Marquiares/Lore

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Official Profile

Age	227
Height	88 cm
Race	Harvin
Hobbies	Observing celestial bodies
Special Talents	{{{talentsjp}}}
Likes	Rare birds (wants to understand bird's language someday)
Dislikes	Supernal drunkenness
Character Release An old sage who secluded himself in a mountain surrounded by forests. He has his reasons to leave others and live in the mountain. People of his kind are very rare even across the whole sky. He listened to the stars and became an awakener of grand magic. But his constitution does not go along well with supernal power: the grand source of all wisdom. When taking in too much supernal power, he will become supernal drunk (become high and funky), which will cause him to cast explosive magic without considering others around him. The magic power he draws out is inexhaustible. Always drawing supernal power made his body immortal. He can maintain health at the age of over 200. He also uses floating magic which ordinary people can not do. He loves nature, especially a beautiful kind of bird called aurora bird which he treats like his own family. Sometimes he would intimately mention "Mr.Estarriola". Just like Marqiuares, Estarriola is an incredibly elder Harvin, he is also one of the Arcarum Evokers.

Source ^[1] ^[2]

* This is an unofficial, amateur translation.

Age	227歳
Height	88cm
Race	ハーヴィン
Hobbies	天体の矛盾無き運行を見守ること（天体観測）
Special Talents	{{{talentsjp}}}
Likes	珍しい鳥（いつか鳥語を解明し語らいたい）
Dislikes	アストラル酔い
Character Release 自然に囲まれた山の中で静かに隠遁する老魔導師。人里離れて山に籠もるのには理由があった。彼は空の世界でも非常に希少な、星辰の声を聴くアストラル大魔導術の覚醒者だったのだが、万象を満たす秘匿された叡智「アストラル」が体質に合わず、吸い過ぎるとアストラル酔い（ハイになって、ファンキーになる）になってしまい、辺り構わず爆裂魔導術を施してしまうというはた迷惑な面を持ち合わせる。常にアストラルを摂取しているため肉体は滅びず200歳を越えても元気で、引き出される魔力も無尽蔵で、また、常人離れした浮遊術を使う。自然を愛し、とりわけオーロラ鳥という美しい鳥を家族のように慕っている。時折親しげな様子で口にする「エスタリオラ殿」とは、マルキアレスと同じく常識的な寿命を超越した高齢のハーヴィン族で、アーカルムの賢者の一人である。

Source ^[1] ^[2]

Background

Events

Trivia

Marquiares mentions Estarriola in one of his fate episodes. They are both members of the Supreme Supernal Council, which consists of the greatest sorcerers in the sky.
In Japanese, the term "astral" is used to label Marquiares's magic. The English localization instead uses the term "supernal" to distinguish it from the Astral race.

Etymology

Marquiares's charge attack name is a reference to the band Earth, Wind & Fire.
Marquiares's skills' names are references to the band Rhapsody of Fire's songs "Unholy Warcry", "Sad Mystic Moon", and "Reign Of Terror".

Special Cutscenes

	Spoiler Alert! These tabs contain special event cutscene scripts. View these tabs at your own discretion.

Happy Birthday Cutscenes
#	Link	Text
1	✔	Happy birthday, (Captain). Let me celebrate the occasion with an eruption of supernal fireworks... Fweh heh heh. Joking, of course. I know, I know. You're wondering what I got you instead. Allow me to present... the Supernal Birthday Showcase. A supernal cake topped with supernal frosting, with supernal candles for you to blow out. Hoowee... I think I may have overdone it, (Captain). I may have taken in too much supernal— Eeee... yooooow!
2	✔	Marquiares: A splendid birthday to you, (Captain)! Come now, look, look. My eternal friends are wishing you blessings as well. Aurora Birds: Chirp, chirp... Marquiares: Fweh-heh-heh... Isn't that wonderful. They're really enjoying themselves. I think I'll join in their revelry to help celebrate for you, (Captain)! Chirp, chirp... Wh-whaaa... Friends, my eternal friends! Why... Why would you run away! How sorrowful, how truly sorrowful...
3	✔	Happy birthday! Have a stupendous one, (Captain). (Captain), how many times have we celebrated your birthday together now? After spending all this time together, you've finally succeeded in understanding me. Allow me to share all my knowledge of the supernal plane with you! Eeeyooow!
4	✔	Hoo boy, what an auspicious day, (Captain)! I've been living for so long that the flow of time hardly registers anymore. But after I met you, I started feeling a noticeable change in the days. It's probably safe to say I'm using my time to the fullest now. The proof is in the supernal. The difference in how much better it is now compared with before is night and day! I must thank you again, (Captain). Follow me to the airship's deck! I've got a whale of a supernal fireworks show for you!
5	✔	No matter how many times I celebrate your birthday, (Captain), it never gets old. Let's start with some supernal fireworks! Happyyy birrthdayyy! Ah, yes. Do you see the celebratory words in the sky, (Captain)? It appears even the supernal knows of your great virtue. By the supernal's good graces, perhaps you'll one day even be allowed to attend a meeting of the Supernal Supreme Council. Ohoho... That day can't come soon enough!

Happy New Year Cutscenes
#	Link	Text
1	✔	Tell me if you've heard of something like this before, Captain. In certain parts of the world, they celebrate the new year with a barrage of festive fireworks... Which got me thinking... Oh? What's that? I haven't even finished explaining my— Rggrh... I get it. No supernal fireworks for anyone.
2	✔	Fwah-haaah... Haaappy New Year! Fwahah! Just joking! No matter how splendid the new year, I wouldn't launch one of my explosions so carelessly. Fwahaha... ... But that being said... What if I did just a teensy blast? Fwahaha... I'm just joking! Jokes, jokes, jokes!
3	✔	(Captain), (Captain)! I was having a dream this morning... There's a name for the first dream of the year, isn't there? Hatsuyume, I think they call it in some lands. I'd like to make that hatsuyume of mine come true. Fweh heh heh, do you want to know what sort of dream I had? One where I shot out supernal fireworks to my heart's content. W-what! How did you already know? You think it's too dangerous to make that dream come true? Well, what about just a little true?
4	✔	Fweh heh heh, ever notice how conspicuously bright the sun is as it rises on the first day of the year? What a majestic sight to behold. Enough to make everyone drag themselves out of bed before the crack of dawn. Speaking of which, wouldn't you say the radiance of the first dawn and my supernal arts have something in common? And that commonality can be boiled down to— What's that? Since the supernal deals with wisdom, you claim it technically has nothing to do with the actual sunrise itself? Come on, (Captain), it's New Year's Day! Be merry! And quit being so nitpicky! Happy New Yeeeoow!
5	✔	Phew... The sun's morning rays sure are nice. The supernal power within me wells up at the sight of it... Supernal arts and the sunrise have no relation to one another? Hehehe, are you sure about that? Listen to this then! After you said the same thing to me last year, I had a meeting with other sages to discuss the topic. Seems like they also feel a little boost whenever they take in a new year's sunrise! I should thank you, actually. Your unsolicited opinion helped push me one step closer to accomplishing my goal! Here, let me show you... the proof of my progress! Happy New Yeeeaaar! Supernal Sunrise!

Valentine's Day Cutscenes
#	Link	Text
1	✔	Fweh heh heh... Hello there, Captain. Busy giving chocolates to the younger members of the crew? Hoowee? Chocolates? For me? I see... That's a shame. You're always so kind to me, Captain. I'm afraid I started to get the wrong idea... Oh, I'm simply going to die of embarrassment. I'm going to just let out a little eruption to conceal my— Eeeeyooooow!
2	✔	Oooh... Is that chocolate I spy? (Captain), you always treat me well. You're one of the upstanding kids that never forget to respect their elders. If you become my pupil, I'll teach you a particularly powerful supernal technique I've been saving for such an occasion. What kind of technique is it? Well, it's an explosive spell in a manner of speaking. It's essentially the same as preparing the chocolate you gave me. Put your emotions in the prep, focus on the process, and send it off with a prayer. Next thing you know, you'll be making explosions like the best of 'em. Mm? Hard to imagine? Well let's give you a little practical experience. Weee... Aaaah!
3	✔	(Captain), happy Valentine's Day. Fweh heh heh, I'm so grateful that you'd give me chocolates again this year. The morsels you make are always so aromatic. It seems they've attracted my eternal friends. Chocolate is toxic to birds though, so I'll have to keep these to myself. You don't need to be upset, friend. I'll give you a splashy report of the flavor so you can feel like you've partaken. Huh? You mean you can't bear to listen?
4	✔	Oh! You've made me the happiest person in all the skies with your chocolates. As the chocolate melts away in my mouth, so too does my weariness. Thanks to you, I see better results when I train during Valentine's. I'm counting down to the day in which I can bring your chocolates over the supernal boundary. I'd like to introduce it to the others at the next Supernal Supreme Council get-together. Do you think you can make more? Come now, what are you so worried about? Your chocolates have my personal seal of approval!
5	✔	Ah, (Captain)! I've been looking for you. I wanted to express my gratitude. What's with the dumbfounded look? This is to say thanks for bringing chocolate to the Supreme Supernal Council. They were so good... Went really well with supernal tea too. Hm? Could this box be... Ooh, more chocolates for me! To receive chocolate from you twice in a day makes me feel young again! Hoowee, I'll have to give you back something equally splendid as thanks!

