard]

Leif: Hmm. A lone bee, guarding a huge door.

Kabbu: Well, she is not truly alone. That aphid is keeping her good company.

Leif: It's truly adorable. Maybe we'll pet it.

Leif: ...!!!

Vi: Wow. That's a super death glare she gave ya, Leif.

Leif: Guess we'll settle for watching from afar.

[Spy Aphee]

Leif: This cute aphid... Did it escape the farm?

Kabbu: Heheheh. It seems to be giving this guard some company.

Vi: Hmm…

Kabbu: I'm sure it's fine.

Leif: We are grateful to be able to see it up close...

Golden Settlement, Main Area

[Story, festival start cutscene]

Aria: The Golden Festival has begun!

Aria: Oh Goddess Venus, who watches over us, and ensures a bountiful harvest without fault…

Aria: We congregate to share our gratitude. May it reach your roots and bring you joy.

Aria: And when the two offerings, held by our esteemed guest hosts, are brought to me…

Aria: The final ceremony will begin.

Aria: Now feast! Laugh! All in good faith! Let's make this one more festival to never forget!

Leif: Well, she's passionate.

Kabbu: Thank you, Venus. For watching over us…

Leif: Kabbu, you're praying too?

Kabbu: Er, I felt the need. We should be respectful of their tradition.

Vi: Didn't you hear? Feast and laugh! Now THAT's a way to show respect!

Leif: We should probably gather the two offerings. They sounded pretty important.

Kabbu: Let's look for them as the festivities ensue. They may help us complete our mission.

Vi: Uh, right. The mission. Yup. I'm on it!

[Spy Guard]

Kabbu: Having guards around watching the ladybugs fouls the mood a bit.

Leif: Why, exactly, do they need supervision?

Vi: I think it had to do with them stealing a bunch of stuff. I'm not too sure, though.

Kabbu: I remember seeing a book about this, it'd be good if we could research more.

Leif: Yeah. We have no choice but to catch up with history...

[Spy Fuzzo]

Vi: Hey, it's that merchant that hangs around town!

Kabbu: He travels with the caravan, doesn't he? Although he seems to be alone…

Leif: He's probably the lone agent of the team...

[Spy Fluffy]

Leif: That's some admirable neck fluff.

Kabbu: It must be so comfortable, falling asleep with it around the neck!

Vi: It's so impractical! My fluff is way better!

Leif: Don't get jealous, Vi.

Vi: I'll never be jealous of any other bee.

(minibubble) Kabbu: (So bitter...)

[Spy Huni]

Vi: You know...I was about her age when I came to my first festival.

Vi: Everything was so much cooler than the boring Bee Kingdom! It really made me want to see the world!

Leif: We haven't given you enough credit, Vi. Even you can get quite pensive.

Vi: Let's just enjoy the festival, okay?

[Spy Layna]

Leif: What a warm glow.

Kabbu: I've never seen anything like this! Could she be one of the 10 sorcerers?

Vi: Nah. It's a firefly! Sis told me some bugs in other regions glow in the dark and stuff.

Leif: Ice magic sucks. We want to glow in the dark.

Kabbu: For the sake of our missions, please keep the ice magic...

[Spy Stratos and Delilah before talking]

Kabbu: That gigantic beetle, and a mosquito. Hmm... Could it be…

Leif: Your friends, Kabbu?

Kabbu: Not quite.

Vi: We should say hi. They look really strong!

[first talk]

Delilah: Hey! You're Team Snakemouth, aren't you?

Vi: That's us!

Delilah: Nice! We're fellow explorers too. Ever heard of us?

Kabbu: Given what I've heard... Are you Stratos and Delilah?

Delilah: Yep, that's us! I'm Delilah, and this big guy's Stratos.

(minibubble) Stratos: Mhm. Nice meeting ya.

Kabbu: You're known as "Team Slacker", correct? Famous for never finishing missions?

(minibubble) Leif: Not even one?

Stratos: No mission's interesting for long enough. Why bother finishing them?

Kabbu: And you still call yourselves explorers?

Delilah: Of course! We love exploring! No place's outta reach!

(minibubble) Vi: Nice.

Stratos: We're more like informants, ye? For the other explorers.

Delilah: We gather intelligence about tough quests so other teams can do them. Nice deal, ain't it?

Delilah: We're looking into the fabled Sand Castle in the corners of the Lost Sands!

Stratos: After the festival, we'll resume our search. This'll be a good time to unwind.

Leif: Looks like "slacker" ain't quite the name for them.

(minibubble) Vi: They're living the dream!

Kabbu: So that's how things were…

Delilah: Let's meet again on the road, yeah? Maybe we'll meet at the desert!

(minibubble) Stratos: Mhm.

[Spy Stratos and Delilah, post-first talk]

Kabbu: Hmm…

Vi: What's up, Kabbu?

Kabbu: I may have been too quick to judge them…

Leif: You're still on about that?

Kabbu: Just because they aren't what I see in an explorer doesn't invalidate their work…

Leif: If you feel that bad, just go apologize again.

Kabbu: Very well. I will face my sins!

(minibubble) Vi: He did it!

[Spy guard]

Kabbu: Must be tough having to work as Mothiva's guard.

Vi: Everyone wants her autograph!

Kabbu: We're lucky that as an exploration team, we can have access!

(minibubble) Leif: Yay.

[Spy Zasp, having not talked to him before]

Leif: What a look. Way to make a first impression.

Vi: He doesn't look like he can eat much…

Kabbu: Let us introduce ourselves!

[if you haven’t talked to Zasp before]

Zasp: If it ain't Team Snakemouth. I'm Zasp, part of the Explorers' Association. I've heard of your expedition.

Vi: Heheh, really? We did super well, didn't we?

Zasp: Did you now? Heard you got pulled out of a river, half dead. Pretty embarassing, if you ask me.

(minibubble) Kabbu: Oof...

Leif: We already dislike you.

Vi: You got a problem, wasp?

Zasp: It's Zasp. And no, I'm too busy to be petty.

Zasp: I'm here to represent my team in the eating competition. The winner gets an offering, so it is my aim to win.

Zasp: I just wanted to relax a little before it, is all.

Leif: We must say you're going to lose, Zasp. Horribly.

Leif: In an eating competition... We won't be bested.

Zasp: Hahahah! Try your luck. I'll see you in the ring.

Vi: Grrr! You better beat him, Leif! We'll show him embarassing!

Kabbu: (Can't we just get along...)

[Spy Zasp, if talked before]

Leif: So you've seen this bug before?

Kabbu: I wouldn't say we're friends, but I do know him.

Kabbu: He holds a pretty high ranking amongst explorers... I don't know who his teammate is, though.

Vi: He better watch out. Our team's gonna take that spot!

[If you’ve talked to Zasp before]

Vi: Hey, Zasp.

Zasp: Hmph. Hello, Vi.

Leif: Friend of yours, Vi?

Vi: Fat chance.

Kabbu: Zasp is a fellow explorer. We met in the association.

Zasp: Congratulations on the expedition. I assumed we wouldn't meet again, given you almost drowned.

Vi: Oh, thank you kindly for your concern. So glad to surpass your expectations.

(minibubble) Leif: Pfft.

Kabbu: Err, what do you say we start on a good limb this time?

(minibubble) Vi: You wish.

Zasp: I'm too busy to hold grudges. Fine by me.

Zasp: I'm here to represent my team in the eating competition. The winner gets an offering, so it is my aim to win.

Zasp: I just wanted to relax a little before it, is all.

Leif: Is that so? However, we must say you're going to lose.

Leif: In an eating competition... We won't be bested.

Zasp: Hahahah! Try your luck. I'll see you in the ring.

Vi: Grrr! You better beat him, Leif!

Kabbu: (Can't we just get along...)

[Kut Spy, festival]

Kabbu: Kut is quite the skilled chef…

Vi: But his attitude sucks!

Leif: Normally we'd avoid him out of principle, but…

Leif: His food is actually a grade higher than Fry's…

Kabbu: I'm inclined to agree, regrettably…

Vi: Eh. You know how it is. If you're really good, you can act however you want!

Leif: Let's make sure to get some good festival food, at least...

Golden Settlement, Residential

[Spy Tanjerin, talked]

Kabbu: So he came from a far-off land…

Leif: Any idea of which?

Kabbu: I've heard of one region where bugs look like seeds and berries.

Vi: I've heard of that place too! Err, in fairy tales?

Leif: So those tales could be real…

(minibubble) Leif: ...We should go there someday.

[Spy Tanjerin, not talked]

Vi: Woah, that's a huge Tangy Berry!

Leif: No, Vi. That's a beetle...quite a cute one.

Kabbu: It's wonderful to see so many different bugs at the festival!

[Spy Madame]

Leif: Madame's gotta be the only merchant taking a break.

Vi: Hey, everybody needs a holiday!

[Spy Carmina or Arie]

Vi: Wonder what game they're playing.

Kabbu: I do not know, but it is intense!

Kabbu: She just summoned another monster! What a combination!

(minibubble) Leif: Off we go...

Golden Settlement, Farms

Vi: Ugh. It's her.

Beette?: Oh geez...I came all the way here…

Beette: But these plebs really can't compare to the Bee Kingdom...

Vi: Grr!!!

Leif: Well, she's rude.

Vi: She? Most bees are like that. They're so stuck up!

Kabbu: Vi, I never did ask. Have you any beef with your kingdom?

Vi: ...A little. We just don't get along. They tried to stop me from exploring because it was "dangerous".

Vi: They're annoying, okay? Being an explorer is way better! Who wants to be stuck in the Hive forever!?

Leif: So you're an outcast amongst your own people.

Vi: You don't have to say it like that, but I guess.

Leif: We do understand how it feels, though.

Kabbu: Stop. You're no outcasts! You're equally incredible within this team!

Vi: Heheh. You're too corny, Kabbu.

Leif: Agreed. Don't you get embarrassed saying stuff like that?

Kabbu: No. I am serious. I won't let my friends feel like outcasts!

Leif: ...Thanks.

Vi: Yeah...thanks, Kabbu.

Kabbu: Oof. Now I'm actually embarrassed! But I digress.

Kabbu: We have a festival to enjoy. It's our mission!

Leif: You're right. Let's go make some new memories.

(minibubble) Vi: And have tonsa fun!

Textbox: Kabbu can now use the Pep Talk skill in battle!

[Spy Beette]

Leif: You know, Vi. Not all bees are like this. Surely you know that?

(minibubble) Vi: ...

[Spy Beette, post-talking to chubee]

Leif: You know, Vi. Not all bees are like this. Surely you know that?

Vi: Yeah, at least there's Chubee.

[Overworld Spy, during fest, all areas]

Leif: The town sure got lively real quick.

Vi: That’s because the festival is awesome!

Kabbu: We won’t get to enjoy a night like this often. Let’s make some nice team memories!

[Spy Hawk]

Vi: Woah, that bee is really cool!

Leif: That's a Moth, Vi.

Vi: N-No way! Although I guess that explains it…

Kabbu: Don't worry Vi, you are plenty cool yourself!

Vi: Flattery will get you everywhere!

[Spy Honeycomb]

Leif: Now THAT'S an old bee.

Kabbu: Leif! Could you not be so rude to the elderly!?

Vi: I mean, she's pretty old. I feel like I've seen her somewhere before, too…

Kabbu: Just be nice to the elderly!

[Spy Ant]

Vi: Those berry baskets look so heavy…

Leif: Kabbu, you should try carrying one of them.

Kabbu: Heh. No need. I have successfully done so before.

Leif: Really? Commendations are in order, Kabbu.

Vi: Yeah. Sometimes I forget you're pretty strong!

Kabbu: (I chose wisely, not mentioning the ensuing back pain!)

[Spy Fortune Teller]

Leif: What nice robes.

Vi: He looks so magical!

Vi: Hey, Leif. Maybe you need a robe too!

Kabbu: You're RIGHT! Leif, with a sorcerer robe!

Leif: Um, no. We'll keep our look.

[First talk]

Kabbu: Mayor! It is good to see you!

Mayor: Hohoh! Hey, Kabbu. You seem to be well back on your feet!

Leif: Mayor? Of where?

Kabbu: This is the Defiant Root's mayor. He graciously hosted me when I got lost in the desert.

Vi: You're just full of wild stories you haven't told us, huh.

Mayor: I wouldn't say wild...Kabbu is such a good bug! Come visit at the Lost Sands when you can.

Mayor: Right now I'm hosting this year's Whack-a-Worm! It's an honor, really.

Mayor: Come talk to me to give it a shot, eh? You can even win an offering!

Kabbu: That we will!

[Spy Mayor]

Kabbu: So the mayor is hosting this year…

Vi: Every year there's a new host, right?

Leif: Why not just keep the same host every year?

Kabbu: Well, they've given a lot of reasons but I think it's just so they can enjoy the festival the following year!

Leif: That's surprisingly reasonable.

Vi: I hope they're getting paid, at least!

[How to play?]

Mayor: Easy! Every year these pesky worms keep making holes in the aphid farms!

Mayor: Your goal is to get rid of all of them by hitting them before they escape!

Mayor: If you get close to them, they hide away, so you have to hit them from afar!

Leif: Sounds like a job for you, Vi.

Vi: Alright! Time for some Beemerang action!

Mayor: You've got a minute to reach the goal! And don't worry about the worms, they're too stubborn.

Mayor: They'll keep coming back for more!

[if you get enough]

Mayor: Oho! |var,1|! You sure showed those worms who's boss!

Vi: They didn't know who they were messing with!

Mayor: Hohoho, that's right! Here you go, lass. You've earned this!

Leif: Not bad, Vi. Not bad.

Vi: Mhm. I never knew a mission could be so fun!

Honeycomb: Ahem! One moment, young lady!

Vi: Huh? What's your deal?

Honeycomb: That boomerang you have there, where did you find it?

Vi: ...I uh, I bought it?

Honeycomb: YEAH, RIGHT! YOU STOLE MY AUTOMATED DRONE BOOMERANG PROTOTYPE DIDN'T YOU, YOU THIEF!?

Honeycomb: COUGH COUGH HACK COFF!

Leif: Vi, look what you've done.

Kabbu: One moment, please! Vi is no thief. There must be a misunderstanding!

Honeycomb: Don't stick your horn where you ain't asked, you green stinkbug!

Vi: I didn't steal anything, okay? I bought it in the Ant Kingdom!

Hawk: Professor, please watch your temper. Doesn't she seem to have mastered the A.D.B.P. quite well? She could be useful.

Honeycomb: Useful!? How could this... Wait. Yes, I'm a genius!

Honeycomb: Listen up, you rascal. You can keep that prototype.

Honeycomb: ...If you help us gather data and with some upgrade testing. You can't say no!

Vi: This is what I get for buying from Shades… Fine. Upgrades sound cool, anyways!

Honeycomb: Hawk! Give her prototype the Halt Upgrade!

Hawk: Of course, professor.

Hawk: This will take just a moment.

Textbox: Your Beemerang has been upgraded!

Textbox: Vi can now use the Hurricane Toss skill in battle!

Hawk: Professor, I've successfully upgraded the A.D.B.P.

Leif: Doesn't seem like you did anything.

Honeycomb: Hmph! As if you'd know real science! The Halt Upgrade allows you to hold the prototype after you throw it!

Leif: Do physics work that way?

Vi: Shush, Leif. That's awesome!

Honeycomb: Listen up! You just hold |button,5| after you toss it! That will hold the prototype in place until you release |button,5|.

Honeycomb: The kinetic energy generated by the Halt should be able to spin things around.

Leif: That is literally impossible.

Hawk: In any case, we hope you'll aid with our research when you can.

Hawk: For example, why not test the halt on that crank over there?

[Spy Honeycomb]

Leif: The professor that Vi stole from's quite old.

Vi: I DIDN'T steal the Beemerang!

Vi: ...She IS pretty old, though.

Kabbu: Let's hold our end of the deal and help her out. She needs all the help she can get.

Vi: She upgraded the Beemerang, so we do owe her a bit... And I pay all my debts!

[Spy Hawk]

Vi: I hate to admit it...but Hawk looks really cool!

Leif: A Moth born with those colors, working with a bee... Life really is strange.

Kabbu: He's even a bit similar to you, isn't he, Leif?

Leif: Smart and handsome... Yes, we can see the resemblance.

Vi: Ugh. Can't you take a compliment like a normal bug!?

[Spin Crank]

Honeycomb: Great job! Even a half-wit like you can use the Halt, it seems.

(minibubble) Vi: Hey!

Honeycomb: Another tip for you. If you hold then release the prototype, it will come back in the same direction it came from in a straight line.

Honeycomb: It can even go a bit beyond the starting point!

Farmer Ant: Oh! You opened the windmill! Thank you!

Vi: No problem. Got anything for us?

Kabbu: Vi, y-

Ant: Here is something for your trouble!

Ant: Thank you so much! I'll be able to enjoy the festival now!

[Spy Zasp]

Leif: So Zasp is an explorer? He's a bit antagonistic.

Kabbu: Not all explorers are like us. Some are in it only for fame and riches.

Vi: Uh, yup. Nothing like us! In no way at all!

[first talk]

Chubee: Heyyy! You've come for the eating competition?

Leif: Mhm. We can't wait to show our eating prowess.

Kabbu: Don't let Leif's slim figure fool you…

Chubee: Heheh, coo-...!!! Oh! Oh my gosh! You're that bee!

Vi: Uh... What?

Chubee: You're Vi, right!? Some people were talking about you! Short and with attitude... It must be you!

(minibubble) Kabbu: Uh oh...

Vi: Yeah. I'm short, so what? What do you want!?

Chubee: Hehe. Easy there! I'm Chubee, your number one fan!

Vi: What?

Chubee: The first explorer bee, who conquered Snakemouth and survived being dragged by the river!

Chubee: I have no idea why the other bees aren't freaking out!

Vi: ...! ...? U-Um…

Leif: (Psst. She wants to be your friend, Vi.)

(minibubble) Vi: (O-Oh!)

Vi: Uh, Yeah! That's me! The greatest one and only bee explorer!

Chubee: Wooow! You're even cooler than I thought!

Vi: So you don't think exploring's silly? I'm not too good at art or anything…

Chubee: No way! It's cool to see bees trying new things!

Chubee: Me, for example...I'm going to travel all around Bugaria. Go to lots of events and meet all sorts of bugs!

Vi: That's awesome!

Leif: Let us make this competition the highlight of your trip. Least we can do for Vi's friend.

Chubee: Oh, you're on! I'm not going to lose!

Vi: We won't lose either! Do your best, Chubee!

Kabbu: Making unexpected friends, healing the spirit... This must be thanks to Venus too!

Leif: Uh, probably not. But let's go get that offering.

[Spy Chubee, after talking]

Kabbu: It's great to see you make friends, Vi!

Leif: Mhm. Even got a smile out of us…

Vi: Heheh. I'm too busy being happy to get upset! I just hope we keep bumping into her!

[subsequent talks]

Leif: Do your best, Chubee.

Chubee: Sure thing! Let's chat later, when it all calms down.

Vi: That'd be nice. It's a promise!

[Spy Jud]

Leif: This bee, we've heard of her while eating at Fry's. He mentioned a bee with an incredible palate.

Kabbu: She must be a true gourmet, if she's even hosting a competition!

Vi: You should just go say hi or something!

Leif: No. We are not worthy yet.

Kabbu: (Leif is acting strange, Vi.)

Vi: (Just let him be a weirdo sometimes...)

[if you haven’t talked to Zasp]

Jud: The eating competition for an offering will start soon, when we have three contestants.

Jud: So far we only have one, unless some of you want to join.

Vi: Well, I'm not joining! I can eat, just not fast…

Kabbu: I, uh, will skip. Don't need any more weight…

Leif: We'll do it. We're pretty hungry.

Vi: Already!?

Jud: Well, we still need one more to start. Maybe you can find a willing participant?

Jud: Welcome to this year's eating competition.

Jud: The rules are simple: Mash |button,4| to eat as fast as you can. Whoever finishes their plate first is the victor!

Jud: Here are this year's competitors:

Jud: From the Hive, Chubee!

(minibubble) Vi: Good luck!

Jud: From the Ant Kingdom! Leif!

(minibubble) Vi: You too!

Jud: And Zasp! Who's come from a land far from Bugaria.

(minibubble) Vi: BOOOO!!!

Jud: With that, we are ready to begin! Give it your all, for the Goddess Venus!

[if chubee wins]

Jud: This year's winner is... Chubee!

Leif: Well fought, Chubee…

Chubee: Same to you, Leif!

Jud: Congratulations. Here is your reward.

Leif: Sorry. We never expected Chubee to be so powerful.

Kabbu: Do not worry. But how should we proceed? That offering is essential for our festival plan.

Vi: Um, Chubee's my friend, right? Maybe we can trade with her!

Leif: A non violent plan? Impressive.

Kabbu: It's worth a shot! We've got nothing left to lose.

Jud: Oh, Leif was it? There's a runner up prize. Don't forget it!

Leif: Yay, participation prize... Thanks.

Kabbu: D-Defeat is also a precious memory. Stay strong, Leif!

Leif: Yeah, yeah. Let's go.

Chubee: Heyyy! I really gotta say, Leif, you had me worried!

Leif: Hmph. Spare us your sympathy. We were completely defeated.

Chubee: Heheh. No need to be so serious!

Vi: Say, Chubee... About that offering.

Vi: We're on, um, a mission! And we really need both offerings.

Vi: Do you think you could trade with us?

(minibubble) Kabbu: So polite!

Chubee: Trade, huh? Sure! I didn't enter for the prize, anyways.

Chubee: How about some Berry Juice? I saw a stall selling some!

Vi: We're on it! Berry Juice coming up super quick!

[Give]

Chubee: Now that looks delicious! Promise's a promise, Vi. Here you go!

Vi: Thanks Chubee! You really helped us out!

Chubee: No problem. Let's have some Berry Juice together when you're less busy!

[Leif winning]

Jud: This year's winner is...Leif!

Chubee: Well fought, Leif!

Leif: You were a worthy rival.

Jud: Congratulations. Here's your reward.

Jud: Consider joining us next year!

Leif: We may, judge. We may.

Kabbu: Nicely done, Leif! You've done it!

Vi: You've got one heck of a stomach!

Leif: Thanks. It was a piece of cake really. This festival was good, not gonna lie.

Kabbu: Leif, it's not over yet. You're going to have even more fun!

Leif: We'll try, Kabbu. We'll try.

Vi: Heheheh.

Kabbu: You've made a friend too, Vi. This festival is wonderful!

Vi: Geez, Kabbu. You should have some fun too!

Kabbu: I'm having the time of my life! No worries.

Chubee: Heyyy, Leif! You got me really good!

Leif: Not at all. It was very close.

Chubee: They gave me this, but I don't really want it. Here you go, pal!

Vi: Woah, thanks Chubee!

Chubee: See ya around, folks!

[post-competition]

Zasp: Urp... I failed her... What a disgrace...

(minibubble) Vi: Mwahaha!

Leif: Have some class, Vi. He fought valiantly.

Kabbu: Let's leave him alone for now...

Golden Settlement, Main Area

[Walking into the area with both offerings]

Leif: So if we give Aria the offerings, we can get through to the Golden Hills?

Kabbu: Indeed. It's been quite the festival, but we should get ready and go meet her.

Vi: Let's go get that treasure!

[We’re ready]

Aria: Very well. Only three may perform the ceremony. Two bugs holding each blessing, and I.

Leif: So one of us will have to sit this out.

Kabbu: Well, we owe the offerings to you two. You should go!

Vi: No way, you haven't had any fun! You're going!

Kabbu: Vi...! Thank you!

Aria: So, who will participate in the ceremony?

Aria: Oh, Goddess Venus.

Aria: May this ceremony please you and grant us a bountiful harvest for this following year…

Aria: May our battle shake the earth, and bring joy and dance to your roots!

(minibubble) Kabbu: It's a battle!?

Vi: Now that's my style of ceremony!

Aria: Now, let us spar for the Goddess!

[post-battle]

Aria: That was a fierce battle. I am sure Venus enjoyed it.

Kabbu: Respected acolyte, have we earned passage to the Golden Hills?

Aria: It is all up to the Goddess.

Aria: Oh Venus... If you enjoyed our display, please grant us passage to the Golden Hills!

Aria: The path has opened. Beyond this point, lies the sacred Golden Hills.

Vi: Woah! It opened all by itself!

Aria: Whatever is your business there, Venus has granted you passage.

Vi: W-Well, whatever! We did it! That artifact will be ours in no time!

Leif: Soul: Relaxed. Passage: Open. Mission success, we'd say.

Kabbu: Let's tread carefully, team. We're heading into sacred ground. It won't be as simple as it seems.

Leif: It would have been nice to get some sleep... But we can do it.

Vi: No worries. We beat Snakemouth, right?

Kabbu: Heh, indeed. Let's go!

[Spy Gen or Eri]

Kabbu: Oh no... They've missed the festivities!

Leif: How depressing. Even we have to admit it was pretty awesome.

Vi: There's always next year, right?

Kabbu: Indeed. It could become team tradition!

Leif: ...Sounds nice.

[Spy Levi or Celia]

Leif: This ain't a good look for the association…

Vi: How much Berry Juice did they drink to fall asleep so hard!?

Kabbu: Let's, um, give them some privacy.

Ant Kingdom, Residential

[Spy Bomby]

Leif: That charming dude's missing his hat.

Kabbu: It seems it has hurt him deeply, we must help him!

Vi: (At least he's not flirting...)

[Quest: Dropped my hat!]

Vi: Heya. We saw your post!

Bomby: R-Really? This cute Bee's come to help me?

[Give hat]

Bomby: Oh yes! Yes! It's my super cool hat! I can feel my charm coming back!

Bomby: He-heeeey, you cutie Bee! Thanks for helping me out!

Vi: I'm not a "cutie Bee".

Bomby: Sorry. I couldn't help myself!

(minibubble) Leif: Brave.

Vi: Look. Just pay up.

Bomby: Anything for the cute savior of my dear hat!

Vi: Ugh. I don't even want this anymore.

Bomby: It's that coarseness that makes you so smooth!

Kabbu: Vi's gonna go on about this for days…

Vi: You bet. Let's get outta here!

Bomby: Oh, Vi. Such a sweet name. I hope you come back soon!

(minibubble) Vi: In your dreams!

[talk after quest]

Bomby: He-heeeey!

(minibubble) Vi: Let's get outta here!

Golden Hills, Entrance

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: ...I feel weird.

Leif: No kidding. Even the air feels strange.

Kabbu: This is not sacred land in name alone. There must be forces at play we can't see.

Vi: We won't let it stop us, though!

[Story, walk to either side]

Venus: Heehee! Visitors?

Venus: How nice of the two of you to come here.

Kabbu: Goodness!

Vi: Eeep! That plant can talk!

Leif: ...It can't count, though.

Venus: Huh? So there's three of you?

Venus: I see. Hm. So that's how it is.

Venus: So what brings you here? Come to take in the sights?

Vi: We're here for the artifact! Fame and riches!

Venus: Hmph! Such reckless greed! How impure!

(minibubble) Vi: Impure!?

Kabbu: Dear plant, we assure you there is more at play than mere riches…

Venus: Yeah right, you bugs always say the same!

Leif: Nice going, Vi.

Venus: If you want to get the artifact, you'll have to get to the top…

Venus: Let's see if some flytraps don't eat you before then! Ehee hee hee!

Kabbu: Vi, announcing openly you are here to take treasure wasn't very smart.

Vi: I mean, I wasn't gonna lie or anything!

Leif: We're sure that's the reason.

Vi: Whatever! You heard it. Treasure's at the top, so let's get climbing!

Leif: Let's be careful. Something feels off about this place.

[story, putting in the big crank]

Mothiva: Ohohoho! Aren't you hard workers?

Leif: Uh, who're you?

Mothiva: Excuse me!?

Vi: It's Mothiva! From the festival concert! Wow!

Kabbu: It's an honor to meet such a famous individual!

Mothiva: Hmph. That's better.

Leif: And she came with her personal stalker.

Zasp: I am not a stalker.

Mothiva: I couldn't resist sneaking in! Seeing you work has been so inspiring!

Vi: Heheh. Thanks!

Mothiva: Now, you wouldn't mind just letting us go after the artifact? Pretty please?

Vi: WHAT!? No way!? We put in all the effort!

Mothiva: Aw, come on? I'll even mention you in my next show! You'll get so much exposure!

Leif: Hmph. Think of all the exposure we'll get turning in the artifact.

