TACTICS OGRE GAIDEN: THE KNIGHT OF LODIS Game Script Transcribed by Shotgunnova texastornado6_9(at)hotmail.com ------------------- Authorization Notice: ------------------- This guide may not be reproduced, hosted, or edited without express written permission from the author. Failure to comply with this notice is a direct violation of copyright laws. ---------------------- Notes about the Script ---------------------- -Multiple text boxes are converged into one string of spoken dialogue. Meaning that, if Rictor were to say five text boxes worth of information consecutively, in this script, it would be merged into one single block. -Narration is set of by �and� signs (@) -Descriptions and segways that I have placed in for clarification reasons are surrounded by brackets. ###################################################################### # # # TABLE OF CONTENTS -- CHAPTER ONE # # -------------------------------- # # # # New Game to Church in Solea 1.1 # # Scabellum 1.2 # # Vespa 1.3 # # Formido 1.4 # # Ardea 1.5 # # Urodela 1.6 # # # # PATH A # # ------ # # # # Bison 1.7 # # Arena 1.8 # # Rana 1.9 # # Urodela Revisited 2.0 # # Solea Revisited 2.1 # # Aquila 2.2 # # # # PATH B # # ------ # # # # Solea 2.3 # # Sufrir 2.4 # # Arena 2.5 # # Rana 2.6 # # Urodela Revisited 2.7 # # Solea Revisited 2.8 # # Aquila 2.9 # # # ###################################################################### # # # TABLE OF CONTENTS -- CHAPTER TWO # # -------------------------------- # # # # Formido 3.0 # # Vespa Revisited 3.1 # # Gryllus 3.2 # # Belleza 3.3 # # Blete 3.4 # # Naja 3.5 # # Sotavento 3.6 # # Haena 3.7 # # Ostorea 3.8 # # 1. Ostorea West 3.9 # # 2. Ostorea South 4.0 # # 3. Throne Room 4.1 # # 4. Crypt 4.2 # # # # PATH B # # ------ # # # # Formido 4.3 # # Vespa Revisited 4.4 # # Belleza 4.5 # # Gryllus 4.6 # # Blete 4.7 # # Naja 4.8 # # Sotavento 4.9 # # Haena 5.0 # # Ostorea 5.1 # # 1. Ostorea West 5.2 # # 2. Ostorea South 5.3 # # 3. Throne Room 5.4 # # 4. Crypt 5.5 # # # ###################################################################### # # # TABLE OF CONTENTS -- CHAPTER THREE # # ---------------------------------- # # # # PATH A # # ------ # # # # Ostorea Castle 5.6 # # Rebanada 5.7 # # Harmonia 5.8 # # Charadrius 5.9 # # Angel's Headstone 6.0 # # 1. Angel's Headstone (Initial) 6.0 # # 2. Hall of Corruption 6.1 # # 3. Garden of Memories 6.2 # # 4. Hall of Conviction 6.3 # # # # PATH B # # ------ # # # # Ostorea Castle 6.4 # # Rebanada 6.5 # # Harmonia 6.6 # # Charadrius 6.7 # # Angel's Headstone 6.8 # # 1. Angel's Headstone (Initial) 6.8 # # 2. Hall of Corruption 6.9 # # 3. Garden of Memories 7.0 # # 4. Hall of Conviction 7.1 # # # ###################################################################### # # # ENDING LIST # # ----------- # # # # A Ending 7.2 # # B Ending 7.3 # # C Ending 7.4 # # D Ending 7.5 # # Bad Ending 7.6 # # Secret Ending 7.7 # # # ###################################################################### # # # MISCELLANY # # ---------- # # # # Quest Mode Boss Quotes 7.8 # # Optional Character -- Saia 7.9 # # Optional Character -- Lobelia 8.0 # # Optional Character -- Glycinia 8.1 # # Optional Character -- Lubina 8.2 # # Special Scene in Solea 8.3 # # Scene in Rana, I 8.4 # # Scene in Rana, II 8.5 # # Town Descriptions 8.6 # # Updates 8.7 # # Contribution Credits 8.8 # # Future Updates 'N' Stuff 8.9 # # # ###################################################################### /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | New Game to Church in Solea | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 1.1 / \_______/ [After starting a new game, the streets of a city come up, with two young men walking through a marketplace.] Well Dressed Young Man: �Well then, did your mother make a fuss over you?� Dark Haired Knight: �I don�t have time for that, Rictor. I�m more concerned with my new family name...When I heard the name �Loeher� it just doesn�t sound right. I�d rather it hadn�t changed at all.� Young Man Named Rictor: �Come on, don�t be so cold. Once our ship departs, you won�t be able to see her for awhile.� Dark Haired Knight: �We�re finally leaving...It�ll be my first time abroad.� Rictor: �It sounds like you think this�ll be a vacation! I�m not sure you realize what we�re getting ourselves into.� Dark-Haired Knight: �Excuse me, Commander Lasanti.� Rictor: �Was that supposed to be sarcastic? This may be my first time commanding...but I am expecting a lot from you.� Dark-Haired Knight: �Count on me, Sir.� [The two are standing in the bazaar. A woman speaks to them.] Mysterious Woman: �Hello, would you like to have your fortune told?� Rictor: �We don�t have time for that. We set sail early tomorrow.� Dark-Haired Knight: �......� Rictor: �What�s wrong with you today? Why the sudden interest in fortune telling? Well, do as you like. I�m heading back. You better return soon, too.� Dark-Haired Knight: �Yes, I know.� [Rictor leaves up some steps. The Dark-Haired Knight goes and stands by the fortune teller.] Fortune Teller: �Everyone seeks hints about their future, even if those hints influence their path. Welcome. Please enter your name and date of birth.� [The player then puts in the name they choose and the name of birth they want. The dark-haired knight�s default name is Alphonse, and it will be as such in this script] Fortune Teller: Six paths determine your path in life, whispering in this recesses of your mind...They take form and scream out, �Let it begin!� [The focus turns to the crystal ball.] The Bearer asks: Bear which burden? R1 --> resolve R2 --> truth R3 --> sacrifice R4 --> affection The Wanderer asks: Walk which path? R1 --> belief R2 --> freedom R3 --> wealth R4 --> longevity The Builder asks: Design which plan? R1 --> strife R2 --> wisdom R3 --> hatred R4 --> prosperity The Sage asks: Swear which oath? R1 --> purity R2 --> revenge R3 --> victory R4 --> fruition The Leader asks: Share which vision? R1 --> sadness R2 --> mercy R3 --> bliss R4 --> terror The Almighty asks: Shape which future? R1 --> glory R2 --> peace R3 --> change R4 --> control @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ A new day dawns, as roots dig deep into the earth and water flows from its source... Many years ago, the Lodis Empire began its imposition of Lodisism. Troops from Galius advanced into the regions that resisted. It was more of an invasion than a reformation. Many conflicts erupted as these territories were conquered. But, some countries submitted and accepted Lodis� conditions. Although supervised by Lodis, they were able to maintain autonomy. The empire also pledged support if problems were to arise. Some rulers chose to surrender to avoid pointless sacrifice. It was no surprise that they made that decision...although that did not stop small conflicts from occurring. However, compared to the rest of the era, it was a time of peace. @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ [Nightfall. A ship has anchored and is using a piece of wood as a gangway to the land. The Dark-Haired Knight (Alphonse, which is his default name) is standing on the deck. Rictor appears from out of the storm and walks back on the boat.] Alphonse: �Rictor! We won�t make it to the island like this. The ship can be repaired but it may take a while.� Rictor: �How about the captain?� Alphonse: �He said we should wait for the storm to settle first.� Rictor: �Well, I guess there�s nothing we can do in a situation like this. I didn�t think the stormy season would come so soon. Our ship has been drifting for so long that I haven�t a clue where we are. We should be thankful that the ship didn�t sink.� Soldier: �Commander!� [A soldier appears and runs to Rictor.] Soldier: �We�re being attacked! We have no idea who they are or what they want!� Alphonse: �No way!... At a time like this!?� [Rictor, Alphonse, and the soldier run into battle. A helmeted barbarian of a man stands atop a hill, surrounded by a small following of soldiers. The barbarian speaks first.] Stan: �Hehehe. That crest, those clothes...You must be from Lodis! I�m sorry but we can�t let you land on this island. Die here!!!� Rictor: �Who are you? What do you want with us?� Stan: �We�re hired men. We were told to give the knights from Lodis a warm welcome!� Rictor: �Don�t worry about them all. Just defeat the leader!� [The team makes quick work of the bandits.] Alphonse: �Looks like there�s someone who doesn�t want us here...� Rictor: �Our presence was requested by the people of Anser. It must be forces from the North that attacked us.� Alphonse: �Anser is in the South and Rananculus in the North. Is the conflict between the two really that bad?� Rictor: �It�s more than a conflict. There�s a sizeable forest that separates them. Winter snows block both land and sea routes. They�ve not associated with each other for hundreds of years. Alphonse: �And then, unexpectedly, soldiers from the North crossed the border...What is your father, the Duke of Felis, saying about this?� Rictor: �To be honest, he doesn�t seem very concerned. It�s happened several times before, but he ignored the situation. This time, at the people�s request, he finally decided to do something.� Alphonse: �I see. When I received these orders, I was surprised by how small our force was and that most of the knights were inexperienced, like me.� Rictor: �My father didn�t want to go to the trouble of sending, so he sent me to take care of things instead. Are you worried? Alphonse: �Not really...just curious.� Rictor: �Well, if we need more soldiers we can just hire some. It�s cheaper than sending reinforcements by ship. Since my father became the Duke, he�s been very stingy. I don�t have much admiration for him.� Alphonse: �Will you eventually go to Galius to become a priest of the Church of Lodis?� Rictor: �I don�t know anymore. My father wants me to inherit his position as Duke of Felis so that he can hold the reins of power even in retirement.� Alphonse: �By the way, didn�t you say that you�ve visited Ovis before?� Rictor: �I was only a child. I can barely remember.� [Suddenly, from out of nowhere, a bandit appears. He draws a crossbow and points it at Rictor.] Alphonse: �Watch out!� [Alphonse pushes Rictor out of the way, shielding him from the blow. However, in his rush to protect his friend, Alphonse takes the arrow in his chest and falls into the water, disappearing in the waves.] Hidden Enemy: �Damn! That soldier got in the way...� [One of Rictor�s forces sneaks up behind the enemy and kills him with a sword swipe. The other forces gather around Rictor.] Rictor: �Find him!� [The troops stand at the waterline, yelling for Alphonse.] Rictor: �Alphonse!� [Cut to a church near a beach. A young girl walks out and walks out on a stroll. When she gets down there, she sees the dark-haired knight lying unconscious on the beach. She kneels beside him and puts him to bed inside the church. Eventually, he comes to.] Alphonse: �Where am I...?� Girl: �Keep still. How do you feel?� Alphonse: �Well...not too bad.� Girl: �...Good. You�ve been asleep from a long time...This is a church in Solea. You were washed up on the beach outside.� Alphonse: �Did you save me...? Miss...?� Girl: �My name is Eleanor. I�m not a nun, but I am helping the priest of this church. A...Are you from Lodis?� Alphonse: �I am a knight of Felis. ...My name�s Alphonse, Alphonse Loeher. We were headed for this island by ship, but a storm hit and we lost our way. With our ship in shambles, we were attacked by pirates.� Girl: �Did you fall overboard?� Alphonse: �Something like that. I�m not much of a swimmer.� Eleanor: (giggle) �Maybe a mermaid saved you. There aren�t many left, but some still live around here.� Alphonse: �Mermaid? A woman with a fish�s tail?� Eleanor: �It was a long time ago, but once I saw a beautiful mermaid. Her whole body was shining in gold...� [A woman walks in to the room.] Softspoken Woman: �Looks like you have almost fully recovered.� Alphonse: �Who are you?� Softspoken Woman: �My name is Ivanna. I was once a soldier of Rananculus, but now I am on my own. Eleanor, may I speak with him a little?� Eleanor: �Of course.� Alphonse: �You said that you were a soldier of Rananculus? Was that with the northern White Fang Troops, the cause of this island�s troubles?� Ivanna: �That�s right, but that was nearly 10 years ago. Eleanor told me about what happened to you. I wanted to speak with you. Felis...The Order of the Sacred Flame...You were sent here by Lodis at the request of Anser?� Alphonse: �......� Ivanna: �I�ve heard that, in Scabellum, there�s a group of knights in unfamiliar armor. Are they comrades of yours?� Alphonse: �Hmm...� Ivanna: �There are no organized troops in the South, and their accent and manners are different. Rumors spread quickly.� Alphonse: �We were separated by the storm. If this is true, then I must contact them.� Ivanna: �I have some errands to take care of in Scabellum, so I�ll go with you. I�ll come again tomorrow. See you then.� [Ivanna nods to Eleanor and leaves.] Eleanor: �I�m glad you found out where your comrades are.� Alphonse: �I appreciate your kindness. I will leave here tomorrow afternoon. Thank you.� Eleanor: �...You�re welcome.� [Somewhere else in the church, someone yells for Eleanor.] Boisterous Man: �Eleanor? Where are you? ...Eleanor!� Eleanor: �Father Hamen�s calling me. I have to go.� Alphonse: �Father Hamen?� Eleanor: �He�s the priest here...and my foster father. Ah...I�m coming!� [Eleanor runs out. The scene ends and the world map opens up, showing the new town of Scabellum on the map. That is the destination.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Scabellum | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 1.2 / \_______/ [Ivanna and Alphonse arrive at the town, which is deserted. Not a soul roams the streets.] Alphonse: �So quiet...It doesn�t seem like a port city.� Ivanna: �Since the White Fang troops arrived, the people in the towns around here have been more cautious. This port used to be bustling with activity...� [Alphonse turns to a house nearby.] Alphonse: �Who�s there?� [A woman in robes and two soldiers come into view. The woman speaks first.] Mullin: �How rude to ask questions without first introducing yourself!� [Ivanna talks quietly to Alphonse.] Ivanna: �The woman in the middle looks like a knight of Rananculus. They�ve already filtered into this town. We may have no choice but to fight them.� Alphonse: �She�s...from Rananculus...?� Ivanna: �I�d guess from her attire that she�s a spellcaster. Alphonse, be mindful of the elements. You know about the four natural forces that protect us, right?� Alphonse: A: �What�s an element?� B: �Of course I know!� Alphonse (A): �Element? What�s that, Ivanna?� Ivanna: �Earth, Water, Fire, and Wind. These are the forces of nature. Elements play an important role in battle. For example, if characters with opposite elements, such as wind VS earth or fire VS water, fight, they can each deal heavy damage to their opponent. They can also receive heavy damage when counterattacked. Alphonse (B): �Of course I know! Let�s go!� Mullin: �How annoying. If you get in our way, we�ll kill you.� [They fight for awhile until Mullin starts to aim a spell at Alphonse.] Ivanna: Alphonse, the enemy�s going to use a spell. A spell that is the same element as the caster can be very powerful, so be careful. [After a bit more fighting, Alphonse gives a sigh of resignation.] Alphonse: �They�re too much for us! We�ve got to do something!� Familiar Voice: �Alphonse!!!� [Rictor and another man enter into the battlefield.] Rictor: �I�m glad that you�re safe!� Alphonse: �And you as well! Rictor: �We�ll celebrate our reunion after we deal with these rogues.� [If Alphonse levels up in the battle:] Narrative: Characters� abilities increase as their levels go up. Some characters can change class as they go up in levels. Special emblems and skills can also be learned. [If an emblem is gained--enemy or otherwise--a message will appear on the screen:] Narrative: By meeting set requirements, characters can earn emblems. Emblems can be necessary for changing class, but they can also make nice mementos. The emblems characters can earn depend on their sex and race. More info can be obtained in the character status screens. [With the help of Rictor and the archer, Orson, they defeat all the lackeys and give Mullin a fatal wound.] Mullin: �...I guess this is it for me...� [Afterwards, Rictor and Alphonse meet in a house to discuss their game plan and to catch up on each other�s stories.] Rictor: �After we were attacked, we boarded a small craft and came to this port, where we spoke to the mayor. The townspeople have been willing to provide information, but not money or soldiers.� Alphonse: �Are they too cowardly to protect themselves?� Rictor: �They take our protection for granted. Since the island was subjugated by the Holy Lodis Empire, Ovis has fallen under the jurisdiction of Felis.� Alphonse: �I�ve heard that some towns still have a grudge against Lodis because of the Reformation.� Rictor: �Things probably won�t go very smoothly even though this is Lodis� territory, but it�s also true that Southerners want nothing to do with Rananculus.� Alphonse: �They dislike both us and the people of the North.� Rictor: �As for the task at hand...Our mission is to investigate and resolve the conflict here. According to our information, the number of foreign soldiers and pirates has increased over the last year or two. We also heard that pirates were spotted here a few days ago, so we hid and waited for their return. Then you showed up.� Alphonse: �The White Fang Troops are under the direct order of the Lord of Rananculus. He must have some hand in the current problems...� Rictor: �The Batraals...They�ve ruled Rananculus for generations. The current lord is Naris. Before inheriting that title, he was the head knight of the White Fang Troops.� Alphonse: �I doubt this is merely a show of power...So, have you discovered their intentions?� Rictor: �No. I�m not certain of anything yet. They�ve been acting in small groups. Their leader�s a knight, but the rest seem to be disorderly fellows, maybe bandits. Oddly enough, they�ve made no demands, they�ve just been excavating ruins and collecting old books.� Alphonse: �Well, I doubt they�re here merely as historians. What do you estimate their numbers to be?� Rictor: �We know little about their strength or true objective, but we do know that the troops which are causing the recent problems are stationed by the ruins southeast of Naja. Their leader is Nichart Briffaut, a knight of Rananculus.� Alphonse: �Will you attack them head on?� Rictor: �No, if we attack them directly, the enemy will have the advantage because they�re more familiar with this area. Therefore, my plan is to attack them from the flanks. That way, they�ll have their backs to the ocean. I�ll go through the forest, and you�ll cross Vespa Hill and attack from the west.� Alphonse: �But, we are too few to divide in half.� [Rictor rummages in his pockets.] Rictor: �Take this.� [He gives Alphonse 3500 Goth.] Rictor: �Prepare your troops using these campaign funds. Enter the ruins while we lure their main force out. Capture their leader and find out their purpose.� Alphonse: �Alright.� [The scene ends and the world map opens up and the trail to Vespa shows itself. A message is displayed, also:] Narrative: Now you can use the �Organize,� �Training,� and �Shop� commands. Press the R Button to display these commands. The commands available to you depend on the situation. Also, random battles may start on the way to your destination. Always be prepared and make sure your troops are well-organized. /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Vespa | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 1.3 / \_______/ [The party rides out to Vespa Hill. There, a young woman stands with a team of bandits and soldiers, waiting for them. The woman, who is also the leader, speaks.] Cressida: �I never expected to meet a knight of Lodis! I will never forgive you for all that I lost 15 years ago. You burned down my town and killed my parents!!! Thankfully, I�ve acquired the skills of a soldier.� Alphonse: �I understand that it�s hard for you, but that was a long time ago...� Cressida: �It�s long forgotten for the victor, but we still endure the painful memories...Words can�t describe it. Does everyone in Lodis think as you do? Knowing your ancestors� merciless deeds, don�t you feel any remorse? And to repeat the same mistakes again? The teachings of Lodis are said to be sacred, but in the end they are simply the rationalizations of the subjugator.� [Alphonse�s party members come to the battlefield.] Cressida: �Mother, Father...Give me strength. I will avenge you!!!� [The battle starts and a message pops up.] Narrative: Since you will be in control of your characters, develop their unique strengths to help you clear stages. When characters die, revive them with items or spells. If you leave them dead and clear the stage, they will be lost forever. [After a few turns, Ivanna calls out to Alphonse.] Ivanna: Alphonse, fighting is not the only way. One strategy is to persuade enemies to join your troops. But, don�t assume everyone will be persuaded. Foes with high HP usually won�t listen. Furthermore, some of your characters may be more persuasive than others.� [Both sides fight valiantly, but the superiorly-trained knights of Alphonse clear the field. Cressida kneels as she sees the light at the end of the tunnel.] Cressida: �Never forget...You can fool yourself with your rationalizations, but eventually you�ll suffer the consequences. Oh...Mother...Father...� [Later that night, the party has set up camp. Alphonse sits around the campfire, and soon Ivanna joins him.] Ivanna: �Alphonse, I have something to tell you. I told you that I used to be in the White Fang Troops. Their size doesn�t compare to the troops of Lodis, but they were the personal troops of the Lord of Rananculus.� Alphonse: �I heard that the Batraal Family gained their power during the early settlement of Ovis.� Ivanna: �Now they rule the northern region. They are the descendants of the colonists who left Galicia 400 years ago and settled in Rananculus with other foreigners. The troops were formed to defend against the wild beasts and demi-humans of the frontier, and to cultivate the land.� Alphonse: �Why did you leave? Do you know anything about the current conflict?� Ivanna: �I left to uncover the truth about my father�s death...and to avenge him. I am Ivanna Batraal, daughter of the former Lord of Rananculus.� Alphonse: �Batraal?� Ivanna: �My uncle, Naris, became lord after my father died of illness 15 years ago.� Alphonse: �15 years ago...the year of the Reformation. The island became the territory of the Holy Lodis Empire and was placed under the rule of Felis...� Ivanna: �That�s correct. The Order of the Sacred Flame was sent to represent Felis. Southern Ovis refused to accept Lodisism, so the military forced them to convert. But in Rananculus, my father signed a peace treaty with their leader, and we were able to avoid a conflict. My father died late that year. My mother told me it was a heart-attack, and I believed her at first. However, a few years later, I heard a rumor that he was killed by my uncle.� Alphonse: �Wait. Wasn�t the leader of those troops at that time... Bernard Lasanti, current Duke of Felis? Does your uncle still have contact with Felis?� Ivanna: �I don�t know, but my uncle was strongly against the treaty. He excelled in the use of both the pen and the sword. My father, however, was quiet and always ill. But my father was lord and heir. My uncle may have been jealous of my father, who stood to inherit everything. Alphonse, I want to know the truth of my father�s death and to confront my uncle. Please, may I accompany you? My uncle must be behind all this, pursuing some ulterior motive.� Alphonse: A: �Yes. Let�s go together.� B: �I�m sorry, but...� Alphonse (A): �Yes. Let�s go together. It�s encouraging to have you fight alongside us. I know little of this island. Your help would be greatly appreciated.� Ivanna: �If my uncle had found out that I suspected him, the lives of my mother and sister would�ve been in danger. So with the help of my sword instructor, who had taken care of me since I was small, I left the troops and hid here. Alphonse (B): �I�m sorry, but...our mission and avenging your father�s death are two different things. I can�t guarantee that we�d stay together, anyway. Please seek assistance elsewhere.� Ivanna: �I understand. I guess an alliance between us wasn�t meant to be. I�ll leave here tomorrow morning. Take care of yourself.� [Regardless of whether you invite Ivanna to stay or cast her out, the next spot on the map opens up to the far northeast of Anser.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Formido | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 1.4 / \_______/ [After moving to Formido, a scene takes concurrently. A large wall of a fortress is guarded by a few soldiers and a knight survey the area. A small portcullis opens up and a man in dark armor walks out. He walks over to the knight.] Imposing Knight: �The knights of Lodis will come to Formido soon.� [The knight that had been there turns to him.] Grimal: �The ones sent from Felis at the request of the South?� Imposing Knight: �I hired pirates to attack them, but some survived and made it ashore. Grimal, use the troops stationed here to protect this fortress.� Grimal: �Yes, sir...But how about you, Commander Briffaut?� Nichart: �That young lass�s calling me. She�ll be mad if I don�t come soon. According to my sources, the leader of Lodis� troops is only 15 years old. They�re making fools of us!� [Alphonse arrives at the bottom of the fortress.] Alphonse: �You must be the White Fang Troops. Abandon this fortress and withdraw to Naja immediately. Otherwise...� Grimal: �Commander Briffaut, look!� Nichart: �They�re here already? Much earlier than I anticipated! This fortress is critical to movement in the South. It�s up to you, Grimal!!!� [Nichart turns to the door.] Alphonse: �Are you running away? Don�t you have any guts?!� Nichart: �Shut up, kid. I have no time for you. Remember, I�m Nichart Briffaut, the leader of the White Fang Troops.� [He leaves through the way he came. More troops for Grimal come out of the open door to assist Grimal. Alphonse�s troops come to his aid as well.] Grimal: �Ha! Is there a shortage of soldiers in Lodis? A kid like you is the leader? Luck�s been on your side so far, but that ends here!� [The battle starts. If someone finds a hidden treasure buried under the soil, they�ll get the following message (this can be gotten earlier, too):] Narrative: Hidden treasures can be found by landing directly on the panels where they are located. These items can also be revealed by burning fields or melting snow. [Alphonse�s troops battle it out up the stairs to Grimal, swathing a path through the soldiers who approach. They finally head to Grimal and cut him down as well.] Grimal: �Curse you, kid...� [For battle spoils, the party gets a book called the Numida Chronology. A message pops up at the acquisition:] Narrative: Each text you acquire will open a new area in Quest Mode where you can explore/earn treasure. [The party waits before entering the fortress�s interior.] Alphonse: �Ivanna, do you know him?� Ivanna: �No. I don�t recognize him. Maybe he joined after I left.� Alphonse: �But, what happened to Rictor? Well...we have no choice. We�re going in.� [Alphonse enters into the fortress and comes to a room. Chairs and papers are scattered all over, like someone left only moments before.] Alphonse: �They�re all gone...� [He hears someone in the doorway.] Alphonse: �...Who�s there?� [A girl comes out, casts a spell and Alphonse falls to the floor unconscious. He wakes up in a dungeon, with both arms chained to the wall.] Alphonse: �...I guess I was a little careless. Where am I...?� [Nichart and the girl who cast the spell walk in through the jail door.] Nichart: �Heheh. Like the view, kid?� [Alphonse struggles, but can�t get out.] Alphonse: �You coward!!! What a dirty trick!!!� Nichart: �Did you think I got scared and hightailed it out of here? It�s your fault for letting your guard down after defeating Grimal. I feel sorry for him, but at least he bought me some time. Everything�s going as planned.� [The girl speaks.] Young Sorceress: �Commander Briffaut, we�re not here to chat.� Nichart: �I know, I know. Don�t be so uptight. Well, tell me, knight of Lodis...What are Lodis� true intentions?� Alphonse: �...Intentions...?� Nichart: �Right. The true reason why the troops of Felis were sent here. When Lodis takes action, there�s always something they�re after.� Alphonse: �Reason? It was a request from the South...� Young Sorceress: �Don�t play dumb. You say that the South requested help, but has Felis ever sent troops for such a thing before? Alphonse: �I don�t understand...Let me go! Release me!!!� Nichart: �You�re so hot-tempered, kid. You still snap at us even in chains. Do you realize the situation you�re in?� [Nichart takes out a whip and strikes the prisoner.] Alphonse: �Ugh...ugh...huff...This all began by your aggression!� Nichart: �Lord Naris has ordered us to find out the real reason for your presence here. If you wish to be freed, then talk.� Alphonse: �Aahhh...!� Nichart: �Hmph. Kid, I�ll ask you once more. What�s your true purpose here?!� Alphonse: �Ugh...I told you......I don�t know...� Young Sorceress: �Commander Briffaut, perhaps he really doesn�t know. Of course, he may just be strong-willed. In which case, I have no choice...� [She walks to Nichart and takes something out of her dress.] Nichart: �What�s that?� Young Sorceress: (giggle) �Just a potion. This�ll make him talk, but he won�t feel so well when he wakes up.� [She makes him drink the potion and the screen fades to black. When it brightens again, Alphonse is chained to the wall still, but this time in waist-deep water.] Alphonse: �Huh?...Is the tide rising?� [He looks to the doorway. Someone stands there.] Alphonse: �...?!� Mysterious Woman: �As you know, this place�ll be flooded at high tide. All the soldiers have left. That means you�re alone. I�m in need of a soldier, so here�s the deal. If you cooperate, I�ll set you free. What do you think?� Alphonse: �You�re going to save me?� Mysterious Woman: �That depends on your answer. I don�t care if you die here or not.� Alphonse: �Alright. I�ll do as you ask, but...I�m concerned about my comrades.� Mysterious Woman: �Don�t worry, they are safe. My name is Cybil Alinda. I enjoyed watching your fight today. Don�t forget, we have a deal now!� [She sets him free and takes him out of the water. A man in a gray headband appears in the doorway.] Cybil: �Shiven, anything to report?� Shiven: �All the soldiers stationed at the ruins retreated to the north.� Alphonse: �It seems I should�ve been more careful. What happened to the troops that were supposed to attack from the south?� Shiven: �They entered the Forest of Gryllus, but retreated to Scabellum. I have no idea why.� Alphonse: �I wonder what happened...� Cybil: �Shiven, return at once and inform headquarters.� Shiven: �Yes, Commander.� [In one stealthy move, Shiven disappears.] Alphonse: �And...what should I do?� Cybil: �Rest for a while. We will cross the Meleagris Mountains at dawn.� Alphonse: �The Meleagris Mountains? But why?� Cybil: �I�ll tell you later.� [She moves to the doorway.] Cybil: �Forget about your comrades. Your fate is in my hands now.� [Back at the world map, a road opens west of Vespa, passes through the Meleagris Mountains, and stops at the next destination. As the party heads across Vespa, however, a cutscene at Ostorea Castle initiates. A young man stands beside an older man, seated on the throne.] Young Sorceror: "Commander Briffaut has returned from the ruins as planned, and Lethe's with him. Nothing of consequence seems to be happening to our west." Middle-Aged Man: "Things never go as smoothly as planned. Speaking of which, what's the Duke of Felis's son up to?" Young Sorceror: "Rictor Lasanti's troops failed to make it through the Forest of Gryllus. He must be reestablishing his troops at the port city. Incidentally, weren't many people massacred there by soldiers of Lodis?" Middle-Aged Man: "The village of Blete, 15 years ago...Those worshippers of nature refused to convert to Lodisism. And so, their homes were burned down as a warning to others. Nearly all the villagers escaped to the forest, but the soldiers surrounded it and set it ablaze. The villagers were burnt to death. I heard that the souls of the dead still wander the forest. I can't believe they went in there. If only they had been possessed or killed by evil spirits! I must find 'it' before they learn of it...Otherwise, everything will be in vain." Young Sorceror: "Sir, there's something I've been worried about...The soldier of Felis who was captured at Formido......has escaped." Middle-Aged Man: "Not to worry...I gave Nichart no information of consequence." Young Sorceror: "I see, sir." [The middle-aged man gets off the throne.] Middle-Aged Man: "Malicia...How's she been doing? Young Sorceror: "She seems OK. She said she's feeling better." Middle-Aged Man: "I see..." [The cutscene ends.