Ramen Travels with Cassius/Story

From Granblue Fantasy Wiki
Jump to navigation Jump to search
  Event   Story   Gallery    

Island l 78540.jpg

Stamp16.png Spoiler Alert!
These tabs contain full Event cutscene scripts with major spoilers about the plot and characters. View these tabs at your own discretion.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Opening

After their battle against the moon's Central Axis, the ex-Society members are finally enjoying some time off. Cassius takes this opportunity to visit different ramen shops. He eventually discovers that many delicious restaurants are adorned with stars, thus spurring him on a new journey to seek out places that possess these stars. He hears of a one-star food stand called "Delicacy Den" and goes in search of it.



A battle once took place between the Society and Central Axis, which led to a fierce clash between the moon and the skies.
With the support of many friends who fought alongside, (Captain) was able to defend the skies from the clutches of the moon.
After their victory, each of the warriors decided to take some time off to recover from the long battle.
As did a certain traveler—or rather, returnee.
Cassius: ...
Cassius: (Delicious.)
Cassius: (So this is what they call "miso ramen." If I remember correctly, miso is a product made from fermented grain.)
Cassius: (Within the sweetness of the miso is a fragrant hint of... seafood.)
Cassius: (The creamy texture is from... a dairy product. Yes, butter. An exquisite balance of flavor.)
Cassius: (For reasons unknown, this brings the handy-dandy engineer and (Captain) to mind. Perhaps it is the peace of mind this gentle taste of miso brings.)
Cassius: (Heh... Fascinating.)
Cassius has been spending his time going around to a number of famous ramen shops.
This visit marks the tenth restaurant on his list. Though there were a few that didn't quite satisfy him, overall, most have been able to impress the curious gourmet thus far.
Cassius: ...
Cassius: (Spending quiet days and enjoying what I like, however much I like, is an incredible luxury.)
Cassius: (Our past battle with the moon almost feels like a dream.)
Cassius: Nom...
Cassius: (Ahh... So delic—)
Customer: Delicious!
Customer: This is delicious, Chef! There's something about this ramen and fried rice that's just so heartening!
Cassius: (Exactly what I was thinking.)
Customer: What can I say! This shop definitely deserves the one-star!
Chef: Haha. Tryin' to bribe me with compliments, eh? Well, you've earned yourself some extra pork belly.
Cassius: (Pork belly...)
Cassius: (And he mentioned something about a "one-star." What is this "star" he spoke of?)
Cassius scans his surroundings and spots a large star gracing one of the walls.
Cassius: (I recall seeing this star somewhere before.)
Cassius: (Yes... There was also a similar one at the tsukemen shop yesterday, and one at the restaurant I visited the day before that.)
Cassius: (Could it be that reputable restaurants are all labeled with these stars?)
Cassius: (I see. Assuming I'm understanding this correctly, if I search for these stars...)
Cassius: (That should lead me to shops that serve top-quality ramen.)
Cassius: (Since I have the time now, I should take this opportunity to travel far and wide in search of these stars.)
Customer: Now that you've got your one-star, Chef, you won't need to worry 'bout your place going out of business!
Chef: Nuh-uh, can never let my guard down.
Chef: Slack off for a split second and some other place with stars might snatch my customers.
Chef: To give an example, you've heard of the one-star "Delicacy Den," right?
Customer: Oh yeah, the mysterious food stand that appears at unexpected places, right? I hear it usually shows up near the back of the woods.
Cassius: (I see.)
Cassius: ...
Cassius: Thank you for the food—it was extremely gratifying. I'd like to pay my bill.
Chef: Haha, glad to hear!
Wait a second...
Chef: You're putting down way too much! Half of this'll be more than enough!
Cassius: Take it. I believe this to be justifiable compensation for the delicious ramen and information.
Chef: I-information?
Cassius: I'm looking forward to next time.
Cassius: Whew. It appears this will be quite an enjoyable trip.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 1: The Meaty One-Star - Episode 1

Cassius locates Delicacy Den, tucked away in a forest, where Lyria, Threo, and Amira are enjoying some meat dishes. Cassius orders a bowl of ramen, but the chef, Elmelaura, tells him that they are out of ingredients. When Elmelaura decides to go and hunt for some fresh ingredients, Lyria and the others offer to help.



Cassius asks around in town for more information on the so-called "Delicacy Den."
After narrowing down the current location of the food stall, Cassius proceeds to make his way into the depths of the forest.
Cassius: (According to what people have told me, the owner of Delicacy Den is known to hunt fresh ingredients for rare delicacies.)
Cassius: (Thus they stalk these nearly pristine woods, looking to obtain what the market doesn't provide.)
Cassius: (Hm... Delicacies fresh off the land. Something not so common in the city.)
Cassius: (Excellent, my stomach is starting to rumble. I should be nearing the stall...)
Cassius: (This smell that appeals to my appetite...)
Cassius: (The smell of meat.)
Cassius's stomach rumbles louder, as if in response to the inviting aroma in the air.
Cassius: (It's this way.)
Cassius: (No doubt about it... This is the Delicacy Den I've been looking for.)
Cassius: (Hm, and just as the rumors say, there's a star on the sign next to it. How exciting.)
Cassius: (Well then, I suppose I'll take a seat inside...)
Girls' Voices: Seconds, please!
Cassius: I know these voices...
Threo: Chomp! Nom! Mmm, this is sooo good! The meat's amazing, so soft it almost doesn't feel like I'm eating meat!
Lyria: All of these are really delicious! It's like I'm in paradise...
Amira: I want more more of this meat... Even the scent of it is mouthwatering... Amazing.
Cassius: ...
Cassius: (Lyria aside, I vaguely remember the other two...)
Cassius: (The Draph... is a member of the Eternals, a group of some of the strongest warriors in the skies. I believe her name to be Threo.)
Cassius: (And if I recall, the girl beside her is a traveler looking for a place called Helheim.)
Cassius: (That's right... I've seen the two on (Captain)'s ship before.)
Cassius: (I recall having heard they are exceptionally strong—of stomach as well as arm.)
Lyria: Nom, nom... Mmm!
Lyria: Would it be all right if I had a third helping?
Cassius: (Heh. But Lyria isn't falling behind either of them.)
Cassius: (I think I'll let them be. After all, the time spent eating is a blissful one. It would be thoughtless of me to disturb them.)
Cassius lowers himself onto a seat at another table and directs his attention toward the kitchen.
He notices a giant knife swinging from beyond the counter.
Cassius: ...?
Elmelaura: Oh my! I must say, you are quite the unexpected visitor!
Cassius: You're...
Cassius: Elmelaura, was it?
Elmelaura: That's correct! It is certainly an honor to have you remember my name, Cassius!
Cassius: I recall seeing you on (Captain)'s ship a number of times. However, I believe this is our first time conversing.
Elmelaura: It is! I did want to talk to you when I saw you on the ship!
Cassius: You've caught me by surprise. I didn't think this food stall would be operated by a personal acquaintance.
Elmelaura: This forest area is well-known for its rare ingredients, so I immediately came to collect some to use for my dishes!
Cassius: Your decisiveness is admirable, and your judgment appears to be correct, seeing how thriving business is for you.
Elmelaura: Thank you very much!
Elmelaura: Not to mention, the crew is here to visit today! I couldn't be happier.
Cassius: I admit that it's nice to be able to partake in a meal with acquaintances. I do enjoy it.
Elmelaura: Hehe, agreed!
Elmelaura: Oh, but I'm afraid that, today, we're already—
Cassius: (Now, let me order the ramen...)
Cassius: (Wait.)
The Girls: Nom, nom, nom!
Cassius: (They're devouring it so vigorously, the meat is all I can think about now.)
Cassius: (Then first, I will order the meat. I must try the meat delicacy for myself.)
Cassius: Elmelaura. I'll have the meat dish the three over there are having.
Elmelaura: Ooh, I'm terribly sorry...
Elmelaura: I'm afraid we're all out of meat for the day!
Cassius: What?
Elmelaura: I'm happy to say it was quite the popular dish. I would've loved to prepare some for you to try too, but alas...
Cassius: I-is that right... I... see...
Cassius: (How could this be? Does this mean I have to watch those three eat and endure this delicious aroma, only to have something else myself?)
Cassius: (The unbelievable number of empty dishes piled up on their table would explain the insufficiency of meat.)
Cassius: (It can't be helped. I suppose I'll order what I originally came to have.)
Cassius: Very well. Then I'll have the ramen.
Elmelaura: I'm... I'm very sorry! Unfortunately, the ramen is also sold out!
Cassius: ...!
Cassius: That can't be...
Elmelaura: My deepest apologies... We don't have any ingredients left for the ramen, you see. In fact, I was just about to close shop for the day.
Threo: Whaaat! You mean this is all the meat we'll get to have?
Amira: But I want to eat more...
Lyria: I think... I'm getting pretty full...
Lyria: Huh? Cassius? I didn't notice you there!
Cassius: It can't... be...
Lyria: Cassius? Cassius!
Cassius: A-ah, apologies. I was overwhelmed by the hunger, futility, and despair washing over me...
Elmelaura: Hm...
Cassius: I'll... come back another day.
Elmelaura: Wait just a moment!
Elmelaura: I simply can't allow myself to turn away a visitor who's been looking forward to my food!
Cassius: But if there are no more ingredients, refusal is an inevitable course of action.
Elmelaura: Unless we go out to get more ingredients!
Cassius: What?
Elmelaura: This area is a treasure trove of fresh ingredients! I'll go get some right now!
Elmelaura: And then I'll make the most delicious bowl of ramen you've ever tasted!
Cassius: Oho!
Threo: Ooh! Going hunting, huh? Me too, I'll come with you!
Threo: I'm still feeling pretty hungry, so I'll help hunt for ingredients!
Amira: You mean I can have more of that meat? Then I'll help too.
Lyria: Oh, um... I might not be able to do much with hunting, but I'd like to help with what I can too!
Gran is the Main Character

Lyria: Besides, then I can tell (Captain) and Vyrn all about it after!
Djeeta is the Main Character

Lyria: Besides, then I can tell (Captain) and Vyrn all about it after!
Cassius: Hunting...
Cassius: I have never had the experience of gathering ingredients before.
Cassius: I'm curious about it. I will go too.
Elmelaura: Much appreciated! I promise I will prepare the most scrumptious bowl of ramen for all of you!
Elmelaura: All right, let's get going then, shall we?
The Three: Yeah!
Cassius: (It appears hope is yet to be lost.)

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 1: The Meaty One-Star - Episode 2

Elmelaura impresses Cassius and the others with her hunting skills. After hunting for some time, however, she realizes they are still far from having enough ingredients to make the ramen. Elmelaura is left puzzled until she catches a waft of something in the air.



Rabbit Monster: ...
Threo: Are we still waiting? Can't we just go with this one?
Elmelaura: Not yet. Just wait a little longer...
Rabbit Monsters: ...
Amira: Meat! A lot of it came!
Elmelaura: Now, Threo! Amira! Lyria!
Lyria: G-got it!
The Four: Shoo! Shoo!
Rabbits: ...!
Elmelaura: Cassius!
Cassius: Understood.
Rabbits: ...!
Threo: Whoooa! That's a big catch!
Amira: Good that we waited. Why're so many of them here?
Elmelaura: This is a watering place for monsters. A lot of them come here around this time!
Threo: So that's what you were doing... You were waiting for a bunch of them to gather.
Elmelaura: Indeed! It's easy enough catching just one of them, but I wanted several!
Elmelaura: Also, wind rabbits tend to run to higher ground when chased!
Lyria: Ohh. So that's why they all ran up to where Cassius was waiting.
Cassius: Fascinating. The rabbits have a most curious tendency.
Elmelaura: Hehe. Now, off to the next one!
Threo: Here we are, hiding in wait again... Is this another watering place?
Elmelaura: Hmm... My intuition tells me that a large monster should be around here!
Lyria: Your intuition?
Elmelaura: You shouldn't look down on intuition. It's the very inspiration for acquiring knowledge and experience!
Elmelaura: If my intuition is right, we just might be able to find something very special...
Amira: What was that shiny thing you set up earlier?
Elmelaura: Shh, please keep quiet! What I prepared earlier is about to come into play!
Griffin: ...!
Cassius: A griffin.
Elmelaura: We've snared a big one! Let's go!
Threo: Haaah!
Griffin: ...!
Cassius: What type of contraption is this exactly? How was the griffin lured to it?
Elmelaura: Griffins love shiny objects! The gold I placed here acted as bait!
Elmelaura: Once a griffin gets a hold of gold, its instinct to protect the gold kicks in and it stays in the same spot. That makes it easier to catch the griffin.
Amira: Whoa... I didn't know that.
Threo: I've caught griffin for food while in the forest before... but I guess I didn't know much about 'em.
Elmelaura: Usually I'd take the time to set up a trap...
Elmelaura: But since we have so many able fighters with us today, there wasn't any need for that! Catching it was easy-peasy!
Cassius: Interesting... Creatures of the sky never fail to fascinate me.
Cassius: Speaking of fascinating, that describes you as well, Elmelaura.
Elmelaura: Oh? Me?
Cassius: For example, your use of knowledge to supplement your small frame. You make an impressive hunter.
Elmelaura: Hehe. What an honor to receive a compliment like that!
Elmelaura: I learn things here and there from hunting for ingredients!
Elmelaura: Of course, I hardly compare to the knowledge and skills of professional hunters. I have nothing but respect for them!
Elmelaura: But that's only to be expected. After all, I'm a chef, not a hunter!
Cassius: I see... Heh. I'm looking forward to having the bowl of ramen even more than before.
Elmelaura: Your enthusiasm for my ramen makes me want to do my best as well!
Elmelaura: Let's keep up the good work and continue hunting!
Elmelaura: Huff, huff...
Elmelaura: That's strange...
Elmelaura: We should've caught more than enough by now. But looking at the ingredients we have, it's a lot less than I'd expect...
Elmelaura: Something is definitely wrong here...
Elmelaura: Sniff, sniff. This smell...
Elmelaura: Could it be?

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 1: The Meaty One-Star - Episode 3

As it turns out, Threo and Amira had been taking some of the ingredients and cooking them, along with Cassius and Lyria, who could not help but indulge in the delicious meat. Elmelaura puts a stop to their snacking, promising to make the best bowl of ramen with plenty of meat for them.



