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The Magnificent Mole Troupe/Story
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The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Opening
Michael, Sariel, and Azrael each spend the holy night in their own way, trying to fit in with mortal society. While taking a stroll through town, Michael spots someone doing a one-man show, which gives her reason to consider the art of theatre.
???: Welcome, honorable guests, to the Mole Troupe's special performance tonight.
Falsch: My name is Falsch, resident actor of our humble troupe. Pleased to make your acquaintance.
Falsch: Now, now, hang on! No need to be hasty.
Please, stay in your seats and listen for just a while longer.
Please, stay in your seats and listen for just a while longer.
Falsch: Tonight, we are proud to present a grand spectacle of angels—
Falsch: All right, that may be a little misleading.
Falsch: One might see it as a tale of four lumbering moles... as they kick and struggle out of the ground.
Falsch: The story begins one holy night. The bustling main street of town is sent into a panic when a ghastly cry suddenly pierces the air.
Falsch: Now, let the show commence.
Michael: Listen well, mortals!
Ex-Soldier 1: Wha?
Michael: Gather round and feast your eyes on this cake!
Michael: Partake in it this holiday and you won't be disappointed! Miss this opportunity and you'll regret it!
Ex-Soldier 1: Sir! Yes, sir!
Michael: Whew...
Cake Shop Owner: Amazing, Micah. You've managed to draw in even more customers.
Michael: I am glad to fulfill my duty as salesperson. This may, in fact, be my true vocation.
Cake Shop Owner: Yes, it's possible... Although there's something slightly off about it.
Cake Shop Owner: There are quite a few rather brawny men in the store. I suspect you remind these ex-soldiers of their superior.
Michael: Hm? Is there a problem? My understanding of this position was to attract customers to the shop...
Cake Shop Owner: Micah, do you remember the name of our cake shop?
Michael: Of course—"Bunny Cake Island."
Cake Shop Owner: Right. And this is just generally speaking, but machos don't usually gather for bunny cakes.
Michael: Is that so?
Cake Shop Owner: Yes.
Cake Shop Owner: How about changing how you call out to passersby so we receive more of the clientele these bunny cakes are intended for?
Cake Shop Owner: For example, putting on a brighter expression... You can even become a bunny yourself!
Michael: A bunny... Leave it to me.
Michael: Listen well, lost bunnies! Buy this cake and slap a smile on your face! Come on, bun-bun!
Ex-Soldier 2: Sir! Yes, sir!
Cake Shop Owner: That... will do for now.
Meanwhile, in front of a store on another street.
Sariel: Happy holidays.
Toys are on sale. Cheapest they'll ever get.
Toys are on sale. Cheapest they'll ever get.
Sariel: Get yours this holy night. On sale now—
Boy: Hey, it's Santa! Are you out delivering presents?
Sariel: Sorry, no. I'm Sariel, not Santa. And I'm in the middle of my job where I have to repeat the same words over and over again.
Boy: Wha, you're not Santa? Then why're you here?
Sariel: Why?
Sariel: ...
Sariel: I don't know... I don't know why I exist.
Sariel: If only I could talk to the deputy head. I have to look for the rainbow...
Boy: Look... for the rainbow?
Boy: Oh, I know! Are you a detective, mister?
Sariel: Detective?
Boy: You're disguised as Santa for a secret investigation, aren'tcha!
Boy: Daddy told me a famous detective recently arrived in Sazak. It's gotta be you!
Sariel: Famous detective? Would that person... be able to find the rainbow for me?
Around the same time, at a tree house on a forest island some ways away.
The Angels: Happy holidays!
Halluel: Dinnertime finally... Who thought we'd get so wrapped up in decorating the tree?
Malluel: Definitely. But it was fun! Our home's so much brighter now with all the winter decorations!
Azrael: I bet Santa will be real surprised when he sees that we're living in a tree.
Halluel: For sure. You'd never be able to experience this kind of tree life in town.
Malluel: Since we have a day off from our postal work, let's enjoy our holy night in the forest to the fullest!
Azrael: A holy night in the forest...
Azrael: Are you sure this is what you want? They've got cake shops and cute toys in the town...
Malluel: Of course it is! Besides—you, Iss, and the both of us make for the perfect quartet.
Halluel: That's right. All we want is for the four of us to enjoy special occasions like this together!
Azrael: Oh, okay then.
Azrael: Thanks a lot, Hal. Mal.
Azrael: Oyoyo?
Halluel: Hehe. Hungry, huh? You have been up and down the tree all day.
Malluel: Eat up! There's plenty to go around. Then we'll have some bean cakes for dessert!
Azrael: Yay! Let's dig in!
The peak of the holy night comes and goes, and things begin to quiet down in town.
Leaving the cake shop behind, Michael walks down the street with her head down.
Michael: Sigh...
Michael: (The shop manager said I did well, but I definitely didn't meet her expectations.)
Michael: (Adjutant to the supreme primarch? Steward of elemental fire?)
Michael: (None of that does me any good in mortal society.)
Michael: (I'm so pathetic. One step out of what I'm accustomed to, and I can't do anything—not even pretend to be a bunny rabbit.)
Strange Man: Now, listen carefully. All the skies are a stage. And everyone in them an actor!
Michael: Hm?
Michael lifts her head and spots a man standing on top of a bench.
The man's gaze is fixed on something far away. He continues to talk, unaware of Michael's presence.
Strange Man: My role is your best friend. That's a beautiful truth, wouldn't you agree!
Michael: ...
Strange Man: Ah, lend me your wisdom. Otherwise, I shall become naught but a drunken clown who...
Strange Man: Who...
Sigh.
Sigh.
Strange Man: Ah, forget it! If I'm gonna stoop to doing a one-man show, I'd rather treat dogs to a full-course meal!
Michael: (He whipped out a bottle from his pocket... What is he planning to—)
Falsch: Glug, glug, aaah!
Falsch: Screw this whole holy night business! It's a day for those who're happy to flaunt their happiness!
Falsch: Come on, Santa! All I want for the holidays is holes in the socks of those enjoying their time tonight! For both feet!
Michael: (Certainly a tall order...)
Falsch: Heh heh. Well, lucky I've got my buddy the bottle. You're the only one for me!
Michael: And off he goes, nuzzling his drink...
Falsch: Now, listen carefully. All the skies are a stage. And everyone in them an actor!
Michael: (He was a completely different person just moments ago, as if he were from a different world...)
Michael: (The act of becoming different people at will... Come to think of it, I have heard of an art called "theatre" in the mortal world.)
Michael: ...
Michael: But it's got no more to do with me than do the festivities of tonight.
Beginning to wallow in self-deprecation, Michael's gaze falls to the ground once more as she resumes the walk back.
As laughter echoes through the holy night, four people retreat into the shadows, a sigh escaping each of them.
Little do these four know that fate has already begun to move for them.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 1: Under and Above - Episode 1
Three primarchs shoot the breeze at Uriel's Kitchen—Uriel is now a chef, Gabriel is learning to paint, and Raphael has taken up farming. Michael, however, has yet to find her own place within mortal society, aimlessly going from one job to the next.
The holy night passes, and the new year begins. The lively season has died down to a peaceful lull.
New Year's greetings have been exchanged, and the skies settle down to patiently wait for the arrival of the distant spring.
In a corner of the town of Sazak, the murmur of conversation can be heard from within a cozy restaurant.
Uriel: Yooo! Welcome to Uriel's Kitchen!
Gabriel: Hehe. Yo!
Uriel: Oho, if it isn't Gabriel! Your usual seat next to the wall just opened up. Lucky you!
Gabriel: Oh, I chose this time on purpose. It's always crowded in here at lunchtime, so I opted for the quieter afternoon.
Uriel: Aha, is that right? Thanks for dropping by!
Raphael: Sometimes a convenient coincidence is anything but.
Gabriel: Ah, you're here too, Raphael. Did you come to have some of Uriel's exquisite stew?
Raphael: I'm here for work. After selling my freshly harvested carrots, I had a discussion with Uriel about business operations.
Uriel: The carrots today were amazing! My customers were saying how the sweetness is on a whole different level!
Raphael: Heh. Though, I'm still inexperienced when it comes to farming... It's only natural that I familiarize myself with the industry better.
With the conflict now a ways past, the archangels ceased to serve their original roles as defined by the Astrals, and began to live their own lives as individuals.
Confronted with the task of finding a place in mortal society, the four primarchs each changed the way they lived.
Uriel decided to become a chef. Gabriel began to learn to paint, while Raphael took up farming.
It is in this town of Sazak that they chose to adjust to their new calling.
Gabriel: But Uriel, why were you asking Raphael for business advice?
Gabriel: I thought your stew was doing quite well? Everyone says it has that gentle, sweet taste of their mom's cooking, a warmth that seeps into your bones.
Uriel: "Mom's"?
That's nice and all, but you also hit on the problem.
That's nice and all, but you also hit on the problem.
Uriel: Sure, the stew is doing great—but I'm not tryin' to run just a stew shop.
Uriel: I wanna be the place that you can come for something new and get your socks blown off every time!
Raphael: And that's when I brought up something people have been talking about called the "Sazak Festival."
Gabriel: Ah, I've heard of it! It's an event coming to town soon that happens once a year, right?
Gabriel: Quite the popular festival even with out-of-towners, I hear.
Uriel: I can open up a stall there, whip up some new dishes, and get people to try 'em!
Raphael: This opportunity is certainly not a coincidence. It was only a matter of time before Uriel's tireless efforts were finally rewarded.
Uriel: Nah, it's thanks to your help, Raphael. None of this would be possible without the delicious vegetables you're growing.
Gabriel: Hehe, you two are the picture of a pair of pals. I don't know if I've seen you having so much fun.
Uriel: It'd be great if I could get some advice from you too, Gabriel. Oh yeah, did you want some stew?
Gabriel: Yes, please. And if we're going to have a deeper talk about this, why don't we ask our dear Michael to join us?
Raphael: Michael?
Gabriel: Yes. She's living on the second floor above this restaurant, right? Until she finds her own place.
Gabriel: It's been a while since all four of us primarchs have gathered. It'd be nice to catch up.
Uriel: Oh, well... Michael might be a bit occupied at the moment...
Just as Uriel scratches his head pensively, a loud thumping sound echoes from the stairs.
Michael's Voice: Pardon me.
Gabriel: Ah, speak of the angel...
Michael: Uriel, preparations are complete. If I may ask you to look over my attire...
Uriel: Oh, uh... I'm no expert, but looks good to me! If I didn't know, I'd never tell you were an angel.
Michael: Yes. After all, that is the rule for us angels to live among mortals in this town—to conceal our identities.
Michael: I've made special adjustments to these clothes as well as my voice to hide any indication of my identity. I will be introducing myself as Micah.
Gabriel: You're what now? What's brought on all this?
Michael: My apologies. I'm afraid I'm rather pressed for time.
Michael: I shall take my leave.
The others watch with wide eyes as Michael hurries out the door.
Raphael: What kind of job is Michael taking on now?
Uriel: She's working as a secretary. She's been like that since yesterday, saying something about it being practice.
Gabriel: She was a kindergarten teacher just a while ago... Did she quit that job?
Uriel: Yeah. Michael likes children, but seems like her attempts at smiling scared some of the kids.
Raphael: Before that a librarian... I recall they received visitor complaints that she made the place unbearably tense.
Uriel: Plus that cake seller job on the holy night... She's kinda having a rough go at it.
Gabriel: I wonder why... Sure she comes off as a bit stiff at first, but she's hardly lacking for a playful side.
Raphael: Her strong sense of duty... may be an obstacle if she feels she must perform her role with perfection.
Uriel: Right. But it's not really up to us to find something for her either.
Uriel: All I can do for her is welcome her back with some warm stew.
Gabriel: Uriel...
Gabriel: Hehe. You may be the youngest of us, but you really are just like a mother.
Uriel: Hey, what's that supposed to mean! Stop patting my head like that!
Raphael: ...
Raphael: Fear not, Michael... for a new breeze is already blowing.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 1: Under and Above - Episode 2
Dismayed with her performance at her latest job as a company president's secretary, Michael is walking along an alleyway when she falls into a pithole. Three others—the detective Sario, costumed cat Adeu, and ex-prodigy actor Falsch have also fallen into the hole. Disguising her true identity as a primarch, Michael introduces herself as "Micah" and works with them to return aboveground.
Michael: My utmost apologies, sir.
President: Don't worry about it, Micah. The deal worked out in the end.
President: Besides, in a sense, the negotiations went well because of you.
Michael: But it was due to my lack of experience that...
President: Haha. I was the one who was lacking.
Several hours earlier, Michael had attended some business negotiations as secretary to the president of a company.
Business Partner: A pleasure to meet you. Let's make this a good day for both of us!
President: The pleasure is mine. Shall we shake on the occasion?
Business Partner: Haha, quite the eager assistant you are! But you must allow me to greet your president first!
Michael: Um...
The client extends a hand to Michael, who is standing next to the president.
President: Who would've thought that our business partner would mistake me to be your secretary?
President: He must have felt awkward after that, and that's why he gave us such favorable conditions for the contract.
Michael: ...
President: No need to be so down about it. I'm the one who didn't stand out enough.
Michael: Sigh...
Michael lets out a deep sigh as she walks down a bustling street.
Michael: (What a farce I am... The other primarchs are progressing just fine, while I'm the only one still unable to adapt to mortal society.)
She feels herself feeling more and more pathetic as she stands in the middle of the lively town.
Michael: (Everything is so full of energy. In comparison, I have no place among...)
Michael: Hm?
Michael: When did I walk into an alley? I guess I was unconsciously avoiding the crowds.
Michael: Hah, look at me, trying to escape from reality... What kind of supreme primarch adjutant does that? I should go back to the main street before I get lost—
The Two: Oh!
Whoa!
Whoa!
Michael turns to go back when she bumps into a man.
Michael: Hm?
Just then, a dull mechanical noise sounds from under their feet.
By the time the two realize that the ground under them is gone, it is too late.
Several Cries: ...!
Michael finds herself falling into a hole that has suddenly opened up in the road...
Along with three other figures.
Landing at the bottom of a deep hole, Michael immediately looks up.
Michael: (The ceiling is already closed... What happened to the opening of the hole we fell through?)
Michael: (What is going on? Is this some sort of surprise attack—)
Strange Man: Damn it! What in the heck happened!
Masked Man: We fell through a hole... All four of us who happened to be in that alley at the same time.
Strange Man: I know that! I was merely lamenting my misfortune!
Costumed Cat: Meooow!
Strange Man: Meow?
Costumed Cat: That's right! Meowing like a cat relaxes you, you know!
Masked Man: Oh, a cat... Are you the cat I'm looking for?
Costumed Cat: Meow? Since when was someone looking for me?
Strange Man: Ahhh! The fall broke the bottle I had in my pocket!
Strange Man: It was such a good deal too! I got it for so cheap! It was on sale...
Michael: ...
Michael: (I'm not following their talk... but I don't feel any enmity from these people.)
Michael surveys the surroundings once more before addressing the three.
Michael: Listen, everyone. It appears we've been trapped in an underground space.
Strange Man: Looks like it. For some unknown reason...
Michael: Since we've been met with the same misfortune, let's work together to break out of here.
To Michael's relief, the others nod in agreement.
Michael: (I wasn't sure, but I'm glad we're on the same page...)
Michael: (I mustn't reveal my identity to mortals. I have to follow this rule while living in Sazak.)
Michael: (I have to hide my wings and aura, and conceal any powers that might give me away.)
Strange Man: Okay then... Should we introduce ourselves?
The Two: Introduce ourselves?
Strange Man: Yeah. We're gonna be working together, right?
Masked Man: (It's fine. My fallen angel aura is already...)
Costumed Cat: (I'm the same as any mortal right now... Yeah, nobody'd figure it out.)
Michael: ...?
Sario: I'm Sario. A detective in search of a lost cat.
Adeu: And I'm Adeu! A gal in cat's clothing, meow.
Falsch: You... sure you wanna phrase it that way?
Anyway, I'm Falsch. I used to be a child prodigy actor.
Anyway, I'm Falsch. I used to be a child prodigy actor.
Michael: Hm?
Falsch: Now, listen carefully. All the skies are a stage. And everyone in them an actor!
Michael: (Ah, this man... He's the one I saw on the holy night.)
Michael: (But why is it that I feel a sense of familiarity toward the other two as well? I don't remember meeting anyone like them...)
Falsch: And you, looking smart in your executive suit. What's your name?
Michael: ...
Michael: My name's Micah. I'm... nobody in particular.
Michael puts on a stern face and says nothing more. And so, the four of them proceed to explore the underground for a way out.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 1: Under and Above - Episode 3
Unable to find an exit out of the pit, the four chat for a bit and realize they're each outcasts in their own way. They end up acting out lines from a play for which the script happened to be lying around. A man later hears them and helps them escape by dropping a rope ladder.
Upon some investigation, the four are able to find out a few things.
In the underground space are a variety of old furniture and mysterious devices—traces of someone once having lived here.
Parts of the makeshift cavern had been reconstructed so that air and light are able to come through.
The ceiling is designed in a way that it opens up into something like a pithole, then closes with the support of a contraption.
The group takes in these findings, hoping to discover a way out.
Adeu: Hmm... Doesn't seem like there's one anywhere, meow...
Michael: It seems the exit is quite skillfully hidden. Let's take a break for now.
Fatigued, the four walk over to a small, broken-legged table and lower themselves onto the dust-covered chairs around it.
The Four: ...
Falsch: Aren't you a detective, Sario? Isn't looking for things supposed to be your specialty?
Sario: Sorry... I became a detective because I'm still trying to find what I'm looking for.
Falsch: Ah. So you're like a professional swimmer who can't swim, or a hunter who can't deal with blood.
Sario: Maybe? I can swim, but I don't like blood.
Sario cocks his head, not understanding. The conversation somewhat dispels the tension in the chilly underground air.
Adeu: Hm, I can kind of understand what Sarry is saying.
Adeu: Oh yeah. Since you're Sario, can I call you Sarry?
