R O G U E G A L A X Y Game Script By: CrescentFox and Synsacra Contact: [email protected] [email protected] xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx +++++++++++++++++++ + Version History + +++++++++++++++++++ Version 0.8 � Script filled in until Chapter 11. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx +++++++++++++++++++++ + Table of Contents + +++++++++++++++++++++ 1. Authors� Note [AN] 2. SPOILER warning [SP] 3. Legend [L] 4. Chapter 1 : Departure [CH01] 5. Chapter 2 : The Jungle Planet [CH02] 6. Chapter 3 : The Star God�s Altar [CH03] 7. Chapter 4 : The Great Escape [CH04] 8. Chapter 5 : The Master Hacker [CH05] 9. Chapter 6 : The Guide [CH06] 10. Chapter 7 : Valkog�s Ambition [CH07] 11. Chapter 8 : Chasing a Legend [CH08] 12. Chapter 9 : The Mystery of Eden [CH09] 13. Chapter 10: The Illusory Oasis [CH10] 14. Chapter 11: Legendary Planet [CH11] 15. Chapter 12: All Good Things... [CH12] 16. Chapter 13: To Eternity [CH13] 17. The Ghost Ship [GS] 18. The Insectron Tournament [INS] 19. Alistia [AL] 20. The Credits [CR] xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx +++++++++++++++++ + Authors� Note + [AN] +++++++++++++++++ Here is a Rogue Galaxy game script! Please e-mail us if there are any suggestions or errors. Enjoy. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx +++++++++++++++++++ + SPOILER Warning + [SP] +++++++++++++++++++ SPOILER warning SPOILER warning SPOILER warning SPOILER warning SPOILER warning Yes, this is a game script, which means...massive and total SPOILERS. You have been warned... SPOILER warning SPOILER warning SPOILER warning SPOILER warning SPOILER warning xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ++++++++++ + Legend + [L] ++++++++++ [] - actions, settings, etc. () - thoughts xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ++++++++++++ + Prologue + ++++++++++++ An eternal voyage through the murky blackness sprinkled with billions of points of light... Each with its own history, written there in the dark. This is a story inscribed upon one such point of light. A story...of heroes... xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ++++++++++++++++++++++++ + Chapter 1: Departure + [CH01] ++++++++++++++++++++++++ The war that divides the galaxy has cast its dark shadow upon the distant desert planet Rosa. Highly valued for its natural resources, Rosa has been put under direct control of the Longardian Federation in an attempt to prevent invasion by the Draxian Empire. Under Longardia�s watchful eye, the enslaved Rosans now find themselves forbidden to leave the planet... [Rosa: Desert] [The desert wind blows.] [Jaster is seen riding a Yago with two Mish following behind, on his way to the town of Salgin.] Jaster: (Trapped within this desert wasteland, the sands of time blow ceaselessly. But it�s not gonna end like this. I�m gonna find a way outta here-- I swear it...) [Rosa: Salgin] Simon: Y�sure he�s in this backwards bumpkin town? Steve: The information came from a credible source. He�s here, all right. He should be hiding out somewhere on Rosa. Simon: Desert Claw... He�s one o� the galaxy�s top hunters. Maybe he got his mitts on a load of dosh, and he�s off livin� it up somewhere. Can�t believe he�d be wastin� his time on this slave rock... Steve: Don�t worry--he�s somewhere on this planet. My instincts are infallible. Simon: Like I�m gonna trust a robot�s instincts. Steve: I would if I were you. They�re quite uncanny. Besides, I can use this to determine whether or not he�s the real deal. [Steve holds up a device.] Steve: Just leave it to Steve, all right? Simon: Really...well, the Captain�ll be pretty cheesed off if we don�t find �im, so you�d better come through on this. Steve: I know, I know. [Meanwhile...] [Jaster enters through Salgin�s gates on the Yago. He makes his way to two Longardian Soldiers--Percy and Jade. He jumps off the Yago.] Jaster: [to Yago] Tuckered out, eh? You did well, boy. Percy : Two medium-sized Mish. OK pal, you met your quota. [Jade walks over to Jaster with a small bag and hands it over to him.] Jade : And here�s your pay. Jaster: [looks into the bag] Huh? Is that all? Can�t you spare a little extra? Jade : We didn�t bring that much with us, you know. Humph, besides, slaves like you should be grateful we even bother to share our rations. Jaster: Humph. I�m not doing this for my health, you know. [Jaster leaves the Longardian Soldiers and heads to the church.] [Inside the church, Father Raul is praying in front of the altar.] [Jaster enters.] Jaster: [holds up the bag of money] This is all that I got today. [Raul stops praying and stands up.] [Jaster walks over to him.] Jaster: Those Longardians are getting a little too big for their britches. You gonna let �em get away with it? Raul : Now, now. Don�t get so worked up over it. It�s been two years since Rosa�s been under Longardian rule. They�re still struggling to get used to this place. We�ll get our chance soon enough. [Jaster sits down on one of the pews.] Jaster: Man, why did Rosa have to get mixed up in this war? [leans back] It used to be such a peaceful planet... Raul : The Longardians aren�t all that bad, though. Now that their lookouts are posted at the gate, we never get beasts in town anymore. Jaster: But the whole reason they�re posted there is to keep an eye on us. [A loud crash is heard.] [The ground shakes.] [Jaster stands up.] Jaster: What the--? Raul : Seems I spoke too soon! There�s a beast in town. A pretty big one, by the looks of it. Jaster: All right, I�ll take care of it. [Jaster runs towards the church doors.] Raul : Jaster, wait! Jaster: Don�t worry--I�ll behave. [Jaster exits the church.] [Outside the church, a huge beast takes off.] Jaster: That thing?! This is bad�-it�s heading for the residential area! [Six Baphu emerge from the ground.] Jaster: Huh?! [The six Baphu advance towards Jaster.] Jaster: Damn! I�m surrounded! [Suddenly, a hooded man jumps off from the rooftop and takes down four of the six Baphu.] [The hooded man approaches Jaster.] Hooded Man: Don�t sweat it�-these foes are nothing. They just rode in on the big guy�s coat tails. Jaster : Huh?! Who�re you? Hooded Man: Let�s finish these chumps off first. [As more Baphu appear, Jaster and the hooded man fight together and dispatch all their foes.] Jaster : You�re pretty strong. Hooded Man: Ha. That wasn�t even a warm-up. Jaster : Who are you? Hooded Man: I�m your ally, of course...for now, anyway. More importantly, the big fella went off toward the residential area. That beast is worth at least 20,000. Come on. Jaster : 20,000? What are you, some kind of hunter? Hooded Man: Pretty much. [Jaster and the hooded man run through the streets of Salgin toward the residential area and stop beside a transporter.] Hooded Man: If things start to get hairy up ahead, use the transporter. Know your way around it? [Meanwhile...] Simon: Wow...It�s awfully noisy all of a sudden. Steve: It would appear a beast has invaded the town. What luck! The Desert Claw would never pass up a chance to score a load of points like this. Let�s go check it out! Simon: Are you bonkers?! It�s way too dangerous! [The ground shakes.] Steve: Come on, this way! Simon: H-Hey, wait for me! [As Jaster and the hooded man continue their journey, the hooded man sees Simon and Steve.] Hooded Man: Wait! [stops running] [Jaster stops running and turns around.] Jaster : Huh? Hooded Man: I can�t go with you anymore. Sorry. Just go to the residential area and take down that big brute. Jaster : Hey, hold on a second! I can�t take that thing out by myself. Hooded Man: You don�t think so? Here, try this. It�s much better than that butter knife of yours. [The hooded man tosses his sword into the air. The sword stabs the ground in front of Jaster.] [Jaster pulls out the sword and raises it up.] Jaster : Whoa... Hooded Man: And this. [tosses a device] Jaster : [catches the device] What�s this? Hooded Man: A battle recorder. It�ll capture the fight from start to finish. You ought to get a lot of points for bagging that fella. Go on, take it with you. See ya later. [The hooded man jumps to the rooftops.] Jaster : No! Wait! How can you just leave me here?! [The hooded man leaves.] [The ground shakes.] [Two Giants emerge.] Jaster: Dammit. Fine--you can�t scare me! Bring it on, fellas! [Jaster defeats the two Giants with the sword given by the hooded man.] Jaster: