_______________________________________________________________________________ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ .d88888b. 888 d8P d8888 888b d888 8888888 d88P" "Y88b 888 d8P d88888 8888b d8888 888 888 888 888 d8P d88P888 88888b.d88888 888 888 888 888d88K d88P 888 888Y88888P888 888 888 888 8888888b d88P 888 888 Y888P 888 888 888 888 888 Y88b d88P 888 888 Y8P 888 888 Y88b. .d88P 888 Y88b d8888888888 888 " 888 888 "Y88888P" 888 Y88b d88P 888 888 888 8888888 .d8888b. d88P Y88b 888 888 888 8888b. 88888b.d88b. .d88b. 888 88888 "88b 888 "888 "88b d8P Y8b 888 888 .d888888 888 888 888 88888888 Y88b d88P 888 888 888 888 888 Y8b. "Y8888P88 "Y888888 888 888 888 "Y8888 .d8888b. d8b 888 d88P Y88b Y8P 888 Y88b. 888 "Y888b. .d8888b 888d888 888 88888b. 888888 "Y88b. d88P" 888P" 888 888 "88b 888 "888 888 888 888 888 888 888 Y88b d88P Y88b. 888 888 888 d88P Y88b. "Y8888P" "Y8888P 888 888 88888P" "Y888 888 888 888 By Mookiethebold Version 1.1 / Sakuya _______________________________________________________________________________ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ WARNING! This guide contains spoilers for the entire game! _______________________________________________________________________________ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ < TABLE OF CONTENTS > *Using [Ctrl + F] type in the search code and click "find" to go to the desired section of this guide. 1 - VERSION HISTORY.......................[ GS01 ] 2 - INTRODUCTION..........................[ GS02 ] 3 - CHARACTERS............................[ GS03 ] 4 - PRE-GAME INTRO........................[ GS04 ] 5 - CAVE OF NAGI/KAMIKI VILLAGE...........[ GS05 ] 6 - HANA VALLEY/SHINSHU FIELD.............[ GS06 ] 7 - KAMIKI/AGATA FOREST...................[ GS07 ] 8 - TAKA PASS/KUSA VILLAGE................[ GS08 ] 9 - GALE SHRINE...........................[ GS09 ] 10 - KAMIKI/MOON CAVE......................[ GS10 ] 11 - RYOSHIMA COAST/SEI-AN CITY............[ GS11 ] 12 - SUNKEN SHIP/IMPERIAL PALACE...........[ GS12 ] 13 - SASA SANCTUARY/NORTH RYO COAST........[ GS13 ] 14 - CATCALL TOWER/DRAGON PALACE...........[ GS14 ] 15 - ONI ISLAND............................[ GS15 ] 16 - KAMUI/WEP'KEER........................[ GS16 ] 17 - YOSHPET/PONC'TAN......................[ GS17 ] 18 - SPIRIT GATE...........................[ GS18 ] 19 - WAWKU SHRINE..........................[ GS19 ] 20 - ARK OF YAMATO.........................[ GS20 ] 21 - POST-GAME.............................[ GS21 ] 22 - MISCELLANEOUS DIALOGUE................[ GS22 ] 23 - SIDEQUEST DIALOGUE....................[ GS23 ] 24 - CONTACT INFORMATION...................[ GS24 ] 25 - CREDITS...............................[ GS25 ] 26 - DISCLAIMER............................[ GS26 ] ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ < 1 - VERSION HISTORY > [ GS01 ] Version 1.1 / Sakuya 4-16-08: Added the "getting drunk on Thunder Brew" dialogue to the Kamiki Festival in section 10. Added some missing dialogue to the race with Kai in Yoshpet in section 23. Version 1.0 / Sakuya 9-17-07: Started a new game and began writing the guide. 11-11-07: 138 game hours later... Finished! ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ < 2 - INTRODUCTION > [ GS02 ] Greetings! This guide is exactly what the title says - the Okami game script. Contained within is all the dialogue spoken by everyone throughout the course of the game. As anyone who has played Okami can attest to, there is A LOT of dialogue. I put this project off for quite some time due to the enormous amount of speech involved. Finally though, I decided to stop procrastinating and just get it done! Did I mention there's A LOT of dialogue in this game!? The primary focus of this guide is the dialogue spoken during the main game in order to progress the story, but I've also included optional dialogue for the characters and objects (such as when Ammy examines something and Issun explains about it) encountered within each area while you're there for the story events. I chose to list this optional dialogue during the story dialogue because most of the time, the optional dialogue is relevant to the events currently taking place and it helps provide further insight about what's happening. All these lines are clearly labeled as ***optional*** to avoid any confusion. I realize some folks may find it distracting to have so much optional dialogue interrupting the story dialogue at times, but I felt it was best to do it this way. Hopefully it won't bother you, but if it does... Oh well. Sorry. There are also many times when you can break from the main story and revisit previous areas to hear new dialogue from characters. Rather than interrupt the main story to say "Ammy went back to Kamiki", when it has no real bearing on the current storyline events, this miscellaneous dialogue can be found in its own section of the guide after the main game. Dialogue for the various sidequests and mini-games can be found in a separate section after the "Miscellaneous Dialogue" section. However, there are a couple exceptions to this, which I included during the main story because they just seemed to fit there better. I have also taken it upon myself to correct any spelling errors, missing words, or incorrect grammar which the text writers of the game goofed up. However, since no one is perfect, there may still be a few that I missed, too. So, here's a quick explanation of how to understand the script: 1. [brackets] = My description of the on-screen action/event. 2. (parenthesis) = The name of the character currently speaking. 3. (???) = The character speaking has not yet been identified. 4. ***optional*** = Extra dialogue heard from events not necessary for story progression, performing incorrect actions, etc. 5. "... ..." = Indicates a moment of speechlessness. 6. Certain dialogue is only heard after listening to someone two or three times. When this is the case, I will list their name in parenthesis again to differentiate that it's a new conversation, but I won't be writing out the actions, such as [Ammy listens to Sakuya *again*], otherwise this guide would go on forever! (It's pretty freakin' long already, eh?) Please understand that this is not a guide about how to play the game. It does not contain strategies, tips, directions or anything of the sort. If you need help, please consult one of the walkthroughs. Please do not contact me asking for help about how to play the game. Now, get comfortable in your favorite reading spot, turn on some music and maybe keep some snacks and a drink nearby, because it's time to delve into the legend of Okami Amaterasu! Enjoy! ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ < 3 - CHARACTERS > [ GS03 ] These are the main players in our tale, both friend and foe. The proper name of each character is listed, followed by the primary location where they can be found, and a brief description of said character. Some folks move from one area to another and thus will have "various" listed as their location. OKAMI AMATERASU (Ammy, the Sun Goddess, reborn in the body of a wolf. She is the character you play as): This powerful god has the power to command the Celestial Brush. A century ago, Amaterasu lost the physical body that the god had been inhabiting during a bitter struggle to seal away Orochi. With the help of the wood sprite Sakuya, Amaterasu inhabited the statue of an ancient village god and returned to the world. The heated battle against Orochi left Amaterasu without many powers held in times past, but Amaterasu will journey to recover those powers while saving the life of the land. *Because Ammy is a wolf, she doesn't speak (therefore, she has no dialogue), but Issun does more than enough talking for the both of them! * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * SHIRANUI [The Spirit Gate, Wawku Shrine]: The name given to Amaterasu by the people of Kamiki Village 100 years ago, when she was at the peak of her power, safeguarding the land from Orochi's evil. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ISSUN (A Poncle, a small flea-like critter)[Goes anywhere Ammy does]: This tiny creature was taking a nap in Sakuya's shirt on his journey to master the principles of calligraphy. That journey took a detour when he decided that he liked Kamiki Village - he has resided there ever since. The villagers may consider him ill-mannered, but he is one of the top calligraphers in the land. He has taken the liberty of journeying with Amaterasu in order to steal the principles of the Celestial Brush and add them to his own repertoire. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * SAKUYA [Kamiki Village]: This wood sprite inhabits the sacred Konohana tree in Kamiki Village. With her power, she was able to protect the village from the disaster that had befallen the rest of the land. She used all her remaining power to perform the ritual to bring Amaterasu back to the world. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * SUSANO [Kamiki Village and various]: He is descended from the legendary hero Nagi and never lets anyone forget it. He is supposed to be diligently honing his sword-fighting skills every day, but most people have only ever seen him sleeping. He has feelings for the lovely Kushi, who resides in the same village. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NAGI [The Spirit Gate]: Legendary hero who, with Shiranui, defeated Orochi 100 years ago. His style was to act cowardly to fool his opponent, then strike. He epitomizes the saying "A smart falcon hides his claws from view". * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * KUSHI [Kamiki Village and various]: She runs the only bar in all Kamiki Village. She is always out in the rice paddies working hard to grow the rice she uses in her brews. Word of her brewing abilities has spread all the way to the capital and people come from all around to sample her creations. She is innocent in the ways of the world, and her charming personality shows in the way she treats Amaterasu when the god is in animal form. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * MR. & MRS. ORANGE [Kamiki Village]: Mr. Orange is the elder of Kamiki Village, which surrounds the sacred tree. He lives with his tender loving wife Mrs. Orange. Seeing the loss of the sacred tree's lovely blossoms, he is attempting to restore the tree using the ancient flower dance, the Konohana Shuffle. Mrs. Orange provides support by spending afternoons washing piles of laundry in the river and nights preparing her extra-delicious cherry cakes. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * WAKA [Various]: A mysterious fellow who knows more than he's willing to tell. He continually shows up when least expected and likes to impart cryptic prophecies to Ammy and Issun before vanishing as quickly as he arrived. His power is almost rivaled by his arrogance, but is he friend or foe? * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * OROCHI [The Moon Cave]: A serpent banished 100 years ago by Shiranui and Nagi, awakened to once again spread his evil across the land of Nippon. It has eight heads, eight tails, terrifying red eyes burning with rage and an underbelly scraped bloody and raw, all on a body large enough to grow trees on. Each head has an elemental power: earth, wind, fire, water, thunder, poison, light and darkness. The bell on its back tolls 108 times - once for each desire of its sacrifice. Behold, O (mountain) RO (of) CHI (dark spirits)! * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * PRINCESS FUSE [Kusa Village, the Gale Shrine]: Guardian of the Gale Shrine at Kusa Village, she keeps the evil spirits at bay along with her faithful companions, the Canine Warriors. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * CRIMSON HELM [Gale Shrine]: For 100 years, this leader of all evil in Taka Pass has waged war with the forces of the Gale Shrine. It boasts long swords and armor. Beneath the shell, the true body lies hidden among burning flames. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * RAO [Sei-an City]: The well-endowed priestess of Ankoku Temple on the hilltop at Ryoshima Coast, she can often be found at her lecture hall in Sei-an, lending her assistance to Queen Himiko and the people of the city. Though her "assets" often distract Issun from the task at hand, Ammy seems to have taken a liking to her and proves more than willing to help out whenever needed. