Jnagarbha Day

==Steps==
# Wait till 08:00 – 12:00 the next day
# Go to the Akademiya to meet up with Alhaitham
# Enter the Akademiya together with Alhaitham
# Enter the House of Daena
# Hide for now and wait for an opportunity
# Find a way to connect to Nahida's consciousness
# Go to the Akademiya
# Lure the Akademiya guards into the trap
# Go to the Sanctuary of Surasthana
==Gameplay Notes==
* From Step 5 until Step 9, the player will enter a "special story mode." Upon leaving this mode, including leaving the area or dying during Step 7, they will be teleported to the entrance of the House of Daena at Step 4. The current party will be restricted in the following ways:
** Only the Traveler for Step 5 and Step 6. Use of the Map is disabled.
** Only a trial Nilou in Step 7. Nilou can open the Map, but cannot use any Teleport Waypoints.
** Step 8 is a quick time event featuring Isak in disguise.
* Upon reentering the House of Daena after leaving the special story mode, the Traveler will be given the following Story Review and the quest will continue from the step the player exited from.
** You and Alhaitham go to the Grand Sage Azar's office to look for a way to free Nahida.However, the Grand Sage, who is well-prepared, sends you into confinement and exiles Alhaitham. But everything seems to go as planned...(added after Step 6)In the confinement room, you manage to awaken Nahida's sealed consciousness using the modified Akasha Terminal.(added after Step 7)Meanwhile, Nilou dances outside of the Akademiya, which then triggers the faked order Alhaitham has implanted into the Akasha, causing all the guards in the Akademiya to rush into the city.
* Completing the quest grants the .
==Trial Character==
==Dialogue==
;(After passing time)
: Paimon: Today is the Akademiya's Jnagarbha Day. We can finally put our plan into action!
: Paimon: Alhaitham should be waiting for us. Let's go to the Akademiya and find him!
;(Approach Alhaitham)
: Alhaitham: Hello, you two. Sleep well?
: Paimon: Ugh, not really... Paimon got too nervous thinking about today and didn't fall asleep until the sun was almost up...
: Paimon: What about you, Alhaitham?
: Alhaitham: Naturally, I slept just fine. After all, a good rest should be considered part of the plan, since energy is an important resource.
: Paimon: Y—You just wanna show off how calm you are!
: Alhaitham: It's crucial to dissipate any tension before we execute our plan.
: Paimon: The only thing you're doing is being annoying!
: Alhaitham: Anyway, do you need me to go over the game plan again?
: Yes, just in case.
: I want to confirm everything again.
: Alhaitham: Our target is Grand Sage Azar's office. Everyone in the Akademiya knows that's where the Grand Sage's console is. Only they can operate it.
: Alhaitham: Many restricted commands and operations are executed via that console. I'm sure that console has a way to free Lesser Lord Kusanali.
: Paimon: You know, Paimon's been thinking... What kind of technology could let the sages imprison even a god?
: Alhaitham: That isn't something they could've accomplished with their scholarly talents alone. In the Sanctuary of Surasthana, there's a device of Greater Lord Rukkhadevata's that she once used to isolate herself while meditating.
: Alhaitham: Five hundred years ago, the Grand Sage at the time modified the device so that it can no longer be controlled from the inside. They're effectively trapping one god with the power of another.
: Paimon: So, uh, how are we gonna get to the Grand Sage's office?
: Alhaitham: Don't forget, today is Jnagarbha Day, arguably the most important day to the Akademiya.
: Alhaitham: The sages and core Akademiya personnel are busy loading the latest batch of research developments and legal decrees into Knowledge Capsules, so that they can be entered into the Akasha.
: Alhaitham: All the Darshans' researchers have their noses to the grindstone, and the Akademiya's grounds are flowing with all sorts of people. It's the perfect time for an infiltration.
: Alhaitham: When the Grand Sage leaves his office to supervise the entering process, that's our cue to access the console and free the Dendro Archon.
: When you put things that way...
: The plan feels a bit unrefined.
: Alhaitham: Well, yes. That's just the visible side of our plan, after all.
: Alhaitham: If precedence holds, the Akademiya should have already started preparing for Jnagarbha Day.
: Paimon: Everyone should be in position. All that's left is for us to lead the charge!
: Alhaitham: Let's go.
: Paimon: Uhh... So are we just going to walk in through the front door? Or...?
: Alhaitham: ...Yes? Were you expecting a stealthier approach?
: Paimon: Ugh, Paimon can't think of a good comeback... Alright, it's all on Alhaitham if things go south.
;(Enter the Akademiya)
: Viraf: ...S—Scribe?
: Viraf: Please wait. Are you Scribe Alhaitham?
: Paimon: Eh!?
: Calm down, Paimon...
: Alhaitham: That's me. Is something the matter? I'm in a hurry.
: Viraf: Ah, n—no, I was just surprised to see you here. I had heard that the sages were looking for you not long ago, but I didn't know what for.
: Viraf: And, um, also... Please don't bring outside guests into the Akademiya.
: (This isn't looking good...)
: (We were noticed...)
: Alhaitham: Outside guests? How did you arrive at such a conclusion? Your groundless inference shames the Haravatat Darshan.
: Viraf: W—What did you say...? I'm the top student in Haravatat, and I earned third place at the last inter-Darshan debate. Don't look down on me!
: Alhaitham: That wasn't my intention. As your Haravatat senior, I just assumed that you possessed a greater aptitude for critical thinking.
: Alhaitham: Look. Based on what you already know, the purpose of my return and the reason they're here should be obvious.
: Viraf: I—Is that so... Wait a moment — let me think. Don't tell me the answer!
: Viraf: The sages' search for you... A -haired traveler... Outside guests...
: Viraf: So, from the start... the sages weren't looking for you, but this traveler? And you were gone from the Akademiya for so long because...
: Alhaitham: Hey, shh... Yes, you've proven yourself as the top student in Haravatat. I surmise you have arrived at the correct conclusion.
: Viraf: As I expected! Please forgive me, I wasn't thinking clearly just now. Thank you for getting me back on track.
: Alhaitham: It's nothing. We'll be on our way, then.
: Viraf: Alright. Thank you for your contributions to the Akademiya, Scribe.
:;(Alhaitham, the Traveler, and Paimon continue into the Akademiya)
: Paimon: What the heck just happened now...? What did he just guess?
: Alhaitham: I'm afraid I don't know either.
