Klonoa takes a seat on the couch next to Balan. The cabbit boy stroked his brother's cheek, just wanting to feel that familiar touch he missed. Where Balan removed the dream traveler's hat, places it on the table next them them, where he just pets his head to ease the boy. Klonoa purrs at the feeling.
Klonoa: Balan, do you think he'll be ok? I know it's a dumb question, but I just need to be sure.
Balan: Rest assure you Klonoa, it's only fair that you would be concerned, It takes time for one to find themselves again, but I believe he will. I will watch over him until then.
Klonoa: Wow you know these things better then I thought. Honestly you remind me of my grandpa. He's really wise with these things.
Balan: Is that true? Well I always want my guests to know that they are safe and how I try my hardest.
Klonoa: You really do, but I noticed you were looking kind of sad. . .Are you feeling alright?
Balan: Oh eh heh heh don't worry about me my little dream star. I have been keeping myself occupied for awhile. Do you remember what we've talked about before?
Klonoa: Well yes, , ,but I just. . .you don't have to hide how your feeling.
Balan: Hmm?
Klonoa: I can understand not wanting others to worry. I know how that feels. . .You just try your hardest to help those who need it. Aero taught me that, if I really want to protect those I cared about. I needed to not let it get the best of me. . .
Balan: Klonoa. . .you truly are a pure soul, one who tries his best for those around. Yet you never consider having others return it. It's important to find a balance and with those who cherish you, as you do for them.
Klonoa: . . .Sorry, it's been rather hard for me. I only talked about this with Aero, and my grandpa. . .Even our good friend Pango, who I see as another father figure. I never had that many friends. Mainly due to how many worlds I visit and fix. I just wish, , ,I could be able to go back, without being forced. . .
The maestro looks at him, gentle eyes gazing and a sudden frown came. He could feel the cabbit's heart was indeed hurting, bleeding even from all that's been built up within. Only this time, he could tell it was much deeper. He tried reading his mind, trying to see what could be the problem. Yet somehow it looked like another of those mental blocks was preventing him from viewing. Only this one was much more stronger, so Balan had decided he would try and figure it out later. All he could do was bring Klonoa into a slight hug. Klonoa didn't reject, and accepted. There were no words said, all they both needed right now, was just the presents of one another. After awhile it seemed that things were calm again.
Balan: You said I was like your grandfather, well what do you really see me as Klonoa?
Klonoa: I didn't mean it like in age! What I meant by that was that you're just really wise and such!
The maestro had the grin return, and snuck a hand under his shirt, and begins to give the cabbit's stomach some scratches. This made the cabbit squirm, but the maestro's grip was firm. It did make Klonoa feel better a bit, which was something Balan was happy to share. He did stop when he felt the boy had enough. Where Klonoa takes in breaths after that.
Klonoa: Hey what gives?! What was that for Balan?!
Balan: Oh you seemed like you needed a bit of cheering up, and for that assuming comment.
Klonoa: Sheesh Balan, I never asked how old you are did I?
Balan: Well nope, but it worked. You were feeling down so I just had to get a bit cheeky.
Klonoa: You're just as bad as Aero, he would pull the same thing whenever we played.
Balan: Sounds to me you two have a pretty stable relationship.
Klonoa: We do. . .hey Balan, I know I said I didn't ask, , ,but how old are you really? Are you some kind of dream being?
Balan: Yahoo? Well my dear Dream Star, I happen to be how you see me as. It is different with many. And some have been ether respectful, comfortable, though some were questionable. . .
Klonoa: Uhhh i'm guessing they wanted to be more then just to be friends. Was it bad?
Balan: Well no, not all the time. I have had partners in the past that needed some company. And no worries I won't tell you the details, giving you're still a bright young mind. . .As for the age question, , , i'm about 3 millennia's.
Klonoa: WOAH! 3000 years old! That's like, , ,way older then those I've met on my journey!
Balan: Ha ha ha ha! Indeed but to simplify it, maestros aren't bound by the logic of other worlds. Its our magic that keeps us functioning. Its the same with Lance.
