Chapter 71

Carl and his companions gather with hundreds of crawlers in Hungry Eyes for a farewell before the Pineapple Cabaret race. Several key figures depart to seek safety elsewhere, while Carl reflects on the difficult path ahead—the Emberus quest to kill Hellik—knowing the risks but seeing no alternative. Bautista and others bid goodbye with tea and blessings, creating a somber but hopeful atmosphere.

Carl visits the garage where Bucket Boy sits with Pontiff, the newly hired driver. Pontiff attempts to console the grieving Crocodilian about his lost family, but Bucket Boy remains numb. Carl and Donut leave, with Donut questioning whether the dangerous quest is truly necessary. Carl insists it is the only way to stop the dungeon's endless floors, though Donut worries it may backfire like Drakea's attempt years ago. She suggests worshipping the goddess instead, but Carl refuses, viewing that path as a trap. He notes that Osvaldo's garage remains closed—Osvaldo cannot attend the Cabaret due to his religious obligations—and worries about Dwight and Free Love's participation. The narrative shifts to the main square in Hungry Eyes Village, where five hundred people gather, with only two hundred departing. The atmosphere is somber, like a funeral gathering. Bautista, Louis, Linus, Imani, and Chris are present, preparing to leave. Bautista announces his departure and his intention to find India and check on Louis's child. Imani reveals she wears protective magic to shield herself from Chris's heat. Zhang and Tran prepare to depart as well, with Donut saying goodbye by headbutting them. Bautista then serves his special breakfast tea blend infused with vendor leaves, granting a 25% constitution buff to vehicles and mounts, honoring those departing.