: Paimon: You have no idea!?
: Alhaitham: Mhm. He convinced himself of whatever truth he came up with.
: Alhaitham: That is the so-called "pride" of a scholar. If someone questions their academic facility, they will instantly feign understanding to keep up appearances.
: Alhaitham: Nowadays, the Akademiya is rampant with this type of scholar. Their obvious farces of intellect only serve to highlight themselves as fools.
: Paimon: Wow, so there are special ways to deal with smart people. We don't even need to make up our own excuses...
: Alhaitham: We shouldn't waste any more time. It would be problematic if we missed our window of opportunity. Let's go.
----
;(Enter the House of Daena)
: Paimon: Is this the Akademiya's library?
: Alhaitham: Indeed. Known as the House of Daena, it is quite possibly the most extensive special collections library in Teyvat.
: Paimon: Uh, there are a lot of students going through here... Is it really okay just to waltz right in?
: Alhaitham: The Akademiya marches to a fast beat, especially since it's Jnagarbha Day. They're all occupied with their own matters.
: Alhaitham: Just act natural. Now, hurry along.
;(Walk past the guards)
: Paimon: What's this platform for?
: Alhaitham: It's a lift that Akademiya personnel use to access higher floors.
: Paimon: Are we gonna take it, then? The Grand Sage's office is up there somewhere.
: Alhaitham: No, not right now. We can't guarantee that we won't run into the Grand Sage. Let's step back and observe for now.
: Paimon: You think the Grand Sage will exit from there?
: Paimon: And after he does, we'd sneak past him...? Paimon thinks that's really dangerous...
: Alhaitham: Who knows. However, if we can confirm Azar's current location, our operation will be much safer if we...
: Azar: ...Allow me to offer you a hint. If you wish to know his location, look behind you.
: !?
: Busted...
: Paimon: Aah, y—you're... What's Grand Sage Azar doing here!?
: Alhaitham: Hmph...
: Azar: Do not tell me you believed the Akademiya would not grow suspicious of you after such a prolonged absence... Scribe.
: Azar: An eyewitness had informed me of your whereabouts, so I came to personally welcome you.
: Alhaitham: Grand Sage, I didn't expect you to care so much about me. I'm truly flattered.
: Azar: I'm sure, but compared to you, I am far more interested in these two unexpected guests. You are... the Traveler and Paimon, correct?
: Azar: It's a pity that only now have I been afforded the opportunity to formally meet two of Sumeru's most esteemed guests. I do apologize for my lack of decorum.
: Let's talk.
: It's not too late for you to stop.
: Azar: Excellent, you immediately initiated discussion instead of attempting to prepare some perfunctory excuse. You clearly understand the situation at hand and have no intention of making a reckless stand.
: Azar: The foot traffic here renders this place unsuitable for discussion. Please, follow me to my office.
:;(The Traveler and company are brought upstairs)
: Paimon: This place is crawling with guards... There's no way out for us...
: Azar: Alright then, Traveler. What did you wish to discuss with me?
: Azar: Today is Jnagarbha Day, so I still have many responsibilities to attend to. There is little time for idle chit-chat before I detain you all.
: The Fatui are not to be trusted.
: The Fatui have ulterior motives.
: Azar: You seem to know quite a bit about our endeavors...
: Azar: If that is so, then you should be praising our great work, rather than using your trivial misgivings in a futile attempt to sway me.
: Paimon: Trivial...?
: Azar: Then tell me: What do the Fatui want from me?
: A Gnosis?
: ...Maybe benefits of some kind.
: Azar: ...Tch, worthless.
: Azar: Those are all completely worthless. Benefits, divine power... These materialistic words do nothing but debase our great work.
: Azar: Creating a god... Yes, we are using human wisdom to create a god!
: Azar: If humanity cannot attain omniscience and omnipotence, then we shall create a god to reveal them! This is the pinnacle of human wisdom.
: Azar: We shall regain a god's guidance at long last. No longer will we flounder in the interminable void of consciousness and knowledge.
: Azar: Even Irminsul will be freed from its plight.
: Azar: For our nation of scholars, this is the ultimate aspiration — no cost is too great to realize it.
: You say it's the pinnacle of human wisdom...
: But in the end, you're still relying on a god.
: Azar: You will never understand the rapture of having a god be born within your very hands. With your degree of knowledge, you cannot even comprehend such an emotion.
: What about Lesser Lord Kusanali?
: It's not like Sumeru didn't already have a god of its own.
: Azar: Gods exist on a plane that far eclipses humanity's. Lesser Lord Kusanali... What can she even do?
: Azar: Care for the people? Fend off sandstorms? Fabricate silly fairy tales? These are but child's play for the Akademiya. Does that make us equal to the gods?
: Azar: We are a people favored by Greater Lord Rukkhadevata. Though I may have personally not seen it, our forefathers bore witness to "true wisdom."
: Azar: The ascension of the Lesser Lord has brought nothing but bewilderment to the scholars. They all ask, "Is that truly what true wisdom is supposed to look like?"
: Azar: With that in mind, it is better to keep her isolated in the Sanctuary of Surasthana so our academy will not become embroiled in turmoil.
: Paimon: What a pathetic justification! Do you really think that only the super smart or powerful should be able to call themselves gods?
: (I don't know what I can say or do.)
: (The arrogance of the scholars...)
: Alhaitham: As per your judgment, Grand Sage, they are indeed dangerous individuals...
: Alhaitham: Not only are they acting against the Akademiya, but their ideologies have the potential to lead scholars astray. Looks like there really was merit in my assignment.
: Paimon: Alhaitham...? Are you talking about us?
: Alhaitham: Anyway, I've brought them to the Akademiya as ordered, but it took some time and trouble.
: Alhaitham: Oh, that reminds me, here's the investigation report you had requested.
: Alhaitham: It's a summary of my time spent with the Traveler. An array of information about , ready for your perusal.
: Paimon: Alhaitham, so you're... You're still on the Akademiya's side!
: Paimon: We finally started to trust you...
: We've been set up.
: Alhaitham, you...
:;(Azar examines the Knowledge Capsule)
: Azar: ...
: Azar: Excellent. Detailed contents with no errors... I would expect nothing less than an immaculate report from the Scribe.
: Azar: As it is Jnagarbha Day, I'll enter the information on you into the Akasha. ...Surely, you know what that means?
