Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle/Story

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Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Opening

On the island of West Varia, Namvian comedian Lauphit is set to perform at the upcoming King of Manzai Awards contest. However, his partner suddenly announces that they are disbanding as a duo. Wanting to run from it all, Lauphit officially withdraws from the contest.

???: Can't see a darned thing.

???: Stage's aglitter with bright lights. Theater's packed, with every last seat in the audience filled.

???: So how is it that the view before me's a pitch-black void? Is this what it's like?

???: Huff...

???: (Was one heck of a long road gettin' here...)

???: (I met so many people...)

???: Psst. Psst! Lauphit!

???: I come to my senses at the sound of that voice. Right, this is no time to be spacing out.

Juri: We're starting!

Lauphit: Right.

Lauphit: How could I forget? This is the stage I've always dreamed of. And I found myself the best possible partner.

Lauphit: All right, here goes nothing... Me and Juri are gonna blow their socks off!

Lauphit: Laughter's been a huge part of my life since as far back as I can remember.

Lauphit's Ma: I-it's comin' out!

Lauphit's Pa: You can do it! Keep pushin'!

Lauphit's Pa: I've got your hand right here, honey! We're doin' this together!

Midwife: Sir, that's my hand you're grabbing.

Lauphit's Ma: Aha-ahaha... Why, you silly goose...

Lauphit's Ma: Rrgh!

Midwife: Here it comes!

Lauphit: Waah! Waah!

Midwife: What a healthy baby boy you've got here!

Lauphit's Pa: You did it! I've got your hand for real this time!

Midwife: That's the nurse's hand!

Many who travel the skies westward come to a lively island known as West Varia.

Being a bustling commercial hub where people from all over gather, it is also a center of cultural exchange.

"So yummy and cheap that you'll want to eat till you drop!" reads a tourist guidebook introducing the island's starchy cuisine.

West Varia's residents, with their distinctive manner of speaking, are so full of life that simply being around them perks one right up.

And of course, one cannot talk about West Varia without discussing its culture of fashion. People wear incredibly stylish and garish clothing that leaves a lasting impression.

Perhaps its biggest draw, however, is comedy, which is particularly true in Lauphit's hometown of Namvia.

People of all walks of life here have a good joke or three up their sleeves. There are even "comedians," who earn a living out of making others laugh.

One type of comedy in particular called manzai, where a fool and foil play off each other, has captured the hearts of all in West Varia.

Young Lauphit: Gimme, gimme!

Shopkeep: Hey, kiddo. You on an errand? Whaddya need?

Young Lauphit: Hm, let's see...

Young Lauphit: I'll have an onion, miss!

Shopkeep: I'm no miss! And why would you go lookin' for onions at a butcher's shop?

Shopkeep: Ahahaha! Two bloopers in one go, eh? You've got a bright future ahead of ya!

Young Lauphit: My ma taught me well! Ehehe!

Young Lauphit: Ma, I went and bought us an onion. Good luck finding it though!

Lauphit's Ma: Now why would you even hide an onion!

Young Lauphit: Ahahaha! Nice reaction speed there, Ma!

Lauphit's Ma: You know it. I've got years of practice!

Lauphit: Practically everyone around me's a jokester in their own right, so it's not like we can all make a living as comedians.

Lauphit: For me though? It was the only option that made sense. Or rather, it was the only option that shined in my eyes.

Lauphit: Ma, Pa. I'm thinkin' of entering a training school.

Lauphit's Pa: What! You're kidding me!

Lauphit's Pa: Oh wait, you are kidding, aren't you.

Lauphit: This ain't no joke!

Lauphit's Ma: You sure that's the path you wanna go down? It ain't gonna be an easy road, and you never were the type to grab a bull by its horns...

Lauphit: I know! But comedy's the only thing I have. And... I want to spread laughter to people.

Lauphit: 'Sides, ya can't expect me to grow much if I just take the easy path in life!

Lauphit's Pa: Fine. If you're not gonna carry on the family business, then we need to set a few things straight.

Lauphit's Pa: For starters, you're not livin' here anymore! And don't expect any handouts from us!

Lauphit: What an awful thing to say to your own kid!

Lauphit: Wait, we don't have a family business! Am I right, or am I right?

Lauphit's Pa: You're doubly right! I just wanted to try sayin' that!

Lauphit's Ma: Lauphit... Nice timing on that retort just now...

Lauphit: And so I entered the largest comedy training school in town to learn everything I could about manzai.

Lauphit: That's where I met the person who'd be my first costar...

???: You're a funny guy! What say you and I pair up? I'm Renvauro.

Lauphit: Those days were a blast, from studyin' manzai to showin' off our jokes to bein' scolded by the teacher...

Lauphit: As we got to know each other and came up with our own routines, Renvauro and I decided to one day participate in the King of Manzai Awards contest.

Lauphit: We pushed ourselves hard and earned recognition, eventually bein' assigned as performers of a famous theater.

Lauphit: But some things just fall apart...

Renvauro: Today marks the last day of our duo.

Lauphit: What the? But why!

Lauphit's Voice: Why...

Lauphit: I'd like to withdraw from the King of Manzai Awards...

Lauphit: Hope that's all right...

Staff: Huh? Oh my...

Staff: What a pickle... What do we do here...

Staff: I'll have to talk to the head judge.

Lauphit: Having lost all hopes and dreams for the future...

Lauphit: I decided to turn my back on comedy.

Back to top

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 1: Comedy Finds Its Soul - Episode 1

During the crew's trek to Namvia, Juri leads the rescue of a young man who is under attack by monsters. They nurse him back to health on the Grandcypher, where he introduces himself as Lauphit.

Juri: Haaah!

Farrah: Nice one, Juri!

Juri: No signs of the enemy on my side! Farrah, where next?

Farrah: I think we're done! That must've been the last monster.

Vyrn: All righty! Let's get a move on!

Lyria: Wait up, Vyrn! I'm sure there'll be plenty of comedy waiting for us when we get there.

The crew has made landfall in West Varia.

They take care of the occasional monsters that creep up during their march to the large town of Namvia.

Farrah: I can't wait either! This is going to be my first time seeing a real comedian in the flesh!

Lyria: A town full of comedians... I wonder what it's going to be like.

Juri: Hm... I get the impression that it's probably needlessly clamorous.

Farrah: So you say, but I bet deep down there's a part of you that's really looking forward to this.

Juri: I came along mainly to help deal with the monsters on the road.

Juri: As for comedy... I guess it just isn't really my thing.

Vyrn: But you cared enough to tag along. What a swell guy!

Juri: W-well, I thought it wouldn't hurt to broaden my horizons a little, if you know what I mean... Anyway, let's keep moving—

Farrah: More monsters!

Juri: Oh no! A civilian's in danger!

Juri: Let's go, Farrah! (Captain)!

???: Eep! Why me!

???: I get surrounded by monsters just minutes after steppin' outta town... Ah, woe is me!

Monster: Caw! Caaaw!

???: (Crappity-crap, what do I do, what do I do...)

???: I know!

???: Back off, before I send you packing!

Juri: (Good, he's armed with a pistol! He seems like a novice, but it should buy us some time!)

Monster: Caw! Caaaw!

???: Oh, no, no, no! Please don't come any closer!

Monster: Caw! Caaaw!

???: Aaaahh!

Juri: Huh? Why aren't you shooting!

Monster: Ca-caaw!

Farrah: We're in range! (Captain), Juri, let's go!

Farrah & Juri: Haaaah!

Farrah: Huff... Huff... We did it!

Vyrn: You okay, mister?

???: ...

Lyria: Oh no! His eyes are rolled back into his head!

Juri: Pull yourself together! The monster's done for!

Farrah: Though we could come under attack again if we stick around. Not to mention the town's still not in view yet...

Let's bring him to the ship!

Choose: Let's bring him to the ship!

Farrah: Sounds good to me!

The crew transports the unconscious young man to the Grandcypher's lounge, where he awakens in good time.

Vyrn: Oh, you're up. Some tea oughta help soothe your nerves.

???: Why, how kind of ya...

???: Wha! A jabberin' lizard that serves tea? Have I been transported to some kinda fairy-tale land?

Vyrn: I-I might jabber, but I ain't no lizard!

???: Yeah? I bet you get that a lot though, huh... I mean, everythin' about ya screams lizard...

???: Whoops, where are my manners. Sorry, I get all excited when I'm around someone new.

???: So... where are we? Last thing I remember, I got surrounded by monsters, and...

Farrah: You're on an airship! We're docked in the southern part of West Varia!

???: An airship? You guys are skyfarers, then? Ah, must've also been you guys who saved me.

???: Phew, really appreciate the help. I thought for sure I was a goner back there!

Lyria: Thank goodness you ended up with no injuries!

???: I have you guys to thank for that.

???: Name's Lauphit! I live just ahead... in Namvia.

Vyrn: Well, what are the chances! We were just on our way to Namvia.

Juri: What were you doing out there? The monsters have been multiplying lately...

Lauphit: Multiplying... As in breeding?

Lyria: Yes. That's why we took on an assignment to deal with the monsters while on our way to town.

Lauphit: I had no idea... Sounds like I chose a bad time to leave town.

Juri: But didn't you carry a pistol for self-defense? Though you ended up not using it...

As Juri eyes him suspiciously, Lauphit ruffles through his pocket and takes out the pistol.

Lauphit: You mean this lil' thing? It's a replica.

Juri: Wha?

Lauphit: It's a prop I made to use in my skits.

Lyria: A prop for your skits?

Lauphit: I'm... a performer of sorts in Namvia.

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 1: Comedy Finds Its Soul - Episode 2

Lauphit describes himself as a comedian currently on hiatus. Azazel and Geisenborger put on a little show as the Demonic Chariot to cheer him up. However, the gap in enthusiasm toward comedy between himself and others only leaves him more disheartened.

Vyrn: A Namvia performer? Are you a pro?

Geisenborger: A performer?

Crew members who happen to overhear Lauphit approach.

Azazel: Excuse me there, good sir! If we heard right, you call yourself a performer?

Lauphit: Y-yep, that's right. Though I graduated from a comedy training school only recently, so I'm still new...

Geisenborger: Namvia, that was the location listed in our request... The famed birthplace of comedy as an art form...

Geisenborger: And the "training school" you speak of must be akin to what a military academy is to soldiers. Plus you're a recent graduate...

Azazel: That makes you a verified expert in the field! From a demonic perspective, you're practically my senior!

Lauphit: Wait, you two are performers too?

Vyrn: Wasn't too long ago that they formed a duo and called themselves the Demonic Chariot.

The First Grandcypher Stand-Up Contest was held some time ago.

The funny members of the crew engaged in heated verbal battle to see who could elicit the most laughter from the entire crew.

The laughter craze remains strong on the Grandcypher, showing few signs of abating.

Azazel: Ever since that contest, we've continued to hone our craft, often undergoing intense training to better ourselves.

Geisenborger: Though we no doubt still have a lot to learn, we take the practice as seriously as any Namvia performer.

Vyrn: They've been pretty busy on the business side of things too! Even got themselves a proper manager!

Eugen: Yep. That's me, Eugen. Here's hopin' the Demonic Chariot can put on a show in Namvia too!

Lauphit: Wow... I had no idea comedy was taken seriously outside of Namvia as well.

Vyrn: So you're a comedian, huh? Do you partner up with someone? Or are you a solo act?

Vyrn's question casts a cloud over Lauphit's expression.

Lauphit: I... did form a duo of my own, but...

Lauphit: We're taking a bit of a recess at the moment...

Vyrn: Would be pretty cool if we could watch you perform sometime.

Eugen: C'mon now, he just woke up. Let's not push him too hard.

Lauphit: As much as I'd like to repay your kindness... I'm kind of without a partner right now...

Azazel: Hahahah! How fortunate for you... That just means you'll get to watch our performance instead!

Geisenborger: We shall blast away your laments with all the force of a laughing cannonball!

Geisenborger: Yes... Such is the might of the Demonic Chariot!

Lauphit: Ooh... This could be fun...

Eugen: Hey, don't think too hard about it. Just consider it a fun diversion.

Farrah: Yeah, the point is to have fun! Right, Juri?

Juri: Don't ask me. I probably couldn't tell a good joke from a bad one...

Lauphit: Okay, hit me! I'm real curious to see what sorta jokes you've got in store!

Azazel: Heh, you said it! Don't blame us later if you end up laughing so hard that you turn into mush!

Excited to put on a performance, the duo put their heads together for a mini-rehearsal.

Lauphit: Haha... Seein' em like that sure brings back memories...

Azazel: Apologies for the wait! Put a demon and a chariot together, and what do you get? A Demonic Chariot!

Geisenborger: Aren't those not the two worst things you could possibly put together? I cannot help but recoil at such a malapropos name!

Azazel: Hear me out, Chariot... I've been having this awful recurring dream lately...

Geisenborger: Hah, a demon who fears his own dreams? It must have been truly nightmarish...

Azazel: In the dream, I fall from really up high.

Geisenborger: Do you realize how utterly banal that is? Even I'd be afraid of falling from up high!

Azazel: Oho... Sounds like even the great Chariot is no stranger to nightmares.

Geisenborger: Urk... Why has the focus suddenly turned to me!

The ship grows lively as the duo continue their act.

Smiles abound, with many cheering and clapping along. However, Lauphit's expression remains dour.

Lauphit: (They're actually pretty decent at this...)

Lauphit: (Yet I, the supposed pro, sit here absentmindedly, bereft of a partner...)

Lauphit: It hurts...

Azazel: Admit the truth already—the truth that "Demon" and "Chariot" are nothing more than roles we play for fun!

Geisenborger: Gah, how about you simmer down! I'll give you some of my blood later if that helps!

Azazel: I don't need your blood! Give me some apple juice instead!

Lyria: Teehee. Ahaha!

Farrah: Another fine skit!

Lauphit: Haha... Ahaha...

Juri: ...?

Juri: (Am I imagining it, or is he forcing the laughter?)

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 1: Comedy Finds Its Soul - Episode 3

Other comedy duos in the crew put on their own performances. Lauphit watches every last one. Juri notices he is still very passionate about comedy and encourages him to continue down that path. Stirred by Juri's words, Lauphit is determined to participate in the contest once more and asks the ex-soldier to partner up with him.

Inspired by the Demonic Chariot, other crew members pair up to put on performances of their own.

Relieved to see everyone disperse by the time the sun sets, Lauphit goes out to the deck for some fresh air.

Lauphit: Phew, I'm all manzai'd out for the day...

Farrah: Ah, Lauphit!

Lauphit: You guys... Farrah and Juri, right?

Farrah: Bwaha! Almost sounds like we're a comedy duo ourselves!

Juri: More importantly, are you feeling okay, Lauphit? Your steps appeared unsteady to me...

Lauphit: Haha... I'm just a bit tired, is all...

Juri: Wait, you mean you were watching everyone's skits up until now?

Lauphit: Yep. You two must've slipped out early on.

Lauphit: You wouldn't believe how many duos took the stage after Demonic Chariot. Heck, even the Demonic Chariot themselves went for a second round.

Lauphit: I could see everyone's enthusiasm for comedy... Really made an impression on me.

Farrah: Ahaha... I guess at the end of the day, we're just a fun-loving crew—captain included.

Juri: Well, given how you stayed behind to watch every last skit, I'd say you're awfully well-mannered.

Lauphit: Haha, I wish that were the truth of it. Being a comedian myself, I can't help but be curious about how other people do their acts, even if I am on recess now.

Lauphit: On another note, I owe you my thanks, Juri.

Juri: Me?

Lauphit: I saw you running straight to my rescue when I got surrounded by monsters.

Lauphit: Can't thank you enough.

Juri: I saw someone in danger and simply acted accordingly.

Farrah: We're former imperial soldiers. It's what we trained for.

Lauphit: Ex-soldiers, huh? I think I'm startin' to see why comedy ain't exactly up Juri's alley.

Juri: Rather than disinterested... I'd say I just don't really get jokes. Maybe I lack a sense of humor?

Farrah: Juri can be pretty hardheaded—to a laughable degree, I'd say.

Juri: Wha... Farrah!

Lauphit: Hm, must be refreshing to not have much sense for humor.

Juri: Refreshing? Hm, and here I thought people like me were rather commonplace...

Lauphit: Oh, from a Namvian perspective, you're definitely a very rare breed. After all, Namvia's known as the town where laughter never ceases.

