Scenario:Alanaan - Festival to Paradise

Festival to Paradise

Before heading home, Alanaan hears a fellow priest named Galanda is said to have turned to sin, and he makes for the village where the man is hiding. Though the villagers claim no other priest has come by, the Evoker takes them up on their kind offer of a feast and lodgings.

---

Alanaan stops by the Church of Renatus headquarters to give an update on his journey of redemption.

Through their exchange, he learns that Father Galanda, an old friend, has broken the tenets of the church and is currently on the run.

The latest reports suggest he continues to do evil deeds while lurking in some nondescript village.

Alanaan: (Ya couldn't get more straitlaced than Galanda... What the hell coulda happened to him?)

Lethys's Letter: Of course, we not are just sitting idly by.

Lethys's Letter: In order to bring the matter to an inquisition, we've dispatched a number of priests to his suspected location, but not a single one has returned...

Lethys's Letter: Which is why we'd like to request your assistance. Having traveled all over the vast skies, surely you would have better luck finding him.

Alanaan: (I am being given a chance here despite my sins...)

The Sun: A side trip, then?

Alanaan: How 'bout ya be a decent lass for once and not eavesdrop on me?

The Sun: Decent for once...

Alanaan: As a priest, this is somethin' I've gotta do.

Alanaan: You just sit back and relax.

The Sun: Hm, fine.

Alanaan: Sulkin', are we?

Alanaan: You're becomin' more and more like a mortal with every passin' day.

Alanaan: Looks like I might have to postpone my trip back home.

Alanaan informs (Captain) that he has some business to attend to, then sets out for the village Galanda is said to be hiding in.

Days after beginning the search for Galanda, Alanaan finds himself lost in a dense forest.

Alanaan: Darn it! Nothin' but animal trails in every direction! How's anyone supposed to find their way through this!

Alanaan: Huh?

Though the natural forest had seemed to extend endlessly, a vast expanse of fields tended to by man's hand comes into view far in the distance.

Alanaan: Farmland... Maybe I'll find a proper road to walk on soon enough.

Alanaan continues pushing through the brush and arrives at the fields.

Unable to recall the name of the familiar-looking greenery planted there, he cocks his head in wonder.

Alanaan: I remember the stuff's not edible, but... that's as far as my memory goes.

Alanaan: I might have decades of experience, but the accompanyin' forgetfulness does me no favors.

As he'd predicted, he finds a proper footpath winding through the fields and relaxes his stride.

Farmer Elder: Nice work today, everyone. Anyone wanna join me for a drink later?

Farmer Man: Sure. Right after I get some food in me.

Farmer Woman: Sun's about to set, folks! Best get home soon!

Farm Children: See you tomorrow, miss!

Alanaan arrives at his destination.

Contrary to what he'd heard, the people of this little farming village seem to be living a blissful life.

Alanaan: Am I in the right place?

Farmer Man: Whoa-ho! A traveler way out here in the middle of nowhere?

Alanaan: Er... If ya don't mind me askin', has a priest around my age stopped by lately by any chance?

Farmer Man: A priest? Nah, no reason for someone respectable like that to come around to these parts.

Farmer Elder: Oh, how rude... Can't you tell from his clothing that this traveler's a priest himself?

Farmer Man: Whoops! Sorry for not noticin'.

Alanaan: Ahahah! No worries, I'm used to it. Can't help it with this kisser of mine.

Farmer Elder: Wish we could be of more help, but it's been so long since we've had a visitor—much less one that is a priest—before you...

Alanaan: (How strange... Could the info from the church be wrong?)

Alanaan takes another sweeping look around the halcyon village but spots nothing suspicious.

Alanaan: (Folks here have a rustic simpleness about 'em... Surely they've got no reason to lie.)

Alanaan: (Phew, I almost doubted them for a second... "Cast away your worldly suspicions, and have faith in others," as the saying goes.)

Farmer Man: A priest?

Alanaan: Ah, sorry. I was lost in thought.

Farmer Elder: Night's about to set in. You're more than welcome to stay the night if you'd like.

Alanaan: Appreciate it. I think I'll do that.

Farmer Man: Great! That means we get to throw a welcome party!

Alanaan: Whoa now... No need to go through all that trouble for me.

Farmer Elder: Please, I insist. Having visitors is a special occasion for us.

Farmer Man: Besides... We could definitely use the revelry! You could tell us some stories about your experiences as a traveling priest!

Alanaan: Well, if you put it that way, then I'll gladly indulge. Here's hopin' I don't bore ya with the mundane tales I tell!