: Paimon: ...We'll be monitored, just like Cyno.
: Azar: With the Akasha's calculation prowess, all of your actions will be predicted with an accuracy of at least 98%. Furthermore, your data will be updated in real time whenever new information presents itself.
: Azar: To put it into words you can understand... Wherever you go, you will be walking under an invisible leash. This is Sumeru's greatest penalty for dishonest persons.
: When you say "dishonest persons"...
: ...Does that also include your General Mahamatra?
: Azar: Are you not familiar with the concept that great responsibility begets an equally great suspicion?
: Azar: In any case, you are Sumeru's most concerning external variable. Locking you down will greatly decrease the chance of any undesirable outcomes coming to pass.
: Paimon: You're despicable!
: Azar: Despicable? Perhaps from your perspective, but... I suppose you had mentally prepared yourselves for this, no?
: What do you mean?
: Azar: Your ploy was to "sacrifice" the Traveler here, was it not?
: Paimon: Ah...
: Alhaitham: ...Lord Azar, I know what you're trying to say, but I've been following your plan this entire time. Why are you doubting me at this juncture?
: Azar: Hmph, must I delineate your entire plan? Very well, I will spell things out.
: Azar: First off, I received an eyewitness report that you were spotted with the Traveler at Caravan Ribat. However, you immediately departed for the desert and escaped surveillance range.
: Azar: Judging by the time, you all likely encountered the truant General Mahamatra in the desert... Am I correct?
: Paimon: Ugh, maybe Paimon shouldn't have mentioned Cyno just now...
: Azar: The Akademiya had not received correspondence from its Scribe for a prolonged time. You were also in the company of the Traveler, a close associate of Lesser Lord Kusanali, and General Mahamatra Cyno, who had defected from the Akademiya.
: Azar: With their instigation, what was the probability that you would betray the Akademiya? Rationally speaking... 50%? 70%? What do you think?
: Alhaitham: Regardless, that's only a guess. The facts are that I've brought the Traveler right before you and I gave you my report.
: Azar: Indeed, your boldness deserves praise. To think that despite status as an outlander, the Traveler is still willing to sacrifice for the sake of your plan...
: Azar: If I'm correct, you have a contingency plan to save Lesser Lord Kusanali and ruin our great work...
: Azar: Sneak into the Akademiya on Jnagarbha Day using Alhaitham's status as the Scribe, for there is a good chance that an opportunity to save the Lesser Lord will arise.
: Azar: Should your intentions be discovered, Alhaitham will "turn traitor" and sacrifice the Traveler, thus proving his innocence. He can then stay inside the Akademiya and continue searching for a way to proceed forward.
: Azar: As for Cyno... According to the Akasha's calculations, he will soon return to the Akademiya and confront me in person. I suppose this is also a part of your plan?
: Alhaitham: ...Heh, you'll see me as a traitor regardless of what I say, no?
: Alhaitham: Even if you impugned me, it would have little effect on you all.
: Azar: You misunderstand. Losing our Scribe would irreparably damage the Akademiya's regular operations and the development of Sumeru's future academic systems...
: Azar: However, under the current circumstances... Even that is trivial compared to what we stand to gain from our great work.
: Alhaitham: You said that I betrayed the Akademiya, but you, Azar... You've betrayed all of Sumeru, betrayed its archon!
: Azar: Hmph, so flight has turned to fight at long last. Guards!
;(A cinematic plays)
:;(Alhaitham begins to enter a manic state and his Akasha Terminal turns red)
::Alhaitham: Azar...
:;(A Divine Knowledge Capsule falls from Alhaitham)
::Azar: Well, what do we have here... So you stole that Divine Knowledge Capsule
::Alhaitham: Traitor... You, traitor...
::Azar: Even the most rational scholar will yearn for the power of a god in a moment of desperation
::Azar: Aren't you doing the exact same thing as me
::Azar: Alhaitham?
::Azar: Unfortunately for you, no god will lend you their power
::Alhaitham: Azar!!
:;(Alhaitham charges past the two guards towards Azar)
:;(Another guard blocks him, causing him to fall onto Azar's desk)
:;(Alhaitham continues to struggle against the guards)
::Azar: He has gone completely insane
:;(A guard hits him on the head with a halberd, knocking him unconscious)
::Azar: Take him to the matra, and exile him to Aaru Village
::Azar: Then, find someone to take these two to the confinement room
::Azar: I'll deal with them later
::Uday: Grand Sage, we have finished all required preparations for Jnagarbha Day
::Uday: We may begin to enter the capsules now
::Azar: Excellent. You may begin
:;(While Alhaitham is being escorted through Sumeru City, his Akasha Terminal turns green)
:;(As he is escorted past Nilou, he gives her a knowing smile)
:;(Cinematic ends)
: Paimon: Aargh, don't lock us up! Let us out!
: Paimon: Waaah!
: ...That's enough, Paimon.
: I don't think the guards can hear us anymore.
: Paimon: Oh yeah, hehe... Paimon got a bit carried away there. How was Paimon's acting just now? Great, huh?
: Marvelous.
: Not bad, but worse than mine.
: Paimon: Hehe, everything's going according to plan so far! We made it into confinement, and Alhaitham's probably done with his part, too.
: That was close.
: We can relax for the time being.
: Paimon: We even managed to trick Grand Sage Azar. Alhaitham sure knows how to cook up a plan.
: Paimon: What are we doing next? Paimon has trouble remembering things when she's worked up...
: Let's review what we discussed during our strategy meeting.
: Paimon: Right right~! Paimon thinks it went something like this...
:;(A flashback begins)
: Alhaitham: ...Apart from that, we still have yet another goal in the first stage of our operation, which is to send to the confinement room.
: Paimon: What!? Why do we want to get locked up on purpose?
: Alhaitham: 's always been the person the sages are most afraid of, as well as the greatest obstacle to the successful implementation of their plan. They are very aware of the risk poses to them.
: Alhaitham: Once is imprisoned, the sages will likely think that everything is under control...
: Alhaitham: And with their guard down, the next phase of our plan will have a much higher chance of success.
: Cyno: Hmph, I can already see the pompous looks on their faces.
: Paimon: Oh, that's a super tricky plan. But, Paimon still thinks it's not really worth it...
: Alhaitham: That isn't the only reason, of course. has a more important task once 's in confinement.
: Alhaitham: According to the Akademiya scholars in Rahman's custody, Lesser Lord Kusanali has sealed off her consciousness in the Akasha ever since she was captured by The Doctor.
