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Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza!/Story
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Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Opening
On a hot summer day, (Captain) and crew are invited by Sierokarte to participate in an eating competition. The shopkeeper explains that an increase in Auguste's lumber jelly population is causing problems for the fishing industry, and after culling the population, the island has been left with an excess of lumber jelly to consume. Sierokarte's solution is to revive a traditional Auguste eating competition, one which she hopes the crew can enjoy. The crew happily agrees to join.
The sun burns bright and hot on a clear summer day.
Sierokarte swings by the Grandcypher to deliver news about Auguste, a crew-favorite spot for the summer.
Vyrn: So you're sayin' these lumber jellies are stirring up trouble?
Sierokarte: Indeedy. They're non-poisonous and usually pretty docile, but...
Sierokarte: This year they've exploded in number and decimated the fish population. The fishing industry's been struggling because of it.
Sierokarte: Then a rumor went around saying the jellies are dangerous, so tourism's been on a downward slope too.
Vyrn: A double whammy during the busiest time of the year, huh? And just when we were thinking of taking our own vacation...
Lyria: That's not good. We'd be happy to take on a request to handle the lumber jellies!
Sierokarte: Ah, that's not actually what I'm here for.
Vyrn: Wait, really? You know we're always happy to help, especially when folks are in a pickle.
Sierokarte: I appreciate it, but I came here today to invite you to a special event.
Lyria: An event? What kind of event?
Sierokarte: There's going to be an enormous eating competition in Auguste, organized by yours truly.
Sierokarte: I was thinking my favorite skyfaring helpers might want to join the festivities.
Lyria: Wow, an eating competition!
Vyrn: Now hold on a sec. You just said the fish population's been hit hard, so how're you gonna feed all the people?
Sierokarte: About that...
Sierokarte begins to explain the situation.
Despite their booming population, the lumber jellies aren't too difficult to cull. Auguste's fishermen already have a handle on the situation.
The only problem left is the surplus of lumber jelly to consume.
Hence the eating competition—a way to quickly deal with the gigantic seafood stockpile before it spoils.
Vyrn: Y'know, that's actually a pretty neat idea. I'm into it!
Vyrn: What's a lumber jelly taste like anyway? Pretty good, I'm guessin'?
Sierokarte: You betcha! It's pretty chewy, but the more you chew it, the more you can enjoy the flavor!
Sierokarte: Its firm texture is also pretty addictive, I've gotta say.
Sierokarte: You've never seen one before, right? It's got a hard outer shell like tree bark, hence the name "lumber" jelly, and once you peel that bark back...
Sierokarte: Its squishy, translucent insides come bursting out all pudding-like!
Lyria: Oh my gosh! Hearing about it is already making me super hungry.
Vyrn: Haha! Lyria here might be the one to take the victory, considering her appetite!
Sierokarte: Hahaha, I suppose we'll have to see.
Sierokarte: This won't be the first time Auguste'll play host to a big eating competition. They used to have an annual one, up until a few decades ago.
Sierokarte: Fewer and fewer people showed up over time, and eventually they had to call it quits, but it was quite the event at the height of its popularity.
Sierokarte: In fact, winning it used to be considered the highest honor for a competitive eater!
Vyrn: Whoa, you serious? I didn't expect it to be that big of a deal.
Sierokarte: Oh, but it was. Champions from different regions would often get eliminated in just the preliminaries.
Sierokarte: That's why the winner was called the champion of champions—the best competitive eater in all of the skies.
Sierokarte: Tales of one eater's stunning victory traveled so far that the princess of a distant kingdom asked for his hand in marriage!
Sierokarte: Which is why people believed that winning the competition would help make any dream come true!
Sierokarte: We've been marketing it as the revival of a legendary tradition! Hopefully we'll attract not only a lot of competitors, but also some serious eaters.
Vyrn: Gulp... That's some kinda next level stuff.
Lyria: Maybe we shouldn't go after all. We might get in the way of people who really want to win...
Sierokarte: There's no need for that! Some aspiring champions might jump into the mix, but the most important thing will be having fun.
Sierokarte: That, and enjoying some delicious dishes served up by truly talented chefs.
Sierokarte: The grand prize is nothing to sneeze at either. So what do you say, everyone? Are you in?
Vyrn: Well, whaddya think, (Captain)?
Lyria: I... I want to participate! Is that okay, (Captain)?
Choose: Who can say no to tons of food?
Lyria: Hooray! Thank you so much!
Vyrn: Siero went outta her way to invite us, right? Be rude to say no!
Choose: Let's eat our way to victory then!
Lyria: What? A-are you being serious?
Vyrn: Guess all that talk about competition has got you fired up too. Sounds fun though! Count me in!
Lyria: I guess trying to win could be fun, but... I don't want to eat too much and gain weight...
Vyrn: Is that the part you're hung up on? You know me and (Captain) don't mind, right?
Lyria: But I mind! Geez, Vyrn, you just don't get it...
Continue 1Sierokarte: Hehe, should I take that to mean you'll all be coming?
Lyria: Yes! Oh, I can already taste the jelly!
Vyrn: We should go let the rest of the crew know, especially the hungry ones.
Lyria: This year's trip to Auguste should be pretty relaxing since we're only going for food.
Vyrn: The lumber jellies are already tamed, yeah? We got nothin' to worry 'bout then!
Vyrn: It'll be nice to take a load off without being attacked by seafood this time around. Every year, I swear...
Accepting Siero's invitation, (Captain) and crew plot a course for Auguste.
Little do they know a battle intense enough to rival the summer sun is about to start.
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 1: Rally Up! An Old Rival Emerges! - Episode 1
(Captain) and company arrive in Auguste, ready for fun. With a bit of free time to spend, competition participants Redluck, Lyria, Kolulu, Amira, and Leona bask in the nice weather. Sierokarte comes to welcome them, then urges the group to head to the arena for the explanation of the rules.
A few days have passed since Siero's invitation.
(Captain) and crew arrive to see Auguste's beach bustling with activity. An area is sectioned off to host the competition.
Tourists crowd the other parts of the beach. The crew takes the opportunity to relax before the festivities begin.
Kolulu: Golly, the ocean is gargantuan!
Io: Right? It's teeming with aquatic life too.
Kolulu: Amazing... I've never seen anything like this before.
Kolulu not in crew
The crew first encountered Kolulu passed out from hunger on the side of a road. They learned she survived day-to-day by fighting in an underground fight club.
After discovering that her custodian was skimming her earnings, Kolulu left the fight club and joined the crew.
Kolulu: Io! Let's view the ocean from a closer vantage!
Io: Sure, sure. Just watch out for lumber jellies, okay? Apparently there are a few still hanging around.
Kolulu: Naturally!
With a bright grin, Kolulu approaches the water and watches as gentle waves wash over her feet.
Kolulu: Oh! Oh golly! The water's so cool and refreshing!
Io: Haha, why don't you try going for a swim? I promise it'll feel even better then!
Kolulu: Very well. I shall dive right in!
Io: Wait, what? You can't just—
Kolulu: ...!
One taste of the salty water is enough to send Kolulu scrambling back up the beach.
Kolulu: Hack... Cough... Th-that was unexpected.
Io: I told you seawater's salty, didn't I? Unlike rivers and lakes.
Kolulu: And creatures actually live in these strange conditions? The sea is truly fascinating!
Kolulu gazes with innocent wonder at the blue expanse before them.
Beside her, another girl stares wide-eyed at the ocean for the first time.
Amira: The ocean... is so big...
Monster: ...
Amira: Ah... Hey, you. Do you know how to get to Helheim?
Monster: ...
Amira: Oh... Nobody ever knows. Thanks anyway.
Vyrn: Uh, Amira. Did nobody ever tell you not to talk to... er, strangers?
Amira: No? Everybody's nice. They told me about the good food here. Too bad they don't know about Helheim though.
No version of Amira in crew
One day Amira fell out of the clear blue sky and landed on the Grandcypher.
She is looking for her mother, who is waiting in a place called Helheim.
After learning that (Captain)'s father might know where Helheim is, she joined the crew on their journey through the sky.
Amira: Look. There's a crab.
Crab: ...
Vyrn: Uh... And?
Amira: Munch!
Vyrn: Whoa! You're gonna bite down on it just like that?
Amira: Crunch, chew... It's hard... Tough to eat.
Vyrn: That's 'cause you're supposed to cook it over a fire and shell it first. Sheesh...
Leona: Ahaha... I'm surprised how relaxed you all are before the big competition.
Leona: Completely the opposite of me at the moment.
No version of Leona in crew
Leona is an adjutant in Idelva's army. Though she never officially married into the family, she is considered by all to be Cain's sister-in-law.
The crew met her through Cain after he helped them in the Nalhegrande Skydom.
Vyrn: What's there to be worried 'bout? It's not like we're seriously going for the win.
Vyrn: We invited you to chow down, you know?
Leona: I do, but it almost feels rude to take the event lightly after seeing the serious competitors.
Lyria: Don't worry! Siero said that the most important thing is having a good time!
Lyria: So don't be so nervous, okay? I'm excited to eat with you, Leona!
Leona: You're right. I should focus on the fun, shouldn't I? Let's enjoy ourselves, Lyria.
Redluck: Hahaha! Nobody said you can't have fun while going for the win!
Redluck: And the win is gonna be mine!
Vyrn: Heya, big guy! Guess there's no way you'd be missing out on this, huh?
Redluck: Do you even need to ask? This competition's got my name written all over it!
Redluck not in crew
Redluck is both a Zeyen monk and a competitive eater chasing after fame.
A monk unlike any other, he travels around winning competitions, prize money, and glory.
Redluck: Never thought I'd live to see the day they brought it back.
Redluck: It's like a dream come true, and I don't intend on letting this chance pass me by!
Male Spectator: Look there! Isn't that Redluck?
Curious passersby overhear the man's exclamation and look in Redluck's direction.
Little Spectator: It really is! Good luck, Mister Redluck!
Female Spectator: We'll be rooting for you!
Redluck: Thank you, thank you! I'll put on a good show!
Lyria: Everyone sure loves you!
Vyrn: Can't say I'm surprised. The competition enthusiasts must know everything about ya, huh?
Redluck: Hahaha, maybe.
Redluck: They know me well enough to know I'm gonna win at least! Just you watch!
Sierokarte: Hello, everyone! I see you all made it without a problem.
Vyrn: Heya, Siero! Wouldn't miss this for the world!
Sierokarte: I'm sorry I couldn't greet you earlier. I've been so busy with preparations.
Lyria: That's all right. We're thankful enough for the invitation alone!
Sierokarte: Thank you for participating. I'm eager to see how you do.
Sierokarte: Speaking of which, it's almost time for the explanation of the rules. You should head over soon!
Vyrn: Gotcha! C'mon, (Captain)!
(Captain) gathers the crew members and informs them that it's time to go.
Following Sierokarte's directions, the group heads for the competition center.
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 1: Rally Up! An Old Rival Emerges! - Episode 2
The competition will be split into three rounds over three days: first is a preliminary round, then an elimination round, and last is the final round. The winner will receive a set of Auguste's finest seafood specialties. Everyone except Redluck expresses excitement at the grand prize, and Vyrn and Lyria hypothesize that it's because Redluck uses the prize money from his competitions to feed starving children. As Redluck grows embarrassed, an unfamiliar voice barges into the conversation.
The crew arrives at the competition stage alongside a mass of other contestants. More and more people enter, and soon the area is filled.
Lyria: Are all these people here to eat?
Vyrn: Holy moly... There's gotta be at least a thousand people.
Redluck: The more, the merrier! No fun if it's not a challenge!
Competitor 1: Yo, look at that guy. He's gotta be Redluck.
Competitor 2: The rumors were true then. Tch, no point competing now.
???: Hmph.
Sierokarte: Ahem! If I could have your attention please.
Sierokarte: Thank you all for attending despite the sweltering weather.
Sierokarte: I hope everyone's as excited as I am for the revival of this legendary event! Can everyone make some noise!
Choose: Yeeeeah!
Redluck: Whoo! All right!
Kolulu: Y-yeah!
Amira: I'm hungry.
Leona: Yes!
Lyria: Yaaay!
Sierokarte: With that out of the way, let's go over the rules!
The stadium quiets down, and Sierokarte clears her throat one more time.
Sierokarte: There are three stages to this competition: a preliminary round, an elimination round, and a championship round. The rounds are split over the course of the next three days.
Sierokarte: The preliminary round requires contestants to eat a set minimum in order to advance to the elimination round.
Sierokarte: The elimination round is split into two brackets: one in the morning and one in the afternoon. The winner of each bracket moves on to the final round.
Sierokarte: Our champion is then decided by a one-on-one showdown. It's going to be a match for the ages!
Sierokarte: Of course, we can't forget the grand prize! Feast your eyes on what we've got prepped!
She lifts the sheet off a nearby pedestal to reveal an enormous platter stacked high with seafood.
Sierokarte: A set of Auguste's finest—rich not only in flavor, but also in price! Only one can take home this rare luxury!
Sierokarte: But which one of you is it going to be? Good luck, everyone!
Lyria: Wow! So that's the prize Siero mentioned!
Kolulu: Gulp... A bundle of Auguste's ocean delights... It looks so good!
Amira: If I eat the most, I can eat all that fish!
Leona: To be able to taste cuisine unknown to Nalhegrande... That sure would be nice.
A competitive spirit grows in the crowd as the prize draws every eye to its glistening edibles.
Only Redluck appears unimpressed. He purses his lips and frowns.
Redluck: A set prize, huh? I get that it's fancy or whatever, but I sure would've preferred rupies instead.
Vyrn: It's pretty good advertising though, showcasin' Auguste's specialties. What's wrong with that?
Redluck: Nothing, it's just... Money's got more uses.
He coughs and glances away. Lyria peers up at him, a look of recognition crossing her face.
Lyria: Hehe! I think I know what you're saying.
Lyria: If it was money, you could donate it to the orphanage, right?
Vyrn: Oh yeah! You always send your prize money to them, don'tcha?
Vyrn: Shoulda figured, what with that spiel about "making the world a place where no one ever has to starve" or whatever.
Redluck: Stop! Stop right there! It's embarrassing when you're shouting it in front of a crowd!
Redluck: Sheesh, you kids should know better than to mess with your elders...
Vyrn: Haha, couldn't resist! Sorry!
Kolulu: A world where no one ever has to starve...
Redluck: What's that? Did you say something, kiddo?
Kolulu: Oh, no, it's nothing!
Redluck: Well, I'm not giving up the victory just 'cause there's no money.
Redluck: And I'm not letting you guys win either, no matter how much you want the food. Sorry, not sorry!
Lyria: That's okay. I hope you do well, Redluck!
Redluck: Whoa, whoa, I thought you wanted to win yourself. Why're you cheering me on?
Redluck: You should be telling me how you're gonna put up a fight and get some blood-pumping tension going.
Redluck: But I guess that's not your style, eh? Let's do this fair and square, and have a good time!
Lyria: Of course! We're going to eat as much as we can!
The crew members exchange smiles and laughter as they look forward to the coming days.
But a new face interrupts the merrymaking.
???: Ya really think you can win with that kinda half-hearted attitude?
His wild voice roars above the din and crashes down like a wave.
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 1: Rally Up! An Old Rival Emerges! - Episode 3
The unexpected obtruder reveals himself to be Mash the Smasher, another pro competitive eater. He taunts Redluck, calling his pride as a competitive eater into question, and the two begin to trade harsh barbs. The others can only watch the exchange in uneasy silence.
???: Suppose a guy like you, who's used to winning, wouldn't bother paying attention to his opponents!
Barging his way into their conversation, a burly man shouts at the crew and glares at Redluck.
Vyrn: Who the heck is this guy? He tryna pick a fight?
Redluck: Tch. Figured you'd show up.
Vyrn: You know him?
Redluck: I wish I didn't. But yeah.
Redluck: That's Mash. Another competitive eater with his own following.
Mash: Mash the Smasher is the name, and don't you forget it!
Lyria: Uh... huh...
Mash: You're goin' down this time, Redluck! Mark my words!
Redluck: Hah, that's the hundredth time I've heard that! Surprised you haven't given up yet!
Lyria: Oh no... You don't seem to get along very well.
Vyrn: Sounds like you've got some history. Is he a rival or something?
Redluck: You kidding? Guy's a pest I can't shake off, that's all.
