Balan snaps his fingers, causing a forcefield to appear around him and the boys. They also had a campfire, food and some sleeping gear. Yet Balan had Klonoa stay with him as he felt that the dream traveler needed some extra care. While Guntz was more interested in checking his weapons, making sure they needed some tuning or reload, before taking some of the food. For the first time in awhile, they could settle in peace, and recover their strength. But just because they were now safe, didn't mean they could shake off what happened, and were just in a moment of silence. Reflection on what had been shown to them. From discovering that Aero had been turned into some kind of monster, and is being controlled by Lance. They need to find a way to help save him. . .The sun had set and the sound of crickets could be heard. As the trio had their fill, they were going over what happened. With Balan gently petting the dream traveler, as means to help ease him. While also slightly sneaking some scratches at the wolf's ears, that seemed to help Guntz calm down. But giving how this was Klonoa's older brother they saw, and what he's been turned into, it was still a shock for them.
Klonoa: I didn't think it would be that tough. . .I thought Aero would've heard us. I don't understand why.
He couldn't believe this was happening, Klonoa has always thought his brother could be strong enough to break through anything, even the sound of his brother should've been able to do something. Klonoa looked defeated, , ,Guntz could understand how it feels, seeing someone whom was kindhearted, brave but also free spirited, be turned into something monstrous. Balan seeing this, puts a hand on the cabbit boy's shoulder.
Balan: Do not fret, oh Child of the Wind and Golden Killer. The real Aero is still in there, despite negativity consuming him. He can still be saved when his heart is restored, as happiness starts from within.
Guntz: What do you mean?
Klonoa: Yeah I'm confused. How will we do that?
The maestro just smiled and from his other hand, he reveals a bright light that has a distinctive crystalline heart. Both were shocked and could even feel how warm it is.
Klonoa: Woah. So this is what we'll need in order to help him?
Balan confirmed it and explained how this works, that it is the missing piece and the main source of one's positive feelings. In short, they locate the heart tree and get the heart, return it to Aero and he will return to normal. They seem to get what the maestro was asking them. Which nether objected into helping restore their friend's heart. But it was also a matter in weather they could be able to separate Aero from the dark influence.
Guntz: If it'll work, then I'm all here for it. If we want to get Aero to come back to his senses then we'll do whatever we can.
Balan: You two are already familiar with the terms of the negati, and what I told you about how it works.
Klonoa: That Aero was taken at a moment of weakness. And all we need to do is restore his heart, that should help bring him back. I'm willing to do whatever it takes!
Guntz: Glad we can agree on a plan like that. Normally I would say this wouldn't possibly work. But in this world, it should.
Balan: Agree, but right now it has gotten late. We should get some rest, and set out in the morning.
As if on que Klonoa let's out a yawn and rubs his eye, which seemed to effect Guntz felt himself yawning, he didn't realize how tired he was. Balan did have them sleep comfortably, Klonoa was feeling more relaxed, while Guntz seemed to take a bit longer, before Balan just stroked his head, like a father would and reassuring that things will be alright. This sense of warmth and comfort was enough to help get the wolf to enter the land of dreams. The maestro decided to stay up a little longer, just incase something comes around. It was when he noticed Klonoa was still awake.
Klonoa: Hey, , ,Balan.
Balan: Yahoo? What is it Klonoa, aren't you tired?
Klonoa: I just wanted to ask you something.
Balan: If there is something on your mind. Then please, don't be shy. And whatever will get you to sleep faster.
Klonoa: Eh heh right. It's nothing much. . .Just if Aero fell into darkness like that. Does that mean could it happen to me too?
Balan: What got you thinking that?
Klonoa: Well it's just, , ,seeing what happened with Aero, and knowing that it was caused by Lance, , ,but mostly with him losing himself. I've been thinking about it, and it scares me. I, , ,I don't want to become like that, nor do I want to hurt anyone who did nothing wrong.
The maestro could feel the anxiety levels growing, and how much the cabbit was psyching himself out. Without a moment, Balan carefully rubs his back, and soothing the stress. He spoke in his gentle tone.
Balan: Easy there, shhh it's ok Klonoa. I know, I know what you witnessed was indeed scary. But stressing about it won't help. And I'm sure that your brother if he were here, i'm sure that he wouldn't like seeing you work yourself up. It's ok to worry those important. It means you care about them and want to see them safe.
Klonoa: I, , ,i'm sorry. You're right, I was overly thinking it. . .It's just, I was reminded about some of the darkest moments from my adventures. I try not to let it get the best of me, yet there's a part that can't seem to fully let it go.
