Scenario:Lu Woh - A Faint Yet Dazzling Light
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A Faint Yet Dazzling Light
Lu Woh had come to Auguste in Orologia's stead after learning of rampaging sea creatures. He fended off monsters from the beach and was providing medical care to the injured when Joel asked him if he could help out as a lifeguard. After considering the impact of the events on the future, Lu Woh agreed.
(Captain) and company are in Auguste, finished with their work and enjoying the extra time off.
There they happen to run into Lu Woh, who is—to the crew's surprise—working part-time as a lifeguard.
Though the crew are surprised, they can't help but feel a curiosity bubbling inside them.
Vyrn: But why's he workin' all the way out here?
Lyria: Could it be that Lu Woh's in Auguste because there's some sort of trouble?
Vyrn: Would that require him to get a job at the beach though?
Lu Woh: ...
With a sigh, Lu Woh thinks back to a conversation from a few days prior that had led to this situation.
Orologia: Seeeriously!
Lu Woh: What's the matter? If a problem has arisen in the Sky Realm, we can attend to...
Orologia: Oh, no, just a wee little butterfly. I'll go take care of it in a jiffy!
Lu Woh: Wait. Details of any incident should be shared.
Orologia: You're absolutely right! But it's kind of an emergency...
Lu Woh: All the more reason. Recognize that you have the tendency to internalize information.
Orologia: I suppose I do... Okay, so the thing is, some sea creatures have been really energetic lately.
Lu Woh: Energetic? When you speak of the sea, do you mean Auguste?
Orologia: Yep, the one and only. The sea creatures there have gotten so energetic that they've started attacking mortals and causing a riot...
Orologia: If we leave them be, they're going to start hopping out of the sea, which will set off a whole bunch of other things that'll eventually lead to the skies' destruction!
Lu Woh: ...
And that's why you were in such a rush.
And that's why you were in such a rush.
Orologia: Yes, yes, exactly! So hurry up and let's go to Auguste!
Lu Woh: I will handle the situation. You stay here.
Orologia: Wha? But how can I! I should be the one responsible for this kind of delightfully dangerous incident...
Lu Woh: Orologia.
Orologia: Yes, sir!
Lu Woh: Your simulation power is supposed to be under the control of the Six Dragons. Despite this, you have been using it without permission.
Lu Woh: And despite the fact that we have been continuously telling you to rest.
Orologia: Hngh... W-well, I was just wondering if (Captain) and the crew will be able to have a fun vacation...
Lu Woh: ...
Orologia: I-I'm sorry! I won't do it again!
Lu Woh: In any case, as consequences of the present situation are already clear, something must be done about it.
Lu Woh: Are you inferring that I wouldn't be able to stop the rampage of mere sea monsters in Auguste?
Orologia: Rrg... Fine. I hate to ask it of you, but... I'll leave the situation in your hands.
Lu Woh: Good. Relay the specific coordinates to me.
Orologia: Thank you!
Reliable Lifeguard: This way! Get inside as quick as you can!
The beach is in chaos. Tourists are frantically running away from attacking sea monsters while the lifeguards are doing their best to evacuate everyone.
Lu Woh: Hm.
Lu Woh forms a light barrier that forces the creatures back into the sea.
Young Pincer: Shraaah!
Sea Monsters: ...!
Lu Woh: (Strange. They seem to be moving with intention... which means one of them must be acting as commander.)
Lu Woh: (That one, perhaps.)
As a being beyond the confines of nature, Lu Woh is in fact capable of hearing the voice of any creature if he so wishes.
Young Pincer: Retreat! Retreat now! This wasn't part of the plan!
Lu Woh: (As much as I hate resorting to force, I may have to capture it and ask a few questions.)
Reliable Lifeguard: What're you doing? You need to run too!
Lu Woh: ...!
Reliable Lifeguard: The shelter's that way!
Hey, you too! Get out of here!
Hey, you too! Get out of here!
The brave lifeguard, unfazed by the hordes of monsters, spots another person in the distance and makes to run toward them.
Reliable Lifeguard: Rrg...
Lu Woh: You're injured as well.
Reliable Lifeguard: Yeah, got nicked earlier... but I'm fine! I can walk!
Lu Woh: ...