White Day Cutscenes
#	Link	Text
1	✔	Have a moment to chat, (Captain)? I wanted to repay you for your kindness the other day, but this senile old fool couldn't think of a proper gift... If there's anything you want, I'll happily get it for you. Go on now. No need to be shy! A supernal cookie, perhaps? How about some supernal spongecake? Supernal snickerdoodles? You don't need it to be supernal? Hahaha! Such restraint! I am moved beyond words. Only one gift can suffice for such a wonderful captain. I present to you... a grand supernal eruption.
2	✔	Fwah-hah! Happy White Day, (Captain). I thought I'd get you something to thank you for your chocolates from last month. Well, don't be shy. Go ahead and take it. Pop one of these delights in your mouth, and you'll taste a burst of flavor. After all, these are the amazing grand supernal cookies! Booom! Hehe. Just joking. Mm? You look a little disappointed... Could you be disappointed that there wasn't a magical explosion? I know how to fix that! Witness my awesome power! Here... we... goooo... Fwah-hah! You fell for it!
3	✔	(Captain), happy White Day. I've prepared some treats for you again this year. My eternal friends, it seems, wanted to give you something as well. They provided a few feathers to decorate the box. Fweh heh heh, isn't it delightful? Hm? Inside? Well, what's inside the box is naturally exquisite. It's a deluxe set of supernal confections!
4	✔	Happy White Day, (Captain)! Sweets are the name of the game and you better believe I put my back into it. I have a helper for this one. Okay friend! Let the captain have it! Fweh heh heh! So what's the verdict? This is a present from me and my flying pal! A word about the present though... I was originally going to give you candy packed with supernal energy but my pal here was adamantly against it. I caved so I hope these ordinary handmade cookies will tide you over. They're low on supernal content but we both agree that the taste can't be beat!
5	✔	(Captain)! Happy White Day! It wasn't easy thinking of how to pay you back for bringing chocolates to the supernal world. In my communications with the supernal, I came across a brand new recipe I used to make you these cookies! My pals even gave me their supernal brand of approval! Not bad for a graybeard like me! I hope this glimpse into supernal chocolaty wisdom will suit your tastes, (Captain)... Oh, you like it! Whew, what a relief...
Gift		Tasty Macaroons 2nd year: Light Cookies 3rd year: Light Cookies 4th year: Light Cookies 5th year: Light Cookies

Trick or Treat Cutscenes
#	Link	Text
1	✔	Captain! Captain! Erupt or treat! Go on now. No need to be shy. Pick one! Huh? What did I get wrong? I don't believe this. I don't get to make as many eruptions as I like during this time of year? Are you sure? Hrm... So it's not eruptions that mark the occasion... but disruptions. Hoowee... That was certainly careless of me. I've gotta be more careful. Anyway. Which would you like, Captain? An eruption... or candy?
2	✔	Fwah-hah-hah. Trick or treat, (Captain). Hm? There's something different about me today? I can't slip anything past you! Truthfully, this old man's form is just a disguise. My true form... Behooold! I am the All Powerful Supernal Pappy! Huh? That's wrong? What's wrong about it? What! You mean to suggest that this isn't a costume! Well, if I can't surprise you, then as far as candy is concerned... Behooold! Of cooourse you can have some! Sigh... Looks like I didn't do enough Halloween research. I'll get you next year.
3	✔	(Captain), (Captain)! It's a special Halloween explosion... Oooh! Why'd your expression change all of a sudden? You're wondering what I just did? Why, I thought I'd startle you with a quick explosion to get a little treat... Hooweeee... You mean something's amiss? Ah, that's right! Trick or treat! You have to chant those words to get any treats. Isn't that correct? Oh, you're trying to say that sudden explosions aren't acceptable in the first place? This is certainly a tripper-upper! More research is in order...
4	✔	Fweh heh heh. You're looking at a slightly different Marquiares this year, (Captain). What's different about me, you ask? I've finally come to understand the secret to Halloween, you see. What's more Halloweenesque than the pumpkins you see all over town? And I have successfully communicated that idea to the supernal. I now offer you a special demonstration, all from the comfort of where you stand! Trick or treeeat! How's that! Bat-flying, pumpkin-sploding, supernal arts: Halloween edition! What do you mean it hasn't changed at all? How strange... It should have exploded in the shape of a pumpkin...
5	✔	Trick or treat! Hm... This isn't going as well as I'd hoped. Well, if it isn't (Captain). I was just testing out the new Halloween-themed explosion I came up with last year. I was sure I'd perfected it by now, but it turns out my jig is still no different from a regular ol' explosion. Huh? You suggest I use other means to communicate the concept of Halloween to the supernal? Very well! I suppose seeing the town decked out in Halloween decorations for myself would help! Yes, that just might work! Well then, (Captain), let's get a move on!

Happy Holidays Cutscenes
#	Link	Text
1	✔	Why, hello there, Captain. Planning on having a celebratory feast this evening? If you need help with anything... I don't suppose I could lend a hand? I hear you need help with the tree. And with decorating the ship in festive, glittering colors. One of my eruptions should make the Grandcypher plenty glittering, I figure. Fweh heh heh... That was a joke. Hoowee... Maybe I overdid it?
2	✔	Fwah-hah-hah! Happy holidays! Oh, (Captain). What's that worried look on your face about? Come on, pipe up now! Let's hear it. Wh-what! The chicken hasn't been put in the oven yet! This is most grave! Hurry! We must hurry and prepare the chicken! On your mark, get ready, get set... Gooooo! There! Now it's well-roasted!
3	✔	Happy holidays. Are you as ready as can be, (Captain)? Mmph, (Captain)... This cake is a bit plain, don't you think? We're celebrating the holidays, so this needs to be a bit flashier! More explosive! We could use my supernal... Hm? Everyone is going to decorate it later, so there's no need for that, you say? Then we'll need some supernal fireworks in order to really make the decorations sparkle... Huh? No big explosions? O-of course I'll keep it tame. I know, I know. Fweh heh heh...
4	✔	Happy holidays! Now, now, no need to make that frowny face at me. I'm fully aware of what today entails. A holy night such as tonight's isn't supposed to be spent with explosions. So I baked a cake instead. You and the children in the crew like cake, right? 'Course you do. Don't be modest. It's a mountain of a cake, so load up on the sugary goodness. It's my own special concoction of supernal-infused batter and cream! I guarantee flavor you'll never forget!
5	✔	Brrr, it is cold... The weather's unbearable this time of year. Won't be much of a holiday feast tonight if we're shaking in our shoes... You think so too? Hmmm, how about a little bit of explosive magic to heat things up? I-I'm joking. But still, we'll turn into ice cubes if we don't do something... Oh! What if I light the fireplace using the flames from my explosive magic? We'll be nice and toasty after that! Time for a holy night... Holiday roaaast!

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.

Opening the Supernal Door

Tasked with finding an elusive golden aurora bird, the crew and Siero meet a strange old sorcerer by the name of Marquiares. After being toyed with by Marquiares and his explosive supernal magic, Siero surprisingly discovers the golden birds she's been looking for during one of Marquiares' supernal eruptions.

One day the crew receives a strange request from Sierokarte.

Sierokarte: Have you heard of Table Mountain, everyone?

Sierokarte: It's very unusual! The peak is flat, and it's chock full of rare plants and animals!

Sierokarte: Most famous of all are the majestic aurora birds. You don't see those very often!

Lyria: Oh my gosh! Aurora birds? What I wouldn't do to see one!

Sierokarte: These are no ordinary aurora birds we're talking about either! The request is asking you to find one of the legendary golden auroras... A bird no one's ever managed to catch before!

Vyrn: Heh heh! If you manage to get your hands on one, you'll be in the history books, (Captain)! Let's get goin'!

The crew follows Sierokarte to a village at the base of Table Mountain.

Chatty Chief: Welcome, travelers, welcome! We hope you have a pleasant stay here at the famous Table Village, located at the foot of the equally famous Table Mountain!

Chatty Chief: Care to have a slice of our spectacular Table Cakes? Our Table Cookies make for wonderful souvenirs!

Chatty Chief: Or perhaps an item from one of our Table Mountain rare stone and flower collections is what you're looking for?

Sierokarte: Sorry, but we're not here to sightsee. Let me explain...

Chatty Chief: E-excuse me? You want to climb Table Mountain? I wouldn't do that if I were you!

Sierokarte: Hmm? And why would that be?

Chatty Chief: There's an old man in that mountain. The Supernal Sorcerer, they call him.

Sierokarte: Hmm... And who might he be?

Chatty Chief: As a matter of fact, he's the only one who knows the way up the mountain. You'll need to have him guide you personally.

On the village chief's recommendation, the crew heads to a cave deep within the forest in search of the mysterious sage they've heard so much about.

When they draw near, a deep, loud, thunderous thudding can be heard from deep within the cave.

The crew rushes inside, only to find an old man staring at the wall with a look of pure contentment on his face.

Marquiares: Hoowee... Nothin' quite so nice as some after-dinner eruptions, I always say.

Lyria: Er... You wouldn't happen to be the one responsible for all that booming we heard a second ago, would you?

Marquiares: Indeed! Those were the majestic eruptions of I, Marquiares, originator of the supernal arts!

Vyrn: Super-what now?

Marquiares: Don't tell me you're unaware of the supernal plane, grand source of all wisdom!

Lyria: Um... Come again?

Marquiares: How tremendously sad! I suppose I have no choice but to instruct you in them myself!

Sierokarte: That's quite all right! We'd really appreciate it if you showed us the way to Table Mountain's peak first!

Marquiares: Hrm? You're not interested in the supernal arts?

Marquiares: But they're so tremendous! Stupendous! Brainy and beneficious!

Vyrn: Gramps! We don't care! We're looking for golden aurora birds, so show us the way to the peak already!

Marquiares: You're looking for golden auroras, you say? Golden auroras here? Today?

Vyrn: D-do you know something about 'em?

Marquiares: Before I answer that, how about a supernal lesson? It'd be just the thing for what ails you!

Vyrn: Enough already!

Marquiares: Once you learn to listen to the voices of the stars, infinite supernal magics will be yours to control!

Marquiares: And don't look down on me just because I'm old! I may be over two hundred, but I'm just as sprightly as I was at eighteen!

Lyria: Wow... You're two hundred years old? You really are lively for your age!

Vyrn: No kiddin'! Seems like you're still enjoying the little things in life at least!

Marquiares: Oh, not you too! Your eyes say it all! You think I'm a sad old geezer! Why won't anyone believe me?

Sierokarte: Time is running short, everyone! Sorry, sir, but we really must be going now—

Sierokarte: Huh? Where did he go?

Vyrn: Siero, check it out! He's over there!

Before (Captain) and the crew realize what's happening, Marquiares leaves the cave and walks away.

Except he's not so much walking per se, but rather levitating toward the peak of the mountain using mysterious powers.

Marquiares: Hoowee... You may not be able to see it, but the supernal is all around us.

Marquiares begins to ascend a treacherous cliff, almost as if to beckon the crew forward.

After no shortage of effort, the crew manages to reach the peak where Marquiares has camped out.

Marquiares sees that everyone is present, turns around, and proceeds to hit the crew with a shocking revelation.

Marquiares: It pains me to say this to you after seeing you come so far, but... golden aurora birds don't exist.

Vyrn: So we just hauled our way up here for nothing?