Balan:. . .I see. . .So this was what was eating at you. I had a feeling there was something more to you. But is it alright if I ask you Klonoa?
Klonoa: Uh ok sure, I guess.
Balan: Do you know why it's my job as maestro? Why I do the things I do?
Klonoa: Huh? Well it's cause you're really good at putting on shows, you're very fun to be around, but you look after guests and help them find ways to heal their hearts. I remember those.
Balan: Though there are about the small amounts you are correct about. But what is the most important thing that a maestro requires?
Klonoa: A lot of hard work and dedication?
Balan: Patients and knowing what is best to handle the situations. Maestros handle their roles in different ways.
Klonoa then thought back to when he saw Lance, and how he appeared. He looked almost like he mirrored Balan, only a more nightmarish and gothic version. This made Klonoa wonder, did they have a sort of connection, this made him confused.
Klonoa: Is Lance a part of that too?
Balan: Yes, , ,he is what others would say a mysterious maestro himself. Yet I never consider someone like him to take things too extreme measures.
Klonoa: I saw he didn't seem to get mad with Aero. Even though he turned him into a monster, , , I really don't understand.
Balan knew that the boy was only going to keep asking questions, which wouldn't help them in their mission.
Klonoa: Do you ever get lonely? It sounds like it can be a lot on one person.
Balan:. . .Yes, , ,I won't lie, it can sometimes overwhelm someone during their first time. But you learn ways to work around those issues. And those who do come to Wonderworld, it's always a new adventure, and I treasure them.
Klonoa:. . .What about dream travelers? Can they appear here and maybe even come back?
Balan: . . .Those are rare my dear child. It is no different the regular visitors.
Klonoa went silent for a bit, just the very idea sounded interesting and how many ended up here. He decided to ask if Balan has met anyone from worlds he's encountered, those he named. And Balan smiled and answered with things that were of the normal, to uniqe. All the while Guntz was listening, he just had his eyes closed, until Balan had glanced over with a I know you're still up look.
Balan: I do believe our bounty hunting companion would like to be part of this conversation. Don't you think so Klonoa?
Klonoa: Wha- Guntz you were awake this whole time?
Guntz: Well considering you two were talking, it's been hard to get any Z's. But yeah, , ,I'd like to ask something. Something important.
Balan: Don't keep it to yourself, please do share. Anything to get off your chest.
Guntz:. . .Have you ever encountered a much larger gold and black wolf with a cowboy hat and vest? Possibly keeping a large weapon?
Balan: That has been sometime, but I have actually met such a character you described. My he was a wild one, always up for adventures, fighting off negati, and helping those in need. I believe his name was Batz Shinigami.
This made the wolf sit up immediately, Klonoa was taken aback by that. He didn't expect the wolf to respond in a way that would come out so sudden.
Guntz: You knew my father?! He was here before?!
Klonoa: W-woah Guntz! What's going on, why the sudden change in attitude?
Balan: But of course I did, and he was quite the visitor. I believe it was during his teen years. He was bright, bold, serious yet had a good heart. He would talk about how he wished to someday become a top rank bounty hunter, but one who would help stop criminals. As well as a treasure hunter.
Klonoa: Woah he sounds like a cool guy!
Guntz: Yeah, , ,he really did. . .That sounds like him alright.
Balan: Hmm? Guntz are you alright boy?
Guntz: I'm , , ,I'm fine. . .just something I needed to know. That's all.
Klonoa: Guntz, , ,your crying.
The wolf hadn't realized it and turned away to try and stop it. Yet no matter how hard he tried, the tears wouldn't stop. It was if a part of him hearing that, and learning this had put some sense of ease.
Balan: Are you alright?
Guntz: I-i'm fine damn it! Just got something in my eye is all!
He was shaking and his tone sounded like he would break at any moment. It was then that Klonoa went over and gave him a hug. This made Guntz flinch, confused at the sudden physical contact from the dream traveler, but didn't push him away.
Guntz: Klonoa, w-what are you doing?
Klonoa: You look like you needed some comfort. I'm just doing what I would do with Aero whenever he's upset. Is this alright?
Guntz:. . .Yes, , ,it's fine. Thanks. I'll be honest with you. Nobody's ever showed me this kind of treatment before. Being alone and having your title out there. People aren't gonna wanna do this, nor would I normally accept it. . .
Balan: It can be difficult when you never have anyone to help support you during those hard times. But keeping all pent up isn't healthy ether. You're lucky that Klonoa's a good kid.