Sario: I suppose.
Falsch: Adeu, was it? "Kind of understand" how—are you a cat who can't catnap?
Adeu: I love naps! Sometimes I'll spend all day in bed...
Adeu: But there's, you know, stuff, that keeps me from living like everyone else.
Adeu: I can't play outside with friends or... well, lotsa things people do.
Michael: Oh...
Sario: Oh?
Michael: I was just thinking... I can relate in that there are some things others can do that I can't seem to.
Michael: I'm the same as Adeu. I don't know how I should be living my life.
Sario: Me too. How does everyone live so normally?
Adeu: Right? They don't have to put on cat's clothing to go for a walk. It's amazing.
Falsch: Whew, you guys sure are a gloomy bunch!
Michael: Says someone who said they wished holes would open up in people's socks during the holiday season.
Falsch: Wha! How'd you know that?
Adeu: Meow, meow! Are you actually one of us, Fal?
Falsch puts his head in his hands. A moment later he straightens up again, puffing out his chest defiantly.
Falsch: Fine! I'm a nail that sticks out too—so what?
Falsch: These past twenty years, I've lived a nice, happy life where I slowly get up late in the day, do some kind of side job, then spend the rest of my time drinking till morning.
Falsch: Having a stable job and a family to go back to doesn't make anybody better than me, damn it!
Falsch leaps to his feet, causing a pile of papers nearby to topple over. Clouds of dust billow up.
Falsch: Oops, sorry... That wasn't me, okay? It was the drinks.
Michael: What...
Sario: Cough, cough... What's written on these papers?
Michael: Judging by the way it's written... it looks like the script of a play.
Falsch: Oh, you familiar?
Michael: No, not exactly.
Adeu: Hey, Fal. Is this one of those things you can... "perform"? Can we see?
Falsch: You want me to put on a show? I mean, sure, I was a prodigy actor...
Adeu: I've never seen a play before. I bet it's a lot of fun!
Falsch: ...
Falsch takes the script and flips through the pages.
Falsch: "The Detective of Venase"... It just so happens that it has a cast of four.
Falsch: We're all here anyway—why don't we read this together? Besides, a bit of noise might get some people above ground to notice us.
Sario: So I just read out the words on the paper? I've done that before.
Michael: I... can't. I've never performed in a play before.
Adeu: Neither have I, so let's try it out together, Micah!
Falsch: Yeah, it might be a nice change of pace, eh? And just look at those kitty-cat eyes.
Michael: ...
After deciding on each of their roles, the four stand up.
The dust from their chairs swirls upward, glittering under the beams of light.
Sario: "Bassani. My Friend. It has been. Too long. I'm happy to. See you."
Falsch: Oho, nice, nowhere to go but up, Sario. Your turn, Micah. Let's see how you play Bassani.
Michael: ...
Cake Shop Owner: Micah, do you remember the name of our cake shop?
Michael: Of course—"Bunny Cake Island."
Cake Shop Owner: Right. And this is just generally speaking, but machos don't usually gather for bunny cakes.
Business Partner: A pleasure to meet you. Let's make this a good day for both of us!
President: The pleasure is mine. Shall we shake on the occasion?
Business Partner: Haha, quite the eager assistant you are! But you must allow me to greet your president first!
Michael: Um...
Michael: (This'll just be like every other—)
Falsch: Loosen up, you don't have to do it "right."
Michael: What?
Falsch: I mean, we're underground. Who's gonna care? Save the gut muscles for when you're on the bowl.
Michael: ...!
Michael: That's some uncouth encouragement.
Cracking a smile, Michael takes a deep breath and opens her mouth to speak.
Michael: "Ah, Anto. I am a fool. Will you listen to what I have to say?"
Adeu: Ooh! You're so cool, Micah!
Michael: That's not true... I'm still rather stiff.
Sario: "Now. Listen carefully. All the skies are. A stage. And everyone. In them an actor."
Michael: (All the skies... a stage.)
Adeu: "My cat costume is too much for these skies!"
Adeu: Oh, wow! The person I'm reading as is in a costume too!
Michael: Wait. It's not time for Porsh to enter the scene yet—
Falsch: Hey, that's not fair! You went ahead of me!
Falsch: "You called me the devil's child! I'll never forget that!"
Sario: "The skies. Sure bring some. Peculiar people. Into existence."
Adeu: "Now let's open the curtain! Take a look at these little chests!"
Michael: You lot... aren't going in order at all, are you? What a jumble...
Michael: ...
Michael: "I'll choose this chest of lead! Let's hope it's the right choice!"
And so begins a grand time of exchanging altered lines of a mysterious script.
The Four: ...!
The four continue their impromptu performance, flipping page after page of the script book until the end.
Falsch: Whew... That was a hot mess.
Adeu: It was so much fun! Even Micah got really into it after a while!
Michael: ...
Sario: Micah? Your cheeks are getting red...
Michael: Well, um...
Michael: (What is this strange... heat I feel growing within myself?)
Adeu: You completely blew us out of the water, Fal! We're no match for a real actor!
Falsch: Heh! They used to call me the boy with a prism-color performance, you know.
Sario: Prism-color... You mean, rainbow?
Adeu: Whoooo! What do they call you now?
Falsch: The man with no shine... and no job.
Adeu: Oyoyo...
Michael: Wait. I sense something above us.
At Michael's words, the group cautiously look up to see the ceiling opening up like a hatch.
Bar Owner: Hey! Anyone down there?
Relief washes over the four's faces when they realize that someone has come to save them from their dilemma.
A rope ladder is thrown down the pit, and they climb back into the sunlight.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 1: Under and Above - Episode 4
Having returned to her room on the second floor of Uriel's Kitchen, Michael's mind remains occupied with the fire she felt from acting earlier. She heads out to the burrow once more and finds the other three there as well. They decide to brand themselves the Mole Troupe for their activities henceforth.
As the night grows late, the lights on the shopping street go out one by one.
Having escaped from the pit, Michael makes her way back to Uriel's Kitchen.
Michael: I'm back.
Uriel: Oh, welcome back! How'd the secretary work go?
Michael: It was a disaster.
Uriel: Oh yeah? You say that, but you don't seem too—
Michael: I'm tired. I'm going to retire to my room early.
In the blink of an eye, Michael returns to her room on the second floor and pulls open a drawer at her desk.
Neatly stored inside are several brand new books.
Michael: "All About Theatre"...
"Works of Bill the Bard"...
Michael: I'd been regretting these impulse purchases from after that holy night, but now...
Michael takes a volume out and decidedly opens it up to the first page.
Michael: ...
Michael: "Theatre is the art of telling a story to spectators by acting out a role..."
Falsch: "You called me the devil's child! I'll never forget that!"
Sario: "The skies. Sure bring some. Peculiar people. Into existence."
Adeu: "Now let's open the curtain! Take a look at these little chests!"
Michael: "I'll choose this chest of lead! Let's hope it's the right choice!"
Michael: Heh... That was awful. None of us were actually acting—one can hardly call that a play.
Michael: Still...
The Four: ...!
Michael: What was that... fire I felt?
Michael: ...
Michael closes the book and goes out into town once more, its streets dark and cloaked in the veil of night.
Her feet take her away from the light and toward a shadowy area where not a single person is in sight.
Michael: This is the place.
Michael finds herself back where she had been earlier in the day—the alleyway.
Michael: ...
Michael: Even Santa would laugh at me now. Still, I can't but wish I could experience it one more time...
The hatch opens up, and Michael peers into the pit.
She takes a moment to comprehend the sight underground.
Falsch: Ah, there she is!
Sario: Hello.
Adeu: Meow! I guess we all thought the same thing!
Michael: Falsch... Sario... Adeu...
Michael: Why are you all here?
Falsch: Why are you here?
Adeu: It was so much fun in the afternoon!
Sario: The prism-color performance... It might be connected to what I'm looking for.
Michael: ...
Michael: So we all felt that fire...
The four simultaneously pick up the scripts and move to stand where they had positioned themselves during the day.
Sario: Didn't think all of us would come back. We're like ants returning to their nest.
Falsch: I don't know... Ants are pretty social, right? I'd say we're more like moles returning to their burrow.
Michael: That's true... I suppose people like us who can't fit into society don't deserve to be compared to ants.
Falsch: If we were to name ourselves, we'd be something like... the "Mole Troupe."
Adeu: Is that what we're going to call our group? That's kinda cute, meow!
Michael: We're nothing but an underground gathering—literally and figuratively.
Falsch: Oho, witty! You got a sense for comedy after all, Micah.
Falsch: Well then. Shall we get started?
The odd quartet find themselves reunited in the underground where they met, putting on another performance together.
The Mole Troupe—their stories begin to intertwine within the gloomy depths of their secret burrow.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 2: Shade and Sun - Episode 1
Sario—who is actually the fallen angel Sariel—helps Barawa with an investigation in hopes of finding leads on a certain "rainbow." Meanwhile at a bar, Falsch sings his own praises as an ex-prodigy actor, but his old friend the bar owner tells him to face reality.
The newly formed Mole Troupe finishes reading "The Detective of Venase" once more.
When they part to return home late in the night, Sario goes back by himself to his room at an inn.
Barawa: Ah, you're back! Working hard until late hours, huh?
Greeting him at the inn is Barawa—an ex-military man and self-proclaimed master detective who solves cases with brawn more than brains.
Sario: I'm back. Can I take off my mask now?
Barawa: Of course. I see you're following my instructions of hiding your identity upon conducting your investigations as a detective.
Sario: Yeah. Pretty sure my aura was hidden.
Barawa: Aura, hm?
Barawa: Haha, are you saying you got yourself the aura of a detective just from three days of helping me with my work? That's the spirit!
Sariel: Whew... Hard to breathe in that.
Sario's true identity is Sariel, a fallen angel.
He had erased his angelic aura and hidden himself among mortal society as a detective.
As for how Sariel had come to work with Barawa...
It all started a few days ago.
With his assistant Sarya on vacation, Barawa had decided to do some temporary detective work in the town of Sazak.
Barawa: Come on, Buddy! We're off on a secret investigation!
Buddy: Woof!
Sariel: Um, are you the famous detective Barawa?
Barawa: Foiled!
Barawa: H-how did you know? My disguise should've been perfect...
Sariel: I'm looking for a rainbow. How do I find it?
Barawa: You really surprised me back then. I sensed immense talent in you, and that's why I hired you as my assistant right away.
Sariel: I'd been looking for you. I just called out to you because I saw you.
Barawa: Hahaha! You can be a terrifying fellow sometimes! Keep that spirit up while looking for the lost cat.
Barawa: It's a cat that belongs to a theatre troupe—for all we know, it might be able to walk on two feet and act like something different entirely!
Sariel: Theatre troupe? Walk on two feet?
Barawa: Our client this time is the leader of a troupe called Raven. I don't know too much about it, but the group seems to be pretty famous.
Barawa: But anyway, it's late. Getting enough rest is part of a detective's job too.
Sariel: Okay... If that's the job, I'll do my best to rest.
Barawa is about to head back to his own room when he remembers something and turns back to Sariel.
Barawa: I'm counting on you for the secret investigation as well. I'll do what I can too, but as it stands, looks like it's mostly on you.
Sariel: Got it.
After Barawa is gone, Sariel sits on his bed and takes out something from under the covers.
Sariel: A black feather... Black even with the moon at its back.
One day, he had found a mysterious black feather beside his pillow.
Sariel: Why did the deputy head take my wings?
Sariel: I need to find the rainbow... and ask him why he decided to spare my life.
Another reason I need to find the rainbow... to ask him why he decided to spare my life.
Sariel continues to wander in search of this elusive place where he can talk to Belial once more.
Sariel: The detective could help. I won't stop yet.
Meanwhile in the outskirts of town, Falsch gulps down a large drink.
Falsch: Aaah!
Falsch: Can't wrap up a day like this without one of these!
Bar Owner: Falsch... You wrap up every day with one of those.
Bar Owner: You sure you should be drinking this much? Don't you start early for your bakery job tomorrow?
Falsch: It's not a bakery job. It's a job taking out raisins from raisin bread.
Bar Owner: What kind of job is that... You sure do all sorts of weird things. I guess that's to be expected since—
Falsch: What, since I'm the man with no shine and no job? Come on, we've been pals forever. I didn't want to hear that from you...
Bar Owner: I came up with it, you lunkhead.
Falsch: Wha, really?
Falsch: Damn it!
As if to wash away the harsh reality, Falsch continues to down his beverage in loud gulps.
Bar Owner: Anyway, boy am I glad I know you well enough to find you. Who'd have thought you'd get yourself stuck in a random pit?
Falsch: I knew you'd be able to come save me. Thanks a lot for that.
Bar Owner: Do you actually mean it? Even as a good friend, it's hard to read the mind of an ex-actor.
Falsch: Hey, it's ex-prodigy actor.
Bar Owner: Yeah, yeah. You really don't give up that pride from twenty years ago, huh? Who cares if a grown man was a prodigy child.
Falsch: I'm a grown young man! I could still play a student in any production.
Bar Owner: ...
Bar Owner: Falsch, it's been long enough, hasn't it?
Bar Owner: You gotta face reality. Come out of your hole and get a real job.
Bar Owner: I'll help you however I can. Well, other than paying your tab.
Falsch: Yeah... I know.
Falsch: I know that better than anyone...
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 2: Shade and Sun - Episode 2
The next morning, Adeu—who is actually the archangel of instruction Azrael—visits Gabriel's studio with Halluel and Malluel. Back at Uriel's Kitchen, the crew is offering Uriel advice on what sorts of food to serve at the upcoming Sazak Festival.
The morning after the founding of the Mole Troupe.
Adeu wakes up on her bed to find herself wrapped up in something fluffy.
Adeu: Oyoyo? Oh... I was so tired, I fell asleep in my costume last night...
Azrael: I should take it off and check if it's still okay... Wouldn't do to go out with holes in it.
With her costume off, Adeu turns out to be none other than the archangel Azrael.
Israfel: I took a quick look while you were sleeping.
Azrael: Ooh, Iss! Morning, meow!
Israfel: Meow?
The costume seemed okay when I checked it.
The costume seemed okay when I checked it.
Azrael and Israfel—like Halluel and Malluel, the two are twin archangels of instruction.
Though Azrael is often the one awake, their natural healing process has begun to afford Israfel more chances to be so lately as well.
Israfel: It seems Hal and Mal are calling from the workshop. Gabriel too...
Azrael: Okay. I'll go take a look, meow!
Azrael goes to a different room to find paper and art supplies scattered about.
Malluel: Hehe!
Gabriel: Perfect, Mal. You look incredibly sexy.
Halluel: Ooh. What about me, Gabriel?
Gabriel: You look absolutely charming as well, Hal. Ahh... How can I capture all of this in a picture?
Halluel and Malluel pose in front of Gabriel, who is gripping a paintbrush in one hand and standing over a canvas.
Azrael: Morning, meow! Wow, Hal and Mal are all twisted up today!
Halluel: Az! Good morning, meow. It's an artful pose that displays the full potential of our limbs.
Gabriel: The two of them are spectacular models. How about doing some painting together today?
Several days earlier, a letter from Gabriel had arrived for the archangels living in the forest.
The letter was an invitation to spend some time painting at Gabriel's studio—and along with the letter came a present.
Gabriel: The cat costume... I'm glad you seem to have taken a liking to it,
Azrael: Meeeow!
Malluel: Hehe. It's just your style, Az!
Azrael: Thank you, meow. Did you design the kitty yourself, Gabriel?
Gabriel: I did. It's very effective in hiding your identity as an archangel, since we need to do that here in Sazak.
Azrael: Right, right! That's why I'm introducing myself as "Adeu" here.
Malluel: Oh my! What a cute name. It's very you.
Halluel: But who are you introducing yourself to? You did take a walk by yourself yesterday... Did you talk to someone while you were out?
Azrael: Oh, um...
Azrael: I decided on the name just in case! You know, for when I do introduce meowself!
Malluel: Meowself?
Israfel: (Are you sure you don't want to tell them about the Mole Troupe?)
Azrael: (Am I sure?)
Israfel: (I'm asking you...)
Israfel: (My memory's a bit fuzzy. Why were you there in the alley in the first place?)
Azrael: (Well... I was looking for a forest.)
Israfel: (A forest?)
Azrael: (You know how there's so many people in town? I wanted to find a quiet spot.)
Israfel: (Right... I guess crowds are still a little scary.)
Azrael: (I think I still want to keep the Mole Troupe a secret for now.)
Israfel: (All right, if that's what you want...)
Halluel: Az? Are you talking with Iss?
Azrael: Yeah, just about... something. It's nothing much, meow!
Azrael swiftly picks up a paintbrush and sets up a canvas next to Gabriel.
Malluel: My arms and legs are starting to go a little numb... This twisty pose is hard.
Gabriel: Relaxing your muscles will help you keep the pose longer. But don't force yourself—feel free to switch to a different pose if you need to.
Halluel: What a pro! You were a model for paintings yourself, weren't you, Gabriel?
Gabriel: Yes, I was often asked by people in town to model for them. Eventually I started becoming more interested in being on the other side of the canvas.
Gabriel: Challenging yourself to something new is a lot of fun. So I hope you can try too, Azz—
Gabriel: Oh my. Is that purple paint you're using?
Azrael: Yep! I'm drawing twin eggplants. It just came to me, like pow!
Halluel: Ahaha... That's certainly one way to challenge yourself.
Meanwhile, (Captain) and the crew have come to town to visit Uriel's Kitchen for some stew.
Lyria: Thank you for the food, Uriel! That was delicious!
Vyrn: It was! The sweetness of the vegetables really came through, and it was obvious that you put a lotta care into makin' it.
Uriel: Haha! Something you wouldn't expect from a big, rough guy like me, right?
Vyrn: I didn't say that, but... I'm not gonna deny it either.
Raphael: Uriel's always been interested in cooking. It works well with his personality—once he gets started with something, it has to be perfect.
Vyrn: Right... I gotta say, I didn't expect to see you here either!
Lyria: Me neither! I didn't know that you'd become a farmer!