That night...

The villagers throw a grand feast, replete with song and dance, for their special guest.

Alanaan: Boy did I strike it lucky stumblin' on yer cozy lil' village. Sure didn't expect such a grand ol' time when I stepped outta the forest.

Farmer Man: Well, fate works in funny ways. And lemme tell you, that sermon wasn't dull in the least!

Farmer Elder: Maybe I should join in on the dancin' too...

Farmer Man: Hey, take it easy now. You're more than a bit tipsy. Would be a real shame if you tripped and fell, and find yourself pushing up daisies before the festival.

Alanaan: Festival? What kind of festivals do you have here?

Farmer Elder: Oho... That's supposed to be a secret. We go to paradise—

Farmer Woman: Father! Your glass is empty; let me fill it up for you! Please, drink as much as you'd like!

Alanaan: Gee, thanks. This is some fine liquor you've got here!

Farmer Woman: Okay then, cheers!

Alanaan: Cheers!

The feast continues until dawn. Alanaan has pleasant dreams that night.

Festival to Paradise: Scene 2

---

Alanaan: (Mng... Gwuhhh... Had too much to drink... Head's spinnin'...)

Alanaan: Hm?

Alanaan's awakens to find his head covered in a gunnysack, and his arms and legs bound by shackles.

Alanaan: (Is this what I get for castin' away my worldly suspicions and havin' faith in people? Hrm...)

???: Awfully complacent, aren't you?

Alanaan: Hoo boy... Ya got me there, all right.

The gunnysack is torn off of Alanaan's head, revealing the man he'd been searching for all this time.

???: Humph...

Alanaan: Tch... And they told me priests don't come to a place like this...

Alanaan: Yet here you are, Father Galanda...

Galanda: The liquor here is exceptionally good. Makes for a good lure, don't you think?

Alanaan: Are the villagers hired actors? They sure did a fine job of foolin' me.

Galanda: What kind of a priest are you to not be able to see the truth?

Alanaan: Heh, ya always were a condescending prick.

Galanda: Look who's talking.

Though somewhat pleased to reunite with an old friend, they are also carefully observing each other's reactions.

Alanaan: I've got a lot of questions, but how about taking these cuffs off me first? They're starting to hurt.

Galanda: So you came looking for a priest, eh?

Alanaan: Like I said, cuffs first.

Galanda grabs Alanaan by his robe and scowls at him.

Galanda: Is that priest me by any chance?

Alanaan: Settle down. Once again, cuffs first—

Galanda clenches his fist and lands a solid blow on Alanaan's jaw.

Alanaan: Urgh...

Galanda: I'll ask again. Am I the priest you're looking for?

Alanaan: (I thought a good priest was supposed to be compassionate and show what a good listener they are...)

Alanaan: (But this guy here just sucker punched me! What the hell!)

Alanaan: (What do I do...)

1. Yep, that's right.
2. Nope, you've got it wrong.

Choose: Yep, that's right.

Galanda: Humph, that came out pretty quick.

Alanaan: You could say it's my mission to save an old friend.

Galanda: Hm? What would you save me from?

Alanaan: I'm here to pluck out the seed of sin that's taken root in yer heart.

Galanda: Never thought you'd go back to being a dog for the church.

Lamenting the current state of affairs, he shoots Alanaan a pitiful look.

Alanaan: So what are yer plans? Surely ya don't expect to be on the run fer life.

Alanaan: Whatever you've got to say, I'm willin' to hear ya out.

Galanda: No, I think we're done.

Galanda lets out a faint sigh before putting the gunnysack back over his old friend's head.

Alanaan: Aw, gimme a break, Galanda!

Galanda's Voice: "Evil deeds committed for the sake of good are righteous."

Galanda's Voice: The conclusion you arrived at shook my very soul.

Galanda's Voice: Yet you are still a fool in the end.

Alanaan: You sayin' ya saw something beyond the teachings of the church?

The sound of a buzzing metal rings in Alanaan's ears.

Blood splatters across the ground as Alanaan's head flies off and lands with a rolling thud.

Withdrawing from quest.

Reconsider your decision and seek out another future.

Go to "Continue 1"

Choose: Nope, you've got it wrong.

Galanda: Who is it then?

Alanaan: No one, actually. Askin' about a priest was just a way to see how far the church's influence has reached.

Galanda: Oh?

Alanaan: Gosh darn it! I sure did let my guard down at that welcome party though.

Alanaan: Talk about cowardice. Y'all got an entire village to team up on me.