Farrah: The town where laughter never ceases... Sounds fun.

Juri: I can't even imagine...

Lauphit: Comedians ain't the only ones who like to tell jokes in Namvia, ya know... Practically everyone's a jokester there.

Lauphit: Can't let your guard down even when you're out shopping or dining. Anyone could be waiting to pounce as the fool, and you've gotta be ready to retort as the foil.

Juri: That sounds exhausting...

Lauphit: I suppose if you're not used to it, then yeah. We Namvians are born and raised in that sorta environment though.

Lauphit: Then again, I was plannin' on going on a journey to get away from all the laughter...

Farrah: Yeah? Even though you're a comedian?

Lauphit: Truth is, my duo disbanded not too long ago. It happened so fast, came as a real shock.

Lauphit: That was the moment my dream of joining the King of Manzai Awards was shattered.

Juri: King of... Manzai?

Lauphit: King of Manzai Awards. I guess you could sum up "manzai" as what your crewmates might call the art of conversation and jokes.

Lauphit: The contest's a major annual event for Namvia.

Lauphit: My duo was set to join the stage, but that's no longer on the table...

Lauphit: So I just gave up on the whole thing and went on my merry way!

Lauphit: There's no escape from comedy as long as you're in Namvia! Walk three steps, and you're bound to run into a comedian.

Juri: Knowing this now, I see how good-natured you are in sticking around for everyone's skits earlier.

Lauphit: Oh that? Haha... I was kinda surprised myself.

Lauphit: Must've been everyone's enthusiasm that made me stick around. Then it was nighttime before I knew it.

Lauphit: The Demonic Chariot especially puts in a lotta work. Makes sense that they go around bookin' actual gigs.

Lauphit: I quite enjoyed the rhythm-based jokes from J.J. and Pavidus. What fun that was.

Lauphit: Yurius and Randall really stood out with their distinctive personalities.

Lauphit: I can't believe there was someone who looked just like a kappa! That might as well be cheating!

Lauphit: The duo's jokes didn't exactly land, but that man... Siegfried, I think? He sure seemed to be enjoying himself.

Lauphit: I could tell each pair's members really trusted in each other.

Juri: Hm, you sound surprisingly cheery just talking about this.

Lauphit: Oh?

Juri: I say this because your expression when watching everyone perform was far from "cheery."

Juri: But I could swear I saw a shine in your eyes talking about comedy just now.

Juri: Struck me as odd, coming from someone who was intent on taking a break from everything... Just goes to show you really are a comedian at heart.

Lauphit: ...!

Farrah: That's an interesting observation coming from someone as straitlaced as you, Juri.

Juri: I might not know comedy, but I can at least tell how seriously Lauphit takes it.

Juri: I take back what I suggested about you being a goody-two-shoes. You stayed around for everyone's skits because comedy's special to you.

Juri: But simply watching wouldn't take this much out of you. You're exhausted because you really took in every last detail.

Juri: Just goes to show your dedication to the craft.

Lauphit: ...

Juri: Lauphit, you mentioned having given up earlier, but surely deep down you still wish to compete in the contest, yes?

Lauphit: ...!
A-as much as I'd like to, I don't even have a partner now...

Lauphit: And I don't see me coming to terms with my ex-partner... Nor do I have any other leads...

Juri: Finding someone to pair up with should be the least of your worries. I bet plenty in the crew would be willing if you put out a formal call for a partner.

Lauphit: Someone from the ship... Hm, I dunno about that.

Juri: ...

Lauphit: An impromptu duo's members probably wouldn't gel too well together... Would be hard goin' forward too.

Juri: Going forward? Ah, yes! The future is exactly what I'm talking about!

Farrah: Calm down a bit, Juri. I can almost see the steam pouring out from your head.

Juri: I am... calm!

Lauphit: Wh-wh-what's wrong, Juri? Why are you so heated all of a sudden?

Juri: My father always told me to seek out justice!

Juri: To hold people's lives in esteem and to fight back against those who would do otherwise!

Juri: And when you think about it, people's aspirations are just as meaningful and precious as their lives!

Juri: Lauphit!

Juri: If you still have some love for comedy in your heart and wish to pursue entry in the King of Manzai Awards, then I ask...

Juri: That you do not fear defeat and continue marching forward! So that in the end, you don't regret the chances you didn't take!

Lauphit: ...!

Juri: The pain of defeat may have brought you down once, but if any semblance of ambition stills burns within you, then please reconsider...

Juri: Should you choose to run now, I fear you may lose your drive forever. I realize continuing to stoke that fire requires great courage!

Juri: I'm not trying to force you! I only mean to pay respect to the devotion you have for your craft!

Lauphit: Well said... Haha, don't think anyone's ever cheered me on so passionately.

Juri: M-m-my apologies if I came on too strong...

Lauphit: Nah, it's fine. I think I'll reconsider after all. Appreciate it, Juri.

The three continue chatting away for some time on the deck.

Lauphit soon forgets the pain in his heart, occasionally breaking into a smile as he speaks fondly of comedy.

Lauphit: Namvia's got a number of theaters, the biggest one bein' the Namvia Theater of Performing Arts.

Lauphit: Each comedian is affiliated with a specific theater. I'm with the Namvia Theater of Performing Arts myself, even if I did sort of run away...

Farrah: You haven't officially quit, then?

Lauphit: I'd already run out of town even before considering resignation.

Lauphit: Then again, I'd lose my right to compete if I formally quit.

Lauphit: Like you've been sayin', Juri, there must be some part of me that doesn't want to give up yet...

Juri: ...

Lauphit: On that note, each theater holds a yearly competition to determine the finest talent.

Lauphit: The Namvia Theater of Performing Art's King of Manzai Awards is the biggest one.

Lauphit: Every comedian dreams of winnin' that contest. The champion is practically guaranteed riches, prestige, and fame.

Juri: Riches, prestige, and fame?

Lauphit: From the moment you win there, you join the ranks of the finest comedians. Jobs start comin' in left and right.

Lauphit: Your pay goes way up too. In Namvia, winnin' that contest practically guarantees your future.

Juri: Financial security is a big deal, I see...

Lauphit: My family's always been poor. Didn't help that my grandpa took out one heck of a loan...

Lauphit: We were always just scrapin' by. Food was scarce. All my clothes were hand-me-downs from fellow neighbors.

Lauphit: Still though...

Lauphit's Pa: Phew, what a day at work! Now if they'd just up my pay, I wouldn't have a single complaint!

Young Lauphit: Won't they?

Lauphit's Pa: I wish! But most places are pretty tight with their finances! Hahaha!

Young Lauphit: That's no laughin' matter, Pa...

Lauphit's Pa: Hey, I'm just glad they keep me on the payroll at all.

Lauphit's Pa: 'Sides, you know what they say... Good kings come to those who wait.

Lauphit's Ma: Why would a king visit you outta the blue? That makes no sense...

Young Lauphit: Ahahaha! You're such a pinhead, Pa!

Lauphit's Pa: You said it, Lauphit! Life is that much more fun when ya play the part of a pinhead! You oughta be a pinhead too!

Lauphit's Ma: Hey, quit talkin' about bein' pinheaded before I pin you both down already!

Lauphit: Ma and Pa always kept a smile on. Even made me laugh all the time.

Lauphit: But they never got a day off work. It got to a point where, eventually...

Juri: Wh-what happened?

Lauphit: Last year... One after the other...

Farrah: L-last year?

Juri: One after the other?

Lauphit: They got worried we might run out of ways to prank each other.

Juri: Huh... Oh...

Farrah: All that buildup for nothing...

Lauphit: If you ask me though, the looming threat of family life without jokes was a serious emergency.

Lauphit: Even though we were poor, Ma and Pa always did their best to make sure I didn't have to worry about a thing.

Lauphit: I wanted to give them a chance to finally rest. That meant everything to me.

Lauphit: So I told them about my plans to enter the contest. If they hear about how my duo's disbanded though...

Lauphit: They'd probably push themselves hard, goin' outta their way to cheer me up.

Juri: ...!

Lauphit: The thought scared me, so I just ran away instead. But you opened up my eyes, Juri. Can't thank ya enough.

Lauphit: I'm gonna come out on top in that contest. Make a name for myself, keep myself busy, and send money home.

Lauphit: Come to think of it, I can actually use my disbanded duo as a joke to give Ma and Pa a good laugh!

Juri: Lauphit!

Lauphit: With all that said, it's time I got to work. I've got to pick the jokes I'm gonna use.

Farrah: Jokes are one thing, but don't you need a partner too?

Lauphit: Thing is, I've already got one in mind.

Juri: I suppose after watching all those skits earlier, you thought of a few candidates?

Lauphit: More like one candidate actually... Happy to pair up with ya, Juri.

Juri: Ah! What an incredible honor...

Juri: This is not!

Lauphit: Beautiful retort there. You've got potential after all, Juri.

Juri: H-how do you expect a humorless person like me to humor everyone! This isn't the time for jokes—

Lauphit: Oh, it's no joke, Juri. I couldn't be more serious right now.

Lauphit: You've got a good voice and a way with words. You take things seriously and give every job your utmost. I couldn't ask for a more ideal partner.

Lauphit: Well, I've said what needs to be said. What do you say, Juri?

Juri: Urgh! Y-you're actually not kidding! But can I make others laugh when I hardly ever laugh myself?

Farrah: Sure you do, Juri! A few tickles here and there, and you break into laughter faster than a bat out of hell!

Juri: Huh?

Farrah: Hehe! How about that?

Juri: Urk! Stop! Ngh! Aha, ahahahahaha!

Lauphit: Haha. You do make a funny face.

Lauphit: I can already tell this is gonna be a blast...

Lauphit: (The moment I stepped outta town, I thought I'd never laugh again...)

He recalls Juri's words from earlier.

Juri: Hm, you sound surprisingly cheery just talking about this.

Juri: Struck me as odd, coming from someone who was intent on taking a break from everything... Just goes to show you really are a comedian at heart.

Lauphit: Can't deny that...

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 1: Comedy Finds Its Soul - Episode 4

Lauphit gets the go-ahead from Freyr to recruit Juri into his comedy duo. The ex-soldier lets loose an uncharacteristically rude retort that surprises everyone.

It is the next morning. The crew's comedic acts had continued late into the night.

After a heartfelt talk with Juri and Farrah the day prior, Lauphit is full of smiles again.

Vyrn: Mornin,' Lauphit! Looks like you had a good night's rest!

Lauphit: Vyrn, Freyr! The guest room couldn't have been more comfy! I slept like a log!

Lauphit: Can't thank ya enough.

Lyria: No thanks needed! We're just happy to see you in a much better mood!

Lauphit: You guys are so nice... Not to take advantage of your kindness, but I've got a favor to ask...

Vyrn: Yeah? What might that be?

Lauphit: My duo's disbanded, but I'm still intent on enterin' the King of Manzai Awards.

Lauphit: I've gotta take a shot at it. But if I'm gonna stand a chance of winning, I'm gonna need a worthy partner.

Lauphit: Would it be possible to team up with someone on the ship?

Vyrn: Whaaat?

Lyria: You're looking to form a new duo?

Go for it!

Choose: Go for it!

Lauphit: That was fast! You sure you're okay with this?

Vyrn: Ahaha! We've got no reason to object as long as your new partner's cool with it! Sounds like it's gonna be a ton of fun!

Lauphit: Glad to hear it. Thing is, I've already got my eye on someone.

Lauphit: And that someone is...

Lauphit directs his eyes toward a certain figure.

Lauphit: You, Juri!

Juri: ...!

Juri: Wha?

Juri: Ah, woe is me!

Lyria: Huh?

Vyrn: Juri, of all people?

Eugen: Was that a comedic retort just now?

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Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 2: One Step at a Time - Episode 1

While others are happy to see Juri chosen for a comedy duo, he isn't too sure of himself. His self-confidence takes another downturn when Seruel questions his resolve, and he runs off flustered.

Juri: Wh-why! Why me?

Lauphit: Ahaha! Great timing there, Juri!

All stand dumbfounded by the unexpected request.

Vyrn: Juri... in a comedy duo with Lauphit?

Juri: T-to be fair, I did recommend against it...

Eugen: Oh, I get it... Juri is usually all business, which leads to an interesting chemistry with Lauphit.

Lyria: Juri is a gold mine of potential!

Eugen: Ooh. Interesting metaphor, Lyria.

Lyria: Ehehe, Lauphit taught me that one!

Lauphit: Yep! Juri's a diamond in the rough!

Farrah: He definitely has the wit to pull it off if you ask me!

Juri: A-am I really the best person for this?

Vyrn: You'll be fine! Just give it the beans!

Juri: What beans!

Zehek: I was thinking I could be of assistance if you need a partner, but I suppose Juri is the safer bet!

Juri: The heck are you saying!

Lyria: Juri—a gold mine of potential!

Juri: I'm potentially about to have a conniption!

Lauphit: Beautiful! It's like you're parrying the fool with your quick soldierly reflexes!

Lauphit: Keep that up during an actual performance and the audience will love ya!

Juri: An actual performance...

Juri: Why in the skies!

Spectator: Wahahahaha!

Juri: Give me a break!

Spectator: Ahahaha!

Juri: ...

Juri: Nuh-uh! I just don't see myself making anyone laugh!

Lauphit: Hey, don't forget I can play the foil too. You can always play the fool if ya think things might work out better that way!

Juri: Me? Play the fool? I wouldn't even know where to begin!

Farrah: Wow, you're taking this so seriously, Juri! Makes you the perfect fit!

Juri: Wha? Nuh-uh-uh! You've gotta be kidding me!

Farrah: He's too bashful to admit it.

Vyrn: I can see this goin' places.

Lauphit: Just one more push...

As curiosity brews among the crew, another figure struts onto the deck.

Seruel: Oh? Someone I only notice sighing all the time becoming a performer?

Seruel: How intriguing.

Juri: ...!

Seruel: I've heard finding success in the performing arts is incredibly difficult... Are you confident about continuing down this path?

Faced with Seruel, who wears the expression of a hunter cornering his prey, Juri recoils involuntarily.

Juri: I, uh... I'm not so sure...

Eugen: !
Clear the way, guys!

Farrah: Juri!

Juri: I'm not cut out for thiiiisss!

Screaming from the pit of his stomach, Juri runs off the ship without turning back once.

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 2: One Step at a Time - Episode 2

Having stormed off from the Grandcypher, Juri makes it all the way to Namvia, where he takes in the good humor of its residents and runs into fellow crew member Robertina—a native of the island. He then hears the voice of his former imperial commander, Galston.

Overwhelmed by the expectations of Lauphit and fellow crew members, Juri finds himself running away as fast as he can.

He makes it all the way to Namvia without realizing it.

Juri: This is it... The town were laughter never ceases...

Grocer: One radish! That'll be (Captain).5 million rupies!

Juri: Pricey!

Grocer: (Captain) million rupies accepted. Your change is 0.5 million rupies!

Juri: Ah, this must be what it means to play the fool...

Startled by the general atmosphere of the town, Juri looks around to find laughter in every direction.

Young Performer (Captain): A bit long, isn't it... Where should we cut?

Young Performer 2: Well, if we shorten the intro a bit...

???: Thinking up jokes for the contest? I'm proud of you guys. Here's a treat.

Young Performer (Captain): Gee, thanks! You'd best get to preppin' your act too, miss!

???: Oh, I'm a contestant too? Why, I had no idea!

Juri: So this is what it means for laughter to never cease... It's more than I imagined.

Juri: Because people are constantly seeking laughter, they will naturally play the fool to evoke a comedic response... It may as well be a battlefield.

Juri: Ah... Robertina?

Robertina: Well, if it isn't Juri! What a surprise to see you here!

Juri: You seem so at home here... What brings you to town?

Robertina: Oh, did I not mention that I'm from West Varia? I'm not Namvian though.

Robertina: I'm on my way back from the sacred peaks of the tuba god and thought I'd stock up on some of the tasty snacks this town is famous for.

Robertina: Here, why don't you try one too, Juri.

Juri: Why, thank you...

Robertina: So? What brings you to Namvia?

Juri: Er... Um...

Robertina: ...!

Seeing Juri hem and haw, Robertina realizes something and politely shakes her head.

Robertina: Hm, I guess it's not my place to ask. Don't worry, you don't have to tell me.

Juri: Ah...