Raphael: The time spent alone among nature can also be seen as a test to face oneself.
Raphael: The result of the test lies in the taste of the vegetables harvested. You can even say agriculture embodies the notion of self-movement.
Lyria: Movement? Like... a sports day for vegetables?
Uriel: He means to say that he was interested in it. We're free from our original duties, so now we can do what we really want to do.
Lyria: Ah, I see!
Vyrn: Gabriel's around town paintin' stuff too, right?
Uriel: She sure is! I hear the archangel twin pairs are here visiting as well.
Michael: I hope Azrael and Israfel are enjoying their time painting...
Lyria: What about you, Michael? Do you have something you want to do?
Michael: Me? Not... really.
Uriel: Are you sure? To me, it looked like you'd figured something out last night.
Michael: It's nothing. I was just looking for my next job as usual.
Michael: (It's hard to explain a baffling experience like the Mole Troupe when even I don't understand it yet.)
Uriel: Ah okay... Well, let me know if you need me to make you a lunch box! You'll get some of Uriel's Finest!
Michael: I appreciate it, Uriel.
Raphael: By the way, (Captain)—there's something we want to talk to you about.
Uriel and Raphael begin to discuss the possibility of opening up a stall at the upcoming event in town.
Vyrn: Hey, that sounds pretty fun!
Lyria: Creating new menu items, huh? We'll help too!
Michael: ...
Michael: (It's like... looking at the sun.)
Casting a side glance at the excited crew, Michael quietly stands up from her seat.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 2: Shade and Sun - Episode 3
All members of the Mole Troupe seem to naturally gather at their burrow without reminder. Falsch exclaims that theatre is an art meant for people, like themselves, who have no place under the sun. The four begin another performance, each with their own motivations.
Night falls. Michael sits by herself in the Mole Troupe's burrow, reading a book.
Michael: ...
Michael: No one's coming...
Vyrn: Gabriel's around town paintin' stuff too, right?
Uriel: She sure is! I hear the archangel twins are here visiting as well.
Michael: (I wonder what Azrael and Israfel have been busying themselves with in this town.)
Michael: (As someone who took away their original ways of life, I shouldn't be spending my time doing nothing like this...)
Azrael: Me-meow!
Michael: Wha!
Azrael: Oh, Micah! Good evening, meow!
Michael: Adeu! Why are you dropping down from the ceiling?
Azrael: Hm? I thought the hole at the top was the entrance. Is it not?
Michael: Have you forgotten already? Falsch found something when we went home last night.
Falsch: Huh? Wait, there's a gap in the wall here... with a button in the back!
Michael: The button made something move, and we left through another entrance that was much more safe.
Azrael: Oh yeah, there was some kind of hidden ladder hiding!
Michael: (A hidden ladder... hiding...)
Azrael: I'll remember for next time. Is everyone else here yet?
Michael: We don't even know if they're actually going to come. It's not like we made plans to meet up again—
Sariel: Ouch...
Michael: Not you too...
Azrael: I get it. It's hard to remember there's a hidden ladder hiding here!
Falsch: That's redundant, Adeu. It's like saying "milk tea with milk."
Michael: Falsch. I'm glad someone else had the sense to come in through the ladder.
Falsch: Well, obviously. You shouldn't look down on an ex-prodigy actor like me, you know.
Michael: I don't exactly see the connection.
Azrael: I see... Are you always drinking milk tea from that bottle you have with you?
Sariel: I don't think so... Smells like alcohol.
Falsch: Bingo! I was busy with another job after my raisin gig, you see.
Michael: Raisin... gig?
I see. So you were busy working until now.
I see. So you were busy working until now.
Falsch: Mm, you could call it a sort of transport job.
Falsch: Involves transporting some of the alcohol in this bottle to my belly.
Sariel: I see... Sounds like you had a busy day.
Michael: ...
Speechless, Michael resigns to merely shaking her head.
Azrael: All four of us are back! The Mole Troupe has gathered once more!
Falsch: Seems like it. I'm pretty surprised, actually.
Michael: Shall we try reading the lines in order today? I do want to establish a minimal system for our reading today.
Falsch: Ooh, getting serious, are we? Good, good. Then let's—
Sariel: By the way. What brought you all to the alley that day?
Falsch: Huh? That's a rather sudden question.
Sariel: I've been wondering. It's not a road you have to pass through for anything.
Falsch: Hmm... The reason we were there at the time, huh?
The Four: ...
Michael: Our silence speaks a thousand words.
Azrael: Yeah... Maybe it's better not to talk about it.
Falsch: Just from looking at us, we're each kinda suspicious. Makes sense we'd have things we'd rather not say.
Falsch: Or times when the sun's too bright and we'd rather be underground.
Falsch: Wouldn't you agree, Sario?
Sariel: Right... Sorry. Forget I asked.
Michael: ...
Michael: (Escaping from reality, huh?)
Sariel dips his head in apology, while Michael stands beside him, a bitter expression on her face.
Falsch: But this is turning out to be the perfect opportunity for us! I believe the four of us are all cut out for theatre.
Azrael: You think so?
Falsch: As one ex-prodigy actor once said, theatre is an art for the outcasts... for the shady!
Michael: Right. In other words, this is your personal opinion.
Falsch: Just listen, will ya! The rest of folks, the sunny, they don't look at themselves.
Sariel: The sunny?
Falsch: You know, people who live under the sun and never seem to have a problem having fun during the holidays.
Falsch: But us shady little moles, we're always peeking out and watching them.
Falsch: Sometimes bitterly, sometimes with envy. Sometimes while wishing them a little misfortune.
Michael: ...
Michael: I see where you're coming from.
Falsch: Right? So as moles, we know the sunny better than they know themselves!
Michael: Hence, under the spotlight, moles are more fit to act out their roles?
Falsch: You got it! Theatre is made for moles... It exists for us!
Azrael: Sarry! Do you think it'd be okay if I tried acting as your usual role today?
Sariel: Sure.
Falsch: Don't just brush off what I said! They're the words of a famous ex-prodigy actor, you know!
Michael: ...
The four members of the Mole Troupe step closer to the dim beams of light and open their scripts up in the musty underground.
Michael: (I want to feel that fire again...)
Sariel: (A prism-color performance... and my duty.)
Azrael: (Meow, this is fun!)
Falsch: ...
A performance without an audience begins, on a burrowed stage where four people have gathered in refuge.
Burrowed deeper still, within four hearts four motives stir.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 2: Shade and Sun - Episode 4
When asked why she invited everyone over, Gabriel responds that it was really Michael—formerly Azrael and Israfel's direct superior—who asked her to, as she feels responsible for their current state of being. Learning this, Halluel and Malluel talk about what they can do to help as well; Azrael, having been listening in, cries herself to sleep at the emotional wall she feels between them.
When the hour begins to grow late, Gabriel and the others wrap up for the day to prepare for bed.
Halluel: Whew... I'm done putting the paint tubes back in place. There're more colors than I'd thought!
Gabriel: Thank you. I was trying new color mixes, and before I knew it, there were tubes all over the place...
Gabriel: Has Azrael gone to bed already?
Malluel: Yes, she jumped in headfirst and buried herself right under the covers.
Gabriel: I see... She must've been tired.
Gabriel: I do hope she enjoyed painting today.
Halluel: I was wondering, Gabriel... Why did you suddenly decide to invite us over?
Gabriel: ...
Gabriel: I suppose I should have a proper talk about it with you two.
Gabriel halts her cleaning and turns to face Halluel and Malluel.
Gabriel: To be honest, Michael was the one who suggested inviting Az and Iss to the studio.
Halluel: Michael?
Gabriel: Yes. She's always had a strong sense of responsibility, including for her old job overseeing archangels of instruction like you four.
Gabriel: And so... she still feels responsible for what happened to those two.
Gabriel: Especially seeing them live with such restrictions while the rest of us are enjoying our newfound freedom...
Malluel: But... that's not something for Michael to bear.
Gabriel: Red is red, and blue is blue. Micah likes to keep her colors separate.
Gabriel: Once she is charged with a duty, she will carry it out. You know using circumstances as an excuse is against her nature.
Halluel: So Michael wanted to give Az a chance to enjoy herself outside...
Malluel: But why didn't she invite us herself, instead of through you?
Gabriel: "Having it come from the one responsible would defeat the purpose."
Gabriel: That was her answer.
Halluel & Malluel: ...
Halluel: Actually, for us, this opportunity was more than we could have asked for.
Gabriel: Really?
Malluel: Yes. Recovery has been going well for Az, but being able to live normally is still a ways away.
Malluel: We spent the holy night in the forest, and tried to think of all sorts of ways for all of us to have a good time together.
Halluel: But now we understand. What we really need to do for her to be able to enjoy painting here is—
Azrael: ...
Without making a sound, Azrael returns to her room and takes off the cat costume.
She reaches into her covers and pulls out the dolphin costume she wears at home.
Azrael: I see... So they've been doing all this just for me.
Azrael: That's so kind... Too kind...
Azrael wrenches her body into a strange shape—one she has become necessarily accustomed to, to fit into bed—and burrows under the covers.
When she finally falls fast asleep, Israfel awakens to take her place.
Israfel: ...
Israfel: The pillow... It's wet.
Israfel: Az...
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 3: Rice and Bread - Episode 1
The Mole Troupe quartet gathers as usual, with each member respecting the privacy of the others; in a way, they are able to be themselves while concealing their true identities. Comfortable with this arrangement, gathering at the burrow becomes part of their daily routine.
The night of the following day, members of the Mole Troupe gather once again in their burrow.
Taking a break from performing, they crowd around the battered table and chat happily with one another.
Sariel: Does rose hip tea come out from a rose's butt?
Michael: ...
What are you talking about?
What are you talking about?
Falsch: Haha! I'll bet whatever does come out of a rose's butt at least smells nice, don't you think?
Azrael: Like nice poop?
Michael: Wha!
Sariel: I don't know... I need it for my detective work.
Azrael: You're looking for a lost kitty, aren't you, Sarry? I hope you find it soon.
Sariel: Yeah. There're a few things I need to find.
Michael: Rose hip tea... I know it to be a kind of tea, but now that you mention it, I have no idea about its origins or what it actually is.
Falsch: I guess it doesn't really matter. We'll find out if we get our hands on some, right?
When Sariel nods, Falsch tells him the name of a tea shop located on the town's shopping street.
Sariel: Thanks. I'm sure I can find the cat now.
Falsch: Lucky you, Sario. Wish you'd just trip on nothing.
Michael: Hey. Why do you have to wish for misfortune on others like that?
Falsch: Hmph. Well, walking above ground without a problem isn't very mole-like!
Falsch: Don't you run off and leave us here! Else you get the mole hammer, bop bop!
Azrael: Bop bop!
But why the bad mood today, Fal?
But why the bad mood today, Fal?
Sariel: Bad day at work? You had a job at the town hall today, right?
Falsch: That's what I was told...
Falsch: But when I got there, they told me to push the entire town hall building south!
Falsch: Now my whole body hurts! And it's not because I'm getting old or anything!
Michael: What a strange thing to ask. You need to stop accepting these kinds of jobs.
Falsch: Well, what did you do today, Micah?
Michael: I helped out on a ranch.
Michael: The cows and sheep wouldn't stop running from me, so it was rather unproductive.
Falsch: Hahaaa! Is that right? Awww, I hate to hear it!
Michael: You oaf, at least finish laughing first!
Azrael: Nyahaha! You're a bunch of funnybuns.
Azrael: It hasn't been that great above ground for me either! But coming here makes me forget aaall about it!
Azrael: When you don't know who you're talking to, you can just let the words out. It's a paradise, meow!
Falsch: Yeah, that's the way it should be! If you got words to say, say 'em!
Michael: Yes... It is comfortable here.
Michael: (But... is this really okay?)
As Michael ponders this, Falsch claps his hands.
Falsch: All right, shall we get back to acting?
Michael: Let's go back to our original roles—I'll be Bassani. Falsch can be Shylo; Sario is Anto, and Adeu will be Porsh.
Azrael: Sounds gooood! I feel like this works best for us.
Falsch: Then let today's "The Detective of Venase" begin.
Laughing at their blunders above ground and enjoying their time performing underground.
Down in their little burrow, this is how the Mole Troupe passes their days.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 3: Rice and Bread - Episode 2
Having returned a missing cat to the Raven Troupe, Detective Sariel meets with Barawa then makes for the burrow. That night, the Mole Troupe quartet enjoys a chat over Michael's rose hip tea, while Azrael presents a flag she drew herself to represent their group, which they proudly hang.
Barawa: I'm happy to say we've found your cat. Is this the one you're looking for?
Cat: Meow!
Raven Troupe Leader: Yes, it is! Thank you so much!
Sariel: ...
After returning the cat to its owner, Barawa puts a hand on Sariel's shoulder.
Barawa: Excellent work, my dear Sariel! The client was incredibly happy about it.
Sariel: Since he mentioned that the cat likes the smell of rose hip tea, I tried making some at a place where I thought the cat might pass by.
Barawa: A strategy based on our acquired information, huh? You've grown quite accustomed to being a detective, I see!
Sariel: Yeah. Think I'll be able to find the rainbow at this rate?
Barawa: I believe so. A mysterious dimensional rift, was it? I'm looking into it myself.
Barawa: Still, there's no guarantee that your search will be as easy as looking for a cat.
Barawa: From what you've told me, what's important isn't the rainbow itself, but—
Sariel: I know it'll be hard. I still want to find it though.
Barawa: ...
Barawa strokes his goatee and looks thoughtfully at Sariel.
Barawa: How is the secret investigation going?
Sariel: I'll be on my way there after this. I'll be careful not to act unnatural.
Barawa: Remember, slow and steady. That should work in your favor too.
Sariel: I'll try. Whatever it takes to find the rainbow...
Barawa: Everything's for the rainbow, huh?
Barawa: Hope everything goes well... with the undercover mission below ground.
Sariel: ...
Falsch: Ooh, you're rather early today, Sario. Only the ex-prodigy actor's here so far.
Falsch: And by that, I mean me!
Sariel: Falsch. Do you think I'll be able to pull off a prism-color performance too?
Falsch: What's this all of a sudden? I even struck a pose here... At least say something about it.
Sariel: I want to get closer to reaching the rainbow. I'll do anything I can.
Falsch: Oh?
Taking in Sariel's serious expression, Falsch closes his eyes and thinks.
Falsch: Tell me. Have you ever thought to yourself that you wanted to die?
Sariel: I don't know.
Falsch: I'll take that as a yes! In that case, you have the makings of a prism!
Sariel: Really?
Falsch: Listen carefully, all right? To reach that prism-color, first you need to attain all sorts of different colors.
Falsch: But in reality, what's vital is only one color... The first color.
Sariel: The first color?
Falsch: Your own color. If you don't know what your own color is, you won't be able to adapt even if you acquire other colors.
Falsch: To know, one must ask—to be, or not to be?
Falsch: Now the sunny, they don't do this at all. Augh, it's blinding!
Sariel: ...
Falsch: Anyway, you'll be fine. You've got me, the ex-prodigy actor, with you after all!
Sariel: But aren't you down to no shine?
Falsch: Ack! The innocence! 'Tis a knife to my heart!
Azrael: Good evening, meow!
Azrael: Hey, I was thinking... We say "morning" and "evening." Why doesn't "afternoon" end with "ing" too?
Falsch: Adeu! Please, don't plague me with such simple questions. I'll be wide awake and wondering about it all night.
Azrael: Heheh. It just came to me when I woke up this morning!
Sariel: Mornings... are not my favorite...
Falsch: Tell me about it! At least we know why it's "mourning."
Michael: Seems like I'm the last to arrive tonight.
Falsch: Good wayafternoon!
Falsch: Wait, what's that you got there? Could it be... my buddy the bottle!
Michael: Of course not. It's a bottle, but...
After some time, a warm and pleasant aroma envelops the underground space.
Azrael: Rose hip tea! We still don't know what it is, but the smell's great!
Falsch: When you hear "smell," doesn't it make you think bad smell? If it's a good one, I like "fragrance" better.
Falsch: What about you, Sario?
Sariel: Either is fine with me.
Falsch: Urgh!
Sariel: Where did you get this, Micah? It's different from the kind I brewed earlier.
Michael: Oh, I got it from an acquaintance who runs a restaurant and had some left over. I wanted to try it after our conversation yesterday.
The four take their seats around the usual table, where a tea set has been laid out.
Sariel & Azrael: ...
Azrael opens her costume a sliver, and Sariel holds out the bottom of his mask. They sip with caution.
Falsch: A refreshing level of dubiosity, if I may say so. Not that I—
Michael: Wait. What did you just do?
Falsch: Uh? I put a spoonful of sugar into my cup?
Michael: Don't play dumb. You put sugar in—before you even took a sip.
Falsch: Yes? Obviously it's better sweet.
Michael: Unforgiveable. Not even apocalyptic flames could cleanse you of this sin.
Michael: Try drinking the tea as is first! Adjust it after that if you are so obliged!
Falsch: It's just adjusting the flavor a bit, geez...
Michael: You need to respect the person who made it. Surely you don't mix everything together right from the start when you eat curry?
Falsch: Of course I do. It doesn't affect the taste anyway. Sometimes I even add an egg and mix some cheese in.
Michael: Why you...
Azrael: It doesn't bother me... But I do like to try it first myself!
Azrael: Even when I have stew, I only add miso when I'm halfway done!
Sariel: Miso...
Falsch: I've never heard of anyone doing that! I suppose it'd go well with rice...
Michael: Falsch! Do you pour your rice in with your stew?
Falsch: Hang on! That's a sin too?
Michael: No. All is forgiven. Stew and rice is the supreme combination.
Falsch: Ah, a comrade?
Yeah, I get you, it does draw looks sometimes.
Yeah, I get you, it does draw looks sometimes.
Sariel: I've never had stew or miso before.
Azrael: Really? Miso stew is amazing!
Michael: Can't say I've tried that... But if you're interested in regular stew, I know a—
Michael: I mean... never mind.