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * QUEEN HIMIKO [Royal Palace at Sei-an City]: Benevolent ruler of the people of Nippon, she resides in the palace at Sei-an City. Using the power of her magical crystal ball, she does what she can to aid Ammy and Issun in their journey to preserve the peace and beauty of the land. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * BLIGHT [Imperial Palace]: This is the evil blood-sucking entity Goldnail made solid. It infested the Emperor's body like a parasite, spewing poison mist throughout the capital. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * OTOHIME [Dragon Palace]: Ruler of the Dragonians of the underwater Dragon Palace. Though the affairs of the surface world are generally none of her concern, due to the absence of her husband and the troubles with the Water Dragon, she gladly lends a hand to Ammy and Issun. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * WATER DRAGON [North Ryoshima Coast]: A giant dragon, driven to madness by an unknown force. Its terrifying presence makes the waters of the Ryoshima Coast area unfit for travel. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NINETAILS [Oni Island]: The true form of the evil that dwells on Oni Island and seeks to destroy the Ryoshima Coast. Nine souls inhabit nine tails, each acting independently. According to legend, Ninetails can only be defended against with the Celestial Brush. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * OKI [Kamui and various]: The northern Oina tribe's famous swordsman plays an important role in Amaterasu's tale, yet he is shrouded in mystery. He has been depicted both as a man with a wolf and as a wolf himself. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * GOLDEN DEMON LECHKU & SILVER DEMON NECHKU [Wawku Shrine]: Twin demons in the form of giant mechanical owls. The meaning of Lechku's name has long been lost by the Oina tribe. He is said to be one half of a duo banished by the sun long ago. Songs and folktales tell of him, but no documentation exists. Nechku's existence is said to be linked closely with that of Lechku. Their names have roots in the ancient word "Lechkunechku". Some interpretations of this are "One counts time", "One offers death", "Gears of the moon", and "The key that holds the beginning". * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * YAMI [The Ark of Yamato]: This horrifying entity has also been called "Empty Death". It seeks complete destruction. For eons it has been locked in a struggle with the sun god. Round, cold, and desolate as the moon, Yami has never been depicted as a human or animal in any drawing. It is simply too inorganic in appearance to warrant such portrayals. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ < 4 - PRE-GAME INTRO > [ GS04 ] (Narrator) Once upon a time, in a faraway land... There was a tiny village by the name of Kamiki. Legend tells of a horrible beast that threatened the residents. It also tells of the wolf that risked it all to protect them. Controlling the very fabric of existence, this wolf stood up against a beast many times its size and banished the darkness. This ethereal wolf's valiant act ushered in an era of tranquility. The villagers' hearts swelled with respect and adoration of the wolf. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ < 5 - CAVE OF NAGI/KAMIKI VILLAGE > [ GS05 ] [Illustrations of a quaint little village and silhouettes of various characters scroll across the screen, as the narrator begins telling his tale] (Narrator) Long, long ago... A tiny hamlet known as Kamiki lay nestled in a grove of proud and beautiful cherry blossoms. Each and every tree around the quiet burg was honored as a god. However, the village was not without its dark secrets. To satiate the appetite of Orochi, a fearsome cave-dwelling beast, a young maiden was offered as a sacrifice at the annual festival. With a body like a mountain and 8 heads mounted on necks the size of tree trunks, its blood-red eyes alone were said to curse anyone who gazed into them. No one dared disobey the horrific beast. When the night of the sacrifice drew near... A mysterious white wolf appeared outside the village. This wolf, its coat as brilliant as snow, was dubbed Shiranui. The wolf kept a watchful eye on anyone who ventured outside the village, and made a habit of patrolling the streets at night. People assumed the wolf to be a familiar of Orochi. One villager took it upon himself to face the fearsome Shiranui. The warrior Nagi attempted many times to challenge the wolf. But his attempts were thwarted by Shiranui's swift movements. Before long, the night of the accursed festival had arrived. A white plumed arrow heralded the coming sacrifice. Piercing the sky, the arrow sunk its shaft squarely into the home of Nami, the village's most beautiful maiden. Nagi, harboring a secret love for Nami, was enraged by this sign. Determined to put an end to Orochi once and for all, Nagi traveled to the beast's cave in place of his beloved. The Moon Cave, a place as dark as evil itself, served as Orochi's home. As Nagi stood bravely before the entrance... A beast appeared, eyes glowing crimson upon 8 thrashing necks. Orochi stood tall before him, anxious for another sacrifice. Nagi leapt with incredible grace, swinging his blade valiantly. On and on he sliced, well into the moonless night... but Orochi's hide was like steel. The blade left nary a scratch. At long last, Nagi, his energy spent from the intense battle, dropped to his knees, fatigued and gasping for breath. He knew he was staring death in the face. It was then that the wolf appeared. As if to protect Nagi, it stood its ground before Orochi. In the darkness of the cave, the wolf's coat shone brilliantly. Alas, it was Shiranui, the wolf that dwelled outside the village. Baring its fearsome claws, Shiranui leapt toward Orochi. Orochi reared its terrifying heads, readying its fangs for battle. The two beasts struggled wildly, thrashing in the darkness. Mysterious and terrifying, the spectacle continued. Shiranui summoned gusts of divine wind to counter Orochi's flames. As Orochi closed in on Shiranui, sharpened claws glistening... A gigantic tree suddenly sprouted forth, shielding the wolf. Shiranui fought gallantly to gain the upper hand. However... Orochi, protected by a mystical power, was not easily bested. Shiranui, covered in gashes, majestic coat dyed crimson, stood exhausted before the mighty Orochi. Orochi saw a chance to strike what would be the final blow. But Shiranui refused to give in. With its last ounce of strength, the majestic wolf gazed heavenward and unleashed a mighty howl. Suddenly, the black clouds overhead dissipated. The light from above glinted off Nagi's sword as a beacon of hope. Guided by his sword, Nagi, who had been taking shelter in the shadows, stood proudly to face his adversary. Channeling all his strength into his scarred and battered arms, he leapt ferociously toward Orochi, his sword poised high. The golden sword danced in his hands like a puppet on a string. One by one, Orochi's fearsome heads separated from their owner. Orochi's broken body collapsed in a lake of its own blood. In that instant, the curse that plagued the villagers was lifted. As the battle subsided, the sun shone once again in the sky. Shiranui had succumbed to Orochi's poison and struggled to breathe. Nagi scooped the beast into his arms and returned to Kamiki. When they reached the village, Shiranui was no longer moving. The village elder gently stroked the wolf's head. In response, Shiranui let out a hoarse and pitiful bark... Then closed its eyes and drifted off as if into slumber. Peace had at last returned to Kamiki Village. In honor of Shiranui's heroic exploits, the villagers erected a shrine and placed a statue of the wolf within it. Nagi's sword was christened "Tsukuyomi" and placed inside the Moon Cave. The villagers all looked forward to an age of endless peace... However, this is not the end of the story... There is more to this tale than most people know. 100 years had passed since Nagi and Shiranui's heroic exploits. It happened so quickly that no one in the village even took notice. [The camera zooms into the Moon Cave and focuses on a sword as an unidentified person approaches it] (???#1) Is this the legendary sword? Is this Tsukuyomi, the sword that banished the dreaded Orochi? ... ... No... it couldn't be. It's just a legend... Nothing but a fairy tale! [The man lifts the sword and the silhouette of a giant eight-headed beast appears] (???#2) O, he who seeks power... He who has broken my bonds... Speak the words, "I wish darkness unto the world." Utter that prayer unto me, and unleash my power. [The man quickly runs away, as the giant beast unleashes his evil and darkness spreads across the land] [The scene shifts to Kamiki Village, where we see the statue of Shiranui] (Narrator) A horrible tragedy suddenly swept over the land. However, there was one village that seemed to escape the terrible curse. The tiny settlement of Kamiki Village enjoyed the protection of a sacred tree. It is here that the real story begins. [Wood Sprite Sakuya is introduced] (Sakuya) How troublesome! This is just like the ancient prophecy of doom. What has transpired to bring about such calamity? We must act quickly! There is no time to lose! My power has diminished over the years I've spent protecting this area. I don't have much time left in this world. Amaterasu, now is the time. We have never needed your power more. Shine your divine light upon this broken and polluted world. Let your heavenly rays become our hope as you guide us all! [Sakuya tosses a flat, round object that lands on the back of the wolf statue, which causes it to spring to life] [Okami Amaterasu is introduced] (Sakuya) Ah! Such divine white light! Such beauty and grace! The only one capable of such a wondrous spectacle is none other than our mother and the origin of all that is, Amaterasu! How delightful to see that the savior whose brave sacrifice sealed away the evil demon so many years ago has not changed one bit. Seeing you emerge after so many years spent as a statue brings happiness to my heart! *sniff* [Ammy lets out a quiet howl and lies down] (Sakuya) ... ... Amaterasu... Gaze above you and take in the condition of the sky. Since your untimely departure from our midst, the world has succumbed to devious and vicious beasts. They have ravaged our fine and bountiful country of Nippon... But never have the circumstances been worse than they are at this very moment. Please use your powers to banish the darkness and punish those who would do us harm. ...Hm? Eh? What is this? Has something stolen its way into my robe? Ho ho ho... Ooh he he he... A ha ha ha ha ha ha! Phew! What on earth? You again? (???) Ow ow ow ow ow! Are you nuts? Boy, for a little thing, you sure make a big fuss! I was just tryin' to make the conversation a bit more interesting, that's all. (Sakuya) Were you napping in my clothes again, bug? (???) Bug? I told you a thousand times not to call me that! I'm a wandering artist. The name's Issun! [Wandering Artist Issun is introduced] (Issun) I'll show you just how great I am and it won't be long till you're bowing before my great brush! [Issun shows a scroll with a painting of Sakuya on it] (Issun) Well, whaddya think? Even cuter than the real thing, no? [Issun jumps onto Ammy's nose] (Issun) What's with you, furball? You look kinda down in the dumps. Actually... You look kinda familiar... Got it! You look just like that statue of Shiranui! [Ammy eats Issun, but promptly spits him out] (Issun) Whoa! Whaddya think you're doin'!? Are you crazy? A handsome guy like me should never be covered in wolf slobber! You'll regret messin' with the great Issun! Don't make me use my prized sword, Denkomaru against you! [A loud roar is heard all around] (Issun) Wh-Wh-What's that growling sound? And why's it so dark, anyway? (Sakuya) O, great god Amaterasu... I've used all the power I have to protect Kamiki Village. The village lives on. Their spirits lie encased in my fruit. Cut it free, and the village will be reborn! I trust in you. I know that you will lead us down the right path. Only your awesome power can restore life to the world. (Issun) The tree's returned to normal, huh? That Sakuya girl sure said some weird stuff. The villagers' spirits are being