Robertina: No matter how serious you might usually be, we all have times when we just want to indulge in yummy foods! Namvia is famous for its cuisine too after all.

Robertina: Relax. I won't tell anyone I saw you, so please indulge to your heart's content!

Juri: Um...

Robertina: I'm going back to the ship! My tuba needs a good cleaning. Make sure you leave enough room in your tummy for dinner!

Juri: Off she goes... I had no idea Robertina was from this island.

Juri: She must be a bit of a jokester herself too then...

Juri: Urk! Why is comedy the first thing my mind goes to!

Juri: Calm down, Juri! Maybe do something else for a bit to clear your mind...

Just then, Juri overhears a lively exchange.

Soldier (Captain): Commander! Requesting permission to purchase souvenirs!

???: What!

Soldier 2: You dolt! We're here on a job! Act like it before you get chewed out!

Soldier (Captain): I... guess that's a "no" then?

???: He was right to call you a dolt!

Juri: Those voices... It can't be...

Soldier 2: Yes sir! Forgive me, sir!

???: We've only just arrived! It is hardly the time for souvenirs!

Soldiers: Sir! Yes sir!

Juri: Commander Galston!

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 2: One Step at a Time - Episode 3

Juri observes Galston and his men from the shadows. They have come to learn Namvia's comedic ways and hopefully bring some of the positivity associated with it back to Erste. When Galston's men doubt themselves, he tells them not to give up so easily. The exchange makes Juri think of his own situation.

Juri: Commander Galston!

Galston: Hm?

Juri: (Oops, I didn't mean to yell that! I'd better hide!)

Juri hastily flits to the shadows.

Juri: (I haven't forgotten what Commander Galston said the day I left the imperial army...)

Commander: Don't neglect your training, son. Next time we meet, we'll be on opposing sides.

Juri: But wait, the empire is no more... Maybe that means we don't have to be enemies?

Galston: You boys better not tell me you've forgotten the mission already!

Juri quietly observes from the shadows.

Soldier (Captain): No sir!

Soldier 2: We haven't forgotten, sir!

Galston: Good! Tell me the mission!

Soldier (Captain): The directive comes directly from Her Majesty Queen Orchis!

Soldier 2: He's asking what that directive is, you numbskull!

Soldier (Captain): Er... We are to keep the citizens of Erste smiling!

Soldier 2: That's only half the story!

Galston: Ugh, why am I stuck commanding a bunch of buffoons!

Galston: I'll say it again, so listen up! The Erste Kingdom is currently rebuilding, and its citizens are not without concerns!

Galston: Our directive from the queen is to investigate this town for hints on how to keep the citizenry happy and smiling again!

Galston: Enjoy yourselves while you're at it, and don't forget to submit a report by mission's end! Is that clear?

Soldiers: Sir! Yes sir!

Soldier (Captain): Man, this is gonna be so much fun! Even if it is officially a mission!

Soldier 2: Just imagine being able to watch Namvia's biggest comedy contest for work!

Soldier (Captain): Think maybe we could compete too?

Soldier 2: No, you dolt! At least one member of the duo's got to be affiliated with a theater!

Galston: Don't you two forget that you're on duty!

Soldier (Captain): No sir!

Soldier 2: We haven't, sir!

Galston: Good!

Juri: Commander... Guys... Haha, they haven't changed at all...

Galston: The operation begins now! Get to work, everyone!

Soldier 2: Yes sir!

Galston: Why does laughter never cease in this town?

Galston: Experience the comedy in the air for yourselves and take it back to Erste!

Soldier (Captain): Should we stuff the air into plastic bags, sir?

Galston: Another word and I'll stuff you into a plastic bag!

Soldier (Captain): Apologies, sir!

Galston: By "air," I'm referring to the atmosphere! Discover for yourselves what makes this island tick, why it's known as a cradle of optimism!

Galston: Whatever we learn here will be put into practice in Erste! Is that clear?

Soldier (Captain): Very clear, sir!

Soldier 2: I wonder how that's gonna go... So far, I get the impression that Namvia's full of professional comedians, and comedy has long been embedded into the island's culture.

Soldier 2: It hardly seems realistic to be able to reenact this elsewhere overnight...

Galston: Do not cower before you've even started! No one's going to die from trying something new! Although I suppose there may be some emotional damage!

Juri: It doesn't hurt to try, huh...

Galston: ...

Unbeknownst to the pensive Juri, Galston watches him from underneath his helmet.

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 2: One Step at a Time - Episode 4

Juri returns to the Grandcypher and asks Lauphit's reason for choosing him as a partner. Lauphit gives a convincing argument, but Juri needs a final push, which Farrah happily provides. When all is said and done, Juri formally accepts the offer to partner up with Lauphit.

Juri: Lauphit...

Juri returns to the Grandcypher that night and speaks to Lauphit.

Juri: I want you to tell me something.

Lauphit: I'm all ears.

Lauphit straightens his posture, facing Juri with his own brand of earnestness.

Juri: Why comedy? What exactly is comedy to you?

Juri: Because it's a whole new world to me. And with a pro like you seemingly determined to have me as your partner, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't curious.

Juri: But I lack the necessary knowledge and experience in this arena. Nor do I have the insight or sense for it.

Juri: On the other hand, we have many onboard the ship who do not have such shortcomings. Yet you still chose me...

Juri: If I'm not mistaken, the partner you require is essentially a comrade whom you can trust to have your back and is capable of overcoming any trial with you.

Juri: What is your basis for determining that I, a complete rookie, would be able to fulfill that role?

Juri: No matter how I approach the question, I cannot figure it out. So please, tell me how you arrived at this conclusion.

Lauphit: Haha... You really are the curious type, aren't ya. That's a good thing. Shows me you're interested in what we're gonna do.

Lauphit: Why comedy though? Y'know, I never really thought to ask myself that.

Lauphit: Comedy was all around me since the day I was born.

Juri: A product of your environment, I see.

Lauphit: Sounds about right. Growing up in an environment full of laughter's definitely a big part of it.

Lauphit: Then again, it's not like every Namvian goes down the path of a comedian.

Lauphit: Heck, there's definitely plenty more people who lead a regular life.

Juri: A regular life...

Lauphit: Mm-hm. The life of an entertainer's a gamble. If your shows don't sell, you won't last long in the biz.

Lauphit: Still, I went into comedy knowin' that full well. I love this stuff too much.

Lauphit: Seein' people break into laughter from somethin' I said is the best feeling ever.

Juri: Hm...

Lauphit: Surely you've got someone you wish you could make laugh too...

Juri: Hm? Now that you mention it...

Lauphit: Could be anyone... Anyone at all.

Lauphit: If you've got even a single person in mind, then you ought to understand what a wonderful thing comedy is.

Juri: Someone I'd like to see laugh...

Juri ruminates over the idea, images of everyone he knows flashing through his mind.

Juri: Maybe (Captain)... or Farrah? No... They're full of smiles already.

Juri: Then...

Juri: ...!

Lauphit: Lemme guess... You thought of someone?

Juri: S-sort of... I just visualized people whose expressions are perpetually stern...

Lauphit: Oh yeah? Keep focusin' on them.

Juri: Okay... Seruel and Poseidon... flashing a grin...

Juri: ...

Juri: No... The only thing I see is failure.

Lauphit: Haha. You know, I've never seen such a wide variety of facial expressions from you in such a short time.

Lauphit: Seruel and Poseidon, eh? Might just be worth makin' em laugh.

Juri: You're asking for the impossible..

Simply imagining the unlikely act seems to drain Juri of all vitality.

An amused Lauphit gazes up at the starry sky.

Lauphit: So why did I choose you, you were askin'?

Juri: Yes.

Lauphit: Well... It's not like I had some grand designs for ya. It just felt right.

Juri: Huh... That's all there is to it?

Lauphit: Intuition's a powerful thing, ya know. Besides, like I was tellin' Lyria, you've got potential in spades.

Lauphit: Beyond that though, you're the type to take things seriously.

Lauphit: Which told me that you'd give this your all once you set your mind to it.

Juri: To put forth anything less than my best would be an affront to you...

Not entirely convinced, Juri casts a dubious glance at Lauphit.

Juri: Is that really a good enough reason to place your trust in me though?

Lauphit: Of course it is! The important thing is our chemistry with each other.

Lauphit: Namvia's full of interesting folks to partner up with, but it won't be much of a show on the stage if personalities clash.

Lauphit: The way I see it, a duo works best when both members have each other's back.

Juri: And you believe I fit that criteria...

Lauphit: Not "criteria." That sounds a bit too high and mighty...

Lauphit: As you put it earlier, a partner in comedy is essentially a "comrade."

Juri: Yes, I did say that, didn't I...

Lauphit: I'd bet havin' a reliable comrade in the army makes a huge difference. That word carries great meaning.

Lauphit: A "partner" in the world of comedy essentially is a comrade when you get down to brass tacks.

Lauphit: Our battlefield is the stage, where our bonds deepen with every battle fought.

Lauphit: Hearin' you, a former soldier, use the term "comrade" in this manner darn well brought a tear to my eye.

Juri: ...!

Lauphit: You keep sayin' comedy's not your thing, but you've paid close attention to every last word I've said.

Lauphit: You even encouraged me to stay strong and to not give up on my dreams.

Lauphit: You could say I'm your biggest fan!

Juri: Hm... Appreciate the vote of confidence...

Lauphit: (There's one other reason actually, but it's probably best not to go there...)

Lauphit: And that's the gist of it! Hope that clears up any confusion you had!

Farrah's Voice: Yep! All clear to me!

Juri: Farrah! You were listening this whole time?

Farrah: I mean, it seemed like a pretty deep discussion, and I didn't want to interrupt...

Farrah: So? Have you decided to take on the job?

Seeing Juri clam up, Lauphit expects an unfavorable answer.

However, Farrah realizes that Juri only needs one last push to be convinced he can do this.

Farrah: I paid real close attention to Lauphit's spiel too...

Juri: Huh?

Farrah: And since only one member of the duo has to be affiliated with the theater, I guess I pass muster too.

Farrah: So what do you say? I might even turn out to be the better partner!

Juri: What the... Farrah? You can't be serious...

Farrah: Juri gets so serious that he loses sight of himself sometimes, which could pose a problem for you.

Farrah: With that in mind, I'm not really sure he's cut out for this.

Juri: Wha! Are you saying I'm incapable of making people laugh!

Farrah: To be perfectly honest, that's exactly right. I can't begin to imagine the sight of an audience cracking up at your jokes.

Farrah: Besides, Lauphit needs someone who's fully committed, isn't that right?

Lauphit: Y-yeah! I think you've got a point there, Farrah!

Juri: What the heck happened to your voice!

Juri: Comedy's not hard at all! Not in the least! And I'm gonna prove it!

Juri: Farrah, Seruel, Poseidon... Just you watch!

Juri: Lauphit! You've got yourself a new partner for the upcoming contest!

Farrah: (That's how you get him fired up!)

Lauphit: (What an interesting fella your friend is. Appreciate the tip, Farrah!)

And so a highly determined Juri plunges into the world of comedy with Lauphit as his partner.

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Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 3: A Little Encouragement - Episode 1

Juri and Lauphit waste no time preparing for the contest. Juri proves to be severely lacking at first, but positive encouragement from the crew gives him the drive to push forward.

The news of Juri's induction into Lauphit's comedy duo causes a stir among the crew.

A festive mood overtakes the Grandcypher as everyone congratulates the two.

With little time to waste, the pair soon have a meeting about prep work for the upcoming King of Manzai Awards.

Lauphit: Okay, let's sort out stuff we've gotta get done before the contest. First is, of course, manzai practice.

Lauphit: I've got a notebook of comedy skits that I'll need you to get comfortable with. Imagine yourself followin' my lead in each skit.

Juri: There's a lot in here... But I think I'll manage.

Juri: As I thought... Guess I'll be playing the fool after all?

Lauphit: The skits I've got on hand have me playin' the foil, but I say we try some with the roles reversed too.

Lauphit: Second, we need to come up with a new skit specifically for the contest. It has to be under three minutes—they time us.

Juri: What happens if we go past three minutes?

Lauphit: The stage darkens, and the duo is led off the stage.

Juri: That's rough. I'll have to get a natural sense of the three-minute limit, but it should be fine.

Lauphit: Haha, you're handling this real well so far. Lastly, we need a name for our duo.

Juri: A duo name, huh? I wonder how everyone on the ship decided theirs.

Lauphit: I imagine it was a cinch, since you're all longtime friends here.

Lauphit: Havin' a duo name can help ya focus on the objective, but in our case, I think we can hold it off till later.

Juri: Okay, we can start by discussing possible jokes to use then.

Lauphit: All righty! We can worry about memorizin' lines later. Choosin' the right material comes first.

Vyrn: Heyo, you guys lookin' to test your jokes? We'll be here if you need an audience!

Farrah: Break a leg, Juri!

Juri: Th-thanks!

And so Juri and Lauphit try to put something together.

Lauphit: Let's rehearse the proposal bit. You're playin' the girlfriend.

Juri: O-okay!

Lauphit: Juri? I had something important to discuss with ya today.

Juri: I-I had something I w-wanted to talk about too! W-with you, Lauphit!

Lauphit: Whoa, whoa, whoa. Lemme stop ya right there.

Juri: Huh?

Lauphit: Boy, oh boy... That was really somethin'!

Juri: What's that supposed to mean!

Lauphit: C'mon, don't make me spell it out.

Lauphit looks to the others in their vicinity, all of whom seem hesitant to speak.

Vyrn: ...

Lyria: Ah, er, ahaha...

Just then, sharp, stinging words come from an unexpected direction.

Vira: Haha... That sorry excuse for acting was so irredeemably bad that you're all looking the other way, too kind to point it out.

Juri: I-irredeemably bad...

Lauphit: Phew, can't get much more direct than that.

Tyre: Lady V-V-V-Vi-Vi-Vira! I-it may have been advisable to soften that blow a bit!

Juri: Rgh! Who knew that performing in front of others could make your entire body tense up so much!

Farrah: Wait, didn't you guys in the Galston unit do sing-alongs for the holidays?

Juri: We're soldiers, not kindergartners!

Vira: Rather than focusing on yourself, maybe focus on the fact that you're putting on a show for others.

Lauphit: True... We've gotta make ya presentable, or this is really gonna turn into a recital.

Farrah: As much fun as that'd be to watch, we have to remember this is a contest.

Vyrn: Though it sure is a surprise to see Vira givin' advice about this.

Vira: I simply saw the need to interject.

Vyrn: Whaddya mean?

Vira: Katalina mentioned looking forward to seeing how far Juri goes in his new venture. He was her junior in the army after all.

Vira: And as long as Katalina expresses interest, I will not allow you to disappoint her.

Vira: If you dare to waste her time with a shoddy performance... you will have me to deal with.

Juri: A shoddy performance... You're right, I'm only going to embarrass myself at this rate! I've got to get it together!

Juri: I won't be a failure... I won't!

Lauphit: There ya go! That's the volume you wanna speak at! You got this!

Tyre: You have the right volume and the right attitude... You can do this, Juri!

Go, go, Juri!

Choose: Go, go, Juri!

Juri: (Captain)! I will not let you down!

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 3: A Little Encouragement - Episode 2

Days later, Juri, Lauphit, and Farrah go to see a live manzai show in Namvia, while turning in entry forms for the King of Manzai Awards contest. Just as Juri is shaken to learn what it's actually like in the theater, the three bump into Galston.

Days have passed since Juri showcased his less-than-ideal acting skills.

Seeing Juri and Lauphit grow increasingly panicked as the day of the contest draws near, Farrah calls out to them.

Farrah: Guys! Panicking isn't gonna turn you into the funniest comedian overnight!

Farrah: Why not go take a stroll for a change of pace? Especially since Namvia's really close by.

Lauphit: True... You see performers everywhere you go in Namvia. Might spark some ideas for us.

Lauphit: All righty then! Off we go to the Namvia Theater of Performin' Arts! Might as well check out the contest venue while we're at it!

Juri: Now that you mention it, is our entry in the contest already confirmed?

Lauphit: ...!
Yowie! That might be the most beautiful retort I've heard outta ya so far, Juri!

Juri: That wasn't meant to be funny!

Farrah: Uh-oh! You'd better get your entries in fast, guys!

And so the three make haste to town.

Farrah: Wow...

Juri: ...

Lauphit: Well? How did ya like your first comedy show?

