Handsome Gorilla/Story

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Handsome Gorilla - Opening

There once lived a shy girl who whiled away her days at the local bookstore. Her life took a drastic turn when she came upon the romantic storybook genre. She vowed to become an artist of the wonderful tomes herself one day.



Lunarrator: Once upon a time, on an island much like any other, there lived a very ordinary girl.
Lunarrator: She had no particular talent—neither academic brilliance nor athletic prowess.
Ordinary Girl: Oh well... Not everyone gets to be the hero of the story.
Lunarrator: She worked hard just to reach the middle of the pack in sports and her studies.
Lunarrator: And she did her utmost to make friends so as not to be an outcast.
Lunarrator: In truth she preferred solitude, but her parents worried when she isolated herself in her room, so every so often she would venture out to a nearby park.
Lunarrator: But everyone there was always smiling, and just trying to blend in made her cheek muscles ache.
Ordinary Girl: Oh well... It's my own fault I can't enjoy it the same way they do.
Lunarrator: So when circumstances demanded she venture outside, the girl would take refuge in an out-of-the-way used bookstore.
Lunarrator: In that sunlit shop, surrounded by the scent of paper, was the one place she felt at peace.
Lunarrator: She loved to browse the shelves, pretending to look for some specific tome, reading the titles on the spines and imagining the epics that lay within.
Lunarrator: The shopkeeper never said a word to her, merely glancing up from the pages of some book momentarily before returning to it.
Lunarrator: That was how the girl spent her days.
Lunarrator: And one by one the years passed.
Lunarrator: She had no reason to expect that things would ever change.
Ordinary Girl: Waaah!
Ordinary Girl: Wha... What is this? This is no ordinary storybook!
Ordinary Girl: What... What are those two men doing?
Ordinary Girl: No, really! What are they doing?
Ordinary Girl: Ohh...
Whoooa...
Ordinary Girl: Gulp...
Ordinary Girl: Ooohhh...
Ordinary Girl: ...
Ordinary Girl: ...
Ordinary Girl: So beautiful...
Even though the characters are both men...
Ordinary Girl: No... In fact... the story wouldn't work unless they were both men.
Ordinary Girl: Aaah, what should I do? My heart is racing... But as a minor I'm probably not allowed to buy this book, am I?
Ordinary Girl: I feel bad for loitering, but... I really have to know what happens next...
Ordinary Girl: ...!
Ordinary Girl: Wait, what? It can't be! No way, no way, no way!
Ordinary Girl: Ah... Aahh... So that secret conversation drives them to a duel?
Ordinary Girl: No, I can't believe it! It can't be their destiny to be torn apart!
Ordinary Girl: Ahh, but if they'd never had that talk, they never would have come together in the first place...
Ordinary Girl: Gyaaah! It hurts, but it hurts so good!
Ordinary Girl: This is the best...
Lunarrator: Thus the girl discovered the world of romantic illustrated storybooks... dedicated to the beautiful relationships between men.
Lunarrator: And she discovered her fondest dream in life: to pen such works herself.

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 1: Artist's Retreat - Episode 1

Having earned a spot as an exhibitor for the upcoming Sphiria Book Fair, Lunalu gets a room at an inn to concentrate on the completion of her storybook. But with only three days until the fair, Lunalu lets out a frantic cry of despair.



The illustrated storybook: a form of literature that blends words and images.
It is said to have originated decades, or perhaps even centuries, ago.
Whichever the case, in recent years it has enjoyed an explosive increase in popularity and grown into a booming industry.
This art form, distinct from both novels and visual art, has given rise to a vast array of stories.
The nation of Sphiria, known for its cultivation of knowledge and the arts, has begun holding book fairs devoted entirely to these storybooks.
Such events are still in their infancy, but they provide a unique opportunity for amateur creators to sell their work to visitors and even earn a living doing so.
There is even the chance that an amateur's work might catch a publisher's eye, earning them a limited-run publication to break into the pro market.
It is almost time for the next book fair to begin.
Lunalu: Um, (Captain), can I have a word with you?
Lunalu: Do you remember those storyboards we talked about before, for my romantic storybook?
Lunalu: ...
Lunalu: I got in... I submitted them and they were accepted!
Lunalu: I get to sell my work at the Sphiria Book Fair!
  1. Congratulations, Lunalu!
  2. What're we talking about again?

Choose: Congratulations, Lunalu!
Lunalu: Thank you! I couldn't have done it without all of you.

Choose: What're we talking about again?
Lunalu: Wait, didn't I tell you? I was working on them like crazy around New Year's Eve. Siero and the others helped me out a lot.
Lunalu: I'm really grateful to you guys too.
Continue 1
Lunalu: If I hadn't met you, I don't think I'd even have gotten started.
Lunalu: Right now I'm only known for drawing monsters... But I really want to be recognized for romantic art!
Lunalu: But I haven't sold a single one yet.
Lunalu: Well, maybe I'm better off just drawing monsters for the rest of my life...
Lunalu: Huh? W-with all of you? Is that really okay?
Lunalu: Amazing... To think that I'll have the chance to gather all kinds of romantic storybooks...
Lunalu: Is this a dream? If it is, I hope I don't wake up.
Lunalu: Ah, my sealed evil eye just started throbbing!
Lunalu: Traveling from island to island aboard the Grandcypher has given me so many opportunities to expand my collection and study other artists' work...
Lunalu: Those storyboards, too. I'd never have completed them if it weren't for all of you. Oh, and by storyboards, I mean my rough drafts.
Lunalu: They still need to be inked and colored... and have the backgrounds drawn in!
Lunalu: Ah, I know what you're thinking. You're thinking, "That manuscript still has a long way to go."
Lunalu: Well, don't you worry! I just need a little time. I'm new to character design, but I'm starting to get the hang of it.
Lunalu: Ahh, this is a dream come true! To think my little book will soon be unveiled for the whole wide world to see!
Lunalu: Oh, it's Vyrn and Lyria! I need to thank them too!
Lunalu bids her crewmates a temporary goodbye and heads for Sphiria.
The town where the book fair will be held boasts the perfect environment for her to concentrate on finalizing her manuscript, including lodgings suited to an artist's needs and understanding local publishers.
Now, at last, the book fair is only three days away.
Lunalu: Ah...
Lunalu: Someone... help...
Lunalu: Somebody heeelp meee!

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 1: Artist's Retreat - Episode 2

With the submission deadline a day away, Lunalu's manuscript remains incomplete. Sierokarte offers to negotiate with the printers for an extension. When Mahira and Melissabelle arrive bearing art supplies, the group takes a dietary supplement known as Handsome Gorilla that Sierokarte had acquired from a previous deal.



Lunalu: Sniffle... Sob... Sob...
Sierokarte: There, there. No one's going to be mad at you, Lunalu.
Lunalu: B-but... I've failed as a person...
Sierokarte: Nooo you haven't. Now dry your eyes and blow your nose...
There. Feeling a little better?
Lunalu: Sorta... Sniffle...
Lunalu: Sigh...
Sorry for going to pieces on you like that...
Sierokarte: Don't be silly. I'm always happy to help.
Sierokarte, in Sphiria on business, happened to be in the same inn where Lunalu had secluded herself.
Summoned by the artist's heart-rending cry, Sierokarte now sits with her arm around Lunalu's shoulders, comforting her friend.
Lunalu: But what am I going to do? I'm not even halfway done.
Lunalu: Only three days until the book fair... And I have to get the manuscript to the printers by tomorrow morning...
Sierokarte: You creative types have it rough... How long do you think it'll take you?
Sierokarte: I seem to remember you finished the storyboards almost sixth months ago...
Lunalu: Sniff... Well, that is...
Have you ever heard of an author shutting themselves up in a hotel or something...
Lunalu: Where they're able to concentrate so well that the creative juices just flow, so their masterpiece is finished in a flash?
Sierokarte: Haha... Yes, that sounds like something an author would do.
Sierokarte: But from the looks of you, that's not how things shook out, hm?
Lunalu: No... In fact, I've mostly just been lying around...
Lunalu: Uurgh... Everything's starting to go dark...
Sierokarte: Oh dear... You seem completely exhausted.
Sierokarte: I know! Why don't I talk to the printers for you? Maybe they'll bend.
Lunalu: Bend? You mean extend the submission deadline?
Sierokarte: Yes! Let me see what I can do.
Lunalu: ...
Lunalu: Even if you do that, when I read over the manuscript, it's still got issues...
Lunalu: And I'm out of ideas... It might just be a waste of your time, Siero.
Sierokarte: Lunalu...
Melissabelle: We're back! We finally found some black ink.
Mahira: And I found a triangle ruler. Oh, hello, Sierokarte.
Sierokarte: Well, hello! I didn't know you two were here.
Melissabelle not in crew

Melissabelle—a Harvin whose long, beautiful hair is imbued with mysterious magical power.
Since joining the crew, she has become good friends with Lunalu and the others and pitched in before to help Lunalu with her manuscript.
No version of Mahira in crew

Mahira is the Guardian of the West, one of the Twelve Divine Generals, and is deeply interested in the Grandcypher.
She became curious about illustrated storybooks when she learned about Lunalu's side project. Mahira helped Lunalu fulfill her New Year's resolution of completing the storyboards for this very manuscript.
Melissabelle and Mahira asked (Captain) for shore leave in order to help Lunalu prepare for the book fair. They arrive with their arms full of shopping bags.
Lunalu: Melissa... Mahira... Thank you, but I—
Melissabelle: It's a mess in here. Did you have another fit?
Sierokarte: Dear me... Did you say "another"?
Mahira: It's been a daily occurrence recently. I'm worried, of course...
Mahira: But Lunalu said herself that no matter what happened, she wouldn't come out of seclusion until she'd finished.
Lunalu: W... Well, circumstances have changed...
Melissabelle: You also said, "Even if circumstances change, I won't come out until it's finished."
Lunalu: Whimper...
B-but... I think I'm coming down with something...
Mahira: Oh, she said it. Remember, Lunalu, you said that you'd say that too.
Lunalu: Augh... Curse my past self's preparedness!
Sierokarte: It's the classic artist's dilemma, isn't it? You want to draw, and yet your pen refuses to move...
Melissabelle: Yes... I suppose it's more of a mental block than the difficulty of the work itself.
Mahira: You may be right. I think our first priority should be to revitalize our artist.
Sierokarte: Revitalize her, hmmm?
Sierokarte: ...!
Melissabelle: What're you looking for in your bag, Sierokarte?
Sierokarte: It just so happens I got free samples of a bunch of dietary supplements as part of a recent deal.
Sierokarte: Ah, this one should be perfect! It says it wakes you up, puts pep in your step, and gives you all the vigor of a wild animal.
Sierokarte: Dun-da-da-duuunnn! Ta-dah! Handsome Gorilla!
Mahira: A supplement? Did you say, "Handsome Gorilla"?
Sierokarte: It's a new product almost ready to be put on the market. It's supposed to contain all sorts of ingredients gathered from deep in the jungle.
Sierokarte: Here, Lunalu, try one!
Lunalu: Just like that? All sorts of what? And "almost ready" means they haven't completed testing yet, right?
Sierokarte: Don't worry, it's fiiine! They said they've already got the side effects down to a minimum.
Lunalu: Really? It doesn't cause hallucinations or anything weird like that?
Sierokarte: Almost never! It should just give you a morale boost—like it says on the label!
Melissabelle: The vigor of a wild animal... That sounds kind of cool. I want to try this gorilla stuff too.
Mahira: My curiosity is piqued as well. I've never tried a dietary supplement before.
Sierokarte: I've got a few more bottles! Shall we all drink a toast?
Lunalu: Hmm... Well... I guess any help at all would be welcome right now...
Lunalu: All right then, um...
All Four: Cheers!