kept inside the fruit... That's the fruit. That girl said that if you cut it down, the village will be restored. But it's awfully high up there. If you don't use some kind of special power, there's no way you're gonna reach it. This darkness is really gettin' to me, too. A lot can happen while you're taking a nap. [A portal opens at the base of the tree] ***optional #1*** [Ammy examines the fruit] (Issun) That fruit sure is growin' in a high place. The only way we're gonna reach that is with some kind of special power. ***optional #2*** [Ammy heads in the opposite direction of the portal] (Issun) What in the world? There's something blocking the road leading back to the village! Am I still dreaming? [Ammy tries again] (Issun) Ouch! Is there a wall here or something? ***end optional*** [Ammy enters the portal] (Issun) Where are we? It got awfully quiet all of a sudden. I don't remember any place like this in the village. Well, we better keep our eyes peeled. You can use the right analog stick to look around. The L1 button changes your point of view. Boy, you really look so helpless. You sure you're gonna be OK? [Ammy approaches a stand with a mirror on it] (Issun) Hold on! That's an Origin Mirror! They say once your reflection appears on its surface... your memories will be stored in the mirror for all eternity! Well, to put it shortly, you can save your progress here. But make sure you have what you need to save your progress. I'm talking about a memory card (8MB) (for PlayStation2), silly! And let me give you a little advice. You should save a number of game files. That way, you could always go back if you get stuck or something. Gotta be prepared, 'specially while you're still learning the ropes! [Ammy approaches some pots] (Issun) Look at all those pots just waitin' to be broken! If you bust 'em, there might be something good inside. Press the square button to bust 'em with your head! [Ammy busts a pot] (Issun) Way to go, my furry friend! You can do that anytime you see something you can break. [Ammy approaches a high ledge and spots a treasure chest on it] (Issun) Whoa, whoa, hold on there, furball! Get a load of that! That chest looks mighty tempting. Let's go check it out. Getting up that high oughtta be a piece of cake. Press the X button to jump. Then press the X button again to do a wall jump. But make sure you press it firmly so you jump really high! [Ammy jumps up the ledge] (Issun) I knew ya could do it. They say, "Good luck is found in high places." So, keep your eyes peeled. We don't wanna miss any treasure! [Ammy approaches a broken bridge] (Issun) Looks like the bridge is out. This shouldn't be so hard, um... Amaterasu, was it? That's kinda long. Mind if I call ya "Ammy"? Listen, Ammy... Ever heard of the spirits of the brush? Good brushwork has its own soul, 'least that's what they say. Just watch. It'd take all day to explain... A picture's worth a thousand words, right? [A brush appears on-screen and paints over the broken part of the bridge, restoring it like new] (Issun) Nice, huh? Just a little technique I've mastered called Rejuvenation. It's one of many brush techniques that use divine power. It's a brush god power that can restore broken or missing things. I've practiced really hard just to master this one technique. But there are 13! Each one is a power of one of the 13 brush gods. Originally, all 13 were a single powerful deity. When the deity died, its power was split into 13 separate gods. The gods now dwell within objects all around us, but... God or no god, how could anyone have the power to master all 13!? [Ammy approaches a small monument that reads "River of the Heavens"] (Issun) The River of the Heavens? They mean the fabled stardust river? But I sure don't see anything like that around here. It couldn't be that little puddle over there, could it? [Ammy proceeds up a hill and sees a constellation in the sky] (Issun) Wow! Look at the stars twinkle! I haven't seen such a beautiful nighttime sky in ages. Hey, look! Are those stars forming a pattern, or is it just me? Hmm... There's one missing... Guess I'll just have to draw the missing star! ... ... Bah... Looks like I'm just not ready to draw missing stars. Press the R1 button to hold the brush, then the square button to draw. I sure spent a heck of a lotta time practicing that. *mumble* ***optional #1*** [Ammy waits too long] (Issun) Press the R1 button to hold the brush, then the square button to draw. That's how I just drew a dot to make a star. Why didn't it work? I sure spent a heck of a lotta time practicing that. *mumble* ***optional #2*** [Ammy fails to draw the star properly] (Issun) Well, it's no use just sitting around thinking about it. This time the great Issun's gonna put everything he has into it! Bah! I know this is the right way to do it! Press the R1 button to hold the brush, then tap the square button. I sure spent a heck of a lotta time practicing that. *mumble* ***end optional*** [Ammy draws the missing star and a dragon flies down from above] (Yomigami) Ah... Why, if it isn't mother Amaterasu. I apologize for not contacting you sooner during these long years. Having never forgotten you, I, Yomigami, god of restoration, have eagerly awaited this day when we could meet again. While you were away, the 13 spirits of the brush that you once possessed, including myself, have been scattered across this land of men, and now lie in disarray. I became a constellation and managed to survive until now. The time has come for you to seek out and reunite all the techniques. Your power is what is needed to restore the dried riverbed of the heavens and renew the flow of stardust. [Yomigami's power is returned to Ammy] (Issun) Wow! That was Yomigami, the god of Rejuvenation! Wait... So you have the power of Rejuvenation now? Can you really use it to restore the River of the Heavens? That would mean you were as good with a brush as yours truly! Nah... It couldn't be true. Who else could master this incredible god technique!? [Ammy approaches the river] (Issun) Wonder if drawing some stardust would get the river flowing again? Nah... It's one thing to fix a bridge, but fixing a starry river? There's no way you could pull off a stunt like that! [Ammy paints over the water in the river] (Issun) Whoa! A river of stardust! So this really must be the River of the Heavens. But what I really wanna know is who the heck drew the darn thing! [Ammy opens a treasure chest] (Issun) Look what you found, furball! This Astral Pouch here's amazing. It can swallow up lots of food. Then when it's full, it can revive its owner if he or she dies! Let's start feeding it with whatever food we can find around here. ***optional*** [Ammy ignores the treasure chest] (Issun) Whoa, whoa, WHOA! You just gonna ignore that treasure chest? You'll end up in the poorhouse if you overlook stuff like that! ***end optional*** [Ammy examines a sign that reads "Fountain of Nagi"] (Issun) Nagi? What's his name doing here? [Ammy enters a cave] (Issun) Is this... Is this the legendary shrine? We must be in the Cave of Nagi! The legendary hero Nagi is enshrined here! He vanquished evil 100 years ago with the help of the white wolf, Shiranui! First the River of the Heavens and now this place... Where the heck are we, furball? Boy, this place is a wreck. See? That sword's in really bad shape. The gods sure didn't do much to protect this place. [Ammy draws rejuvenation on the broken sword of the statue] (Issun) That really WAS your brushwork all this time! How'd you get so good? Exactly who are you, anyway? Hey, there's another constellation! This one looks like a... ***optional #1*** [If Ammy waits too long to fix the sword] (Issun) Hey, Ammy. Doesn't Nagi's broken sword there bug you? I mean, there must be something we could do... (Issun) You just gonna leave Nagi's broken sword like that? Oh forget it. Not like you could do anything about it anyway... ***optional #2*** [Ammy fails to rejuvenate the broken sword] (Issun) I knew it! You really can handle a brush! Now try again. Draw more carefully! [Ammy fails a second time] (Issun) Come on, quit holding back! Hurry up and draw a big, magnificent sword! [Ammy fails a third time] (Issun) Come on! All you gotta do is draw a sword! I'd draw it like this, but I ain't gonna help you all the time! ***optional #3*** [Ammy tries to leave the cave] (Issun) Hmm... I don't think you could fit through here. Let's check out that Nagi statue instead of wasting time here. ***end optional*** [Ammy draws the missing star and a mouse appears] (Tachigami) Well, well, well... If it isn't mother Amaterasu. It's been a long time. But with all these monsters around, the only place I cold hide was in this shrine dedicated to ancient heroes. If there is anything I can do to assist you in your endeavors, I'm at your service. Make good use of this sword, as it was designed to conquer evil. [Tachigami's power is returned to Ammy] (Issun) Hey, that was the god, Tachigami, master of the Power Slash technique. Wait a minute. If you're getting all these powers... Then you're just like that Shiranui! You know, the wolf who fought and died alongside the great Nagi. When Shiranui died, the wolf's power was split into the 13 brush gods. This is crazy. Shiranui and Nagi? It's just like the legend. Well, anyway, I've never seen this Power Slash technique myself. How 'bout showing your stuff off on that boulder over there? Lemme see you slice it in half by drawing a single line! I won't believe it till I see it! [Ammy slices the rock] (Issun) Wow! I didn't think you had it in ya, furball! I'm not even in the same league as you! Guess I really overestimated myself. ... ... Hey, furball... Er... I mean, Amaterasu... I've made up my mind! If you're Shiranui reborn, then that means you can master all 13 techniques, right? In that case, I think I'll tag along until I'm as good as you! Lucky you! Heh heh... It's no use tryin' to change my mind. There's no stoppin' me once I've made a decision! But enough about me! Now that you've mastered the Power Slash, you can cut down that thing Sakuya was talking about. Let's go back and give it a shot! ***optional #1*** [Ammy fails to draw the line] (Issun) You call that a line? Use the brush like a sword! Slice it with a single straight line! [Ammy fails a second time] (Issun) Hey, are you even listening? Draw a line through it. A nice, straight line. [Ammy fails a third time] (Issun) You doing this on purpose or something? Draw a straight horizontal line right over the rock! Or would you rather be stuck here forever? ***optional #2*** [Ammy waits too long after failing] (Issun) C'mon! Show me the Power Slash! Lemme see you slice the boulder in half by drawing a single line! ***optional #3*** [Ammy examines the statue of Nagi] (Issun) What a magnificent statue. The legendary hero Nagi... I always wanted to draw him. ***end optional*** [Ammy encounters some monsters upon exiting the cave] (Issun) What the!? Where'd they come from!? Ah, whatever. Draw first, ask questions later, right? You know that Divine Instrument you have on your back? Well, press the square button to use its power against them! [Ammy fights the monsters] (Issun) Look, Ammy! Once you've caught 'em off guard and turned 'em black and white, they're easy prey for your brush, no matter how nasty they are! Grab your brush and give 'em a Power Slash! [Ammy defeats the monsters and continues on back to the village] [Ammy exits the portal, cuts the fruit down from the tree, and Kamiki Village is restored] (Issun) Wow! The village's been restored! Sakuya came through big time! She really was protecting the village! But I sure wish I coulda spent some more time in her kimono, if ya know what I mean! Heh heh heh heh heh! But seriously, with monsters runnin' around and all... the village could still be in danger. Let's go see how they're all doing down there. [Ammy examines a statue of a person] (Issun) What in the world? I don't remember there being a statue here... Well, whatever. Let's go talk to the villagers! [Ammy examines another statue of a person] (Issun) Hey, there's a statue here, too... It's like the villagers have turned to stone or something... [A loud roar is heard] (Issun) Not again!? That's not one of those smaller monsters that're lurking about. A roar like that's gotta belong to something much bigger. Let's hurry up and find somebody with a pulse around