Man... [looks at the sword and admires it] [Simon and Steve enter the scene.] Simon: Hey! You�re not half bad, kid! [Steve�s device beeps.] Steve : Huh? [takes out the device and checks it] O-Oh, my! Could--could it possibly be?! Simon : Steve-o, what�s goin� on? Steve : J-j-j-j-just look! Simon : C�mon, what is it? [walks over to Steve] Jaster: Yes? Steve : [to Simon] There�s no doubt about it. And see what he�s got there? That�s Desert Claw�s weapon, Desert Seeker--one of the Seven Sacred Galactic Swords. Simon : [to Jaster] So that means that you must be... Simon & Steve: the legendary hunter, Desert Claw! Jaster: Th...the...the what? Steve : Ohh, I can�t believe how lucky we are! To think we found him this quickly! Simon : No kiddin�! Steve : I told you he�d be on this planet, didn�t I? Didn�t I? See? Simon : Well now, aren�t we the lucky ones! Mission accomplished! Let�s head back. Come on, come on, you too, mister. [pulls Jaster along] Jaster: Whoa! Wait a second! What are you trying to do? Look, I�ve got to take care of that beast up there! You�re in my way! Simon : Aw, why bother? I mean it�s such a chore! Come to our ship and we�ll give you all kinds of sweet jobs that beat the pants off plain ol� beast hunting! Come on! Jaster: [attempts to break free] Argh! Knock it off! I have to go NOW, or that thing is gonna destroy the town! Let me go! [Simon lets go.] Steve : [to Steve] Nrrrgh...whatever you say. [to Jaster] We�ll accompany you on your huntin� trip, but when this little escapade�s over, you�re coming with us. Is that a deal? Jaster: Huh? Why should I? Steve : Then it�s settled! Let�s be on our way! [Simon and Steve follow Jaster to the residential area.] [They stop in front of its gates.] Jaster: The residential area�s beyond here. Simon : Gosh, he�s not a quiet fella, is he? Must be rather large as well... Steve : You�re not planning on having all three of us go in there, are you? Jaster: You wanna fight him all by yourself? Steve : N-no! Not at all! That�s crazy-�totally reckless! Simon : Y�know, Mr. Claw...I think you forfeit any points you earn if you, er, die. Jaster: Yeah yeah, let�s go! [Jaster runs in through the gates.] Steve: H-hey, wait up! Simon: Poor kid...we hardly knew �im. [The three enter the residential area.] [A giant beast moves around in the residential area.] Jaster: There it is. Steve : That is certainly a big monster, all right. Simon : Are you positive about this, Mr. Claw? Jaster: Like I have a choice! [Jaster, Simon and Steve attack the beast.] [They destroy one of the beast�s foot armors.] Simon: Hang on! His foot-armor�s off! Steve: [holding a device] I get it now. That�s a Mark VIII Salamander. If we can manage to break the shackles on its legs, then the shield on its back will open up. Let�s hurry up and break the other shackles! [They destroy the remaining three shackles.] [The shield on the Salamander�s back breaks.] Simon : Hey! Look at that! That�s gotta be his weak spot! Steve : Try attacking him there! Jaster: What? How am I supposed to do that? Steve : Jump on its back and hack away! Isn�t it obvious? [The Salamander roars at them.] Jaster: Are you nuts? There�s no way! Simon : Hang on�I�ve got just the thing for this kind of situation. [Simon takes out a gun.] Jaster: What�s that? Simon : I�ll tell ya later. Watch this! [Simon shoots at the Salamander.] [Platforms appear on the beast�s head, neck and back, leading to its weak spot.] Jaster: What the--?! Simon : That�s my Monography Shot. Whaddya reckon, ya like it? Jump on the back of those Monography platforms and you can get up on the back of the beast. Here ya go big man. Why don�t you take this for now? [Simon gives Jaster the Monography Shot.] Simon: When the platform disappears, just shoot up another one. But remember, you must equip the Monography Shot first before you can use it! Steve: Now is your chance. Go get him, Mr. Claw! [Jaster jumps on the platforms and attacks the Salamander�s weak spot.] [The Salamander roars and Jaster is thrown off it.] [Jaster lands on the ground and stands up.] Jaster: Did that do it? Simon : Nope, I�m afraid not. Steve : But you�re almost there. Is the battle recorder ready? That kind of beast�ll net you heaps of points. Make sure you get it all on tape! Jaster: [takes out the battle recorder] What, you mean this? Simon : Ohh, now THAT is a well-used recorder! Steve : Use that to record your battle with the beast, and later on you can turn it in for points. Now finish off the beast by yourself--after all, it�s your prize! Jaster: All right. Then here goes. [Jaster charges towards the Salamander] Steve : Its heart has stopped, but it�s still being controlled by the power of the Rune. Destroy the Rune in its head! Simon : [to Steve] Oh, come on, like a legendary hunter needs your help! Steve : Hmm...I get the feeling he sort of does. I wonder why? Is he really Desert Claw? I suppose looks can be deceiving. Simon : A real master doesn�t need to show off. He may not look it, but he�s got the goods! [Jaster defeats the Mark VIII Salamander.] Steve: Hooray! Ha ha! You did it! Simon: That�s our Desert Claw! You�re the real deal! [Jaster turns towards Simon and Steve and smiles at them.] [From the rooftops, the mysterious hooded man watches them.] Hooded Man: Just as I thought... His potential may be greater than my own. [The hooded man walks away.] Simon : So listen, Mr. Claw, you got a real name or somethin�? Jaster: Huh? ...Oh, yeah. I�m Jaster. Jaster Rogue. Simon : Jaster, eh? Good. It�s a bit weird to keep callin� you Desert Claw. So from now on, if it�s all right with you, I�m just gonna call you Jaster. OK? Steve : Now, let�s get down to business. I�ll be straight with you. Our boss says he wants to hire you. Would you come with us? Jaster: Hire me...what? Why me? Simon : Good grief, isn�t it obvious? You�re Desert Claw, the legendary bounty hunter! And our boss, well, he wants to be a part of that. Let�s just say he�s scoutin� you for our team. [Simon starts a discussion with Steve.] Jaster: (These guys still think I�m someone named �Desert Claw�. That means... HE must be Desert Claw. I had no idea he was such a big deal...) [Jaster thinks about the hooded man and the earlier events.] Simon : What is it Jaster? You feelin� all right? Jaster: Ah, yeah, I�m fine...So who is it that wants to hire me, exactly? Steve : Our boss, Captain Dorgengoa. A pirate among pirates! Jaster: What?! Dorgengoa? The space pirate Dorgengoa?! [Simon and Steve nod.] Jaster: You mean, you guys do space travel? [Simon and Steve nod.] Steve: Of course. We�re big-time pirates--we travel all over the galaxy. [Simon nods.] Steve: I mean, hunting has its moments, but tracking down immense treasure throughout the universe isn�t half-bad. [Simon nods.] Jaster: Me...up in space... [looks up at the sky] Yeah, I can see that. Not half-bad at all. Steve : Our ship is hidden in the desert to the west of here. Why don�t you meet up with us there? Jaster: In the desert...? Simon : Well, y�know, we had a couple of minor issues...and we couldn�t actually dock at the spaceport. But look, we�ll head back to the ship first--you come meet us there before tomorrow mornin�, all right? All right. Tada! [Simon and Steve walk away.] Jaster: Hey, wait a minute! I haven�t decided yet. Simon : [stops and looks back] Oh, you�ll be there, all right. I can see it in your eyes--you were made for the pirate life! Steve : To find the ship, you need to take the west gate and head straight over the desert. Please be sure to prepare for your journey before setting out. We�ll be seeing you later. Ta-ta! [Simon and Steve leave.] [Jaster looks up at the sky.] [Jaster goes to the church to see Raul before setting out.] [Jaster enters the church and walks over to Raul.] Raul : Sounds like things have calmed down out there. Jaster: Yeah. But it was a bit more tough than usual. Raul : I�m glad you�re okay. Jaster: Me, too. But listen, Raul... Raul : What is it? Jaster: Uh...never mind. Raul : What�s going on, Jaster? Jaster: Raul... I�m really grateful. You found me abandoned on the church steps and raised me to be who I am today. Raul : What�s all this about? Are you OK? Did you hit your head? [A pause] Jaster: Well, I�m heading out... Raul : All right. [Jaster runs out of the church.] [Raul sighs.] [Jaster returns to the residential area and rents a Yago from Katahari.] [Raul