Zasp: I wouldn't recommend getting sassy.

Mothiva: Tch. What do you even need the artifact for!?

Mothiva: While I was busy bringing joy to Bugaria's citizens, you snuck into Snakemouth!

Mothiva: And now everyone's just talking about you!

Vi: That's not our problem! I ain't giving up that reward!

Leif: The summit may hold answers for us. So we're not going to budge.

Kabbu: I don't really care about fame, or riches. So I would let you pass, but…

(minibubble) Vi: Oi, Kabbu!

Kabbu: It matters to my friends. So my answer is no!

Zasp: Hmph. So you've chosen to do this the hard way. Get ready.

Kabbu: You would attack a fellow exploration team!?

Mothiva: Ohohoho! It's a bug eat bug world, on the way to stardom! We'll just put you to sleep for a bit!

(minibubble) Leif: This is stupid...

Vi: Have it your way! You're gonna get smacked down!

[post-battle]

Mothiva: Ugh... How could you!?

Zasp: Tsk, they're strong.

Mothiva: How DARE you sully my fluff, you talentless, disgusting peasants!?

Vi: That's what you get for trying to hijack our mission!

Kabbu: Mothiva, you are nowhere near as kind as I hoped you would be.

Leif: Mhm. And Zasp? You lost the little respect we had for you.

Mothiva: Silence! I won't forget this... You haven't seen what an amazing performance I can give!

Zasp: Mothiva, we should retreat for now.

Mothiva: I know that. And not because you told me!

Zasp: We'll meet again, Team Snakemouth.

Leif: The things some would do for fame…

Vi: I mean, I almost can't blame her. Getting an artifact really bumps you up in the ranks!

Vi: Not like I was gonna let them take it from us, though!

Kabbu: Well, despite that unexpected detour, we should be able to proceed now.

Leif: We sense some strong magic up there. Let's make sure we're prepared.

Golden Hills, Lower Right Crank

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: Those flowers are dripping dew...how refreshing.

Vi: Ugh, I'm getting Snakemouth flashbacks…

Vi: I need to make sure to stay dry!

Kabbu: Silly Vi. Let's make sure to utilize that water wisely to explore the area!

Leif: It's been a while since we froze stuff... We're looking forward to it.

Golden Hills, Left Main

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: What a vast space.

Kabbu: It doesn't seem like there's a way to cross…

Vi: Nah, it's fine. I see a lot of cranks!

Vi: I just have to be smart with the Beemerang!

Leif: You mean the A.P.B.D.?

Kabbu: Isn't it the A.B.D.P.?

Vi: It's the Beemerang!

Golden Hills, Left Crank Half

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: This looks like a job for the Beemerang.

Vi: Mhm! The professor's upgrades actually helped out a ton!

Leif: We should probably start thinking up a performance report for when we see her again…

Vi: Uh...report? Right…

Kabbu: We will deal with that later. Let's focus on the mission!

Golden Hills, Crank Left

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: So these lifts move differently when the cranks turn!

Leif: Gold star, Kabbu.

Vi: So the green ones go down, and the brown ones up?

Kabbu: Indeed. How nice of them to color code them!

Golden Hills, Right Crank

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: It's been a while since we saw flying Seedlings!

Vi: Time for some smacking!

Leif: Wait.

(minibubble) Vi: Huh?

Leif: Haven't you noticed the spikes in our path?

Vi: Yeah, but what's that got to do with my smackdown?

Kabbu: I see...! We could freeze them to get across!

Leif: Mhm. Finally, a non violent solution.

Vi: Yeah, cool. Whatever...

Vi: I really want to smack something, though.

Golden Hills, Upper Main

[Story, upon first entering]

Leif: Ahbrushkiyle...Sjark trasbadki!?

(minibubble) Vi: Leif?

Kabbu: Are you alright!? It's been a while since one of those episodes…

Vi: We're probably getting close to the artifact, then?

Leif: Ngh... Yes... So much magic…

Kabbu: Perhaps you should stay here, Leif. Until we clear a path.

Leif: N-No. We're fine now. We won't retreat when we're so close.

Vi: Look, stop acting tough! It'll be bad if you trip and stuff!

Leif: Thank you, Vi. But we're fine. Let's go.

Kabbu: If you feel weak at any point, we'll stop. Let's go, team!

[Overworld Spy, pre-fight]

Vi: I hope Leif is feeling okay…

Kabbu: Yeah. Vi, we must keep watch over him.

Leif: (...Thanks.)

Golden Hills, Upper Side

[Overworld Spy, pre-venus]

Leif: Fraghstek, ituyel miyurk...

Vi: Leif, you're speaking weird again…

Leif: S-Sorry. It's been happening randomly…

Kabbu: This area's magic is too potent... Let's try to finish the mission quickly.

[Overworld Spy, post-boss]

Kabbu: Leif, you don't feel weird anymore?

Leif: It's only weird when we feel new magic. Then it just kinda goes away.

Vi: Phew. It'd be bad if you couldn't be near the artifacts at all!

Golden Hills, Venus Room

[Overworld Spy, pre-boss]

Leif: Ngh... The magic...is very strong here…

Vi: So, the artifact is close isn't it?

Kabbu: It should be. Let's find it... And leave as soon as we can.

[Story, Walk to middle of room]

Leif: The artifact is here. Somewhere.

Vi: You sure? I mean, it's just flowers all around us.

Kabbu: Flowers... That's it! One of these flowers must be the artifact!

Leif: Uh, probably not.

Vi: Only one way to find out! Start cutting, Kabbu!

(minibubble) Kabbu: W-What!?

Venus: That's enough!

Kabbu: By the gods! It's Venus! It's Venus herself!

(minibubble) Leif: A Goddess...!

(minibubble) Vi: W-whoa!

Venus: Hee hee hee! Indeed. The one and only.

Venus: I've been keeping my ear on you, with my precious buds…

Venus: I was really, really hoping all the bridges and monsters would stop you.

Venus: So stubborn! And now, you'd even trample upon my garden!? My precious garden!?

Vi: I-It was just a joke, okay? We just need the artifact!

Venus: To line your pockets, hmph! You cared more for an artifact than your...blue friend there.

Venus: Washed up from a river, yet you worried more about a material thing than your own companion!

Vi: W-What? How did you…

Venus: My roots travel all across the soil. Sometimes, I catch some gossip.

Kabbu: I-Incredible! This is truly the feat of a higher being!

Venus: Heehehe! Though I must say, Kabbu. I am beyond pleased with your worship!

(minibubble) Kabbu: P-Please, I am not worthy!

Venus: You're so chivalrous, and kind. So why won't you share your burdens with your friends?

(minibubble) Leif: Huh?

Kabbu: Venus, please! Say no more…

Vi: What's your deal!? Is nagging people a Goddess' job?

Leif: You know everything, then? What bothers Vi, Kabbu and us.

Venus: Well, not everything. But I certainly know more than you lot.

Leif: T-Then what about us? Why are we still here, after so many years?

(minibubble) Kabbu: Leif...

(minibubble) Vi: ...

Venus: ...You, you're all way different than your average bug.

Venus: Greed, sadness, purpose... Such diverse motives within your team!

(minibubble) Kabbu: ...

Leif: Please, tell us!

Venus: Vi! Kabbu! Leif! The artifact, and all the questions you want to ask…

Venus: If you get through my special trial, they are yours!

Leif: Bring it on. We will have our answers.

Vi: Heheh! Well said! It's artifact time!

Kabbu: Venus, despite everything, I will face your trial with honor!

Venus: Hee hee hee… Get ready!

Venus: Ehee hee hee!

Kabbu: W-What in the shining crown of the Queen is that!?

Vi: T-That's way bigger than the spider!

Leif: ...Get ready, you two. We're getting what we came for.

(minibubble) Vi: R-Right!

(minibubble) Kabbu: We can do it!

[post-battle]

Venus: Ouch... Bugs nowadays have become quite strong...

Kabbu: It is our honor to hear so, Venus.

Leif: Now, if you'd answer us…

Vi: And hand over the artifact!

Venus: Fine, fine. I really owe you, anyways. Other than Aria, it's been years since I saw another bug It's been so refreshing!

Leif: Hm? Were your roots not all across Bugaria?

Venus: Well, my buds don't really have eyes. I can only sense things with them, you see?

Leif: So you didn't see what happened to us in Snakemouth Den?

Venus: Tell me more, you curious thing.

Leif: Back when Elizant the First ruled, our team was on a scouting mission to Snakemouth…

Leif: We fell under, and a spider trapped us. We went asleep and woke up. When Vi and Kabbu saved us. So many moons later…

Venus: That was quite a while back. Let me try and remember.

Venus: ...…

Venus: Yes, a team of three. One of them falls, the other two flee with their lives.

Leif: They lived!

(minibubble) Kabbu: Thank goodness!

Venus: The remaining one lingers, yet the presence vanishes.

Vi: What, it just vanishes?

Venus: Mhm. I don't recall feeling that presence since.

Venus: Even now, I cannot sense Leif's presence. Although I see you here. I'm sorry, but that's all I can tell you.

Leif: Venus, thank you. Knowing our team was safe brought us much peace.

Venus: Hee he he! Ain't a Goddess for nothing!

Kabbu: We are ever closer to the truth, Leif.

Vi: Yup! Awesome!

Venus: No questions from you, Kabbu?

Kabbu: Thank you Venus. But don't worry. I am managing quite well…

Vi: If anyone's fine on the team, it's Kabbu!

(minibubble) Leif: Hm?

Venus: I'll respect your wishes on this.

Vi: Anyways, that just leaves…

Venus: I know, I know. The artifact. Honestly, such a greedy Bee doesn't deserve it! Be grateful for your teammates.

(minibubble) Vi: Rude.

Venus: But anyways, here you go~

Textbox: You have found the Ancient Tablet!

Textbox: Team Snakemouth ventured into the Golden Settlement, in search of another hidden artifact and answers about Leif's slumber.

Textbox: After a festival of joy, friendship and bonding, the path to the sacred hills opened for them.

Textbox: Filled with determination, they gathered the pieces to reach its highest point, and fought off Zasp and Mothiva along the way.

Textbox: Now that they've earned the Goddess' approval and artifact, could the way to the Everlasting Sapling finally be within reach...!?

Textbox: End of Chapter 2.

Vi: Mission super complete!

Leif: We should go report back, then.

Venus: That tablet is important to find the Everlasting Sapling that the Queen's searching for.

Venus: I do not know how it works, but it should hold clues on how to locate it.

Kabbu: Thank you, Venus. How can we ever repay you?

Venus: Hmm... Just promise to visit me sometime, alright? Bring Aria if you can! Hee he he!

Venus: Oh, and don't tell others of me, of course... Stay safe, and remember, I'm always watching over you.

[Spy Venus]

Kabbu: Goddess Venus is so nice for someone of her status!

Leif: No kidding... Elizant II could learn a bit from her.

Vi: Maybe we should bring the Queen to visit!

Kabbu: That will probably be difficult, I imagine.

Leif: And we're not willing to put in the extra effort to make it happen.

(minibubble)Vi: Aww...

[Overworld Spy, post-boss]

Vi: Hey, Leif? You're feeling okay?

Leif: Did her words get to you? We're not angry at you or anything.

Vi: Ugh. You're fine alright.

Leif: The magic is still quite potent, but we can manage.

Kabbu: Heheh. Let's not spend too long here, then. For Leif's sake.

Golden Hills, Upper Main

[Overworld spy, post-boss]

Kabbu: Leif, you don't feel weird anymore?

Leif: It's only weird when we feel new magic. Then it just kinda goes away.

Vi: Phew. It'd be bad if you couldn't be near the artifacts at all!

[Spy Tekci]

Kabbu: It seems Venus has granted this cricket access to the hills.

Vi: Huh. So it's not only by winning offerings?

Leif: What could Venus' criteria be...?

Golden Settlement, Main Area

[Story, coming down from Venus]

Celia: Hey! Team Snakemouth!

Levi: Ugh... We drank too much juice last night, so we couldn't get moving.

Celia: We couldn't even watch the last ceremony...but we heard you made it into the hills!

Levi: I assume you've found the artifact?

Vi: That's right!

Celia: I'm so jealous! That's two important artifacts you snagged from everyone else!

Levi: Great job! We should head back to the Ant Kingdom at once! The Queen will be very pleased.

Vi: Heheh! We're doing great!

Kabbu: Come now Vi, let's go to the Ant Kingdom.

Levi: We will go on ahead to notify the Queen and prepare an audience.

Levi: If you don't want to walk all the way back, you should go through the Ant Tunnels.

Levi: There should be one just outside the settlement.

Celia: Don't leave the Queen waiting!

[Spy Stag Beetle]

Kabbu: A stag Beetle! How nostalgic…

Leif: There aren't many of these in Bugaria.

Kabbu: My homeland's bustling with them! And many other Beetles.

Vi: Like a Kabbu kingdom, huh.

Ant Palace, Throne Room

Neo: Oh! You've all come! I must say, you're just in time.

Leif: (It's really crowded… those questions will have to wait.)

Elizant: Tell us without further ado, Team Snakemouth. Have you found the artifact hidden in the Golden Hills?

Vi: Yup! We're ready for that reward!

Elizant: Wonderful! This timing is simply impeccable.

Elizant: I must congratulate you, for bringing this artifact to my care.

Elizant: This must be sign of even more good things to come. For the Ant Kingdom and Bugaria.

Kabbu: It was our honor, Your Highness!

Elizant: Zaryant, please collect the artifact and hand them their rewards.

Zaryant: As you command, my Queen.

Zaryant: You have earned this, Team Snakemouth.

Vi: Heheh. Thanks again! The Vi Bank keeps filling!

Neo: Oh! M-may I take a look, as we discussed?

Elizant: Yes. Make haste, Zaryant.

Zaryant: Handle it with care, Professor.

Neo: O-Of course!

Neo: Yes...YES! My research held true!

Neo: This tablet must contain information on how to find the Everlasting Sapling!

Vi: What? But that's just a bunch of blue lines!

Neo: Oho, Vi! That's where that mask you found in Snakemouth comes in!

Kina: I-It really was a mask!? I thought it was just a weird rock…

Kabbu: Heheh, so I was right!

Leif: Don't boast, Kabbu.

Neo: Listen now, the mask is an interpreter! Through it, these lines morph into the Roach Alphabet!

(minibubble) Kina: (Who cares...)

Neo: I cannot tell how it actually works, but the Roaches had such marvelous technology! I'm smitten!

Elizant: Wonderful... Very, very wonderful...!

Elizant: We are making progress in finding the sapling. Finally.

Leif: What do you need the Everlasting Sapling for?

Elizant: ...That is not for you to know.

Leif: Tch…

Elizant: Just know, that with it my mother's dream will come true at last.

Leif: (Elizant's dream?)

Elizant: Professor. How long will it take you to decipher this tablet?

Neo: Oh, um...it will be some time. Even with the mask, the runes are still in Roach Script. S-Sorry.

Elizant: I see. Fret not, that leaves us with time to retrieve the other artifact.

Celia: There's another one?

Neo: Mhm. My research indicates there are three artifacts.

Neo: With the missing key, we can "unlock" the Everlasting Sapling!

Levi: Then...we're almost at the finish line!

Neo: YES! And given what we know, the key should be in the Bee Kingdom!

Vi: R-Really?

Neo: Long ago, before knowing of its real nature, they used it when building the Honey Factory's Core.

Neo: But I'm not sure if they will give it to us, because taking it out will shut down the whole thing…

Vi: It'll shut down the factory? B-But...

Zaryant: Do not worry, both of you.

Zaryant: We have sent our envoys to the Bee Kingdom ever since you told us about the key.

Zaryant: Finally, they have agreed to let us take it, in exchange for materials to build a replacement.

Kabbu: That is wonderful!

Neo: Oh, joy! Then it won't cause them any trouble!

Kina: So the job's trading these materials for the artifact?

Elizant: Precisely. That is your next mission.

Elizant: And luckily, a young Bee joined your ranks recently. She will be of great help in this mission.

(minibubble) Kabbu: Vi...

Vi: …

(minibubble) Leif: Oh right...

Celia: Geez. Team Snakemouth is on a roll, aren't they?

Levi: It's all fair game, Celia. We have our own tasks to excel at.

Elizant: With that, you are all dismissed.

Elizant: Except Team Snakemouth and Team Celia. I wish to have a word with you.

Kina: Well, guess we'll be going now…

(minibubble) Kina: I wish Maki was here...

Elizant: Now, I've kept you here to ask about the wasp situation.

Elizant: The professor has mentioned you all helped him when he was attacked. For that, you have my gratitude.

(minibubble) Neo: ...

Levi: We are unworthy, Your Highness. We only did what any explorer ought to.

(minibubble) Kabbu: S-So cool...

Celia: It was worrying, though. They seem to know about the artifacts somehow…

Elizant: Then it is as I feared. We are running out of time.

Elizant: You must all remain on guard, and avoid the northern border with the Wasp Kingdom at all costs.

Levi: As you wish, Your Highness.

Elizant: To reach the Bee Kingdom, you must travel southeast from the Association, and take the first north exit.

Elizant: With my permission, explorers may now cross the passage to the Lost Sands.

Zaryant: Be wary, however. The number of bandits in the Lost Sands has been increasing lately.

Zaryant: Head straight to Defiant Root as soon as possible, to enter the Bee Hive.

(minibubble) Vi: ...

Kabbu: We will get it done, Your Highness!

(minibubble) Leif: Uh huh...

Zaryant: Dismissed!

Textbox: Chapter 3: Factory Inspection

Levi: That being said, we do have some things to take care of first.

Levi: If you have time, perhaps you could check out the Quest Board in the Plaza...?

Celia: Try not to clear the mission too quickly, so we may catch up!

Leif: No promises.

Neo: Kabbu, Leif, Vi... Thank you. I'll stay here and do my part.

Neo: I hope it will be smooth sailing for you! Having Vi on your team must be a big help.

Vi: Uh. Yeah. Definitely.

Ant Palace, Main Room

Kabbu: Heh. I've never been to the Hive! This is a good opportunity.

Vi: Uh huh…

Kabbu: Vi, are you okay? I know you're not on the best terms, but-

Vi: Look, I don't wanna talk about it right now. Okay?

Kabbu: Ah…

Leif: Well, if you don't want to talk about it... There's something we want to discuss.

Vi: What's up?

Leif: Venus mentioned that our...our team got away from Snakemouth's depths.

Leif: Given the passage of time, they're most likely gone. But, we can't help but think…

Leif: Maybe their children are around. Do you follow?

Vi: Oh. Oh! That's right! Your team can be around in spirit!

Kabbu: Leif, you'd like to go look for them?

Leif: We're in the middle of a mission, so there's no rush. But if we ever find the time…

Vi: No problem! We'll just find them as we go along!

Kabbu: Indeed. We'll keep our eyes open.

Leif: ...Thank you. That's all. Let's get on with the mission.

Vi: Uh, right... Yeah. Let's go.

(minibubble) Kabbu: Oh dear...

Ant Kingdom, Residential

Muze: Tod! Tooood! Come on, it's lunch time!

(minibubble) Leif: !!! M-Muse!?

(minibubble) Vi: Muse?

Tod: Aww mom... Can't I play a bit longer?

Muze: Sweetie, you need to eat! It'll give you all the power you need to play all day!

Muze: I made you your favorite! A tasty Hearty Breakfast!

Tod: Woah! Thanks, mom!

Kabbu: Leif? Who is Muse?

Leif: That's...our wife.

Kabbu: Your wife!? But Leif, that's…

Leif: I-Impossible.

Vi: Then she's got to be your super mega granddaughter!

Kabbu: That's right...! Isn't it great? You can meet up with your relatives!

Leif: No. Not at all. How can we face them like this?

Leif: Lost to time, not even understanding ourselves…

Vi: It can't be that bad…

Leif: To them, we're just a stranger. If we're going to intrude on their life…

Leif: We need to know the truth about what happened to us.

Kabbu: We will help you, Leif. Every step of this journey.

Vi: Uh, yeah! And when you're ready, we can come back and meet them!

Leif: ...Thanks. Let's keep an eye out for clues.

Leif: We can't ignore our mission, though. Let's keep going.

Leif: (Even so...we're glad to see them safe and happy.)

[Spy Bee]

Leif: Look, Vi. A Bee's come to keep you company.

Vi: Err, with how she's faring, maybe she should go back to the Hive...

Golden Path, Path

[attempt talking, post ch2]

GS Technician: Zzz...

Vi: He's still at it!

Kabbu: Maybe we always catch him on his break hour…

Leif: That's just convenient enough to be true, isn't it?

Golden Path, Cable Car

[Quest: Cable Car Bodyguard]

[Spy GS Technician]

Leif: Wouldn't you know. This guy does his job.

Vi: It's always after we've done things the hard way!

Kabbu: Let's make sure other explorers don't have to!

GS Technician: Hey.

Kabbu: Hello, esteemed technician! We saw your listing on the quest board.

GS Technician: Cool.

Kabbu: ...Err, yes. Cool.

Leif: So uh…

(minibubble) Vi: ...

GS Technician: Here they come. Keep 'em busy while I fix this, okay?

Vi: Alright! Smackdown time!

[After third battle]

GS Technician: All done. Thanks. Here.

Vi: Alrighty. This was totally worth it!

Kabbu: Phew...I'm only glad everyone came out of this well.

GS Technician: Feel free to use the cable car by using those cranks.

GS Technician: Ride to the top. It'll be worth it.

Leif: Thanks.

GS Technician: Well. I'm off. See ya.

Leif: Cool bug, that one.

Kabbu: You two are a bit alike, aren't you?

Leif: Whatever could you mean?

Vi: Heheh... Well, let's get going, yeah? Unto the next mission!

Golden Settlement, Residential

[Spy GS Technician]

Leif: ...Took him long enough to move around.

Kabbu: Are you...upset, Leif?

Leif: Uh, no. But we do wish he'd done his job sooner.

Vi: Leif's upset!

Leif: Knock it off.

Golden Settlement, Farms

[Spy Dashy]

Kabbu: How dashing! She's...like a bee Knight!

Vi: What're you gushing all over her for!? I'm way cooler!

Leif: Right, Vi...

[Spy Fabri, post-venus]

Leif: Venus seems to be held in high regard, even though the workers haven't seen her.

Kabbu: We made a promise, so we are bound to not tell…

Vi: It's better this way, right?

Vi: There's no point to faith if you know for sure!

Leif: That's...surprisingly deep, Vi.

Vi: Heheheh!

[first talk]

Fortune Teller: So you've come. Want your fortune read, am I right?

Leif: How did you…

Fortune Teller: Know? It's all been foretold! Well, most things. I think.

Vi: Woah. S-so you can see the future?

Fortune Teller: Parts of it, yeah. And I can show where stuff is to you! For a price.

Kabbu: Humbug. I refuse to believe this.

Leif: Huh. Why not? It'd be so useful…

Kabbu: If the future is set in stone, we don't control our fate! I simply disagree!

Vi: So you CAN hate stuff, Kabbu!

Fortune Teller: Now, now. No need to argue. Just try my services! If it works, everyone wins!

Leif: Sounds good to us.

Vi: Yeah! We can get lots of treasure!

Kabbu: (It working is what would worry me most.)

[ask for fortune, none left]

Fortune Teller: ...I apologize. I was unable to find anything you haven't found yet.

Fortune Teller: As I knew it'd happen, I will give your berries back!

(minibubble) Vi: (Phew...)

Ant Kingdom, Theater

[Spy Chubee, pre-taking theater quest]

Vi: Hehe. Chubee's always traveling and looking for good stuff, huh.

Leif: And she's one impressive eater.

Kabbu: It makes me happy to see you have other friends, Vi!

[First talk, pre-taking theater quest]

Chubee: Oh, hey Vi! Had a good festival?

Vi: Yup! We got some good treasure too!

Leif: Are you here to see the play?

Chubee: Heheh. Something like that... Bugaria's full of talent, isn't it!?

Kabbu: Indeed! Although theatre is under appreciated.

Chubee: Yup...Anyways, let's go grab a bite later, Vi.

Vi: You got it!

[Quest: Theater Help Wanted!]

[Spy Chubee]

Vi: Woah, Chubee's an actress!?

Kabbu: It seems she holds many talents, aside from eating!

Leif: If she's as good at acting as she's eating, this should be good.

Vi: Hey, Chubee!

Chubee: Vi, you're going to participate?

Kabbu: Miss Chubee, you're the actress mentioned in the post?

Leif: A fierce eater, and also a talented performer…

Chubee: It's nothing! You'll all do great! We just have to rehearse!

Leif: No audition?

Chubee: M.M.'s a bit desperate…

Kabbu: We can start as soon as you are ready.

Vi: Let's do it!

Chubee: W-Wait Vi, you've gotta be careful.

Chubee: V-VI! WATCH OUT!!!

Chubee: ..........

Chubee: Sigh. W-Well, I think we're ready.

Chubee: People are coming in, I believe in you!

Leif: Hopefully that won't be misplaced faith…

Kabbu: Let us do our best. This play carries a lot of people's efforts!

Vi: And we're actually getting paid. Let's do this!

Chubee: Ya ready to go?

Textbox: Yes

No

[Yes]

Narration: Once upon a time, there laid a kingdom in a desert with an immense oasis.

Narration: Travelers from all over the world wished to visit. For its clear water and its beautiful ruler.

Narration: The princess would greet all who came with smiles and hospitality.

Narration: It was so, how an evil prince fell in love...

Chubee: I cannot leave my people. They are my pride, my joy!

Burglar: Oh, how I wished for thee to make this easy.

Burglar: You have left me no choice!

Chubee: No... Stop, stop!

Leif: Halt, you fiend! You will sully the princess no longer!

Vi: Yeah! Uh, give her back!

(minibubble) Kabbu: (She forgot her lines...!)

Kabbu: W-We will stop you!

Burglar: Minions! Get rid of these pests. We have places to be.

Chubee: H-Help me! Somebody save me!

Vi: Alright, let's kick their butt!

(minibubble) Kabbu: Sigh...

Leif: You freakish beasts, you dare stand between us and the princess!?

Leif: You chose poorly. Prepare yourself!

[After winning first battle]

Leif: Curses! That villain escaped with the princess.

Kabbu: Whatever shall we do now? How will we face the people!?

Vi: We will get her back! After them!

Narration: The unlikely heroes left their loved homeland behind, with the princess in their heart.

Narration: The journey was long, and the desert unforgiving...

Kabbu: Water... Oh gods, guide us to water...

Leif: Do not complain! Our suffering is slim, compared to what the princess faces.

Vi: Ugh, I bet she's getting treated real nice.

(minibubble) Chubee: (V-Vi! What are you doing?!)

Kabbu: Oh, bandits! We are in such trouble!

Leif: Out of our way, scoundrels. We have no time for thee.

Vi: Yeah! Or face my beemerang! I mean, blade!

Thief: Nyehehe. You shouldn't have come to the desert…

Bandit: ...In such expensive clothes!

Leif: Your greed knows no end... Prepare yourself!

Narration: Stifling heat and frigid nights were no match for the knights' spirit. They reached the prince's lair with fire in their eyes.

Narration: And now, it was time to take back what they had lost...

Chubee: Let me go already, you monster!

Burglar: Even with all my riches, with the grandeur of my land…

Burglar: You would still reject me!?

Kabbu: Oh, the evil prince. He is so scary and imposing!

Vi: Hey! Give the princess back!

Leif: You will pay for your crimes!

Chubee: My knights! You've come to my aid!

Burglar: Why... Why must fate work against me?

Burglar: Very well. I shall end thee, and take all I want by force!

[After winning third battle]

Burglar: No...I can still fight!

Burglar: I will show you my true power!

Leif: No... We are too drained from the fight!

Kabbu: Is this the end for us...?

Vi: Hey, I can still fight!

Burglar: AAAAAAAAAAAA-

Chubee: That is for kidnapping me, you cruel tyrant!

Crowd: WOOOOO!

Chubee: Oh, my knights...I thank you for all you have done.

Chubee: In the name of my mother, the Queen...I grant you the highest honors.

Chubee: To stay by my side as right-hand bugs, as we restore our kingdom.

Leif: It was all for you, Princess.

Chubee: Heheh. I knew I could count on ya! It went great!

Leif: It went way better than great.

Kabbu: I didn't really like my role, but I managed.

Vi: It was super easy. Now, for payment…

Chubee: It's a bit weird to be paying Team Snakemouth! Heheheh...

Vi: Nyehehehe. Thanks, Chubee.