here! [Ammy examines a third statue] (Issun) No good. This one's not movin'. Everyone here was perfectly fine just a few hours ago! There's definitely something strange goin' on around here. The village is back, but what's up with this dark sky? Maybe it's dark outside the village, too!? Let's find some high ground so we can take a look! [Ammy heads up the mountain path] (Issun) There's definitely something strange going on. Let's find some high ground so we can take a look! ***optional #1*** [Ammy examines a fourth statue] (Issun) No good. Won't move a muscle. Everyone here was perfectly fine just a few hours ago! ***optional #2*** [Ammy examines a sign] (Issun) We don't have time to stroll around reading all the signs! ***optional #3*** [Ammy examines a large boulder] (Issun) Who the heck put this big rock here? It's blocking the only road outta the village. Doesn't look like you could squeeze through anywhere. Besides, I don't even know if it's safe to leave the village yet. ***end optional*** [Ammy reaches a lookout platform on the mountain] (Issun) This is bad... The sun's not even shining. It's as black as night as far as the eye can see. And not a single villager can move a muscle... Is it some kind of curse? Did a monster do this? It's not gonna stay like this forever, is it? If only the sun were out to light our way... If you could draw a circle in the sky, we'd have ourselves a sun! But I guess that'd be impossible, even for a god like you. Maybe we better seek out another brush god for help. Of course, if you had that kind of power from the start, That'd be a different story... [Ammy draws a circle in the sky] (Issun) Wh-Wh-What the!? Hm... Come to think of it, your name IS Amaterasu! That's the name of the sun god! So, it'd follow that you had the sunrise technique from the start. With it, you could even turn night into day... Wow! You're no run-of-the-mill god, that's for sure! The flowing brush is like music from the heavens. That's a line from one of my grandfather's poems. He felt a skilled artist was like a musician of shape and color. Since you're such a great artist yourself, why don't we name your brushwork after that poem of his? It's called Celestial Brush! After all, your brush did bring out the sun! Well, Ammy... Let's go back to the village! We gotta see if the villagers are back to normal now. ***optional*** [Ammy fails to draw circle] (Issun) Huh? You're not actually trying to draw the sun are ya? You sure you're up to the task? [Ammy fails a second time] (Issun) Aw, forget it... I don't know what I was thinkin'. How could anybody face the sky, draw a nice round circle, and expect the sun to actually appear? ***end optional*** (???) Hm? Who are you!? [Village Elder Mr. Orange is introduced] (Mr. Orange) A white wolf!? Not the one who fought that terrible creature with Nagi!? You couldn't possibly be the legendary Shiranui! No, it can't be... That story is 100 years old. Still, you look a lot like that statue of Shiranui. On the other hand, you don't look quite as smart... [Ammy growls at Mr. Orange] (Mr. Orange) Wh-Wh-Whoa! No need to growl like that. Can you really understand what I'm saying? Well, I'm not one to mince words. I just state the facts. [A group of monsters attack] (Mr. Orange) Hm? What's this sudden chill down my spine? (Issun) Here they come, furball... Those are the monsters that've been plaguing these lands. They sneak into villages and cause all sorts of trouble! Step aside, furball! This is a job for my trusty sword, Denkomaru! [Ammy defeats the monsters and a nearby spring is restored] (Issun) Wow! You really get aggressive when you're mad, don't ya? Hey, you got yourself some Praise. And look! See how that dried-up spring began flowing again? That's because ridding an area of monsters restores the gods' power to the land. People call it Divine Intervention. The more you restore the land to its natural beauty, the more Praise you'll get. It's the source of your power. Few people believe in gods these days, and that may weaken you, but if you try real hard, your true power just might shine through! But boy, there's sure been a lotta monsters around lately. And that Mr. Orange you tossed around up on the sacred deck... Looks like he thinks you're a regular wolf. Seems the gods have grown so weak people can't see them anymore. *grumble grumble grumble* Oh, uh... Anyway, I'll show you around the village. I have a feeling we're in for an epic adventure! This should be fun, furball! ***optional*** [Ammy opens a treasure chest by the spring] (Issun) Why you little devil! Look at this sweet grub you found! Hey, wait... This is animal food! Still, we could save it to give to animals. Let's use it when we try to approach animals later. Something good might come outta using it the right way! I know gods aren't supposed to use creatures in this manner... But, what the heck! Let's make an exception this time! Oh, I almost forgot! There was something I wanted to tell you! Whenever you wanna check the items you've obtained, just press the START button to open the Fan Menu. While the Fan Menu's open, you can check and use the items you have. There're other things you can do there, too! The Fan Menu is your key to a successful adventure! ***end optional*** ***AUTHOR'S NOTE*** Technically, interacting with most of the villagers in Kamiki at this point is optional (as are their follow-up responses) but I'm going to list all the conversations before the story-specific events. Don't worry though, it doesn't mess with the flow of the story. I'll make a note of when the story resumes, in case you'd rather skip the optional stuff. [Ammy heads down the mountain path and sees Mr. Orange] (Mr. Orange) Ah... Great Shiranui... Oh no... [Ammy examines a monument along the mountain path] (Issun) This monument is a landmark for travelers in the area. Many once came to see the sacred tree and Shiranui's statue. [Ammy examines a statue at the base of Sakuya's tree] (Issun) This statue of Nagi was erected to protect the village. You see, it's located even deeper than Shiranui's statue. They must really revere him. But still, wasn't there an even bigger statue of him around here? [Ammy approaches a woman] (Kushi) Well, what a fine looking wolf! What's your name? Mine's Kushi. It's a pleasure to meet you. [Sake Brewer Kushi is introduced] (Issun) Working in the fields again, are ya? (Kushi) Issun! Are you and the wolf together? This is where I grow the rice for making my sake, you know. But I have to manage the harvest all on my own. It's hard work. Maybe I should have Susano give me a hand again this year. Oh, listen to me blabbering on! I just can't help chatting to you! (Issun) Why, Ammy, I think you found a friend here! You'll meet many people who want to talk to you like this. You should talk to them two or even three times. Being a god and all, you can actually tell when to talk because you'll see a triangle above their head. That means they still have something to say. It might even be valuable information sometimes! They may just be muttering to themselves, but it pays to listen! (Kushi) Susano's a neighbor of mine. He's a little unusual, but... He goes around with a huge sword slung over his shoulder. He's always practicing with it. They say he's a direct descendant of our legendary hero, Nagi. And he loves his sake, too. He often pops around here to buy it. (Kushi) Make sure to say hello when you see Susano. He could use a friend, I should think. He's always on his own. [Ammy headbutts Kushi] (Kushi) Eek! Oh, you scared me! [Ammy approaches a boy] (Mushi) Hm? A white wolf? Now that's just plain weird. Sure looks like a weak little bugger... Think you could beat my dog, Hayabusa? Well, listen to this... There's this field my mama tends to, you see... Well, Hayabusa managed to dig up 9 Turnips in a row, even though my mama was chasing him around trying to slug him! There are actually 10 Turnips in that field... Hayabusa is fixin' to get all 10. (Mushi) Think you can dig up all the Turnips in my mama's field? Don't forget, you'll have to avoid being slugged by my mama! I'll admit you're the better canine if you can do it! (Issun) Ack... She's gonna try to slug us? Not exactly my idea of a good time, Ammy. At least you have your Celestial Brush and wicked brushstroke. [Ammy digs up 10 Turnips] (Mushi) Hey! That's... that's... The Oddly Shaped Turnip Hayabusa and I've been looking for! That means... You've broken Hayabusa's record by digging up all 10 Turnips! Gosh darn it! ... ... Fine... You're the better canine... Anyway, it actually feels good to have a new goal to aim for. (Mushi) Behold, the new king of hole digging, Snowy. Your name shall go down in history here in Kamiki Village. [Ammy headbutts Mushi] (Mushi) Now that's the tackle of a hole-digging king! [Ammy listens to Mushi's Mama] (Mushi's Mama) I've had just about enough of this! I don't know if it's stray dogs or monsters or what, but someone keeps messin' up my crops! Going around digging holes with the triangle button... It makes me mad! If I catch you diggin' around in here, you'll get a good thumpin'! (Mushi's Mama) You didn't come all the way out here to find food, did you? Well, so long as you don't start diggin' holes with the triangle button, you can do what you want as far as I'm concerned. [Ammy headbutts Mushi's Mama] (Mushi's Mama) Whoa! [Ammy approaches an old woman] (Mrs. Orange) A white wolf! Now that's a rare sight. Did you come down from the

mountains just to play with us? Well, you'd better be careful, dear. Lately, some monsters have been attacking the villagers. (Issun) Do you even know who you're talking to, gramma? This here is Shiranui reborn! The wolf and I have it covered. Those monsters are history! (Mrs. Orange) Well, if it isn't Issun! And riding a wolf, are we? This one certainly resembles Shiranui, especially the nose. Hmm... Well, I'd better get back to my work. *mumble mumble* (Mrs. Orange) Here to listen to the ramblings of an old woman, are you? Well, I was doing the laundry, but when it was ready to dry, I noticed my drying pole was gone. Oh, whatever shall I do? (Mrs. Orange) Where did that darn pole go? How could something important like that just disappear? (Issun) ... ... Hm... She's missing something that should be there, is she? You'd better help her out, furball. [Ammy draws a drying pole] (Mrs. Orange) A new drying pole!? Oh my! Where did that come from!? The gods must have answered my prayers. How wonderful! Time to dry the laundry. (Mrs. Orange) Well, I'm glad I was able to hang my laundry, but... The sun seems to be so far away these days. Maybe it doesn't like all those monsters that are lurking about? If only it would shine closer, my laundry would dry in a second. (Mrs. Orange) My laundry would dry in a jiffy if the sun would just shine closer. (Issun) You heard the lady. She wants the sun! Time to use you know what! [Ammy draws the sun] (Mrs. Orange) My word! The sun has suddenly drawn so close... My laundry will be bone dry in no time. First my pole, and now this? Will the miracles never cease? Maybe I ought to make some Cherry Cakes to offer to the sun. Come back tonight if you want some, too, Snowball. No one makes better Cherry Cakes. They're mouth-watering good! (Mrs. Orange) Don't worry, dear. I'll make enough Cherry Cakes for you, too. You just be sure to come to my house tonight, OK? [Ammy headbutts Mrs. Orange] (Mrs. Orange) Goodness! You're just full of pep, aren't you? [Ammy approaches Susano's house] (Issun) Sheesh... He's always snoring like a bear. This is the home of the two-bit, middle-aged warrior, Susano. He goes around claiming to be a descendant of Nagi. He's famous around here for his lineage, but he's awfully lazy and too off-the-wall to be a descendant of a legendary hero. [Ammy enters his house and slashes a scroll hanging on the wall, revealing a picture] (Issun) Looks like an etching of that Kushi girl. I wonder if this guy actually trains at all... (Issun) Hey... Is it just me, or can you hear snoring from underneath this jug? [Ammy breaks the jug and enters the basement, finding Susano fast asleep] (Susano) Zzzzzz... I... am the... greatest... (Susano) Zzzzzz... Oh... Kushi... Let's... *mumble mumble* (Issun) Whoa... Looks like he ain't waking up anytime soon. He's out cold. [Ammy headbutts him] (Susano) *grunt* Zzzzzz... (Issun) If that didn't wake him, nothing will. Let's