comes.] Raul : Jaster! Jaster: Uh...Raul! What are you doing here? Raul : Thought you could just leave without saying anything? Jaster: I�m sorry...I didn�t want you to try to stop me. Raul : Me, stop you? Jaster: I... I want to leave this planet, and travel through space! I want to see new things and learn about this vast galaxy we live in. It�s been my dream since I was little. Come on, Raul, what do you say? [Raul sighs.] Jaster: I�m sorry, Raul. Thank you so much for raising me and taking care of me... Well... I�m off. Raul : Wait... [Raul places a hand on Jaster�s shoulder.] Raul : I always knew this day would come. Do you remember when you were just a boy? We�d always look up at the stars together. Jaster: Yeah, of course I remember. We�d gaze up at the stars and talk about outer space... [Flashback] [Young Jaster and Raul are sitting together, looking at the stars.] Young Jaster: You know, Raul...I�ve made up my mind. I wanna go into space one day! Raul : Really! And what will you do out there? Young Jaster: Huh? Well, umm...I don�t know. I don�t know, but I still wanna go, for sure! Can I, Raul? Huh? Can I? Raul : Of course you can, Jaster. You can do anything you want. Young Jaster: Uh-huh! [End flashback] Raul : Right now, your eyes are shining just like they were back then. Self-assured, straightforward eyes. I don�t think I could stop you if I tried. [Raul lowers his hand.] Raul : Go, Jaster. But I want you to remember something... You�re the only family I�ve got. From the moment I first held you--a crying little baby--seventeen years ago, I�ve come to think of you as my son. And that, my boy, will never, ever change. Jaster: Raul... Raul : [starts walking away] I�ll be waiting here for your return. I�m sure it�ll be a little lonely. Jaster: Raul... Someday I�m gonna save everyone on this planet. I can�t let Rosa remain in slavery forever. Raul : [stops walking] Then I�ll stay here, hoping and praying for your success... [Raul continues to walk away.] Raul : Take care of yourself, Jaster. [Raul leaves.] [At night] [Jaster rides a Yago through the western desert. He jumps off it and goes atop a sand dune to see a big ship which is located some distance away.] Jaster: So that�s Dorgengoa�s ship, huh? [Jaster looks up at the starry night sky.] Jaster: (And so comes the end of one long day. Come dawn, I�ll be leaving this planet. Something up there is waiting for me... I can feel it... And that�s why...) I�m going into space! [At dawn] [Jaster is riding the Yago.] [When he�s about to reach Dorgengoa�s ship, he jumps off the Yago and walks towards the ship with it.] Jaster: It�s almost morning... [Simon waves at Jaster from the side of the ship�s deck.] Simon: Heeey, Ja-aster! Over here, big man! [Suddenly, the Yago starts flailing wildly.] Jaster: Hey, whoa! What gives? [Jaster attempts to calm the Yago down.] [The Yago manages to break free and runs away.] [All of a sudden, a giant beast emerges from beneath the sand and throws the Yago up into the air.] Jaster: What the--?! [The beast eats the Yago.] [Jaster jumps away from the beast.] [The beast attacks Jaster.] [Jaster evades the beast�s attack and fights back.] Simon: Oh, dear! We gotta get outta here, Jaster! Hurry up and get on! [Jaster rushes towards the ship�s landing gondola.] [The gondola�s door closes and it begins to move upwards, back to the ship, before Jaster gets on it.] Jaster: Hey!! What�s the big idea?! [dashes off to keep away from the beast] Dammit! [The ship�s anchor�s weighed, its engine started, and its sails are hoisted.] [The ship starts moving away slowly, gradually gaining speed.] [Jaster runs beside it. However, he can�t keep up with it.] Jaster: You just gonna leave me here?! Hey!! [Simon waves at Jaster.] Simon : Ja-aster! No hard feelings, right? We�ll put up a nice tombstone for ya! Jaster: Son of a...! [Jaster continues running with the giant beast in hot pursuit.] Jaster: [looks back at the approaching beast] I�m not about to... [looks front] check out now! [More giant beasts of the same type emerge from the ground.] Jaster: What the hell IS that thing? [The ship begins to take off.] [Suddenly, an air bike, ridden by a teenage girl, goes off the ship.] [The girl approaches Jaster on her air bike and holds out her hand.] Girl : Over here! Jaster: Huh? [Jaster reaches for the girl�s hand and holds on.] [The air bike then takes off towards the ship. On the way, the girl pulls Jaster onto the air bike.] Girl : He he. That was a close one. Jaster: [catches his breath] Who are you? [They reach the ship.] [From the desert below, the hooded man watches the ship as it leaves.] xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + Chapter 2: The Jungle Planet + [CH02] ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ [Inside Dorgengoa�s ship...] [Jaster, Simon and Steve walk into the ship�s control room.] Simon : Now that�s what I call a close shave! Seein� monsters that big and ugly nearly sent me into a tailspin myself. Steve : We didn�t mean to leave you out there like that. We fully intended to come back for you later. I swear. Jaster: It doesn�t matter--I got saved in the end. Listen, that girl back there... Simon : Y�mean Kisala? Wow, you sure don�t waste any time! That�s Desert Claw for ya! Listen, though, don�t you be gettin� any ideas, big man. To tell you the truth, she�s-- [A man is leaning on the control room�s doorway.] Man : Humph... So this is the guy? [He walks over to Jaster, Simon and Steve.] Steve : The legendary hunter, Desert Claw. Jaster: [to the man] Are you...Captain Dorgengoa? Man : Huh? ...Ha ha ha ha ha! Hey, bolthead--set this kid straight. [hits Steve on the back] Steve : Oof! [regains his balance] Allow me to introduce Zegram Ghart, the Black Wolf. He�s a bounty hunter, hand-picked by our boss--like you. Simon : He�s skilled, all right, but he�s got a big gob on �im. [puts a hand to his chin] Says he�s a lone wolf--I think he just doesn�t have any friends. Zegram: I hate teaming up with small fries. Never expected Desert Claw to be such a youngster... Guess you can�t trust rumors, can ya? [Jaster frowns.] Zegram: Heh heh... Anyway, nice to meet ya, Desert Claw. [Zegram leaves.] [A white cat standing behind the group starts speaking.] Cat : Hey! So you�re Desert Claw? Hmm... [Jaster, Simon and Steve turn around to look at the cat.] Jaster: Wait, you�re...? Cat : The one and only First Mate Monsha! Simon : [shakes his head] Is the Captain still napping? He can be such a pain... Monsha: Oho... �The Desert Claw has a shrewd look about him.� That�s what the Captain would have said, I�m sure of it. When the Captain�s not around, I�m the one in charge. And Desert Claw or not, you better follow orders. You got that? Jaster: Er...okay. Monsha: Excellent! Now that that�s out of the way, you�re an official crew member on the Dorgenark! All right, now that we have the legendary hunter Desert Claw on our side, nothing can stop us! The treasures of the universe are ours for the taking! [Flashback] [Young Jaster and Raul are sitting together, looking up at the starry night sky.] Young Jaster: Hey, Raul, where�s that ship going? [points at a ship in the sky] Raul : I�m not sure. Maybe to some planet somewhere. Young Jaster: Really? What do they have on other planets? Raul : Well...all sorts of things. Young Jaster: Like what? What kind of things do you mean? Raul : I�ve never been there myself, so I don�t really know. Young Jaster: Aww Raul...you�re no fun. Raul : Ha ha ha...sorry about that. I happen to like this planet. As long as I can live here, I�ll be satisfied. Young Jaster: Really? But I wanna go into space! I wanna explore the galaxy and see what it�s like out there. Raul : Oh, really? I�m sure you will, one day. Young Jaster: Yep, and I bet it�ll be super cool! And when I come back, I�ll tell you all about it, Raul! Raul : Well, I�m looking forward to that! Young Jaster: Heh heh! [End flashback] Monsha: [to Jaster] What�s wrong? Jaster: Ah, it�s nothing... So what do we do now? Monsha: Oh, that�s right--I forgot! Now we head for Zerard. Jaster: Zerard? Steve : Goodness, haven�t you heard of it? It�s very advanced--the most civilized planet in the galaxy. Jaster: [to Monsha] So, why are we going there? Monsha: We�ve got some important business there. Dorgenark, full speed ahead! Simon & Steve: Aye-aye! Monsha: Your instructions will follow. Now, I�ve