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Ardea | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 1.5 / \_______/ [The party's attacked by monsters as soon as they get to Ardea.] Cybil: "Don't lag behind!" [The enemy ranks soon give way. Afterwards, Alphonse walks up to Cybil, who's gazing out on the water from the lakeshore.] Alphonse: "Cybil, who are you, and where are we headed? Would you mind explaining our current situation? I'm sure my comrades are also wondering..." Cybil: "I serve the Church of Lodis." [She turns to him and shows him her left palm.] Alphonse: "...That's the...Mark of the Pope...!" Cybil: "Oh, you recognize it. Listen. To the west is the Tinea region. Most of the land there is forest and swamp. It's known as the Paradise of the Beasts." Alphonse: "According to a map I saw, Answer is to the south and Rananculus to the north. Right?" Cybil: "Yes. We're heading northwest to Urodela Cape, at the foot of the Meleagris Mountains. It's at the far western reaches of the island, and home to the only city in Tinea." Alphonse: "Urodela Cape? What's there?" Cybil: "This island was once home to many mermaids, before humans migrated here. They used to appear on the beaches and small islands, but nowadays only a few remain, and they live in the western sea." Alphonse: "You're looking for a mermaid? Why would someone from the Church be...? And that mark on your hand...I can't believe the rumors were true...I've heard that there are loyal members of the Church of Lodis who have the Mark of the Pope somewhere on their bodies, and that they are acting in secrecy to restore the authority of the Pope." Cybil: "Interesting story. So there are those who still fear the Pope regaining power." Alphonse: "......" Cybil: "At Galius, the center of operations for the Church of Lodis, they collect manuscripts detailing ancient ruins, rare weapons, spells, and mythology. It is said that when people arrived at Ovis 400 years ago, the mermaids living here fought against them with a spear of light. One document says, 'Beams of light from the Sacred Spear, wielded by a beautiful mermaid, sent hundreds of soldiers to their graves...' We've been on this island since last summer, investigating whether a spear with that kind of power really exists. Unfortunately, others have also learned of the spear and are determined to obtain it." Alphonse: "Not...Naris Batraal, Lord of Rananculus?" Cybil: "Yes. I don't know why he's looking for it, but if we want to establish a strong nation based on the teachings of Lodisism, then we'd best not let him get it before us. That's why we must speak to the mermaids and bring the spear to Galius at any cost." Familiar Voice: "Mistress Alinda." [The party turns around to see Shiven speeding towards them.] Cybil: "Yes? What happened?" Shiven: "Armed soldiers have arrived at Urodela Cape." Cybil: "Soldiers of Rananculus?" Shiven: "I'm not sure, but quite likely." Cybil: "Are they aware of our presence? They, too, may have discovered the relationship between the spear and the mermaids..." Shiven: "That's a possibility. The locals are keeping out of sight. They're probably trying to avoid any conflict." Cybil: "I see...We must find a boat to take us to the mermaids' sanctuary. Maybe if we drive away the soldiers, the locals will help us as a token of appreciation." Shiven: "As you wish." [Shiven runs out of sight.] Alphonse: "I thought the Church of Lodis only performed religious functions. I never imagined they'd be involved in such things..." Cybil: "Don't ask too many questions.......It's better that you don't know. You've already turned your back on Felis, right? Then don't dwell on the past. Acknowledge your present situation and choose the best course of action." Alphonse: "I know. I'll follow your orders. I'm grateful that you saved my life, and I gave you my word, but..." Cybil: "But what?" Alphonse: "...Nothing. Nevermind." /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Urodela | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 1.6 / \_______/ [The party reaches the town by nightfall and not a soul is about.] Cybil: "I thought we'd make it to the town before sunset, but it's already dark." Alphonse: "It's really quiet...I don't hear a sound." [The party walks into town a little and a dark-colored man creeps by the opposite corner of one of the houses.] Cybil: "Shhh!" [Alphonse walks over and the man runs off.] Alphonse: "Who's there? What are you doing here?" Voice from the Shadows: "You must be the ones from Lodis. We won't let you interfere!" [The voice from the shadows is actually the dark-clothed man, a ninja, who calls more of his kind and a witch to do battle with Cybil's squad, who also arrive. The man speaks once more before they lock horns.] Sitri: "The mermaids' spear is a treasure of the Batraal Family!" Cybil: "They must be lookin for the same thing we are. Sounds like they haven't found it yet, though." [Alphonse nods.] Sitri: "What are you mumbling? We know what you're after. We won't let you snatch it from us...You've always resorted to using force. You're responsible for the death of my family! Since then, I've lived with nothing but vengeance to sustain me." Cybil: "Fool. Do you live only for revenge?" [The battle starts, but soon Sitri's forces dwindle to him. As a fatal wound is delivered, he says his piece before dying.] Sitri: "My Love...I can finally join you..." [Afterwards, Cybil and Alphonse go about to inspect the town when they run into Rictor and Orson, just entering the city.] Rictor: "...!? Alphonse! Why are you here?! Last I heard, you disappeared at Formido...Are you alright?" Alphonse: "I'm fine. So how'd you end up here?" Rictor: "Many soldiers were wounded by undead creatures in the Forest of Gryllus. Because of the confusion, we had no choice but to retreat." Alphonse: "The enemy's been saying that someone's after them. They must've been talking about you. Tell me, what exactly are you looking for, and what is your true mission?" Rictor: "I do not care what happened so long as you are safe. Come back, and we'll talk." Alphonse: "I'm sorry, but I can't do that, Rictor. This woman saved my life in Formido. I am in her debt. Please forget about me. I have no intentions of returning." Rictor: "Are you out of your mind? You're a member of the Order of the Sacred Flame. Listen, Alphonse. You're smart, and you have the potential to grow stronger. When I become the next Duke of Felis, I want you to be my right-hand man. I will govern and you will head up the country's defenses. If you want, I will make you the head of the knights. You're vital to the future of Lodis." Alphonse: "I appreciate your offer, but...my destiny lies elsewhere. I may not know exactly what my future holds, but I intend to find out." Rictor: "You've been a true asset to us. I want to rule Felis, and with your help, bring stability to Lodis. I've been thinking about this for some time, but...did you plan on leaving all along?" Alphonse: "That's not it, Rictor. I need to discover what I can accomplish on my own, without the help of my family, my status, or you." Rictor: "What did that woman say to you? Do you even know who she is? Let me ask you something, then. Why are you here? We came here in search of the White Fang Troops, but instead, at this late hour, we find you sneaking around with this spy of the Church." Alphonse: "That's because..." [Rictor turns to Cybil.] Rictor: "I know who you are. You're a member of the Hand of the Pope. What is the Church plotting? To restore power to the Pope?" Cybil: "Plotting? You make my work sound so ugly. My mission is to do the Lord's will. What more can I do? The Hand of the Pope obeys the Pope and Filarhh without question. I've dedicated my life to them." Rictor: "Then, why don't you pursue your goals openly? God sees all, including your dubious ways..." Cybil: "Hmph! And what about you? If your mission was to halt the White Fang Troops, then why are you here?" Rictor: "Silence, woman!!! Your miserable life was saved by the mercy of Lodis. How dare you vulgar people talk to me like that!!!" Cybil: "I'm sorry, but there's no point in talking to you now. There's no getting through that thick skull of yours." Rictor: "You infuriate me!!! Alphonse, I suppose you're on their side, too?" Alphonse: "What are you saying? Didn't you hear what I said? I a here of my own will. Please understand, Rictor..." Rictor: "Your own will...? Hmph! You must be dreaming. You let the current be your guide, only you convince yourself it's the path you've chosen. Even meeting this woman was just coincidence. This is your last chance to rejoin us." Alphonse: "I'm sorry..." Rictor: "Hmph! It was wrong of me to have such high expectations of you. Alright. That's it. I can't stand people who try to manipulate history from the shadows. If you want to go with her, go ahead. But if you try o get in my way, don't expect any mercy." [Rictor and Orson leave. Later on, Cybil and Alphonse take shelter from an oncoming storm in a rickety boat shack.] Cybil: "We'd better hurry if Rananculus has its eyes on the western sea. After we find a boat, we'll head down to sea of Rana and find the mermaids' sanctuary. I heard the leader's lived for over 400 years. She must know something about the Sacred Spear. Are you listening?" Alphonse: "I am...But, there is no way you can sail in this rain." Cybil: "Are you still concerned by what he said? Then start taking responsibility for your actions. That's why you're always treated like a child. Listen, you can't have freedom without bearing the responsibility. People have the right to choose their actions freely, but they are responsible for the results of those actions." Alphonse: "Freedom...Responsibility?" Cybil: "Understand? You declined his offer. There's a possibility that he'll become your enemy, but you have to face reality and accept that fact." Alphonse: "I don't want to...no, I can't...fight with Rictor." Cybil: "Then, why did you refuse him? You could have gone with him." Alphonse: "I had no choice..." Cybil: "'I had no choice,' you say! You're so naive!" Alphonse: "You don't understand!" Cybil: "Of course not. I'm not a mind reader. But I do know you made it clear that you won't be going back. You have no place to return to anymore." Alphonse: "I don't know what to do...but I had to speak truthfully." Cybil: "We can't relive the past, but we can start anew. Time waits for no man. The past has led you to the present, but you build your own future with choices today. Throughout your life, you will face many difficult decisions. There's no right or wrong...just paths that lead to different futures. That's all the advice I can give you." Alphonse: "...Cybil, why did you become a member of the Hand of the Pope?" Cybil: "No reason, really. I was a war orphan sent to Galius at six and educated to become a member. Now, I've dedicated my life to serving the Church." Alphonse: "So that's the life you chose?" Cybil: "Yes. Regardless of what I hoped for, I had to make choices from the options available to me in my environment. I am here right now as a result of those choices. Listen...Your birth, your status...these things are part of your environment, they're what you've been given. People strive for the things they want and give up on the things they don't want. Choosing not to decide is still a choice." [Cybil turns to the door.] Cybil: "...Looks like he's here." [A scraggly-haired man in a headband enters, and Alphonse leaps to his feet from the box where he was sitting.] Cybil: "So, are you able to take us to the Rana Sea?" Head Fisherman: "The currents outside of Yema Bay are complicated. Besides, it's the stormy season now. Even if you bypass these hazards, you'd still have to navigate around the sunken rocks is Rana. I'm sorry, but we can't help you." Alphonse: "What if we wait until the ocean calms down...?" Head Fisherman: "You said you're looking for the mermaids' sanctuary? Listen, don't be foolish. Don't take the sea...or the mermaids...lightly. They're monsters. They tempt men with their beauty and their singing, and then drag them into the sea... We had such an incident last summer. We have rules for our safety, but you outsiders think you can solve everything with your money and your logic." Alphonse: "...Let it go, Cybil. They're just thinking of their own safety." Cybil: "Alright. Thanks for your cooperation." Head Fisherman: "If you want to meet the mermaids that badly, then capture one. She'll call for help and others will come. Then follow them to the sanctuary. I must be on my way. Please don't hold a grudge against me." [The fisherman makes a quick exit.] Cybil: "Well, let's find ourseles a mermaid." Alphonse: "What do you mean?" Cybil: "Weren't you listening? If we capture a mermaid and wound her, she'll call for help. Then we'll follow them to the leader." Alphonse: "Hold on...I'm not so sure about this. The mermaids have nothing to do with your treasure hunting. How can we use them like that?" Cybil: "Then tell me, Alphonse, what should we do? The sea is endless. We are powerless to it. We need a practical solution, and that's the best idea we've got. Save your sympathy, unless you can thnk of another way. Otherwise, follow my orders." Alphonse: A: "I've no better ideas..." B: "It doesn't seem right." Alphonse (A): "I don't have a better idea, but still...I can't agree to that." Cybil: "Then find another way. If you get the information on your own before it reaches the enemy, then your debt to me will be repaid, and I will release you from my service." Alphonse: "Alright. I promise you that I'll return with the information you seek." Alphonse (B): "...It doesn't seem right. I won't obey you anymore. You never explain yourself, and I'm tired of listening without question. I'm not your puppet. However, I will repay my debt to you. I'll find the sanctuary on my own and return with details on the spear." Cybil: "Alright. I'll trust you. But, there's on time to waste. Got it?" Alphonse: "Yes...and afterwards......we part company." [No matter which option you pick, Alphonse will join Ivanna outside in the rain.] Alphonse: "It's still raining..." Ivanna: "The savage winds still rage. They may not subside for some time...Alphonse, what will you do now?" ******************************************************************** * Option A -- Dialogue Change * ******************************************************************** Alphonse: "We'll head towards the Rana Sea through Bison." Ivanna: "Bison...! The Paradise of the Beasts...It will be difficult to pass through the swamp." Alphonse: "I know, but there is one advantage. No one would ever suspect that we'd go through there in this rain. Besides, no one will be able to trace our footsteps, either." Ivanna: "I see. We had better prepare for fighting in those conditions." ******************************************************************* * Option B -- Dialogue Change * ******************************************************************* Alphonse: "Ivanna, have you heard of the Temple of Sufrir?" Ivanna: "Yes. It's off the tip of the Numida Peninsula. I heard that it sank into the ocean because of geologic instability. In fact, Yema Bay was supposedly once a lake." Alphonse: "I see. So the Temple of Sufrir is located near Yema Bay. I've heard that after the temple sank into the sea, an underwater cave connecting Anser and Tinea was discovered. I'm consiering going to Arena Island by that route." Ivanna: "I heard there are many beasts that dwell inside. Don't you think it's too dangerous?" Alphonse: "I know. But, if there's a chance...I want to give it a try." Ivanna: "Is that the only reason?" Alphonse: "What do you mean by that?" Ivanna: "Aren't you still meditating on Rictor's words...?" Alphonse: "That's true. I'd like to speak with Rictor again. But don't worry about me...I'm fine. I haven't forgotten my promise to Cybil. I have no intention of rejoining my former comrades." Ivanna: "I see. Rictor may know something..." ******************************************************************* * END DIALOGUE CHANGES * ******************************************************************* Alphonse: "Ivanna, why did you decide to come with me? Don't you want to avenge your father's death?" Ivanna: "The White Fang Troops have a hand in all of this. My uncle must be plotting something. I think it's best to stay with you for now. Don't get me wrong...I do want to know the truth of my father's death, but I want to help you, to." Alphonse: "Why?" Ivanna: "I don't know. My sword instructor used to tell me that destructive power can never win against protective power. I became a knight to protect Rananculus, but after meeting you at Vespa, I decided to fight alongside you and your comrades." Alphonse: "Thanks, Ivanna..." ******************************************************************* * Option A -- Dialogue Change * ******************************************************************* Ivanna: "Let's go. Because of the storm, traveling by sea is out of the question. Crossing the swamp is our only alternative." ******************************************************************* * Option B -- Dialogue Change * ******************************************************************* Ivanna: "Let's go settle the matter with your friend, and then we'll fulfill your agreement with Cybil." [You'll be returned to the world map after Ivanna's last line is spoken. For Option A, the western path to Bison appears; for Option B, the path west of Solea opens that leads to Sufrir.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Bison | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 1.7 / \_______/ [A welcoming party of an assortment of animals meets Alphonse's party's arrival.] Alphonse: "I guess this place really is a Paradise for Beasts. Everybody, watch your step!" [Afterwards, Alphonse walks across the marshland alone, and someone calls out to him.] Familiar Voice: "I finally caught up with you." Alphonse: "You're..." [Shiven runs into view.] Shiven: "I am Shiven, one of Mistress Alinda's men. She's asked me to assist you." Alphonse: "So, in other words, you're keeping an eye on us?" Shiven: "I am only here to help..." Alphonse: A: "Sorry. I said too much." B: "Sorry. I can't add you." Alphonse (A): "I was a little upset and said too much. I'm sorry. It's stopped raining. Let's get going." Alphonse (B): "I'm sorry, but I can't let you join our ranks. If I accept your help, then my promise to her would be meaningless." Shiven: "Are you sure you don't need me?" Alphonse: "Yes. Please return to Mistress Alinda. I promise that I'll come back. Please tell her so." [If you pick option A, Shiven permanently joins you; if you pick Option B, he doesn't. This is the only chance to get him. After you return to the world map, the path turns to the Rana Sea, and ends at the Island of Arena.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Arena | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 1.8 / \_______/ [Alphonse runs to the edge of the beach. Ivanna is with him or, if she has been killed/dismissed/not invited, Shiven will be with him. They mimic each others lines, for the most part, and the dialogue doesn't change dramatically if you have either (or none -- the leader will talk to himself in parentheses).] Alphonse: "The Rana Sea is just beyond the horizon." Shiven: "Alphonse, do you see something over there?" Alphonse: "A boat?...With the flag of Felis. Is it Rictor's? No, couldn't be. That would be too quick. Then who is it? What do they want?" Shiven: "The tide is ebbing. We can get there by foot." Alphonse: "Yes. Let's get a closer look." [The two run along and come to a tiny sea-splashed island portion. They duck behind a rock formation and look around.] Alphonse: "Wait. Something's wrong." [Across the way, a robed man, a knight, and a bandit have a mermaid surrounded.] Robed Man: "The upper body of a woman and the lower body of a fish. Disgusting. Is it true that you mermaids tempt men and drag them into the ocean to eat?" Mermaid Girl: "Aahhh...Stop it..." [The knight speaks.] Cassini: "Damiel, what are we going to do? Kill her?" [The robed man speaks again.] Damiel: "Well, what should we do? We haven't received orders from Commander Lasanti. Should we decide for ourselves?" [The bandit chimes in.] Lendanto: "Heheh. I've heard that eating mermaid will grant you immortality." Mermaid Girl: "No...! Stay away!" Shiven: "The mermaid is just a child. She's terrified." Ivanna: "She's just a child. She looks terrified." Alphonse: "...I recognize those soldiers. We can't just leave her. Shiven, let's rescue her and steal the boat so we can go to Rana." [If Ivanna's along, he'll address her instead.] [Alphonse runs out into the open.] Alphonse: "Stop! Are you having fun taunting a helpless mermaid!?" Lendanto: "Ah! Alphonse! You're alive?! Or do you plan to follow Rictor around as a ghost?" Alphonse: "Damiel, so that's what you guys really think, huh?" Damiel: "Eavesdropping? That's about what I'd expect from you. You want to know how we really feel? I find it rather annoying that you, the Commander's favorite, are still alive." [A few more soldiers appear on Damiel's side, and Alphonse's troops getting into line, too.] Cassini: "We're the only ones who know about this. Let's just kill him." Damiel: "That's right. According to the official records, Alphonse is already dead!" [The battle starts. If Minerva (the mermaid girl) is attacked, Alphonse will say:] Alphonse: "Protect the mermaid!" [The comrades-turned-enemies soon fall one by one until only Damiel is left. Alphonse does the honor of slaying him, but right before he takes a dirtnap:] Damiel: "I lost to you...again...?" [Afterwards, Minerva and Alphonse talk on the small island.] Alphonse: "You'll be alright now. Return to your home." Minerva: "......" [She jumps in the water and disappears after a glance. On the world map, the path to Rana opens north across the island chains.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Rana | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 1.9 / \_______/ [Alphonse walks alone on a small patch of earth, one of the small portions that haven't been swallowed by the sea. He takes a quick look around.] Alphonse: "It doesn't look like we can continue from here by boat." [In his peripherals, he sees something. Whirling around, he sees a mermaid with troops off in the distance. She speaks.] Aerial: "Vulgar humans! For what reason have you intruded on our territory? I suggest you leave immediately if you want to live." Alphonse: "We don't want to fight with you. We just want to speak with your leader. Tell me where she is." Aerial: "You don't want to fight? Then, how did Minerva get hurt? To you, the welfare of others is insignificant in the pursuit of you selfish ambitions. You are our enemies, and have invaded our ocean. I am the strongest of my kind. Do you dare face me?!" Alphonse: "Is there no way to avoid this?!" [Alphonse's mobilizes his troops reluctantly.] Aerial: "Come on! I'll never lose to you!" [The party manages to get a stranglehold as they draw the enemies onto the land, and finally they defeat Aerial.] Aerial: "Forgive me, Lady Chloeri..." [Afterwards, Alphonse talks with the wounded Aerial.] Aerial: "Finish it! Kill me now!!! You may have defeated me, but I'll never reveal the location of our sanctuary. I'll endure any disgrace." Alphonse: "......I have no intention of killing you. Please, tell your leader that I wish to speak with her." Aerial: "You keep me alive out of pity?" Alphonse: "I'd like it if we can resolve things peacefully." Aerial: "You're too soft! Are you truly a knight? By leaving this unfinished, it may come back to haunt you. Have you thought of that? You may one day find my spear protruding from your back. Your sympathy is nothing but a liability." [Another mermaid girl appears.] Mermaid Girl: "Wait. Our leader has agreed to speak with you." Aerial: "You can't be serious!" Mermaid Girl: "She also asked that they be welcomed as guests and treated with hospitality. Aerial, you are to receive treatment for your wounds and then join us later." Aerial: "...Alright." Mermaid Girl: "Are you the leader of these soldiers?" Alphonse: "Yes, I am. My name is Alphonse." Mermaid Girl: "Welcome, Alphonse. Please follow me." [She leads the party into a sanctum, complete with waterfalls and oil-burning fires. She stops in front of the throne.] Mermaid Girl: "Please be courteous in front of our leader." [Alphonse approaches the large, blonde mermaid.] Pink Mermaid: "I'm Chloeri, leader of the mermaids in this part of the ocea. Please share what you have to say." Alphonse: "I...I promised someone that I'd help them find the Sacred Spear." Chloeri: "...The Sacred Spear? I see...For you humans, those events are long passed. I don't blame you, though. Your time on this earth is limited. For that reason, you can easily forget mistakes of the past. Forgetting permits hope to return and strength to be rebuilt. In that sense, I envy you. Everyone has their own perspective. I won't blame the people of this generation for sorrows of the past. Please understand...The flow of time is different for our kind." Alphonse: "I'm from Lodis. I thought you might know something about the spear. That's why I'm here. I've read that the Sacred Spear is a treasure of God which was bestowed upon the mermaids, but that's all I know." Chloeri: "That's correct. It was ours." Alphonse: "Please tell me...What is the story of the Sacred Spear?" Chloeri: "Alright. I'll tell you everything I know." [She begins to tell her story. There are freeze-frame pictures to go help along the interpretation for the player, also.] Chloeri: "400 years ago, mermaids lived peacefully around this island. That changed when people arrived. They burned forests and built villages. Conflicts erupted when they disturbed our quiet ocean. The quarreling never ceased, and finally a battle began for control of the island. I took up arms alongside the other mermaids." [A flashback segment occurs in the same room where Chloeri is sitting. A mermaid stands near her throne and speaks to her.] Mermaid Soldier: "Commander, the humans have already entered the southern sea..." Mermaid Leader: "If I surrender, do you think the war will end?" Mermaid Soldier: "No. Even with your life in their hands, they'd continue to attack. They are blood-thirsty goblins. They think everything in this world is theirs for the taking. Why?! Why does God allow such creatures to exist on this earth? Don't do anything rash. We'll stand by you and protect this ocean." Mermaid Leader: "Chloeri, that kind of thinking will get us nowhere. What will remain when the fighting is over? Instead, we must find a way to survive." Chloeri: "Are you saying that we should let the humans win, that we should endure that kind of humiliation? God! Do you only side with humans? It is we who are the soul of the sea. As such, we will eventually become one again with the water and wind. Are we so insignificant? Answer me!!! Is there no place for us on this earth? Will you turn your back on us and let us fade from existence?" [The flashback part ends and Chloeri in the present time continues to tell her story.] Chloeri: "Later, when I returned from battle, our leader was gone, but instead I found a spear. It was a beautiful, black spear, bestowed upon us by God. It drew on the power of thunder and lightning, and could pierce metal armor. The war started anew, and ten years passed... [Another vignette occurs in the same room with another soldier and Chloeri. They stand where the old leader used to be.] Mermaid: "We can't find it anywhere." Chloeri: "Look once more. I doubt any human could have entered this sanctuary. Who took the spear from here, then? And why?" Mermaid: "Has someone betrayed us? They may have conspired with humans..." Chloeri: "Impossible...Why would anyone want to risk their life for the enemy?! Our leader sacrificed herself for our sake. The spear is the key to our victory!" [A mermaid runs in.] Mermaid Soldier: "...We're being attacked!!!" Chloeri: "Protect our ocean! I'll be right there..." [The vignette ends and Chloeri continues to tell Alphonse the rest of her story.] Chloeri: "During the lengthy war, there was a mermaid who fell in love with a human. But, such love was forbidden. She hoped that hostilities would subside if the war ended, and so, one night, she entered the sanctuary and stole the Sacred Spear for her loved one. The war was over. We were tired of fighting. After losing the spear, we could no longer withstand their attacks. So we escaped to the west. Complicated tides, thick forests, and swampy land...These natural barriers have protected this small sea. You see, we don't have the spear anymore." Alphonse: "And what happened to her?" Chloeri: "I don't know. Both she and the spear disappeared. But, I received no word that the humans had obtained it." Alphonse: "There's no other clues to its whereabouts, are there?" Chloeri: "Well...I have a feeling that...that mermaid's still alive somewhere. If you can find her, she may lead you to the spear." Alphonse: "What's her name?" Chloeri: "The mermaid that disappeared...Her name is Berevra. She was a beautiful mermaid with golden scales. ...She is my sister. If you find her, please tell her that we are no longer angry, and that we await her return. ...Will you do this for me?" Alphonse: "Can you so easily forgive someon who betrayed you?" Chloeri: "Because of the power of the spear, we continued to fight and lost many more of our kind. As our former leader said, self-preservation should have been more of a concern. If you find the spear, keep it. It's no longer of use to us." Alphonse: "Why is that...?" Mermaid Soldier: "We recognize the futility of war. Allow me to see you off. Where are you headed?" Alphonse: "I guess I'll return to Urodela first. There's someone waiting for me...If she believes in me, that is." [The world map opens back up, and a marker is stuck in the icon for Urodela, where Cybil waits. As Alphonse travels back through Arena, however, Aerial approaches him.] Aerial: "Are you going back?" Alphonse: "Yes. I have to decide what to do next. Don't worry, I won't bother you again." Aerial: "I've heard of the spear, but I didn't know the story behind it. Even if you lved someone, how could you sacrifice your own kind? I don't understand. What was she thinking...? Is there someone who you'd protect... ...even if it cost you everything?" Alphonse: "I'm not sure...I don't think that can be answered by someone who hasn't faced those circumstances." Aerial: "I must thank you for saving Minerva. I think I misjudged you. I never thought a mermaid's life would mean much to a human. I'm going with you. Our leader has already given me permission. With your words and actions...I want you to prove that there are humans we can trust." Alphonse: A: "Alright." B: "I appreciate it, but..." Alphonse (A): "Alright. If that's what you want..." Aerial: "Remember, if you don't stay true to your word, I won't think twice about putting my spear into your back." Alphonse (B): "I'd love to have you...but you're needed here." Aerial: "Alright. I don't want you to feel obligated. But, remember, I'll hunt you down if I find out you're not true to your word. ...Good luck." [She joins permanently if you pick Option A; she doesn't if you pick Option B. This the only chance to get her, also. Anywho, Alphonse hightails it back to Urodela.