Working, efficiency, all the other Divine Generals
Dislikes
Free time, sleeping
Character Release 南南東の恵方を守護する十二神将のひとりにして「巳神宮」の主であるインダラ。 触れた相手に毒を染み込ませられる特殊な能力を扱うことができ、毒の加減によっては薬としての効果を発揮させることも可能です。 また、仕事一筋で暇を嫌う性格の持ち主で、効率を重視するあまり今では12日間寝ずにいられるようになっただけでなく、巳神宮のある島以外にも赴いて仕事をこなしているようです。様々な島で依頼を受けている主人公の旅路にも興味があるようですが……?
Character Release 南南東の恵方を守護する十二神将のひとりにして「巳神宮」の主であるインダラ。 触れた相手に毒を染み込ませられる特殊な能力を扱うことができ、毒の加減によっては薬としての効果を発揮させることも可能です。 また、仕事一筋で暇を嫌う性格の持ち主で、効率を重視するあまり今では12日間寝ずにいられるようになっただけでなく、巳神宮のある島以外にも赴いて仕事をこなしているようです。様々な島で依頼を受けている主人公の旅路にも興味があるようですが……?
Happy birthday, (Captain). My gift to you is this protective charm.
There's a bit of Shiro's shed skin inside. It's a special charm I've reserved for those dear to me.
Outside of the other Divine Generals, you're the first person to receive one.
Though we've only been acquainted for a short time, you already hold a major place in my life.
Think of this charm as my stand-in and carry it with you wherever you go.
If you lose it, misfortune might follow... Just kidding, but I do hope you'll take good care of it.
Happy birthday. I've prepared another charm for you this year. Go on, take it.
Charms are meant to be replaced once a year. I'll take care of properly disposing of the one I gave you last year.
Hm? What's the hold-up? Don't tell me you lost it.
Oh, I get it. You can't bring yourself to part with it, huh?
Since it means that much to you, I won't force you to part with it.
Still, I want you to have a new one for this year. I'll keep bringing you one each year to come.
Every charm marks a new layer of trust between us. I can't wait to see how far it goes.
Hrgh... Whew. My shoulders are a little stiff.
Oh, if it isn't (Captain). Happy New Year. You're up bright and early, I see.
It should come as no surprise that I pulled an all-nighter. I was so engrossed in my work that the new year completely snuck up on me.
This time of year is always incredibly busy, even when I'm not at the temple. Heh...
I just stepped out for a quick breath of fresh air, but seeing you has completely revitalized me.
You're like a walking power charger.
Was that too cheesy?
You're just in time, (Captain). Would you like to have some fun on New Year's with me?
It looks like you're surprised to see me playing around. It's written all over your face.
Yes, I know I'm not so good at fun and games. But New Year's Day is an exception.
Actually, I let children play games every New Year's as part of my work at the shrine.
So despite all appearances, I'm not so bad at fun and games. Care to try me if you still doubt that?
I've been wanting to challenge you to something for a long while, (Captain). I can't wait.
These are for you, (Captain). They're chocolates for Valentine's Day.
I'm not very experienced at making sweets, but I gave it my best effort after consulting numerous books on the subject.
I hope you'll accept them... Hm? Your face is quite red. Are you running a fever?
Allow me to heal you. Indala places her hand briefly on (Captain)'s forehead.
What's going on? Your fever didn't subside, and now your face has turned pale.
Could this be some new type of illness? This is serious—we need to get you to a doctor right away! Here, lean on me for support! The captain is unable to admit that this change in complexion is simply due to embarrassment.
(Captain), these are chocolates for Valentine's Day. Please accept them.
I tried using a rather unusual ingredient called ruby chocolate. The vivid pink is quite beautiful, isn't it?
I bought it mistakenly assuming it was strawberry chocolate, but all things considered, I'm happy I did.
This time of year, you must be inundated with sweets by the rest of the crew, yes?
Only a memorable chocolate can truly draw your eye.
Curious what I mean? Hehe, I'll leave that to your imagination.
A return gift for Valentine's Day? Thank you, (Captain). I see strawberry-flavored cookies, tarts, and even candies. They all look delicious. Did you perhaps select these because you know Shiro loves strawberries? You're always so considerate, (Captain). That kindness of yours truly warms my heart. You know, I just reached a stopping point in my work. What do you say we enjoy these together over some tea? The sugar would give me the boost I need to finish my remaining tasks... But more importantly, I'd like to spend some quality time with you, (Captain).
That's my Valentine's return gift, then? Thank you. I'll treasure it.
Strawberry sweets, once again. Good, just as I anticipated.