got some lunch to eat, so if you�ll excuse me...I�ll be seeing you all later. Meow. [Monsha leaves the control room.] Steve : You can take it easy, too, Mr. Rogue. Perhaps you�d like to have a look around the ship while we�re in transit? Simon : Good idea! I mean after all, this place is your home now, isn�t it? [Jaster leaves the control room and explores the ship.] [Later, Jaster returns to the control room and approaches Steve, who is at the helm.] Steve : Well, Mr. Rogue? What do you think? Jaster: Heh, I like it! Steve : The Dorgenark may be a little old, but it�s still the best in the galaxy. Whenever I leave the ship, I can�t wait �til we get back so I can take the helm again. Jaster: The best in the galaxy... I like the sound of that. Steve : Very good! Jaster: By the way, can I ask you something? Steve : Of course, what is it? Jaster: Why is Dorgengoa scouting out all of these great hunters? He must have something in mind. Steve : Well, um, ahh... Maybe you�d better ask the Captain yourself. It�s not really my place to say. Jaster: Yeah, I figured as much. I mean, Dorgengoa�s going so far as to scout hunters from all over the universe. But for what purpose? Steve : Oh, er...say, we�re about to pass through the Rose Nebula. Why don�t you go up on deck and take a look? Best seat in town! I�ve opened the locks on the deck hatch. You can get there from the lower staircase. Jaster: Got it. I�ll check it out. [Jaster leaves the control room.] [Jaster takes the ship�s elevator to the floor below and goes through the ship�s bar [Veronica], along the corridor, through the hatch and up onto the deck.] [Kisala is standing on the side of the deck. She notices Jaster�s arrival.] Kisala: Oh... [Kisala waves at Jaster.] Kisala: Hey, over here! [Jaster walks over to Kisala.] Jaster: Oh, hey...thanks for saving me earlier. Kisala: Oh, it was nothing. Not bad, huh? That�s cause I�m a pirate, too. Jaster: Yeah. Kisala: Hmm... [Kisala bends forward and examines Jaster closely.] [Jaster, being startled, takes a step back.] Kisala: I always pictured Desert Claw as someone a little more... intimidating... Jaster: Huh? Kisala: But you�ve got awfully pretty eyes. Jaster: Uhh... Kisala: Hmm... You sure don�t look like a battle-hardened hero. [Jaster looks away from Kisala.] [Kisala bends to the side to look at Jaster�s face.] Kisala: In fact, you might just be a big fake! Jaster: Er...um...I... Kisala: Look! [Kisala turns away and looks up.] Kisala: It�s the Rose Nebula! Jaster: What? Oh... [looks up] Kisala: Oh... [Jaster stands beside Kisala.] Jaster: It�s beautiful. Kisala: You know, I�ve always loved this place. I don�t know why, but...looking at the stars somehow calms me. [Kisala joins her hands, closes her eyes, and smiles.] Jaster: Same here. I�ve always wanted to be up in space... My dreams finally come true. Kisala: [looks at Jaster] You sure don�t sound like the galaxy�s top bounty hunter. Jaster: [looks away from Kisala] Well, er, I mean...so what? Kisala: I guess. My name is Kisala. Nice to meet you, Desert Claw. [Kisala offers a handshake.] Jaster: I�m Jaster--Jaster Rogue. [Jaster shakes hands with Kisala.] Kisala: Hi, Jaster. Oh, right. Have you met Papa yet? Jaster: Papa? Kisala: My Dad, Dorgengoa. He�s the Captain of this ship. Jaster: What?! So you�re... Kisala: Right, his daughter. [Suddenly, two luminous objects shoot up from beside the ship.] Kisala: Huh? [Another luminous object shoots across the top of the ship.] Jaster: What the--?! [A total of four luminous objects surround the Dorgenark. They start attacking the ship�s barrier.] [One of them manages to break in through the barrier. It appears to be a spacefaring beast--the Deviler.] Kisala: Beast?! How did they ever get so close?! [Kisala runs to the other side of the deck and looks down.] Kisala: Jaster, look out! [Another Deviler attempts to break in.] Kisala: Ah! [Jaster draws his sword and charges towards the beasts.] Jaster: Argh...! [The rest of the Devilers break in.] [Jaster and Kisala team up to fight the Devilers.] [When all four beasts are defeated, the two hear several explosions from around the Dorgenark.] Kisala: This isn�t good! C�mon, Jaster--get below deck! [Kisala runs in through the deck hatch.] [Jaster follows.] [They pass by the Dorgenark crews--Carraco, Davis, Maclay and Drake--as they run along the corridor towards the control room.] Carraco: Beasts sighted! All hands to the bridge! Davis : Th-th-th-this is awful! Close the hatch! [In the Dorgenark�s control room...] Monsha: How did we let beasts get so close?! Simon : Our radar�s gone haywire at the worst possible time! I�m tellin� ya, when it rains, it pours! Steve : Listen, there�s...um, something else you all need to know. The ship... [Steve lets go of the helm.] [The helm spins uncontrollably.] Steve : has gone completely out of control! Kisala: Wha-at?! Steve! Simon : You have GOT to be kiddin� me! This is bad, very very bad! We�re trapped in Juraika�s gravity field! Monsha: Well what do we do?! Steve : I don�t know! Simon : Whoa! We�re gonna crash! We�d better find a nice soft forest to land in or it�s curtains for all of us! Steve : I�d be most happy to...if only I could steer! [The ship shakes more violently.] Simon : Aaaaaaaaaargh!!! [The Dorgenark enters the atmosphere of the planet Juraika.] Monsha: Whoa-oa-oa-oa-oa! Meow! Jaster: Oof! Kisala: Don�t worry--it�ll take more than that to break this ship! [The Dorgenark crashes on the wooded areas of the Rhyzas Swamp, skids across the water and comes to a stop on the bank.] [In the control room...] [Monsha had fainted.] Steve : Oh, I thought we were done for! Kisala: Owww... Simon : Haha! I�m alive! [Jaster, Kisala, Zegram, Simon and Steve gather.] Simon : We were supposed to go to Zerard, but just our luck, we�ve crash-landed on Juraika, of all places. Whoop-dee-do! Jaster: So this is Juraika...the jungle planet... Kisala: [to Steve] Well? Can you fix it? Steve : Almost everything can be repaired right away. But the engine... Simon : This is definitely gonna take some time. Oh no! This is just fantastic... The fixes are no big thing, but we�re all out of booster oil. Steve : You�re kidding! Now what? There aren�t any Starship Markets on Juraika. What are we supposed to do? Zegram: Come on, that�s no way for a buncha space pirates to act! All right listen up, you rank amateurs. That oil is made from the fruit of a particular tree that has highly flammable sap. Apparently that fruit grows on a certain jungle planet. I think you get my drift. Steve : Of course, that�s right! I remember now. The booster oil we need comes from this �Fire Fruit� that�s harvested here on Juraika. If we can get a hold of some of that fruit, we�d be able to make more oil with it. Zegram: Very good, bolthead. Jaster: Fire Fruit, eh? Kisala: Let�s go! Simon, Steve--we�ll leave the repairs to you. Simon & Steve: Aye-aye! Zegram: Did we HAVE to land on such a sweltering planet? [Jaster, Kisala and Zegram leave the ship.] [As the team walks through the jungle, Zegram notices something. He stops and looks round.] Zegram: Strange... This area should be full of Fire Fruit. But there�s not a single one to be found. What�s going on? Kisala: I wonder... Could someone have already taken them all? Jaster: That�s impossible. Nobody could take all of the fruit in the jungle. Kisala: Well, maybe huge troops of monkeys are eating all the fruit! Zegram: Don�t be ridiculous. Let�s look a little farther in. [As the three proceed with their expedition, Jaster notices some movements behind the trees.] Jaster: Huh? [The three stop walking.] Zegram: Must be their territory from here on in. Jaster: �Their�? Zegram: The Burkaqua. They�re a Juraikan tribe, and they don�t like dealing with outsiders. [A tribal cry is heard.] Kisala: Eek! What was that? [Jaster, Kisala and Zegram close in and stand back to back, staying on guard.] Jaster: What�re they doing? [Spears rain down from the thick foliage above and stab the ground, circling the team.] Jaster: Dammit! [shoves aside the two spears in front of him and walks out] [Kisala follows Jaster out.] [The tribal cry is heard again.] [Zegram pulls out one of the spears and examines the spearhead.] Jaster: ...They�re gone. Zegram: Blech! [throws the spear away] [The spearhead appears to be poisonous.] Zegram: This stuff�ll finish you in ten seconds flat. Kisala: You�re