just leave him for a while and find somethin' else to do. [Ammy approaches a man with a basket on his head] (Komuso) Ah... I feel it. I sense it. Foul beasts dwell in this place! Concentrate. Look hard. You see. Right behind you now... [Monsters appear and Ammy defeats them in 12 seconds or less] (Komuso) Humans are not witness to such battles, but I saw it! The fighting went on for exactly 11 seconds! Hmm... You fight well. I have chosen the path of Buddha, but in you I sense another power. And I see the path you have chosen is also a path of truth. [Ammy defeats the monsters in 13 seconds or more] (Komuso) Humans are not witness to such battles, but I saw it! The fighting went on for exactly 20 seconds! (Komuso) The monsters may be gone, but this place still lacks life. The land does not have enough power to give to the sacred tree. [Ammy headbutts Komuso] (Komuso) H-Heavens above! [Ammy approaches two girls by Sakuya's tree] (Camille) Wow! A white wolf!? I thought the statue of Shiranui had disappeared, but you look just like it! It... didn't just come to life, did it? (Camellia) Hey, sis, this dog's got something weird on its back. (Camille) What? Stop being silly! That's how rumors start! (Camille) After that nonsense about seeing a door of light here before... (Camellia) But I did! I did see it! Right inside this shrine! There was a door of light! (Camille) I don't see any door of light! (Camellia) But it was there! Inside this shrine! I saw it! *boo hoo* [Ammy headbutts Camille and Camellia] (Camellia) *sob* (Camille) Hey! What do you think you're doing? [Ammy returns to the lookout platform and finds Mr. Orange there] (Mr. Orange) Ah... You're that unruly white wolf! That was quite a toss you gave me. Well white one, I respect animals and their customs, but anyone who causes trouble in this village shall be dealt with harshly. You are a spunky little thing, aren't you? (Issun) Hello, Mr. Orange. Still full of vim and vigor, I see. (Mr. Orange) Say... Aren't you that little troublemaker, Issun? If I've told you once, I've told you a thousand times... Aw, never mind. I've got better things to do. *mumble mumble* (Mr. Orange) Oh, hello again. That tree is known as Konohana. She's been worshipped as our guardian deity for ages now. But her flowers and fruit withered quite some time ago. What's more, I had a dreadful dream last night. A giant monster appeared and swallowed up the whole village. Might it be a sign of even worse things to come? I sure would like to see Konohana restored to her former glory. Oh well, troublemakers like you couldn't possibly understand... (Mr. Orange) I visit Konohana daily, hoping that she will grow strong again. You two ought to do so too! [Ammy headbutts Mr. Orange] (Mr. Orange) I'm too old for this! [Ammy listens to Mushi's Mama again] (Mushi's Mama) Thanks to you, my son Mushi's misbehavin' again. Nothin' that a bit of thumpin' won't sort out, though! [Ammy examines a sign that reads "Home of the Elder"] (Issun) Mr. Orange lives here. He's a regular village celebrity. [Ammy enters his house and examines the oven] (Issun) Nothin' to eat here. [And another sign - "Home of Hayabusa, the greatest hole digger in Kamiki"] (Issun) This is Mushi's handwriting. [Ammy enters Mushi's house and examines some food] (Issun) No! If his mama catches you snacking, she'll clobber you good! [And another sign - "Kushi's Sake House"] (Issun) They say this sake's so good that people come from as far as the capital city to buy it. [Ammy enters her house and examines her bed] (Issun) Mmm... Smells like her... [Ammy examines a large pot] (Issun) This must be where she ages the sake. Smells good, doesn't it? [One more sign - "The Great Worrier Susano] (Issun) Geez... It's not even spelled right. [Ammy examines some swords in Susano's yard] (Issun) Are these the swords he trains with? They're all rusty and don't look like they've been used in years. ***The following can be heard when it's nighttime in Kamiki*** [Ammy enters Mr. Orange's house] (Mrs. Orange) Oh, I almost forgot. I promised you some Cherry Cakes, didn't I? I'll get you some fresh ones in a jiffy. You wait right there. Upsy-daisy... (Mrs. Orange) Phew... Take these with you, dear. They're best when they're fresh! (Mrs. Orange) Back for more Cherry Cakes, are you? Well, I'll have to make some more. Come back tomorrow evening. [If you didn't meet her during the day] (Mrs. Orange) My, what a beautiful coat of fur you have! I'll call you Snowball. (Mrs. Orange) You'd better go home and get some rest, too, little one. You don't want to catch a cold, do you? (Mr. Orange) What's the matter, Snowball? Hungry? A poor old thing like you must have it hard out in the wild. Here's a little something for you. (Mr. Orange) You want more? I suppose it wouldn't do any harm. Here you go. (Mr. Orange) You still want more? Boy, you don't know when to stop, do you, Snowball? (Mr. Orange) Sorry. Nothing left for you. I sure hope you don't come back like this every night. [If you didn't meet him during the day] (Mr. Orange) Ah... You're that unruly white wolf! That was quite a toss you gave me. Well white one, I respect animals and their customs, but anyone who causes trouble in this village shall be dealt with harshly. You are a spunky little thing, aren't you? (Issun) Hello, Mr. Orange. Still full of vim and vigor, I see. (Mr. Orange) Say... Aren't you that little troublemaker, Issun? If I've told you once, I've told you a thousand times... Aw, never mind. I've got better things to do. *mumble mumble* (Mr. Orange) Did you notice the sacred tree up on the hill in the village? She's known as Konohana. She's been worshipped as our guardian deity for ages now. But her flowers and fruit withered quite some time ago. What's more, I had a dreadful dream last night. A giant monster appeared and swallowed up the whole village. Might it be a sign of even worse things to come? I sure would like to see Konohana restored to her former glory. Oh well, troublemakers like you couldn't possibly understand... (Mr. Orange) I visit Konohana daily, hoping that she will grow strong again. You better treat Konohana with respect, you hear? [Ammy enters Mushi's house] (Mushi) Hey, it's the new king of hole digging, Snowy! You may have set a record, but my mama flipped her wig! Still, Hayabusa's never gonna stop trying to break it! My mama's gonna slug me if she finds out this was all my idea. (Mushi) You never know. There could be an even better hole-digger out there! Hole diggers of the world unite! We can't let my mean old mama win! My mama's gonna slug me if she finds out this was all my idea. (Mushi's Mama) You're always whisperin' to that white pooch, aren't you, Mushi? You really can talk to dogs then, can you? If that Hayabusa digs one more hole in my field, she'll be in for a hundred thumps from me! (Mushi) Yikes!!! (Mushi's Mama) He's a little rascal, my son. But he's an adorable kid, really. And they say adorable kids need a good thumpin' from time to time! [If Ammy didn't meet Mushi during the day] (Mushi) Hm? A white wolf? Now that's just plain weird. Sure looks like a weak little bugger... Think you could beat my dog, Hayabusa? Well, listen to this... There's this field my mama tends to, you see... Well, Hayabusa managed to dig up 9 Turnips in a row, even though my mama was chasing her around trying to slug her! It was my idea, of course. Boy, mama'll be mad if she finds out! Wanna break Hayabusa's record? Come by during the daytime! (Mushi) There are 10 Turnips buried in my mama's field. Hayabusa's aiming to dig up all 10 of 'em! Don't forget, you'll have to avoid being slugged by my mama! I'll admit you're the better canine if you can do that! Boy, mama'll be mad if she finds out this was all my idea! Wanna break Hayabusa's record? Come by during the daytime! (Issun) Ack... She's gonna try to slug us? Not exactly my idea of a good time, Ammy. At least you have your Celestial Brush and wicked brushstroke. [Ammy enters Kushi's house] (Kushi) Zzz... Zzz... (Issun) What a cutie pie! Ack... I shouldn't even be thinking about that... [Ammy headbutts Kushi while she sleeps] (Kushi) Oof! Zzz... Zzz... (Issun) You may be a god, but c'mon! Have a little respect! ***BACK TO THE STORY!*** [Ammy listens to a man pushing a large boulder] (Merchant) Heave! Heave! This is weird! My mind really wants to shift this rock, but my body won't cooperate. It's like I'm made of lead! Could this be a case of demonic possession? I sure hope not! [Monsters appear and Ammy defeats them] (Issun) Whoa, Ammy! You suddenly started glowing! That means your Divine Attributes can be enhanced! ... ... Well, you sure look excited... Here, I'll show you what I mean. Let's take a stab at enhancing your Divine Attributes! I'm gonna open the Fan Menu where you'll see your Divine Attributes. Use the Praise you've accumulated to enhance any attribute you want! [Ammy enhances ink capacity] (Issun) Well? Is it all coming back to you or what!? Huh? It's hard to notice such a small enhancement? Oh, lighten up, furball! This is one big step for the new and improved Amaterasu! Keep up the good work! Oh, I almost forgot! We better check in on that dude! ***optional*** [Ammy doesn't enhance anything] (Issun) Hey, wait a sec! You don't wanna enhance your attributes? Oh, I know! I bet you're trying to save Praise for next time! Boy, you really like to think ahead, don't ya? Well, I suppose that's a valid strategy, too! Keep up the good work! Oh, I almost forgot! We better check in on that dude! ***end optional*** (Merchant) Ah... I feel as light as a feather now! Sadly, that doesn't make it any easier to shift this boulder. Who went and blocked the only path out of here anyway? There's no way I can get back to the city now. Say, pup, your owner lives here in the village, right? So you must know that guy, Susano. Can you get him to come here? They say he's the descendant of the legendary hero, Nagi. If anyone can do something about this rock, it's him. (Issun) That's strange... This boulder wasn't here before. (Merchant) You want to get out of here, too, do you, pup? Then go fetch that guy called Susano for me! [Ammy approaches Susano's house] (Issun) Sheesh... He's always snoring like a bear. This is the home of the two-bit, middle-aged warrior, Susano. He goes around claiming to be a descendant of Nagi. He's famous around here for his lineage, but he's awfully lazy and too off-the-wall to be a descendant of a legendary hero. [Ammy enters his house] (Issun) Hey... Is it just me, or can you hear snoring from underneath this jug? [Ammy breaks the jug and enters the basement] (Susano) Zzzzzz... I... am the... greatest... (Susano) Zzzzzz... Oh... Kushi... Let's... *mumble mumble* (Issun) Let's wake this guy up! [Ammy headbutts Susano] (Susano) What the!? Huh...? Ah... I feel so well rested! I planned to meditate underground but fell fast asleep! Huh? Who are you? And what business do you have with Susano, the greatest warrior ever? [The Great Warrior Susano is introduced] (Susano) Do even the beasts know of my great exploits now? Well, Fido, I'm not looking for apprentices. Go back to the mountains and play with your monkey friends. How dare a mangy mutt like you interrupt my meditation! (Issun) Get a load of this guy. All brawn and no brains. Quit messin' around and come with us! (Susano) Hm? You snuck in here again!? Quit bugging me you... you... bug! (Issun) I told you, don't call me a bug! C'mon, Ammy, We're taking him with us! (Susano) What do you think you're doing!? Put me down this instant! What will the neighbors think? ***optional #1*** [Ammy examines Susano's bed] (Issun) What kinda weirdo sleeps underground? I hope he's not hiding cause he's scared of the monsters. ***optional #2*** [Carrying Susano around, Ammy speaks to the people of the village] (Kushi) Oh, hello Susano. Looks like you've made a good pal there. Snowy really likes you. (Susano) Uh... Yeah... (Mrs. Orange) Oh... Susano! That sure looks like fun! But shouldn't you be practicing your swordplay? (Mushi) Boy, you're sure weird, Susano. Is that supposed to be some new kind of training or what? (Mushi's Mama) It better not be you messin' up my garden, Susano! You'll get a good thumpin' if it is! (Komuso) I-I hope you're not mistreating that fine wolf! (Camille) Whoa! What are you doing? (Camellia) *sob, sob* (Mr. Orange) Susano! Stop frolicking around. The