Lyria: Oh... That's a shame. I really wanted to see them, too...

Marquiares: Fweh heh heh... I'm afraid so. I can arrange a visitation with some regular auroras, however.

Marquiares splays his arms out wide as if in prayer to nature itself and imitates a bird call.

In the next instant, aurora birds of every color fly into view, land on Marquiares' shoulders and arms, and begin chirping up a storm.

Aurora Birds: Chirp, chirp, chirp...

Lyria: They're beautiful! I've never seen so many pretty birds in one place before!

Marquiares lovingly looks over his flock before quietly beginning his story.

Marquiares: I live on this mountain, and these feathered fellows are the only conversation partners I have to talk to.

Marquiares: Or try to talk to, anyway. I'm not so good with bird-speak, you see. Can't make heads or tails of what they're saying, really!

Marquiares: Oh! There is one thing I can make out. Some kind of terrible fear they have of me that the birds all share.

Lyria: Oh my gosh, really? But they seem like they're getting along with you great!

Marquiares: And I'm happy to have their company. If you would kindly opt not to steal them away from me, that would make me even happier.

Vyrn: Sniff... When you put it that way... There's no way we could take your friends away.

Sierokarte: Hmm... Indeed. We'll just have to give up on the aurora birds, everyone!

Marquiares: Oh ho. You're quite the reasonable bunch! I'm sure you have what it takes to comprehend the majesty of—

Marquiares: Hrrgh! Ngh!

Marquiares grips his chest in what seems to be great pain.

Vyrn: Are you okay? Hang in there, old man!

Lyria: Sir? Can you tell us where it hurts?

Marquiares: Rrrgh... I have erred...

Lyria: What do you mean?

Marquiares: My eruptions and levitations...

Lyria: Eruptions? Levitations?

Marquiares: I overused them...

Lyria: You can do that?

Marquiares: The supernal arts are harsh indeed...

Vyrn: What's harsh about them? We need details if we're going to help you!

Marquiares: Don't worry about me! Hurry up and get out of here! Now! To the bottom of the mountain! As far from here as you can!

Lyria: We're not going to just leave you here!

Marquiares: It's fine! Go! If you don't... I may just...

Aurora Birds: Screech!

Lyria: The birds! They're all flying away!

Marquiares: Rgh... I can't... hold it in... anymore... Ngh...

Marquiares: Whooohooo!

Marquiares: Time for an eeeruption! Ruption! Ruption! Ruption! That's what being a sorcerer is all about, baby!

Vyrn: Wha-huhhh? What's goin' on!

Lyria: Please calm down, sir!

A tempest of blasts erupt around the party in an instant, alerting everyone present of why the birds felt threatened just a moment before.

That's when Sierokarte realizes something.

Sierokarte: Oh my! Is that what I think it is in the center of those explosions?

Marquiares: Eeeeyooooow!

(Captain) and the crew manage to safely drag Marquiares off the mountain and back to the Grandcypher.

Marquiares: Terribly, terribly sorry, everyone. Should've kept the supernal demonstration to the bare minimum.

Marquiares: For whatever odd reason, I get a little crazy if I take in too much supernal energy.

Marquiares: And then you end up with a supernal eruption. Fweh heh heh...

Lyria: This is no fweh-ing matter, sir!

Vyrn: Seriously! You put your bird buddies in danger!

Marquiares realizes the severity of his mistake.

Marquiares: I didn't want to admit it, but that's probably the reason those birds feared me.

Marquiares: I don't know if I can ever return to that mountain. Oh, how can I... How should I continue living my life?

Sierokarte: Hee hee, that's simple! Just travel with us!

Vyrn: Siero! You don't get to decide that on your own! What do you think, (Captain)?

Just take it easy with the explosions.
So what's this supernal stuff anyway?

Choose: Just take it easy with the explosions.

Marquiares: Ah, but of course! Promise! Cross this old man's heart and hope not to explode!

Vyrn: For real? What if you end up exploding again anyway?

Marquiares: Fweh heh heh... I won't do any erupting. Not on the deck of the ship at least.

Vyrn: Waaait a sec! Does that mean everywhere else is fair game?

Go to "Continue 1"

Choose: So what's this supernal stuff anyway?

Marquiares: Hrm... Finally worked up the courage to ask, I see! The supernal arts draw upon a bygone cosmic wisdom with depth deeper than the aether itself!

Marquiares: All things behave according to its laws. Magic uses that wisdom as a power source. Master it... and the recreation of infinity itself even becomes possible!

Vyrn: Based on that explanation, all I know for sure is that you can't really explain it!

Marquiares: Is that what you think? I'll skip the explanations and get straight to the explosions then.

Vyrn: Hey! Explosions are off-limits!

Continue 1

Marquiares: Fweh heh heh...

Lyria: It's kind of a shame, though. We couldn't get those birds you were looking for, Siero.

Sierokarte: Hee hee... To tell you the truth... I actually managed to spot a golden aurora while I was up there.

Lyria: Huh? You did? When? Where?

Marquiares: Fweh heh heh... You're a sharp one, managing to find my golden auroras!

Marquiares may be a strange old wizard, but the crew can't help but laugh along with him. What lurks within that laughter? Only time will tell.

Back to top

Supernal Shuffle

Marquiares tells the crew he's taking a trip to the Supreme Supernal Council, but to Vyrn it just looks like he's taking a nap. When a group calling itself the Holy Sky Empire intrudes, Marquiares steps forward, suffused in supernal energies.

It's a beautiful day, but it seems Marquiares has been having a bad case of the jitters all morning.

Lyria: Is something wrong, Marquiares? You're fidgeting.

Marquiares: Well, you see... The quadrennial gathering of the Supreme Supernal Council is happening right now.

Vyrn: There you go again with that super-null stuff!

Lyria: The Supreme Supernal Council... Sounds impressive!

Marquiares: That's right, dear. The greatest sorcerers the sky has to offer, all gathered under one roof.

Lyria: Wow... Where is it held? Is it far away? We'll have to hurry if we want to make it in time!

Marquiares: Not quite. The council doesn't meet. Not physically.

Lyria: Huh? Didn't you say they gathered under a roof?

Marquiares: A supernal roof, dear. By projecting our consciousnesses into our supernal forms, we are able to communicate on a higher plane of existence.

Marquiares: We may be invisible to each other, but it allows us to converse across vast distances... and even time itself on occasion.

Vyrn: Sounds fishy. Like all this other supernal junk you talk about.

Lyria: Hee hee... It's a pretty interesting story though!

Marquiares: With that in mind... I will now embark on my trip to the supernal plane.

Marquiares: My movements may become slightly labored, but do not be alarmed. I am whole in body and mind.

Vyrn: Hold on! My danger alarms are going off loud and clear!

Marquiares: If I may. Supernal projection is an advanced technique accessible only to sorcerers who have undergone rigorous mental training.

Marquiares: Were someone inexperienced to attempt this exercise, their subconscious would become lost in the supernal plane never to return. Not something to attempt lightly.

Vyrn: I don't think anyone's planning on copying you, gramps.

Vyrn: And more importantly we don't want you accidentally exploding aga—

Marquiares: Snore...

Vyrn: What!

Vyrn: Geez, all that fancy talk just to say he's gonna take a nap!

As Vyrn says this, unruly voices come booming through the restaurant.

???: We are the Holy Sky Empire Black Dragon Vanguard! All citizens who live under the emperor's divine protection, take heed!

Strange Soldier: We are the Holy Sky Empire Black Dragon Vanguard! All citizens are to prepare their protection fees immediately!

Lyria: Wow... What an impressive sounding name!

Vyrn: I could have really done without another group of weirdos...

Vyrn: Hey, gramps! Wake up!

Marquiares: Yawn... What is it now? Can't a man attend his Supernal Council in peace?

Marquiares gets on his feet, tottering in front of the suspicious group of soldiers.

Strange Soldier: We are the Holy Sky Empire Black Dragon Vanguard! Do you dare stand against our great and holy emperor?

Marquiares: You think you control the skies? My supernal wisdom exists on a level incomprehensible to you fools.

Strange Soldier: Laughable! The Holy Sky Empire Black Dragon Vanguard is far stronger!

Marquiares: The great supernal arts are stronger!

Strange Soldier: Black Dragon Vanguard!

Marquiares: Great supernal arts!

Vyrn: I'm not sure it really matters, guys!

Strange Soldier: Shut up, shut up, shut up! You'd better take that back, old man!

Marquiares: Rgh... Gurgh!

Vyrn: You okay, gramps? You're lookin' pretty dizzy! Are you about to lose yourself again?

Marquiares: Hoowee... No sir... Just took in a little too much supernal energy, that's all...

Vyrn: This is bad... Hurry up and get out of here, gramps!

Strange Soldier: We are the Holy Sky Empire Black Dragon Vanguard! How dare you ignore us and flee!

Vyrn: We don't have time for you guys right now! Get outta the way or this entire place is gonna blow!

Strange Soldier: How dare you threaten the Holy Sky Empire Black Dragon Vanguard! Your insolence ends here!

Marquiares: Hurg... Gwurg... Hurb!

Lyria: Oh no! Just a little bit farther, sir! Hang in there until you're outside!

Marquiares: Eeeyooow!

Vyrn: Graaamps!

Supernal Shuffle: Scene 2

After dealing with the Holy Sky Empire's lackeys, Marquiares volunteers the party to remedy the ruffian situation. As soon as the crew arrives at the Empire's hideout, however, more foes appear to stop them.

Marquiares: Fweh heh heh... Sorry about that, folks! Just took in a little too much energy.

Vyrn: A little? We're always telling you to be careful with that stuff, gramps!

Lyria: That's right! You almost destroyed that entire restaurant!

Marquiares: Terribly sorry about that, dear. I just got a little carried away after seeing all those old friends of mine at the Supernal Council.

After defeating the strange militia group, the crew lets out a sigh of relief before speaking to the owner of the restaurant.

Owner: Thanks so much for the help, travellers. We had no idea what to do about those rowdy fellows!

Vyrn: Who were those guys anyway?

Owner: Sounds like they're just a bunch of thugs who took up shop in some nearby mountain ruins.

Owner: They call their little hideout something like the Skyscourger's Temple, but don't be fooled.

Vyrn: So they're just a bunch of thugs, huh? Sure would be nice if the local towns worked together to force 'em out.