Klonoa: Wait. . .Lance is the same as you?
Balan: Oh dear I said too much! that'll be all for now, we wouldn't want spoilers now do we?
Klonoa: Oh heck no, I hate those! But I wouldn't say I'm not at least a bit curious. I'll learn it as this adventure goes on.
Balan: Glad to know you want the experience. The adventure, so where's the fun if you skip to the end?
Klonoa: Clearly many don't see the fun in that. I want to see just what Wonderworld has to show, and I want to experience that with my friends.
Balan: Well said my boy, well said indeed!
The cabbit had looked down at Aero who was still sleeping. Balan did say he would be out for awhile. He just hoped that he would wake up soon. It was then he looked at the clock and it was now 9 in the morning, Guntz had left for about 15 minuets now, and thinking about what he said.
Klonoa: You know, I still can't believe they use to be good friends. . .Even before I was born. . .Maybe that's how Aero became the way he is.
Balan: Their relationship allows them to become stronger. It is through their trust and confidence that they can rely on one another.
Klonoa: I never asked about it, mostly cause I didn't think he would want to talk about it.
He seemed to look a bit sadden from that fact. Sure he cared about his brother, yet something was bothering him. That part in his mind, and the dream he had.
Klonoa: And being a Dream Traveler, it isn't always easy.
Balan put his arm around Klonoa to show that he knew what he meant.
Klonoa: Not sure what I'm here for. But I know we're in good hands.
It was nice hearing a guest being open with the maestro about this. In fact he could tell the boy wanted to let his heart speak. Balan sensed that and smiled in encouragement.
Balan: If you need to speak your mind. Then allow your heart to say what it needs to. I will be here to listen, and should it become too much, you can always take it easy and hold onto me. You have nothing to worry about Klonoa.
This seemed to put him at ease, he was already well aware that Balan isn't one to lie about these. Sure he keeps his own secrets, yet speaking about these are true to his word.
Klonoa: It hasn't been easy, leaving friends I made. But I did what I needed to do, as the dream traveler. Yet I feel like my heart is hurting still. I know I made peace during my time in Lunatea, , ,yet it still feels like there's this part that has yet to become whole. My first adventure when I became the dream traveler, was the most I had to go through in a short amount of time, it hurts differently. And I don't understand why.
The maestro could tell he was venting, and how much honesty yet innocence, even sense of maturity the cabbit was being.
Balan: Klonoa, you prove yourself to be brave and pure of heart, yet you are but a child, and it is easy to tear it apart. Heroes make sacrifices to do what is right, and while I applaud your efforts when your eyes are shut tight, the pressure of these responsibilities tends to be very great. Tears are often a relief for pain whenever you would feel yours break.
Klonoa: But some say that crying too much, you get called like a crybaby. I know things are tough and I'm not all that powerful. However I keep on trying. . .But when I left, it felt like a part of me didn't want to let go. . .
He then fell silent, he felt his own head began to hurt where he had to hold it for a moment. Balan thankfully had a tim bring them a glass of water, along with some medicine to help with the migraine, which did help ease the cabbit's pain. Once Klonoa was able to regain his thoughts, he said something that took the maestro by surprise.
Klonoa: I wonder, if instead I met Lance, and not you. Would I have become like Aero? Or something else?
Balan didn't say anything, rather he just carefully moved the still sleeping Aero onto a pillow on the couch, where he stands up, turns and picks up Klonoa, and embraces him in a comforting hug. Klonoa was use to this, and had his head stroked. This seemed to ease his tensions, but he does look at the Meastro with confusion, Balan was unaware of that, as he was holding the boy like how a father holds a small child. Klonoa felt tears began to return. It was a different reason and cried into the meastro's chest and collar. All that was inside of him, he couldn't hold back and let's it all out. All Balan did was embrace him and let's him vent it out... a gentle stroke of his hand was there to reassure him that it's okay. Even though Klonoa didn't want to talk about the nightmare. He felt that telling what at least happen with what he could recall, even though his memory about it wasn't very on point, like some points were still fuzzy. The pain, the sense of betrayal, and all that he's kept in his own subconscious all this time, was finally breaking out. And he explained bits of what happened on his adventure in Phantomile. A much younger, naïve, innocent and a bit gullible boy. But it all led up to him being tricked and used by his once called 'best friend'. And that his brother and grandfather did what they could to help him.