Elmelaura: W-wait a second!
Elmelaura: Just what do you think you're doing?
Elmelaura lets out a shriek.
What she finds behind her is Threo and Amira, cooking and devouring their fresh ingredients.
Threo: We're having a barbecue, since we've got all this meat! Your cooking's a whole different level of course, but this is pretty good too!
Elmelaura: Pretty good? You're using up our precious ingredients!
Threo: But we're so hungry! Just a bit won't hurt!
Amira: It's too sad not to eat all this meat... Having it here just made me even hungrier.
Elmelaura: So you've been snacking every time we managed to catch something?
Lyria: I'm sorry. I t-tried to stop everyone, but even I... Nom...
Cassius: I could not resist the pleasing aroma. Chomp...
Elmelaura: Dear me... No, it's my fault for making all of you wait for so long.
Elmelaura: I was so focused on presenting you with the most premium bowl of ramen, Cassius...
Cassius: I have no words to defend myself. It is true that I look forward to your ramen very much.
Cassius: However, I found my stomach rumbling uncontrollably as our hunting activities progressed. So when Threo made a proposal...
Threo: Well, you can't do much on an empty stomach!
Threo: Here, there's still a lot to go around! Eat up, Elmelaura!
Elmelaura: No, I'm fine! I still need more ingredients in order to make the best dish these skies have ever seen!
Cassius: What?
Elmelaura: I'd like to make a closer inspection of the ingredients and gather enough of them again, so it may still be a while though.
Amira: Right...
Threo: Leave the hunting to me! I'll have another pile of ingredients for you in no time!
Threo: Then we can snack a bit again, and then make up for that by hunting some more... We can keep eating the whole time!
Amira: Delicious idea.
Elmelaura: Delicious? More like disastrous! Resources are limited! If you keep eating them, the ecosystem will collapse!
Cassius: That is true. At our current pace of hunting and eating, the monsters will become extinct sooner or later.
Amira: Does that mean we won't get to have any more meat?
Threo: Oh, right... That's not good, huh?
Elmelaura: As they say, the best spice is a rumbling stomach. Wait just a little longer and I'll have that ramen ready for all of you!
Threo: All right, all right. We'll stop snacking and wait. Won't we, Amira?
Amira: Yeah... I'll wait. I think I can do it. Yeah.
Elmelaura: You say that, but you're staring hard at the meat. Can I really trust you?
Lyria: I-I'll stop anyone who tries to take it! Cassius can help me!
Cassius: Understood. For the sake of ramen.
Elmelaura: Please do. And I hope I won't find the two of you joining in on the snacking again.
Lyria: R-right, ahaha... I'm sorry about that.
Cassius: You can rest assured that I have already satisfied my hunger. I won't lay a finger on the meat.
Elmelaura: I won't be able to make the ramen if we don't have enough ingredients—don't forget!
Threo: Ack! No way...
Amira: No ramen would be awful...
Cassius: Yes. No ramen would be a dire situation.
Lyria: It'll be fine! As long as we don't snack again...
Elmelaura: My goodness...
Cassius: Elmelaura.
Elmelaura: What is it?
Cassius: I truly regret my snacking earlier. However, there is one thing I am curious about.
Cassius: I don't deny the fact that we snacked on the ingredients we gathered. However, there should have still been a reasonable amount left.
Cassius: But you said the amount of ingredients was insufficient for your dish.
Cassius: Just what kind of ramen do you intend to make?
Elmelaura: To put it in a nutshell... I want to make a theme park!
Threo: A... theme park? What's that again? Wait, is that even food?
Elmelaura: Hehe. As for what that is exactly...
Elmelaura: You'll find out when you have it!
Cassius: Heh... I see. Then I look forward to it.
Elmelaura: Good! So make sure you don't steal any bites of the food until then, all right?
Cassius: Understood. I will bear that in mind.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 1: The Meaty One-Star - Episode 4

Once they've collected enough ingredients, Elmelaura and company return to the food stand. Elmelaura makes her special "Lots of Monster Meat Ramen," complete with a mountain of meat on top of the noodles and served with a delicious soup. After learning that a group of men called the Ramen Musketeers have been giving out stars to high-quality restaurants, Cassius decides to head to a two-star ramen shop located on Sweets Island.



Once the five have finally gathered enough ingredients, they make their way back to Delicacy Den.
Elmelaura immediately heads to the kitchen and begins to cook.
Soon, a delicious aroma wafts across the food stand, tempting all of their appetites.
The Four: Gulp...
Threo: This... This amazing smell!
Amira: It smells different than when we roasted the meat above an open fire... My mouth's watering...
Lyria: I thought I already had my fill of food earlier, but this is making me want to eat again...
Cassius: Hm. I smell garlic, with ginger and onions.
Cassius: Pepper and a variety of other spices are being used. I also detect a hint of vinegar.
Elmelaura: That's correct! You have an incredibly keen nose, Cassius.
Cassius: I was merely naming what I thought I recognized. I smell many other spices that I am not yet familiar with.
Threo: Wow... You're incredible! You sure know your stuff!
Amira: Smells great... That's all I know.
Cassius: That should be enough. All that I know is what I learned from chefs and other customers when I visited different restaurants on my own.
Cassius: It's hardly anything to boast about.
Cassius: (As for the enormous amount of meat and other ingredients we gathered...)
Cassius: (I'm curious to see if they will go well with ramen. And what is this "theme park" Elmelaura spoke of before?)
Cassius: (Just what kind of ramen is she making? It's beyond my imagination.)
Elmelaura: It's done! I present to you, the "Lots of Monster Meat Ramen"!
Cassius: Th-this is the so-called... "theme park"?
Threo: It's meat... A meat mountain! Is this allowed though? Is it a "cooking" if it's just a pile of meat?
Amira: Gulp.
Cassius: So this is why you needed such a large amount of meat... I fail to even see the noodles at the bottom.
Lyria: Me too... Is this really ramen?
Elmelaura: It certainly is! Use your chopsticks to dig through the meat and you'll see the ramen soon enough!
Cassius: Ah... Yes, it appears there are noodles within the depths of this bowl.
Cassius: The question is, however... how to reach them.
Cassius: Gulp.
Elmelaura: Hehe. Just follow your instincts! No need to hold back!
Cassius: Instincts... Very well. Then I will take your advice.
The Four: Let's eat.
Cassius: Nom...
Cassius: (It strains credibility... Is this how meat tastes when it is cooked with the finest technique?)
Cassius: (The meat appears thick at first glance, but once I sink my teeth into it, it simply melts.)
Cassius: Wh-what?
Cassius: It's... gone? I bit into a slice of meat a moment ago, but it's disappeared.
Cassius: No... Wait!
Cassius: The meat was melting in my mouth, and before I knew it, I had already swallowed it.
Cassius: I don't believe it... It's too tender to be true. When we snacked on this same meat earlier, it could easily have been described as tough...
Lyria: The smell of the monster meat's changed too. It's not too strong!
Cassius: And that's not all. Different parts of the meat have been cooked to various textures.
Cassius: This part is extremely soft and easy to swallow, whereas this other part requires a little more chewing. It's as if I were eating a new dish with each bite!
Threo: Yeah! Elmelaura's cooking is like magic!
Cassius: Indeed. This dish is first-class. However, we have to remember that this is, in fact, a bowl of ramen.
Elmelaura: That's right! Next, try the meat together with the soup and noodles!
Cassius: (This is already impeccable as a meat dish... but what else awaits at the bottom of this bowl?)
Cassius: ...
Cassius: Aah...
Cassius: This goes beyond the description of "delicious," Elmelaura.
Cassius: The soup is light to suit the rich taste of the meat.
Cassius: The flavors of the soup and the meat are perfectly balanced, creating a new taste.
Cassius: The varying textures of monster meat, the gentle broth, and the tender noodles.
Cassius: So many flavors packed within a single bowl.
Cassius: A theme park... Yes, I can see the logic in calling it that.
Cassius: This ramen is a theme park of meat. And my taste buds are the guests.
Amira: Yeah... I could play at this theme park forever...
Threo: This meat theme park's amazing... I can hardly recognize the taste, even though I've had the same monster meat before.
Lyria: Yeah... This really is delicious.
Elmelaura: Hehe. Those are lovely smiles! Makes it all worth it!
Elmelaura: You can only get the strong, au naturel taste from fresh monsters!
Elmelaura: In other words, the dish was able to attain this flavor thanks to all of you helping me out with the hunt!
Cassius: You're too humble. This dish is a product of your fine technique and nothing else.
Cassius: Your restaurant deserves its one-star status.
Elmelaura: Status? Ohh, you came because of the star my food stand has earned!
Threo: Star? What's that about?
Amira: Can you eat it?
Elmelaura: No, you cannot. Do you remember seeing a star on the sign outside the restaurant?
Lyria: Oh, yes, I saw it! What does it mean?
Cassius: I am unaware of the details. But it seems all of the top ramen shops possess that star.
Elmelaura: Apparently so! I only just received this star so I don't know too much about it.
Elmelaura: Three rather strange men appeared one day and gave it to me.
Elmelaura: Let's see. I believe they called themselves... the "Ramen Musketeers."
Cassius: Ramen Musketeers?
Elmelaura: According to what I've heard from my customers...
Elmelaura: The Ramen Musketeers are connoisseurs who have tasted a vast number of ramen dishes, from one end of the sky to the other.
Elmelaura: It seems they're friends of the gourmet Savarin.
Elmelaura: There are quite a few rumors floating around about the trio.
Cassius: Hm...
Amira: And these people give out stars? Why?
Elmelaura: The stars are indicators of their evaluation of a restaurant.
Elmelaura: The most you can receive is three stars, but even one star will guarantee thriving business.
Elmelaura: On the other hand, if the three choose not to give out a star at all, the restaurant's reputation takes a plunge... leading to eventual closure of the business.
Lyria: Wow, that's a lot of power...
Elmelaura: In my case, business has indeed grown a lot since I received the star!
Cassius: I see... Hm, fascinating indeed.
Threo: But your ramen is so delicious... How is it that you only received one star?
Threo: Just what kind of places receive two or more stars? Do they even exist in these skies?
Amira: I doubt it. Elmelaura's place deserves more than a hundred stars.
Elmelaura: Just having you say that makes me very happy.
Elmelaura: But the reality is, there are many large and popular businesses who have only received one star as well.
Elmelaura: It could be that the stars are less an indicator of how delicious the ramen is... and more how well it suits the Ramen Musketeers' tastes.
Cassius: Their taste... It amazes me how the taste of three men can have such influence.
Cassius: Heh. I'd like to meet them for myself someday.
The Four: Thank you for the food.
Thank you for the food!
Elmelaura: My pleasure!
Cassius: (Now, which place should I head to next...)
Threo: After having that delicious ramen, now I'm in cakey mood! Got anything sweet back there, Elmelaura?
Elmelaura: Something for dessert? Hm, I only have some simple sweets available. Would that be all right with you?
Amira: I want some! Sweets!
Lyria: All of you are amazing... How can you still eat after that?
Lyria: Oh, but actually... I think I feel like having something sweet too... Hehe.
Cassius: Something... sweet.
Cassius: That's true. It would be nice to have dessert next.
Elmelaura: If you want something good to satisfy your craving, I recommend you visit Sweets Island.
Cassius: Sweets... Island?
Elmelaura: Many sweets from all across the skies are available in a single town on this island. If you visit, you can do a dessert tour... Oh!
Elmelaura: If I remember correctly, there's also a two-star ramen shop on the island!
Cassius: There's ramen too?
Elmelaura: Yes! Though I forget what type of ramen it is...
Cassius: That will be my next destination. Thank you for the meal, Elmelaura.
Lyria: You're leaving already, Cassius?
Threo: Yeah, you haven't been here for that long. Guess you really do love your ramen, huh?
Cassius: Heh. I would say that ramen has become an important spice for my everyday life.
A faint smile appears on Cassius's face. He pays his bill and steps out from Elmelaura's restaurant.
He begins to walk, imagining what kind of ramen awaits him at his next destination.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 2: The Sugary Two-Star - Episode 1

On Sweets Island, Cassius bumps into Beatrix, who drags him to a dessert shop to participate in an eating challenge. Cassius learns the concept of "always having room for dessert" from Beatrix, and the two continue to gorge on giant maritozzos.