Chubee: Honestly, a lot of people are asking for an encore.

Chubee: Guess I'll stay till they're bored!

[lose battle]

Audience: Huh?

Audience: What?

Audience: Wait...

Audience: Uhh...

Audience: Mommy!

Audience: Wah...

Chubee: N-No! It's...ruined...

Chubee: …

Kabbu: We... we're sorry.

Chubee: ...I made up some excuse with the owner…

Chubee: They'll let us try again tomorrow, thankfully.

Vi: C-Chubee…

Chubee: Let's rehearse again, okay? We can do it!

Chubee: (...I hope... )

Ant Kingdom, Commercial

[Quest: Requesting Assistance]

Levi: Ah, Team Snakemouth! So you were the ones that took our request?

Kabbu: Indeed, Levi. What seems to be troubling you?

Celia: Err... Are you sure about this, Levi? This IS pretty dangerous…

Levi: Celia, Kabbu and the others have found enough artifacts to prove their skill.

Vi: Heheh. You tell her. What's the job? Pays well?

Celia: Oh, it's worth the trouble.

Levi: The situation is...we're after this criminal known as Monsieur Scarlet.

Levi: Every now and then, he posts requests in the board asking for help…

Levi: And then preys on the well-meaning explorers, draining their life force!

Leif: Yikes. We expected a petty burglar, or something of that sort.

Celia: Sadly not. He's even the reason why the old tunnel to the Golden Hills is abandoned!

Celia: He's caused us a lot of trouble.

Kabbu: This fellow sounds most vile. We would be honored to help you bring justice!

Levi: We've gathered enough intel to confidently say his hideout is in that old tunnel.

Vi: Really? How can someone hide in a straight hallway?

Levi: If you offer us your help to catch him, it will become clear.

Levi: ...Please. He is not someone we can apprehend alone.

Leif: We'll do it. It sounds like being frozen over would do him some good.

Kabbu: Leave it to us, comrades.

(minibubble) Vi: Mhm!

Levi: What a relief! You're truly a team one can rely on.

Celia: Sheesh. At least wait until the mission's over to praise them!

Celia: We'll be going to the tunnel now, okay? Meet us there, and we'll begin the operation!

Leif: We'll see you there.

Golden Path, Tunnel

Levi: Excellent. He is just through here.

(minibubble) Kabbu: Huh?

Vi: Uhh... All I see is a wall?

Leif: Hmm. We can feel some faint magic, though.

Levi: You see...this wall is but an illusion.

Levi: Scarlet disguises the area up ahead from the common folk so he can hide there. Only his prey don't see it.

Levi: He only attacks when the victim accepts his request... That's why I cannot see the wall.

Celia: It's no wonder we couldn't find him, but when Levi picked up that suspicious quest…

Celia: Well, the pieces came together.

Kabbu: W-Wait, you mean Levi is Scarlet's target? That's crazy!

Levi: Please, calm yourself. I understand the risks. But if we follow the plan, we can capture him.

Celia: Levi will go ahead by himself, to drop Scarlet's guard.

Celia: Then, we will jump him while he's distracted.

Vi: A-Are you sure? He could really hurt you!

Levi: You have my trust. We are five, and he is but one.

Leif: ...Got it. Let's do it, then.

Celia: Glad you understand. Let's begin the mission!

Vi: W-WOAH...!

Celia: Shush! Don't screw this up!

Leif: Yeah, Vi. Shhhhhh.

Vi: Drop it, Leif.

Scarlet: Ah!~ Has a dashing explorer finally heard my plea?~

Levi: Greetings. You're...Rogu, the one who posted this notice?

Levi: I've come to hear what troubles you.

Scarlet: My, my! So direct and to the point...

Scarlet: You're too tense, dear…

Scarlet: Just relax. That is how you can help me...~

Levi: I- Uh... W-What? Am I in the wrong place?

Scarlet: Just...relax...~

Celia: LEVI!

Scarlet: Tch. A trap? How DARE you make a fool of me?

Kabbu: Give up, Scarlet! You are cornered!

Scarlet: Hmph. You have no idea what I've faced before. Come and try me.

Scarlet: I'll suck your life energy to the husk...!

[Defeat Scarlet]

Scarlet: …

Levi: ...I-It's over, Scarlet! You're coming with us...!

Scarlet: Curses... I lost. And now I have to flee like a coward...!

Levi: No... No! He escaped!

Kabbu: We must go after him!

Levi: Ngh... No, it's okay. We are all injured. Did quite the number on us…

Vi: So he just leaves scot free!?

Celia: Not...quite. We have seen his face and hideout, and lived to tell the tale.

Levi: Before, we could only track his patterns from the missions he posted on the boards.

Levi: But now that we know what he looks like, we can set up wanted posters. He will not operate freely.

Celia: If he's smart. He'll probably leave Bugaria after this.

Leif: We know it's a victory, but it's still a shame…

Levi: Y-Yeah. Ow... We're going to need a good rest…

Celia: Yeah... He didn't look strong at all, but I guess that's what makes him scariest…

Vi: Well. Case closed, I guess. Reward time?

(minibubble) Kabbu: Vi! Plea-

Leif: Nothing stops you, eh Vi?

Celia: ...Could we discuss this a bit later? I want to get out of here.

Levi: Vi, your team saved my life. You will be rewarded.

Levi: But I agree with Celia, let us discuss payment back in town.

Vi: Alright, alright. No rush~!

Levi: I had berries in mind, but... I believe I have something better, Vi.

Vi: Really!?

Levi: I've heard you were barred entry from that place. I can get you back in again.

Kabbu: The place?

[If they’ve attempted to get in the Tavern before now]

Leif: That shady place behind the shop? Why do YOU have access?

Vi: Woah, really!? Who cares, Leif? This is awesome!

[If they haven’t tried to get in the Tavern before now]

Leif: Hiding a secret or two, Vi?

Vi: Maybe. It's a long story. It's this place in the Commercial Area…

Kabbu: It sounds quite shady…

Vi: Look, whatever. This is awesome! You'll see.

Levi: I will go ahead and arrange for you to be able to get in.

Levi: Meet us there when you can.

Celia: We'll be behind the shop in the Ant City. See ya there!

Celia: ...And thank you, Team Snakemouth.

Leif: Well, that was rough.

Kabbu: Sigh... Vi... Couldn't you just help them for the sake of it?

Vi: A job's a job! I'm not a charity.

Vi: Besides, I can't wait to show you two that place!

Leif: Let's hope it's not the last place we visit…

Kabbu: If anything, I'm just glad Scarlet's been foiled…

Vi: All's well that ends well. Let's go meet up at the plaza!

Ant Kingdom, Underground Tavern

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: Here it is! The secret place for those who live dangerously!

Leif: ...And we're to believe you were a member of this club?

Kabbu: It explains your combat abilities…

Vi: Surprised, huh?

Reed: Hmph. Behave, Vi. My work's daunting enough without having to keep my eye on you.

Leif: Yeah, Vi. You better behave.

Vi: Shush. I'm not going to do anything.

Kabbu: Worry not, bouncer. We will make sure to stay in your good graces.

[Spy Reed]

Vi: Ugh, can we not deal with Reed? I'm allergic to bouncers.

Leif: We shudder just thinking what you did to get on his bad side…

Kabbu: ...Indeed. Given the nature of this place, it's actually quite impressive that you had to be thrown out.

Vi: I didn't do anything! I just forgot the code!

Leif: Sure thing, Vi. Sure thing.

[Spy Celia]

Kabbu: I wonder how many Ants know of this place.

Vi: Quite a lot. I've seen some come now and then.

Kabbu: No, what I mean is...the Anthill is just close by... How come the Ants didn't dig tunnels through here yet?

Vi: That's classified information, Kabbu. You better drop it before they hear us.

Leif: That only makes us want to know why more.

[Spy Levi]

Kabbu: So even Levi has his shady side too…

Leif: You sound disappointed.

Kabbu: While he may not be one of the top explorers, I still looked up to him…

Vi: Come now, Kabbu. Everyone needs a bit of danger in their lives!

Vi: Besides, you're here too now, so don't think you're always sparkly clean.

Kabbu: ...You're right…

(minibubble) Kabbu: *Sob*

[Spy Bea]

Vi: The bar's pretty full... Bea must be working really hard today.

Leif: Bea...is a Bee, right? She looks a bit strange.

Kabbu: White bees... In the north, they tend to work outside of Hives.

Vi: Uh huh. Dunno where she's from, though.

Leif: A renegade Bee, doing whatever she wants. She's a bit like you, Vi.

Vi: Heheheh. Sounds right to me!

[Spy Carmina]

Kabbu: Those things she's holding…

Leif: They seem like cards. A game to pass the time?

Vi: Didn't know you could play cards by yourself...

Kabbu: Vi, have you never played Solitaire!?

Vi: Nope.

Leif: Neither have we.

Kabbu: Ngh... We truly feel "Solitaire" now...

[Quest: Card Masters of Bugaria]

[First talk across the table]

Carmina: A challenge? Bring out your deck. Let us duel with honor.

Vi: Um, what?

Kabbu: What's a deck?

Carmina: Tch. Have you come to waste my time, then? I live and die by the card.

Carmina: If you're not here to play, leave.

Leif: Sounds interesting. Won't you tell us more? We may surprise you.

Carmina: You expect me to teach a newbie the ropes?

Carmina: ...Well, sure. It's been a slow day.

Carmina: The first thing you'll need is a proper deck of cards.

Vi: We aren't gonna have to buy some, are we?

Carmina: Decks are built from Enemy Spy Data. You should hold a few right now, even.

Kabbu: Oh, yes! I do love spying!

Carmina: You'll need at least one Boss Card, two Miniboss Cards and one Enemy Card.

Carmina: Come talk to me when you're ready. I long for battle.

[insufficient spy types]

Carmina: ...These aren't nearly enough.

Carmina: Come back once you have one Boss Card, two Miniboss Cards and one Enemy Card.

Carmina: There's someone selling spies here, if you're in a rush.

(minibubble) Vi: Noooo!

[Rematch Win]

Carmina: ...! I've lost!?

Leif: So it seems. Good game.

Carmina: Ahahaha... Ahahahahah!

Carmina: That I did. An excellent duel, Leif.

Vi: We get anything for winning?

Leif: Don't bring your greed into our battleground, Vi.

Carmina: Mhm. This was nothing more than a duel to clash our wits. To think I'd be bested…

Carmina: But if you really want a prize, there's a big competition on Metal Island.

Carmina: Rich bugs board the boat on the pier there, and watch us play for sport.

Carmina: The entry is pricey, but nothing compared to the prize.

Vi: Wait, you can make money playing card games?

Leif: It sounds fun. Can we enter, then?

Carmina: Take this, Leif.

Carmina: If you wish to enter...you'll need to fill up that Blank Card.

Carmina: Search for the four Card Masters across Bugaria. That's all I can say.

Kabbu: Could we have a tip, at least? Bugaria is quite vast…

Carmina: ...Eh, sure. Why not. The first card master...is old. Good luck.

Vi: Heheh. Let's go look for them! You've gotta win that prize!

Leif: You can keep the prize. We play for glory.

(minibubble) Kabbu: Don't forget the mission...

[First talk]

Tatel: Psst.

Leif: Huh?

Tatel: You're explorers, right?

Vi: Well, yeah. You new here?

Tatel: You could say that... I've got a nice deal for you. Very nice.

Kabbu: This seems incredibly shady, par for the course…

Tatel: Shady? Gosh, no. I'm an honest informant!

Tatel: I'm sure there's enemies you've forgotten to Spy…

Tatel: For a few berries, I'll give you information about one of them. Randomly.

Leif: Randomly? How does that even work?

Tatel: Trade secret.

Vi: Uh...sure. We'll check it out later or something.

Kabbu: (Venus, I hope not.)

[Spy Tatel]

Kabbu: ...? Okay, I need some help. I can't figure out what type of bug this lady is…

Leif: Hmm...maybe she's a Moth?

Vi: No way.

Leif: We could just ask her…

Kabbu: N-No! It will make us seem so uncultured! I'd rather never know...

[Spy Dan]

Vi: Sometimes I see this Beetle at Fry's. He eats pretty much anything…

Leif: Ah, a true gourmet. We may have things in common.

Vi: Yeah. You're both weirdos, alright.

Leif: …

[Walking up to Shades the first time]

Vi: SHADES! You sold me stolen stuff!

Shades: Kehehe… So you've noticed, Vi? Should you be surprised?

Vi: Do you know how much trouble I almost got in!?

Shades: Kehehehe. It's all part of doing business here. And before you ask, I never give out refunds! Kehehehehe!

Vi: Grrr!

Leif: Uh, is this your...friend, Vi?

Vi: Not anymore.

Shades: Ow, really? That hurts, you know?

Kabbu: Shades...you sell Medals and trinkets, yes?

Leif: Pretty rare ones, from the looks of it.

Shades: Kehehe! Good eye, my cold friend!

Shades: Welcome to Shades' rare Medal shop, where only the rarest of the rarest Medals are for sale!

Kabbu: These are likely stolen, but...! They seem like they'd cost so many berries!

Shades: Berries? No, nono! No, my round friend.

Shades: We only accept very top quality Crystal Berries here!

Shades: Normal berries are for chumps, Crystal Berries are where it is at!

Leif: We did find a few, but... Are we really going to buy from a thief?

Shades: Kehehehe. If it makes you feel better, not ALL of them are stolen…

Vi: ...It's for the mission, right?

Kabbu: Sigh... Alright. For the mission.

Shades: Every bug's got a price! You chose a good shop to bet your integrity on!

Shades: Just stand near what you want and press |button,4| to check it out! Kekekehehehe!

Kabbu: I immediately regret this.

Leif: For the mission, Kabbu. For the mission.

[Spy Shades]

Vi: Shades' business is booming as always.

Kabbu: You know, Vi...given the nature of this place, can we be sure he's acquired all this legally?

Vi: Shh. Keep it up and they'll throw you out!

Leif: That's useful to know...

[First talk to Doppel]

Doppel: ...Howdy, look what the wind brought back.

Vi: Hi, Doppel.

Leif: Another ladybug? We thought…

(minibubble) Doppel: !

Kabbu: What are you saying, Leif? This Doppel sir is a fine Beetle.

Leif: ...Kabbu.

Kabbu: What?

Leif: ...Nothing. It's nothing.

Vi: A-Ahahaha, anyways... Um, this is Doppel! He runs the bar.

Doppel: That I do. Give the folks a bit more space to be free. Rowdier.

Kabbu: Err... What do you mean, Doppel?

Doppel: We handle jobs no one else can, pardner. Those too dangerous for the regular explorer.

Doppel: And in exchange, we get some nice favors with the Queen's folks…

Vi: And a big bunch'a berries!

Leif: Sounds interesting. What kind of jobs, then?

Doppel: Monsters. The type that wipe out squads by themselves.

Kabbu: …

Doppel: Scared?

Vi: As if!

Doppel: If you want to know more, mates...check the board here.

Doppel: And come see me if you complete any of them.

Kabbu: ...We will. Team, let's get rid of those pests.

Leif: Someone's pumped…

Vi: Agreed! Let's go get rich!

Vi: Er...carefully!

[Spy Doppel]

Vi: Running a bar sounds super fun!

Leif: You'd run just about any business that'd pay well, huh.

Kabbu: Vi, I support you, but...conduct clean business!

[beat last bounty]

Doppel: Well, would you look at that. You actually did it.

Vi: Yup! All the baddies are down!

Leif: You weren't kidding, Doppel. They were quite troublesome to deal with.

Kabbu: Knowing Bugaria is safe from those monsters is a great relief!

Doppel: ...Ain't that the truth. I'll give you something extra, for all the trouble you've gone through.

Vi: Neat! Thanks, Doppel!

Doppel: Take care, you brave bunch.

[Spy Dark Cherry Salesman, before talking]

Vi: Huh. This guy's new.

Leif: He keeps staring at us... Let's see what he wants.

[first talk]

Dark Cherry Salesman: Huh!? That smell......!

Dark Cherry Salesman: You've found some Dark Cherries, haven't you?!

Kabbu: Uh, well, yes. How did you…

Dark Cherry Salesman: SNOOOOOOOORT! Yes, yes! I can feel their SCENT all over you!

(minibubble) Leif: Gross.

Dark Cherry Salesman: I have a lot of Dark Cherries with me, you see... I can smell them from miles away!

Dark Cherry Salesman: So rare and valuable... Dear cherry lovers, I'll sell some of mine for 50 berries each!

Vi: What?! Can't you lower that a bit?

Dark Cherry Salesman: Finding these cherries is no easy task! Even for my expert nose!

Dark Cherry Salesman: 50 berries. It's a steal.

Leif: We did hear of some amazing recipes using them... Hmm…

Dark Cherry Salesman: Hyuk hyuk hyuk! Please consider it, cherry lovers! It's an amazing deal!

[Spy Dark Cherry Salesman, after talking]

Kabbu: This uh, peculiar bug seems obsessed with Dark Cherries.

Leif: They ARE rare and delicious. Don't you wonder where he found so many?

Vi: Maybe he has like, a secret underground garden full of them!

Leif: We must find that garden ASAP.

Kabbu: ...You're not planning a robbery in front of him, are you!?

Explorer’s Association

[Quest: Bounty: Seedling King]

[First Talk]

Kabbu: Stratos! Delilah! How are you doing?

Delilah: Ah! Team Snakemouth! We're doing fine. We were investigating the outskirts for secrets!

Stratos: It seems there is a place Seedlings like to gather up ahead. But you need to cross the river to reach it.

Delilah: Indeed. But we don't have time to try to cross it! More mysteries await to be unveiled!

Leif: So you will just leave that area unchecked?

Delilah: Think of it more as an opportunity for you to find out more about it!

Delilah: By the way, I have heard that the "Seedling Haven" is a great spot to find Golden Seedlings.

Stratos: Be careful though, Golden Seedlings are really strong and you shouldn't underestimate them.

Stratos: But they are known for carrying rare berries, so it is up to you to fight them or not.

Vi: Well, I can't say no to treasure! Thanks for the tip!

Delilah: No problem! Stay safe!

Golden Settlement, Entrance

[Spy Yumnum]

Vi: H-He's wearing Numbnails!

Leif: Not doing himself any favors, if he wants to look approachable.

Kabbu: L-Let's not be quick to judge! I'm sure he's an upstanding merchant!

[Quest: Bounty: Devourer]

[First Talk]

Delilah: Heya. Great festival this year, eh?

Vi: I know, right?

Stratos: We heard some interesting rumors during it.

Stratos: You know of the windmills leading to this settlement?

Kabbu: Yes. They help provide power to Bugaria, do they not?

Delilah: Seems they tried to build one in a pretty dangerous place, and some workers got hurt.

Stratos: An incredibly cruel monster haunts the way to the Golden Settlement!

Vi: Really? We didn't see anything on the way here…

Delilah: Apparently it's a pretty high up area. Does it ring any bells?

Delilah: ...But yeah, it'd be nice if the area got reclaimed. Maybe they could build the windmill then.

Leif: We'll scout around if we're nearby.

Kabbu: Thank you for the information. Be wary of traveling there as well!

Delilah: No worries. Have safe travels, everyone!

Golden Path, Pitcher 1

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: Woah, this place is super messy!

Kabbu: It is quite removed from everything else. I have my doubts on cleaners coming here.

Leif: Exciting, isn't it? Let's go even further in.

Golden Path, Pitcher 2

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: Incredible! I have never seen such a volume of flytraps!

Leif: That's nothing to celebrate. It just makes traveling a pain.

Vi: We should just cut 'em all down!

Kabbu: Err, let's make sure we don't need them to get across...

Golden Path, Pitcher Plant Arena

[Overworld Spy, pre-beating Devourer]

Kabbu: This thorny surrounding...it reeks of danger!

Leif: That's a little dramatic.

Vi: It's fine! Let's load up on items and look around!

[Overworld Spy, post-beating Devourer]

Leif: Sorry, Kabbu...We didn't heed your warning.

Kabbu: It's alright...we're all safe, and that's all that matters.

Vi: Phew...I'm gonna think twice next time Kabbu feels danger...

Snakemouth Way, Chuck’s Abode

[Quest: Card Masters of Bugaria]

Chuck: Hey hey! Are those Spy Cards you have there?

Leif: Indeed. We are looking for the Card Masters.

Chuck: Ho ho! Been a while since someone came by to challenge me.

Kabbu: Wait, really? You're a card master?

Vi: Carmina did call him old…

Chuck: She best get her eyes checked! I fight like a young champ!

Chuck: Back in the day, they called me the Flash Summoner!

Leif: We're eager to see the "Flash Summoner" duel.

Chuck: Really? Are you ready to face an old champ?

[lose]

Chuck: Oho! I've still got it!

Vi: Come on, Leif! Just try again!

(minibubble) Kabbu: You can do it!

[at least one Master remaining]

Chuck: You've still got some Card Masters to go though, don't ya?

Vi: Got any good hints?

Chuck: Patience, ye lot! Here's a good hint for sure: "Happy, in a bountiful village."

Leif: Um, anything more specific?

Chuck: Card Master protocol! I'm sure ye'll find her, though.

Kabbu: Thank you, Chuck.

Chuck: No problem, yer always helping me out! Come back for a rematch, will ya?

Leif: When we settle this business. For now, we must go.

[All Masters beaten]

Chuck: Look at that, folks! You defeated all of us masters!

Leif: Mhm. It was pretty fun.

Chuck: Show that card I gave ya to the gent at the pier. You'll get a good price to travel to Metal Island.

(minibubble) Vi: Discount!

Chuck: Come back for a rematch, ye hear? Gets a bit lonely here…

Leif: When we settle this business. For now, we must go.

Golden Settlement, Residential

[Masters Remaining]

Arie: My card master hint is: "Taking shade, always cool."

Vi: That could mean anything!

Arie: You'll figure it out, I'm sure!

Kabbu: Still, thank you. We are closer to the tournament goal.

Arie: By the way, Leif, if you ever want to play again, just drop the word, eh?

Leif: Hopefully soon. But for now, we'll be on our way.

[Final Master]

Arie: The card's filled up! You're ready for the tournament!

Vi: About time!

Arie: Show the full card to the old sailor at the pier, he'll give you the tournament fare!

Leif: We'll do our best. For the card master's reputation, too.

Arie: Good luck, Leif! Oh, and, if you ever want to play again against me, just drop the word, eh?

Leif: Hopefully soon. But for now, we'll be on our way.

Golden Settlement, Main Area

[Quest: Team Snakemouth…]

Aria: You came. I'm very grateful.

Kabbu: It was our pleasure, Acolyte. You look well... What seems to be the issue?

Aria: I'll be brief, to not waste your time. I'm planning on giving the Goddess an incredible offering.

Vi: An offering? Like a LOT of berries?

Leif: Goddesses don't need money. Bet it's a bunch of food.

Aria: That is correct.

Leif: It is?

(minibubble) Vi: Seriously?

Aria: I wish to give Her a banquet worthy of one as great as She is.

Aria: I have prepared several dishes, that I have. But I'm missing...something grand.

Kabbu: What sort of dish are you looking for?

Aria: It's hard to say. Something I cannot simply buy would be excellent…

Leif: We could ask Fry, Kut or Crisbee to make something. Their specialty, perhaps?

Aria: I've heard the chef Fry has been planning his "masterpiece".

Aria: The Goddess would be overjoyed to taste something that divine!

Vi: So uh... You think she'll give us something for it?

Aria: Of course. Venus is generous, kind and loving. If you make her happy, she will reward you.

Kabbu: Fry's masterpiece... We'll do our best to get it for you, Aria.

Aria: You have my thanks, Team Snakemouth. I'll be waiting here for you.

Leif: Let's make sure to make one for us too, Kabbu.

[talk again]

Aria: Did you bring it?

Golden Hills, Venus Room

Kabbu: Goddess Venus!

(minibubble) Vi: Hiya!

Venus: Vi! Kabbu! Long time no see! I'm especially glad to not get spooked by you, Leif.

Leif: Uh, sorry. We can't help it.

Aria: Goddess...I have brought you a humble offering, with the help of these brave explorers.

Aria: Please enjoy it to your heart's content, so that our village may be blessed for just a bit longer.

Venus: Aria! You know the festival's more than enough!

Venus: But thank you. I can tell it's going to be wonderful! Let's share, shall we?

Venus: Oh. My. Self!

Vi: A-Awesome!

Kabbu: Can earthly ingredients reach this flavor!?

Leif: We're gonna have to hunt for more Tangy Berries…

Aria: I-It was beyond my expectations. Thank you so much for sharing with me, Goddess.

Venus: It was nothing. I've never had a picnic! I'm feeling overjoyed!

Venus: Team Snakemouth! You're getting a healing discount from yours truly! Only 5 berries now!

Vi: That should've been the regul- Ow!

Kabbu: It was our honor!

Leif: It was worth it as soon as we tasted that dish…

Aria: Please take this Medal too, as a token of my gratitude.

Aria: I'm so relieved you enjoyed the offering.

Venus: I sure am glad I don't constantly monitor everyone, it would've ruined the surprise!

Venus: Come back again, yes? You are most pleasant company.

Kabbu: Anytime!

Lost Sands, Entrance

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: The Lost Sands...we've come back at last.

Vi: The heat never gets any less awful…

Leif: You traveled all through this to get to the Ant Kingdom? Separately?

Kabbu: Yeah. It would've been way easier with Vi around, though!

Vi: Heheh. Same to you.

Leif: Well, it's nice to have a guide... Lead the way, you two.

Lost Sands, Badlands

[Overworld Spy, post-hideout]

Leif: Tch... The bandits are partly to blame for all of the wasps.

Vi: They just wanted money though, right?

Kabbu: One must have morals, Vi. No matter the pay, their actions endangered all.

Lost Sands, Rock Formation

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: That rock formation is impressive. It almost looks bug made.

Vi: Was it always here? Did ya get to see it way back?

Leif: Err...no. This is our first time here, really.

Kabbu: That's a shame. I'm sure many researchers would love a glimpse to the past!

Leif: As long as it's not from us…

[Spy Hawk, before solving puzzle]

Vi: Hawk seems uh...stumped.

Kabbu: Understandably. There really seems no way to climb up.

Leif: Hmm. If we get creative, there's gotta be a way...

[talk after solving puzzle]

Hawk: ...! Incredible. Team Snakemouth, this was your doing?

Vi: Yup! All us!

(minibubble) Leif: You did nothing...

Hawk: I simply must see what's at the top. I'll see you there!

[pick up medal]

Hawk: This is it. The Lost Tardigrade. Legends say these bugs can live for countless generations.

Hawk: Not that I've ever seen one…

Vi: Weird place to put a statue, right?

Kabbu: Maybe this place looked much different, and only the relic withstood the test of time…

Vi: Hey! At least we found something we can use here!

Hawk: A Medal, huh?

Hawk: So this was a Medal covered in dust... Fascinating. I'll have to write up a hefty report.

Kabbu: Should we uh, hand it over?

(minibubble) Vi: No way!

Hawk: Mmmmm. Would you mind testing its properties on the field? I don't really mind if you keep it.

Hawk: I've got the data I wanted already.

Leif: Cool. Thanks, Hawk.

Lost Sands, Eastmost

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: It's that big wall again!

Leif: So we've reached another limit of the desert…

Kabbu: It'd be kind of fun to draw a map of the whole area.

Vi: On your own time. There's stuff to do!

Lost Sands, Scorpion

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: Oh, that artifact over there looks like Kut's tools!

Leif: It seems the ancients also sliced things.

Vi: Ya reckon they had Beemerangs too?

Leif: Eh, maybe? Or something cooler.

Vi: There's no cooler weapon!

Lost Sands, Sand Castle

[Overworld Spy, before summoning castle]

Vi: This takes the prize for most boring place we've gone to.

Kabbu: The most innocent places can hide dark secrets. I wonder what's in here...

[first talk, first time ever]

Stratos: Hm? You're Team Snakemouth, aren't you? You did Aria's ceremony.

Vi: That's us!

Delilah: Nice! We're fellow explorers too. Ever heard of us?

Kabbu: Given what I've heard... Are you Stratos and Delilah?

Delilah: Yep, that's us! I'm Delilah, and this big guy's Stratos.

(minibubble) Stratos: Mhm. Nice meeting ya.

Kabbu: You're known as "Team Slacker", correct? Famous for never finishing missions?

(minibubble) Leif: Not even one?

Stratos: No mission's interesting for long enough. Why bother finishing them?