Young Pincer: Now's our chance!
Lu Woh: I will ensure the safety of the civilian. You must seek rest.
Joel: Oh. You're...
Lu Woh: I have tended to those in need of medical attention, though I have not relieved them of their exhaustion.
Reliable Lifeguard: It's okay! I can work no problem!
Joel: No can do. You need to take some time to rest.
Joel: Magic doesn't cure everything. Take it easy on the movement for a while. And you're absolutely not allowed to swim.
Lu Woh: ...
Reliable Lifeguard: You can't be serious! We're already short on hands!
Reliable Lifeguard: We've only been managing 'cause you're helping out, Joel. And now that we've got all these monsters to look out for... Ergh.
Joel: See? You're not even steady on your feet.
Reliable Lifeguard: How are things gonna run without me though? If only we had some backup...
Joel: Hmm...
Joel: Lu Woh, I have a favor to ask.
Lu Woh: What is it?
Joel: I'd like you to help out as a lifeguard.
Lu Woh: What?
Joel: Well... All right, let me explain my logic from the beginning.
Joel: I heard from this lifeguard here that you were incredibly quick and alert, not to mention you can use magic for first aid.
Joel: You've got the stamina too, of course—all of which are perfect qualities for a lifeguard. All you need is a bit of training.
Joel: We'd really appreciate it if you could help out as a lifeguard for a while. What do you think?
Lu Woh: I did not expect to receive such a request. I came to Auguste solely to—
Orologia: But it's kind of an emergency...
Lu Woh: (If I had not stopped Orologia, mortals may not have been injured in the recent incident.)
Lu Woh: (Any injuries suffered may have an influence on the future...)
Joel: I won't force you. But we're really short-staffed right now and would be grateful for any assistance at all.
Lu Woh: ...
Lu Woh: Very well. At any rate, I still have matters to settle here at Auguste.
Lu Woh looks up to find (Captain) and company staring at him, their eyes sparkling.
Lu Woh: The circumstance was unavoidable. There is nothing more to inquire about.
Vyrn: Wha! Come on, we're on the edge of our seats here! Just tell us!
Although Vyrn and company are certain there is a deeper reason behind Lu Woh's recent activities, the white dragon merely sighs and does not offer to explain further.
A Faint Yet Dazzling Light: Scene 2
After returning the child to his guardian, Lu Woh muses to the crew about the difficulty of protecting others' lives. Joel and Lu Woh patrol the beach, reminding visitors of potential dangers. Joel's eagerness to help prompts Lu Woh to think about why mortals are willing to risk themselves to protect others.
Young Dad: I am so, so sorry!
Young Dad: I let him out of my sight for one second, and he was gone... I can't believe he almost drowned...
Lu Woh: Courses on how to wear a life jacket are regularly held in Auguste.
Lu Woh: As life jackets may be unfamiliar to visitors, as is the ocean itself, I suggest you take the course as a safety precaution.
Young Dad: W-we will! Thank you so much!
Come on, buddy. You too.
Come on, buddy. You too.
Little Boy: Right! Thank you, Mister Lifeguard!
Lu Woh: Never forget that your life is as ephemeral as bubbles on a surface.
Little Boy: Ephem... Um, I don't really get it, but okay!
Completing the required procedures with utmost efficiency, Lu Woh returns the child to his father.
Vyrn: Huh? Wait, shouldn't you have warned the dad to watch his kid closely?
Lu Woh: That would be unnecessary.
Vyrn: Really? I guess the guy looked like he was regretting it already...
Lu Woh: While there may be an inclination for those who dwell in the sky to guard their children...
Lu Woh: Mortals are feeble creatures. It would be meaningless to expect them to be able to save others every single time.
Lyria: But there are some who are really good at protecting their children...
Lu Woh: I do not disagree. I am merely stating that I do not set such expectations.
Vyrn: Hrm... I dunno what to think...
Joel: Lu Woh's right. Protecting the lives of others is a very difficult task.
Lyria: Joel! You heard us?
Joel: Yeah. Thanks for handling the boy's case earlier, Lu Woh.
Lu Woh: I will submit a report later.
Joel: Sounds good. So, back to what you were talking about—protecting someone's life is hard.