kidding! Zegram: Well, what next, Desert Claw? Should we hightail it? Jaster: If people are around, there ought to be a village. We might be able to ask them about that Fire Fruit. Zegram: You mean you actually want to go to their village? You got a death wish or what? Jaster: They�re still people. We can reason with them. Zegram: Oh yeah, wouldn�t that be nice? Heh, we got us a daredevil, here. Jaster: Come on! [The team heads to the Burkaqua Village through the Path to Burkaqua.] [On the way, the path is blocked by some sort of an ancient stone statue, making it impossible to continue the journey.] Kisala: We�ll never get past this... Zegram: Those Burkaqua must�ve put it here. Trying to keep people like us out of their village, I�m sure. No ordinary human could move this monstrosity. [Zegram tried to push the statue to show what he means.] Kisala: Well then, how about someone with superhuman strength? Zegram: You see anyone like that around here? Jaster: It�s all right, we�ll come back later. Let�s find another route. [The team explores the forest and finds a hut.] [The team walks towards the hut.] [A strange short man is standing behind Kisala.] [Kisala walks towards the hut to examine it closely.] [The strange man follows her.] [Zegram sees the man.] Zegram: Huh? [Kisala feels that someone�s following her.] [Kisala looks behind her and sees the man.] [The man looks up at her.] Kisala: Whoa! [jumps back and falls down.] Kisala: [to man] What do you think you�re doing?! Jaster: Nrgh! [Jaster runs towards the man and pointed his sword at him.] Man : Woah! Hang on! Just calm down a sec! Sorry about that. Been so long since I�ve seen another person--I just needed some human contact. Heh heh. Kisala: Human contact, huh? Man : Name�s Filio. Come on in! I haven�t talked to anyone in ages. [Jaster lowers his sword.] Filio : Hehe, follow me. [The team follows Filio into his hut.] [Inside the hut...] [Kisala examines the hut�s interior.] Kisala: Wow, this place is kind of a mess. Jaster: [to Filio] So, you live here alone? Filio : I was banished here. Punishment for breaking a village rule. It�s a horrible story. I like tinkering with machines, as you can see. Unfortunately, it�s strictly forbidden in that village. Kisala: That village...? Filio : They�re really old-fashioned. Kisala: Huh? Filio : The villagers, I mean. They�re so bound to their rules, they never even glance at anything new. That�s why this planet is so underdeveloped-- those backwards Burkaqua. Jaster: Your village...is it far from here? Filio : Hmm? Oh, yeah, uh, Burkaqua Village. That�s where I used to live. Buncha old sticks-in-the-mud there. So, er...wher was I? Jaster: Huh? Oh, um... Filio : My research shows that other planets are coming along swimmingly. But Juraika�s civilization hasn�t changed in a thousand years! This planet is an ancient relic. Time�s moved on without us! And are we supposed to stand for it? Heck no! I�m gonna be the one who changes this place. I�ll make it even more advanced than Zerard. Zegram: You say that now, but have you ever even seen Zerard? Filio : Er...unfortunately, I haven�t. But I�ve heard that it�s the most advanced planet in the galaxy. Oh, yeah! Take a look at this! Apparently, Zerard is covered with these things. [Filio takes out an orange colored glove.] [Jaster takes the glove and holds it up.] Jaster: With gloves? Filio : Wear that and your strength will go through the roof. You can even move massive hunks of rock! Amazing what SOME planets can come up with, huh? Pretty cool, right? Here, take it. Jaster: Huh? Why? Filio : Oh, I�ve got another one. Besides, you guys are on your way to Burkaqua Village, right? If you get a chance, could ya tell �em all about the wonders of civilization? For me? Wouldya? [Kisala walks over to Jaster.] Kisala: A Power Glove...and a pretty old model, too. Say, Jaster, this could come in handy. We might be able to use it to move that stone statue. Zegram: If he�s offering, take it. Either way, we gotta split. The village is just ahead. We can finally finish our mission. [Zegram walks out of Filio�s house.] Filio : What? Already? [Jaster and Kisala follow Zegram out.] Filio : Oh, yeah...! I wouldn�t go near the houses along the river if I were you. See ya! [Jaster, Kisala and Zegram walk back towards the statue.] [In front of the ancient stone statue...] Kisala: Jaster, wait. What about that Power Glove of yours? You think that would work? Jaster: The Power Glove... Zegram: Yeah, that just might work. Give it a shot, Jaster. [Jaster uses the Power Glove and pushes the front part of the statue.] [The statue starts to part, making way for the team.] [The team walks through it and continues their journey to the Village.] [Shortly afterwards, the team reached an area with a lot of craters on the ground. Dario�s hut is located in that area as well.] Jaster: What IS all this...? Zegram: Were they bombed or what? [The door of the hut is open.] [Kisala stands at the doorway and examines the interior of the hut.] [Kisala notices that Dario is standing next to her.] Kisala: Whoa! [Dario sniffs the air.] Dario : Ooooh, you smell good. Good woman, good smell. Aww yeah! No one ever comes here. Quit standin� around and come on in! Kisala: [sighs] Guys, we have another weirdo! [Jaster and Zegram walk to the doorway.] Dario : What? You guys are here, too? You wait outside. [Kisala shakes her head.] [Jaster and Zegram follow Kisala in.] [Inside the hut...] Dario : So...you�ve met Filio. He�s an odd duck, huh? Odd enough to get tossed out of the village, anyway. Zegram: And you�re not? Dario : Nope, not me, I left by choice. Can�t stand to be around them old- fashioned fogeys. I go to all the trouble inventin� for �em, and all they say is �no thanks�! Kisala: Inventing what? Dario : This! [Dario holds up a lighted bomb.] Jaster, Kisala & Zegram: Huh?! [The team manages to run outside just before Dario�s bomb exploded inside his hut.] Jaster: What happened?! Zegram: Is he dead? Kisala: Unbelievable. [Dario walks to the doorway.] Dario : Just kidding, folks! Kisala: [shakes her head] Not funny, SO not funny. Dario : Behold the power of my invention! I call it a �bomb�! It can blast even the hardest things to bits. Aww yeah! Catch! [Dario throws the bomb.] [Jaster catches it.] Jaster: Oof. [Jaster offers it to Kisala.] [Kisala shakes her head.] Dario : Put that invention of mine to good use, now! Well, guess you guys better be on your way. I�ve got to take care of these wounds. See you later...ow! Jaster: Y-Yeah, later... Dario : Oh, hey, you�re going to Burkaqua Village, right? I�ve got a message for the elder. Tell �im Dario said �How long you gonna be set in your ways, you old loon?!� �What this planet needs is progress! Aww yeah!� Got that? [Jaster, Kisala and Zegram leave Dario�s house.] [The group goes to a boulder blocking the path.] [Jaster throws the bomb at the boulder and blows it to bits.] [As the blockade�s now cleared out, the team continues their journey.] [On the way to Burkaqua Village...] [A bug suddenly shoots out of the bushes.] Jaster: Wh-what was that?! [A boy, Fabre, jumps out of the bushes, after the bug.] Fabre : Aw, man! I almost had him! Aww... Zegram: What�s with you? [Zegram approaches Fabre.] Zegram: Hey, kid, what do you think you�re doing here? [Zegram holds the hilt of his sword.] Jaster: Take it easy, Zegram. [Zegram lowers his hand.] Fabre : I...I�m just collecting bugs, that�s all! Kisala: Bugs...? But this place is crawling with beasts! Isn�t it dangerous? Fabre : I don�t mind! I�m gonna catch a big one for the Insectron tournament! That�s why I came to Juraika. Kisala: Uh, you wouldn�t happen to be from Zerard by any chance? Fabre : Yep. It sure was tough saving up money for the trip. I�m gonna catch a great Insector here on Juraika and win the Insectron tournament for sure this time! Zegram: So what�s your rank, kid? Fabre : I�m still a D... Zegram: Ahh, then Insectors from Juraika should be fine. Fabre : You sure seem to know a lot about it, mister! Zegram: Humph... Jaster: What�s this Insectron thing? Zegram: An Insector fighting competition. Takes place on Zerard. I�ve heard the prizes are pretty fancy these days, so it�s gaining popularity, but I never thought a squirt like this would be involved. Fabre : [Fabre stamps his feet on the ground] I�m not a squirt! [to Jaster] What about you, mister, are you a