Farrah: That was fun! Right, Juri?

Juri: Y-yeah... What an experience that was!

Juri: So that's what it's like when laughter fills the entire audience!

Juri: Though it's especially startling how fast the mood in the venue changes when a joke fails to land... The silence was deafening...

Lauphit: Haha, yep. We're essentially takin' on the audience head-on when we're up on the stage.

Lauphit: Get 'em to laugh and you see 'em at their best. Fail to do so and the blank stares could burn holes right through ya.

Juri: ...

Farrah: Hey, don't tell us you're getting cold feet now that you got to see what it's actually like.

Lauphit: Haha, too late for regrets! I've already turned in our entry forms!

Juri: Cold feet? Me?

Juri: Honestly, I don't know! But I'm certainly not feeling very confident!

Juri: Why would one even think to stand on that stage as a dull, unpolished edge... The very thought gets my stomach churning!

Farrah: Juri... I know what you mean—

Farrah: Ah!

Juri: Ack!

Galston: Oho...

Popping out of the theater just now is Juri's former commanding officer.

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 3: A Little Encouragement - Episode 3

Farrah enlists Galston's aid in motivating Juri. The Erste commander relates how Juri's father was a humorous man back in the day. Juri is reminded of how his father told him to let loose sometimes, instilling him with renewed vigor.

Juri: C-Commander Galston!

Galston: Juri, eh? It's been a while.

Juri: It is a pleasure to see you again, Commander Galston!

Juri: ...!

Shaken by the unexpected encounter, Juri struggles to find the right words for the occasion. Fortunately Farrah is quick to fill the silence.

Farrah: Lieutenant, apologies for the sudden request, but could you perhaps throw some encouragement Juri's way?

Juri: What the... Seriously, Farrah!

Galston: Hm? Is something troubling you? Given that we're former acquaintances and are no longer enemies, I wouldn't mind hearing more about it.

Farrah: Thanks, Lieutenant! You're the best! C'mon, Lauphit, time to go!

The next moment, Farrah grabs Lauphit by the arm and runs off. Juri, left alone with his former commander, is sweating profusely.

Juri: Erm, I...

Galston: Spit it out, soldier!

Juri: Yes sir!

Though not quite sure where to start, Juri's posture instantly straightens up at the sound of Galston's voice.

Fortunately the nostalgia of the situation eases him into speaking of his current predicament.

Juri: In summary, I will be participating in the upcoming King of Manzai Awards contest!

Galston: You? Entering a comedy contest?

Juri: Yes sir!

Galston: Hm...

Juri: Commander?

Seeing Galston in a rare state of contemplation, Juri is unsure how to react.

Galston: You are attempting to embark on a new path.

Juri: Y-yes! It is by circumstance that I find myself on the thorny path of comedy!

Galston: Hm... You really are your father's son.

Juri: Huh?

Galston: I'm sure he'd be proud, or rather intrigued, to see what you're up to now.

Juri: My father, you say?

The image Juri has of his father is that of a strict imperial soldier.

Juri finds it hard to believe his father would be very approving of his unconventional entry into the world of comedy.

Juri: I wonder about that...

Galston: I suppose you only saw the shining example of a soldier in your father, but truth be told...

Galston: Behind the scenes, he was one heck of a rascal in his own right.

Galston: Blast it... What did she ever see in him...

Juri: Huh?

Galston: Ahem...

Galston: He'd do all sorts of crazy things behind the soldiers' backs.

Galston: Ah, the memories.

Juri: My father... engaged in unscrupulous behavior?

Seeing that Juri remains unconvinced, Galston continues on.

Galston: Do you remember that strange Halloween tradition among our unit?

Juri: Halloween...

Soldier (Captain): Juri! Trick or treat!

Juri: Whoa!

Juri: Strange tradition... You mean the one where someone throws a live smoke grenade into the barracks?

Galston: Yes. Your father is the one who came up with the idea.

Juri: Oh...

Juri: Hey, wait a second!

Galston: Also...

Juri's Dad: Consider yourselves lucky, guys! I whipped us up a bucketload of cakes for the holidays!

Soldier (Captain): I love cake! Whoo-hoo!

Juri's Dad: Watch out though—one of the cakes is actually a monster in disguise!

Juri's Dad: On the plus side, whoever's unlucky—or lucky—enough to get that cake is cleared of tomorrow's toilet cleaning duties!

Soldier (Captain): Sign me up!

Soldier 2: Meh, I'd rather not have to face monsters on the holidays!

Juri's Dad: For goodness' sake, you're a soldier! Show some spirit!

Soldier 2: Slurp...

Soldier (Captain): Chew...

Juri's Dad: You two! What do you think you're doing!

Soldier 2: We're slurping on noodles through the slits in our helmets.

Soldier (Captain): There's no telling what might happen on the front lines, so it doesn't hurt to be prepared!

Soldier 2: Yes, we consider eating while fully armored part of our training!

Juri's Dad: That's the spirit! But ramen is child's play; try slurping udon noodles instead!

Soldier 2: Th-that's impossible!

Soldier (Captain): Udon noodles are too thick!

Juri's Dad: You're soldiers, for crying out loud! Show some bravado!

Juri: Geez, what was my old man doing! "Behind the scenes"? Sounds like he did all that in plain view!

Galston: Thanks to your father's shenanigans, our unit came to be known as the odd one out...

Galston: He'd make a mention of soldierly spirit every time he played one of his pranks. He had his reputation as the Fiery Soul of the Empire, after all.

Juri: Hm, I-I see...

Juri: Now that you mention it...

Juri's Dad: What does it take to become a strong soldier? Hm...

Young Juri: You did lots of training, right, Dad? I'm going to do my best too!

Juri's Dad: I'm sure you will, Son. But you'll run out of breath sooner or later if you only focus on the training.

Young Juri: Huh?

Juri's Dad: You've got a tendency to push yourself too hard. Learn to let loose a little sometimes.

Young Juri: Okay! I'll keep that in mind!

Juri: How did I ever forget...

Juri: I was so focused on my father's image as a proud soldier of the empire... I wanted to be just like him...

Juri: It got to a point that I forgot everything else about Dad...

Galston: You always were the type to go full steam ahead with the current task at hand.

Galston: Just like your mother...

Galston: Your stubborn resilience and fiery spirit definitely come from your dad though.

Galston: Wouldn't be surprised if his sense of humor's somewhere in you as well.

Galston: Be proud, Juri. Both as a soldier... and as a performer.

Juri: Commander Galston!

The vague anxiety and tension that have been plaguing Juri seem to slowly melt away.

In their place rises a burning ambition deep from the pit of Juri's stomach, and he is ready to make full use of it.

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 3: A Little Encouragement - Episode 4

Amid skit practice, Juri asks Lauphit what kind of person his former partner Renvauro was. Lauphit reveals that Juri's similarities to Renvauro were part of the reason he chose him. Lauphit, seeing how seriously Juri takes comedy, realizes that practicing old jokes was a mistake and resolves to make an entirely new skit with him.

Juri: Lauphit! Ready for some skit practice?

Lauphit: Whoa-ho... That might be the first time you approached me about practice, Juri.

Juri: We have lots to do and not much time until the contest!

Lauphit: Whatever's happened, I could get used to this new version of ya... And I suppose I have Galston to thank for that.

Juri: I'll even play the fool if need be! With pride!

Inspired by the fiery soul of his late father and Galston, Juri finds himself bursting with energy and enthusiasm.

Lauphit: Wherever this mojo's comin' from, I like it! Just hope you can keep it until the contest is over!

Juri: You can count on me! I will not embarrass you, Commander Galston, or my father!

The two remain fully engrossed in their skit practice for quite a while. The sun's morning rays shine on the deck before they realize it.

Lauphit: Whoo... We finally got through an entire skit without pause... In exactly three minutes, at that!

Juri: We did it... I did my part too!

Lauphit: So? How's it feel? Must be a huge relief, yeah?

Juri: Yes... I believe it's good enough to show the crew now.

Juri: I can't wait to see their reaction!

Lauphit: Yep, what's important is what the audience thinks. Even if we think it's perfect, there's bound to be room for improvement.

Lying on the Grandcypher's deck beside Lauphit with a beaming expression, Juri takes in the sight of the azure skies.

While an immense sense of accomplishment washes over Juri, he grows curious about something else.

Juri: So you used to make skits with your former partner too, right?

Lauphit: !

Juri: What kind of guy was he? I always wondered what sort of duo you two were.

Lauphit: Good question... Renvauro, my former partner...

Lauphit: He had big dreams...

Renvauro: You're a funny guy! What say you and I pair up? I'm Renvauro.

Renvauro: I might be a lil' Harvin, but I've got huge ambitions! You won't regret workin' with me!

Lauphit: Renvauro, eh? I think I like you already!

Renvauro: Great! It's settled then!

Lauphit: We're a duo startin' today!

Lauphit slowly pushes himself upright before continuing.

He relates how he first met Renvauro, how they went about coming up with skits...

And how their relationship eventually broke down.

Renvauro: Why don't we take up that business offer... It'll give us a lot more work...

Lauphit: Nuh-uh. That offer strays too far from manzai. It's hardly even comedy.

Lauphit: Singin' and dancin' ain't our thing as comedians. I'd rather not take that kinda detour.

Renvauro: Consider the fame and increased pay we'll get... You wanna send money home, don'tcha?

Lauphit: Sure, but I wanna do it with money we earned through our own hard work, our own jokes.

Lauphit: Otherwise Ma and Pa would be sad.

Lauphit: So I say we continue honin' our craft as proper comedians and slowly build up a fanbase that wants to watch us perform.

Lauphit: For now, I say we continue doin' our skits at the theater. I know it ain't easy scrapin' by like this, but goin' slow and steady will help us build a solid foundation.

Renvauro: Sure, but when it comes to free-talk, you're not exactly an ad-lib master, and your personality alone ain't gonna carry you far.

Renvauro: A bit of world experience would do us wonders in that respect.

Renvauro: You've gotta show that you're hungry for opportunity in this biz.

Lauphit: Well...

Renvauro: I just wanna get our name out there...

Being told that their duo was no more hit Lauphit hard.

Renvauro: Work with you's no fun anymore. Doubt we've got much in the way of future prospects either.

Lauphit: Huh?

Renvauro: This was probably never meant to be to begin with. Let's not waste any more time.

Renvauro: Today marks the last day of our duo.

Lauphit: What the? But why!

Renvauro: I want to actually make a decent living. Maybe I'll have better luck with my next partner. See ya around.

Lauphit: No way...

Lauphit's Voice: Why...

Lauphit spares no detail, believing that Juri deserves to know the truth.

Juri: Huh... I guess a comedian's job is more than just coming up with jokes. I understand where you're both coming from...

Juri: Though I can't approve of Renvauro deciding on his own to disband.

Lauphit: Renvauro's rage bit was our greatest asset.

Lauphit: I thought you'd be the perfect candidate for screamin' off the top of your lungs.

Lauphit: I've already got a fair number of rage jokes in stock, which would lessen the load on me.

Lauphit: It's one of the reasons I chose ya... Hope you don't think any less of me...

Juri: Not at all. It makes sense, in fact.

Lauphit: You're okay with it! You sure are an understanding fella...

Lauphit: You're... different from Renvauro...

Juri: ...?

Lauphit turns to look straight at Juri.

Lauphit: (There's nothin' alike about you two at all...)

Lauphit: All right, let's come up with a new skit. I'm scrappin' all the old jokes. We're gonna compete with somethin' entirely new.

Juri: Huh?

Lauphit: Hate to make you do this after you memorized it all!

Lauphit: But I want our skit to be special... Something catered specifically to the two of us.

Seeing Juri's rapid growth as an up-and-coming performer, something about Lauphit's outlook has changed too.

Back to top

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 4: Soul Resonance - Episode 1

Juri and Lauphit come up with new jokes to show to the crew. The duo is faced with many challenges, among which are Robertina's harsh comments, Juri's inability to perform well in front of Seruel, and Tyre explaining every joke to Orchid and the Apollonia. Thanks to the help of their friends, the two are able to refine their act before moving on to the next phase of their training.

Robertina: This isn't working! You two aren't meshing together at all!

Juri: Hrk...

Juri, having improved his acting skills, joins Lauphit in showing the crew a newly prepared repertoire of jokes.

While their act is mostly well-received, among the audience is one particularly critical spectator.

Robertina: Hrm... There's something missing. It's like you two aren't in sync. We'll take a quick snack break then get right back to it!

Lauphit: Spoken like a true local!

Robertina: You betcha. It isn't just the folks in Namvia. We West Varians love ourselves a good stand-up show!

Robertina: I mean, c'mon... This is the island where the god of comedy resides!

Juri: A god of comedy? Hrk... I wouldn't want to insult a god with our bad performance...

Lauphit: There's a god like that? Never heard of 'em.

Vyrn: Could the Astrals've made a primal that governs laughter?

Lyria: Hm... I don't sense any primals around...

While adjusting the finer details of their act, Juri and Lauphit are taken aback by Robertina's critical, yet accurate, remarks.

Her understanding of comedic timing and verbal irony is akin to her dignity as a West Varian; it comes as naturally as breathing.

And she's not alone. There's another critical voice aboard the ship.

Seruel: Your movements are unnatural even if word has it that your jokes have improved.

Naoise: Perhaps your presence is causing them to be anxious, Seruel...

Juri: (I... I can't do this!)

Juri stands frozen in place before Seruel, as motionless as a mouse in the presence of a snake.

Something about Seruel scares him.

Juri: (It's not like I hate him or anything—that's not it at all! In fact, I trust and respect him as a fellow crewmate! It's just...)

It's just that he's afraid of Seruel.

Lauphit: C'mon, get your act together! One more time from the top!

Seruel: Well, well... When exactly do you intend on showing me your usual form?

Robertina: Passion! You're missing passion! Especially you, Juri! Why are you stiffening up in front of your friends?

Juri: Urgh... Sorry...

Naoise: I've prepared some tea for everyone. How about we take a quick break?

Having filled their stomachs and cleared their minds, the two quickly get back to work. However, they're soon met with yet another challenge.

Orchid: So what is it that you're trying to say?

Apollonia: I had a difficult time keeping up with how ridiculous of a story it was. If you would be so kind as to explain your jokes, I would appreciate it greatly.

Juri: Explain them?

Tyre: If you'd allow me, I'd be more than happy to do so on your behalf!

Tyre: What they were getting at earlier is...

The duo's performance is picked bare before their very eyes as they suffer the hellish agony of listening to someone else have to explain their jokes.

Tyre: And that's what you were getting at, right?

Lauphit: Y-yeah... There was supposed to be this funny one-liner right around here...

Juri: What's going on? This is so embarrassing! Just put me out of my misery!

Lauphit: Hngh... Is this the end? Am I dying right now?

Vyrn: But hey, at least your jokes are finally getting better!

Robertina: Yep! You guys made the right choice adding in some more funny reactions.

Lauphit: For sure. Thanks for the advice.

Lauphit: By the way, Juri was talkin' about a Poseidon earlier... Where is he?

Lauphit: If possible, I'd like to hear his opinion too...

Juri: What? That's not happening!

Lyria: Poseidon, huh?

Lyria glances to the side and spots Juri panicking, after which she checks up on Poseidon. However...

Poseidon: ...

Lyria: Hmmm... I don't think he has anything to say...

Juri: Lyria, please... Put Poseidon away! I can't... stand that piercing gaze of his...

Juri: Zehek's laughing—that should be enough, right?

Zehek: Ahaha—blegh... Sorry, but I'm not the best person to judge by. I'll laugh at basically any—ahahaha! Mmrph...

With so many different voices and opinions to help them, Juri and Lauphit's show slowly begins to take shape.

By this point, the two basically have the entire crew of the Grandcypher cheering them on.

Seruel: I believe the length of your act is fine. All that remains is getting rid of those nerves.

Juri: Urgh...

Naoise: Haha, I wouldn't worry too much. The best way to conquer your fears is to face them head-on.

Naoise: At the very least, such is the life Seruel has led from a young age.

Lauphit: That's exactly right, Juri. We have to face our fears head-on! On to the next phase of our plan!

Juri: The next phase? Oh, right! Our street performance!

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 4: Soul Resonance - Episode 2

Lauphit takes Juri out into the bustling city to perform on the streets. Despite his nerves, Juri pulls through, and he somehow recites his lines before being interrupted by a particularly drunk man. The atmosphere suddenly grows tense, but Lauphit is able to diffuse the situation through the power of comedy. The duo's next act is a success, putting Juri's mind at ease.