Kabbu: And you still call yourselves explorers?

Delilah: Of course! We love exploring! No place's outta reach!

(minibubble) Vi: Nice.

Stratos: We're more like informants, ye? For the other explorers.

Delilah: We gather intelligence about tough quests so other teams can do them. Nice deal, ain't it?

Delilah: We think this here's the fabled Sand Castle!

Vi: What, this brick?

Stratos: Well, yes. This tablet's just waiting for its secret to be unearthed.

Vi: You think it's just gonna come out of the sand?

Delilah: Maybe! No clue what's inside - but what good castle has no treasure?

Leif: So how does it come out?

Stratos: Sorry, we don't know yet. And when we do, we've got to tell the Queen.

(minibubble) Vi: Aww...

Leif: Looks like slacker ain't quite the name for them.

(minibubble) Vi: They're living the dream!

Kabbu: So that's how things were…

Stratos: Well now. Take care on your mission. I'm sure we'll meet when we figure this out.

(minibubble) Leif: See you.

(minibubble) Delilah: Mhm!

[first talk, talked at festival]

Kabbu: It's Team...not Slacker!

Delilah: Oh, hey. Nice going at the festival.

(minibubble) Stratos: Good moves.

Leif: You really did come all the way out here.

Delilah: Do you remember our talk? We think this here's the fabled Sand Castle!

Vi: What, this brick?

Stratos: Well, yes. This tablet's just waiting for its secret to be unearthed.

Vi: You think it's just gonna come out of the sand?

Delilah: Maybe! No clue what's inside – but what good castle has no treasure?

Leif: So how does it come out?

Stratos: Sorry, we don't know yet. And when we do, we've got to tell the Queen.

(minibubble) Vi: Aww...

Leif: It's still good to see a familiar face in the desert.

Stratos: Well now. Take care on your mission. I'm sure we'll meet when we figure this out.

(minibubble) Leif: See you.

(minibubble) Delilah: Mhm!

[Spy Delilah or Stratos after talking]

Vi: How can they just stay here all day?

Leif: For a team of "slackers", they can do the tedious work.

Kabbu: I shouldn't have misjudged them...

Lost Sands, Book Area

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: Uh, any idea what that is?

Vi: No clue...It's got some scribbles, though.

Kabbu: The ancient language...I'm sure Neo would love to check this out later!

Lost Sands, Sand Pit Area

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: Woah! That's one BIG quicksand pit!

Leif: Doesn't seem like we can just walk through, either.

Kabbu: These twigs look quite flimsy...I should be able to open a path for us.

Vi: Good old, reliable Kabbu!

Kabbu: Hehehehe...

Lost Sands, Caravan

Cricketly: Oh, if it isn't those peppy explorers!

Vi: Hiya!

Eri: Hey, Team Snakemouth. How's it going?

Leif: Well, it's a bit hot…

Kabbu: You're traveling to Defiant Root as well?

Gen: Yup. We're on a mission to protect these merchants!

Cricketly: Specifically, our dear Snail. We could fight or run, but this one's pretty wimpy.

Eri: It's been a super good day, though. Easiest mission we've ever had!

Burglar: EHEHEHE! YOU JINXED IT!

Gen: Dangit, Eri!

Vi: Bandits!

Cricketly: You've got some NERVE trying to mug us!

Huscada: D-Dear, it's okay. We can make the money back. Don't get hurt fo-

Cricketly: As if! I'd rather go down fighting than yield to these scoundrels!

Wasp: You speak brave words, for a powerless merchant.

Wasp: This is your last chance to surrender to the Wasp Kingdom!

Gen: L-Like we'd let you take anything!

Eri: Yeah, it's time to s-show what we can do!

Burglar: Bleheheh. Merchants are so greedy. Can't share just a few things. Now we're gonna have to take it all!

(minibubble) Huscada: Oh no, oh no!

Wasp: Hmm? Those three! They're the ones from the report!

Burglar: That'll pay a pretty penny! Let's capture 'em!

Kabbu: You will keep your vile limbs away from my friends!

Vi: Let's kick their butt!

(minibubble) Eri: L-let's go!

[Post-battle]

Wasp: Blast! We've got to go back and report this!

Burglar: I'm, uh, still getting paid, right...?

Wasp: Shut it! Let's go!

Wasp: You... We won't forget this!

Huscada: Uff... That was terrifying. Thank you…

Gen: Yeah. Thanks, Team Snakemouth!

Cricketly: Hmph. We were going to be fine. They were weaklings.

Vi: You're welcome.

Vi: ...Those wasps are showing up more, huh?

Leif: It's worrying indeed. We should report this as soon as we're able.

Huscada: We're just humble merchants. We can't help too much…

Huscada: But we are so very grateful for your help. This isn't much, but take it.

Vi: Woah! I didn't even need to ask this time!

(minibubble) Kabbu: Oh, Vi...

Cricketly: Of course. You won't find merchants in debt. With this, we're even.

Eri: We can keep the merchants safe from here. We're almost at the town!

Gen: Yeah. Don't let us slow you down!

Kabbu: You would never! But thank you. We'll keep going now.

Huscada: Safe travels!

[Overworld Spy, post-bandit fight]

Leif: Smart of the bandits to hide behind that rock…

Kabbu: I wouldn't be surprised if this was a routine ambush spot. Why are there no guards around?

Vi: Two guards ain't gonna do anything against a bunch of 'em!

Leif: In any case, it's not our problem to solve. Let's keep going.

Lost Sands, Badge Alcove

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: Quite the cliff, isn't it?

Kabbu: And a lot of cacti, too.

Vi: So thirsty... I wanna drink the cactus water... I'm gonna jump in!

Kabbu: Q-Quick, Leif! We must hold her back!

Lost Sands, DR East Entrance

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: Defiant Root's just ahead! A welcome sight after so much walking…

Leif: And a break from the harsh sun.

Vi: We should drop by the Inn and sleep in a nice bed!

Lost Sands, Far Grasslands Border

[Overworld Spy, pre-gate destruction]

Leif: What a big gate.

Kabbu: This is the border with the Wasp Kingdom. So the area is heavily secured.

Vi: I only see one guard, though.

Kabbu: A new development. She uh, wasn't here before…

[Spy Aebees]

Vi: The border guard's MASSIVE.

Leif: Perfect for the job. We'd better leave before she gets upset.

[First talk, before gate is destroyed]

Aebees: HEY! WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS AT THE WASP KINGDOM BORDER?!

Kabbu: W-we're just passing by…

Aebees: Passing by?! This is the border with the Far Grasslands, Wasp Territory!

Aebees: Unless you want to start a war, you better get out of here!

Aebees: No one crosses the border on my watch!

Vi: Eep! L-let's go, Kabbu!

[Spy Futes]

Vi: Who'd even wanna visit the Wasp Kingdom?

Kabbu: She may be...seeking the thrill of an unknown culture?

Leif: Right, let's go with that...

Lost Sands, Trench South

[Overworld Spy, left side]

Leif: Oh. There's a fence. Wonder who built it.

Vi: It's all old and busted. Didn't do a very good job, eh?

Kabbu: The passing of time strikes down even the finest craftmanship in this arid land...

Defiant Root, Entrance

[Story, upon first entrance]

Kabbu: Ah, it's good to be back.

Leif: Oh yeah. You mentioned staying here back with Neo.

Vi: That means we've been neighbors all along!

Kabbu: Life truly is full of small surprises like that.

Leif: Uh, cute. Anyways...how do we get to the Hive?

Vi: We just keep going straight. There's a huge elevator there!

Kabbu: I-Is it safe?

Vi: No one's fallen off yet, so it's probably safe! Let's go get this over with already!

Kabbu: Venus...watch over me...

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: Not much has changed. There's quite a few places I want to visit…

Vi: Really? I usually just zoom past the town unless I need the inn.

Leif: We're not familiar with the area. What's good in town, Kabbu?

Kabbu: North of here is a commercial district. The baker makes fantastic honey treats!

Vi: Seriously!?

Kabbu: The mayor's around here too, I should greet him when I get the chance…

Bee Guard: Welcome travelers, to Defiant Root. This town's name comes from the Big Tree's root, breaking through the Lost Sands.

Vi: ...I know that already.

Guard: Just doing my job.

[Spy Dran]

Vi: Poor Dran...he's had it rough lately with all these bandits.

Kabbu: Mhm...even though he is such a fine fellow, it's hard to escape superficial judgement.

(minibubble) Vi: ...

Leif: He'll be fine. And if he's not, we can help.

Kabbu: Leif, Vi...you two get more caring by the day!

(minibubble) Leif: Hmph.

[Spy Isau]

Kabbu: Isau is such a relief to my eyes. She's treated many of my wounds.

Leif: Your trip from the north sounds anything but fun.

Kabbu: …

Vi: Really though...it's not so bad to have someone else take care of you, right?

Leif: Can't argue with that.

[Attempt to talk to Beette]

Vi: Nope. I don't wanna talk to her!

(minibubble) Kabbu: Vi…

[Spy Beette]

Vi: Great...she's here too.

Leif: Wonder what she's up to.

Vi: Don't know, don't care.

Kabbu: Isn't Vi being a bit too mean...?

[Spy Nish]

Kabbu: That eyepatch...so cool!

Leif: Seriously, Kabbu? Those are for covering wounds, you know.

Vi: Yeah. Can't believe you're so insensitive!

Kabbu: W-Wait, I said it was cool out of respect!

[Spy Trey]

Kabbu: It's quite convenient to have quest boards all throughout the kingdom.

Leif: Must be a drag to update all of them…

Vi: Works for us, though. Completing these gives super good stuff!

Kabbu: Indeed. Let's check up on them every now and then.

[Spy Kina]

Leif: Kina's search for Maki continues…

Vi: That's cute and all, but she better not forget her job!

Kabbu: Knowing her, she's already finished. She's scary efficient when making time for Maki.

[Spy Dan]

Leif: Ah...we can't help but be hungry around this bug.

Vi: No rush, Leif. You two can hang out!

Leif: Oh? We just might order some stuff, then…

Kabbu: Don't mind if we join you!

[Spy Will]

Vi: I dunno why bugs stay here. It's all sandy and stuff.

Leif: ...You know, yeah. We wouldn't make this a permanent stay.

Kabbu: It's a very tightly knit community, with strong traditions!

Vi: Can't they just do their traditions somewhere nicer?

Kabbu: ...I swear, Vi...

[Spy Pillbug, before talking to Morty]

Leif: …

Kabbu: Um, Leif? Is something on your mind?

Leif: We want it.

Vi: We're not getting any pets!

Leif: We really really really want it.

Vi: Whatever. Talk to the merchant. But I ain't helping you buy it!

[First time talking to him]

Morty: Hohoh! It's Morty's bed bug rental system! Welcome!

Kabbu: A bed bug...rental service? Sir, what exactly do you mean?

Morty: It's all in the name. This pillbug here is incredible, I tell ya.

Morty: If you're tired, he will lull you to sleep and heal you fully!

Leif: Let's rent it, team.

Vi: Seriously!? This sounds like a huge scam!

Leif: B-But the pillbug…

Morty: ...Look. I don't ever do this, but if it'll earn your trust…

Morty: First rental's free, how's that? As soon as you sleep though, he'll come back to me.

Kabbu: This is quite the interesting business model…

Vi: Well...if the first try's free, I can't say no!

Leif: Yes...yes!

Morty: You won't regret it. He'll show you his super powers!

Morty: He'll do his best, so take care of him, okay?

Leif: We will. Oh, we will.

Kabbu: D-Don't forget we must return him...

[Spy Morty, after getting bedbug]

Kabbu: I must say, Morty's services were better than I expected.

Vi: It's super useful to rest anywhere! If I was him, I'd charge WAY more!

Leif: The idea that our dear bed bug could be rented to another bug...Team, we must keep renting at all costs.

Vi: Uh, just remember we don't own it or anything, okay?

[Spy Pillbug, after using]

Leif: Oh, dear Pibu…

Kabbu: Pibu?

Leif: We named him. Perfect, don't you think?

Vi: That's super lazy, Leif. It's just the sound it makes! It's like a river named Pshh!

Leif: Or like a Vi named Ugh.

Vi: HEY!

(minibubble) Kabbu: Pfft.

[Spy Mayor]

Vi: Getting to the mayor's house is super weird, isn't it?

Leif: Eh...we think it's a cute method.

Kabbu: Regardless of the route, this is a great place to live in.

Kabbu: He can easily oversee the whole town from here!

Vi: Look, all I'm saying is he could've paid for some stairs.

Locke: We get a lot of bee tourists, since we're so close by. But we don't really return the favor.

Locke: I've been thinking of going on an adventure up there myself. But it's hard to find the time…

Vi: (Not like he's missing much...)

[Spy Locke]

Leif: Say, the citizens of this town really enjoy that pattern on their clothing, don't they?

Kabbu: Well, they're simple to weave yet appealing...I could see why it'd be a hit.

Vi: Oh. We should open our own clothing line! With squares instead of triangles!

Leif: No way. Circles would look way better.

Kabbu: I'll keep my triangles, thank you very much.

[Spy Tory]

Leif: This moth looks just as old as the rest of the museum.

Vi: Heheh. You don't get to talk about being old!

Kabbu: Vi!

Vi: O-Oh. Sorry, I…

Leif: Heh, it's fine. Walked right into that one.

(minibubble) Kabbu: Phew...

[Spy Anna]

Kabbu: Something seems off about this young lady.

Leif: Hmm? ...! Her leg…

Vi: Ah...We should probably shut up.

Kabbu: I pray she did not hear us gossip...

[Spy ???:]

Leif: What the-!? ...Yikes, we didn't see him there.

(minibubble) Vi: Eep!

Kabbu: Interesting spot. Shall we see what he has to say?

Defiant Root, Commercial

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: Business is booming.

Vi: There's so many shops, and they all sell unique items!

Kabbu: We simply cannot skip going to the bakery!

Leif: We feel there's more to this place. A little supply gathering detour won't hurt.

[Spy Crisbee]

Kabbu: Ah, good old Crisbee's. It's nice to see this place again.

Leif: Again, Kabbu?

Kabbu: Mhm. On my first trip here, I would eat here every day.

Kabbu: I must say, I've heard the food's gotten even better!

Leif: Is that so? Now we've got to taste some…

Vi: A bee chef out of the Hive, huh...

[Quest: I Wanna Get Better!]

[succulent berry]

Crisbee: Yes! This is perfect!

Crisbee: I'll get right into it. Wish me luck!

Crisbee: I'm so glad I was right... The Succulent Berry's real flavor comes out when you bake it!

Crisbee: I'm getting so much better... Alright. I can finally do it. The forbidden recipe!

(minibubble) Kabbu: F-Forbidden?

Crisbee: First, I'm gonna need a Spicy Bomb to give the dish a really nice "Boom!"

(minibubble) Leif: ?

Vi: A...A bomb?

Crisbee: Then I'll bake it with an Abomihoney! I'm so excited!

Vi: Wait! An ABOMIHONEY!? That plus a bomb...Are you SURE!?

Leif: We're curious, but mostly worried.

Crisbee: It's, um, really risky...but the legend says it'll bring honey to a new level!

Crisbee: I was really scared to try before but...I've trained so much! I think I can pull it off!

Kabbu: Team, let's believe in Crisbee! If we don't, why did we take that mission?

Vi: I mean, you're right, but…

Leif: If it's forbidden, it's probably super delicious. Let's do this.

Vi: Okay, geez! We'll bring it! I've got a bad feeling, though…

Crisbee: Oh, thank you so much! I won't disappoint you, I promise!

[post-battle]

Crisbee: ...I don't get it. I did everything right, I think…

Vi: Abomihoney is super dangerous! Doesn't matter how good you bake it!

Crisbee: S-sorry... I guess the "forbidden" wasn't just for show.

Kabbu: It's okay, Crisbee. Even if it wasn't food, you cooked it to perfection!

Leif: Shame we couldn't eat it though…

Crisbee: Hmm... Wait up, okay? I'm gonna try again. Not following any old legend! This dish is all me!

Crisbee: Thank you, everyone! For real now, something yummy only I can cook!

Kabbu: This looks fantastic, Crisbee! Oh... The TEXTURE!

Crisbee: I made some more for everyone!

Vi: Woah...It's super yummy!

Leif: Incredible... We must have more!

Crisbee: It's all thanks to your help! If you bring me a Glazed Honey and a Flour Bag, I'll make you more!

Leif: You've earned yourself a regular.

Vi: Heheh. You're gonna be famous in no time!

Kabbu: I'll have to be careful not to eat TOO many…

(minibubble) Leif: Nuh-Uh. Give us more.,

Crisbee: We're best friends now. Come whenever you want, and I'll bake you some real tasty stuff!

[Spy Sandy]

Leif: That dry bread looks go-…

Vi: Leif?

Kabbu: Are you alright?

Leif: Some sand just fell on it…

Vi: Nothing some shaking can't fix!

Leif: You have fun eating it. We've got standards.

[Spy Amber]

Vi: So is this Ms. Amber, or another ant?

Leif: That's a dumb question. How would she have our items if she wasn't?

Kabbu: Perhaps they work in shifts, and transfer items between each other…

Vi: So is she Amber or not!?

Leif: Dunno.

[first talk]

Fuzzo: I've heard you saved my mates from some bandits.

Fuzzo: ...I'm bad at this, so I'll only say it once. Thank you.

Vi: It was no problem! Now, for a rew-

Kabbu: It was nothing! We look forward to buying from you in the future.

(minibubble) Leif: Heheheh.

[Spy Fuzzo]

Leif: These merchants really get around.

Vi: Defiant Root's the best place to restock, you know? They get lots of stuff for cheap!

Kabbu: You're surprisingly well informed…

Leif: If it's about money, it shouldn't surprise you.

Vi: Yep! In business, knowing's half the battle!

[Spy Ven]

Kabbu: This fellow seems to be diligently guarding this sign.

Vi: Huh. I think I saw him when I left the Hive, but he looked a lot happier.

Leif: It's not like we know what's going on in his life. We shouldn't be too nosy.

Kabbu: B-But being nosy is a part of helping others!

Leif: …

Kabbu: Fine...

[Spy Butomu]

Kabbu: Miss Butomu! What an honor!

Vi: Uh, is she special? She makes Medals, right?

Kabbu: Well, yes...but there are many tales of her strength. Of her journeys!

Kabbu: She'd slowly travel across the lands collecting materials, and no obstacle would be a match for her!

Kabbu: They say she walked right through a boulder!

Leif: Now that's gotta be fake...

[Spy Engira]

Leif: Nice claw.

Vi: I don't get what's the big deal with it.

Kabbu: Well, he's the blacksmith...so long as it helps him out, it's all that matters!

[First talk]

Sun: Travelers...I can see the scars of battle on your being.

Vi: Uh…

Sun: Worry not, I only wish to help. I've got some powerful berries on me.

Leif: Hmm. Just how powerful?

Sun: These berries can boost your combat abilities when eaten.

Sun: You can't really share them though... You'll have to decide who eats which.

Kabbu: Those sound quite helpful.

Vi: Bleh. Knowing these merchants it's gonna cost us a wing…

Sun: You're not wrong, traveler. I'm selling an HP boosting Heart Berry right now. 100 Berries.

Vi: What!?

Leif: Just think of the HP, Vi.

Vi: Just think of the 100 berries, Leif!

Kabbu: Err, we'll come back when we've decided, sir.

Sun: Don't take too long. Who knows when they'll spoil.

[Spy Sun]

Vi: Hey Kabbu, is this your dad?

Kabbu: What? Vi, we look nothing alike!

Leif: You look pretty similar to us.

Kabbu: Excuse me? The green hues are completely different!

Vi: Eh... Maybe all beetles just look the same.

Leif: Wow. So do all bees.

Vi: Hey!

[Spy Shay]

Vi: Shady mosquitos are everywhere, huh.

Leif: Hey. The juice seller in the Golden Settlement is honest.

Kabbu: Indeed. Vi, you shouldn't generalize a whole group!

Vi: Geez, I was just saying...

[Spy Xic]

Leif: So the rumors were true. There is a master of all poison in this town.

Vi: Err, where...no, WHEN did you hear that?

Leif: Kut mentioned him. His ingredients carry more toxins than you could imagine.

Kabbu: Do we even want to ask?

Leif: Look. We're buying these. And cooking them.

Vi: No way! Do it with your own berries!

[Quest: Card Masters of Bugaria]

[Final Master]

Shay: With this full card, no one's going to stop you from entering the Metal Island tournament.

Vi: We did it! The prize is just within reach!

Shay: Show the old sailor by the pier this card, and he'll give you a good discount. Beats swimming.

Leif: Thank you. It's time to test our skills against the elite.

Kabbu: Let us go. Towards Metal Island!

Defiant Root, Elevator Area

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: Here we are. The elevator to the Bee Kingdom. Woo.

Leif: Gets the job done.

Kabbu: If we're going up, let's make sure we don't need anything from down here.

[Spy Wayde]

Kabbu: This poor wasp... I can feel the loss in his eyes.

Vi: Uh...so he's sad, basically?

Kabbu: Indeed.

Leif: You're dying to talk to him, aren't you.

Kabbu: ...No. When it's grief like this, only time can heal it. Let's not meddle.

Vi: Kabbu?

[Spy Samira]

Kabbu: Samira's instrument is quite soothing. Perfect to relax on a sunny day.

Leif: We've never seen that instrument before, actually. Is it...an artifact?

Vi: Isn't it just a rock with holes in it...?

[First talk]

Vi: Hiya! Still looking?

Kenny: Yes. I must say, Defiant Root's got its charm as well.

Leif: Really? The sand doesn't do much for us.

Kenny: Although it's not the most prosperous, people trade and work together to endure thirst and bandits.

Kenny: It's a historic site with a tightly knit community.

Kabbu: Could this be the place you'll call home?

Kenny: ...Not yet. But I hope we'll bump into each other once more.

Leif: Safe travels.

[Story, first talk]

Elevator Bee Guard: So you've come back, Vi. On a mission, from what I can tell?

Vi: Uh huh. Get us up?

Guard: Sure thing. Hop on, explorers.

Leif: We're not done talking about your issues, Vi. We're just saving it for later.

Vi: Drop it. Seriously. I don't want to talk about it!

(minibubble) Kabbu: Vi...

Hive, Elevator

Vi: …

Leif: Look, Vi. Even if you don't like them, it can't be THAT bad.

Kabbu: Indeed, we'll protect you if they speak poorly of you.

Vi: Hahahaha... That's...not really going to happen, ya know?

Leif: Huh. So they don't tease you?

Vi: Just uh, a little bit.

Kabbu: Vi...could it be the Hive has done nothing to you?

Vi: …

Leif: Nonsense. Why would she be so unwilling otherwise?

Vi: He's right.

Kabbu: I am?

Vi: The Hive didn't do anything. I did.

Leif: Vi. What did you do?

Vi: My sister kept teasing me, okay? Saying exploring's a job for other bugs.

Vi: That it was too dangerous, and that I couldn't do it!

Vi: So I got really mad and said a lot of mean stuff to her…and ran off.

Vi: Told my boss to shove it. Told the Queen she had no idea what I'm capable of!

Kabbu: Vi…

Leif: So in this story, you're the mean one?

Vi: Kinda. They had it coming, though.

Leif: That's great.

(minibubble) Kabbu: It is?

Leif: All you have to do is say you're sorry. And it'll get fixed.

Vi: No way!

Vi: Even if I was super mean, they still teased me all the time! I'm not gonna say sorry!

Kabbu: Not even to your close sister? It's your family!

Vi: She can say sorry first! I'm not gonna lose after making a big scene!

(minibubble) Leif: ...

Vi: Look. The mission's most important, okay? I don't wanna talk about this anymore.

Leif: We're almost at the top...you're not off the hook, Vi.

Hive, Outside

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: The Hive's gigantic!

Vi: Mhm. Most bugs just see the main area though. Most of it's just honey and housing.

Leif: So most of this Hive is honey? We'll have to investigate…

Vi: That honey's for bees!

Hive, Scanner Room

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: What a peculiar room.

Vi: This is the scan corridor. So they know we're clean or whatever.

Leif: That's weird.

Vi: Yup…

[Story]

Bee Guard: Greetings, visitors. Please hold still as we scan for impurities.

Kabbu: Um, what?

Guard: Huh.

(minibubble) Kabbu: What a scare...

Vi: "Huh"? You saying we're not clean or something?

Guard: It's not that… Hmm, well... Yes. Okay.

Guard: Alright. You've been cleared to pass.

(minibubble) Leif: ...

Hive, Main Area

Kabbu: Goodness, what a grand welcome!

Leif: Vi, is this normal?

Vi: Uh, not really...

H.B.: Hold it, folks!

H.B.: The scanner picked up something weird from one of you…

Vi: W-What?

Leif: Was it us?

H.B.: Most definitely.

Kabbu: Is Leif okay!?

H.B.: Dearie me. We've caused a scene. Could you come with me? I'll check it out ASAP.

Vi: You sure you wanna trust her, Leif?

Leif: Yeah. We don't have any leads right now. Nothing to lose.

Kabbu: Guide the way, doctor!

Hive, HB’s Lab

H.B.: So that's what the readings meant…

Kabbu: Doctor, is Leif okay?

H.B.: According to the tests, ancient crystal fragments lie within you. If I'm not wrong, you can use magic?

Leif: Yeah. After we woke up in Snakemouth, it just suddenly came to us.

Vi: So that wasn't a super bad lie?

Leif: ...You still doubted us?

Kabbu: Given the weirdness of it, I'd tally it to healthy skepticism.

H.B.: Magical powers are a common side effect of a body being linked to these crystals.

H.B.: Although there's still something our scanner couldn't identify. Something else may be inside your body.

Leif: Something else?

H.B.: ...If you'd let me put you under for a while, I could look into it.

Leif: Er, put us under?

H.B.: You know. Fast asleep.

H.B.: Then we explore your insides after cutti-

H.B.: W-What!?

(minibubble) Vi: Woah!

Kabbu: Leif, you had this sort of power?

Leif: N-No. It's weird. We just moved on our own…

Leif: ...Sorry. We don't know what happened. We're not too keen to be put under, however.

H.B.: An involuntary self-defense mechanism…

H.B.: Leif, was it? Give it some thought. Your condition is fascinating.

Vi: I'm starting to get worried…

Leif: Don't be. We feel fine.

Kabbu: We're getting closer to the truth, although there's much left to answer…

H.B.: Well, I think we'll leave it at that for today. Sorry for distressing you.

Leif: It's okay, really... Thanks.

Vi: Welp... We're going to be late to the meeting, aren't we?

H.B.: Ah, yes. The Ant Kingdom brought the materials for the key replacement, right?

H.B.: I've heard there's four other explorers looking around the Hive.

H.B.: Could you round them up in front of the throne room? I'll meet you there when I finish some things up.

H.B.: Crow!

Crow: C-called me, doctor?

H.B.: Round up the data! We have work to do.

Crow: Ah! Y-Yes, doctor!

Vi: Great... A walk around the Hive.

Leif: Can't be the worst thing. We'd like to get to know this place.

Textbox: Leif can now use Bubble Shield Lite in battle!

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: H.B.'s lab is impressive, but we'd rather not be here…

Kabbu: Her proposition was quite startling, but at least she didn't press the issue.

Vi: Maybe she can open you up Kabbu, to find out why you're so nice!

Kabbu: Not in a million moons!

[Spy Crow]

Kabbu: H.B.'s running poor Crow ragged!

Leif: Science looks like a lot of hard work.

Vi: It's like uh...the thinking version of exploring!

[Inspect medal]

Vi: Woah! That medal looks cool!

Leif: Let's snatch it.

Kabbu: No! Let's see if we can convince H.B. to give it to us somehow.

[Spy H.B.]

Leif: So Professor Honeycomb's not the only prestigious researcher around.

Vi: Those two are always fighting...if they're so smart, they should act more grown up!

Kabbu: (C-Coming from you, Vi!?)

Hive, Balcony

[Overworld Spy, corridor area]

Leif: So all the Bees live here?

Vi: Yup. And it's super duper off limits!

Kabbu: First the ants, now the bees...I cannot help but feel excluded.

Vi: It's just how stuff is. Sorry!

[Spy Jud]

Leif: Ah...we want to join another eating competition.

Kabbu: The Golden Festival is the only one, though.

Leif: That's impossible. Eating is the best. How can it be once a moon?

Vi: Don't be such a glutton, Leif.

Kabbu: Indeed. You must watch your figure!