beginner? Jaster: Me? Uh, first I�ve heard of it, actually. Fabre : Oh, really? Well, in that case...I tell ya what, why don�t I give you this. It�s my old one. [Fabre gives an Insector Trap I and a Rearing Cage I to Jaster.] [Jaster holds up the Insector Trap I.] Jaster: An insect cage? Fabre : It�s a trap. You put bait inside and set it out where bugs like to go. Wait a while and there�ll be a bug inside when you come back--if you�re lucky. But they won�t come out if you just sit there and watch. I�ll give you some of this special food, too. Here! [Fabre gives a small bag of Sanchez Fruits to Jaster.] Fabre : There�s all kinds of traps and baits. You gotta think about all that AND where to put the trap, or you�ll never catch a good Insector. Well, good luck, mister! See you at the Insectron tournament some day! [Fabre waves at the team and leaves.] Zegram: What�s with that self-satisfied mug? He ain�t all that. Kisala: Bug hunting...looks fun, doesn�t it, Jaster? Zegram: A lotta guys get too wound up in the Insectron. Messes up their lives. Just take it easy, is all. [The team proceeds with the journey.] [The Burkaqua Village is now in sight.] [The team walks towards the village gates.] [However, two gatekeepers--Lugan and Moban, stop them from entering.] Moban : What do you want? Only Burkaquans are allowed beyond this point. Go home! Jaster: Wait! Our ship broke down. We�re looking for Fire Fruit. Moban : Not our problem! Now go home or get hurt! [Moban points his spear at Jaster.] Jaster: Urk! [steps back] Lugan : Another piece of friendly advice: Don�t go near the spring past here! ESPECIALLY not today! [Jaster, Kisala and Zegram leave the village gates.] [As the team continues to explore the jungle, they reached the spring.] Zegram: Huh? Jaster: What is it, Zegram? Zegram: Shh! I heard something. Kisala: Huh? [The team sees a young woman and a girl in the spring.] Woman : [to girl] You�re not afraid, Miri? Miri : Nope, not me... Lilika...am...am I gonna meet the Star God? Lilika: That�s right. You�ve been chosen. You get to be right next to the Star God. Miri : I know...but... When I�m with him, does that mean I won�t be able to see you anymore? Lilika: Miri... [The team appears to be squatting and listening to the conversation from behind the bushes.] Kisala: Villagers, you think? Zegram: Look at that--two broads! Not bad, eh? Tell me, Jaster, which one�s more your type? Jaster: ...Uhh... Kisala: [nudges Zegram roughly] What�s WRONG with you two, anyway?! [Kisala stands up.] Kisala: Let�s go down there and ask them where Burkaqua Village is. [Zegram pulls Kisala down.] Zegram: Wait. Those two looks like Burkaqua tribesman. They might attack if they know we�re outsiders. Kisala: They don�t look like the type to attack. Zegram: [slaps his forehead] Ugh! What do you know about the Burkaqua, anyway!? Listen, do you have any idea what they did to me back in the days? Those Burkaqua creeps, first they-- [Lilika notices that there�s someone nearby.] Lilika: [looks at the direction of the team] Who�s there?! Zegram: Uh-oh! We�ve been spotted. [Lilika throws her hatchet at the bushes.] [The hatchet stabs the tree trunk behind Jaster right above his head.] Jaster: Whoa! [Lilika aims an arrow at the bushes.] [Zegram stands up and raises his hands.] Zegram: W-Wait--let us explain! We come in peace! [The team walks out of the bushes.] [Lilika and Miri approach them.] Kisala: We�re sorry... We didn�t mean to spy on you. You�re from Burkaqua Village, right? We�d like to go there ourselves, but the gatekeepers turned us away and we can�t get in. Lilika: What do you want there? Kisala: Our ship�s broken down, and we need Fire Fruit to fix it. We were hoping that maybe we could get some in the village. [As the conversation is going on, a green tentacle creeps out of the water towards Miri.] Kisala: Or, uh, you know, well, um...find out where we could gather them ourselves. [The unnoticed tentacle grabs Miri.] Miri : Eeeeeek! Kisala: Ah! [Kisala runs towards Miri and cuts the tentacle with her daggers.] Kisala: [to Miri] Run away! [Suddenly, another tentacle comes out of the water and wraps Kisala�s ankle.] Kisala: Huh? [Two more tentacles come out of the water and wrap Kisala.] [The tentacles pull Kisala towards the water.] Kisala: Jasteeeeer! Jaster: Kisala! [Jaster, Zegram and Lilika run towards Kisala.] [The tentacles hold Kisala above the water.] [Kisala attempts to break free.] Kisala: Ahhh! [A giant toad--the Mud Whooper, emerges from the water.] Jaster: What the--?! Kisala: Ahhhh! Zegram: Aw, do we HAVE to? Lilika: [to Kisala] Hang on, we�ll save you! [Jaster, Zegram and Lilika battle the Mud Whooper.] [Later, Lilika charges towards the beast from the front.] [The Mud Whooper attacks Lilika with its tentacles.] [Lilika evades the attacks easily.] [Lilika jumps, aims, and shoots and arrow that pierces the Rune in the Mud Whooper�s head.] [The Mud Whooper roars.] Kisala: Ahhh! [The Mud Whooper goes wild and throws Kisala away.] Kisala: Ahhhh! Jaster: Kisala! [Jaster catches Kisala.] [The Mud Whooper dies.] [Later...] Jaster: [to Kisala] You okay? Kisala: I�m gonna have nightmares about this. Lilika: [to Kisala] You...you were protecting my sister. Miri : [to Kisala] Thank you... Kisala: It�s okay. It was a spur-of-the-moment thing. Are you okay? Are you hurt at all? Miri : No, I�m just fine. Lilika: I�m Lilika, and this is Miri. Kisala: I�m Kisala. Nice to meet you. Miri : Yes, same here! [Kisala notices something strange about Miri�s eyes.] Kisala: Huh? Lilika: Miri�s eyes... She was attacked by a beast long ago. Kisala: A beast... Miri : I can�t see, but I can do everything else! There isn�t anything that can stop me! Kisala: Really... Lilika: So there�s no need to tread lightly around her. You said you wanted to go to Burkaqua Village, right? Kisala: Oh, uh, yes! Lilika: I�ll have a word with the guards on your behalf. But they don�t take kindly to strangers there. Be careful. Kisala: Really? Thank you so much! Lilika: Well, it�s time for us to head back. ...See you later. [Lilika and Miri leave.] Zegram: We better get a move on ourselves... Seems that Burkaqua is full of beautiful women, huh? [When Jaster, Kisala and Zegram are about to leave the spring...] Voice : Hey, wait up. Jaster: [to Kisala] What did you say? Kisala: Huh? I didn�t say anything. Jaster: But I thought-- Voice : No, no, over here. [Jaster and Kisala looks at Zegram.] Zegram: Hey, it wasn�t me. Voice : Over here, look down, down! [The team looks down and sees a purple toad.] Jaster: Can�t be...this thing? [Jaster squats in front of the toad.] Toad : Oho, you finally noticed me! I�m Toady, I�m...a toad. Yeah, I live in this lake. Kisala: You can talk?! Toady : Wow, you�re real sharp. Happened all of a sudden, too. Yeah, musta been �cause of that orange colored goop. Zegram: Orange colored goop...? Hmm... This must be the work of that Rune. Rune speeds up the process of evolution and turns living things into beasts. Toady : You got that right. Ever since it fell from the sky, the jungle�s been full of all kinds of weird stuff. My buddy, he got all huge and went kinda crazy. You know--the beast that you defeated earlier. Ah, but hey, you know, I don�t blame you for it. It�s better this way. If he�d survive...I...Oh man, what a shame...! Zegram: C�mon, let�s leave this lump and be on our way. Toady : No, wait! Hang on, take me with you! Come on guys, don�t be such a stick in the mud! I really want to come along for the ride. Zegram: What did you say? Toady : Who�d want to live out their life in this swamp? Besides, if I stay here much longer, I might end up like one of them. Zegram: That ain�t our problem! Now scat! Toady : Wow wow wow wow, hey, it�s not like you don�t stand to benefit! I can talk, right? But that�s not the only thing that I can do. I also got this interesting new power. I bet it�ll come in handy, my friends. [Toady looks at Jaster.] Toady : Here, let me borrow these. [Toady snatches Jaster�s Plain Edge and Rock Crusher with his tongue.] Jaster: [stands up] What the?! [Toady eats both the swords and chews them.] [Toady spits out a new sword--the Ridge Crusher.] [Jaster picks it up.] Kisala: What...? What did you just do? Toady : I have the power to mix together the things that I eat. It�s like I can fuse together two different items. Pretty cool, eh? [Kisala looks at the Ridge