Mash: S'that what you think of me?
Mash marches up to Redluck and leans into his personal space, their faces nearly touching.
Mash: Big words for a fellow goofing off with a buncha kids. Hah!
Redluck: Yeah? I don't want to hear that from someone who ain't devoted to the profession.
Mash: Like you're any better than I am!
Redluck: You think I'm not giving a hundred and ten percent when I compete? I'm committed to every bite!
Mash: Oh, look at Mister High-and-Mighty! Just gonna assume I don't throw my soul into every bite too?
Redluck: What'd you say to me?
Mash: You heard me! Or are ya deaf?
Vyrn: O-okay, can we time out for a sec? You're kinda causing a scene...
Redluck: Sorry... Didn't mean to lose my cool.
Mash: ...
Redluck: Mash, let me just say this.
Redluck: I may have conquered countless tournaments and contests, but...
Redluck: I can't call myself a pro if I don't win this title! Victory here is everything to me!
Mash: The same goes for me! There are people I've gotta make proud, and I ain't resting until I do!
Redluck: You, actually caring about others' opinions? Color me surprised.
Redluck: We've both got our own reasons to win then.
Redluck: So enough speaking with our mouths. Let's do what we do best... and see who can stomach more on the main stage!
Mash: Now you're speaking my language! Hope you're ready to lose!
As fast as he had arrived, Mash turns away and disappears into the crowd.
Redluck: Psh. Bring it on.
Redluck: (Captain), I'm gonna go clear my head. Catch you later.
Redluck leaves in the opposite direction, his face deadly serious.
Vyrn: What... just happened?
Vyrn's question meets silence as the others try to process what they just witnessed.
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 1: Rally Up! An Old Rival Emerges! - Episode 4
(Captain) and Vyrn decide to withdraw from the competition to help Sierokarte. As they walk around, they run into Charlotta. She informs the two that she has entered the competition as Sevastien is one of the chefs preparing food for each round. Sevastien himself appears in Lucio-inspired attire alongside Lucio, and the group enjoys friendly conversation before it is time for the preliminary round to start.
Following Redluck and Mash's confrontation, (Captain) and Vyrn part with Lyria and the others to head to the beach.
Vyrn: That sure threw me for a loop. Never seen the big guy so serious before.
Vyrn: Siero wasn't kidding when she mentioned how much people cared about this event, huh?
Vyrn: Almost makes me feel relieved to be stuck with this job instead.
Charlotta: Why, if it isn't (Captain) and Vyrn!
Charlotta: You appear to be discussing a weighty subject. Is something the matter?
No version of Charlotta in crew
Charlotta serves as captain of the Lumiel Order of Holy Knights.
She is searching for a way to rectify her short height, and met the crew during her travels.
Vyrn: Kinda, sorta. What about you? You look a bit antsy.
Charlotta: Just moments ago, I entered myself into the eating competition!
Charlotta: I shall approach this duel of sustenance without hesitation, even if you are my opponent, (Captain)!
Vyrn: Er... Sorry to burst your bubble, but me and (Captain) had to drop out.
Charlotta: What? But why?
Vyrn: The Knickknack Shack needs us on deck for the next few days, y'see.
After the altercation between Redluck and Mash, Sierokarte approached the crew.
She explained that the competition attracted far more people than expected, which left the staff shorthanded.
Vyrn and (Captain) decided to step down from the contest and offer their assistance, so that Lyria and the others could focus on their food.
Vyrn: Siero really needed the help, and we don't mind cheering from the sidelines, so we figured we could let the others have their fun.
Charlotta: I see. A most noble sacrifice.
Vyrn: I gotta say, I didn't think you'd be interested in joining the fun too. Since when did you care about serious eating?
Charlotta: In all honesty, I didn't originally intend to compete.
Charlotta: However, I could not resist once I discovered that Sevastien was selected to prepare the food!
Vyrn: He's one of the chefs? Wow, everyone's gonna be in for a treat!
Charlotta: To be recognized as one of the few who can utilize lumber jelly to its fullest potential...
Charlotta: Sevastien is truly skilled! I could not be prouder of his feats!
Sevastien: Hohoho! I am flattered to hear such praise from you.
Vyrn: Heya, Sevastien! Grats on bein' hired to cook—
Vyrn: Wait, what the heck!
Sevastien: Is something the matter? You appear simply gobsmacked.
Sevastien not in crew
Sevastien is an elderly gentleman who serves Charlotta and upholds the same principles of justice.
Though he appears to be simply her butler, in truth he serves as the archpraetor of the Lumiel Order of Holy Knights.
Vyrn: That's because I am! What's with that getup?
Sevastien: I, too, long for relaxation and wish to join the revelry.
Sevastien: It's quite suitable for the occasion, isn't it?
Vyrn: There's a difference between taking a load off and completely changin' character!
Sevastien: So you say, but this is my true form. I apologize for keeping it hidden until now.
Sevastien: The devoted servant you've always known is but a mask.
Sevastien: I was an avid partygoer and troublemaker once upon a time.
Sevastien: The beaches were my playgrounds, and I roamed without restraint.
Vyrn: This sounds like one tall tale, but I can't tell if you're kidding or not...
Sevastien: Hoho! Joking aside...
Sevastien: I am quite fond of these sunglasses, though I never would have picked them out myself.
Vyrn: So then who did?
Lucio: That would be me.
Vyrn: Seriously?
Lucio: It's to commemorate our blossoming friendship. What could be more heartfelt than a matching accessory, after all?
Vyrn: Seems to me like you're doing your own thing like always.
Vyrn: Wait, did you say friendship? You guys are friends? Since when?
Lucio: I heard that a single taste of the Lumiel Gourmand's food was enough to prolong one's life.
Lucio: I wished to know the secret behind such masterful work, and so I approached Sevastien.
Vyrn: That's one way to start a conversation, I guess... Did you learn anything in the end?
Lucio: Unfortunately not.
Sevastien: It is not a secret that can be simply learned from another.
Sevastien: Rather, it is the natural result of experience and accumulating knowledge... The Lumiel Gourmand is nothing more, nothing less.
Lucio: Fascinating. Perhaps I will attempt a hundred years of study and see where the experience takes me.
Sevastien: Now that is an intriguing idea.
Lucio: Hehe.
Sevastien: Oh dear, I'm afraid we'll have to continue this another time. I must get to cooking.
Sevastien: Though I won't be directing the kitchen for the preliminaries, I still have a role to fulfill.
Vyrn: Who's in charge if you're not then?
Sevastien: You are acquainted with them. But I shall leave the answer to your imagination until the main event.
Sevastien: Which should be starting soon, if I recall correctly.
Charlotta: Oh, that's right! I should hurry over!
Vyrn: We've got some time before we gotta meet up with Siero, right? Let's go take a look, (Captain)!
Charlotta, Vyrn, and (Captain) part with Sevastien and Lucio.
Charlotta heads for the participants' area while Vyrn and (Captain) claim seats in the stands.
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 2: Kick Off! Aim for Victory! - Episode 1
The food for the preliminary round is lumber jelly sushi prepared by chefs from Miyasato. While the participating crew members savor the food, Redluck and Mash steadily devour piece after piece, both of them continuing to eat even after finishing the hundred pieces needed to move on to the elimination round. Other competitors grow disheartened at the powerful display, while the crowd goes wild.
The stadium fills with people as the opening draws near.
Competitors and audience alike wait with barely contained excitement, an electric energy building in the air.
Announcer: It's the moment you've aaaaall been waiting foooor!
Announcer: The toughest, fiercest bottomless black holes all gathered in one place for glory and gains!
Announcer: There's gonna be drama. There's gonna be sweat. There's gonna be adrenaline, and maybe even a few tears!
Announcer: That's right, folks. Today's the day we bring back the legendary eating competition!
Cheers and hollers erupt the moment the announcer finishes speaking.
Kolulu: Wh-what an intense display...
Amira: If I eat the most, I can eat the prize!
Leona: I know we said we're doing this for fun, but actually being here is a little nerve-racking...
Lyria: Hehe, it's almost like being at a festival! I can't wait to start!
Charlotta: I am anxious to see what kind of food they've prepared.
Lyria: Oh, Charlotta! What are you doing here?
Charlotta: A good question... But of course, I am a last-minute challenger!
Lyria: Yay! I'm so glad you could join us!
Redluck: Phew...
Redluck: I'm ready to do this!
In contrast to the lively members of the party, Redluck steels himself for the battle ahead.
Surrounding competitors nervously glance his way. Only Mash stands confident and glowers at his opponent.
Mash: Just watch... Yer not gonna take this from me, Redluck!
Announcer: Today our contestants will be eating...
Announcer: Lumber jelly rolls!
Announcer: A brand-new cuisine, never before seen!
Announcer: Though I'm sure most of you are familiar with its telltale sushi shape, at least!
Vyrn: Sushi, huh? No wonder I feel like I've seen it before.
Announcer: Sushi, for those of you who don't know, is a famed food item from Tono Island.
Announcer: This lumber jelly version replaces its traditional albacore and salmun toppings. Blasphemous, I know, but hear me out first.
Announcer: Lumber jelly's rubbery. It's chewy. But the more you chew it, the more the flavors come out, and it pairs amazingly with the sweetness of the rice.
Announcer: One taste is enough to get you hooked!
Announcer: To top it all off, we've got chefs from Miyasato preparing the sushi today! Yes, that's right, folks. Tono Island's famed sushi restaurant sent over its finest!
Announcer: They graciously became a sponsor after hearing about the trouble on these shores!
Vyrn: Whoa, Miyasato? Sevastien must've been talking 'bout Kyuta and the others earlier!
Vyrn: Glad to hear they're still at it!
Announcer: Ahem. Next we've got some rules to go over for this first round.
Announcer: Contestants hoping to progress past the preliminaries must eat a minimum predetermined amount.
Announcer: But who here can down one hundred pieces and push the limits of their bellies?
Vyrn: One hundred! Ain't that kinda high for an intro round?
Announcer: Will our staff serve the contestants their first meal? Please and thank you.
Platters are brought forth immediately and set down, one in front of each eater.
Announcer: Once you've finished a platter, signal one of the staff members and they'll get you another.
Announcer: If you manage to finish all one hundred pieces, raise your hand, and I'll check your mouth and make sure you've swallowed every bite!
Announcer: That about wraps it up for explanations, I think. Without further ado, I think it's time for the fun to begin!
The audience quiets as they wait for the announcer's signal.
Announcer: Ready... Go!
Cheering and the clamor of dining instantly drown out the announcer.
Kolulu: Thank you for the meal! Munch, chew...
Kolulu: This... is incredibly delicious!
Kolulu: I could eat a mountain of it! What a luxurious treat!
Amira: Chomp! Gobble, munch! Bite, gnaw... Swallow!
Amira: Tasty! More!
Leona: Oh, may I have another platter as well?
Though the sushi nearly vanishes in the blink of an eye, more is brought to Amira and Leona just as quickly.
Leona: Mmmm, this is so good! I feel like I could eat a hundred platters!
Lyria: Same here! Siero really wasn't kidding about how addictive the texture is!
Charlotta: So this is sushi... It's even more extravagantly scrumptious than I originally imagined!
Charlotta: I would love to one day try the standard version as well!
Vyrn: Everyone's pretty happily stuffing their faces!
Lucio: Spectacularly made. This "sushi" has exceeded my expectations by leaps and bounds.
Vyrn: Wha? Is that Lucio? He's competing too?
Lucio: Clearly various refined techniques were used, but not in excess. A tasteful balance, one could say.
Lucio: Hehe. It would be wonderful to have a cup of Sandy's coffee with this meal, but I shall instead focus on the chef's technique.
Lucio: Excuse me. May I have a cup of hot tea?
Vyrn: Er... Can we even call that competing? 'Cause it looks more like he's enjoyin' a meal out on the town.
Redluck: Haaaaaahhh!
A sudden roar by a familiar voice grabs the audience's attention.
Redluck: Come on! Platter me up, let's go!
Announcer: And there goes Redluck! He is pumped!
Announcer: Most of the other competitors have barely finished their first platter, but he's already on his fifth or sixth!
Announcer: Will Redluck cross the finish line unchallenged—
Mash: Hrrraahhhh!
Almost as if in defiance of the cheering, Mash smashes the sushi on his platter and scoops the mush into his mouth.
Announcer: Wait! Mash has eaten just as much!
Redluck: Burp! All right, that's one hundred pieces eaten!
Mash: Same here!
Announcer: Wh-wh-wh-what! Redluck and Mash, in a crazy turn of events, have finished at nearly the exact same time!
Announcer: But before we can give them a passing grade... Please excuse me while I perform the mandatory check!
After a quick peek into their open mouths, the announcer gives an enthusiastic nod and two thumbs up.
Announcer: That's a wrap, folks! These two are moving on to the elimination round!
Redluck: Wahaha! Easy as pie!
Mash: You call that a challenge? Already burned off the calories I ate!
Announcer: Good work today! I'm excited to see how you do tomorrow—
Redluck: Hey, do you mind if I have five more platters?
Announcer: What? I'm afraid I don't understand. You've already passed this round.
Redluck: Just trying to fill up. If there's not enough food to go around though, don't worry about it.
Announcer: N-no, we have plenty! I'll ask them to prepare some at once!
Mash: Don't forget 'bout me! I'll take ten more platters!
Announcer: Y-you as well?
Redluck: You will, eh? Slap on another ten platters for me then!
Mash: What're you playin' at!
Redluck: You got a problem?
Announcer: We've got another competition outside the competition, folks! These two are leaving all the other contestants in the dust!
Competitor 1: What kinda stuff are their stomachs made of?
Competitor 2: No way we can win against monsters like 'em...
Disheartening murmurs spread among the other challengers.
Eventually the timer rings over defeated groans and encouraging shouts, and the first round draws to a close.
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 2: Kick Off! Aim for Victory! - Episode 2
Amira takes third place, much to the surprise of the arena, while Kolulu and Leona also manage to clear the hundred-piece hurdle and pass. Redluck and Mash tie for first, the animosity between them growing even after the prelims finish. Everyone returns to the Grandcypher to rest except (Captain) and Vyrn, who leave to assist Sierokarte.
Announcer: And that concludes the wilder-than-expected preliminary round...
Announcer: Makes you wonder what kind of drama tomorrow'll bring, but I guess we'll find out soon.
Announcer: To all those who made it, good luck, and have a nice rest of your day!
(Captain) and Vyrn meet back up with their friends afterward.
Vyrn: Heya, good job back there!
Kolulu: I truly did it! I passed the preliminaries!
Io: Congrats, Kolulu! You were awesome!
Kolulu: I couldn't have done it without you, Io! I heard your encouragement, loud and clear!
Leona: Ahaha, I passed as well... Can't say I feel like I ate that much though.
Vyrn: In what world is ten platters of sushi not that much... But I guess if you've still got room for more, tomorrow should be easy!
Leona: Maybe? Maybe not. I'll give it my best shot at least.
Vyrn: Well, Amira definitely won't have a problem. Sure blew me away to watch her take third place today!
Amira: Did I? Does that mean I can eat more tomorrow?
Vyrn: Did... you not realize?
While Kolulu, Amira, and Leona drink in their victory, Lyria and Charlotta drag their feet behind the rest of the group and hang their heads low.
Lyria: Ahaha, we didn't make it...
Charlotta: A real shame...
Vyrn: You guys came so close too—Lyria 'specially. Just a little more time and you woulda finished.
Lyria: But I did my best, and that's what counts.
Choose: It was a good hustle.
Lyria: Thank you, (Captain)! I feel a little better after hearing that from you.
Choose: You had fun too, right?
Lyria: Yeah, it was super fun! Thanks for letting me join.
Continue 1Lyria: Now that I'm out, I'll be sure to cheer everyone else on twice as hard!
Charlotta: My own dreams of victory may not have come true...
Charlotta: But I will accept my fate and put my heart into cheering as well!
Vyrn: I like that! Supporting each other and showin' there's no hard feelings or nothing.
Lucio: Hoping for another's victory despite your defeat is truly an admirable display of friendship.
Lucio gives an easygoing smile and claps in support of the crew's solidarity.
Vyrn: Appreciate the compliment, but shouldn't you be at least a little upset that you lost too?
Lucio: Lost? I was never entered into the race in the first place.
Vyrn: Huh? But you were eating sushi...
Lucio: I was mistaken for a participant while studying the festivities.