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 1: Artist's Retreat - Episode 3

Milleore and Sahli Lao drop in to help and are bewildered to see Lunalu and company acting like gorillas. Yet surprisingly progress on the manuscript is coming along nicely. The newcomers also decide to indulge in some Handsome Gorilla.



Lunalu, Melissabelle, Mahira, and Sierokarte all decide to take a mysterious dietary supplement called Handsome Gorilla.
About a half hour later, the rest of the illustration support team arrives on the scene.
Milleore is a crew member

Milleore: How's it coming? We brought food.
Milleore not in crew

???: How's it coming? We brought food.
Sahli Lao is a crew member

Sahli Lao: It's a Sphiria specialty. If you're at a good stopping place, why don't you take a break?
Sahli Lao not in crew

???: It's a Sphiria specialty. If you're at a good stopping place, why don't you take a break?
Milleore not in crew

Milleore is a talented archer who once belonged to her local military. More recently she has sold her bow as an agent.
Cool and collected but with a strong sense of duty and a warm heart, she was more or less hired by the crew. During her time onboard the Grandcypher, she has also become close with Lunalu.
Sahli Lao not in crew

Sahli Lao used to serve alongside Milleore in their local military and is now on a journey to hone her skills as a fighter.
When she met the crew, she was also reunited with Milleore and made friends with Lunalu.
The two set the takeout they've purchased on the desk and get their first proper look at their friends.
Lunalu: Ooh-ooh!
Mahira: Ooh-ooh, ah-ah!
Sierokarte: Ooh-ooh-ooh, ah-ah, then.
Milleore: ...
Sahli Lao: ...
Lunalu: Ooh-ah? That smells good, ah-ah!
Mahira: Ooh-ooh-ah? Ah-ooh-ooh!
Sierokarte: Welcome back, you two! Ooh-ah!
Milleore: Wh... What's going on here?
Sahli Lao: I don't have a clue... Did they snap from overwork?
Melissabelle: No, I'm fine. What happened was, Sierokarte offered us some—
Milleore: You're clearly not fine!
Milleore: Why is your hair doing that?
Melissabelle: What, this? My hair seemed to absorb all the effects of the supplement. I was surprised too, but that's sort of how my body works.
Sahli Lao: Oh, that's right... I was so startled it slipped my mind.
Sahli Lao: But what supplement are you talking about? That bottle sitting on the floor?
Melissabelle: Yes, it was a free sample of a new dietary supplement called Handsome Gorilla.
Melissabelle: Lunalu needed a motivation boost, and the rest of us ended up joining her.
Lunalu: Ooh-ooh, aaah-aaah!
Milleore: Sigh...
So that's why everyone seems so oddly agitated. I suppose this supplement is effective.
Sahli Lao: Ahaha... I'm glad Lunalu perked up, but can she really draw in this condition?
Melissabelle: Well, about that...
Mahira: Ooh-ah. Ooh-ooh-ah!
Milleore: What've you got there, Mahira?
Milleore: And please stop walking on all fours!
Mahira: Ooh-ah...
Sahli Lao: Oh, it's the latest version of the manuscript! It's really coming along!
Melissabelle: Lunalu said she's never finished pages this quickly before. Mahira's work is also going at a good clip, so I suppose the supplement did energize them.
Milleore: Yes... Perhaps it's a little too effective though.
Melissabelle: Well, it's supposed to give you the vigor of a wild animal after all! Oh, do you two want to try some? It's an instant power-up.
Sahli Lao: U-us? Y'know, I'd rather not...
Mahira: Ooh-ooh?
Sahli Lao: Although... Now that you mention it, the ability to concentrate better certainly is attractive...
Sahli Lao: Hmmm... I'm not sure...
Sierokarte: Not to worry!
Sahli Lao: Siero! You're speaking normally again.
Sierokarte: Hehe. Once your system adjusts to the supplement, you're back to normal.
Sierokarte: I think it also depends on your constitution. Mahira had never tried supplements before.
Sahli Lao: Oh, is that why! There certainly is a visible difference in the effects...
Milleore: Well, you're always so self-possessed to begin with, Siero. And you're probably already accustomed to taking supplements.
Sierokarte: Hehe, do you think so? At any rate, here's your Handsome Gorilla!
Sahli Lao: Ah, thank you. Hmm... This is definitely a little intimidating...
Milleore: Don't make such a fuss, Lao. Think of it as an exercise in self-mastery.
Milleore: If you lower your heart rate before drinking it, it shouldn't run through your bloodstream too quickly.
Sahli Lao: Self-mastery? I see. You're right as always, Milly!
Milleore: Haha. Well then, let's drink up...

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 1: Artist's Retreat - Episode 4

Lunalu and the others discuss how best to improve their efficiency. Although Melissabelle's hair remains unusually active, Mahira can only "ooh" and "aah" her way through conversations, and Milleore is hallucinating, somehow they are still able to make progress.



Once the initial rush of the Handsome Gorilla has worn off, the illustration team settles down.
With their energy restored, they sit down to decide on a plan of attack.
Lunalu: Okay... Let's leave the matter of the deadline aside for the moment, since that depends on Siero's negotiations with the printers.
Sierokarte: Leave it to me! This kind of thing is my specialty!
Lunalu: I believe in you, Siero. In the meantime, I'll keep drawing like I have been... No, even faster.
Lunalu: But my work is probably going to get sloppier, and my instructions might be harder to follow.
Lunalu: I'm sorry to impose like this, but I'll need your cooperation and understanding more than ever.
Melissabelle: Got it. I've said it before and I'll say it again: don't worry so much. It's tough work, but I'm enjoying helping out.
Lunalu: Thank you, Melissa... You're always bucking me up.
Sahli Lao: Hee hee! It's kind of like fate bringing us together, isn't it?
Sahli Lao: The Citizens of the Kotatsu reunited. To think it all started with us gathering around a kotatsu.
Lunalu: That's true... Thank you for coming to my rescue again.
Mahira: Ooh-ooh, ooh-ooh-ahhh!
Lunalu: Mahira... still sounds awfully gorilla-like. But thank goodness her work is flawless.
Milleore: ...
Lunalu: Ah... Sorry, Milly, are you angry at me? This whole mess is my fault...
Lunalu: Please don't put yourself out on my account...
Milleore: ...
Sahli Lao: Milly? You don't look so good... Are you okay?
Milleore: Hm?
Milleore: Oh, uh... I'm sorry, I was lost in thought.
Lunalu: Really? If you're worried about something, please say so, okay?
Milleore: No, no, nothing's wrong. I'm not—I'm fine.
Milleore: (I can't let on...)
Milleore: (Lunalu needs us...)
Milleore: (And I seem to be the only one hallucinating!)
Lunalu: I really respect the way you can remain calm in any situation, Milly.
Sahli Lao: Milly's self-control is the perfect example of what talent and hard work can do!
Melissabelle: Yes. Milly is an excellent role model.
Sierokarte: She's one in a Millyun! Teeheehee!
Mahira: Ooh-ooh-ahh!
Milleore: (Just try not to look at them...)
Lunalu: All right then, everyone... I'm counting on you!
Team Lunalu: Yeah!
(Oo-aaah!)
Looming deadlines, writer's block, and other issues...
Melissabelle's hair and Mahira's power of speech show no signs of returning to normal, and Milleore is grappling with hallucinations.
Battling against her own insecurities, Lunalu lifts her pen once more and turns to face her work desk and a bright future.

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 2: Whatchacallit - Episode 1

Praying that Sierokarte will be successful in her negotiations, the Lunalu posse stays hard at work on the manuscript. Sahli Lao's performance anxiety leads to many mistakes in her lettering duties, so she switches to the role of proofreader—reading the lines aloud as she goes.



Two days before the book fair, Lunalu and her companions are making a final push on her manuscript.
Trusting Sierokarte to succeed in her negotiations with the printers, the others are at their stations, concentration at full power.
Melissabelle: Okay... Finished erasing the pencils on two more pages. On to the next.
Using her hair to wield multiple erasers at once, Melissabelle is in charge of erasing pencil lines once the ink has dried.
Mahira: Ooh-ah! Ooh-ah!
Drawing on her expertise in creating ship blueprints, Mahira is carefully finalizing the rough backgrounds.
Milleore: So now I change over to a fine brush...

Considering the time it'll take for the ink to dry...