Sweets Island—home to a town lined with shops appealing to all dessert lovers.
Cassius arrives at the town and begins to walk along the streets.
Cassius: A scoop of pistachio gelato, please. In a cone.
Gelato Shop Staff: You got it! Right now, we're offering a free scoop of another flavor for our customers to try! How about it?
Cassius: Oh. All right, then I'll try the tiramisu.
Cassius: No, wait. It appears you have ice-cream cakes as well... Fascinating.
Cassius: This chocolate cake looks delicious... but so does the strawberry cake.
Gelato Shop Staff: You can order half and half and put it together into one cake!
Cassius: Half and half? A delightful-sounding phrase... I'll have that then.
Cassius: Nom...
Cassius: (Tasty. The sweetness of the gelato is gently seeping into my tongue.)
Cassius: (Let's try the ice-cream.)
Cassius: Nom.
Cassius: (Ah... Delicious. Not too sweet...)
Cassius: (Hm, this shop sells macarons and tarts. My stomach still has plenty of space to fill.)
Cassius: I'll take the box of seven for the macarons, and a cheese tart. Wait—the crepe also appeals to me.
Cassius: I'll have a banana crepe too. With extra chocolate sauce and whipped cream.
Bakery Staff: Of course! I'm assuming this is to-go?
Cassius: Yes, though I'm planning to eat these as I continue exploring the town, so no need for wrapping. A simple bag will do.
Bakery Staff: Um... you mean everything here?
Cassius: Yes. Judging from my current stomach capacity, these should last until I finish walking around the entirety of the town.
Bakery Staff: I-impressive... I'll bag these up for you right away!
Bakery Staff: Thank you for waiting! Here they are. Enjoy!
Cassius: Thank you.
Cassius: Chomp...
Cassius: Aah... So delicious I can't help but let out a sigh.
Cassius: (I like this town. It has the latest pancakes, cookies, and desserts, all which I have never seen before.)
Cassius: (A place where there is an abundance of food available everywhere you go. It's practically...)
The Two: A paradise.
A paradise!
Cassius: What?
Beatrix: Huh?
Beatrix: Wha! Cassius? What're you doing here?
Cassius: Exactly what I look like I'm doing.
Beatrix: Wait, that bag you're holding...
Beatrix: Haha, so you're here to check out all the treats around town too! How'd you find out about this niche?
Cassius: I heard from a top chef that there's an excellent restaurant around here.
Beatrix: I see! It's crazy how we managed to bump into each other... This has gotta be fate!
Cassius: What are you scheming?
Beatrix: Scheming? Come on, why do you think I'd do that? Anyway, you like this town, don't you?
Cassius: Yes, very much. The number of top-class stores in this town appeals to me.
Beatrix: Yeah, same! They're not kidding when they say all the best dessert places in the skies are gathered here!
Beatrix: What if I told you that among all these amazing shops... there's one particular shop that's especially amazing?
Cassius: I would like to know more.
Beatrix: All right! Then let's head on over! When in doubt, just go for it!
Cassius: Wait. I didn't say I would go—
Beatrix: Don't worry about it! Let's gooo!
Beatrix: Heheh. Sorry I kept you waiting, Manager! Here's my partner!
Cassius: Wha?
Shop Manager: Oho, your partner, huh? So you're up for the New Dessert Item Eating Challenge?
Beatrix: Heh, you bet we are! Let's get started!
Cassius: Wait, I didn't hear anything about this. You told me there's an amazing shop. That's the reason I'm here.
Cassius: I did not anticipate an eating challenge.
Beatrix: Sorry, Cassius! Help me out here! Please?
Beatrix: I can't participate in the challenge unless I have a partner for it!
Cassius: ...
Beatrix: Besides, I wasn't lying when I said this is an amazing shop!
Beatrix: If we win this challenge, all the desserts will be free of charge, and we'll also get a special pass that'll let us eat all the sweets we want in this town!
Beatrix: What do you think? Sounds pretty awesome, right?
Cassius: You should have said that sooner.
Beatrix: Woohoo! So you'll participate in the challenge with me?
Cassius: If that's the reward, then I'll join.
Cassius: However, my stomach is already quite full at this point. I may not be of much help.
Beatrix: No problem! Worst case scenario, I'll just eat everything myself!
Shop Manager: Well, are you two done talking among yourselves? Then let the challenge begin!
Shop Manager: Ta-da! First up is the super maritozzo!
The shop manager brings out two giant desserts, so large in size they could almost be mistaken for boulders.
Sandwiched between two baked slices of dough is a generous amount of whipped cream.
Cassius: A mari... what? Never mind, forget about the name. This dessert's...
Beatrix: Humongous!
Beatrix: Ahaha. Look at this thing, it's gotta be bigger than my head!
Cassius: I'd be surprised just by one of them. Yet you want us to eat two?
Shop Manager: Nope, not just two. This is just round one out of ten—so you're going to have to finish ten helpings of these! Don't worry though, they're all different flavors.
Cassius: That is a highly illogical proposal. My stomach will rupture.
Beatrix: It'll be fine! I believe in you, Cassius! I just know you can do it!
Cassius: Do you never think about consequences?
Beatrix: Just give it a try! I'll go first.
Beatrix: Here I gooo!
Beatrix: Chomp!
Mmm! It's sooo good!
Beatrix: What's in this sauce? Raspberry? No, blueberry?
Beatrix: It goes perfectly with the whipped cream! I wanna try making this myself next time! Chomp... Nom...
Beatrix: Come on, Cassius, give it a taste! It's amazing.
Cassius: Very well.
Cassius: Mm, I'm surprised... This is good. Possibly the most delicious dessert I've had today.
Beatrix: See? Hehe, we'll finish these in no time.
Cassius: ...
Beatrix: Om nom nom!
Cassius: Ugh...
Beatrix: Om nom nom! Chomp, chomp!
Beatrix: Next!
Cassius: How many... helpings have you had?
Beatrix: Maybe eight?
Cassius: Impossible... I'm only on my second. Is your stomach constructed differently from the average person?
Cassius: No, wait. Threo and Amira were also big eaters.
Cassius: Women in these skies must be equipped with differently formed stomachs.
Beatrix: Nah, I don't think so! It's a lot more simple than that.
Cassius: What? You mean you have a secret to how you're doing this?
Beatrix: Hehe, that's right! A very special secret!
Beatrix: It's called...
Cassius: It's called?
Beatrix: Always having room for dessert!
Cassius: A room... for dessert?
Cassius: I've never heard of this room before. Is it a room located in a secret place that all skydwellers are aware of?
Beatrix: No! Haven't you ever heard people say that there's always room for dessert, even after a full meal?
Cassius: No.
Beatrix: Nom, nom... Anyway, that's what people say. It just means no matter how full you are, you can always eat dessert.
Cassius: I suppose I can understand the feeling. After all, I ate my fill of desserts as soon as I arrived on this island.
Cassius: However, it is a highly illogical idea. It's impossible.
Cassius: Is there more to that secret that you have yet to tell me?
Beatrix: Nope!
Cassius: ...
Beatrix: Wow! So good! So sweet! Time for seconds! And voila.
Beatrix: Before I know it, it's all gone. I'm pretty sure that's how everyone does it.
Cassius: R-really? Skydwellers are... such illogical beings.
Cassius: But... in order to overcome this situation, I suppose I have no choice but to test out your theory.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 2: The Sugary Two-Star - Episode 2

Cassius and Beatrix manage to get through the challenge. Zeta, Ilsa, and Gwynne arrive on scene, explaining that the four of them were on a "girls' day out" when they suddenly lost sight of Beatrix. Zeta and company take Cassius along with them as they head to the shopping mall.



Several minutes after the start of the eating challenge.
Cassius and Beatrix work through the maritozzos until finally...
Beatrix: We're done!
Cassius: Done...
Shop Manager: Wow, that was something to see! Great job! Here's your reward!
Beatrix: Woohoo! We did it, Cassius!
Cassius: Thanks to you, I've discovered that I, too, always have room for dessert.
Cassius: I didn't expect myself to be able to finish ten entire helpings.
Cassius: I see the body has illogical capabilities that go beyond my imagination.
Beatrix: Yeah! I don't really get it, but I'm sure you're right! Totally illogical!
Beatrix: All right! Now that we've got this pass, we can go around town and eat all the—
Zeta: There you are!
Ilsa: I swear... You better have a good reason for leading us on a chase, Hellcat.
Beatrix: Ack! This voice...
Ilsa: If you're going to play hide-and-seek, at least tell us first.
Zeta: Seriously, don't just disappear like that. Do you know how worried we were?
Gwynne: Well, I guess it wasn't that hard to figure out where you'd be though.
Cassius: What's this? You're not here by yourself?
Beatrix: Actually, no... Ahaha.
Zeta: We heard a lot of good things about this island, so the four of us decided to have a girls' day out.
Cassius: "Girls' day out"... Another phrase I am not familiar with.
Beatrix: Well, er... Basically, it's when girls go out somewhere to spend some time together.
Cassius: I see—a literal meaning. Understood.
Gwynne: Maybe due to all the tourists coming by, but this town apparently has a big shopping mall too.
Gwynne: We thought maybe we could enjoy some treats while doing some shopping here.
Zeta: It was Bea's suggestion to come, and now I know why... This is what you were after!
Beatrix: N-no! 'Course not! You know I wanted to spend time with all of you...
Ilsa: And your way of "spending time" is disappearing on us?
Zeta: Oh well... I'm sure Bea was thinking about us in her own way when she went off to eat all this.
Gwynne: What, really?
Ilsa: Is that true, Hellcat? Explain.
Beatrix: Huh? What?
Zeta: You got that all-you-can-eat pass so that we could eat all the desserts we want here, right?
Zeta: You weren't actually thinking of hogging that pass for yourself... were you?
Beatrix: U-uh...
Beatrix: H-hah! You bet that's what I was gonna do! I did this for all of you!
Beatrix: Y-you know, clothes and makeup and all that cost quite a bit, right?
Beatrix: So I thought we could at least save on the desserts...
Zeta: I thought so! Look at you being so considerate of us!
Cassius: Hm, I see. You did this for your friends.
Beatrix: O-of course!
Gwynne: (I don't know...)
Ilsa: All right... I'll give you the benefit of the doubt.
Ilsa: Well, just in case, I'll hold onto that pass.
Beatrix: Huh!
Ilsa: It'd be a tragedy if something you so painstakingly earned for us got lost, wouldn't it?
Cassius: A logical proposal.
Beatrix: Huh? Wha? Logical? I mean, it's logical enough, I guess...
Beatrix: Okay, fine... Here it is.
Rrgh... My precious all-you-can-eat pass... My dream of eating my way across town...
Zeta: Ahaha. Buck up, you can always do it another day.
Zeta: Anyway, more importantly... what's Cassius doing here?
Beatrix: I, uh, figured you guys deserved a souvenir.
Zeta: Oh yeah? That's awfully thoughtful of you. I'll take it.
Cassius: Stop it. I'm not a souvenir.
Gwynne: Whoa, this is what he has to deal with? Uh, are you sure we're not bothering you, Cassius? Did you have plans with Bea?
Cassius: I was walking around town and eating when I happened to come across Beatrix. Then I...
Cassius: Got kidnapped.
Beatrix: Hey, they're gonna get the wrong idea if you say that! I did not kidnap you!
Gwynne: Ah... Okay, I get it now. It's been a long day for you, huh?
Beatrix: Gwynne! What's that supposed to mean?
Cassius: It has indeed been a long day. But thanks to Beatrix, I now understand the concept of "having room for dessert."
Ilsa: The... concept of?
Cassius: Yes, a concept apparently known to all skydwellers. It implies that there is no limit to the amount of sweets one can consume.
Zeta: Oh... Bea, don't go teaching him weird things.
Beatrix: Heheh...
Ilsa: Well I'm glad to hear that, because it's time we stopped by a place for food—I'm starving after chasing down our runaway here. Let's go.
Zeta: Okay. Come on, Cassius.
Cassius: What?
Beatrix: You don't actually think we're gonna leave you alone after this, do you? You're coming with us!
Cassius: I believe you said this was a girls' day out. I am not a—
Ilsa: Stop nagging about the details. If it bothers you so much, why don't you try being a girl for the rest of the day?
Cassius: No...
Gwynne: Just give up, Cassius. Somehow I don't think there's any running from this one.
Cassius: (Why...)
Zeta and Beatrix drag Cassius along as all five of them head for the shopping mall.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 2: The Sugary Two-Star - Episode 3

After some extensive shopping, Zeta and company decide to take a break at a place called "Sweets Kingdom." As the women look over their new purchases, Cassius finds out that the two-star ramen he had been looking for is, in fact, served at this very restaurant. However, he is taken aback when he discovers the dish is called "chocolate parfait ramen."



Cassius: (Somehow I ended up following them...)
Ilsa: Hm, looks like they put out a new product.
Gwynne: Oh, this toner? I was thinking of getting it too.
Ilsa: This brand has my seal of approval. The price is reasonable for its quality.
Beatrix: Toner, huh? I've never paid much attention to what I use...
Zeta: You should really choose a nice one for your toner. It makes all the difference on your skin.
Ilsa: Don't forget your oil booster. Remember that rear support's what keeps the team strong and wins the war for you.
Gwynne: Great for dry weather too. Leaves your skin feeling so soft.
Cassius: ...
Beatrix: Look, Zeta! Isn't this outfit just so cute?
Zeta: Looks pretty good. But how about trying on some different colors from time to time?
Ilsa: Now that you mention it, Hellcat does lean on blue a little much. Switching things up could give you a new perspective.
Gwynne: How about the kind of red that Zeta likes to wear? Or would that not be your thing?
Beatrix: Hmm, I can't imagine myself in anything like that, but I'll try it on anyway!
Cassius: ...
Cassius: ...
Cassius: (This conversation is beyond my comprehension.)
Cassius: (However, there is one thing I know now. Shopping on a girls' day out is a long process.)
Cassius: (The purpose of my being here was to visit the two-star ramen shop. How did I come to be a part of this shopping expedition?)
Cassius: (Ramen... I suppose I will picture the ramen in my mind as I continue waiting.)
After an extensive time shopping, the five decide to take a break at a coffee shop called "Sweets Kingdom."
Cassius lets out a breath, relieved to have been released from the excursion—not knowing that the end has yet to come.
Ilsa: Hm, I ended up buying a lot more than I'd expected.
Gwynne: Me too... But these seem great, so I can't wait to use them!
Zeta: Yeah, especially all the cosmetics! I'm so glad we found so many good bargains.
Beatrix: I bought the cosmetics you said were good, Sergeant! I'll give them a try today!
Cassius: ...
Zeta: Why're you staring at the cosmetics like that? Do they interest you?
Cassius: What?
Gwynne: You wanna put some on? Your skin's great, Cassius, so I'm sure the makeup'll go on smoothly.
Cassius: Make... up?
Ilsa: If you're so intrigued, Chowhound, how about you give it a go? Scoot over here.
Cassius: Very well.
Zeta: Hah! That was easy.
Beatrix: M-maybe we shouldn't take this too far...
Cassius: Don't worry. It's true that I am interested. I would like to proceed with this experiment.
Beatrix: Oh yeah? Well, in that case!
Zeta: Let's give you a makeover!
Cassius: Is it done?
Ilsa: Yep, that should be good.
Ilsa: But, wow...
Cassius: ...?
The Four: ...
Gwynne: Oh my gosh. You look... amazing.
Ilsa: Here's a mirror.
Cassius: This...
Cassius: Isn't bad at all.
Zeta: It's probably hard for people to tell, but you sure do like playing with your appearance, don't you, Cassius?
Beatrix: And why not, he looks great! Partly thanks to my awesome makeup skills, of course.
Beatrix: Actually, I noticed something while I was doing your makeup.
Cassius: What is it?
Gwynne: Me too. Your face's a little rounder compared to when we last met.
Cassius: Really?
Beatrix: How should I put it... Like you gained a bit... Just a bit... of weight?
Zeta: I'm sure you'll lose it again in no time with your exercise. Besides, what's a little extra weight?
Ilsa: As long as it isn't enough to slow you down on the battlefield and get you killed, anyway.
Cassius: Hm... Did I gain weight? I haven't paid much attention.
Cassius: ...
Zeta: Um, why'd you go all quiet?
Cassius: Oh, I was simply thinking about the two-star ramen I have yet to visit.
Ilsa: Nothing can stop your appetite, huh?
Beatrix: Oh, the two-star place? The restaurant's right here.
Gwynne: This place? Isn't this a dessert shop?
Beatrix: See? It's written right here on the menu.
Beatrix: "Chocolate Parfait Ramen."
Cassius: What...

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 2: The Sugary Two-Star - Episode 4

Zeta, Ilsa, and Gwynne look on as Cassius and Beatrix partake in their chocolate parfait ramen. Cassius is pleasantly surprised at how well the sweetness of the chocolate suits the saltiness of the ramen. Afterward, Gwynne informs Cassius that Isaac had been wanting to take him to a restaurant that serves three-star ramen. Cassius immediately goes to look for Isaac.