Lucio: Eventually I managed to clear up the misunderstanding, but at the time I decided the best course of action was to partake in their generosity.
Lucio: I could not in good conscience waste food that someone slaved over.
Vyrn: So you took your time eatin' because winning or losing had nothing to do with you.
Lucio: Precisely. I promise I'll pay them properly later.
Vyrn: Sigh... You're a real free-spirited guy, you know that?
Lucio: Hehe, it wouldn't be polite of me to steal the spotlight from the star, after all.
Vyrn: The what? You talking about the big guy? Speaking of which...
A quick glance around reveals Redluck engaged in a heated glaring contest with Mash.
Mash: Tying for first place with me? You tryna pick a fight?
Redluck: That's my line! You already passed, so what the heck was all that asking for extra at the end?
Mash: I had ta show everyone else that I mean business!
Redluck: Hah, you're really gonna try to pull that after sneaking glances my way the whole time?
Redluck: I was only eating to warm up for tomorrow!
Mash: Now you're arguin' just to argue! Obviously I was eating as a warm-up for my warm-up!
Redluck: That doesn't even make sense! Who's actually arguing just to argue here, huh?
Vyrn: They've been at each other's throats since we left, and I'm not sure we should get involved.
Lyria: Probably not... Should we head back to the ship first?
Vyrn: Ah, sorry, no can do. Me and (Captain) hafta help the Knickknack Shack soon.
Lyria: Oh, I totally forgot! Can I pitch in too?
Vyrn: Nah, you just focus on restin' up. I'm sure you're tired after everything earlier.
Lyria: If you're sure... I'll do just that then!
Vyrn: Go for it! We'll catch ya later.
Ready to rest after all the excitement, Lyria and the other crew competitors return to the Grandcypher.
(Captain) and Vyrn send them off and head over to meet Sierokarte.
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 2: Kick Off! Aim for Victory! - Episode 3
A little while after the preliminary round finishes, Mash scrambles around the empty beach in search of something. Lucio passes by and hands over the small bottle which Mash has been searching for. Mash thanks him profusely, then warns him not to tell anyone about the bottle before cheerfully walking away. Lucio watches him leave, a pensive expression on his face.
Mash: Damn it! Where'd it go!
A little while after the preliminaries conclude, Mash rushes around alone.
He searches through the sandy ground of the empty stadium with barely contained panic.
Mash: I hafta find it... No matter what! Otherwise how am I gonna do this?
Mash: If I don't win, how am I ever gonna face 'em again?
Mash: It's gotta be here somewhere! C'mon!
He drops down and digs left and right, hoping to uncover the lost item.
Only when he hears approaching footsteps does he look up, eyes bloodshot.
Lucio: Were you looking for this?
Mash: Yeah! That's it, that's totally it!
Mash frantically snatches the small bottle from Lucio's outstretched hand.
Mash: Thank ya, seriously! Can't believe I dropped it.
Lucio: I'm glad it found its way back to you. It seemed to be a very important, very treasured object.
Mash: Wahaha! You got a good eye for details, pal! 'Fraid I ain't got much to repay ya with though.
Lucio: That's quite all right. I'm glad to have been of service.
Mash: ...
The chipper smile falls from Mash's face as his expression grows dour.
Mash: Hey, pal. I know you did me a huge one, but listen...
Mash: This here's sensitive stuff, got it? You ain't allowed to peep 'bout it to anyone.
Lucio: To peep... like a bird? Ah, you mean to speak about it.
Lucio: Understood. I'm not fond of stirring up a fuss myself.
Mash: Great, glad we see eye to eye!
Just as quickly as his hackles were raised, Mash breaks out into a bright grin and claps Lucio on the shoulder.
Mash: I better get goin'! You'll root for me tomorrow, eh?
Lucio: Of course. Till next we meet.
Mash gives a wave and makes his way off the beach.
Lucio: ...
Lucio watches him walk away, a pensive look crossing his features.
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 2: Kick Off! Aim for Victory! - Episode 4
Late at night on the quiet beach, (Captain) and Vyrn make their way back to the Grandcypher when they suddenly hear a mysterious metallic, grating noise. Deciding that they are tired and must be imagining the noise, they ignore it and move on. Afterward, a group of lumber jellies land on the beach and prepare to exact revenge on the people eating their brethren. Before they can move, however, a mysterious creature tears the lumber jellies apart, feeds on them, and disappears into the night.
The day's hustle and bustle fade into night, and a peaceful quiet washes over moonlit shores.
It is close to midnight when (Captain) and Vyrn finally finish and return to the Grandcypher.
Vyrn: Phew, Siero really put us through the wringer... I'm super beat.
Choose: Same...
Vyrn: Been a day, huh? Can't wait to crawl into bed and catch some z's!
Choose: Let's do our best tomorrow too.
Vyrn: Course we will! Our friends are countin' on us!
Continue 1Vyrn: Gotta say though, it sure is quiet this late. Like a totally different world from earlier.
???: ...!
Vyrn: Huh? Did you hear that? Sounded like something whooshing around, rotatin'...
Vyrn: There's no way there's a gearcycle around these parts, right? Must be more tired than I thought.
Vyrn: Better hurry back. I bet ya Lyria's stayed up past her bedtime trying to wait for us.
(Captain) and Vyrn agree that they are imagining the metallic, grating noise and pick up the pace after exchanging yawns.
Lumber Jellies: ...
Under the cover of darkness, a smack of lumber jellies crawls onto the empty beach.
Revenge for their brethren-turned-sustenance is the goal, and their first targets are the dimly lit houses nearby.
However, the surprise attack does not go as planned.
???: ...!
Lumber Jellies: ...!
The sound of turning wheels is the only warning the lumber jellies have before they are torn limb from limb and splattered in the sand.
???: ...!
???: ...
The hungry assailant completes its feeding, launches into the air, and flies out into the distant ocean horizon.
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 3: Let's Go! Hungry, Hungry Heroes! - Episode 1
The second day dawns, signaling the beginning of the elimination round. Kolulu, Amira, and Leona are put into the morning bracket. Having gained a little confidence after making it through the first round, Kolulu and Leona do their best not to be nervous. Amira grows more serious about winning after she learns that the fame from doing so might help her gain information about Helheim.
Day two of the competition dawns. The round: elimination.
Kolulu: I shall eat to my limits today!
Io: Yeah! That's the spirit!
Leona: It would be an insult not to after making it this far when others couldn't.
Lyria: I can tell you're fired up too, Leona!
With the success of the previous day still in mind, Kolulu and Leona exude new confidence.
Vyrn: You guys got this, 'specially with us rooting for you!
Vyrn: It's just too bad that only one of you can win and move on though...
Kolulu: So me and Leona...
Leona: We'll have to directly compete with one another.
Earlier in the morning, all contestants drew lots to determine who would compete in the morning bracket and in the afternoon bracket.
Both Kolulu and Leona landed in the morning bracket.
Leona: The preliminary round was different because we only needed to eat a set amount, and any number of people could have passed.
Leona: But this time all except one will lose.
Kolulu: Y-yeah...
Leona: Oh, I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to make you feel nervous.
Leona: Remember what Vyrn said yesterday? No hard feelings. Just focus on enjoying yourself and eat as much as you can.
Leona: After that, win or lose, we can be satisfied with the result.
Kolulu: Understood. Eat and have no regrets, right?
Leona: Exactly.
Vyrn: Hehe! Now that's true sportsmanship!
Amira: Mmmm... Chomp!
Vyrn: Gah! The heck, Amira? Where've you been!
Vyrn: You completely vanished after we drew lots... And are you eating right now?
Amira: Munch, chew... I went for a walk and some people gave me food as a show of support? Or something like that.
Amira shows the shish kebab sticks in her hand.
Amira: Munch... Told me to eat it and do my best today.
Vyrn: Guess I shouldn't be surprised you got a fan or two after your performance yesterday.
Amira: Hehe. Support is tasty.
Lyria: Ahaha... What a very Amira-like thing to say.
Lyria: But are you sure you should've eaten that? The next round is about to start soon.
Lyria: Very soon, actually, since you're in the morning bracket too.
Amira: Chew... Gulp.
Amira: I'm still hungry. The next round needs to start sooner.
Lyria: O-oh.
Vyrn: Lyria, just give it up. You can't use normal logic with someone who fell outta the sky, crash-landed on our ship, and got up like it was nothing...
Vyrn: Plus I'm pretty sure this much food is nothing to her, considerin' the way she swallowed everything yesterday.
Vyrn: She might even end up being our winner today.
Amira: I will be. I'm going to eat the most, and then I'm going to eat the prize.
Vyrn: Taking third place already catapulted her to some fame. Just imagine what would happen if she won. People would come up to her everywhere we go.
Amira: Everywhere... Do you think people on Helheim will hear about me too?
Vyrn: Uh... Maybe? It's possible at least.
Amira: What about Mother?
Amira grabs Vyrn's tiny body and shakes him back and forth, impatient and agitated.
Vyrn: Whoa, calm down! I dunno, okay? Maybe, maybe not!
Amira: If I eat the most, and I eat the prize, Mother will find out I'm looking for her...
A determined look growing in her eyes, she lets go of Vyrn and clenches her fists.
Lyria: Amira looks like she really wants to win now.
Leona: She was already formidable before. I'm almost afraid to see what she does next.
Kolulu: W-well, I won't let her win without a fight!
As the tension grows, Redluck hails them from a ways off, then makes his way over.
Redluck: Heyo, heyo, what's all this? Everyone's looking fired up!
Vyrn: Heya, big guy. Didja finish drawing lots?
Redluck: Yeah, I'm going in the afternoon.
Vyrn: Oh. You're gonna be the only one then.
Redluck: S'that so? Too bad. It would've been fun to join the morning chaos.
Amira: I can't compete against you?
Vyrn: He just said so. Most you can hope for is facing him tomorrow in the finals.
Redluck: What, did you want to eat against me?
Amira: Yeah. If I don't win against everyone, it won't count.
The surrounding crew members grow wide-eyed at Amira's confidence in front of the competition's best eater.
Vyrn: You got guts, saying that to the big guy.
Redluck: Oh-ho? Should I take that as a direct challenge?
Amira: No. I only mean that I won't lose to anyone.
Redluck: ...
Amira: ...?
Redluck: Pfft... Hahaha! That's a good look in your eyes!
Amira: Yeah. My eyes are good. I can see far away with them.
Redluck: Haha, that's not what I'm talking about. You've got the spunk of someone who ain't afraid to take risks.
Redluck: Getting me all fired up too. I can't let myself lose either then.
Vyrn: What, are you actually worried?
Redluck: Victory's never a hundred percent guaranteed.
Redluck: I may be undefeated these past ten years, but I didn't get this far by underestimating others.
Redluck: Gotta keep myself on my toes when there are other strong eaters around.
Redluck: That annoying buffoon's in the afternoon bracket too, so I definitely can't afford to let my guard down.
Vyrn: By "annoying buffoon," are you referring to that Mash the Hasher guy?
Mash: It's Smasher, not Hasher!
Vyrn: Gyah!
Mash: Smasher, got it?
Mash: Anyway, Redluck, heard you got thrown into the later match. It's not too late to ask the event planners to change their minds.
Redluck: The event planners? What do they have to do with anything?
Mash: You wanna make it to the finals no matter what, right? You might have to throw your pride to the side then.
Mash: Do that, and beg the planners to change ya to the morning bracket!
Redluck: You sure you shouldn't be the one doing the begging? Or are you stupid enough to believe I'd ever do that?
Mash: Big words, pal. I'll make you eat 'em. Just you watch.
Mash spits his last words out, flares his nostrils, and stomps away.
Redluck: Why is that guy always so full of himself?
Lyria: Hehe.
Redluck: What's with the laughter, Lyria? Something funny?
Lyria: I was just thinking that you and Mash get along really well.
Vyrn: The closest of friends are the ones you aren't afraid to argue with, right? You even take him seriously as a rival!
Redluck: Now you're just assuming things! Gives me goose bumps just imagining being buddies with him.
Redluck: That's enough chitchat! Come on, you guys have to head over to the arena!
Kolulu: We'll see you later!
Amira: I'm going to eat the most.
Leona: It'll be tough, but I'll do my best to keep up with these two.
Redluck: I'll be waiting for whoever wins, so make sure you don't let me down.
With resolved nods, Kolulu, Amira, and Leona leave for the next step of the challenge.
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 3: Let's Go! Hungry, Hungry Heroes! - Episode 2
The second round involves eating lumber jellato, a mix of lumber jelly and ice cream. Amira rushes into a strong start, but as time goes on, brain freezes threaten her pace. Kolulu battles with the same pain and manages to overcome it by holding her breath and focusing. Using this strategy, Kolulu catches up to Amira, and the two enter into an intense battle as Amira forces her way through the brain freezes.
Announcer: Are you reeeaaady for daaay two!
Announcer: I can feel the passion, the grit, and the zeal from yesterday flowing into today!
Announcer: As you all know, we've got a morning bracket and an afternoon bracket ahead of us.
Announcer: Our two powerhouses, Redluck and Mash, won't show up until the later match.
Announcer: Which means this morning one is going to be a free for all! Who will win? Anything can happen!
Announcer: However, I've got my eye on at least one contestant... One who put on an incredible show yesterday!
Announcer: That's right, folks; I'm talking about Amira!
Male Spectator 1: Amira! You can win this!
Female Spectator 1: We believe in you!
Amira: They're the ones who gave me food. Right, I won't lose.
Announcer: Can you hear that cheering? She's got a fan base already!
Io: Amira's great, but so is Kolulu!
Io: Kolulu! Show them you've got what it takes!
Kolulu: Thank you, Io! I shall do you proud!
Lyria: Leona, you can do it too!
Leona: Thank you! Lyria, I'll eat enough for you!
Announcer: Now that's what I'm talking about! We love to hear the crowd go wild!
Announcer: But let's rein it in for a sec while we go over today's dish!
Announcer: If you'll turn your attention here...
Announcer: Lumber jellato!
Lyria: Oh gosh, it looks so pretty and tasty!
Announcer: A little bit of a change from sushi, but who doesn't like dessert?
Announcer: It's even got a bit of Auguste in its design! Reminds you of our beautiful sea, right?
Announcer: The chewy blue-dyed lumber jelly's got a bit of saltiness to it which will bring out the sweetness of the ice cream.
Announcer: Making it a treat for both the tongue and eyes!
Kolulu: Gulp... It's a bit strange looking, but hearing it described like that is getting my appetite going.
Announcer: It's definitely a dessert worth savoring—too bad our contestants won't get that luxury.
Announcer: Because this is going to be a timed battle! Whoever eats the most jellato in the allotted time will advance to the final round!
Announcer: Survival of the fittest! Battle of the toughest! Who can gorge themselves to the max!
Announcer: Better get started before the sun melts it all!
Contestants: ...!
Announcer: Ready... Eat!
Kolulu: Thanks for the food! Munch, chew...
Kolulu: ...!
It's so cold!
It's so cold!
Kolulu: Like eating stew, except the opposite temperature! This is delicious!
Leona: Oh yeeees, this coolness is just the thing for a hot day.
Leona: Wait, this isn't the time to chill out! I have to keep eating.
Amira: Chomp, chew, gulp... Sweet. I like it.
Amira: Next one please.
Announcer: Whoa! Amira's already finished her first serving!
Announcer: Is she actually going to be this morning's uncontested champion?
Kolulu: What speed...
Leona: I-I can go just as fast!
Kolulu and Leona gobble their glasses of jellato down in a furious rush to catch up to Amira.
However, every competitor's pace begins to slow as time passes.
Leona: Owowow... Brain... freeze...
Kolulu: My head...
Amira: ...!
Announcer: The inevitable has finally occurred!
Announcer: Being a competitive eater's not only about eating a lot, folks! You have to know how to deal with brain freezes too!
Announcer: Whoever can push past the pain might just be our champion!
Kolulu: Feels like... someone is stabbing my head with Stone Breaker...
Kolulu: To think mere food could pierce the walls of my cranium...
Kolulu: But my skull hasn't cracked yet! I won't be defeated!
Kolulu: Haah!
Kolulu holds her breath and squeezes her eyes shut.
Through sheer willpower, or perhaps a stroke of luck, the pain gradually ebbs away.
Kolulu: ...!
Redluck: (Not bad, not bad. She probably doesn't know why that worked, but...)