Juri: Oh, is this the place? But there are so many people!

Lauphit: That's the point! Just look around ya! Performers at practically every corner!

For their next phase, Lauphit drags Juri out to the bustling city with the goal of doing an impromptu street performance.

Lauphit: I've put out your helmet for any donations that may come our way, so we should be good to start!

Juri: W-wait! I need a second to mentally prepare myself...

Lauphit: Wow, you're sweatin' bullets! Take a deep breath. Oh, and just pretend all the passersby are potatoes!

Juri: Potatoes... Pretend they're potatoes...

Juri listens to Lauphit's suggestion and imagines that all the townspeople around him are walking potatoes.

However, when he looks up, he's greeted by a very different sight.

Juri: (Wh-what's going on?)

Juri: (Why're there imperial soldiers here?)

Townsperson? 1: What would you like for dinner, dear?

Townsperson? 2: Hm, good question. Udon sounds good. What do you think?

Townsperson? 1: Ooh, udon does sound nice. We'll do that then.

Juri: ...

Lauphit: Ya ready yet, Juri? Should we get started?

Juri: S-sure... Yeah, that's fine... Whatever you want...

Not wanting to resist any further, Juri accepts his fate, and the two step out onto the busy city streets to perform.

Lauphit: Y'know what? Fine!

Juri: Thank you so much for watching us!

Lauphit: We did it, Juri! A few people stopped to watch us, and we even earned ourselves a bit of cash!

Juri: R-right...

Lauphit: Huh? You're still nervous? But you did great!

Juri: Did we... make anybody laugh?

Lauphit: Haha, were you not looking at their faces?

Juri: Not really...

Juri: (I mean...)

Townsperson? 3: Ahahaha! You guys sure are funny!

Townsperson? 4: You did great! Acting's a bit stiff, but I liked it!

Juri: (A-are they laughing? I can't see through their helmets...)

Juri once again looks around. All the people passing by still look like imperial soldiers, but he doesn't have it in him to tell Lauphit.

Lauphit: All righty then! One more time from the top!

Lauphit: Hm?

Juri braces himself for a second performance before the masses of imperial soldiers staring his way. Suddenly—

Drunkard: Wheee! Hic... Whoa! You guys comedians too?

Juri: Who's that?

Lauphit: Ah, sorry. I forgot to tell you. There's a lot of drunks around here. Hey, mister! The sun's still up, y'know!

Drunkard: Whazzis? A helmet in the middle of the street? Oh, there's even s'money in it too! Lucky me!

Juri: Huh? Wait! Those are our earnings!

Drunkard: Hmmm? A couple o' amateurs tellin' jokes, an' you're takin' people's cash like some sorta big shot?

Drunkard: What a rip-off! Hey, everyone! Stay away from these scammers!

Juri: What? How dare you—

Lauphit: Lemme handle this.

Lauphit has to restrain the hot-blooded soldier before the situation gets out of hand.

Lauphit: Give us a break, mister! Don't you know who we are? I'll have you know we're members at the Namvia Theater of Performing Arts!

Drunkard: Hrng? The Namvia Theater of what? Never heard of 'em.

Lauphit: Ya probably just don't remember anything 'cause it's all drowning in alcohol along with the rest of your sad memories!

Drunkard: Bwahaha! You're right. Alcohol's great, isn't it? Makes everythin' so easy to forget!

Lauphit: You're gonna forget your way home if ya keep that up!

Drunkard: Bwahaha! Don't worry 'bout me! I don't even have a home to return to!

Lauphit: Whoops. Guess I was too late!

Townspeople: Ahahaha!

A few of the onlookers break out into laughter, and the tension in the air dissipates in an instant.

Juri: Everyone's... laughing?

Drunkard: Oh! I remember now!

Drunkard: Weren't you, uh... with that one Harvin from Heavenly Goods?

Lauphit: ...!

Drunkard: Figured you'd find some other kinda work, but I guess you're still doin' stand-up, huh?

Drunkard: Honestly surprised you kept at it. I thought you'd pursue somethin' else since it didn't really seem like your kinda thing.

Lauphit: W-well, things just happened to work out this way! I can tell you my story, but let me warn ya—it'll take a few days!

Drunkard: Bwahaha! I doubt I could stay awake through all that! Think I'll pass this time!

Lauphit: In that case, take care!

Drunkard: See ya 'round! And good luck, you two! You'll need it if you want any chance at beating Heavenly Goods!

Putting the pair's earnings back down, the drunk man staggers off into the crowd before disappearing from sight.

Juri: Hm... Who would've thought that comedy could be used to peacefully resolve conflict?

Lauphit: Okay then, let's get back to it!

The duo's manzai slowly turns the curious onlookers into full-on spectators. Seeing them all having a good time, Juri's mind begins to clear.

Juri: (Hm? I can see everyone laughing!)

Juri: (Ah!)

And just like that, the spell that had been haunting Juri is lifted, and he's freed from the anxiety distorting the spectators in his mind.

He finally relaxes, and after finishing the act, the crowd erupts into a round of applause.

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 4: Soul Resonance - Episode 3

With the competition just around the corner, Juri wonders what the duo should call themselves. Upon hearing the drunkard mention that Renvauro had formed a new duo by the name of Heavenly Goods, Lauphit is momentarily overcome by a wave of fear. He tries not to give it much thought, but Juri can tell that something is eating away at his partner's mind.

Lauphit: How 'bout we decide on our stage name?

Juri: Right. Come to think of it, was it really okay for us to put it off until now? I thought we needed a name in order to even enter the contest.

Lauphit: I put "Juri & Lauphit" on the entry sheet since we hadn't decided on one.

Lauphit: But well, "Juri & Lauphit" ain't exactly the pinnacle of creativity.

Juri: Hm... Remind me... What was your old stage name?

Lauphit: Ah, well, we combined Lauphit and Renvauro into Lauphren. Not the most original, I'll admit.

Juri: I see... So you took the first syllable of each name. Lauphju, maybe? Hrmmm... No, that sounds off.

Juri: A former soldier and a performer... Or a skyfarer and a performer... There's gotta be something...

Seeing Juri so deep in thought, Lauphit can't help but feel a certain warmth bubble up within him.

Lauphit: Thank ya so much!

Juri: Hm? What for?

Lauphit: I just asked ya to pair up with me outta the blue, but you still agreed—and you're real serious 'bout it too!

Lauphit: I sure am glad to have met you, Juri!

Juri: What's gotten into you?

Lauphit: Haha! Maybe I'm just nervous 'cause the competition's about to begin... All these thoughts swirlin' around in my head...

Lauphit: Thinkin' back on it makes me realize how much we've already been through...

Lauphit: After the last duo I was in disbanded, I practically gave up on my dream of ever competin' on stage...

Lauphit: But thanks to you, I'm able to have another go at it! It's nothin' short of a miracle!

Lauphit: I mean, you said so yourself! I'm a comedian at heart!

Juri: Struck me as odd, coming from someone who was intent on taking a break from everything... Just goes to show you really are a comedian at heart.

Juri: Yup. I remember.

Lauphit: There's actually somethin' that's been on my mind for a long time... Am I really a comedian, or just a comedy fan in over his head?

Lauphit: I went to school to become a comedian, but my only reason was 'cause I love comedy—nothin' more, nothin' less.

Lauphit: The school was full of people like me—folks with a love for comedy but little potential as comedians.

Lauphit: I really did wanna become a comedian, and I knew that it'd take more than just passion, so I practiced lots and really studied the art!

Lauphit: But I soon learned that practicin' and studyin' alone weren't enough to turn a person into a real comedian.

Juri: ...

Lauphit: While I was in trainin', there were some of us who knew how to turn just about anythin' into some kinda joke!

Lauphit: Compared to those guys, I was a borin' ol' fella with no drive... I didn't have that yearnin' for more.

Lauphit: I was never the type to take things into my own hands... And even if I were, I'm not a natural at this stuff. I'd still end up losin'.

Juri: A natural?

Lauphit: There's people like that on this very ship. You'll get what I mean soon enough.

Lauphit: Anyway, I don't have the drive or creativity that other comedians have...

Juri: What are you talking about? Lauphit, weren't you one who came up with all the jokes back when you were a part of Lauphren?

Juri: You can't back down after having come this far. All that's left for you is to proudly get up on that stage and do what you do best!

Lauphit: Easier said than done...

Lauphit: Ah, dang it! It's already dark out. This is what I get for runnin' my mouth for so long!

Lauphit: If I keep on bein' such a stick-in-the-mud, you're gonna end up leavin' me too! No way I'd be able to recover from that!

Juri: I'm not leaving you...

Lauphit: Okay, but let me know if I'm ever gettin' on your nerves, all right?

Lauphit: I don't think my heart could take another sudden breakup like what happened with Renvauro.

Juri: We're not breaking up! And aren't you the one who said I'm nothing like Renvauro?

Lauphit: Ah, right. I said that, didn't I? Sorry...

Lauphit: Y'know how that drunk ol' man from earlier told us that Heavenly Goods would win?

Juri: He did?

Lauphit: Haha. Yeah, he did. Well, Heavenly Goods is Renvauro's duo.

Juri: ...!

Juri: Oh... I see. It makes sense that your old partner would be participating too...

Lauphit: As long as we're competin', we're gonna butt heads with Renvauro. It's unavoidable.

Lauphit: Knowin' that I'm gonna come face-to-face with my ol' partner makes me feel all kinds of scared.

Lauphit: I remember him rantin' about how I'd been wastin' his time... I feel bad, and that makes me all the more scared to meet him...

Juri: You've got it all wrong! Neither of you is solely to blame...

Lauphit: You're right. I gotta stop thinkin' like this! I can't just mope around forever!

Lauphit: Hey, Juri. Can ya give me a solid smack?

Juri: What? Hit you?

Lauphit: Uh-huh! You're the only one who can set me straight now!

Lauphit: I'm ready! Gimme all ya got!

As Lauphit demands to be hit, Juri is reminded of a particular moment.

Juri: (Captain)! Hit me!

Juri: Haha, that brings back memories...

Juri: Got it. But you'd better brace yourself—I'm not holding back!

Lauphit's Voice: Urgh!

Lauphit's Voice: Ouch!

Juri: S-sorry! I didn't mean to hit you that hard...

Lauphit: Haha... Ahaha! Silly me. I shouldn't have underestimated the strength of a former soldier.

Juri: I know. Hit me too, Lauphit!

Lauphit: Ya wanna get hit too?

Juri: Yeah! I need this!

Lauphit: All right then. You asked for it!

Lauphit: Oh... I think I'm finally starting... to feel it...

Juri: Huh? Hey! Lauphit!

Although Juri successfully reinvigorates his partner, he still occasionally sees Lauphit sadly staring off into the distance.

This sight, infrequent though it may be, concerns the young man.

Juri: (Is he that bothered by the thought of us parting ways? I need Lauphit to be in his best shape though...)

Juri: (If he can't keep his head in the game, our chance at winning is nothing more than a pipe dream...)

Unbeknownst to him, the seeds of doubt have taken root in Juri's mind.

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 4: Soul Resonance - Episode 4

Lauphit decides on a name for the duo: Fiery Soul. The crew members then plan a small comedy show of their own, and they all start coming up with their respective acts. Juri feels good about the duo's performance, but Lauphit isn't so sure, going on to say how he feels ill-suited to be a comedian.

The next morning, Lauphit finally regains consciousness and faces Juri with a serious expression.

Lauphit: Juri, I've learned a lot while comin' up with stories and jokes together with you.

Lauphit: Like about Galston, about your father, and even about your friends.

Juri: Yeah, I remember talking about all that. What of it?

Lauphit: After eatin' a knuckle sandwich from a former soldier, I feel like I get what makes you... you! Like, your soul and reason to live!

Lauphit: I want in on that energy! Gimme some of that willpower!

Juri: Oh?

Lauphit: Our stage name will be Fiery Soul!

Juri: Fiery Soul?

Juri, shocked to hear Lauphit's suggestion for their stage name, is skeptical at first.

However—

Galston: You always were the type to go full steam ahead with the current task at hand.

Galston: Your stubborn resilience and fiery spirit definitely come from your dad though.

Galston: Wouldn't be surprised if his sense of humor's somewhere in you as well.

Galston: Be proud, Juri. Both as a soldier... and as a performer.

Juri: Yeah, let's go with that!

Lauphit: Nice! Then it's decided! From now on, we'll be known as...

Juri: Fiery Soul!

With their stage name set, the two train even harder, coming up with all sorts of new jokes for the upcoming competition.

The duo's passion soon spreads throughout the ship, and the crew hustles to get round two of the comedy contest up and running.

The comedy-loving crew members make daily visits to different theaters, and the ship is abuzz with jokes and laughter around every corner.

Zehek: Ahahaha—ack!

Azazel: How's that? Isn't a demon's humor just the best? So good that it's scary!

Eugen: You guys'd better not think that makin' Zehek laugh is good enough!

Eugen: That man'll laugh at the same joke over and over again! A great spectator—don't get me wrong—but you can do better!

Zehek: Heehee... Hah! Sorry, but I don't know why I laugh so easily either!

Zehek: Ahahaha!

Geisenborger: Incredible. He's still going!

Eugen: Probably thinkin' about your joke from earlier.

Zehek: Mmrgh! Ow—ahah... My stoma—ahahach... It hurts...

Juri continues to study the comedic arts under Lauphit's guidance.

Lauphit: Ya see that, Juri? We call people like him chuckleheads.

Lauphit: Always thankful to have a few of 'em in the audience, but you can't let your guard down.

Juri: I see... If you're satisfied with a chucklehead laughing, it's impossible to tell whether or not your jokes are actually funny...

Juri: In that case...

Orchid: ...

Juri: Would it be better practice to try and make someone like Orchid laugh? She doesn't react to anything.

Lauphit: Makes sense to me. If we can make her laugh, we'll be unbeatable.

Orchid: I can hear you.

Lauphit: ...!

Lauphit: Crap, no! Don't look her way, Juri!

Orchid: A comedy... duo...

Apollonia: Does that interest you, Orchid?

Orchid: I want to make everybody laugh too. And besides, it looks fun.

Apollonia: It's not all fun and games. Did you not see them embarrassed in front of their friends when they had their very own jokes explained to them?

Orchid: I still want to try. I want to make jokes and learn how to explain them too.

Apollonia: (If she ever needs to explain a joke, that would mean it didn't land with the audience...)

Orchid: Do you think it's too much for me?

Apollonia: Well, no... There isn't anything you're incapable of doing. If you wish to go to a theater, I don't mind accompanying—

Orchid: Then... Will you be my partner?

Apollonia: ...

Apollonia: O-of course...

Eugen: Just sayin'. If you're in need of a producer, my services are available.

Eugen: I've brought fame and fortune to the Demonic Chariot. Trust me with your production, and I'll take ya to the top!

Orchid: ...!

Apollonia: Ever the schemer I see...

Lauphit: Oh no! A new challenger approaches! We don't wanna get caught in whatever storm she kicks up!

Juri: Huh? Is Orchid one of the naturals you were talking about earlier?

Lauphit: Right on! But be careful, Juri. It's not somethin' you can try and copy!

Lauphit: That girl's amazin'! She's the type that doesn't care what her audience thinks or how they react.

Lauphit: But that lack of awareness will get the people watchin' her roarin' with laughter! Mark my words!

Lauphit: And Apollonia beside her! She's always dotin' on her partner! I've never seen a duo like that before!

Lauphit: It'd be a breath of fresh air for Namvia! She and Orchid are the perfect match!

Lauphit: There's so many different performers aboard this ship—and so many different styles of comedy too! It's fascinatin'!

Lauphit: It's like they're all begging for someone to laugh at them! There's probably more talent in their pinky toes than in my whole body!

Juri: What are you saying? But you're a professional! Have you lost your mind?

Lauphit: Ah, well... Hmmm... I hope not.

Lauphit: It's just... People often say I lack the drive that every good comedian needs.

Lauphit: Sometimes I wonder if it's really okay for someone like me to be your partner... Haha...

Juri: Get yourself together! Of course it's okay! It's together that we make Fiery Soul, right?

Juri: Right now, the only thing that should be on your mind is what we're gonna do for the upcoming competition!