Joel: From Lu Woh's perspective, I'm sure it's even more frustrating for him to see mortal lifeguards attempt the task.
Joel: He's helping us do what we can't do that easily.
Vyrn: What kinda stuff?
Joel: For example, he's always aware of what's generally going on across the entire beach.
Joel: So he'll know right away if anyone's in trouble. Plus he can get to them in ways that we aren't capable of.
Choose: You mean the door?
Choose: Like making a hole in the sky?
Joel: Exactly. He can be at the scene in a second and prevent bad accidents.
Joel: Normal lifeguards can't do that. Lu Woh's been a big help in keeping things under control. I'm really thankful he's here.
Lyria: So he flies to the scene to prevent bad things from happening...
Lyria: Hehe. That kind of aligns with the duty of the Six Dragons.
Lu Woh: I suppose there are some common traits.
Joel: Oh yeah, Lu Woh. If you're not too tired, think you can go on patrol?
Lu Woh: Patrol? I can confirm the safety of mortals from where I am now.
Lu Woh: You said it yourself earlier. Monitoring the beach by walking around would be, on the contrary, inefficient for me.
Joel: True, if you were only there to stand watch. But there's another reason why it's important for lifeguards to patrol the area.
Joel: Follow me. The rest of you can come too if you want.
Joel: Do you need help with anything?
Tourist: Nope! I'm having a great time!
Joel: Good to hear. That area over there's been roped off, so just be careful.
Joel: The tide can get pretty high depending on the time—today, it'll be in the evening.
Tourist: Oh, I see... Should I leave the beach earlier then?
Joel: I don't recommend going for a swim at night. There's plenty of other places to check out, like the hotel area and the shops.
Tourist: The hotel area, huh? Oh yeah, now that you mention it... I forgot to make an appointment at the spa! Phew, thanks for reminding me!
Joel: No worries. Enjoy your stay.
Joel continues to talk to the vacationing guests, asking if they have any concerns and giving them small reminders.
Vyrn: I had no idea lifeguards had to talk so much! That's a busy job!
Joel: Just walking around already makes a difference. I like to add a few words in, but it's personal preference.
Lyria: What kind of difference does it make?
Joel: When people see a lifeguard, they remember that dangers are lurking. Sometimes their awareness alone can prevent mishaps.
Joel: The charm of a resort is letting people forget their troubles... but they need to remember that accidents can still happen.
Lu Woh: ...
Choose: Is something bothering you?
Lu Woh: I understand the inherent value in the patrol...
Lu Woh: But I cannot comprehend why mortals concern themselves so deeply with the life and death of others.
Vyrn: I mean, of course we're gonna help if someone's in danger. It's better that no one dies, right?
Lyria: Yes... After all, we always hope for the well-being of the people around us.
Lu Woh: (Better that no one dies... To put it another way, they don't want to let anyone die.)
Lu Woh: (The reason why not all lives in these skies can find happiness is because this world is already distorted.)
Lu Woh: (It is the duty of the Six Dragons, as pillars of the world, to take this into consideration.)
Lu Woh: And yet...
Lu Woh: (Mortals who struggle to live out their own lives worry about the lives of others.)
Lu Woh: (They're filled with a sense of purpose... to carry on their blood and their culture. Or perhaps something more than that...)
(Captain) and company look at one another, puzzled, as Lu Woh remains deep in thought.
A Faint Yet Dazzling Light: Scene 3
During his break, Lu Woh senses danger nearby and leaps to defend the beach again from incoming sea monsters. He is about to capture the foes' leader when Turtlestache, a friend of (Captain)'s, comes in to calm the monsters. Deciding that observation would be best for now, Lu Woh makes to return to shore when Lyria slips, falling into the ocean.
Joel: Since you've finished patrolling, go ahead and take a break, Lu Woh.
Joel: Hm? No, you need to rest. Work and rest come as a set—both necessary for a healthy body and mind.
Joel: Maybe you can take it easy with (Captain) and the others. It's not every day you bump into each other while on vacation.
Vyrn: Here comes the ball!
Lu Woh: ...
Lyria: What's the matter, Lu Woh?
Lu Woh: Nothing. Carry on with your merriment.
Choose: You don't want to join us?