Kolulu: This is a prime opportunity, and I shan't waste it!
A hurried glance to the side reveals that Kolulu alone escaped the headache.
Amira: Argh... Head hurts... Is this a magic curse? No... But what...
Kolulu: (I'm not that far behind Amira! I can still catch up!)
Kolulu: My counterattack starts now!
Repeating the same technique from earlier, Kolulu chews at a consistent pace and steadily plows forward.
Announcer: Hooold up, folks! We thought this bracket was over with, but clearly Kolulu wants to prove us wrong!
Announcer: She's downing the jellato like nobody's business! Could this be... a comeback?
Amira: I won't... lose!
Amira pushes past the head-splitting agony and desperately shovels more jellato into her mouth.
Announcer: But Amira is still going! Can she keep her lead?
Kolulu & Amira: ...!
Announcer: Who will come out on top?
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 3: Let's Go! Hungry, Hungry Heroes! - Episode 3
Time is called, and Kolulu and Amira tie for first place, meaning both of them will move on to the final round. Afterward, (Captain), Lyria, and Vyrn wander the stalls in search of drinks and run into Lucio. Vyrn spots juice in Lucio's hands and asks for a sip, but Lucio refuses, explaining that it expired two years earlier. The thirsty crew members bid Lucio farewell and continue their search. Lucio then takes a sip of the juice and remarks that the liquid is "quite awful."
Announcer: And that's time!
Kolulu: Burp... I can't eat any more...
Amira: Head hurts...
Staff members go around tallying up empty glasses while the audience waits with bated breath.
Soon the results are given to the announcer.
Announcer: From the preliminaries to the first bracket of the elimination round... It's been quite a time, hasn't it?
Announcer: But thank you for your patience! The results are in, so let's get to it!
Announcer: I am delighted to announce the winner for the morning bracket is...
Announcer: Amira!
Amira: That sure was tough.
Kolulu: So in the end, I didn't manage to catch up...
Kolulu: Sometimes that's just how it goes, I suppose. But I have no regrets for—
Announcer: And our second winner is...
Announcer: Kolulu!
Kolulu: Huh?
Announcer: Bet nobody saw that coming! I sure didn't, at least!
Announcer: Both contestants managed to consume the exact same amount of lumber jellato, so both will move on to the finals!
Io: Yes, I knew Kolulu could do it!
Vyrn: Amira also did great! Proved she's got what it takes to eat her way to the top!
Kolulu: I... won?
Announcer: That's it for now, folks. We'll be back with the afternoon bracket later!
Kolulu, Amira, and Leona meet back with the rest of the group after the morning's exciting conclusion.
Io: Nice hustle, Kolulu! That last spurt was amazing to watch.
Kolulu: Golly... I still can't believe I did it.
Kolulu: But I'm proud to say that I gave it my all!
Amira: It was sweet and tasty, but so painful... Brain... no work... no more...
Vyrn: I'd be more surprised if it did after that. You're one tough cookie!
Leona: Congratulations to you both. I couldn't keep up at all.
Lyria: But Leona, you made it so far! I think you should be proud of what you managed to eat.
Leona: Haha, thanks, Lyria.
Leona: It's a little disheartening to lose, but I'm definitely glad I was able to eat all that mouthwatering food.
Redluck: Gahaha! Win or lose, you youngsters stuffed your faces magnificently!
Redluck: Got my stomach rumbling, to be honest. Now I can't wait to have my turn!
Vyrn: You won't have to wait long at least! Go kick some butt, big guy!
Redluck: You know I will!
A small intermission remains before the afternoon bracket starts. The crew decides to split up for the moment.
Thirsty from cheering, (Captain), Vyrn, and Lyria look for a stand to buy drinks.
Lyria: There are so many options! I wonder which ones we should pick?
Vyrn: Good question. How about... Huh?
Lucio: Hello, everyone. It's quite hot, isn't it?
Lucio, drink in hand, greets the group from beneath a parasol.
Vyrn: So you were outside the arena this whole time.
Vyrn: Coulda joined us and showed some support for the others, you know?
Lucio: My sincerest apologies. I truly wish I could have been there, but an urgent matter came up.
Lucio: And I cannot ignore my role as a protector.
Lyria: Um...
Vyrn: I really don't get what you're goin' on about half the time.
Vyrn: Anyway, that juice you're holding looks pretty good.
Vyrn: Mind if I have a sip? My throat's feelin' dry as a desert.
Lucio: I am sorry, but this is not a substance I can allow you to partake of.
Vyrn: C'mon, don't be so stingy. I'll buy you something later.
Lucio: You cannot.
Vyrn: Why?
Lucio: This was made two years ago.
Vyrn: Say what? How'd that happen!
Lucio: It might have gotten mixed up with the rest of the store's inventory.
Vyrn: Fine, guess we better go get our own drinks.
Vyrn floats away, (Captain) and Lyria following after.
Lucio: I am truly sorry, Master Vyrn.
Lucio: ...
Lucio stares pensively at the drink.
Lucio: Hmm.
He dips a finger inside and gives it a lick. After a moment of consideration, he nods to himself.
Lucio: As I thought, this is...
Lucio: Quite awful.
Smile never leaving his face, he incinerates the bottle in his hand until not a trace of it is left.
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 3: Let's Go! Hungry, Hungry Heroes! - Episode 4
A competitor who was eliminated in the morning bracket angrily stomps around an empty inlet and discards the jellato he hid away and didn't eat. An enormous lumber jelly then emerges from the water and attacks the man. The crew, hearing distressed screams, comes running and sees the man cowering before the lumber jelly, the wasted food scattered near his feet. They decide to save the man, despite his cheating and wasting of food.
A small inlet surrounded by a coral reef lies a short distance away from the main beach.
Stalking along the inlet is a competitor who failed to proceed past the morning bracket. He keeps a careful eye on his surroundings as he paces.
Competitor: Damn brats getting in the way...
Competitor: I was so close to making it to the final round! I would've won that bet with my buddies!
Competitor: What kinda crap luck is this!
While cursing himself for the ill-advised bet he made with his friends, the man removes an object from his pocket and chucks it into the sea.
Competitor: Screw this competition! Screw it all to hell!
???: ...
Competitor: The heck?
???: ...!
Competitor: Wh-what is that thing!
Elsewhere, (Captain) and friends take a load off in the designated break area and chug their drinks.
Vyrn: Phew! I feel alive again.
Lyria: That really hit the spot!
Redluck: Munch, munch, chew...
Next to the three, Redluck focuses on consuming various vegetables.
Vyrn: Yo, big guy! You gotta be thirsty too in all this heat, right? Wanna have a sip?
Redluck: Appreciate the concern, but I've gotta watch what I put in my stomach.
Vyrn: If you're sure. What's with the veggies then?
Redluck: Part of the competition, of course.
Vyrn: Whaddya mean by that?
Redluck: Secret. One that I shouldn't share in front of tomorrow's opponents.
He gives a pointed glance at Kolulu and Amira.
Kolulu & Amira: ...?
Redluck: But if you're really that curious, I'll tell you tomorrow once the competition's over—
Competitor: Eeeeeek!
Kolulu: ...!
What in the skies was that?
What in the skies was that?
Amira: There! Close to the rocks!
Redluck: Let's go!
The crew dashes out of the break area to investigate the scream.
Lyria: Over there! I see something!
Lyria points toward what appears to be a man cowering before a gigantic sea creature.
Competitor: S-somebody help meee!
Treemendous Jelly: ...!
Vyrn: The heck is that jumbo-sized thing?
Redluck: A lumber jelly's my guess, based on the shape and color.
Vyrn: You sure about that? Siero made it sound like these guys were a walk in the park to take down.
Vyrn: But that thing looks more dangerous than a monster!
Redluck: I reckon that one's the alpha of a pack, and it's probably not happy about how many of its friends we snapped up to eat.
Redluck: Still, it seems more agitated than you'd expect... Almost like something drove it mad...
Kolulu: Look near the man's feet!
Upon closer inspection of the sandy area, the crew spots a familiar blue substance.
Lyria: Isn't that the dessert used in today's round?
Redluck: The fact that it's not in his stomach means the guy cheated.
Redluck: Hid what he didn't eat in his clothes and came here to dump it.
Kolulu: Unbelievable! To waste such precious food...
Redluck: What he's done is unforgivable, and saving him's the last thing I want to do, but...
Redluck: Competition'll be cancelled if someone gets hurt, and I can't have that happening.
Redluck: Hey, you! Don't just stand there, idiot! Move!
Kolulu: I shall provide backup!
Vyrn: Us too, (Captain)!
Treemendous Jelly: ...!
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 4: Feeding Frenzy! Fierce Finale! - Episode 1
The crew takes down the gigantic lumber jelly, but not before Redluck takes a hit meant for Kolulu. However, the man shrugs off the attack, and the crew urges him to head to the afternoon bracket while they handle the cleanup process for the defeated jelly. He apologizes for leaving the work to them and leaves for the arena, looking fit as ever.
Treemendous Jelly: ...!
Kolulu: I have you!
Treemendous Jelly: ...!
Kolulu: We did it! Now...
Treemendous Jelly: ...!
Kolulu: Oh no—
Redluck: Watch out!
Redluck: Argh!
Redluck leaps in front of Kolulu and uses his body as a shield to protect her from the lumber jelly's attack.
Redluck: Hrrraaahhh!
Treemendous Jelly: ...!
Taking advantage of the tentacles latched onto him, Redluck grabs them and yanks the angered creature down.
Amira: Yah!
Treemendous Jelly: ...!
Amira immediately follows up with a dropkick and smashes the lumber jelly into the sand. It doesn't get up again.
Vyrn: And that's that! Awesome work!
Redluck: Sorry, big jelly. We'll be sure to eat all of you. Make sure nothing goes to waste.
Kolulu: Redluck, are you all right? You took that hit for me...
Kolulu: I'm so full I can't move the way I'm used to. Truly I am in your debt.
Redluck: Gahaha! Don't worry about it! I'm fit as a fiddle, as you can see.
Redluck gives Kolulu one last grin before schooling his face into a stern frown and turning to the man they saved.
Redluck: As for you... You have anything to say for yourself?
Competitor: O-oh, um, thank you so much for saving me—
Redluck: I'm not talking about that!
Competitor: Eep!
Redluck: You owe all that wasted food an apology!
Redluck: Ever think about how many other people would've happily eaten what you tossed away? Huh?
Redluck: Don't think I saved you this time because I wanted to. People like you make me sick to my stomach.
Redluck: So get outta here! I never wanna see your ugly mug again!
Competitor: I'm so sorry!
The competitor scurries away, his tail between his legs.
Redluck: Hmph.
Vyrn: You're pretty scary when you're mad, you know that?
Redluck: Guys like him won't understand what they've done wrong unless you tell it to them straight.
Kolulu: ...
Redluck: Sorry, sorry. Did I scare you?
Kolulu: Ah, no, I just...
Amira: The dessert... Can I eat it?
Vyrn: Hold up, you can't just eat food off the ground! If you get sick off it, you won't be able to compete!
Redluck: Speaking of which, the afternoon bracket's about to start.
Redluck: But we should take care of this big jelly first.
Redluck: Seems like it's going to take a while, what with the explanations we'll have to give and then hauling it somewhere else.
Lyria: You can leave it to us!
Vyrn: Yeah, we can handle it! Better that you're not late to the arena.
Redluck: If you're sure. Sorry you have to pick up my slack!
Vyrn: Nah, you're fine! Just focus on eating and kick some butt!
Redluck: Gahaha! Guess I gotta get my head in the game—
Redluck: Whoa!
Redluck catches his foot in the sand and staggers forward.
Redluck: That was close. My head was too much in the game for a second there.
Vyrn: Be careful, big guy!
Redluck: Gahaha! Appreciate the concern!
After an enthusiastic wave, Redluck walks away from the group and heads back along the beach.
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 4: Feeding Frenzy! Fierce Finale! - Episode 2
The afternoon bracket kicks off with an intense battle between Redluck and Mash. Mash struggles, his typical technique of smashing food to mush not working well with the lumber jellato. Redluck pulls ahead without mercy and appears to secure the victory.
Announcer: Hope you had a good break, folks! But now it's time for the afternoon bracket to kick off!
Announcer: The morning sure was wild, wasn't it? I don't think any of us expected such a fierce battle!
Announcer: But now that we've got that momentum going, I hope you're all ready for some more drama!
Announcer: Becaaaause we've got our toughest, roughest, mightiest eaters going stomach-to-stomach!
Announcer: That's right, folks! Redluck versus Mash!
Male Spectator 2: Redluck! You got this, king!
Female Spectator 2: You'll get him this time, Mash!
Announcer: The fans are already cheering for their favorites! But who will win, and who will lose?
Mash: No more tying for first place... Only one of us is walking outta here on top!
Redluck: Fine by me!
Announcer: Looks like our competitors are getting fired up as well!
Vyrn: Phew! Sure cut it close, but we made it!
Lyria: Redluck! Good luck!
Redluck: Wrapped up everything fast, huh?
Redluck: Better flaunt it since I've got it then. Can't afford to disappoint after all that hustle!
Staff members place glasses before each contestant.
Announcer: Our food for the afternoon will be the same as the morning—lumber jellato!
Announcer: Hopefully our contestants learned a thing or two from the earlier bracket and came prepared!
Announcer: Now then... Let's not waste any more time. On the count of three!
Redluck & Mash: ...!
Announcer: One, two... three!
Redluck: Raaaaah!
Mash: Hraaaah!
Announcer: The two top stars are already off! They're gobbling everything down like there's no tomorrow!
Announcer: Will one of them take the win? Or will someone else cause an upset?
Announcer: Don't look away for a second, folks! You'll want to catch every moment of this showdown!
Mash: Chomp, chew, swallow... Say, Redluck.
Mash: How many times have we gone head-to-head like this?
Redluck: Awfully overconfident of you, trying to talk while we're eating.
Mash: Just tryin' ta be sympathetic. Yer gonna have a tough time lookin' your fans in the eye once you lose.
Redluck: Big words from someone who always says that and always loses.
Mash: Hah! Who's the overconfident one now?
Mash: Today's the day I knock you off your throne!
Redluck: Do your worst!
Fire lit between them, Redluck and Mash dig right back into their food with renewed fervor.
They leave the other contestants in the dust as they try to outdo one another, and eventually a clear lead is established.
Mash: Damn you!
Mash's style of smashing his food causes jellato to scatter, and he ends up wasting time gathering it back up.
Mash: Who the heck decided on this annoying, messy dish! Pisses me right off!
Redluck: Why're you whining? Getting to taste all kinds of different food is a perk of being a competitive eater.
Mash: Shaddup! You think I don't know that!
Announcer: We're coming up to the finish line, folks! Time's almost up!
Announcer: It's clear that our winner is going to be one of these two stars, but which one will it be?
Redluck: Last leg! Do or die!
Mash: (Damn it... At this rate...)
Mash: (I have to do it... I have to use that thing! There's no other choice.)
Redluck: What's wrong, Mash? Giving up?
Mash: Y-you wish!
Mash: I'm gonna win this!
Announcer: Redluck picks up the pace for the last spurt! Mash isn't far behind!
Announcer: But who will pull ahead, folks?
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 4: Feeding Frenzy! Fierce Finale! - Episode 3
Mash wins the afternoon bracket. Redluck, having suddenly stopped eating during the match, tries to brush off the crew's concern, but they quickly figure out that he lost because of an injury he sustained while protecting Kolulu. Mash comes over to gloat, but Kolulu, wanting to repay Redluck and feeling responsible for his loss, swears to win in Redluck's place.
An uneasy murmur travels throughout the crowd as the afternoon bracket ends.
Every person turns their attention to the announcer.
Announcer: Folks, I understand how you all may be feeling at this moment.
Announcer: However, at the end of the day, I can only announce one winner.
Announcer: And that winner is... Mash!
Mash: Gahaha! I beat Redluck! I'm the king of eating!
Mash: (Nearly had to use my last resort though.)
Redluck: ...
Announcer: Who could've predicted this outcome, folks?
Announcer: What an astonishing upset!
Announcer: Our undefeated eating king of ten years has been dethroned! Is this destiny, or a stroke of ill luck?
Announcer: I'm not a prophet, but what I do know is that tomorrow's final round is going to be mind-blowing! Will Mash take home the victory of victories?