Alanaan: Your orders, I take it? What a shamefully wicked thing for a priest to do.

Galanda: Heh. Let's not forget how you shamed the Church of Renatus by breaking its tenets and committing the most horrible sins.

Galanda: With that in mind, do you have any idea how hypocritical you are sounding right now?

Alanaan: Sigh... Why don't you report me to headquarters then?

Alanaan: I bet the archbishop's just itchin' to lay the inquisition on me and take me down!

Seeing Alanaan remain in good spirits despite the situation, Galanda can't help but let out a chuckle.

Galanda: Mwahahaha! Calm yourself, friend.

Alanaan: Wha? You'd still call me a friend after sucker punchin' me?

Galanda: Heh...

Galanda: "Evil deeds committed for the sake of good are righteous." Wise words from a wise man.

Galanda: My soul shook the moment those words reached my ears.

Galanda: Which is why I approached the archbishop and told her how your statement led me to an epiphany.

Galanda: Problem is, the woman wouldn't hear it, insisting that I continue to follow our teachings to the letter!

Alanaan: Course she'd say that. It'd be a huge problem if the heads of the church perpetuated hypocrisy.

Galanda: Well, you see... Your words resonated so strongly with me that I decided to continue following the faith in my way.

Galanda: The people of this village were deeply moved by what I had to say... and became my adherents.

Galanda: You could say my faith lies with the Church of Renatus, yet it also does not...

Galanda: Perhaps I have started a new branch of the religion. "Galandaism," if you will.

Alanaan: In other words, you, too, have essentially become a pilgrim...

Alanaan: To think that my moment of foolishness would move the heart of someone as stern and renowned as you... There's no tellin' what consequences our actions can have sometimes.

Galanda: I'm going to spread my teachings far and wide, starting from this village.

Galanda: And to do that, the archbishop and anyone else who might get in my way cannot be allowed to live.

Alanaan: Think if we stay here... The villagers will protect us from assassins dispatched by headquarters?

Galanda: Sure... Just as long as you prove to be a respectable priest.

Alanaan: Heh, try me.

Galanda: How about we start from your manner of speaking?

Alanaan: ...
Won't you please give me the opportunity to prove myself, Father Galanda.

Galanda produces the keys for Alanaan's cuffs and chucks them at him.

Galanda: Come by the village's chantry later. I'll introduce you to our followers.

Alanaan: Understood, Father Galanda.

Alanaan: Phew... Looks like I might just live to see another day.

Alanaan: Turns out I'm not too bad of an actor myself... Who knows, maybe that's my true callin'.

Alanaan begins to worry about the safety of the other priests who were sent to this location.

Galanda: Thanks to everyone's cooperation, we were able to pluck out the seeds of corruption that meant to do us harm.

Galanda: On behalf of Galandaism, I cannot overstate my gratitude.

Farmer Elder: Good deeds are a favor unto yourself. We simply followed your teachings to the best of our abilities, Father Galanda.

Farmer Woman: Yes, we have decided to devote ourselves to Galandaism.

Kneeling before Galanda at the chantry, the villagers offer him a prayer.

Alanaan, watching from another room, is dumbstruck by how devoted the villagers are to Galanda.

Alanaan: (You've fallen so low that you even think bamboozlin' people's righteous now, huh...)

Alanaan: (Awfully devout these folks are... No, brainwashed is more like it.)

Alanaan: (Damn you, Galanda... What sorta trick did ya pull here?)

Galanda: I'd like to introduce everyone to a new friend today.

Galanda: This way, Father Alanaan.

The introduction of Alanaan causes a stir among the villagers.

Alanaan: Ah... We may have gotten off on the wrong foot, but I'm glad any misunderstandings have been cleared.

Alanaan: I look forward to working with everyone in helping to spread Father Galanda's teachings.

Farmer Woman: Er... Forgive me for pouring you so much to drink last night!

Alanaan: Ahahaha! No harm done. Let us drink without worry next time.

Galanda: Okay then, everyone. May we have another blessed day.

With morning prayer concluded, the villagers move on to their daily tasks and studies.

Despite the part they played in entrapping Alanaan the day prior, they are no doubt good people at heart.

Alanaan: Working together to live in peaceful harmony under the providence of nature, smiles never fading...

Galanda: You almost sound like you're in paradise.

Alanaan: Ya coulda had me fooled.

Galanda: Hm, you must be wondering how I proselytized all these purehearted souls.

Alanaan: That did cross my mind...

Galanda: Simple. It's the spiritual gift of faith.