Klonoa: I tried to be strong, but, why, why does it hurt so much?! Why, , ,why did I feel so used? I thought I was helping, but instead I feel like I was nothing more then a tool!
Balan simply continues to embrace him as these emotions come flooding out of him. He felt terrible for the poor boy, hearing about all the suffering he has been through... And giving how much this mental block was preventing him from seeing how serious it was, all he could do was comfort the dream traveler. They stayed liked that for awhile, when Aero's ear flickered, he let's out a groan as he began to wake up.
Aero: Mm ah my, my head.
Klonoa and Balan paused and looked over. They could see the other was waking up and placing a hand to his head. Klonoa jumps out of Balan's hold and goes over to hug his brother, with tears still falling.
Aero: W-woah Klonoa?! Is it really you?!
Klonoa: Aero your awake! I'm sorry I wondered off! I didn't mean to worry you, or get you into this mess! I, I must be a terrible younger brother for having you come look for me!
Aero: Hey hey shhh shhh it's ok Klo, shhh calm down ok, easy now easy! I'm alright, and you're safe. That's all that matters.
Balan could see just how much they truly have missed eachother. Now that he sees Aero was awake, and no effects of the negativity have done anything that would be worrisome, he was relieved about that. Aero then turned to the maestro, and couldn't help but give a confused look.
Aero: Hey um were you the one who helped my brother?
Balan: Why yes I am. Your brother has gone through all his way to help save you. I made sure he wasn't alone, and made sure he was taken care of.
Aero: Is this true Klonoa?
Klonoa: Yeah of course! When I learned about what happened to you, I had to do whatever I could to help save you.
Aero: Huh for once I never thought of becoming the damsel in distress. But hey at least I was saved by someone with a big heart.
He ruffled Klonoa's hair, causing him to laugh. Aero then turns to Balan again.
Aero: I want to say thankyou, so very much.
It was when he looked at him a little more carefully, then something in his mind seemed to hit.
Aero: Hang on a second, you look almost familiar. Have we met before?
Klonoa then recalled earlier about when his brother mentioned of a magic theater, and how Balan had talked about how Aero was a visitor here. The idea of his brother coming here again, may have not been a mistake, rather it was a way to help the cabbit tie up some loose ends. The maestro seemed impressed of the older cabbit's seemingly catching on, and possibly something more. Balan simply smiled to confirm his suspicion.
Klonoa: Aero, his name is Balan, and he's the maestro of Wonderworld. He was the one who helped not only me, but Guntz too.
Aero: Balan. . .Herk! Gahhhhhhhhhh!
Klonoa: Aero!? W-what's wrong!?
The cabbit just clutched his head, it was if the forgotten memories were coming back like a title wave. Balan snapped his fingers to give him some assistance while easing any pain that might be circulating in his head. Klonoa was worried, but Balan reassures that it will pass. Aero grabs onto the maestro, as Balan stroked the cabbit's back gently.
Balan: Easy there Aero, you're just going through a whirl of memories, you're alright. I got you.
He gently reassures them that moments and feelings like these won't need to last a long time, but they need to be there as long as they need to. Aero's eyes began to tear up, as he just held onto the maestro until it subsided.
Aero: It's been, , ,a while hasn't it Grinny.
He looked up with an innocent smile, it was a sort of nickname he came up with when he was a child.
Balan: Yes, it has. Look at how big you have gotten. Grown to be big and strong, and also handsome too.
Aero: I did a lot of training, helped my grandpa and brother. . .Even the adventures I was on helped too. . .But if there's something I did missed seeing. . .it was you.
Balan: Oh come here you fuzzy little creature!