Announcer: Tomorrow can't come soon enough!
Announcer: But that's it for today, folks! Thanks for joining the spectacle, and see you for the championship match!
Sporting a pained grimace, Redluck meets with the crew after.
Redluck: Haha... Guess I let you all down hard.
Vyrn: Bud...
Lyria: What happened at the end?
Redluck: Nothing did. Just got too excited and wound up with a bellyache.
Announcer: But who will pull ahead, folks?
Redluck: Argh...
Announcer: What's this? Redluck's suddenly stopped moving!
Announcer: He's pressing down on his stomach! Did something happen?
Announcer: While he's paused, Mash is pulling ahead with no mercy!
Announcer: He's going, going... Gone! Mash takes the lead!
Redluck is unable to take another bite, leaving Mash to widen the gap between them.
Redluck: Pathetic, huh? Not taking care of myself when it counts...
Redluck: And after all that talk about having an epic head-to-head in the final round... Gahaha, sad, right?
Choose: You sure nothing else happened?
Vyrn: Whazzat mean? You sayin' he's hiding something from us?
Choose: More like strange.
Vyrn: I mean it is a little weird, but... the big guy's still mortal, y'know? Maybe he ate too much or pulled a muscle.
Continue 1(Captain) directs Vyrn's gaze not at Redluck's stomach, but rather his side.
Redluck: ...!
Vyrn: Huh... Big guy, you sure nothing else is wrong?
Redluck: I said what I said, didn't I? The swelling you see here... It's what happens when you eat too much and pressure pools on one side.
Redluck: It's perfectly normal—
Leona: I apologize in advance for what I'm about to do.
Leona approaches Redluck's swollen side and gives it a poke.
Redluck: Ow! Agh...
Leona: As I thought. You're injured, aren't you?
Lyria: He's hurt?
Leona: I thought something was familiar about the way he was walking earlier.
Leona: He reminded me of the soldiers I've seen limping off the battlefield while trying to keep pressure on open wounds.
Redluck: ...
Redluck: Should've known better than to try to lie.
Redluck: It was that big lumber jelly. Smacked me decently hard, and well...
Kolulu: Are you speaking of when you protected me?
Redluck: That's... Uh...
Kolulu: (Redluck... You hid your injury out of consideration for me, didn't you?)
Kolulu: This is... my doing.
Vyrn: So you were competing this whole time in serious pain?
Redluck: I figured you all would've stopped me from competing if you knew.
Redluck: Thought the jig was up when I tripped back on the beach... But this competition meant everything to me.
Redluck: I would've bled to win. Just too bad I didn't manage to pull it off.
Kolulu: ...
Mash: What's wrong, Redluck? Lookin' a little rough there!
Mash: Can't bring yerself to stand up tall in my presence? Oy!
Mash appears with an arrogant grin, intent on taunting Redluck.
Mash: Serves ya right for underestimatin' me!
Lyria: Th-that's an unfair thing to say! Redluck was injured, and...
Redluck: Nah, he's right. A loss is a loss, and I won't make any excuses.
Redluck: He won, fair and square. That's all there is to it.
Lyria: Redluck...
Mash: Oho? How manly of ya. Almost makes me wanna give ya a round of applause.
Mash: But I gotta say I never expected to see the day you weren't throwing a hundred and ten percent into something.
Mash sighs in mock disappointment. Redluck trembles with barely contained anger, but he manages to keep silent.
Another member of the crew, however, is unable to stay quiet.
Kolulu: H-hold your tongue!
Mash: Huh? Whazzat?
Kolulu: I'm the reason Redluck was injured.
Kolulu: If he hadn't protected me, he would have assuredly won!
Kolulu: But I cannot turn back time. Instead, I shall carry on his legacy!
Kolulu: I shall defeat you in Redluck's place!
Kolulu glares unflinchingly at Mash as she declares her intention.
The group is stunned at the normally reserved girl's passionate proclamation.
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 4: Feeding Frenzy! Fierce Finale! - Episode 4
After being ridiculed by Mash and listening to him taunt Redluck, Kolulu remains visibly irritated even after he departs. Redluck speaks with her in an effort to calm her down and learns that Kolulu wants to win in his name because she was moved by his dream. Concluding that Kolulu is worthy of continuing his dream, Redluck offers to train her. Amira interrupts and is invited to join the training as well.
Kolulu: Hmph!
Io: Calm down, Kolulu. I get that you're angry, but all that stress is bad for your health.
Kolulu: Hmph!
Despite Io's placation, Kolulu remains livid.
Kolulu: I don't care if he ridicules me, but I won't let him get away with insulting Redluck!
Kolulu: Grrr, simply thinking about it gets my blood boiling! Hmph!
After Kolulu's sudden declaration, Mash's eyebrows knit together in confusion.
Mash: Defeat me? Who, you?
Kolulu: That's what I said!
Mash: Pffft... Gahahaha! Yer hilarious!
Mash: You think just 'cause you got a little lucky and won your round, you can beat me?
Mash: That's low, Redluck. Siccing your little punk on me when you're too scared to man up to your loss.
Redluck: What, you think I hurt myself because I was too intimated to throw everything I got at you?
Kolulu: No! Never! You hurt yourself protecting me...
Redluck: It's fine, kid. The guy doesn't hear what he doesn't want to.
Kolulu: ...
Mash: Well, knock yourself out if you really feel like it. The results'll speak for themselves! Gahahaha!
Kolulu: For the honor of Redluck, I swear I shall take the victory!
Io: Kolulu... You're really serious about this...
Redluck: She sure is, huh?
Kolulu: Redluck! How is your injury?
Redluck: Perfectly healed, no problems whatsoever! All it took was a bit of rest.
Redluck: That, and digesting everything! Hahaha!
Kolulu: ...
Redluck: That's a long face. You were looking so fierce before.
Redluck: Where's that Kolulu gone?
Kolulu: I...
Redluck: ...
Redluck: Probably don't need to hear this from me, but... You do know you don't need to do any of this, right?
Redluck: It was my own carelessness that got me hurt. I should've been able to protect you and myself.
Kolulu: N-no, you wouldn't have been in that situation if I hadn't moved to the front lines when it wasn't safe!
Redluck: Sounds to me like we both are to blame then.
Kolulu: ...
Sensing that Kolulu won't have her mind so easily changed, Redluck changes the subject.
Redluck: Can I ask you something? Why did you want to win this competition in the first place?
Kolulu: I... wanted to eat the seafood prize with everyone.
Kolulu: I know it sounds like a gluttonous reason.
Redluck: So what? Nothing wrong with that.
Redluck: Wanting to eat is proof that you're alive. I say celebrate that fact.
Redluck: Sheesh, now it sounds like I'm lecturing you... Just take it as a lesson from a monk.
Redluck: Anyway, I get that you have your own reason for wanting to win.
Redluck: If the final round were hypothetically between you and me, would you have let me win?
Kolulu: I...
Redluck: You wouldn't, yeah?
Kolulu: No... I would.
Redluck: Whoa, hold on. I'm not asking about if you think you can win—I'm asking about if you would purposefully let me win.
Kolulu: Ah, yes, I know! I simply...
Kolulu: I am very moved by your beliefs and conviction.
Redluck: Huh? What do you mean by that?
Kolulu: Do you remember your conversation with Lyria and Vyrn?
Kolulu: When he mentioned your hope for a world where no one ever has to starve?
Redluck: Oh. That. Kind of embarrassing to have it brought up again, but I do remember.
Kolulu: And then today you gave that man a talking-to when he wasted food.
Kolulu: I grew up in a situation where I often didn't have enough to eat, so I cannot forgive such wasteful behavior either.
Kolulu: We are alike in our thinking, I do believe.
Kolulu: Which is why I would wish to support your victory above anyone else's!
Redluck: Makes sense when you've laid it out on the table like that.
Redluck: Haha, gotta say, happy to know someone else feels the same way I do!
Redluck: But I've already given up my chance for the win. Which means...
Redluck: You'll have to be the one to carry out my beliefs and conviction.
Kolulu: I will?
Redluck: Yeah, you will.
Redluck: At first I thought you were only mad about my loss and Mash's taunting, and you acted impulsively because of it.
Redluck: But after hearing what you said just now, I know I couldn't have been more wrong.
Redluck: There's no one who deserves to win more than you—someone who values and understands the importance of food.
Kolulu: Redluck...
Redluck: So kid... Do you want to win?
Kolulu: ...!
Yeah, of course I do!
Yeah, of course I do!
Redluck: Heh, I like that look in your eyes.
Redluck regards Kolulu's burning gaze with a grin.
Redluck: Suppose I'll have to teach you how to do it then.
Kolulu: What do you mean by that?
Redluck: Competitive eaters don't just blindly eat and hope for the best. We have tricks up our sleeves.
Redluck: And I can teach them to you. How about it?
Kolulu: If it will truly help me achieve victory...
Redluck: Of course! I'll be the guide to take you there!
As Kolulu and Redluck break out into smiles, a sudden appearance by another person cuts into the good mood.
Amira: Are you eating something?
Kolulu: Oh, good day, Amira.
Amira: Huh. Why are you being so polite?
Kolulu: What?
Redluck: Oho?
Amira: We're going to compete against each other. Aren't we enemies?
Kolulu & Redluck: ...
Kolulu: Um... Well, before this competition, we were fellow crew members and comrades.
Amira: ...
Amira: After this, we'll be enemies?
Kolulu: Ah, um... I don't think so?
Redluck: Maybe the point here is to tone down the manners. Treat each other more like pals.
Kolulu: Oh... Then... H-hey, Amira?
Kolulu: Redluck was about to teach me some techniques to help take the victory.
Amira: Techniques?
Kolulu: To put it more simply... Ways to be able to eat past your limit!
Amira: Past my limit... How?
Redluck: Whoa, kid. She's your rival now, right? You sure you should be spilling the beans?
Redluck: Seems counterproductive to tell her you're improving your arsenal.
Kolulu: Oh! Now that you mention it.
Kolulu: But isn't it unfair if I'm the only one who gets to learn?
Kolulu's innocent inquiry leaves Redluck chuckling wryly.
Redluck: Kid, you're purer than a clean spring in the mountains. That kind of personality ain't suited for competition.
Redluck: But I don't dislike it.
Redluck: All righty then! Guess this means I'm training the both of you!
Kolulu: Thank you very much!
Amira: Very much!
More determined than ever, Kolulu readies herself for the coming showdown.
She looks forward to improving herself alongside Amira.
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 5: Carry the Torch - Episode 1
Redluck warns Kolulu and Amira that they currently stand no chance against Mash. However, he says he can teach them eating techniques to give them a fighting chance. He gives them an example of a technique he did for a round: eating vegetables to provide a cushion for more food in his stomach. With a bit of enthusiastic encouragement, Redluck takes them away for training.
Redluck decides to train Kolulu and Amira to be better competitive eaters.
But before training can start, he gives them a stern warning.
Redluck: Don't think this is going to magically give you the win.
Redluck: Especially considering that neither of you stands a chance against Mash as you both are.
Redluck: By the way, how much effort did you put into today's elimination round? Ate so much you feel like bursting?
Kolulu: Yes, I gave it my all!
Amira: I'm full, but I want to eat again!
Redluck: Figured as much. That's no good.
Kolulu: It isn't? Why?
Redluck: Not saying that you shouldn't give it your all when you compete. But you gotta pace yourself before reaching the end goal.
Redluck: Like climbing a mountain. Have either of you hiked up one before?
Kolulu: I've never done it, no.
Amira: Nope.
Redluck: I've had my fair share of experience from pilgrimages. Had to go up huge slopes sometimes.
Redluck: Took me days to get to the top of those, but the most important part wasn't getting up. It was coming down.
Redluck: Saw too many people who spent all their energy going up, hurt themselves on the way, and died at the top.
Redluck: They forgot the end goal wasn't making it up. It was getting back to the foot of the mountain and making it out alive.
Redluck: The end goal for this competition is victory, obviously.
Redluck: Giving everything you've got for the elimination round means you can't go all out for the final round.
Kolulu: But if I lost before making it to the finals, what would be the point of conserving my energy?
Redluck: Good question. That's what makes competitive eating hard, you see.
Redluck: But us pros know how to go hard without pushing past our limits.
Kolulu: Without... pushing past our limits?
Redluck: Gahaha! It's a hard concept to really grasp.
Redluck: To put it simply, you have to know where your limit is, keep that in mind, and watch that you don't cross that line. I guess that didn't clear it up either, huh?
Redluck: The point I'm trying to make is that Mash hasn't come close to his limit yet.
Redluck: You saw how much he ate today, yeah? He can eat ten times more than the both of you combined.
Redluck: The fact that he can still eat even more, but you two already hit your limits... Do you get what I'm hinting at?
Kolulu & Amira: ...
Redluck: He's hotheaded and never knows when to shut his mouth, but he still competes with the knowledge and skill of a pro.
Redluck: Competitive eating comes down to that: using your head, not your stomach.
Redluck: That's my first lesson for you.
Kolulu: Using my head...
Amira: Using... my head?
Redluck: Probably not your strong suits, judging by your reactions.
Redluck: Let me give you an example then.
Redluck: I used a technique right before my turn in the afternoon bracket today.
Redluck: Did it right in front of you two. Remember?
Kolulu and Amira think for a moment, then shake their heads.
Redluck: Okay, here's a hint. What was I doing in the break area?
Kolulu: Oh!
Redluck: Munch, munch, chew...
Redluck: Part of the competition, of course.
Kolulu: You were eating vegetables.
Redluck: Bingo.
Redluck: The vegetables act as a cushion in your stomach if you eat them beforehand.
Redluck: Helps relieve the feeling of the food weighing you down. That's just one technique though.
Redluck: I can tell talking about it isn't really giving you a concrete idea though. How about a more familiar example?
Redluck gives Kolulu a pointed look.
Redluck: You used a technique earlier.
Kolulu: I did?
Redluck: When that jellato gave you a headache, you did something to combat the pain, yeah?
Kolulu: Oh, um... I held my breath and focused really hard...
Redluck: That's what I'm talking about.
Kolulu: Huh?
Redluck: That pain you felt is what we call a brain freeze. Always happens when you eat a ton of cold food at once.
Redluck: Leaving aside the specifics of why it happens, there are other ways to deal with brain freezes.
Redluck: One way is to put something cold against where it hurts, then press your tongue to the roof of your mouth. It'll warm up your nerves.
Redluck: The idea is to warm your mouth back up, which is what you did by accident.
Kolulu: I was so focused on trying to keep going that I didn't even notice... Hmmm, mortal bodies are strange indeed!
Redluck: Still, being able to focus through the pain at all is an impressive feat.
Redluck: That hardy physique of yours and the resilience from your upbringing combined with a little luck saved you there.
Redluck: And while it was luck that got you through it, I can see the potential you have as well.
Redluck: Do you see my point though? One technique can make or break your chances. Pretty crazy, huh?
Kolulu: With the right technique, victory is possible. Am I correct to assume that?
Redluck: Yeah, that's right.
Clenching her fists determinedly, Kolulu holds Redluck's gaze.
Kolulu: Then please, teach me everything you know!
Redluck: You got it!
Redluck: You two are unpolished as they come, being complete beginners and whatnot.
Redluck: But that just means you have that much room to improve. We've only got a day to get you both ready, but we're going to make every second count.
Redluck: Kids... No, Kolulu, Amira!
Redluck: Training starts now! Follow me!
Kolulu & Amira: Sir, yes, sir!
With a fire lit beneath them, Kolulu and Amira trail after Redluck.
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 5: Carry the Torch - Episode 2
As the crew works on the finishing touches for dinner, Redluck and Kolulu return from training. Amira arrives a little later, having been released from training earlier when Redluck realized that he couldn't help her. She is exhausted for unexplained reasons, and the crew has to carry her to bed. After the main course for dinner is eaten, Lucio joins the crew in time for dessert.
The sun sets some hours after Redluck's coaching begins.
The rest of the crew is preparing dinner when the trainee and trainer return.
Kolulu: Something smells great!
Redluck: Great timing, eh? I'm starving after all that work.
Sevastien: If you could please wait a little longer, the final touches on dinner will be complete.
Vyrn: Heya, guys! How'd the crash course go?
Kolulu: I accomplished as much as I could!
Kolulu: Thanks to Master's help, I'm leaps and bounds more prepared than before!