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Urodela Revisited | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 2.0 / \_______/ [Alphonse walks through the now-active town of Urodela and heads to the shack where Cybil is still waiting, almost nodding off...?] Alphonse: "Sorry I was gone so long. Any luck finding new information on Berevra?" Cybil: "I've heard some stories about mermaids falling in love with hmans, but nothing specific. Unfortunately, we don't have the slightest hint as to where she might be." Alphonse: "The sad love story of a human and a mermaid, and the weapon of God...The White Fang Troops have yet to act. Neither has the Order of the Sacred Flame, which was dispatched from Scabellum. I wonder if Rictor's men who appeared at Urodela that night were chasing after member of the White Fang Troops." Cybil: "What do you mean by that?" Alphonse: "Before you saved me at Formido, a man, Nichart, was asking me about our true purpose on this island. At the time I knew nothing. I thought we were sent here to investigate the White Fang Troops. But, I wonder how much Rictor knew..." Cybil: "I have no idea. Anyway...Why are you still here?" Alphonse: "?" Cybil: "You've brought the information as promised. You're free to go and do as you please, whether that be rejoining your comrades or returning home." Alphonse: "I have no place with them, or in my hometown. They don't mean anything to me anymore." Cybil: "...But he seemed to need you." Alphonse: "Rictor expected a lot of me. He wanted me as both a subordinate and a friend...He wanted someone that he could rely on." Cybil: "That's what he expected, huh?" Alphonse: "Have you ever htought about doing what is expected of you? I...I worry too much about what others think, and I put their wishes before my own. Once I realized this, I couldn't stomach it anymore. Who am I? I wondered. I'm not here to fulfill someone else's expectations. That's why I needed to get away for a while. I needed time alone." Cybil: "Don't let your emotions sway you. They drain your energy and blur your judgment. Be calm and make an objective decision. What is it that you want to do in this world? Once you've decided on your direction in life, find a way to work towards that goal." Alphonse: "...Cybil, I'm sorry." Cybil: "For what?" Alphonse: "...You'll probably say this is childish, but I feel so powerless...I'm not as strong as people think. There's nothing I can do. That's why I did as Rictor expected of me...to be recognized, for a sense of direction. I wanted to become strong....to gain power and status. But, what then? What purpose would it all serve? ...You saved my life. We had a deal, and I held up my end of the bargain. But, things are different now. I sincerely want to help you. That is, of course, if you'll let me..." Cybil: "Do as you like. But, now we speak as equals. I think it's best if you lead your own comrades. I prefer to operate alone. Contact me if the need arises." Alphonse: "Thanks, Cybil." Cybil: "First, we must find the mermaid with the golden scales. Surely she's attracted attention somewhere. If someone's seen her, rumors may have spread..." [Alphonse thinks back to when he talked to Eleanor, so long before.] Eleanor: "It was a long time ago, but once I saw a beautiful mermaid. Her whole body was shining in gold... [Alphonse sits for a moment before speaking.] Alphonse: "Cybil, Berevra has golden scales, right?" Cybil: "You're the one who told me that. Why's that suddenly so important?" Alphonse: "There's something I need to look into. I'm going to visit a small church on the beaches of Solea..." /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Solea Revisited | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 2.1 / \_______/ [As twilight widens out, Alphonse walks to the beach near the church, finding Eleanor watching the waves.] Alphonse: "Eleanor, what's wrong? Why are you out so late?" Eleanor: "Alphonse...? Me?...No reason. But, why are you here?" Alphonse: "We can discuss that later. Look...You're bleeding. Tell me what happened, Eleanor." [They go inside, and Eleanor sits on the bed.] Alphonse: "Father Hamen...?" Eleanor: "No, it was my fault. I didn't do as I was told to... ...Alphonse. What will you do now? How long will your troops...will you...stay on this island?" Alphonse: "I'm not a knight anymore. Someone saved my life, and now she and I are working together." Eleanor: "...Are you repaying her for saving your life?" Alphonse: "No, it's not that. I'm helping her, but I'm doing it because I want to." Eleanor: "A lot of things must have happened to you..." Alphonse: "Listen, Eleanor. I want to ask you about something. You told me before that you had seen a golden mermaid." Eleanor: "...I may have said that. Mermaids usually live in the ocean to the west, but sometimes they are seen closer to where people live." Alphonse: "Listen. I'm looking for one mermaid in particular, one with golden scales. Do you remember anything?" Eleanor: "Alphonse...? Did you come here just to ask me that? I don't understand!" Alphonse: "...Just for that...?" Eleanor: "I have nothing to tell you...Are you just using me? I won't tell you anything!" Alphonse: "Eleanor...!?" [Eleanor runs out the door. Oddly enough, it's right when Cybil comes in.] Cybil: "Alphonse, the White Fang Troops are here." [Outside, a helmeted man and a band of dragons and archers have confronted Eleanor near the beach.] Karcist: "You're Eleanor Olato, right? Father Hamen told me that you're very knowledgeable about mermaids. We're searching for one, and Commander Briffaut would like to speak to you. Please come with us." Eleanor: "Why?! Why did he tell you...?" [Alphonse runs outside.] Alphonse: "Eleanor!" Karcist: "We don't want to get rough. Just cooperate." Eleanor: "..." Karcist: "If you won't come, then you leave us no choice... Capture that girl! We can't afford to let her share what she knows with anyone. Do whatever's necessary to keep her quiet." [An archer takes a few steps forward.] Eleanor: "No! Don't come any closer!" Alphonse: "Stop! You'll have to deal with me first!" Karcist: "Do you think you're her knight, kid? What can you do to protect her?" Alphonse: "Silence! I won't let you lay a finger on her!" [Alphonse's troops form themselves.] Alphonse: "Eleanor...over here. It's dangerous there." [Though dragons aid Karcist, they're inevitably cut down. Soon, Karcist too lies on his deathbed.] Karcist: "This girl...Is she worth protecting? For her, you're willing to make Commander Briffaut your enemy...?" [Karcist dies.] Alphonse: "Eleanor...Are you hurt?" Eleanor: "......" [A while later, Alphonse enters the house again. Cybil, who had been attending to Eleanor, leaves silently.] Eleanor: "She told me your plans. You're looking for the golden mermaid, and you have a message for her from the mermaid leader, right? ...I know Berevra, the golden mermaid...I know where she is." Alphonse: "What's that?" Eleanor: "Berevra gave me this necklace. I never met my real parents. My step-parents were very kind, but I had no friends among the villagers. That's why I was always alone on the beach near our village, watching the ocean. We talked and swam...It was so much fun. But one day, she came and told me she wouldn't be able to see me anymore. The volcanic activity on the seafloor was worsening." Alphonse: "Do you remember where she said she was going?" Eleanor: "It's been many years. I can't guarantee that she'll still be there. Besides, she might not want to see anyone...But, do you plan on going anyway?" Alphonse: "I'll go meet her alone, and I won't tell anyone where she is. Don't worry, Eleanor. I'll come back. I promise..." Eleanor: "No! Don't say, 'I'll come back.' I won't stay here again, alone, waiting for you to return." Alphonse: "I need your help, but I don't want to put you in danger. That's why..." Eleanor: "'That's why...' what? Listen, Alphonse, don't you know? I want to be with you. So...please...take me with you." Alphonse: A: "OK. Let's go together." B: "If you're so serious." Alphonse (A) "...OK, let's go together. I'll protect you." Eleanor: "I don't want to be a burden, so please teach me how to fight." Alphonse: "If you like." Alphonse (B): "If you're so serious about it...then, we'll go together." Eleanor: "I know it won't be easy, but I promise I'll help out any way I can." Alphonse: "Just don't push yourself too hard." [Eleanor joins the party permanently by picking either option. Anyway, east of Formido, a path drives to the coast of Anser, to where the mermaid Berevra is allegedly hiding out: Aquila.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Aquila | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 2.2 / \_______/ [It becomes incredibly obvious that the path gets tougher towards the end, as the party arrives at the feeble soil intermixed with rivers of lava. The inactive volcano at Aquila is a stepping stone to Berevra, but it's not easily passable.] Alphonse: "This heat...Is there no other way?" Eleanor: "This is the shortest route." [The party sees a bunch of beasts on the rocks below, and they set up to fight.] Alphonse: "We can't afford to let the White Fang Troops arrive before us. Watch your step. There's lava everywhere." [After the battle, Eleanor and Alphonse go to a cliff overlooking the ocean.] Eleanor: "This is it...somewhere in this area...East of Aquila, where the mid-summer sun warms the ocean..." Familiar Voice: "Alright, Alphonse. Please hand her over to us." [Rictor appears with a few troops.] Alphonse: "Rictor...How...?" Rictor: "You're Eleanor, aren't you? Father Hamen asked us to find you. He's been very worried since you disappeared." [Father Hamen appears.] Eleanor: "Father..." Father Hamen: "Eleanor, please come home. You haven't done anything wrong. That man must have said something to you, right? Come on, let's go back to the church together." Alphonse: "...Eleanor, do you want to go back?" Father Hamen: "Don't say anything to her. This is between me and her. She's like a daughter to me. You have nothing to do with this. Why did you tempt her in the first place? Listen, Eleanor. I hated the idea from the beginning, but you were so kind that you insisted we save that man who had washed up on the beach." Eleanor: "Father, forgive me. I'm not coming back to the church. I am thankful for what you've done, but...I want to be with him." [Hamen slaps Eleanor.] Father Hamen: "Aahh, poor Eleanor. You're confused because of him. Please snap out of it. Don't you understand that I love you more than anyone?" Alphonse: "Stop it! Think about what you're doing!" Father Hamen: "Why do you come between us? I do this because I love her. I don't want to have to chastise her. This is what's best for her. Now, give my Eleanor back to me." Alphonse: "Do you think you can change her mind with violence? There's no way I'll let you have her! She came here of her own free will, and I'm glad she's by my side... You can't change that." Father Hamen: "And what about you military men? You've always determined people's futures by force...Commander Lasanti...Please. She's my daughter. Please take her back from that reckless youth." Rictor: "Calm down, Father Hamen...I understand your concern. But the wind here is strong and dangerous. Please stand back and leave this to us." [Hamen exits out of sight.] Rictor: "I was looking for a girl who knows about mermaids, and here I find you again. Listen. I don't know how much information you have, but if the stories I've heard are true, then the Sacred Spear, Longicolnis, is no ordinary spear." Alphonse: "Longicolnis?" Rictor: "Ha! You don't even know the name of what you seek! That woman has not been truthful with you. The Sacred Spear, Longicolnis...The legendary spear fashioned by God from the horn of a fallen angel. It has pierced even the Sacred Demon. Mermaids are unworthy of holding such power." Alphonse: "...How do you know so much about the Sacred Spear?" Rictor: "Did you seriously believe that our mission was to investigate and drive out the White Fang Troops that invaded this island? Just give her to me, already. You don't want to cause trouble, do you? Maybe you've taken a liking to her, but we need her more than you. You may not know this, but her mother is the mermaid who stole the Sacred Spear." Alphonse: "Eleanor...!? The child of a mermaid?!" [One of the soldiers runs towards Eleanor, but she dodges him.] Alphonse: "Eleanor!" Rictor: "Have you forgotten my warning? Get in our way, and you'll be regarded as my enemy." [A soldier attacks Alphonse.] Eleanor: "Nooo!" [A light shines from Eleanor's necklace and after a flash of light, Rictor and his soldiers are knocked unconscious. Alphonse gets up and runs to Eleanor.] Alphonse: "Eleanor...the light...Is it from your necklace?" Eleanor: "Oh, no...! Alphonse...I...I..." [A few more troops come and draw their swords at the two.] Alphonse: "Great! More of them are coming!" [Eleanor and Alphonse go to the cliffside and turn to face the open waters. They join hands as they prepare to plunge.] Eleanor: "Can you swim?" Alphonse: "I'm not much of a swimmer." [They jump off and the screen blacks out. When it comes back, Eleanor and Alphonse are in an underwater cavern...with the mermaid they've been seeking.] Alphonse: "The golden mermaid......Berevra?" Berevra: "You protected Eleanor. Thank you." Alphonse: "...Tell me. Are you really Eleanor's mother?" Berevra: "Well, perhaps the time has come to tell you the truth. Eleanor, you are not my daughter. You were born a human child." Eleanor: "......" Berevra: "400 years ago, during the war, I met a man who was opposed to the war. He was gentle and kind. But, he was still a human, an enemy of the mermaids. I feared for his life, so I took the Sacred Spear in hopes of ending the war...I sacrificed many mermaid lives by doing so. Back then, passion overruled my reasoning. I abandoned the home of mermaids and lived secretly with my love, Lucius. However, it wasn't long before he passed away...The lifespan of humans is much shorter than ours. After his death, I left that place, taking the Sacred Spear with me. It was too difficult for me to remain in a place that reminded me of him. ...However, since I had betrayed my kind, I didn't have anywhere to go. I lacked even the courage to take my own life. I wandered the eastern sea, searching for a way to repent. For the last few hundred years, I have lived here alone." Alphonse: "For hundreds of years...all by yourself..." Berevra: "About 10 years ago, soldiers landed on the south side of this island. They surrounded a nearby town and burned it down. While I watched from the ocean, I heard crying...I found a newborn baby wrapped in a blanket." Eleanor: "That was...me...?" Berevra: "Holding you in my arms...You were so adorable... But, I was afraid that she wouldn't be able to adjust in society if I raised her. I knew I couldn't keep her, so I asked a couple in a northern village to look after her." Eleanor: "I don't remember well...but the scent of the ocean and the crashing of the waves...When I saw you at the beach by the village, you seemed so familiar..." Berevra: "I didn't think you'd remember me since you were so small. I used to hold you and watch the dawn from Aquila Beach. Eleanor, I'm sorry you had such a hard life." Eleanor: "...Don't be. My step-parents in Sotavento treated me very well. Thank you, Berevra..." Berevra: "Eleanor told me that you're looking for the Sacred Spear. I've also heard that this island's had many visitors recently. Can you tell me why you're looking for it?" Alphonse: A: "I seek its power." B: "Because of a promise." Alphonse (A): "I seek the power that the spear possesses. Many people are fighting to gain control of it. For that reason, the lives of this island's inhabitants have been threatened. I can't let anyone have the spear. I want to end the fighting and bring peace to Ovis as quickly as possible, and that's why I need the spear." Alphonse (B): "Because of a promise I made to someone... ...someone whom I have a lot of faith in...Many people are fighting to gain control of the spear. For that reason, the lives of this island's inhabitants have been threatened. I can't let anyone have it. I promised to bring the spear back to Galius before its power can be abused." Berevra: "I hid it in a small shrine at a beach north of here. Since you saved Eleanor, I'll entrust the spear to you. Please don't misuse it." Alphonse: "I promise not to, Berevra. And...I have a message... from the leader of the mermaids. She said to tell you that they are no longer angry...and await you return." [Berevra sobs, head in hands.] Berevra: "Oh...Chloeri..." [A save point comes up, marking the end of the first chapter. Now, for Path B, which starts at the option you tell Cybil way back in Urodela.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Solea | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 2.3 / \_______/ [En route to Sufrir, Alphonse stops by Eleanor's house in Solea. She comes out and sees him, much to her surprise.] Eleanor: "Alphonse...!? Why are you here?" Alphonse: "......" Eleanor: "Something must've happened." [The two walk down to the beach.] Eleanor: "Alphonse, are you having second thoughts?" Alphonse: "No, it's not that. It's the way she does things...I know she has her reasons, but I can't tell what's right or wrong anymore. She may be right about one thing, though...the way things are going. I never thought much about what I wanted to do. I began my military training at 12 and became a knight at 14. It was the usual path for the son of an aristocrat like me...But look at me now...I am no longer a knight. I don't understand what Rictor is thinking, and I can't follow Cybil's orders...This isn't how it should be..." Eleanor: "Alphonse, there must be a legitimate reason why you disagree with her. Confront her about it. You can't always run away from difficult situations. Maybe if you had explained things to her, you could have found a solution." Alphonse: "Explain my reason? Confront her...?" Eleanor: "Does that help?" Alphonse: "Talking to you like this makes me want to stay here forever...but...there are things that I can't leave undone. Thank you, Eleanor. I must go now." Eleanor: "Alphonse...Will I see you again?" Alphonse: A: "Of course I'll be back." B: "I make no promises..." Alphonse (A): "Of course I'll be back. I promise." Eleanor: "...Take care then." [Alphonse walks off.] Eleanor: (I believe in you...) Alphonse (B): "I'm sorry, but I can't make any promises..." Eleanor: "...I understand. Take care." [Alphonse walks off.] Eleanor: (I knew you'd say that, but still...) /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Sufrir | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 2.4 / \_______/ [Alphonse walks into the sunken temple of Sufrir and immediately notices something wrong.] Alphonse: "They look tough." [A bunch of dragons and gremlins block the passage through. Behind Alphonse, someone calls out.] Older Man: "I finally caught up with you." [Alphonse turns around.] Alphonse: "Orson!? What are you doing here?" Orson: "Master Lasanti asked me to join you, but first things first...Let's defeat them and then we'll talk." [Alphonse brings in his troops.] Orson: "This is our first battle together since we fought at the port. Be alert. Most of them are stronger than you can imagine." [The party clears the field of any enemies. Afterwards, Alphonse and Orson converse.] Alphonse: "Well done, Orson. I see you haven't let your skills diminish. Tell me. What is Rictor up to? Weren't we sent here to drive away the troops from the North?" Orson: "We were sent to investigate the goal of the northern troops, but we haven't been able to uncover much information. When we heard that you left Urodela, Master Lasanti ordered me to join you." Alphonse: "I'm glad he sent you, a trusted ally, but...I'm not going back. You're here to persuade me, aren't you?" Orson: "No. I was dismissed from the troops." Alphonse: "Really...? But why...?" Orson: "Your actions should be punished, but you refused to rejoin us. Is there no stopping you? My last order from Commander Lasanti was to help you, even though you made yourself his enemy. So, will you allow me to join you?" Alphonse: A: "Sorry I doubted you." B: "I can't allow that." Alphonse (A): "Is that so...Sorry I doubted you." Orson: "Don't worry about it. Even though your decisions may conflict with the beliefs of your friends, don't let that stop you from forging your own destiny. Never yield in the face of opposition. Thus is the path of determining your own future. Now, it's best we be on our way." Alphonse (B): "I'm sorry, but I can't allow that. I betrayed Rictor. I am unworthy of his favor." Orson: "Alright...You must choose your own path. I won't stop you. Please go now." Alphonse: "Orson..." Orson: "Take care, Alphonse..." [If you pick Option A, Orson joins you permanently; if you pick Option B, he leaves after his last line. This is the only chance to get him in your party. After the fight in Sufrir, the meandering path to the island of Arena becomes clear, and it's the next destination.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Arena | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 2.5 / \_______/ [The rainy night that Alphonse chooses to breeze past Arena turns out to be one in that the sea churns violently around. If that weren't enough, a mermaid spies them trying to get across.] Minerva: "Oh, no...Why are there humans in this place?" Alphonse: "We're looking for the mermaids' sanctuary. I need to speak with your leader. Can you help us?" Minerva: "Reveal the location of our home? Are you crazy?! You'll kill every last one of us." Alphonse: "Wait. I have no intention of harming any of you." Minerva: "I don't trust humans! Everyone, lend me a hand!" [Mermaids and sea creatures come out of the woodwork to her aid. Alphonse takes out his own force.] Minerva: "Be forewarned. I'll guard this place with my life!" [And she does, as the party is forced to slay her.] Minerva: "Aahh...Help me...sister..." [She dies.] Alphonse: "No...Why did this have to happen? I'm no different than Cybil. I told her I'd solve the problem peacefully, but look at what I've done!" [Back at the world map, the lonely road to Rana becomes evident.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Rana | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 2.6 / \_______/ [Alphonse walks out to the rain-washed cape.] Alphonse: "It doesn't look like we can continue from here by boat." [He sees a mermaid out on the cape from the corner of his eye and turns to face her. She's brought backup, too.] Aerial: "Vulgar humans! For what reason have you intruded on our territory? I suggest you leave immediately if you want to live." Alphonse: "We don't want to fight you. We just want to speak with your leader. Tell me where she is." Aerial: "Don't want to fight? Nonsense! How can I believe that after what's happened to Minerva?" Alphonse: "There was nothing we could do about it!" Aerial: "Nothing you could do? Who do you think is responsible for her death! To you, the welfare of others is insignificant in the pursuit of your selfish ambitions. You are our enemies, and you have invaded our ocean. I am the strongest of my kind. Do you dare face me?!" Alphonse: "Is there no other way?!" [Alphonse is forced to bring out his own army.] Aerial: "Come on! I'll never lose to you!" [Soon, Aerial's been defeated.] Aerial: "Forgive me, Lady Chloeri..." [A while later, Alphonse and Aerial stand alone on the battlefield.] Aerial: "Finish it! Kill me now!!! You may have defeated me, but I'll never reveal the location of our sanctuary. I'll endure any disgrace." Alphonse: "......I have no intention of killing you. Please, tell your leader that I wish to speak to her." Aerial: "You take pity and spare me, after killing Minerva? Why?" Alphonse: "I'd like it if we can resolve things peacefully. Aerial: "You're too soft! Are you truly a knight? By leaving this unfinished, it may come back to haunt you. Have you thought of that? You may one find my spear protruding from your back. Your sympathy is nothing but a liability." [A mermaid swims up to the two.] Mermaid Girl: "Wait. Our leader has agreed to speak with you." Aerial: "You can't be serious!" Mermaid Girl: "She asked that we welcome them as guests and treat them with hospitality. Aerial, dwelling on Minerva's death won't change anything. You are to receive treatment for your wounds and then join us later." Aerial: "...Alright." Mermaid Girl: "Are you the leader of these soldiers?" Alphonse: "Yes, I am. My name is Alphonse." Mermaid Girl: "Welcome, Alphonse. Please follow me." [The mermaid girl leads Alphonse into the sanctuary, and then turns to face him.] Mermaid Girl: "Please be courteous in front of our leader." [She leads him to the mermaid leader's throne.] Pink Mermaid: "I'm Chloeri, leader of the mermaids in this part of the ocean. Please share what you have to say." Alphonse: "I...I promised someone that I'd help them find the Sacred Spear." Chloeri: "...The Sacred Spear? I see...For you humans, those events are long passed. I don't blame you, though. Your time on this earth is limited. For that reason, you can easily forget mistakes of the past. Forgetting permits hope to return and strength to be rebuilt. In that sense, I envy you. Everyone has their own perspective. I won't blame the people of this generation for sorrows of the past. Please understand..." Alphonse: "I'm from Lodis. I thought you might know something about the spear. That's why I'm here. I've read that the Sacred Spear is a treasure from God which was bestowed upon the mermaids, but that's all I know." Chloeri: "That's correct. It was ours." Alphonse: "Please tell me...What is the story of the Sacred Spear?" Chloeri: "Alright. I'll tell you everything I know." [She begins to tell her story. There are freeze-frame pictures to go help along the interpretation for the player, also.] Chloeri: "400 years ago, mermaids lived peacefully around this island. That changed when people arrived. They burned forests and built villages. Conflicts erupted when they disturbed our quiet ocean. The quarreling never ceased, and finally a battle began for control of the island. I took up arms alongside the other mermaids." [A flashback segment occurs in the same room where Chloeri is sitting. A mermaid stands near her throne and speaks to her.] Mermaid Soldier: "Commander, the humans have already entered the southern sea..." Mermaid Leader: "If I surrender, do you think the war will end?" Mermaid Soldier: "No. Even with your life in their hands, they'd continue to attack. They are blood-thirsty goblins. They think everything in this world is theirs for the taking. Why?! Why does God allow such creatures to exist on this earth? Don't do anything rash. We'll stand by you and protect this ocean." Mermaid Leader: "Chloeri, that kind of thinking will get us nowhere. What will remain when the fighting is over? Instead, we must find a way to survive." Chloeri: "Are you saying that we should let the humans win, that we should endure that kind of humiliation? God! Do you only side with humans? It is we who are the soul of the sea. As such, we will eventually become one again with the water and wind. Are we so insignificant? Answer me!!! Is there no place for us on this earth? Will you turn your back on us and let us fade from existence?" [The flashback part ends and Chloeri in the present time continues to tell her story.] Chloeri: "Later, when I returned from battle, our leader was gone, but instead I found a spear. It was a beautiful, black spear, bestowed upon us by God. It drew on the power of thunder and lightning, and could pierce metal armor. The war started anew, and ten years passed... [Another vignette occurs in the same room with another soldier and Chloeri. They stand where the old leader used to be.] Mermaid: "We can't find it anywhere." Chloeri: "Look once more. I doubt any human could have entered this sanctuary. Who took the spear from here, then? And why?" Mermaid: "Has someone betrayed us? They may have conspired with humans..." Chloeri: "Impossible...Why would anyone want to risk their life for the enemy?! Our leader sacrificed herself for our sake. The spear is the key to our victory!" [A mermaid runs in.] Mermaid Soldier: "...We're being attacked!!!" Chloeri: "Protect our ocean! I'll be right there..." [The vignette ends and Chloeri continues to tell Alphonse the rest of her story.] Chloeri: "During the lengthy war, there was a mermaid who fell in love with a human. But, such love was forbidden. She hoped that hostilities would subside if the war ended, and so, one night, she entered the sanctuary and stole the Sacred Spear for her loved one. The war was over. We were tired of fighting. After losing the spear, we could no longer withstand their attacks. So we escaped to the west. Complicated tides, thick forests, and swampy land...These natural barriers have protected this small sea. You see, we don't have the spear anymore." Alphonse: "And what happened to her?" Chloeri: "I don't know. Both she and the spear disappeared. But, I received no word that the humans had obtained it." Alphonse: "There's no other clues to its whereabouts, are there?" Chloeri: "Well...I have a feeling that...that mermaid's still alive somewhere. If you can find her, she may lead you to the spear." Alphonse: "What's her name?" Chloeri: "The mermaid that disappeared...Her name is Berevra. She was a beautiful mermaid with golden scales. ...She is my sister. If you find her, please tell her that we are no longer angry, and that we await her return. ...Will you do this for me?" Alphonse: "Can you so easily forgive someon who betrayed you?" Chloeri: "Because of the power of the spear, we continued to fight and lost many more of our kind. As our former leader said, self-preservation should have been more of a concern. If you find the spear, keep it. It's no longer of use to us." Alphonse: "Why is that...?" Mermaid Soldier: "We recognize the futility of war. Allow me to see you off. Where are you headed?" Alphonse: "I guess I'll return to Urodela first. There's someone waiting for me...If she believes in me, that is." [On the world map, as soon as Alphonse steps foot in Arena again, a cutscene with Aerial begins.] Aerial: "Are you going back?" Alphonse: "Yes. I have to decide what to do next. Don't worry, I won't bother you again." Aerial: "I've heard of the spear, but I didn't know the story behind it. Even if you loved someone, how could you sacrifice your own kind? I don't understand. What was she thinking...? Is there someone who you'd protect... ...even if it cost you everything?" Alphonse: "I'm not sure...I don't think that can be answered by someone who hasn't faced those circumstances." Aerial: "I can't forgive you for killing Minerva. I may not understand how our leader is feeling, but Minerva knew the risk she was taking. Tell me...Do humans and mermaids differ in more than just appearance? Will we never understand each other? If that's the case, will we just continue stealing from one another?" Alphonse: "I can't say. But even among the same race, nothing good comes from stealing." Aerial: "I wonder what you'll see from now on...Remember, I'll hunt you down if I find you're not true to your word. ...Good luck." [The cutscene ends without a chance to invite Aerial into the party. On the world map, the next stop is Urodela.