day is meant for work. Come give me a hand if you have time to waste like that! ***optional #3*** [Ammy tries to enter any house] (Susano) Wait! Wait! Where do you think you're taking me? ***optional #4*** [Ammy takes Susano to the Cave of Nagi] (Susano) Oh... This is the shrine built to honor Nagi. Huh!? Who fixed the statue!? Hmph... Anyway, there's gonna be a statue of me next to it someday! (Issun) What? Has this guy been here before? ***end optional*** [Ammy takes Susano to the large boulder] (Susano) You mangy mutt! You brought me all the way here just to test yourself against me? Then prepare to taste the wrath of my trusty blade, Tohenboku! (Merchant) H-Hold on a minute! You're the legendary Susano? (Susano) Yep! None other than Susano, the greatest warrior who ever lived! And by the way, never interrupt warriors engaged in battle! (Merchant) But I've got a favor to ask you. This huge boulder blocking the path is really getting in my way. Can't you do something about it? (Susano) What? ... ... (Merchant) Come on! Please? I mean, you are Nagi's descendant, aren't you? Surely one stone's no match for your mighty skills... right? (Susano) Hm... It is certainly not beyond my ability. (Merchant) Really? Great! OK, then! No time like the present. Go for it! (Susano) Wait! A boulder of this size is not very easy even for me. This will require my utmost focus to magnify the power of my sword. I shall retire to the training grounds to make preparations. Wait for my return. (Issun) Hm... I wonder... I've never seen the guy train seriously... ever. ***optional*** [Ammy listens to the merchant] (Merchant) Can that guy really handle this? Oh well, I guess all I can do is wait here. ***end optional*** (Susano) I know I told that merchant I could help, but a boulder of that size? I don't care if I'm of a legendary bloodline, it's just too big! Hm? Oh no! I can't believe I've run out of sake at a time like this! This won't do one bit. That's it for today. I'll just have to train tomorrow. (Susano) I can't train without sake to fuel the fire! Training will just have to wait till tomorrow. "Why do today what can be put off until tomorrow?" That's doing things the Susano way! Hah ha ha ha! (Issun) Sake!? Hm... Oh yeah! This village has a sake brewing girl, doesn't it? [Ammy rejuvenates the waterwheel at the mill] (Kushi) What's this? The mill's been mended! Who on earth did that? I'd completely given up on the idea of making my sake. But now I can get on with polishing the rice. Well! No time like the present! I better get started. [Ammy enters the mill] (Kushi) You're interested in how to brew sake, are you, Snowy? Well, this thing here's for polishing the rice, you see. Oh, I'll tell you what. I've got something I think you'll like. Hee hee. It's just some leftover stock from the store, but I made it myself! It's called Vista of the Gods! Oh, but are you even old enough to drink, Snowy? (Kushi) Brewing sake is my whole life, you know. One day I'll produce sake that'll be remembered in legend forever! [Ammy brings the sake to Susano] (Susano) Hm? Hold it right there, Fido! That smell... Is that Kushi's famous homebrewed sake? F-F-Fido, my friend! Did you bring me some of Kushi's sake? Oh, what a glorious day! Ah... Good ol' sake! A man without drink is like a warrior without his trusty sword! In fact, it is said that Nagi himself relied on the power of sake in his battle with the dreaded Orochi. It's all so clear now! Let the training begin! (Susano) I'll just try a bit of my usual routine. OK, here I come! (Susano) Feast your eyes on this! Susano-Style... Exploding Implosion!!! (Susano) Huh!? Hiyaaaaaaah! ***optional*** [Ammy fails to power slash the first practice dummy] (Susano) You shall not get off so easy next time, dummy! [Ammy fails a second time] (Susano) Let me get mentally prepared here. OK, here I come! (Issun) Hey, furball! How 'bout lending the poor guy a hand? Wouldn't it be quicker if you used Power Slash on 'em? [Ammy fails to slash the practice rock] (Susano) Ga ha ha ha! That's it! The boulder's bound to crumble with such an impressive attack. I'll just have to try that one again. (Issun) Hey, furball! Be a sport and help the guy out! ***end optional*** [Susano heads to the boulder] (Susano) Susano-Style... Exploding Implosion! [Susano (with Ammy's help) destroys the boulder blocking the exit] ***optional*** [Susano fails to destroy the boulder] (Susano) Take this! Susano-Style... Exploding Implosion, Part 2!!! ***end optional*** (Merchant) Th-Th-That's amazing! You sliced that huge rock clean in half! You really are something! (Issun) Wow! I didn't think ya could do it, pops! (Susano) ... ... Me either... Err... I mean, of course I could! After all, I am Susano, the greatest warrior ever! (Merchant) You weren't just showing off when you said you're Nagi's descendant! Someone like you'd have no trouble fighting monsters off, huh? Well anyway, thanks a lot. Now I can start doing business again. (Susano) Did you say, m-m-monsters? Oh, uh... Of course, no problem. This is a job for the most skilled warrior in all of Nippon! Yes! I shall rid these lands of their vile presence! Just sit back and watch the great Susano work his magic! Aha ha ha ha ha ha! (Issun) He shouldn't get all puffed up. He's nothing without us. Think he'll be OK? The monsters outside the village are nasty. (Sakuya) Ah... Glorious Amaterasu... What a pleasure to witness your heroic deeds! I am in awe. When you cleaved the boulder into two, my heart skipped a beat. To see your skills with the brush is to be witness to great art. (Issun) Yeah? So do we get a reward or something, lady? (Sakuya) I hardly think your participation had any impact, little bug. (Issun) It's Issun! Issun, Issun, Issun! Stop calling me a bug! I'll crawl back into your kimono if you say that again! (Sakuya) My word! (Issun) Aw relax, lady. Furball here's more comfy anyway. Let's get back to that reward thing you were talking about. C'mon, Ammy. Put your paw up or something... Go on, shake! (Sakuya) I must apologize. I would like to reward you, but I'm afraid I haven't the power. I can barely muster enough strength to make a flower bloom. Though my body stands firmly here within the confines of the village, my roots spread far and wide, protecting remote areas outside. These parts of me are known as Guardian Saplings. They collect the praise and adoration that gives me strength. The recent evil is eroding the Guardian Saplings... If this continues, I will wilt away as well, and my power will vanish. Worse yet, the dark power grows stronger with each passing day. Life as we know it will be consumed utterly in no time. (Issun) Aw, man... This is gettin' heavy. (Sakuya) Great and powerful Amaterasu! Could I be so bold as to request your assistance in rejuvenating these Guardian Saplings by lifting the curse that enslaves them? I shall mark the locations of nearby saplings on your map. I have grown tired... I haven't even the strength to speak now. I hope that my request has not fallen on deaf ears... Amaterasu... May the fresh scent of flowers protect you always! (Issun) Bah... I'm always itchin' for a good fight, but... I sure don't wanna poke my nose into this mess! Still, I'm stuck with furball here till I get all the brush skills... Anyway, Ammy's a god and all... What could possibly go wrong? Hey, did you listen to her, furball? You get the rest of the brush techniques to save the world, and I'll steal and learn 'em! Yeah, that's the ticket! At any rate, let's start by following those marks on the map! ***optional*** [Ammy listens to the merchant] (Merchant) Okay, then. Guess I better offload some stock before heading back. Feel free to take a look if you've been sent to do the shopping, pup. (Merchant) Oh! Been sent to do the shopping have you, pup? ***end optional*** ***If an in-game day has passed, some new optional dialogue is available*** (Mrs. Orange) Here to pester me about those Cherry Cakes, are you? Well, we ate them all up last night. You'll have to wait until I make some more tonight. ***end optional*** [Ammy follows the path out of Kamiki] ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ < 6 - HANA VALLEY/SHINSHU FIELD > [ GS06 ] [Ammy enters Shinshu Field] (Issun) Huh? You probably know this already, Ammy, but... This here is Shinshu Field, the most beautiful field in Nippon. At least it's supposed to be... But ever since that incident, I've been getting a bad vibe. We better watch where we're going. You can look at the map by holding down the L2 button. Let's pay attention to the map as we push ahead. (Issun) Ammy, that's the first Guardian Sapling marked on our map! It's supposed to be a place for travelers to rest and recuperate, but just look at it! It looks like it could fall over at any moment! This place is definitely cursed from the looks of it! Places where evil has taken hold, luring monsters from far and wide, are known as cursed zones. But I've never seen one this big. It's withered all the plant life in the area, even the big tree! It'd take a monster with powers beyond even a god to do this! ... ... That tree's an offshoot of Sakuya. It protects nature in the area. Maybe the natural beauty here would return if we revived it... But how the heck could we do that, anyway? ***optional #1*** [Ammy enters the cursed zone] (Issun) Holy cow! This is bad! It looked like your regular old cursed zone from back there... But the evil here is far worse close up! It would curse a normal person in a flash! I'm afraid it might even rob you of your power! ***optional #2*** [Ammy examines the withered tree] (Issun) Will ya look at that, Ammy. This Guardian Sapling's a wreck. So that's why Sakuya is hurtin' so bad... I bet the natural beauty would return if you revived that tree. But how could you possibly do something like that? You'd need a special power that could make a withered tree bloom. ***optional #3*** [Ammy examines a statue of a person] (Issun) Another statue? Has everyone here turned to stone? They must've been struck by some terrible curse. The only way to help them is to rid this cursed zone of evil. ***optional #4*** [Ammy examines a sign that reads "Nameless Man's House"] (Issun) A long line of men who've protected Hana Valley live here. ***optional #5*** [Ammy approaches a man] (Nameless Man) What just happened? I was out here chopping wood and communing with nature as usual, when I heard a loud rumbling like an earthquake from the lake. Then a huge gust of wind blew up out of nowhere. I don't know what happened next, but when I came to, it was like this. My art workshop was just across the stream there, but it up and vanished when this cursed zone appeared. The earth must be angry. All I want is to live with nature in peace, man. But now I can't. I noticed a figure running from the lake toward Kamiki. Whoever it was, man, I hope mother earth kept them safe. (Nameless Man) What's up, nature buddy? Curious about that cave? It's the entrance to a place called Hana Valley... the sight of an amazing waterfall. But monsters have moved in now. There's a trippy crystal ball that makes plants grow enshrined there. You'd think gardeners would be flocking here for it! Actually, not long ago that Susano guy went marching in there. It's weird. Normally, he runs away at the sight of monsters. And he hardly seems the type to try his hand at gardening. Anyway, it's bad karma, man. You could be attacked if you went in. (Nameless Man) What's up, dog friend? You really wanna check out Hana Valley, huh? But you can't see the waterfall in there now because of the monsters. It's giving me bad vibes. I wouldn't go in there, man. ***end optional*** [Ammy enters Hana Valley] [Ammy defeats some monsters] (Issun) Huh? We got rid of the monsters, so why did the gods' power disappear? Guess the curse on the gods of these lands must be really strong. They can't intervene till we do something about this stagnant air. [Ammy approaches a weird tree] (Issun) Hey, check out that tree! It's moving! Better be careful, Ammy... [The tree throws a fruit at Ammy and she power slashes it back] (Issun) Ammy! Did you just do what I think you did!? Did you use Power Slash to hit the tree's fruit right back at it? Heh heh... It's wearing a taste of its own medicine! Let's pass on by this creepy old tree while we can! ***optional #1*** [Ammy doesn't power slash the fruit] (Issun) You see