Azrael: Oh yeah! I brought a surprise with me today too!
Azrael suddenly remembers something and excitedly pulls out a piece of cloth.
Azrael: Ta-da! I made a flag for the Mole Troupe!
Sariel: It's a mole... Did you draw this, Adeu?
Azrael: I sure did! I thought having a stand-art for our troupe would be nice!
Michael: You mean a standard? Heh, true. We definitely didn't have any of those down here.
Falsch: Oho, I see we've got witty Micah with us today!
Michael: Quiet. Seems I talk a bit too much when I'm with all of you.
They decide to have Azrael's handmade flag decorate a corner of their burrow.
A symbol of the Mole Troupe—and the deepening bonds its members share beneath the surface.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 3: Rice and Bread - Episode 3
Michael and Azrael, having each learned that stage plays will be performed at the Sazak Festival, suggest to the Mole Troupe that they sign up as well. Only Falsch initially shows some reservations, but after hearing the legendary Raven Troupe will also be performing, he agrees to participate.
(Captain) and company gather at Uriel's Kitchen on a peaceful afternoon.
It has been several days since they began planning for the Sazak Festival.
Uriel: Hmm... So is that a no for the rice 'n' stew?
Vyrn: It's kind of a gamble for a festival stall... I mean, havin' bread with stew is the norm.
Raphael: I don't know if it's considered the norm or not, but regardless, we can hardly call it a new item if it's still a stew dish.
Uriel: That's true... Sorry, I was so stuck I couldn't think of anything else.
Coming up with a new menu item different from Uriel's stew is proving to be more difficult than any of them had expected.
Lyria: Uriel Fries, Uriel Pasta, Uriel Rice... All of the sample dishes you made were really delicious!
Uriel: Thanks, Lyria. None of them have that "something" I'm after though... Especially since stall food needs some pizazz.
Michael: The stubbornness of a craftsman... So that's where you found your fire.
Uriel: I guess so! If I'm gonna make something, I wanna be proud of every part of it.
Uriel: You find something you want to do too, Michael? You've been all lit up lately.
Michael: I might have—or at least I hope so.
Michael joins the others for their brainstorming meeting.
Raphael: When you're stuck on something, the common wisdom is to take a step back and look at the big picture.
Michael: So you mean... think of the Sazak Festival as a whole.
Raphael nods and pulls out a few documents.
Raphael: Sazak is a town developed for trade and is open to various cultures, thriving as a cultural hub for art and entertainment.
Raphael: This festival is an event that gathers all of these different kinds of art and culture, attracting both locals and visitors.
Another group is also discussing the festival, inside a certain artist's streetcorner studio.
Azrael: Will you be submitting an exhibition piece for the festival, Gabriel?
Gabriel: Yes, that's the plan, although I don't know if I'll be able to make it in time...
Uriel: I'm thinking of setting up a stall near Sazak Theater.
Michael: Sazak Theater?
Gabriel: It's a large theater, with three halls of different sizes. Or so I hear!
Gabriel: Both professional and amateur performances will be running there all day for the duration of the festival.
Gabriel: They say it draws more people than anywhere else in town.
Uriel: Sounds like the perfect spot for the stall, right?
Uriel: And better yet, people say this year's should be bigger than ever...
Michael & Azrael: The Sazak Festival!
Sariel: What are you two talking about?
Michael: How about performing there as the Mole Troupe?
Azrael: I want to try too! I'm sure it'd be a lot of fun performing at a big place!
Falsch: Are you drunk? Why would an underground theatre troupe like us participate in an event above ground?
Michael: We're completely sober. Since we practice this much, it's only proper that we have a goal to work toward.
Michael: Besides, from what I've heard, there will be an unusually large number of participants this year. We shouldn't stand out that much even if we're a little inexperienced.
Sariel: An unusually large number?
Azrael: Yeah! Seems like some really amazing people called the "Raven Troupe" are going to be there!
Falsch: ...!
Michael: They're a theatre troupe that used to be based in Sazak and are quite famous across the skies.
Michael: It appears they're returning to Sazak for a performance, and that's why the festival is getting so much attention this year.
Falsch: Raven... The magnificent, shining troupe...
Falsch: I see. It's going to be a good comeback.
Sariel: ...?
Falsch lets out a sigh before giving a firm nod.
Falsch: Very well! We shall try our hand at performing at this festival!
Michael: Excellent.
Azrael: Yay! Our dream stage!
Falsch: Dream stage, huh?
Falsch: But to get there, there's a few things we need to do first.
Falsch breaks out into a wicked grin and looks at each of the others in turn.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 3: Rice and Bread - Episode 4
Falsch explains what they need to do in order to prepare for the festival, beginning with a proper explanation of the story behind "The Detective of Venase." Armed with new understanding, the troupe begins using a device in the burrow known as the Wind-Up Gallery to simulate a live audience for their rehearsals.
Sariel: Rehearsal?
Falsch: Yep. We've been playing around up until now, but it's time we solidified it.
With that, Falsch takes out a single book.
Falsch: First, we need to study. We have to know what kind of play "The Detective of Venase" really is.
Falsch: Here's some background information for you.
Falsch: "The Detective of Venase" is actually based on another play—it takes the plot and reconstructs it into something else.
Michael: I read in a book that "The Detective of Venase" reinterpreted the original dramatic comedy into a tragedy.
Azrael: Ooh, really? You know a lot, Micah!
Falsch: Like Micah said, originally Shylo was an antagonist. But in this production, he's turned into more of a tragic character.
Sariel: Changing the story... How did anyone come up with such an idea?
Falsch: Who knows? Must've been some weirdo.
Falsch: Anyway, since all of you already know the gist of the plot, we'll go over more things as we read it.
The story takes place in the city of Venase. Anto, a famous detective known throughout the skies, is approached by his friend Bassani about a certain matter.
Bassani had encountered a girl wearing a cat costume in town and fallen in love with her; but without knowing who she is, he finds himself at a loss.
With Anto's help, they find out that the target of Bassani's affection is Porsh, a girl from a wealthy family who is receiving marriage proposals from various people.
Bassani: From a wealthy family... What hope would a pauper like me have?
When Bassani starts to shrink back from the prospect, the positive Anto puts a hand on his shoulder.
Anto: You can. Still try. Invite her out. On a date.
But the fact remains that Bassani did not have the means to court Porsh, with his financial situation insufficient and Anto's assets located in another country.
The two attempt to borrow money, but to no avail. Finally, they have no choice but to go to Shylo, a moneylender known as the "devil's child."
Shylo and Anto have a past. His grudge against Anto lingering, Shylo proposes a contract with outrageous conditions.
Shylo: I can lend you money. But in return, if you can't repay it before the deadline...
Shylo: Detestable Anto... I nominate a pound of flesh to be cut off from your chest—
Anto: Okay. I'll sign. The contract.
Bassani tries to stop his friend, but Anto accepts the conditions of the contract regardless, certain that his fortune will arrive by ship sooner or later.
After a secret rendezvous and a casket-selection test, Bassani eventually wins Porsh's affection.
However, a rumor begins to spread among the people of Venase of how the ship carrying all of Anto's assets had fallen to the bottom of the skies.
As promised, Shylo appeals to the court and asks for a pound of flesh from Anto.
Shylo: I am merely adhering to the contract! I demand a pound of flesh from his chest.
But little does Shylo know that the judge is, in fact, Porsh in disguise, who comes up with a plan to turn the situation around.
Porsh: The contract mentions cutting flesh... but nothing about blood, meow!
Porsh: When you cut off the flesh, if even a drop of blood is spilled, the court will hold you accountable!
Shylo: ...!
Shylo gives up on taking Anto's life. The law pursues Shylo for attempted murder, and the man loses all of his fortune.
Shylo: Damn it!
With nothing left, Shylo is overcome with sorrow and falls into despair.
On the other hand, the ship carrying all of Anto's assets arrives late but safe, and Bassani and company live happily ever after.
Falsch: The details of Shylo's story are omitted—his daughter is taken away, his beliefs forcefully converted, and he spends the rest of his days spat on as the devil's child.
Sariel: But he was just lending money as a job.
Azrael: Revenge is never good, but I feel bad for him...
Falsch: That's the crucial part. The moment in which his dreams are shattered is his very chance to shine!
Michael: You're becoming quite the master at acting out Shylo's tragedy.
Falsch: Heheh, but of course. I used to be a prodigy actor, you know?
After hearing Falsch's explanation of the story, the group looks over the script once more.
Azrael: A detective, a cat costume... This is perfect for us, isn't it!
Falsch: And stick-in-the-mud Bassani?
Michael: I do not at all care for that phrasing... But yes, it's all quite the miraculous coincidence.
Sariel: It's perfect for me too?
Falsch: Sure—though Anto's personality is opposite from yours, despite your occupations being the same.
Falsch: But that is a trivial matter. There's something else more important at hand!
Michael: Let me guess—the fact that we've never performed in front of an audience before.
Falsch: Exactly! Acting in front of spectators is a completely different experience.
Falsch: That's why...
Strange Device: ...
Falsch: We're going to use this.
Sariel: Oh, this thing... It was covered in dust at the back earlier.
Falsch: This device is called the "Wind-Up Gallery." It replaces the audience and can be used in place of real spectators for rehearsals.
Wind-Up Gallery: ...!
Azrael: Meow? It made some kind of noise!
Michael: Who thought something like this would be lying around underground?
Falsch: We'll use whatever we can get our hands on! Let's start practicing in front of this thing.
Falsch: Why don't you try acting from the main part first, Micah?
Michael: All right... I'll do my best.
Feeling nervous, the group begin their first rehearsal in front of the mock gallery.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 3: Rice and Bread - Episode 4: Scene 2
Seeing how skilled Falsch is when he puts forth his best effort, Sariel asks why he'd previously quit acting. He remarks that he hadn't wanted to get sunburned. The moles' first attempt to challenge the surface would soon be underway.
After practicing in front of the gallery, each member of the troupe is feeling the benefits of their new style of rehearsal.
Michael: Bassani is a difficult role... but I'm starting to understand his character more.
Sariel: Are we growing?
Azrael: We're definitely growing like eggplants! I'll do my best to memorize the lines, meow!
Falsch: ...
Sariel: Falsch? Was our acting not good?
Falsch: Oh, no... Well, you're not wrong.
Michael: Harsh, aren't you... But I suppose I'd prefer that over an awkward compliment.
Sariel: You're really good, Falsch. Why did you quit theatre?
Falsch: Oof, you sure know how to rub salt in the wound, Sario!
Falsch: Let's see... I guess I didn't want to get sunburn.
Sariel: ...?
Falsch: Can I ask you to sign us up for the event, Micah?
Michael: Sure... I can do that.
Falsch: Appreciate it. I'll get some other things ready for the event.
Falsch: Anyway... Time for me to head off to my transport job!
Falsch gives a loose wave before climbing up the hidden ladder.
The underground troupe is making it's way to the surface. What will they find when they get there?
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 4: Angels and Duties - Episode 1
The Mole Troupe put on their first performance at a bar on the outskirts of town to mixed reception. Falsch suggests that they give up performing aboveground, but he does a one-eighty when he sees how motivated the others are.
A few days after the Mole Troupe decides to participate in the Sazak Festival.
The four members are at a bar on the outskirts of town, squished inside a small storage room.
Falsch: Owww! That's my foot you're stepping on, Sario!
Sariel: Sorry... I wanted to pick up the script over there.
Michael: You're one to say, Falsch. Your elbow is jabbing into my stomach.
Azrael: Mrgh...
Michael: This is clearly too small for a green room... We can't even practice our lines before our first show in here.
Falsch: Stop complaining and be grateful! I exercised my ex-prodigy actor power and got us a spot on stage, you know!
The Mole Troupe is set to perform their play on a small stage set up at a bar that day.
Azrael: Feels like butterflies in my tummy... There might not be a lot of people, but it's still our first show ever, meow!
Sariel: You're right... Nice to aboveground-meet you?
Azrael: Presumably, anyway...
Michael: I suppose so...
Bar Owner: Mole Troupe! You're almost on, go stand by in the wings!
Michael: Understood!
Bar Owner: Whoa... Uh, nice projection you got going there. All right, go break a leg.
Falsch: Listen to that, you scared the poor guy.
Michael: Don't translate people's euphemisms... And yes, I realize I'm nervous.
Azrael: Relax, meow! You won't even be a ghost of yourself if you don't have fun!
Sariel: I don't like ghosts...
Michael: Heh. All of you are the same as usual.
Regaining their usual composure, the Mole Troupe step into the light, welcoming the heat of the stage.
The Four: Thank you!
The four stand side by side on the simple stage, comprised of an elevated, wooden board and no curtain. They take a bow.
The Mole Troupe wrap up their first performance under the gaze of a handful of people in the audience.
Among the lingering excitement, the four members straighten up to sneak a glance at the spectators.
Drunk Customer 1: Whew, that was amazing!
Drunk Customer 1: So amazingly bad I couldn't stop laughing! Now that's fresh comedy!
Drunk Customer 2: Made for a good excuse to drink at least. Phew, I've seen six-year-olds put on a better show.
Michael: What did you say!
Falsch: Thank you very much. We're happy to hear that you enjoyed our performance.
Michael: (Falsch!)
Falsch: (Let them say what they want. We made it through the show—that's good enough for today.)
As crude laughs echo across the bar, one elderly gentleman stands up.
Theatre Critic: Are you kidding me! What do you think theatre even is?
Theatre Critic: I'm not even talking about the quality! I don't sense any intention of drawing your audience in through your performance!
Michael: ...!
Theatre Critic: I got excited when I heard it was the Mole Troupe performing, but I was wrong to have gotten my hopes up!
With a deep sigh of disappointment, the gentleman immediately takes his leave.
Back at their burrow, the group gather around the table to review their first performance.
Falsch: Nobody even forgot a line... That went better than I expected.
Azrael: Really?
Sariel: But the audience wasn't happy.
Michael: It's just as the gentleman at the bar said. All we thought about was about ourselves; we didn't consider how fun it would be for the audience.
Falsch: ...
Falsch: Maybe we should hold off on performing aboveground after all.
Falsch: We're moles. We'll dry up in the sun once we leave our nest.
The Three: ...
While the others remain lost in thought, Michael stands up suddenly.
Michael: I think... we should participate in the Sazak Festival.
Falsch: Why?
Michael: We can't stay as moles forever.
Michael: This is too good of an opportunity to pass up. The four of us need to work together and leave the underground.
Falsch: Uh huh... What do you think, Adeu? Sario?
Azrael: Hmm... I don't really know, but I have a lot of fun when we're all doing our best, meow!
Azrael: It's like... living the dream I never could aboveground!
Sariel: I want to do everything I can to reach that prism color.
Falsch: Right...
Falsch's eyes are distant as he gazes at the worn-out table.
Falsch: Well. If all of you are gonna get serious, then it's time for some serious lessons.
Azrael: Drumroll...
Falsch: If we're gonna have an audience, let's knock 'em outta their socks! They'll be walkin' home barefoot!
Falsch: But we won't have time for tea anymore. You're good with that?
The other three look at each other before nodding with conviction in their hearts.
And so begins the harsh days of training underground for the Mole Troupe.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 4: Angels and Duties - Episode 2
Despite problems, the Mole Troupe makes steady progress in rehearsals, though Michael feels that something isn't quite right. She later pays a visit to Gabriel's studio and learns that Azrael had been drawing moles. Meanwhile, Falsch spots suspicious figures snooping around the burrow.
Rehearsals in the burrow continue under Falsch's supervision.
Today, each of the members are performing in front of Falsch while receiving feedback.
Michael: "And on this casket of lead, it says..."
Michael: "'Who chooseth me must give and hazard all he hath'... What eloquence!"
Michael: "I choose this casket! Ah, I hope it brings good results!"
Falsch: Hmm... No, that's not it.
Michael: How so? I should be saying the lines correctly...
Falsch: This is a significant point in the story, Whether Bassani and Porsh can get married is being determined by this choice.
Michael: Yes, exactly. That's why I'm doing what I can to express—
Falsch: What you can?
Falsch: Bassani does what Bassani—a stubborn but earnest young sunny, the type that gets a happy ending—can.
Falsch: His role in this play is set. You need to understand that before acting him out!
Michael: His role in the play?
Michael: ...
Sariel: "Bassani. My Friend. It has been. Too long. I'm happy to. See you."
Falsch: No you're not! I bet funeral speeches sound happier than that delivery.
Sariel: This is hard.
Falsch: Mm... This is your first line in the entire play, so we want to make it more impactful.
Sariel: Should I be like Micah and study up on Anto?
Falsch: Hm, no... In your case, Sario, you're too detached. First you need to grasp your own shine.
Falsch: I said it before—to be or not to be...
Falsch: Happiness and sadness, anger and hate... You need to find what moves your heart and convert that to Anto.
Sariel: ...?
Falsch: But yeah, that is hard. Getting serious means we've seriously got a lot of ground to cover...
Michael: ...
Azrael: B-but because we're working so hard, the show at the end is going to be that much more fun, meow!
Azrael: I'm sure we'll be fine if all four of us keep at it! Besides, we have you, Fal!
Michael: Yes. If we can't push our way through this, we won't ever be able to stand on stage aboveground.
Michael's words are quiet, as if she were telling them to herself.
Michael: (I'm moving forward little by little. But why is it that...)
The tea set sits on the ragged table, abandoned and covered in dust.
One afternoon, archangels have gathered worriedly in Gabriel's studio.
Gabriel: Is Az shutting herself in her room today too?
Malluel: Yes... She's been resting in her room every day, saying that she's tired.
Gabriel: I see... That is worrisome.
Gabriel: Oh, it seems she's finally here. Come in!
Michael: Ahem... I happened to be passing by. It came to my attention that the twins are here...
Gabriel: Hehe. Don't worry, you can drop the stiff acting.
Michael: ...
Malluel: Az is in her room resting. We also heard about what you did for us.
Halluel: Thank you for thinking about Az and Iss.
Michael: Of course—it's my duty. How has Azrael been?