I had faith that you would remember once again how much Shiro and I enjoy strawberries.
In fact, I prepared a tea that pairs perfectly.
I made sure to complete all my work today to set this moment aside.
I hope that every White Day we might take some time to enjoy each other's company.
Hmm...
Oh, hello, (Captain). I've been grappling with something—well, more like reflecting on my actions, really.
Earlier, some of the children in the crew played a trick on me.
They rigged a gift box with a toy snake that popped out when I opened it.
I was startled at first, but I ended up finding the snake so adorable that it overshadowed my surprise.
Unfortunately, my reaction was written all over my face. The children seemed quite disappointed by it...
This is the same feeling as when I fall short in my work! I'm so ashamed by my inexperience!
I'm determined to learn from this and improve next year, whatever it takes!
Enjoying the holiday party, (Captain)?
I'm making my way around the hall, handing out food and drinks to the rest of the crew.
With so many members, it's quite a task just to distribute everything. There's no time to rest.
Heh... If the work is going to be this rewarding, I wouldn't mind having a party every day.
Hm? Your smile looks a bit strained. Are my eyes playing tricks on me?
The others had the same reaction when we had this discussion. Hmm, what a mystery.
Fate Episodes
Spoiler Alert! These tabs contain full Fate Episode cutscene scripts with major spoilers about the character. View these tabs at your own discretion.
Guardian of the South-Southeast
The crew visits the Snake Temple, where the workaholic temple keeper Indala heals (Captain)'s aches and pains with a gentle touch. After later using the poison from her hands to reform a disruptive visitor, she asks to join the crew's journey in search of more job opportunities, and they happily welcome her aboard.
A recent influx of requests has left the crew feeling utterly exhausted in both body and mind.
Amidst their fatigue, they hear word of the Snake Temple, where people gather to pray for improved health and success in their work.
Inspired by the promise of such blessings, they decide to pay a visit to the temple themselves.
Vyrn: Should've known it'd be packed this time of year. There are so many people, I can't even see the main hall.
Lyria: I'm pretty sure we'll reach it if we just keep following this path...
Temple Elder: Why, hello. Is this your first time at the Snake Temple?
Lyria: Oh! Yes, it is. Is the main hall up ahead?
Temple Elder: That's right. Today is particularly busy, so take care not to get separated.
Vyrn: Oh yeah? Is there some kinda special event goin' on?
Temple Elder: Indala is here making an appearance. She's the keeper of this temple.
Temple Elder: The opportunity to receive her blessing directly has drawn a larger crowd. Would you like to participate as well?
Vyrn: Sounds good to me! I wanna know more about that keeper anyway, so let's go check it out!
Following the guidance of the temple staff, (Captain) and company join the line further down the path.
Eventually, they are shown into a building adjacent to the worship hall.
There they find a woman clad in a white kimono, exuding a composed and dignified aura.
???: Hello. I don't recall seeing you here before.
Indala: I am Indala, keeper of the Snake Temple. You all seem quite young—have you come for a blessing to aid in your work too?
(Captain) and the crew introduce themselves, explaining that they've been swamped with requests lately.
Indala: I see. You certainly take your job seriously. But if you push yourself to the point of illness, it will undermine all your efforts.
Indala: Tell me, is there a particular part of your body where you're experiencing discomfort?
Intrigued by Vyrn's mention of a giant serpent called Orochi, Indala requests a meeting with the creature, whereupon she inquires about its connection to a certain "Yamata." She then asks to be swallowed whole, confirming she can withstand its poison before being spit out—and collapsing from overexertion instead.
A few days after joining the crew, Indala stops by to see (Captain) and company.
Indala: Let me be frank. (Captain), your workload is excessive.
Indala: No, that's an understatement. It's bordering on death-by-overwork levels.
She shares with them her impression following several days of keen observation.
Indala: Are you getting enough rest? Sleeping properly? Don't wait until you collapse.
Vyrn: That goes for you too, y'know.
Indala & Vyrn: ...
Indala: I'd like to assist you. Pass some of your tasks to me, (Captain).
Vyrn: Hey! Don't ignore me!
Lyria: But Indala, don't you have other work on your plate?
Vyrn: Yeah, didn't somethin' come in from the Snake Temple this morning? A stamp book, I think?
Indala: Naturally, it's been handled. Neglecting my own duties to help with someone else's would be irresponsible.
Vyrn: You finished already? It looked like enough to take a whole day!
Indala: That's the result of working efficiently. Now I'm left with time to spare.
Vyrn: Then why not take it easy? You've gotta be worn out from workin' non-stop.
Indala: Not in the slightest.