Lu Woh: I am accompanying you to ensure your safety.
Lu Woh: If you seek a playmate, I believe Wamdus is more suitable. I can conjure a door if you would like to call on her.
Vyrn: That's not what we meant. Didn't Joel tell ya to take a break?
Lu Woh: It would be concerning if a wedge of the skies needed rest from such trivial work.
Vyrn: Oh... If you put it that way, I guess so.
Lu Woh: Now be on your way. And remember to take the necessary precautions when swimming in the water.
(Captain) and company nod at Lu Woh's firm words and continue tossing the ball between themselves.
Lu Woh: ...?
Lyria: I'm sorry! Do you think you could throw it back to us?
Lu Woh picks up the ball and casts it back to the crew.
Lu Woh: ...
Not long after, the ball comes rolling again.
Vyrn: Whoops! Toss it over, will ya?
Lu Woh: Good grief...
And a while later...
Choose: Sorry! Can you get the ball for us?
Lu Woh: ...
You're doing this on purpose, aren't you?
You're doing this on purpose, aren't you?
Lyria: Huh? Um... (Captain), we got found out already!
Choose: We wanted to play with you.
Vyrn: Yeah! We figured if we threw it over, it's pretty much the same as playing catch.
Lu Woh: Such meaningless behavior is—
Lu Woh: ...!
Lu Woh is about to lecture the crew when something along the coast catches his attention. His expression immediately changes.
Lyria: Lu Woh's gone! I-is something wrong?
Vyrn: Let's go take a look!
(Captain) and company follow the white dragon and step through the door.
Lyria: Eek! We're in the ocean!
The crew find themselves hurled into the middle of the sea.
Young Pincer: Shraaagh!
Vyrn: What's with these things!
Lu Woh: Monsters that have succumbed to a frenzy for reasons unknown.
Lu Woh: They are my responsibility, as I did not eliminate them immediately. However, you should never follow me through the door so recklessly.
Lyria: Hngh... I'm sorry...
Lu Woh: Never mind. Let's finish this quickly. First, we must find the creature in command.
Young Pincer: Onward! Onward! Chase the skydwellers out of the sea!
Lu Woh: Ah, the same one as the other day. I will need to capture it to determine its motive.
Young Pincer: Hey, it's you! I won't let you get in our way today!
Lu Woh: There is no point resisting.
Lu Woh extends a hand toward the monster in charge when a voice interrupts him.
Turtlestache: You brat!
Young Pincer: Gyah!
Lu Woh: ...?
Turtlestache: I was wondering why I hadn't seen you in a while. So this is what you were up to...
Young Pincer: Wh-what d'you mean? You did the same back in your day!
Young Pincer: I always listened to your heroic sagas before bed... I thought you were so cool. I respected you!
Turtlestache: They're no heroic sagas. Rather, they're fables that should teach you what not to do.
Young Pincer: Wha? Fables?
Turtlestache: In the end, the Seahamut you look up to suffered a miserable defeat... and shed tears when everyone forgave him for it.
Turtlestache: He realized that, whether in the sea or sky, what's really "cool" is the courage to join fins with others.
Young Pincer: ...
Turtlestache: I must apologize, skydwellers. Can you leave the rest to me?
Lu Woh: I'm not done talking yet.
Lu Woh is about to grasp at the sea creature once more when someone else stops him.
Lu Woh: Singularity...
Choose: I think it's okay now.
Lu Woh: What about this situation leads you to think so? You can't understand their words.
Lu Woh: Friends?
(Captain) briefly explains to Lu Woh about a past adventure under the sea...
About the small heart that wished for peace between the rivaling sea and sky, about the friendship between two unexpected parties...
And about how they finally came to understand each other and joined forces to fight against a common enemy.
Lu Woh: ...
The captain notices two albacore—one larger than the other—leaping in the distance.
Lyria: I'm sure they'll stop any further harm.
Lu Woh: It is much too soon to make an optimistic assumption on the future.
Lu Woh: Still, the monsters are indeed settling down.
Lu Woh: I suppose some observation may be in order first.
Lu Woh: There's no need for you to thank me. In any case, it's time you return to land.
Lyria: Okay!
Lu Woh turns back to the door, and the crew makes to follow suit.