Vyrn: Master?
Redluck: Embarrassing, I know. I told her to quit it, but she just wouldn't listen.
Kolulu: Master is Master, and that's that!
Redluck: Head's harder than a rock in both senses.
Vyrn: Haha, you two are getting along like a house on fire!
Vyrn: So what kinda training did you get up to? Musta taught her some crazy stuff if she's looking this confident.
Redluck: You'll just have to wait and see tomorrow.
Kolulu: Hehe... That's right!
Vyrn: Now I'm really dying to know, but I guess I'll see. Can't wait!
Vyrn: Same goes for Amira...
Vyrn: Hold up, where is she?
Redluck: Ah, she's...
Redluck hesitates to finish his sentence, stroking his beard awkwardly.
Choose: Did something happen to her?
Vyrn: She didn't get seriously hurt while learning, right?
Choose: Was there an accident?
Lyria: An accident? Like... drowning or something?
Continue 1Redluck: Whoa, whoa, there's been a misunderstanding here.
Redluck: We didn't do anything dangerous. Just covered some knowledge and a bit of practical implementation.
Redluck: Anyway, I took Amira out of the training.
Vyrn: Say what? Did she throw a fit or something?
Redluck: Nah, nothing like that. Realized training wasn't for her, simple as that.
Redluck: She tried to follow along with Kolulu at the start, but she was having a hard time using her noggin.
Redluck: Figured she's more the type to live by her instincts, and trying to mess with that was only going to confuse her and make things worse.
Redluck: So we let her leave to do her own thing after a bit.
Redluck: I was the one who gave up on her, as much as it pains me to admit.
Redluck: I don't know enough to be able to teach her.
Vyrn: That explains the glum, guilty face.
Lyria: But thank you for explaining to us. I'm just glad nothing serious happened.
Vyrn: Same here. And big guy? You don't give yourself enough credit. If you can't teach her, I don't think anybody can, so chin up!
Redluck: Hahaha, you think so? Have to admit, takes a weight off my shoulders to hear it.
Vyrn: Would be nice to know where Amira wandered off to though. It's almost time to eat.
Redluck: I did tell her to come home before it got dark.
Amira: Yawn... I'm back...
Vyrn: Well, that's some timing.
Vyrn: You're pretty late. What were you up to out there?
Amira: Mmm... Yawn...
Vyrn: Sheesh, you look ready to drop dead on your feet.
Vyrn: Guess as long as you're back safe and sound, that's what matters most. C'mon, go wash your hands. Dinner's almost ready.
Amira: Dinner... Yay...
Lyria: Oh my gosh, Amira!
Vyrn: Are you okay? Did you hit your head or something?
Sevastien: The peculiar smell and shell fragments around her lips appear to be the remnants of oysters.
Sevastien: Which means she most likely discovered a reef rich with them and gorged herself.
Amira: I'm so full... It was so fun...
Lyria: Haha, she looks incredibly happy.
Vyrn: Huh... What's so fun about eating oysters?
Amira: Gargle... Mmmm... Zzz...
Vyrn: And she's out.
(Captain) carries Amira back to her room with Vyrn and Lyria's help.
The rest of the crew then have dinner together.
After the main course, lumber jellato is brought out for dessert.
Lyria: Mmm! The coldness and the firm texture are so good together!
Vyrn: A perfect treat for a hot summer day!
Charlotta: Your cooking once again exceeds expectations, Sevastien!
Sevastien: Why thank you for your kind compliment.
Sevastien: I have more prepared for everyone else, should you wish to partake.
Redluck: Thanks for the offer, but I think I'll go off and have a drink by myself.
Kolulu: I'm... Yawn... Pretty sleepy...
Sevastien: Oh dear. In that case, if there's anyone who would like seconds...
Lucio: Pardon me. May I request a portion for myself?
Lucio smiles at Sevastien as he closes the door behind himself.
Vyrn: Finally decided to show up, huh? Sorry, pal, but we've almost finished all the food off.
Lucio: That is no issue whatsoever. I finished dining before I returned.
Vyrn: Works out then. Why the heck were you out so late?
Lucio: I haven't had many chances to exercise recently, therefore I decided to engage in a bit of intense activity.
Lucio: Sandy would scold me for being unseemly if I did not maintain my physical form, after all.
Vyrn: Yeah, he probably would, wouldn't he?
Vyrn: Shouldn't you skip dessert then?
Lucio: There's always room for dessert. Isn't that how the saying goes?
Vyrn: Yep. Those were the last words of many brave dieters.
Lucio puts a finger to his lips and winks.
Night still young, the remaining crew members enjoy their desserts together.
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 5: Carry the Torch - Episode 3
Redluck drinks alone on the deck of the ship after dinner. (Captain), Vyrn, and Lyria watch him worriedly from a hidden spot, unsure of how to approach him, but he notices them anyway and beckons them over. The three express their concern, and Redluck speaks of both his dream for helping starving individuals, as well as his own personal desire to win the competition. However, now that his own chance is over, he resolves to wholeheartedly support Kolulu in her own victory.
Redluck: Phew... Evening breeze sure feels nice.
Drink in hand, Redluck leans against the railing on the ship's deck and stares into the distance.
His normally cheerful expression is clouded with melancholy.
From a hidden spot nearby, (Captain) and friends watch worriedly over him.
Vyrn: Definitely set some alarm bells off when he said he wanted to drink alone.
Lyria: How should we approach this? He almost seems like a different person.
Vyrn: The shock of losing musta been more serious than he let on.
Redluck: Hm... Is someone over there?
Knowing the jig is up, the hidden crew members sheepishly emerge from their hiding spot.
Lyria: Ahaha... F-fancy seeing you here...
Redluck: Oh, it's just you all. Did you need me for something?
Vyrn: Not exactly, but, uh...
Redluck: Ah. Came here to check on me then.
Vyrn: I mean, you were super into the whole competition, and winning, and...
Redluck: Hey, no need to get upset. It's my loss, not yours.
Lyria: That doesn't mean we can't be sad too! It hurts to see you not happy...
Redluck: Is that right? Can't say I didn't expect that from you kids.
Redluck smiles fondly for a moment before his expression turns somber.
Redluck: It was my dream.
Redluck: You can't tell anyone else this, all right? Especially not our championship competitors.
Redluck: But I was prepared to stake my life on this competition and, like you guessed, the shock of losing was hard.
Redluck: The only reason this competition happened was because of the situation with the lumber jellies.
Redluck: There's always a chance the event will be revived if this one is successful enough, but that's not a chance I can count on.
Redluck: So I went into this expecting it to be my first and last attempt at taking the title.
Redluck: Part of why I wanted it so bad was to help create a world where no one ever has to starve.
Redluck: On the other hand, I simply wanted to win for myself as a competitive eater.
Redluck: Seems like such a small thing, right? But dreams are special things. Make anything seem gigantically significant.
Redluck: Especially when it's one you've always chased after since you were a kid.
Redluck: And it was so close to coming true. I could feel it. That's why the loss hit me so hard.
Vyrn: Big guy...
Redluck: Gahaha! Sorry to bore you with the long story.
Redluck: Didn't mean to ramble like that. You guys are such good listeners!
Redluck laughs sheepishly while the others smile back.
Lyria: Your dream's not over yet though.
Redluck: Hm?
Lyria: You've passed the torch to Kolulu, and she's going to run with it.
Lyria: With your help, she's carrying your dreams forward.
Lyria: Whatever you couldn't do alone before, she's there to help you finish.
Lyria: So... there's still hope.
Redluck: ...
Redluck: Haha... Didn't think of it that way, but you're absolutely right.
Redluck: Can't be moping around if I want to witness her seeing things through!
Vyrn: It's not gonna be easy with Amira there too. She's one tough cookie.
Redluck: Right, right. She's got some mysterious abilities at work.
Redluck: I might've ended up having as much trouble with her as I did with Mash.
Vyrn: Well, Kolulu and Amira are both our friends, right? Doesn't matter to me which one wins—I'm ready to cheer 'em on!
Lyria: Hehe, tomorrow is going to be so much fun!
Their bonds deepened, the crew now understand Redluck better than before.
A new smile adorns Redluck's face as he takes comfort in his friends.
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 5: Carry the Torch - Episode 4
Kolulu, unable to sleep, accidentally overhears Redluck's true feelings. Amira walks up and startles Kolulu, sending her tumbling onto the deck and revealing herself. Redluck speaks with her, and afterward Kolulu expresses her intent to win is stronger than ever. Amira and Kolulu both refuse to cede victory to the other and prepare themselves for an intense final round.
Kolulu: ...
Hidden behind a door leading out to the deck, Kolulu unexpectedly hears Redluck's heartfelt admission.
Kolulu: Master, you wished to win so badly...
Kolulu: And I... took that opportunity away from you.
Amira: What are you doing?
Kolulu: Golly!
Kolulu jumps at the unexpected voice from behind and falls through the door onto the deck.
Kolulu: Owchies...
Amira: Are you okay?
Kolulu: I-it's nothing worth worrying over.
As Amira helps Kolulu up, a large shadow falls over the two.
Redluck: So... You heard everything, I'm guessing.
Kolulu: Ah, um... Well...
Kolulu: I couldn't sleep because I was feeling antsy and then I heard your voices coming from the deck...
Amira: What were you talking about?
Vyrn: The big guy's feelings. Didn't you hear?
Amira: No. I was looking for snacks.
Redluck: ...
Redluck: I didn't want unnecessary pressure weighing you down. That's why I didn't want to tell you any of it.
Kolulu: ...
Redluck: But cat's out of the bag now. May as well tell it to you directly.
Redluck: The loss hurt, no doubt about it. It was paralyzing.
Redluck: Felt like someone put out the fire in me, and I had no fuel to keep going.
Redluck: But seeing your determination reignited that fire. I realized it was too early to give up.
Redluck: So... show me my dream still has a chance to come true.
Redluck: Go out and bring home the win. I believe in you, Kolulu.
Kolulu: Master...
Kolulu: Understood! I've made up my mind!
Kolulu: I shall eat with everything I've got and emerge victorious!
Redluck: Yeah, that's the attitude I want to see!
Amira: Victory...
Kolulu: Of course I intend to take the victory, even if it's against you, Amira!
Amira: I won't lose.
Amira: I have to become famous and make sure Mother hears about me.
Kolulu: Amira...
With nothing else left to say, Amira turns and heads belowdecks.
Kolulu: We both have our reasons to come out on top.
Kolulu: However, I won't yield to anyone!
Both crew members' minds are made up.
They steel themselves for the coming battle, knowing that only one person will claim the championship title.
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 6: Play Off! Sum and Substance! - Episode 1
The final round commences, and Kolulu steps into the arena ready to win for herself and for Redluck. She warns Mash that she isn't the same person she was the day before, confident in the training she received. The food for the last round is lumber jelly dogs, a seafood version of the classic hot dog. As an experienced competitive eater who's eaten plenty of hot dogs, Mash believes his victory is secured.
Day three finally begins.
Spectators pack into the stadium, every person eager to catch the final showdown.
Announcer: Today's the day! Who's ready to witness an epic conclusion to an epic contest!
Announcer: And what a contest it's been! There were tears, cheers, and, oh, the atmosphere! Enough to rival the competitions of yesteryear!
Announcer: The sweat and tears shed these three days will go down in history!
Announcer: But whose name will be the one celebrated in the history books—the one to overcome the final challenge?
Announcer: We're about to find out, folks!
Announcer: It's time. Let's bring our contestants in!
Announcer: First, the dark horse who stampeded in with an explosive appetite!
Announcer: Give it up for Amira!
Amira: I'm going to eat the most. Then I'll become famous.
Vyrn: Amira! Show us what your appetite's made of!
Announcer: The force behind her bite definitely makes her a competitor to watch out for!
Announcer: But will that force be enough to carry her through the challenge ahead? We'll find out soon enough, folks!
Announcer: Next up, we've got a small warrior packed with resilience, persistence, and a will of steel!
Announcer: Let's give a warm welcome to Kolulu!
Kolulu: Whew...
Io: Kolulu! I know you've got this!
Redluck: No matter how it ends, this is it! Show us the results of your training, Kolulu!
Kolulu: (Io, Master... I can hear everyone's support for me clearly.)
Kolulu: (For all the people who believe in me... For the sake of Master's dream...)
Kolulu: I shall claim the title of champion!
Announcer: She knocked our socks off with her amazing comeback yesterday!
Announcer: And don't be fooled by her size, folks! She can easily outeat you or me—maybe she'll even outeat her opponents today!
Announcer: Last but not least, we've got our candidate voted most likely to stir up a storm and snatch the victory!
Announcer: You all know his name! It's the one, the only...
Announcer: Mash the Smasher!
Mash: Raaaah! This competition's miiineee!
Mash Fans: Mash! Mash! Mash!
Announcer: And the crowd goes wiiiild! Can you feel the love?
Announcer: His popularity isn't just for show! Will he be the one to claim his place in the competitive eating world?
Mash: Oho? Brave of you to show up.
Kolulu: ...
The two competitors lock gazes, neither surrendering to the other.
Mash: You've got spunk. I'll admit that much. But make no mistake: ya don't stand a chance.
Mash: Watch and learn how a pro does it, brat! Gahaha!
Kolulu: I'm not the same person I was twenty-four hours ago!
Kolulu: Underestimate me and you'll regret it!
Amira: The one who doesn't stand a chance is you, old man. I'm going to win.
Mash: Hah, you too? You brats sure are cocky!
Mash: Fine by me! I'll just have to give you a taste of reality!
Mash: Hey, announcer guy. Get this thing started, will ya? I'm sure we're all tired of waiting.
Announcer: R-right, of course!
Announcer: You heard him, folks! Let's get today's dish on the table!
Announcer: I hope you're all ready for a great spin on a summer classic...
Announcer: Lumber jelly dogs!
Announcer: An eating competition just isn't complete without a classic hot dog round to really test a contestant's capabilities!
Announcer: As you might have expected, we've replaced the meat sausages in these dogs with lumber jelly ones!
Announcer: Along with the texture change, they've been flavored with a special seafood sauce! It's simple, yet classy!
Mash: Hot dogs, eh? You brats are done for!
Mash: I've eaten more than ten lifetimes' worth of 'em! Ain't nobody know how to down hot dogs better than I do!
Mash: May as well give up now! Gahaha!
Kolulu: If you're talking about techniques, then I've learned exactly what to do from Master!
Mash: Oh, you've learned, have ya? Don't tell me you seriously think a single-day crash course is enough!
Kolulu: I won't deny that my training was hasty. But Master showed me the path to victory, and I believe in him!
Kolulu: You'll see soon enough!
Mash: Hmph, cheeky brat... You're startin' to piss me off.
Mash: I'm gonna crush ya!
Staff members bring out the food, and the stadium goes deadly silent.
Announcer: Sorry to keep you waiting, folks! Are we ready to get this show on the road?
Contestants: ...!
Announcer: Then let's bring this legendary competition to a close!
Announcer: Who among these three will prove their worth and become our new champion?
Announcer: Competitors, on my mark! Ready... Start!
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 6: Play Off! Sum and Substance! - Episode 2
Amira and Mash eat at nearly identical paces, Kolulu not far behind once she puts into practice the techniques she learned. As Kolulu threatens to pull ahead, Mash suddenly chugs a cup of water and shovels down food at a renewed pace. Kolulu and Amira desperately attempt to catch up, but he continues to increase his lead.
The erupting cheers from the stands almost drown out the announcer's voice.
Amidst the chaos, Amira and Mash dive headfirst into the food.
Amira: Chomp, munch, munch! Chomp, munch, munch, munch, chomp!
Mash: Hraaaah!
Announcer: Holy smokes, folks! Amira and Mash are already off!
Announcer: Amira's hands are a blur! She's nonstop shoveling those dogs down! Mash is pummeling his portions into mush and devouring the remains!
Announcer: It's a feeding frenzy! But wait! Kolulu hasn't budged! Is she sharpening her senses—focusing her mind?
Kolulu: (Phew... Okay! I remember what Master taught me.)
Kolulu: (Drink a minimal amount of water. I absolutely cannot waste precious stomach space.)
Kolulu: (Don't chew too much. The less I chew, the less full I'll feel.)
Kolulu: All right, time to eat!
Kolulu quietly sorts through the knowledge she's obtained and ponders the best technique to use.