Indala: In fact, I'm feeling restless from the lack of activity. My hands are a bit shaky.
Vyrn: Sounds like withdrawal. You're kinda freakin' me out here...
Indala: So (Captain), is there anything I can help with?
Saying this, Indala begins to sift through the captain's stack of requests.
Indala: Let's see... Searching for missing persons, finding lost items, rebuilding a sauna...
Indala: You all certainly tackle a wide variety of jobs.
Vyrn: Well, about half are monster-huntin' missions.
Vyrn: But some of 'em turn out to be somethin' else entirely, so we end up doin' all kinds of stuff.
Vyrn: Speakin' of which, seeing Shiro reminded me—we even ran into a talkin' snake once!
Vyrn: It was big enough to swallow a person in one gulp. That was one heck of a job.
Indala: A talking snake?
Indala's expression suddenly hardens at Vyrn's words.
Lyria: What is it, Indala? Did Vyrn say something wrong?
Indala: Oh, no... I'm not upset or anything. Sorry if I gave that impression.
Indala: I'm just curious about that giant snake. Is it still around?
Vyrn: Y-yeah. Still alive and kickin' as far as I know.
Indala: What's the snake's name? Is it... Yamata by any chance?
Lyria: No, Orochi actually.
Indala: It doesn't have eight heads, does it?
Vyrn: Nah, it's just a normal snake. Well, not exactly normal, but yeah.
Indala: Hmm...
Indala: (I'd like to believe it's not related, but there's a chance it might be. I should verify it myself.)
Indala: I have a favor to ask. Could you arrange for me to meet this "Orochi"?
Indala: Even just telling me its location would help. Is that possible?
Seeing the serious look on Indala's face, (Captain) nods readily.
Vyrn: Seems like this is pretty important, so let's head there right away!
Indala: Thank you.
(Captain) and company make their way to a certain riverside near a remote village.
Sensing their presence, Orochi slowly raises its massive form.
Orochi: So we meet again. I do recall asking you not to awaken me if possible. Have you come on some urgent matter?
Vyrn: It's not exactly urgent, but we got a special request to see ya.
Indala: You're Orochi?
Orochi: Hm? And who is this impertinent little girl?
Indala: (The Yato-no-Kami is reacting... This is the chance of a lifetime!)
Indala: (Even if this beast isn't Yamata, examining it could provide valuable information!)
Indala: What is your connection to Yamata? Depending on your answer, I may have to cut you down here and now.
Indala grips the hilt of her sword tightly and aims the blade at Orochi.
Vyrn: Whoa! What's gotten into you all of a sudden?
Lyria: P-please calm down, Indala!
Indala: ...
Orochi: Suppose I were to say that I have no memory of any Yamata—would you believe me?
Indala: ...
Indala: You have a point. It's difficult to discern the truth from words alone.
Indala: But I have something more to go by now. Forgive me for testing you.
Indala lowers her weapon and bows her head to the great snake.
Orochi: You choose to trust me? Why is that?
Indala: Even though I drew my sword with a clear intent to kill, you remained calm.
Indala: Thus, I concluded that you could be reasoned with. At the very least, you don't seem inclined to attack without cause.
Indala: Moreover, it would be problematic for me if you died. There's something I need to confirm.
Orochi: Problematic for you?
Orochi: Heh... Hahaha! You say this after testing me? Still, I admire your nerve!
Vyrn: Right... So I guess everything's good now?
Orochi: You mentioned needing to confirm something. But just to be clear—I possess no information regarding this "Yamata."
Indala: Yes, I understand. I don't intend to place any unreasonable demands on you.
Indala: I simply need you to swallow me whole. That's all.
Vyrn: What!
Orochi: Are you out of your mind? You're effectively requesting to be devoured, you know.
Indala: I'll signal for you to regurgitate me afterward, of course. I have no desire to become anyone's meal.
Indala: It should be perfectly feasible, right? All you have to do is swallow me and spit me back out.
Vyrn: Just 'cause somethin' can be done doesn't mean it should be...
Lyria: That means you'd be inside Orochi's belly, right? But won't you start to... dissolve?
Indala: No need to worry about that. I have a plan.
Orochi: ...
Orochi: Very well. If that will satisfy you.
Indala: ...!
You're really agreeing to this?
Orochi: I owe a debt to your young friends here. If you can assure me this is the only time, I will grant your request.
Indala: Understood. Thank you.
Orochi: I suggest you direct that gratitude toward your companions.
Indala: You're right.
(Captain), everyone—I'll find a way to repay you when I return.
Orochi: Are you ready?
Lyria: Please be careful!
Indala: Yes, I'll make this quick.