Halluel: Hmm... I'm thinking maybe painting wasn't for her after all.
Malluel: She seemed very interested in it at first though. She drew a lot of eggplants and moles...
Michael: Moles?
Gabriel: Yes, and with different mediums too. She put quite some effort into her painting.
Michael: ...
Michael: Gabriel. You mentioned you gave Azrael a new costume.
Michael: What kind of design was it?
Meanwhile, at a bar on the outskirts of town...
Falsch: One rose hip tea please!
Bar Owner: You know we don't have that here. We're not some fancy cafe.
Bar Owner: You haven't been having your usual drinks lately. Is it for the underground stuff you've been doing?
Falsch: Leave me alone. I don't feel like getting lectured.
Bar Owner: All right then... I'll just say one thing.
Bar Owner: Seems like there're some people sniffing around for your underground space recently.
Falsch: What?
Bar Owner: I know it's supposed to be a place only the Mole Troupe knows about, but that space was originally a water service facility, so I wouldn't be surprised if someone eventually finds it.
Bar Owner: Anyway, just be careful.
Falsch: ...
Falsch: (The day is still early. It's not time yet, but...)
Suspicious Voice 1: So there's another entrance to the underground aside from this one?
Suspicious Voice 2: Yeah. We usually use a hidden ladder, but there's a contraption on the ground here...
Falsch: ...!
At the sound of voices from the alleyway, Falsch quickly hides himself from sight.
Suspicious Voice 1: Looks like your infiltration's going well—keep it up. Your reports will be a valuable source of information.
Falsch cautiously peeks around the corner to see who the voices belong to.
Falsch: You're... kidding...
Falsch stands motionless, hardly able to believe his own eyes.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 4: Angels and Duties - Episode 3
Falsch confronts Sariel about his investigation, which in turn reveals that the ex-prodigy actor has his own secrets regarding the Mole Troupe. As things break down, Michael reveals herself as well, saying she has a duty to return Azrael to the surface. Crushed thinking her friendship with Micah was just an act, Azrael flies out of the burrow.
Azrael: Good evening, meow! Let's make tonight's practice another good one!
The Three: ...
Azrael: Huh? Are we practicing sour looks?
Falsch: Now that everyone's here, let's have a talk.
The air tense, Falsch glares over at Sario.
Falsch: Sario... I can't believe you've got the guts to show up here.
Sario: Like I said, I have no idea what you're talking about...
Falsch: Don't play stupid. I know what I saw yesterday.
Falsch: You're spying on us and this underground space, aren't you?
Sariel: ...!
Falsch: No wonder you keep asking all those weird questions about my past and stuff aboveground.
Falsch: I don't know what exactly it is you're investigating, but to be a detective acting as a mole... I'd say you're pretty good at theatre already.
Sariel: ...
Michael: Is this true, Sario?
Sariel: It's true that I was doing a secret investigation about this underground space, and about all of you.
Azrael: No way...
Michael: Were you actually in the alley that day for the purpose of your investigation?
Sariel: No... It was a coincidence. I hadn't planned on betraying anyone.
Falsch: ...
Under the suspicious gazes of the others, Sariel begins to explain.
Sariel: I need to tell you all... about the results of my investigation yesterday.
Michael: The results of your investigation... The fruit of your work.
Sariel: I was curious. Why are there scripts and theatre equipment in this underground space?
Falsch: ...
Sariel: I asked a master detective to look into it. He found the reason.
Sariel: Twenty years ago... this was the rehearsal space for another theatre troupe.
Michael: That much I think we all could have guessed.
Sariel: What's more, the troupe was called the "Mole Troupe."
Falsch: ...!
Azrael: Huh? But... we're the Mole Troupe!
Michael: Falsch. Do you know something about this?
Falsch: What do you mean?
Michael: I'm not a fool. Even with your superb acting skills, it's clear that there's something you're hiding from us.
Sariel: Right. Falsch was the one who suggested calling ourselves the Mole Troupe.
Michael: Come to think of it, you were the one who found the hidden ladder too.
Falsch: Why're you suspecting me like this? I say we get to the bottom of Sario's betrayal first—
Azrael: Let's stop this, meow!
Azrael: No more scary voices! The Mole Troupe is supposed to have fun!
Sariel: Adeu...
Azrael: I'm sure Sarry and Fal both had their own reasons for what they did.
Azrael: So let's forget about it, and just talk about the things that we want to—
Michael: That's enough, Azrael.
Azrael: ...
What?
What?
Michael: I'm sorry I hid the truth.
Azrael: ...!
Falsch: Wha... What's with those wings?
Michael: I'm sorry, Azrael. I didn't realize you felt so trapped you had to escape below ground...
Michael: The responsibility for that is mine to bear. I owe it to you to see that you make it back out.
Azrael: Micah... You're... Michael?
Gabriel: To be honest, Michael was the one who suggested inviting Az and Iss to the studio.
Gabriel: She's always had a strong sense of responsibility, including for her old job overseeing archangels of instruction like you four.
Azrael: So you only became friends with me... because it was your "responsibility"?
Falsch: Now hold on a second! Are the two of you, like... supernatural super-beings or something? Sario, what do we do—
Sariel: Sorry, Falsch.
Falsch: Wow. Am I the only one mortal here?
Michael: Sariel... So it really is you.
Sariel: ...
Silence follows, as if time had stopped. Then Falsch raises his head to look up at the ceiling.
Falsch: Damn. Can't say I've faced any problem like this before. What now?
Michael: Right... We'll have to decide on a conclusion.
Azrael: Wait, what do you mean "conclusion"?
Azrael: We're going to keep acting as the Mole Troupe, right? We still have our dream stage to look forward to, don't we?
Sariel: ...
Falsch: Once you've mixed your curry and rice, you can't just separate them back out.
Falsch: Heck, aboveground, even trying would probably be bad manners... Anyway, that's the situation here.
Falsch: At this point, you know we can't go back to how we were before, Adeu.
Azrael: I know... I know, but...
Michael: I guess... this is the end.
Azrael: ...!
Michael: It may be time for us to leave our place of comfort here and return to the sun aboveground.
Sariel: Yeah...
Falsch: If I'm completely honest, I kind of feel like throwing a huge tantrum. But I suppose it was only a matter of time...
Falsch: Unlike me, all of you had a dream stage in mind. You aimed for the sunlight.
Falsch: A dream isn't something you attain. It's something you wake up from.
Falsch gives a snort and looks over at the tea set sitting at the edge of the desk.
Falsch: The Mole Troupe was rose hip tea after all.
Michael: Regardless of its unknown origins... it still brings a moment of peace.
Sariel: I looked into it after. Rose hip is the fruit of roses.
Falsch: I see... I preferred not knowing.
Falsch: Goodbye then. Stub a toe on your way out.
Falsch gives a bow and walks off, as if exiting a stage.
Azrael: ...
Michael: I'm sorry about all of this, Azrael. Let's go back to Gabriel and the others.
Azrael: I'm so stupid.
Michael: ...?
Azrael: Micah, Sarry, Fal... You knew all these secrets and were just pretending we were friends, huh?
Azrael: Everyone but Adeu... I was the only one who really thought we were friends!
Azrael: I'm... so stupid!
Michael: Azrael!
Azrael: Byebye, Micah...
Azrael: No. Goodbye, Michael.
Before Michael can stop her, Azrael soars up to the ceiling and out through the hole.
Michael: ...!
Michael spreads her wings and takes off after her.
The force from which whips air around the room, tearing the Mole Troupe flag from its pole.
Sariel: ...
Their comfortable secrets ripped away, the troupe finds itself crumbling.
Dust begins to settle atop the drawing of a mole, left rumpled upon the floor.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 4: Angels and Duties - Episode 4
Having lost track of Azrael, Michael enlists the help of Gabriel, Halluel, and Malluel to search for her. Gabriel tells Michael she doesn't have to keep acting old roles, and to instead focus on her feelings today. Meanwhile, a listless Azrael bumps into Sariel in town and the two exchange words briefly.
Michael: Ergh... I lost her!
Unable to locate Azrael, Michael heads back to Gabriel's studio.
After telling the others the situation, they all decide to split up to look for Azrael.
Michael: Azrael... Where have you gone?
Gabriel: I doubt she had a particular destination in mind, so she shouldn't have gone too far.
Michael: I fail as a superior... I hurt them again.
Gabriel: You just wanted to protect Az and distance her from anyone suspicious, right?
Michael: The Mole Troupe isn't made of bad people. But neither is it a healthy place to be.
Michael: A place to escape reality, to hole up underground... and play host to more than just mortals.
Gabriel: So you realized it was Az and Sariel...
Michael: Even with their auras hidden, I wouldn't mistake Azrael nor Sariel after that much time spent together.
Michael: But basking in that sweet-tasting comfort, I couldn't bring myself to end my willful ignorance.
Michael: Maybe Adeu isn't Azrael. Maybe Sario isn't Sariel.
Michael: I clung to that impossible hope.
Gabriel: ...
Michael: I was foolish. I turned my eyes away from the very duty I was supposed to fulfill!
Michael bites her lip in frustration until a drop of scarlet comes to the surface.
Gabriel: So that's Michael's feeling toward Azrael.
Gabriel: Now what about Micah's toward Adeu?
Michael: Toward... Adeu?
Gabriel: We were liberated from our duties. We don't need to keep acting out old roles.
Gabriel: It's all right to be confused or sad. Just be honest with yourself.
Michael: ...
Meanwhile, a figure wanders aimlessly among hidden alleyways.
Azrael: ...
Sariel: Oh.
Azrael: Oh.
Sariel: Um... Hello. Meow.
Coincidence delivers a sudden encounter, and its participants stop to exchange words.
Azrael: Sarry was that Sarry too, huh.
Sariel: I'm sorry I didn't say anything.
Azrael: Did you know that it was Michael and me?
Sariel: Yeah. But I decided to keep quiet... for my investigation.
Sariel: It was a secret request. I was looking into what kind of place it was underground... and if there was anyone bad.
Sariel: Then I ended up falling in the hole... and that's how my undercover mission started.
Azrael: I see...
Azrael: So it was a role for you too... that you were acting out.
Sariel: ...
Sariel: I'm bad at acting.
Sariel: Anto was... really hard.
Azrael: ...
Sariel: But...
Sariel's words are carried away by the night breeze, disappearing into a corner of town.
Azrael watches silently as Sariel turns and walks away.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 5: Dreams and Reality - Episode 1
Falsch falls asleep at the bar and dreams of his childhood, when he spent his days acting underground with the other outcasts who made up the former Mole Troupe. When he wakes up, ex-Mole Troupe member Douglas—who now runs the Raven Troupe—tries to engage Falsch in conversation only to be given the slip.
A drunk man is passed out on the counter of a bar at the edge of town.
Falsch: ...
Bar Owner: Good grief... He was doing so well abstaining, and now he's back to drinking his cares away.
Bar Owner: Just what is this guy dreaming about?
Falsch is fast asleep, engrossed in a memory from twenty years ago that surfaces in his mind every now and then.
Falsch: Back when I was a wee lad, I went to see a show for the first time.
Falsch: It's not like I was interested in it. It was some volunteer thing for orphans, and children could see it for free.
Little Falsch: Whoa...
Falsch: The theater venue was so dazzling I thought maybe I should have stayed home.
Falsch: The show running that day was a famous comedy that even I'd heard of before.
Bassani Actor: Devil's child! It's the end for you, Shylo!
Shylo Actor: Gwaaah!
Audience: ...!
Falsch: Everyone was having a good time. The snot-dripping kid sitting next to me was laughing and clapping.
Little Falsch: Sniff... Sob...
Falsch: I, on the other hand, couldn't stop my tears.
The show came to a close, and I went outside with my eyes swollen.
The Four: Oh.
Falsch: Our eyes met. All four of us had red, swollen eyes despite just having watched a comedy.
Falsch: Before we knew it, we were at someone's place—a damp, underground space—exchanging our thoughts on the show.
Little Falsch: Shylo was just a little weird, he wasn't doing nothing to nobody!
Little Falsch: He just did what he believed in and fought fair and square!
Lively Boy: Yeah, they were so mean! What even was that trial.
Confident Girl: Anto should've been the one charged, for slander! I don't get why everyone else in the audience was laughing!
Gentle Girl: Oh, they're sunny. They have no idea of what it's like for us in the shade.
Little Falsch: Sunny...
Confident Girl: Ohh, you mean those people that sing all the trendy songs and always try to pull you into their circle!
Gentle Girl: Bet they've never put on a costume to hide during a holiday party 'cause they couldn't bring themselves to smile.
Lively Boy: Yeah. Those guys think that everyone should get up if they fall.
Little Falsch: Why can't we just roll around on the ground?
Lively Boy: Right? They don't just tell us to get up; they even have the nerve to hold out their hands and—
Falsch: For the first time in my life, I met others who lived hiding in the corner of society, just like me.
Little Falsch: The comedy's hiding the tragedy—you gotta keep it balanced.
Little Douglas: Maybe we could give Shylo more stage time? Make people see what's so tragic.
Our thoughts on the show became demands, and everyone started writing down new ideas for the story.
Little Falsch: There! The script for our new interpretation is done!
Little Douglas: Nice work, Falsch! I'm amazed you can write... You're a genius!
Little Julia: Your letters are so wonky... Someone had a bad upbringing.
Little Falsch: Hahaha! More like four someones!
Little Lois: Did you know that they actually don't get this kind of joke aboveground?
Little Douglas: Hard to believe, right? Glad we don't live up there.
Little Julia: Oh... Did you change the role to a cheerful detective 'cause I said I didn't like being a gloomy merchant?
Little Lois: And I'm in a cat costume... 'cause I mentioned I didn't like showing my face?
Little Falsch: Yeah, y'all are picky as heck. But now it's finally a show just for us!
Falsch: At first, it was just for fun. We were a theatre troupe only in name, and we did our acting on the streets.
It just so happened that someone big saw us and invited us to perform at Sazak Theater.
Our performance took the skies by storm. I became the boy with the prism-color performance—a prodigy actor.
Our work came to be known as "The Detective of Venase."
Falsch: Ngh... Yaaawn...
Douglas: You're awake, Falsch.
Falsch: Douglas? You sure grew up fast.
Douglas: Still half-asleep, huh?
I came all the way to see you. Come on, sober up.
I came all the way to see you. Come on, sober up.
With a wry smile, Douglas pours some water into Falsch's glass.
Douglas: How many years has it been since we disbanded the Mole Troupe?
Falsch: Nineteen years and fifty-one days.
Douglas: Right... Guess that explains why I like having beef tongue over hamburger now.
Douglas: I still remember how the four of us practiced underground every day... Those were fun times.
Falsch: I was in charge of the script and directing. Julia took care of the set and equipment, while Lois prepared the costumes and props.
Falsch: You were in charge of looking at us from afar.
Douglas: Hey, I was the rehearsal manager! I had the important role of providing our secret underground space.
Falsch: Whatever you say... Bet you were just being lazy.
Douglas: Strange enough... somehow I'm now the leader of the Raven Troupe. Life plays out in unexpected ways.
Falsch: You got that right.
Douglas: Falsch... About that time—
Falsch: Sorry, Douglas. I gotta wake up early tomorrow, so I should get going.
Douglas: What?
Falsch: I've got a job measuring how long carrots are. Catch you later.
Once Falsch is out of the bar, two figures wriggle out from under the counter.
Julia: Aah... There he goes.
Lois: My legs fell asleep...
The three members of the old Mole Troupe—now actors in the Raven Troupe—heave a deep sigh in unison.
Douglas: What do you think, Barkeep?
Bar Owner: That guy hasn't changed one bit. Just as twisted as he was twenty years ago.
The bar owner glances over at the door Falsch had made his exit through, squinting in thought.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 5: Dreams and Reality - Episode 2
A haggard Michael, feeling lost, questions Uriel on how one must face their struggles. He responds that he's able to bear his own because they're ones he chose for himself. Meanwhile, Israfel brings Azrael back to Gabriel's studio, where a heartfelt talk with Halluel and Malluel clears the air and reaffirms the love and respect the four archangels of instructions have for each other.
Night settles, and the town is fast asleep. Michael makes her way home, a haggard look on her face.
She had intended to continue looking for Azrael, but was stopped by Gabriel.
Gabriel: You need to call it a day, Michael. Your mind and body need rest. It'd be putting the cart before the horse if you wore yourself out.
Gabriel: Leave Az to Hal, Mal, and me. Okay?
With Gabriel's persuasion, Michael had decided to do as told and return to her own room to rest.
Michael opens the door to Uriel's Kitchen to find the lights still on.
Uriel: Ow, that's hot! Looks like I baked it for too long...
Michael: Uriel? What are you doing at this hour?
Uriel: Michael! You sure came back late today!
Uriel turns to look at Michael with a ladle in one hand, but stops when he sees her expression. He gently sets down the ladle.
Uriel: What's the matter? Something happen?
Michael: Yeah, a few things...
Looking away from Uriel, her gaze travels over the multitudes of meat and vegetables laid out around the kitchen.
Michael: Working on your new menu item?
Uriel: Yeah. It's not going so great though, if I'm honest.
Michael: I see. Yet... you can still say that with a smile on your face.
Uriel: Hm?
Michael lets out a sigh and stares at a corner of the shop where dust is collecting.
Michael: I had a smile on my face before too.
The Four: ...!
Michael: That fire that came from within was what I'd wanted all this time.
Michael: I had so much fun, it was out of character for me. I almost wanted to keep it a secret.
Michael: But then...
Michael: (I'm moving forward little by little. But why is it that...)
Michael: (I feel like the fire's... gone?)
Michael: Thinking back, things were already falling apart when we began to aim for aboveground.
Uriel: Michael...
Michael: Must I enjoy the hardships, as you do? Is that the wall that separates the underground from the above?
Michael: Must I be like Bassani, and abandon everything I have for Porsh?
When Michael finishes speaking—to herself as much as Uriel—Uriel responds with equal gravity.
Uriel: I don't know what it is exactly that you're worrying about, Michael.
Uriel: But enjoying hardships?