Cassius: Beatrix. Read me the name of the ramen one more time.
Beatrix: Oh, you didn't catch it? It's the "Chocolate Parfait Ramen."
Ilsa: Chocolate parfait...
Gwynne: Ramen?
Gwynne: Wait... R-ramen?
Beatrix: Yep, ramen.
Zeta: ...
Beatrix: Huh? Why's everyone so surprised? It's delicious!
Ilsa: You've had it?
Cassius: Elmelaura's "theme park" had caught me by surprise already.
Cassius: I can't even begin to imagine what a "Chocolate Parfait Ramen" is like.
Beatrix: Well, I think it'd be easier if you all just tried it. Should I order one for everyone?
Zeta: No, I think I'll pass on this one.
Gwynne: Yeah, I think I'm good...
Ilsa: That's a pass for me as well...
Beatrix: Are you guys sure though? It's super tasty!
Beatrix: In any case, I guess I'll go ahead and get two for now!
Cassius: Sounds good.
Employee: Thank you for waiting. Here's your Chocolate Parfait Ramen!
Beatrix: Ooh, it's here! Whaddya think? Looks tasty, right?
Cassius: I see... The soup's chocolate-hued.
Cassius: A nice and sweet smell is coming from it.
Zeta: Wait, it kinda smells like hot chocolate... Don't tell me all of that is chocolate?
Beatrix: Yep! Even the noodles have chocolate kneaded into them!
Cassius: And this dish has... two stars?
Zeta: Wow...
Gwynne: There's even whipped cream on top... Basically a mountain of calories.
Ilsa: I'd be more worried about the taste... I feel like I'm sitting next to a bomb disposal squad at work...
Beatrix: You think? Well, I'm not worried. Let's dig in!
Cassius: Very well. Let's eat...
Beatrix: Mmm! Delish!
Ilsa: Well, at least Hellcat likes it. How's it going over there, Chowhound?
Cassius: ...
Gwynne: You look like you're... kind of enjoying it.
Cassius: My brain...
Zeta: What about your head?
Cassius: My brain is confused...
Ilsa: Just making sure—we're still talking about ramen here, right?
Zeta: What do you mean?
Cassius: What is this dish? It's so delicious it's heightening my body's senses.
Beatrix: See! Isn't it amazing? You all should've ordered a bowl for yourself!
Gwynne: Are you serious... Is it actually that good?
Cassius: Yes... But it confuses me. I don't understand how it could taste so delicious while looking like this. Give me a minute.
Cassius: ...
Cassius: Hm...
Cassius: The soup base is most likely soy sauce—a mix of soy sauce and chocolate. A mellifluent smoothness.
Cassius: The cacao oil and soy sauce are finely blended and work well with each other.
Cassius: The taste of chocolate is not too strong, present in the dish only as a slight yet sweet accent.
Cassius: The balance between salty and sweet makes it delectable in a way I've never tasted before in any other ramen.
Cassius: In addition, the interesting part about this dish is that it can also serve as dessert.
Cassius: So this is what they call "dessert ramen"...
Cassius: Fascinating.
Gwynne: That was an intense analysis...
Ilsa: Or one rave review.
Gwynne: Now I'm kind of intrigued.
Beatrix: Nice! Here, you can try some of mine!
Excuse me! Could we get an extra little bowl, please?
Gwynne: Th-thanks, Bea... Although, I'm kind of worried that this is going to make me break out...
Beatrix: A little won't hurt! Here you go. Eat up, Gwynne!
Gwynne: G-gulp... Well, I guess a bite won't hurt...
Gwynne: ...
Gwynne: Oh, wow. Now I know what you mean by your brain getting confused.
Gwynne: Cassius was right—it' s delicious. It's got an interesting taste that I've never experienced before.
Gwynne: It's not too heavy either. I could probably slurp all the noodles right up.
Ilsa: Despite how it looks? I almost can't believe it.
Cassius: The difference between the dish's appearance and its taste is another thing that makes it enjoyable.
Cassius: I'm glad I was able to try this. A spectacular dish.
Zeta: What can you say? The skies hold many wonders...
Cassius: Indeed.
Gwynne: Oh yeah, by the way, Cassius. Have you met up with Isaac lately?
Cassius: Not recently.
Gwynne: Isaac seems to want to see you, so why don't you go find him when you have some time?
Gwynne: He said something about coming across a good restaurant he wants to visit with you.
Gwynne: For a drink or two.
Cassius: A drink...
Gwynne: I think he also mentioned a three-star ramen restaurant somewhere...
Cassius: I'm on my way.
Zeta: Haha... That decisiveness when it comes to ramen is incredible.
Cassius: I'll head to where he is immediately. Do you know Isaac's location?
Gwynne: Wait, right now? Uh, at home, I'd assume...
Cassius: Understood.
I'll see you again.
Beatrix: When he puts his mind to something, nothing can stop him, huh?

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 3: The Bahamut Three-Star - Episode 1

Isaac offers to take Cassius to a certain restaurant, all the while worrying about his friend's sudden weight gain. Cassius explains that it is simply a growth spurt. When the two arrive at the pub, they are surprised to see some familiar faces.



Isaac: Hey, Cousin! Over here!
Cassius spots Isaac waving to him and walks over.
Cassius: Sorry. Did you wait long?
Isaac: Nope, I arrived not too long ago myself.
Isaac: By the way, Cousin...
Isaac rubs his eyes and peers at Cassius from head to toe.
Isaac: Is it just my imagination, or have you gotten a bit... plumper? Are you doing all right with food these days? Stress levels in check?
Cassius: It's a growth spurt. You are correct in that the volume of my bodily composition has increased as of late.
Isaac: Haha, is that what it is? Guess there's nothing for me to grow anxious about then. I was just worried you've been too busy to eat properly.
Cassius: So where are you taking me today?
Isaac: Right, let's get going right away. There's a place I wanted to show you.
Cassius and Isaac exchange conversation as they leisurely make their way to the next destination.
Isaac: You called it a growth spurt, but what kinds of food have you been so hooked on recently?
Cassius: Ramen.
Isaac: Ahh yes, ramen. That's the good stuff. Strange, isn't it, how you always want a nice bowl of ramen after a few drinks—
Cassius: Ramen, followed by dessert, further followed by dessert ramen in the extra room for sweets.
Isaac: ...
Isaac: Ahaha. Filling the room in your stomach with dessert ramen... I have to say, I'm impressed.
Isaac: Just remember to exercise moderation, Cousin.
Cassius: Noted.
After some time, Isaac stops in front of a particular restaurant.
Isaac: This is the place.
Cassius: A pub? I thought you were taking me to a ramen restaurant.
Isaac: I'll fill you in on the details once we have a drink in our hand. Come on, in we go.
Cassius follows Isaac into the pub and is surprised by the sight that awaits him inside.
Cassius: I see. Within the establishment is a calm atmosphere, with a neat interior that is spotless from corner to corner.
Cassius: If I were to describe it in a single word... Relaxing.
Isaac: Isn't it? I quite like the mood.
Isaac: Perfect place to have a quiet meal, then top it off with a drink and—
Woman's Voice: Nyahahaha! And then, get this!
Man's Voice: Gahaha! Sure makes for a good laugh!
Isaac: Ah... Looks like it's livelier than usual today. That could also be nice sometimes.
Cassius: Isaac, continue with what you were saying.
Isaac: Ah, right. But that voice just now—I feel like I've heard it somewhere before...
With a reluctant smile, Isaac turns in the direction of the voice and widens his eyes in surprise.
Isaac: Huh? Isn't that...

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 3: The Bahamut Three-Star - Episode 2

Cassius and Isaac find Lamretta, Redluck, Vaseraga, and Eustace already at the pub. Cassius learns how to enjoy a drink along with munchies, but remembers that he had come with the purpose of eating the ramen. Redluck tells him the three-star ramen is only served to regular customers. Undaunted, Cassius decides to begin frequenting the pub in order to become a regular.



Lamretta: We're drinking till we drop today!
Redluck: I respect that, young lady! Guess I better step up my game too!
Vaseraga: It amazes me how someone that tiny can hold an almost infinite amount of alcohol.
Eustace: So noisy.
Isaac: Eustace? Vaseraga?
Isaac looks toward the other side of the pub, where he sees several familiar faces.
Cassius: I remember seeing the other two before too. They're part of (Captain)'s crew.
Vaseraga: Cassius. Isaac. Didn't think we'd bump into one another here.
Isaac: What a coincidence. Happy to see the both of you.
Isaac: It's rather spirited in here today. Is something going on?
Eustace: That's what I want to know. Remind me again why I have to sit here and put up with this commotion.
Vaseraga: I brought Eustace here because I thought he'd appreciate a calm place like this. Little did we know we'd find these two here too.
Vaseraga: And before we knew it, we were put at the same table as the merrymakers.
Eustace: An unlucky series of events. All I want is peace and quiet.
Vaseraga: Heh. But it's good to see that you don't just get up and leave anymore.
Eustace: You...
Redluck: What's this? Acquaintances of yours, Vaseraga? Why don'tcha join us for some drinks!
Vaseraga: You heard the man. What do you say?
Isaac: Honored to receive an invitation. Since we're already here, why don't we join them, Cousin?
Cassius: I don't mind. Kindness should be responded to with equal respect.
Cassius and Isaac move to seats close to their spirited acquaintances.
Lamretta: Yaaay! Let's welcome these two lovely gentlemen to the party!
Cassius: Gentle... men? Is that a type of ramen?
Isaac: Haha. She means you, Cousin. Come on, let's make a toast.
Cassius: Okay.
Isaac hands a cup to Cassius and begins to pour beer into it.
Cassius: What is this liquid that produces froth? It doesn't appear to be any kind of culture solution.
Lamretta: Whaaa? You don't know what alcohol is?
Cassius: No, I'm aware of it. I once imbibed some by mistake. However, it shared few qualities with this here.
Cassius: Should I take it there are many varieties of alcohol?
Isaac: Right, I guess you wouldn't know. Fermentation isn't exactly something they were big on up there. Go ahead, give it a try.
Redluck: There's always a first for everything! You're gonna love it!
Vaseraga: Sharing a drink with friends is a special time.
Lamretta: It's a magic potion that lets you forget aaall about the real world!
Cassius: Hm, a nonessential product that stimulates an escape from reality and augments emotions of positivity... Nothing of the sort existed on the moon.
Cassius: Fascinating indeed.
Isaac: Haha, that would be how you'd analyze it. No need to be so wary of it though.
Cassius: I shall give it a taste.
Redluck: Hold up! We haven't ordered any munchies yet!
Cassius: Munchies?
Redluck: Little snacks you can munch on that suit whatever you're drinking!
Redluck: Drinks and munchies go hand in hand!
Cassius: I didn't know of such an existence. This delicacy called "alcohol" seems to be much more than meets the eye.
Cassius: However, as I have zero data on this drink at this point in time, it is impossible for me to select the appropriate "munchie" for it.
Isaac: Something that goes well with beer... That's a tough one. Mind if I choose something according to what I know about your tastes?
Cassius: I'll leave it to you.
Shortly after Isaac makes an order, several small plates are brought to their table.
Isaac: The meat on sticks are chicken skewers. They're pieces of chicken grilled over charcoal.
Redluck: A classic munchie!
Lamretta: And what's this shiny, pink-ish stuff over here?
Isaac: That's something called umesuisho—"crystals of the sea"—a dish made from the cartilage of fish mixed with plum and seasoned.
Vaseraga: Rather tasteful name for a dish.
Isaac: As you can see, they slice the cartilage so that it almost looks like strands of crystal. The taste is tart, but grows on you.
Cassius: I'll start with the chicken skewers.
Cassius: Chomp. Munch, munch... Gulp.
Cassius: Delicious. How cooked the meat is, and the balance between its tenderness and the seasoning are exquisite.
Redluck: And that's where you take a swig of your beer!
Cassius does as instructed, taking hold of his glass of beer and gulping down a mouthful of it.
Cassius: It has a strange taste. It's bitter, but not unpleasant. It also gives my body a flushed sensation.
Lamretta: Nyahaha! That's perfect!
Cassius: This... I can appreciate. The taste can be enjoyed, without the loss of consciousness like my previous encounter.
Isaac: Do you want to give the other dish I ordered a try too?
Cassius: Yes.
Cassius: Chomp. Munch, munch... Gulp.
Cassius: Hm, an interesting taste. The crunchy texture of the cartilage is peculiar, but strangely addicting.
Isaac: Haha, pretty good, right? I'm glad you like it.
Isaac happily pours more beer into Cassius's glass.
Cassius continues his newfound practice, alternating between a bite of food and a swig of beer.
Cassius: This is what they call "makeup"—something I learned when I joined their girls' day out.
Cassius, gradually getting tipsy, shows off his makeup to the others.
Lamretta: It's so unfair that you're prettier than everyone else in town!
Redluck: Gahaha! You're gonna have us all linin' up for your hand!
Eustace: The things they teach you... Beatrix did this, didn't she?
Cassius: No. Everyone did.
Eustace: Everyone?
Cassius: Zeta, Beatrix, Ilsa, and Gwynne all had a part in it.
Vaseraga: Haha. Talk about popular.
Cassius: Very popular.
Isaac: You sure you're all right, Cousin? I think the alcohol might be getting to you.
Cassius: I don't know.
Isaac: Well, let's play it safe and wrap up the drinking for tonight. Here, chug some water.
Isaac forces Cassius to drink a glass of water. After some time, Cassius grows sober.
Cassius: My thoughts are clear again.
Isaac: Welcome back, Cousin. I was getting worried, since you took quite a few swigs despite it being your first time drinking.
Cassius: My memory is fuzzy in some places. Did I cause any trouble?
Isaac: Haha, not at all. I'm having a great time seeing a side of you I didn't know before.
Cassius: I see. That's good.
Having reverted back to his usual self, Cassius recalls the original purpose of his visit.
Cassius: I just remembered. I came here to have the three-star ramen.
Redluck: Oh, you too? In that case, I've got some sad news for ya.
Cassius: ...?
Redluck: Due to some circumstances, they don't serve that ramen to anyone but regulars.
Cassius: Then I'll become a regular. I simply have to visit frequently and have the restaurant staff remember me, correct?
Redluck: Right. Then I guess I'll be seeing a lot of you in the next while.
Redluck: You'll certainly help keep me entertained! From today, we'll be drinking buddies!
Lamretta: Cheers! To our new friendship!
Cassius: Drinking buddies? Very well.
Isaac: Remember—being able to control yourself is also an important skill, Cousin.
Thinking back to Cassius's behavior moments ago, Isaac can't shake off the feeling that trouble is brewing.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 3: The Bahamut Three-Star - Episode 3

Cassius begins frequenting the pub from the very next day, trying all the items available on the menu. This continues for several weeks, until one day, Isaac catches sight of Cassius and is shocked by the difference in his friend's appearance. Isaac drags Cassius over to a mirror, where Cassius sees a very plump version of himself staring back at him.



The next day.
Cassius: You mean to say that all of the dishes on this menu are munchies?
Cassius: Hm... It's hard to decide.
Redluck: Everything on here is superb, so you can't go wrong with anything! Just try 'em!
Cassius: Okay. Then I'll have... everything.
Lamretta: Nyaaa! Are you serious?
Redluck: Gahaha! I like that! Why not?
Redluck: If you can't finish it, I can always chow down the rest for ya.
A multitude of dishes soon arrive, completely covering their table.
Immersed in the cooking, Cassius takes bite after bite of the side dishes as he downs his glass of beer. Empty plates pile up beside him.
Cassius: Every one of these is delicious. I could continue eating this forever.
Lamretta: How does your tummy fit all that...
Lamretta: Ick... Just watching you stuff yourself like that makes me nauseous.
Redluck: He eats with the right spirit! You'd be perfect for a food fight!
Cassius: Food... fight?
Redluck: Basically, an eating contest.
Cassius: I see—a competition on the intake of sustenance.
Cassius: I already have experience in a similar event with Beatrix.
Cassius: I find the purpose of the competition highly illogical, but if the opportunity ever presents itself, I will put it into consideration.
And with that, he continues steadily making his way through the food and drink.
The day after that.
Cassius: You mean to tell me that it's not only munchies that suit alcohol?
Lamretta: Well, there're many kinds of alcohol! Some are bitter, while others are more mellow, and so on.
Lamretta: The ones with a mellow taste go perfectly with desserts! Perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Cassius: Desserts? I recently learned about how the body always has room for dessert.
Cassius: I shall make use of that ability and try every dessert item.
Cassius begins to fill his stomach with the various sweets available at the restaurant.
And the day after that.
Cassius: The choice of ramen or rice to finish a meal... I wasn't aware of such a practice.
Redluck: It's the finishing dish, after drinking to your heart's content over the course of the meal. Simple yet satisfying!
Cassius: Is it? Then I shall have to try this "finishing dish" for myself.
Cassius: I will save the ramen for when it becomes available to me as a regular, and try ordering a bowl of beef rice.
He then proceeds to consume bowl after bowl of rice.
Cassius continues frequenting the restaurant every day, and weeks pass.
Isaac: C-Cousin? Is that... you?
One day, Isaac bumps into Cassius on the ship. Shocked by what he sees, Isaac drags his long-haired friend to a mirror.
There, Cassius peers at his own reflection.
A pleasantly plump face stares back at him from behind the looking glass.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 3: The Bahamut Three-Star - Episode 4

Despite Isaac's anxiety over his health, Cassius continues eating at the pub until, finally, he is presented with a special menu for regulars by the restaurant staff. Cassius immediately orders the three-star ramen. Soon, a giant pot of ramen arrives at their table—the "Garlic Bahamut with Extra Sauce, Triple the Pork, and Sprouts to the Sky."