Alanaan: Is that gift also what's kept me alive so far?

Galanda: You're the one who awoke me to the truth. To kill you off so soon would be a shame.

Alanaan: Gee, thanks.

Galanda looks up to the faint outline of the moon and offers a silent prayer.

Galanda: We will be holding a jubilee during the next full moon.

Alanaan: Now that ya mention it, one of the young'uns mentioned a festival. I just figured it was village tradition.

Galanda: No, it's something that began after I arrived... But it will become tradition over time.

Galanda: This village is built on such events after all.

Alanaan: Sounds like you're puttin' a lot of effort into this thing. I can't wait.

Galanda: This full moon will be a blue one, which happens only once every ten or so years... I expect the jubilee to be more festive than any celebration that's come before.

Alanaan: Oho...

Galanda: That's where you come in. I need to leave the village to prepare for the event. Can you lead the daily prayers in my stead in the interim?

Alanaan: Not a problem.

As soon as Galanda departs, Alanaan begins looking into the priests who were sent to this land.

However, there is no indication of other clergymen having set foot here.

Alanaan: (I can't just sit around and twiddle my thumbs... I oughta try wheedlin' some info from that young'un. He's not as tight-lipped.)

Farmer Man: Guys! Who wants to go gather wood with me?

Alanaan: Ah, is it for the jubilee? I'd be happy to help.

Farmer Man: Um... As much as I appreciate the sentiment, it's pretty tough work for seniors...

Alanaan: Heh, appreciate the concern, but yer about to learn why I'm also a first-rate skyfarer!

Despite the boastful claim, Alanaan soon finds himself seated on a log, completely exhausted.

Alanaan: Phew, this is harder than it looks...

Farmer Man: We're almost done. Why don't you rest up in the meantime?

Alanaan: Whadda we need all this wood for though? Are we gonna be buildin' a new house?

Farmer Man: Not a house, but an elevated festival stage, where we'll hang our written wishes to set on fire.

Alanaan: Ah, like a large bonfire that we'll get to dance around then.

Alanaan: Father Galanda didn't tell me a thing about the jubilee, so I'm kinda clueless about it.

Farmer Man: Oh yeah? Well, for one thing, we're also gonna have a beautiful arrangement of flowers and, of course, grown right in our fields, a—

Farmer Man 2: Hey, is anyone prepping the wine?

Farmer Man: I heard an order from Levin's already been placed.

Farmer Man 2: Great. All that's left is the meat then. Meat!

Alanaan: So what is it you were sayin' earlier about flowers and something else grown in the fields?

Farmer Man 2: I could really use another pair of hands here!

Farmer Man: Okay! Forgive me, but duty calls, Father. I'll talk to you later.

Alanaan: (Darn it, almost got him to spill the beans too...)

Realizing he's not likely to extract any more info from the young man...

Alanaan sets his sights on the elderly farmer next.

Elder's Daughter: Mng...

Alanaan: Everything okay, miss? If you've got anything you'd like to let off yer chest, I'm here for ya.

Elder's Daughter: Father... Please... Help my papa come to his senses!

Alanaan: Huh, I'm not sure I like where this is going... Tell me more.

Alanaan steps inside to find the elder in a state of distress.

Alanaan: What did ya do, Gramps? Should I be worried?

Farmer Elder: Sigh... If we're gonna be honest, my daughter is the one you should be reprimanding, not me.

Elder's Daughter: Papa!

Alanaan: Er... How about ya each tell me what happened? Startin' from the beginning...

Farmer Elder: Truth is, I've decided to go to paradise by way of the jubilee, and—

The next moment, a mess of villagers come crashing into the house.

Alanaan: Whoa! What's this all of a sudden?

Farmer Woman: Please lead Father Alanaan outside, everyone!

Villagers: Heave-ho!

Alanaan: Ouch...

Alanaan: What was that all about? Where'd ya even come from?

Farmer Woman: Father Alanaan, you must not be anywhere near this house.

Alanaan: But distress is often the first step to eventual ruin. As a priest, it is my duty to prevent members of the flock from going astray.

Farmer Woman: They're just a bit distraught about the upcoming jubilee. But all will be well again once it's over.

Alanaan: It'd be terribly irresponsible of me to take that at face value.

Farmer Woman: The jubilee is extremely important to us. So please... I hope you'll help to ensure its success.

Something about the woman's single-mindedness seems amiss to Alanaan.

Not wanting to exacerbate the matter and potentially bring further harm to the elder and his daughter, the Evoker concedes.

Alanaan: Very well.