: Alhaitham: That way, they can't pry any more information from her.
: Alhaitham: Even if we break into the Sanctuary of Surasthana, it will take time to awaken Lesser Lord Kusanali's consciousness — we need to do that in advance.
: Paimon: So our job is to wake up Nahida! Okay, totally worth getting thrown in jail for.
: Alhaitham: The confinement room is inside the Akademiya, close to the Sanctuary of Surasthana. It's a completely enclosed space, and you won't be receiving any visitors.
: Alhaitham: I'll work with Rahman's scholars to make some modifications to your Akasha Terminal. Once you're in, get as close as you can to Lesser Lord Kusanali and try to connect to her consciousness.
: Alhaitham: However, as for whether she'll actually wake up... That will depend on our luck.
:;(Flashback ends)
: Paimon: Oh~ No wonder you've been wearing your Akasha Terminal today. It's the one that Alhaitham modified.
: Paimon: Paimon thought they'd take our Akasha Terminals when they locked us up in here. Hmm, were they being careless?
: That wasn't because of carelessness, but of their arrogance.
: They think the Akasha is completely under their control.
: Paimon: Alright, so what now?
: We first need to find the place with the best signal in this room.
: Then we try to connect with Nahida.
: Paimon: Sounds easy enough. We can finally talk with Nahida after all this time... Let's do it!
;(After the cutscene)
: Paimon: There's a light flashing on your Akasha Terminal. It's almost like... the faster it blinks, the better the signal.
;(Investigate the wrong location)
: Paimon: Whoa, it's Mora! Ooh, Mora... No Paimon, we're not here to hunt for treasure!
;(Obtain )
;(Investigate the wrong location)
: Paimon: Here? Hmm, no signal again. Is it getting jammed?
;(Investigate the correct location)
:;(The Traveler reaches out and a sprout grows from the tree nearby)
: Paimon: Eh, is this the right spot? Are you getting anything?
: It's faint, but...I have a signal.
: Preparing to connect with her consciousness now.
: Paimon: Aah, please work!
:;(The Traveler finds themselves in a completely dark location)
:: (Is this... a realm of consciousness?)
:: (Nahida's not moving. She really has sealed off her consciousness... I need to think of a way to wake her up.)
:: (What is this...? It looks like... some sort of barrier?)
:: (Is Nahida using this barrier to isolate her consciousness from the outside world?)
: : Nahida!
:Nahida: ...
: : Hey, Nahida!
:: (Dang it, she isn't reacting. Seems like she can't sense me...)
:Nahida: ...
:: !!
:;(The Traveler's shouts are not heard on the other side of the barrier)
: Nahida: ...When did it first start?
: ...Oh, right. It started from the moment I was born.
: I want to become a worthy archon.
: So I've kept studying...
: Kept listening to my people and their hearts...
: Kept looking for a way to save Irminsul...
: So I can catch up...
: Catch up to Greater Lord Rukkhadevata.
: But, I'm stuck in the Sanctuary of Surasthana...
: The sages are creating a god to replace me...
: And I'm forced to lock my consciousness in this boundless darkness.
: : Nahida!!!
:: (What now... Is there really nothing I can do?)
:: (But... she's right here in front of me. I can't just give up like this...)
:: (I had already left her behind once when The Doctor first appeared. I can't do that again...)
Jnagarbha Day Computer Graphic 1 Aether.png
Jnagarbha Day Computer Graphic 1 Lumine.png
: : Nahida!!!
:;(The Traveler begins to use Palm Vortex on the barrier)
:Nahida: ...
: It's... so quiet here.
: Now that I think of it, I don't think I've ever actually listened to my own inner voice...
: Do archons have them?
: Should archons have them?
: Have I been... doing the right thing?
: Am I... really not needed?
: How do I... really feel about all of this?
:
: It's... so quiet here.
: Since you're the God of Wisdom...
: You've known the answers to all these questions since the very beginning, haven't you?
: Who... are you? Whose voice is that? It sounds familiar...
:
: ...You're right, though.
: I won't... I won't ignore my own voice anymore.
:: !!
:: !!
: : Nahida!!!
:;(The barrier breaks)
: Nahida: Ah...
: : Nahida?
: Nahida: ? Did you... wake me up? Thank you. Why are you here...
: : We're here to rescue you... Are you all right?
: Nahida: I'm fine. It's just...
: Nahida: When I think of everything that's happened to me, I feel really angry now.
: : ...
: : ...You should've been angry ages ago.
:;(The Traveler awakes from the realm of consciousness)
: Paimon: Eh? Oh, you're back, . How's everything?
: We're done here.
: Nahida is awake.
: Paimon: That's wonderful news! Great, we weren't locked up for nothing!
: Paimon: When you went to wake up Nahida, Paimon was listening for any sounds outside.
: Paimon: You were out for a long time... There are fewer and fewer scholars going about now. You think everyone's done with their Jnagarbha Day stuff?
: I guess they finished entering all the Knowledge Capsules.
: Paimon: Yep, so that means our next act is... Nilou's performance!
----
;(Meanwhile, in Sumeru City)
: Sheikh Zubayr: Nilou, are you sure about this? You're taking such a great risk for them...
: Nilou: I'm sure, and I'm going. You know that I don't like to pass up any opportunity to dance, and this one is especially important.
: Sheikh Zubayr: *sigh* Alright. You seem to have a lot of trust in them, so I won't say more on the subject.
: Sheikh Zubayr: But if anything happens, the few of us here may not be able to help you.
: Nilou: Don't worry, they've been through worse. Everything's going to be fine!
: Sheikh Zubayr: Alright. You know... if you really do get arrested, we'll do everything we can to get you back. Be careful, even if it's only for our sakes.
: Nilou: Hehe, thanks, Mr. Zubayr. You're so very kind.
;(Talk to Sheikh Zubayr again)
: Sheikh Zubayr: Always remember that your safety comes first. Don't forget that you're the star of Zubayr Theater.
;(If the player walks in the opposite direction)
: Nilou: This isn't the way to the Akademiya. Better stick to the plan.
;(Approach Hushang and Farhad)
: Hushang: Nilou! How's it going? Nervous?
: Nilou: Definitely more than usual, but it's because I'm worried I won't dance well enough.
: Farhad: It's okay, just focus on your performance. We'll take care of everything else.