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Urodela | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 2.7 / \_______/ [Alphonse returns to Urodela and re-enters the shed where he last left Cybil waiting. She's still there.] Alphonse: "Sorry I was gone so long. Any luck finding new information on Berevra?" Cybil: "I've heard some stories about mermaids falling in love with humans, but nothing specific. Unfortunately, we don't have the slightest hint as to where she might be." Alphonse: "The sad love story of a human and a mermaid, and the weapon of God...The White Fang Troops have yet to act. Neither has the Order of the Sacred Flame, which was dispatched from Scabellum. I wonder if Rictor's men who appeared at Urodela that night were chasing after members of the White Fang Troops." Cybil: "What do you mean by that?" Alphonse: "Before you saved me at Formido, a man, Nichart, was asking me about our true purpose on this island. At the time I knew nothing. I thought we were sent here to investigate the White Fang Troops. But, I wonder how much Rictor knew..." Cybil: "I have no idea. Anyway...Why are you still here?" Alphonse: "?" Cybil: "You've brought the information as promised. You're free to go and do as you please, whether that be rejoining your comrades or returning home." Alphonse: "I have no place with them, or in my hometown. They don't mean anything to me anymore." Cybil: "...But he seemed to need you." Alphonse: "Rictor expected a lot out of me. He wanted me as both a subordinate and a friend...He wanted someone that he could rely on." Cybil: "That's what he expected, huh?" Alphonse: "Have you ever thought about doing what is expected of you? I...I worry too much about what others think, and put their wishes ahead of my own. Once I realized this, I couldn't stomach it anymore. Who am...? I wondered. I'm not here to fulfill someone else's expectations. That's why I needed to get away for a while. I needed time alone." Cybil: "Don't let your emotions sway you. They drain your energy and blur your judgement. Be calm and make an objective decision. What is it that you want to do in this world? Once you've decided on your direction in life, find a way to work towards that goal." Alphonse: "...Cybil, I'm sorry." Cybil: "For what?" Alphonse: "...You'll probably say this is childish, but I feel so powerless...I'm not as strong as people think. There's nothing I can do. That's why I did as Rictor expected of me...to be recognized, for a sense of direction. I wanted to become storng...to gain power and status. But, what then? What purpose would it all serve? ...You saved my life. We had a deal, and I held up my end of the bargain. But, things are different now. I sincerely want to help you. That is, of course, if you'll let me..." Cybil: "Do as you like. But, now we speak as equals. I think it's best if you lead your own comrades. I prefer to operate alone. Contact me if the need arises." Alphonse: "Thanks, Cybil." Cybil: "First, we must find the mermaid with the golden scales. Surely she's attracted attention somewhere. If someone's seen her, rumors may have spread..." [Alphonse thinks back to when he talked to Eleanor, so long before.] Eleanor: "It was a long time ago, but once I saw a beautiful mermaid. Her whole body was shining in gold... [Alphonse sits for a moment before speaking.] Alphonse: "Cybil, Berevra has golden scales, right?" Cybil: "You're the one who told me that. Why's that suddenly so important?" Alphonse: "There's something I need to look into. I'm going to visit a small church on the beaches of Solea..." /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Solea | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 2.8 / \_______/ [As twilight widens out, Alphonse walks to the beach near the church, finding Eleanor watching the waves.] Alphonse: "Eleanor, what's wrong? Why are you out so late?" Eleanor: "Alphonse...? Me?...No reason. But, why are you here?" Alphonse: "We can discuss that later. Look...You're bleeding. Tell me what happened, Eleanor." [They go inside, and Eleanor sits on the bed.] Alphonse: "Father Hamen...?" Eleanor: "No, it was my fault. I didn't do as I was told to... Alphonse, what are you doing? You came here because you found the sanctuary, right? Did things go smoothly... with her?" Alphonse: "I talked to her as you suggested. I guess I was worried for nothing. She's a very reasonable person. Nothing seems to have changed since I was here last...I'm sorry for what happened then. I was confused and didn't understand why I felt as I did." Eleanor: "That's alright." Alphonse: "Thank you, Eleanor. Listen, Eleanor. I want to ask you about something. You told me before that you had seen a golden mermaid." Eleanor: "...I may have said that. Mermaids usually live in the ocean to the west, but sometimes they are seen closer to where people live. Alphonse: "Listen. I'm looking for one mermaid in particular, one with golden scales. Do you remember anything?" Eleanor: "Alphonse...? Did you come here just to ask me that? I don't understand!" Alphonse: "...Just for that...?" Eleanor: "I have nothing to tell you...Are you just using me? I won't tell you anything!" Alphonse: "Eleanor...!?" [Eleanor runs out just as Cybil walks in.] Cybil: "Alphonse, the White Fang Troops are here." [Outside, a helmeted man and a band of dragons and archers have confronted Eleanor near the beach.] Karcist: "You're Eleanor Olato, right? Father Hamen told me that you're very knowledgeable about mermaids. We're searching for one, and Commander Briffaut would like to speak to you. Please come with us." Eleanor: "Why?! Why did he tell you...?" [Alphonse runs outside.] Alphonse: "Eleanor!" Karcist: "We don't want to get rough. Just cooperate." Eleanor: "..." Karcist: "If you won't come, then you leave us no choice... Capture that girl! We can't afford to let her share what she knows with anyone. Do whatever's necessary to keep her quiet." [An archer takes a few steps forward.] Eleanor: "No! Don't come any closer!" Alphonse: "Stop! You'll have to deal with me first!" Karcist: "Do you think you're her knight, kid? What can you do to protect her?" Alphonse: "Silence! I won't let you lay a finger on her!" [Alphonse's troops form themselves.] Alphonse: "Eleanor...over here. It's dangerous there." [Though dragons aid Karcist, they're inevitably cut down. Soon, Karcist too lies on his deathbed.] Karcist: "This girl...Is she worth protecting? For her, you're willing to make Commander Briffaut your enemy...?" [Karcist dies.] Alphonse: "Eleanor...Are you hurt?" Eleanor: "......" [A while later, Alphonse enters the house again. Cybil, who had been attending to Eleanor, leaves silently.] Eleanor: "She told me your plans. You're looking for the golden mermaid, and you have a message for her from the mermaid leader, right? ...I know Berevra, the golden mermaid...I know where she is." Alphonse: "What's that?" Eleanor: "Berevra gave me this necklace. I never met my real parents. My step-parents were very kind, but I had no friends among the villagers. That's why I was always alone on the beach near our village, watching the ocean. We talked and swam...It was so much fun. But one day, she came and told me she wouldn't be able to see me anymore. The volcanic activity on the seafloor was worsening." Alphonse: "Do you remember where she said she was going?" Eleanor: "It's been many years. I can't guarantee that she'll still be there. Besides, she might not want to see anyone...But, do you plan on going anyway?" Alphonse: "I'll go meet her alone, and I won't tell anyone where she is. Don't worry, Eleanor. I'll come back. I promise..." Eleanor: "No! Don't say, 'I'll come back.' I won't stay here again, alone, waiting for you to return." Alphonse: "I need your help, but I don't want to put you in danger. That's why..." Eleanor: "'That's why...' what? Listen, Alphonse, don't you know? I want to be with you. So...take me with you." Alphonse: A: "OK. Let's go together." B: "If you're so serious." Alphonse (A) "...OK, let's go together. I'll protect you." Eleanor: "I don't want to be a burden, so please teach me how to fight." Alphonse: "If you like." Alphonse (B): "If you're so serious about it...then, we'll go together." Eleanor: "I know it won't be easy, but I promise I'll help out any way I can." Alphonse: "Just don't push yourself too hard." [Eleanor joins the party permanently by picking either option. On the world map, Aquila, a dormant volcano region in eastern Anser opens up, and that's the next stop on the line.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Aquila | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 2.9 / \_______/ This path is the exact same as Path A Aquila (2.2). For the sake of preventing more redundancy, I won't repost it here. After this part is over, the second chapter still comes to an end, though. /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Formido | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 3.0 / \_______/ [As the second chapter opens, a stretch of narrative occurs. This changes depending on your reply to Cybil way back in Urodela. The following is the one that occurs if you had agreed with her; the latter is the one if you hadn't.] @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ Rictor Lasanti, visiting as a representative of Felis, announced in the month of Oceano that the White Fang Troops of Rananculus had withdrawn from Anser. Although the plans of the Batraals and their troops were never discovered, since they had retreated, the issue was assumed to have been resolved. For the time being, the Order of the Sacred Flame was stationed in Scabellum, preparing to return to Felis. Meanwhile, after meeting with the golden mermaid, Berevra, Alphonse and Eleanor rejoined Cybil. Alphonse and the others were stationed at Formido, the former stronghold of the trops of Rananculus, researching the history of the spear. The Batraals have a long history on the island. They rose to power after the war with the mermaids and relocated to the northern part of the island. It would come as no surprise if the heirs of the Batraals knew of the Sacred Spear. The island's stormy season was quickly coming to an end, and it would soon be replaced by calmer autumn weather. @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ [The second chapter now shows Formido Fortress, where Cybil, Ivanna, Alphonse, and a soldier are sitting at a table. No longer is the room disorganized and rundown -- it's well-lit and spotless.] Alphonse: "...Is that true? Rictor's heading north?" Scout: "It's true. We know he took a few subordinates with him and headed to Naja, but we don't know his purpose or current location. As for the rest of his troops, it seems that they'll be returning to Felis as soon as the ship comes." Cybil: "He must be acting on his own. That means Felis was also looking for the spear." Alphonse: "Yes, Rictor admitted as much. He said his troops had a different mission from the beginning. But, how much does the Church of Lodis really know?" Cybil: "Since we have no way of knowing the true power of the spear, all I can do for now is make assumptions. If the Duke of Felis obtains the spear and doesn't hand it over to the Church, it's possible that the Church elders will send troops to arrest him for treason." Alphonse: "Then, a war is sure to start. We can't afford to have internal conflict. That will leave Ovis defenseless to an outside invasion." Cybil: "It only takes a small spark to start a flame...The Duke may have already learned of our presence on this island. I'm sure he's been doing his research...but if we can get the spear first...Then it's over for him. Because of the Church, he's had to do his treasure hunting in secret." Alphonse: "If the White Fang Troops hadn't invaded the South, then the Duke of Felis couldn't have sent his troops here. That means..." Cybil: "Dispatchin you here could've been part of the plan. The Lord of Rananculus and the Duke of Felis may have been in communication with each other. ...It's a possibility." Alphonse: "But then, some things don't make sense. If they were cooperating, why was I captured at Formid, and why would Rictor follow the White Fang Troops to Urodela? I think the Duke of Felis and the Lord of the North are pursuing different goals, but we don't have enough information to be certain. Ivanna, can you offer any insight?" Ivanna: "I've never heard anything about a Sacred Spear, but I do recall a story about a family member who fell in love with a mermaid 400 years ago. He supposedly cut ties with our family and ran away with her." Alphonse: "Was his name...Lucius?" Ivanna: "Maybe. He was considered a coward because of his fear of war that we hardly talked to him. So, I don't remember much." Alphonse: "If a member of the Batraal Family had a relationship with Berevra, then it's no surprise that they know about the Sacred Spear." Cybil: "There's one other thing that we can't forget. 15 years ago, when William Batraal passed away due to illness, his brother Naris succeeded him. So, which Batraal was the Duke in contact with, William or Naris? ...And is Rictor just doing as his father told him to? Either way, the information we have gained from Berevra only gives us a small advantage over them." Alphonse: "I haven't told anyone about the Sacred Spear......not even you. Eleanor has been with me the whole time, so I'm sure she hasn't, either. I plan to keep my promise to Berevra." Cybil: "Don't worry about it. But, sitting around will get us nowhere. Do we have any new information?" Scout: "We've learned that there are survivors secretly living in Blete, the village that was burned down during the Reformation. Perhaps they know something useful. Also, there's a skilled spellcaster living by the ruins north of Tinea. If we can convince him to assist us, it would surely be to our advantage. ...But, we heard that he's an unusual fellow." Alphonse: "...Maybe Rictor had a different purpose for going north. Let's head that way for the time being. Everybody, get ready." [Alphonse goes outside and finds Eleanor standing on the balcony where Grimal once squared off with his enemies.] Eleanor: "...Heading north? ...Through the Naja Forest?" Alphonse: "Yes. The shrine on the beach where Berevra hid the spear, the report about Rictor going to Naja, the mysterious death of the former lord, William, and the Reformation of Lodisism 15 years ago...Every clue points to Rananculus." Eleanor: "The north side of the forest is very different from this side. There, it starts snowing at the end of fall, and the ground is unusually covered with deep snow. Do you still want to go there?" Alphonse: "I can't just sit here and do nothing. I need to find out what Rictor's been scheming." Eleanor: "You know, I'm not very anxious to go there. Alphonse... I don't think you could ever understand how scary it was escaping from the forest. It was so dark, and I got lost many times...I hate snow. Snow is so cold and harsh, and it hides everything in existence." Alphonse: "Eleanor, you're not alone anymore. But, if you really don't want to come, you can stay behind..." Eleanor: "That's even worse! I'm sorry, Alphonse. ...Sorry for being so selfish. I know I've said this before, but I don't want to be a burden. I want to be strong so I can fight by your side. Alphonse, I want to be acknowledged as a soldier. I want to be your comrade." Alphonse: A: "I misunderstood..." B: "No, I can't allow that." Alphonse (A): "I'm sorry...I misunderstood. With us being together, I guess I took things for granted." Eleanor: "You don't have to understand everything all at once... Just little by little..." Alphonse: "Let's go together, Eleanor." Eleanor: "Thank you, Alphonse. Please watch over me." Alphonse (B): "No, I can't allow that. If I lost you, I'd never forgive myself. Of course, I'll protect you. But, you never know what will happen on the battlefield." Eleanor: "...That's not what I'm trying to say. I'm not saying that I want to be protected. Let me try this once more...I want to be with you...Don't you want to be with me?" Alphonse: A: "Of course..." B: "Please understand..." Alphonse (A): "Of course I want to be with you. You know that, don't you? Let's go together, Eleanor." Eleanor: "Thank you, Alphonse. Please watch over me." Alphonse (B): "I'm sorry. Please understand. You're very important to me. I don't want to involve you in this dangerous journey. That's why I can't let you come with me." Eleanor: "...I see. I'm sorry I misunderstood...You just needed my help to find Berevra. But, I want you to know that I really did want to come." Alphonse: "Eleanor...That's not what I meant." Eleanor: "Look, Alphonse...The view from here is so beautiful... and such a pleasant breeze. You know, my time with you has been the happiest of my life. That's why I hoped we'd share views like this together, always. I thought I could go anywhere with you, because you saved me from that situation. Maybe I expected too much from you...I thought that I could trust you, and that you'd never leave me, but I guess this is good-bye..." [Eleanor walks to the door.] Eleanor: "I loved you. I still do......and always will." [Eleanor leaves permanently if you don't let her come with. Any other combination where she asks Alphonse to "please watch over her" means she stays. After the scene with Eleanor, the world view comes back on with new places to go. Vespa's the official destination, but the red dot of Gryllus (south of Formido) is now able to be traversed, just as Belleza is now open, north of Ardea.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Vespa Revisited | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 3.1 / \_______/ [A welcoming party for Alphonse arrives as he steps foot into the hills of Vespa, with a menagerie of monsters for him to play with for the time being. A Beast Tamer commands the troops, and yells out to him.] Surgat: "Sorry, kid, but I can't let you pass through here." Alphonse: "What!? Are you from Rananculus, or were you hired by Rictor?" Surgat: "Heheh. It makes little difference. Soon, you'll be dinner for my beasts, which I have raised with tender care." [Alphonse forms his troop ranks.] Surgat: "Hey, hurry up! If you take too long, we'll attack first!!!" [Alphonse swathes a path with a little tender, loving care of his own, and soon Surgat's got himself a few new wounds, courtesy of some quick sword maneuvers.] Surgat: "Ha...What a...boring life..." [The beast tamer dies, and any animals left flee.] Alphonse: "We need to move quickly! The forest ahead is deep. Don't fall behind!!!" [A cutscene plays in Naja Forest, where Rictor and two knights are walking through. It's the dead of night, and Rictor stops for a moment.] Rictor: "...Is someone there?" [Rictor holds his troops back and walks ahead on his own. There, he sees a little girl walking along. She stops when she sees him.] Mysterious Girl: "......" Rictor: "...Malicia?!" [He takes a step forward and she runs off. The cutscene ends and the Naja opens up on the world map.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Gryllus | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 3.2 / \_______/ [Alphonse arrives at the river during the night...or is it just that the sun doesn't shine there at all? He immediately notices that this isn't the best place to hang around.] Alphonse: "The souls of the dead are gathering here...We can't afford to stay long." [Ghosts of soldiers and wizards appear, along with formless ghosts themselves. They appear at the opposite bank of the river, ready to do battle.] Alphonse: "Ghosts who wander the darkness, return to your resting place!!!" [With the help of Faith and Exorcism spells, the ghosts get banished and the influx of returning ghosts is quelled.] Alphonse: "I guess things have settled down for a while. Let's get out of this forest." [After clearing this mission, the lonely path to Blete becomes available.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Belleza | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 3.3 / \_______/ [As Alphonse stumbles upon the fort in the Meleagris Mountains, a man stands atop the towering structure, surrounded by witches, valkyries, and ninja. He appears to be the leader, and speaks to Alphonse from his perch.] Elrik: "What brings you to such a remote area?" Alphonse: "So you're the one who can summon the souls of the dead back to this world. We seek the knowledge of the power of bane, so that we are prepared to face the dark foes that lie ahead. Please help us." Elrik: "I'm sorry, but I've given that up, and I'm happy with my life the way it is now. I don't want to sacrifice my happiness by reawakening old ways. Besides, I am not obligated to help you." Alphonse: A: "Must we use force?" B: "We need your help." Alphonse (A): "Must we use force?" Elrik: "Hmmm. How interesting. Are you suggesting that you can make me obey? You do not realize that we summoners have the ability to command the creatures we summon, right? Alright, I'll give you a chance. If you have the strength to defeat me, then I'll cooperate with you. Ollen! What's our situation?" [A valkyrie responds.] Ollen: "I've informed the others of the intruders. They'll be here in a moment to lend us a hand. Insolent boy, if you harm my master, you won't leave here alive!!!" Alphonse (B): "We need your help. Would you consider coming with us?" Elrik: "Hmmm. So you're counting on me that much? Well, OK. I'd like to see if you are worthy of my assistance. However, I won't be accountable if you lose your life. Understand?" [If Euphaire is with, the convo from the start of entering the battlefield will go like:] Elrik: "...You came here to find me?" Euphaire: "......" Elrik: "I must correct this mistake myself... I'll put an end to your suffering..." [Either way, Alphonse sets up his troops to do battle with Elrik.] Elrik: "Greed is a road to ruin. You'll regret you childishness!" [He says this if you pick Option A.] Elrik: "Arrogance is a road to ruin. You'll regret your naivety..." [He says this if you pick Option B.] Elrik: "I'm sorry, but there's no other way... Euphaire, prepare to die!!!" [He says this if Euphaire is with already.] Elrik: "I don't know why you have her with you. She won't do you any good. Do you understand, boy!" [He says this if you have Euphaire in your party but don't put her in battle.] [The two parties clash, but Alphonse's gains the upper hand and knocks down Elrik.] Elrik: "You've proven your strength. Now do as you wish." [He says this if Euphaire is not in the party.] Elrik: "Are you...still in pain? What is it that you wanted to tell me...?"[He says this if Euphaire has joined you already.] [Later on, Elrik speaks to Alphonse at the base of the fort.] Elrik: "What shall become of me?" Alphonse: A: "Join us as we agreed." B: "I won't force you..." Alphonse (A): "Join us as we agreed. That's why we are here." Elrik: "...Alright. I'll help you. But, I have one favor to ask...My daughter lives in the town of Blete. If we pass nearby, can we stop there?" Alphonse (B): "I have no intention of forcing you to do anything. If you don't wish to join us, then it's not worth having you along." Elrik: "Then, I think it'd be best for me to remain here and perform my experiments. I promise that I will in no way impede your progress. Good luck." [If Euphaire has joined, she'll be in the post-battle scene, too.] Elrik: "...Tell me. Are you still upset with me?" Euphaire: "What are you talking about, Father?" Elrik: "...'Father'...!? Euphaire, is that you? But, what happened to...?" Euphaire: "She's gone now. ...This knight saved me. Blete will be safe now. So, Father, are you still working on your experiment?" Elrik: "You mean the spell of spiritual transference? I gave up on that. It's futile to keep the souls of the dead in this world." Euphaire: "Tell me...Why?...Why did you call Mother's soul back? Her heart remained empty... She was neither dear nor alive...Can you imagine what that must be like? She was dead, and that was the only truth. You should not have violated nature's law. Join us, Father... Life goes on... There are still many things to do." Elrik: "Young man...Will you allow me to accompany you?" Alphonse: A: "Yes. Please join us." B: "I can't forgive you." Alphonse (A): "Yes. Please join us. But, I think the two of you should talk first." Elrik: "...I couldn't face the fact that she was gone... I didn't want to admit it. I needed her to be alive, no matter how she looked." Euphaire: "Because of you, Father, I now understand Mother's pain. Now I realize the horror of being undead. There are many things I must share with people...things I learned from her... I want you to know...that Mother loved you..." Alphonse (B): "I can't forgive you. Your loved ones suffered because you couldn't bear the loneliness. Now, it is time for you to atone for these sins." Elrik: "You're right... Besides, I've grown so tired... Euphaire, can I be by her side...?" Euphaire: "I want you to know...that Mother loved you." [Option A has Elrik join you permanently; Option B ensures that he doesn't. This is the only chance to get him. Besides, we want to see the scene in Blete, right?] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Blete | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 3.4 / \_______/ [As the party arrives at the ruins of Blete, burned down 15 years prior, a girl speaks to them from at the top of the house a ways away.] Euphaire: "I can't believe that you passed through the forest of the undead unharmed." Alphonse: "...You smell like...death. Are you...alive?" Euphaire: "Funny question, boy. The stench of blood lingers on you as well. You must have experienced many battles. I can see the ghosts of those you've killed...Just look..." Alphonse: "Stop!!!" [Alphonse sets up his troops.] Euphaire: "I'll share with you the cold and darkness of the earth. Now come here, boy." [If you beat Euphaire and Elrik isn't in your party at all (i.e. not invited, dismissed, killed), Euphaire will say:] Euphaire: "...You are...so strong...Am I going to die again? Do you know of this town's sorrows? Many died when Lodis burned it to the ground..." Alphonse: "......" [If Elrik is with, the following scene occurs instead of the one-on-one speech with Alphonse. This starts after Euphaire's first line, which is the same.] Elrik: "Are you still causing problems?" Euphaire: "Well, it's your fault. Besides, I kind of like this body (giggle). This can be a new beginning for us, if you want." Elrik: "...But, you're already dead. This world is not the place for you anymore." Euphaire: "You're the one who called me back. You can't imagine how horrible it is to be dead, how dark and cold it is beneath the earth's surface." Elrik: "It's...all my fault." [Alphonse's troops arrive.] Euphaire: "Come...Let me embrace you, and you shall experience the depths of my pain. [If Elrik talks to Euphaire but doesn't get put into the battle itself, Euphaire will say instead:] Euphaire: "You've always been like that...so neglectful of everything...Alright, I'll take the boy instead... take him to that dark, cold place..." [After awhile, the undead creatures are eradicated and a wounded Euphaire kneels before the party.] Euphaire: "...You are...so strong...Am I going to die again? I'll return this body to my daughter. Please tell... Elrik that I was happy..." Alphonse: "......" [Later on, Elrik and Alphonse watch over Euphaire as she recuperates in one of Blete's broken-down houses. The spirit evaporates from her after awhile and she comes to.] Euphaire: "...Father...?" Elrik: "......" Euphaire: "How cruel...Why did you call her back? Even if her soul returned, her heart would be empty. Mother is neither dead nor alive...Don't you see?" Elrik: "I just couldn't face the truth. I wanted her alive more than anything, but I shouldn't have fough nature's design." [Elrik walks outside.] Alphonse: "How are you related to Elrik?" Euphaire: "Elrik is my father. A few years after the soldiers from Lodis left, my mother...She was killed by bandits that attacked our town. My father called her soul back with a spell, and she possessed my body. At first I was happy, but later I learned that it was wrong...The dead and the living are not meant to share the same body. I wonder...Who do you think Father loves more? Me...or Mother?" Alphonse: A: "He loved her deeply." B: "Of course, it's you." Alphonse (A): "He loved your mother deeply." Euphaire: "I'm glad to hear that, and I'm sure Mother is happy, too. Thank you for saving her soul. Why don't you let me join you? I'll be a big help...I know that the undead do not belong in this world, but Mother and those who were killed by the soldiers of Lodis protected me and the people of this town..." Alphonse (B): "Of course, it's you." Euphaire: "I am glad to hear that. ...Aah, I'm tired. Please tell Father I said, 'Thank you' and 'Good-bye'." [Pick Option A for Euphaire to join you; pick Option B if you don't want her company. This is the only chance you'll have. The next day, Eleanor and Alphonse walk through the destroyed town of Blete. It's daylight now, and not so grim.] Eleanor: "Is this the town where I was born...?" Alphonse: "Yes. When you were a baby, this is where Berevra found you. Eleanor, does it bring back any memories?" Eleanor: "Nothing at all...Alphonse, what is memory? One day, will my memories of you become uncertain...or even fade altogether? If something is forgotten, is it like it never existed? Where does memory and imagination begin?" Alphonse: "There's someone who's been fading from my memory... ...My father. I don't want to forget about him, but I don't always trust my memories of him, either." Eleanor: "Let's go, Alphonse. I don't have to remember. We can live without these memories..." [If Elrik isn't in your party at all (i.e. not invited, dismissed, killed), a slightly different scene will play after you defeat Euphaire. Ivanna and Alphonse'll be in the house where Euphaire is recuperating, and her mother's spirit will leave her body.] Euphaire: "...Oh......" Alphonse: "What...what happened to your body?" Euphaire: "My mother's soul was inside of me." Alphonse: "How could your mother do such a thing...?" Euphaire: "A few years after the soldiers from Lodis left, she was killed by bandits that attacked our town. My father called her soul back with a spell, and she possessed my body. At first I was happy, but later I learned it was wrong. The dead and the living are not meant to share the same body. Please, don't leave me alone...Let me join you." Alphonse: A: "Alright." B: "I'm afraid not." Alphonse (A): "Alright. Let's go together. But first, you should regain your health." Euphaire: "Thank you. Don't worry, I'll be OK. I know that the undead do not belong in this world, but Mother and those killed by soldiers of Lodis protected me and the people of this town..." Alphonse (B): "There's something you should do first...Your body is weak. You need to rest. Euphaire: "...You're right...I'll rest for a while. But, when I recover, please take me with you. Promise me that much..." [The Alphonse/Eleanor cutscene plays again here, with the same dialogue as before. For the Euphaire scene directly above, choosing option A lets her join permanently; choosing option B has you...well, leave her while she recuperates. This is the only chance to get her, too.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Naja | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 3.5 / \_______/ [Green trees mark the forest of Naja, and the sun shines bright. But, unfortunately, all is not well as a party of spellcasters and knights, headed up by a Siren, bar the way through. The leader speaks out.] Grevis: "It's been a long time, Alphonse...I guess Commander Lasanti was right." Alphonse: "Grevis! You're with Rictor?! Tell me, has he gone to meet with the Lord of Rananculus?" Grevis: "Yes, that's right. The Commander said that you'd come after him for sure." Alphonse: "What's he planning? Has he been in communication with Rananculus all this time...?" Grevis: "How am I supposed to know? Listen, Alphonse. You're my enemy now. I don't have time for idle chat. Prepare to die!" [Alphonse aligns his troops.] Grevis: "Don't underestimate me. I'm no longer the woman you once knew." [Grevis can't hold the surge of force that Alphonse's troops have, though, and eventually looks into the abyss as so many others have prior.] Grevis: "You...are too strong...as Commander Lasanti...said... Why...didn't you join...him? You could have..." [Before returning to the world map, a cutscene in Osterea Castle occurs. There, Naris sits at his throne and Nichart stands there as well. He moves out of the way as a guard comes running into the room.] Royal Guard: "Rictor Lasanti is here to see you, sir. What would you like me to do?" Naris: "Welcome him as our guest." [The guard leaves.] Nichart: "Are you sure? He's probably here for the spear." Naris: "What choice do I have? He says he is here for a private visit. The only soldiers he has with him are a few bodyguards. He's got some nerve...but that's all he has. He has no inkling of the spear's true power. Just let him swim around in the net for awhile. In the end, all we need is the spear." Nichart: "So, you're saying that you'll cooperate with him?" Naris: "Openly...yes. You'd best mind your manners, too. He is the son of a duke, after all." Nichart: "...I understand. So, what have the twins been up to?" Naris: "Lethe is away. She said there is something on her mind. Cirvante's in the castle library doing some research. Why do you ask?" Nichart: "...No particular reason. I just don't trust them...It doesn't seem like a good idea having sorcerors like them wandering about." Naris: "Silence, Nichart! Mind your meddling! Weren't you the one who lost to that kid, the one who's now helping the woman from Galius? Thanks to you, we have more flies buzzing around. If you have time to talk, then get back to work." Nichart: "Yes, sir." [Nichart leaves as well. At that moment, Cirvante comes into the room through a different door.] Naris:" "...Cirvante, have you found anything?" Cirvante: "I was researching the folklore of this island and of the Sacred Spear. Longicolnis means 'long horn'. I can give you more details in the library." Naris: "Alright." [The two head to the library and the cutscene ends. On the map, the northeastern passage to Sotavento appears.