Isaac: Ahh, what have I done... I didn't think you would end up like this...
Isaac: Are you... feeling all right? You seem well enough, but...
Cassius: Why are you so worried?
Cassius: I am exercising properly and my combat performance has not deteriorated.
Cassius: The capacity of my stomach has increased. It feels somewhat satisfying.
Cassius: In other words, this body is at the optimum weight for enjoying food to the fullest. I fail to see the issue you detect in this.
Isaac: Hold up, Cousin, hold up. Gaining weight is one thing, but the percent change over time here is worrying.
Isaac: How about you take a break from the pub and try returning to your usual diet for the next while?
Cassius: A difficult proposal to accept.
Cassius: I am close to becoming a regular at the restaurant. If I were to quit now, the time I've spent eating at the pub would go to waste.
Cassius: I cannot follow such an illogical suggestion. I'm going to the pub today.
Isaac: Wait! Cousin!
Isaac: Good grief... What am I gonna do? He's all in on this...
Isaac ends up following Cassius to the pub, where they join the usual gang for another drinking session.
Cassius: Sorry I'm late.
Redluck: Hahaha! You're gettin' pretty big, aren'tcha!
Lamretta: Nyahaha! Love to see it!
Vaseraga: Hm. Better gaining than losing, I suppose.
Eustace: ...
Isaac: Sorry... I'm the one who set him on this path.
Isaac: I underestimated the extent of his curiosity toward food...
Waiter: Sorry to interrupt your meal. Could I have a moment of your time?
Waiter: I believe all of you have been visiting our restaurant every day. Thank you for your patronage.
Waiter: Actually, we have a special menu reserved only for our regulars, you see...
Redluck: Oho! Finally, it's here!
Cassius: Would that be the three-star ramen?
Waiter: Indeed! It's the ramen our establishment prides itself in!
Cassius: Then I'll have that.
Waiter: Excellent! Please wait while we prepare the dish for you!
Waiter: Thank you for waiting! Here it is!
Everyone at the table is dumbfounded at the bowl of ramen the waiter brings to their table.
Cassius: So this is the infamous...
Waiter: I present to you the "Garlic Bahamut with Extra Sauce, Triple the Pork, and Sprouts to the Sky"!
Lamretta: Th-that's huuuge!
Isaac: Is this really... ramen?
Cassius: At last we meet. I can finally taste the almighty, three-star ramen for myself.
Cassius: Let's eat.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 4: The Favorite No-Star - Episode 1

Cassius finishes the entire Garlic Bahamut with Extra Sauce, Triple the Pork, and Sprouts to the Sky. Content with the delicious meal, he feels that he has room for more, but Isaac and Eustace hold him back. Cassius continues to satisfy his large appetite day after day, until he finally notices a change in himself.



Cassius: That was delicious.
After finishing his bowl of three-star ramen, Cassius puts his hands together in thanks, a satisfied smile on his face.
Vaseraga: I can't believe he finished it. His capacity for food knows no bounds.
Redluck: That was one intense battle, my friend! I'm blown away!
Lamretta: Congraaats! Now we gotta toast to your victory!
Pub Staff: I hope you enjoyed your meal.
Cassius: Very much. The spicy tinge of garlic and alluring fragrance of the sauce appealed to my appetite.
Cassius: I often find a deficiency of greens in ramen, but this bowl had plenty of vegetables and a proper nutritional balance.
Cassius: The ramen was as I had anticipated... No—I should say, beyond my expectations.
Pub Staff: Thank you very much!
Cassius: What puzzles me is the fact that you illogically choose not to offer this item on your usual menu, despite the fact it would boost your sales significantly.
Pub Staff: Actually, this dish is something called "hot pot ramen" and was meant to be for a party of six to eight people.
Pub Staff: Back when it was still available, many of our customers would order it but leave much of it uneaten... One of the reasons we chose to take it off the menu is to prevent food from getting wasted.
Pub Staff: Now, we only offer it as a special item to regular customers whom we trust.
Pub Staff: To be honest, I was a little doubtful at first... but there was no need for me to worry, as you've finished the dish for us so cleanly.
Cassius: I would say I still have some room leftover.
Isaac: "Room leftover"? Your stomach's definitely not normal... It shouldn't even have been able to fit that entire pot of ramen.
Eustace: Definitely not. Am I dreaming?
Isaac: I can't believe you've consumed enough calories to surpass even your body's incredible metabolism... Just how big are you planning to get, Cousin?
Cassius: Hm, that is an interesting question. I suppose, as big as I can get.
Isaac & Eustace: Stop it.
Despite his friends' chiding, Cassius's appetite is unstoppable.
The long-haired gourmet continues his days of excessive consumption.
Until one day, he begins to notice a change in his own body.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 4: The Favorite No-Star - Episode 2

One day, Cassius tells the others that he has grown tired of eating large meals, and that he craves for a more nostalgic taste—specifically the "bog ramen" from Aburaboshi Ramen, a restaurant Cassius used to frequent. (Captain) agrees to drop by the island where the ramen shop is located.



Cassius: I'm tired of eating.
(Captain) is surprised to hear these words from Cassius one fine day on the Grandcypher.
Cassius: After a long period of continuous consumption, it appears the taste buds in my tongue desire some repose.
Cassius: It's the complete opposite of how I felt before. None of the food I once enjoyed seems to bring out my appetite anymore.
Vyrn: Maybe it's a good thing. It could help you shed a few of the extra pounds you gained recently.
Cassius: I want to have something light.
Cassius: Something that will calm my taste buds—a gentle taste that evokes a sense of nostalgia, like...
Cassius: My first ramen...
Vyrn: Are you serious! Ramen again? Don'tcha think it's about time you gave food a rest?
Lyria: Ahaha... That's just like Cassius.
Cassius: (Captain). According to my research, I believe this ship is heading toward an island where a restaurant called "Aburaboshi Ramen" is located.
Cassius: I can't let this opportunity pass.
Cassius: I need to eat their "bog ramen"! To restore myself with its nostalgic taste!
Cassius: Please! Give my taste buds the repose they need!
At Cassius's outrageous yet desperate plea, (Captain) reluctantly agrees.
Not knowing that what awaits the eager Cassius is a tragic reality.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 4: The Favorite No-Star - Episode 3

The crew arrives to find Aburaboshi Ramen closed permanently, to Cassius's devastation. When Lyria points out that the light is still on inside, the crew decides to ask the owner about the shop's situation.



Cassius: No... way...
"Closed."
A single piece of paper posted on the door of Aburaboshi Ramen flutters in the wind.
Cassius: "Closed"? What does it mean? Did we arrive outside of its business hours?
Vyrn: Well, by the looks of the place...
Lyria: I think it's...
  1. Closed permanently.

Choose: Closed permanently.
Cassius: Closed... permanently...
Perma... nently...
Shocked at the news, Cassius falls to his knees, frozen with his head in his hands.
Cassius: ...
Vyrn: I've never seen Cassius look this sad before...
Cassius: How can it be closed? If my memory serves me correctly, business should be thriving...
Cassius: It's supposed to be an extremely popular place...
Vyrn: H-hey, cheer up! There's still a ton of other ramen shops out there, right?
Cassius: That's not enough... It's not enough! I have to have that bog ramen!
Lyria: Huh? If you look closely, it seems the light's on inside.
Vyrn: Do ya think they're cleanin' up the place and doing some last-minute packing?
Lyria: Hm... Do you want to go and ask the shop owner about what happened here?
Lyria: There must've been something that led to this unfortunate situation.
Lyria: You want to know too, don't you, Cassius?
Cassius: Yes, I want to know. I won't be able to rest until I hear the reason for their closing.
Seeing (Captain) and the others agree, Cassius proceeds to knock on the shop's door.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 4: The Favorite No-Star - Episode 4

The owner of Aburaboshi Ramen tells the crew that the Ramen Musketeers had given his shop a harsh evaluation, which resulted in the restaurant going out of business. Cassius believes that while the Ramen Musketeers speak some truth, the bog ramen the chef once made was genuine. (Captain) and company decide to call on some friends in order to help the chef get his business up and running again.



Cassius: Pardon the interruption.
Chef: Ah, it's you, young man... It's been a while.
Chef: You've gotten a lot plumper since I last saw you, but I'm glad you're doing well.
The chef and owner of the restaurant comes out to greet the visitors.
The man looks haggard, with a lack of energy so severe that he fails to even bat an eyelash at Cassius's shocking weight gain.
Chef: I'm happy and honored to see you again.
Chef: Though it's unfortunate I can no longer offer the bog ramen you loved so much...
Cassius: What happened, Chef?
Cassius: From what I recall, your restaurant had lines of customers every day. I cannot fathom the reason for your restaurant to close.
Chef: It was those three...
Cassius: "Those three"?
Chef: Since you love ramen so much, you must've heard of them before...
Chef: The "Ramen Musketeers."
Cassius: ...!
The people using stars to rate restaurants...
Chef: Exactly. Those three determined my restaurant to be worthless.
Chef: They told me my ramen neither had a unique taste, nor any sense of novelty. That it was boring at its best...
Chef: They also commented on how the interior of my shop looked battered and behind the times.
Cassius: I don't believe it...
Cassius is lost for words, appalled at the atrocity of the comments received.
Cassius: Looking back... I've visited many ramen shops, and it's true that all of them went beyond my expectations.
Cassius: The monster ramen was incomparably fresh, while the chocolate parfait ramen was the most creative dish I've ever seen.
Cassius: The pub wins in maintaining an impressive interior and exterior.
Chef: I-it seems you've been to quite a few upscale restaurants... Perhaps they were right in that my shop is falling behind the times.
Cassius: I don't think the Ramen Musketeers' comments were unbased opinions made for the purpose of harassment.
Chef: I-I see... Then it must be as they say. My place is—
Cassius: But your bog ramen is the real thing.
Cassius: Bog ramen may be standard, but it brings out the natural essence of the simplest of ingredients. The unforgettably smooth, soy sauce soup base.
Cassius: The noodles are cooked perfectly, rivaling many other popular restaurants. It is not "boring" in the least.
Cassius: That I can say with confidence.
Chef: Haha, hearing such a heartfelt review makes me extremely happy.
Cassius: I was simply expressing how I feel.
Cassius: I want to have that bog ramen of yours again. I hope you'll open up shop once more.
Chef: Your passion is touching—I hardly deserve such praise. Still, I don't know...
Having lost all confidence, the shop owner is hesitant to answer Cassius's request.
Cassius: ...
Cassius: I'll lend you my help, Chef. What do you think?
Cassius: I owe you much. I want to show my appreciation by ensuring your restaurant goes back into business.
Chef: So you like my ramen that much, huh...
Chef: Your determination has given me a little courage.
Chef: I'd like to restore my restaurant back to how it was. Can I ask for your assistance?
Cassius: Of course.
Inspired by Cassius's desire to help, (Captain) and company also offer their support.
Lyria: I'll help too! Please let me know if there's anything I can do!
Vyrn: Now I kinda wanna try some of that bog ramen for myself!
Cassius: Heh. Thank you. Then I'll take you up on your offer.
Cassius: Now, how should we begin restoring the restaurant...
Lyria: Well, when I picture ramen...
Vyrn: Only one guy comes to mind!
Cassius: Oh? You have an idea?
(Captain) nods in reply.
The crew heads back to the Grandcypher, off to find a certain acquaintance they have in mind.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 5: The Up-and-Rising Star - Episode 1

The crew comes back with two of their friends—Ippatsu, a man who has devoted his very soul to ramen, and Lilele, an idol also with a huge love for ramen. The two suggest three things: cleaning the restaurant, holding an event, and bettering the ramen's taste.



Chef: ...
Chef: Sigh...
The chef's heavy sigh echoes across the empty restaurant.
He sits, then stands again, rubbing his chin and neck while lost in thought.
Cassius: What are you doing?
Chef: S-sorry... I'm just feeling restless.
Cassius: Are you worried?
Chef: Yeah, I'm no good when I'm feeling stressed. My negative thoughts just start spiraling.
Chef: I'm happy to receive your help, truly. You even went through the trouble of calling over someone to assist with rebuilding my shop.
Chef: But are you sure your friend will be willing to spend his time on me? I mean, I'm in a pretty pathetic situation right now...
Cassius: It'll be fine.
Chef: What makes you think that?
Cassius: I can smell it.
Chef: Smell?
Cassius: The faint smell of your bog ramen remains in the air.
Cassius: It's not a musty smell left on the walls. It's the alluring fragrance of fresh ramen.
Cassius: This must mean you were making ramen even after you closed shop.
Chef: Well...
Cassius: You may be feeling crushed, but your passion for ramen has yet to be broken.
Cassius: I trust (Captain)'s judgment. The captain's friends would never abandon someone who still has hope.
Chef: I see... You think I... still have hope.
Chef: I'm not so sure, to be honest. I don't know if I'm still holding onto hope, or just unable to let go.
Chef: But, it's true. Even if I was the only person who'd be eating them, I kept making my ramen noodles.
Chef: Perhaps it was instinctive for me to turn to ramen... even if my restaurant closed.
???: It would be my utmost pleasure to offer my assistance to such a marvelous chef!
???: Hehe. I have to say, I was a little taken aback when I first saw the shop. But as long as the passion for ramen burns bright!
Chef: I hear voices outside...
Ippatsu: I am but a humble traveler who possesses an undying love for ramen. The name is Ippatsu.
Lilele: And it's the ramen-loving, sparkling idol and princess of peace, Lilele here!
Cassius: Are you the ones (Captain) called on?
Ippatsu: I received a general rundown of the situation from (Captain).
Ippatsu: So you desire to have your ramen shop up and running again, is that right?
Lilele: If there's anything I can do for you, just tell me and I'm on the case!
Vyrn: Heheh. What'd I tell ya? You can count on these two to get your business boomin' in no time!
Ippatsu: Please, I'd rather you not go too overboard with the praise. After all, my true talent lies in eating!
Lilele: Likewise! But when it comes to our love for ramen...
Ippatsu & Lilele: No one has us beat!
Chef: O-ooh... That's... reassuring.
Cassius: I told you.
Chef: Ah, right...
Ippatsu: Well then, shall we begin?
Cassius: What should we do?
Lilele: Allow me to explain!
Lilele: Listen up! There are three main tasks we have to do.
Lilele: First is cleaning the restaurant! Let's make both the interior and exterior of this place sparkle!
Lyria: Cleaning?
Vyrn: I guess it does look a bit drab... But does it really matter for getting the place runnin' again?
Lilele: Of course it does! Tidiness is key!
Lilele: These days, there're a lot of nicely dressed customers, or families that come for ramen. That's why a lot of restaurants try to cater to that!
Ippatsu: That is an excellent point. I have seen quite a number of restaurants with rather stylish appearances as of late.
Lilele: At this rate, you won't be able to rake in the customers even if you offered the most delicious ramen!
Chef: I-is that right... Then I guess it's pretty bad...
Ippatsu: I do believe that the atmosphere of a place contributes to how a dish tastes.
Ippatsu: However, more importantly, this is a place where food is being prepared, which means it should look its part.
Vyrn: You've got a point there. Cleanliness is pretty important for a restaurant.
Lyria: Okay, then let's start with cleaning!
  1. Leave it to us.