(Thank goodness the characters on the page don't look like gorillas.)
Milleore carefully selects the right tool for each job, laying down the black and white inks.
Sahli Lao: Careful now... We can't afford any mistakes!
With her beautiful penmanship, Sahli Lao is taking care of lettering, starting with character dialogue.
She carefully writes over Lunalu's penciled words in ink.
Sahli Lao: Ahh!
Lunalu: Wha... What's wrong, Lao?
Sahli Lao: Ah, I'm sorry! I... I messed up the lettering again!
Milleore: The old performance anxiety, Lao? I thought you were doing a lot better with that.
Sahli Lao: Urgh... As far as archery is concerned, I am.
Sahli Lao: But when it comes down to it... The pressure of the crucial moment is just too much...
Lunalu: It's okay. Don't worry. You can use the white ink to erase any mistakes.
Lunalu: Milly, could you do it when you have a minute?
Milleore: Understood. Once the ink has dried, I'll make the corrections.
Sahli Lao: I'm sorry... I'm just tripping the rest of you up...
Milleore: Like Lunalu said, it's not a big deal.
Sahli Lao: But I...
Milleore: ...
Milleore: Lunalu, you mentioned the pages needed proofreading, right? Lao's free now.
Lunalu: Oh, that would be efficient, yes. Lao, could you go over these pages?
Sahli Lao: Proofreading... You mean checking for spelling mistakes and missing words?
Sahli Lao: Understood! Not the least little error will escape me!
Milleore: Don't get cocky. This isn't a battle you can decide with a single shot—it's drawn-out, detailed work.
Sahli Lao: Y-you're right. But...
Sahli Lao: There must be some way I can work more like you... Accurately and efficiently...
Sahli Lao: ...
Sahli Lao: I know!
Sahli Lao: "In the end, love is nothing more than a pipe dream."
Lunalu: Bwuh?
Melissabelle: Oh, that's Popol's line, right? The main character? So next up should be Mikhail.
Mahira: Ooh-ooh, ahh!
Milleore: Ah, yes, the romance... I'd been putting that part out of my mind...
Sahli Lao: "It may not seem that way to you, but..."
Lunalu: Wait, hold it! Why are you reading it aloud?
Sahli Lao: I thought it might be the best way to proofread. I'm sorry, was I being too loud?
Sahli Lao: "It may not seem that way to you, but I can't see it any other way."
Lunalu: Waaah!

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 2: Whatchacallit - Episode 2

Nearly dying from the embarrassment of having her work read aloud, Lunalu tries to put a stop to Sahli Lao's madness but to no avail. As the group's discussion about Sahli Lao's performance heats up, Sierokarte returns from negotiations.



In order to proofread the manuscript, Sahli Lao has been reading it aloud, and her performance is causing a stir among her companions.
A flustered Lunalu was on the point of stopping her, but...
Melissabelle: You need more inflection in your voice for Popol's emotions to come through.
Sahli Lao: Hmm... That's good advice!
Mahira: Ooh-ah, ooh-ooh-ahh!
Sahli Lao: Mahira, do you have some feedback for me about this line too?
Sahli Lao: Oh, maybe—
Lunalu: Wait, time out! Why are you all directing her?
Melissabelle: Huh. Good question. Well, if she improves, it'll make our work more fun.
Melissabelle: Like when we worked on the storyboards around the kotatsu. Milleore and Lao weren't there for that. Sierokarte was playing Popol...
Sierokarte (Popol): "Hahaha, you're a strange one. I'm Popol. I travel far and wide for adventure."
Mahira (Mikhail): "And I'm Mikhail, a seasoned traveler just like yourself. Never seen that type of armor before though. Whereabouts you from?"
Lunalu: Aaah!
Sierokarte (Popol): "Wait, you're hurt. C'mon, let me see your arm—no need to hide it."
Mahira (Mikhail): "Hey, cut that out. It's just a scratch..."
Mahira (Mikhail): "Rgh!"
Melissabelle (Nar.): The warm breath from Popol's supple, pink lips very gently caresses Mikhail's deep red wound.
Melissabelle (Nar.): The scenery around the two men suddenly seems much more vibrant, as if colored by the onset of spring.
Mahira: Ooh-ooh-ooh.
Lunalu: Yes, I remember... Well, I certainly don't mind everyone having fun...
Lunalu: But, um, won't it make it hard for you to concentrate, Milly?
Milleore: Me? Well...
Sahli Lao: "In the end, love is nothing more than a pipe dream."
Milleore: Oh, I don't care. Lao can be Popol the gorilla or whoever she wants.
Lunalu: Popol the gorilla?
Melissabelle: That's it, Lao. I think that reading was much closer to capturing Popol's character. Not that I actually know what he's like.
Sahli Lao: You think so? Thank you!
Sahli Lao: You really have a flair for theater, Melissa. Were you part of an acting troupe or something?
Melissabelle: Nope, I don't have any experience. You don't either, do you, Mahira?
Mahira: Ooh.
Sahli Lao: You must just have a talent for it then. Your version sounds much more natural than mine.
Melissabelle: Natural? Really?
Lunalu: Maybe it was Sierokarte's influence? It's a lot easier to learn if you have a good example to follow.
Melissabelle: Ah, you must be right! When she gets back, let's ask her for some pointers.
Sahli Lao: Yes, definitely!
Lunalu: Uhhm... Guys, what about the proofreading? Did you forget about that?
Lunalu: We have to turn things around before Siero gets back.
Sierokarte (Popol): You called? Well, here I am.
Lunalu: Gyaaah!

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 2: Whatchacallit - Episode 3

The Lunalu posse is elated to learn that Sierokarte cut a deal to extend the deadline until sunset the next day. When Sahli Lao notices empty speech bubbles in the manuscript, Lunalu reveals how she has been agonizing over the confession scene. Melissabelle suggests they do a live reading to help brainstorm ideas.



Sierokarte has returned from her negotiations with the printers regarding the manuscript submission deadline.
And she has returned triumphant.
Lunalu: Really? You got them to extend the deadline to sunset tomorrow?
Sierokarte: Yes! They said that was the absolute last minute that there would still be time to print enough copies. Will that be enough?
Lunalu: Thank you, Siero! There's a light at the end of the tunnel now!
Melissabelle: Thank goodness. We should be able to make it by sunset tomorrow.
Milleore: Yes. If we can keep up our current pace.
Mahira: Ooh-ah!
Sierokarte: Right, we can't afford to lower our guards! Let's put our backs into it!
Lunalu: Yes! Well then, Siero—
Sierokarte: Are you ready, Lao?
Sahli Lao: Ah, yes! Ahem. Here I go...
Sahli Lao (Popol): "In the end, love is nothing more than a pipe dream."
Lunalu: !
Melissabelle: Whooa! That was a perfect Popol! What did you teach her, Siero?
Sierokarte: Hehehehe... Oh, nothing much.
Sierokarte: Lunalu's manuscript is based on a book called Popol Saga. I just told her a little about the protagonist and his character arc.
Milleore: So that information improves dramatic performance?
Sierokarte: Who can say? Maybe it firmed up the image of Popol that Lao has in her head.
Sahli Lao: Hehe! Thanks to her, I feel like I understand the character better. It's sort of a strange feeling.
Sahli Lao: Oh, by the way, Lunalu, I have a question about this page here—
Lunalu: I can't!
Mahira: Ooh-ooh?
Lunalu: You're trying to deepen your understanding, right? You want to improve your performance? But if you get any better, I can't be held responsible for my actions!
Sahli Lao: Um, but... Sorry, it... it isn't a question about the story.
Lunalu: Hm? Oh, well then... Sorry, you had a question about your job?
Sahli Lao: Ahaha... Actually, I was reading through everything, starting with the storyboards.
Sahli Lao: I found this one page with empty speech bubbles. Why is that?
Lunalu: Ah...
Melissabelle: Oh, you're right. The others are filled in. Did you forget to write those lines, Lunalu?
Lunalu: ...
Sierokarte: Oho... Are those blank bubbles the "issues" you mentioned before, Lunalu?
Lunalu: Yeah...
Lunalu: I'm still struggling with those lines. I kept writing them then erasing them, over and over.
Lunalu: I finally decided to leave them blank for the moment.
Sierokarte: Let's see here... Looks like this is a crucial turning point in the story.
Lunalu: You're right... So the lines really have to be memorable.
Lunalu: The two main characters' relationship has been deepening, but they haven't yet put their feelings into words. This is the scene where they finally confess their love...
Milleore: I see. Is this what you were mumbling to yourself about? You should've told us.
Lunalu: Well, but... I'm already asking so much of you...
Melissabelle: Say, Lao. Could you read this part, before the confession?
Lunalu: Huh?
Melissabelle: You said it yourself, Lunalu—understanding and cooperation are key in this process! The rest of us should be aware of the script issues too.
Lunalu: Yes, I did say that, but... There's no need to act it out!
Sahli Lao: I don't mind. I feel like the more I read, the better I understand it!
Sahli Lao: All right, Milly. Can you read the part of Mikhail?
Milleore: Me?
Lunalu: Hm?
Sahli Lao: We work so well together, I'm sure we can bring a lot of realism to the scene! You don't want to?
Milleore: W-well, it's not that... But, um... this is a relationship between two men, right?
Sahli Lao: That's right.
Milleore: That doesn't trip you up at all, huh?
Milleore: I guess you never did make much distinction between genders.
Mahira: Ooh-ah! Ooh-ooohhh!
Melissabelle: What's wrong, Mahira? You want to perform too?
Sierokarte: Hrrm... I'm not sure Mahira can bring the same realism to the scene in her current state.
Milleore: Is that important? Who cares about realism?
Lunalu: It's very important.
Lunalu: Understanding, cooperation, and realism!
Milleore: I thought you were against this whole performance anyhow, Lunalu!
Mahira: Ooh-ah. Ah-ah-ooh.
Milleore: M-Mahira, why are you shaking my hand? Why do I feel like you've left me alone on the battlefield?
Milleore: Aargh, fine! If you all insist...

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 2: Whatchacallit - Episode 4

Sahli Lao and Milleore commence their live reading of the confession scene. The crucial line that is to follow Mikhail's "Am I your friend?" is left blank. They ask Lunalu for the line, only to find her passed out under the desk. She continues her work in a dreamy state after being resurrected.