Leif: Don't act like you don't sneak in Honey Drops mid-mission! We've seen you!

(minibubble) Kabbu: S-Sorry...

Guard: Only bees allowed past this point.

Leif: Can you get us in then, Vi?

Vi: Noooope.

[Spy Guard]

Leif: Vi, can't you convince this guard to let us pass?

Vi: Noooope.

[Overworld Spy, balcony area]

Kabbu: Astounding. We can see everything from here!

Vi: Look, there's the pier!

Kabbu: Oh, there's the Golden Hills! Can't see Venus, however.

Leif: And there's Snakemouth. Wonder why we feel so drawn towards it...

[first talk]

Kenny: Hey again. The Bee Kingdom's quite fantastic.

Vi: Uh...you think?

Kenny: The air is clean, and the people are nice. There's a great view and good food.

Leif: Think you'll stay here?

Kenny: ...No, I don't think I will. I want to see what else the world can offer.

Kabbu: May we meet again, explorer!

Kenny: May we meet again, indeed.

[Spy Rob or Bub]

Leif: These two seem to be together a lot, don't they?

Kabbu: Two friends traveling across Bugaria...not that unlikely, right?

Vi: They should become an exploration team already!

Leif: Shame. They don't seem like they can fight.

[Spy Elias]

Leif: We've been thinking for a while... what are those things some bugs wear on their eyes?

Vi: You mean glasses?

Leif: Never heard of them.

Kabbu: They're this fascinating gadget that helps bugs with poor eyesight see better!

Leif: Really? That small trinket improves eyesight?

Vi: Really cool huh? They started being sold a while ago.

Leif: It's good to see some things do get better with time.

Gen: Heeeey! Team Snakemouth!

Eri: Thanks again, we owe you for back in the desert…

Kabbu: It was no problem. You would do the same for us.

Leif: They would try, at least.

Gen: We'll make up for it, you'll see.

Eri: Mhm. Hey, Vi? You're being real quiet.

Vi: Oh? Uh...sorry. Just thinking.

Eri: The Hive is SUPER cool! We have to come back together when we're not on the job!

Gen: Everyone's really nice. And they let us drink from the fountain for free!

Vi: Y-Yeah... Glad you like it. You ready to meet up?

Eri: Shoot! We forgot!

Gen: We'll see ya there, Team Snakemouth!

Leif: Well, at least they're having fun.

Vi: Hmph.

Leif: Vi.

Vi: What? If it's about earlier, drop it. I don't want to talk about it.

Leif: Look at us, Vi. This is serious.

Leif: You're mad over petty things. You're acting like a child.

Vi: Seriously? THAT'S what you wanted to tell me!?

Leif: We're not finished.

Leif: Something may happen tomorrow, or even today. And then, you won't be able to say sorry.

(minibubble) Kabbu: Leif...

Leif: Instead of acting so proud, won't you be happier if you fix things?

Vi: …

Kabbu: Vi, Leif is right! We never know what can happen. Friends are so precious to lose over nothing…

Vi: ...But what if she doesn't forgive me? I was really mean…

Kabbu: If you really mean it, and show it, she'll forgive you. You're sisters!

Vi: ...…

Vi: F-Fine. I'll try.

Leif: Hmm. You're more mature than we expected.

Vi: Shut up!

Vi: We're on a mission now, but…

Vi: W-When we have time, I'll try and apologize. Okay? Are you happy now!?

Leif: You promise?

Vi: I'll do it! I don't need to promise it like some kid!

Kabbu: Heheheh. Alright, Vi. We believe you.

Leif: We hope it goes well. Life's too short to have dumb fights.

Vi: Sigh...I feel all tired now.

Hive, Main Area

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: Still feels weird to be home…

Kabbu: Despite everything, surely you're a little happy?

Vi: Well...I did miss the honey fountain.

Leif: We'll miss it too…

[Spy Artia]

Kabbu: My, these paintings are quite... unique.

Vi: Artia really needs to add some color sometimes.

Leif: We agree, but maybe she won't be happy if she does.

Kabbu: Someone who's happy in a gray world... is that truly possible?

Vi: You're really overthinking this...

[Spy Bib]

Kabbu: What a fluffy bee!

Vi: Bumblebees are pretty cute. Not cuter than me, though!

Leif: We don't dare to disagree...

[Spy Zasp or Mothiva]

Vi: It's them!

Kabbu: Let's get the meeting underway. Maybe they've even repented!

(minibubble) Leif: Doubt it.

Mothiva: Ohohoho! Now now, there's enough Mothiva for all!

Crowd: Mothiva! Mothiva!

Vi: Ugh! How can she be so popular while being such a jerk!

Leif: Ignorance is bliss for this crowd…

Kabbu: Um, Mothiva?

Mothiva: More fans? Ohoho-

Mothiva: What are YOU dorks doing here!?

Crowd: Huh?

Crowd: Mothiva?

Crowd: Hm?

Mothiva: A-Ahahaha! Sorry, show's over! I hope you'll join me in my next tour!

Crowd: Aww...

Mothiva: Thanks for ruining a perfectly good tour, jerks.

Vi: We didn't do anything! And you're the jerk!

Mothiva: Your mere presence ruins my vibe, can't you tell!?

Leif: Maybe you can steal some of ours when we're not looking.

Mothiva: Why you…

Kabbu: Enough! We're not here to fight you. We have a mission, can't we cooperate?

Kabbu: We need not hog the glory. If we work together, we will all be recognized!

Mothiva: Sigh. So naive. What good is fame when shared with the likes of you?

Kabbu: U-Urk…

Vi: Look, just go to the darn meeting point. We can settle this later.

Mothiva: Hmph. I'll go, but not by your barking. See if you don't keep me waiting too long.

Vi: What a jerk! I really really don't get how no one sees it!

Kabbu: It's a shame her defeat didn't humble her one bit…

Leif: We'll have to be careful, we never know what they'll be planning...

Zasp: Just my luck. Team Snakemouth.

Vi: You've got some nerve walking into the Hive!

Zasp: Hmph. Pipe down. I'm here on explorer business, just like you.

Leif: Come to steal some more credit, we assume?

Zasp: If you expect an apology, you won't get it.

Kabbu: Ngh. So you're proud of your actions?

Zasp: I don't operate on pride. I'm commited to Mothiva's rise to the top.

Zasp: We saw an opportunity and took it. It didn't work out, but it's not the end of the world.

Zasp: As you can see, even without the artifact, she is still respected.

Vi: Who's gonna respect someone so petty! Bet they wouldn't if they knew the truth!

Kabbu: Vi! We're not going to start badmouthing others!

Zasp: It wouldn't matter. See if they'd believe some bumbling fools over the great Mothiva.

Leif: Hmph. Look, we don't care. Can you just move it to the meeting point?

Zasp: That, I can do. Business is business, after all. My interests are not petty banter with you three.

Vi: Yeah, yeah. Just go.

[if haven’t talked to Mothiva yet]

Kabbu: We'll notify Mothiva as well. You won't wait for long.

Kabbu: See you there.

[After talking to Zasp and Mothiva]

[Spy Beil]

Vi: That scarf is so pretty!

Leif: Mothiva's a crook, but her clothing brand is pretty high quality.

Vi: Wait, what? Isn't it only those red balls?

Kabbu: It seems any item she helped create has a small icon... Look at the scarf's corner!

Vi: Ugh, that sucks... No way I'm going to buy it.

Leif: You could just cover her logo up.

Vi: Nuh uh! She ain't getting one berry from me!

[Spy Sasha]

Kabbu: Hmm…

Vi: What's up?

Kabbu: It's nothing. I'm just thinking about clothing…

Leif: Gonna buy some?

Kabbu: No, no. I'm happy with how I look.

Kabbu: I'm not sure how to feel about others wishing to change their image…

Vi: Bugs can do whatever they want. If they wanna wear a big hat they can do it!

Leif: Can't say we oppose that view.

Kabbu: You're right. It's not my place to judge others, even if I'm not going to wear clothing myself.

Vi: Geez, it's not like you cut the scarf off of her. Stop apologizing!

Vilma: Heeeey! How're you liking our wonderful Hive? Have some honey, it's on me!

Leif: Thank you. We won't forget this.

(minibubble) Kabbu: S-So kind...!

Vi: Y-Yeah, thanks...

[Spy Vilma]

Kabbu: What a nice bee. It warms my heart!

Leif: So tall. Cheerful, too.

Vi: Even I can't get mad at Vilma…

Kabbu: I feel bad, though. All that honey for free…

Leif: Not us. We intend to keep eating.

Vi: How are you two not fatter!?

[Spy Huni]

Kabbu: Ah. Children are so pure!

Leif: Vi is right here.

Vi: Not in the mood.

Leif: It's not funny if she won't react…

Kabbu: Leif, you should take it easy on her while we're here.

Leif: Fine...

[Spy Yap]

Kabbu: (Psst! Leif!)

Leif: (What? Why are you whispering?)

Kabbu: (Don't tell Vi, but... Doesn't that little bee look like her?)

Leif: (Ohhh... yeah. She does, doesn't she? She looks so annoyed, too.)

Vi: You suck at whispering!!!

Mothiva: Why would you look for me now? Don't you know my time is berries?

Vi: Shut up, or we'll take even longer!

Zasp: Despite everything...I must say, runt. The Hive is quite nice to be in.

Vi: It's nowhere someone like you should be in!

[Story, walking to the throne room door with everyone gathered]

Kabbu: It seems only Kina is left…

Eri: Oh, nah! She gave us the parts. So we're good to go.

Gen: She's shameless, that's what she is!

Guard: Then, if these are all the explorers, we shall open the throne room.

Guard: Be on your best behavior, for even glancing upon our Queen is a privilege.

Mothiva: Oh, of course miss guard! We adore the Queen, and would never dream to upset her Ohohoho!

(minibubble) Vi: !?

Leif: Are you the same Mothiva...?

Guard: Be silent, and go in.

Hive, Throne Room

Guard: My Queen, the Ant Kingdom's explorers have arrived. The doctor's here, as well.

Bianca: Oh! Adorable, aren't they? Welcome!

Bianca: I hope the Hive has shown great hospitality and kindness towards you.

Kabbu: Y-Yes! We are grateful, Que-

Mothiva: Oh, most respected Queen! Your words humble our heart - we are truly blessed to be in your presence!

(minibubble) Zasp: (Mothiva... Don't overdo it.)

(minibubble) Mothiva: (Shut up!)

Vi: Uh, yeah. It's nice to be back…

Bianca: Vi! Is that you? You have grown so beautifully into a fine bee!

Vi: U-Um…

Bianca: We have heard of your exploits here. You have brought pleasant surprises to my days.

Kabbu: That's great, Vi!

Vi: T-Thank you, Queen.

(minibubble) Mothiva: (Grr!!!)

Eri: The Hive is wonderful! Makes me wish I was a bee!

Bianca: Ahaha! Now, now. We all have our wonderful place in this world.

(minibubble) Leif: (This Queen is something else. If only ours took note...)

Bianca: But now, the time for pleasantries is over. If you don't mind, let us get to the matter at hand.

Bianca: H.B.?

H.B.: Yes, my Queen.

Bianca: As we all know, the graceful Ant Queen has made a heavy request of our kind.

Bianca: The core of the Honey Factory, which we owe this great kingdom to, has turned out to be an artifact.

Bianca: Under normal circumstances, we would have to deny even the Queen her request.

Bianca: However, she has provided us with all we need to build a new core.

Gen: R-Right! Kina should have delivered them to the factory already…

H.B.: Fufufu... Yes, I have gone there and gave a quick examination.

H.B.: With my incredible intellect, I can quickly create a suitable replacement. All due to these materials' incredible quality!

Bianca: It's quite a simple ordeal, isn't it? Almost feels like we've gone through a bit too many formalities…

Mothiva: Never, Your Majesty! There is no request we would not acquiesce for thee!

(minibubble) Vi: Ac-squeeze?

Bianca: Ahaha! If you are true of your word, that would make me most happy.

Bianca: For I would like to invite you to accompany the doctor to the Honey Factory, and witness this pivotal exchange.

Bianca: You are not obligated to go, but it would warm our heart if you did…

Mothiva: Yes. YES!

Eri: Sure thing! We would love to see even more of the kingdom!

Leif: Yes. For one, seeing honey being produced sounds delicious.

Kabbu: Leif, you are not to eat any of it!

(minibubble) Leif: (Aww...)

Vi: Um, thanks. We'll go.

Bianca: Vi…

Vi: Q-Queen?

Bianca: Contrary to what I believed, it seems the outside world did you some good.

Bianca: You look so grown up! Your team has my thanks.

Kabbu: Ah! Um, you're welcome, Queen.

Vi: I...I haven't changed at all. I'm the same Vi!

Bianca: Ahaha... A mother knows best. Maybe you've yet to notice.

(minibubble) Vi: ...

Mothiva: W-Well! Shall we go?

Guard: The Queen is speaking! Shut your mouth!

(minibubble) Mothiva: E-Eep!

Bianca: No need to be so ruthless, my dear guard. Ahaha!

Bianca: But you are indeed free to go unto the factory. It's to the west of my throne's entrance.

Bianca: Vi, please take care of everyone as they explore. As sure as I am that there will be no issues.

Vi: ...Yeah. I will. You can count on me!

Guard: Dismissed!

Mothiva: Sigh...Let's go, Zasp.

Zasp: About time.

H.B.: Now, teams. I still have to pick up some tools. We'll meet up there.

H.B.: Don't let the wind blow you off the bridge!

Kabbu: Geez, Vi. You made bees seem so mean! When you have a graceful Queen like that!

Leif: Even we are disarmed by her words. They remind us of Elizant.

Vi: ...I was mad at everyone, okay?

Leif: Even so, you shouldn't have badmouthed them.

Vi: Fine. I'm sorry, okay!? And I'll, uh...I'll fix stuff. Slowly. Can we just do the mission?

Kabbu: Heheheh. Alright. Let's go, team.

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: This throne room is so pleasant, and the smell is fantastic!

Vi: That's what a bunch of honey and flowers will do to any place, really.

Leif: The Queen's demeanor also lightens up the mood. Shame we're here for business.

Vi: Eh...I'm sure I can get you both back in.

Leif: Oh? You're willing to come back?

Vi: ...Let's go!

[Spy Bianca]

Kabbu: Say, Vi. The Queen mentioned a mother knowing best…

Vi: Just a bee thing, really.

Leif: Do you think of the Queen as your mother?

Vi: Not really... She's the Queen before anything else.

Kabbu: I'm sure she does think of you as her daughter, though.

Vi: Dunno... Everyone's her daughter to her. Does it make anyone special then?

Leif: That's another way of thinking about it…

Vi: You two are overthinking this! Let's get going already!

Hive, Entrance to Factory

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: We're... We're so high up. No fence, nothing...!

Leif: Just keep looking straight, Kabbu. It's not a long bridge.

Kabbu: Ngh... So high up...

Vi: Look. If you fall, I'll catch you, okay? Just get moving!

Kabbu: Vi...! ...Very well. I won't give up. Let's go!

[pre-talking to the queen]

Guard: Do you have a tour scheduled? No civilians or tourists allowed otherwise.

(minibubble) Vi: Ugh.

[Story, walking across after the meeting with the queen]

Vi: Wait!

Kabbu: W-WHAT IS IT!? TEAM, DON'T FALL DOWN!

Vi: Oi! Calm down!

Leif: A bridge's not the best place for sudden outbursts.

Vi: Look. Everything in the Factory's super expensive! And they don't let you leave mid-tour!

Kabbu: I see...We should shop beforehand, then?

Vi: Yup! Let's save some berries!

Leif: Or we could spend a little not to have to go all the way back...

Honey Factory, Entrance

[Story, first entrance]

Tuvi: Wow! So many tourists! This is the famous Honey Factory!

Tuvi: Amazing, right? Here's where we produce all of Bugaria's honey!

Tuvi: Oh, um. Ignore this pile of scrap. Some explorer left it here and walked out…

(minibubble) Mothiva: Boring. Let's go, Zasp!

Tuvi: Anyway! I'm Tuvi, your delightful tour guide. While the incredible Doctor builds our new core, I'll show you around to lots of fun!

Gen: Yeehaw! Can't wait!

H.B.: Sounds like a good opportunity, doesn't it? Science is incredible, but not the best spectator sport.

H.B.: By the time the tour is done, I'll have assembled everything.

H.B.: So go on, have fun!

Kabbu: Thank you, Doctor. We will enjoy this for sure!

Leif: Knowing how the honey is made... This is an opportunity we cannot miss.

Vi: It's seriously nothing that cool…

Kabbu: Maybe for a bee. For us, it's a great experience!

Vi: Alright, alright. Geez... It'll be fun, I guess.

Tuvi: Uh... What?

Textbox: Warning! Warning!

Textbox: Factory has been compromised! Alert Code 32 Engaged!

Textbox: Complete Factory Lockdown in Effect!

Tuvi: W-w-w-w-w-w-w-what!?

H.B.: What...? But Code 32 is…

Vi: Doc! What's going on?!

H.B.: Code 32 means... The factory has been attacked by hostile forces!

H.B.: But how? We didn't see anyone on our way here…

Kabbu: Doctor, we must leave! We can retrieve the artifact later!

H.B.: Indeed. It's not just us, tourists and workers need to evacuate too.

H.B.: Guide, do you know where the Overseer is?

Tuvi: N-no! It's routine checkup time... She could be anywhere!

H.B.: ...Tch. Without the Overseer, we're stuck.

Vi: What!?

H.B.: Code 32 will lock down the entire factory for a week.

H.B.: That is, unless the Overseer enters the disarm code.

Leif: We suggest turning our trip around the factory into a rescue mission.

H.B.: ...Great idea! Finding her will fix all our problems, really.

Gen: A-Alright. We'll help!

H.B.: With such a capable group of explorers here, we should be okay.

H.B.: For now I will work on the core's replacement... You should focus on the rescue mission.

Eri: Let's do this!

Vi: You heard that, Mothiva? Let's-

Vi: Wait, where is she? Where's Zasp?

Gen: Huh, he's gone too…

Vi: I bet they have something to do with this...!

Leif: For this once, probably not... Guess we'll have to search for them too.

Vi: Cuz we didn't have enough to do... Let's go, team!

[Overworld Spy, during lockdown]

Kabbu: This trip didn't go as I'd hoped…

Vi: That's what I get for doing the Queen a favor…

Leif: It's just another mission. Let's stay focused, and take in the sights.

[Spy H.B. or Crow]

Leif: Look at 'em go.

Kabbu: Goodness... They're assembling the pieces at an unbelievable pace!

Vi: Looks like a bunch of junk. Is this really going to make a new core?

Kabbu: I can't wait to see the end result!

[Spy other explorers]

Kabbu: It's a relief to have other teams here with us…

Vi: THEY should be relieved we decided to come along!

Leif: Why not both? We'll have to work together to get through this.

Vi: Meh. If you say so...

[Story, opening door to Processing]

Eri: Ah! The door! Thanks, Team Snakemouth!

Gen: Heheh. It's our time to shine, Eri! Can't let them do everything, right?

Eri: Y-You sure we won't get in the way?

Gen: Relax. It's just a factory! Let's go in and do what we can!

Vi: Uh oh... The factory's super dangerous! It's full of sentry bots!

Kabbu: W-What!? Team, we must give chase!

[Spy Tuvi]

Vi: Poor Tuvi…

Kabbu: It must be rough, being a tour guide.

Leif: What about us? We're the one cleaning up the mess...

[Spy Claire, before talking]

Kabbu: This poor bee is distressed! We simply must-

Vi: Yeah, yeah. Let's talk to her.

Claire: Oh nooooooooooooo...

Claire: I just got the job, and everything's already ruined. Ruined!

Claire: Why does this always have to happen to meeeeeeee?!

Claire: With the factory closed, I can't sell stuff to fill up my quota, and I'll get fired! Nooooooo!

Vi: Err, management doesn't have quotas during emergencies…

Claire: Huuu...

Kabbu: Some make believe won't hurt, Vi. Miss, we'd love to shop here, if you'd have us.

Claire: Y-you will...?

Claire: A-Alright. If there's customers, I can't mope around! I'll set the shop up!

[Spy Amber]

Kabbu: Poor miss Amber's been trapped as well!

Leif: Thankfully. It'll be handy to take our items from storage.

Kabbu: Think about her feelings!

Vi: I dunno. She seems fine to me... Does she even know there's a lockdown going on?

Leif: If she doesn't, we better not tell her.

[Spy Claire, in shop]

Vi: Yikes... Why'd you have to say that, Kabbu? Now we HAVE to buy things.

Kabbu: Vi, we cannot leave until we complete our mission. More supplies will be helpful!

Vi: I mean, it's not like we walked in here with our pockets empty.

Leif: And if we run out of berries, it will be hard to get more.

Kabbu: Let's just be very responsible with our exploration funds, then.

[Overworld Spy, post-lockdown]

Kabbu: Phew. Glad the lockdown's over.

Leif: Now we can learn the honey making process at our leisure.

Vi: Eh. It's better if we get going.

[Spy Tuvi, post-lockdown]

Kabbu: Tuvi's in high spirits!

Leif: We're surprised. She looks although nothing's happened.

Vi: I'm surprised she didn't quit...

[Spy Amber, post-lockdown]

Kabbu: I'm glad Lady Amber is here to help.

Leif: Do you think the Bee Kingdom pays her to be here?

Vi: I wonder if we could get paid to make Kabbu carry bags...

[Spy Claire, post-lockdown]

Vi: Bleh, the store prices are so high!

Leif: If we want honey, we could grab some ourselves.

Kabbu: That's theft! Cease and desist!

Honey Factory, Worker Rooms

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: So many beds! Are these needed with the Hive close by?

Vi: Workers don't really leave the factory until their shift's over. Sometimes its days long…

Leif: That sounds suffocating. And illegal.

Vi: Pays super well, though! And then they go on a huge holiday!

Kabbu: How come you didn't become a worker, then? It'd get you all the berries you want.

Vi: No way! It's so boring! Once was enough for a lifetime!

Vi: I wanted to fall asleep every second of it! I'd rather be poor!

Leif: Alrighty then...

Worker: Sorry, tourists can't sleep in here. If you get hired back, Vi, I'll make sure to save a bed for you.

Vi: Fat chance.

Honey Factory, Overseer’s Office

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: Call it a hunch, but we think this is the Overseer's office.

Vi: Mhm.

Kabbu: Incredible! How did you figure it out!?

Leif: ...A hunch.

Kabbu: ...Oh. Ahem. Vi, there's no way the Overseer would be hiding in here, right?

Vi: I sure hope so. Would make our life way easier.

Leif: Then she's definitely not here. But let's look around anyways.

[Examine Portrait, first time]

Leif: A portrait of the overseer? A bit narcissistic…

Vi: It's not like that. This is the honored employee portrait!

Vi: Bees that work really hard get to be put up there for a few days.

Kabbu: Is there no hall of fame for all the honored employees?

Vi: Yup. It's inside the Hive though, so you two can't see em.

Leif: So in our team, Kabbu would be the honored employee?

Kabbu: I-I would?

Vi: No way, it'd be me!

Leif: (...Awaiting nomination...)

[Overworld Spy, post-lockdown]

Vi: We found the Overseer, so...can we leave?

Leif: Don't like the office much?

Vi: Yeah. Seriously bums me out...

[Spy Overseer]

Vi: That's the overseer!

Leif: Yeah, we saved her, remember?

[Quest: Helpers Needed At Once!]

[Spy Malbee]

Vi: Bleh. Taking her posting is like working for her again…

Leif: We can charge her extra, if it makes you happy.

Vi: Great idea!

(minibubble) Kabbu: You two...

[first talk]

Overseer: Oh, Vi! You've come back!

Vi: This might pay well, so…

Leif: The robot things are having issues, yeah?

Malbee: Indeed. The Code 32 incident caused plenty of trouble, and I had to fix all of them.

Malbee: The Menders are durable and reliable, but some of them went haywire despite my efforts.

Malbee: I don't have time to look for all of them, so I need you to go in my stead.

Kabbu: We're not qualified engineers, so... How do we fix the Menders?

Malbee: Easy. Just whack them until their system resets.

Kabbu: What? H-Hit them? What about their feelings!?

Leif: Kabbu, machines don't have feelings.

(minibubble) Kabbu: And if they do...?

Malbee: They don't indeed. Just go and reset them, no matter how many whacks it takes.

Malbee: There should be 3 around the processing areas of the factory.

Vi: You better have a reward ready! Let's move, team!

[talk after fixing]

Malbee: You've fixed them, haven't you? My radar's confirmed it.

Kabbu: It was emotionally draining…

Overseer: The Menders weren't made to fight, only to do simple tasks.

Overseer: Thank you. H.B.'s inventions have been going way out of control recently.

Malbee: Well, I must congratulate you, Vi. I really want you to come back and work for us.

Vi: In your dreams!

Vi: Exploring's right where I belong.

Malbee: ...Regardless of my bias, it's good to see you've found your calling.

Malbee: You've earned this. Thanks for helping us again.

Vi: Woah! This one's really rare!

Overseer: It would really be nice to have you back with us, Vi. But I know you'd hate it…

Overseer: Good luck on your adventures!

Vi: Thanks, chief!

Leif: Well, we're out. Stay safe.

[Talk Again]

Malbee: I do think you've got a future here, Vi.

Vi: I'll live. Exploring's way more fun!

Honey Factory, Processing, First Room

[Overworld spy, pre-Malbee rescue]

Vi: Alrighty. We're officially in the worker zone! We can just catch the tram and…

Kabbu: Doesn't seem to be working, does it?

Vi: Argh! Everything's going wrong!

Leif: Wouldn't be a mission if it was easy. We'll have to walk around normally.

[Story]

System: Due to lockdown protocol, some platforms will be routinely shocked. Bee workers, please hover to evade the shock and evacuate safely!

Kabbu: S-Shocked!?

Vi: Whew, good thing I can fly...

Kabbu: There's no choice, Vi. You will have to leave us behind!

Vi: No way. What if I need to cut or freeze something?

Kabbu: Leif! Have you gone MAD!?

Kabbu: Impressive! W-wait, come back!

Vi: You did the weird thing again!

Leif: We took some time to think about it... And we can control it.

Leif: If we hold down |button,5|, we should be able to all cross safely.

Leif: Can't really jump or walk fast while doing it, though…

Kabbu: Incredible! Leif, you may have just saved us a lot of trouble!

(minibubble) Vi: No flying needed!

Leif: Eh, if Gen and Eri got through, we would have found a way. Let's go.

[Overworld Spy, post-Malbee rescue]

Kabbu: Catching the tram is the best!

(minibubble) Vi: I know!

Kabbu: A seat that moves itself...incredible!

Leif: We almost got a bit dizzy... We've got to catch up to the newest technologies.

Honey Factory, Processing, Second Room

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: This is the most honey we've ever seen…

Vi: Heh. It only gets better as you go.

Kabbu: This factory's design is quite...unorthodox. Moving about is quite difficult.

Vi: It's made for bees. We just fly around.

Leif: Can't you carry us?

Vi: Not if there's another way! Now shield up!

Leif: This power-up was a mistake…

Honey Factory, Processing, Pump

[Overworld Spy, Pre-Malbee Rescue]

Vi: This is the Connecting Room! But...the pump seems to be broken. Uh oh.

Leif: The factory must've shut it down.

Kabbu: How could you tell, Vi?

Vi: The Honey levels are a bit weird. It's pooling up.

Vi: ...If it keeps up, honey's gonna pile up in the basement! Abomihoneys can come out!

Leif: We still don't get why that happens.

Vi: It's dangerous, okay? Be careful!

[Overworld Spy, post-rescue]

Kabbu: The pump is fixed! It feels good to help.

Vi: Heheh. Malbee was super impressed! Honey won't pool up anymore, too.

Leif: Don't let it get to your head...

Honey Factory, Processing, Puzzle

[Story, approach Gen and Eri]

Eri: Eek! Team Snakemouth!

Gen: H-Help! Please!

Gen: Phew... We owe you one, again.

Vi: We may have to start charging 'em…

Kabbu: Nonsense, Vi.

Leif: What did you do to get rushed by Bee-Boops?

Eri: Oh yeah! We were, like, trying this switch out?

Eri: I was gonna stay here controlling it while Eri crossed, but then they went crazy!

Vi: This place is too dangerous, you shouldn't split up!

Kabbu: You should return to a safe place. We will take care of this.

Eri: W-Wait! We can help! Seriously!

Gen: We can stay here and press the switch, right? Then all of you can cross!