Lyria is about to pass through the floating portal when suddenly...
Lyria: Ahh!
She loses her balance, falling backward into the ocean.
A Faint Yet Dazzling Light: Scene 4
The captain jumps into the water to save Lyria. (Captain)'s willingness to risk everything for another person upsets Lu Woh, who scolds the captain for such recklessness. During a feast that night, (Captain) goes outside to talk with Lu Woh. Once again, the white dragon finds himself touched by the bright passion of mortals to help those in need.
As the crew is about to return to land, Lyria slips and loses balance, plunging into the waters.
Without a moment's hesitation, (Captain) dives into the ocean after her.
Vyrn: Wha... Are they gonna be okay!
Lyria: Bwah!
With some support from (Captain), Lyria is pushed out of the water and through the door.
Lyria: Hngh... I'm sorry, (Captain)...
Lyria: Huh?
Lyria looks back to find no one passing through the door behind her.
Lu Woh: Singularity?
The color drains from Lu Woh's face. He quickly leaps through the portal and out into the ocean once more.
Lu Woh: (Why hasn't the singularity come to the surface?)
The surface of the water is still, and not a splash can be heard in the vicinity.
Lu Woh: ...!
Lu Woh's lip quivers ever so slightly before a flash of light fills the area. The seawater vanishes in the blink of an eye.
Lu Woh: ...
What are you doing?
What are you doing?
(Captain) is on the exposed ocean floor with a surprised expression, clutching one of Lyria's sandals.
Choose: I thought I could quickly grab it...
Lu Woh: If you drown, you will die!
Lu Woh: Why would you dive even deeper into the water? Saving someone from drowning is difficult enough for the average person!
Lu Woh: ...
Lu Woh: As you should be. I've realized over and over that you have a tendency to overestimate your own life force.
Lu Woh: You have lost your life once. You should understand that you are only alive because of your link to the girl in blue.
When (Captain) nods, the furrow in Lu Woh's brow deepens.
Lu Woh: Then why do you continue making light of your own life?
Lu Woh: You are treading on a thread, carrying a burden heavier than other mortals. Why do you put others before yourself?
Lu Woh: ...
Lu Woh: The decision is yours. Still... I simply cannot comprehend.
Lu Woh looks pained as he turns his back on the captain and steps through the door to return to shore.
That evening.
Lu Woh: My pay?
Lu Woh stands motionless for a while, a bag of rupies in his hand.
Lu Woh: There is no need.
Joel: Just take it.
Lu Woh: Why should I be forced to accept this?
Joel: It's a rule in the mortal realm. If you work, you get paid.
Lu Woh: I will admit that it is a valuable law that should be upheld in mortal society. However, I do not require...
Joel: All the lifeguards saw how hard you worked, Lu Woh.
Joel: And mortals possess an urgency to express gratitude. So we'd like you to have it.
Lu Woh: ...
If that is the case, then choose a restaurant in the vicinity. The more people the place can hold, the better.
If that is the case, then choose a restaurant in the vicinity. The more people the place can hold, the better.
Joel: It's Lu Woh's treat tonight! Cheers!
Everyone: Cheers!
In the end, Lu Woh's pay is used to cover a scrumptious feast for the crew and the lifeguards.
Vyrn: We're happy you invited us, but are you sure?
Lu Woh: Any money I possess could have an influence on the economic situation of the skies.
Lu Woh: Promptly returning it to Auguste should be the best way to minimize any influence.
Vyrn: Okay... If you insist.
Blond Lifeguard: He is insisting, so I don't see the problem! Come on, bottoms up!
Vyrn: Whoa! You're plastered already...
Blond Lifeguard: It'll be a waste if we don't go wild! Dang it... Lu Woh got the pay he deserves, and this is how he's choosing to spend it!
Blond Lifeguard: He needs to rest and cut loose sometimes! Wouldn't you say, Joel?
Joel: That's just how he is. So why not?
Reliable Lifeguard: I've got nothing but respect for him! He gave us a hand, worked hard for us... and now he's even treating us to a feast!
Reliable Lifeguard: Hrrgh... Cheers to Lu Woh!
Vyrn: This is gettin' to be one heck of a night...