Lunalu's creative team has decided to perform a scene from the manuscript in order to better understand the story issues tripping her up.
Sahli Lao and Milleore are poised to act out the crucial love confession scene.
Milleore (Mikhail): "Heh, heh, heh...
Your... Your lips are so soft..."
Milleore (Mikhail): "Out of the blue? I, uh... gave you more than enough time..."
Milleore (Mikhail): "The fact that you're hesitating—"
Sahli Lao: Milly, wait. You skipped Popol's lines.
Milleore: Oh... You're right. Sorry.
Sahli Lao: No worries! Let's take a breath and then give this performance our best!
Milleore: ...
Melissabelle: You can do it. We're all rooting for you.
Mahira: Ooh-ooh-ooh!
Sierokarte: Relax and take it slow! Do you need more background on the story?
Milleore: No, I have enough. I think I know what Mikhail is about.
Milleore: Sigh...
Let's get this over with...
Milleore: ...
Sahli Lao: You look so serious! Guess you're ready then.
Sahli Lao: Let's make another sally!
Milleore (Mikhail): "Haha... Your lips are so soft..."
Sahli Lao (Popol): "What do you think you're doing out of the blue like that?"
Milleore (Mikhail): "Out of the blue? I gave you three whole seconds to consider."
Sahli Lao (Popol): "Th-that's... That's obviously not enough!"
Milleore (Mikhail): "The fact that you're hesitating means that in your heart you've already decided. Come on. Let's get it out in the open."
Sahli Lao (Popol): "What are you talking about?"
Milleore (Mikhail): "I want to hear you say it. What am I to you?"
Sahli Lao (Popol): "!"
Milleore (Mikhail): "Am I your friend? Or your whatchacallit?"
Milleore (Mikhail): "Go on. Say it. I'm your whatchacallit!"
Sahli Lao (Popol): "That's...
All right! I'll say it clearly! You're my whatchacallit!"
Milleore (Mikhail): "Popol!"
Sahli Lao (Popol): "Mikhail!"
Melissabelle: Amazing! You were both perfect!
Sierokarte: Bravissime! That was a master performance!
Mahira: Ooh-ee! Ooh-ah-ah!
Sahli Lao: Hehe, thank you! Great job, Milly!
Milleore: Sigh...
Did that help you identify the problem?
Melissabelle: Yes, I think I understand the basic arc of the story. So it's the "whatchacallit" that was left blank?
Sahli Lao: Yes. Do you have any good ideas?
Milleore: No, it's our turn to sit back and watch now. It's up to Lunalu to come up with the dialogue.
Sierokarte: Hmm? Speaking of Lunalu... Where's she gone?
Melissabelle: Good question. Do you think she overheated and evaporated?
Mahira: Ooh-ah! Ooh-ooohh!
Milleore: What is it, Mahira? Something under the desk?
Milleore: !
Lunalu's collapsed!
Lunalu: ...
Sahli Lao: She's passed out! Quick—can anyone do first aid?
At last the entire team is abreast of the issues in Lunalu's manuscript.
Once they manage to revive her, Lunalu resumes work in a kind of dreamy haze.

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 3: Home Stretch - Episode 1

With only one more day before the book fair, Lunalu is still struggling with the confession scene. Having reached her emotional limit, she tries to make a break for it, but the others manage to pin her down just as (Captain) drops by for a visit.



One day left until the book fair. Lunalu and her companions have finished the work on everything but the problematic confession scene.
But Lunalu's muse refuses to supply the necessary dialogue, and the artist's sanity is hanging by a thread.
Lunalu: Urgh... It's impossible!
Lunalu: I'm sorry. I'm so sorry!
Melissabelle: She's making another break for it. Get her!
Sahli Lao: Roger! Sorry, Lunalu!
Lunalu: You dare!
Sahli Lao: Whoa! She read my moves, kicked off the wall, and sailed over my head!
Melissabelle: She's quite the acrobat... Mahira, time for those animal instincts!
Mahira: Ooh-aaahhh!
Lunalu: I see your physical abilities have been amplified as well—your acceleration was impressive.
Lunalu: But you're still green!
Mahira: Ooh-ooh? Ooh-ooh-aaahhh!
Melissabelle: Wait, what did she just throw?
Melissabelle: A banana? And Mahira took the bait!
Sahli Lao: That's one of those perfectly ripe bananas they served at breakfast this morning—she must've saved it... She's no ordinary adversary!
Sahli Lao: But when it comes to military strategy, no one gets the upper hand on—
Milleore: End of the line.
Lunalu: Urk!
Milleore: Give it up. This is the only exit...
Milleore: Neither your acrobatics nor your diversionary tactics will get you through this door.
Milleore: Accept it, Lunalu. It's for your own good.
Lunalu: Whimper...
You're right...
Lunalu: But... Where there's a will, there's a way!
Lunalu: Haa!
Milleore: Wha... Watch out! She's headed for the window!
Sahli Lao: Don't let her! This is the second floor—she'll get hurt!
Lunalu: Not to worry! This body has been honed by my journey across the skies!
Lunalu: Tooryaa—
Lunalu: Wah!
Melissabelle: Yeesh... That was quite the spill. How's that honed body doing?
Lunalu: Owww... What was that... slippery thing... on the floor?
Mahira: Om nom nom nom.
Milleore: A banana peel. You brought that one on yourself, Lunalu.
Sahli Lao: Phew... That was close. Have you come to your senses?
Lunalu: Yes... I'm sorry...
Melissabelle: The deadline is at sundown. We're nearly there—don't give up now.
Lunalu: Kay...
Sierokarte: We have a visitor! Just who we need to cheer Lunalu on to the finish line!
Lunalu: Cheer me on?
Lunalu: Oh, (Captain)!

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 3: Home Stretch - Episode 2

(Captain) and company dock the Grandcypher at Sphiria's harbor—ready to pick up Lunalu's group when the book fair ends. So as not to disturb them in their frantic rush, (Captain) comes alone for a visit and gives Lunalu a bit of inspirational advice regarding the confession scene.



The Grandcypher is docked in the Sphiria harbor, ready to rendezvous with Lunalu and the others after the book fair.
Not wanting to disrupt Lunalu's work, (Captain) drops by alone to see how things are going.
Lunalu: So that confession scene is the one remaining problem.
Lunalu: Sigh...
I don't know what to do...
Melissabelle: Cheer up. That just means you've solved every other problem.
Mahira: Ooh-ooh!
Milleore: ((Captain) looks like a gorilla too...)
(Captain) is abreast of the situation, problems and all.
Unable to leave Lunalu and the others in such dire straits, the captain joins their strategy session.
Sierokarte: Well, why don't we ask for (Captain)'s opinion?
Sahli Lao: Great idea! A fresh perspective is just what we need!
Lunalu: Yes... We've just been spinning our wheels. We need to decide where we're going before we can make any progress.
Lunalu: (Captain), I'll give you three ideas. Just choose what feels right to you.
Lunalu: Simple...

Passionate...

Or surprising.
Lunalu: What would you choose for a confession of love?
  1. Something simple, I think.
  2. It's gotta be passionate!
  3. What... would the surprise be?

Choose: Something simple, I think.
Lunalu: Simple? Hm, okay, I see...
Lunalu: Yes, you may be right! With things like this, it's best to stick to the basics!

Choose: It's gotta be passionate!
Lunalu: Passionate, you say? Well, well... an unexpected choice.
Lunalu: But you're right! Love should be red-hot!

Choose: What... would the surprise be?
Lunalu: That option caught your attention, hmm?
Lunalu: No, don't worry about what it is. The important thing is that's what grabbed you.
Continue 1
Lunalu: In that case, the first line should be... Hm...
And the last line needs some more work...
Melissabelle: Oh, Lunalu looks so refreshed.
Sierokarte: I knew you'd give her the inspiration she needed, (Captain)!
Milleore: You were a real help. Having direction makes all the difference to morale.
Sahli Lao: Too true! Now if we can just make the sunset deadline!
Mahira: Ooh-ah-ahhh!
(Captain)'s input has given Lunalu's muse just the spark of inspiration it needed.
With the sun rapidly descending toward the horizon and all her friends in her corner, Lunalu writes as if her life depends on it.

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 3: Home Stretch - Episode 3

Lunalu and friends manage to complete the manuscript before sunset. Hoping for another energy burst, Lunalu chugs some more Handsome Gorilla from Sierokarte's bag before running off to the printers. The others realize too late that Lunalu drank the experimental Handsome Gorilla Double Attack.



With a little help from (Captain), Lunalu and her stalwart companions put the finishing touches on the manuscript.
With sunset around the corner though, they'll have to race to get it to the printers in time.
Lunalu: Huff... Puff...
Voooi-la!
Lunalu: Thank you so much, everyone. I've got the manuscript and all the submission paperwork I need.
Melissabelle: Yes... Good work, guys. Now we just need to get everything to the printers.
Mahira: Ooh-ooh...
Milleore: Wait. You all should rest. You look ready to collapse.
Sierokarte: Don't be brave now... You're worn out too, Milly.
Sahli Lao: Yes, leave this one to me. The printers are just this side of the hill, right?
Lunalu: You've all gone through so much to help me...
Lunalu: ...
Lunalu: Siero! Can I look inside your bag?
Sierokarte: My bag? Um, sure. Go ahead.
Lunalu: Thank you. Let's see here...
Lunalu: Found it!
Lunalu: Leave the rest to me. I want you all to rest up tonight.
Melissabelle: Lunalu?
Lunalu: I'm going to make up for all the trouble I've caused...
Lunalu: All because of my lack of professional discipline!
Lunalu: Glug!
Sahli Lao: Ah! More Handsome Gorilla?
Sahli Lao: Spit it out! Overusing supplements is dangerous!
Lunalu: Phew!
Lunalu: Ooh-ooh-ahhh!
Off I ooh-ah-gooo!
Melissabelle: There she goes...
And she has to have gotten the least sleep of any of us...
Sierokarte: I'm sorry... I didn't think she was looking for more Handsome Gorilla. Just to be on the safe side, I'll lock the rest of the supplements in the cupboard here.
Mahira: Ooh-ah?
Mahira: Ah! Ooh-ooh-ooh-ahh-aaahhh!
Sierokarte: What's wrong, Mahira? Something about the Handsome Gorilla bottle?
Sierokarte: Ah! This is an experimental version... It's called...
Sierokarte: Handsome Gorilla Double Attack!

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 3: Home Stretch - Episode 4

On her way to the printers, Lunalu runs into a thug who, in her eyes, appears to be a naughty gorilla. The rest of the gang—having also imbibed some Handsome Gorilla Double Attack to catch up with Lunalu—join the battle against the faux gorilla.