Kolulu: (Lumber jelly formed into long franks... I'll choke if I try to eat them all in one bite.)
Kolulu: In that case...
Kolulu pulls a bunch of lumber jelly dogs from their buns, then rips them all in half.
Kolulu: Now I won't choke on them, and I won't have to chew as much! Just have to cram the little pieces into my mouth...
Kolulu: Gulp! Yes, I can do this!
Confidence surging, Kolulu turns her attention to the remaining buns.
Kolulu: Rip it in half like with the lumber jelly... But the bread is wider and fluffier...
Kolulu: If I try to eat it in one bite, I'll use up quite a bit of time, and my mouth will also dry out. So how...
Her eyes slowly drift over to a nearby cup as she thinks.
Kolulu: That's it! Soaking it in water will decrease its size and remove the dryness!
Kolulu: Now to test this theory.
Kolulu dips the bread in and waits until it softens up before bringing it to her mouth.
Kolulu: Gulp... This will work!
Kolulu: Just have to adjust how much water to use so I don't fill up too fast. Let's speed up and keep it going!
Strategy set, she steadily starts to eat jelly dog after jelly dog. The pressure of the watching audience fades away as her focus sharpens.
Announcer: Kolulu's finally chomping down and making progress!
Announcer: But there's already a huge gap between her and Mash, who's in first place! Can she turn this around?
Mash: (So she really did waste her time learning a thing or two. But it's too late.)
Mash: (It's this other annoying brat I gotta watch out for.)
Amira: Munch, munch, munch! Chomp, munch, chomp, chomp, chomp!
Mash's glare shifts to Amira as she scarfs down the food.
Mash: (She ate so much damn food these past two days... Bet her stomach's stretched out to accommodate even more.)
Mash: Tch, snotty punk!
The more he thinks of Amira's latent ability to eat, the more his irritation grows.
As he struggles to keep up with Amira's thoughtless face-stuffing, he completely forgets to pace himself like he usually would.
Mash: Damn it! Why's she gotta make things so difficult!
Announcer: Oh my goodness! What is happening, folks!
Mash: What now?
Announcer: Kolulu is coming back strong! She's closing the gap!
Kolulu: Just have to keep it going!
Mash: You serious...
While Mash was fixated on Amira, Kolulu cleaned plate after plate. She is now neck and neck with the pro eater.
Mash: These brats!
Mash: Graaaah!
Amira: Chomp, munch, munch, chomp, chomp!
Kolulu: Munch, munch, gulp! Munch, munch, munch, gulp!
Announcer: Are Amira and Mash feeling the pressure? They've suddenly picked up their paces!
Announcer: But Kolulu refuses to be left behind! She's gobbling down food like it's her last meal!
The mad rush can only last for so long. However, the first to slow down is none other than competitive eating pro Mash.
Mash: Damn it...
Announcer: Wh-what's this? Mash is decelerating!
Announcer: His pacing is totally shot! Did the pressure get to him?
Announcer: Folks, I've watched Mash for years, and I've never seen this before!
Mash: (Am I... gonna lose? To a couple of tiny amateurs?)
Mash: (No... There's a way out of this. If I use my last resort... Cast away my pride as a pro...)
Mash: (But I have to! I have to take home the victory for them, no matter what!)
Mash: I... I can't afford to lose!
Mash gives a loud yell, then grabs his cup of water and guzzles it.
Kolulu: ...!
Kolulu: (He should know that drinking large quantities of water is the opposite of what you want to do.)
Kolulu: (He's a competitive eater like Master, isn't he? From what I've learned, it should be basic knowledge.)
Kolulu: Just what is he doing?
Mash: Aight, now the party can really get started!
He gives a mighty roar and tears into his lumber jelly dogs once more.
Mash: Graaaah!
Announcer: A-are you seeing what I'm seeing, folks? Mash is back and revving it up!
Announcer: Was he pretending to fall behind? Or is this the spirit of a true competitive eater coming out with a vengeance?
Announcer: Who's going to win this? We just don't know anymore!
Kolulu: This is not good...
Amira: I won't lose! Chomp, chomp, munch, munch, munch!
Announcer: Kolulu and Amira attempt to put some distance between them and Mash, but...
Mash: Hraaaaahhhh!
Announcer: Whooooaaa! Mash has taken the lead! He's leaving the other two in the dust!
Announcer: I don't think anyone can catch up to him now!
Mash Fan: Mash! Mash! Mash!
Announcer: The fans are going absolutely insane! There's a new wind in his sails, and it just won't stop!
Announcer: We're past the halfway mark, but I think Mash might just have the victory in his grasp!
Amira: Chomp, chomp, chomp, I won't... Munch, munch, munch, lose!
Kolulu: (I can't lose if I want to make Master's dream come true!)
Kolulu: I won't give up!
Mash: Time to bring home the bacon!
Announcer: Mash is confident he'll finish first, but who will be the one laughing in the end?
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 6: Play Off! Sum and Substance! - Episode 3
Right when it seems that Mash has secured victory, the food stores run out, and the competition is put on hold. As everyone waits for more food to be prepared, Amira comes flying by overhead on top of an unidentified flying object, which turns out to be a dangerous sea creature called the deepflight oyster. When the oyster swoops down to attack the beach, Redluck asks it be left to him.
The second half of the final round passes quickly as Mash pushes ahead with renewed vigor.
His victory seems all but assured when the competition is suddenly forced to a halt.
Announcer: Stop! Stooop!
Amira: ...?
Kolulu: Wha?
Mash: Whazzat?
The announcer's abrupt shout freezes everyone in the arena.
Announcer: We have an emergency, folks! I can hardly believe it, but... we've run out of lumber jelly dogs!
Mash: Say what!
Kolulu: B-but the competition...
Announcer: Please excuse me for one moment!
Yes? Mhmm...
Yes? Mhmm...
Announcer: Folks, I just spoke with one of the administrators of the event!
Announcer: It seems that we're going to have an intermission for the time being as we check our food stores and resupply!
Mash: Hmph, how lucky for you brats. But yer defeat can only be delayed for so long.
Kolulu: ...
Amira: There's... no more food?
Announcer: We sincerely apologize for the unexpected delay, but please bear with us as we sort the situation out!
Kolulu and Amira meet back up with the crew for the duration of the intermission.
However, the mood is heavy.
Kolulu: ...
Io: Kolulu, keep your chin up! The battle's not over yet!
Redluck: Io's right. A competition's not over until it's over.
Redluck: You're doing well out there. Properly executing what I taught you. I'm proud of you.
Kolulu: But I'm still going to lose at this rate.
Redluck: I get you. It's frustrating, right? Seeing how close you are and feeling like the goal's impossible to reach.
Redluck: But keep in mind Mash isn't an ordinary opponent. It's not going to be a walk in the park to face him.
Kolulu: I understand that, but...
Redluck: Remember this isn't a battle of speed. It's about eating as much as you can.
Redluck: There are plenty of instances where eaters have carefully considered and calculated the amount of time they need to make a sudden comeback near the end.
Redluck: The organizers of this event understand that's a strategy people use, which is why they decided to go with an intermission and not end the contest outright.
Redluck: They can't give an advantage to the speed eaters. Otherwise this competition would lose all credibility.
Redluck: I know that guy ate crazy fast back there, but there's no guarantee he can keep it up forever. You still have a chance to win, so long as you don't give up.
Redluck: So stand up tall. Believe in yourself.
Kolulu: Master...
Mash: Awww, havin' a little party and you didn't invite me?
Mash strolls up, a conceited smirk adorning his features. Redluck scowls in return.
Redluck: What are you doing here? Got nothing better to do, huh?
Redluck: Figure a
hasher like you should be helping in the kitchen.
Mash: Say whatever you like. Get it all off your chest. At the end of the day, the ones in the arena are the brats, not you.
Mash: Right, little girl?
Kolulu: ...!
Redluck: Suppose you're not wrong. I am an outsider now, and I'll keep my nose out of your business.
Redluck: But let me say one last thing: you underestimate her, and you'll be the one eaten alive.
Mash: Gahaha! I'd like to see her try!
Mash: Rather deal with her than the other brat anyway!
Lyria: Wait, where is Amira?
Vyrn: You serious? Did she really run off when the competition could start back up any minute?
Choose: Let's go look for her!
Lyria: Yes, let's!
Vyrn: Show can't go on when it's missing one of its stars, right?
Choose: Maybe she wanted to play around a bit.
Vyrn: You think so? She seemed pretty serious about winning last I checked.
Vyrn: Not sure she's about to go running off for fun, but... I guess this is Amira we're talking about.
Continue 1Familiar Voice: Heeey!
Vyrn: Huh? Did anybody else hear that? Kinda sounded like Amira...
Familiar Voice: I did it!
Vyrn: Now she sounds even closer... Where the heck is she?
Kolulu: Oh! Above us!
Amira: Look! It's a shell!
Lyria: A-Amira is... flying?
Vyrn: How is she doing that? Magic?
Sevastien: I do believe that is a deepflight oyster.
Lyria: A deepflight oyster?
Sevastien: As the name implies, it is an oyster capable of flight. It is also considered an Auguste specialty, much like the bonito.
Sevastien: Its flight capabilities are somehow made possible by the rapid spinning of its two shells.
Sevastien: We don't understand much about how this phenomenon works, but we do know that the oysters are positively delightful whether they are eaten raw or cooked.
Sevastien: I've always wanted to have a taste myself, though capturing one to eat appears to be quite a challenging task.
Lyria: We have to do something! It's not safe for Amira up there!
Redluck: The spectators all around are also panicking.
Male Spectator 2: Run! Run for your lives!
Female Spectator 2: Somebody heeelp! Save us!
Deepflight Oyster: ...!
The oyster nose-dives without warning, agitated by the screams.
Amira: Ah!
Amira: Oof!
Unable to stay atop her swiftly moving mount, Amira plummets headfirst into the sand.
Amira: Bleh! Cough, cough!
Lyria: A-are you okay, Amira?
Vyrn: I'm startin' to wonder how anyone ever managed to take one of those things down to eat! The whole arena's in trouble!
Amira: Leave it to me. I'll get it!
Deepflight Oyster: ...!
Vyrn: Yikes! Th-that was close...
Lucio: Everyone, please stand behind me. I don't believe anyone wishes to become minced mortal meat today.
Deepflight Oyster: ...!
Kolulu: It's coming!
Kolulu senses the oyster's killing intent and prepares to counterattack, but Redluck moves in front of her.
Redluck: Leave this to me.
Kolulu: Master! I-I can fight too!
Kolulu: I won't make another mistake like yesterday—
Redluck: Calm down. I know you can handle yourself.
Redluck: But you gotta save up your energy. You've still got eating to do, remember?
Redluck: Besides, I haven't gotten a single moment to shine this whole time! I could use a little redemption!
Redluck: So go help (Captain) and the others evacuate people.
Redluck: All right, you big ugly oyster. Let's see who's going to make a meal out of who today.
Redluck: Do your worst!
Deepflight Oyster: ...!
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Chapter 6: Play Off! Sum and Substance! - Episode 4
Redluck defeats the deepflight oyster, and its remains are used as food for the final round. Once the competition starts back up, however, Amira has to tap out after feeling sick from her trip atop the oyster. Despite the frustration of losing, she encourages Kolulu to win instead. With multiple people's hopes riding on her shoulders, Kolulu pushes ahead more determined than ever.
Deepflight Oyster: ...!
Redluck: Whoa, you're pretty scary!
The oyster's shell brushes his skin, and even that fleeting friction burns. Undaunted, Redluck only grins wider.
Redluck: Hot, just like I like it! Bet you don't want to be eaten, right?
Redluck: Too bad, though... I've got a dream riding on that competition you're trying to interrupt, so you're going to have to go!
Redluck: You'll make a good snack while I'm watching my pupil take her prize!
Redluck: Hrrraaahhh!
Deepflight Oyster: ...!
Redluck: That's one tough shell, but...
Redluck: It's not unbreakable!
Deepflight Oyster: ...!
Redluck: Heh! Easy as pie!
Kolulu: Master! That was amazing!
Redluck: Hahaha! Got a little dangerous there, but I handled it!
Redluck: That's it for me, though.
Redluck: Now it's your turn to shine.
Kolulu: I won't let you down!
Amira: Master! Are you hurt?
Redluck: Just peachy, as you can see! No lies this time!
Amira: I caused a lot of trouble...
Lyria: It's fine, Amira! Nobody got hurt.
Vyrn: You were looking for a way to resupply the competition, right? No one can fault you for that.
Redluck: All's well that ends well.
Redluck: How'd you know where to find a deepflight oyster anyway?
Redluck: I doubt you stumbled upon it by chance in such a short period of time. Did someone tell you?
Amira: I found some yesterday. Flying with them was fun.
Sevastien: So the oyster I smelled yesterday was of the deepflight sort.
Vyrn: And that's why you said you had fun, huh? Was wondering how you got so sleepy just from eating.
Vyrn: Gotta say though, people here in Auguste must have a rough time every year dealing with these wild shellfish.
Sevastien: Actually, the oysters aren't normally this aggressive. Perhaps when they are threatened, but in this case I believe there's one specific reason.
Lucio: One specific reason... Could you be referring to the deepflight oysters' ability to switch?
Sevastien: Indeed. I'd heard about such cases before, but I didn't think the reality was so destructive.
Vyrn: Wha? Ability to switch? The heck are you talking about?
Sevastien: I believe the trait is called hermaphroditism. The oysters will change sex depending on the ecosystem surrounding them.
Amira: Herma... phrodi... tism?
Sevastien: The term refers to either animals or plants which possess male and female organs, or those that can switch between the two sexes. Deepflight oysters switch.
Lucio: To become a father or a mother, depending on circumstance—a mysterious facet of ecology, that.
Amira: Father turns into Mother? Mother turns into Father?
Vyrn: Why'd you hafta to go and make things so complicated? You doing this on purpose?
Lucio: Haha. I'm merely pondering the mysterious mechanisms of this world which cannot be so easily unraveled.
Lucio: However, if the concept of flying sharks isn't too hard to accept, then neither should the concept of oysters which change sex. Don't you think so?
Vyrn: If you put it that way... I honestly have no idea.
Vyrn: But why do they switch at all? What's the point?
Lucio: It's for the sake of survival. If their ecosystem is in danger, then they must adapt to ensure their species survives.
Lucio: Last year's shark attacks most likely reduced the population of the oysters' prey, to say nothing of the direct attacks on the oyster population. This may be the source of the sudden aggression.
Sevastien: I hypothesize the same.
Vyrn: Most of this is going over my head, but I'll take your word for it. It's not not believable, at least.
Sevastien: I must say, the amount of knowledge and insight you possess... You aren't ordinary by any means, are you?
Lucio: Hehe. You think too highly of me. I am merely an odd fellow with boundless curiosity and affection for this world.
Lucio: One who chases after answers... If our creators were perfect, then why make living beings imperfect? Was it by accident or by choice?
Lucio: Life and death, dark and light, male and female... Why bother with these opposing elements? And so on and so forth.
Sevastien: Hohoho, not many delve into the world of metaphysics. You seem to have a strange trust in where your curiosity will take you.
Sevastien: An odd fellow indeed. I must admit, my own curiosity has been piqued.
Lucio: Perhaps we should have a conversation over coffee sometime.
Sevastien: It would be my pleasure.
Sevastien: But that is enough tarrying. Now that we have an ingredient to work with, I should return and prepare more food.
Mash: The faster, the better. Competition's gotta finish at some point.
Vyrn: Hey, you weren't here a second ago! Where'd you disappear off to!
Mash: Helpin' with the evacuation, obviously.
Vyrn: You, helping? Really?
Mash: Hey, eating pros would be out of a job without an audience. And I look after my fans.
Mash: Plus if anybody got hurt or worse, the whole contest'd be called off.
Mash: And we can't be havin' that. Not until I beat you brats!
Vyrn: Huh. I totally thought you ran for the hills at the first sign of danger. Guess you're not as bad as I thought!
Mash: Hmph... Can't have you hogging the spotlight anyway.
Mash: And keep your compliments! The only thing I want is that champion title!
Mash: So let's settle this once and for all!
Amira: I won't lose! I definitely won't!
Kolulu: I accept your challenge!
Announcer: All right, folks! Sorry to keep you waiting!
Announcer: Food's done cooking, so we're ready to kick things back into gear!