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Sotavento | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 3.6 / \_______/ [As the city of Sotavento lies before Alphonse, troops headed up by none other than Nichart himself appear. He's going all out this time 'round.] Nichart: "You're that kid from the ruins. So, you were lucky enough to survive, eh? I heard that you're no longer supporting the troops of Felis and are instead helping that woman from Galius." Alphonse: "I remember you. Let's finish this!" Nichart: "Hmph! I don't know how close you are to discovering the truth, but finding the Sacred Spear is just the beginning. Rictor Lasanti intends to use Naris Batraal and bring the spear back to Felis. But, it won't be that easy. This is what you wanted to know, isn't it? Now, come on kid! Let's see what you're made of!" [Alphonse sets his soldiers.] Nichart: "Kid! Don't take me lightly." [Alphonse, instead, takes Nichart to school, and soon the haughty man is kneeling in a nice, wounded state.] Nichart: "You're tougher than I expected. I guess I'll save some fun for later." Alphonse: "Nichart! Are you running away again!?" Nichart: "If you want to know the whole story, then come to Ostorea Castle...I won't guarantee that you'll leave in one piece, though." [Nichart uses his Tranferring Stone to teleport out of the battlefield, leaving Alphonse's party to themselves. Later on, Eleanor and Alphonse walk through the town and enter her old house, where she lived with her step-parents.] Eleanor: "This was my home...I used to live with my mother and father. They were both kind people. But, the villagers bullied me because I wasn't their real child. My parents tried to protect me by giving small handouts to my antagonizers, but things got worse after they passed away. And...One summer night...something that I never expected happened..." [Eleanor initiates a flashback.] Narrative: -4 years ago- [Eleanor and a small boy are walking through the streets of the town late at night.] Eleanor: "Dimitri, where are you taking me in the middle of the night? It's dark out here. I want to go home." [Dimitri leads her to the small bridge in town, the same one that still stood in the battle against Nichart only a short while ago (in the present). Two older boys run out from their hiding places.] Eleanor: "Allen, Merrick...!?" [One of the boys pushes her and they start to circle in.] Eleanor: "Stop! Stay away! Dimitri...Why?!" Allen: "Shut up, already! Who else would take care of an orphan like you? You should be more thankful." Merrick: "What's this...? A pearl necklace Pretty fancy for an orphan!" Eleanor: "Don't...Please...It's my only treasure...Someone, help!" [Her necklace shimmers as Merrick outstretches his hand to take it.] Merrick: "What is this light?" [The light blazes at Merrick and, after a momentary convulsion, he topples onto his belly, not moving.] Dimitri: "Allen, look!...He's dead." Allen: "Whoa! She's a monster! She's going to kill us!!!" Eleanor: "But, I didn't do anything..." Dimitri: "You...You're not human after all. That rumor about you being the child of a mermaid was true!!!" Eleanor: "That's not true! I'm...I'm...!!!" [Allen throws a rock and hits Eleanor in the head.] Allen: "Why don't you leave this town, monster!!!" [Under a hail of rocks, Eleanor runs to the edge of town and quietly runs away. The cutscene also ends, bringing Eleanor back to the present in the house.] Eleanor: "I wasn't running away...I was running for my life. I ran and ran..through the dark forest to the south, until I arrived at a church by the beach. On that dark, rainy night, Father Hamen opened his door and welcomed me...He saved me...but..." Alphonse: "That's enough...You don't have to share your painful memories. I'm not saying to forget them, but there's no sense in putting yourself through this, either. I'll be right here by your side." Eleanor: "Can I...stay with you?" Alphonse: "Of course. I promised, didn't I?" Eleanor: "This is an amulet that Berevra gave me...Alphonse, I want you to have this. You're here for me now...so please accept it." [Later that night, Alphonse walks outside and finds Cybil standing near the town's bridge.] Cybil: "How is she?" Alphonse: "Sleeping. It must have been very difficult for Eleanor to come here. She has only bad memories of this place, memories best forgotten..." Cybil: "You're a good man. Well, let's get going. It's going to be cold tonight." [The two walk out of sight and a light snowfall starts soon after. Eventually, the screen opens at the shrine Berevra had alluded to.] Alphonse: "According to Berevra, it should be somewhere around here..." Cybil: "If she hid the spear in this shrine, a few hundred years ago, then someone may have already found it." Alphonse: "......?" Cybil: "What's wrong?" [Alphonse ducks down, picks something up from the dirt, and brushes it off.] Cybil: "What is it? ...A dagger?" Alphonse: "Cybil, I have a favor to ask...I want you to spread a rumor that I have obtained the Sacred Spear. Word should quickly reach Naris Batraal and Rictor." Cybil: "I can do that." Alphonse: "I have an idea. I'll tell you the details later. I'm going to Ostorea Castle...to see Rictor." [The cutscene ends and, back at the map, the northwest passage to Haena appears, the last step before Ostorea Castle...] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Haena | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 3.7 / \_______/ [In the rough, uneven pass to Ostorea Castle, the party's progress gets held up by a party of brigands led by a familiar face. Orson, Rictor's archer, stands in wait.] Orson: "I'll give you credit for making it this far, but I can't let you go any further. Just hand over the Sacred Spear." Alphonse: "I came here to unveil a conspiracy...involving Rictor Lasanti...and the Duke of Felis. Are you aware that, after obtaining the Sacred Spear, he and the Lord of Rananculus plan to rebel against Lodis?" Orson: "Nonsense. Even if it was an order from his father, he wouldn't allow that to happen! He is loyal to the Holy Lodis Empire." Alphonse: "That's why I want to speak to him one last time. I want to know if he intends to present the spear to the Church or use it for a different purpose. I don't want to fight you. Please stand aside." Orson: "I can't do that. Retreat if you want to, and I won't try to stop you. But, have you forgotten that I serve only Commander Lasanti?" [Alphonse molds his party into formation.] Alphonse: "It's an honor to fight with you, but I won't lose!" [After clearing the rest of the enemies, Alphonse cuts down his old comrade and friend.] Orson: "Alphonse, I'd expect nothing less from you. Your skill on the battlefield and leadership ability...It's easy to see why the commander respected you. You're a man of high caliber..." Alphonse: "That's hardly true. Your archery skills are as impressive as ever. If we had fought one-on-one, I would have lost." Orson: "Maybe so, but that's just a possibility. You won. Go and witness these events with your own eyes, and don't ever look back at those you've defeated. ...Good-bye." [Orson passes. Later on, the party's camp has been set up, and Alphonse stands outside, staring into the campfire as the snow begins to fall more and more. Cybil walks into the camp.] Cybil: "Will you go after him right away?" Alphonse: "Yes. I intend to. But, Cybil...Is there something bothering you?" Cybil: "......I've been thinking. Alphonse, I want you to continue without me." Alphonse: "Why now, all of a sudden, when we're so close to our destination? Listen. If Rictor knows about the spear, then why would he think that it's in our possession? ...It doesn't make sense. Besides, I don't think he's merely acting as his father ordered. He must have another reason. I want to know what he's really thinking, and I bet we'lle able to find out where the spear is, too." Cybil: "Of course, I have no intention of abandoning my mission. I leave it in your hands. Understand?" Alphonse: "I've been wondering...I know you're loyal to the Church of Lodis, but that's not your only reason for being here, is it? ...You know this island so well. Are you from here?" Cybil: "I'm not trying to hide anything. You're right. I lost my hometown during the Reformation. I was driven from my home, and my parents were burned to death right before my eyes. I lost everything but my life. Hmph. Don't take it the wrong way. I haven't felt nostalgic for a long time. But, there is one matter I want to look into while I'm on this island." Alphonse: "If there's something on your mind, then by all means go...But Cybil, be careful." Cybil: "Don't worry. I won't be gone long." [Cybil walks out of the camp and the scene ends. At long last, the time to enter Ostorea Castle arises. It's the next stop.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Ostorea | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 3.8 / \_______/ [As the party reaches the Batraal family's castle, a cutscene plays in the interior. Rictor gazes out a window as a girl in a purple dress walks in.] Elegantly Dressed Woman: "Commander Lasanti, you're here." Rictor: "What is it, Lady Malicia? Is your uncle asking for me?" Malicia: "No, it's not that. I just wanted to talk to you. Or, must I have a reason to speak to you?" Rictor: "I'm sorry. It just never occured to me that I'd see you here. Please forgive my thoughtlessness." Malicia: "I'm not trying to make you feel guilty. I'm just happy to see you. So, aren't you and my uncle searching for something called the Sacred Spear? Have you had any luck?" Rictor: "To be honest, things haven't gone very smoothly. The mermaid who stole the spear...It appears that she's still alive, but we haven't been able to learn where the spear is hidden. A man who's talked to her at length is on his way to this castle as we speak. Has your uncle said anything about it?" Malicia: "No. ...Commander, I bet he is trying to take all the credit for himself. He's probably doing something behind your back. Remember, I'll always be on your side. ...I hate my uncle. He is so greedy and ignorant." Rictor: "A woman of your status shouldn't talk like that. Unclean words will stain your heart." Malicia: "Forgive me, Commander. I went too far...No matter what kind of person he is, he's still my uncle." Rictor: "There's nothing to fear. I trust Lord Batraal. It sure is a nice day today, Lady Malicia. Would you like to go outside? The winter sky here is usually so dull. It seems to make my mind feel dull, as well." Malicia: "Is that right? I thought winter was like this everywhere." [The two join hands but as Naris walks in, they quickly cut that out. A guard also accompanies the Batraal ruler.] Malicia: "Commander Lasanti, I'll be waiting for you outside." [Malicia leaves.] Naris: "She seems to enjoy your company, Commander. She's my dead brother's daughter. Since she has no other family, I'm taking care of her...She's a nice girl." Rictor: "She probably just wants to hear some stories from outside of Ovis. Anyway, are things going as planned?" Naris: "Nichart was defeated as Sotavento." Rictor: "What!? Unbelievable......Commander Briffaut must have underestimated him." Naris: "An enemy is still an enemy, no matter who it is. He shouldn't have been caught off guard." Rictor: "You're right." Naris: "By the way, I heard that this man, the one who's obtained the Longicolnis and who's on his way here now, is a friend of yours." Rictor: "His name has been removed from our troops' registry for disobeying orders. He is no friend of mine." Naris: "...It makes no difference. Margret is ready. She should prove to be more effective than Nichart." Rictor: "I'll do my best to protect this castle as well." [Rictor makes his exit, leaving Naris and the guard to themselves.] Naris: "That kid who's on his way here...He may prove to be more dangerous than the Duke or his son..." [Naris walks out and the cutscene is displaced by another where Ivanna and Alphonse are on a snowy outlook near the castle.] Ivanna: "There are two entrances to the castle...the main gate on the south wall and the side entrance to the west. The castle is surrounded by a moat, making a direct attack difficult. I have no idea about the size of their forces... They may have increased their numbers to match our power." Alphonse: "Let's see...What do you think about dividing our troops in two and attacking both gates simultaneously?" Ivanna: "But...won't that weaken our strength?" Alphonse: "We're used to fighting in small numbers. Besides, if we attack at the same time, it will confuse them, giving us the advantage. We'll have to take our chances. One more thing...Ivanna, your sword instructor..." Ivanna: "She's probably a member of the White Fang Troops and may be guarding one of the gates. But, please don't worry on my account. Let's concentrate on conquering the castle. Just remember to split our forces up evenly." [At this point there is an option to save since it's impossible to save until the castle is conquered. Once there, the option to attack Ostorea North and Ostorea South -- two gates, respectively -- come up. They can be done in any order.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Ostorea West | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 3.9 / \_______/ [The western gate is a snow-covered expanse with a short creek running nearby. It's heavily fortified, both in girth and manpower, and Margret has indeed made an appearance atop the large wall. Both Alphonse and Ivanna are present below.] Margret: "It's been a while, Lady Ivanna...I'm sorry, but I have orders from your uncle. I'm not to let anybody in the castle, not even you. Please, why don't you turn back? You're aware of my ability. I don't want to hurt you." Ivanna: "Margret...I was afraid he would send you...But, I can't retreat. I won't let my fear take control, even though you are the best swordmaster in Rananculus." [Alphonse builds up his front line.] Margret: "It's been a few years since our swords clashed last. Lady Ivanna, let us fight to our fullest!!!" [If Ivanna's not present from the start, Margret's dialogue will be changed to:] Margret: "Fearless boy, you've finally come. You know this is the castle of Naris Batraal, don't you? I won't let you go any further. Are you prepared to test your skill against mine?" Alphonse: "I fear no one who crosses my path." [Alphonse sets up his troops.] Margret: "I'll teach you what fear really means..." [If Ivanna's not present in Alphonse's party, Margret will instead say:] Margret: "If you don't fear me, then show me what you've got!!!" [Even though she's the best swordswoman in the land, Alphonse won't be denied his victory. Soon, her deep wounds begin to plague her. If Ivanna's in the party, her death-quote will be:] Margret: " [If Ivanna's not in the party, she'll say:] Margret: "Hmmm. Even I was no match for him. Looks like he lived up to his reputation. Kid...just remember...a warrior must always know for what purpose he fights. Even if I die, the spirit of my sword will live on. Boy...please take care of Lady Ivanna..." [If Ivanna's with, her death-speech will change to:] Margret: "Lady Ivanna...You've become so strong. I'm glad. Please go and learn the truth about the past..." Ivanna: "Margret, please tell me. Was it really my uncle who...?" Margret: "Only Lord Batraal knows the truth. I'm just a mere swordswoman. Please take my sword. It was a present from your father. You are worthy of it. Please...look after our troops and Rananculus." [Margret dies.] Ivanna: "Margret! Don't die! Oh, Margret..." /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Ostorea South | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 4.0 / \_______/ [The southern gate is a little less broad, but it's sturdy nonetheless. Cirvante, Lethe, and Nichart stand abroad on the masonry. If Alphonse chooses to attack this gate, the dialogue will be:] Cirvante: "Commander Briffaut, is he the one they've been talking about?" Lethe: "You've never seen him before, Cirvante? Doesn't he just look delicious?" Cirvante: "He doesn't particularly interest me." Nichart: "You two stay behind. Your magic's not needed here." Cirvante: "We can't do that. Recently, you've had nothing but failures to report. So, Lord Batraal insisted we come along." Lethe: "You underestimate us. We're worth twie as much as you. Shouldn't you be more concerned with yourself? A useless soldier's not worth keeping around..." Nichart: "W...What? Did Lord Batraal say that?" Lethe: "Well, what other commander has failed to defeat the boy twice?" Cirvante: "That's right. You're oblivious to your own shortcomings. Do you think that Lord Batraal will forgive such arrogance and carelessness?" Nichart: "I'm aware of that. I will defeat that kid here and regain Lord Batraal's trust. So you two stay out of this. I don't need any help." Cirvante: "Alright, but don't think you'll get another chance." Lethe: "Cirvante, I'll play cat and mouse with them for a while." Cirvante: "Don't have too much fun, Lethe. See you later." [Cirvante warps out just as Alphonse arrives at the staircase.] Alphonse: "Nichart! I'm here to defeat you! I've had enough of your boasting. Let's settle this once and for all!" Nichart: "Go! Capture the kid and find out where the Sacred Spear is. If he resists, kill him!" Alphonse: "I'm sorry to tell you...I'm not the 'kid' you faced last time." [Alphonse brings out his soldiers.] Nichart: "You're going to regret that you came here, kid. I'm not gonna go easy on you this time. I'll show you just how different we really are!" [If Alphonse chose to attack the western Ostorea gate, the dialogue will be different, like so:] Cirvante: "Commander Briffaut, the boy didn't come this way." Lethe: "That's right...you haven't met him yet, have you? He's such a lively boy." Cirvante: "Too bad. I wonder if he tried the other entrance..." Nichart: "You two stay behind. Your magic's not needed here." Cirvante: "We can't do that. Recently, you've had nothing but failures to report. So, Lord Batraal insisted we come along." Lethe: "You underestimate us. We're worth twice as much as you. Shouldn't you be more concerned with yourself? A useless soldier's not worth keeping around..." Nichart: "W...What? Did Lord Batraal say that?" Lethe: "Well, what other commander has failed to defeat the boy twice?" Cirvante: "That's right. You're oblivious to your own shortcomings. Do you think that Lord Batraal will forgive such arrogance and carelessness?" Nichart: "I'm aware of that. You don't need to remind me. I'll defend this position at any cost and regain Lord Batraal's trust...So, you two, stay out of this!!!" Cirvante: "Alright, but don't think you'll get another chance." Lethe: "Cirvante, I'll play cat and mouse with them for a while." Cirvante: "Don't have too much fun, Lethe. See you later." [Cirvante warps out. Just then, Alphonse's other troops arrive. They set up in whatever manner they wish.] Nichart: "I was planning to get even with him...Did your leader turn tail and run? Hahahahaha...Well, are you ready?" [It's not long before Lethe gets spanked, not quite up to par as she had thought.] Lethe: "This is boring. Commander Briffaut, I leave this to you. Bye-bye. We'll meet again." [She uses her Transferring Stone to escape. It's not long before Nichart starts to bite the dust. Like usual, he talks before succumbing.] Nichart: "Lord Batraal, I'm sorry..." [If you defeat Nichart before Lethe, she'll say after Nichart's death-speech:] Lethe: "See, Nichart. You're worthless after all. Bye-bye. We'll meet again." [She'll then use a Transferring Stone to flee.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Throne Room | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 4.1 / \_______/ [The two parties meet up in the throne room from the opposite gates. There, in the room full of militaristic statues and ornate architecture, Rictor Lasanti stands with his troops right behind him.] Alphonse: "Rictor!!! Why...?" Rictor: "Since you've made it this far, I'll tell you the truth that you seek. 15 years ago, William, the former Lord of Rananculus, told my father about the Sacred Spear. Since then, my father has been researching it secretly. Naris Batraal knew nothing of the spear at that time, but at some point, someone told him of its existence. This led to the incidents involving the White Fang Troops. Meanwhile, my father sent me to this island using the conflict as a cover, and I began my search for the spear...This much, you must have guessed. Well, now I'll tell you an older story. There was a man named Lucius in the Batraal Family. He was the on who ran off with a mermaid a few hundred years ago. Information regarding the stolen spear was recorded by his child." Alphonse: "Impossible! Berevra said she's never had a child." Rictor: "That's right...There is no member of the Batraal Family who is half human, half mermaid. The mermaid didn't know it, but Lucius had a child with a human. After that child became the 4th lord, the document containing the secret of the spear was passed down to each successor. If the Duke, Naris Batraal, had killed his brother, he would never have received that information. Come on, Alphonse. Give me the Sacred Spear." [Instead, Alphonse brings his own troops into the mix.] Rictor: "I've always had the feeling that it would come to this. It was my mistake to let you go in the first place." [The two fight for a while (one turn each) before Alphonse speaks out.] Alphonse: "Rictor, are your father's orders your only reason for being here?" Rictor: "Hmph. Now the questions are getting interesting. Do you think I'd give the spear to a man whose only interests are money and power? Let me tell you...With the Sacred Spear, Longicolnis, I will establish my own country and defeat anyone who resists. I will build a beautiful, orderly nation that reflects the strict teachings of God." Alphonse: "No, Rictor. You've been blinded by the spear's power. I can't give the spear to you or to anyone, because it has powers that transcend those of humankind. It must be safeguarded to prevent its misuse. It must be brought to the Church of Lodis if peace is to be maintained." Rictor: "You are as naive as usual. She must have really pulled the wool over your eyes. You disappoint me. Well, you have always sought honor and praise." Alphonse: "That's not true! Why can't you understand?!" [After Alphonse draws his sword at Rictor (goes in for the attack), he speaks again.] Alphonse: "...Tell me the truth, Rictor. Were you intentionally deceiving me?" Rictor: "I never meant to. I would have told you if the need arose. Don't misunderstand. Remember, you're the one who left!!!" [If/when you slay the knight named Justin (your old comrade, if I recall), he will say:] Justin: "Ahh...This is the best I could do. Commander Lasanti, good luck..." [If/when you slay the knight named Lara (your old comrade, too, I guess), she will say:] Lara: "Aah...I wanted to return to Felis alive..." [Eventually, the bottom falls out of Rictor's troops, and they all tumble and fall beneath Alphonse's blade. Rictor, too, feels the pain and wounds Rictor.] Rictor: "Your strength...has grown beyond my expectations..." [Later on, Rictor, Ivanna, and Alphonse stand around the middle of the Throne Room. Alphonse hoists out a spear and holds it for Rictor to see.] Alphonse: "Look at this!!!" Rictor: "...What!?" Alphonse: "Does this look like it was created by God? Come on, Rictor! What do you think this is? ...It's just an iron spear! You've been fooled. It was just a rumor." Rictor: "...But, why?" Alphonse: "It was too strange. Berevra, who had stolen the spear, told me of the shrine where it was hidden. But when I arrived, the spear was gone. It was obvious that someone else had been there." Rictor: "Are you saying that someone had alredy taken it? I've heard nothing of the sort." Alphonse: "Listen, Rictor. You know, don't you? You were at that shrine with your father 15 years ago." Rictor: "What...What are you talking about?" Alphonse: "There was no spear in the shrine...But, instead, I found this." [He holds out the item.] Alphonse: "A white rose crest. This is...the Lasanti Family crest!!! Think, Rictor! You've been to that small shrine on the beach near Sotavento!!!" Rictor: "That's...my...Was I...there...!?" [Malicia comes in through the side door and sees Rictor kneeling on the red carpet.] Malicia: "Commander Lasanti! Pull yourself together...Don't be fooled by his words." Rictor: "Malicia...It's dangerous here...Please go..." Ivanna: "Malicia...!? Is it really you?" [The Malicia that is "there" splits into two images and vanishes. Alphonse, for some reason, didn't see anything at all.] Alphonse: "Rictor, Ivanna...? What are you talking about? You speak as if someone's there. What's wrong with you?!" [The Malicia appears once more at Rictor's side.] Rictor: "What are you saying? This is my fiancee. 15 years ago in this castle...we were...That's right...Malicia... That summer on the beach...we were..." Malicia: "Commander Lasanti...Please remember. What did you see there?" Ivanna: "Who...are you?! ...You can't be Malicia!!!" Alphonse: "Rictor, snap out of it! It's an illusion! Rictor!!!" ["Malicia" blows something and a wave of force knocks both Ivanna and Alphonse out cold. She helps Rictor up.] Malicia: "Let's go, Commander Lasanti." [She helps him walk out of the room, and the cutscene ends. The last stop in Ostorea Castle -- the Crypt -- finally opens up.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Crypt | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 4.2 / \_______/ [Alphonse and Ivanna descend a spiral, stone staircase down to a door with a massive seal on it. The place looks like it hasn't been seen in fifteen years and, in fact, it hasn't.] Alphonse: "Is Rictor in there? Ivanna, what is this place?" Ivanna: "It's a crypt or members of the Batraal Family. Our ancestors are sleeping here. However, Uncle Naris ordered this place sealed after my father died. That was...my sister, Malicia." Alphonse: "That girl!? I thought I noticed a resemblance..." Ivanna: "But, it's impossible. My sister...Malicia...passed away 7 years ago...I didn't believe my eyes at first. But, I know that couldn't have been her." Alphonse: "This is where the Sacred Spear is hidden? Let's hurry. I'm worried about Rictor." [The two enter the crypt. Rictor and Malicia are already there.] Malicia: "That's right, Commander Lasanti. That summer we were..." Rictor: "...That summer, a black fragment...on the beach...with you..." Malicia: "Commander...Please remember. Please think back to the surroundings...Everything you saw back then..." Rictor: "...In the castle...I dropped...it..." [The "Malicia" starts to gather blue flame around her frame, and she suddenly looks rather demonic.] Malicia: "It was you...All this time, I was searching for it... HUMAN...THE SACRED SPEAR IS MINE. RETURN IT TO ME AT ONCE." [Alphonse runs down the steps and finds the sight happening.] Alphonse: "Who are you?!" [Malicia doesn't answer, but sheds her physical body and turns into a wispy flame, which dives into Rictor's body, much to his torment.] Rictor: "Aaaahhh!!!" [Rictor falls on his face and doesn't move.] Alphonse: "Rictor! Are you alright!? [Lasanti arises, but glows with evil intentions.] Demonic Voice: "I AM SHAHER. I DWELL IN THE DARKNESS OF THE HEART, PROJECTING ILLUSIONS FROM WITHIN. LONG HAVE I WAITED IN THAT GIRL'S BODY. I HAVE BEEN SEARCHING... FOR THE BLACK FRAGMENT OF THE LONGICOLNIS, WHICH HAS BROKEN AWAY FROM MY BODY." Alphonse: "Part of your body...?" Demonic Voice: "WITH THE BLACK SPEAR, I WILL BE RESURRECTED. HUMANS, I SHALL MAKE A TOAST WITH YOUR BLOOD. [A demonic portal summons two Angel Knights, and an assortment of other enemies rush in to the "new" Rictor's aid. Alphonse sets his troops up.] Alphonse: "What can I do...? ...Rictor!!!" [After Rictor's team's first turn:] Alphonse: "What have you done to Rictor?!" Demonic Voice: "I HAVE RELEASED THE PAIN IN HIS HEART...THE PAIN OF JEALOUSY. WHILE YOUR HEART HAS BEEN UNCONSTRAINED, HIS HAS BEEN BURDENED BY THE OBLIGATIONS OF STATUS." Alphonse: "Nonsense! Rictor......jealous of me?" Demonic Voice: "PATHETIC HUMANS...SO MUCH DIFFICULTY EXPRESSING YOUR FEELINGS." [When Ivanna tries to attack Rictor directly:] Ivanna: "Who are you? Why have you disguised yourself as my sister?!" Demonic Voice: "SHE LONGED TO LIVE LIKE HER SISTER, FREE TO CHOOSE THE LIFE THAT SHE DESIRED. HER JEALOUSY HAS BEEN MY SUSTENANCE. THE HEART OF A GIRL WHO WAS SUFFERING FROM ILLNESS, AFRAID OF DEATH, CALLED OUT TO ME. AND SHE WISHED TO BECOME ONE." Ivanna: "Enough! You are just trying to confuse us. She died due to illness. That is the fate God gave her. And because I love her, I'll never forgive you for using Malicia's image for your own foul deeds!!!" [The party defeats the possessed Rictor with a bit of effort. Afterwards, Rictor kneels on the floor as the aura of the demon whip-cracks around him. It's angry, apparently.] Demonic Voice: "THIS HEART DENIES ME...? SUBMIT TO ME!!! RETURN WHAT IS RIGHTFULLY MINE!" [The aura disappears and Rictor opens his eyes. It's the real Rictor this time.] Rictor: "I won't let you...control my body..." Alphonse: "Rictor!!!" [Rictor falls over, though, and the spirit rises up from his body.] Demonic Voice: "SUCH FOOLISHNESS...WORTHLESS HUMAN, IF YOU HAD ONLY ACCEPTED ME, YOU WOULD HAVE GAINED IMMORTALITY AND UNIMAGINABLE POWER...AN END TO SUFFERING...I AM NOT BOUND BY THE LAWS OF THIS WORLD. TRY AS YOU MIGHT, YOU CANNOT EVEN SCRATCH ME." Alphonse: "Who are you?" Demonic Voice: "LET US SAY THAT I AM NOT FAR FROM GOD. SON OF MAN, I HAVE A TASK FOR YOU. MY BODY IS STILL BOUND BY AN ANCIENT SEAL. TAKE THE BLACK FRAGMENT TO THE NORTH AND BREAK THE SEAL THAT BARS MY ACCESS TO THIS WORLD." Alphonse: "Are you mad? Do you think I'd ever do that for you?" Demonic Voice: "WHY NOT? I KNOW THE TRUTH...I CAN FEEL YOUR YEARNING FOR POWER. I CAN GRANT WHAT YOU DESIRE. MOST MEN DIE WITHOUT SEEING THEIR DREAMS REALIZED. ...IS THERE A REASON TO DENY YOUR FATE? YOU SHALL BE FREED FROM THAT PRISON YOU CALL A BODY. WHATEVER YOU DESIRE SHALL BE YOURS, AND WHAT IS LOST SHALL BE REGAINED. YOU ARE THE CHOSEN ONE!" Alphonse: "I...want nothing given by you. If there's something I want, I'll find it on my own. Now leave my presence, foul demon!!!" [Suddenly, Cirvante and Naris warp into the room.] Naris: "I will accept this mission. ...So this is the fragment of Longicolnis. I never imagined it would be here." Ivanna: "Uncle Naris!!!" Alphonse: "He's Lord Naris Batraal?" Naris: "Welcome to my castle. Ivanna, welcome home...But how could you be a part of such foolishness in this castle?" Demonic Voice: "WHEN THE TIME COMES, I SHALL WELCOME INTO MY FAMILY THE ONE WHO DOES AS I ASK. AND ALL WILL BE CONSUMED IN DARKNESS." [The spirit dissipates.] Naris: "Have faith in me. I won't disappoint you." [Naris takes the fragment off of Rictor's unconscious body.] Cirvante: "If I may, Lord Naris, allow me to..." [Naris nods and Cirvante warps both out of the room.] Alphonse: "Rictor!" Rictor: "I knew you'd become stronger..." Alphonse: "Don't force yourself..." Rictor: "Listen, Alphonse. One summer, 15 years ago, I came to Rananculus with my father. I used to play with a girl named Malicia, the daughter of the lord who lived in this castle. One day, we found a black fragment in the sand inside a small shrine on the beach. I kept the shiny piece as my treasure. But, a few days later, I dropped it in the castle. I watched it disappear into the darkness below, but because she said it fell into a crypt, I was too afraid to go after it. The summer ended and I returned to Felis with my father. Soon, I had forgotten about it entirely..." Alphonse: "What's so important about this black fragment?" Rictor: "It's a piece of the Sacred Spear, Longicolnis. When Shaher possessed my body, I learned of his purpose. He has only hatred in his heart, enmity towards humans, and he wants to return to this world. But, his body is still resting deep inside a wall of ice. The Sacred Spear is the key. Please, find his resting place and kill this evil demon before he is resurrected." Alphonse: "Alright. Leave it to me. Don't speak...Save your strength." Rictor: "Alphonse...I wanted to live like you...freely...as friends." [Rictor dies and the second chapter comes to a close. Now, let's head back to the beginning of the chapter and run through as Path B unfolds.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Formido | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 4.3 / \_______/ [The exact same as Path A -- Formido.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Vespa Revisited | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 4.4 / \_______/ [The exact same as Path A -- Vespa Revisited.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Belleza | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 4.5 / \_______/ [The exact same as Path A -- Belleza.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Gryllus | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 4.6 / \_______/ [The exact same as Path A -- Gryllus, except for Alphonse's saying at the end:] Alphonse: "The forest of the dead...Dawn is still a long way off." /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Blete | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 4.7 / \_______/ [Same as Path A -- Blete.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Naja | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 4.8 / \_______/ [Same as Path A -- Raja.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Sotavento | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 4.9 / \_______/ [Same as Path A -- Sotavento.