Lunalu: Huff... Huff...
Lunalu: I... may have gotten ahead of myself... I've been running on a Handsome Gorilla high, but... I've never been very fast!
Lunalu: The sun is about to set... Faster... Gotta move faster...
Lunalu races toward the printers as the town lamps begin to light up around her.
The street ahead is empty and her goal clearly locked in her sights...
Lunalu: My leg!
Nooo, don't cramp! Not now!
Lunalu: Urgh... How am I going to make it like this?
Lunalu: They might be closed by the time I get there... Or refuse my manuscript even if they're open...
Lunalu: ...
Lunalu: No, forget all that. I've come this far—no quitting now!
Lunalu: Come on, Lunalu, full speed ahead!
Thug: Oof!
Lunalu: Yow!
Thug: Hey, watch where you're goin', short stuff.
Lunalu: I-I'm sorry. I'm in a rush, and my leg seized up, and...
Lunalu: Huh? Why are you dressed up like that? What a realistic costume...
Thug: Whaddya mean, costume? And more importantly, you better pay up for running into me!
Lunalu: Eek! I-i-it's real! A real talking gorilla!
Thug: Did you just call me a gorilla? You wanna piece of me?
Lunalu: Somebody help! There's a gorilla on the loose!
Oh, but... if it can talk, it might actually be quite valuable...
Thug: Why, you little... Prepare to get stomped!
Melissabelle: Huff... Huff...
Did you hear that?
Milleore: It came from around that corner! Hurry!
Though they should be on the verge of collapse, Lunalu's friends hurry after her.
They've all drunk the Handsome Gorilla Double Attack in order to see things through to the bitter end.
Lunalu: Nooo!
Thug: Hold still, damn it! Don't go picking fights if you're just gonna run away!
Lunalu: Urgh... I'm not running away. How can I?
Lunalu: After all my friends did to support and help me out...
Lunalu: I'm getting this manuscript printed no matter what!
Thug: Huh? What're you babblin' about, you—
Thug: Whoa! Who's shootin' arrows?
Sierokarte: Are you all right, Lunalu?
Mahira: Ooh-ooh-ooh!
Sahli Lao: What's a gorilla doing loose in the middle of town?
Lunalu, now's your chance! Get back on your feet!
Lunalu: You guys! R-right!
Lunalu: Prepare yourself, gorilla! I won't let you stand in our way!

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 4: Never Give Up - Episode 1

Though it is past sunset when the thug is taken care of, the Lunalu posse continues rushing toward the printers. Having reached her physical threshold, Lunalu tumbles down a hill—scattering manuscript pages everywhere. Milleore immediately takes action to resolve the issue, giving orders to everyone.



After drinking the Handsome Gorilla Double Attack, (Captain) runs to the printers with Lunalu's posse.
But night has set in, and the deadline for submission of manuscripts has already passed.
Lunalu: Ungh... Sundown... the deadline...
Melissabelle: What now? We're almost there.
Milleore: Siero, do we still have a fighting chance? Doesn't this sort of thing happen every once in a while in the publishing industry?
Sierokarte: Well, your chances aren't zero—I'll say that much. If some other job gets canceled at the last minute, there might be an open printer.
Sahli Lao: I'll make for other nearby printing facilities to check for open machines!
Mahira: Ooh, ahh-ahh-ooh!
Lunalu: Y-yes... A cancelation is what I need...
Lunalu: Must hurry...
Lunalu: ...
Melissabelle: Lunalu? What are you going up that hill for? It's this way.
Lunalu: Ah... Right, thank—
Lunalu: E...
Lunalu: Eeeep!
Sierokarte: L-Lunalu? Oh my! She's come tumbling down the slope!
Sahli Lao: Not good! She's obviously reached her limit! And now the manuscript is scattered all over!
Milleore: ...!
Milleore: Lunalu, manuscript, deadline... How can I fight on all three fronts...
Milleore: Listen up, everyone! I've got the most stamina here, so I'll catch up with Lunalu! Sahli Lao, Melissa, you two pick up the pages!
Sahli Lao: Gotcha!
Melissabelle: Okay! Hope you can handle Lunalu, Milly!
Milleore: Siero, can you make it to the printers ahead of us? Try to buy us some time!
Sierokarte: Leave it to me!
Milleore: And (Captain)! Head back to the Grandcypher with Mahira and get the crew!

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 4: Never Give Up - Episode 2

Guilt overcomes Lunalu when she smashes against a wall at the bottom of the hill and her manuscript is scattered all over. As she wonders whether it was only luck that got her this far to begin with, an ordinary girl appears before her.



Lunalu: Waaaah!
The steep incline proves too much for an exhausted Lunalu. She goes tumbling down the hill like a bouncy rubber ball...
Lunalu: Oof!
And smashes against a wall at the bottom. Lying prone, she stares back up the hill in dazed silence.
Lunalu: ...
Her scattered manuscript is a sight almost too ghastly for her eyes.
One page flutters about in the wind, one page falls into a ditch, and another is crushed by a passing carriage.
Lunalu: Ah... Aah!
Melissabelle: You just noticed? Nice to see you out of the kotatsu once in a blue moon.
Mahira: So I thought hearing my feedback might do the same for you.
Sierokarte: Hey, I like it too! And this line here really makes you think. Let's see...
Milleore: How's it coming? We brought food.
Sahli Lao: It's a Sphiria specialty. If you're at a good stopping place, why don't you take a break?
Lunalu: Lunalu... you... idiot...
Lunalu: You've come this far... only to...
Lunalu: ...
Lunalu: But thinking back on it, maybe fortune's favored me too much up to this point.
Lunalu: Meeting (Captain)'s crew and having them cheer me on has been a great boon...
Lunalu: Considering I've never truly had a flair for the romantic, isn't it only natural to stumble along the way?
Lunalu: Maybe this is just fate playing out its—
Ordinary Girl: You're giving up?
Lunalu: Hm?
Ordinary Girl: What about your dream?
Lunalu: Y-you must be...

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 4: Never Give Up - Episode 3

The girl who appears before the physically incapacitated Lunalu is a younger version of herself. Young Lunalu is all doom and gloom, but her pessimism turns out to be an act to goad Lunalu into action—a successful one at that, giving her the emotional strength to push forward.



Lunalu remains immobile from the tumble down the slope.
Her former self has appeared before her.
Lunalu: Wh-what's happening?
Lunalu: Could this be a side effect of the Handsome Gorilla?
Ordinary Girl: Are you going to give up the dream you chased so hard and even went gorilla-crazy for?
Lunalu: W-well...
Ordinary Girl: Well?
Lunalu: Well, how should I put this...
Lunalu: The manuscript's all scattered... And the printers' submission deadline has already passed...
Ordinary Girl: I see.
Ordinary Girl: That sucks. I guess some dreams just aren't meant to be.
Lunalu: A-and my body's all stiff... I'm hurt pretty bad!
Ordinary Girl: Yep, that's life. Just have to take it as it comes.
Lunalu: ...
Ordinary Girl: What do you expect? That's simply how things are.
Lunalu: Why... Why would you say something so awful?
Ordinary Girl: Look who's talking. Why are you obsessed with that stuff anyway?
Ordinary Girl: Look at how I live my life.
Ordinary Girl: It was sheer luck that got you this far. You've been chasing a mirage.
Ordinary Girl: You said it yourself just now.
Lunalu: I know, but... No, that's not it!
Ordinary Girl: ...?
Lunalu: I can't count the number of times I've goofed around, procrastinated, and just straight up forgot about it all.
Lunalu: I'm a hopeless heap of trash who can't get anything done even with the help of friends!
Lunalu: Yet I can still feel myself getting closer to my dream! Even if it's only baby steps I'm taking!
Lunalu: So don't you tell me this is how things are supposed to be! Our dreams aren't so flimsy that they'd fall to such pathetic excuses!
Ordinary Girl: ...
Lunalu: Sniff... Say something!
Ordinary Girl: You came too close to giving up just now.
Lunalu: I just got a little discouraged is all! But I'm telling you no lie—for the most part that is.
Ordinary Girl: Are you sure about that?
Lunalu: Y-yes! How about you show a little faith in yourself!
Ordinary Girl: Can you stand then? We need to pick up the manuscript.
Lunalu: Of course! I haven't trained my body as a skyfarer for noth—
Lunalu: Oww!
Ordinary Girl: ...
Lunalu: Ahaha... My hand slipped.
Lunalu: One more go!
Lunalu: Hrrgh...
Her body feels as heavy as chainmail as she struggles to push herself upright with trembling arms.
Lunalu's younger self comes rushing to help her up.
Lunalu: Th-thank you...
Ordinary Girl: Sorry if it seemed like I was bullying you. Our dream rests in your hands now.
Lunalu: Okay...
Ordinary Girl: I'm your biggest fan. Don't forget to be your own.
Lunalu: Right!
Ordinary Girl: It's time to stand up and carry on, Lunalu!

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 4: Never Give Up - Episode 4

Lunalu wakes up in her room at the inn and is greeted by Arulumaya, who explains how (Captain) gathered every member of the crew to pick up the scattered manuscript. In addition Sierokarte's masterful negotiation skills got Lunalu's manuscript accepted. Lunalu makes quick work of her breakfast before heading out to catch up with the others at the book fair.



On the day of the book fair, a ray of morning sunshine beams in through the gap between the curtains.
It illuminates Lunalu's face, rousing her from bed.
Lunalu: Ngh... Need to shut those curtains...
Lunalu: Hrgh...
Lunalu: Wait, how did I get back to the inn?
Lunalu: Where's my manuscript? And what about the book fair!
Lunalu: Wait, I'm the only one here... No! Don't tell me I've been transported into an alternate dimension!
???: Morning, Lunalu. Good to see you're awake.
Lunalu: Huh? Arulu... why are you wearing an apron?
Arulumaya: Oh, you mean this? I was making breakfast in the kitchen.
Lunalu: Okay...
Arulumaya: Hehe, still dreaming, are you? I'll explain everything later. Why don't you go wash your face first.
Lunalu: Yawn... If the food's ready, you eat first...
Arulumaya: No worries. We can always heat it up if it gets cold.
No version of Arulumaya in crew

Arulumaya—an elder Harvin fortune-teller with the power to see far into the future, held in great esteem by Lunalu and friends.
Though she usually dons a much more relaxed and charming outfit.
Lunalu returns with her face washed. Various dishes are set out on her desk.
Lunalu: Arulu! It's you! I'm not dreaming!
Arulumaya: Yes, this is reality. Don't you remember anything about yesterday?
Lunalu: Yesterday?
Lunalu: You mean after I fell down the hill? My manuscript! The printers! The book fair!
Arulumaya: I see. I'll explain everything in order.
Arulumaya: Last night... (Captain) and Mahira came back to the airship and called all of us to meet at a street corner in town.
Arulumaya: There you were lying unconscious. After learning what happened, we all worked together to pick up your manuscript.
Lunalu: Every single member in the crew?
Arulumaya: Yes. And thanks to Siero's masterful negotiation skills, your manuscript was accepted.
Lunalu: R-really?
Arulumaya: Yes, this all really happened. Afterwards we tended to your wounds and carried you here.
Arulumaya: Milly and the others went ahead to the book fair. They asked me to take care of you before heading out.
Lunalu: I... I can't thank you all enough!
Lunalu: Um, thanks for the food! But I need to get a move on!
Arulumaya: Hey, slow down there. Now this is why I was left to care for you. Do you plan on greeting everyone in those PJs?
Lunalu: Ah... Good point...
Arulumaya: It's still early. You have some time before the fair starts. Give your worn-out body the rest it deserves.
Lunalu: Y-you're right... Guess I'll fill my tummy first!
Arulumaya: Teehee, enjoy.
Lunalu takes a bite of her breakfast, relishing the opportunity to refresh her mind, body, and soul.
Once properly replenished, she bids adieu to Arulumaya and makes for the book fair.