Lauphit: Yeah... You're right!

Juri: Besides, look at the audience!

Robertina: Don't worry. Your act was super interesting! You guys really improved a lot! Here, have some candy!

Seruel: Heh heh... You finally made me laugh...

Naoise: All your hard work has finally paid off. Both of you have truly grown.

Tyre: I also enjoyed it very much!

Vira: I suppose that wasn't too bad—still not good enough for Katalina, however.

Zehek: Ahahaha! O-ow... Can't... breathe...

Vyrn: We'll be there to cheer you on!

I'm looking forward to it!

Choose: I'm looking forward to it!

Lyria: So am I!

Lyria turns to face the Fiery Soul duo, joining the others in laughter. Suddenly—

Poseidon's Voice: Heh...

Lyria: (Did he just... laugh?)

Poseidon: ...

Lyria listens once more for Poseidon's voice to make sure her ears aren't playing any tricks on her, but all she hears is silence.

Lyria: (Maybe I was just imagining things... I sure do hope he laughed though!)

Juri: Y'know, I could get used to this feeling. We've definitely improved a lot!

Lauphit: Yeah! We've come a long way, you and I!

Lauphit: We're talkin' about a manzai competition here! It'll take more than just yappin' to win!

Lauphit: I don't need to be a pro at ad-libbing, and I don't need the most charismatic personality! As long as the jokes hit, that's all that matters!

Juri: ...

Although he doesn't express it, Juri feels as though something about what Lauphit had just said is off.

Juri: (Does Lauphit really not think he's cut out for comedy?)

Juri: (Is that really why his old partner left him? Even though he's so passionate about it?)

Juri: (Since when was the world of comedy so complicated?)

Lauphit: Hey, Heavenly Goods! We're not goin' down without a fight!

The day of the competition is fast approaching, and the two continue practicing with much on their minds.

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Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 5: Vestiges of the Past - Episode 1

The King of Manzai Awards has finally arrived, and both Juri and Lauphit are all dressed up and ready to hop on stage. As they anxiously wait for their turn, they suddenly hear the sound of loud cheers from the audience. The two head into the main hall to see who's performing, only to be met by Renvauro's duo, Heavenly Goods.

The day of the King of Manzai Awards has finally arrived, and Namvia Theater is filled to the brim with spectators.

The event is only held once per year, and as a result, the town is much busier than usual.

Farrah: Wow, there's so many people!

Robertina: Most of them are probably locals. If a shop is closed around this time of year, people just assume the owner has gone to watch the show. That's how big it is to them.

Vyrn: Wow, they sure do love their comedy!

Lyria: Ah, look over there! The seats at the very front!

Vyrn: Hm? Those ol' geezers look all high and mighty!

Robertina: They're the judges for this year's contest. Every one of them is a famous master comedian here on this island.

Robertina: To the up-and-coming performers, they're basically gods! Let's go take a look at them too!

Head Judge: The Awards are always so profitable. This one day has more paying customers than any other period.

Peculiar Judge: Lately, people do seem to be slowly losing interest in the theater.

Harsh Judge: ...

Lyria: So those are the master comedians, huh? I wonder what they're talking about...

Vyrn: Probably about the guys who're gonna be performin', right? Or maybe they're talkin' about comedy!

As Vyrn and the others chat, the lights in the hall are dimmed, and in an instant, silence engulfs the theater.

Host: Welcome to the 23rd King of Manzai Awards!

Host: I hope you all did some facial stretches today! Get ready to laugh like you've never laughed before!

Lauphit: It's about to start, Juri. Ya ready?

Lauphit: Well, I'm sure you'll be fine. You got guts—and you're lookin' like a million rupees today too!

Juri: I think I put it on right. H-how do I look?

Tyre: It fits you perfectly! What an absolutely refreshing outfit!

Seruel: Anyone would look good in such fine garments, but well... I think they're especially nice on you.

Naoise: They suit you very well indeed.

Farrah: It's not the Juri I'm used to seeing, but it isn't bad either!

Juri: This fabric is so nice to the touch...

Karteira: Of course it is! It's tailor-made for you. We put in a custom order just for this!

Juri: A custom order? But how? You didn't even take my measurements!

Karteira: I'm afraid that's a trade secret. Hehehe... Let's just say I Kartailored it for you!

Juri: What? Is that supposed to be a pun? Not bad, Karteira...

Juri: Anyway, I'm sorry for making you do all this on my behalf! I promise to do my best at the contest!

Seruel: Well, since you'll be representing our crew, it wouldn't do us any good if you looked slovenly on stage.

Seruel: Not that a good outfit can serve as a replacement for skill...

Naoise: Regardless, a change in appearance can lead to a change in one's mindset. I wish you the best of luck!

Juri: Thank you, everybody!

Juri: I got this...

Lauphit: Looks like you've finally calmed down.

Juri: Yeah. Let's keep practicing 'til it's our turn.

Lauphit: Fine by me. Let's pin down the order of these jokes then.

Lauphit's Pa: ...

Lauphit's Ma: It's almost his turn! Was it really okay for us to come without tellin' him? I wonder if he's all right...

Lauphit's Ma: Ooh. I can't wait any longer!

Lauphit's Pa: I'm not gonna laugh just 'cause it's my son tellin' jokes! I'm watching simply as a comedy faaan!

Lauphit's Ma: But honey... You're cryin' a river. Those eyes couldn't get any wetter if you tried.

Lauphit's Ma: Ah well... Hehe... It wouldn't kill you to be more honest with yourself.

Lauphit's parents watch from the crowd as the show's intro reaches its conclusion.

Host: Now then! It's time to decide the order our ten duos will perform in!

Host: Not a second to waste! The head judge will randomly select a duo, then...

Vyrn: They're choosin' randomly, huh? Why don't they just do it alphabetically?

Robertina: Because the duo that's up first basically has to perform handicapped. The audience hasn't warmed up yet, so nobody's very responsive.

Farrah: The ones performing later have more time to mentally prepare themselves too, right?

Vyrn: So what you're sayin' is the fairest way to figure out the order is at the start of the show!

Lyria: I hope Juri and Lauphit get a spot toward the end!

Host: The results are in! Heavenly Goods, the crowd favorite, will be performing fifth! Up first are the Mad Hammers!

Farrah: Juri's duo is...

Juri: Tenth place? That means we're the last ones performing!

Lauphit: I dunno if that's supposed to be a blessing or a curse...

Vyrn: Hey, they're last! Nice!

Robertina: I wouldn't celebrate so soon.

Lyria: What do you mean?

Robertina: It's possible for the duos performing in the middle to grab the crowd's full attention, leaving nothing for the rest of the guys.

Farrah: Ah... That would definitely suck...

Head Judge: What an interesting order. Not that it changes much. We'll have an easy time judging this year's contestants regardless.

Harsh Judge: Huh? You speak as if you already know the results.

Head Judge: No, no, no... That's not what I meant at all. Hahaha...

At the back of the theater by the hall's entrance stands a man, arms crossed and with a frown on his face.

Galston: (They're last, huh? Fiery Soul, was it?)

Galston: Heh...

With four performances done and the fifth underway, Juri and Lauphit struggle to ward off the building tension in the room.

Lauphit: Juri, we're running out of time. Let's squeeze in one last practice. You've got it all memorized, right?

Juri: Ah, sorry... I think I let my nerves get the best of me. I'm trying to remember, but nothing's coming to mind...

Lauphit: Well, it is your first show. What can ya do? Here, have some tea.

Juri: Oh... Thanks. You sure are calm, Lauphit...

Juri: Wait, this is alcohol! You gotta be more careful!

Lauphit: M-my bad... I must've mixed the two up. I'm actually pretty nervous as well...

Juri: You too?

Suddenly, Juri and Lauphit hear an uproar coming from outside the waiting room.

Juri: The audience...

Lauphit: They're laughin' like crazy...

Juri: We can hear the crowd from all the way over here...

Lauphit: The fifth duo... Crap! Juri, we gotta go see 'em for ourselves!

Renvauro: Did ya just call me small? Say that again to my face!

Renvauro's Partner: I said nothin' of the sort! Ya sure your ears are workin' properly?

Spectators: Ahahahaha!

Lauphit: ...!

Juri: They're doing a rage bit! Is that...

Lauphit: Yep. They're the Heavenly Goods duo. The smaller one actin' really angry is Renvauro.

Juri: ...!

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 5: Vestiges of the Past - Episode 2

Fiery Soul and Heavenly Goods run into each other offstage, and Renvauro states how he's surprised to see Lauphit there, saying that he doubts Lauphit has what it takes to be a comedian. Juri watches as Renvauro continues to mock his former partner, growing ever more angry as the Harvin comedian goes on.

Renvauro: Hey! That was my line! Cut it out! Thank you all for watching!

Renvauro's Partner: Wait, what? You can't end it like that! I didn't get a word in!

Spectators: Ahahahaha!

Juri: What an amazing duo... The hall is practically shaking from the audience's laughter!

Lauphit: (That joke of theirs...)

Lauphit: ...

Juri: Lauphit?

Just as Juri questions Lauphit, the crowd erupts into cheers and applause, indicating the performance's end.

Renvauro's Partner: Well, that was a piece of cake!

Renvauro: I wish we could already just collect our prize money and leave.

Renvauro: ...!

As the Heavenly Goods duo return from the stage, they suddenly stop walking, having noticed Lauphit and Juri waiting on the side.

Renvauro: Oh. It's you...

Renvauro's Partner: Hm? What's up, partner?

Renvauro: Ah, well. This guy here's my old partner from my last duo.

Renvauro: Lauphit, what are you doing at a place like this?

Lauphit: What do ya mean? I'm here to compete, duh! Why else would I be here?

Renvauro: You? Compete? Heh. Is he supposed to be your new partner?

Juri: Hello...

Renvauro: Hah. Well isn't he a cutie? I can practically smell the green from here.

Juri: Why you!

Renvauro: Picked up some random newbie to pair up with ya, huh? Were you really that desperate to perform?

Lauphit: Cut it out. You're bein' real rude. And I'll have ya know that Juri isn't just some random newbie.

Lauphit: He's an amazin' skyfarer who saved my life!

Renvauro: A skyfarer?

Renvauro's Partner: So you're tellin' me he isn't even a comedian?

Lauphit: What of it? Tell me where in the rulebook it says ya gotta be a comedian to perform!

Lauphit: And besides, my pal here's got a real fiery spirit! Juri's a great guy, plain and simple!

Lauphit: I'm gonna take first place together with Juri, just you wait and see!

Juri: Yeah!

Renvauro: Hah. I wouldn't get your hopes up. This is the big leagues, not some talent show.

Renvauro: Still, color me surprised. I thought you'd skip this year's contest and prepare for next year's instead.

Renvauro: Honestly, after we split, I kinda thought you'd give up comedy altogether...

Lauphit: ...

Renvauro: Who'd have thought that you of all people would love comedy to the point of performin' no matter what? Not me, that's for sure.

Juri: (What is this guy even saying?)

Juri: (Lauphit never said he wouldn't participate in the competition. In fact, he said he wanted to perform no matter what...)

Juri: (He found me, a totally new partner with no experience, just to enter—and he did everything in his power to show me the ropes...)

Juri: (If that doesn't prove his love toward comedy, then what does?)

Lauphit: I just have one question. That finisher you just did—that's a line I came up with, right?

Juri: I thought it sounded familiar...

Renvauro's Partner: And so what if it is? Ya got some kinda problem?

Lauphit: Not at all. That's perfectly fine. I just wanted to let you know that I made the joke with your character in mind.

Lauphit: Your foil doesn't need to retort that quickly, that often. It takes the emphasis off you, and it's a waste of your natural talent.

Renvauro: Are... you seriously giving out comedy lectures here? Have you lost it?

Renvauro: I'm the one who abandoned you! Don't you have anything else to say?

Lauphit: ...

Renvauro's Partner: Besides, it isn't your place to talk. Did you not hear the audience? They loved us. This style suits us just fine.

Renvauro's Partner: Say what you will, victory is ours.

Juri: Well, we're not going down without a fight!

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 5: Vestiges of the Past - Episode 3

As Renvauro leaves, he taunts Lauphit one last time, calling him a liar for even saying that he'd win the competition. Lauphit has no time to digest such hurtful words from his old partner as Fiery Soul is called to the stage. Despite his mental state, Lauphit performs to the best of his ability with Juri, and the duo just barely scrape by as finalists—their opponent: Heavenly Goods.

Lauphit, together with Juri, faces off against his former partner at the most important of manzai competitions.

The now angry Juri, no longer able to stand Renvauro insulting his friend, finally speaks up.

Juri: Well, we're not going down without a fight!

Renvauro's Partner: Hmmm?

Juri: We haven't performed yet! The winner will only be decided after everyone's done—and not a moment sooner!

Lauphit: Juri...

Memories of his recent hardships flash across Juri's mind.

He recalls the many days spent with Lauphit coming up with all sorts of jokes.

He remembers feeling down when the other crew members rejected his ideas and how Lauphit would help him feel better again.

He thinks back on how he and Lauphit worked deep into the night together.

Juri: You both need to just shut up and watch us do our thing!

Renvauro: Heh. Watch? What is there to watch?

Renvauro: You say you'll take first place, but I know a lie when I see one! You're both liars!

Lauphit: Liars? We're not liars...

Lauphit: (I know we're not lying, so why is it that I feel this way?)

Renvauro's parting words ring throughout Lauphit's mind, and unable to move, he stares off into the distance, thinking.

Juri: Lauphit!

Lauphit: Whoa!

Juri: I won't accept us losing! This is war!

Juri: Pull yourself together! It's almost our turn!

Juri: We didn't get our final practice in, but I'm sure you—no, we can figure something out!

Lauphit: You're right! I gotta set myself straight! Juri, one more punch, plea—

Staff: Fiery Soul, you're up next.

Juri: Ah...

Lauphit: W-we gotta go, Juri!

Lauphit: Hello, everyone! We're Fiery Soul!

Juri: We hope you enjoy our performance!

Juri & Lauphit: All right then, as for why we're called Fiery Soul, we took the fire of a soldier and the soul of a comedian and combined them.
I'm fine... I'm totally fine...

Juri & Lauphit: Juri, my friend here, was once a soldier...
Just think of this as a battlefield. I'm at the front lines, and all those people... They're my enemies.

Juri: Wait, enemies? I need to alert the others! Commence emergency procedures!

Lauphit: Why do you keep mutterin' to yourself? You're scarin' me!

Lauphit: You're whisperin' one moment, then shoutin' the next... Did you take one too many bullets to the helmet or somethin'?

Spectators: Ahahaha!

Juri: ...

Lauphit: Whoa there! What's with that look? You're gonna scare off our audience!

Juri: But they're the enemy!

Lauphit: You can't go callin' our spectators enemies! What war are you even fighting?

Juri: Are they not our enemies? This guy in the front looks like he could snap at any moment...

Lauphit: Like you're one to talk! Have you looked into a mirror?

Spectators: Ahahahaha!

Galston: ...

Lauphit: (Nice! They're laughin'!)

Juri: (...!)

Juri and Lauphit put their all into their manzai performance, and the air vibrates from the audience's laughter even as the curtains fall.

Host: The votes are in from our dear guests and esteemed judges! Let's see how they've done!

Host: Before we announce the scores, however, a few words from the judges!

Peculiar Judge: What a lively crowd we had today. You both seemed a bit nervous, so I was worried things wouldn't turn out well, but all in all, you did a wonderful job.

Peculiar Judge: The former soldier brought a unique worldview to the duo. His character was done very well. I'd even go so far as to call it strategic.

Harsh Judge: You there. A former soldier, was it? Then you must be new to comedy. You're lucky the crowd was already all warmed up and ready to laugh.

Juri: ...!

Harsh Judge: But I can see how seriously you took your performance. And lucky or not, the crowd seems to have enjoyed it. You also gave your partner plenty of chances to react.

Harsh Judge: What I mean to say is, you did well.

Host: Wow! Words of praise from the harshest of judges! That isn't something you see every day! Just how high did they score?

Lauphit: Thank ya!

Juri: Thank you very much!

Head Judge: Well what a surprise... And what a performance! It was incredibly fun!

Head Judge: I'd be thrilled to watch another one. Would it be another bit on being a soldier? Or would you change things up? I'm dying to find out!

Host: Now then, it's time for the final tally! The total score from both judges and spectators is...