Owner: You have no idea how much I'd like to do that, but...

Lyria: Is there a reason you can't?

Owner: The Holy Sky Empire has some kind of strange power at their disposal which they seem to draw from reading the movement of the stars.

Marquiares: The movement of the stars?

Vyrn: Whoa. That sounds an awful lot like your wheelhouse, gramps.

Owner: There were a few who dared to stand up to those ruffians, but they got their heads handed to 'em. Talk about a scary group...

Owner: And it gets worse! That Skyscourger's Temple of theirs is located right on the main road between our towns!

Owner: We keep trying to get the other towns to work with us to stop them, but negotiations are always getting bogged down...

Owner: If only that annoying mountain wasn't there. But what's my complaining going to do?

Marquiares: If it's all right with you, dear sir, I don't suppose you'd let me handle this?

Owner: You can't be serious! Are you going to take out those goons for us? There's nothing I'd like to see more, of course, but...

Vyrn: Heh heh, don't worry! (Captain)'s the leader of a crew of skyfarers!

Lyria: Just leave it to us. We'll get rid of all those bad guys for you!

(Captain) and the crew take the nearby mountain path to the Skyscourger's Temple.

As soon as they arrive, however, Marquiares begins whimpering like a child.

Marquiares: Vyrn... Lyriaaa... Can I go to the Supernal Council again? Pleeaase?

Vyrn: But we just got here!

Lyria: That's right. We need to get rid of the bad guys in the temple first!

Marquiares: Snore...

Vyrn: Nooooo! Gramps! Wake up!

Strange Soldier: We are the Holy Sky Empire White Hawk Elite! You dare to challenge us, foolish barbarians?

Vyrn: Ack! More weirdos! And more stupid names!

Strange Soldier: We are the Holy Sky Empire White Hawk Elite! We got word of your exploits from the Black Dragon Vanguard!

Strange Soldier: We are the Holy Sky Empire White Hawk Elite! We, the mightiest forces the Empire has to offer, will smash you to bits!

Vyrn: We get it! You don't have to keep repeating your name!

Vyrn: And wait a sec... Aren't you the same guy from before?

Strange Soldier: Grk!

Vyrn: Yup! No doubt about it! It's the same Black Dragon doofuses we beat up before!

Strange Soldier: Lies! We're the toughest squad around! The Holy Sky Empire White Hawk Elite! The Holy Sky Empire White Hawk Elite!

Vyrn: I think I'm gonna need a nap after this.

That's when Marquiares opens his eyes.

Marquiares: Yawn... Sorry about that, everyone.

Lyria: Sir!

Marquiares: Been a while since I had a chance to enjoy a good chess game. Estarriola still has some fight in him after all these years.

Vyrn: Am I supposed to know who that is?

Marquiares: Hoowee! You don't know of the great Estarriola? He's one of the supreme sages, a true—

Vyrn: Don't care! Hurry up and teach these guys a lesson already!

Marquiares: Hoowee... Are you asking me to use one of my... eruptions?

Vyrn: Sure! Just make 'em go kaboom like you usually do!

Marquiares: Well, if you insist. And a one, and a two...

Marquiares: Eeeyooow!

Supernal Shuffle: Scene 3

A strange, ghostly old man appears before Marquiares and explains that he once tried to master the supernal arts but failed. He begs the party to stop the group calling itself the Holy Sky Empire from misusing his research to dastardly ends.

Marquiares: Fweh heh heh... Do your worst! There are more explosions and eruptions where that came from.

Vyrn: Heh heh, you're sounding pretty cocky there, gramps! Can't deny that you saved our butts this time though.

Senior Citizen: Yes. I am truly in your debt.

Vyrn: Waaait a sec! Another old timer showing up all of a sudden?

Senior Citizen: Terribly sorry for the intrusion. I have been guided here by the twinkling of the supernal spirits.

Senior Citizen: And there can be no mistake. The radiance I sense around you can belong to none other than a tremendously powerful sorcerer.

Marquiares: Indeed. I am Marquiares, sorcerer supreme, he who opens the doorway to the great supernal plane.

Vyrn: Um, gramps? Could you maybe keep that stuff on the down low?

Lyria: He might get the wrong idea...

Senior Citizen: I thought as much! To tell you the truth, I too was a sorcerer who sought the supernal!

Vyrn: What the? He's another pal of yours?

Marquiares: Oh? What a delightful coincidence. What name do you go by?

Senior Citizen: No, it's not. I am but a pitiful wizard who attempted to open the supernal door... and failed. I don't deserve to be remembered by you.

Marquiares: What is this pity for? Hold your head high! Precious few ever so much as realize the supernal's existence!

Marquiares: That you managed the feat and dared to give chase is something to be proud of. Speak your name knowing full well that you are our ally in mind and spirit.

Senior Citizen: I appreciate the kind words... But I, having long since given up sorcery, do not deserve such esteem.

Senior Citizen: History has long since forgotten my name. I am now nothing but a fool known as the Holy Sky Emperor.

Vyrn: Whaaa? You're the Holy Sky Emperor?

Lyria: I don't believe it... You're such a nice old man. How can you be the leader of those bad guys?

Senior Citizen: I beseech you. They use the fruits of my labor for evil. Make them see the error in their ways.

Senior Citizen: And Marquiares... I want you to use your supernal powers to erase me and my wandering soul... from existence...

Vyrn: Whoa! He vanished? What's goin' on here?

Lyria: Oh no... What if he's a ghost?

Only Marquiares seems to know what's going on. He mutters to himself.

Marquiares: Something went wrong... and you ended up a wanderer.

Marquiares doesn't have long to reflect on the situation.

A strange man strides into the room. He's carrying something. Is this the fruit of the old man's labor?

Strange Soldier: Gwahahaha... We are the Holy Sky Emperor's last line of defense! The Holy Sky Empire Imperial Defense Force!

Vyrn: You're the same guys from before! Give up already!

Strange Soldier: Wrong! We are the Holy Sky Empire Imperial Defense Force!

Strange Soldier: And we have uncovered here in these ruins the great relic of the Holy Sky Emperor! As long as we have it, you don't stand a chance!

Strange Soldier: On your knees! Your lives are in the hands of the Holy Sky Empire Imperial Defense Force!

As he barks these orders, the strange man raises an unusual crystal to the ceiling.

In the next moment, it begins emitting an eerie light.

Vyrn: Humph! Whatever relics you've got, they're no match against gramps! He's the real supernal deal!

Lyria: That's right! Your plans are as good as foiled!

Marquiares: Fweh heh heh... I'll handle this one. I've absorbed plenty of supernal energy from my time at the Council today. Behold the might of a supernal sorcerer!

Marquiares: Eeeyooow!

Supernal Shuffle: Scene 4

Marquiares uses a supernal eruption to blow away the Holy Sky Empire's home base... and the entire mountain range with it. The spectre of the old man appears one last time to express his thanks before vanishing; the crew realizes Marquiares was telling the truth about his powers.

Strange Soldier: Waargh! My mountain! My dreams! The Skyscourger's Temple! You blew 'em up!

Vyrn: Gramps! You didn't just blow away the temple, but the whole mountain too!

Marquiares: Hoowee... I've really done it this time. The guy back at the village said he wanted it gone, right? Should be fine.

Lyria: No it isn't! You can't just change the entire face of an island!

Lyria: Eeek!

Senior Citizen: That was most splendid, Lord Marquiares. And with any luck, no one will misuse my research ever again.

Marquiares: So it's as I suspected. That research of yours turned you into a supernal wanderer...

Senior Citizen: Though it pains me to admit it, yes. I attempted supernal projection, but my lack of experience cost me dearly. As you can see, only my spirit remains.

Senior Citizen: But by blasting my physical form away with your supernal eruption, I am now free to pass on to the next plane of existence.

Senior Citizen: Marquiares, supernal sorcerer supreme... I thank you... from the bottom of my heart.

Vyrn: Sorry for doubting you before, gramps.

Lyria: We're really sorry, sir.

Marquiares: Hoowee... Don't worry about it, dear. Never bothered me one bit!

Marquiares: More importantly... Mind if I check back in on the Supernal Council again?

Vyrn: You're not going back there! If you make things go boom again, the whole island's going down!

Lyria: We have no choice but to put you on supernal lockdown!

Marquiares: Come on, dear. Just a little bit? Pretty please with a cherry on top?

Lyria: No! Absolutely not! No ifs, ands, or buts!

Marquiares: Snore...

Lyria: Sir!

Whether fact or flight of fancy, the elderly mage Marquiares claims to manipulate so-called supernal power.

Slowly but surely the crew begins to believe in the glorious, heavenly might spoken of by this diminutive old wizard.

But perhaps it will be some time before the rest of the skies follow suit.

Back to top

Swaying the Sages

Marquiares uses his supernal powers to cheat during a chess match with Estarriola in the supernal plane, earning a scolding from his old friend. His heightened senses then cause him to accidentally overhear that the crew is arranging a surprise birthday party for him.

On a tranquil afternoon, Marquiares lies snoring softly in a corner of the Grandcypher's deck.

Marquiares: Snore...

Vyrn: So this is where that old-timer went off to. Should've known he'd be snoozin' away in some random spot again!

Lyria: Now's our chance! Let's get things ready as quietly as we can so we don't wake him up!

To (Captain) and the crew, the senior appears to be enjoying an ordinary midday nap.

But far from simply sleeping, he is in fact currently engaged in supernal projection.

Marquiares: Whoohoo!

What does such a technique entail?

Marquiares: By projecting our consciousnesses into our supernal forms, we are able to communicate on a higher plane of existence.

Marquiares: The supernal form may be invisible, but it allows us to converse across vast distances... and even time itself on occasion.

Through supernal projection, Marquiares has projected his consciousness into the supernal plane.

He sits across a chessboard from his old friend Estarriola, who has similarly journeyed from his own room on the airship.

Marquiares: Fweh heh heh. This game will be the deciding factor. You are aware of that, aren't you?

Estarriola: Hum, hum... Listen to you acting so high and mighty. Don't expect any sympathy from me if you make a bad move.

Marquiares: Hoowee... That's my line.

Marquiares: All right then. Let's have a fair match!

Following this fiery exchange, the chess match begins. However...

Estarriola: Snooore... You took the bait.

Marquiares: Wha!

Marquiares: The Von Popiel Gambit? I wasn't prepared for such an aggressive strategy. You really outfoxed me!