: Hushang: Heh, you sure know how to talk. Taking all the credit, even though we came here together to help out.
: Nilou: Well, thank you both! I'll have to treat you to a meal after all this ends. I really, really appreciate all of your help.
: Hushang: Ooh, that sounds great! How can we say no to that?
: Farhad: Alright, let's get back to business. Nilou, we'll be here to keep people from going to the Akademiya, so they don't interrupt your performance.
: Hushang: I was planning on telling them something like, "The Akademiya's been conducting a weird experiment, and some of their test subjects escaped. It's really dangerous there, so stay away!"
: Farhad: Ugh, you couldn't think of anything better? *sigh* Oh well, I guess it does sound like something the Akademiya would do.
: Nilou: Hehe, I think it sounds great. I'm counting on you guys!
: Hushang: Don't worry, it'll be a piece of cake!
;(Talk to Hushang or Farhad again)
: Hushang: You really like to play cool in front of Nilou.
: Farhad: Hey, cut it out... This isn't the time to chat about stuff like that.
;(Approach Vihar)
: Vihar: Hey, Nilou. Sorry, it's great to see you, but I'm really busy right now. Our "Bait People Away with Yalda Candies" plan is working beautifully.
: Vihar: Do you want some candy? We have more than we can give out.
: Nilou: Vihar, thank you so much for doing all of this, and even dressed up as the Knight of Flowers, no less.
: Nilou: I'll pass on the candy, though. I cut back on sweets in the period leading up to a performance, and I'm about to start one!
: Vihar: Haha, you have a point. The "stage" is cleared and everything's ready, so you can start your performance at any time.
: Nilou: Yeah, thanks to you. I'm really grateful. Alright, time to hit the "stage"!
: Vihar: You're welcome. The honor's all mine, since I'll have such a great view of the show.
;(A cinematic plays)
:
:;(Nilou begins to dance in front of the Akademiya)
::Vahumana Scholar: I've never seen a performance like this. This is... incredible...
::Rtawahist Scholar: Yeah... But I heard that public performances like these have been banned
::Rtawahist Scholar: I can't believe she's doing this here...
:;(Inside Azar's office)
::Uday: Grand Sage, there's some commotion outside...
::Azar: Hmph. How uninteresting...
::Azar: Issue the new prohibition act from the Akasha to the guards
::Azar: They'll know what to do
:;(In front of the Akademiya)
::Akademiya Guard A: Erm... d'you think we should like, stop her...?
::Akademiya Guard B: Let's just watch for a little bit longer...
:;(The guards receive an order on their Akasha Terminals)
::Akasha Terminal: Prohibition Act: All public performances in Sumeru City...
:;(The text begins to appear when it quickly gets replaced by other text)
::Akasha Terminal: Lesser Lord Kusanali has escaped from the Sanctuary of Surasthana. Go into the city and detain her immediately...
:;(Nilou finishes her dance as the guards run past her)
:;(Nilou breathes a sigh of relief)
:;(Cinematic ends)
: Paimon: Ehhh, did you hear that, ? It sounds like a lot of guards just ran by.
: Paimon: Does this mean the plan has moved onto the next stage?
: Certainly sounds like it.
: It sounds like Nilou completed her task.
: Paimon: Yep yep! It's great that everything seems to be going well.
: Paimon: Come to think of it, when did Alhaitham replace the Knowledge Capsule that was about to be entered into the Akasha?
: When he pretended that he had been corrupted...
: Do you remember when he rushed towards the Grand Sage?
: Paimon: Oh, so that's when he did it!
Jnagarbha Day Computer Graphic 2 Aether.png
Jnagarbha Day Computer Graphic 2 Lumine.png
: Paimon: Paimon was too nervous to notice.
: Paimon: Speaking of, didn't Alhaitham also yoink the Divine Knowledge Capsule from that mercenary leader in Port Ormos when everyone else was distracted?
: Paimon: It's a time-tested trick of his...
: He can maintain his composure when things get chaotic.
: That's why he can pull off this kind of thing...
: Paimon: Hmph. Why are we complimenting him? Yeah, he's smart and all, but he still makes Paimon's blood boil!
: Paimon: Let's review our plan for this stage again! It's not like we have anything else to do right now anyway, and it'll help us feel more confident.
: Paimon: Paimon remembers that Nilou's task was supposed to go a bit like this...
:;(A flashback begins)
: Alhaitham: ...Now that Lesser Lord Kusanali's consciousness has been forcefully sealed, the core figures of the Akademiya and their guards have started to wear their Akasha Terminals again.
: Alhaitham: With The Doctor's technological support, they think they have nothing to fear.
: Cyno: How despicable of them to rely on such a person.
: Alhaitham: But, this is also our chance.
: Alhaitham: I was originally asked to draft the Knowledge Capsule for the "Artistic Performances Prohibition Act" when I was still at the Akademiya.
: Alhaitham: It should be on the Grand Sage's desk right now, and will be entered into the Akasha during the next Jnagarbha Day.
: Paimon: Are they really going to stop all artistic performances? That's horrible...
: Alhaitham: I'll make an identical Knowledge Capsule, but this time, I'll "smuggle" some misleading information into it.
: Alhaitham: We only need to find an opportunity to switch the capsules. Once it's been entered into the Akasha on Jnagarbha Day, if someone were to be seen performing in public...
: Alhaitham: The sages would definitely use that opportunity to announce the ban, and so the misleading information will be disseminated amongst the guards.
: Dehya: Sure sounds complicated, but it seems like if everything goes well, we'll be able to get rid of all the guards in the Akademiya without any effort...
: Dehya: That's pretty clever. Gettin' right into their heads.
: Dehya: I just have one question. Even if we manage to get the misleading info out to the guards, how can we be sure that they'll believe it?
: Alhaitham: People who are used to relying on the Akasha become less inquisitive, and their ability to distinguish truth from misinformation is significantly reduced... They will view everything the Akasha releases to them as the unequivocal truth.
: Cyno: The Akasha will turn humans into "machines." I've seen it happen many times.
: Dehya: Yikes... Good thing I didn't wear it for long when I was working in Sumeru City. At first, I thought it was a good thing, too.
: Dehya: By the way, this plan still requires a performer, right?
: Alhaitham: Do you have someone in mind?
: Dehya: Nilou of Zubayr Theater. I know her really well. We can trust her.