Uriel: Hardships are hard. Of course they are. I'm here struggling to stay afloat.
Michael: Then why do you keep doing it... even to such a late hour?
Uriel: I'm holding this ladle because I chose to.
Uriel: Nobody told me to. I chose this for myself.
Michael: ...
Uriel: For now, get yourself tucked into a warm bed. Sometimes a good night's sleep can do more than a week of worrying.
Uriel sees Michael to her room, where she at last crawls into bed for the night.
Michael: Azrael... Israfel...
Michael: You have wings on your backs. There's no need for you to stay underground...
She quietly closes her eyes—but the shores of sleep remain far from reach.
Meanwhile, Azrael is in another corner of town, sitting on a bench in the plaza.
Azrael: Yaaawn...
Azrael: ...
Azrael tries to push aside the fatigue, but she begins to doze off as the drowsiness overtakes her.
Israfel: ...
Israfel awakens to take the resting Azrael's place.
Israfel: You've worked hard, Az. It was rough, wasn't it?
Israfel: But... not everything was rough.
Azrael: Ngh...
Azrael: Huh? I'm... in my room?
Azrael: But how? Did Iss... get us home?
As she looks around still half-asleep, she hears voices coming from the studio.
Azrael cautiously goes out into the hallway and peers into the studio, where Halluel and Malluel are.
Malluel: Do you think we should have stopped her? Or at least followed her to see where she went...
Halluel: No... We decided on this together, remember? That we weren't going to interfere with what Az wants to do.
Azrael: (They're talking about me?)
Malluel: But in the end... Az got hurt.
Halluel: That may be true... but we already had this talk.
Halluel: Yes, she was going out somewhere by herself every night.
Halluel: But she chose not to tell us about it...
Azrael: ...!
Malluel: Probably because she was worried about... making us feel obligated to be with her all the time.
Halluel: Yeah. If I were her, I'd probably feel the same too. And we both know how kind Az is...
Halluel: We have no right to intrude on the place that she found for herself.
Malluel: Yeah, you're right... She must have found some suitable friends for herself.
Malluel: But where does that leave us...
Halluel & Malluel: ...
Azrael: (Hal... Mal...)
Azrael: (They were being considerate. And now, because of me, it turned into this mess...)
Israfel: That's not true, Az.
Azrael: Iss?
Israfel: Hal and Mal aren't nice to you just to be considerate.
Azrael: You think so? But look... Even now, they're—
Halluel: How do you think we can break the wall between us?
Malluel: And make it so we're not talking about her like this... I suppose that's circular.
Israfel: Every time I woke up late into the night, they'd be talking about us.
Azrael: Then it really is...
Israfel: Your fault? Or for your sake? Do you really think that's all there is to it?
Israfel: Think back to when we first started living in the treehouse.
Halluel: From today, this is our house! Even the birds are chirping to congratulate us on our new home!
Azrael: Chirp, chirp! Should we give some bean cakes to the birds? Just like before when we were on our way back from our missions!
Malluel: Good idea! Though we don't have any duties or missions anymore.
Halluel: Well, we decided that the four of us are going to live together, right?
Malluel: Hehe. Shall we make bean cakes as our first project at our new house?
Azrael: Yeah, sounds good! Let's be good neighbors!
Israfel: Back then, we all chose this for ourselves, including Hal and Mal.
Azrael: Chose this for ourselves?
Israfel: Your mole drawing was super cute, Az.
Israfel: Did you draw it for the theatre troupe?
Azrael: No... I drew it because I felt like it.
A memory of the holy night surfaces in Azrael's mind.
Azrael: Are you sure this is what you want? They've got cake shops and cute toys in the town...
Malluel: Of course it is! Besides—you, Iss, and the both of us make for the perfect quartet.
Halluel: That's right. All we want is for the four of us to enjoy special occasions like this together!
Azrael: That's right... That's what the two of them wanted from the very beginning.
Azrael: Thanks, Iss. I think I get it now!
Israfel: Off you go. I'll be here with you.
Azrael pushes on the door, and it easily swings wide open.
Azrael: Hal! Mal!
Halluel: Az! Since when were you—
Azrael: Bean cakes! Let's make them together—all four of us!
Malluel: B-bean cakes? This late at night?
Halluel: It's not the time to be worrying about the time, Mal. Did you... happen to hear what we were talking about?
Azrael nods slowly before proceeding to explain.
Azrael: I'm sorry. You were protecting Az the mole this whole time...
Azrael: While I'd forgotten all about our bean cakes... and then got myself all depressed...
Malluel: Az...
Halluel: I get it now... By bean cakes, you mean the ones we talked about the other day.
Nodding at each other, Halluel and Malluel move closer to Azrael and wrap her into a tight hug.
Halluel: I'm sorry we made you feel that way, Az.
Halluel: We should have talked with you, instead of deciding between the two of us on what we should do for you.
Malluel: We're a quartet! We need to make decisions with all four of us.
The archangels look at one another and break out into awkward smiles.
Azrael: You know, I really love you, Hal. Mal. I always want to be together with the both of you and Iss!
Azrael: Even if I woke up one day and found myself turned into a cat... or even a bean cake!
Malluel: It's the same for us too! Even if we turned into eggplants, we want to be together!
Halluel: Welcome back, Az! Iss!
Both: We're back!
The four revel in their appreciation for one another when Azrael timidly raises her hand.
Azrael: Actually... I got to be a part of another group of four recently. That group is important to me too.
Azrael: Do you think I can tell you about them while we make bean cakes?
Halluel: Ahaha, so we're actually going to make bean cakes!
Malluel: But of course! Tell us all about it!
They move to the kitchen, where Azrael excitedly explains about what has been happening underground.
Finally, the night comes to an end, and the sun rises to shine on the archangels in their merriment.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 5: Dreams and Reality - Episode 3
Seeing that the burrow has been sealed up for public safety, Sariel prepares to take off only to be escorted by Barawa somewhere. Michael and Azrael cross paths in the usual alley; Azrael helps Michael come to terms with herself, and they express a shared wish to continue spending time together as the Mole Troupe.
After a night of tosses and turns, dawn breaks on the town of Sazak.
Heavy machinery is brought to an alleyway, where an "Under Construction" sign stands.
Sariel: The underground hole... So they're sealing it up.
Barawa: Yeah, since our investigation has given them confirmation that there's nothing dangerous down there.
Sariel: ...?
They're sealing it because there's nothing dangerous?
They're sealing it because there's nothing dangerous?
Barawa: Did I not tell you? The Sazak Festival organizer is the one who requested the underground investigation.
Barawa: They happened to find an old blueprint of the town and realized there was a space under one of the roads.
Barawa: These kinds of places often become the hiding spot for unpleasant folk. After discussing with the mayor, they decided to seal the hole for the safety of the public.
Sariel: I see... And that's why they needed us to check if there's anything down there first.
Barawa: Sorry... I did tell them there was no need to seal it, but in the end I couldn't stop the construction from happening.
Sariel: Hm? Why? Is there something bad about the construction?
Barawa: I mean... it's your special place, right?
Sariel: ...?
Barawa: Erm... By the way, my dear Sariel. What is that adorable piece of cloth you're holding?
Sariel: This? It's the flag for the Mole Troupe. I picked it up from the burrow. For some reason.
Barawa: A flag? For some reason?
Sariel: I'm off. With the investigation over, I need to continue looking for the rainbow.
Sariel: See you. Let me know if you find anything—
Barawa: Hold your horses!
Barawa: The rainbow beetle! If you want to reach the rainbow, you should look for a rainbow beetle!
Sariel: Rainbow... beetle?
When Sariel cocks his head in confusion, Barawa readily explains.
Barawa: Back when I was a boy, I was looking for a legendary bug called the "rainbow stag beetle" in the forest when I got lost.
Barawa: But somehow, the dense, trackless depths of the forest appealed to me, so I continued walking!
Barawa: Of course I wasn't scared out of my pants and running while screaming like a maniac!
Barawa: Before I knew it, I encountered something shining and glittering on a tree trunk... A rainbow stag beetle!
Sariel: I see... I could never do that. I'm not a natural detective like you.
Barawa: You sure about that? You told me earlier that you picked up that flag "for some reason."
Sariel: ...
Barawa: You have excellent enthusiasm. But Lady Luck is a whimsical one. You can't always count on her to smile on you.
Barawa: So treasure the trackless paths you find... and treasure that Mole Troupe flag!
Sariel: Okay. If that'll help me find the rainbow, I'll do it.
Barawa: That's good enough for now! And someday, you'll realize what's in your pocket.
Sariel: ...?
Barawa: Now, follow me! Being the great detective that I am, I've gone on ahead and looked into where you must go!
Sariel tucks away the flag as he follows Barawa out of the alleyway.
Not even a moment after the two have left the alley, the figures of other people take their place.
Michael: The burrow...
Azrael: Construction?
Michael & Azrael: Oh.
Having met eyes in a coincidence, the two walk to the plaza nearby and sit side by side on a bench.
Azrael: I can't believe we can't go in the burrow anymore...
Michael: I know the Mole Troupe's gone... but I didn't think this space would be gone too.
Azrael: ...
Azrael: What did you come to the burrow for?
Michael: Why indeed... I'm not sure myself.
Michael: I was headed to Gabriel's place to find you... but before I knew it, my feet had brought me here.
Azrael: To find me? Could it be that... you wanted to apologize?
Michael: Yes.
Michael: Because I desperately tried to hide my own identity, I ended up hurting you deeply.
Azrael: ...
Michael: I'm very sorry. From now on, I'll support your life in a more direct—
Azrael: Um, Michael... That doesn't really bother me.
Michael: ...!
Azrael: I'm sad... As Adeu, I'm sad because...
Azrael: I'm worried Micah didn't actually exist, and that it was only a role that you were acting out as Michael.
Michael: My role... As your superior, I do have a duty to—
Azrael: But you're not that good at acting!
Michael: Wh-what?
Azrael: Like at the rehearsals, when Fal was barking, and you got all pouty.
Azrael: So I just wanted to ask you one thing...
Azrael: Michael... I mean, Micah. Did you not have fun?
Michael: ...!
Azrael: Everyone's a bit weird, but I had a lot of fun having tea time and performing with all of you.
Azrael: I wasn't thinking about who's my superior, or about the primarchs or archangels at all!
Azrael: Forget about your duties. How do you really feel, Michael?
Michael: How do I... feel?
Gabriel: We were liberated from our duties. We don't need to keep acting out old roles.
Gabriel: It's all right to be confused or sad. Just be honest with yourself.
Uriel: I'm holding this ladle because I chose to.
Uriel: Nobody told me to. I chose this for myself.
Michael: (Why was I there at the burrow?)
Michael: (What is this strange... heat I feel growing within myself?)
Michael: (That fire... What I wanted to choose for myself...)
Michael lets out a sigh and straightens up to face Azrael.
Michael: All the skies are a stage. And everyone in them an actor.
Azrael: Oh! Is that from Bassani and Anto's...
Michael: Yeah. You can see living in these skies as having to act out the role you are assigned with.
Michael: But that's only one interpretation.
Michael: Perhaps one can decide their own role, and bear the responsibilities of that choice on stage.
Michael: If I can be allowed such a selfish interpretation instead...
Michael: Then the role I want to choose... is Micah of the Mole Troupe!
Azrael: ...!
Michael: I was attracted to the art of theatre, and I thought that was what I wanted to do as my dream.
Michael: I thought I needed to pursue my dream. I needed to live aboveground and not under. I needed to carry out my duty as a superior.
Michael: So of course that fire I felt eventually dwindled. Everything became merely part of my "role."
Michael: But deep down... the time the four of us spent as the Mole Troupe was really fun for me!
Michael: The sunny might look at us and think us to be a worthless bunch, escaping from reality like fools.
Michael: But that gloomy burrow was where I felt my passion.
Azrael: Oh, Michael!
Michael: Azrael... Or rather, Adeu of the Mole Troupe.
Michael: Will you stand on the stage with me once more?
Michael kneels formally before Azrael, as if offering a prayer.
Michael: "I'll choose this chest of lead! Let's hope it's the right choice!"
Michael: Ahem. According to the script it's the correct one, but I don't know how it'll play out in reality—
Azrael: Meow, meow, meow!
Michael: Gweh! Why the tackle?
Azrael: It's 'cause you were being too serious!
Azrael: Michael... Micah!
Michael: ...!
Azrael: I want to stand on the stage with you too!
Azrael: Along with everyone in the Mole Troupe!
Michael: Adeu...
Azrael: I don't like it when we're separated like this! I want to have rose hip tea with everyone again, just like before!
Michael: Yeah, let's do that! I still won't forgive anyone who puts in sugar before tasting it.
Michael: But... let me say it right this time. I'm sorry for hurting you.
Michael: Not as Michael, your superior, but as Micah, your friend. From the bottom of my heart, I—
Azrael: It's okay now! After all, you came back!
Michael's solemn attempt to bow is blocked by Azrael.
Michael: ...
Do you think we can reignite the Mole Troupe's fire?
Do you think we can reignite the Mole Troupe's fire?
Azrael: I'm sure it'll be fine, meow! Even if we woke up once from the dream, we can always fall back asleep.
Michael walks in step with Azrael.
Together, the two proceed down the road—not with the wings on their backs, but their own two feet.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 5: Dreams and Reality - Episode 4
Hearing from the bar owner about how the old Mole Troupe initially came about, Michael, Azrael, and Sariel approach Falsch at Raphael's farm about coming together as the Mole Troupe again. He then reveals that he was the one who dropped the three into the hole in the first place.
It is still early afternoon when Barawa and Sariel arrive at a bar on the outskirts of town, just before its opening hours.
Barawa: According to my investigations... he's here, at this bar!
Sariel: Oh... This is where we had our first show...
Azrael: Oh, Sarry!
Sariel: Adeu? Micah?
Sariel: Sorry. About yesterday...
Michael: We both had our circumstances. No need to worry.
Michael: Are you also here to see Falsch?
Sariel: Yeah. So we can start up the Mole Troupe again.
Azrael: Yay, I thought so! You did say yesterday...
Sariel: I'm bad at acting.
Sariel: But...
Sariel: Sario wasn't hard for me.
Michael: Heh, I see. Adeu saw through you as well.
Sariel: ...?
As the three are conversing, the bar owner comes out from the back.
Bar Owner: You're... from the Mole Troupe, aren't you?
Michael: Yes. Do you know where Falsch is? The two of you are good friends, right?
Bar Owner: He told me specifically not to tell all of you.
Azrael: Meow! Is Fal a psychic or something?
Bar Owner: But I've made the decision to tell you anyway. He's out in the fields for a job right now.
Michael: Is it really okay to tell us?
Bar Owner: Sure it is. After all, this is an excellent opportunity for an old friend to finally face his past.
Sariel: His past? Do you mean the burrow's original tenants?
Bar Owner: Yep, the old Mole Troupe. He told me not to tell you about this either, but I think you all should know.
The bar owner proceeds to tell the story of how Falsch first put together the Mole Troupe.
Azrael: So that's how it was... Fal was the one who wrote "The Detective of Venase."
Michael: Now I understand why the script was there, and how Falsch was able to act out Shylo so perfectly.
Sariel: But the old Mole Troupe was so popular before. Why did it disband?
Bar Owner: I don't know the details of that either. I did hear the members had a fight...
Rummaging through his memories of the distant past, the bar owner turns his eyes toward the small stage beyond the chairs.
Bar Owner: He's got real talent. I used to let him drink anything he wanted so they'd come perform here at my bar.
Bar Owner: I was so excited when I saw him stand on this little stage again the other day.
Azrael: Barkeep...
Bar Owner: I hope all of you can give him that push to get back up on stage.
The bar owner bows his head to the others.
Endless fields lie in the suburbs of Sazak. A large pile of carrots sits in the corner of a well-maintained field.
Falsch: Ooh, this one is gonna taste delicious... but it's under the standard.
Falsch: Hm... The shade of this one is kinda dull... Probably won't be able to sell this.
Falsch examines carrot after carrot, dividing them into different baskets.
Falsch: Whew... Finally, all done!
Falsch: ...
Falsch: These carrots that don't meet the standards are probably gonna get tossed... Poor things.
He whispers quietly to himself as he gazes at the carrots. A wind blows softly around him.
Raphael: Excellent work, Falsch. You have been of immense help.
Falsch: Ah, no problem, sir. It was a good lesson on society for me too.
Raphael: Hm. You plan to use your experience in the fields for your acting career as well?
Falsch: Wha! Whoa, that is scary. How do you know that about me?
Raphael: It's only natural to look into the background of your employees, and not difficult at all. A breeze, if you will.
Falsch: Okay then...
Falsch: Well, that troupe I was in disbanded anyway. I'm not going on stage anytime soon.
Raphael: ...
Falsch: What're you looking at me like that for? I'm no carrot, you know.
Raphael: I shall offer you a word of the wind.
Falsch: A word... of the wind?
Raphael: Someday, the wind will blow in your favor. However, the wind does not blow "forward."
Raphael: Change the direction you face and a tailwind may become a headwind.
Raphael: But fear not. The sight you envision is ahead of you.
Falsch: I see...
(I don't get it.)
(I don't get it.)
Raphael: If you'll excuse me, I shall return to conversing with nature.
Falsch: What in the heck was that?
Falsch: He a farmer that moonlights as a poet? What did he mean by—
Azrael: There he is! It's Fal!
Falsch: Gweh!
Tackled from behind, Falsch turns to see Michael, Sariel, and Azrael.
Falsch: That damn barkeep... I told him not to say a thing!
Michael: All of the members are here. You can figure out what we want to talk about, right?
Falsch: ...
Sariel: First off, we want to apologize. We're sorry for hiding our true identities.
Following Sariel's apology, Michael and Azrael also bow their heads.
Falsch: If we're talking about hiding things, that goes for me too. That underground space was full of secrets.
Michael: Right. We don't intend to pry too much into your own affairs.
Sariel: Yeah. We don't mind that there used to be another Mole Troupe you were a part of.
Falsch: ...!