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 5: Thank You All - Episode 1

In the romantic storybook corner of the Sphiria Book Fair, Lunalu's friends have already set up a booth by the time the artist herself arrives. She picks up a copy of her work laid out across the table and gazes at it in awe. The group takes notice of the group name "CtK4Life" which Lunalu had come up with.



Preparations for the Sphiria Book Fair are ongoing as opening time approaches.
In one corner of the venue are the romantic storybook booths.
Melissabelle: Okay now... Can we use this table to display our work?
Mahira: That should be okay. This space is reserved for Lunalu after all.
Melissabelle: It's almost like having our own bookstore. Though it feels a little desolate with only twenty copies.
Mahira: That's pretty standard for anyone starting out. Let's spread them out across the table.
Melissabelle: Mm-hm, maybe we can display them in the alternating order of front cover, back cover.
Mahira: Ah...
Milleore: Hey, about the price tags... The staff said they have to go with the price listed when we first regis—
Sahli Lao: Ooh! Popol and Mikhail laid out on the table! What a sight!
Melissabelle: Yes, I've never seen so many men with long eyelashes lined up together. It's wonderful.
Milleore: Seeing them in a well-lit space like this really showcases what an incredible job we've done.
Mahira: So? How did the latter half come out?
Milleore: Hey, no peeking, Mahira. I shouldn't have to remind you that the second half is restricted to adults only.
Mahira: Aww...
Milleore: It's a beautiful print job for sure. We had to really rush to get things in order, but I'm glad we managed.
Sahli Lao: Hey, look at the copyright page—
Sierokarte: Good morning, everyone. Thanks for all your hard work yesterday!
Sierokarte: Lunalu! Want to check out the finished product?
Melissabelle: Lunalu, you say? Where do you see Lunalu?
Sierokarte: Hm? Odd... I bumped into her outside and we came in together.
Lunalu: ...
Sierokarte: Ah, there you are! Hm, you're looking awfully nervous.
Sierokarte: Anyway, Lunalu! Let's make sure everything is in order before the main event begins!
Lunalu: Agh! Wait, Siero! I need to psych myself up first!
Lunalu: G-good morning. Thanks for taking care of things in my absence, everyone...
Mahira: Good morning to you too. Are you feeling okay?
Lunalu: Yeah, I feel great. Sorry for all the trouble last night...
Lunalu: Hm? Mahira, you're not talking like a gorilla anymore. And Melissa, your hair...
Milleore: They returned to normal this morning. Looks like all traces of the Handsome Gorilla have left our systems.
Lunalu: Yeah... You're looking much better too, Milly.
Milleore: Now that you mention it, I can actually see pretty clearly right now.
Sahli Lao: Hahah! Oh right, Lunalu. Can you look at the publication data here?
Lunalu: Eep! Th-this storybook!
Melissabelle: Mm-hm. Your work is an official publication now. Isn't it amazing?
Lunalu: ...
Lunalu: It's like I'm living a dream...
Lunalu: So what is it you were saying, Lao?
Sahli Lao: Oh, I was wondering about the author name over here.
Sierokarte: Hm... "CtK4Life," it reads.
Lunalu: Yes, that name is fine. I came up with it myself at the very end.
Lunalu: It represents the hard work that each and every one of us put into it. I couldn't have done this alone.
Lunalu: I guess you could call it our group name. The "CtK" stands for "Citizens of the Kotatsu"...
Melissabelle: I really like the sound of it. Thanks, Lunalu.
Mahira: I'm so proud to be a fellow citizen... Thank you for keeping us all in mind.
Milleore: Haha, it's almost like we're partners in crime. And I don't mind a bit.
Sahli Lao: I don't know what to say! Ah, to think that my name will go down in the history of illustrated storybooks...
Sierokarte: Hahaha! The event's going to start any moment now!
Lunalu: Okay, everyone... Let's give it our all today!

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 5: Thank You All - Episode 2

The opening chime sounds and a clamor fills the event hall. But because romantic storybooks are still a niche genre, few visitors come by Lunalu's corner. She mans the booth while the others have a look around the fair. An old man with a strong distaste for illustrated storybooks is also making the rounds.



The chime signaling the opening of the Sphiria Book Fair sounds loud and clear.
Some make a mad dash to the most popular artists, some are more easygoing and prefer to take in the whole atmosphere, and then there are those already lugging around piles of storybooks.
A lively clamor soon fills the event hall.
Melissabelle: Wow. The area in front might as well be a festival.
Mahira: Look at all those lines forming. Judging from the pamphlet, they're here for works by the more popular artists.
Milleore: Hm, doesn't seem very fair. We're too far in the corner for anyone to notice us.
Sahli Lao: Genre might play a role too. Romantic storybooks are still kind of niche.
Lunalu: True, you can't find them in the average bookstore. And it's only recently that they've been given a place in book fairs.
Lunalu: I guess we can't expect much business today. Then again, our goal was securing a spot at the fair... I'd be so happy if we could sell even one copy.
Sierokarte: Only one? Wouldn't that be a bit of a shame?
Sierokarte: Hm, what do you think of putting up your monster drawings and using your fame in that industry to garner interest in your romance work?
Lunalu: I... did think of that...
Lunalu: But it almost seems like cheating. Besides, if my fans start to expect the same quality they see in my monster drawings, it'll become that much harder for me.
Lunalu: Ah, feel free to take a look around the fair, guys. I can handle any potential customers myself.
Melissabelle: You sure? Okay, I'll leave it to you then. Guess I'll check out what the commotion over there is.
Mahira: I'm interested too. I want to see how other groups manage their lines and decorate their tables.
Milleore: Why don't we take a break first? There were some food stalls out in the main hall. I'll go get us some drinks.
Sahli Lao: And I'll come along to get us food!
Sierokarte: There are some fellow merchants here I'd like to say hello to.
Lunalu: Have fun. Let me know if you find any cool Popol merchandise.
Elder: Humph... Gosh is it noisy in here. These fairgoers have no manners.
Elder: Judging from the look of things, storybooks are nothing more than a travesty.
Elder: Ugh, how deplorable!

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 5: Thank You All - Episode 3

While enjoying the liveliness of the event, Melissabelle and Mahira bump into Arusha, who laments that some in the book fair committee are very old-fashioned and detest new forms of expression such as illustrated storybooks. To lighten the mood, the Harvins recommend she check out Lunalu's work.



Melissabelle: Ooh...
Mahira: Wow...
Melissabelle and Mahira stand dumbfounded at some of the incredulously long lines for the more well-known artists.
Male Patron 1: Dude, can you believe they've got the latest issue here? I thought it was going to be released at the Auguste Book Fair.
Male Patron 2: Yeah, I know what you mean. Boy, am I glad I saved up all those rupies! I wouldn't be able to go on without more PrePure in my life.
Male Patron 1: You hear that rumor about how this might be the last issue?
Male Patron 2: You're kidding! You trying to send me to an early grave? Wait, that might not be so bad if it means the author starts a new series...
Melissabelle: Everyone seems to be having fun. It's an incredible feat to be able to please so many people.
Mahira: Uh-huh. Look at the clean tablecloth and the large, easy-to-read signs. They did a really nice job setting up the booth.
Melissabelle: Let's keep that in mind for future reference. What kind of storybooks are they selling?
Mahira: According to the pamphlet, this area is for derivatives of original works... Like how Lunalu's storybook is based on Popol Saga.
Melissabelle: There's an explanation of the original work on this poster.
Melissabelle: It's called... "Pretty Soldier Princess Pure."
Mahira: Ah, I've read some of that. It's a popular story being serialized in a magazine for girls.
Mahira: If I remember right, it was about an entirely female order of knights who serve their princess. And well, a lot happens.
Melissabelle: Oh. Sounds like a difficult life.
Melissabelle: Wait... All the customers in line are male. But your synopsis makes it sound like the target audience is females.
Mahira: Well...
Mahira: I'm sure they're all fathers buying it for their daughters.
Melissabelle: Ah, that makes sense. What wonderful fathers they all are to wait in these long lines for their daughters.
Mahira: It's getting more crowded by the second. Getting everything prepped for today must be rough for the staff...
Mahira: Hey, that attendant...
Arusha is a crew member

Arusha: If I can have your cooperation, everyone! Please form two lines and leave the main passage open.
Arusha: Please understand that copies of the latest issues are available only on a limited basis!
Arusha: Whew... Things sure are different here.

Arusha not in crew

???: If I can have your cooperation, everyone! Please form two lines and leave the main passage open.
???: Please understand that copies of the latest issues are available only on a limited basis!
???: Whew... Things sure are different here.
Arusha serves as a librarian at Sphiria's Hall of Knowledge.
She has been traveling the skies with the crew in search of new tomes, but she has temporarily returned to assist with the book fair.
Continue 1
Melissabelle: Having a tough time, Arusha? You're here working for the Hall of Knowledge?
Arusha: Melissa, Mahira! Yeah, it's a lot busier than I thought it'd be.
Arusha: Most book fairs have been going on for many years, so they've learned how to run them efficiently...
Mahira: It's only recently that these fairs have included storybooks, right?
Arusha: Yes, we really need to study up on the latest trends and customer preferences. Wouldn't hurt to look at book fairs held on other islands either.
Arusha: It's a lot of trial and error for those of us on the committee.
Melissabelle: A book fair committee? That's a thing?
Arusha: Yes. These are matters of national policy in Sphiria. Many government officials get involved.
Arusha: Thanks to that, we're able to keep management of these events pretty stable compared to other book fairs.
Arusha: On the other hand, we have many old-fashioned staff who cling to tradition and detest these new forms of expression.
Mahira: I see... Is that why you seem to be understaffed?
Arusha: Ahaha, you could say that... But I'm a big fan of illustrated storybooks. I think it's a wonderful medium that could really go places!
Arusha: I'm guessing you two came to help Lunalu?
Melissabelle: Mm-hm. We're just checking the venue out for now. Would you like to take a look at our work?
Mahira: Ah, right. We'd love to hear your thoughts on it, Arusha.
Arusha: Are you sure? It'd be a real treat to see what the master monster artist Lunalu has cooked up for the fair!
Elder: Humph... This is a real dog and pony show.
Elder: Illustrated storybooks are nothing more than a fad just waiting to die out.
Elder: I shudder to see Sphiria swayed by these piddling trends.