Announcer: I know we had a bit of a panic with the deepflight oyster attack...
Announcer: But now I'm feeling more pumped than ever!
Announcer: Especially to see the final round to its conclusion! I refuse to miss a moment of it!
Announcer: Now for the true last dish of the day...
Announcer: I'd like to go into detail, but we're already short on time so let's just get to it!
Announcer: I think the competitors are about two seconds away from hopping out of their seats too!
Mash: Got that right.
Announcer: So here it is!
Announcer: Deepflight oyster burgers! Deepflight oysters turned into deep-fried oysters, sandwiched between two buns!
Announcer: With almost no time left on the clock, who will conquer these new textures and flavors for the win?
Announcer: Will it be Mash, continuing to pull ahead?
Announcer: Or will it be an unstoppable comeback from one of the other two?
Announcer: Here we go, folks! One last battle!
Competitors: ...!
Announcer: Final round... restart!
Mash: Raaaah!
Announcer: Mash starts devouring as soon as the signal drops!
Announcer: He's not holding anything back! It's all in or bust!
Amira: Chomp, munch, munch, munch! Munch, munch, chomp, chomp!
Announcer: But Amira isn't going to let him rush off alone! She's stuffing those burgers in!
Kolulu: The concept should be the same as the hot dog... Fold the fried meat in half... Dip the bread into water...
Kolulu: Hng!
As soon as Kolulu folds the oyster patty in half, its insides come spilling out from the crease.
Kolulu: (Trying to eat like this will take up too much time!)
Kolulu: (I suppose I have no other choice. I'll eat the fried part as is!)
Kolulu: Let's dig in!
Announcer: Kolulu finally has her first bite! She took a moment there, but will she make up for lost time?
Kolulu: (However, at this rate, I won't be able to stay in the running, let alone overtake them!)
Kolulu: (There has to be something else I can do...)
Amira: Chomp, munch, munch, munch! Munch, munch, munch, chomp, chomp!
Announcer: Wowzers! Amira is going at a speed we've never seen before!
Announcer: That might be just what she needs to propel herself to first place!
Mash: Damn! I ain't done yet, punk!
Announcer: Mash tries to pull ahead! But Amira is right behind!
Announcer: Is this the final showdown—
Amira: Urk...
Announcer: Unbelievable! Amira suddenly stopped moving!
Announcer: She's holding her hand over her mouth! Her face is going blue!
Amira: Stomach... rumbly...
Amira: Feels bad...
Announcer: A-Amira's collapsed and she can't get up!
Announcer: Could this be a delayed reaction from spinning around on top of that deepflight oyster?
Announcer: What a stroke of bad luck! Nay, a tragedy!
Kolulu: Amira! Are you okay?
Kolulu completely forgets about the burgers and instinctively rushes to her friend's side.
Amira: You...
Kolulu: Don't eat any more. You'll really hurt yourself if you do.
Amira: So... I'll lose?
Kolulu: I'm sorry, but I think that's as far as you can go...
Amira: No!
Amira: Urk...
Amira desperately tries for another bite, but nausea overwhelms her senses.
Amira: Mother...
Kolulu: Amira...
Amira: This sucks...
Kolulu: I understand. If I were in your position, I'd feel the same.
Amira: ...
Amira: You have to win.
Kolulu: ...!
Amira: We both trained under Master... So I want you to win...
Kolulu: All right. I shall do you proud, my rival and comrade!
Kolulu: Once this is all over, I'll do everything in my power to help search for your mother.
Amira: Really?
Kolulu: I swear I shall! So rest easy now.
Amira: Okay...
After giving Amira a pat on the shoulder, Kolulu returns to her seat.
Mash: Gahaha! Victory is mine!
Mash: Almost had me sweating for a sec there, but there ain't no way you can catch up now! Just give up—
Kolulu: A battle is not over until it's over.
Mash: Oh?
Kolulu: Especially not when I have another reason to win!
Kolulu: For the sake of the friend who believes in me, cheers for me, and laughs with me...
Kolulu: For the sake of the one who hid his pain and let me borrow his dream...
Kolulu: For the sake of the rival who fought till the bitter end and stayed strong...
Kolulu: I shall not falter here! Not when they brought me this far!
Kolulu: And above all else, I refuse to lose for my own sake!
Mash: Well, you sure won in the blabbing department. Give ya that.
Mash: Guess we're gonna have to settle this the hard way!
Io: Kolulu! You've got this! One last effort!
Lyria: You're so close, Kolulu!
Vyrn: We're rootin' for you!
Choose: You can do it!
Redluck: Kolulu... We're all here for you.
Redluck: We know you can win! Now turn it around and eat like you've never eaten before!
Kolulu: (Everyone... I can feel your cheers giving me strength somehow.)
Kolulu: Time to push my limits... and win!
Hot Summer Fete! Eating Bonanza! - Ending
After a long battle, Kolulu emerges victorious. Mash rages and lets slip that he used a special drug to try and win. Lucio appears and reveals that he swapped out Mash's drug with a fake substitute as the actual drug is very dangerous. Mash, relieved that he hadn't actually consumed the drug, realizes the error of his ways and, through some encouragement by Redluck, swears to compete against Redluck again in the future. Later, Kolulu and the crew enjoy the grand prize together, stuffing themselves full of good food.
Announcer: What a competition, folks. I almost forgot to breathe at the end there.
Announcer: I've never seen such a close match in all my years in the industry.
Announcer: I'll never forget this moment for the rest of my career.
Announcer: It's time to announce our winner. The one who has earned the title of champion is...
Announcer: Kolulu!
Kolulu: Yes!
Io: You did it! You really did it, Kolulu!
Vyrn: Haha, almost can't believe it. You're just full of surprises, huh!
Lyria: You're absolutely astonishing! Oh, I can't stop bouncing!
Redluck: You did great, kid. Really...
Redluck: Sheesh, what's all this sweat doing in my eyes?
Mash: Damn it! Damn it all! How could I lose to a stupid little brat!
Kolulu: True, I may be little.
Kolulu: But I'm not alone. I have everyone's support.
Kolulu: It's what allowed me to overcome every trial and emerge victorious!
Sierokarte: Congratulations on your victory.
Sierokarte: I present to you your trophy, as well as your prize. Please enjoy your set of Auguste delicacies.
Kolulu: Thank you very much!
Urp...
Urp...
Announcer: With that, our competition draws to a close! Thank you all for participating in these three days of hot summer fun and sweltering passion!
Announcer: Let's give a big round of applause for every competitor who braved the gargantuan piles of food and filled themselves to bursting!
As applause thunders throughout the arena, Kolulu beams proud and bright from her position on stage.
Once the ceremony finishes, Kolulu returns to (Captain) and the crew with prizes in hand.
Io: Congrats, Kolulu! Seriously well deserved!
Kolulu: Io! If you hug me that tightly, I'm going to drop the trophy and the prize!
Lyria: I'm so happy for you, I want to hug you too! But I guess I'll hold off for the moment!
Vyrn: Definitely didn't picture this outcome when the contest first kicked off.
Vyrn: Turns out the real dark horse all along wasn't Amira, but you!
Kolulu: Ah! Oh goodness—Amira! Is she...
Redluck: Perfectly fine. She was sleeping like a baby when I left her in the infirmary.
Kolulu: Master!
Redluck: That was a mighty fine job you did.
Redluck: While I knew you could do it, seeing it actually happen took my breath away.
Redluck: You made my dream come true. You did me real proud.
Kolulu: Thank you, Master!
Mash's Voice: How!
From a distance away, they hear Mash's furious shouts and screams.
Mash: I used my last resort...
Mash: And I still lost! What the hell!
Vyrn: Hey, you crazy ol' coot! What the heck do you mean by last resort?
Mash: ...!
I didn't say nuthin'!
I didn't say nuthin'!
Lucio: Are you perhaps referring to the drugs?
Mash: Ah! S-so you did notice!
Vyrn: Can one of you explain what in the skies is going on?
Lucio: Two days ago, after the preliminary round, I found a small bottle he accidentally dropped. Inside that bottle I discovered drugs.
Vyrn: So by drugs, you mean like... stuff to soothe a stomachache, right?
Lucio: If only. I would not bother with this if that were the case.
Vyrn: Y-you telling me he was carrying some serious illegal substances around?
Lucio: It was a super tonic meant to prevent summer exhaustion. Even a small quantity is alarmingly potent.
Mash: ...
Lucio: It also afflicts its user with an insatiable appetite, capable of forcing anyone to eat past their breaking point.
Redluck: An insatiable appetite...
Redluck: Don't tell me you were getting doped up on that!
Lucio: I wouldn't be too hasty with accusations. Mash is a victim here, believe it or not. No one ever explained the grim side effects to him.
Mash: S-side effects? What side effects!
Lucio: Though the probability is slight, users may eventually find themselves unable to eat without taking the drug, irrevocably changing their lives as they know them.
Lucio: The vile nature of it was exposed during a certain incident, which caused it to be banned from public consumption.
Lucio: As for which incident, well... A participant in this very legendary competition some years ago found out exactly what would happen from using the drug regularly.
Redluck: Y-you sure that's right? Because I've never heard about such a problem occurring before.
Lucio: That is because it was covered up. People believed that, if known, the incident would do irreparable damage to the reputation of the competition.
Vyrn: Then how did you find it all out?
Lucio: Haha. Shall we say... the more one tries to hide something, the more it begins to stand out.
Lucio: Anyway, I took the liberty of swapping out the real drug in Mash's bottle with a fake substitute. It would have been too dangerous to let him consume it.
Lucio: Though I had no guarantees it was the genuine drug before I swapped it, the bottle's shape and your reaction to my finding it were suspicious enough.
Lucio: If I was mistaken, I would have returned the real bottle to you, but unfortunately, the drugs proved to be the genuine article.
Mash: Damn! I can't believe that swindler sold me something that crazy!
Lucio: Not to worry. I have already apprehended the individual responsible and turned him in to the authorities.
Vyrn: When did you have the time to do that?
Lucio: Haha. Don't you remember? I engaged in a bit of intense activity yesterday before I returned.
Vyrn: Oh! That's right! When we were all eating dessert yesterday, you did say something like that, huh?
Vyrn: Sheesh, you coulda told us what you were up to. We woulda helped, you know.
Lucio: I didn't wish to interrupt everyone's vacations.
Vyrn: Your poker face never falters, no matter what kinda sneaky stuff you get up to, does it?
Lucio: It was not easy to keep things hidden. Why, when you asked to have a sip of my juice before, you were truly asking to take a sip of the drugs.
Vyrn: Explains why you insisted on keeping it from me. Even lied about the expiration date too.
Lucio: Indeed. My sincerest apologies for that.
Vyrn: Well, it all worked out, I guess. I didn't end up drinking anything weird, but you really coulda just told me.
Lucio: Haha. Again, I didn't wish to interrupt your vacation.
Lucio: An endless journey to keep the sky ever blue deserves a momentary perch.
Vyrn: Sigh... There you go again with the cryptic messages.
Lucio: You all love this place dearly, correct? And you would instantly rush to its aid should any harm befall it. I merely wished to help.
Lucio: Besides... If I perform acts of virtue, Sandy might one day treat me to his homemade coffee.
Mash: Hey, I've just got one question.
Mash: If I didn't end up using any of the actual drugs, then how the hell was I able to pull off that crazy spurt during the finals?
Lucio: That was simply your own efforts coming to fruition.
Lucio: You believed your limits were removed, and so they were.
Redluck: That cup of water you downed... You were trying to hide the drugs, weren't you?
Mash: Hah, stupid, right? All I ended up doing was speeding myself along to defeat.
Redluck: Mash. Why even try the underhanded tricks?
Redluck: You may be aggravating to deal with, but I never knew you for a cheat! There has to be a reason, so spit it out!
Mash: Pretty sure I've already said why... I've got people I need to impress.
Mash: My grandpa and grandma. I loved 'em to bits. They raised me, did right by me.
Mash: We were poor, y'know? Barely had enough food to get by, but I was a hungry boy.
Mash: They would feed me their share of the food instead of eating it themselves.
Mash: So I had to do right by them. Plan was to win, win, win, be famous, and get money.
Mash: See, I didn't even have enough rupies to get them proper gravestones. So I wanted to get a ton of money and get them the grandest gravestones rupies could buy.
Mash: But this eating competition was already cancelled by the time I became a competitive eater. Thought my dreams would never come true.
Mash: Heh... Stupid, boring story, eh?
Redluck: I see... So that was why you felt like you couldn't afford to lose.
Mash: Doesn't matter now. I lost, and that's that. I'm ready to throw in the towel.
Mash: Bout time for me to retire.
Kolulu: Retire? Surely you don't have to go so far!
Mash: What's it to you? Feeling responsible 'cause you ended my career?
Kolulu: No... that's not it.
Mash: So why—
Kolulu: Don't misunderstand me. I don't like you, and I don't think I ever will.
Kolulu: But the passion... the drive you had for eating was real.
Kolulu: I will always respect that.
Mash: Hah... Easy for the victor to say.
Mash: I'm done here. I don't think we'll ever cross paths again. See ya.
Redluck: Wait, Mash.
Mash: Huh?
Redluck: You really think you can live with yourself if you walk away now? I know you. You won't ever be satisfied if you don't settle things your way.
Mash: How many times am I gonna have to tell you? I'm retiring.
Redluck: Is that really what you want? Because you're practically oozing regret.
Redluck: I don't even have to look at your face to know. We've been at each other's throats for twenty years, so give me that much credit at least.
Redluck: Come on. You can't tell me that the Kolulu we saw today didn't remind you of us back when we first started out.
Redluck: Young, struggling to stand on our own two feet, but going after the experienced pros anyway.
Redluck: We were enemies, but we even trained together sometimes. Those were some good days.
Mash: Huh... You sure you're not misrememberin'?
Redluck: I know we stopped training together once I started racking up wins, but...
Redluck: Now that I've experienced my first loss in ten years... I remembered how awful it feels to lose.
Redluck: But what about you? How'd it feel to beat me for the first time in ten years? Bet you felt on top of the world.
Redluck: I know it was like a kick to the gut for me... But now I'm itching for the next competition!
Redluck: Don't tell me you don't feel the same! Come on, Mash!
Mash: Yer a hothead, you know that? I always, always, always...
Mash: Really liked that about ya!
Mash: Awright, you asked for it! I'll give this business another go!
Mash: Next time we meet, I'm gonna crush you when you're in peak condition! Be ready to weep, Redluck!
Redluck: Hah! Do your worst! I'll be waiting!
The two men lock arms and swear to face one another again someday.
After seeing Mash off, the crew prepares a barbecue to celebrate Kolulu's victory.
The party begins in the evening and continues well into the night.
Kolulu: Munch, munch...
Kolulu: Oh! Th-this is bonito?
Kolulu: It's so good! Melts in the mouth!
Io: Geez, Kolulu. You've got some rice stuck to your face. Hold still, and I'll get it for you.
Sevastien: We have plenty of food left, so don't hesitate to request seconds.
Charlotta: Then may I please have another serving? The bonito you prepare is stunningly excellent, and I could eat it for days!
Lucio: May I request seconds as well? I'm beginning to understand why people say your cooking extends life spans.
Amira: Urkin is good! You should eat some too!
Kolulu: Oh, thank you very much!
Vyrn: Amira just got back, and she's already eaten a mountain of food.
Lyria: Haha, Kolulu and Amira seem to be getting along better than ever, don't you think?
Redluck: Yesterday's enemies are today's allies. Though I suppose technically they were enemies today.
Leona: Hehe... It's a wonderful sight, isn't it?
Redluck: Hey, Kolulu! That's good form you got there!
Kolulu: Master!
Redluck: How's it feel to be champion, eh?
Kolulu: Weeell... To be honest, I'm not sure how to feel about the title.
Kolulu: Because it's only thanks to you that I have it!
Redluck: Hahaha! No need to be modest!
Redluck: Remember, you were just a little unpolished. I only showed you how to shine!
Redluck: And you delivered! So be proud of yourself!
Kolulu: Yes, Master!
Kolulu: I hope we can all eat together like this again sometime!
Kolulu: It's like we're one big, happy family! I love it!
Kolulu gains not only the title of champion, but also an irreplaceable summer memory.
The tales of what occurred during this legendary competition will travel throughout the skies, but for now, the crew enjoys a well-deserved night off.
The End
Characters
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