Estarriola: Hum... Is your mind slipping with age? Like I always say, chess is as much about mental cunning as it is tactical planning.

Having fallen prey to Estarriola's scheme, Marquiares finds himself forced into a disadvantage.

Marquiares: (He plays the game like a true magician. But the match has only just begun. No need to fret...)

Marquiares: Let's see... Hrm?

Marquiares: (There's no question about it. I'm not just in a tight spot here—I'm about to be checkmated!)

Estarriola: My, my. You certainly are taking your sweet time. At this rate, I might actually doze off waiting for you to make a move.

Estarriola: Snooore...

Inundated with the sound of Estarriola's louder-than-usual snoring, Marquiares becomes increasingly flustered.

Marquiares: (Hrgh... Calm down, this is just another one of his mind games. Don't let him get to you...)

He stares down at the chessboard, searching desperately for a way to turn the tide.

However, every potential move leads to a single outcome—checkmate.

Marquiares: (Ahh... It's hopeless...)

Feeling a pang of guilt as he watches his friend's peacefully sleeping figure, Marquiares comes to a decision.

Marquiares: (Huff, huff... Forgive me, Estarriola. But I can't roll over and accept a losing record!)

Marquiares: Hrnnngh!

Harnessing the grand cosmic wisdom of the supernal plane, Marquiares sets his mind to work.

Suddenly, a path to a miraculous comeback materializes on the chessboard.

Marquiares: Eurekaaa!

But the moment he reaches for his chess piece...

Estarriola: Marquiares!

Marquiares: Bwah!

As the fierce battle rages on within the supernal plane...

(Captain) and the crew are hard at work setting up a surprise birthday party for Marquiares.

Vyrn: Gramps turns 228 years old today, right?

Lyria: Yeah. Though he said he's kind of lost track himself at this point.

Lyria: I hope he keeps on living forever, just like a primal beast.

Vyrn: Then we might not wanna surprise him too much.

Vyrn: We don't wanna give him a literal heart attack!

Lyria: Vyrn! Don't joke about things like that!

Marquiares: Snore...

Marquiares: That scared the fire outta me...

Estarriola: Using the supernal arts for chess is sure to get the ol' brain juices flowing. But where's the fairness in that?

Marquiares: Urgh...

Estarriola: And on top of that, you tapped into the supernal to heighten your senses at a most inopportune time.

Marquiares: Fweh heh heh... A surprise birthday party for me, eh? I feel bad for overhearing their plans.

Estarriola: Hum, hum... It's your own fault that you found out, so try not to spoil it for (Captain) and the others.

Marquiares: I wouldn't dream of it.

Estarriola: And now that you've uncovered a way to turn the game around, I can't allow things to continue as they were.

Marquiares: Hoowha?

Estarriola: The supernal arts belong to all sages.

Estarriola: Thus... I, too, will use my supernal powers without reservation.

With a sly grin, Estarriola employs his own supernal powers to confront Marquiares.

Swaying the Sages: Scene 2

Marquiares and Estarriola pause their game to reminisce about how they first met. While struggling to have the supernal plane recognized by a magic research institute known as the Acadium, Marquiares faced Estarriola in a street chess match, and their shared interests led them to become fast friends.

Marquiares: Nrrrgh...

Estarriola: Snooore...

The chess match between the two supernal arts users continues to drag on without a resolution.

Marquiares: Hurg... Gwurg... I'm going to end up with supernal sickness if this keeps up...

Estarriola: Now hold your horses. I don't want any eruptions happening here. Let's take a short break.

Setting the chessboard aside, the pair gaze absentmindedly up at the ceiling.

Marquiares: "The supernal arts belong to all sages," huh...

Marquiares: Those words of yours sure took me back.

Estarriola: Hum... How long has it been since we presented our argument to the Acadium?

Marquiares: Ah, yes... That was back when our skin was still plump and youthful.

Marquiares had gained access to the cosmic wisdom known as the supernal plane.

Recognizing its potential, he desired for all living beings to have the same access to its gifts.

The supernal arts appeared capable of not only sustaining and facilitating life, but also serving as fuel for the day-to-day. However...

Marquiares: If we want to advance our research further, we'll need more than just the two of us.

???: Hmm, you're probably right...

Practical application of the supernal would likely require the wisdom and efforts of many sages.

Marquiares deemed it imperative to have such scholars recognize its existence and agree to collaborate on the relevant research.

Thus, he barged into the Acadium, an institution comprised of sages who traverse the skies to pursue their research on magic.

Marquiares: The guidance of the stars speaks to nature and governs all creation. It is, indeed, what we refer to as the supernatural.

Marquiares: By harnessing the supernatural, we can reach that hidden place beyond the stars...

Marquiares: And fling open the door to the boundless wisdom of the great supernal plane!

Acadium Sorcerer: Marquiares... I understand that you have persisted in your research even after leaving the public eye.

Acadium Sorcerer: However, I must admit I'm finding the topic difficult to grasp, as it seems rather extravagant.

Acadium Sorcerer: This, er... What was it again?

Marquiares: Supernal plane.

Acadium Sorcerer: Ah, right. Does this "supernal plane" truly exist?

Marquiares: Of course it does!

Marquiares earnestly describes the supernal plane to all who will listen, but to no avail.

The Acadium dismisses his claims as mere fantasy and refuses to acknowledge them in any way.

Marquiares: Levitation that defies the concept of gravity... Agelessness that goes against biological law... Grand eruptions...

Marquiares: Regardless of the Acadium's stance, the supernal arts have enabled the use of infinite magic that drifts within a higher realm.

Marquiares: The supernal is, without a doubt, a revolutionary magical theory unlike any conventional magic known to this day.

Marquiares sighs deeply, recalling the face of his friend and research partner.

Marquiares: Oh dear... How am I supposed to break the bad news? I'm too ashamed to face him.

???: Heh. So who's going to be my next challenger?

Marquiares: Hrm? Challenger?

The senior peers down a nearby alleyway to see a crowd of people gathered around a chessboard.

Marquiares: Oh ho, they're betting on chess? Now this is intriguing.

Chess Fan: I'm even willing to offer a handicap. Whoever steps up can make the first move.

Marquiares: Excuse me, dear sir. I happen to have quite the passion for chess myself. Would you mind if I threw my hat into the ring?

Chess Fan: Not at all. As long as you can cover the stakes, anybody's welcome!

Marquiares: Fweh heh heh... Then let's have a fair match!

Marquiares proceeds to defeat the chess fan handily, as well as every subsequent opponent.

Marquiares: Come now. Is there no one left with the courage to take me on? My, how woefully dull.

Chess Fan: Kgh... I hate to admit it, but he's the real deal.
C'mon, folks! Isn't there anybody out there who can put this smug old codger in his place?

In response to the chess fan's plea, a small hand pops up.

Chess Fan: Oh, here we are! A brave challenger—

Estarriola: Snooore...

Chess Fan: He's asleep?

Estarriola: Hum, hum... Playing chess against a skilled opponent is perfect for exercising one's mind. I'd love the chance to challenge you.

Marquiares: ...!

Marquiares: (A deeply mysterious technique that allows communication even while in slumber...)

Marquiares: (Fweh heh heh... To think I would cross paths with the renowned sorcerer Estarriola here of all places.)

Marquiares: (But perhaps this too is fate. As well as a golden opportunity...)

Having served as a royal sorcerer from a young age, Estarriola is highly regarded even among the sages of the Acadium.

Marquiares is filled with determination, eager to outshine him.

Marquiares: Fweh heh heh... A more than worthy adversary. Let's have a fair match.

Estarriola: Haha. Don't go too hard on me, now.

Thus begins the battle between the two sorcerers, Marquiares and Estarriola.

Marquiares: Your move.

Estarriola: Hmm...

At the onset of the game, Marquiares appears to dominate the board with his aggressive strategy.

However, he soon gets caught in Estarriola's carefully laid traps and winds up driven into a corner.

Marquiares: (Urgh... I can't let it end like this. I must strike back... against the Acadium!)

Estarriola: Snooore...

Marquiares: Fwuh?

Marquiares: (Is he... sleeping in the middle of the game? No, this must be a psychological tactic—I won't be deceived. That sly dog. Grr...)

Estarriola: Yawn... There's no rush. Take your time to think it through.

Marquiares: Urgh!

Estarriola's offhand remark lights a fire in Marquiares's heart.

Marquiares: (Yes... We are sorcerers! Let's settle this fairly... using the power of magic!)

Marquiares: (Supernal plane, O great cosmic wisdom! Lend me a sliver of your power!)

Estarriola: ...

Marquiares: Fweh heh heh! This victory... is mine!

Using the wisdom obtained through his supernal powers, Marquiares devises a strategy and pulls off a stunning turnaround.

Chess Fan: Boy, that was quite a show. Thanks a lot!

As the crowd of spectators begins to disperse, Estarriola heaves a deep sigh.

Estarriola: Wasn't that supposed to be a fair match?

Marquiares: ...

Estarriola: Chess is a game of wits, where strategy and mind games are key. But gentlemanly conduct is no less essential.

Estarriola: And yet... what was that peculiar power just now? Was it magic, or something else?

Marquiares: Er, well... Since we're both sorcerers, I thought using magic would be fair...

Marquiares: Actually, no. This is merely my pride speaking.

Marquiares: I was thoroughly bested here today. Not only at chess but also as a sorcerer. Forgive me, Estarriola.

Estarriola: Snooore...

Marquiares: Again?

Estarriola: You know my name? Haha. You've made my day, Marquiares.

Marquiares: Wait... You've heard of me as well?

Estarriola: A lone sorcerer who has honed his craft in seclusion...

Estarriola: How could I not know of such a fascinating individual?

Estarriola: But I must say, that power you displayed earlier was perhaps even more fascinating.

Following this encounter, Marquiares and Estarriola continue to deepen their bond through the supernal arts and chess.

Swaying the Sages: Scene 3

After crafting a thesis and improving his rhetorical skills with Estarriola's help, Marquiares finally persuaded the Acadium to acknowledge the supernal plane and accept them as sages—along with a third collaborator. Following this recollection, Estarriola asks Marquiares how he initially discovered the supernal plane.

Estarriola: When a living creature returns to the bottom of the skies at death, their knowledge, energy—and perhaps even their very soul—remains.