As Indala closes her eyes, Orochi's enormous mouth opens and swallows her whole.
Indala opens her eyes, feeling as though she has been squeezed into a long, narrow box.
The pitch-black space is permeated by the stench of stomach acid and laden with poison, creating a scarcely livable environment.
Indala: (My condition seems stable. This toxin would be fatal to most creatures, but I can endure it well enough.)
Indala: (Even knowing Yamata is far more dangerous, this is an encouraging outcome. I still have a chance at victory.)
Her face lights up as if she has found a glimmer of hope.
Indala: Orochi! I'm done here! Spit me out!
At Indala's signal, the great serpent's insides begin to undulate, pushing her body backward.
Indala: Whew.
Indala is expelled with a gush of gastric fluid, appearing unfazed despite her inflamed skin.
Vyrn: Whoa, your skin is bright red! Looks painful...
Lyria: We need to treat you right away!
Indala: Don't worry, I just need a moment. Could I ask you all to look the other way?
Vyrn: Wh-what the heck?
Though puzzled, (Captain) and the crew comply and face the opposite direction.
Indala's Voice: It's all right now. You can turn back around.
At Indala's instruction, they turn to see her skin completely healed.
Vyrn: Huh? The red marks are totally gone!
Lyria: H-how is that possible?
Indala: This is another technique utilizing poison.
Indala: I used a weakened toxin to stimulate my body's metabolism and enhance its healing capacity.
Vyrn: Wow, that's a pretty nifty trick.
Indala: However, this method causes my old skin to peel off, much like molting.
Indala: It's not a sight I wanted you to see, so I asked you to look away.
Lyria: Oh, so that's why. I was really surprised, but it's a relief to know the reason!
Orochi: Honestly, what a reckless little girl. Did you at least achieve your desired results?
Indala: Yes, and then some. I feel much more confident about defeating Yamata now.
Orochi: I still don't fully grasp what this entails, but see to it that this disruption of my slumber is not in vain.
Vyrn: Hey, I've been wonderin'. Who is Yamata anyway?
Lyria: Since you mentioned defeating them, I'm guessing they're not a friend of yours...
Indala: ...
Indala: Yamata is my sworn enemy—and that of all the Divine Snakes before me.
Indala: I can explain in more detail once we're back on the ship. It's a rather long story—
Suddenly, Indala staggers and falls to one knee.
Indala: Urgh... Not good... I must have used too much power...
Lyria: Indala! Are you okay?
Indala: It seems I misjudged the timing... The rest is up to you, Shiro...
As the last bit of strength leaves her body, she collapses on the spot.
Vyrn: Oh no! We gotta get her back to the ship!
(Captain) hoists Indala into a piggyback position, and the group hurries back to the Grandcypher.
Poison Within: Scene 2
As Indala sleeps, her companion Shiro reveals to the crew that generations of Divine Snakes have absorbed the toxin within a blade called the Yato-no-Kami to one day defeat the eight-headed serpent Yamata—a mission that Indala herself is deeply dedicated toward. With new insight into Indala's situation, the crew agrees to continue treating her as always.
Indala: ...
After returning to the ship, (Captain) and company place the sleeping Indala in bed to watch over her.
Vyrn: She's out like a light. Doesn't look like she'll be stirrin' anytime soon.
Lyria: We're sure she'll wake up after a day has passed, right?
While en route, Shiro had filled them in on Indala's physical disposition.
Her uniquely cultivated trait causes her to sleep for an entire day after twelve days of activity.
Overusing her abilities had accelerated this cycle, causing her to fall asleep sooner than anticipated.
Shiro: We were fortunate this time. Once my master succumbs to slumber, she is not easily awakened.
Shiro: In the worst-case scenario, she could have been slain by bandits or devoured by monsters.
Shiro: Thankfully, she was saved because you were with her. You have my deepest gratitude.
Vyrn: It's no big deal. Though we probably could've handled it better if we'd known about all that from the get-go.
Shiro: ...
Shiro: I believe it is time to disclose the heavy burden my master carries.
Lyria: Burden?
Shiro: It concerns Yamata, as well as the sacred mission of the Divine Snake.
Vyrn: Come to think of it, Indala did say she'd explain back on the ship—right before she passed out.
Shiro: Given the weight of the subject, my master typically avoids discussing personal matters.
Shiro: But she has resolved to confide in your crew out of gratitude for all you have done.
Shiro: However, in order to spare my master any additional strain, I will speak in her stead.
Shiro: Should she reprimand me afterward, I will offer my most sincere apologies.
Shiro: Very well. The tale begins with the very first Divine Snake...