: Dehya: I'm kinda hesitant to ask her to participate in a dangerous plan like this, but we can ask her in person.
: Alhaitham: Alright. After the guards in the Akademiya are gone...
: Dehya: Then it'll be time for me and my stowaway brothers to shine.
:;(Flashback ends)
----
;(Near Lambad's Tavern)
: Dehya: Here they come. Did you see that, Rahman? They came out from the Akademiya in droves!
:Rahman: *whistle*
: Rahman: After laying low in the city for so long, this is the moment we've been waiting for. My brothers have already sprung into action.
: Dehya: Heh, we couldn't do anything to 'em inside their coop, but outside the Akademiya... This is our hunting ground.
: Rahman: With a lioness like you, the prey sure won't be able to run far, haha.
: Dehya: We still need to eliminate the guards as soon as possible. If we give the sages enough time to realize what's happening, the plan's doomed.
: Rahman: Eh, all they've done is to sit on their cushy salaries and twiddle their thumbs all day while we fought and struggled every day in the desert. The only advantage they might have is their numbers.
: Dehya: Speaking of which, most of the guards who report directly to the six sages belong to the Corps of Thirty, but they have a completely different reputation.
: Dehya: Following those blasted sages' every whim, throwing away all the principles of being a mercenary... As someone in the same profession, I'm obligated to teach them a good lesson today.
: Rahman: Indeed. The "trap" has been set. All we need to do is lead them there.
: Dehya: Alright, let's each take a road and herd those scattered guards back into one place. Make sure to attract their attention. Isak will be the key.
: Rahman: You gave such an important task to that child... Will he be okay?
: Dehya: It'll be fine. Isak was so determined to help, so let's put our faith in him.
: Dehya: Besides, even if he's caught, the guards would be too scared to do anything to him... They've never seen Lesser Lord Kusanali in person, after all.
: Rahman: You've got a point. Anyway, I think I see them coming. Let's head out.
: Dehya: Good luck.
----
;(Near the entrance to Sumeru City)
:;(Isak is dressed up as Nahida)
: Isak: Hmm, this outfit...
: Tanina: Hey, do you remember what you need to do, Isak? When the guards get here, you'll pretend to be Lesser Lord Kusanali and run away from them.
: Isak: Oh yeah... I remember, of course I do. I'm just a little nervous...
: Tanina: Relax. Don't think about getting caught. Even if that happens, we won't leave you behind.
: Tanina: You only need to think about getting the guards' attention and leading them to the Grand Bazaar. Leave the rest to us.
: Isak: Okay, got it. I'm here to pay back Lesser Lord Kusanali for helping Grandpa. I won't get cold feet!
: Maqrin: Hey, they're here! I can see the Akademiya guards!
: Tanina: All right! It's time, Isak. Take a deep breath... and go! You can do this!
:;(Begin autoscroll section)
----
;(While Isak is running)
: Isak: (Why is there a guard over there? Did he already run ahead of me?)
: Isak: (This is different from our plan, but there's no time. I need to make a choice...)
: Hide in the field
:: Akademiya Guard: Huh? Did I... just see something dart by?
:: Akademiya Guard: I'd better go have a look...
:: Akademiya Guard: Were my eyes playing tricks on me...?
::???: *rustle*
:: Akademiya Guard: I should go check to see if someone's hiding over there.
:: Stealthily move to the right
:: Akademiya Guard: There seems to be nothing here. Just to be safe, I should look around.
:: Leave the field
:: Isak: (Good thing they didn't find me. That was close... I'd better hurry and keep going.)
:: Akademiya Guard Captain: Hey! Lesser Lord Kusanali is over there. Stop!
:: Akademiya Guard: What, Lesser Lord Kusanali? How did I not see anything just now!
:: Isak: (Oh no, they found me! Where should I go?)
:: Towards the city center
::: 
:::
::: 
:: Towards the Grand Bazaar
::: Akademiya Guard Captain: The target, suspected to be Lesser Lord Kusanali, has escaped into the Grand Bazaar. Assemble and arrest her!
::;(Continue to next section)
:: Towards the city gate
::: Isak: (How is this possible? There are also Akademiya guards here... Oh no...)
::: 
:::
::: 
: Hide behind the house
:: Akademiya Guard: Hmm... Let's have a look behind the house...
:: Isak: (What should I do next?)
:: Hide towards the left
:: Akademiya Guard: Hmm, looks like nothing's here. What a waste of time.
:: Isak: (Luckily he didn't check behind the tree. What should I do next?)
:: Return to the position behind the house
:: Isak: (The guard looks alert. What should I do next?)
:: Find a good opportunity to dash out
::: Akademiya Guard: Doesn't seem like anything unusual's around here...
::: Akademiya Guard: Hey! Stop, I saw you! Don't try to run!
::: 
:::
::: 
:: Keep waiting
:: Isak: (Looks like the guard finally left. I needa go.)
:: Akademiya Guard Captain: Hey! Lesser Lord Kusanali is over there. Stop!
:: Akademiya Guard: What, Lesser Lord Kusanali? How did I not notice that!
:: Isak: (Ack, they found me! This is bad... Where should I go?)
:: Towards the field
::: Isak: (How is this possible? There is also an Akademiya guard here... Oh no...)
::: 
:::
::: 
:: Towards the city center
::: 
:::
::: 
:: Towards the Grand Bazaar
::: Akademiya Guard Captain: The target, suspected to be Lesser Lord Kusanali, has escaped into the Grand Bazaar. Assemble and arrest her!
::;(Continue to next section)
;(If any quick time events are missed)
: Akademiya Guard: Hey! Stop, I saw you! Don't try to run!
:
----
;(After luring the guards to the Grand Bazaar)
: Akademiya Guard Captain: ...Where did she go? How did she disappear? Did we lose her? Hurry up and find her!
: Akademiya Guard: Hey... Why's your team here? Didn't we say to split up our search?
: Akademiya Guard: Hurry, hurry! Eh? This place is... Why are you all here?
: Rahman: Yeah, isn't it one heck of a coincidence? Everybody's here... What on earth is going on?
: Rahman: I suppose that's all of you?
: Akademiya Guard Captain: Who are you!? Did you set us up...? What are you planning?
: Isak: *pant* Whew, that was rough. I almost got caught!
: Akademiya Guard Captain: Little brat... So you're not actually Lesser Lord Kusanali? Who exactly are you all? Eremites from the desert?