Falsch's expression turns into one of surprise.
Michael: Our encounter was nothing but a coincidence. We were a unhealthy group full of secrets.
Michael: But the fire we felt down underground... That was real.
Sariel: We just started gathering, going to the same place every night.
Azrael: I had a lot of fun! What about you, Fal?
Falsch: ...
Falsch: I had fun. It was like a dream.
Michael: ...!
In that case, we should—
In that case, we should—
Falsch: But it was also... so sad.
Azrael: Huh?
Falsch smiles bitterly, standing up to meet the others' gazes.
Falsch: You said coincidence, real fire. If only that were true...
Falsch: Hah, I guess I really did use to be a prodigy actor. None of you've realized at all...
Falsch: That the fact we all fell into that hole in the ground... was my doing.
The Three: ...!
Falsch reveals his secret, like a final hidden door opening with a dull creak.
The others are lost for words as they stare into Falsch's lightless eyes.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 6: Passion, Prism, Pleasure, and Plight - Episode 1
Though it's been twenty years since the members of the old Mole Troupe split up over creative differences, Falsch never forgot the time he spent with them. That's why when he saw how alike Michael, Azrael, and Sariel were to the old members, he decided to use them as replacements.
Approximately twenty years ago...
The Mole Troupe had become so popular, there was no one in Sazak who had not heard of them.
The outcasts who once hid underground were now bravely leaping aboveground.
But the troupe's success soon turned into what would break them apart.
Young Falsch: You wanna study theatre abroad?
Young Douglas: Yeah! I mean, you're a genius at acting, Falsch, but the rest of us just can't catch up.
Young Julia: The three of us talked about it. If we polished ourselves up, I bet our performances would be even better!
Young Lois: It'd be nice to study more about props, since I've only been learning about them on my own. I'd even step out of my costume for that!
Young Falsch: So what're we gonna do with the Mole Troupe while you guys are gone? We won't be able to do any shows for a few years.
Young Douglas: Yeah... But if we use that time to improve ourselves, we'll be able to put on even more spectacular shows in the future.
Young Douglas: What do you think, Falsch? You wanna come study with—
Young Falsch: Who cares about the future? It's so far away.
Young Julia: Hey. What do you mean "who cares"?
Young Lois: It's our chance to bathe in the light. Someday, instead of being underground, we'll be a magnificent troupe that soars high into the—
Young Falsch: I don't need light!
Young Falsch: We're moles! Why do we have to go out into the sun?
Young Douglas: Falsch...
The air of the underground feels damp on their skin as the four stand in silence.
Young Julia: It's true that we're moles. The types to cry at a comedy, that nobody wants around.
Young Julia: But not on the stage! There, maybe we can find acceptance.
Young Falsch: ...!
Young Douglas: Theatre is an art for the shady. That's what you taught us.
Young Douglas: I've learned to laugh like a jackal even at comedies I don't find the least bit funny.
Young Falsch: And you wanna do that the rest of your life? Act a sunny?
Young Lois: I think maybe everyone else already is. Maybe the snot-nosed kid sitting next to you is holding back tears through the laughs.
Young Julia: The Mole Troupe taught us theatre, taught us how to live under the sun.
Young Julia: Now we want to go even higher, to be the sun's magnificence itself. The four of us together.
Young Falsch: ...
Young Falsch: Sorry, but I'm not that into theatre.
The Three: ...!
Young Falsch: (I was into it... as a way to spend time with you three.)
The next morning, Falsch leaves a letter underground stating the disbandment of the Mole Troupe before disappearing.
Young Falsch: Hmph. Well, goodbye to those chumps. Good riddance, I say.
Bar Owner: If you say so.
Young Falsch: Damn it! I wanna perform more with them!
Bar Owner: Hey, I don't remember serving any drinks cut with tears and snot.
Young Falsch: Screw the surface! Screw the sun! Everyone who likes it should get jerky stuck in their teeth!
Young Falsch: But... But screw the idea of me ruining their future too!
Young Falsch: Waaah!
Bar Owner: I don't know what happened, Falsch...
Bar Owner: But you should keep acting. You never know—your paths might cross again.
Young Falsch: No. I don't want to act ever again.
Young Falsch: The three of them! And our time down there in the dirt! Was everything to me!
Young Falsch: Everything...
For the next twenty years, Falsch finds himself unable to move on, living day after day in despair.
But one day, he witnesses a most eye-opening sight while walking down a back alley of town.
Falsch: Those people...
In front of him are three people—one in a cat costume, one looking like a detective, and one with gravitas.
Falsch: ...!
Falsch: I couldn't help it.
Falsch: I knew you all were different people, but I couldn't stop myself from clinging on to the illusion.
Michael: And that's why you opened up that that hole under us?
Falsch: The contraption that does that is something Julia made while experimenting for a stage set. I never thought I'd actually use it.
Falsch: The Mole Troupe isn't the result of a miracle. All of you are replacements for Douglas and the others!
The Three: ...
Azrael: Hmm? But doesn't that mean the fact that all three of us happened to be in that alleyway... really was a coincidence?
Sariel: Micah and Adeu wanted to get away from the crowds. I was there for my investigation.
Michael: And was I truly picked for... gravitas? Don't tell me I was just "number three"—
Falsch: Sure, fate stuck its nose into things. But I'm still the one who wrote the script.
Falsch: "The Underground Mole Troupe."
All of you are nothing but actors in my play.
All of you are nothing but actors in my play.
Falsch heaves a sigh and looks down at the misfit carrots piled in a basket by his feet.
Falsch: I would have been satisfied just reading the script together that once. But then, everyone showed up down there a second time...
Falsch: We formed the Mole Troupe, started spending our time down in the gloom...
Falsch: It was so much fun! Almost like I'd gone back to the old days.
Falsch: But then, there were moments I thought to myself...
Falsch: Douglas, Julia, Lois... They're really gone.
Falsch: Those times are never coming back. I'm the only one left underground.
Sariel: Falsch...
Falsch: The three of you can walk in the sun.
Falsch: You're a stick-in-the-mud, Micah, but you're a hard worker. Sario, you can do actual detective work. And Adeu, you can brighten up any room.
Falsch: Just like those three... you'll be fine acting sunny.
Michael: ...
Falsch: I'm sorry I roped you all in. Don't waste your memories on me anymore.
Those last words fallen feebly from his lips, Falsch slowly walks away.
The three left behind can find nothing to say.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 6: Passion, Prism, Pleasure, and Plight - Episode 2
Hoping to cheer up Falsch, the Mole Troupe arranges for the Raven Troupe to perform with him onstage—which includes hatching a plan to get Falsch to come out of hiding.
The next day, a single, spirited voice echoes across Uriel's Kitchen.
Uriel: Okay! Get ready for some muscle cooking!
Uriel: Here I gooo!
With a battle cry, Uriel uses his bare hands to crush an apple.
Uriel: Then we put the juice from the apple into the pot... and that's the secret ingredient!
Uriel: Done! I present to you... Uriel Curry!
Lyria: At last! So this is your new menu item!
Vyrn: Curry's an oldie but a goodie! Your apple crushin' show's bound to grab some attention at the stall too!
Raphael: You've come far. How did you come up with the idea of incorporating your physical strength?
Uriel: Well, actually... I was making curry normally when (Captain)—
Uriel had been calmly squeezing apples with his hands when he heard a cry of wonder from (Captain), who happened to witness his method of cooking.
(Captain)'s reaction started a chain of events that led to the current idea.
Uriel: Thanks! It's because of all of you that I finally have a completed dish!
Uriel: I'll keep working on the flavor until the day of the festival. Here, have some of the curry and let me know what you think!
Uriel: That includes the three of you too!
Uriel looks over at where Michael, Sariel, and Azrael are sitting timidly.
Sariel: Uriel... Raphael...
Sariel: You both really helped me out. I'm sorry I just left like that.
Uriel: You can say that again! I'd even made stew for you! There was so much left Raphael and I had to have an eating contest to finish it off.
Raphael: That was your own fault for getting excited and making too much, Uriel.
Raphael: In any case, it's nothing to worry about. What matters is that you're doing well.
Uriel: Just don't leave before you try the Uriel Curry!
Sariel: Okay. I'll finish everything on my plate.
Raphael: Unrelated, but did not the Mole Troupe sign up for the Sazak Festival as well?
Raphael: It seems a few unexpected circumstances have befallen you since then. Will you be performing with only three people?
Sariel: I don't know. We still need to talk about it.
The three members of the Mole Troupe discuss among themselves while eating Uriel Curry.
Sariel: Hom, hom... Falsch called us "replacements."
Sariel: Oh, this is so good.
Michael: Yes. In perfecting his stew, Uriel cultivated quite the skill for utilizing the sweetness in these vegetables.
Michael: Anyway... even if this was all part of Falsch's "script," the fire we felt was definitely not just something fake.
Azrael: Hom, hom! The time we spent underground was so delicious!
Sariel: Adeu... You're mixing it up with the food.
Azrael: Meow? Oh, right! This is just so good...
Michael: Heh. I'd never have imagined that the three of us would be eating lunch together like this.
Azrael: It's thanks to Falsch that the three of us get along so well now, isn't it?
Sariel: If Falsch isn't here... then there's no point in acting for us either.
Michael: Hmm... Yes, I agree with Sario.
A high archangel, a lower-ranked archangel, and a fallen angel. Though all three of them were once very different, they now find themselves sitting around the same table.
Azrael: Fal really looked like he was in pain.
Sariel: Twenty years... That's a long time by skydweller standards.
Michael: He's been bound by the past this whole time... Is there nothing we can do for him?
Sariel: Falsch said he wanted to perform with his friends from before again.
Azrael: Then... do you think he'd turn it around if he could get on stage with them again?
Michael: It's possible. Fulfilling that wish could galvanize him into moving on and taking a step forward.
Michael: But before that, we'd need to find out how the Raven Troupe members feel about it.
Sariel: Do you want to go meet them? The leader was the owner of the lost cat I found.
Azrael: Really? Then let's go talk to them about Fal!
Michael: The old and new Mole Troupes finally meet... They may not want to see us, but it's still worth a try.
The angels arrive at Sazak Theater, where the Raven Troupe is currently performing.
After notifying a nearby troupe member of their situation, three people soon approach them.
Douglas: We are the members who belonged to the Mole Troupe. What is it that you want to discuss?
Michael and company tell their story and explain how Falsch has been thinking of the old Mole Troupe for the past twenty years.
The original three members of the Mole Troupe look at one another, wide-eyed.
Julia: I'm so glad you came to us! We've been wanting to put on a show together with Falsch too.
Lois: We actually came back to Sazak to perform because we wanted to see Falsch again!
Douglas: We've worked hard these twenty years too... and have finally become a theatre troupe that can match Falsch and his talent.
Douglas: It took some time, but we want to perform with all of us in the Mole Troupe once more.
Azrael: Oh? So the feelings are mutual?
Sariel: We need to tell Falsch right away.
Douglas: We'd love to, but we don't know where he's gone, you see.
Julia: We tried asking the owner of the bar he frequents, but it seems like nobody's been able to contact him at all.
Sariel: Do you think... he's doing that to cut ties with us?
Azrael: Oh dear... What should we do?
Michael: ...
Falsch: The three of you can walk in the sun.
Falsch: You're a stick-in-the-mud, Micah, but you're a hard worker. Sario, you can do actual detective work. And Adeu, you can brighten up any room.
Michael: I have an idea.
Michael: It's a bet on whether Falsch felt at least some of that fire together with us...
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 6: Passion, Prism, Pleasure, and Plight - Episode 3
Hearing that the Mole Troupe will perform at the Sazak Festival, Falsch shows up but is surprised to see the members of the old Mole Troupe standing onstage. Falsch learns from the bar owner, who happens to be at the premises, that everything was arranged for his sake, then he approaches the stage himself.
The day of Sazak Festival arrives.
Many people have gathered for the cultural festival, crowding the main streets of town.
The theater area has attracted many visitors hoping to see the different performances available this day.
Uriel: Yo yo yo, Uri-ello! How about some Uriel Curry before the show!
Vyrn: Our chef here's not only good at cookin'—he's good at liftin' too! Come have for a feast of the eyes and the tongue!
Visitor 1: Oh wow! That looks fun and delicious! Do you sell drinks too!
Lyria: Yep! We have a variety of fresh, muscle-squeezed juice!
Visitor 2: Isn't that buff chef from the little place that has amazing stew? I didn't know he could make other dishes too!
Gabriel: Yo, Uri-ello! It's getting lively here!
Uriel: Yeah, thanks to everyone's help! How's the exhibition over on your side going?
Gabriel: I managed to finish something I'm quite proud of just in time, and got them to display it in a corner of the exhibition.
Malluel: It's a little embarrassing though... I didn't think you would paint a picture of us hugging Az and Iss.
Gabriel: Hehe. I'm sorry, I just happened to see all of you that night... and it gave me a flash of inspiration.
Halluel: I'm happy! The painting's beautiful!
Uriel: Oho, I'm looking forward to seeing it after the festival!
Gabriel: By the way, where is Raphael? I haven't seen him around.
Uriel: Hm? You're right... I haven't seen him since I got the vegetables from him this morning.
Announcement: The next show will be the Mole Troupe's "The Detective of Venase."
Gabriel: Oh! Did you hear that?
Uriel: Guess it's time, huh? Michael told us not to watch, but...
Uriel: Best of luck to 'em.
Uriel says this softly as he gazes over at the Sazak Theater towering over them.
Seats in the large hall of Sazak Theater are full, with people standing behind the seats hoping to still catch a glimpse of the stage.
Falsch: ...
In the dark corner of a crowded area, Falsch keeps himself hidden, a complicated expression on his face.
Falsch: Sigh... Why did I even come? I should've stuck to hanging out with the bottle.
Tightly clutched in Falsch's hand is a flyer with a picture of a large mole drawn on it.
Falsch: I didn't think they'd actually go through with putting on a show as the Mole Troupe...
Falsch: What're they gonna do with just three people? Micah still needs to understand her character more. Sario hasn't found his color, and Adeu needs more variety in—
Falsch: No, stop, those aren't my worries anymore.
The buzzer sounds, and the audience quiets down. The curtains of the stage open.
Falsch: ...
Falsch squints at the dazzling stage, his eyes slowly adjusting.
Three figures stand on the stage in a dignified manner—the figures of Falsch's friends from long ago.
Julia: Bassani, my friend! It has been too long—I'm happy to see you!
Douglas: Ah, Anto... I am a fool! Will you listen to what I have to say?
Falsch: What the!
Falsch clamps a hand to his mouth as the people around glare at him.
Falsch: But... why? Why are those three here?
Bar Owner: They're almost to your part, you know.
Falsch: Barkeep?
Falsch: What's going on? Where're Micah and the others?
Bar Owner: Probably sitting in the audience somewhere, eagerly awaiting your entrance.
Falsch: Uh? I'm not following here...
Bar Owner: Don't you get it? Micah, Sario, and Adeu pulled some strings for your sake.
Bar Owner: You've always wanted to perform with your old friends, haven't you?
Falsch: You mean... they let Douglas and the others take their place?
Bar Owner: Shylo's role is still open. You better hurry backstage.
Falsch: You're joking! Why did Douglas and everyone else agree to this anyway?
Bar Owner: That's obvious. Because they want to perform with you too.
Falsch: ...!
Bar Owner: Twenty years ago, you decided to stay underground and watched your friends leave the nest and go aboveground.
Bar Owner: But it's your turn now. The time's come to face your past and dig your way to the surface.
Falsch: ...
Bar Owner: Come on, go! It'll all be for nothing if you don't make it in time!
With an encouraging thump on the back from the bar owner, Falsch weaves through the people and away from the seating area.
Sariel: (It's begun...)
Michael: (Time to find out... if Falsch came to see us off.)
The day before the festival, Michael, Sariel, and Azrael had gathered in the alleyway for a last-minute meeting.
Michael: We've done our best with promoting the show for the past few days, with putting up posters and handing out flyers.
Sariel: Will Falsch come?
Michael: I hope so.
Azrael: It feels weird, since we were meeting up every night just a while ago...
Sariel: Yeah. It was our burrow.
Michael: Right. Even if we don't gather like that again, the time we spent was memorable.
Azrael: ...
Azrael: "This happiness is too much... Make it less, for fear I tire of having it."
Sariel: Adeu?
Azrael: Just practicing my lines! I'm starting to feel a bit nervous...
Michael: Practicing? But we're leaving the show to the old Mole Troupe.
Sariel: "Bassani. My friend. It has been. Too long. I'm happy to see. You."
Michael: Wait. You too, Sario?
Sariel: Doesn't look like I've improved on my first line.
Azrael: Nyahaha! All of us are still pretty bad at acting, huh?
Azrael: But you know... even if we're not good at it, I still wanted to perform with the four of us together.
Michael: Adeu...
Azrael: What do you think, Micah? To rehearse? Or not to rehearse?
Michael: That's not even a question.
Michael: Of course I'll join you.
The three's performance unfolds in the middle of the alleyway, without an audience or any plans to ever be seen.
They put in their best effort, silently praying for the happiness of their friend.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Chapter 6: Passion, Prism, Pleasure, and Plight - Episode 4
Raphael shows up before Falsch to remind him to follow his heart. Deep down, Falsch would like for nothing more than to perform "The Detective of Venase" onstage with Michael and the others. And so they do.
Falsch walks down a hallway, toward the stage where his old friends await.
Falsch: (It's been... nineteen years and sixty days since we performed together.)
Michael: No. All is forgiven. Stew and rice is the supreme combination.
Sariel: Falsch. Do you think I'll be able to pull off a prism-color performance too?
Azrael: Yay! Our dream stage!
Falsch: ,,,
Falsch: Hm? Wind? That's weird, I'm indoors...
Raphael: There's your tailwind.
Falsch: What the! Where did you come from?
Falsch takes a step back, wary of the man he suddenly finds in front of him.
Falsch: You're that farmer-poet... What are you doing in a place like this?
Falsch: Sorry, but I'm in a hurry. I'll listen to your poems another time—
Raphael: You're debating whether to go on the stage that will determine your destiny.