The wolf awkwardly stroked the cabbit's head, which was replied with a purr. This seemed to help calm his nerves. And Balan just let them stay that way till the wolf felt better. It was when Klonoa had fallen asleep on Guntz's chest. He didn't seem to mind the feeling.
Guntz: You know, I've never had this kind of attention in so long.
Balan: When was the last time?
Guntz: Since, , ,my dad, , ,and Aero. This happened over a few years ago. I am doing fine, though I do sometimes miss having to feel welcome and wanted, treated like a normal person, and not just someone who's known by their title. You even gave me a chance, despite what happened earlier.
Balan: My boy we may have had that small bit of disagreement. But what happened wasn't your fault. I knew you came here for other reasons. And it isn't just looking for your friend.
Guntz: Oh and what might that be?
Balan: . . .Call it a sort of fixing your own balance. Anyone who goes that long without any sense of help, Is not healthy. I won't force you to do these things. But you should not ignore the issue ether Guntz. As your guide, my job is to help you fix what could be the roots of your trauma.
The wolf could tell he was calm about it, but did show some sense of sincerest. It was something both boys needed during a time like this. It has been helpful when things calmed down.
Balan: If you aren't ready to open about what's been on your mind. You needn't worry about it now. You both are safe, so as long as i'm around. No Negati will come near.
Guntz: Thanks Balan, , ,I feel I can trust you with that. And I can tell that Klonoa does as well. You may come off as a bit much and sometimes strange. But it's clear that you have no ill intentions at all. . .You know, you remind me of my father's old partner.
Balan: Do I now? Well if it was for a good meaning, then I appreciate the complement. Well it is late, why don't you get some rest ok. I will be here incase ether of you need something.
This made the wolf give a slight smile, and had actually fallen back to sleep. With him having a firm grip on Klonoa as to not have him fall off. In response, Klonoa unknowingly held onto Guntz as he continued to sleep, even smiling. Balan lets out a sigh as he watches them rest, and then looking up into the night sky. He then removed his hat to allow some sense of peace of mind. Normally he would wait till the finally to reveal his true face, but since the boys were soundly sleeping, Balan felt that it would be alright, at least for tonight. He then takes out a photobook from his pocket and looks through the pictures. These were specific of those who where of Klonoa's world, some who came before and lived, to those who passed, to those who became corrupted. It was something he kept as records and what Lance told him long ago.
Flashback
Lance: Balan, I noticed you having fun with the guests. Were they doing alright during my absents?
Balan: Yeah Lance! They were having a great time! I even gotten to show some of my tricks and they loved it!
Lance: Did they now? Well that just means you have managed to handle it better then I originally thought.
Balan: Hey how are you feeling today? Did your sickness go down?
Lance: . . .It has been tolerable these past few weeks Balan. But do you remember what I told you before you started taking the role of sub maestro?
Balan: That I must do my best and to help those who come to the theater.
Lance: You're becoming a bright young maestro. And as your mentor, I am proud on how short of a time you have learned and grown. And pretty soon when you do reach your full potential. I will pass that title to you Balan.
Balan: . . .But Lance, what if I'm not fully ready yet. What if I need your guidence, or someone to talk to? What if, , ,I forget?
Lance:. . .My dear pupil, , ,if you really want to keep those memories. Keep photos. I had been since they first appeared. It's a way to remember those times and a way to remind you, why you are here. Why we do what we do. I may turn Balan, but that does not mean I will be completely gone. Can I count on you for running the theater and be true to your heart?
Balan: Yes Lance! I will become a great maestro, and I will be sure to take photos during the best times!
Lance: Hee hee that's the spirit. Well then I guess I needn't tell you when to do it. But it is important to know, you will make great friends who will impact your life the most. Making those photos all the more cherishing. . .
Balan: I will, and hey if it isn't too late. . .Would it be fine if we took one? Just incase you would like to keep a reminder too.
Lance:. . .I'd like that.
End of Flashback
Balan smiled a bit as he remembered that conversation he had with his mentor. How it was one of the last times when they had a genuine talk and hanging out. Tears had fallen softly, even fresh drops. Some of the tims that had been tagging along, had come over to comfort the maestro. Checking to see if he was alright.
Balan: It's kind of funny. Even after all this time, I still hold onto these despite all that's happened to them. . .Maybe its just the part of me that wants to keep whats important. And these boys, , ,I wish for them the best, into helping regain what they have lost. And I will be sure they see it to the end. . .And for Lance to see how much it has made me stay true to myself.