Crusher] Kisala: Yeah, it sure is. Toady : If you bring me with you, I can combine the items you find and make cooler new items. I�m beggin� you! Let me come along! [Kisala looks at Jaster.] Kisala: What do you think? Toady : All my friends have turned into monsters... I�ll be all by myself if I stay here. Please! [Jaster and Kisala nod at each other.] Jaster: [to Toady] All right. You can come with us. Toady : Whoa, you kiddin�? Seriously? Oh, excellent! This�ll be great! [Toady jumps at Zegram and sticks to his leg with his mouth.] Zegram: Hey! What are you dong? Ack! Get offa me! I hate creepy things like you! [Zegram stamps his leg to get Toady to get off.] Zegram: Go bug someone else! xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + Chapter 3: The Star God�s Altar + [CH03] +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ [Jaster, Kisala and Zegram head back to the gates of the Burkaqua Village.] [A young Burkaquan man is talking to Lugan and Moban.] [The team hears a low growl from the bushes.] Jaster : What�s that? [Suddenly, a very pale Burkaquan villager walks out of the bushes and stops in front of them.] Jaster : Whoa! [The pale villager sways.] Zegram : What in blazes...? [The young man at the gate walks over to help the pale villager.] Young Man : What�s going on? Pale Villager: Ah! [The pale villager suddenly falls to the ground.] [There are purple rashes on the pale villager�s back.] [Lugan and Moban walk towards the young man.] Kisala : Huh? Young Man : It�s the effect of the Dark Fruit again... [to Lugan and Moban] Bury him. Kisala : What�s going on here? Young Man : [to the team] You guys are outsiders, huh? I don�t know what you want, but we�re a little busy here, as you can see. Leave. [Another Villager--Darya, comes running.] Darya : [to young man] Qrann, the chief wants to see you. Qrann : [to Darya] I�ll be right there. [to team] Look, I don�t have time for you intruders. Go on, get out of here. [Qrann leaves.] [Jaster, Kisala and Zegram enter the Burkaqua Village.] [Inside the village hut, the village chief, Ugozi is discussing something with Qrann, Darya and another villager, Osteka.] [They�re about to enter the village chief�s hut when they heard the conversation inside.] Osteka: There�s no time to lose! Please Chief, you must decide--for the village. Ugozi : Hmm... Darya : If this keeps up, we�ll be wiped out. We�ll have no choice but to turn to the Star God... Osteka: We�ve already decided on a sacrifice. Why are you hesitating, Chief? This will save the village! Ugozi : Hmmm... Osteka: Listen, Chief! The Dark Fruit is increasing even as we speak. The more you hesitate, the more lives will be lost. Ugozi : Hmmmmm... Qrann : Wait, maybe there�s another way, another solution. Darya : What are you saying? Qrann, I know how you feel about Miri. It�s devastating to lose someone you love. But still... Qrann : No! That�s not it at all! Don�t you see?! No kind of sacrifice can save our village! Can�t you understand that? Kisala: Sacrifice? [Lilika and Miri come.] Lilika: [to team] What are you doing here? Kisala: Lilika! [Lilika enters the Chief�s hut with Miri.] Kisala: Huh? Ugozi : Ah, Lilika. Is the purification complete? Lilika: Yes. I present to you the sacrificial maiden. [Miri steps forward.] Qrann : Miri...! Darya : Well, then, Chief... Osteka: We shall make the preparations to proceed with the sacrificial rite tomorrow morning. Ugozi : Mmm... Lilika: No! Wait! It�s too soon. At least wait until the next full moon! Darya : Impossible. We can�t afford to lose any more victims. Lilika: Nrgh... Osteka: The ceremony is tomorrow. Place Miri in the Maiden Shrine until the appointed hour. Darya : It has already been decided. Don�t get any smart ideas, Qrann. [Osteka and Darya leave.] [Qrann sees Jaster, Kisala and Zegram when he�s about to leave.] Qrann : You again? I thought I told you to get lost. Lilika: I owe these people a favor, Qrann. Permit them to stay. Qrann : Lilika! Don�t you care about all this? You put your own sister as a sacrifice... It�s all your fault Miri�s blind, too. How can you be the head of the Burkaqua warriors when you can�t even take care of your own sister? Lilika: You�re right... It�s my fault... [Flashback] [Lilika, Miri and their mother, Amni Rhyza, are being attacked by a large beast.] [Miri is thrown to the ground.] Miri : Aah! Amni : Miri! [The beast attacks and kills Amni.] Amni : Aaagh! Miri : Mommy!! [The beast growls.] Lilika: Mom! Miri : Lilika! Help me!! Lilika: Why you--! [Lilika runs towards the beast to attack it. But the beast hits her away.] Lilika: No! Miri : Lilika! [Miri screams as the beast attacks her.] [End flashback.] Lilika: That was the day the light faded from Miri�s eyes. I couldn�t save our mother... What a horrible memory for Miri to bear... Qrann : Then don�t make her into a sacrifice! We can help her out of this. Lilika: No, Qrann, we can�t... As warriors it is our duty to protect the village. There�s nothing I can do... Qrann : Humph. Fine warrior you�ve turned out to be. I�m going to check on Miri. [to Jaster & team] You three--don�t do anything stupid. One false step and you�re dead. [Qrann leaves.] Kisala: Did I hear that right? Miri�s going to be sacrificed? Lilika: It�s the only way. We don�t know why the Dark Fruit keeps increasing. The villagers touch it and get poisoned. We�ll be wiped out for sure if this continues. We need the Star God�s power to put things right again. It�s our last hope. Kisala: How terrible... [Lilika leaves.] Zegram: Ah great. Looks like we�re gonna be stuck here for a while. [Night falls.] Kisala: Jaster, you want to go see Miri? Jaster: Yeah. She�s at the Maiden Shrine, right? Which building is that, I wonder? [The team searches for the Maiden Shrine and finds it.] [Inside the Maiden Shrine...] [Qrann is speaking to Miri, who is inside a wooden cage.] Qrann : How many times do I have to tell you? Sacrificing yourself is insane! Come on--don�t do this! Miri? Miri : It�s all right. As long as it�ll help everyone, I�ll be okay. Qrann : Don�t you understand, Miri? You being sacrificed isn�t going to help anyone. The Star God won�t lift a finger for us. Miri : But I have to, or Lilika will get in trouble. Qrann : That�s not true! I know your sister doesn�t want you to do this, either. Miri : I wonder... [Qrann sighs and leaves.] [Kisala squats in front of the wooden cage.] Kisala: Miri... Miri :(sniffs) But after I�m sacrificed to the Star God and no longer around, will Lilika be able to make breakfast by herself? Will she know the right medicines to use when she�s hurt? I wonder if she�ll be all right without me. [Miri starts sobbing.] Miri : Lilika... Kisala: Miri... [The next morning...] [The Burkaquan villagers gathered in front of the village gate that leads to the Star God�s Altar.] Miri : [to Ugozi] Well...I�ll be going now. Ugozi : Miri, are you all right? Miri : I�ll be fine. Take care, Chief. Lilika: Miri... Ugozi : Well, then... You be careful, child. Qrann : Miri! Nnrrgh! [Two guards (Lugan & Moban) hold Qrann back.] Qrann : Miri! [The two guards push Qrann to the ground.] Lugan : Still trying to butt in, Qrann? You�re a warrior, have some pride! Qrann : [attempts to break free] Miri! [Ugozi raises his staff.] Ugozi : We bequeath the maiden�s spirit to the altar of the Star God! [The villagers start to chant.] Qrann : Dammit! [The villagers continue chanting as Lilika accompanies Miri towards the gate.] [Jaster, Kisala & Zegram are standing outside the gate.] Kisala: Wait... Lilika: Stop right there. This is the holy rite of the Star God. Don�t interfere. Jaster: Lilika... Lilika: We have no other choice... This is it. [Lilika and Miri continue walking away.] Kisala: A sacrifice...this isn�t right. Zegram: Leave �em alone--it ain�t our place to butt in. Let them deal with this problem on their own. Kisala: But we just can�t stand by and let this happen! We have to stop them! Let�s go after them, Jaster! Zegram: Aww man, why do I have to get involved? [Jaster, Kisala and Zegram head to the Star God�s Altar through the path to the Altar.] [On the way, the team finds the remains of a crashed ship.] Zegram: What�s this...? [The team walks closer to the ship.] Zegram: A downed ship? Hmm, this looks like a Zerardian cruiser. Probably crashed here while on a tour of the Juraikan wilderness. [Kisala tries to read the scraped writing