that!? It just threw some fruit at us! Show it we mean business! Try to hit its fruit back at it! Draw one quick stroke to hit the fruit. You remember how, don't ya? (Issun) Look! You stunned it with its own fruit! Let's pass on by this creepy old tree while we can! ***optional #2*** [Ammy examines a small statue] (Issun) This statue's all dirty... Kind of feel sorry for it standing in a place like this. ***end optional*** [Ammy fights and defeats some monsters, then sees Susano just ahead] (Susano) Hm? What's all that racket? Oh, it's you, mutt! What're you doing here? Go home! I already told you I'm not looking for apprentices. Anyway, Hana Valley is no place for a mutt like you. Beyond this point lies my secret training ground. It's the perfect place to hide - Er... I mean, to train! Now scoot! Be off with ya! (Susano) That's strange... I know there's a way through around here somewhere. Hm? What do you want? I already told you, be off with ya! [Ammy examines a large wall painting] (Issun) Wow... Check out that wall painting. It's said that a crystal sphere that makes trees grow is enshrined somewhere around here. Based on this painting here, I'd say the rumor must be true. Still, something's not right. Don't you think there's something missing from this painting? (Issun) Looks like a painting of a ritual for making a tree grow, but... Don't you think there's something missing from this painting? I know! The sun! That's what's missing! Doesn't it just make you wanna draw it in yourself!? [Ammy draws a sun and the path opens up] (Susano) What in heaven's name!? How did that happen? Well, now I can go hide - Er... I mean, now I can go train! ***optional*** [Ammy examines the finished painting] (Issun) It's a wall painting of an ancient ritual. It ain't half bad, and that's a lot coming from the great Issun! ***end optional*** [Ammy proceeds to a new chamber with a tree sapling in it] (Issun) What a strange place. Is this really the secret training ground Susano mentioned? Speaking of which, where'd pops go, anyway? ***optional #1*** [Ammy examines a sign that reads "Sacred Tree Cherry Cascade"] (Issun) I haven't seen anything remotely like a sacred tree around here. ***optional #2*** [Ammy examines the sapling] (Issun) What's up with this tiny sapling? Hm? I smell a faint scent like Sakuya's coming from this sapling! (Issun) Why would a Guardian Sapling be so tiny like this? I mean, that wall painting had a huge, magnificent tree in it! Maybe the monsters' evil is keeping its power at bay. ***optional #3*** [Ammy examines a puddle of water] (Issun) What's up with this puddle? Looks pretty chintzy for what's supposed to be a grand altar. I bet there used to be something on here. ***optional #4*** [Ammy examines an opening in the cave ceiling] (Issun) I see... That's why there's an altar here. It's for worshipping the sun that shines up there in the valley. ***optional #5*** [Ammy draws the sun in the opening] (Issun) Huh? I bet something'll happen if we can just get this right. I know this room's hiding some kinda secret! ***end optional*** [Ammy heads through a tunnel to another chamber and encounters Susano again] (Susano) Rawrrrr! (Issun) What now!? (Susano) You... You foul beast! How did you get in here!? (Issun) Foul beast? [We see a bear, fast asleep, standing on a crystal sphere] (Susano) You have some nerve sneaking into my private training ground. Now you shall get a taste of my new secret technique! (Issun) Your "foul beast" looks like an ordinary sleepy bear to me, pops. (Susano) Enough talk! My blade thirsts for battle! Here goes nothing! Susano-Style SUSANO!!! SU! SA! NO! SUSANO! Now for Susano-Style... Exploding Implosion!!! [Susano strikes the bear and he falls off the sphere, but is still asleep] ***optional*** [Susano misses] (Susano) Wh-What the!? Let's try that again! Exploding Implosion... Susano-Style SUSANO! [Susano misses again] (Susano) Wh-What the!? (Issun) Ammy, looks like you're on again... (Susano) Let's try that again! Exploding Implosion... Susano-Style SUSANO! [Ammy fails to power slash the sleepy bear] (Susano) I said, Susano-Style... Exploding Implosion!!! ***end optional*** (Susano) Hm? Aha ha ha ha ha ha! That'll teach you, you foolish beast! You're no match for my new secret technique! (Issun) ... ... (Susano) *cough cough* Um... Uh... Rest in peace, foul beast. The great warrior Susano condemns the offense, not the offender. Anyway, there are other monsters I must deal with! Aha ha ha ha ha ha! [Susano runs off] ***optional #1*** [Ammy examines the sphere] (Issun) This crystal sphere is filled with leaves. Is this sphere used in a ritual for a good harvest or something? Hey, didn't that wall painting have a sphere-like object in it? ***optional #2*** [Ammy examines the sleepy bear] (Issun) Sheesh... It's still sleeping like a... well... a bear... What a snore... Make's Susano's sound like a kitten's purr! ***optional #3*** [Ammy headbutts the sleepy bear] (Issun) It's sleeping like a log. Can't believe it can sleep in a place like this! ***end optional*** [Ammy rolls the sphere to the puddle in the previous chamber] (Issun) Wow, someone had a lotta time on their hands to think all this up. So this WAS that sphere in that wall painting! I bet this sphere here is magic or something! [Ammy draws the sun, the light focuses through the sphere, onto the sapling, and makes it grow] (Issun) Hey, is this a Guardian Sapling!? It's all withered like the others. What the!? Who turned out the lights? Oh... It's another constellation, Ammy! [Ammy draws the missing stars and a monkey appears] (Sakigami) Ah... Amaterasu. Origin of all that is good and mother to us all... My gratitude for releasing my body from its slumber. Please accept my humble thanks in return for your great kindness. I am Sakigami, one of the triumvirate of flora gods known as the Hanagami. My brethren and I have been entrusted with the brush techniques known collectively as Greensprout. I now grant my humble power to you. Use it wisely. [Sakigami's power is returned to Ammy] (Issun) That was Sakigami, one of the gods of flora! Apparently, the Bloom brush technique can make flowers blossom simply by drawing a circle on a withered tree. Hey! Maybe it'll make the withered Guardian Sapling blossom, too! [Ammy draws a circle around the tree and as it blossoms it restores all of Hana Valley] (Issun) Wow! Look at how everything grew back so quick! Sakuya wasn't kidding about the power of the Guardian Saplings! So this is what Hana Valley's supposed to look like... Seems Sakuya's Guardian Sapling has lifted the evil curse. I'm not sure how weak the gods have become recently... But it must've taken some wickedly strong power to suppress this magnificent Guardian Sapling. Even if you are Shiranui reborn... We might be up against more than we bargained for! Hey, Ammy! What about that withered Guardian Sapling outside? I bet you could revive it like you did this one! And by bringing that Guardian Sapling back to life, we might be able to lift the curse there, too! What are we waiting for? Leap before you think, right!? ***optional #1*** [Ammy fails to draw a circle around the tree] (Issun) Quit fooling around, silly! Just draw a circle on the withered Guardian Sapling. (Issun) I said, just draw a circle on the withered Guardian Sapling! Imagine a big ol' flower in full bloom when you draw your circle. ***optional #2*** [Ammy examines the tree after blooming it] (Issun) Feast your eyes on that, Ammy! The Guardian Sapling's in full bloom! With the power of Bloom, I bet we could revive the Guardian Sapling outside, too! ***optional #3*** [Ammy examines the crystal sphere again] (Issun) The Guardian Sapling recovered thanks to this crystal sphere! Who do you suppose made this thing, anyway? ***end optional*** [Ammy encounters another weird tree] (Issun) That creepy old tree just won't give up. I've got an idea, Ammy! Maybe you could hit its fruit right back at it! And while it's stunned, you could use Bloom to rid it of evil. ***optional*** [Ammy examines the small statue again] (Issun) The statue's all dirty. But that's proof that it's been watching over us for ages! ***end optional*** [Ammy encounters a patch of cursed grass] (Issun) Whoa, Ammy, hold on! Hana Valley looks so much better now, but... What about this gloomy patch of grass? You can use the power of Bloom to fill it in. Just fill it with your brush, and Bloom will take care of it! (Issun) There's just this one patch of gloomy grass. You can use the power of Bloom to fill it in. Just fill it with your brush, and Bloom will take care of it! [Ammy draws over the cursed grass] (Issun) There was a scroll here, too, eh? Ammy, this looks like the Travel Guide! It's an ancient record of a pilgrimage across the land. If this were the real thing, it'd normally be worth a fortune, but with all the copies out there, you probably wouldn't get much for it. At any rate, if you ever wanna read it, just press the START button to open the Fan Menu. It may sound rather preachy, but it should at least help you in your travels. [Ammy returns to Shinshu Field] (Issun) OK! That's a new brush technique in the bag! Now, Ammy... Before you get all excited and forget what you're supposed to do, I have an important tip for you. Ready? OK then... If you ever forget what to do next, press the START button to open the Fan Menu and then take a look at the Log Book. You'll find your Journal there! (Issun) Your Journal is a record of the important dialogue you've heard. It shows all the important info ya have in that furry little head! Just dig up info the way I just showed you, and you'll be able to recall important things! Your adventure will be a lot easier if you remember this. Also remember, first things first! OK, let's get going! ***optional #1*** [Ammy listens to the Nameless Man] (Nameless Man) Freaky... It looks like the river suddenly cleared up. I did see Susano whizzing past here a little while ago... But surely it wasn't him who cleaned up the river, was it? Nah, that wouldn't make any sense. (Nameless Man) It's been ages since I've seen the river looking so healthy. That magical crystal ball must be working its mojo. ***optional #2*** [Ammy tries to go back to Kamiki] (Issun) Wait, wait, wait! Where are you going? What about the power of Bloom you got? You can't just abandon that poor withered Guardian Sapling! ***optional #3*** [Ammy examines the Guardian Sapling] (Issun) You know what you gotta do, right, Ammy!? You gotta return this poor tree to its original state! (Issun) Just look at this poor Guardian Sapling... You gotta use your power on it! You forget, already? The power of Bloom, silly! Draw a big ol' circle on the tree! C'mon! You gotta help Sakuya out here! Revive the tree! ***end optional*** [Ammy blooms the tree and Shinshu Field is restored] (Issun) Wow! That nasty cursed zone is completely gone! The plants and animals are back! And just feel that fresh breeze! Now that's what I call Great Divine Intervention! If you keep on dispelling the evil curse like this, I bet the gods of nature will lend you their powers! [Ammy sees Sakuya's Konohana tree bloom in the distance] (Issun) Hey, that's... That's Sakuya's tree, isn't it? Maybe she perked up 'cause you revived a Guardian Sapling? Well, we can stop by and see her later. I mean, we're kinda on a roll here. How about we take a look around Shinshu Field first? You've been gone 100 years, right? A good run around the place will do ya good! ***AUTHOR'S NOTE*** Most everything that can be done in Shinshu Field is optional. As I did in the previous section with Kamiki, I'm going to list all the optional dialogue now and make a note of when the story resumes. [Ammy examines the Guardian Sapling] (Issun) This Guardian Sapling's back to normal. And the cursed zone that covered this area is completely gone. Now it can protect this land as it once did. [Ammy listens to a merchant] (Merchant) Now let's see... What am I doing here again? Oh, yes. I took shelter under this Guardian Sapling when I heard that terrifying sound before like a monster growling. Well, this is perfect! It's fate! Why don't I set up shop here? You know where to come when you're sent shopping, right, pooch? Oh, yes. I don't know if you'll understand this, but here goes... I'd like to ask you a favor. It'll be a cinch with your nose. If you sniff out any nice bowls or dishes lying