Farmer Woman: Thank you for your understanding. If you'll return to your quarters now.

Alanaan: Hm? That smell...

Farmer Woman: Is something the matter?

Alanaan: Nah, it's nothin'.

While walking away from the scene, Alanaan retraces his memory to figure out what that sweet scent wafting from the elder's home could possibly be.

Go to "Continue 2"

Continue 1

Continue 2

Festival to Paradise: Scene 3

On the night of the jubilee, Alanaan realizes Galanda has been using narcotics to brainwash everyone, convincing the elderly to give him their riches for false promises of entry to paradise, then killing them through a festival rite after the fact. Alanaan, too, is almost sent up in flames, but tragedy is successfully prevented.

---

Alanaan is left with no leads on the missing priests and little luck extracting pertinent information from the villagers.

He believes he is either being watched or intentionally left to flounder about.

His impression of the village has changed drastically since he first set foot here.

Alanaan: Oh boy...

Alanaan: (Seems like there are eyes on me no matter where I go...)

Alanaan: (Fortunately I've just gotta hold out a bit longer. Plenty more should become clear once the jubilee's over and done with.)

Alanaan: (But I just can't shake the feeling that things aren't gonna go so smoothly...)

Although a tinge of uneasiness remains in Alanaan, jubilee preparations proceed unabated, complete with the building of the festival stage and bonfire at the plaza.

On the night of the event, Galanda returns to the tranquil village with a number of senior citizens he calls his guests of honor.

Galanda: I'm back, everyone. Have you continued to do good under Father Alanaan's watchful guidance?

Farmer Woman: Why, of course we have! Father Alanaan can certainly attest to that!

Alanaan: Hm? Ah, yes, of course... Preparations for the jubilee went without a hitch as well.

Galanda: My, my... What a marvelous stage we have this time.

Farmer Man: Hehe, thank you.

Galanda: Now then, can you show our guests of honor the way?

Farmer Elder: Okay, folks. Please follow me.

Guest of Honor: Hohoho! I can't wait to see what fun lies in store for us!

Alanaan: So just who are those blitheful elderlies?

Galanda: If you must know... They are the village's hope.

Alanaan: A bunch of old-timers are... hope?

Galanda: All right, everyone! Prepare for a toast!

Villagers: Okay!

Amid the sea of congruent smiles, Alanaan spots the woman who was crying the other day.

Alanaan: Psst, you there... We got interrupted last time... Were you able to talk things out after that?

Elder's Daughter: Our lives are ultimately... our own to decide... If Papa's made up his mind about goin' to paradise, then that's that.

Alanaan: What is this "paradise" you guys keep referrin' to?

Alanaan: It is a physical location? Or is it more a metaphysical concept?

Elder's Daughter: Ehehe! I wouldn't know the answer to sucha difficult question, Father.

Seeing the hollowness in her eyes, Alanaan grows increasingly worried about the true nature of this jubilee.

Alanaan: What the heck? Galanda!

Galanda: Hm? Behave yourself... The villagers are watching.

Alanaan: Something ain't right with the elder's daughter... What the heck didja do?

Galanda: Father Alanaan. You don't seem to understand the position you're in...

Alanaan: Huh?

Galanda: As I've said before, killing you—the one who opened up my eyes—would be a great shame.

Galanda: But so far, you've done but nothing prove to be so different from the man who once proclaimed, "Evil deeds committed for the sake of good are righteous."

Galanda: The Church of Renatus must have already gotten to you.

Galanda: Which would only mean that to Galandaism, you're no different from the other heretics who came snooping around.

Alanaan: Other heretics? You mean... What did you do to them—

Alanaan: Rgh...

Galanda: I thought we could become friends... It's a real shame, Alanaan.

Farmer Woman: Father Galanda, we are ready for the toooast!

Galanda turns away from Alanaan and ascends the dais, decorated with a floral arrangement. He speaks to the villagers with a smile.

Galanda: We have a full blue moon tonight, which is something that only happens once every decade.

Galanda: There is no better occasion to be righteous. For the merit of your good deeds is multiplied on this night!

Galanda: Now without further ado, let us commence the long-awaited jubilee!

At Galanda's signal, the attendees begin to dance with drinks in hand to the tune of festive music.

Farmer Woman: Teeheehee!

Farmer Elder: I can party with the best of 'em!

Farmer Man: Take it easy, old man!

At a glance, the jubilee appears to be no different from any other festival, where the locals come together for a night of song, dance, and revelry.