Choose: Leave it to us.
Cassius: I will assist as well. Allow me to handle the grunt work.
Lilele: I'll help too, of course! Together, let's make this place spotless!
Lilele: After we do that... This might sound a little bizarre, but hear me out! This is where I'll really shine!
Cassius: Oh? And what is your idea exactly?
Lilele: To hold an event!
Chef: An e-event?
Lilele: Yep, I'll hold a concert! We can spread the word about your ramen to all the people who stop by to listen!
Lyria: Oh yes, Lilele's very good at singing and dancing! I'm sure lots of people will stop to watch.
Ippatsu: Haha. That is well out of my expertise, so I will leave the entire matter to Lilele.
Ippatsu: The third task on our list is what I can assist with the most.
Ippatsu: And that is...
Ippatsu: Taste embetterment!
Chef: The taste...
Ippatsu: From what I have heard thus far...
Ippatsu: It appears the Ramen Musketeers gave you a rather sharp critique.
Chef: Yes...
Ippatsu: Though my opinion often differs from theirs...
Ippatsu: I do not deny that there is some truth in their evaluations.
Ippatsu: But before I offer my advice, first, I must taste a bowl of your ramen!
Chef: ...!
Ippatsu: Mmm... The "bog ramen," was it?
Ippatsu: I am embarrassed to say I have not yet experienced the flavor of your dish!
Chef: M-must you really taste it?
Ippatsu: Yes, yes! But of course!
Ippatsu: One only begins to understand a dish upon tasting it, after all!
Ippatsu: I most definitely cannot tell you what to do without ever having tasted your ramen for myself.
Ippatsu: You add seasoning to a soup only after you've taken a sip. Would you not agree?
Chef: I-I guess you're right. Still...
Cassius: ...?
Ippatsu: Is something the matter?
Chef: I don't s-suppose you could... teach me to make ramen... from scratch?
Ippatsu: What do you mean?
Chef: Well, you see... The ramen noodles I've been making... They just won't do.
Cassius: That's not true!
Chef: ...
Ippatsu: (Hm... It appears he suffered quite the harsh criticism.)
Ippatsu: I am indeed capable of making ramen noodles—that much is true.
Ippatsu: However, I am but an amateur. I do not possess my own restaurant, nor am I a chef.
Ippatsu: I am, at best, a ramen lover.
Ippatsu: Now, think again. Do you truly wish for my guidance?
Chef: I do...
Cassius: ...
Ippatsu: Very well.
Ippatsu: You are the owner of this place. If that is what you wish...
Ippatsu: Then there is nothing more I can say on the matter.
Ippatsu: Let us begin the development of a new menu!
Lilele & Ippatsu: Oh...
Ippatsu: All right! Let us get right to making the noodles, shall we!
Lilele: Okay! I'll help with the taste-testing!
Vyrn: Haha... You guys just wanna have some ramen, don'tcha?
Ippatsu: Ahaha. You're not one to be fooled, I see!
Ippatsu: Everything is in good will. All for the noodles!
Lilele: The noodles!
Cassius: ...
Ippatsu nudges the chef toward the kitchen.
Cassius watches as they disappear around the corner, a doubtful look on his face.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 5: The Up-and-Rising Star - Episode 2

While Ippatsu and the chef are busy developing a new menu, (Captain) and the others renovate the inside of the restaurant. Once the shop is tidy and the new soy sauce ramen is done, Aburaboshi Ramen opens again for business, with the crew helping out as staff. However, they receive less customers than anticipated, which prompts them to execute Lilele's idea of holding an event.



Ippatsu: Toooo much!
Ippatsu: Definitely too much! And I mean that in more ways than one!
Ippatsu: The soup is pure sugar! The sweetness has completely drowned out the flavor of the soup stock and other seasoning!
Ippatsu: In your rush to create something original, you left behind the fundamentals!
Chef: I-I'm sorry! I'll make it again!
Ippatsu: That's the spirit! A real chef does not lose heart at a failure or two!
Chef: R-right! I'll give it my all for the next one!
As loud shouts sound out from the kitchen, (Captain) and the others are hard at work reforming the restaurant interior.
Vyrn: Oof, that's intense...
Lyria: That's how serious they are about this. Let's believe in Ippatsu and the chef!
Lilele: Well, I'm going to do my best too! Let's make this place sparkle and shine!
Vyrn: Heheh, you betcha! Time to take it up a notch!
Developing the new ramen continues for several days.
Ippatsu: Nooo!
Ippatsu: Mmm... Awful!
Not letting himself get disheartened by Ippatsu's harsh coaching, the chef continues to better his ramen through trial and error.
Chef: It's... It's done!
Finally, the chef is finished making his new, soy sauce-based ramen.
Chef: Ippatsu! Please do the honors!
Ippatsu: Then allow me to give it a taste.
Ippatsu: Slurp...
Ippatsu: Mmm!
Chef: H-how is it? Is it... still...
Ippatsu: Mmm... Amazing!
Ippatsu: The irresistible, enticing fragrance of soy sauce that tickles the nose!
Ippatsu: And though the base of the soup is made from chicken, it has no odor and only brings out the best of the ingredient's flavor!
Ippatsu: That was delicious! A dish that warms my entire body!
Ippatsu: You did it, Chef.
Chef: S-so you mean...
Ippatsu: This will most certainly satisfy the customers! You have earned my stamp of approval!
Chef: I did it... I did it!
Chef: This is all thanks to you, Ippatsu! Thank you so much!
Ippatsu: Not at all. I simply ate and ate while voicing the slightest dissatisfaction.
Ippatsu: The one who put in all the hard work and effort is you, Chef.
Ippatsu: I am the one who should be thanking you for allowing me to taste the miracle that is your ramen.
Chef: Sniff... Thank you!
Ippatsu: Save your tears for another time, my friend! It is just the beginning.
Ippatsu: If you must express your gratitude, I believe (Captain) and the others deserve it.
Ippatsu: While we were occupied in the kitchen, they have made your restaurant into an entirely new place!
Lyria: Hehe. We did our very best!
Chef: W-wow! Now that you mention it... It looks amazing!
Lilele: Bet you were so focused you didn't even notice at first! I'm like that too when I'm practicing!
Chef: Thanks, everyone! Thank you so much!
Chef: Okay, my confidence is back! Let's get this place up and running again!
Cassius: Thank you, (Captain), for listening to my request.
  1. Anything for you, Cassius.
  2. Treat me to ramen.

Choose: Anything for you, Cassius.
Cassius: Once again, you remind me how fortunate I am to have encountered such dependable friends.

Choose: Treat me to ramen.
Cassius: If that's all you want, then I'll treat you to as many bowls as you like. It's a promise.
Continue 1
And so, with the help of the crew, Aburaboshi Ramen opens up for business once more.


Continue 2

Continue 3
Continue 4
(Captain) changes into the staff uniform and goes to stand in the kitchen.
Vyrn: Welcome! A seat for one!
Lyria: Thank you for waiting! Here is our signature dish, the soy sauce ramen!
Lilele: Two soy sauce ramens? You got it!
Vyrn, Lyria, and Lilele work as the floor staff, hustling about inside the restaurant.
Chef: Hm... I feel like we might be able to do things a little differently...
Ippatsu: What do you think of changing how long you boil the noodles for?
Chef: That sounds like a good idea! Let's give it a try!
Meanwhile, when things are less busy, Ippatsu and the chef continue thinking of ways to improve their new menu.
Cassius: Delicious. To me, this is already enough.
Cassius is engrossed in taste-testing the new dishes.
Isaac: I came by like you told me to, and what d'you know... Seems you've grown yet again, Cousin. Are you sure you're going to be all right?
With everyone helping out, business at Aburaboshi Ramen runs smoothly for some time—until they find themselves with a new problem.
Lilele: Hmm... There're less customers than I thought there would be.
Vyrn: Yeah, the empty seats kinda bug me...
Lyria: But the ramen's so delicious. I wonder why...
Lilele: Maybe we haven't advertised ourselves enough.
Lilele: Even if the ramen's delicious, if people don't know about it, it doesn't make a difference. Advertising is crucial.
Ippatsu: I do not deny that I never knew the existence of this restaurant and its ramen until I was called over...
Vyrn: That's true. Some regulars from before might not have heard that we've reopened.
Lilele: Then there's only one thing to do... It's time to execute our other plan!
Vyrn: Oh yeah, the concert idea you talked about the other day! Your performance'll grab everyone's attention for sure!
Lilele: Yep! Look forward to it! I'll give it my all so none of our efforts will go to waste!
Lilele proceeds to discuss her idea with the chef before starting the preparations.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 5: The Up-and-Rising Star - Episode 3

Worried about Cassius's health, Isaac asks Lilele for advice on getting into shape. Lilele suggests having Cassius participate in the show as a dancer. After putting on makeup like Zeta and the others had taught him before, Cassius goes on to perform at Lilele's concert. They perform for consecutive days, bringing in crowds of people who begin to drop by the restaurant as well.



Lilele: Now the moment you've all been waiting for: "Dream-Colored Miracle"!
Lilele: I close my eyes and see your smile,

the memory of its radiance undimmed

all this long while.
Lilele: Can you see my new color yet?
The color of the dream you gave me,
the dream-colored miracle that saved me.
Passerby 1: L! O! V! E! Lovely Lilele! You're divine, Lilele!
Lyria: Wow, there are so many people! I knew Lilele could do it!
Vyrn: And we've even got a back performer today!
Cassius: Whew, hah... How's this?
Cassius dances to the rhythm of the music, his steps light and graceful.
Passerby 2: Whoooo! You're doing great, my man!
Lilele: (Cassius is really grooving! And he's really good at it.)
Lilele: (I wasn't sure at first, but looks like I've got nothing to worry about!)
After obtaining the chef's permission, Lilele had immediately begun to plan her performance.
Lilele: Now, what kind of concert should we make it...
Lilele: An energetic song will probably be best! If we get everyone pumped up, they'll eventually get hungry and maybe drop by the restaurant after.
Isaac: Hey. You're Lilele, right? If you don't mind, I've got something I want to discuss with you.
Lilele: With me? What is it?
Isaac: The thing is, I heard from (Captain) that you've had a... similar experience in terms of what Cassius's going through right now.
Lilele: Ah, yes. A little embarrassing to admit, but I used to be a lot plumper. Hehe...
Isaac: That's amazing. I would never have imagined, seeing how fit you are now. It must've taken a lot of work.
Isaac: Do you think you could... offer Cassius some advice on how he could get back into shape?
Isaac: His health hasn't been affected all that much yet, but it still worries me... His weight gain might eventually have an influence on his circulatory system.
Lilele: I see... That is worrisome.
Lilele: Okay, if he doesn't mind doing it my way, then leave it to me!
Isaac: Really? That'd be great!
Lilele: In order to lose weight in a healthy way, first and foremost is exercise!
Lilele: Idols have to sing and dance for long periods of time.
Lilele: So in order to build stamina, I had to go jogging every day.
Isaac: I see—cardio training. Would you say singing and dancing also contributed to your weight loss?
Lilele: I'd say so! I always lose a bit of weight after a performance!
Lilele: Wait! That's a fantastic idea!
Isaac: What is?
Lilele: Actually, I'm planning to put on a concert in order to promote the restaurant.
Lilele: Cassius can come dance at the concert too! It'll definitely help with his diet!
Isaac: Genius! Both Cassius and the restaurant can benefit from it—two birds with one stone.
Isaac: Let's go present the idea to the others. I'm sure it'll work out!
Isaac: And that's what we're thinking. How about it, Cousin?
Lilele: Come sing and dance with me!
Cassius: I see... Fascinating idea.
Cassius: However, I think I'll pass this time. After all, I still have my responsibilities as the ramen taste-tester.
Isaac: You have a point. You're still needed for the development of the shop's ramen...
Isaac: But think about it: overexposure leads to sensitivity deterioration, doesn't it? Not to mention I'm worried about your arteries...
Vyrn: Yeah, me too. I dunno if it'd be a good idea to get any bigger than you are now...
Lyria: I'd be really sad if you got sick because of this...
(Captain) gazes wordlessly at Cassius.
Cassius: Rrgh...
Cassius: Fine. If all of you think I should, then I suppose I'll have to participate.
Isaac: Haha, glad to hear. With your physical abilities, I'm sure your dance will be amazing.
After Lilele explains the details of the concert, Cassius finds a mirror and begins his own preparations.
Cassius: It's important to stand out in order to attract customers.
Cassius: Heh. Who thought learning about makeup would end up being useful?
Lilele: Glad you're enjoying this!
Lilele: (I don't think he needed to go that far, but oh well...)
Lilele: (It'd all be for naught if I said something that made him lose his motivation!)
Lilele: Let's make sure it's a huge success, Cassius!
Cassius: That goes without saying.
Once the concert begins, passersby gather one by one.
Lilele: Now, get ready 'cause there's more to come!
Passerby 1: Whoooo! Go, Lilele!
Cassius: I've gotten accustomed to the dance. I believe I can take it up a notch.
Passerby 2: Ooh, nice! Those are some sweet moves!
Lyria: Anyone hungry? We've got some delicious soy sauce ramen right here!
Vyrn: Gettin' hungry from all that cheering? Some ramen's just what you need to recharge!
(Captain) and company hand out flyers to the people gathered.
Lilele and Cassius continue their activities every day over the next few days. Their concerts are a big hit, and customers begin to frequent the restaurant as a result.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 5: The Up-and-Rising Star - Episode 4

Business goes well for Aburaboshi Ramen, much to the delight of the chef and the crew. However, when Cassius asks the chef when he'll be making bog ramen again, the chef tries to dodge the question. Just then, the Ramen Musketeers enter the shop.