Leif: That's a fantastic idea, we're impressed.

Eri: It'll settle our debt with Vi, too!

Kabbu: She was just kidding, do not worry.

(minibubble) Vi: Right. Kidding.

Kabbu: But will you be ok? What if you get ambushed again?

Leif: Eh, doesn't seem to be anything dangerous left around.

Gen: Trust us, okay? Just go get a move on! Press |button,9| to give us a holler, and we'll press the switch!

[Overworld Spy, Gen and Eri still there, leave and come back]

Kabbu: We can't really move here without Gen and Eri, now can we?

Leif: Vi could carry us around, or something.

Vi: They're still here, right? Let's just ask for help!

[Overworld Spy, Gen and Eri gone]

Kabbu: We can't really move here without Gen and Eri, now can we?

Leif: Vi could carry us around, or something.

Vi: There's nothing here! Just get out!

Honey Factory, Processing, Obstacle

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: What's this room even supposed to be?

Vi: The training obstacle course!

Kabbu: An obstacle course...?

Vi: They make the platforms fly around everywhere, and whoever grabs more honey off the trams wins!

Leif: We're glad the platforms are stuck to the ground, then…

Honey Factory, Processing, Puzzle 2

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: Hmm... So the gate closes when the geyser rises.

Leif: We can only control so many ice cubes. Let's use that to our advantage.

Honey Factory, Processing, Malbee

[Overworld Spy. pre-rescue]

Kabbu: Hm? Something's going on up ahead.

Vi: M-Malbee? We've gotta help!

[Story]

Malbee: Away! Away with you!

Vi: Malbee! Hang in there!

Kabbu: We'll keep you safe!

Malbee: Vi? What are YOU doing here!?

Leif: Talk later. We're getting rid of these pests.

[post-battle]

Malbee: Watch it! You almost splattered that honey on me!

Vi: Ugh. I don't even get a thank you?

Malbee: You don't deserve it, Vi.

Kabbu: We, um...are glad to see you're okay.

Leif: Vi, who is this?

Vi: This is Malbee, the maintenance chief.

Malbee: That I am! Glad you still remember that.

Malbee: Who are those two with you?

Leif: Vi's exploration team.

Kabbu: At your service!

Malbee: So you did go and build up a team instead of doing your shift here, didn't ya?

Vi: Anything is better than here! Bet you never saw it coming either!

Malbee: I didn't. The Vi from back then wouldn't have managed.

Vi: HEY!

Malbee: Guess something changed, though…

Malbee: It seems that I owe ya in the end. So thanks. Who knows what could've happened.

Vi: You're...welcome?

Kabbu: Uh, I'm glad we could be of help.

Kabbu: By the way, Miss Malbee. We're looking for the Overseer. Would you be able to help us?

Malbee: Oh, her? She's got to be trapped in the Storage.

Malbee: With the security in place, the vents shut down... Honey's heating up, and those Abomihoneys are popping up.

Malbee: She won't last long by herself.

Leif: What do we do? The storage is locked.

Malbee: That's because the pump shut down. I was about to fix it, when I got jumped…

Vi: Can you fix it now?

Malbee: Yup. Hang on tight for a few minutes.

Vi: Is it done?

Malbee: Yep! Good as new. Processing's back to full power! Storage should be open, too.

Kabbu: Thank you! Now we've just got to walk back…

Vi: Oh, you're gonna like this Kabbu.

Malbee: With the machines working again, you can catch the tram back.

Leif: Will it bring us back to the entrance?

Malbee: Yeah. Saves a lot of time. And you get to see the factory from a whole new angle.

Kabbu: That is fantastic! We do get to tour around after all!

Vi: Thanks, Malbee. We're gonna go do our mission and stuff.

Malbee: Hmph. Vi, if you don't think you're cut for that exploration stuff, I'll actually rehire you here.

Malbee: Could always use more folk pushing the boxes.

Vi: Never! Let's go, team!

[Overworld Spy, post-rescue]

Kabbu: The pump is a fascinating piece of technology!

Leif: It makes the Golden Settlement look way behind the times.

Vi: I dunno. It just looks weird and ugly to me.

Kabbu: What's its appearance got to do with anything...?

Malbee: Don't forget my offer, Vi. I can always use more help.

Vi: Right... See you later!

[Spy Malbee]

Kabbu: So Malbee was your boss, Vi?

Vi: Yup...I hate having a boss. It sucks! Being an explorer is way better!

Leif: But isn't the Queen our boss now?

Vi: At least it doesn't really feel like it…

Kabbu: Indeed. Exploring sets the soul free!

Honey Factory, Storage Elevator

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: What a grim atmosphere…

Leif: Must we always find an elevator in our travels?

Vi: This connects the fun part of the factory, with the boring storage part! Down we go!

Honey Factory, Storage Maze

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: I have never seen so many boxes in my entire life!

Leif: We feel like all of Bugaria could fit in here...Vi, do the bees need this much honey?

Vi: You never know, right? Maybe someday we'll have to feed all of Bugaria!

Leif: Given what'd have to occur for that to happen, let's hope not.

Honey Factory, Storage Miniboss

[Overworld Spy, pre-battle]

Kabbu: I must say this storage room is somehow more grim than the last.

Leif: It's like the bees went and made their own Snakemouth.

Vi: Heheh. You'll cheer up when you see this Beemerang trick!

[Story]

Kabbu: Hmm...Is there nothing here?

Vi: There's gotta be something, somewhere!

Leif: Is it that weird for there to be an empty room?

Vi: ...Yes!

Kabbu: …

Kabbu: Wait... What's this feeling...

Kabbu: T-TEAM, WATCH OUT! ABOVE US!

Vi: Eep! I wish it'd been empty after all!

Leif: Ready up, it's coming!

[post-battle]

Kabbu: Huff… That was intense!

Vi: ...W-Woah! Are those...

Mothiva: ...Don't say anything.

Kabbu: What happened?

Zasp: We found this keycard, and then…

Mothiva: DON'T say anything! This is so embarrassing! A disgrace!

Leif: A "thank you" would be enough.

Mothiva: N-Never! This NEVER happened! Argh!

Vi: What's HER problem?

Kabbu: Humbleness is hard to come by…

Zasp: Well, if she's gone... I guess I can thank you. We really owe you.

Leif: Hmph. You're welcome.

Kabbu: You must have been terrified!

Zasp: We were. We really thought that was it for us…

Zasp: Try not to bring it up, okay? Even Mothiva can get very scared.

Vi: And why shouldn't we?

Zasp: Take this.

Zasp: ...I trust this makes us even?

Kabbu: We were even from the start. Go, you wouldn't want to keep her waiting!

Zasp: ...See you upstairs, Team Snakemouth.

Vi: Huh.

Kabbu: What matters is we've got the card. I'm sure we can save the overseer with this!

Leif: It'll be so hard not to rub this in her face... Guess we're better than that, though. Let's go.

[Overworld Spy, post-battle]

Vi: Mothiva sure can run when she's mad.

Leif: Heheheh.

Kabbu: Don't be like this. Can you imagine the fear of being eaten alive?

Vi: They're fine! Chill out!

Honey Factory, Storage Overseer

[Overworld Spy, before rescuing Overseer]

Vi: The Overseer's GOT to be in here, I can feel it!

Leif: Can bees feel each other's presences?

Vi: That's not what I meant!

[Story]

Overseer: Oh gods, they're here... They've learned how to climb!!!

Vi: Oi! We're here to help!

Overseer: E-Eep! Vi! What are you doing here!?

Kabbu: We've come to save you!

Leif: And have you open the core room.

Vi: Mhm. Team Snakemouth to the rescue!

Overseer: Team Snakemouth... That was you in it, huh?

Overseer: Guess your explorer gig did pay off! I feel kinda bad for not believing in you at all…

Vi: We can still leave you here, you know?

Overseer: S-Sorry! What I meant to say is, I'm impressed!

Vi: Heheheh.

Overseer: I would never expect a Code 32 to happen just on the day we would replace the core…

Overseer: The vents have shut off and the honey is becoming volatile! The abomihoneys are taking over!

Overseer: We do need to reset the core, fast! But I can't get past all these monsters…

Kabbu: Worry not. We shall escort you to the exit.

Leif: Just stick with us. We'll make sure nothing harms you.

Overseer: S-Sure hope so... Or I'll just come running back!

[story, get through room]

Overseer: Oh gods, we made it. This really wasn't in the job description…

Vi: Stuff will go back to normal when the lockdown ends, right?

Overseer: Yeah! I've just gotta restart the system, and everything should stabilize…

Overseer: We've gotta review this protocol, seriously.

Kabbu: That's a relief.

Overseer: Explorers can be pretty cool. Thank you!

Vi: Heheheh.

Overseer: I'll go to the core room. You should be able to get out then.

Overseer: When H.B.'s ready to switch the core, feel free to tag along!

Overseer: With that...I'm out!

Vi: A job well done!

Leif: Praise will get you anywhere, eh Vi?

Vi: Yup. Anywhere, anytime. Time to finish this job!

[Overworld Spy, after rescuing Overseer]

Kabbu: This place could use some endearing posters!

Vi: The storage's not really part of the tour.

Leif: And it shows. Let's get out of this place.

Honey Factory, Core

[Overworld Spy, pre-rescuing the Overseer]

Vi: This is the core room.

Leif: Great. It's locked. Let's find the Overseer and get this over with.

[Spy Crow or H.B.]

Leif: They built an ancient artifact replica in...like an hour? Incredible.

Kabbu: Bee scientists have truly earned their fame!

Vi: ...Yeah.

[We're ready.]

Overseer: Ok, here we go!

H.B.: There it is... The factory's core!

Leif: So this is the core... It's a bit unsightly.

H.B.: Heh. It was definitely designed with function over form.

Crow: This is such a big day! The core's never been replaced!

Crow: If this goes awry, the whole factory will explode...

Gen: WHAT DID YOU SAY!? EXPLODE!?

(minibubble) Eri: Seriously!

H.B.: CROW! I told you that was a 0.004718% chance! Shut up!

Crow: S-Sorry, Doctor…

Vi: Phew...I don't want to be here if it's going to blow up!

Kabbu: Oof... Please do not scare us like that.

H.B.: Sigh. We'll have a talk later, Crow.

(minibubble) Crow: Eep!

H.B.: I was going to give a speech, but the mood's ruined...I'll just replace it now.

(minibubble) Mothiva: (Finally...)

Leif: What is it now!?

Gen: Oh no, oh no no no no!!!

(minibubble) Zasp: Mothiva! Behind me!

Kabbu: Everyone, be on guard!

H.B.: Hohoho. Calm down. Watch this!

H.B.: Deactivation code 940906!

Drone: CORE PROTECTION PROTOCOL: AUTHORITY OVERRIDE.

Drone: CODE 32 IN EFFECT. DEACTIVATION COMMAND REJECTED.

Drone: OBJECTIVE: PROTECT CORE AT ALL COSTS!

H.B.: WHY would they ever code that in!? ...NOW YOU CAN PANIC!

Crow: Doctor! W-What do we do!?

Leif: Leave it to us. We'll knock this thing out.

Vi: Yeah! We ain't leaving without the artifact!

Zasp: Team Snakemouth, we're going to have to work together.

(minibubble) Mothiva: Think of all the fame… That we'll get for this!

Eri: We're here, too!

Kabbu: Everyone... Alright! Take care of all the Bee-Boops! We'll take care of the big one!

Mothiva: You'd give ME such a simple task?

Vi: Shut it! They're coming! Just do your job!

Mothiva: Grr... Whatever, let's go!

[post-battle]

Drone: MISSION... FAILED... SYSTEM... CRITI... CA...

Kabbu: We've done it!

Mothiva: You should have left the big one to US. And saved us a lot of time!

Vi: Shut it, Mothiva.

Zasp: Hmph. Good moves. At the very least we've accomplished our goal.

Leif: We can agree for once.

Gen: Uh... Yup! Good job, everyone!

Mothiva: You did almost NOTHING!

Eri: S-So mean…

Crow: W-Well done, teams! We can replace the core now!

H.B.: Still, what a shame... Such a beautiful machine reduced to scrap.

Crow: W-We'll fix it later, doctor. Could you replace it? I really want to leave!

Vi: No kidding... Feels like we've been here forever!

H.B.: Alright, alright. Here goes nothing. Hope it doesn't explode.

(minibubble) Leif: Now you're worried?

Textbox: Factory Core Reset Completed.

H.B.: There ya go. Bet ya can't tell the difference. I'm a genius!

Crow: Awesome, doctor!

Kabbu: Mission Complete! We can finally leave!

Mothiva: Yeah, yeah... Can we have the old core? To give to the Queen, of course.

(minibubble) Vi: Hey!

H.B.: Of course.

Mothiva: WAIT, NO, GIVE IT TO M-

Textbox: You have found the Ancient Key!

Textbox: Team Snakemouth cut across the vast Lost Sands, thwarting a gang of bandits along the way.

Despite Vi's foul mood, the team took the Defiant Root's elevator, arriving at the Bee Kingdom.

Leif had a scare, but the team learned more about what happened in Snakemouth Den.

Vi was convinced to reconcile with her sister, and faced the Queen of all bees.

Although the factory tour went a bit awry, the explorers worked together to replace the core.

Now, all pieces have been assembled. Is the Everlasting Sapling finally within reach?

End of Chapter 3.

Leif: Wusk tav hyr?

H.B.: Fascinating. Your condition... I haven't forgotten. Think about my offer, okay?

Mothiva: ARGH!

Vi: Just ambush us later for it. See how well it goes for you!

Zasp: Hm. You're growing bolder, you brat.

Kabbu: N-Now, now. We can all go home, surely that is reason to celebrate!

Gen: You got it! We're going for some Succulent Berries!

Eri: See ya at the palace!

Mothiva: Ugh... They better mention all the HELP we gave you. Or you'll see.

Zasp: Shall we go, Mothiva?

Mothiva: Yeah. Whatever. Tomorrow's a new day for glorious fame!

H.B.: Oh, right. One last thing. Pass by my lab when you have time. There's something cool I'd like to show you.

Vi: Sure thing, doc.

Crow: Ah. you're dropping by? I better ask the Queen about the shutdown real quick, then…

Crow: Um. Thanks for everything, see ya!

Kabbu: Huff... What an exhausting tour that was. But it was fun, too.

Vi: You've got a real weird idea of fun.

Leif: We should go hand over this artifact. Let's go, everyone.

[Overworld Spy, post-fight]

Kabbu: This is the core room.

Vi: We know, Kabbu.

Leif: Back in the day, we heard the factory was powered with caterpillars running to spin wheels…

Kabbu: Is that even possible?

Vi: Yep. But then the core got built a few moons after the roaches disappeared.

Kabbu: Bless science. Think of how tired those caterpillars must have been!

Hive, Entrance to Factory

Kabbu: It's relieving to get out, isn't it? And nobody got hurt!

Vi: Mhm…

Leif: Something on your mind?

Vi: Kinda. Malbee and the Overseer never really approved of me... But they changed their mind!

Vi: So, I dunno. Maybe I CAN fix stuff with my sister!

Kabbu: Vi, you've mentioned her before, but what kind of bee is she?

Vi: Her name's Jaune. She's a painter in the Hive! We got into a really bad fight…

Leif: The crisis is over. We won't complain about a small detour, but it's up to you.

(minibubble) Kabbu: Indeed!

Vi: ...Thanks. I'll think about it. I'll drop by when I feel it's right!

Hive, Throne Room

Bianca: Ah, Vi. I humbly commend you for your service at the Factory.

Vi: It was no problem!

Bianca: I hope that this incident doesn't make you dread coming home again…

Vi: N-no. Seriously, it's super fine!

Bianca: Oh hoho! I'm glad, Vi. ...I hope you can reconcile with everyone soon.

Vi: Y-yeah. I'm uh, working on it. Gotta go!

Hive, Balcony

[Spy Beette]

Vi: It's her.

Kabbu: Come on, Vi. Let's see what she has to say.

[First talk]

Beette: Oh dear, what to do…

Vi: Okay. I can do this. Huff...here I go!

(minibubble) Kabbu: Hang in there!

Vi: ...What's up? Can I help you?

Beette: Dunno. Can you?

Leif: Tell us your issue. We'll see.

Beette: I thought buying a house in the Ant City would be great, but I didn't enjoy it at all.

Beette: I just get too homesick for the amazing Bee Kingdom...I dunno what to do with it now.

Kabbu: Homesick, huh. I understand how you feel.

Vi: Uh, that sucks. C-Can we help?

Beette: Are you interested in the house? It's right in the main plaza…

Leif: You mean the red house near the inn? We could use a place…

Beette: Yeah. How about 150 berries? It's cheaper than I got it for…

(minibubble) Vi: 150?!

Leif: Goodness. The housing market's gotten rough.

Beette: Won't blame ya if you don't want it. It's nothing compared to here.

Vi: We...will...think...about it.

Kabbu: (We're proud of you, Vi!)

(minibubble) Leif: (Aye.)

Vi: (Let's just go…)

[Hand over the keys!]

Beette: Hey... Thanks a ton. Here's the key.

Beette: You really helped me out...I can fund my next project with this…

Vi: It was nice helping you.

Beette: If it gets off the ground, you three can come in for free... For real.

Vi: Really?

Beette: Yeah...I never forget a favor. Take care, okay?

Leif: Mhm. It's good to not be homeless anymore.

Vi: Yeah! See you around!

[Spy Beette, post house-buying]

Vi: ...She gave us a really good deal, huh.

Vi: And I've only said bad stuff about her…

Leif: ...Well, at least she didn't hear you.

Kabbu: And you helped her in the end! You've made up for it!

Vi: ...Yeah. I'll watch the stuff I say a bit more now...

Hive, HB’s Lab

H.B.: Ah, you're here!

H.B.: Thanks for the help in the factory.

Kabbu: It was nothing, doc.

H.B.: Anyway. I wanted to show you something…

H.B.: You see this big machine behind me?

H.B.: This special machine lets you refight old foes you've met on your journey!

Leif: Is that possible?

H.B.: Yes! As long as we can get a crystal which recorded your fights.

H.B.: You know ancient crystals have the ability to record their surroundings, right?

H.B.: The roaches used them all the time to store data.

H.B.: My machine can read said data to recreate certain moments of the past.

H.B.: All that is needed is to find a crystal that recorded what you have seen on your journeys.

Kabbu: Where would we find said crystal?

H.B.: Well, you're explorers, right?

H.B.: You probably already have something that has crystals in it.

H.B.: Fufu...I will be waiting for you to figure it out!

Vi: Can't you just tell us...?

[Give Permit]

H.B.: Bingo! Authentic permits given to exploration teams house crystals in them!

H.B.: It must be overflowing with combat data!

Vi: I don't get how that works…

H.B.: You don't need to understand. Fufufu... Just check the computer behind me to start the B.O.S.S. program!

Leif: Technology has advanced at an incredible pace…

H.B.: Indeed. I've registered you all under the B.O.S.S. terminal already.

H.B.: If you have any questions about it, just come and ask me! I'm so eager to see it in action!

[Quest: Card Masters of Bugaria]

[Lose]

Crow: You're no match for me at all!

Vi: I liked her more when she was quiet.

Leif: That really was a great duel, we can't deny it.

Crow: Come back when you have better cards! T-That should help a little.

[Final Master]

Crow: And that's it. You've got a full card!

Crow: Show it to the old sailor at the pier. He'll take you to Metal Island for real cheap!

Vi: Really? That's awesome!

Leif: We can finally test our mettle against the tournament's best.

Crow: Good luck! You're strong, Leif. B-but you're gonna need it!

Ant Palace, Throne Room

Elizant: Team Snakemouth, it is my joy to see you return with good news once more.

Leif: We've brought the artifact, Elizant.

Mothiva: And by WE he means all of us, isn't that right?

Vi: Nah-

Kabbu: Indeed. Without Zasp, Mothiva, Gen and Eri we might have not succeeded.

(minibubble) Vi: Oi!

Neo: Heheh. It's nice to see you all working as a team!

Elizant: Today marks a historic day. We have finally found all the artifacts! If only words could show my gratitude.

Elizant: Zaryant, please hand them their reward. I can only hope it's enough to mark this wonderful day.

(minibubble) Zaryant: As you command!

Mothiva: My, this might have been worth the trouble. A new brooch is coming!

(minibubble) Vi: Woohoo!

Neo: M-May I?

Elizant: Inspect it, professor. Mark the end of this long search!

Neo: Oh, crud. Ah heck. Splinters.

Elizant: ...Speak. Now.

Neo: This...isn't the whole artifact!

Everyone: WHAT!?

Elizant: Explain yourself! NOW! Was this not in your notes!?

Neo: L-Look, this artifact has a small mechanism at the bottom… It's missing a half!

Kabbu: A half? Curses! Where would we even start to look?

Elizant: We were so close! Time is running out…

Leif: What do you mean?

Zaryant: The Wasp Kingdom grows bolder each day. We hoped we could gather them all before they made their move.

Vi: T-Their move? Are they going to invade or something?

Zasp: Calm yourselves down. We just need to find the other half quickly.

Delilah: Is that so? You're gonna love this, then!

Kabbu: Oh! Stratos! Delilah!

Elizant: My esteemed scout team. You have something to share?

Stratos: If we overheard right, a half is missing. Yes?

Delilah: We're super sure it's within the Lost Sands! There's this peculiar area we have staked out for days.

Neo: The sands hide more secrets still? Incredible!

Stratos: In the most plain of corners, a Sand Castle hides.

Stratos: But only with two special keys will the winds uncover it.

(minibubble) Zasp: Tch. More keys...

Delilah: We suspect the missing artifact is there.

Delilah: It used to be an area previously inhabited by the roaches, according to my notes.

Elizant: A Sand Castle, you say? Where would its keys be?

Stratos: The mayor of Defiant Root holds this secret. But he asked that we told everyone here first.

Elizant: This is great news! We have a lead again.

Elizant: Zaryant! Reward them. They have prevented this day from being an utmost disaster.

Delilah: Oh, it was nothing my Queen. We live to find secrets!

Delilah: We'll head out ahead to investigate further, just reward us later. Tah tah!

(minibubble) Stratos: Stay safe.

Elizant: I would send Maki, but he has yet to return from his mission.

Elizant: Team Mothiva, Team Snakemouth…

Mothiva: Leave it to me, my Queen. That key will be yours before you realize we've gone.

Vi: You bet! And we'll be the ones to bring it!

Kabbu: C-Can't we cooperat-

(minibubble) Vi, Mothiva: NO!

Zasp: Some healthy competition won't be the worst.

Leif: Suit yourselves. We'll finish this search.

Neo: Best of luck, everyone!

Elizant: Your orders are clear. Speak to the mayor of Defiant Root, and begin your search!

Textbox: Chapter 4: Mysterious Lost Sands

Mothiva: Although honestly, the sand gets all over my fluff! And I've got errands to run.

Mothiva: Being a star and an explorer is so taxing!

Vi: Aw. Boohoo.

Zasp: Go, Mothiva. I will manage until your return.

Mothiva: Heheh. This is why you're my partner! See ya, Snakemouth losers!

Zasp: Who knows? Without her there, we might actually help each other.

(minibubble) Kabbu: Zasp…!

Leif: Let's make sure to finish any of our business before departing.

Kabbu: Stocking up on some items would be wise, as well.

Vi: There's some spikes in the desert, right? If we could cross 'em, we could search a bunch more places!

Leif: Spikes aren't much compared to electric shocks. Our Bubble Shield should be able to get us across.

Kabbu: Excellent! Let's prepare and see what new paths we can explore!

Hive, Jaune’s Gallery

[Overworld Spy, before first talk]

Vi: C-Can we go?

Leif: Something wrong?

Vi: I just...don't wanna be here... Sigh.

[Spy Jaune, initial]

Kabbu: So this is Vi's sister…

(minibubble) Vi: ...

Leif: All bees are sisters, aren't they?

Kabbu: Well, yes. But even in a huge colony, some get more attached to others.

Leif: We guess so. No point in thinking about it too much.

[First talk]

Jaune: ...So you've finally come crawling back.

Vi: ...Jaune.

Kabbu: Miss, we-

Leif: Let's give the two of them some space, Kabbu.

(minibubble) Kabbu: O-Okay.

Jaune: What do you want? I'm busy. The Queen's commissioned me for a birthday piece.

Jaune: That horrendous art you hate so much is doing quite well!

Vi: T-That's uh, really cool. My team and I had this cool mission at the factory.

Jaune: The factory? You're the one who solved the lockdown? N-Not that I'm impressed.

Jaune: So you managed to squeeze your way into an exploration team. Color me shocked.

Jaune: Didn't expect it from such a petite child.

Vi: You're still gonna treat me like a kid!?

Jaune: Yes! If only I was crass enough to treat you with half the disrespect you've shown me your whole life!

Vi: I came to say sorry, but you're making it really hard!

Jaune: I do not want your empty apologies! You seem to be doing quite well anyways, ain't you?

Jaune: Just go. Play with your team or whatever. I've got my issues to solve.

Vi: S-Seriously? You're kicking me out!? I'm saying sorry!

Jaune: I've got to finish this piece, but I can't find any red paint.

Jaune: That's all I can afford to worry about now. I certainly can't waste my time…

Jaune: With a mean, greedy, selfish child like you!

Vi: FINE! YOU'RE DUMB ANYWAYS! I was even gonna say your art got better!

Jaune: You've said enough about my art for a lifetime, Vi. Just leave me alone!

Kabbu: T-This isn't going well…

Vi: WE'RE LEAVING.

Leif: Vi…

Vi: NOW!

Hive, Main Area

Vi: GRRR! What the heck! That's no way to treat family!

Leif: Just what did you do to her?

Vi: I told her she drew like a weevil.

Kabbu: Vi! What in blazes! You can't just go around saying that sort of thing!

Leif: We're assuming this is a new type of insult…

Vi: Well, she called me stuff too! Weak, short, coward…

Vi: I couldn't talk about exploring without her talking down to me!

Kabbu: Exploring is extremely dangerous. Many lose someone dear to a bad trip…

Kabbu: Couldn't she simply have been worried?

Vi: Whatever.

Leif: If you still want to fix things, we have an idea. We, uh, don't want you sad.

(minibubble) Kabbu: R-really!?

Vi: Y-Yeah?

Leif: She mentioned some red paint, right?

Vi: That's pretty hard to get. It's out of season or something.

Leif: Let's get it for her.

Kabbu: That is a fantastic idea!

Vi: Y-You're right! She'd be too happy to get mad!

Vi: Maybe then we can have an actual conversation. Hmph.

Kabbu: Where could we start searching? I know little of paint.

Vi: I dunno either, but uh... it's made in the Golden Settlement, right?

Vi: We could just take the tunnel and check it out when we're free.

Leif: Then let's keep that in mind. Jaune seems to need it quite badly.

Vi: Alright. Let's get a move on!

Hive, Jaune’s Gallery

[Overworld Spy, after first talk and before getting paint]

Vi: Let's go. No point coming back until we've got the paint...

Golden Settlement, Farms

[first talk]

Dashy: Cochineals aren't only beautiful creatures, they come with many benefits.

Dashy: Many of the Bee Kingdom's clothing is dyed with their help.

Leif: That's, uh, cool.

Vi: Oh yeah. Is paint made that way too?

Dashy: Some colors, yes. Like this exquisite red paint I bought at the festival.

Dashy: Hard to get this time of the year.

Kabbu: M-Miss! We have been searching far and wide for that paint!

Dashy: Have you? None of you seem like you know the way of the brush.

Vi: It's, um, a gift! For Jaune!

Dashy: Ah, yes! She would certainly put this paint to good use.

Dashy: But I'm afraid I can't part with it. I had a special duty for it.

Vi: N-Name the price!

Dashy: It's not about the money! I'm decorating my chambers…

Dashy: I thought of drawing on its walls.

Kabbu: If you won't sell, would you consider a trade?

Dashy: Hmm…

Leif: This is very important for us, too.

(minibubble) Vi: Yeah!

Dashy: There is one thing.

Dashy: I do love the Defiant Root's work and their patterns.

Dashy: If you could get me some of their fine building cloth, I would consider giving you the paint.

Vi: Got it! Just uh, please don't use the paint yet! We'll be back!

Dashy: Best of luck. It'd be a win-win for everyone, wouldn't it?

Leif: Alright. Let's hunt it down when we can.

Defiant Root, Commercial

[Spy Genow]

Leif: Must be rough being a Bumblebee in this heat…

Vi: He's wearing a scarf, right? Doesn't seem like he minds.