What doesn't quite fit the scene, however, is the sight of Alanaan collapsed on the ground with blood leaking from his head.

Villagers: Ahahaha!

Alanaan awakens amid the maniacal laughter to find himself in the center of the stage.

The elder and guests of honor seem to be engaging in mirthful conversation as they enjoy their food.

Alanaan: Ngh... What the heck is goin' in...

Guest of Honor: Oh look, Father Alanaan seems to be awake.

Farmer Elder: He's an old friend of Father Galanda's.

Farmer Elder: I think our prayers are being heard. I've never felt more blessed.

Guest of Honor: Thank the heavens...

Alanaan: Hate to interrupt, but any chance I can ask ya guys to undo my restraints?

Guest of Honor: No can do. We can't have you running away.

Farmer Elder: We're going to paradise! And we're going to need our lucky catch for that!

Guest of Honor: For paradise!

Farmer Elder: For paradise!

Senior Citizens: Aa-hyuk-hyuk!

As the elderly begin dancing in a circle around Alanaan...

Neatly folded pieces of paper slide out of their pockets.

Alanaan: Whoa, hold on a second!

Alanaan: Those are indulgence slips!

Indulgence—a lessening of the punishment that is due from a lifetime of accumulated sins.

They are, in essence, "official" pardons.

Alanaan: (Each one's even marked with a Church of Renatus seal... They're definitely fakes.)

Alanaan: Where did you folks get those slips?

The elderlies tuck the slips back into their pockets, a shine in their eyes.

Guest of Honor: Heehee! It goes without saying that we bought them from Father Galanda!

Alanaan: You bought them?

Alanaan: Wait, you mean everyone here's...

Guest of Honor: That's right. Through our generous donations to the church, we've been guaranteed a spot in paradise!

Alanaan: (At this age, immortality would seem like a cure to all of yer problems. It's no wonder the lengths they might go to over the promise of eternal life.)

Alanaan: ("You shall not covet," as is often said... Yet here they are displaying possibly the greatest form of avarice...)

Alanaan: (Damn you, Galanda... For all yer noble talk of havin' faith, in the end this is just a get-rich-quick scheme!)

Alanaan boils with rage at having learned the truth.

A stirring drumroll plays out as if to further antagonize Alanaan, or so he believes until Galanda's affected voice rings out.

Galanda's Voice: Many of our beloved followers will be entrusting their hopes and dreams to you as they set off to paradise.

Galanda's Voice: Cast away your desires and seek refuge in the sun goddess. That is the key to being forgiven for your sins.

Alanaan: How 'bout yer own desires, ya disgusting sham of a priest!

Alanaan: Guys, wake up and smell the horse manure he's feedin' ya!

Senior Citizens: Aa-hyuk-hyuk! Paradise is eternal! Wooo!

Alanaan: Guh, this is goin' nowhere. It's like they've lost the will to think fer themselves...

Alanaan: Cough, cough... What's this smell?

A sweet-scented smoke soon fills the stage.

Guest of Honor: Hyuk-hyuk...

Farmer Elder: At long last, I can go to paradise!

Alanaan: ...

Alanaan: Hot damn, my age must be catchin' up with me to forget a scent so distinct!

Alanaan: That stench... It's the same as Amazing Cigarettes...

Alanaan: So what you were cultivatin' out in those fields was narcotics!

Narcotics—plant-based substances that induce a state of euphoria in the user, while dulling their sense of pain and ability to think.

The secret to Galanda's effective brainwashing of the pure and innocent villagers is now clear.

Alanaan: "Evil deeds committed for the sake of good are righteous."

Alanaan: Looks like my very own words lit a fire in Galanda and pushed him in the wrong direction...

Alanaan: In which case, I'm ultimately the one to blame, and it's my job to clean up the mess.

Alanaan: Whoa-ho! Don't tell me ya plan on torchin' the whole stage!

Alanaan: Whadda we need all this wood for though? Are we gonna be buildin' a new house?

Farmer Man: Not a house, but an elevated festival stage, where we'll hang our written wishes to set on fire.

Alanaan: You've gotta be out of yer frickin' minds!

Alanaan: No way in hell is plunderin' the riches from these nice grandpas and grannies, then lightin' em up on fire gonna further yer wishes!

Galanda's Voice: O immaculate sun goddess... Please guide these pious and reverent souls to the paradise beyond...

Alanaan: Don't tell me yer actually plannin' on dancin' all night! These old coots are about to be burned alive! And me with 'em!

Guest of Honor: Yes, to paradise we go... Hyuk-hyuk...