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Haena | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 5.0 / \_______/ [Under the cover of nightfall, Alphonse passes through Haena country and quickly meets up a patrol squad led by a massive Duke Knight. He yells out to Alphonse from atop a plateau.] Khodar: "This is the territory of Rananculus, governed by Lord Batraal. No soldiers may enter without known purpose and consent. Please leave." Alphonse: "Your lord is plotting with Rictor Lasanti to obtain the Sacred Spear, a spear which possesses the power of God. I can't disregard such a threat to Lodis." Khodar: "So, you're saying that you won't withdraw? Then, you leave me no choice. I'm Khodar, knight of Rananculus. Your progress stops here. I stake my honor on it." [Alphonse beckons his own party onto the field.] Khodar: "Once my sword has been drawn, it shall not be sheathed. Let's fight!!!" [Soon, Khodar's fight is over.] Khodar: "Well done...This contest, I have lost..." [Later on, the party's made camp in the falling snow. Cybil walks into camp and finds Alphonse standing outside, staring into the fire.] Cybil: "Will you go after Rictor right away?" Alphonse: "Yes. I intend to. But, Cybil...Is there something bothering you?" Cybil: "......I've been thinking. Alphonse, please continue without me." Alphonse: "Why now, all of a sudden, when we're so close to our destination? Listen. If Rictor knows about the spear, then why would he think that it's in our possession...? It doesn't make sense. Besides, I don't think that he's merely acting as his father ordered. He must have another reason. I want to know what he's really thinking, and I bet we'll be able to find out where the spear is, too." Cybil: "Of course, I have no intention of abandoning my mission. I leave it in your hands. Understand?" Alphonse: "I've been wondering...I know you're loyal to the Church of Lodis, but that's not your only reason for being here, is it? ...You know the island so well. Are you from here?" Cybil: "I'm not trying to hide anything. You're right. I lost my hometown during the Reformation. I was driven from my home, and my parents were burned to death right before my eyes. I lost everything but my life. Don't take it the wrong way. I haven't felt nostalgic for a long time. But, there is one matter I want to look into while I'm on this island." Alphonse: "If there's something on your mind, then by all means go...But Cybil, be careful." Cybil: "Don't worry. I won't be gone long." [Cybil leaves and the world map opens up, with Ostorea Castle as the next in line.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Ostorea | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 5.1 / \_______/ [Same as Path A -- Ostorea.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Ostorea West | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 5.2 / \_______/ [Same as Path A -- Ostorea West.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Ostorea South | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 5.3 / \_______/ [Same as Path A -- Ostorea South.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Throne Room | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 5.4 / \_______/ [Same as Path A -- Throne Room.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Crypt | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 5.5 / \_______/ [Ivanna and Alphonse arrive at the sealed door to the Batraal Family crypt, all the way down in the bowels of the castle.] Alphonse: "Is Rictor in there? Ivanna, what is this place?" Ivanna: "It's a crypt for members of the Batraal Family. Our ancestors are sleeping here. However, Uncle Naris ordered this place sealed after my father died. That was...my sister, Malicia." Alphonse: "That girl!? I thought I noticed a resemblance..." Ivanna: "But, it's impossible. My sister...Malicia...passed away 7 years ago...I didn't believe my eyes at first. But, that couldn't have been her." Alphonse: "This is where the Sacred Spear is hidden? Let's hurry. I'm worried about Rictor." [The party enters, and Rictor and "Malicia" are already there.] Malicia: "That's right, Commander Lasanti. That summer we were..." Rictor: "...That summer, a black fragment...on the beach...with you..." Malicia: "Commander...Please remember. Please think back to the surroundings...Everything you saw back then..." Rictor: "...In the castle...I dropped...it..." [Malicia glows with wispy black flames around her.] Malicia: "It was you...All this time, I was searching for it... HUMAN...THE SACRED SPEAR IS MINE. RETURN IT TO ME AT ONCE." ["Malicia" floats into the air, turning into a black ball of fire. It immediately jumps at Rictor and starts to take possession of him.] Rictor: "N...No...Stay away...!!!" [The black ball of fire comes out.] Rictor: "I had heard about Malicia's death, but thinking about it was too difficult. There's one thing I know for certain...You are not her!" Demonic Voice: "DO YOU DENY ME? SO BE IT. IF THAT IS THE CASE..." [The demonic flames disappear, but the trouble's not over yet. Rictor turns around to see Naris and two Duke Knights standing near him.] Naris: "That's it. Give me the black fragment." [He walks over to the weakened Rictor and steals the fragment. A beam of light shines out of it as he holds it high.] Naris: "It's exactly as Cirvante said. The fragment will serve as my guide..." Rictor: "Lord Batraal...You've known...all along..." Naris: "I don't know what you are talking about." [Alphonse runs into the room.] Alphonse: "You're Naris Batraal?!" Rictor: "Alphonse...Don't give it to him..." Alphonse: "I'll deal with him, so hide somewhere safe!" [Rictor nods and uses a Transferring Stone to escape.] Naris: "Kid, do you dare stand in my way? I have an important mission...to return this piece of the spear to its original owner. But, you came all this way. It would be a shame for you to die without witnessing its power." [Naris walks over to a Duke Knight and pulls out his Bloody Cleaver weapon.] Guard: "L...Lord Naris!!! What are you doing...Aghhh!!!" [Naris swings his cleaver and kills the Duke Knight with little effort. The soul leaves its body and the body disappears.] Naris: "Hahahaha!!! I can feel it. The power...!!!" Alphonse: "What is that?!" Naris: "This? It's the missing piece...A fragment from the Sacred Spear, Longicolnis. A while back, a pair of wizards, twins, came to me and told me that a person of great significance is sleeping in the northern mountains. His name is Shaher. He is an archangel, a disciple of God who fought for humans during the Ogre Battle. By resurrecting him, I'll be granted immeasurable power!" [A bunch of knights run into the room and stand on Naris' side. Alphonse willingly takes out his own squad.] Alphonse: "Naris, I'll destroy your evil dream!" [After Naris' first turn, Alphonse calls out.] Alphonse: "...Why do you seek power?" Naris: "Isn't it obvious, kid? Power is everything in this world. Negotiation, treaties...Those are the tools of the powerless. Just look at my brother, William. Because of his incompetance, he was afraid to fight and gave in to Lodis." Alphonse: "But, as a result, he saved many people's lives. Could you have guaranteed victory if you'd fought? Power is not a toy!" Naris: "Silence! Lodisians like you would never understand! What remains for the powerless? Look at the people on this island. They have no honor...They have lost their former pride. Soon, it will all be mine. No one can stop me!!!" [If Ivanna attacks Naris directly, or vice versa, a conversation will start:] Ivanna: "Uncle Naris. Tell me truthfully...Did you kill my father?" Naris: "Oh, Ivanna. It's so nice to have you home. Your father... my brother...was an ordinary man. But, because he was born before me, he became Duke of this region. ...Doesn't that seem a bit unfair to you?" Ivanna: "He was a kind man. Surely you received his love, too!" Naris: "Compassion alone is not enough, especially when you're a leader. Lodis demanded that we renounce our faith, pay them taxes, and send our youngest sister to them to guarantee our cooperation. That coward did not put up a fight or even attempt to negotiate. He was a fool. That's why I killed him. We couldn't afford to lose everything because of his incompetence." [Soon, the party's defeated Naris' goons and the Lord Batraal himself.] Naris: "The black fragment is a piece from the Sacred Spear... It wants to be returned to its true owner." [The fragment removes itself from Naris' hold and reappears in Alphonse's.] Naris: "...I see...It looks like you are being called by the archangel. He told me that he'll welcome to his family the one who finds the spear and breaks the seal." Alphonse: "I don't understand. What do you hope to gain from that power? Why do you need to feel superior to your brother?" Naris: "This is an irrational world we live in. My inept brother inherited the title of Duke, even though he had no talent for ruling. The strong exploit the weak, the wealthy exploit the poor. Most of them will never know what it is like to be in the others' shoes. But, by rising above my human limitations...anything would be possible. I want people to admit what the logic of this world doesn't...... That's all. Ahh...Am I dying...here? Kid, the forbidden power...To receive it, you must be committed...You will sacrifice much in exchange for that power." [Naris falls over, dead.] Alphonse: "Ivanna...have we done the right thing?" [The second chapter comes to an end.] @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ [IF YOU'RE ON PATH A, THE NARRATIVE WILL BE:] Alphonse and his troops, after following Rictor Lasanti to Rananculus, were eventually able to force the surrender of Ostorea Castle. In Ostorea Castle, there were startling events. The rumors regarding the murder of Lord William, and of Lady Malicia being possessed, cause a state of panic. However, the superstitious people of Rananculus gave a warm reception to Alphonse and his comrades for exorcising the evil spirit from the castle. Ivanna Batraal, the oldest daughter of the former lord, William, helped to calm the people's fears. Alphonse and his comrades, stationed at Ostorea Castle, were searching for Naris and researching the history of the island, the Batraals, and the spear. Alphonse was deeply upset over the loss of his friend, Rictor, despite their falling out. However, if Rictor's father, the Duke, learned of Rictor's death, he would surely take some kind of action. Alphonse was running out of time. Meanwhile, a new year had begun. One winter day, under a rare blue sky, Alphonse tracked down the whereabouts of Lord Naris and prepared to chase after him. Naris, on the run with the spear fragment...The peculiar twins helping him...The sacred Spear, Longicolnis, that has lost its power... The enigmatic being that possessed Malicia...Alphonse headed for the snow-capped mountains of the North to solve these mysteries. No one knows what awaits him there... [IF YOU'RE ON PATH B, THE NARRATIVE WILL BE:] Alphonse and his troops, after following Rictor Lasanti to Rananculus, were eventually able to force the surrender of Ostorea Castle after defeating Naris Batraal. In Ostorea Castle, there were some startling events. The truth was revealed about the death of Lord William, and the evil spirit that possessed Lady Malicia. However, the superstitious people of Rananculus gave a warm reception to Alphonse and his comrades for exorcising the evil spirit from the castle. Ivanna Batraal, the oldest daughter of the former lord, William, helped to calm the people's fears. Alphonse's troops, stationed at Ostorea Castle, were researching the history of the island, the Batraal Family, and the spear. The beam emitted from the spear fragment always pointed in one direction, toward the Vultar and Turgus Mountains. Strangely, evil creatures and even angels began to show their presence in that vicinity. Something was about to happen...Everyone sensed it. Meanwhile, a new year had begun. Under a rare blue sky, Alphonse and his troops prepared for an expedition to the northern mountains. Naris Batraal, who claimed to have been chosen by the archangel...The peculiar twins who were helping him...The spear, Longicolnis, which lost its power...The enigmatic being that possessed Malicia...Alphonse headed for the snow-capped mountains of the North to solve these mysteries...in the direction that the spear fragment pointed... @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Ostorea Castle | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 5.6 / \_______/ [Alphonse, Ivanna, a wizard, and a soldier sit around a table in the regal manner of Lord Naris.] Alphonse: "Ivanna, please tell us what you know." Ivanna: "My father died 15 years ago...at the end of the year when Lodis' troops landed on this island. At that time my grandmother was looking after me, but I returned to the castle after hearing news of my father's death. Because my mother didn't know much about politics, and because my sister and I were still young, she didn't have any objections to my uncle becoming Lord. So, we left the castle and moved to a villa in the country." Alphonse: "I thought you said that...your sister passed away." Ivanna: "That's right. When she was 13, she died from a sickness. Just like my father, she was always in poor health. Doctors told us not to expect her to live a very long life. Before becoming Lord, Uncle Naris seemed so strong and intelligent. As it turned out, he was only seeking power. While I was serving as a knight for the castle, he asked me on more than one occasion if I knew of something that had been handed down in the family." Alphonse: "...He must have been referring to the spear." Ivanna: "When I think about it now, you're probably right. At about the same time, rumors began to circulate. People were saying that my father had been murdered. I had my own suspicions, and so I left the troops of Rananculus. I've already told you what happened after that." Alphonse: "Do you know anything about those two spellcasters?" Ivanna: "No, but my uncle must have had some reason for giving them such important positions." Alphonse: "There are still many things to be done. Now that we've gained control of this castle, what will you do?" Ivanna: "If my uncle really has pledged himself to darkness, then I must go after him and try to stop him." Alphonse: "I understand. I'd like you to stay and listen to the report.] [He turns to the wizard at the table.] Alphonse: "Your report, please..." Scholar: "Yes sir. After reseraching in the castle library, we were able to find several documents that caught our attention, as well as a geneology of the Batraals. We learned that there was a family member named Lucius who had a child with a woman named Celena." Alphonse: "Lucius...He's the one that Berevra fell in love with. Then, what Rictor said must be true." Scholar: "...Later, his son became Lord and recorded some interesting information. He wrote that the sacred weapon lent to the mermaids by God was a beautiful black spear. However, its whereabouts were unknown." [The soldier speaks up.] Subordinate: "A knight who remained in this castle shared some folklore of the region. According to legend, this island was made by God to serve as a prison." Alphonse: "...Prison? But why?" Subordinate: "He spoke of a sinful angel, sleeping in a mountain range on the northern part of the island." Scholar: "The mountains are where God reaches down to our world... the border between heaven and earth. This island is home to such a mystic place." Alphonse: "Anyway, first we must head for the snow-covered fields of the North." [A time later, Eleanor and Alphonse converse on the gate where they fought Nichart.] Alphonse: "The legendary archangel...Why did he betray God?" Eleanor: "Maybe it was too much for him...He could have been the closest to God......the brightest existence." Alphonse: "Angels...those from heaven, sent to earth by God's will to mediate between God and humans. They are said to have fought alongside humans during the legendary Ogre Battle." Eleanor: "Where did you hear that?" Alphonse: "...During my training as an officer. We were taught that angels are messengers who convey God's word. But, why would an angel be imprisoned on this island?" Familiar Voice: "Because he disobeyed God's orders." [Alphonse looks to the nearby door and sees Cybil.] Alphonse: "Cybil...! You're back!" Cybil: "Angels must obey God's orders. To do otherwise is considered a sin. The punishment received for such an offence is to fall from heaven. ...The descent to earth...means the loss of both power and beauty. It must be the most shameful punishment the residents of heaven can receive." Eleanor: "God loved people and ordered the angels to fight for them. But, one angel did not want to." Alphonse: "Eleanor...?" Eleanor: "The angel loved God, and he wanted God to love him as much as he loved humans. Out of envy, he started a rebellion to draw God's attention. But because of it, he was cast out of heaven. This was a story well known by any child before the Reformation." Alphonse: "He...envied us?" Cybil: "That's right. His jealousy turned his heart black. God sealed him in the land of eternal ice, without means of escape, and sentenced him to an eternity of repentance." Alphonse: "...The same as him...Remember, the one who took control of Rictor? He said that he thrived on envy. Lord Batraal was jealous of his brother. Rictor envied...me...and I..." Eleanor: "Why do people envy others?" Alphonse: "Comparing ourselves to others is the only way to measure our existence." Cybil: "I learned that the word Longicolnis originally meant 'long horn'...A black horn is more fitting than a beautiful halo for a fallen angel. You're heading to the mountains in the North, aren't you? I'm glad I made it back in time. I'd like to go with you from now on." Alphonse: A: "I'd hoped you'd return." B: "I can't lead you." Alphonse (A): "I was hoping you'd return. Please join us." Cybil: "I'm sorry it took so long." Alphonse: "That's OK. I trusted you'd come back." Cybil: "Eleanor, you don't know anything about your birth?" Eleanor: "......" Alphonse: "The furthest back that she can remember is when she lived in Sotavento. Even Berevra is barely a memory for her. Why are you asking about this all of a sudden, Cybil? Is something wrong?" Cybil: "...It's nothing. I'm sorry that I asked such a silly question." Alphonse (B): "I can't be your leader. Please let your conscience be your guide, as before." Cybil: "You're alright with that?" Alphonse: "Yes." [Option A lets Cybil into your party; Option B refuses her entrance. At this point, the map dots of Harmonia and Rebanada open up, as well as Sufrir, the spot between Solea and Arena.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Rebanada | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 5.7 / \_______/ [In northern Rananculus, the party journeys to Rebanada, an underground dwelling. Elrik accompanies Alphonse into the dank place.] Alphonse: "At first, I thought it was a natural cave, but apparently it's not." Elrik: "Do you remember that deserted town we passed on the way here? There was a man that lived there who lost his sister to a rare illness." Alphonse: "I remember that town...But, why are you telling me this?" Elrik: "That man cursed God for not showing mercy and blamed himself for not being able to cure his sister. At first, the villagers felt sorry for him, but eventually they became frightened. He had forsaken his work and shut himself in his home, still cursing God. ...Finally, one day he went insane. He ran screaming from his house and began killing villagers like a bloodthirsty demon. However, a priest who happened to be passing by was able to seal the man in this cave." Alphonse: "Are you trying to scare me? Even if the story is true, he must have died inside." Elrik: "...This smell...I don't like it..." Alphonse: "!? Watch out! ...Something's there!!!" [A ways away, a grotesque, fat creature yells out.] Abomination: "Grrrr......" [Alphonse quickly brings out his troops.] Alphonse: "W...What is that...?!" [After the demon (Rimmon) has his turn:] Alphonse: "No way...Is that what they were talking about?" Rimmon: "Ahh..ahhhh...ugghhh." Alphonse: "In any case, we have to get out of here..." [Despite Rimmon's amazing defense (700+), he can't get by the man who's managed to progress so far.] Rimmon: "Ahh..ahhhh...ugghhh......Aahgg!!! My...my precious..." [Rimmon dies.] Alphonse: "It sounded like it was trying to speak...Maybe it was human after all...? A man who sold his soul to the devil...I doubt he'll reveal himself again." /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Harmonia | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 5.8 / \_______/ [Cirvante and Lethe are waiting with their own demonic crew when Alphonse comes walking through the snowy plains.] Lethe: "Here he comes, Cirvante." Cirvante: "Indeed he does." Alphonse: "You two...!?" Lethe: "Good to see you again, Alphonse." Alphonse: "Those creatures...They're...daemons!?" Cirvante: "You've never seen a real one before? Then, this must be your first time fighting one. I can't let you interfere with the resurrection of Lord Shaher. I'm sorry, but this is where you die." [Cirvante summons two more Gorgons into battle and Alphonse sets up his troops to do battle.] Lethe: "Come on, Alphonse. Let me show you the power of darkness." [Depending on which of the wizards you slay (HP --> 0) first, they'll say different things. If you slay Cirvante first:] Cirvante: "Heheh...It seems I've overexerted myself. I'll be leaving now, Lethe. Don't worry, I'll be back." [Cirvante turns into a dark angel (!?) and flies away.] Lethe: "I guess you humans aren't that helpless after all." [After Lethe is downed:] Lethe: "Oops. I guess this was a little too much for me." [If you slay Lethe first, she'll say:] Lethe: "Oops. I guess this was a little too much for me. I'm sorry, Cirvante. Please take care of the rest, OK?" [She flies away.] Cirvante: "Hmph...Insolent humans!" [After Cirvante's downed:] Cirvante: "Heheh...It seems I've overexerted myself." [After the second wizard is defeated, s/he will call back from somewhere. If you defeat Lethe last, Cirvante's voice calls from somewhere:] Cirvante: "It's almost time...Let's go, Lethe. Lord Shaher is calling." Lethe: "See you, Alphonse. We'll be waiting for you." [If you defeat Cirvante last, Lethe's voice will call from somewhere:] Lethe: "It's almost time...Let's get back to Lord Shaher, Cirvante." Cirvante: "Good-bye, Alphonse. This fight is far from over, though." [The remaining wizard flees. On the world map, the western road to Charadrius appears.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Charadrius | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 5.9 / \_______/ [As the scene turns to the new area, Naris and two Duke Knights are walking through the icy region, using the fragment's light as their guide.] Naris: "So this is where the light has guided me..." Guard: "Lord Batraal, what's in this frozen lake?" Naris: "...That's right. I haven't told you, have I? You've come this far, so I'll let you in on the secret. This is where the fallen angel sleeps." Guard: "Fallen angel!? Surely you jest!" Naris: "Well, he hasn't fallen completely...Do you remember those spellcasters?" Guard: "You mean the twins?" Naris: "Yes. They are not really human, nor are they from this world. One day they came to me and told me that a being of great power is sleeping in the northern mountains. It is an angel whose body has been stained black with sin, an angel that fell from heaven and was sealed here by God. His name is Shaher, the archangel who fought for humans during the Ogre Battle." Guard: "Ogre Battle...? On this mountain..." Naris: "I didn't believe it at first. But, look at this...This black fragment is a piece of the Sacred Spear. It is calling out to its rightful owner." [Naris jogs over to the large ice wall.] Naris: "Awaken, Ancient One! I am the one who has responded to your plea. Reveal your true form to me!" [Alphonse crashes the scene.] Alphonse: "This is as far as you'll get, Naris Batraal." Naris: "Why are you here, boy? Do you think you can stop me?" Alphonse: "I will do so for certain. What were you thinking, trying to break God's seal?" Naris: "You're so naive. You don't understand at all. The strong exploit the weak, the wealthy exploit the poor. Most of them will never know what it is like to be in the others' shoes. But, by rising above my human limitations...anything would be possible. I'll fulfill his wish and gain immeasurable power...because I'm the chosen one!" Alphonse: "Immeasurable power...? Don't be so arrogant!" Naris: "Is that all you can say? Look! The piece has already started to react. There's no stopping it now." [Part of the ice wall breaks and frozen steps lead onward. The blue lake glows with tinges of pale red-orange.] Naris: "Hahahaha!! I can feel it. The power...!!" [He takes out a large axe and looks at one of the guards.] Guard: "L...Lord Naris!! What are you doing...Aghhh!!!" [He swings the axe and the guard's soul leaves his body, and he disappears.] Alphonse: "Naris! You monster!!!" Naris: "Silence! Don't be hasty! You're next. [A couple moments later, Alphonse has chased Naris to the edge of the lake. Naris has more troops this time.] Naris: "Hahahaha...Finally, finally my wish will be granted. I'll fulfill my promise to the archangel and join him at his side." [Alphonse produces his own soldiers.] Naris: "Tremble before me! I shall cast you into an abyss of fear and despair!" [After Naris' first turn:] Alphonse: "Why do you seek such power?" Naris: "Is it not obvious? Power is everything in this world. Negotiations, treaties...Those are tools of the powerless. Just lok at my brother, William. Because of his incompetance, he was afraid to fight and gave in to Lodis." Alphonse: "But, as a result, he saved many people's lives. Could you have guaranteed victory if you'd chosen to fight? Power is not a toy!" Naris: "Silence! Lodisians like you would never understand! What remains for the powerless? Look at the people on this island. They have no honor...They have lost their former pride. Soon, it will all be mine. No one can stop me!!!" [The battle continues on. If the player has Ivanna physically target Naris, the following will be said:] Ivanna: "Uncle Naris. Tell me truthfully...Did you kill my father?" Naris: "Oh, Ivanna. It's so nice to see you again. Your father, my brother, was an ordinary man. But, because he was born before me, he became Duke of this region. ...Doesn't that seem a bit unfair to you?" Ivanna: "He was a kind man. Surely you felt his love, too!" Naris: "Compassion alone is not enough, especially when you're a leader. Lodis demanded that we renounce our faith, pay them taxes, and send our youngest sister to them to guarantee our cooperation. That coward did not even put up a fight or even attempt to negotiate. He was a fool. That's why I killed him. We couldn't afford to lose everything because of his incompetence." [Eventually, the party brings Naris to his knees.] Naris: "Is this where it will end? I've not yet achieved anything..." [Naris dies.] Alphonse: "A fitting end for a man consumed by his ambition." [Daybreak comes.] Alphonse: "Ivanna...have we done the right thing?" [A little while later, the party stands at the opened entrance in the ice wall. The spear fragment glimmers, floats in the air for a moment and transforms...into the entire thing! The Longicolnis floats back into Alphonse's hands.] Alphonse: "I can feel its power...I want you all to be prepared for what is to come. It will probably be more than you can fathom. There's no way of knowing what dangers we may face, and I can't guarantee that we'll return alive. But...I can sense it. There's someone waiting for us...He and the Sacred Spear are calling for each other. Let's go, everyone!" /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Angel's Headstone | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 6.0 / \_______/ [Alphonse walks near a bridge with inlaid stone and rather uncharacteristic of a sealed place. Cybil follows him.] Alphonse: "I had no idea there was a place like this deep within the ice." Cybil: "These ancient ruins...were created by God for confinement. Alphonse, we can't turn back from here. Are you ready?" Alphonse: "Yes, let's get moving. The spear has been reacting to this place." Cybil: "I'm sure the time will come for its need." [The player is returned to the world map and asked if they want to continue since saving is not possible inside (and you know there's going to be a series of battles). Pick Yes, naturally, to enter; No, to remain outside of the destination. Inside, both Alphonse and Eleanor run across the bridge but stop when a specter of Rictor appears a ways away.] Rictor: "Alphonse...Help me...Why didn't you believe...me...?" Alphonse: "...Begone! I won't let you confuse me anymore!!! You are not Rictor. Why do you deceive me?" Eleanor: "Alphonse, what's wrong? There's no one there." Alphonse: "What are you saying, Eleanor?! Look! Right there..." [The specter disappears, and in its place, a Lich appears who uses its dark power to make the bridge crumble away, trapping the party inside.] Eleanor: "Look, Alphonse...The bridge..." Alphonse: "That means we no longer have the option to retreat. Well, that's alright with me." [The lich speaks.] Shaher: "In your eyes, I am what you wish to see. Welcome to my palace...I am Shaher, Lord of this realm." Alphonse: "Shaher...!? You're Shaher?" Eleanor: "Liar! The angel Shaher fell into a sleep before losing his beautiful appearance." Shaher: "You are very knowledgeable, lady. That's correct. This form is only temporary. I still require more strength to break free of the seal. Sorrow, jealousy...these dismal emotions give me strength. Go ahead! Fight with your comrade once more!" [Shaher changes into Rictor's form again, but Alphonse quickly slaps the image, and all that's left is Shaher's black robes.] Alphonse: "I won't be deceived by your illusions any longer!" [The robes crawl (!) up the wide stairs and stop near the other side of the screen. Shaher, unseen, speaks in a booming voice.] Shaher: "Hahaha...He is so lively. But, it will make no difference. Mycale, guide their souls into darkness!" [The robes come up and Mycale is in them this time, looking the lich before him. He quickly uses his demonic powers to summon more undead allies into battle.] Mycale: "I'll reward you for your bravery...with eternal agony..." [After hearing such a stupid line, Alphonse and company can't help but pound Mycale into the ground.] Mycale: "Lord Shaher..." [Mycale dies, the scene blacks out, and from somewhere in the darkness, someone says:] Narrative: "Lord God! Please tell me...Why do you love humans? ...Because they were made in your image...!?" [The screen lightens again to Alphonse leading Eleanor up the stairs. Eleanor trips and falls on her knees.] Eleanor: "Ahh..." Alphonse: "Eleanor, are you OK?" Eleanor: "Yes, I was just feeling dizzy. Did you hear that too, Alphonse?" Alphonse: "That voice...It echoed deep within my mind...Was that...the fallen angel...?" Eleanor: "...I believe so." [The party continues on and soon Cybil and Alphonse are talking near the face of the enormous structure.] Cybil: "We should split up from here. One group will head for the garden, and the other will take the central stairs that lead to the tower. Well, what do you think?" Alphonse: "The light from the Sacred Spear is pointing upward. The fallen angel must be sealed in the top of the tower." Cybil: "I'm afraid I have some bad news. White and black winged angels have been sighted up there. Fighting at such heights, they'll have the advantage. We'll have to make sure that we watch our footing." Alphonse: "Anyway, let's divide up the troops and head towards the top while investigating along the way. Let's be careful how we split our forces. We'll have one group wait here." Cybil: "You organize the troops. We'll leave as soon as you're done." [Cybil walks off and Eleanor comes over.] Eleanor: "Alphonse, it's so cold here...Please...don't leave me alone." Alphonse: "What's wrong? I'm always watching over you." Eleanor: "Alphonse, you're the leader here...I'm not afraid of fighting, but I am scared of not having you by my side. When you divide up the troops...please don't separate us. Alphonse...You heard his voice too, right? Maybe it wasn't a voice...It was more like a feeling...the feeling of being alone...like this cold air around me...Does that make any sense?" Alphonse: "Whatever it was, you don't need to worry. I'll be with you, and we'll leave here together." Eleanor: "......" [The path splits up from here to the Hall of Corruption and the Garden of Memories. Two parties will fight in both of them, meaning it'll be done simultaneously so no one character can double in each.