Kabbu: Now that's what I call heat tolerance…

[first talk]

Genow: This place is lovely. I just found some great cloth for my place!

Leif: Would you mind showing us?

Genow: Sure!

Genow: Beautiful, right?

Kabbu: Indeed! This must be in line with what that fine bee wanted…

Vi: It's really cool. Where did ya get it?

Genow: Um, right here. But it was the last one…

Vi: You wouldn't, uh, sell it or anything right?

Leif: We've been looking a long time for something like it.

Genow: U-Um…

Kabbu: If it's not for the money, we could trade for it as well?

Genow: Wow, you're really serious about this huh.

Genow: Let me think…

Genow: I went to the Ant Kingdom earlier, but I didn't get to pick up anything.

Genow: I'd trade this cloth for a toy, or some souvenir like that?

Leif: We can do that.

Vi: Yeah! We live there and all!

Genow: Really? Then this must be fate!

Genow: I'll be here for a good while, so I'll hang on to the cloth.

Genow: Looking forward to what you bring!

Ant Kingdom, Main Plaza

Ann: Hey Kabs! You've been out.

Kabbu: I'm sorry Ann, I don't get to babysit you much anymore do I?

Vi: I can't imagine Kabbu babysitting!

Leif: We can. Oh we can.

Ann: Look at this cool thing I bought! I saved up all my allowance!

Kabbu: What an adorable souvenir! It carries the warmth of the Ant Kingdom!

Vi: ...…

Leif: ...…

Kabbu: Hm?

Kabbu: ...! W-Wait, you two can't be-

Leif: That's a pretty cool toy. You wouldn't uh. Sell it back, right?

Ann: What? No. It was the last one in the shop!

Vi: W-What if we got you a cooler toy!?

Ann: Kabs, your friends are weird.

Kabbu: Please excuse them. They, um, really need it.

Ann: The only place that makes cooler toys is Metal Island.

Ann: No way I could ever afford going there...

Vi: Ugh. That's where the boat at the ferry takes you to, right?

Metal Lake, Metal Island

Jug: Hello! I've got the coolest merch of all!

Vi: Hey! This must be the place!

Leif: If you sell any toys, we demand you show them to us.

Jug: What a cute little trio! This one's just for you all!

Kabbu: Hmm, well. It's no Bug Ranger merchandise, but…

Vi: Shut it, Kabbu. It's perfect! How much is it?

Jug: This is an exotic toy that took four moons to weave, using rare materials from the eastern border.

Jug: It's at half price today, for 400 berries.

Vi: Four... hundred...

Kabbu: ...V-Vi…

Leif: You've got uh, anything more accessible?

Jug: This one's on sale! My prices start at 600, you know.

Leif: Welp. We've hit a dead end.

Kabbu: There must be some other merchant…

Jug: None as good as I, I assure you!

Vi: ...…

Kabbu: Y-You tried, Vi. It's going to be okay.

Leif: We'll figure something out.

Vi: I'll take it.

Vi: Here. 400 berries. Just take them before I regret it!

Jug: This is one purchase you won't regret!

Jug: Pleasure doing business!

Leif: You... had that many berries on you?

Kabbu: Our funds are fine, so…

Vi: It's my savings.

Vi: I wanna be rich, okay? So I can travel, eat well, buy cool stuff…

Vi: So no one can say I can't do something!

Vi: But it takes a really long time…

Kabbu: And you've taken such a great chunk of them for this?

Vi: Jaune's dumb. She doesn't get me at all!

Vi: But I've known her all my life, so...I want to fix things.

Vi: We're an awesome team! So I'll raise the berries again.

Leif: But friendship is priceless, right? We're impressed.

Kabbu: I'm...I'm moved to tears…

Vi: Let's get back to Ann so we can do all the trades!

Ant Kingdom, Main Plaza

[give Eastern Doll]

Ann: W-woah...It's so soft! So HIGH QUALITY!

Ann: Touch this petal. TOUCH IT!

Vi: Pretty cool, right? You wanna trade?

Ann: Heck yeah! Thank you so much!

Leif: Please take care of it. It's more expensive than we want to admit.

Ann: I'll treasure it forever!

Kabbu: Now we can bring this toy to our fellow bumblebee in Defiant Root!

Defiant Root, Commercial

[give Ant Doll]

Genow: A little ant toy! It's adorable!

Vi: It's the cutest, right?

Genow: Mhm. It's going to look wonderful in my room. Can't wait to tell my teammate!

Genow: Here. The cloth you wanted.

Kabbu: Thank you so much!

Leif: Excellent. Our goal is finally within reach.

Vi: Let's go get that paint! Heheheh.

Genow: It was nice to meet you!

Golden Settlement, Farms

[give Root Cloth]

Dashy: Oh yes! Feel it... So soft. The patterns flow through me!

Leif: Uh, glad you liked it.

Vi: Time for your end of the deal!

Dashy: In a hurry aren't you? You should appreciate art a bit more!

Kabbu: Indeed. Or at least Jaune's…

Vi: Whose side are you on!?

Dashy: But I won't delay you, I'm very grateful after all. Here.

Dashy: I hope she likes your gift.

Vi: ...Me too.

Hive, Jaune’s Gallery

Vi: Can you two wait here?

Leif: Are you sure you don't need backup?

Kabbu: We've got your back!

Vi: It's ok. I think I gotta do it myself. Just wait a bit!

Jaune: Vi! I didn't expect you to come back…

Jaune: It seems I wasn't clear enough during our last exchange!

Jaune: You've hurt me deeply, I'm busy, and someone uncaring like yo-

Jaune: Mother of all bees! That's...

Vi: Some super premium, Golden Settlement red paint!

Jaune: You've gone and gotten it to rub your riches in my face!?

Vi: Nope. Just gonna leave it here.

Vi: I'm sorry, Jaune. I hope your painting comes out good.

Vi: I'll get going now...

Jaune: Wait just one moment!

Vi: Y-Yeah?

Jaune: Red paint is off season, and hugely requested as it is.

Jaune: I know you didn't just walk into a store for it…

Jaune: Why make an effort after I've gone and shouted at you?

Vi: I woulda done it faster if you'd been nice and asked!

Jaune: …

Vi: I AM sorry I said you draw like a weevil. And all the other stuff.

Vi: You weren't believing me, so I had to go EVERYWHERE for the darn paint!

Jaune: Violet…

Vi: B-But if I can say something, you were mean to me too!

Vi: I had dreams and you stomped over them!

Vi: I'm doing great! I've gone to many places and beat up huge monsters!

Vi: If...if you had any faith in me I could've done it sooner!

Jaune: I…

Jaune: .......

Jaune: I was quite inconsiderate, wasn't I? My little sister…

Jaune: Please forgive me.

Vi: Only if you forgive me back!

Jaune: ...It's settled then. Welcome home.

Vi: Jaune!

Jaune: I missed you... But I felt if I let things slide it wouldn't be right.

Vi: I don't wanna be a jerk, but I didn't miss the Hive at all.

Vi: ...I did miss you just a little bit.

Jaune: Could you step out with your friends for a few minutes?

Jaune: There's something I've got to finish. And that I want to show you.

Vi: Oh, uh. Okay. I'll go tell them!

Hive, Main Area

Kabbu: A-Are you okay?

Vi: Yup. Let's go back in whenever!

Leif: That's a relief... Let's meet your sister properly, then.

Hive, Jaune’s Gallery

Jaune: Welcome! It's good to see you all again.

Kabbu: Um yes. Let us leave last time behind us.

(minibubble) Leif: Pleased.

Vi: What's the thing you were finishing? The Queen's present?

Jaune: Not at all. This one will make her painting look dull.

Jaune: I've had this project for a long time, but not the heart to finish it…

Jaune: I'm grateful I get to show it to you.

Vi: Stop hyping it up! I wanna see it!

Jaune: Hehehe. Oh, what a great audience! Get ready!

Jaune: I call this... "A Bond Thicker Than Honey"!

(minibubble) Leif: ...A-Aww...

(minibubble) Kabbu: S-sniff...!

Jaune: Hohoho! Its beauty moves you to tears!

Vi: Jaune...

Vi: You're really the best artist in the Hive!

Jaune: And you its best explorer!

Jaune: Let's not fight again, alright?

Vi: Never!

Textbox: Vi can now use the Sharing Stash skill in battle!

[Overworld Spy, post-quest]

Kabbu: All's well that ends well!

Leif: You did it, Vi. We're extra happy for you.

Vi: Heheheh. It was worth every berry!

[Spy Jaune, post-quest]

Vi: So...yeah. Jaune's my sis.

Leif: All bees are sisters, aren't they?

Vi: Well, yeah. But I grew up with her! So we're special sisters!

Kabbu: In a way, it seems bees do choose their family...

Metal Lake, Metal Island

[Overworld spy]

Kabbu: Goodness! They've truly created an artificial island!

Leif: Is that...safe?

Kabbu: Well, everyone seems quite calm, so…

Vi: Sorry guys. If it sinks I'm flying away!

Leif: No you're not. You're drowning with us.

(minibubble) Vi: Nooo!

[Spy Stacker]

Leif: Hmph. If you're going to complain, you should stay firm and skip the food.

Kabbu: ...Well, have you TASTED Master Slice's food!? It's...it's exquisite!

Vi: I thought you were the one with like, dignity and stuff, Kabbu.

Kabbu: E-Err... I-It's just food…

[Spy Ant Guards]

Leif: Hmm. Does a place like this truly need guards?

Leif: Feels like the price of the ferry weeds out troublemakers already.

Kabbu: They're insurance. If a rich evildoer came along, who would protect Metal Island!?

Vi: ...Us! We'd get rich!

[Spy Jug]

Vi: That's a lot of Mothiva dolls. Ew.

Leif: ...What's that other plush? Looks a bit like Venus.

Kabbu: Perhaps it is another culture's harvest Goddess!

Vi: Huh. Wonder if this one's real, too...

[Spy Tee]

Leif: The smell's nice. We don't come across tea this high quality often.

Kabbu: Ah...it's true. A nice, relaxing brew would do wonders for my wings!

Vi: I want a super spicy one! To get me all pumped up!

[Spy Skirby]

Vi: That's a very round Beetle! Kinda looks like a big Tangy Berry!

Kabbu: I heard that to the far east there is a land where bugs are shaped like fruit, perhaps he came from over there.

Leif: We must visit that land sometime, do you think they have bug shaped fruits there?

Kabbu: I'd rather not find out…

[Spy Samira]

Vi: Woah! Samira's here!? Did she get a discount!?

Kabbu: She must be doing incredibly well!

Leif: These are really high profile clients. It's thanks to you, Vi.

Vi: Nah. It's all 'cuz she worked hard!

[Spy Jerry]

Kabbu: "Spuder"? Did he mean...the Spider boss card!?

Leif: No way, that card's got the wrong colors. It's a fake.

Vi: People care enough to make fakes of these...?

[Spy Slice]

Leif: That slicing technique...it's like Kut's.

Vi: They look alike too. He's probably like, his master!

Kabbu: I heard Kut and his master got into a fight…

Kabbu: There's many things I'd love to ask him, but he seems quite focused. Let's let him cook peacefully!

[Spy John]

Vi: Howdy, y'all! Heheheh.

Leif: Oh dear. Are you going to start speaking like that?

Vi: Maybe.

Kabbu: It's not like I mind, but...it'd be a bit weird?

Vi: Y'all don't know nothing 'bout what you're discussin'!

Leif: Stop.

[Spy Dan]

Leif: He's here, too? Now we know he's a true gourmet.

Vi: What, just 'cuz he spends money to eat?

Leif: Many people boast being refined, but wouldn't make the sacrifice to travel here.

Kabbu: Truth be told, I do believe I enjoy eating…

Kabbu: But if our travels hadn't brought us here, I wouldn't have tried to eat Master Slice's food!

Vi: You two think about this way too hard...

[first talk]

Yel: Incredible! Amazing! I'm so lucky to have lived until today!

Leif: Someone's happy.

Yel: Who wouldn't after eating Master Slice's food!

Vi: It's pretty good!

Yel: It's only natural, having taught 5-star chefs such as Kut…

Yel: Now I can blog his recipes for the common folk!

Kabbu: ...Err, won't he get upset?

Yel: "None can cook like me, anyways!" ...Is what he said.

Leif: And he's probably not wrong.

Yel: I've collected many recipes while blogging.

Yel: If you want any, I can share them with you! ...For a price.

Vi: It's always for a price…

(minibubble) Kabbu: You're talking!?

[Spy Yel]

Leif: Figures a food blogger would visit Metal Island.

Vi: A food what?

Kabbu: Yel's a critic who judges others' food, choosing to recommend or warn against establishments.

Vi: WOAH! That sounds like Leif's dream job!

Leif: We're probably too picky for that...

[Give us EVERYTHING!]

Yel: I knew blogging would make me rich someday...! Here we GO!

Yel: Huff... Huff...

Vi: You uh, didn't have to explain all of them in one go…

Yel: Nonsense... How else would you cook them properly!?

Kabbu: We'll make you proud!

Leif: We better do. We're so hungry now…

[Nah. Just saying hi.]

Yel: Oh! Um...hi.

Vi: Blogging seems really fun.

Yel: It really is! You need a strong stomach, though…

[talk having all recipes]

Yel: Oh, it's you. I don't really have anything to teach you anymore…

Kabbu: W-We just wanted to say hi…

Yel: You...you did? ...*sniff*

Vi: You were supposed to feel happy!

[Spy Ant]

Kabbu: Heheh. It's nice to meet other first time visitors!

Leif: Yeah. Everyone else seems used to the glamour.

Vi: I don't think I'll ever get tired of eating fancy stuff! ...You think she will?

[Spy Drew]

Vi: Woah! Dark Cherries are super expensive, y'know!? And he's got tons!

Leif: He doesn't seem too excited about it.

Vi: Bleh...rich kids don't know how good they have it.

[Spy Ego]

Kabbu: This Beetle exudes...a business aura. Importance!

Vi: Hey, those medals he's wearing..."VIP"!

Leif: You seem to be right, Kabbu. This must be a very influential bug.

Vi: Heheh. Hope he posts a quest. Think of the reward!

[Quest: Bounty: Peacock Spider]

[first talk]

Stratos: Oh, Team Snakemouth. Taking a short break?

Leif: It's doing us much good. Are you vacationing as well?

Delilah: Nah. We're trying to get a boat!

Kabbu: A-A boat? What for?

Stratos: There is more to Metal Lake than this resort.

Stratos: We've heard a powerful monster lies hidden in a nearby island's cave.

Delilah: Anyone who's gone after it ended up missing!

Vi: Woah... As if lakes weren't bad enough already.

Leif: Thanks. We'll keep it in mind while traveling.

Kabbu: If you find a boat, please be safe!

Stratos: That we will. If you find a boat, be safe as well.

[Spy Yale]

Vi: You can't sell items with vague descriptions! It's bad business!

Kabbu: B-But what could they be!? Are you not curious!?

Leif: Hand over your berries, Kabbu. We'll handle the funds.

Kabbu: N-NO! I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HE SELLS!

Metal Lake, Metal Island Inn

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: I've never seen such a massive inn!

Leif: Bugs travel across the sea just to stay here... Could it be that great?

Vi: We won't know if we don't stay, right?

[Spy Clerk]

Vi: ...Bugs that look down on others...Are the worst!

Kabbu: Vi, what's gotten into you?

Vi: I can tell he only treats others nice if they've got berries! It's disgusting!

Leif: Since getting here is so expensive, he probably just thinks we're being cheap...

[Spy Amber]

Kabbu: I wish Ms. Amber could enjoy the resort…

Vi: She's probably getting paid a billion berries to come here, it's fine!

Leif: You're sure it's not a billion berries to GET here...?

[Spy Danilla]

Leif: What's that in her hand?

Kabbu: Oh, that's a fan! They've become quite trendy lately.

Kabbu: You wave them quickly to blow refreshing air into your face!

Leif: Interesting invention…

Vi: It's not hot in here though. She's probably just showing off...

[bug ranger plush]

Guard: ...That girly doll is not proof!

Kabbu: G-girly?!

Vi: Woah! Brutal!

Guard: Don't waste my time! Bring me proof or you shall not pass!

[Spy Guard]

Kabbu: Is that...custom made armor? To guard a card game?

Leif: Are you implying Spy Cards does not deserve such a thing?

Kabbu: Ah, um…

Vi: Of course it doesn't! It's just a children's card game!

Leif: Tch. You're so clueless...

[Spy Eluna]

Vi: Complaining that she has everything... There's no way I'm gonna feel sorry for her.

Leif: Her problems are...not relatable, yeah.

Kabbu: We will probably never understand how she feels, but…

Kabbu: Does that truly mean we can't try to empathize...?

[Spy Banna]

Vi: …

Leif: What's up? Fancy a bowtie too?

Vi: I just think it's weird. Leaving the Hive just to work for someone else…

Kabbu: She seems quite proud and content. Perhaps it was her dream?

Vi: Maybe...I don't get it, though...

[Spy either Miner Ant]

Leif: All this Ant Kingdom personnel disrupt things a bit, don't you think?

Vi: Yeah. They still gotta pretty up stuff around the tunnel.

Kabbu: It's a small sacrifice. Surely the guests will understand!

[break into Carmina’s room]

Carmina: What the-

Carmina: What are you doing here?! This is my room!

Carmina: Aaaah! You destroyed the wall! You think I won't mind because I'm rich!?

Carmina: How dare you! I thought you were decent bugs!

Kabbu: W-We're sorry! I saw a gap, and I just felt the urge to dig!

Vi: Yeah. You've really gotta complain to management.

Carmina: And you're blaming ME for the hotel's faults!?

Leif: Err, no...just…

Carmina: I'VE LOST MY TEMPER! WE'RE DUELING!

[Spy Carmina]

Leif: Carmina's a pretty formidable duelist.

Vi: And she can fight well, too!

Kabbu: Team, perhaps we should discuss Carmina...outside of her room?

Metal Lake, Auditorium

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: This is it. The Card Master tournament.

Vi: Bring out your strongest cards!

Kabbu: You've got our support, Leif!

[Spy Boyan]

Kabbu: Someone traveled all the way from the north...to watch a card game…

Leif: Kabbu? What's wrong?

Kabbu: N-Nothing…

(minibubble) Vi: Huh...

[Spy Bu-gi]

Leif: It seems we're not the only ones with a lot of support.

Kabbu: Everyone here fought hard for their spot. It won't be easy!

Vi: You've got this, though! No problem!

Leif: ...It seems our support may just be the best in the hall.

[Spy Vic]

Leif: How rude.

Vi: Who does she think she is!?

Kabbu: We'd do well to not pay her dismissiveness any mind...

[Spy Ritchee]

Leif: What a poisonous aura...toxic, even.

Kabbu: I do get a feeling of condescension…

Vi: It's gonna make winning much sweeter!

[Spy Kage]

Leif: This Ladybug has suffered so much... We can feel it.

Leif: We must not let our guard down. That pain's carried over to his deck.

Vi: It's just cards!

[Spy Serene]

Leif: We hope to match with her in the tournament. What a good aura.

Vi: Is it really ok to be so relaxed?

Kabbu: Some battle for glory... She seems to only want a good match!

[Spy Johnny]

Leif: We admire creativity, but...there is a beauty in playing optimally.

Vi: If you're trying to win, you can't waste time showing off!

Kabbu: This coming from you, Vi?

Vi: Oi! I always try my super best!

[Spy Nit]

Vi: This guy's right to be mad! We pay way too much for the wall to be cracked!

Kabbu: Ngh...For some reason I...want to see what's under it!

Leif: Okay...?

[Spy Tourney Host]

Leif: He's got class, we'll give him that.

Kabbu: In a high-end establishment, even the staff must look the part.

Vi: I bet the outfit cost more than the ride here…

[first talk]

Tourney Host: Oh, new meat? Great. The current competition was starting to get stale.

Host: Here we hold down the Spy Cards Championship.

Host: You probably already know that since you managed to defeat the Card Masters.

Host: Let's cut to the chase. If you win the tournament, you can get many, many berries.

Host: You will have to fight 3 battles in a row with the same deck. No changing in between.

Host: Only one of you can participate, however. So decide who it will be.

Kabbu: Hm. Who should play then?

Vi: ...Uh, Leif. Duh!

Leif: Mhm. We are ready to start whenever.

Host: If you are ready, just say the word. Don't leave our sponsors waiting.

[Spy Vic]

Leif: ...Hmph.

Vi: Now that you won she's all over you, huh.

Leif: ...Let's go.

Ant Kingdom, Main Plaza

[Spy Janet, after doing Spy Cards Tournament]

Leif: Janet's power was not something we anticipated.

Vi: She's gotta be mad rich to get to the tournament, too…

Kabbu: Even the most humble looking can hide such surprises!

Golden Settlement, Power Plant

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: The Power Plant is inside the Bee Kingdom's tree, correct?

Leif: It feels like one more room in the Honey Factory.

Vi: In a way, it kinda is!

[Spy either Worker]

Vi: The Power Plant's way cooler than the factory. How come I never got any shifts here!?

Leif: Those Bees seem to be operating very complex machines. Do you know how to?

Vi: I, uh, I'm sure I'd press the right buttons…

Kabbu: Thankfully for everyone, exploring's your one true calling!

[examine machine, first time]

Kabbu: Vi, what is this machine?

Vi: That's the Energy Converter! It uh...converts all the energy!

Leif: That's a very helpful description, Vi.

Kabbu: It must use the power generated from the windmill to power the Factory's core!

Vi: Uh...yep! That's what the Power Plant does!

Kabbu: It's no wonder many Bees visit the Golden Settlement for the Festival.

Kabbu: The winds here play a big part in creating delicious honey!

Vi: Guess it's why the Bee Kingdom asked Elizant for control of this place.

Leif: Elizant...Everyone won because she didn't cling to her territory.

Vi: Bees won the most, cuz we get to make so much honey!

[walk to hole]

Vi: Huh. This hole wasn't supposed to be here.

Kabbu: Maybe it is what caused the alarm?

Leif: ...We should prepare before we go ahead.

Golden Settlement, Broodmother Lair

[walk in]

Kabbu: ...Eggs?

Vi: Is this what caused the lockdown?

Leif: What's this feeling in the air...?

Leif: A giant Midge!?

Kabbu: It's overflowing with electricity!

Vi: It's gonna pay for causing so much trouble!

[post-battle]

Vi: There! That should do it!

Guard: Vi! Have you found out what caused the lockdown?

Kabbu: It seems like this Midge was the issue.

Guard: I see. We will get rid of the eggs before more Midges are born. Good work!

Guard: Allow me to reward you for assisting the Bee Kingdom!

Vi: Awesome!

Guard: Well, we have lots to do, so let's get started!

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: A hidden path inside the Power Plant's tree…

Vi: Let's see where it leads to!

Leif: (...What's with all these spears anyway...?)

Lost Sands, Trench Middle

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: Those poor cacti! It must be so difficult being bunched up together.

Vi: Come on, Kabbu. Plants don't have feelings!

(minibubble) Leif: ...Venus?

Lost Sands, Mountain

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: Fancy place for a cave.

Vi: This has gotta be Stream Mountain!

Kabbu: What an imposing name! It must be extremely dangerous!

Vi: Nah. There's just water coming out of the side!

(minibubble) Kabbu: That's it?

Leif: Hm. Still, call it intuition but... We feel the need to explore it.

(minibubble) Vi: Let's do it!

Lost Sands, DR South Entrance

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: This place's got a good view of the big tree.

Vi: And the Bee Kingdom…

Kabbu: It's amazing to see such a large living being!

Leif: Makes you feel tiny sometimes, doesn't it?

Vi: Nah. When you're at the top, you feel like the coolest bug in the world!

Cricketly: We're even, so don't think I'm giving you any discounts!

Vi: Gotcha…

Lost Sands, Jump Puzzle

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: The Lost Sands sure love their rock formations…

Leif: And their thorns.

Kabbu: Perhaps one day, these barren places will be home to new settlements!

Lost Sands, Oasis Entrance

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: Those vast walls cover the desert, don't they?

Vi: Mhm. When you see the Lost Sands from the Hive, it's one big box!

Leif: That can't be a coincidence, can it?

Kabbu: Nature works in most mysterious ways. It's quite possible it's mere chance.

Leif: We should ask Neo sometime...

Lost Sands, Oasis

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: Now this is something. Water flowing freely in the desert.

Vi: Bottoms up! I'm taking a big chug!

Kabbu: Why, I wouldn't mind splashing my face a bit either!

Leif: Perhaps we could even find the source of it if we look around.

[Quest: Tidal Wyrm]

[Talk to Stratos, before Delilah]

Kabbu: It's Stratos and Delilah.

Vi: Wonder what they're doing here...

[First talk to Delilah]

Stratos: Hello there.

Vi: Hiya! Fancy meeting you here!

Delilah: Indeed! Seems you are also curious about this mountain over here?

Leif: Somewhat. What can you tell us about it?

Stratos: This is Stream Mountain. Called that because of this very oasis here, as the water comes from it.

Stratos: We've heard a powerful monster lives in here, so we are investigating.

Kabbu: A monster?

Delilah: Yeah, don't know much of it yet but it seems pretty nasty!

Delilah: Be careful if you explore the mountain, lots of strong creatures live inside!

Leif: But we bet it is full of treasure. Thank you either way.

Vi: Mhm! Treasure!

Stratos: Just stay safe, alright? Wouldn't want us to be blamed if you went missing.

[Spy Burglar]

Kabbu: Haven't we met this fellow?

Vi: Something's very familiar about him, for sure!

Leif: (They can't tell?)

Lost Sands, West Dunes

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: This floor is unbearable. So uneven…

Kabbu: It could be fun to roll around all the hills!

Vi: And ruin my fur? You're nuts!

(minibubble) Leif: We concur.

Kabbu: Killjoys...

Lost Sands, Before GH

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: Water... Need...water…

Kabbu: We're close to...the Hills... Hang in there…

Leif: (We're not thirsty, but perhaps we shouldn't boast this once... )

Defiant Root, Entrance

Mayor: Ah, Kabbu! Good to see you. Delilah's filled me in.

Kabbu: No, it's my pleasure! Thank you for everything!

Mayor: Hohoho! Don't think of it!

Leif: You've got info on the Sand Castle, correct?

Mayor: That I do. That castle's an ancient Roach structure, rumored to be at the northeastern corner of the Lost Sands.

Mayor: Mind you, that rumor's older than I am! But there IS a weird tablet in that part of the desert.

Vi: It's the only clue we have, so... Any ideas on how to get in?

Mayor: Well, scholars say that you need the Heaven and Earth keys to enter the castle.

Mayor: I've got a lead on only one of them. It's said to be...with the bandits.

Kabbu: Ngh. They've been causing us enough trouble as is.

Mayor: Ask around town, someone could have a clue on their hideout's whereabouts.

Mayor: Maybe some have heard of the other key, even!

Leif: If Elizant wasn't lying, time is of the essence. It's time to search.

Mayor: Stay safe, you three. The sands are unforgiving to those unprepared!

Kabbu: I have my team, worry not. We'll protect each other!

Mayor: I have no doubt. Even so! You've got to accept this little gift from the good old mayor!

(minibubble) Vi: Woah!

(minibubble) Leif: Thanks.

Kabbu: M-Mayor! This is too much!

Mayor: Take it, Kabbu. You can't say no!

Kabbu: ...Thank you, Mayor. We will return safely!

[Spy Rob or Bub]

Kabbu: These two crossed the desert as well…

Vi: Hope they didn't run into any bandits...

Defiant Root, Commercial

Ven: Curses! One of them hid in the well!

Vi: Huh?

Ven: One of those blasted bandits, of course! How dare they hide in our town...

[Quest: Bandit Hunt]

Ven: You took my request, didn't you?

Leif: We did. Beat some bandits, is that it?

Ven: Yes. These blasted bandits...I will never forgive them…

Ven: Please, I cannot go myself. I have my reasons. Besides, I am not equipped for it.

Kabbu: Leave it to us, we will teach those evildoers a lesson!

Ven: You have my gratitude. I need you to defeat at least 20 of them.

Ven: Any of them will do. Be it the dragonflies, the crickets, the ladybugs, whichever.

Ven: Just beat them up so they stop attacking the citizens of Defiant Root!

Vi: You got it! Just have our reward ready when we're back!

Ven: As long as they stop attacking us... You shall receive your reward. Notify me once you've beaten 20 of them.