Host: 489 points! That puts Fiery Soul in...

Host: Second place—surpassing our third-place duo by a single point!

Lauphit's Pa: ...!

Lauphit's Ma: Yes! That's my boy! You did it!

Host: Congratulations! That decides it! It appears we have our two finalist duos!

Host: We'll take a twenty-minute recess before reconvening here for the final showdown between Heavenly Goods and Fiery Soul! Heavenly Goods will be the first to perform!

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 5: Vestiges of the Past - Episode 4

Before the contest's final round, Lauphit begins to worry whether or not he can beat Renvauro. Juri then reminds him of his dream of winning. Lauphit steps outside to clear his head and overhears a conversation between some spectators and a staff member. He learns that the results of the competition are rigged in favor of Heavenly Goods.

With their place in the final round secured, Juri and Lauphit return to the waiting room.

Juri: That was so close! We almost didn't make it!

Juri: Were we really that funny? I was so nervous that the whole thing was just a blur...

Juri: But now isn't the time for that! We won't win first place with another performance like that! We gotta keep practicing!

Lauphit: Yep... I don't that'll be enough to beat Renvauro...

Juri: Renvauro?

Lauphit: Yeah. I have to beat him. I have to win if I want any chance at movin' on!

Lauphit: How long do I have to be reminded of that face of his? How long will I be haunted by his words?

Hearing Lauphit bemoaning his situation, Juri instinctively frowns, then clenches his fists.

Lauphit: Wha!

Juri: You idiot! Wake up already! What exactly is it that you want?

Juri: Do you want to beat your old partner or win this competition?

Juri: Which is it?

Lauphit: ...!

Juri: Lauphit! You have to decide for yourself what it is you want to do!

Lauphit: Haha... That's true...

Lauphit: I think I was just afraid of seein' Renvauro again, so the thought of him was the only thing fillin' my mind.

Lauphit: The only thing I should be thinkin' about now is winnin'... together with you.

Lauphit: Thanks, Juri. For wakin' me up. You and I... We'll win together...

Lauphit: We'll win...

Juri: What's the matter? We're one step away from making your dream come true.

Lauphit: Hey Juri, remember what Renvauro said?

Juri: Which part?

Renvauro: Heh. Watch? What is there to watch?

Renvauro: You say you'll take first place, but I know a lie when I see one! You're both liars!

Juri: I wouldn't worry about what he said. He probably just wanted to get into your head.

Lauphit: Yeah, but still... I wasn't able to respond right away—that I'm not a liar... and that I'm just as serious about this as he is.

Lauphit: But I feel like I could say it now. I want to win with ya. I wanna go all out for this competition.

Juri: It's okay. I know.

Juri: His goal was just to rattle you. That's all.

Lauphit: His goal, huh? I dunno... He's not the type to use such underhanded tactics... I think.

Juri: It's nice that you always try to find the good in people...

Juri: But to me, he very much seems like the type that wants to win at all costs.

Lauphit: He's not like that! Or well... At least he wasn't when we first met...

Juri: Lauphit...

Lauphit: Sigh... The heck am I even doin'? Sorry, Juri. I think I need a sec to cool off...

Juri: H-hey!

Lauphit: It's okay. I'll be right back. I just wanna go outside and get some fresh air. We'll start practicin' after that!

Juri: All right then. I'll be waiting right here!

Lauphit: Sigh... The final round is about to start, and here I am bein' super lame...

Lauphit: I'm the one who dragged Juri into all this... He's goin' out of his way to help me achieve my dream...

Lauphit: Yet all I do is make him worry!

Lauphit sits by the smoking area outside the theater, reflecting on his attitude.

There, he hears voices coming from what seems to be a couple of smoking patrons.

Female Spectator 1: Ugh, talk about boring! Heavenly Goods? More like Hellish Goods! They're so annoying.

Female Spectator 1: Fiery Soul's rage bit was way better, don't you think?

Female Spectator 2: Totally. That Juri kid is seriously cute. I can see myself stanning him.

Lauphit: (They must be spectators... It'd be bad if they found out I was here, but I also wanna keep listenin'...)

Lauphit looks around the corner to get a better view of the mysterious speakers. Standing around the smoking area are two female patrons and a lone man.

Lauphit: (It's good hearin' such nice compliments straight from our viewers... Juri sure is popular. He'd probably get mad if people started callin' him cute though.)

Female Spectator 1: It sucks that we have to vote for Heavenly Goods for the final round.

Staff: You don't mean that, do you? We really need your help!

Lauphit: (Hm? What're they talkin' about?)

Female Spectator 2: Well, we've already accepted the money, so we'll do what we promised. This is all to keep Namvia Theater up and running, right?

Female Spectator 2: It'd be awful if a theater with such a rich history went under. Think of all the poor performers who work at the theater...

Female Spectator 1: Besides, if we let Heavenly Goods win, we'd have another star in our town. That'd be great for the theater—and what's good for the theater is good for the town too, right?

Female Spectator 1: At least that's how I hope it turns out...

Staff: That's right! We're just trying to help—which is why we're asking for your kind cooperation!

Lauphit: Wait, what?

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Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 6: Diverging Paths - Episode 1

Lauphit uncovers the theater management's scheme to keep the theater alive by creating a new star duo. The plan is to buy the spectators' votes to ensure that Heavenly Goods comes out on top. Shocked to hear that his old partner would stoop to such lows, Lauphit hastily makes his way back to the waiting room.

With the final round of the competition soon commencing, Lauphit steps outside to get some fresh air and reflect.

Upon listening in on a nearby conversation, however, he quickly forgets about everything else.

Female Spectator 1: Besides, if we let Heavenly Goods win, we'd have another star in our town. That'd be great for the theater—and what's good for the theater is good for the town too, right?

Female Spectator 1: At least that's how I hope it turns out...

Staff: That's right! We're just trying to help—which is why we're asking for your kind cooperation!

Head Judge: Hahaha! Keep it down, everybody.

Female Spectator 1: I'm surprised though. Ever since you founded the theater, I've been a huge fan of yours.

Female Spectator 1: I never thought someone like you would stoop this low though...

Head Judge: It's not like I wanna do this either. It's for the theater, remember? In any case, the final round will be startin' shortly. You know who to vote for.

Female Spectator 1: Whatever you say...

Staff: Well, I'm glad we were able to find a replacement duo at such short notice.

Staff: The plan might've leaked if we'd reached out to Lauphren before their breakup, and Renvauro's new partner is definitely the better choice.

Head Judge: We're fortunate that Renvauro is such an understanding individual. The first round went without a hitch, and the rest should be smooth sailing.

Lauphit: ...

Lauphit: You're kiddin' me... Are you tellin' me that a competition this important was rigged from the start?

Overwhelmed by this revelation, Lauphit is suddenly reminded of Juri's words from earlier.

Juri: But to me, he very much seems like the type that wants to win at all costs.

Lauphit: There's no way... He's not like that... He just isn't!

Lauphit: Renvauro's like me! He's a good fella who loves comedy more than anythin'!

Renvauro: You're a funny guy! What say you and I pair up? I'm Renvauro.

Renvauro: Y'know how I'm kinda small, right? Well, I'm gonna use this tiny body of mine to win over the world!

Renvauro: This little Harvin is gonna be bigger than everybody else! How's that? Funny, right?

Renvauro: Ya hear those people crackin' jokes? Sheesh—don't they get tired of usin' the same lines over and over again? And yet it gets the audience goin' every time.

Renvauro: We gotta come up with some bread-and-butter jokes of our own! Soon everyone'll be laughing at our manzai!

Lauphit: This has all gotta be some kinda misunderstanding. Renvauro would never pull off a stunt like that!

Lauphit: But maybe I was wrong... Just what is it that I saw in him as a partner?

Lauphit: It isn't just Renvauro either... The event organizers are in on it too!

Lauphit: I dunno who to even believe anymore...

Lauphit: Dammit... This isn't the time to be standin' around!

Lauphit: But this isn't somethin' I can just tell to Juri...

Lauphit: I'm sorry, Juri...

Lauphit: Looks like victory will remain outside our reach—no matter how hard we try...

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 6: Diverging Paths - Episode 2

Just before Lauphit enters the waiting room, he hears Juri and Renvauro in a heated argument. Renvauro claims that a comedian must do whatever it takes to sell and that comedy is nothing more than work, complaining that Lauphit is not a comedian, but rather a leech. Lauphit is shocked to hear Renvauro's true feelings, but Juri vehemently denies Renvauro's words.

As Lauphit dashes over to the waiting room, he hears two familiar voices going at it with each other.

Renvauro's Voice: What's a novice like you even doin' on stage? Go sit with the audience where you belong and leave the performing to us pros!

Juri's Voice: What?

Lauphit: Renvauro?

Renvauro's Voice: The only joke here is the fact that you're even a finalist!

Juri's Voice: Hey! What the heck is your problem?

Juri's Voice: You come flying in here and start blaming me for your own issues!

Hoping to calm the two down, Lauphit makes his way to the room and places his hand on the doorknob. Then—

Renvauro's Voice: I'm just tryin' to help you! I didn't want someone else to fall for his lies and feel bad!

Renvauro's Voice: Don't you remember what I said? He's a liar! He has no real desire to be a comedian!

Lauphit: ...!

Juri: Liar this. Liar that. What's your problem? He's not lying.

Juri: He said he'd never give up his dream of competing—that he'd rise to the challenge no matter what. What about that is a lie?

Renvauro: Then why're you his partner?

Juri: Huh?

Renvauro: You aren't even a comedian...

Renvauro: How's he supposed to win when he clearly isn't takin' any of this seriously?

Juri suddenly quiets down, allowing Renvauro to continue his relentless tirade unimpeded.

Renvauro: Every single young'un from trainin' works with the goal of winnin' this competition.

Renvauro: And what does he do? Pair up with some skyfarer? Who does he think he is? So what if you saved his life! It's like he's makin' a joke outta the rest of us comedians!

Renvauro: A love of comedy? Passion? If that was all it took to be a comedian, then no one would be workin' a nine-to-five.

Renvauro: Ya wanna make people laugh? Ya wanna see them smile?

Renvauro: Then go do that in your own free time! A comedian's job is to sell—a show that doesn't bring in money is meaningless!

Renvauro: The guy was always dreamin' about lofty things that were too far outta his reach!

Juri: And what's wrong with dreaming? Is it some kinda crime wanting to make people laugh?

Renvauro: No, but take your dreams elsewhere! The stage isn't the place for your ideals!

Renvauro: We comedians have work to do! It doesn't matter how good your jokes are—without fame, you can't pay the bills!

Renvauro: But no, he doesn't have the slightest desire to take things seriously!

Renvauro: So you can't call him a comedian. He's just another guy who likes comedy.

Juri: ...

Renvauro: Someone like him will never be funny! In fact, he's anythin' but!

Renvauro: Even back when Lauphren was still a thing, I was the only real comedian! It was me who was funny!

Renvauro: All he did was leech off my success!

Lauphit: ...!

Renvauro: I wanted to start makin' money! I mean, of course I did! I'm a comedian!

Renvauro: I wanted to take on gigs other than just the manzai ones the training center suggested!

Renvauro: But he'd just go on and on about steadily improvin' his skills doin' street performances or performin' at the theater!

Juri: And what's wrong... with striving... to improve yourself?

Renvauro: A newbie like you wouldn't understand. A comedian is just as much about connections as it is about your actual skills.

Renvauro: The more you show your face, the more people will remember you and the more they'll ask for you!

Renvauro: You can only make yourself known by workin' as many different gigs as possible! That's how you become famous!

Renvauro: My dream is to become the best of the best! And the first step in accomplishing that goal is to accept any and every job! My skills will eventually catch up!

Renvauro: But I sure as hell ain't gonna spend another minute doin' gigs on the street for chump change!

Lauphit: I know I'm lackin' in drive, but...

Lauphit: Me leechin' off his success?

Lauphit: Haha... Is that how he thought of me?

Lauphit: He was holdin' everything in, huh? He stuck by me even though he thought I wasn't funny... Even though I didn't have his charisma...

Lauphit: All that, and he still kept performin' with me... That must be why he thinks I was wastin' his time...

Lauphit: But still, that doesn't excuse his cheatin'... That's a lie I can't forgive!

Juri: He doesn't take things seriously? He's making a joke out of the rest of you?

Juri: He has no desire to be a comedian? Really?

Juri: And to top things off, he isn't funny?

Juri: What?

Juri: What a total load of crap!

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 6: Diverging Paths - Episode 3

Juri angrily shouts at Renvauro, saying that Lauphit is a million times the comedian he'll ever be. Lauphit listens to Juri explain how no one takes comedy as seriously as he does and confidently enters the waiting room with full knowledge that the former soldier believes in him. Lauphit then questions if Renvauro truly enjoys manzai, pointing to his use of underhanded tactics.

Renvauro: What's a greenhorn like you gettin' all worked up for?

Juri: So what if I'm new? And what even is the best of the best? You don't make people laugh just by being famous!

Renvauro: ...!

Juri: Dammit! Did you even consider how Lauphit felt when you split? You didn't spare him a single thought!

Juri: I don't care about how you wanna reach the top! I don't care that I'm new to comedy! You're missing the forest for the trees!

Juri: It's as clear as day even to a complete novice like me! It doesn't matter what you say! Lauphit...

Juri: Lauphit is a million times the comedian you are—or will ever be!

Lauphit: ...!

Juri: Have you ever even taken a look at his notes? If you did, you'd know just how full they are of jokes he came up with just for you!

Juri: He's filled out entire notebooks with lines he made in order for you to shine on stage!

Juri: And if that weren't enough...

Lauphit: Orchid is definitely gonna make it big! An enigmatic character like hers would make any crowd go wild!

Lauphit: (Captain)'s pretty funny too! I don't get how someone with such an innocent-lookin' face can have such a sharp tongue!

Lauphit: There's so many interesting people aboard this ship!

Lauphit: Oh, hey. Juri, take a look at this! There's a comedy duo performin' at the corner over there!

Lauphit: Whoa! They're laughin' up a storm! It's nice seein' so many smiles!

Lauphit: We gotta keep practicin' so we don't fall behind either!

Juri: No matter who it is that's performing, he'll find something positive to say! That goes the same for you, his own rival!

Juri: He takes every opportunity to learn—that's his greatest strength! And this is a guy who spends every waking second of his day thinking about comedy!

Juri: He's more honest about comedy than anyone else I know! It doesn't matter when or where! But you? Work this. Money that.

Juri: I'd get sick and tired of listening to you go on about that crap too!

Juri: What do you even accomplish by insulting us offstage? If you really think you're that much better than us, then prove it through your performance, dammit!

Renvauro: ...!

Juri: Say what you will, but you won't change my mind! I'm different from you!

Juri: It doesn't matter what happens. I'll see this competition through to the very end—together with Lauphit! There's nothing that'll make me turn my back against my partner!

Lauphit: Juri!

Lauphit: Haha... How silly of me to be questionin' myself when the answer was standin' before me this whole time.

Lauphit: Juri has had my back through thick and thin. He believes in me more than anybody else.

Lauphit: So I gotta return the favor. I gotta believe in Juri... and the me that Juri believes in!

Juri: Cough... Huff... huff...

Juri: I hear you're the one who decided to split up.

Juri: Do you not care about the people you try so hard to entertain? Is that what it means to be a comedian?

Juri: You claim to want to make people laugh, yet you aren't afraid to make your own partner cry...

Juri: It's one thing to act dumb for a show, but do you have to be an idiot offstage too?

Renvauro: Th-that's...

Juri: The comedian I know is totally different. There's nothing he loves more than making people laugh. Why? Because he loves them! He cares about them!

Juri: What happened? The cat got your tongue? You seemed fine sharing your dumbass opinions as you pleased just a moment ago.

Juri: And what do you mean by your skills catching up? You're kidding me, right?

Juri: What kinda half-baked performance do you plan on showing your audience? No thank you! I think I'll pass!

Juri: You practice and keep practicing until you're confident that you can deliver a performance you're satisfied with!

Juri: He hasn't done a single wrong thing—and not once has he lied!

Juri: Not to you! Not to me! Not to anyone!

Lauphit's Voice: Juri! That's enough! You can stop now!

Lauphit: Cut it out! If you use up all your rage now, you'll have nothing left for the contest!

Juri: Lauphit! Did you... hear all that?

Renvauro: Lauphit...