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Hall of Corruption | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 6.1 / \_______/ [The party sets up and sees a demon and its party already waiting for them. The dark-colored demon speaks.] Rahouart: "Welcome to Lord Shaher's realm. We have been waiting for you. Your life will be sacrificed in his honor." [If Alphonse was already dispatched to Garden of Memories, the demon will say instead:] Rahouart: "Well...Lord Shaher will certainly be happy. The more offerings, the greater his power will grow." [If Lobelia is in your party during battle, Rahouart will say a line after his second (?) turn:] Rahouart: "Are you taking the humans' side, warrior of heaven? Why do you cooperate with them? You must sense it... The undeniable signs...The dark power...He is a supreme being, uniting light and shadow. Let us celebrate the birth of an omnipotent ruler!!!" Lobelia: "He's just a sinner who disobeyed God. I'll be his judge with my sword of light!!!" Rahouart: "Ha, ha, ha...with your strength? Tomboy, your recklessness will be your ruin. Soon you will realize the difference between us." [After awhile, the party just demolishes Rahouart.] Rahouart: "Lord Shaher...Accept my pain for your sustenance..." [Rahouart dies.] Alphonse: "The fallen angel will surely try to reclaim Longicolnis. When the time comes, we must be prepared to defeat him. We're almost there. Be careful!!!" [The door at the back room opens with the defeat of the demon and the party continues. The screen goes black and more narrative (like before) appears.] Narrative: "God, the love in my heart is true. Is that also a sin? /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Garden of Memories | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 6.2 / \_______/ [The party sets up immediately and an angel nearby yells out to them.] Judecca: "A son of man has wandered into a world which is outside of the circle of life. He won't be able to return anymore...Then, why does he struggle for his freedom? Why does he rebel...when only destruction lies ahead...?" [If Lobelia is present in battle, Judecca will address her on his second turn:] Judecca: "You'd best join us when we welcome Lord Shaher to this world." Lobelia: "God commanded us to love his children. You serve the wrong master. Shaher has fallen from heaven. Do you wish to fall as well?" Judecca: "He is not a fallen angel. Soon, he will achieve perfection. Lord Shaher has taught us true happiness and joy...God only restricts us. Falling from heaven is not a punishment. It is the severing of God's chain...liberation from his laws. Who decided that this was a sin?...God himself." Lobelia: "Our role is to maintain God's order, and you've abandoned that role. What can come of chaos? I'll defeat you before your wings become stained too!" [Eventually, Judecca gets smacked around enough and falls.] Judecca: "Even if this body ceased to exist, I still want to become one with Lord Shaher..." [If Alphonse is in the battle, he'll say:] Alphonse: "The fallen angel will surely try to reclaim Longicolnis. When the time comes, we must be prepared to defeat him. We're almost there. Be careful!!!" [After Judecca perishes, another narrative scene comes up.] Narrative: "My heart is thirsty, bu its thirst shall never be quenched. Why have you abandoned me? More than anyone, I followed in your divine footsteps. I yearned to be in your glorious presence." /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path A -- Hall of Conviction | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 6.3 / \_______/ [As Alphonse walks to open the door to the Hall, two dark-winged angels swoop down and land. They, of course, are Cirvante and Lethe's true forms.] Cirvante: "Well done. You certainly have lived up to Lord Shaher's expectations." Lethe: "I wonder...What makes him different from other humans?" Alphonse: "Black wings...You two aren't humans, after all...Why did you lead us here? What do you want from us?" Cirvante: "Heheheh. The truth lies just beyond this door. Come in. Lord Shaher is waiting for you." Alphonse: "Begone, servants of darkness!!!" Lethe: "Tee-hee." Cirvante: "Heheheh..." [The two fly off and the door bursts open. Alphonse enters and finds a large angel lounging at the back of the room...a one- -horned angel, that is.] Shaher: "I have been waiting for the fragment of this horn... Without it, I have remained imprisoned here. Now, return what is mine." Alphonse: "First, explain yourself. Why did you send your power to Lord Batraal and have him search for the spear, and why do you wish to be resurrected?" Shaher: "Even if I told you, human, you would never understand. I am Shaher. I have only contempt for heaven. All that is in my heart is hatred for God. Look at my wretched appearance...He sealed me in this land of eternal ice before my body turned black. I have waited for someone to respond to my voice. I have slowly restored my power by feeding on people's envy. And now, it is time for my resurrection." [Shaher uses his powers to summon enemies into the room. Then, Cirvante and Lethe fly in from the open door.] Cirvante: "There's no escaping, Alphonse." Lethe: "You will be an offering in honor of Lord Shaher's resurrection." [Alphonse prepares his troops.] Shaher: "This shall be the day of my resurrection! Vengeance shall be mine!!!" [On Shaher's second turn:] Shaher: "Son of man, do you not think there is something wrong with this world? Should not everyone be equal in God's eyes? Why do some people have power, while others have nothing? Human hearts are so easily swayed by emotion. Why are humans permitted to multiply, tainting the earth with their existence?" Alphonse: "Humans try to choose the right path, but they continue to make mistakes. Despite their failings, God forgives them. That's what I think." Shaher: "Yes, but because God forgave you, all of this happened. You, his imperfect creations, are granted forgiveness. He asked us, those closest to him, to serve you...He is too lenient on humans. Why does he choose to forgive them, rather than discipline them?" [If Eleanor's with, on Shaher's third (?) turn, he will address her:] Shaher: "You have been hurt before...Will you try to deny your feelings, or destroy your relationship by revealing them? Do you think this boy can melt your frozen heart? Do not expect that to happen. You will only get hurt again. Are you not afraid? If you trust him, he will betray you. He will not understand your feelings." Eleanor: "......" Shaher: "You cannot help but believe in him? Humans are such fools." [After Lethe's HP is depleted:] Lethe: "Are you going to kill me...? We could've had so much fun together..." [After Cirvante is downed for the last time:] Cirvante: "Well, this isn't so bad. I wish I could have seen the world he would have created, though..." [If Shiven attacks Shaher directly:] Shaher: "Why do you conceal your feelings? If it is what you desire, then take it. And, if you fail, then move on. Why do you still follow her?" Shiven: "Why do you need to invade my heart? This is the path I chose. The pain in my heart is proof that I'm alive." Shaher: "...If you will not reveal your feelings, then you shall carry them with you to your grave!" [If Lobelia attacks Shaher directly:] Lobelia: "You are an enemy of both humans and God. I can't ignore your existence. Are you ready, fallen one? I'll defeat you in the name of God!" Shaher: "You make me laugh. What do you think a lesser angel like yourself can do? [If Ivanna attacks Shaher directly:] Shaher: "Surely you are satisfied to have avenged your father's death. Is that not what you wanted? You have found justice, and justice is power. Now join me,and I shall make you even more powerful." Ivanna: "Enough. You are only disgracing yourself further." Shaher: "That look in your eyes...Are you humans trying to make me feel guilty? ...How amusing!" Ivanna: "You will persist in following the path of sin. Because you are not human, you don't have the bravery to admit your mistakes." [Finally, the party hacks at Shaher enough to make his HP go down to zero.] Shaher: "No! This cannot be the extent of my power! How can God love these worthless creatures who offer nothing in return?" Alphonse: "Humans may be powerless in your eyes, but there is no way that we can stand by and let you do as you wish with our world." Shaher: "Then allow me to introduce you to my world...Angels fall from heaven the moment they question their existence. They are the disciples of God. They devote their lives to God and those he loves. Is it so terrible to doubt? ...to desire God's love?" Alphonse: "If God forgives you, then the standard for righteousness will be meaningless. God rules this world according to his laws. Order exists at the expense of sympathy. You will not be pardoned." Shaher: "Insolent humans...Just try to stop me!!! Creatures of darkness, come forth and join me! Lord of Bane, welcome me into the darkness." [Shaher floats up and the room starts to fade apart. The party members float up, one by one, and disappear. The final battle is about to begin and only surviving characters can participate in it. After the party equipment's been changed (or not), the party appears in a battlefield unlike any other -- a plain, perfect square with no elevation...but...at the other end...] Alphonse: "What is this place...?" [At the other corner, Shaher's angelic form grows and mutates into an ugly, large, and grotesque monster that lands at the opposite corner. It has a large wing for its left hand and a head that not even a mother could love.] Sacred Demon, Shaher: "You see...I finally free myself from his grasp, and now I will assume my role as Dark Lord." Alphonse: "His fall is now complete..." Sacred Demon, Shaher: "It is impossible for humans to understand God. Like birds in a cage who know nothing of the outside world, God's creations will never comprehend him. How pathetic! Humans are merely pawns in the war between good and evil." [Shaher clutches his wrist and spills blood on the battlefield. A circle resonates in the center and dark soldiers rise up from nowhere.] Alphonse: "Shaher...This will be the last battle. I won't lose!" [Shaher can't be damaged by normal attacks, but one slap from the Longicolnis leaves him wide open.] Sacred Demon, Shaher: "What...!? My barrier...!" Alphonse: "Even your barrier cannot withstand the power of Longicolnis, the Sacred Spear. Not only will the spear make you whole again, but it will also be a tool for your destruction." Sacred Demon, Shaher: "You think you can defeat me with the Sacred Spear? Enough of your arrogance! You have yet to experience true fear." [The next turn:] Alphonse: "The barrier has been broken! This could be our only chance!" [After racking up the damage over several turns, the party defeats the large incarnation of Shaher. He withers a bit, turns color, and after a flash of light, the old Shaher is lying on the floor. Whichever ending you've gotten at this time will then play. See the Endings section or the specifics.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Ostorea Castle | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 6.4 / \_______/ [After defeating Naris, the party starts off the new chapter in Ostorea Castle, the new base. Alphonse, Ivanna, a wizard, and a soldier sit at a table discussing their next plan of action.] Alphonse: "How is Rictor doing?" Subordinate: "Fortunately, he managed to escape death. But, he's undergone tremendous mental strain. His memory has been restored through hallucinations and mental control. He'll need to rest for a while. If his mind is disturbed before he recovers completely, it may destroy him." Alphonse: "I guess a being so close to God would have no problem manipulating the human heart. Thank you. Please watch over him...He's a dear friend of mine. Ivanna, please tell us what you know." Ivanna: "My father died 15 years ago...at the end of the year when Lodis' troops landed on this island. At that time my grandmother was looking after me, but I returned to the castle after hearing news of my father's death. Because my mother didn't know much about politics, and becaue my sister and I were still young, she didn't have any objections to my uncle becoming Lord. So, we left the castle and moved to a villa in the country." Alphonse: "I thought you said that...your sister passed away." Ivanna: "That's right. When she was 13, she died from a sickness. Just like my father, she was always in poor health. Doctors told us not to expect her to live a very long life. Before becoming Lord, Uncle Naris seemed to strong and intelligent. As it turned out, he was only seeking power. While I was serving as a knight for the castle, he asked on more than one occasion if I knew of something that had been handed down in the family." Alphonse: "...He must have been referring to the spear." Ivanna: "When I think about it now, you're probably right. At about the same time, rumors began to circulate. People were saying that my father had been murdered. I had my own suspicions, and so I left the troops of Rananculus. I've already told you what happened after that." Alphonse: "Do you know anything about those two spellcasters?" Ivanna: "No, but my uncle must have had some reason for giving them sch important positions." Alphonse: "There are still many things to be done. Now that we've gained control of this castle, what will you do?" Ivanna: "If my uncle really pledged himself to the evil spirit that tempted him, then it is my duty to vanquish it. I can't let there be any more victims." Alphonse: "I understand. I'd like you to stay and listen to the report." [He turns to the wizard beside him.] Alphonse: "Your report, please..." Scholar: "Yes sir. After reseraching in the castle library, we were able to find several documents that caught our attention, as well as a geneology of the Batraals. We learned that there was a family member named Lucius who had a child with a woman named Celena." Alphonse: "Lucius...He's the one that Berevra fell in love with. Then, what Rictor said must be true." Scholar: "...Later, his son became Lord and recorded some interesting information. He wrote that the sacred weapon lent to the mermaids by God was a beautiful black spear. However, its whereabouts were unknown." [The soldier speaks up.] Subordinate: "A knight who remained in this castle shared some folklore of the region. According to legend, this island was made by God to serve as a prison." Alphonse: "...Prison? But why?" Subordinate: "He spoke of a sinful angel, sleeping in a mountain range on the northern part of the island." Scholar: "The mountains are where God reaches down to our world... the border between heaven and earth. This island is home to such a mystic place." Alphonse: "Anyway, first we must head for the snow-covered fields of the North." [A time later, Eleanor and Alphonse converse on the gate where they fought Nichart.] Alphonse: "The legendary archangel...Why did he betray God?" Eleanor: "Maybe it was too much for him...He could have been the closest to God......the brightest existence." Alphonse: "Angels...those from heaven, sent to earth by God's will to mediate between God and humans. They are said to have fought alongside humans during the legendary Ogre Battle." Eleanor: "Where did you hear that?" Alphonse: "...During my training as an officer. We were taught that angels are messengers who convey God's word. But, why would an angel be imprisoned on this island?" Familiar Voice: "Because he disobeyed God." [The two turn to see Rictor in the doorway.] Alphonse: "Rictor...! Are you alright?" Rictor: "Angels must obey God's orders. To do otherwise is considered a sin. The punishment received for such an offense is to fall from heaven. ...The descent to earth......means the loss of both power and beauty. It must be the most shameful punishment the residents of heaven can receive." Eleanor: "God loved people and ordered the angels to fight for them. But, one angel did not want to." Alphonse: "Eleanor...?" Eleanor: "The angel loved God, and he wanted God to love him as much as he loved humans. Out of envy, he started a rebellion to draw God's attention. But because of it, he was cast out of heaven. This was a story well known by any child before the Reformation." Alphonse: "He...envied us?" Rictor: "That's right. His jealousy turned his heart black. God sealed him in the land of eternal ice, without means of escape, and sentenced him to an eternity of repentance." Alphonse: "...The same as him...Remember, the one who took control of that girl and deceived you? He said that he thrived on envy. Lord Batraal was jealous of his brother, so much so that he..." Eleanor: "Why do people envy others?" Alphonse: "Comparing ourselves to others is the only way to measure our existence." Rictor: "Alphonse, it is just as I expected. You certainly have gotten strong. I remember everything now...It was a summer day, 15 years ago. Malicia and I found a black fragment in a small shrine on the beach. I kept the shiny piece as my treasure. But, a few days later, I dropped it in the castle. I watched it disappear into the darkness below, but because she said it had fallen into a crypt, I was too afraid to go after it. The summer ended and I returned to Felis with my father. Soon, I had forgotten about it entirely..." [Alphonse takes out the fragment.] Alphonse: "Rictor, what should we do with this?" Rictor: "You should keep it...When he possessed my body, I learned of his purpose. He has only hatred in his heart, enmity towards humans, and he wants to return to this world. But, his body is still resting deep inside a wall of ice. ...The very existence of the spear is a threat to humanity. Alphonse, I'll go with you. I must defeat him before he regains his true power......for the sake of us all." Alphonse: A: "Sure you can come." B: "Don't force yourself." Alphonse (A): "Of course you can. You'd come anyway, wouldn't you?" Rictor: "With you as a comrade, I have no reason to fear the fallen angel. Let's leave as soon as possible." Alphonse (B): "Don't push yourself too hard. Your wounds have not yet completely healed. Leave everything to me and get the rest that you need." Rictor: "You're right. I'd just be in your way." [Rictor joins permanently if you choose Option A; he's left behind in Option B. On the world map, the paths to Rebanada and Harmonia appear, as well as the map at Bison which wasn't there previously.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Rebanada | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 6.5 / \_______/ [Same as Path A -- Rebanada.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Harmonia | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 6.6 / \_______/ [Same as Path A -- Harmonia.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Charadrius | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 6.7 / \_______/ [Alphonse runs to the wall of ice where the archangel is allegedly obstructed by. He uses the fragment as a compass, since its beam points to the mountain range constantly.] Alphonse: "This seems to be where the light was pointing. Is this frozen lake where the fallen angel has been sealed? If the legend is true...Fragment of the Sacred Spear, show me the way!" [The fragment melts a hole in the wall and the lakeside turns an odd reddish-orange. Someone calls out to Alphonse.] Familiar Voice: "I finally caught up with you." [Cybil runs up to him.] Alphonse: "Cybil!" Cybil: "I learned that the Longicolnis originally meant 'long horn'...A black horn is more fitting than a beautiful halo for a fallen angel. He's an angel who's been stained black with sin, an angel that fell from heaven and was sealed here by God. His name is Shaher. He is an archangel who fought for humans in the Ogre Battle." Alphonse: "The Ogre Battle..." Cybil: "You've seen the light the fragment emits, right? That fragment is a missing piece of the Sacred Spear." Alphonse: "Shaher was manipulating Naris so that he can be resurrected. I can't let that monster do as he pleases. Cybil, please help us. With you on our side..." [Cybil stabs Alphonse in the chest.] Alphonse: "...!? Ahh...Cybil...Why...?" Cybil: "...I'm sorry to betray you, but I just can't trust you." Alphonse: "Why?...Have you distrusted me from the beginning?" Cybil: "Alphonse, there's too much that's important to you. I can't trust someone like that. You'll sacrifice everything for your ideals. Do you understand? I can't go with you. Now, why don't you give me the spear fragment? Don't worry. If it's treated right away, you won't die. Forget about all of this. Go back to your hometown and start a new life with your loved one." [The demonic voice from the Ostorea Castle crypt yells out.] Narrative: INDEED...HE CANNOT BE TRUSTED. HE HAS FORGOTTEN THAT YOU SAVED HIS LIFE. HE REALIZES NOT THAT IT WAS YOU WHO MADE EVERYTHING POSSIBLE, AND BECAUSE OF HIS FRIEND'S INFLUENCE, HE HAS KEPT YOU AT ARM'S LENGTH. [The demonic flame-ball appears once again, this time beside Cybil.] Alphonse: "Who is that? Stop! That's not true!!!" Demonic Voice: "YOU KNEW FROM THE BEGINNING THAT RICTOR DISTRUSTED THIS WOMAN, AND NOW YOU HAVE STARTED TO DOUBT HER TOO. YOU NEVER EXPECTED MUCH OUT OF YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH HER. THAT IS WHY YOU SAVED YOUR OLD FRIEND. YOU LISTENED TO HIM AND EARNED HIS TRUST, WHICH MEANS YOU HAVE CHOSEN TO PUT YOUR FAITH IN HIM RATHER THAN IN HER." Alphonse: "You're wrong! That's not...!!!" Demonic Voice: "WOMAN...YOU ARE NO FOOL. YOU SEE HOW IT IS, RIGHT? A LOVED ONE THAT HE PROTECTS, A FRIENDSHIP THAT HAS ENDURED MANY HARDSHIPS, AND COMRADES THAT HAVE FOUGHT AT HIS SIDE...WHAT MORE DOES HE NEED? YOU ARE OF NO USE TO HIM." Cybil: "I..." Demonic Voice: "POOR WOMAN. I WILL GRANT YOUR WISH IN EXCHANGE FOR THE EMPTINESS IN YOUR HEART. YOU AND I WILL BRING DESTRUCTION AND CHAOS TO THIS WORLD. WOMAN, WHAT IS IT THAT YOU WISH FOR?" Cybil: "My life is in your hands...I want him dead forever." [Eleanor runs into the scene and sees the goings-on.] Eleanor: "Noooooo!!! Alphonse!!!" [She runs over to him.] Cybil: "Don't interfere. There's nothing you can do." Alphonse: "But why, Cybil? I......" Cybil: "Alphonse, if you die here, you'll be mine forever." [Cybil opens her arms to accept the demon-flame.] Alphonse: "Noooo!!!" [The demon-flame possesses Cybil and Cybil takes her troops near the lakeside, and makes a formation. Shaher speaks through her now.] Demonic Voice: "I AM SHAHER. I DWELL IN THE DARKNESS OF THE HEART, PROJECTING ILLUSIONS FROM WITHIN. A CONTRACT HAS BEEN MADE WITH THIS WOMAN. I WILL FULFILL MY PROMISE. I HAVE BEEN SEARCHING FOR THE BLACK FRAGMENT OF LONGICOLNIS, WHICH HAS BROKEN AWAY FROM MY BODY." Alphonse: "Part of your body...?" Demonic Voice: "WITH THE POWER OF THE SPEAR, I WILL BE RESURRECTED. I SHOULD THANK YOU. YOU SAVED ME THE TROUBLE OF BRINGING IT HERE. FOR THAT, I WILL MAKE A TOAST WITH YOUR BLOOD." [Cybil summons a few allies with the power of darkness, and Alphonse brings out his own brigade to do battle with his one-time friend.] Alphonse: "Cybil...Are you saying you did this by choice? How could you?!" [After Cybil's team's first turn:] Alphonse: "Why...Why, Cybil? Get a hold of yourself!" Demonic Voice: "YOU ARE TOO LATE. YOUR VOICE IS JUST A MEMORY TO HER. IT IS SAD, REALLY...HUMANS SO RARELY UNDERSTAND EACH OTHER'S FEELINGS." [Soon, the party's defeated Cybil and the demon-flame starts to rise out of her body.] Demonic Voice: "THIS HEART DENIES ME...? SUBMIT TO ME!!! RETURN WHAT IS RIGHTFULLY MINE!" [Cybil brushes the flame off herself and dissipates it.] Cybil: "You can't control me..." Alphonse: "Cybil!!!" [But, as it turns out, the demon-flame is still there, and Cybil falls over.] Demonic Voice: "SUCH FOOLISHNESS...WORTHLESS HUMAN, IF YOU HAD ONLY ACCEPTED ME, YOU WOULD HAVE GAINED IMMORTALITY AND UNIMAGINABLE POWER...AN END TO SUFFERING...I AM NOT BOUND BY THE LAWS OF THIS WORLD. TRY AS YOU MIGHT, YOU CANNOT EVEN SCRATCH ME." Alphonse: "Who are you?" Demonic Voice: "LET US SAY THAT I AM NOT FAR FROM GOD. SON OF MAN, I HAVE A TASK FOR YOU. MY BODY IS STILL BOUND BY AN ANCIENT SEAL. TAKE THE BLACK FRAGMENT TO THE NORTH AND BREAK THE SEAL THAT BARS MY ACCESS TO THIS WORLD." Alphonse: "Are you mad? Do you think I'd ever do that for you?" Demonic Voice: "WHY NOT? I KNOW THE TRUTH...I CAN FEEL YOUR YEARNING FOR POWER. I CAN GRANT WHAT YOU DESIRE. MOST MEN DIE WITHOUT SEEING THEIR DREAMS REALIZED. ...IS THERE A REASON TO DENY YOUR FATE? YOU SHALL BE FREED FORM THAT PRISON YOU CALL A BODY. WHATEVER YOU DESIRE SHALL BE YOURS, AND WHAT IS LOST WILL BE REGAINED. I WILL BE WAITING FOR YOU..." [Later on, Alphonse cradles Cybil's dying body.] Alphonse: "Cybil...I'm sorry..." Cybil: "It's too late. What's done is done. We can't go back and change it. Alphonse, don't blame yourself. I'm the one who allowed my mind to be possessed." Alphonse: "No...you were..." Cybil: "Don't say anything. I wanted to trust you, but some things are so hard for me to accept. There's nothing I can do about it." [At that moment, Shiven appears.] Alphonse: "Shiven!" Shiven: "I'll take care of her. Please continue on your own." Cybil: "Shiven...I'm sorry..." Shiven: "Don't worry, Mistress Alinda. I'll always be there for you." Cybil: "...I hate myself...Even though I love you, I still don't trust you. My mind is not that simple. Alphonse...Please take good care of Eleanor..." Eleanor: "Cybil..." [Cybil passes out and Alphonse walks to the opened part of the ice wall. The spear fragment levitates itself and turns into the Sacred Spear, Longicolnis, which drops back down into Alphonse's hands.] Alphonse: "I feel...the power...Cybil...I must go, but I promise to return. There's no telling what lies ahead. It will probably be more than any one of us can fathom. But... I can sense it. There's someone waiting for us...He and the Sacred Spear are calling for each other. Let's go, everyone! We've come this far...Let's see it through to the end." [On the world map, the journey to the last destination, Angel's Headstone, deep in the northwestern range, becomes evident.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Angel's Headstone | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 6.8 / \_______/ [Alphonse walks into the ruins beneath the ice cap, and Rictor tags along.] Alphonse: "I had no idea there was a place like this deep within the ice." Rictor: "These ancient ruins...were created by God for confinement. Alphonse, we can't turn back from here. Are you ready?" Alphonse: "Yes, let's get moving. The spear has been reacting to this place." Rictor: "Don't forget to bring the Sacred Spear. It must be some kind of key." [The option to save on the world map comes up at this time because there is no option to leave once the challenge has been taken. After deciding to go in, the party heads to the first battle spot right across the bridge where Rictor and Alphonse were a moment before. There, as Alphonse and Eleanor cross, they see a specter of Cybil floating off in the distance.] Cybil: "Alphonse...why...couldn't you have understood..." Alphonse: "...Begone! I won't let you confuse me anymore!!! You are not Cybil. Why do you deceive me?" Eleanor: "Alphonse, what's wrong? There's no one there." Alphonse: "What are you saying, Eleanor?! Look! Right there..." [The specter turns into a lich, who quickly crumbles the bridge the party'd just used to cross.] Eleanor: "Look, Alphonse...The bridge..." Alphonse: "That means we no longer have the option to retreat. Well, that's alright with me." [The lich speaks.] Shaher: "In your eyes, I am what you wish to see. Welcome to my palace...I am Shaher, Lord of this realm." Alphonse: "Shaher...!? You're Shaher?" Eleanor: "Liar! The angel Shaher fell into a sleep before losing his beautiful appearance." Shaher: "You are very knowledgeable, beautiful one. Correct. This form is only temporary. I still require more strength to break free of the seal. Sorrow, jealousy...these dismal emotions give me strength. So, will you fight against the woman who betrayed you?" [He changes into Cybil again, but Alphonse knocks Shaher away. The lich disappears, leaving only a robe behind.] Alphonse: "I won't be deceived by your illusions any longer!" [The robes retreat to the opposite end of the battlefield. Shaher's voice booms from somewhere:] Shaher: "Hahaha...He is so lively. But, it will make no difference. Mycale, guide their souls into darkness!" [The lich comes up (this time as Mycale) and summons demonic allies into range. Alphonse gets ready to do battle.] Mycale: "I'll reward you for your bravery...with eternal agony..." [But, Mycale soon gets put on his deathbed.] Mycale: "Lord Shaher..." [Afterwards, someone says on a blacked-out screen:] Narrative: "Lord God! Please tell me...Why do you love humans? ...Because they were made in your image...!?" [Later, Alphonse and Eleanor journey through the battlefield. She trips on the top step.] Eleanor: "Ahh..." Alphonse: "Eleanor, are you OK?" Eleanor: "Yes, I was just feeling dizzy. Did you hear that too, Alphonse?" Alphonse: "That voice...It echoed deep within my mind...Was that...the fallen angel...?" Eleanor: "...I believe so." [Awhile later, Rictor and Alphonse stand alone near some castle environs.] Rictor: "We should split up from here. One group will head for the garden, and the other will take the central stairs that lead to the tower. Well, what do you think?" Alphonse: "The light from the Sacred Spear is pointing upward. The fallen angel must be sealed in the top of the tower." Rictor: "I'm afraid I have some bad news. White and black winged creatures have been sighted up there. Fighting at such heights, they'll have the advantage. We'll have to make sure that we watch our footing." Alphonse: "Anyway, let's divide up the troops and head towards the top while investigating along the way. Let's be careful how we split our forces. We'll have one group wait here." Rictor: "You organize the troops. We'll leave as soon as you're done." [Rictor leaves and Eleanor walks by.] Eleanor: "Alphonse, it's so cold here...Please...don't leave me alone." Alphonse: "What's wrong? I'm always watching over you." Eleanor: "Alphonse, you're the leader here...I'm not afraid of fighting, but I am scared of not having you by my side. When you divide up the troops...please don't separate us. Alphonse...You heard his voice too, right? Maybe it wasn't a voice...It was more like a feeling, the feeling of being alone...like this cold air around me...Does that make any sense?" Alphonse: "Whatever it was, you don't need to worry. I'll be with you, and we'll leave here together." Eleanor: "......" [The path to the Hall of Corruption and the Garden of Memories opens up at this time -- a split-party effort. A party member in one battle cannot participate in the other.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Hall of Corruption | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 6.9 / \_______/ [Same as Path A -- Hall of Corruption.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Garden of Memories | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 7.0 / \_______/ [Same as Path A -- Garden of Memories.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Path B -- Hall of Conviction | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 7.1 / \_______/ [Same as Path A -- Hall of Conviction in most instances, except that you can't get the "A" Ending.