Defiant Root, Well

[Overworld Spy, pre-bandit hideout]

Leif: So we've come to the bottom of this well for...not much, really.

Vi: Yeah, it's just a bunch of water!

Kabbu: It IS a well…

[Give Berries.]

Astotheles: You're a wise bunch. Here.

Vi: Um, what's this? The key?

Astotheles: The bandits lurk in the southeast of the desert. That's your ticket in.

Leif: Just how do you have this?

Astotheles: …

Kabbu: W-Well, no matter. We'd best start planning our trip there!

Bandit Hideout, Entrance

[Story, first entrance, Examine Key]

Vi: This was super easy!

Kabbu: ...Something feels off, doesn't it?

Leif: It's definitely too quiet in her-

Bandits: We got them! We got them!

(minibubble) Vi: My fur!

Bandits: These are the ones the wasps want, aren't they?

(minibubble) Kabbu: V-Vi! Leif!

Bandits: Shove them in the dungeon, take their stuff! We eat as kings tonight!

(minibubble) Leif: Unhand us!

Bandits: A ha ha ha ha!

Bandit Hideout, Cell

[Story, initial ‘entrance’]

Kabbu: Hurk… We were careless.

Vi: They took my Beemerang!

Leif: All our belongings, as well.

Kabbu: What a disgrace! I should've been more aware...I've put you both in danger.

Vi: Stop being melodramatic! Let's look around. We'll figure something out!

Leif: Perk up, Kabbu. You can't let Vi beat you at pep talks.

Kabbu: ...You're right. You two really are a great team! Let's search every nook and cranny!

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: This place sucks! And they keep bugs in here?

Kabbu: This is a prison. Our comfort is of the lowest priority.

Leif: At least they were nice enough to not fix the leak. We've got water to drink.

Vi: No! No way! I ain't drinking that! We're getting OUT!

[Story, check spot]

Vi:...This cell's really well sealed…

(minibubble) Kabbu: Hmm...

Leif: It doesn't seem like our ice magic will help, either. At least there's water to drink.

(minibubble) Kabbu: HMMM...

Leif: Uh, you okay there?

Kabbu: I've got an idea! Vi, Leif, humor me one moment.

Vi: Not much else to do, really.

Kabbu: This is soft soil. I could dig us out of here!

(minibubble) Vi: D-Dig?

Leif: Can you really? Sounds pretty time consuming.

Kabbu: You should know beetles are fantastic diggers! If you stick with me, we'll be out in no time.

Vi: Ugh...Is this the only way? My fur's gonna get all dirty!

Leif: We could stay here and starve, Vi.

Vi: A-Alright. Let's dig it up!

Kabbu: Wonderful! Remember, if we are on a spot with soft dirt, I can dig by holding down |button,5|.

Kabbu: This will let us go under certain objects and hide from enemies.

Leif: Say, how come you never brought this up?

Kabbu: We didn't really need it, did we?

Vi: All that matters is we're getting outta this cell.

Vi: But we've gotta go find our stuff too!

(minibubble) Leif: Mission start.

(minibubble) Kabbu: Onward!

[Overworld Spy, post-getting Dig]

Vi: Digging's not my favorite, but it beats being stuck in a cell.

Leif: You're pretty good, given how rusty you must be.

Kabbu: Oh, it's one of those things you just can't forget. It was nice to dig again, actually.

Vi: Let's just, uh, try to keep it to the minimum!

[Dig up Cerise]

Vi: W-What the...?!

Kabbu: Those accursed bandits, burying a poor bug alive like that!

Leif: ...Actually, we think she's just asleep.

Kabbu: Oh. Should we wake her?

[Spy Cerise, before waking]

Kabbu: Should we wake her up?

Vi: ...

[Talk, first]

Cerise: ...ZzZzZzZz...

Kabbu: Um... Hello, fellow bug...?

Cerise: ...ZzZzZzZz...

Leif: Maybe we should just let her sleep.

Cerise: ...ZzZzZzZz...

Vi: NAH! WAKE UP ALREADY, COME ON!

Cerise: ...? Ah!

Cerise: AHHHHHH! DON'T EAT ME! I DON'T ACTUALLY TASTE LIKE CHERRIES!

Kabbu: W-We won't hurt you. Just calm down, please.

Leif: We might give you a hug, though…

Cerise: Oh, okay! My name is Cerise!

Vi: Oooookayyyy... The heck were you doing underground?!

Cerise: I came to this weird land looking for my boyfriend Tanjy!

Cerise: ...But I got really sleepy, so I dug a hole to take a nap in!

Cerise: And monsters can't see you if you can't see them, you know?

Kabbu: That's...not how it works, but alright.

Vi: Weird. I thought you were a prisoner too…

Cerise: What's a prisoner?

Leif: Oh no. She's not too smart.

Cerise: I also found this weirdly shiny berry while digging. Doesn't taste very good though!

Cerise: You can have it if you want, Uncle Iron Seed.

Kabbu: Uncle Iron...what?

Cerise: Uncle Iron Seed! Because you look like an Iron Seed, and you look old enough to be my uncle.

(minibubble) Vi: Pfft...

Cerise: But...you don't look strong enough to have been eating lots of Iron Seeds, though…

Kabbu: ......We should get going.

Cerise: Okie-love-you-bye-bye! I'll go outside and look for Tanjy in a little bit, so don't worry about me!

Leif: We won't...too much.

[Spy Cerise, after talking]

Vi: PFFTHAHAHAHAHA! "UNCLE IRON SEED"?!

Kabbu: Oh, be quiet…

Vi: She kinda looks like one of those rare Dark Cherries. But red. That's weird.

Leif: She's more like a shade of pink. And we think it's cute, not weird.

Leif: If she's really a cherry, maybe that's why she naps underground…

Kabbu: I've heard that there's a land to the far east where bugs resemble various fruits. Perhaps she's from there?

Vi: Oh, yeah! Like in those fairy tales...

Vi: Their cherries are red and grow from trees, not the ground! They must cost a fortune!

Leif: ...Then why is she napping underground? Maybe we'll find answers if we visit her land…

Kabbu: ...Just this once, perhaps we shouldn't explore?

[talk again]

Cerise: Hiding underground keeps you safe from monsters. But I just wish I could dig through solid rock…

Kabbu: Indeed. It's quite a pain to be unable to dig past troublesome enemies at times.

Cerise: It also helps you find rare stuff like that weirdly shiny berry I gave you, Uncle Iron Seed.

Cerise: And sometimes, you can even find weird cherries that like to sleep underground…

Vi: Kinda like you, right?

Cerise: ...? I'm not a cherry…

Leif: Stop it, Vi. You're confusing the poor girl.

Bandit Hideout, Central Room

[Story, Initial Entrance]

Leif: Hostiles ahead.

Vi: Grr...I can't really smack 'em without the Beemerang.

Kabbu: It'd be wise for us to avoid being found again. We'll have to sneak our way through, until we find our items.

(minibubble) Vi: Boooring.

Leif: Lead the way, Kabbu.

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: Security is tight... Is that not a bit weird? Surely it's not because of us.

Kabbu: Bandits have the most low of reputations. It makes sense many would come to stir trouble with them.

Vi: Shh. You want em to hear us!?

Bandit Hideout, Cafeteria

[Overworld Spy, before retrieving items]

Vi: A cafeteria?

Leif: Their chef isn't the most refined. We see a mistake or two.

Kabbu: Sometimes, one has to eat what's available…

(minibubble) Leif: Poor them.

[Before retrieving items, walk across rafters]

Burglar: Those wasps be getting on my nerves!

Bandit: Hmph. They act so invincible... Didn't they fail their assault on the Bee power plant?

Thief: Don't worry. Boss can handle 'em. We've just gotta hang in there!

Burglar: As if the Boss wasn't busy enough…

Leif: So that's what happened at the factory…

Kabbu: Shh! Valuable information, true... But we must not be found out!

Vi: I don't think the Beemerang's gonna be in a cafeteria. Let's look elsewhere!

[Overworld Spy, after retrieving items]

Vi: Lunch time's over, huh.

Leif: We should be able to snoop around properly now.

[Spy Cook]

Vi: A bandit!

Leif: Chill, Vi. He doesn't seem to want to fight.

Kabbu: Indeed. We can't just go around hitting everyone!

Vi: Hmph!

Bandit Hideout, Left

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: Wait. Isn't the desert hot? There shouldn't be any water drops!

Kabbu: Actually, most of the desert's water is underground.

Leif: So if anything, there should be more droplets here?

Vi: The world needs less water, more honey!

Bandit Hideout, Garden

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: My, there's quite a few plants in here!

Leif: Judging by the layout, they've put in some work to make it happen.

Vi: So, what, bandits just wanna be gardeners?

Kabbu: A question best pondered not inside their hideout...

Bandit Hideout, Storage

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: Look at all that food!

Leif: We can only wonder how much of it is stolen.

Vi: If it's robbed, there's no problem if we grab it, right?

Kabbu: There is! A thief stealing from thieves is still a thief!

Vi: Ugh. Next time we crash a bandit hideout, let's leave Kabbu at an inn.

(minibubble) Leif: Agreed.

[Walking towards where bandits and wasps are]

Leif: Watch out, there are people ahead.

Vi: L-Let's get out of here before they see us!

[Open chest]

Textbox: You found your Beemerang!

Textbox: And all your other stuff!

Vi: Yeehaw! Vi's back in action!

Kabbu: It's a relief to have you back at full power!

Leif: Our vengeance is unstoppable now. Let's decimate them and get that key.

(minibubble) Kabbu: C-Calm down...

Bandit Hideout, Stairs Room

[Overworld Spy, pre-retrieving items]

Vi: Sigh. Really wish I had the Beemerang.

Leif: Hang in there. We'll find your A.D.B.P.

[Overworld Spy, post-retrieving items]

Kabbu: The bandits are quite skilled, to build a bridge like this!

Vi: It's just a bridge from the Golden Settlement!

Leif: How did they even smuggle this in...?

Bandit Hideout, Entrance

[Overworld Spy, post-capture]

Leif: They really got us with their bait. They even had a fake wall blocking these stairs.

Kabbu: We were too confident. But we've grown smarter from this!

Vi: Uh. Yeah, sure...

[Story, walk to Astotheles’s Room]

Astotheles: ...So you're the ones causing all this ruckus. Team Snakemouth.

Kabbu: This imposing presence! Are you the leader of the bandits?

Astotheles: Hm. Quite sharp.

Astotheles: My name is Astotheles. As you say, I lead this pack.

Vi: You've got some nerve throwing us in a cell!

Leif: If you give us the key, we may even forgive it.

Astotheles: As if your feelings were of my slightest concern. You were trapped for what your heads could offer.

Astotheles: You are the Ant Witch's lackeys. My sworn enemies, and your capture could be a gold mine for my people.

Astotheles: The Wasps promised a handsome reward if we got rid of you. But I was blind to their slimy ways.

Kabbu: Astotheles, you seem reasonable. Surely this needs not come to blows?

Astotheles: You naive Queen's lapbug. Between us there can be no compromise.

Astotheles: But you shall have an honorable fight. Do your worst!

(minibubble) Kabbu: Curses...

Leif: Have it your way.

(minibubble) Vi: Let's do it!

[post-battle]

Astotheles: ...I yield. I can fight no longer. That wench's got good eyes for minions…

Astotheles: Do it, then. End me.

Kabbu: You got the fair fight you requested. That's enough.

Leif: A smackdown is good enough for us.

(minibubble) Astotheles: ...!

Vi: Yeah! Don't be so dramatic! We just want the key!

Bandit, offscreen: BOSS!!!

Thief: Y-You're hurt!

Bandit: Boss, why didn't you call us? We coulda handled these chumps!

Burglar: And we still can. Let's get 'em, boys!

Leif: Tch. After such a tough fight…

Astotheles: Enough!

Astotheles: We bet our honor in battle, and I lost. They're free to go.

Bandit: Seriously, boss? We can take 'em!

Astotheles: ...It's okay, friends. The gardens bloom, do they not? And we drove the wasps out.

Astotheles: There's no point in keeping them here any longer.

Vi: So you've come around? You could've just let us go, you know?

Burglar: I don't get ya sometimes, boss…

Astotheles: You three. You're against the Wasps, correct?

Kabbu: Indeed. They are a threat to all of Bugaria.

Astotheles: Then you may not be so bad. Maybe I can trust you with this.

Astotheles: We don't owe the Ant Kingdom even one blade of grass…

Astotheles: But those Wasps betrayed our covenant. They are lower than dirt.

Astotheles: I hope they'll meet justice at your hands. We don't have the time or resources to go after them.

Leif: If we do, don't think it's to do you a favor.

Astotheles: With that key, your mercy is repaid. Now, get out. If you come back, we'll throw you in that cell again.

(minibubble) Vi: We'd break out again!

Bandit: You heard the boss! Get out! Don't make us kick ya!

Leif: You bandits have got some swinging moods.

Vi: I don't get it... Are they good or bad?

Kabbu: Come, Vi. I don't think that's an answer we'll get today...

[Spy Astotheles]

Leif: He called Elizant the Ant Witch, huh.

Vi: He fights really well with one arm…

Kabbu: I wish I could know more of his history, but we must leave lest we get thrown out.

Lost Sands, Roach Village

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: This smells like Snakemouth Ruins.

Vi: Couldn't the Roaches have lived in a normal place? Like the Ant Kingdom!

[Spy Hawk]

Vi: Hey, it's Hawk!

Leif: Let's see what he's up to. Maybe he's got a lead on the keys.

Leif: This statue seems eerily familiar. A Roach?

Hawk: Oh, it's you.

Hawk: That's correct. It's most likely a statue of the Roach village founder.

Kabbu: That's right! We saw some Roach ruins in Snakemouth too.

Hawk: What!?

Vi: Yeah. It was all around where we found the artifact!

Hawk: Incredible. This is information you should've shared right away.v

Hawk: I guess that explains why this key was here…

Leif: That key, could it be for the Sand Castle?

Hawk: Don't ask me. But Roaches and artifacts often pop up together.

Hawk: Just what made them disappear? This is what I want to know.

Hawk: All the damage you see is simply a result of the passage of time. A few sandstorms here and there roughed up the place, but…

Hawk: With the Oasis so close by, I find little reason this place would be abandoned. Most curious…

Vi: Uh huh. Hey, you wouldn't mind giving that to us, right? We really need it!

Hawk: You're asking me to hand you over a priceless historical relic?

Kabbu: P-Please? We'll return it…

Hawk: ...Well, sure. If it really leads to the artifact, it'll give my research a boost.

Leif: Thanks, Hawk.

Hawk: Do get back to me with any developments.

[key dialogue, first piece]

Vi: That's a key! One left!

Kabbu: We should go back to town and ask around where the other key could be.

Leif: Or just look around ourselves.

Defiant Root, Well

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: To think this place connects to the hideout…

Leif: It must have made their crimes that much easier to commit.

Vi: They better lay off after that smackdown!

Defiant Root, Entrance

[post-bandit hideout]

Mayor: Be careful when in the desert! The sands…

Vi: Are unforgiving to the unprepared, we know.

Kabbu: We will be fine, Mayor. Don't worry about us.

[Spy Eremi]

Vi: That's a cute apron!

Kabbu: Leif, you quite enjoy cooking. Correct?

Leif: When it's stuff we like.

Kabbu: Perhaps you should wear a cute apron as well!

Leif: That's...not how it works.

Vi: You just don't wanna wear it!

Leif: Why don't YOU get an apron then, Vi?

Vi: Ahahaha...oh whoops, time to get back to work!

[Quest: It’s Too Hot!]

Eremi: Ahh, it's too hot! Isn't there an ancient fan in here!?

Tory: Err...no.

Leif: You must be Eremi.

Eremi: Ah, yup! That's me!

Kabbu: How may we help you combat this heatspell?

Vi: Leif! Freeze her up!

Eremi: Wow! What a nice breeze!

Leif: Mission complete.

Vi: Pay up!

Eremi: W-Wait! It's already hot again!

Eremi: I'm SUPER thankful, but...I need something that will last after you're gone!

Leif: Hmm…

Kabbu: Perhaps an umbrella? Or some sort of ointment to shield you from the sun's rays?

Eremi: I'll take anything, really. Please...I'm begging you!

Vi: So much for the easy check... We'll find something, so sit tight!

Leif: Try not to uh, work yourself up until then.

[Yes]

Leif: Sorry, it's not perfect but it'll do.

Eremi: Yeah...you're right! Sorry, the heat's got me a bit cranky. I'll try it out!

Eremi: Ah, much better! Thank you so much!

Vi: No probs! Now, to seal the deal…

Eremi: Here, this should cover the item and more!

Vi: Thanks~!

Eremi: I'm gonna get going now. See you around!

[Give Leaf Umbrella]

Eremi: Wow! That umbrella's beautiful!

Kabbu: It's one of a kind, but perfect for your needs!

Eremi: Hehehe. Don't I look cute?

Vi: Super cute! Now, to seal the deal…

Eremi: You must've gone through such a hassle! I hope this makes up for it!

Eremi: Oh, and take this too!

Vi: W-Woah! You sure 'bout giving us this much!?

Leif: Yeah, it's a lot…

Eremi: This umbrella will last me more than 20 ointments! It's okay!

Kabbu: We are grateful, miss Eremi. We hope you have cooler days ahead!

Eremi: Hehe. Thank you all so much. I'll get going now!

Hive, Honeycomb’s Lab

[first entry]

Honeycomb: WHO IS IT!?

Honeycomb: Oh, it's you. How's the A.D.B.P. been treating you?

Vi: It's awesome! It really helped us out!

Honeycomb: Heheheh. Of course. My tools are the best there is!

Leif: Um, we seem to have forgotten your name.

Honeycomb: Oh. Hmm... Right. I'm Professor Honeycomb. Renowned scientist of the Bee Kingdom!

Honeycomb: ...Or I was, until that Doctor H.B. took my spot!

Honeycomb: H.B.'s creations all use weird tech she found studying the old roaches, you see.

Honeycomb: Disgusting. While I do use ancient crystals, the roaches didn't create them. I'd never use borrowed technology for my experiments!

Honeycomb: I'll create the perfect A.D.B.P. through my own superior intellect.

Vi: What? The Beemerang isn't good enough yet?

Honeycomb: Yours is nothing special. It's just one of many in the A.D.B.P. Mk II series.

Honeycomb: When I finish the Mk III... They will seem like children's toys!

Vi: What? Can't you upgrade mine again?

Honeycomb: I'd consider it, if only because of the data you've helped me round up.

Honeycomb: If I manage to harness the crystal energy into the prototypes... the A.D.B.P. could spin forever, generating infinite energy!

(minibubble) Kabbu: Incredible!

Leif: That's really not how physics work.

Honeycomb: And then I'd reclaim my spot as the Bee Kingdom's lead scientist!

Kabbu: You have a noble goal. Won't you let us help you? In the name of science!

(minibubble) Vi: Free upgrade!

Honeycomb: Maybe later. But for now, begone! You're getting in the way of my research!

Vi: Yikes. Fine. Let's come back later.

[Overworld Spy]

Vi: Woah, look at all these Beemerangs!

Kabbu: She seems to have been working on the A.D.B.P. somewhat obsessively…

Leif: And she's not even done yet. Her work ethic is admirable, given her age…

[Spy Honeycomb]

Vi: I knew I'd seen her somewhere before!

Leif: She seems to have a bit of obsession with the A.D.B.P.

Kabbu: I thought it was A.B.D.P.

Vi: I already told you it's the Beemerang!

[After doing Tardigrade and key half talks with Hawk in the desert]

Honeycomb: Oh. Hawk is back. Wonderful. He said you helped him.

Vi: Yeah! Do we get a reward?

Honeycomb: No way! You already have my (stolen) prototype and want more?!

Vi: Ugh.

Kabbu: Come on, Vi. Helping is its ow-

Vi: "Its own reward". Yeah, I've heard it before!

Honeycomb: Hm. You're so ungrateful, but I actually DO have something for you.

Honeycomb: As long as you're willing to gather some more data for me. Take this.

Vi: Ugh, more data stuff? That's so boring!

Honeycomb: Just be grateful I let you keep the prototype at all! Now get out before I lose my patience!

Honeycomb: It's time for me to take Chomper Research to the next level!

[Spy Hawk]

Leif: There's something about Hawk we just can't describe…

Vi: Really? He's just a normal dude to me!

Kabbu: As normal as a scientist Moth working in a Beehive can be…

Leif: It must be our imagination...

Hawk: Thank you for your help at the desert.

Vi: No problem! Now for th-

Kabbu: It was nothing special, Hawk. Just doing our best.

(minibubble) Vi: ...

Hawk: I have a lot of data to analyze about the Roaches and the old world now.

Hawk: But the professor is already looking into something else.

Leif: What would it be?

Hawk: Something on those plant creatures in Golden Hills, the Chompers.

Hawk: They reproduce quickly through seeds. But what if we could somehow harness that seed without it hatching?

Hawk: They seem to sprout instantly when touching a hard surface, but it should be possible to extract them if treated carefully.

Leif: Good luck with that. We wouldn't know where to start looking.

Hawk: If you manage to find one, please bring it here. Although the professor's been trying her whole life…

Hawk: Is such a seed truly hiding in the Golden Path...?

Kabbu: We will keep it in mind, Hawk. Keep up the good work!

Golden Path, Chomper Cave 1

[Overworld Spy]

Leif: A cave, all the way out here?

Vi: It's full of Chompers!

Kabbu: This may be the nest where they've all come from. Let's proceed with caution.

Golden Path, Chomper Cave 2

[Overworld Spy]

Kabbu: I can't make out a path…

Vi: Don't ask me to carry you.

Leif: If there's pillars missing to jump on, maybe we'll have to create some ourselves.

Golden Path, Chomper Cave 3

[Overworld Spy, pre-battle]

Vi: W-Woah…

Kabbu: Let's think very carefully before proceeding…

(minibubble) Leif: Good idea.

[Overworld Spy, before getting Chompy]

Kabbu: It really was a nest…

Leif: The seed it left behind seems different from the rest.

Vi: You think? Maybe we can sell it to a Bee scientist or something…

[Overworld Spy, post-defeat, no Chompy]

Leif: Say, you guys think |string,9| would enjoy coming here?

Kabbu: Not if she finds out what occurred here…

Vi: She uh, doesn't have to know all the details.

Kabbu: Then let's, if we have the chance.

[Overworld Spy, post-defeat, Chompy]

Kabbu: |string,9|, you were born here…

Leif: She seems to realize it, in a way.

Vi: It's good to go home, huh |string,9|.

Kabbu: It wouldn't hurt to bring her back here every now and then...

Hive, Honeycomb’s Lab

Honeycomb: ...Wait, what's THAT?!

Vi: Uh, what?

Honeycomb: THAT! HAND IT OVER!

Stream Mountain, Entrance

[Overworld spy]

Kabbu: This must be Stream Mountain, the source of the desert's oasis.

Vi: It's like, underground water coming up and stuff. Right?

Leif: Indeed. Defiant Root's well must be linked to this place too.

Kabbu: There are stories about the strong monsters here...we must tread carefully.

Stream Mountain, Branching

[Overworld spy]

Leif: Ugh. Water. And water spiders. This is the worst combination.

Kabbu: This ancient crystal seems to be linked to the tide!

Leif: Let's lower it and keep it low, then.

Vi: I think we should try going up too, though...

Stream Mountain, Topmost

[Overworld spy]

Kabbu: Up, and up we go! To the very toppest of tops!

Vi: You're getting way too excited there, buddy.

Leif: Nonsense. We will proclaim ourselves conquerors of this heap, and none will stop us.

Kabbu: Well said! Let us climb with haste!

(minibubble) Vi: Okay...

Stream Mountain, Before Wyrm

[Overworld spy]

Leif: Is this a dead end? We can feel something…

Vi: Let's move the water around! Can't give up without looking for clues!

Stream Mountain, Tidal Wyrm

[Overworld spy, pre-boss]

Vi: Stream Mountain's depths are super lame! Where's the treasure!?

Leif: Be careful, everyone. We feel extremely powerful magic!

Kabbu: If even Leif is wary, we'd best be on guard. Watch your step, Vi!

[Overworld spy, post-boss]

Kabbu: With the beast defeated, this is nothing more than a puddle.

Leif: Mhm. Let's go back. Might as well raise the water and drown this place in history's waves.

Vi: Why're you two being all sappy...?

Defiant Root, Commercial

[Quest: Ore Wanted]

Kabbu: Ms. Butomu? We've seen your listing!

Butomu: Is that so, noble explorers? You've found the crimson ore?

[give Crimson Ore]

Butomu: ...! Yes! This is it! You've truly found it!

Leif: No problem.

Butomu: Pardon me, but I will get to work immediately.

Butomu: I've been itching to finish this Medal.

Butomu: Hrm. Excellent! A masterpiece. Would you take it as your reward?

Vi: Woah, for real?

(minibubble) Kabbu: It's...heavy!

Butomu: Hohoh! Sorry...I thought I made it light enough for you brave folk!

Kabbu: W-We'll manage. Thank you, Ms. Butomu.

[Spy Kali]

Kabbu: Ms. Kali's made quite a name for herself in town! Her wares are very popular.

Vi: Eh, they're way too expensive.

Leif: And we're already beautiful.

Kabbu: Al...right?

[Quest: Stolen Item]

Kali: I can't believe it! My baby! My handmade, extremely high-quality silk!

Leif: That's gotta be Kali. Excuse us, miss?

Kali: Whatever could you want? Can't you see I'm devastated?

Vi: We're here to help!

Kabbu: You need not suffer any longer. Could you tell us what happened?

Kali: Aah...Explorers! Please excuse me, I've been very on edge.

Kali: I have ample reason to believe bandits have stolen my silk!

Kali: Not any silk, yes? This one costs both time and many berries to manufacture!

Leif: The bandits've really done a number on Defiant Root.

Kabbu: Leave it to us! You will be able to craft again soon!

Kali: So dashing! Please, return it before they ruin it!

Vi: You got it. Start getting that reward ready!

[give stolen silk]

Kali: Ah! My baby! My handmade, extremely high-quality silk!

Leif: It did feel incredible carrying it back here.

Kabbu: Miss Kali, did you truly create such an exquisite texture?

Kali: That's right. Silks and the wondrous items of fashion and leisure it can be woven into are my absolute PASSION.

Vi: They've gotta be worth a fortune! No wonder it got stolen.

Kali: A fortune? Hah! You cannot put a price on a masterpiece.

Kali: ...Though I'll have you know my prices are very economical, darlings.

Vi: This place is so cool though. I've never seen this big wheel before!

Kali: W-Wait! Do be VERY careful near that vase, my dear. It's a gift from a client very close to me.

Kabbu: Incredible. Your work touches the hearts of the wearer that strongly!

Leif: Shame we're not too much into fashion…

Kali: I'm itching to get back to work, so…

Kali: Please, let me reward you for all you've done for this shop.

Kali: And you all seem absolutely exhausted, you poor things. Breathe this in, my darlings, it should soothe and fix your wounds with ease.

Kabbu: Oh! Thank you so much!

Vi: Huh?! This smoke... I-I...

Vi: COUGH! COUGH! COUGH! HACK!

Leif: Vi, watch out!

Vi: ATCHOOOO!!

Vi: ...S-Sorry. This smoke makes me really dizz-

Kali: AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!

Kali: That vase was a one of a kind design from…

(minibubble) Leif: Ah crud.

Kali: It's shattered, ruined, obliterated! Oh this is the worst day of my LIFE!

Vi: I...I'm sorry!

Kali: Sorry is NOT enough! It's time to show you the consequences of touching things that do not belong to YOU!

Vi: COUGH! COUGH! STOP IT! I SAID I'M SORRY!

Leif: What's this smoke...?

Kabbu: ...N-Nghh...Vi, Leif!

Kali: Come hither, my dear Beetle…

Kabbu: Hnnnng...what...is...going...on...? My...body...

Kali: A surprise you could resist my charms, oh blue one.

Kali: I digress, come, my Knight, let's give these two a proper thrashing!

Leif: Kabbu, what do you think you're doing?

Vi: You're gonna BETRAY US!? OVER THIS!?

Kabbu: I...can't control...my body...

Kali: A puppet on silken strings, now... Let's begin, shall we?

[post-battle]

Leif: This was unnecessary. We could've replaced the vase.

Kabbu: Extremely unnecessary! Please don't control my body!

Vi: I...I'm sorry. That smoke made me dizzy, I couldn't help it…