Thanks to the efforts of (Captain) and the crew, business picks up in the blink of an eye at Aburaboshi Ramen.
After another busy day, they close shop for the night and decide to have a party to celebrate their success.
Cassius: It was an excellent experience.
As anticipated, dancing for consecutive days has helped Cassius lose a lot of the weight he had gained.
Isaac: I almost can't recognize you! Now we've got one less thing to worry about.
Lilele: You certainly lost a lot of weight in a short time... Almost a little too much.
Lilele: (It's probably just how his body works though. Ugh, so jealous!)
Cassius: I sense something else behind your expression. Or is it my imagination?
Chef: My deepest thanks to all of you!
Chef: The fact that we were able to open up Aburaboshi Ramen for business again is entirely due to your hard work!
Chef: And thanks to Ippatsu's fervent guidance, I feel I was finally able to face my ramen head-on!
Ippatsu: I have done nothing of the sort! You are reaping the fruits of your own labor, Chef.
Chef: I was touched by your concerts as well, Lilele! I think I'm a fan now!
Lilele: Thank you! I'm so happy I was able to help, if only just a little!
Chef: And allow me to take this opportunity to thank you, (Captain), for introducing me to such exceptional people!
Vyrn: No problem at all! I actually had a great time!
Lyria: Me too! It was a wonderful experience! You even treated us to soy sauce ramen after—thank you!
Chef: And most of all... young man!
Chef: I'm truly grateful for your encouragement when I was feeling down, and getting me back up on my feet! I'm lucky to have you as a regular!
Cassius: Same here. I'm very fortunate to have come across your restaurant.
Cassius: And that's why I really need to know, Chef. I've asked you this many times...
Cassius: When will you be putting out your bog ramen?
Chef: ...!
Well, uh...
Cassius: That is what I crave for, and the reason I decided to help you.
Chef: ...
Chef: S-since the new ramen's selling so well, I'm actually thinking of adding some more items to the menu!
Chef: So, you see, I just haven't been able to take out the time! I'm sorry...
Ippatsu: Adding more items?
Ippatsu: Hmm... I have a rather bad feeling about that.
Just as Ippatsu says this, the door opens and three figures make their way in, despite the restaurant having already closed for the day.
Chef: Ahh, I'm very sorry, but we're already closed for today—
Chef: Huh! Y-you're the...
???: I don't believe it... Aburaboshi Ramen's still in business after failing to receive a star from us? Color me surprised.
Chef: Th-the Ramen Musketeers...
The others widen their eyes at the mention of the name.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 6: The Ramen All-Stars - Episode 1

Without even giving the ramen a taste, the Ramen Musketeers declare the current Aburaboshi Ramen to be below its no-star status. After some banter, the idea of a battle is proposed—a "ramen show" where the musketeers will taste the chef's ramen again and reevaluate it. The crew agrees to the idea and proceeds to prepare for it.



The Ramen Musketeers arrive at Aburaboshi Ramen after its closing time.
As the chef begins to shake at their sudden appearance, the Ramen Musketeers look shrewdly around the restaurant, inspecting it.
Bambue: Hmm, the restaurant looks a lot tidier than last time. I could hardly recognize it.
Porkslice: We were watching from outside while you were serving your customers during the day. Orders was smooth and the customers seemed happy.
Egge: Exactly. It seems you've really worked on improving your business, Aburaboshi.
Chef: Y-yeah... (Captain) and everyone here were kind enough to give me a hand.
Chef: What do you think? Will you consider retracting the "no-star" status from my restaurant?
Hearing their positive comments, the chef gains a little confidence and musters the courage to ask.
However, the Ramen Musketeers shake their heads, their expressions ruthless.
Bambue: What're you talking about? No can do. Quite the opposite actually—your restaurant's below a "no-star."
Porkslice: Putting on appearances and solving things only on the surface... Proof of a true amateur.
Egge: When we saw the exterior of your restaurant, at first we thought you'd listened to our advice.
Egge: But we were thoroughly disappointed. You have no right to call yourself a ramen shop.
Chef: Wha!
Vyrn: Hey! What the heck are you sayin'? You haven't even tasted the ramen!
Lilele: That's right! Why don't you make your comments after you've taken a bite?
Porkslice: Hmph. We don't need to taste it—I can already tell through this utterly boring smell of pork wafting through this place.
Porkslice: In fact, I can even tell you how exactly you've been making your dish.
Egge: Oh yeah. Why don't we give it a try? First, you're making the soup with—
The Ramen Musketeers proceed to recite the chef's entire cooking process, from the ingredients in the soup to how long the noodles are being boiled.
Ippatsu: Oho. That's impressive.
Bambue: Not at all. The fact that we could tell is evidence of how one-dimensional the ramen here is.
Chef: O-only one dimension...
Chef: Hngh... If that's how it is, it might be for the best if I closed shop after all...
Cassius: Ridiculous.
Porkslice: What? You say our advice is ridiculous? We are the Ramen Musketeers—the most famous ramen personalities in the skies!
Cassius: I'll say it however many times it takes. Your speculations are ridiculous.
Cassius: It may be that you have an exceptional sense of smell for ramen.
Cassius: So what?
Cassius: The information obtained from your sense of smell may be accurate to an extent. However, food is something to be judged mainly from taste.
Cassius: In other words, you need to actually eat the ramen before making any of your pretentious comments.
Cassius: That is the most logical approach to evaluating food.
Egge: So what you're saying is that we'll understand once we taste it.
Egge: Heh. You have way more confidence than you should.
Unintimidated by Cassius's words, the Ramen Musketeers sneer.
Egge: If you wanna go that far, how about we have a battle? Us against this restaurant.
Cassius: A battle?
Bambue: That's right. Like that concert you've been putting on recently—but bigger.
Porkslice: We'll decide on a date, then get people to gather for a show...
Porkslice: A ramen show.
Porkslice: We'll taste your ramen there, in front of everyone, and reevaluate it.
Egge: Of course, if it really is delicious, we'll give you a star. If you manage to get one, business for your restaurant will definitely pick up.
Egge: On the other hand, if all your ramen amounts to is another "no-star" status... then your shop will be done for. Forever.
Chef: N-no! This is so sudden, I can't just—
Cassius: Fine.
Chef: Huh! Wh-what are you...
Cassius: If holding a show is the most logical solution, then let's hold it.
Chef: W-wait a second! You can't put me in hot water like that—
Cassius: It's not hot water. Ideally, your restaurant needs a continuous flow of customers to survive.
Cassius: Receiving a star at a big show will be the shortest route to reaching that ideal. It is an extremely logical solution.
Chef: Well, I suppose so... But I just don't have the confidence...
Ippatsu: I, too, believe this to be the optimal opportunity, Chef!
Ippatsu: It will be my pleasure to continue assisting you in your quest to create even more scrumptious ramen!
Lilele: And speaking of shows, that's my specialty! I'll do my best to get everyone excited for it!
Vyrn: And you can count on us to do whatever we can to help! Right, (Captain)?
(Captain) nods in agreement, smiling encouragingly at the chef.
Cassius: You trusted us to help you develop a new menu and renovate your shop.
Cassius: Can you not trust us just a little more?
Chef: Everyone...
The chef clenches his fists, determination slowly building inside of him.
Chef: Very well. Then in the name of Aburaboshi Ramen, I accept this challenge!
Bambue: Brave, aren'tcha! But I kinda like that fire in you.
Porkslice: That's the spirit I like to see. Tell you what—we'll even help gather some people for the show.
Egge: Right. Looking forward to the day of.
Ramen Musketeers: Hit us with your most perfect bowl.
Chef: Whew... What should I do?
Once the Ramen Musketeers have left, the chef relaxes and lets out a sigh.
The crew begin to rack their brains for new ideas to ensure the upcoming show goes just the way they want.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 6: The Ramen All-Stars - Episode 2

The chef desperately thinks of new ideas for the menu, but in doing so, begins to wander off course. Cassius and Ippatsu convince him to make his bog ramen for the others to try, to which the chef finally agrees. However, much to Cassius's disappointment, the bog ramen the chef makes is no longer the quality it was before.



Several days after their encounter with the Ramen Musketeers.
(Captain) and company are in the restaurant, brainstorming with the chef for new menu ideas.
Chef: How about something like this?
Ippatsu: Hmm... Thick noodles with a rich, seafood sauce for dipping...
Ippatsu: A dish where the noodles are not put into soup—that is a new approach. However...
Ippatsu: That's what you call tsukemen, not ramen!
Chef: So... is that a no? I was thinking how it might be a good idea to try a different type of dish...
Ippatsu: There are indeed restaurants that serve both ramen and tsukemen.
Ippatsu: However, those restaurants are usually built and trained on the basis of serving both from the very beginning.
Ippatsu: You, on the other hand, would only be rushing to put out half-baked tsukemen.
Chef: Oh... Yeah, you've got a point.
Chef: What do you think of this, young man?
Cassius: A new dish? Allow me to taste it.
Chef: This time, I made broths from chicken, seafood, and pork bone and mixed them together to create a soup.
Chef: That should make the soup base taste richer.
Cassius: That does sound fascinating. Then I shall give it a try.
Cassius: ...
Cassius: No, this won't do. The flavors of each soup are too independent from one another and don't blend well.
Cassius: Adjusting the soup and finding the right balance in a short time will be difficult. It would be wise to try something else.
Chef: Ahh... You're probably right.
Chef: Maybe I can try making some spicy noodles instead...
Cassius & Ippatsu: ...
Over the next few days, ideas are presented and abandoned, over and over.
Finally, Ippatsu decides to put a stop to the chef's aimless meandering.
Ippatsu: I cannot bear to watch you anymore, Chef!
Ippatsu: What in the skies are all these noodles you've made and abandoned?
Chef: What do you mean? They're ideas for new dishes.
Chef: This is a rich ramen with plenty of minced meat soaked in spicy soup.
Chef: Over here is a dish I made by imitating something I read in a book, where noodles are cut with a sword.
Chef: To be honest, these noodles aren't that great, though it seemed like a really good idea when I read the book...
Ippatsu: That is precisely the problem!
Ippatsu: You are underrating the very process of making delicious ramen!
Ippatsu: By making something you are barely accustomed to, you are being disrespectful to your customers and the ramen itself!
Cassius: Unfortunately, I am of the same opinion, Chef. At this point, cultivating a new genre of cuisine does not seem plausible.
Cassius: I still believe that what showcases your strengths best is your bog ramen.
Chef: ...!
Cassius: Are you truly against the idea of offering bog ramen?
Chef: Th-the thing is...
Chef: I just don't feel confident in that dish.
Chef: Bog ramen has always been my signature dish. The item that once brought in all my customers.
Chef: But the three musketeers... crushed my confidence in that dish entirely...
Cassius: ...
Ippatsu: I'm afraid I understand that feeling all too well.
Ippatsu reaches out and gives the disheartened chef a reassuring pat on the back.
Ippatsu: Every chef's signature dish is his very pride.
Ippatsu: Wound it twice and your pride may never recover.
Ippatsu: However, that is exactly why you should make the bog ramen again.
Ippatsu: I have yet to taste this bog ramen for myself, of course...
Ippatsu: But it is clear as day to me that the bog ramen is something you've put your very soul into making.
Chef: ...
Cassius: Chef, think back to the heartwarming taste of your bog ramen.
Cassius: It's the bog ramen made by you, and only you, that I crave to eat. That's how good it was.
Cassius: I am certain the bog ramen is what will be able to satisfy all of your customers and the Ramen Musketeers!
Lilele: Since Cassius is so sure about it, now I'm curious to try!
Lilele: Do you think you could make it at least once for us to taste, Chef?
At the three's words, the chef hesitates before finally nodding.
Chef: Very well. If you all insist, then I'll make bog ramen.
Chef: As for whether I should offer it as the new menu item, how about all of you decide after you've given it a taste?
Cassius: Oh? It would be my pleasure.
Cassius: At last... I can have the ramen again!
Cassius smiles at the thought of bog ramen, glad to see the chef regain his motivation.
However, when Ippatsu and Lilele receive their bowls of bog ramen and take a bite, they immediately shake their heads.
Ippatsu & Lilele: No good.
Cassius: Wh-what!
Chef: S-see, I thought so... The bog ramen's no good...
Cassius: That's impossible!
Cassius: ...
Refusing to believe Ippatsu and Lilele's reactions, Cassius takes a bite of the ramen himself.
Soon he finds himself shaking his head like the others.
Cassius: This is indeed bog ramen—my taste buds recognize it.
Cassius: But it's clearly not at the same level as the bog ramen I once had. It's degraded to something below average.
Cassius: Why? Where has the ramen I once ate and loved gone?
Cassius's cry of dismay echoes across the empty restaurant.
In response, the chef's shoulders droop in shame.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 6: The Ramen All-Stars - Episode 3

When the chef shows the others how he made the bog ramen, they quickly notice that the chef is unknowingly cutting corners in the cooking process to boost both profit and efficiency. The chef finally understands that what the Ramen Musketeers wanted was to taste an authentic, properly made bowl of bog ramen. He begins to revive the bog ramen he once put his soul into making.