Shiro:Long ago, the first Divine Snake fought a powerful foe to protect an island and its people.
Shiro:This foe was none other than Yamata—a colossal, venomous serpent possessing eight heads.
Shiro:Armed with the sacred sword Yato-no-Kami, the first Divine Snake confronted Yamata alone, and almost succeeded...
Shiro:But despite having all its heads severed, the great snake survived, narrowly escaping defeat.
Shiro:Following this encounter, around two centuries passed.
Shiro:Having reclaimed its original form, Yamata attacked the Snake Temple to exact vengeance on the Divine Snake.
Shiro:The Divine Snake of that era, like the first, faced Yamata with the Yato-no-Kami...
Shiro:However, the blade had been tainted by Yamata's poisonous blood during the initial battle, drastically reducing its strength.
Shiro:I did everything in my power to assist the Divine Snake, who wagered their very life to repel the beast...
Shiro:Yet once again, we failed to deliver the final, fatal blow.
Shiro: Or so the story goes.
Vyrn: Huh? But weren't you there fightin' too?
Shiro: With the succession of each Divine Snake, I undergo a full molting, emerging as a pure white slate to serve my new master.
Shiro: Consequently, I have no memory of prior events. I am merely recounting what is written in the texts.
Vyrn: Gotcha. So that's the deal.
Shiro: Even after two fierce battles, we were unable to eliminate Yamata once and for all.
Shiro: If nothing changed, the struggle would be doomed to continue indefinitely.
Shiro: Fearing this, the new Divine Snake conceived an idea to utilize the toxin harbored within the Yato-no-Kami.
Lyria: Using... Yamata's own toxin?
Shiro: The original objective was to enter Yamata's body and destroy its heart directly.
Shiro: But the serpent's insides are filled with a powerful toxin that would kill a normal person instantly.
Shiro: Therefore, the Divine Snake devised a plan to build immunity against Yamata's poison, making infiltration possible.
Shiro: The method of which was keeping the Yato-no-Kami close at hand, allowing the toxin to slowly build up in the wielder's body.
Shiro: Doing so would produce a resistance that increased over generations, ultimately giving rise to a Divine Snake capable of withstanding Yamata's poison.
Shiro: All to prepare for the inevitable clash. Ever since, the Divine Snakes have carried that new mission—the defeat of Yamata.
Shiro: And now, roughly 150 years after the second conflict, there are signs that the beast's revival is near.
Vyrn: So that means the one who's gonna have to fight it is...
Shiro: Yes. It is my master.
Shiro: Thanks in part to the efforts of her ancestors, she has grown to become the most powerful Divine Snake of all time.
Shiro: All that remains is to destroy Yamata's heart... But the true result will only be known when the beast is confronted once more.
Lyria: Poor Indala... That's a lot of weight on her shoulders...
Vyrn: I get now why she was so serious about trackin' down Yamata.
Shiro: Such a heavy responsibility would ordinarily be enough to break one's spirit.
Shiro: However, my master remains entirely undaunted by her situation.
Vyrn: Huh? Really?
Shiro: Due to her strong-willed nature and desire to leave no burden for future generations, she faces the task of defeating Yamata with resolute optimism.
Indala: Zzz... A mountain of pastries... right before my eyes...
Indala: Sugar intake... is essential... for productivity...
Lyria: Ahaha... Sounds like she's having a sweet dream.
Vyrn: If she's not worried, I guess us stressin' out about it wouldn't be much help.
Shiro: I wish for you all to continue treating her as you did before. That is more than enough.
(Captain) and the crew nod, finding themselves smiling inadvertently at the sight of Indala's sleeping face.
Poison Within: Scene 3
Upon waking the next day, Indala thanks Shiro for explaining her situation, and the crew for arranging the meeting with Orochi—whom she speculates was a part of Yamata that split off during its regeneration. Encouraged that she was able to safely enter Orochi's body, she eagerly returns to work.
Indala: I see. So you told them.
After a full day's rest, Indala finally awakens.
Upon learning that Shiro has disclosed her circumstances to the crew, she shows no trace of resentment.
Indala: I was planning to tell them myself anyway. Thank you for handling it, Shiro.
Shiro: Everything I do is for the sake of my master. No gratitude is required.
Lyria: Oh! Indala, Shiro! There you are!
Vyrn: You okay, Indala? Nothin' feels off?
Indala: Yes, I slept like a log. As you can see, I'm in tip-top shape.
Indala: You've heard about my circumstances, yes? I assume you know now why I'm so fixated on Yamata.
Vyrn: Yeah. And the reason you were so keen on meetin' Orochi too.