Lyria: Everyone's feeling happy and grateful! Isn't this nice, Lu Woh?
Lu Woh: ...
Lyria: Lu Woh?
Lu Woh: ...
What is it?
What is it?
Vyrn: You okay? You're kinda zoned out.
Lu Woh: I simply had a lot to think about. I am doing fine.
Vyrn: If you say so...
Sweeping his gaze across the restaurant, Lu Woh suddenly stands up from his seat.
Lu Woh: It's noisy here. I will be outside for a while.
Vyrn: Huh? Hey! But you're the star of the party!
Vyrn: Not you too, (Captain)!
The captain finds Lu Woh outside standing by the door of the restaurant, staring out into the ocean.
Lu Woh: Singularity? What did you come out for? If you are here to interrupt my thoughts, then I suggest you return to the feast.
Choose: I wanted to apologize for today.
Lu Woh: An apology is unnecessary.
Lu Woh: You are much too fragile to carry the fate of the world on your shoulders. I was merely reminded of this fact.
Lu Woh: You are but a flickering flame. I dare not ask for a spark from your candle—especially not on a night when the wind blows fierce.
Lu Woh's gaze falls on a fishing boat in the distance, its lights swaying above the water.
Choose: Maybe it's because I'm fragile.
Lu Woh: Because you're fragile? If so, then you would be rather greedy in your hope to save even others.
Little by little, (Captain) begins to talk.
The captain tells Lu Woh that one's own fragility can help one understand the fragility of others. It serves as motivation to assist those in need when possible.
Lu Woh: ...
It's illogical.
It's illogical.
(Captain) nods and turns to look straight at Lu Woh, gazing into his eyes.
The sound of laughter and spirited voices can be heard from inside the restaurant.
Reliable Lifeguard: Man, I'm embarrassed to return to work! Lu Woh's too good at the job! Is there even any point for me to come back?
Blond Lifeguard: Oh yeah, I guess Lu Woh will leave if you come back. Why don't you take another year off?
Reliable Lifeguard: Don't do this to me! I wanna protect the oceans of Auguste too!
Lu Woh: (Want... to protect.)
Reliable Lifeguard: What're you doing? You need to run too!
Joel: When people see a lifeguard, they remember that dangers are lurking. Sometimes their awareness alone can prevent mishaps.
Lyria: Ahh!
Lu Woh: I see.
Lu Woh raises his eyes to the night sky.
Lu Woh: Your mortality gives you all the more reason to fear death.
Lu Woh: I can understand your desperation in avoiding dangers at all cost.
Lu Woh: (And yet... it is not only fear that is present.)
Lu Woh: (You wish to protect life... harboring a fierce desire to fend off death.)
Lu Woh: (It is a passion mortals inherently possess, as transient as their lives may be.)
Lu Woh: (To them, helping others is not limited to those with power.)
Lu Woh: Truly...
Lu Woh opens his mouth to say something just as the door to the restaurant swings open.
Reliable Lifeguard: Lu Woooh! Stop hiding and come talk with us inside!
Joel: Hey, you're getting out of hand.
Sorry, Lu Woh. Don't worry about him.
Sorry, Lu Woh. Don't worry about him.
Blond Lifeguard: You say that, Joel, but you looked kinda lonely without Lu Woh at the table!
Lu Woh: It appears the noise is inescapable.
(Captain) joins in the conversation, laughing together with the lifeguards.
Lu Woh watches quietly from beside the captain.
Lu Woh: (Truly, there is nothing more precious than the fleeting spark of life.)
The flame in the lamp outside the door flares up, shining bright.
Lu Woh's gaze softens as he bathes in the warmth of the light.
Categories:
- Scenario Character: Vyrn
- Scenario Character: Lyria
- Scenario Character: Lu Woh
- Fate Gender Check
- Scenario Character: Orologia
- Scenario Character: Reliable Lifeguard
- Scenario Character: Young Pincer
- Scenario Character: Sea Monsters
- Scenario Character: Joel
- Character Fate Scenario
- Skill Fate
- Scenario Character: Young Dad
- Scenario Character: Little Boy
- Scenario Character: Tourist
- Scenario Character: Turtlestache
- Scenario Character: Everyone
- Scenario Character: Blond Lifeguard