Ippatsu: Chef.
Chef: Right... I should just stop... and close my shop for good...
Lilele: That's not what I meant. I wanted to express my gratitude for letting us taste this ramen.
Chef: Huh? Your... gratitude? But you said it was no good...
Ippatsu: It's definitely no good. I cannot feel any of your love toward ramen in this.
Lilele: If I ever performed as weak as this ramen at one of my concerts, it'd be incredibly disrespectful toward my fans!
Chef: Then... what do you mean by...
Ippatsu: This bowl of ramen has allowed me to understand all of the things you need to improve on.
Chef: Things I need to... improve on?
Lilele: Do you think you can show us how you made this ramen, starting from scratch?
Lilele: We'll explain from there!
Chef: And the soup is complete...
Ippatsu: You haven't skimmed off the scum, and the soup stock hasn't simmered enough for it to have the right flavor.
Chef: Huh! What? But...
Chef: O-oh, you're right... That's strange, I thought I was letting it simmer like I did before...
Ippatsu: I suggest you make it once more, and try paying closer attention to the time.
Chef: O-okay...
Chef: The ingredients are, um... pork belly and—
Lilele: Did you roast the pork belly yourself? Or did you buy it from somewhere else?
Chef: Huh? Um, yeah, I b-bought it... I did roast the pork myself before, but not this time... Is that a problem?
Lilele: Not at all. It's great that you're able to get your hands on some delicious pork belly and incorporate it into your dish!
Lilele: But did you check whether it goes well with the soup before putting it in? In my opinion, the ingredients didn't match the soup at all.
Chef: Oh... No, I didn't...
Lilele: And you're not making the noodles yourself either?
Chef: No. I've always asked a professional to make the noodles for me, you see...
Ippatsu: Has it always been the same professional making the noodles for your shop?
Chef: A-actually, I had to change to someone else in order to cut costs and raise profits...
Cassius: ...
Chef: I-it's done.
Cassius: Let's eat.
Cassius: (No... Still bad. And even I know the reason now.)
Cassius: You're cutting corners.
Chef: I-I am not! I'd never cut corners when it comes to ramen!
Ippatsu: However, the fact remains that you did not bother to remove the scum from the soup, nor make sure the boiling time was precise.
Ippatsu: It seems to me that you are omitting crucial steps in order to speed up the time it takes for you to prepare a single bowl.
Lilele: And to cut costs, you changed the noodles and pork belly...
Chef: Urgh...
Ippatsu: All of this certainly explains the dismal taste.
Cassius: Why, Chef? Why did you cut corners?
Chef: I didn't... I didn't cut corners. I really did put my everything into cooking it...
Chef: But the increase of business and customers... caught me off guard.
Chef: So I guess I just couldn't keep up with my work... the proper way.
Chef: I tried to think of a way to handle all the customers as I continued making my ramen, not realizing I was beginning to skip some steps...
Chef: Then the number of my customers decreased, so in order to make up for the lost profit, I had to order my ingredients from someplace else...
Chef: And before I knew it... my ramen became this.
Ippatsu: Running a business is not a straight road. It's far from being easy.
Ippatsu: Still... I have to say, it's most unfortunate.
Ippatsu: I wish I could taste the true bog ramen from once upon a time.
Lilele: Maybe that's what the Ramen Musketeers were thinking as well.
Chef: Huh?
Ramen Musketeers: Hit us with your most perfect bowl.
Chef: Oh... So that's what they meant. They weren't just putting pressure on me... It was what they truly wanted.
Chef: It's not the bog ramen that went wrong... It was me.
Chef: Haha. Hahaha. I don't deserve to run a ramen shop...
Cassius: I hate to interrupt your wallowing, but if you already know the cause of your failure, then you should fix it immediately.
Cassius: There isn't much time until the day of the show. You need to be able to recreate the bog ramen you once made before then.
Ippatsu: And of course, you shall have my full support until then!
Lilele: Mine too!
Chef: A-are you sure? Are you sure you still want to help someone... as pathetic as me?
Ippatsu: Without a doubt. I believe I've repeated this many times already.
Ippatsu: I very much wish to taste your bog ramen!
Cassius: Me too. I'd like to experience the true taste of your ramen once more.
Lilele: Make sure to save a bowl for me too, okay? I want to know what real bog ramen tastes like!
Chef: Hngh...
Chef: Th-thank you, all of you...
All of them are glad to have finally determined the reason for the ramen's taste.
With little time left, Cassius and company immediately get to work on restoring the ramen to its original glory.

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Chapter 6: The Ramen All-Stars - Episode 4

The day of the ramen show arrives. The battle between Aburaboshi Ramen and the Ramen Musketeers begins, with Ippatsu and Lilele as the emcees. Many people are gathered to watch the show, including Cassius's friends from the pub. With the support of the crew, the chef makes the best bog ramen to serve to the Ramen Musketeers.



Finally, the day of the ramen show arrives.
Lilele and Ippatsu have changed into their costumes and are gathering large crowds of curious spectators.
Lilele: Thanks for coming today, everyone!
Lilele: Your emcees for today will be me, Lilele...
Ippatsu: And myself, Ippatsu!
Audience: Woooo!
Ippatsu: Our star of the evening will be the ramen shop, who suffered the tragedy of receiving a most unfortunate evaluation from the Ramen Musketeers.
Ippatsu: After suffering the humiliation of its no-star status, the time has come for it to rise from the ashes!
Ippatsu: Let us welcome...
Ippatsu: Aburaboooshi Raaameeen!
Audience: Woooo!
Chef: Oh, uh, ahaha... H-hello...
Ippatsu: Rest assured, everyone.
Lilele: What you're about to experience is...
Lilele: The most perfect bowl of ramen ever.
Audience: Woooo!
Elmelaura: That's a lot of people! Everyone seems really excited about this supposedly amazing bowl of ramen...
Threo: When will it be ready? I hope it's out of these skies... I can hardly wait!
Amira: I'm hungry... But I'm excited.
Beatrix: So we can watch the concert while gorging on a bowl of ramen? That's such a cool idea!
Zeta: Why don't you get up on stage too? That'd be fun to watch.
Gwynne: Oh yeah, you'd be the perfect person to keep everyone entertained, Bea.
Beatrix: You think so? Okay, here goes nothing then!
Ilsa: Calm down, Hellcat. Don't take them seriously.
Lamretta: Nyahaha... This is the perfect place to enjoy a drink.
Redluck: Gahaha, couldn't agree with ya more! What better place to enjoy some good liquor than a festival like this!
Vaseraga: Any occasion is a good occasion for a drink, huh?
Vaseraga: How about it, Eustace? Want to join the crowd?
Eustace: I'll pass. More importantly...
Isaac: Have you noticed? Cassius's already back to how he looked before.
Eustace: Quite the versatile body.
Cassius: Ah. Looks like they're here too.
Lilele: Ahaha... It seems we have a few spirited visitors with us today.
Ippatsu: Why not? The livelier the better!
Ippatsu: We shall extend a warm welcome to all with our delicious bog ramen!
Ippatsu: Won't we, Chef?
Chef: Hnnngh... I-is this going to work?
Cassius: It'll be fine. Your bog ramen is back.
Chef: Y-yeah, but I don't know if I can make enough for so many people...
Chef: And I'm w-worried I'll start cutting corners again in order to deal with the crowd...
Chef: This is making me so... anxious...
Cassius: Don't worry. (Captain)'s here to help.
Chef: (Captain)?
  1. Bring it!

Choose: Bring it!
Chef: Those clothes... They're from when you helped out last time.
Lyria: We'll be here to support you! We've memorized the bog ramen recipe too!
Chef: Wh-wha! You have?
Cassius: I asked them to, since I was certain we'd be receiving a large number of customers.
Vyrn: We'll help with preparin' and servin' the dishes, so you just focus on making the ramen!
Chef: Y-you're too kind...
Bambue: Are you finished with your inspiring little play?
Porkslice: You better impress us with more than just your acting.
Egge: We're looking forward to your most perfect bowl.
Chef: Y-you got it! Get ready for...
Chef: The best bog ramen ever!
Bambue: Wha?
Porkslice: Wait, are you outta your mind? That's the no-star ramen we gave a crap review on already, right?
Egge: You're not taking this seriously, are you?
Chef: I assure you, I am. My most perfect bowl... will always be my bog ramen.
Bambue: I don't believe it... You mean you're going to make us eat that stuff all over again?
Porkslice: Let's just go.
Egge: Hold it.
Egge: Look at his eyes.
Chef: ...
Egge: That's the look of a true ramen lover. I say we pay respect to that at least.
Porkslice: If you say so...
Bambue: Fine, fine.
Egge: Don't let us down, Aburaboshi Ramen!
Chef: I won't!

Ramen Travels with Cassius - Ending - Episode 1

The Ramen Musketeers are thoroughly impressed by the bog ramen. Touched by the chef's efforts in going back to where he had started with his ramen, the musketeers also reconsider their attitudes, remembering the days when they were not critics but mere ramen lovers. Business at Aburaboshi Ramen picks up once more, and Cassius is able to enjoy bog ramen to his heart's content. Low-carb ramen is eventually made to help Cassius revert to a healthier diet, soon becoming a popular menu item among other members of the crew.



Ramen Musketeers: ...
Chef: Gulp...
Ramen Musketeers: Aah...
Bambue: What in the skies is this...
Chef: ...!
The Three: This is sooo good!

Way too good!

Yum!
Bambue: They got to it before we did.
Porkslice: Is this really bog ramen? What happened to the bog ramen that lacked essence? The soup is so fragrant it completely fills my senses!
Beatrix: This is amazing! I could eat about ten bowls of this!
Zeta: Yeah. I need to be careful—otherwise I might find myself ordering another bowl...
Gwynne: I wish Mom and Dad could taste this too.
Ilsa: "Bog ramen"... It's bog-standard, but sucks you in. I get it.
Porkslice: The pork belly is rich in flavor too. I can't get enough of it.
Egge: The noodles as well. They work perfectly with the soup and have just the right chewiness.
Lamretta: Seconds, please! And a refill for my drink!
Redluck: Oho, then I better pick up my pace! I'll have ten more bowls and a few more drinks to go with that!
Vaseraga: Take it easy there. Don't get too ahead of yourself—though I agree it's hard.
Eustace: This is good.
Isaac: I'm not a gourmet, but even I can tell that a lot of effort's been put into this dish... It's practically art.
Bambue: But how? The broth is so rich, yet I don't see any oil floating in it...
Porkslice: And that's what allows me to drink up the soup without feeling that it's too heavy. The flavor of the soup just seeps into my body!
Egge: The distribution of the boiled egg, spring onions, and garlic is impeccable as well.
Egge: They serve as the perfect accent in enhancing the flavor of the soup. The thin noodles are incredibly smooth and chewy!
Ramen Musketeers: Delicious!
Cassius: Hahaha. Delicious, right? This is the bog ramen I know.
Cassius: Ah... Delicious.
Vyrn: These guys're really slurpin' the noodles up while singing their praises!
Lyria: That's how amazing the ramen is! Isn't this great, Chef?
Chef: Y-yeah... I'm so relieved.
Bambue: I just don't understand! Is this really the bog ramen that once defiled our taste buds?
Porkslice: I do see faint traces, but this is almost an entirely different dish...
Egge: What in the skies did you do?
Ippatsu: The chef put all of his love into it, from beginning to end. That is all.
Lilele: That's right! He fixed all the corners he'd cut without realizing before.
Bambue: So that's how it is.
Chef: At first, I made ramen simply because I wanted people to be able to have a delicious bowl of ramen.
Chef: But I got caught up with earning profit and keeping the business thriving... forgetting the real purpose of my cooking.
Chef: I tried cutting costs, among other things, in order to handle all the customers.
Chef: And what did that earn me? A no-star status.
Gran is the Main Character

Chef: Ippatsu, Lilele, Cassius...
Djeeta is the Main Character

Chef: Ippatsu, Lilele, Cassius...
Chef: Not to mention (Captain) and everyone else—they helped me realize what I'd been doing wrong.
Chef: That's how I was able to start from square one and make ramen again with the love I originally had for it!
Porkslice: Hm.
Egge: ...
Egge: We may be the same.
Chef: Huh?
Bambue: Well, you see... We've been thinking about what we do as well.
Porkslice: Just like you. In the beginning, we simply loved ramen.
Egge: All we wanted was to eat delicious ramen. That was enough to make us happy.
Egge: But before long, our words started having such influence—enough to decide the fate of all existing ramen.
Bambue: That made us feel good, so we started going around giving out stars... But that ended up backfiring.
Porkslice: Were we evaluating ramen because we loved it? Or were we eating ramen just so we could evaluate it?
Porkslice: We couldn't tell anymore.
Egge: ...
Egge: We started off merely loving ramen—but before we knew it, we started acting as gourmets. Our eyes became blinded, and our tongues dulled.
Egge: We couldn't even see that ramen shops we didn't give stars to are still capable of producing ramen this delicious.
Egge: This bowl of ramen you made helped us realize that.
Egge: There's no doubt about it. This is the perfect bowl.
Chef: ...!
Bambue: I'm sorry we made such hurtful remarks, Chef.
Porkslice: In the end, what lacked essence was us.
Chef: N-not at all... The three of you gave me the push I needed to come back to this taste.
Egge: Haha, I'm glad to hear that. Come on, Porkslice. Bambue.
Cassius: Where are you going?
Egge: We're also going to start from square one. We'll travel across the skies once more, not as gourmets, but as humble ramen lovers.
Porkslice: And when we return... I hope you'll let us have another perfect bowl of ramen.
Bambue: You better be prepared, Chef, 'cause we're going to spread the word about your restaurant to everyone in these skies.
Chef: Th-thank you very much!
Vyrn: Ain't that great, Chef?
Chef: Y-yes, truly... Sniff...
Ippatsu: Haha. You sure you got time to cry right now?
Chef: Huh?
Threo: Seconds! Round two!
Amira: More, more! This is so yummy!
Redluck: I'd like to get another thirty bowls!
Lamretta: Another drink here, please!
Lilele: Hehe. The ramen show's just getting started!
Chef: Right! I'll get those to you straight away!
A few days later.
Cassius: Aah... This is the best...
Cassius: The chewy noodles, the silkiness of the soup... The pork belly slices and egg...
Cassius: It's perfectly rational...
Cassius: As long as you ignore the nutritional balance, everything is this bowl is maximally logical.
Cassius: If I were to express this in an illogical way, I would say... my body rejoices.
Cassius: Another helping, please.
Chef: Right away!
Vyrn: Haha, I'm glad for Cassius. He can finally eat what he's been wantin' this whole time.
Lyria: He looks really happy...
Cassius: Aah... Delicious. Another bowl, please.
Lyria: Ahaha... But we might have to put a stop to it soon.
Vyrn: Aw, he's been waitin' on this for a long time. Why don't we let him eat what he wants?
Lyria: Are you sure? I just hope it doesn't get out of control...
Cassius: Another, please.
A few weeks later.
Cassius: Another helping, please!
Vyrn: Looks like you helped yourself back to a full rebound!
Lyria: Ooh... I told you...
Cassius: My body is a highly logical one. With a stomach as big as mine, I should be able to have multiple bowls of ramen without trouble.
Vyrn: I can't think of anything more illogical than that...
  1. Countermeasures are in place.
  2. I've got a special menu for you.

Choose: Countermeasures are in place.
Lyria: Countermeasures?
Cassius: What countermeasures?

Choose: I've got a special menu for you.
Cassius: A special... menu?
Cassius: I like the sound of that. Show me.
Continue 1
Gran is the Main Character

(Captain) nods and brings over a bowl.
Djeeta is the Main Character

(Captain) nods and brings over a bowl.
Vyrn: More ramen? But wait... it looks kinda different.
Elmelaura: This is low-carb bog ramen! The noodles are made of konjac, so there're significantly less calories!
Ippatsu: The flavor, however, has been adjusted to taste like the regular bog ramen.
Lilele: With this, you can continue enjoying ramen without risking your health, Cassius!
Cassius: Incredible...
Cassius: Thank you, everyone.
Afterward, thanks to his new, healthier diet of low-carb bog ramen, Cassius reverts to his original weight.
The low-carb bog ramen quickly becomes a popular menu item on the Grandcypher, satisfying the stomachs of everyone in (Captain)'s crew.
The End

Characters

Npc m 3040326000 01.jpg
Npc m 3040070000 01.jpg
Npc m 3040112000 01.jpg
Npc m 3040258000 01.jpg
Npc m 3040069000 01.jpg
Npc m 3040146000 01.jpg
Npc m 3040327000 01.jpg
Npc m 3020038000 01.jpg
Npc m 3040066000 01.jpg
Npc m 3020025000 01.jpg
Npc m 3040032000 01.jpg
Npc m 3030065000 01.jpg
Npc m 3030013000 01.jpg
Npc m 3030122000 01.jpg
Npc m 3992030000 01.jpg
Npc m 3992554000 01.jpg
Npc m 3992519000 01.jpg