Vyrn: You thought the two snakes might be buddies, so you wanted to check it out for yourself, right?
Vyrn: But Orochi didn't have any info, so I guess they're not connected after all—
Indala: No, it's quite the opposite. In fact, the toxin they possess is identical.
Indala: Meaning Orochi is, in a literal sense... Yamata itself.
Lyria: What! So Orochi lied to us?
Vyrn: How could you tell they were the same, anyway? You've never seen Yamata, right?
Indala: It was the Yato-no-Kami. The poison inside it reacted when I first encountered Orochi.
Indala: I wasn't fully convinced at first, but entering the serpent's body confirmed everything.
Indala: Its insides were filled with the exact same toxin that I extract from my blade.
Vyrn: Then why'd Orochi claim not to know anything?
Indala: That was likely the truth. While both beasts share the same toxin, Orochi's is much weaker than Yamata's, at least according to what I've heard.
Indala: Remember, Yamata had eight heads. I suspect that during the regeneration process, a part of the beast split off and became Orochi.
Indala: But without any memory of that, Orochi wasn't aware of Yamata's existence. Thinking about it that way, it all lines up.
Vyrn: Then Orochi wasn't tryin' to trick us. That's a relief.
Indala: I'm a day late in saying this, but I really appreciate you arranging for me to meet Orochi.
Indala: Entering the serpent's body allowed me to assess my abilities. I'm certain now that my power has the potential to counter Yamata.
Vyrn: Yeah! That's the spirit!
Lyria: If there's anything else we can do to help, just let us know!
Lyria takes Indala's left hand, and (Captain) follows suit by grasping her right.
Indala: Hehe... This reminds me of when we first met.
Indala: There's such warmth in your hands... Actually, in your very beings. It's like basking in the gentle rays of spring.
Indala: Well, I've had quite the extended break. Starting today, it's back to work from morning till night.
Vyrn: Didn't you just wake up? Why not take it easy for a while longer?
Indala: I can't do that. There's work calling my name.
Indala: Besides, too much rest is bad for you, right? The dose makes the poison.
Vyrn: Never heard that one before!
Despite their bemused smiles at Indala's tireless work ethic, (Captain) and the crew nevertheless find comfort in her dependability.
While visiting Indala for the passing on of year spirit duties, Payila requests Shiro's skin as one of her treasures. After agreeing to call down rain for local drought-stricken farmers, Payila is thrilled to receive the beautiful molted skin in return, but declines Indala's suggestion to take on more work herself.
As the year draws to a close, Payila heads to the Snake Temple for the passing on of year spirit duties.
Payila: I'm here.
Indala: ...
Payila: Indala? Are you listening? I went out of my way to visit, so how about offering some tea?
Indala: ...
Payila: Look here.
With a gentle prod of her fan, Payila finally gets Indala to turn around.
Indala: Oh, if it isn't Payila. When did you arrive?
Payila: Just a moment ago. I'll have you know I tried to get your attention multiple times.
Indala: Sorry. I've been entirely focused on planning my schedule for the next month.
Indala: My goal is to complete as many tasks as possible, with maximum efficiency.
Payila: Your passion for work is as strong as ever. One could say it even borders on obsessive.
Payila: All right—I'm intrigued. Let's see what exactly you have lined up.
Surveying the sheet in Indala's hands, Payila's eyes widen at the densely packed agenda.
Payila: ...!
This workload is absurd. It would take five of my shikigami to handle such an amount!
Payila: And unless I'm mistaken, these aren't even related to your temple duties!
Indala: Correct. Is that a problem?
Payila: Unbelievable. Your primary obligations are already a tremendous burden as it is...
Payila: Yet you're opting to take on more? What unholy fiend has possessed you?
Indala: Hehe, you certainly don't mince words. But that's what I like about you.
Indala: I simply want to work. If my efforts can make someone happy, then it's a win for everyone.
Payila: "A sound mind is one that desires little," is it? Surely there would be no harm in requesting a treasure or two.
Payila: I pray you don't grow weary of such meager rewards and end up losing your mind.
Indala: I appreciate your concern.
Indala: But I assume you didn't come here personally just to praise my work ethic.
Payila: Oh?
Indala: Ordinarily, you would have sent one of your shikigami to manage the handover.
Indala: The fact that you came in person suggests there's another reason for your visit. That's my suspicion, anyway... Well?
Payila: Heh... Hehehe.
Payila: Indeed, you see right through me. I suppose there's no need to hide it, then.
Payila: I want Shiro's skin.
Shiro: My skin, you say?
Payila: It's been on my mind ever since I saw it displayed here at the temple.