The maestro then embraced him, he too teared up a little bit. It truly has been awhile since they last met. And the cabbit purrs at the feeling, while also shedding some tears of his own. And Klonoa couldn't help but smile at the sight.
Klonoa: -Wow, , ,I never would've known they had a close bond. But i'm happy for both of them.-
Once things have calmed, Aero was told all the things that happened. And he was both shocked and impressed. But the part with Lance, he responded in a more worried tone.
Aero: Wow, , ,I didn't think Lance would go that low. He use to be a not be like this.
Klonoa: You really think he wasn't all that bad? Aero he captured you and turned you into a monster!
Aero: When I was little he didn't try and do that. But the fact he tried taking Guntz, I guessed I mixed up his plans huh.
Balan: I still don't know what drove him to that maddened state. Whatever the case may be, thank goodness we were not too late.
Aero: And the fact you guys went out of your way into helping me. You haven't lost your touch huh maestro.
He said it in a slight joking tone. Balan simply shrugged and chuckled.
Klonoa: How do you feel now big bro?
Aero: Honestly I feel a lot better, it's like a huge burden had been taken off me.
Balan: That's the effects of you finally having your old trauma being healed. And I am so sorry for not looking deeper. I knew you were still hurting, even after it seemed cleared.
He leans down, giving a rather sadden look. Even his tone was that of someone who felt ashamed in themselves.
Balan: I failed you Aero, that look on your face back then. I could tell you were sad, but not from just leaving. I felt that I didn't do all I could to help. . .I was a failure.
Aero: Balan. . .
He takes the maestro's hand and holds it.
Aero: Everyone makes mistakes, no one is perfect. Not even you. . .I know I wasn't sure what was wrong with me when I felt in that moment. But I know I wasn't upset with you. You tried your hardest, and had been the best and most important guide that pushed me forward. Even with a half complete heart, it was enough for me to realize just how much those who impacted my life mattered. Which includes you.
Balan: Aero. . .
Aero: I'll be honest, even when I was having struggles, I was more scared in others not wanting anything to do with me, or bother helping. . .And yet you, , ,and even Lance. You made reassurance that I was never truly alone, and how I will have those who will want to help. If anything, , ,you've been not only a great host, but also someone who inspires others that no matter how dark and gloom things may get, there is also a light. And want to let you know, that many who you helped, they appreciate all that you have done.
Hearing this, and from someone who was saying in such a kind and genuine way. It actually had the maestro at a loss for words, and even made him tear up.
Balan: Aero, , ,you truly have become someone who's not only genuine, but also knows how to touch one's heart. Both you and Klonoa truly are pure souls!
Klonoa: Are you alright Balan? You're creating drops again.
Balan: Yes, , ,yes I'm fine Dream Star. My heart's been touched by such words of kindness. It has been awhile since anyone has told me, how much they value, not only my efforts, but myself. . .
Aero: Well that's good to hear you're still the softie I remember. Heh heh it's good to be yourself, putting on acts can take a lot out of someone.
The maestro pulled out a cloth as means to help dry his tears. He took a seat on the couch due to his legs feeling wobbly.
Klonoa: Woah take it easy ok!?
Balan: Sorry boys, I didn't mean to look like a mess. It's just sometimes, when words of meaning are spoken. I can get kind of sappy. I hope you don't find this unprofessional.
Klonoa: It's ok Balan, besides it's fine to let loose emotions, and crying is a healthy thing to help ease one's pain.
Aero: Hey I don't want to ruin the moment. But how long was I out for?
Klonoa: You've been out since yesterday.
Aero: Oh, , ,huh no wonder i've been feeling more refreshed. Good to know at least- Uhh h-hey is there a washroom I can use?
Balan: There's one down the hallway to the right, you'll know by the gold lettering.
Aero: Ok thanks Grinny! I'll meet you guys in the dining room!
And with that he was off in a dash. Both were rather impressed, then again when someone's been out without washing up will do that to someone. The two just decided they would head into the dining room, since it did sound like a good idea.