Lauphit: I never lied, Renvauro. Can you say the same?

Renvauro: Wh-what are you talkin' about?

Lauphit: Remember what you said?

Renvauro: Y'know how I'm kinda small, right? Well, I gonna use this tiny body of mine to win over the world!

Renvauro: This little Harvin is gonna be bigger than everybody else! How's that? Funny, right?

Lauphit: Back then, you were practically radiatin' all sorts of energy. You were a gleamin' beacon of truth.

Lauphit: I believed in you... I thought the two of us could reach the top—be the best of the best.

Renvauro: ...

Lauphit: But people change. I know that now. We split, and that's fine. You went your way, and I went mine. I'm sure you had your reasons.

Lauphit: I foolishly convinced myself that you left so you could entertain even more people—make 'em laugh.

Lauphit: But I was wrong. You aren't tryin' to earn their laughs. You're tryin' to steal 'em.

Lauphit: It's your job to make people laugh? Don't kid yourself.

Lauphit: You just wanna feel better about yourself by callin' me a liar—when in reality, it's you who's been lyin', am I wrong?

Lauphit: Let me ask you one question. Are you enjoying manzai?

Renvauro: ...!

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 6: Diverging Paths - Episode 4

No longer wanting to listen to Lauphit, Renvauro storms off onto the stage for his final performance. Before the Harvin leaves, however, Lauphit declares that he and Juri would win on their own merits. As the two head onstage for their own act, Juri encourages Lauphit by saying that his lack of an appetite for fame is a positive quality.

Renvauro's Partner: Oh, so this is where you were. It's time to go, Renvauro. We're up next.

Renvauro: R-right...

As Renvauro makes his way out of the waiting room, he turns around to face Lauphit and Juri one last time.

Juri: What now?

Renvauro: We've each chosen our own path to tread. Come what may, I'm ready. As for you two, well... You can sit there forever for all I care.

Lauphit: If you think we're gonna sit here doin' nothing, then you're wrong. We're gonna make the audience laugh by our own merit.

Lauphit: We'll fight the good fight—fair and square. If we're gonna win, we'll do so by virtue of our skills.

Juri: Lauphit...

Lauphit: Renvauro... Get your act together. I want you crackin' jokes, not bein' one.

Renvauro: I already told you. I've made my choice.

Lauphit: If the day ever comes that you wanna set things straight...

Lauphit: You know where to find me. I'm always willing to lend you an ear.

Renvauro: Heh. A liar 'til the very end, are you?

Renvauro: Just you watch. I'll make my way to the top without you.

Renvauro's Partner: Hah.

Lauphit: ...

Juri: Phew... Ah...

Lauphit: How's your throat? Ya think you'll be okay for the show?

Juri: Sorry for being like this right before our act...

Juri: This is it, huh? I dunno if I should laugh or cry. I guess we'll find out after this.

Lauphit: Yep...

Juri: Are you sure we don't have to go out and watch their final performance? All we've been doing is practicing...

Lauphit: It's fine. Let's just say we're makin' up for lost time. 'Sides, we've got our own show to worry about.

Juri: I guess you're right. The audience definitely sounds rowdier than usual though.

Juri: All that noise is making me curious. I wonder what's going on...

Lauphit: It's probably nothin'. Anyway...

Lauphit: Hey, Juri. I wanna thank ya.

Juri: Huh?

Lauphit: Thanks for pairin' up with me... and for believin' in me.

Juri: Wh-what's gotten into you? Of course I believe in you! You're my partner! And well...

Farrah: Besides, Lauphit needs someone who's fully committed, isn't that right?

Lauphit: Y-yeah! I think you've got a point there, Farrah!

Juri: Your voice cracks whenever you try to lie.

Lauphit: Ah, yeah... You're right! Sometimes I feel like ya know me better than I know myself.

Juri: Oh, and while I'm at it, I have another question.

Juri: You're always saying how you don't have the charisma that other comedians do, but is that really such a necessity?

Lauphit: Huh?

Juri: I remember you mentioning the fact that the ship had a bunch of different comedians, all with varying styles of performance—and how you found every one of them interesting.

Juri: Then that must mean having your own unique style is a good thing, right? In which case...

Juri: A comedian without an appetite for fame—no, a comedian as kind and open-minded as you has to be good as well. I'm sure of it.

Lauphit: Wha—

Lauphit: (Why're ya makin' me feel all happy like that?)

Lauphit: Haha... I guess I was stressin' over nothin'.

Juri: Well, I wouldn't say it's nothing... Anyway, if there's ever anything bothering you, just let me know. That's all.

Lauphit: Because that's what partners do, right?

Juri: Yep, and I'm your partner.

Lauphit: All right then. How 'bout we get movin'? Let's make our spectators laugh like they've never laughed before!

Juri: Yeah! Let's do it!

Back to top

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Ending

Renvauro's performance is a mess, but Heavenly Goods still wins thanks to the rigged voting. When it is revealed that the results were rigged, the judges offer Fiery Soul the honor of first place—which Lauphit politely declines. He then thanks Juri and expresses his desire to spread the love of comedy throughout the skies.

A few days have passed since the final round of the King of Manzai Awards.

The Grandcypher bustles with life as the crew throws a party in honor of Fiery Soul and their hard-fought battle.

Lyria: Good job, you two!

Vyrn: Your performance was amazin'! Even if the results weren't the best...

Farrah: I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw that you'd lost! Heavenly Goods was so out of it too! The whole audience was murmuring!

Lauphit: Haha... Well, we were kinda out of it for our first performance.

Robertina: True, but since they flubbed the finals, the results being what they were probably struck everybody as strange.

Robertina: Lucky you! You must've had the god of comedy on your side!

Juri: Truly an honor!

Lauphit: Stop encouraging her!

Farrah: Are you guys really okay with how things turned out though?

Farrah: Didn't the judges offer you first place after they found out Heavenly Goods was cheating?

Juri: Yeah, but... it's fine. Right, Lauphit?

Lauphit: Yep.

The final round of the King of Manzai Awards has just begun.

Heavenly Goods is the first to perform, but due to Renvauro's poor mental state, he's unable to come up with any interesting quips, and the show ends on a sour note.

On the contrary, Fiery Soul has shaken off the initial nerves, completely turning the theater's depressed atmosphere around.

It's clear to everybody who the winner should be. Yet—

Host: The winner of the 23rd King of Manzai Awards...

Host: Is...

Host: Heavenly Goods?

As the clearly manipulated results are announced, a dissenting voice can be heard coming from the direction of the judges.

The harsh judge's objection is accompanied by the boos of spectators whose votes had not been bought.

Harsh Judge: Heavenly Goods has been found to be conspiring with some of the theater staff to rig the results of this esteemed contest. The head judge is also an accomplice.

Harsh Judge: Many of the spectators believe that it is appropriate that we grant you the victory. What do you think, Fiery Soul?

Lauphit: No need. I don't want my victory handed to me on a silver platter.

Lauphit: The only contest I care about winnin' is one where everyone is havin' fun—the comedians, the audience, and the judges.

Lauphit: I'll be back to compete again, don't ya worry!

Lauphit: Or well, that's what I hope. What about you, Juri?

Juri: Yeah, I feel like it was just one bad thing after the next today. If we're gonna win, I want it to be on our terms.

Juri: I'm sure we'll be able to do it.

Harsh Judge: Hm, I see. In any case, well done, you two. You truly are Namvian comedians.

Juri: Ah, actually, I'm not from Namvia...

Harsh Judge: It doesn't matter where you're from. You've more than proven your worth as a Namvian comedian.

Juri: C'mon, how's that even work?

Lauphit: You're supposed to just say thank you!

Harsh Judge: Ahahahaha!

Farrah: That certainly sounds like the Juri I know!

Juri: I was able to show Commander Galston a performance worth watching. Or well, at least I think he was there to see me...

Juri: Actually, thinking back on it now, I also just wanted to make Lauphit happy.

Seruel: Oh?

Juri: To be clear, it's not that I didn't want to win or anything!

Juri: It's just... I don't have the same burning passion toward comedy that Lauphit does, so I felt like it wasn't my place to accept the win!

Seruel: Heh. I didn't say anything, y'know.

Naoise: Haha... Don't worry, Juri. Your intentions are perfectly clear.

Geisenborger: But still... Who would ever guess that such rampant corruption could be found in a comedy competition of all places?

Lauphit: I wanna make it clear that this is the first time somethin' like this has happened here in Namvia.

Lauphit: Recently, other theaters have been hirin' comedians to bring in new customers, so it's true that our revenue has dropped.

Lauphit: Renvauro's current partner was a solo comedian slowly gainin' popularity with the kids.

Lauphit: The theater management noticed that his big break could happen at any moment and wanted to give him a little boost by lettin' him win the competition...

Azazel: So that's why he agreed... He has to be the least funny comedian alive.

Robertina: And Renvauro just so happened to be looking for a new partner after leaving his last duo.

Robertina: An inspirational success story about a brand new comedy duo winning a famous competition right after meeting each other...

Robertina: That's probably what they were going for. Not how I'd do it, but I get why they'd try.

Vyrn: Sheesh. I can't believe they'd do somethin' so lame!

Lauphit: Sorry, guys. You came all this way only for the contest to turn out like this...

Vyrn: Don't mention it! It was a learnin' experience for all of us.

Lyria: It's a good thing we came along too! Just look at Karteira! She's so excited to get things back up and running again!

As news of the scandal spreads throughout Namvia, the town is engulfed in chaos.

Judges, comedians, and citizens alike express their anger and frustration toward the cheating performers.

Townsperson 4: Is this the end of the King of Manzai Awards?

Harsh Judge: We'll think of a way to preserve the competition. But first, the theater's finances must undergo a thorough audit.

Peculiar Judge: Ehehe... We're as much an island of merchants as we are one of comedians. I'm sure we'll be able to recoup our losses one way or another!

Karteira: Oooh! I smell a business opportunity brewing!

Karteira: Ya need money to cover theater maintenance? Or some spare cash to organize a contest? Don't worry! Leave the fundraising to me!

Karteira: We should start by making some merch for your most popular comedians! Just ask, and I'll produce as much as ya need!

Karteira: If ya need new props for the theater, I can hook ya up with some of my finest wares. I'll even give it to ya for dirt cheap!

Karteira: It's time to make it rain!

Vyrn: Haha! Nobody knows money better than Karteira!

Lyria: She seems super busy running around town, but it looks like she's enjoying herself!

Lauphit: We really 'preciate the help.

Juri: But I still don't get it. How'd you find out they were rigging the votes?

Lauphit: Well, I just happened to overhear it durin' our little recess.

Juri: Why didn't you tell me?

Lauphit: I didn't want you worryin' right before our last performance.

Lauphit: I wanted you to give our show your undivided attention. I wanted you to enjoy our comedy undistracted.

Juri: I see...

Farrah: Too bad you didn't win though. Wasn't that your goal for this contest?

Vyrn: We don't even know if they'll be holdin' it again next year...

Lauphit: Haha. It's okay. They'll hold the competition. I know it. Even if they fall, the people here never stay down for long.

Lauphit: And y'know, second place isn't bad either. People recognize me now, and I've been gettin' more personal requests to perform lately.

Lauphit: If I keep up the hard work, I might even be able to start sendin' my folks a bit of money now and then.

Juri: If there's one thing you know how to do, it's working hard.

Lauphit grins from ear to ear hearing Juri compliment him. He beams with joy—all traces of stress and sorrow gone.

Lauphit: Well, it's been a long week, but I learned somethin' important durin' my time aboard this ship.

Lauphit: The comedy I grew up with and the culture surroundin' it can't be found everywhere.

Lauphit: Which is such a waste! There's nothin' more fun than comedy!

Lauphit: I also learned that there are so many unique characters here—never a dull moment!

Lauphit: I was totally clueless, stuck competin' in my little Namvian bubble!

Vyrn: Hm... I guess teachin' comedy to a guy who knew nothin' was worth it then.

Zehek: And making me laugh so hard that I almost died was worth it too!

Lauphit: There wasn't a single thing I did here that wasn't worth my time! You guys were all super helpful!

Lauphit: I'm gonna keep travelin', and I won't stop 'til comedy's known in every corner of these vast, blue skies!

Lauphit: Then, one day, I'll come back to Namvia and win the competition for real!

In the highest of spirits, the grinning Lauphit finishes his declaration, then turns around to face Juri once more.

Lauphit: Juri! Thank ya so much!

Lauphit: You helped me through all my darkest moments. After what happened with my ol' partner and the competition, I wasn't sure what to believe.

Lauphit: But you were there for me. I was able to keep pushin' onward 'cause I wanted to do manzai together with you. The only reason I could get up on stage is 'cause of you!

Lauphit: I'm so glad to have met ya! And not just that. I'm glad you were there to talk to. I'm glad we came up with jokes together.

Lauphit: I'm glad you believed in me. I'm glad for all of it! I'll treasure these memories forever! I'm the luckiest man alive!

Juri: Lauphit...

Juri: I guess it wasn't a bad experience for me either. In fact, I had fun.

Juri: I remember getting up on stage for our first performance. I'd never stood in front of so many spectators—the only thing I heard was the sound of applause.

Juri: But for our second one, I remember hearing our viewers cheer us on. We hadn't even started, and they were already laughing.

Juri: They accepted us as comedians after the first show, but welcomed us as stars before the next. At least, that's the impression I got...

Juri: It was honestly kinda moving...

Juri: And well, it's not a bad feeling helping a friend achieve his dreams!

Growing increasingly excited, Juri recounts the recent happenings with such vigor that his cheeks begin to ever so slightly turn red.

Sensing an opportunity, Farrah happily reacts.

Farrah: Juri! Are you crying?

Juri: Shut up! Nobody's crying!

Farrah: Hehe, I'm just messing with you. But seriously, Juri. You can relax now.

Juri: You don't have to tease me! You're right though. I was even able to talk to Commander Galston.

Juri: (If our paths cross again, I'd like to hear more about my dad...)

Vyrn: I'm glad things turned out okay! Juri needed to learn how to take a joke! He used to be way too serious!

Lyria: I feel like he's been laughing more recently too! It's nice seeing him without a frown on his face all the time!

Juri: Th-that's not true... Is it?

Lauphit: Haha, all's well that ends well, right? Nothin' more important than livin' life with a smile!

Lauphit: Never forget that!

Juri: You got it.

Suddenly, the crew members who were unable to attend the competition come pouring into the room in search of the now famous comedy duo.

Seruel: Well then, it's about time you perform for us. How about a little private showing?

Juri: Huh?

Naoise: That's right. We need some closure—a comedy show would be perfect.

Robertina: Prove to us that you were listening to our feedback!

Eugen: Oh, I like the sound of that!

Geisenborger: This ship will be the battleground where we fight comedian-to-comedian.

Azazel: Yeah! This time, we'll make Lauphit laugh so hard his face hurts!

The group bursts into laughter, and Lauphit takes in the sight of his new comedy-loving friends for what may be the last time in a while.

Finally, as if on cue, Juri and Lauphit face each other and smile.

Lauphit: Ya ready?

Juri: Ready when you are!

Fiery Soul: Hello, hello!

The End

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Characters

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle/Story

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Opening

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 1: Comedy Finds Its Soul - Episode 1

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 1: Comedy Finds Its Soul - Episode 2

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 1: Comedy Finds Its Soul - Episode 3

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 1: Comedy Finds Its Soul - Episode 4

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 2: One Step at a Time - Episode 1

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 2: One Step at a Time - Episode 2

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 2: One Step at a Time - Episode 3

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 2: One Step at a Time - Episode 4

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 3: A Little Encouragement - Episode 1

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 3: A Little Encouragement - Episode 2

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 3: A Little Encouragement - Episode 3

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 3: A Little Encouragement - Episode 4

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 4: Soul Resonance - Episode 1

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 4: Soul Resonance - Episode 2

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 4: Soul Resonance - Episode 3

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 4: Soul Resonance - Episode 4

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 5: Vestiges of the Past - Episode 1

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 5: Vestiges of the Past - Episode 2

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 5: Vestiges of the Past - Episode 3

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 5: Vestiges of the Past - Episode 4

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 6: Diverging Paths - Episode 1

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 6: Diverging Paths - Episode 2

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 6: Diverging Paths - Episode 3

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Chapter 6: Diverging Paths - Episode 4

Fiery Soul: Dreamer's Miracle - Ending

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