Estarriola: All this is then drawn into the cosmos, where it transforms into a high-density spiritual energy that undulates in a ribbon-like manner. Is that correct?

Estarriola: The more I learn about the supernal plane, the more I am struck by the grand cosmic wisdom that it possesses.

Marquiares: My sentiments exactly! And yet the Acadium had the gall to brand it as some sort of delusion!

Marquiares: Harrumph... Just thinking about it gets my dander up.

Listening to Marquiares express his outrage, Estarriola furrows his brows in puzzlement.

Estarriola: I understand that you're irritated, but the achievements of the Acadium are not to be dismissed.

Estarriola: There must be some reason why they refused to acknowledge the supernal plane.

Estarriola: Hmm... Tell me, how exactly did you go about proposing your theory to the sages?

Marquiares: Well, you can imagine my excitement after making such a monumental discovery.

Marquiares: So I stormed into the Acadium and delivered the speech of a lifetime!

Upon learning the full story straight from the horse's mouth, Estarriola can't help but burst out laughing.

Estarriola: Haha... Ahaha. In that case, it's no wonder they dismissed it as wild fancy.

Marquiares: Hrm? Now, I take exception to that remark. What did I do wrong?

Estarriola: It's quite simple really. The goal of the Acadium is to enrich people's lives, correct?

Marquiares: Yes, just as it is mine!

Estarriola: But from what you just said, it sounds like you were more focused on showcasing the greatness of the supernal plane.

Marquiares: Oh, fiddlesticks...

Estarriola: Your fervor for the supernal arts is admirable.

Estarriola: But if you wish to convince the Acadium, you must present your findings calmly and objectively.

Marquiares: Urgh... If I could do that, this wouldn't be an issue!

Estarriola: As a passionate genius, I suppose objectivity isn't your strong suit, eh?

Marquiares: A-a genius, you say? Fweh heh heh... Please, I'm not that exceptional.

Estarriola: This is too big a task for one excitable old coot to handle. Let me give you a hand.

The pair resolve to advocate for the grand source of cosmic wisdom—the supernal plane—before the Acadium once more.

Deeming a written thesis indispensable to their objective, Estarriola works to extract every possible detail from Marquiares.

Along the way, Marquiares also receives rhetorical training to ensure that he can present objective facts without embellishment.

Marquiares: You can bet your bottom rupie that the supernal plane exists! I swear it on my life!

Estarriola: Hey! Don't let your enthusiasm take over. Remember—calm and objective.

Marquiares: Ouch... Sorry, got a little carried away. That's what happens when you're a passionate genius like me, I suppose.

Estarriola: (I never should have opened my big, fat mouth.)

With help from a patient and good-natured Estarriola, Marquiares continues to improve.

At last, he delivers an argument that deeply impresses the members of the Acadium.

Acadium Sorcerer: A logical explanation and practical demonstration. Not to mention this thesis. Why, it's nothing short of remarkable.

Acadium Sorcerer: Without a doubt, we have come to understand that the supernal plane does indeed exist.

Marquiares: Oh, you finally believe me! See? If I tell you the supernal plane is out there, then by jingo, it's out there!

Estarriola: Hey! Don't get full of yourself.

Acadium Sorcerer: The grand cosmic wisdom of the supernal plane... A force that could one day benefit all living beings.

Acadium Sorcerer: But as it stands now, few are capable of harnessing this power.

Marquiares: Whuh?

Estarriola: I agree. A novice could find it too much to manage and end up causing their own downfall.

Estarriola: Foolhardy sorcerers in isolation would be one thing, but in the worst case, it could impact the Sky Realm itself.

Marquiares: Ngh... In other words, practical use is unfortunately still a long way off. But someday...

Marquiares: I hope the supernal arts will be able to help treat severe illnesses and injuries, bring bountiful harvests, and provide fuel for daily life.

Acadium Sorcerer: For the time being, knowledge of the supernal arts will be shared only among the sages of the Acadium.

Acadium Sorcerer: That is to say, those of us here as well as the two of you—sages Marquiares and Estarriola.

Marquiares: M-m-me? I'm a... a sage?

Estarriola: Haha, looks like you've been accepted by the Acadium. Congratulations.

Estarriola: But I never expected to be made a sage as well. The Acadium truly is generous.

Marquiares: Er... If it's not too much to ask, could I make one more request?

Marquiares: There was another individual who assisted in this research on the supernal plane. I'd like to nominate him as a sage too, if possible.

Acadium Sorcerer: Oho, then we shall certainly have a word with him. Could you arrange the meeting, Marquiares?

Marquiares: Of course! Ahh, that's a sage of the Acadium for you! Already embracing new discoveries!

From this point on, meetings of the Acadium's Supreme Supernal Council are conducted via supernal projection, unrestricted by time or place.

Marquiares: Ah, memories. I relied on you so much back then—

Estarriola: Snooore...

Marquiares: Fweh heh heh... Nowadays, I don't even bother making a wisecrack when you're not listening.

Estarriola: Well then. I imagine your supernal sickness must have subsided by now.

Estarriola: Shall we continue our game?

Marquiares: Fweh heh heh. I'm ready when you are.

Immediately after resuming, the chess match is decisively concluded.

Estarriola: Aaand checkmate.

Marquiares: Wh-whaaat!

Marquiares: Eh? Wait, let me see... I don't believe it! I didn't even see it coming!

Estarriola: After a long, hard-fought battle, this makes win number 20,312. I finally have more wins than you.

Estarriola: Haha, I must thoroughly savor this moment of triumph. Snooore...

Estarriola had waited patiently for Marquiares to recover from his supernal sickness.

It was all part of a strategy to prevent his friend from suffering an eruptive outburst upon losing the game.

Marquiares: Grrrgh... To think I was outmaneuvered so easily. I'm so mad I could rip my beard out!

Estarriola: Mind games are a substantial part of chess, after all. Snore...

Marquiares: Mrgh... I hate to interrupt your victory celebration...

Marquiares: But please... Please, just one more game! Otherwise I'll be far too frustrated to take my daily nap!

Estarriola: Hum, hum... That does sound like quite the predicament.

Estarriola: Very well. I'll indulge you.

Estarriola: But under one condition. You must pinky swear not to use your supernal powers in the match!

After an intense moment of linking pinky fingers, the pair resume their positions on opposite sides of the chessboard.

Marquiares: Now then, let's have a fair—

Estarriola: ...

Marquiares: What's the matter?

Estarriola: Now that I think of it, I know a lot about the supernal plane...

Estarriola: But I don't recall ever hearing about how you discovered it.

Marquiares: Doho? Is that so? I thought for certain that I'd already told you the whole story.

Marquiares strokes his beard, thinking back to a time when his skin had still been supple and vibrant.

Back to top

Supernal Guidance

Upon noticing a dense mass of energy in the sky one night, Marquiares's consciousness was transported to a strange space, where he met a sorcerer sent from the War era named Bartolosso. The two decided on the term "supernal" for the phenomenon and set to work researching it together.

Marquiares lies on the sun-drenched deck of the Grandcypher, hard at work on his afternoon nap.

However, his consciousness is elsewhere in the supernal plane, engaged in a game of chess with Estarriola.

Estarriola: Now that I think of it, I know a lot about the supernal plane...

Estarriola: But I don't recall ever hearing about how you discovered it.

Marquiares: Doho? Is that so? I thought for certain that I'd already told you the whole story.

Marquiares: It was a long time ago. Back when my skin was still plump and youthful.

Marquiares: What a truly desolate village. But it certainly befits me as I am now.

Marquiares: In those days, I was what one might call a failed sorcerer, unable to meet the standards demanded by the Acadium.

Marquiares: There was no place for me in that prestigious institution, and I was looked down upon by its members.

Marquiares: Thus, I decided to leave the Acadium and settle in a poor, remote village with few people and inadequate medical care.

Bird: Chirp, chirp, chirp...

Marquiares: Oh, are you residents of this village too? My name is Marquiares. It's a pleasure to meet you.

Marquiares: Though I maintained a respectful distance from the villagers, I was happy to offer them techniques to assist in their daily lives when called upon.

Marquiares: It was an ideal environment to continue my magical research in seclusion. However...

Villager: Thanks to your magic, the soil's come back to life. Now we can grow vegetables again.

Marquiares: Ah, think nothing of it. I was able to test out a new spell and observe the results. A win-win situation, as they say.

Villager: When the vegetables come in, we'll bring you some. And if there's anything else you need help with, just say the word.

Marquiares: Hoowee, that would be wonderful. In that case, how about a round of chess?

Villager: Chess? What's that?

Marquiares: Wh-what! You've never heard of chess? It's a game played with a board and pieces.

Villager: Ah, a game... Sorry, but I've got fields to tend to and a family to care for. 'Fraid I don't have time for games.

Marquiares: Hmm... I see...

Marquiares: How unfortunate... Poverty truly does rob people of every form of leisure.

Marquiares: I'm not exactly looking for social interaction, but things do get rather dull on my own.

Bird: Chirp, chirp...

Marquiares: Fweh heh heh. Would you care to keep an old man company?

Marquiares: Loneliness grows more profound with age—quite naturally so. Still, I found solace in my new friends and my research.

Marquiares: Moreover, that village offered a perfect spot for stargazing.

Marquiares: Each night, I would gaze up at the star-filled sky... and it was those very stars that led me to the supernal plane.

Marquiares: Hrm... A red star thought to be an ill omen in the south. That foretells stormy skies ahead.

Marquiares: I should advise the villagers to cover their fields.

Marquiares: Oho. Serpens has moved quite far to the north.

Bird: Chirp, chirp, chirp...

Marquiares: Fweh heh heh, no need to worry. This particular snake won't attack you.

Marquiares: While looking up at the stars one night, I noticed a slight distortion.

Marquiares: Hrm? What's that, I wonder?

Marquiares: Something is making the right wing of Cygnus appear hazy... A nebula, perhaps? No...

Marquiares: ...!

Marquiares: Hoowee, what a dense concentration of energy!

Marquiares: Hrmmm... Is it spreading across the entire sky? Could this be a sign of things to come?

Marquiares: No... It appears to be relegated to one spot. But why there?

Marquiares: Spellbound, I stared intently at the night sky. That's when it happened.

???: Hey... Excuse... Do you have... moment?

Marquiares: ...?
What was that? A voice in my ear? No... in my mind?