Payila: With pristine clarity akin to the purest air... and a cherry blossom pattern that exudes an elegant charm...
Payila: Such exquisite beauty is worthy of becoming my treasure.
Indala: I'd expect no less of you, Payila. Recognizing the allure of Shiro's skin is a true testament to your discerning eye.
Payila: Heh, who do you think I am?
Indala: I'm confident you would treat it with care.
Indala: Shiro, it's molting season for you, isn't it? Would you be willing to relinquish the skin you shed?
Indala visits the Horse Temple to assist with Sandira's work, only to find that she has already completed most of it. Noticing Sandira's accumulated fatigue, Indala uses her power to offer some relief and advises the Divine Horse to rely on the other Divine Generals more. After cleaning up a forgotten storehouse together, Indala and Sandira find themselves one step closer to each other.
Indala is paying a visit to the Horse Temple to teach Sandira a few more details about the role of the year spirit.
Indala: Work that's been piling up for 108 years... I've blocked out five days of my schedule for this, but I wonder if we'll be able to get through everything.
Besides passing on her year spirit duties, Indala is also hoping to help out with the accumulated workload at the Horse Temple.
Indala: Since I've already let Sandira know via letter that I intend on assisting with her work, everything should be good to go. Hehe, I'm itching to get started!
Sandira: Indala! Shiro! Thank you very much for coming all this way to the Horse Temple.
Indala: It's nothing. How are you though, Sandira? Have you gotten used to being the year spirit yet?
Sandira: I'm afraid I'm still lacking in many areas and continuing to cause trouble for everyone. Why, just yesterday...
Sandira: Ah! Where are my manners? I should be welcoming guests with a nice cup of tea.
Sandira: You must be fatigued from your long journey. I shall prepare the tea immediately.
Indala: Thanks. But actually, if you don't mind, I'd like to get to work as soon as possible...
Shiro: My master is starving for work. As much as we appreciate the warm welcome, it'd be great if you could satisfy her craving soon.
Sandira: Oh my. Well, that can certainly be arranged. If you could follow me this way.
With Indala's efficient efforts, the stacks of paper on Sandira's desk begin to disappear at an incredible speed.
Sandira: I must say, I'm surprised that mountain of tasks has vanished so quickly!
Indala: Hehe. You're quick to learn, and that's why we were able to get through everything so smoothly. Now, what's our next task?
Sandira: Actually, that will be all. Thank you very much for the help. I will prepare some tea for us.
Indala: That's all? If you're feeling tired, I can take over your tasks as well, so go ahead and take a break without me. I can keep going.
Sandira: I appreciate your kind intentions, but there is no more work left. That was the last of it.
Indala: Wha...
Indala: The last of... what? Surely you don't mean work? It hasn't even been an hour.
Sandira: U-um, all the remaining work has... already been completed.
Indala: Wh-what about my correspondence? I sent you a letter the other day detailing how I'd help out with your workload...
Sandira: Oh yes, I received the letter. Still, as keeper of the Horse Temple, I simply cannot allow my guests to undergo such intensive labor.
Sandira: With Kurokko and Shirokko's assistance, I was able to complete a good majority of the remaining work, albeit in a hurry.
Sandira: Frankly it was due to my lack of expertise that I couldn't finish everything and had you assist me with the rest of it...
Indala: I... I see. You were trying to be considerate...
Indala: Heh... Heh heh...
With 108 years' worth of work taken away from her, Indala can only manage an empty laugh.
Sandira: Oh dear! You're shaking, Indala!
Sandira: Wait one moment. I shall prepare some tea to warm you up straight away!
Indala: Whew... Thank you. I've calmed down a bit.
Sandira: The fault is on me for failing to notice you were so cold... I'm terribly sorry for not having been more attentive.
Indala: I wasn't shaking from the cold...
Indala: Hm?
Indala notices something and reaches out to touch Sandira's forehead.
Sandira: Eep! I-Indala? What are you...
Indala: I'm sorry I didn't realize earlier, Sandira. Seems you're pretty overworked... You've been pushing yourself too hard.
Sandira: N-not at all, I'm perfectly fine! I'm more surprised by your sudden... Ooh!
Indala: I'm able to relieve minor ailments by touching the afflicted area, you see. Seems to me like your shoulders are quite stiff too.
Indala: Usually I have a rule of one area per person, but since there isn't anything else on my plate right now, I'll work through all the parts of your body that need soothing!
Indala: And that should do it.
Once she is sure that Sandira's body has been thoroughly relieved of stress, Indala releases her.
Sandira: Huff, huff... I-is it over?
Sandira: Hm?