about, don't just leave them to rot away. Bring them to me, would you? If you turn up any treasures that are worth a bit, I'll pay you! (Issun) Treasures? Hmmm... You found anything like that, Ammy? If you did, you should just sell it. I mean, what are you gonna do with stuff like pots and dishes? It's hard to sell stuff you've worked so hard to get, but don't worry! All the treasures you collect will be catalogued in the Fan Menu! (Merchant) What are you mumbling about? Have you got some things for me? (Merchant) Out on shopping duty, are you, pooch? [Ammy approaches a strange gate] (Issun) Whoa!? What's up with this old gate? I don't like the looks of it... It's just teeming with evil power. I can feel it! Still, you being a god and all, we can't just ignore it. Whaddaya think, my furry friend? We going through it, or what? [Ammy enters the gate and defeats some monsters] (Issun) So that's it. Those things are gateways to monster lairs! I've heard of such gates before. They're called Devil Gates. Those monsters got a lotta nerve building things like that! Let's tear 'em down wherever we find 'em! [Ammy examines a small statue] (Issun) This is a Guardian Statue, but... I don't think anyone's been here in years. It's in pretty bad shape. I feel kinda sorry for it. Why don't you leave an offering? [Ammy destroys another Devil Gate, the area is restored, and Ammy examines a sign that reads "Nameless Man's Kiln"] (Issun) It's a big ol' kiln for firing pottery. Guess somebody works here. I bet they could make some sweet pottery in a kiln like this! [Ammy approaches a man lying on the ground, as if in agony] (Ida) Ow, ow, ow! What's going on!? Ida of the Dangan Express never trips up! I've fallen and I can't get up! Must be a curse... [Express Messenger Ida is introduced] (Ida) I don't have time for fallin' over! People are waitin' for mail. Those monsters must have set some kind of trap for me as a joke. Darn it! I knew I should have bought a Traveler's Charm! Hey, pooch! That's a Traveler's Charm you've got there, isn't it? [Ammy offers the Traveler's Charm to Ida] (Ida) Oh! Yes! I feel so light! My body feels as light as a feather! Thanks, pooch! You saved me. Can't hang about. Gotta catch up on my deliveries! [If Ammy didn't have a Traveler's Charm to offer, monsters attack] (Ida) My body's cursed by something. It's as heavy as lead. If only I'd bought a Traveler's Charm! That'd sort this curse out. [Ammy listens to Ida when he's running] (Ida) Get outta the way! Comin' through! I've got a mountain-load of letters to deliver! [At night, Ammy listens to Ida when he's running] (Ida) Get outta the way! Comin' through! I've got a stack of night deliveries to make! [Ammy examines a cat statue against a cliff wall] (Issun) Hm? Hey, get a load of this statue's face! It's got the same blank expression as you! Hee hee hee... [Ammy examines a crack in a cliff wall] (Issun) There's a crack in this wall. And there's a faint breeze coming through it! It might be worth our while to knock this wall down! [Ammy headbutts the cracked wall] (Issun) You're sure all fired up, Ammy! You really think that hard head of yours is gonna bust the wall down? (Issun) Give it a rest, furball. This wall ain't coming down that easy! [At night, Ammy listens to the Nameless Man] (Nameless Man) I keep getting a faint whiff of blossoms from the cave recently. A feeling of peace is like washing over my soul here, man. (Nameless Man) It's always cool to see you, but try not to beg, OK? If you've got the munchies, try this. (Nameless Man) Still got the munchies? Alright... Take this. (Nameless Man) I can't give you any more, man. I've gotta eat too, you know. [Ammy examines a sign that reads "Agata Forest Port"] (Issun) The ferry between Shinshu Field and Agata Forest docks here. The ferry used to run frequently, but it's been out of service ever since the water level dropped. [Ammy examines a stone monument] (Issun) This waterway leads to Agata Forest. It's the most green and fertile place in this region. I heard the villagers used to take the ferry to the forest long ago. [Ammy restores some cursed grass, then examines a crack in the ground] (Issun) Wow... The ground here's really cracked up here, isn't it? I bet it could be destroyed with a powerful explosion... BOOM! It'd fall apart like a cheap souvenir. [Ammy comes upon a dojo] (Issun) Huh? What a pretentious sign! Ammy, this here's a Dojo. It's where people come to learn sword fighting and martial arts. But who knows if they'll train you here... Maybe if you're a good wolfy, they'll teach ya a trick or two! [Ammy examines a sign that reads "Dojo"] (Issun) This is a rundown dojo operated by some eccentric old man. [Ammy enters the dojo] (Onigiri Sensei) Well, what have we here? It looks like I have an adorable lupine visitor. My name is Onigiri Sensei and this is my dojo. [Fighting Master Onigiri Sensei is introduced] (Onigiri Sensei) What business could a wolf like yourself have at a dojo like this? Certainly you haven't come to study the fighting arts with yours truly! [Ammy selects "Yes"] (Onigiri Sensei) Ha ha! I like the cut of your jib, my furry friend! I'd very much like to wile away the hours at play with you, but I'm afraid that this place is far too dangerous for creatures like you. That is, of course, unless you can cover the training fee... [If Ammy selected "No" to the "come to study" question] (Onigiri Sensei) I suspected as much. A place like this is no place for play, friend. You should go outside where it is far less dangerous. [Ammy chooses a skill to learn] (Onigiri Sensei) I'll be a monkey's uncle! You've got the cash, have you? I see... I suppose I have no choice. I'll do as you wish and allow you to enroll in my dojo. Aaaaaaah... OOOOH! ***The remainder of the dialogue heard when learning dojo skills can be found in the "Sidequest" section*** [After an in-game day has passed, Ammy encounters the Nameless Man at his kiln] (Nameless Man) This is the life, huh? It's great to be clutching my axe again! See this kiln, friend? It disappeared when the curse struck. My workshop is my pride and joy. I'm stoked to have it back! I'm actually an artist communing with nature on a deep level, man. I can hardly wait to start firing up some pots again! (Nameless Man) My first piece of work since I've restarted is almost ready. I'll let you have it if it turns out well, man. [Ammy examines a sign that reads "Super Pyrotechnist Tama's House"] (Issun) Smell that, Ammy? That odor could only be from... gunpowder! Hey, maybe it's for fireworks! This is kinda exciting! [Ammy reads a note pinned on the door of the house that reads "Sleeping like a log. Come back at night."] (Issun) You read the message. Guess we'll just have to come back tonight. [Ammy examines a small monument that reads "Lake Harami"] (Issun) It says this is Lake Harami. You know, from the legend of Nagi? But it's kinda lost its luster... Probably 'cause the great Nagi's descendant is Susano... [Ammy follows a path leading out to the middle of the lake] (Issun) Huh? We passed under the shrine gate and followed the narrow path... So where the heck's the Moon Cave? It should be right here! Hey, what's with that big ol' mountain over there? Since when did that appear in the middle of Lake Harami? They say the Moon Cave is where Nagi slew the legendary beast. But that huge mountain is way too big for the Moon Cave I remember. I mean, just look at it. It's massive! [Ammy proceeds to the mountain's entrance] (Issun) Youch! What the heck!? There's some kinda barrier here! Never seen one so powerful before. We'd be better off staying away from this thing! (Issun) Told ya we should stay away from this barrier! That's some evil power right there, I tell ya! [Ammy tries to return to Kamiki] (Issun) Huh? Heading back to the village, already? Check your map again. We haven't seen everything there is to see. Besides, a lotta things change in 100 years. You should explore the whole area very carefully. [Ammy chooses "Sounds good"] (Issun) See? I told ya! The map shows lotsa places we haven't been yet. As long as we're here, we might as well see all we can see! [Ammy chooses "Maybe later"] (Issun) C'mon! What's the hurry? Got a date or something? Aw, whatever. Let's go back and check on Sakuya. We can use the map to explore Shinshu Field later. It wouldn't hurt to visit each of those places marked on the map! [After choosing "Sounds good", Ammy immediately tries to leave again] (Issun) Aw, whatever. Let's go back and check on Sakuya. We can use the map to explore Shinshu Field later. It wouldn't hurt to visit each of those places marked on the map! ***BACK TO THE STORY!***

[Night has fallen on Shinshu Field and Ammy goes to Tama's house] ***optional*** [Ammy examines a picture on the wall] (Issun) This looks like a design for fireworks! It's rather bizarre, though. Wonder if it'll really work? ***end optional*** (Tama) No, no, no! That can't be right... It shouldn't be doing that... (Tama) No, no, no! I checked and double-checked my formula! (Tama) No, no, no! (Issun) Hey! You there, got a minute? (Tama) ...Hm? Whoa! What's this little wisp doing here? (Issun) Hey, who you callin' a wisp! I'm Issun the Wandering Artist! (Tama) Well, well, well. You're a little ball of fire, aren't you? I'm Tama. Tama, the Flaming Pyrotechnist! That's what they call me. [Flaming Pyrotechnist Tama is introduced] (Tama) Listen up, you two. I'm just about to set off a hum-dinger of a doozy. Take a look at the formula I posted on the wall there. My whole career as a pyrotechnist has led to that formula, friends. It's for a little firework I've dubbed the Midnight Wonder Boy! There's only one problem... Even though I know the formula is sound, it's not working right yet. I know! Listen, pup. You've got good eyes. Fiery eyes... Smoldering eyes... Maybe your red-hot glare is just what I need to set this off! Feast your eyes on the greatest display the world has ever seen! Hold onto your hats, kids. Here I go! The brightest constellation in the sky - the Midnight Wonder Boy! ***optional*** [Ammy fails to help] (Tama) Grrr... What's the problem? Well, if at first you don't succeed, try to blow it up again, I say! (Tama) You two are in it for the long haul, are you? You've got guts. I like that. Ready to fire another one up? Batten down the hatches, kids. I'm goin' for it! The brightest constellation in the sky - the Midnight Wonder Boy! [Ammy fails again] (Issun) This guy doesn't know how to follow his own formula! Looks like a job for you, Ammy! [Ammy fails again] (Issun) C'mon, Ammy, help the guy out! Just follow the formula on the wall. Your brush'll do the rest! You should draw a circle and then a line to stick out of it. Better get this right before the poor guy's burnt to a crisp! ***end optional*** [Ammy succeeds, a fireworks display ensues, and a constellation appears] (Issun) Holy smokes! That Tama may have a few screws loose but boy, can he deliver! Hm? That light again... Oh, it's another constellation, Ammy! [Ammy draws the missing stars and a boar appears] (Bakugami) Ah... Amaterasu. Origin of all that is good and mother to us all... Too often, it is easy to forget that which we cannot see. Hidden away, I had lost track of you. But now my soul is at ease. I, Bakugami, god of explosive force, lend my power to your cause. Use the Cherry Bomb to lay waste to foes and obstacles alike! [Bakugami's power is returned to Ammy] (Issun) Hey, did another brush technique just come back to you!? That was Bakugami, the god of explosions. His technique is called Cherry Bomb. Tama's enthusiasm must've awakened the god's power in you! Well, what're ya waitin' for? Let's give that Cherry Bomb a try! What about that cracked wall over there? Why don't you try a Cherry Bomb on it? But be careful... *gulp* (Issun) Whoa, look at that hole! It blasted that cracked wall to smithereens! That Cherry Bomb is one destructive technique! I mean, just think what it could do to monsters! It's gonna be tricky handling something that powerful! But I bet you'll be using it all the time once you master it! ***optional #1*** [Ammy fails] (Issun) Hm? You forgot how to draw a Cherry Bomb? It looks like a bomb. You did it back at Tama's place, remember? (Issun) I said, a bomb! You forgot already? It looks like a circle with a line sticking out of it! ***optional #2*** [Ammy enters Tama's house and examines 