Marquiares: I had been wholly focused on the cloud of energy hanging over the Cygnus constellation.

Marquiares: When suddenly, I felt my consciousness being engulfed by the haze, and a voice echoed in my head.

???: Ah, you heard me? Thank goodness. Are you a sorcerer too by any chance?

Marquiares: Indeed I am. The name's Marquiares.

Bartolosso: Oh, a fellow sorcerer! My name is Bartolosso.

Marquiares: Bartolosso... Who in the skies are you?

Marquiares: All of a sudden, that ever-mysterious phenomenon manifested itself.

Marquiares: It happened at the moment I perceived Bartolosso's voice, likely because we were on the same wavelength.

Marquiares: What! Where are we? Was that some sort of teleportation spell? No, that doesn't seem to be the case...

Bartolosso: Hello! Marquiares, I presume? I can see your form so clearly. I'm completely blown away!

Marquiares: Wha! Are you Bartolosso? This is absolutely astonishing!

Marquiares: It was an entirely surreal experience. My consciousness was suddenly transported to a strange space, and a person appeared before my eyes.

Bartolosso: It seems we're hovering somewhere with no ground. Is this space located beyond the night sky? Hm, that gives me an idea...

Bartolosso: Hngh!

Marquiares: Whuh!

Bartolosso: Whoa, I did it! I did it, Marquiares!

Marquiares: What is this place?

Bartolosso: A flower field near my village. I pictured it vividly in my mind, and the scenery changed to match.

Bartolosso: That aside, this is the first time I've connected with someone through this energy. It's quite thrilling, to say the least.

Marquiares: Hm? Hold on. Are you saying you were already aware of this energy beforehand?

Bartolosso: Yes—but just of its existence. I sensed your magic power while I was stargazing with my wife.

Bartolosso: Did you not know about it, Marquiares?

Marquiares: Grrrgh... No, I had no idea. It pains me to say that I only just noticed the fluctuation of the stars moments ago.

Marquiares: And then suddenly, I heard your voice.

Bartolosso: I see! So it's because you sensed the fluctuation that we were able to meet!

Bartolosso: Haha! My wife said this morning that it was sure to be a wonderful day, and it looks like she was right!

Marquiares: We then went on to share stories about ourselves—and let me tell you, I was completely taken aback!

Marquiares: A war has begun with the Astrals? Wait... You can't possibly mean...

Marquiares: The War?

Bartolosso: I don't believe it! I never imagined that you were from the distant future...

Marquiares: Hoowee... We're gazing up at the sky from the same place in the physical world, yet we can't see each other there...

Marquiares: Who would have thought it's because our very eras—our timelines—are misaligned...

Marquiares: After that, we talked endlessly, losing track of time. But we also established a few rules.

Marquiares: The most important being that I wouldn't provide any information about historical events.

Marquiares: Bartolosso then discussed his research on this peculiar energy, and we conducted various experiments together.

Marquiares: Oh ho, I see. It seems that in this space, it's possible to both share and manifest visual images.

Bartolosso: Wow, what a beautiful scene! Is this your hometown, Marquiares? It's magnificent!

Bartolosso: But it doesn't feel the least bit cold, does it? Come to think of it, that flower field earlier didn't have any scent either.

Marquiares: Hmm, indeed. So it only affects the visual, auditory, and tactile senses?

Marquiares: Even back then, Bartolosso never showed much interest in theories or logic.

Marquiares: But with his high sensitivity and natural intuition, he always grasped the essence of every question.

Marquiares: So what do you call this energy? You must have given it a name, if only a temporary one.

Bartolosso: I call it "star shimmer."

Marquiares: Fweh heh! That certainly sounds like a name you'd come up with!

Bartolosso: But it does come off as a bit too poetic, especially if there's a chance we'll present our research someday.

Bartolosso: If you don't mind, could you give it a name that sounds more academic?

Marquiares: Hoowee! Really? Then let's see... Taking your sentiments into account...

Marquiares: How about "supernal"? It's a word from a distant land that refers to the heavens.

Bartolosso: Supernal... The supernal! Yes, that's perfect! It has a great ring to it!

Marquiares: And so, we continued our research, developing the technique of supernal projection into the supernal plane.

Marquiares: It was immensely rewarding, and, well... just plain fun. Hence, I forgot one crucial detail—

Marquiares: The time and place in which Bartolosso lived...

Marquiares: Was plagued by the ravages of war.

Supernal Guidance: Scene 2

As Estarriola grapples with the news that their colleague resides in the past, Bartolosso himself appears before them, revealing that his new supernal-powered weapon is causing supernal energy to expand and swallow the sky. Marquiares and Estarriola return to the material plane to join forces with the crew against the threat.

Marquiares: Hoowha? C-come again?

Bartolosso: As I was saying, I want to convert the power of the supernal plane into a weapon.

Marquiares: A weapon? Hrm, that's not something I'd expect to hear coming out of your mouth.

Marquiares: I assume there must be some reason for this.

Bartolosso: The truth is, the war is intensifying all throughout the skies. And the other villagers asked me to help.

Bartolosso: Our village is charming and peaceful, but that's precisely the problem. We have no means to defend ourselves if something happens.

Bartolosso: A sorcerer's power is invaluable in war, which is why as much as I despise violence, I can't run away from this conflict.

Marquiares: Regardless of his desire to weaponize it, our understanding of the supernal plane was not yet sufficient for such a use.

Marquiares: Thus, we diligently proceeded with our research.

Marquiares: We made many discoveries, such as methods for power conversion, the secrets to longevity, and the effects of supernal sickness.

Marquiares: But you should already be familiar with that part.

Estarriola: Indeed. However... I see now.

Estarriola: The reason it took Bartolosso so long to join the Supreme Supernal Council was...

Marquiares: Precisely. His era is in the throes of a lengthy and relentless war.

Marquiares: I can only imagine the constant turmoil he must be facing. Perhaps even at this very moment...

Estarriola: My word... Even under such circumstances, he nevertheless contributed to the research of the supernal plane...

Estarriola: My hat goes off to him.

Marquiares: Bartolosso is a gentle soul—hardly the sort to be involved in warfare.

Marquiares: Amidst the ongoing conflict, he seems to find comfort in his research, as well as in the company of his wife.

Estarriola: I can relate.

Estarriola: But I have to say, it was rather cold of you not to inform me that Bartolosso was living through the War.

Marquiares: Oh, is that so? Though now that you know—

Estarriola: No, no, there's no need to swear me to secrecy—I won't breathe a word. That's why you confided in me, isn't it?

Marquiares: Hmm, who knows? Fweh heh heh!

Marquiares: Now then, enough reminiscing. Let's play another round—

At that moment, a strange sound suddenly echoes through the supernal plane.

Marquiares: Wh-what's going on?

???: Marq... res... Est... ola...

Marquiares: Bartolosso! Is that you?

Estarriola: Not only is his supernal projection unstable, but the plane itself is being affected as well. What in the skies is happening?

Bartolosso: Oh, thank goodness. You're both here! I take it this means you haven't seen the sky yet?

Marquiares: The sky? What do you mean?

Bartolosso: I've actually just completed a weapon that uses supernal power.

Bartolosso: But somehow it ended up causing the existing well of supernal energy to expand.

Bartolosso: The sky is now distorted by the proliferating energy to the point that anyone can see it. If this continues, it might swallow the sky.

Bartolosso: I'm sorry to ask this of you both, but I need your help...

Marquiares: How could you be so reckless! You promised to wait until we could fully control the supernal energy before creating any weapons!

Bartolosso: I-I'm sorry! But my beloved village, my home... and my family were in danger...

Marquiares: ...!

Estarriola: Bartolosso. Are all those things you care about still safe?

Bartolosso: Ah, yes. The completed weapon managed to keep the flames of war at bay.

Estarriola: I'm glad to hear it. In that case... what say you, Marquiares?

Marquiares: Yes, well... Bartolosso, you continue to protect what's precious to you! Leave this supernal mess to us!

Bartolosso: Th-thank y—

The communication via supernal projection is abruptly cut off, and the very fabric of the surrounding plane begins to quake.

Marquiares: The effects are reaching here too! We need to assess the state of the sky right away!

Estarriola: I'll be there in a flash!

Marquiares: Uuupsy-daisy!

Marquiares: The supernal energy is concentrated in the north-northeastern—never mind, there's no need to hunt for it!

Ending the supernal projection, Marquiares awakens on the deck of the Grandcypher and casts his eyes upward.

A portion of the sky is severely distorted, bulging like a transparent water balloon being inflated.

Vyrn: Hey, gramps! What the heck's goin' on?

Marquiares: Everyone... Look at that!

Estarriola: My, it's worse than I expected!

Lyria: O-oh no, the sky! What's wrong with it?

Marquiares: That is a mass of expanding supernal energy.
(Captain), it's too dangerous to keep flying like this!

We'll land the ship!

Choose: We'll land the ship!

Estarriola: Tell me, Arcarum beast. What do you make of that?

Temperance: ...

Estarriola: Is it possible for us to contain that vast amount of supernal energy?

Temperance: Yes.

Temperance: However, it continues to expand without any sign of degradation in its quality.

Lyria: Um... What does that mean?

Estarriola: Well... take a balloon or a bubble, for example. Both grow thinner as they expand, yes?

Estarriola: But in this case, the supernal membrane seems to be remaining thick as it enlarges.

Vyrn: So if it bursts, the explosion is gonna be crazy strong!

Estarriola: Hmm... In order to diffuse the supernal energy before that happens...

Temperance: The optimal solution would be annihilation via equally potent magic. Next would be absorption, perhaps...

Estarriola: There are multiple options, then. In that case... Marquiares?

Marquiares: Not to worry! I understand. (Captain), you and the others stand back!

Marquiares and Estarriola attempt every possible means to bring the supernal energy under control.

However...

Estarriola: No effect.

Marquiares: Hrmmm...

Lyria: What if we borrow the power of a primal beast?

Estarriola: It would likely be swallowed up, or worse—it could cause the expanded energy to explode.

Vyrn: No way! But there's gotta be something we can do!

Marquiares: Now, now—take it easy. We'll handle this supernal fiasco.

Marquiares: There's still a way.

Vyrn: Really?

Estarriola: Marquiares, you don't mean...

Marquiares: Fweh heh heh... With age comes wisdom, you know.

Marquiares: I will absorb the supernal energy into my own body.