: Dehya: Just some colleagues. Think of this as a business competition or a personal grudge...
: Dehya: After stepping into our trap, stop thinking of yourselves as "hunters." Behave like the "prey" you are.
:Rahman: *whistle*
:;(More Eremites enter the Grand Bazaar)
: Akademiya Guard Captain: An ambush! How's that possible? This is Sumeru City, but mercenaries from the desert somehow ambushed us!?
: Dehya: Tsk, you've spent all your time hiding away in the Akademiya. This place has long since become our hunting ground. Brace yourselves!
----
;(In the House of Daena)
: Azar: Hmm... This is odd...
: Azar: The Akademiya has quieted down after the conclusion of the Jnagarbha Day ceremonies, but it's much quieter than usual.
: Azar: Where are the guards? Why have I not seen a single one...? Guards? Guards!
: Uday: Grand Sage, how may I be of assistance?
: Azar: I called for the guards. Why did you come?
: Uday: Ah... M—My apologies, Grand Sage.
: Uday: Right now, all Akademiya guards have entered the city to perform the ordered arrest. I thought you knew...
: Azar: Arrest? Who is there to arrest...?
: Azar: (I have an ominous feeling...)
: Uday: A—Arrest Lesser Lord Kusanali, right? Is that not what the order was?
: Azar: Lesser Lord Kusanali? You mean she has disappeared?
: Uday: Ah, yes. I wouldn't dare make up something like that...
: Uday: Right now, everyone is in a panic, and many are saying that... that Lesser Lord Kusanali will take revenge on us...
: Azar: (What happened? Just what is going on?)
: Azar: (Lesser Lord Kusanali somehow escaped? Was it Alhaitham and his party that freed her?)
: Azar: (That's impossible... The Akademiya is heavily guarded today, and any order to release Lesser Lord Kusanali would be strictly confidential. Besides, Alhaitham and the Traveler are already in our hands...)
: Azar: (What manner of trickery did they employ? How could Lesser Lord Kusanali disappear into thin air...?)
: Azar: (Disappear... Wait...)
: Azar: How was the arrest order distributed to the guards?
: Uday: It was issued by the Akasha earlier today. Only you have the authority to send messages like that, so I thought it was your order...
: Azar: ...Let me check.
: Azar: ...Ah, here.
: Azar: "Lesser Lord Kusanali has escaped from the Sanctuary of Surasthana. Go to the city and arrest the escapee immediately..."
: Azar: (The Akasha indeed contains this information, and it clearly appeared in my mind.)
: Azar: (...How did they bypass my permissions to issue this kind of message?)
: Azar: (Was it the report about the Traveler that Alhaitham submitted?)
: Azar: (No, I specifically checked that Knowledge Capsule before entering it into the Akasha... Could that have been... a red herring?)
: Azar: (Well, even if I figure it out now, it won't make any difference. The important thing now is to confirm Lesser Lord Kusanali's status...)
: Azar: Have you been to the Sanctuary of Surasthana to confirm that Lesser Lord Kusanali has indeed escaped?
: Uday: Confirm? No, I—I haven't...
: Uday: I—It may be a bit offensive to say this, but... Grand Sage, what you're saying doesn't make any sense...
: Uday: How can the information in the Akasha be inaccurate...? What the Akasha decrees is fact — that is common knowledge to all of us...
: Uday: If we have to confirm the information and knowledge from the Akasha ourselves...
: Uday: Then how is that any different from us learning that information ourselves? Wouldn't Greater Lord Rukkhadevata's legacy lose its meaning that way...?
: Azar: In the beginning, it was I who asked you to believe in the Akasha, to believe in the legacy left by Greater Lord Rukkhadevata... Are you trying to use my words against me?
: Uday: N—No! Grand Sage, I'm merely confused because I believe in you. I never meant to refute you...
: Azar: Hmph... Stay here and see if there are any suspicious people around... I'll go to the Sanctuary of Surasthana on my own.
: Uday: Yes, Grand Sage...
:Grand Sage Azar arrives at the Sanctuary of Surasthana alone...
: Azar: ("Lesser Lord Kusanali has escaped from the Sanctuary of Surasthana. Go to the city and arrest the escapee immediately...")
: Azar: (How can that be...? Stop thinking about it, stop... It must be a trick of theirs. As long as I personally confirm it...)
: Azar: Ah...
:;(From Azar's perspective, Nahida's cage appears to be empty)
: Azar: ...Impossible. That's impossible. There must be something wrong with my eyes...
: Azar: ...
: Azar: Eh? She really appeared again... What is the meaning of this...?
:;(From Azar's perspective, Nahida slowly appears)
: Cyno: What a comical sight, Azar.
: Azar: ...!
: Cyno: Once the Akasha has put certain thoughts into your head, even the Grand Sage can no longer see what's right in front of him.
: Cyno: You all can only see the world in your mind, the one you think you know.
: Cyno: And precisely because of this, you disregarded Lesser Lord Kusanali's existence...
: Cyno: She has been a wise and worthy archon.
: Azar: Cyno... Have you been waiting for a chance like this?
: Azar: The Akasha predicted that you would return to the Akademiya to confront me, but I didn't expect it to turn out like this. I was careless.
: Cyno: No, you were blinded. Your faults stem from your reliance on the Akasha. You're still the same as always.
: Azar: I truly did not expect a proud person like you to cooperate with Alhaitham and the Traveler...
: Cyno: People change, Azar. Admit it, the Akasha can't predict my actions anymore.
: Azar: Hmph, then tell me, what have you found during your investigation?
: Cyno: You want to buy time? This is the Sanctuary of Surasthana. Under your own regulations, even Akademiya staff are forbidden to come here... No one will come to save you.
: Cyno: As for the investigation... I've at least confirmed that you are guilty of insurgency against the archon, a serious crime.
: Azar: So what? Did you do all of this so I would plead guilty in front of you, General Mahamatra?
: Cyno: No. I want you to plead guilty in front of the archon herself.
: Cyno: You once said that I had no standing to judge you. So now, how about judgment in the name of a god?
----
;(In the confinement room)
: Paimon: Hmm... How long do we have to wait? Paimon wants to know how things are going out there!
: Paimon: Paimon hasn't heard any sounds outside for a while. Hopefully something bad didn't happen...
: Don't think like that.
: We must trust our friends.
: Paimon: Yeah, but aren't you scared that we might be locked up in here for the rest of our lives?