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 5: Thank You All - Episode 4

Milleore and Sahli Lao are out looking for food, but Milleore accidentally buys a limited-edition box set of Ye Olde Genesis Pundam merchandise instead. When they meet Sarya and learn how devastated she is that there are no box sets left, Milleore gives her the Pundam set.



Milleore: "Wh-Whispers into the Windy Hottie's Ears... Captivating Emeraldas Juice"?
Sahli Lao: "Friendship Doesn't Get Any Steamier... Curse of the Catastrophic Salad"?
Milleore and Sahli Lao are checking out the food stalls in the main hall.
Milleore: It doesn't make any sense... How am I supposed to know what flavor the juice and salad are?
Sahli Lao: This is only a guess, but maybe they're items that show up in some of the really well-known storybooks?
Milleore: Heh... I guess these stalls are based on those works too, huh. They sure are putting in the effort.
Sahli Lao: Ahaha... You think we should try looking for a normal store to get food instead?
Milleore: Nah, this place is all right. I think Lunalu would be happier with this.
Sahli Lao: Milly... Haha, you're so right!
Milleore: Hey, no need to get so excited. "When in Sphiria, do as the Sphirians do," you might say.
Shopkeep: Hello there! What would you like?
Milleore: Erm, I...
Milleore: Well...
Milleore: Wh-Whispers Into... Hottie's Ears... E-Eme-Emeral...
Shopkeep: Hm? Ah, I take it you'd like the Emeraldas Deluxe Set?
Milleore: ...
Milleore: Yes...
Sahli Lao: Huh?
Shopkeep: Coming right up! Would you like the limited-edition box that comes with it?
Milleore: Yes...
Shopkeep: Why, thank you. That'll be 10,000 rupies.
Milleore: 10,000!
Sahli Lao: Oh my rupie!
Milleore: ...
Sahli Lao: It comes with so many goodies... They really take the meaning of deluxe seriously.
Sahli Lao: You sure we did the right thing though? It's not too late to go back and explain—
Milleore: It's fine. I needed this.
Sahli Lao: But didn't you want a dri—
Milleore: I just remembered how much I wanted it when I saw it.
Sahli Lao: Okay then... I won't say another word about it.
Any version of Sarya is a crew member

Sarya: Nooo! You've run out of limited-edition boxes?
Shopkeep: I'm so sorry... We sold the last one only moments ago...
Sarya: Sigh... To think that I did all that rupie-pinching for nothing...
Milleore: Hm? Isn't that Sarya?

No version of Sarya in crew

???: Nooo! You've run out of limited-edition boxes?
Shopkeep: I'm so sorry... We sold the last one only moments ago...
???: Sigh... To think that I did all that rupie-pinching for nothing...
Milleore: Hm? Isn't that Sarya?
Sarya, a clear-headed young woman who serves as the right hand of self-proclaimed "great detective" Barawa.
Barawa has a working relationship with the crew, often collaborating with them on cases.
Continue 1
Sahli Lao: Hello, Sarya. Nice to see you here.
Sarya: Ah, Milly, Lao. Truth is I've taken up a bit of an interest in illustrated storybooks lately, and...
Sarya: No way! Isn't that the limited-edition box set for Ye Olde Genesis Pundam?
Milleore: Pundam? You mean this box?
Sarya: Don't you know! Pundam is a legendary series known across all the skies and loved by people of all types and ages!
Sarya: The character relationships are super intricate and deep! The characters—guys and girls—are all super charming. Oh, and I just love it when their genders get flipped!
Sarya: It doesn't matter what their gender is in the official canon! You can pair them up any way you like!
Sahli Lao: Ah, ahaha... Sounds like you're already in pretty deep...
Sarya: Oh sorry. I get excited so easily.
Milleore: You can have it if you want it. The merch inside is of some guy with really long eyelashes.
Sarya: Really? Oh, thank you so much!
Sarya: Yes! This is Emeraldas's hand mirror! I can't wait to show everyone at the next club meet!
Sahli Lao: You're in a club?
Sarya: Yeah, we're just a bunch of fans who've gotten together. In fact, we're meeting up right in this hall later today.
Milleore: Wow, I never knew you were such a big fan.
Sahli Lao: Haha, I'm just glad you're enjoying yourself, Sarya.
Elder: Humph... The food here is all junk.
Elder: Nothing but gibberish written on those menus. This is unacceptable.
Elder: We've nothing to stand on if people complain. Are the organizers trying to drag my name through the mire?

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 6: The Debate - Episode 1

A female customer who shows interest in Lunalu's work is scared away by her overenthusiastic welcome. An artist from a neighboring booth, spotting the commotion, comes by to explain that it may be better not to be too forward with the customers at a book fair. Just then, an old man appears before them.



Some time past noon, the romantic storybook corner is still a ghost town.
Lunalu's eyes begin to wander, a jittery feeling coming over her.
Lunalu: Sigh... Not a single customer yet...
Lunalu: Some walked by, but none have really stopped to take a good look...
Lunalu: What did I do wrong? I need to figure that out if I want to do better next time.
Lunalu: Hmm...
Lunalu: I should probably jot this down in my notebook!
Lunalu: Dun-da-da-duuun!
Lunalu: It's time to put the Prince Popol notebook that Siero just bought me to good use!
Lunalu: Ah, how nice... Its design is really faithful to Popol Saga...
Female Patron: Is this... a romantic storybook based on Popol Saga?
Lunalu: Wow... The artwork inside is drawn to the last detail...
Female Patron: Ah... It's Popol and Mikhail!
Lunalu: This artist is clearly a skydweller of culture! The barely visible glimpses of skin revealed through the seams of the armor couldn't be more titillating!
Female Patron: It's not an art style I see too often, but it's refreshing to see something new...
Lunalu: Armor takes so much time to draw, but such is the path that we artists must tread...
Female Patron: Um, excuse me...
Lunalu: Armored stud! Take me away!
Female Patron: Eek!
Lunalu: Huh? Erm, you are...
Lunalu: Aah! A customer? W-w-welcome!
Female Patron: N-n-never mind!
Lunalu: ...
Lunalu: And off she goes... She was my first customer too...
Lunalu: Sigh... I can't believe I messed that one up...
Lunalu: But why would someone even be interested when I'm fangirling over my merch and paying them no attention?
Fellow Artist: Customers can be a fickle lot. Especially the ones that visit these book fairs.
Lunalu: Huh? Ah, you're the artist from the table opposite us!
Fellow Artist: Hey. I was wondering if you'd be up for a little chat.
Lunalu: O-of course! Let's talk!
Fellow Artist: Thanks. To be honest, I get really nervous out here too.
Fellow Artist: Being too forward with the customers at these book fairs can scare them away.
Lunalu: You think so?
Fellow Artist: A more experienced artist used to tell me about how difficult it can be to attract customers.
Lunalu: I think I know what you mean... When I'm browsing at a bookstore and I sense an employee looking at me, I get flustered.
Fellow Artist: Exactly. You're better off keeping your cool with the customers.
Lunalu: Now that you mention it... I noticed artists at other booths whiling away their time reading and drawing...
Lunalu looks around and now sees why the other artists are so relaxed.
Noticing the curious gaze of a fellow artist, many politely smile and nod.
Fellow Artist: CtK4Life? Is that your pen name?
Lunalu: It's the name of my group. My friends chipped in big-time to help get everything done.
Fellow Artist: I see. Um, if you don't mind... Do you wanna talk some more about romantic storybooks?
Fellow Artist: I don't have many friends I can talk to about this stuff...
Lunalu: Gladly! This is my first time exhibiting at a book fair though, so I'm still... You know...
Fellow Artist: Thank you! Whew, I'm glad I was able to muster up the courage to ask you—
Elder: What blasphemy!
Lunalu: Ah! Wh-what's with him?

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 6: The Debate - Episode 2

The old man, who happens to be a member of the book fair committee, is absolutely livid at the sight of the romantic storybook corner and threatens to shut it down. He vilifies the travesty he deems the medium to be, but Sierokarte comes in retorting that Lunalu's work is indeed true art.



Elder: Romantic storybooks? Do you intend to discredit the entire nation of Sphiria!
Elder: Enough is enough! Illustrated storybooks as a whole are bad enough, but this is going too far!
Elder: This won't stand! Who's in charge here!
A thunderous outcry drowns out the conversation Lunalu is having with a fellow artist.
All but one are speechless before the indignant, invective-hurling elder.
Lunalu: Um, can you please calm down? What's the matter all of a sudden?
Elder: Yakety-yak! Don't talk back!
Elder: I'm shutting this corner down at once! You'd better all get ready to go home!
Lunalu: Wait... What right do you have to—
Elder: I have all the authority here! I'm a board member of Sphiria's book fair committee!
Elder: I've been trying to let the younger staff run things lately, but the depravity I've witnessed today must not go on any longer!
Lunalu: A board member?
Elder: That's right. Some things are just too sacrilegious for this world!
Elder: The entire purpose of the fair is to help cultivate and promote understanding of the arts!
Elder: Not to support this boys' love drivel!
Lunalu: But... This genre's popularity has been spreading across the world... And there are more and more artists every day...
Elder: Humph, trying to argue the point, are you? Then I'll just have to show you what real art is. I used to be part of an art salon in the good old days...
Elder: We often had to seclude ourselves from the rest of the world, at times going mad from the anguish of the creative pressure... But true art was born when we faced ourselves and overcame it all.
Elder: Have any of you ever had such an experience? This romance rubbish you ply your trade in is nothing more than a means of self-gratification.
Lunalu: ...!
Elder: I think I've said enough. If you've got time for this nonsense, then I suggest you devote it to being good to your parents.
Elder: Have I made myself clear—
Sierokarte: Hm... In that case, Lunalu's work is indeed true art.
Lunalu: Siero!
Elder: Oh? Now you've got my attention. Do you have any idea what you're saying?
Sierokarte: Romantic storybooks fall perfectly into your description of true art.
Sierokarte: Lunalu stayed cooped up drawing in her room—and no matter how much anguish she felt, she faced herself and never gave up!
Sierokarte: Right, Lunalu?
Elder: Ngh... Just who are you?