Supernal Guidance: Scene 3

Unable to find an effective measure against the expanding supernal energy, Marquiares makes a last-ditch effort by taking it into his own body. Though he manages to control the absorbed supernal power and disperse the energy with his newly evolved form, he still ends up suffering from his usual supernal sickness afterward.

Estarriola: Do you hear what you're saying? Don't be daft, Marquiares!

Marquiares: Come now. It's only by exploring every possibility that we can deepen our understanding of the supernal plane.

Marquiares: Don't worry. I'll just start off with a small dip. Hup!

As Marquiares raises his staff, the inflated surface of the supernal energy begins to effervesce, eventually transforming into a beam of light.

Lyria: Oh my! The light is being absorbed into his staff!

Marquiares: Hrrrgh!

Marquiares: (I'd expect no less from the supernal. The odds are rather against me here!)

Estarriola: Marquiares! Switch with me before you run out of breath!

Marquiares: Don't mind me! You young'uns stay there... and feast your eyes upon my magic eruption!

Marquiares uses his levitation technique to soar high into the sky.

However, his body is driven back to the ground, seemingly overpowered by the supernal force.

Marquiares: Oh dear... This is quite the conundrum.

Estarriola: All right, let me step in. If we go at it together, then maybe...

Marquiares: No. I must be the one to do this.

Marquiares: I'm sorry, everyone. All this after you went to so much effort to prepare my birthday party...

Vyrn: Wait, you knew about that?

Marquiares: Fweh heh heh... Didn't I tell you? The supernal arts are incredible. There's no hiding anything from me.

Lyria: Oh no... We can't let you do this alone! We'll go up with you—

Marquiares: No!

Marquiares: I take pride in having discovered the supernal plane and establishing the arts. It's my responsibility. And furthermore...

Marquiares: An old geezer like me could never dream of robbing the young of their future.

Vyrn: Are you tryin' to get yourself killed, gramps?

Marquiares: Fweh heh! I have no intention of throwing my life away. However...

Marquiares: There's no time for debating. Please... forgive me!

Lyria: Eep!

A burst of magic from Marquiares sends the crew flying into the distance.

Marquiares: ...
I should have known it wouldn't work on you.

Estarriola: Indeed. Now, let's tackle this supernal energy together—

Marquiares: Estarriola. Look after them for me.

Marquiares: The young need someone to guide them. Someone like you.

Estarriola: Ngh...

After taking in and evaluating every word behind closed eyelids, Estarriola eventually gives a small nod.

Estarriola: 20,312 wins and 20,311 losses. The lead in our chess duel is mine.

Parting words delivered, Estarriola quietly takes his leave, accompanied by Temperance.

Marquiares: Forgive me, everyone. I've lived for 228 long years. While I have no intention of throwing my life away... I'm prepared to lose it if I must.

Marquiares: Now then... I'd better be going.

Marquiares soars back up into the sky, his sights set on the supernal energy.

Marquiares: Parting with friends is truly painful... but it's all thanks to the supernal that I've come this far.

Marquiares: So perishing alongside it doesn't sound so bad.

Having drawn as closely as he can to the supernal energy, Marquiares raises his staff once more and resumes absorbing the vast amount of magic power.

Marquiares: Hrgh, my staff simply can't keep up. Thank you for your loyal service, my friend!

His beloved staff slips from his grasp, quickly accelerating as it plummets and then vanishes from sight far below.

Marquiares: Hnnngh!

Supernal energy flows into Marquiares through his outstretched palms.

Marquiares: Ngh! My arms... This is tough going!

The absorbed energy begins to expand, causing his arms to swell along with it.

Marquiares: It seems my body isn't compatible with the supernal after all. A pity indeed.

Marquiares: Not good... At this rate, the swelling will spread from my arms to my entire body, and I'll ultimately explode.

Marquiares: If only the supernal energy... could revert to its original state... through absorption and explosion...

Marquiares: Oh no... My head is starting to spin.

Marquiares: I... see birds flying... In the end... I never did manage to learn their language...

Marquiares: And I'm still behind at chess... Ending on a loss... is a bit irksome...

Marquiares: Stuck as a loser... Hmm... That's a bit... No, that's rather...

Marquiares: Hrm... Honestly, that's quite frustrating...

Marquiares: I want to understand the words of my bird friends. But even more than that...

Marquiares: I can't bear losing to Estarriola!

Bird: Chirp, chirp, chirp!

Pulling himself up with the last of his strength, Marquiares sees the old friends he spent so much time with in the past.

Marquiares: My friends! So that was you I glimpsed earlier! But why are you here?

Marquiares: Could it be?

His eyes dart downward to peer far below.

Whether by supernal guidance or coincidence, the Grandcypher sits anchored atop Table Mountain, where Marquiares once lived.

Marquiares: I see... Then I must protect your home as well!

Marquiares: Come forth, supernal! It's time... for an eeeruption!

Marquiares: Hnnngh! Rgh... Rrrgh...

Marquiares: Hurg... Eeeyooooow!

The absorbed supernal energy fuses with his own magic and courses throughout his body.

Marquiares: Fshooo...

Marquiares: This power... It's overwhelming...

Marquiares: Hngh!

Marquiares pummels the supernal energy mercilessly with his buffed-up muscles. The next moment...

Marquiares: Heh.

The energy that had been causing the distortion vanishes without a trace, revealing a clear, blue sky.

Marquiares: Fshooo!

Vyrn: ...!
Hey! You okay, gramps?

Marquiares: Hm?

Still hovering in midair, Marquiares looks down to see (Captain) and the crew leaning out of the airship and waving wildly.

Lyria: Is that you, sir? You look... different!

Marquiares: Heh heh... So you've noticed.

Vyrn: Whoa!

Marquiares: This form is a testament to my complete control and mastery over the supernal. It grants youth and longevity as well, you see!

Marquiares: I'm sure I'll never get supernal sickness again! Yahoo—

Marquiares: Hm?

Marquiares: Good heavens! My body's gone and shrunk!

Vyrn: Talk about a delayed reaction!

Marquiares: I thought I'd conquered the supernal... I thought I'd become all buff and strong... Bah!

Vyrn: Forget that! What happened to that supernal energy? Did you absorb it all?

Estarriola: Hum... The Arcarum beast detected that the saturated energy seemed to have fused with you...

Marquiares: That's right! I'm pretty sure it merged perfectly with my own magic!

Marquiares: And then I used my newfound bulk to punch the excess energy flooding the sky, like "Whammo!"

Vyrn: So is all that energy gone now? Look's like the sky's back to normal...

Marquiares: No, the supernal is still there. You can't see it, but it is—mark my words!

Estarriola: Good grief. Your explanations are just as vague as ever.

Estarriola: Here, Marquiares. I believe you dropped something important.

Marquiares: My staff! You picked it up for me! Thank y—

Marquiares: Urp!

Vyrn: Gramps! Your face... Don't tell me...

Marquiares: Hurg... Gwurg... This can only be one thing...

Marquiares: It's supernal sickness! I haven't overcome it after all!

Lyria: Don't erupt, sir! You have to hold it in!

Marquiares: Blerg... Now that's just plain unfair! Please, just one teensy-weensy eruption?

Bird: Chirp, chirp, chirp!

Seemingly drawn by the lively chatter, a flock of beautiful birds flutter down beside Marquiares, chirping as though to thank their friend.

Marquiares: Oh! I'm so glad to see you're all safe!

Lyria: Looks like the birds have come to celebrate too! Let's take a short rest and then get started on the birthday party!

Marquiares: My stars! I completely forgot.

Marquiares: Hoo boy... What a relief that my birthday didn't turn out to be my deathday as well.

Marquiares has surely evolved from the supernal energy he absorbed.

But further research will be needed for him to completely overcome his supernal sickness.

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Side-scrolling Quotes

JapaneseThis is an official transcription.	EnglishThis is an official translation.
ぐぅ…ぐぅ…はっ、危ない危ない	Snore... Dearie me. Almost fell asleep there!
ちゅ、ちゅん、ちゅ…ああ、鳥が逃げる…	Coochie-coochie-coo... Agh, come back birdies!
ふぉふぉふぉ…	Fweh heh heh...
星辰の囁きに耳をそばだてよ…	Prick up your ears and listen to the whispers of the stars...
すまんのう…つい吸い過ぎてな…	Terribly sorry. I took in a little too much energy.
ほえ～ええ天気じゃのう	Hoowee... This is some nice weather right here.
あるんじゃよ…確かにあるんじゃよ…	The supernal is all around us...
すまんのう…いつもいつも…	Terribly sorry for all the trouble...
(主人公)殿、爆裂してもええかのう	Mind if I let loose an eruption, (Captain)?
(主人公)殿、鳥の声がせんかったか	You can't hear the voices of the birds, (Captain)?

References

↑ Granblue Fantasy Official Blog Post, 新キャラクター紹介！「マルキアレス」「ヘリヤ」
↑ Cygames, Inc. (2018). GRANBLUE FANTASY GRAPHIC ARCHIVE IV.

[1] Granblue Fantasy Official Blog Post, 新キャラクター紹介！「マルキアレス」「ヘリヤ」

[2] Cygames, Inc. (2018). GRANBLUE FANTASY GRAPHIC ARCHIVE IV.

[1]

[2]

Marquiares/Lore

Contents

Official Profile

Background

Events

Trivia

Etymology

Special Cutscenes

Fate Episodes

Opening the Supernal Door

Supernal Shuffle

Supernal Shuffle: Scene 2

Supernal Shuffle: Scene 3

Supernal Shuffle: Scene 4

Swaying the Sages

Swaying the Sages: Scene 2

Swaying the Sages: Scene 3

Supernal Guidance

Supernal Guidance: Scene 2

Supernal Guidance: Scene 3

Side-scrolling Quotes

References

Navigation menu

Marquiares/Lore

Official Profile

Background

Events

Trivia

Etymology

Special Cutscenes

Fate Episodes

Opening the Supernal Door

Supernal Shuffle

Supernal Shuffle: Scene 2

Supernal Shuffle: Scene 3

Supernal Shuffle: Scene 4

Swaying the Sages

Swaying the Sages: Scene 2

Swaying the Sages: Scene 3

Supernal Guidance

Supernal Guidance: Scene 2

Supernal Guidance: Scene 3

Side-scrolling Quotes

References

Navigation menu

Search