: Paimon: Thinking about it, at least Paimon has you. We can still chat like this...
: Paimon: When Paimon thinks of Nahida being imprisoned alone in the Sanctuary of Surasthana, Paimon can't help but feel sorry for her...
:;(The gate opens)
: Dehya: Here comes your savior!
: Paimon: Dehya! Hehe, Paimon just knew you would come to rescue us!
: You were scared out of your wits just a moment ago...
: Dehya: You two really owe me some big thanks. I had to search through who knows how many guards to find the key here... It felt even more tiring than whacking 'em! I'm exhausted.
: Paimon: Thanks a lot. Need Paimon to rub your shoulders?
: Dehya: Uh... No, no, that's... Er, I'll pass.
: Paimon: What are you afraid of? Oh, are you ticklish?
: Dehya: Ugh, now isn't the time to talk about being ticklish...
: How are things going outside?
: How's Nahida?
: Dehya: Things in the city and on Cyno's side are both going well. The guards that stormed out of the Akademiya are all taken care of.
: Dehya: The Corps of Thirty is in charge of the city's defenses, but we already talked to Asfand. They've been fed up with the sages bossing them around.
: Dehya: As long as it doesn't break their employment contracts, they'll turn a blind eye.
: Paimon: That's probably because you've been super great friends with them for a long time. So, how's Cyno doing?
: Dehya: The Grand Sage is in his custody. Even I know how terrible it is to fall into Cyno's hands, so he probably does, too.
: Dehya: Cyno forced him to release Lesser Lord Kusanali. He has no choice but to obey.
: Dehya: So, hurry to the Sanctuary of Surasthana. Assuming nothing weird happened...
: Dehya: ...We should've already rescued our archon.
: That all sounds amazing.
: We managed to rescue her!
: Dehya: Honestly, I didn't expect our ragtag bunch to do this well. We just came together last minute to save the archon, you know?
: Dehya: All right, you two better go. I still have to clean up some messes in the city. See you around.
----
;(Enter the Sanctuary of Surasthana)
:;(The barrier around Nahida disappears)
: Paimon: Nahida...
: Nahida: Should I say "It's nice to meet you"?
: Nahida: This is the first time we've met in real life. Before, we've only met in dreams, consciousness, or when I was in someone else's body.
: We finally meet, Nahida.
: Nahida: Thank you so much for coming to rescue me, but I also need to apologize...
: Nahida: During this time, I did some self-reflection. My sense of inferiority and yielding to the Akademiya led to all of this, and created so much trouble for you all.
: Don't worry about it. You've also helped us a lot.
: You deserved to be freed.
: Paimon: Exactly! We're here because you're a good archon and one of our friends.
: Nahida: Hehe... Thanks, you two.
: Nahida: Whew... Amazing, so this is how it feels to walk out of that cage with my own body.
: Nahida: It's like I just had an endlessly long dream... I can't even tell if I just woke up or was only now born into this world.
: Nahida: My concept of "self" has become so clear...
: Nahida: But now doesn't seem to be the time to indulge in this feeling.
: The Akademiya's god creation plan...
: Saving Irminsul...
: Nahida: Um, this is really embarrassing. You all just rescued an archon, and now she needs your help to save her country, and even the entire world.
: Paimon: It's okay. With you here, Paimon's sure that everything will work out!
: Nahida: There's one more thing...
: Paimon: What is it?
: Nahida: For all the things the Akademiya did to me, and for all the folly it committed in the name of wisdom... As their archon, I will make them pay!
: Paimon: Ah...
: Paimon: Wow! That's the spirit! You're finally standing up for yourself and not letting people walk all over you!
: Nahida: Hehe... I understand now: To be a better archon, I first need to better myself.
: Nahida: If you haven't even figured out how to be a caterpillar, how can you be a butterfly?
: This is knowledge that only you yourself could have discovered.
: Nahida: Yes, true. Hm, that reminds me, I wonder how far along the Akademiya is with their god creation plan...
: Nahida: We need to hurry and prevent the birth of that false god.
: Nahida: I need to make some preparations. Since I'm now free, I can establish a direct link to the Akasha and control it.
: Nahida: First things first, I need to remove the restrictions that The Doctor put on me in the Akasha...
: Nahida: After that, I'll make some adjustments and revoke the sages' permissions. The Akasha will then be like how it originally was: only operable by the archon.
: Nahida: ...After all, the Akademiya betrayed Greater Lord Rukkhadevata's trust.
: Nahida: This might take some time. In the meantime, you should also work on your own preparations.
: Nahida: If we don't stop the god creation plan in time, we'll be in for a tough fight.
===Optional Dialogue===
If the player leaves the special story mode, two pairs of NPCs may be found in front of the bridge to the Akademiya.
;(Talk to Mir or Azmi)
: Mir: ...I thought you'd be interested in the Jnagarbha Day ceremony, but you're just out here instead.
: Azmi: Resting when everyone else is busy makes this moment even more idyllic. *sigh* You still have so much to learn when it comes to romance!
: Mir: Uh... Okay, as long as you're happy.
;(Talk to Phaki or Habi)
: Phaki: ...You think we'll get yelled at again if we play here?
: Habi: Psh, there's nothing to be scared about. If we can shake Mr. Zubayr, the people at the Akademiya will be a piece of cake.
: Phaki: But the grandpa with the blue hat and long beard looks really scary... You think he'll be here today?
After step 8, the two Akademiya guards who escorted Alhaitham may be found lying unconscious on the road leading southward out of Sumeru City.
;(Observe the guards)
:Observe the unconscious guards...: (Someone has knocked these two guards out and removed their Akasha Terminals not long ago. No one seems to have noticed them yet.)
:Observe the unconscious guards...: (If they were escorting someone before being knocked out, that person must've escaped.)
==Soundtracks==
==Gallery==
Sumeru Archon Quest - Jnagarbha Day - Alhaitham Attacks Azar
Sumeru Archon Quest - Jnagarbha Day - Nilou's Performance
NPC Location Unconscious Guards (Jnagarbha Day) Context.png|Unconscious Akademiya guards
NPC Location Unconscious Guards (Jnagarbha Day).png|Unconscious Akademiya guards' location (map)
==Other Languages==
==Change History==
==Navigation==
es:El Día del Jñagarbha
ja:ジュニャーナガルバの日
th:วัน Jnagarbha
vi:Ngày Jnagarbha