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 6: The Debate - Episode 3

Unwilling to let the old man bully her friends, Sierokarte engages the old man in a heated debate. When Melissabelle, Mahira, Milleore, and Sahli Lao each add their own two rupies to the argument, the old man threatens to shut down the entire book fair.



The frustrated board member begins a heated discussion with Sierokarte.
Passersby noticing the commotion begin to gather around.
Elder: Humph... What does a merchant who's only good for counting rupies know? I say what I say because I fear for the future of the arts!
Sierokarte: The future, you say. Then perhaps we should cheer them on together! For the future of this wonderful new medium of illustrated storybooks!
Elder: New medium, my foot. That trash symbolizes the degradation of society as a whole. It's for the creatively deficient who can't pick up a novel and fill in the visuals with their imagination.
Sierokarte: Hmm. Reminds me of a quote from a famous poet several hundred years ago. Something about novels being a direct result of society's dearth of imagination.
Elder: Gah, don't change the subject! There's an impenetrable gap between storybooks and the fostering of the arts!
Sierokarte: Is that so? I'm sorry to hear it. Would you care to tell me more about this so-called "gap"?
Lunalu: S-Siero? What's gotten into you...
Sierokarte: Ahahaha. Don't worry, I'm not angry at all.
Sierokarte: I just know that you and so many other artists have worked too hard in preparation for today to have it all trampled underfoot like this.
Elder: "Worked too hard"? Talk about an overdramatization. I don't see a shred of effort in any of this shoddy artw—
Melissabelle: There's nothing overdramatic about it! Nothing at all!
Mahira: That's right! Lunalu put in everything she had!
Lunalu: Melissa, Mahira!
Milleore: I demand an apology. For Lunalu and all the other artists here with us.
Sahli Lao: And the visitors. Or would you rather we keep on debating?
Lunalu: Milly, Lao!
Elder: Rgh! Why, you little... Do you have any idea who I am!
Elder: I've had enough of this farce! I was going to close down this corner, but no! Consider this entire book fair canceled—effective immediately!
Lunalu: Whaaat?

Handsome Gorilla - Chapter 6: The Debate - Episode 4

The old man announces that he will allow the fair to continue only if Lunalu and company admit that romantic storybooks are a complete and utter disgrace. Lunalu plans to apologize at first, but the other artists exhibiting at the event exclaim that there is no need to. Arulumaya shows up with a few helpings of Handsome Gorilla Triple Attack, giving the group the burst of energy they need to convince the old man of the merits of the medium.



The board member announces the closing of the book fair in a fit of rage.
Unrest grows among those who have been following the altercation.
Elder: Hahah! Starting to panic already? Where's that cocky attitude now!
Lunalu: No...
Lunalu: You're taking this too far!
Elder: I do what I must for the arts. I will not allow the culture of the skies to stagnate.
Elder: But if you lot will admit you're wrong and apologize at once, I might consider allowing the fair to continue.
Lunalu: B-but we're not wrong...
Sierokarte: Okay, now you're just bullying us. Throwing your authority around won't change the nature of the debate.
Elder: Doesn't matter to me. Word of this ruckus may spread throughout the skies, but the masses will remember the conclusion rather than the specifics of the argument.
Elder: "Sphiria deemed illustrated storybooks inappropriate... Thus giving the committee an opportunity to review its stance on such issues." That is what will go down in history.
Lunalu: ...
Lunalu: You'll let the fair continue if we apologize?
Elder: Yes, you have my word.
Melissabelle: Lunalu! We didn't do anything wrong! Why should we have to say we're sorry?
Lunalu: I-if it'll keep the event going, sucking it up might be for the best... I mean, I don't want to cause trouble for the other artists...
Mahira: I know what you mean, but still... This is just wrong!
Lunalu: There's no other w—
Fellow Artist: Stop, Lunalu!
Lunalu: Ah, hello again...
Fellow Artist: Don't worry about us! A bunch of us got together and decided...
Fellow Artist: There's no need for you to apologize! Because there's nothing they can fault us for!
Lunalu: Y-you did that for me?
Elder: Heh... Then get packing already.
Elder: Urgh, where are the staff when I need them!
Arusha: I-I heard about everything that's been happening here... I'm Arusha, the representative in charge today.
Elder: Finally here, huh? We need to shut down this fair at once. You can start by contacting the Hall of Knowledge.
Arusha: I...
Arusha: I can't do that! No one on staff today agrees with your decision!
Elder: How dare you... Would you all prefer to be fired?
Arusha: Go right ahead! See what happens when you lay us all off!
Elder: Rgh...
Elder: Fine! You'd better be ready for a heck of a reckoning!
Elder: Listen up, everyone! Today's book fair has been canceled! Now if you can all get a move on!
Sarya: Okay, guys! It's time for our Pundam meet-up! Let's gather in the main hall.
Male Patron 1: I've been waiting all day for this! I can't wait to talk my head off about Pundam!
Male Patron 2: Me too, me too! Hey, Shopkeep, are you still...
Shopkeep: Mm-hm, no problem by me! I'll be keeping the store open until the usual closing time!
Elder: Gah! How dare you defy me!
Milleore: Don't you get it? Everyone's here today because of their love for illustrated storybooks.
Sahli Lao: You can forget all that jibber-jabber about the arts and all. We need storybooks in our lives!
Elder: Silence! You push me any further, and I'm going to have to report this directly to the king!
Arulumaya: Lunalu, are you feeling better? I brought (Captain) here after checking out of the inn.
Lunalu: Arulu, (Captain)! We're actually in a bit of hot water right now...
Arulumaya: Hm? Ah, I see what's happening.
Arulumaya: But this kind of works out okay. Here, you girls left this at the inn.
Arulumaya: The supplements from the cupboard. I think they might come in useful right now.
Sierokarte: Ooh, could that be...
Sierokarte: Handsome Gorilla Triple Attack?
Lunalu: Thank you so much! Guys, let's see if we can talk down the board member!
Melissabelle: We can use this to recover our stamina at once and knock some sense into the old coot.
Mahira: Right! His view of the world is much too old-fashioned.
Milleore: Yeah, he's still stuck in the past. Everything the man said goes against the spirit of creativity.
Sahli Lao: I'll fight for our rights no matter what it takes! Let's make this the debate to end all debates!
Elder: Oh-ho. You think you have what it takes to convince me?
Elder: Humph, you haughty little missies... Fine! I'll take you all on!
Lunalu: Everyone ready? Go fast, go furious, go wild!
???: ...
???: Hoo-hoo-ooga-booga!

Handsome Gorilla - Ending

The old man finally succumbs to the sheer force of will displayed by Lunalu and friends, allowing the Sphiria Book Fair to continue. The female customer from before drops by again to purchase Lunalu's storybook. Though it turns out to be the only copy she sells, the very experience proves invaluable to everyone involved. That night Lunalu resolves to make her next piece of work an even bigger hit.



Elder: Huff... Huff... What passion you possess!
Elder: I had no idea you took up the pen for your romantic stories with such strength of purpose...
Lunalu: You don't have to like our work. You can even criticize it.
Lunalu: But please don't mock our love for the medium!
Elder: Humph... Fair enough.
Elder: I'll let things slide this time. But never forget that the path you tread is thickly sown with thorns!
Elder: It's always an uphill battle for the avant-garde. I have no doubt that there will be others like me down the road. I hope you'll continue to improve yourselves and be ready for whatever comes.
(Captain) and the others emerge from the clash of opinions victorious.
With permission for the book fair to continue, Lunalu breathes a sigh of relief.
Melissabelle: Thank goodness. I guess that's one problem solved, Lunalu.
Lunalu: Good work, everyone. Though we did have to rely on Handsome Gorilla again...
Milleore: Yes, we may have overdone it. But the effect's already worn off. I wonder if my body's gotten used to it.
Mahira: Ooh, ahh-ahh-ooh!
Sahli Lao: Ahaha... Mahira's gonna need a little more time.
Sierokarte: Hehe... I'll have to look for something that can mitigate the side effects.
Lunalu: Wait, that gives me an idea... I wonder if there might be demand for furry girls.
Mahira: Ooh-ahh?
Lunalu: Mahira, do you have any interest in giant ears? I'd have to put some work into the tail and other traits of course—
Female Patron: Um, excuse me.
Lunalu: Problem is how furry I should make them...
Female Patron: Erm...
Lunalu: Ah.
Lunalu: You're the customer from before... Did you forget something?
Female Patron: No, I just... thought the art in your book was really nice. Umm, so how much is it?
Lunalu: ...?
Well, it's fifty rupies.
Female Patron: Okay...
Female Patron: Um, I'm rooting for you...
Lunalu: Ah, th-thanks...
Lunalu: ...
Sierokarte: Congratulations on your first sale!
Melissabelle: Congrats, Lunalu! What's with the blank stare?
Sahli Lao: Haha, looks she's in shock at selling a copy! You've accomplished what you set out to do, Lunalu!
Lunalu: Mm... I guess I did, didn't I...
Milleore: It would be great if we could sell a few more. Let's see how far we can get before the end of the day.
Mahira: Ooh-ooh, ahh-ahh!
With the Sphiria Book Fair having come to a close, Lunalu and friends join up with the rest of the crew and set out for their next destination.
Though she only sold one copy of her romantic storybook, the experience itself proved more valuable than anything.
Later that night Lunalu stands alone on the deck of the Grandcypher.
Lunalu: One copy...
Lunalu: ...
Lunalu: I actually sold a copy... She took out her rupie purse and actually paid me for it...
Lunalu: It's not a dream! I'm not hallucinating! She even said she's rooting me on!
Lunalu: I'll treasure these fifty rupies forever...
Lunalu: How strange. I can feel my creative juices flowing overtime. Move over, Handsome Gorilla—storybooks are the real supplements that everyone needs!
Lunalu: I'm gonna make my next one a real hit!
Lunalu has taken a big step toward realizing her dream.
She might slack off again, or worse yet allow the creative process to drive her around the bend.
However, slowly but surely she will continue to make progress. For all the friends and fans who cheer her on—and above all else, for herself.
Handsome Gorilla
The End

Characters

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