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | The "A" Ending | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 7.2 / \_______/ ---UNDER CONSTRUCTION--- /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | The "B" Ending | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 7.3 / \_______/ NOTE: This can only be done on Path B Shaher: "...God, do you abandon me again...? Is my voice to be silenced forever...? During the Ogre Battle, I fought for you willingly." Alphonse: "You have no home to return to anymore. For servants of darkness, death means disappearance, banishment to where God's love doesn't reach. There's no possibility of salvation. So, which do you choose, to live eternally within the seal, or to vanish completely?" Shaher: "If I have to return to the cold darkness...I shall take this world with me and..." [Shaher starts to summon the destruction of the platform, but Cybil, in the flesh, appears off to his side.] Cybil: "You say you're close to God, but you're afraid of darkness? How sad." Alphonse: "Cybil!" Cybil: "Good...I'm glad you're alright. Shaher...I know what you're thinking. Why won't you admit it? You still love God. Your love for him has not changed. You still long to be in his glorious presence." Shaher: "...While God showed his love for humans, he barely acknowledged my existence. He ordered me to fight for the sake of humans...O God...I loved you so much...Why did you not love me in return?" Cybil: "It's not that you hated humans. You just wanted God to notice you. You sinned and were sealed here, but you still longed for God's forgiveness. A fallen angel is an enemy of God, but God sealed you before you had completely fallen. That was all he coul do for you...His love is unconditional. You shouldn't have doubted him." Shaher: "Silence! Do not try to confuse me! If God is the supreme being to whom I must dedicate my life, then he should act accordingly! Aah...Everything is blurry. What is happening to me? Am I dying...? Will I vanish forever? Even my memories are fading...I shall not allow it...I shall not go alone!" [Cybil walks over to the dying angel and sticks out her hands.] Cybil: "I won't let you take Alphonse, even if it costs me my life." Alphonse: "Cybil, don't! Don't do anything foolish!!!" Cybil: "Alphonse, you taught me to follow my heart. It's not such a bad thing to risk my life for someone like you. It's taken a lot of energy to make it this far, but don't underestimate me. Taking the life of a fallen angel shouldn't be too difficult!" Alphonse: "Nooo! Don't do it!!!" Cybil: "Your fate is to die here with me, Shaher. You were wrong to wish for a more equal relationship with God. Just give up on your wish. Besides...You won't be lonely if I am with you." [Cybil and Shaher rise as he starts to explode and a blinding light envelops the two as they disappear. As Cybil fades away, she says:] Cybil: "Alphonse, please take care of my sister, Eleanor..." [Cut to Ostorea Castle awhile after the endeavor against Shaher. Alphonse, Rictor, and a knight stand at the southern gate to Naris' former dwelling.] Rictor: "I'm sorry, but I must return to Felis. My father is preparing to send his troops to the island. Now that the spear has been presented to Galius and things have settled down, there's no reason for him to do so. I don't know what he's thinking, but I will try to convince him to reconsider. I leave things here in your hands." Alphonse: "I understand. Be careful." Rictor: "Don't worry. I'll be back soon." [Rictor and the knight walk off. Later on, Alphonse and Ivanna sit by themselves at a desk filled with scrolls and books. Alphonse writes while Ivanna looks over a book.] Ivanna: "Thanks to you, things are starting to settle down. I'm going to protect Rananculus, and every living thing here. Alphonse, what will you do from now on?" Alphonse: "There will be plenty of time to think about it, after I settle some personal matters. I'm in no hurry." [Cut to Eleanor's house in Solea some time later. A man walks in, finding her sitting on her bed.] Priest in Training: "He's here, Eleanor." [The two walk outside to find Alphonse.] Alphonse: "Eleanor, are you ready?" Eleanor: "Yes." Alphonse: "I'm sorry for leaving without an explanation." Priest in Training: "Don't be sorry. You saved us. Please live your life as you see fit." Eleanor: "Please tell Father Hamen that I am thankful for all that he's done for me." Priest in Training: "Certainly. Alphonse, Eleanor, please take care." [Eleanor and Alphonse leave. On a blackened screen, Alphonse says to his companion:] Narrative: Let's go, Eleanor. [Now, cut to the mermaid sanctuary. Chloeri sits alone where she usually sits, and this time there aren't any guards around. A voice from somewhere says:] Narrative: Chloeri... [An image of Berevra floats down to meet her sister.] Chloeri: "Berevra, welcome home..." Narrative: Let's go, Chloeri. Leave the rest to the young. The wheels of time keep turning...The future is in their hands now. [Chloeri turns into an image/specter like Berevra and, together, they both rise up and disappear. The credits play at this point. Afterwards, the picture resumes at the Ostorea Castle throne room, where Ivanna, Rictor, and a knight stand around...except for Rictor, who's sitting on the throne.] Knight: "Trade with other countries has stopped, but it's finally starting to resume. This island will prosper as it used to." [The knight leaves.] Rictor: "I think I can persuade my father to agree to it, but will the elders of Galius allow self-governance for Ovis? It seems difficult to predict." Ivanna: "I am truly grateful. Thanks to you, the bloodshed on this island has ended." Rictor: "Ivanna, will you protect this country with me?" Ivanna: "Of course I will. Why do you ask so suddenly? Is something wrong?" Rictor: "You misunderstand....I don't mean as a knight. I want you by my side watching over Rananculus...no, the whole island. We'll build our future, together." Ivanna: "Yes." [Now, cut to a scene probably near Blete, where Euphaire kneels at her mother's grave.] Euphaire: (Mother, peace has finally been restored to our town.) [Elrik sidles up behind her.] Elrik: "......" [Euphaire turns around.] Euphaire: "Father!" [The scene cuts to a mermaid standing in the screen where the party once duked it out with Aerial. After the scene (nothing happens of interest), another scene starts where Alphonse and Eleanor are walking through the mountains. Birds and greenery are everywhere.] Alphonse: "We've come far, but where are we now?" Eleanor: "As long as I'm with you, Alphonse, it doesn't matter." Alphonse: "Let's try to cross these mountains before sunset." [The party jogs off and narrative comes on the screen, by whom I have no idea.] Narrative: And, that was the last that anyone has seen of them... There is little account of the conflict that occured in Ovis in the year 232. THE END /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | The "C" Ending | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 7.4 / \_______/ Shaher: "...God, do you abandon me again...? Is my voice to be silenced forever...? During the Ogre Battle, I fought for you willingly." Alphonse: "You have no home to return to anymore. For servants of darkness, death means disappearance, banishment to where God's love doesn't reach. There's no possibility of salvation. So, which do you choose, to live eternally within the seal, or to vanish completely?" Shaher: "If I have to return to the cold darkness...I shall take this world with me and..." Alphonse: "Wait!!!" Shaher: "Admit defeat! You will never escape me. Soon, this world will crumble to dust. My wish would never have come true. There was on reason that God would have forgiven me...All that was expected of me was to fight and die for the sake of humans." Alphonse: "Do you still...love God?" Shaher: "I have been a fool all this time. You are right...I still love him. My love for God has not changed, and I want to be at his side. But, my time has run out. Everything is fading. Am I...dying? Son of man, let us together disappear into oblivion. Memory of our existence will be lost in the well of time. Death will bring peace to us both..." [Shaher rises and starts to explode, blinding the vicinity. As his last utterance:] Shaher: "My Lord...God...I wanted to be by your side... [The light ends and from somewhere in the darkness, someone says:] Voice: "Eleanor, run...!!!" [Outside, in the ruins, Eleanor stands around the disintegrating temple.] Eleanor: "Nooo! Alphonse!!! You promised to return with me! Liar!!! The struggle between light and dark...!? Ah, what's happening...?" [The screen blacks out and cuts to Eleanor resting in her bedroom back in Solea. A young man walks inside.] Priest in Training: "It's still cold outside. Let's close the window." Eleanor: "It's snowing..." Priest in Training: "It's rare to have snow here at the beach, especially in spring. Maybe God's feeling playful." [Eleanor thinks to herself:] Eleanor: "Alphonse...I wanted to come with you..." [The screen fades out and comes back in Chloeri's sanctuary. A voice calls out from somewhere...or is it a thought?] Voice: "Chloeri..." [A transparent image of Berevra floats down and hangs in front of Chloeri.] Chloeri: "Berevra, welcome home..." Berevra: "Let's go, Chloeri. Leave the rest to the young. The wheels of time keep turning...The future is in their hands now." [This is said as in thought, probably meaning something of the spiritual/mental state, not said speech.] [The credits play at this point. After them, the cutscene goes to the battlefield where the party once fought Aerial, and where Minerva now stands. She just gazes out to see mindlessly, letting the wind blow her hair around. Sea gulls fly over head and the focus changes to the church in Solea. A little boy runs out and goes to the beach where Eleanor stands.] Boy: "Look, Eleanor! Snow! It's snowing in Solea!" [The boy runs off with his friends, leaving Eleanor to her thoughts. Like Minerva, she also just gazes in one direction. Her thoughts come on a blacked-out screen.] Eleanor: "Listen, Alphonse. It also snowed that day... THE END /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | The "D" Ending | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 7.5 / \_______/ Shaher: "...God, do you abandon me again...? Is my voice to be silenced forever...? During the Ogre Battle, I fought for you willingly." Alphonse: "You have no home to return to anymore. For servants of darkness, death means disappearance, banishment to where God's love doesn't reach. There's no possibility of salvation. So, which do you choose, to live eternally within the seal, or to vanish completely?" Shaher: "If I have to return to the cold darkness...I shall take this world with me and..." Alphonse: "Wait!!!" Shaher: "Admit defeat! You will never escape me. Soon, this world will crumble to dust. My wish would never have come true. There was on reason that God would have forgiven me...All that was expected of me was to fight and die for the sake of humans." Alphonse: "Do you still...love God?" Shaher: "I have been a fool all this time. You are right...I still love him. My love for God has not changed, and I want to be at his side. But, my time has run out. Everything is fading. Am I...dying? Son of man, let us together disappear into oblivion. Memory of our existence will be lost in the well of time. Death will bring peace to us both..." [Shaher rises and starts to explode, blinding the vicinity. As his last utterance:] Shaher: "My Lord...God...I wanted to be by your side... [The light from Shaher's exploding body consumes everything. Outside, in the ruins, no one stands. Narrative soon appears.] Narrative: The Duke of Felis dispatched his main forces to Ovis in search of his son Rictor, who was nowhere to be found. On the very same day, there was an earthquake in the snowy fields surrounding the Vurtar and Turgus Mountains, but details are not known. [A scene of soldiers running through Naja plays.] Narrative: According to record, in the year 232, there was turmoil amidst the landlords of a small island west of Galicia. The following year, the unrest was suppressed by troops of Felis, a protectorate of Lodis. From then on, the island was governed by the Lodis Empire. [The credits roll. Afterwards, the mermaid scene that's in most endings plays again.] Voice: "Chloeri..." [A transparent image of Berevra floats down and hangs in front of Chloeri.] Chloeri: "Berevra, welcome home..." Berevra: "Let's go, Chloeri. Leave the rest to the young. The wheels of time keep turning...The future is in their hands now." [This is said as in thought, probably meaning something of the spiritual/mental state, not said speech.] [Outside, a mermaid watches the sea gulls fly overhead in the morning breeze. Cut to the church in Solea. A little girl runs outside and joins her friends, who are standing near a man on the beach.] Boy: "Look, look! Snow! It's snowing in Solea!" [The kids run off and the man walks back to the church.] THE END /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | The Bad Ending | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 7.6 / \_______/ NOTE: You get this ending if you die against Shaher's second form (only?). [Alphonse will sink down to his knees as his HP is depleted.] Alphonse: "Is he beyond my ability...? Is this the end for me...!?" [The screen blacks out and Shaher's narrative comes on.] Narrative: Even with the spear made from my horn, you humans are no threat to me. God of light who sealed me... You are next... [The credits play. Afterwards, the screen cuts to the fortune teller in Felis, who's sitting in the deserted marketplace with her cat.] Fortune Teller: "A shooting star at dawn? The ring of destiny is fading. The wings of night cover heaven, and the world will be enshrouded by fire..." [Narrative appears.] Narrative: In the year 232, Ovis, an island west of Galicia, became known as the Abysmal Island. Survivors, barely escaping, described a white flash that wrapped the island in fire. After 7 days, the fire ceased. Since then, the island has been cloaked in a deep fog. Lodis has sent ships to investigate the island, but not one has returned. GAME OVER /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | The Hidden Ending | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 7.7 / \_______/ ---UNDER CONSTRUCTION--- /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Quest Mode Boss Quotes | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 7.8 / \_______/ How this works is the boss says his or her first line when you first enter the level, and the second one on subsequent tries. It's not numbered because everyone can count to two. Calais: "You heard the rumor of the treasure and came here...? But, we're not going to just hand it to you." Calais: "You're here again? Well, it doesn't matter. Let's fight." Kheil: "Treasure means more if it's won. Try and win it!" Kheil: "Will you return here for treasure no matter how many times it takes?" Zweig: "I know. You guys are here for trouble, right?" Zweig: "I thought you'd come. That's the kind of people you are." Byron: "I'm not interested in your purpose. Let's get started!" Byron: "Welcome back. What do you want this time?" Dionyde: "Material belongings can sometimes fill a hole in your heart...but there's no treasure more valuable than my words." Dionyde: "Oh! You're back to seek the treasures of the heart!" /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Optional Character - Saia | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 7.9 / \_______/ NOTE: This can only be done in Chapter 3. [After defeating Nimmon in Rebanada, returning there will have you fight another "special" battle. Alphonse enters and sees a hideous-looking man.] Alphonse: "...!? What kind of a creature are you!?" Saia: "Hmm...A son of man has strayed into such a place. You came at a good time. It's been a while since I last walked the earth...You'll make a nice warm-up." [Alphonse brings out his party members.] Saia: "What, you lost your nerve? If you don't attack first, then I will!" [The party doesn't care and just beats the crap out of Saia.] Saia: "I never expected a kid like you to overcome me..." [Later on, Alphonse talks to a wounded Saia.] Saia: "...What do you fight for, young warrior?" Alphonse: "What do I fight for...?" Saia: "That's right. Or, do you simply enjoy killing?" Alphonse: A: "I fight for myself." B: "I fight for peace." Alphonse (A): "...I fight for myself......to live." Saia: "I like you, kid. Why don't you and I strike up a deal?" Alphonse: "A deal...?" Saia: "Ha, ha, ha. Do I scare you that much? Don't worry, I'm not going to eat you. I have a hunch that if I journey with you, I'll get plenty of chances to fight. Battle is everything to me, and victory is my greatest satisfaction. Heheh, I'm itching for some action!" Alphonse (B): "I fight for peace." Saia: "I see. But, is it really worth it? Even if you create peace, it will never last. Do you think that will satisfy you? Well, forget what I said. I admit you have strength. Here, take this." [He gives Alphonse a Ring of the Dead.] Saia: "Well, whether or not you can use it effectively depends on you. Farewell." [Picking the selfish Option A has Saia join your party; if you pick the altruistic Option B, Saia just gives you the Ring of the Dead and bolts. This is your only chance to get him. If you had entered Rebanada with Lobelia (i.e. you got her before your battle with Saia, the following is said instead of the other dialogue:] Alphonse: "...!? There's no way it could be...!" Saia: "Hmm...A son of man has strayed into such a place, and he's brought with him an arrogant little girl...How thoughtful of you!" Lobelia: "...An evil creature who lives in the darkness...Our eternal enemy. Was he drawn here by the fallen angel? I can't let him go." [Alphonse sets up his troops. If Lobelia is included in the formation, she'll say:] Lobelia: "I'll send you back to the darkness!" [If she's not included in your formation, Saia will say in her place:] Saia: "An angel has leant you the power of her prayer? How interesting! Ha, ha." [Upon Saia's defeat:] Saia: "I can't believe an angel is helping you humans..." Alphonse: "Get out of my sight! I won't be tempted by the power of evil." Saia: "Hmph. We shall...see..." [Saia then dies.] Lobelia: "He was an evil underling, and, thankfully, not very strong. I bet he was attracted to the negative energy of the fallen angel." Alphonse: "...Negative energy...?" Lobelia: "Both sacred and evil power have been intensifying on this island. I, too, was attracted by that power. Alphonse, be careful. Don't lose your faith. As long as people rely on God, he won't abandon them. However, the sad reality is that humans falter. Confusion and doubt...those emotions allow evil to take control." /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Optional Character -- Lobelia | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 8.0 / \_______/ NOTE: This can only be done in Chapter 3. [If you walk back to Ardea, you'll automatically see a scene where an Angel Knight flies down to meet you.] Angel Knight: "I am Lobelia, a messenger of God. Is there some way that I may assist you?" Alphonse: A: "Yes, there is." B: "No, I'm OK." Alphonse (A): "Yes, there is." Lobelia: "In the name of God, I swear my loyalty to you. May the great light protect you." Alphonse (B): "No, I'm OK. I don't want to trouble you." Lobelia: "I understand. You seem to be strong willed. Please take this. It might be of some use to you." [She gives Alphonse a Seraph's Plume.] Lobelia: "Heed my words, son of man. There will come a time when you must rely on the help of others. Humans are not invincible. Don't think that you can shoulder all of the responsibility alone." [If you pick Option A, Lobelia joins you no-questions-asked; if you don't take her invitation, she gives you a Seraph's Plume and leaves. If you've already had Saia join your party, then Lobelia will say the following before flying away (meaning you don't get any options to invite her into your party):] Lobelia: "Have you placed your fate in the hands of evil? You must not. It will only bring you grief. If you terminate your pact with darkness, then God will forgive you." /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Optional Character -- Glycinia | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 8.1 / \_______/ [If you attempt to get her at Vespa, she'll be surrounded by a bunch of dragons and gremlins.] Tiny Fairy: "Nooo. I'm not very tasty!" [Alphonse'll set up his troops.] Alphonse: "Is someone being attacked?" [The party rescues Glycinia from the monsters.] Glycinia: "Thank you for rescuing me." Alphonse: "With so many beasts around here, it's dangerous to be on this island." Glycinia: "I know. I was being careful, but I was surrounded before I realized it. I'm looking for my sister. I have a favor to ask...Please let me join you!" Alphonse: A: "Alright, you can come." B: "We've no time to play." Alphonse (A): "Alright, you can come. But...don't do anything dangerous." Glycinia: "Thanks! We'll have plenty of time to get to know each other. Oh, my sister's name is Lubina. She ran away from the forest where we live because she thought it was boring there." Alphonse (B): "I'm sorry, but we don't have time to look for your sister." Glycinia: "Oh, well...I understand. I thought it was worth a shot..." Alphonse: "...Worth a shot?" Glycinia: "Nevermind. But, let me say one thing...I don't think it's good for you to be caught up in yourself. You should at least have sympathy for a girl in need. See you!" [Option A has Glycinia join you permanently; Option B has her leave. If you find Glycinia at Haena (sometime after clearing the storyline battle there on either path), you'll find her in a similar situation.] Fairy: "You'll never capture me!" [Alphonse brings out his team.] Alphonse: "What are those beasts attacking?" [After saving her:] Glycinia: "Thanks for saving me!" Alphonse: "With so many beasts around, it's dangerous to be here." Glycinia: "*sniff*..I thought at first that I could manage... I'm looking for my sister. But, I don't want to go alone...Can I come with you guys?" Alphonse: A: "Alright, you can come." B: "We've no time to play." Alphonse (A): "Alright, you can come. But...don't do anything dangerous." Glycinia: "Thanks! We'll have plenty of time to get to know each other. Oh, my sister's name is Lubina. She ran away from the forest where we live because she thought it was boring there." Alphonse (B): "I'm sorry, but we don't have time to look for your sister." Glycinia: "Oh, well...I understand. I thought it was worth a shot..." Alphonse: "...Worth a shot?" Glycinia: "Nevermind. But, let me say one thing...I don't think it's good to be so caught up in yourself. You should at least have sympathy for a girl in need. See you!" [Option A to have her join; Option B to bar her entrance. If you have already past the Haena storyline battle, you can run into Glycinia in Lutra (only if you haven't gotten her). She's in a similar predicament, as always.] Tiny Fairy: "Nooo! Help!" [Alphonse takes out his party.] Alphonse: "Looks like she's in trouble." [They beat up the monsters and save Glycinia.] Glycinia: "Thank you for rescuing me." Alphonse: "Why are you here on this island? There are many fierce creatures and other dangers." Glycinia: "I was surrounded by them unknowingly. I'm looking for my sister, but I don't want to go alone...May I join you?" Alphonse: A: "Alrght, you can come." B: "We've no time to play." Alphonse (A): "Alright, you can come. But...don't do anything silly." Glycinia: "Thanks! We'll have plenty of time to get to know each other. Oh, my sister's name is Lubina. She ran away from the forest because she thought it was boring there." Alphonse (B): "I'm sorry, but we don't have time to look for your sister." Glycinia: "Oh, well...I understand. I thought it was worth a shot..." Alphonse: "...Worth a shot?" Glycinia: "Nevermind. But, let me say one thing...I don't think it's good for you to be so caught up in yourself. You should at least have some sympathy for a girl in need. See you!" [Option A for her to join; Option B to leave her alone. This is the last time you can get her in the game, so this is also the end of the section.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Optional Character -- Lubina | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 8.2 / \_______/ [After letting Glycinia join your party, head to the outlandish map dot of Gracula. It has no real purpose except or this part, actually. After entering, Glycinia will fly around and sniff the air. A second later she flies back.] Glycinia: "Alphonse!!" Alphonse: "W...What is it, Glycinia?" Glycinia: "Smells like Lubina!!!" [Alphonse looks at the gremlins around and brings out his troops for the search party. Glycinia: "Lubina, where are you hiding? Come out!!!" [If Glycinia moves next to the gremlin called Lubinnya, a scene will start at the end of the turn where Glycinia identifies her sister in disguise.] Glycinia: "Knock it off, Lubina. I know it's you." Lubinnya: "............" [She sheds her gremlin disguise.] Lubina: "Hee hee (heart). How'd you guess?" [Later on, after defeating the monsters, Glycinia and Lubina talk on the edge of the water.] Glycinia: "What are you doing here? I was really worried about you." Lubina: "I think you worry too much, Glycinia. Anyway, why have you joined forces with these humans? Are you planning something?" Glycinia: "Hey! I came here to look for YOU!!!" Alphonse: "Well...what will you do now?" Glycinia: "Alphonse, thank you for everything. I've found her, so we will return to our forest..." Lubina: "Well (heart) Can I come with you? You can return to the forest by yourself, Glycinia. I won't go back to such a boring place. I refuse!!!" Glycinia: "Why are you so worked up? It's really dangerous outside of the forest." Lubina: "Because it's so exciting (heart) It's much better than being bored." Glycinia: "Hmmm...Alright. Then I won't go back either. First and foremost, I am a respectable member of Alphonse's troops. Right, Alphonse?" Alphonse: "...Well...I suppose so." Lubina: "That's not fair! I'm coming too!" Alphonse: A: "Alright, you can come." B: "Go back to the forest!" Alphonse (A): "Alright, alright. You can come, so please calm down." Lubina: "I love you, Alphonse! You're so handsome (heart)" Glycinia: (Don't push your luck...) Alphonse (B): "I think you should go back to the forest. Don't you know how much your sister worried about you?" Lubina: "Okay (sigh)...I'll go......Meanie." Glycinia: "Alphonse, I'm going to return with Lubina, OK?" Alphonse: A: "Be nice to each other." B: "I have no choice..." Alphonse (A): "Take care, and be nice to each other." Glycinia: "See you, Alphonse. It's been fun. Lubina, let's go." Lubina: "Okay, okay!!!" (sigh) Alphonse (B): "Hmmm, I guess I have no choice but to take the both of you with me." Glycinia: "Together we'll be a perfect pair!" Lubina: "We'll prove to you that we're no ordinary fairies (heart)" [Picking the first option A or the second option B lets Glycinia and Lubina remain in your party. The others kick both of them out of your party, effectively.] /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Special Scene in Solea | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 8.3 / \_______/ [Eleanor and Alphonse will share a scene in her house if she's still active in the party. This can only (?) be done in Chapter 3, I believe.] Alphonse: "We've come a long way..." Eleanor: "...Yes. I wonder what the northern mountains are like. We've come so far. It seems strange...I feel like I've known you for a long time. Listen, Alphonse. How do you...feel about me?" Alphonse: A: "You've given your best." B: "You're important to me." Alphonse (A): "You've given your best and have been very helpful." Eleanor: "I'm glad to hear that...I've always wanted to be a help to you, to be needed by you. If I'm with you, Alphonse, I feel like I can do anything......that I can be stronger than anyone. Look at this...I found it at the beach a long time ago. It doesn't look like an ordinary ring. If you think it's helpful, please take it." [She gives him a Warp Ring.] Alphonse (B): "You're very important to me." Eleanor: "Thank you. I'm happy. Alphonse, I can see it in all of your actions...You are very kind and considerate of my feelings. You must recognize that I want to be with you always. You told me not to worry, but I get anxious every once in a while. I wonder if I'm helping...or just being a burden...I'm sorry for asking such a strange question. I'm fine, really. Look at this...I found it at the beach a long time ago. See, it has such a mysterious color...I hope it'll be useful somehow." [She gives him an Orb.] ****************************************************************** * END OF DIALOGUE CHANGES * ****************************************************************** Alphonse: "Thank you, Eleanor. After all of this is over..." Eleanor: "......?" Alphonse: "Um...Nevermind. Shouldn't we be on our way?" NOTE: The items you can receive are dependant on your choices you give to her throughout the storyline. You may or may not get a Warp Ring or Orb like I did. /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Scene in Rana, I | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 8.4 / \_______/ [Not sure if this can only be done in Path B, but if you go to the mermaid sanctuary in the second chapter, you'll see this cutscene:] Mermaid Warrior: "I'm sorry, but our leader is not here right now. Please come this way, and I'll see you off." /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Scene in Rana, II | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 8.5 / \_______/ [If you go to Rana during the third chapter, you'll see the following cutscene with Chloeri:] Chloeri: "...I see...My sister, Berevra..." Alphonse: "Please don't be too disappointed. I'm sure you'll have the chance to see her again." Chloeri: "That's right. Believing is something I can do now. Alphonse, thank you so much. To show my appreciation, I'd like to give you something. Please take it. I hope that you will find it useful." [She gives Alphonse the Zephyrus spear and the scene ends. /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | Town Descriptions | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 8.6 / \_______/ Solea -- A small church on the sandy beaches of Numida in SW Anser. Scabellum -- A lively coastal town where trade with Lodis flourishes. Lutra -- Islands between Galicia and Felis. Seasonally stormy. Vespa -- Hilly grassland in central Anser, snow-covered in winter. Formido -- Fortress overlooking Esperar Sea, ancient home of mermaids. Ardea -- Lake in mountains of Meleagris said to be made of angel tears. Urodela -- Cape in Yema Bay whose pearls are popular among the ladies. Sufrir -- Ancient Temple submerged off the coast of Numida. Bison -- Swamp in Tinea that is paradise to demi-humans and beasts. Aquila -- Inactive volcano in E. Anser. Poor soil produces no plants. Arena -- Island in the quiet Rana Sea, SW of Tinea. Home to many birds. Gryllus -- Eerie forest by the Ogeulla river where the undead gather. Belleza -- Abandoned fortress in Meleagris Mtns at Tinea/Rananculus border. Naja -- Dark, scarcely travelled forest dividing Rananculus and Anser. Sotavento -- Small village near the Ibis River in Rananculus. Haena -- Highlands in the treacherous, snowy mountains of S. Turgus. Gracula -- Mountain that appeared in the Esperar Sea, occupied by beasts. Ostorea -- Batraal Family castle at the foot of the Turgus Mountains. Ostorea West -- Shining wall west of hte castle, concealed deep in the forest. Ostorea South -- Impressive, sturdy south wall of the castle. Throne Room -- Castle throne room, decorated with crimson tapestry. Crypt -- Batraal crypt in Ostorea Castle sealed by Naris 15 years ago. Harmonia -- Snowy plains between the Turgus and Vultar Mountains Rebanada -- Dark and damp, this hidden cave faces the sea in N. Rananculus. Charadrius -- Frozen lake in the Vurtur Mtns. that attracts angels and beasts. Angel's Headstone -- Where the fallen angel was sealed. Location unknown. Angel's Headstone (after choosing to enter location) -- Entrance to castle where Shaher has been sealed for his sins. Hall of Corruption -- Shaher Hall where evil minions gather to serve awakened Shaher. Garden of Memories -- Shaher Garden where angels gather to serve awakened Shaher. Hall of Conviction -- Shaher is sealed here by both the powers of virtue and bane. /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | UPDATES | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 8.7 / \_______/ 12-31-05 + Initial draft of this is done + Path A script completed + �C� Ending completed 01-03-05 + Path B script completed + �B� Ending completed + �D� Ending completed + Bad Ending completed + More Glycinia dialogue + Added Lubina section 01-16-05 +Storyline clarifications (Slipknot_Rulezz) 07-05-06 +Updated Euphaire/Elrik quotes @ Belleza /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | CONTRIBUTION CREDITS | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 8.8 / \_______/ CJayC -- For being awesome and hosting this Griever -- The Dr. Pepper cannot be overlooked, man. Slipknot_Rulezz -- Storyline clarifications regarding Alphonse's disappearance into the sea after the battle w/ Stan. PhoenixFervor -- 'Cause he was supporting me an' stuff. ;p Esterol -- For hangin' around with me in the GT TOL forum. No one else really goes there, 'cept you and me, bro. DeWayneMann -- For modding the TOL forum at GT. Show up more, f00! /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | FUTURE UPDATES 'N' STUFF | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+ 8.9 / \_______/ -Early Glycinia dialogue -�A� Ending dialogue -Credits (not too long, actually) -Margret dialogue if you fight Ostorea East first Any contributions are appreciated and will be noted. If you have the text just lying around, drop me an e-mail. I�d �ppreciate it. ;) /+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+\ | | | This guide copyright (c) Shotgunnova -- 1997 - 2005 (and goin'!) | | Tactics Ogre, Ogre Battle, and characters (c) Respective Owners | | | \+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+--+/