Farmer Elder: Eternal bliss awaits us... The journey won't be so bad with you along for the ride, Father...

Alanaan: Holy crap do these narcotics make ya sick in the head.

Alanaan: For any religion, ya want prayer, rituals, and rapture. But when that rapture comes from drugs, you've gone way off the deep end.

Alanaan: Boy have I got the perfect example here to show kids these days why drugs will rot yer brain—

Alanaan: Heck, I can worry about that later! I've gotta make sure I live to see another day first!

Galanda: Great sun goddess... Please show them the way to paradise.

Villagers: Guide them...

Galanda grins from ear to ear as he watches the entirety of the stage go up in flames.

Galanda: May Father Alanaan's act of martyrdom help them all reach the paradise they so seek.

Galanda: And may the many merits they bequeathed to us help the village prosper and grow! All in the name of the sun goddess!

Alanaan's Voice: I wouldn't count on it, ya psycho.

Galanda: ...!

Galanda: H-how did you—

Alanaan: What say we move on to the confession?

The Sun: Just as long as I get a show of appreciation first... It wasn't easy saving them all.

Behind the flaming Alanaan and The Sun are the guests of honor, alive and well.

Alanaan: Ya did good, Sun. I'll buy ya anything you want later!

The Sun: Please, I'm not some spoiled child.

The Sun: Still, that's a promise.

Alanaan: Fer sure.

Alanaan and The Sun shoot the dumbstruck Galanda a piercing gaze.

Festival to Paradise: Scene 4

After Alanaan and the others are rescued by The Sun, he presents her to the villagers as the sun goddess's oracle. Faced with her overwhelmingly divine presence, the villagers are quick to repent for their actions under Galanda, who is handed over to the church authorities. Alanaan is later granted the position of bishop by Archbishop Lethys.

---

Alanaan: What say we move on to the confession?

The Sun: Just as long as I get a show of appreciation first... It wasn't easy saving them all.

Alanaan: Ya did good, Sun. I'll buy ya anything you want later!

The Sun: Please, I'm not some spoiled child.

The Sun: Still, that's a promise.

Alanaan: Fer sure.

The sight of the Evoker and primal stepping off the burning stage without a scratch strikes fear in Galanda's heart.

Galanda: H-how did you...

Alanaan: Ain't it obvious?

Alanaan looks up to The Sun, floating in all her radiant glory above, and offers a quiet prayer.

The Sun: ...

Galanda: D-d-d-don't tell me...

Alanaan: Ahahaha!

The Sun: This is no time to be laughing...

Galanda: Cripes!

Alanaan: Don't embarrass yerself anymore than ya already have!

Though Galanda is quick to flee, The Sun is quicker in cutting off his escape by encasing him in a flaming barrier.

Galanda: Ngh...

Alanaan: Ahem.

Alanaan: This here is the oracle of the sun goddess.

The Sun: Pleased to meet you.

Faced with the overwhelming presence of The Sun, the villagers begin shedding tears and praying.

Alanaan: As a servant of the sun goddess's oracle, I hereby announce...

Alanaan: Galanda to be completely untrustworthy and excommunicated from the Church of Renatus.

Alanaan: Listen to his falsehoods no more. A successor you can trust will be sent to this village soon.

Farmer Woman: As the oracle wishes...

Alanaan: And what I've got to say next comes from me directly, not the oracle.

Alanaan: Having gotten to spend a few days with y'all, I saw fer myself that it was Galanda who took advantage of yer vulnerabilities and planted evil in yer hearts.

Alanaan: But the power of the teachings alone will not be enough to lift ya back up into the light.

Alanaan: You must find the willpower from within to face whatever challenges lie ahead.

Alanaan: That willpower eventually takes the form of hope, and the sun goddess will shine her blessed light upon ya.

Though completely under the influence of a narcotic…

They still listen to what Alanaan has to say with rapt attention.

The Sun: So... What are your plans for him?

Alanaan: Mind if I have a little chat with him?

The Sun: He's all yours.

Galanda: ...

Alanaan: First you used narcotics to stop the villagers from thinkin' straight. Then ya talked 'em into givin' up their life's savings and plotted their downfall, tramplin' over the church's teaching's every step of the way.

Alanaan: For all yer highfalutin talk, yer just another guy that gave in to greed in the worst possible way.

Galanda: ...

Alanaan: As for the other priests... I suppose they attended these festivals as well?

Galanda: Yes... They've become ashes for our benefit...

Alanaan: You son of a...