Sandira: Thank you so much, Indala! My body feels much lighter than before!
Indala: Hehe, I thought so. I do have one piece of advice for you, though.
Indala: Try to rely more on the other Divine Generals. While your pride as the Divine Horse is respectable, you won't last if you don't know your limit.
Sandira: Yes... You're quite right. I may have taken too much upon myself.
Indala: Hehe, you're such a good girl, Sandira. I know you meant well, and that makes me happy. But I like to work.
Indala: If I have nothing to do, I feel like I'm being left behind by society, and I start to shake.
Sandira: Would that be a normal condition nowadays? I'm afraid I'm still unfamiliar with the current Sky Realm...
Shiro: No. It is a mere quirk my master has.
Indala: In any case... I don't like having free time. I'd prefer to do some work, if possible.
Sandira: I understand... However, unfortunately there is no more work available. What shall we do...
Shirokko: Yaaawn, that was a good sleep... Huh? Why's everyone frowning like that?
Sandira: Oh, Shirokko. Not in front of our guests! But the both of you came at the perfect time.
Sandira fills Kurokko and Shirokko in on the situation.
Shirokko: Oh, we've got work! There's a storehouse just behind this building.
Kurokko: Since it's so hidden, I don't think anyone's cleaned that place in decades.
Indala:Decades?
Kurokko: Y-yeah... If you want something to do, you could try cleaning it.
Sandira: I hardly think it would be appropriate to have Indala clean a place neglected to that extent...
Indala: Please, leave it to me! A place that hasn't been cleaned in decades... Sounds like the perfect task that'll take a substantial amount of time.
Sandira: We've successfully unlocked the door. I'm not certain it will open though, seeing as the storehouse has been abandoned for so long.
Removing the lock, Sandira pushes on the massive door.
Sandira: Hrrrgh... It doesn't seem to be moving at all.
Indala: Hm. Let me have a try.
Sandira: Oh! So I was supposed to pull...
Shiro: You kept pushing at a door that swings the other way. Of course it won't open, silly.
Indala: Don't worry, I make the same mistake sometimes. Let's take a look inside.
Sandira: Cough, cough... This is a lot of dust...
Indala: Hehe... It's rare to come across a place so dirty. This will be a worthy task indeed.
Indala: Well, let's get started then. First we'll open the storehouse windows to let in some fresh air.
Indala and Sandira split up the work, and before they know it, the sky outside has already grown dark.
Sandira: Oh, look at the time... Shall we save the rest for tomorrow, Indala?
Indala: No, I'm fine. The longest I can stay awake for is twelve days, so I'll be able to work throughout the night for a while.
Sandira: All day and night for twelve days! I was not aware that people nowadays have evolved to such an advanced state...
Indala: Advanced... It's my first time being described as that.
Shiro: It's only my master. Don't mistake her eccentricity for the norm.
Indala: Regardless, I will be continuing my work, so feel free to rest when you need to.
Sandira: But I cannot leave all the work to you...
Indala: Try to rely more on the other Divine Generals. While your pride as the Divine Horse is respectable, you won't last if you don't know your limit.
Sandira: No, never mind—I shall take my rest. Please take care not to overwork yourself, Indala.
Indala: Of course. Good night, Sandira.
The two continue cleaning the storehouse over the next few days.
Sandira: The dusty, old storehouse has become a studio fit for high society! I can hardly recognize it!
Indala: It'd been a while since I took on such a worthwhile project.
Indala: Yaaawn... I was so eager to complete the task, I've used up more energy than I thought. Even I'm getting sleepy.
Sandira: If you'll wait a moment. I shall have a bed prepared for you immediately.
Indala: Thank you, that would be really nice.
Indala flops onto the bed that Sandira readies for her.
Indala: Somehow, it feels strange to have you prepare a bed for me, when you'd been in a never-ending sleep yourself just a while ago.
Sandira: It's a rather curious sight to see you lying down too, as I have only ever seen you awake and bustling about.
Indala: The bed you prepared is so warm. Sleep isn't my forte, but I feel I can sleep well tonight.
Sandira: That's splendid! I make sure to put the covers under the sun every day, so I'm glad to hear that it's to your liking.
Sandira: Although, I'm rather embarrassed that this is all I can do for you, considering you took on a chore of such ample measure.
Sandira: Oh, I have a wonderful idea! I shall prepare a feast for when you awake.
Indala: Thanks, Sandira. I'll dream of it in my sleep.
Soon after Indala falls asleep, the soft sounds of something cooking can be heard from the kitchen of the Horse Temple.
Through their diligent work over the past few days, the Divine Snake and the Divine Horse find themselves one step closer to each other.