Falsch: ...!
At Raphael's words, Falsch stops in his tracks.
Falsch: There's nothing to debate about. Everyone's giving me that push.
Falsch: I gave Barkeep so much trouble, and for so long. Micah and the others found this chance for me, and now Douglas, Julia, and Lois are waiting.
Falsch: I've remained a social outcast these past twenty years, but the time's come for me to get out from the underground.
Falsch: I guess you wouldn't know what I'm talking about.
Raphael: I see... You're making a positive decision with the support of those around you. There is logic in your actions.
Raphael: However... there is only logic.
Falsch: What?
Raphael: I had you divide carrots for me the other day, didn't I?
Falsch: Yeah. The job picking out the carrots not up to standard, so you could toss 'em.
Raphael: Not exactly. The selection was merely for research purposes—no carrots are being disposed of.
Raphael: Though the market has other standards, none of the carrots fall behind in taste. All of the ones not being sold, I am offering to my friend to be used at his restaurant.
Falsch: Uh huh. So you're saying there's still uses for something, even if it doesn't meet society's standards?
Raphael: Again, not exactly. I'm thinking from the viewpoint of the carrot.
Falsch: Wha?
Raphael: One should not look down on plants. Vegetables, too, must be resourceful to stay alive, and use their will to survive from day to day.
Raphael: Do you think carrots think about "standards" when they are going through their growth?
Falsch: ...
Raphael: Under my philosophy, carrots make the choice as well. How they want to absorb the sunlight, how they want to take root in the soil...
Raphael: The shape of each carrot is the result of its decision-making.
Raphael lets out a sigh and, without the slightest change in expression, lifts his thumb.
Raphael: Just as the wind does not blow "forward," carrots are not bound by any standard.
Raphael: Your choices are yours to make.
Falsch: Hey, wait!
Falsch: What was all that carrot talk about... The viewpoint of the carrot? The heck does that mean?
Falsch: ...
Young Falsch: The three of them! And our time down there in the dirt! Was everything to me!
Young Falsch: Everything...
Falsch: Yeah, I'm going on that stage.
Falsch: I didn't spend my whole life preparing to play Shylo for nothing.
The stage goes black, ready to transition to another scene of the story.
Sariel: (Next scene is where Shylo enters... If Falsch doesn't come, the whole show will...)
Michael: ...
The few seconds stretch out into an eternity.
Falsch: ...
Azrael: (Oh! Fal's here!)
Just before the lights go on again, Falsch's shadow can be seen hovering in the wings of the stage. Michael and company breathe a sigh of relief.
Michael: (We'll be here watching. Go make your dream stage a reality.)
Douglas: (Falsch... Finally, we can perform together again.)
Both the old and new members of the Mole Troupe are filled with emotion as they prepare to see a dream, twenty years in the making, come to fruition.
Under the spotlight, Falsch takes a deep breath.
Falsch: I ain't acting with these chumps!
Michael: Wha?
The theater is completely silent as everyone struggles to comprehend the situation.
Falsch: Micah! Sario! Adeu! You're there listening, right?
Falsch: This time belongs to the Mole Troupe! If I'm gonna perform, I'm performing with you all!
Douglas: Wh-what is he saying!
Lois: But Falsch, wasn't it your wish to act with us?
Falsch: I know you went out of your way and everything to come, but you guys aren't a part of the Mole Troupe. Kindly get off stage.
Michael: Don't be ridiculous!
Michael: This is the stage you've always dreamed of, isn't it?
Sariel: We're just replacements. Nothing can beat the real thing.
Azrael: That's right! You're finally acting in a play together with the old Mole Troupe! Then you can—
Falsch: Escape the shade? Sun will finally shine on my life?
Falsch: Needing to face the past, needing to accept reality... Only if you're trying to meet the standards set aboveground!
Michael: ...!
Falsch: We're the Mole Troupe! A troupe made up of members who escaped reality, dug into the ground, and finally found one another!
Julia: It's time you woke up! Just how long are you going to be stuck in the past?
Douglas: Everyone's here giving you that push you need to get out of your hole! Why can't you understand that?
Falsch: I do understand! I'm grateful and happy that you'd do that for a guy like me!
Falsch: But you know what? I don't wanna live life acting sunny! I'm gonna live like a mole and be proud of it!
Falsch: What's wrong with hiding underground? What's wrong with hanging onto the past, or running from reality?
Falsch: I'm not getting out of the ground! I didn't in the past, I'm not doing it now, and I'm never gonna!
Douglas: Wha... Aren't you even a bit ashamed of running away from reality?
Falsch: Douglas. Julia. Lois. The time I spent with you three meant the everything to me! It was my life!
Falsch: But... right now, you can't even serve as replacements.
The Three: ...!
Michael: Then are you saying we make better replacements?
Falsch: Of course! Micah, Sario, Adeu—the three of you were spectacular actors!
Falsch: Never has my heart been so moved. I've never laughed or cried so much at a play before!
His eyes brightly glistening, Falsch takes a deep bow.
Falsch: Please! Will you play out my memories with me one more time?
Lois: Do you see yourself? What you're doing is the worst of the worst! You're not only disrespecting us, but Micah and the others too.
Michael: She's right!
Michael: Looking down on us like that... You think we'd actually act with you as replacements?
Falsch: ...
With these firm words, Michael takes a deep breath.
Michael: "I'll choose this chest of lead! Let's hope it's the right choice!"
Michael: I'm Micah of the Mole Troupe! I won't be a mere character in your play. I'll stand on stage of my own free will!
Falsch: Micah!
Sariel: "The skies. Sure bring some peculiar people. Into existence."
Sariel: I'm acting for myself too.
Azrael: "Now let's open the curtain! Take a look at these little chests!"
Azrael: You know, I still think rose hip tea tastes great, even if doesn't come from a rose's butt!
Azrael: And I still want to stand on that dream stage with all four of us!
Julia: Don't tell me you're actually going to try to perform?
Douglas: Your lines... aren't even in the right order, are they?
Michael: That's how it all started, you see.
Michael: I'm sorry for the trouble, but... would you kindly exit the stage?
And so, in the midst of the chaos, the Mole Troupe's show halts briefly before resuming once more—this time, with a different cast.
The buzzer sounds again, and the curtain opens to a new stage of dreams.
Sariel: ...
Sariel: (I have the first line.)
Falsch: Your own color. If you don't know what your own color is, you won't be able to adapt even if you acquire other colors.
Falsch: To know, one must ask—to be, or not to be?
Barawa: So treasure the trackless paths you find... and treasure that Mole Troupe flag!
Sariel: (I still don't know why I'm alive.)
Michael: (Sario?)
Azrael: Sarry's acting weird. Do you think he forgot his lines?
Falsch: We're in trouble already? This is bad, we haven't decided on any prompts!
Sariel glances at the panicking Falsch and Azrael backstage, and then at Michael, who is standing in front of him.
Sariel: (I see.)
Sariel: (I'm not Anto. I'm not Santa, or Sariel at that.)
Sariel: (I'm standing here as...)
Sariel takes a deep breath and says the words that come to mind.
Sariel: Morning, Bassani. What do you want today?
Michael: ...!
Azrael: Meow-meow? Sarry's talking like he normally does! I guess the lines in his head really went bye-bye!
Falsch: No, wait! This is different.
Falsch: (Sario... So that's how you shine.)
Sariel: ...
Michael: (Heh... You were just reading the lines a moment ago, and now you're ad-libbing? A brave challenge!)
Michael: Ah, Anto... I am a fool. Will you listen to what I have to say?
Michael: (But I'm standing firm. I'm going to act out Bassani the way I want to.)
Despite the rough start, the play settles down into a comfortable rhythm. The four find themselves experiencing a strange feeling, as if they were floating.
Azrael: (Oyoyo? The audience seats... They're getting farther and farther away.)
Sariel: (Is this... the burrow?)
Michael: (Heh. I can feel the fire in my chest! Like a raging inferno, it's burning from within me!)
Falsch: (Whoa. Don't go and get yourself burnt to a crisp, okay?)
The members of the Mole Troupe match each other, acting in perfect synchronization as they delve into the world of the story.
Shylo: You've got to be kidding! I've been despised and spat on, and now you're taking everything I have too!
Shylo: I can't take this any longer! Surely I am allowed to exact my revenge for this poor treatment I'm receiving!
Porsh: He pulled out a knife! Be careful, Bassani!
Bassani: I accept your challenge, Shylo! Let us settle this once and for all!
Bassani: Haaah!
Shylo: En garde!
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Ending - Episode 1
Most of the audience boos the Mole Troupe for a substandard performance. However, the former Mole Troupe members and a few others give them a standing ovation, instilling them with a great sense of accomplishment.
The battle between Bassani and Shylo fiercely unfolds...
Until finally, the "villain" Shylo falls to his knees in utter despair.
Falsch: Damn it...
Falsch: How... Why!
Little Douglas: Come on! We should make our own play and theatre troupe!
Young Falsch: That's a stupid idea! I'm not going with it!
Little Julia: I don't have anywhere to go back to, that's why I'm always here. You're the same, aren't you, Falsch?
Young Falsch: I don't need your pity! Rob me of my life, of anything—I dare you!
Little Lois: How's the script going? I made some tea. Let's drink it together.
Young Falsch: Just don't forget...
Young Falsch: To keep believing in what you believe... and never forget this man who stands in front of you now! Glaring at you!
Little Douglas: Hahaha! If only this time could go on forever...
Young Falsch: Goodbye... We'll probably never meet again.
Falsch: (Goodbye...)
Mole Troupe: ...
Michael and company finish their performance and turn to the audience as if wakening from a dream.
Audience: ...
There is no applause for the Mole Troupe.
Spectators had long left the theater without the troupe noticing, leaving nothing but empty seats behind.
Raw eggs that show the audience's dissatisfaction litter the stage floor.
Mole Troupe: ...
The four look at one another moving to stand in a line in the center of the stage.
Mole Troupe: Thank you very much!
Theatre Critic: Ridiculous!
The four have barely finished bowing when a voice rings out across the theater seats.
Theatre Critic: What did you even learn from the lesson at the bar? This is what you get for ignoring your audience!
Sariel: This is?
Michael: I see... Then I guess we learned the right thing.
Outside Sazak Theater, business is booming at Uriel's stall, while Gabriel's painting is also garnering attention among visitors.
Crowds of people walk along the streets of Sazak as they smile and take their time to enjoy the festival.
Falsch: I suppose we'd be complete failures according to the standards of society aboveground.
Falsch: Escaping reality, doing only what we want... I guess no one would recognize us for that.
Azrael: Oh, but it was still so much fun!
It is then that, starting from the wings of the stage, they hear the sounds of a scattered applause begin.
The Three: ...
Falsch: ...!
The three members of the old Mole Troupe—followed by what remains of the audience—lightly clap their hands.
The sound of their soft applause echoes around the empty theater, settling deep within the hearts of the four on stage.
Thus the curtain closes on the Mole Troupe's dream stage.
The Magnificent Mole Troupe - Ending - Episode 2
While the crew celebrates at Uriel's Kitchen after the festival, the Mole Troupe members quietly slip out to gather at the burrow one last time before they each go on with their own lives, keeping precious memories of time spent together dear to their hearts. Falsch's script for "The Magnificent Mole Troupe" later goes on to garner great fame across the skies.
That night, a large celebration takes place at Uriel's kitchen.
Vyrn: Hom, hom... Both the curry and stew are so good!
Raphael: I agree. I can hear the joyful voices of the vegetables speaking to me through them.
Uriel: Thanks! I've got some snacks and dessert ready too, so eat up!
Gabriel: Hehe. Uriel's really shining today—he'd look great like this in a painting.
Lyria: Ooh! Are you thinking of your next piece already?
Halluel: Hehe. Personally I want to nominate you, Lyria—I think you have exceptional talent for being a model.
Malluel: Oh, Hal! Those twisty poses are still a bit too soon for Lyria.
Among the laughter and cheer in the restaurant, four people sit quietly in the corner.
The Four: ...
Falsch: Everyone's so bright in here... Wish they would get so bothered with how their tongue sits that they can't fall asleep at night.
Michael: Those are my friends. Stop wishing misfortune on them.
Sariel: But... I agree. It's too bright.
Azrael: Yeah... There's only one place for the Mole Troupe.
Michael: So we ended up leaving and came all the way here. Now what?
Sariel: The entrance is sealed up. We can't get in the burrow.
Barawa: Well, what do we have here? Are we having some trouble?
Azrael: Oyoyo? Who are you?
Barawa: Hrngh!
Falsch: What the! Did you just punch a hole in the ground with your bare fist?
Barawa: Whew... There. The entrance's back.
Sariel: Barawa...
Barawa: Take it as a goodbye gift from me.
Barawa: I was watching your show from a seat in the corner. I thought it was great, you know.
Sariel: ...!
Barawa: Now, leave the rest to me and go celebrate to your heart's content!
Michael and company thank Barawa for his help before slipping into the burrow one after another.
Sariel is the last to go in.
Sariel: Barawa, did you give me that undercover mission on purpose? Because you wanted me to meet them?
Barawa: Beats me. Coincidence and conspiracy have overlapped so much, the truth might never be known.
Barawa: Ah, before I forget, my dear Sariel. There's one thing I'd like to correct.
Sariel: Correct?
Barawa: About the rainbow beetle in the forest. To be honest, there was one aspect of the story that strayed from the truth.
Barawa: After searching high and low and treading on many trackless paths... I actually found the rainbow beetle in my pocket.
Sariel: Your pocket?
Barawa: Yep. Like a coin in your winter jacket, but a rainbow stag beetle.
Barawa: What about you? Was what you were looking for in your pocket all along?
Sariel: I don't know. I'm going to continue searching for the rainbow...
Sariel: But I think... I'm happy I found this burrow.
Barawa: Hahaha! That's good to hear!
Azrael: Hmm... People say "swan dive," but do swans really dive like that?
Michael: I'm no expert, but I imagine the etymology might be different.
Sariel: I've never seen one done.
Falsch: Allow this ex-prodigy actor to show you! For a swan dive, you'll keep your arms out like this until—
Falsch: Ow!
Azrael: Ahaha! Did you do a belly flop by mistake?
Michael: You drunk fool! What if you got dirt on the bunny cake?
The members of the Mole Troupe are idly chatting over the cake that Michael had brought for them.
As expected, beside each slice of cake is a cup of rose hip tea.
Falsch: Today's our day for celebrating the re-founding of the Mole Troupe.
Falsch: And tomorrow... the Mole Troupe will be going on hiatus.
Michael: Yeah...
Azrael: Hey, why do you think ice cream in the winter tastes so good?
Sariel: The taste changes with the season? Like vegetables?
Falsch: Haha, like ice cream gets in season? Well, maybe you're not wrong, I'm a winter ice cream guy too.
Michael: I'm sure the taste doesn't actually change. What's important is the difference in temperature between...
The four know that this is their last night together.
From the next day onward, they will each walk the path that they choose for themselves.
Regardless, they choose with no regret. The Mole Troupe spend the last of their time together just as they always do, and part as they always do.
Some time has passed since the reforming and halt in activities of the Mole Troupe.
The archangels spend their days together in a treehouse in the forest.
Azrael: Yay, I'm done with Hal and Mal's picture!
Malluel: Thank you! It's beautiful and very you, Az!
Halluel: Hmm, but the art style seems somewhat different between Mal and myself!
Israfel: Hehe. That's because I'm the one who drew you, Hal!
Halluel: Iss! That would explain the delicate touch to the drawing!
Azrael: Hehe. It's a piece with all four of us in it!
Malluel: Let's put it up on that wall! Finally, a lovely new picture of our quartet.
Around the same time, Michael's steps are quick as she walks down a street in town toward Sazak Theater.
Michael: I see... Turn so your profile faces the audience, and be aware of the lighting and angle...
Young Boy: Hey! Why're you looking at your notebook like that?
Michael: Oh, I'm writing down all the things I'm learning about theatre. I'm studying to be an actor.
Young Boy: Whoa! That sounds hard...
Michael: It is hard. I don't think I'm suited for it.
Michael: But... I'm still going to choose the chest of lead.
Meanwhile, Sariel continues his journey of searching for the rainbow, hopping from one job to another.
Sariel: Here, eat this. It's grilled fish.
Cat: Meooow!
Sariel: Oh... That one isn't food. It's the flag for the theatre troupe I was in.
Cat: Meow?
Sariel: Yeah. In the end, I wasn't even close to putting on any prism-color performances.
Sariel: I couldn't even tell... what kind of shade I was to begin with.
Sariel: But...
Sariel: I don't think I'll ever forget those sights.
And far on the outskirts of Sazak, Falsch sits in a cozy bar.
Falsch: Aaah!
Falsch: A drink is what I need on a day like this!
Bar Owner: I've said it before, and I'll say it again... You drink every single day.
Bar Owner: Hey. Are you really okay with this?
Falsch: What do you mean by "this"? I'm in pretty high spirits right now.
Bar Owner: But the rest of your life is at a low point. You're still picking up all those weird jobs and drinking from early in the day.
Bar Owner: The others all have something they're doing, but you're still here like nothing's changed.
Bar Owner: Even the Raven Troupe's making a big name for themselves in another skydom—
Falsch: Listen carefully, Barkeep. All the skies are a stage.
Falsch: And this is how I act... Lecturing me is like lecturing a prawn.
Bar Owner: There you go again. Drunk and spitting out nonsensical sayings.
Bar Owner: And here I thought you'd somehow cleared up your past and were finally moving on...
Falsch: Anyway, I'm off. I've got a bunch of work to do.
Bar Owner: Oh? What's that bunch of papers you got in your hand? You've been holding onto a lot of them recently... Some kind of filing job?
Falsch: You could say that. I've been filing away a few things.
Columns of text can be seen written on the papers in Falsch's arms.
Wonky letters spread themselves across hundreds of pieces of paper, spinning a script that pulls a plethora of thoughts and plots together.
On the front page of the bundle is a single title...
The End
Characters
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