An enraged Alanaan grabs Galanda by the cloak before letting go.

Alanaan: No matter how evil your crimes, it's not my place to punish you.

Alanaan: I'll leave that to the archbishop at headquarters.

Alanaan later sends word of Galanda's capture to the church.

A new priest is sent to the village shortly thereafter, promising to enrich the lives of its residents.

Alanaan: But first!

Alanaan: You guys better get ready to pull some weeds!

Alanaan: Those fields of narcotics better be lookin' like empty lots before the next priest gets here. And make sure ya toss every last seed and seedling to the bottom of the skies!

Villagers: O-okay...

Alanaan: Consider this the first step to true paradise. Heh...

Some time passes.

Alanaan is greeted by the archbishop herself at the Church of Renatus headquarters.

Archbishop Lethys: We are grateful for your service in resolving this matter.

Alanaan: Please... I'm the one who should be grateful. You were willin' to give me a chance in spite of the terrible sins I'd committed...

Archbishop Lethys: It appears you've grown as a result of your ongoing journey of redemption.

Alanaan: Hah, I wish. Part of me tells me I'm too old to grow.

Archbishop Lethys: Oh, it's never too late to learn new things and mature. No matter how old you get.

Archbishop Lethys: Plus the more you grow, the stronger and kinder you get.

Alanaan: Y'think so?

The Sun: No way. Is this really the archbishop here?

Alanaan: Whoa! Mind your manners if ya wanna stay alive!

The Sun: Why, aren't you awfully afraid.

Archbishop Lethys: Ahaha, you must be The Sun. I see you have no fear, and I quite like that about you.

Alanaan: Aiieee...

The Sun: I see that you, too, are a cut above the rest, Archbishop.

Alanaan: My apologies for her demeanor...

Archbishop Lethys: What an extraordinary relationship it must be for you to think of a primal as your granddaughter.

Archbishop Lethys: I'm beginning to sense a sort of divinity about you, Alanaan. All this redemption has certainly done you good.

Alanaan: Divinity, you say?

Archbishop Lethys: Yes, your compassion shines with a blessed light. You've proven yourself worthy...

Archbishop Lethys: I, Archbishop Lethys of the Church of Renatus, appoint you as our newest bishop.

Alanaan: Wha? M-me? A bishop?

Alanaan: Oh, I dunno about that. You don't wanna give that opportunity to someone like me who's done awful things!

Archbishop Lethys: While it is true that your sins will never disappear... You have shown a profound willingness to redeem yourself and devote your entirety to bringing others into the light.

Archbishop Lethys: I believe it is precisely because you carry the burden of sin that you realize the importance of our church's mission.

Alanaan: ...

Archbishop Lethys: And if you should ever fall again, you can always get back up. I believe your existence will be of great aid in the ongoing battle against the many ills of the world.

The Sun: She really wants you to accept. Just say "yes" already.

Archbishop Lethys: Haha. The Sun offers you sound advice.

Alanaan: Er, but...

Archbishop Lethys: Yes?

Alanaan: ...
I gladly accept.

Archbishop Lethys: Thank you. I look forward to continuing our work together.

The Sun: You have my blessing as well, Alanaan.

Alanaan: Hehe, 'preciate it.

Alanaan later reunites with the crew to return to his homeland.

Alanaan: Ah, what a nostalgic scent.

Vyrn: Let's get a move on, Preacher Man! Your followers are waitin' for ya!

Alanaan: Right, right, let's go!

Lyria: Huh? Someone's running this way... Oh, aren't those the people from your church, Alanaan?

Renatus Follower: Father Alanaan! It's been too long!

The Evoker cannot believe his eyes. His usually stern-faced followers are drenched in tears.

Alanaan: C'mon, guys! Maybe you can start by wipin' off those tears!

Lyria: It seems like they really wanted to see you again, Alanaan!

Alanaan: Ah... Sniff...

Vyrn: Doesn't help if you're joinin' in the waterworks too, Preacher Man.

Alanaan: Boy, I must be gettin' up there in years, 'cuz the tears just pour out...

Renatus Follower: Welcome back, Father Alanaan!

Alanaan: Yeah, thought I'd pay a visit... Hope you've all been good?

Renatus Follower: Yes! Very much so!

Alanaan's followers, overtaken with delight, form a circle around him.

The Sun: How embarrassing to see full-grown adults acting like this. But... it's quite nice actually.

Lyria: It sure is!

Alanaan will surely continue to be a bastion of good on his journey of redemption.

Though (Captain) thinks he should take at least a day every now and then to just relax.