painted on the side of the crashed ship.] Kisala: Day...Daytron. Zegram: Daytron is the galaxy�s top spaceship manufacturer. Kinda strange that it crashed... They�re famous for their quality. Jaster: Zegram! Zegram: Eh? ...Huh? [Zegram looks at Jaster, who is holding up a gun.] Jaster: I just found it. Any ideas? Zegram: Looks like a Freeze Shot. It�s a gun that�ll freeze anything it shoots. Jaster: Wonder if it�s still usable? [Jaster pulls the trigger several times.] [Nothing happens.] Jaster: Guess not. There�s still some charge left, though. Zegram: Oh well, I doubt there�s anyone on this planet who�d know how to fix that thing. Jaster: Yeah...that�s a real shame... [The team leaves the crashed cruiser.] [As they continue walking, they see another hut.] Jaster: Huh? [Sherio, the owner of the hut, is heard shouting inside.] Sherio: Get out! [The door flings open.] [Qrann is thrown out of the house.] Qrann : Uwaaah! Sherio: You need my help, huh? Why now?! It�s a little late for you to be makin� requests. I don�t care one bit about that stupid village! And you can tell the chief I said so! Tell �im they�d be plenty safe if they�d only had machines! Qrann : Nrgh... Fine then! [Qrann leaves.] Sherio: [to the team] Hmm? What�s with you? Do you need somethin� from me? Jaster: Er, no, nothing really... Sherio: Whaa? Is that...? No, it can�t be... I smell...a gadget! Where is it?! Jaster: Huh? [Sherio sees Jaster�s Freeze Shot.] Sherio: Whoa! That�s a rare thing you�ve got there! That�s a Freeze Shot, isn�t it? [The man runs towards the team.] [Jaster holds up the broken Freeze Shot]. Jaster: Huh? What? Oh, this? Well, yeah, but it�s broken. Sherio: Broken? Then FIX IT! Don�t let it go to waste! [Sherio points at the broken Freeze Shot.] Sherio: Poor thing... Can�t you feel its pain? Here, lemme see! [Sherio tries to snatch the broken Freeze Shot from Jaster.] [However, the broken Freeze Shot is knocked to the ground.] Sherio: Aaack! Oh, rats! Glue! Where�s my glue?! [Later...] [The team is waiting outside Sherio�s hut.] Jaster: Wonder if it�s okay? Kisala: Well, we�ve got nothing to lose, at least. Hey, can a Freeze Shot ice over rivers and stuff like that? Zegram: That should be a piece of cake. A good model could even freeze a waterfall. Kisala: Wow, that�s cool! [Sherio walks out of the hut.] Sherio: You three--promise me one thing. No usin� machines for evil!! Only use �em to help people!! Don�t use �em to hurt anyone!! And that is my policy. Here you go! [Sherio throws the Freeze Shot at Jaster.] [Jaster catches it.] Jaster: Is it fixed? Sherio: Try it and see! [Jaster points the Freeze Shot at a safe direction and pulls the trigger.] [However, the Freeze Shot backfires and freezes Sherio.] [Later...] [Sherio thaws after being put in a nearby river by the team.] Jaster: Sorry about that... You okay? Sherio: Wh-what did I just tell you about �bout hurtin� people?! You gotta be more careful! Machines are for helpin�, not for hurtin�! Phew... Well, you�re just startin� out, so I guess I�ll let this one slide. But from now on, watch where you point that thing! Anyway, there ya go. You�re all set. See you later. Kisala: Thanks a lot, Sherio. Jaster: See ya. [The team leaves.] Sherio: Machines aren�t bad unless you misuse �em. It�s the users that makes the difference. I wonder if the chief�ll ever understand that... [The team comes upon a waterfall on the way.] [Jaster uses the Freeze Shot to freeze the waterfall and the Monography Shot to create platforms.] [The team climbs the waterfall.] [When the team almost reaches the Star God�s Altar, Kisala notices that Zegram is missing.] Kisala: Huh?! Wait, where�s Zegram? [Jaster and Kisala look around the area.] Jaster: Huh? But he was just here... [Apparently, Zegram is hiding behind a wall nearby.] Zegram: Look at �em, what a couple of fools... [Zegram takes out a hand phone/ walkie talkie and contacts someone.] Zegram: It�s me. We got held up in Juraika. No, I�m fine. ...Roger that. These Dorgengoa losers�ll get us to our goal soon enough. Yeah. I�ll call again when I�m done here. ...Later. [Zegram leaves.] [Jaster and Kisala continue traveling through the path to the Altar without Zegram.] [The two of them reach the Star God�s Altar.] [They see Miri seated on the Altar.] Kisala: Miri...! Jaster: There�s still time! [Jaster and Kisala run towards the Altar.] [Lilika stands in front of the Altar, stopping them.] Lilika: I told you to stay away. This has nothing to do with you! Leave! Jaster: You know, though, don�t you? Making this sacrifice won�t change anything! Lilika: It�s already decided. This is the way of the Burkaqua. We can�t defy our laws. Jaster: Something is causing the problem in the village. If we can find the source, we can save the villagers. Please, Lilika! Reconsider! [Suddenly, the ground starts shaking.] [Lilika looks around.] Lilika: It�s the Star God! Jaster: Damn...! [Jaster rushes past Lilika towards the Altar.] Lilika: Stop! [Jaster stops and looks at Lilika.] Jaster: If you�re not gonna protect Miri, I will! [Suddenly, a beast, the Individer, appears from behind the Altar and growls.] Jaster: What is that?! [The Individer jumps towards the group.] Jaster: Look out! [Jaster draws his sword.] Jaster: Kisala! [Kisala draws her daggers.] Kisala: I�m ready! [Jaster and Kisala fight the Individer.] Jaster: Lilika! You�ve gotta fight! Lilika: Nrgh... Miri! [The Individer jumps back towards the Altar.] Jaster: Aah! Lilika: Miri! [Lilika runs towards the Altar.] [Lilika runs in front of Miri and blocks the Individer�s attack.] Lilika: It�s no use--I can�t... Miri! [to the Individer] I won�t let you do it! I don�t care how angry the Star God gets! Miri...is my sister! [The Individer growls.] Miri : Aah! Lilika: (That growl... I�ve heard it before...) [Flashback] [Miri is thrown to the ground.] Miri : Aah! [A giant beast approaches Amni.] Amni : Miri! [The beast attacks and kills Amni.] Amni : Aaagh! Miri : Mommy!! [The beast growls.] [End flashback] [The Individer�s growl appears to be the same growl made by the beast that had attacked the sisters and killed their mother.] Miri : No...it can�t be...! Lilika: I see... It was you... It was you all along. This--this is the true form of our precious Star God. You...took my mother! You took everyone! [The Individer approaches the sisters.] Miri : Lilika!! Lilika: [to the Individer] I won�t let you! [Lilika joins Jaster and Kisala.] [They fight and defeat the Individer.] [Upon its death, the Individer suddenly spits out a lot of Dark Fruits at Miri.] [The Altar is engulfed in purple smog.] Lilika: Miriiiiii! [When the thick smog cleared, Jaster, Kisala and Lilika see Miri lying on the far side of the Altar, saved by Qrann.] Qrann : Haha... Miri : Qrann? You�re here! Qrann : I�m never leaving your side. From now on, I won�t let anyone take you away. Miri : Oh, Qrann... [Qrann and Miri hug each other.] [Zegram comes.] Zegram: So...after all that, the Star God turned out to be a beast, huh? And that�s where all that Dark Fruit was comin� from, too. Kinda gross if you think about it. Jaster: Zegram? When did you get here? [Jaster, Kisala, Zegram, Lilika, Qrann and Miri return to the Burkaqua Village.] [In the Chief Ugozi�s hut...] Ugozi : Treachery against the Star God is unforgivable. Therefore...Lilika, we hereby banish you from the village. [Lilika nods.] Qrann : [stands up.] Wait! There was no Star God! It was just a beast! And the Dark Fruit-- Darya : Sit down, Qrann! Qrann : But the beast was behind the fruit, too! Darya : I said, SIT DOWN! [Darya pulls Qrann down.] Darya : The chief knows full well. But the village NEEDS to believe in the Star God. Without the Star God, we�ll fall into total disorder. Qrann : I know but...! Ugozi : Qrann. I appoint you head of the warriors, in place of Lilika. Now you will be responsible for protecting our village. Lilika: [to Qrann] Take care of the village...and my sister. Qrann : I will, Lilika. Please come back to us one day. Miri and I will be waiting. [Lilika smiles and nods.] [Later, Jaster, Kisala and Zegram head back to the Dorgenark.] Kisala: Hey it�s about time you showed up, Zegram! Where the heck were you when we needed you? Zegram: Oh come on, did you forget why we came here in the first place? Here. [Zegram throws a canister at Kisala.] [Kisala catches it.] Kisala: What�s this? Zegram: That�s the Booster Oil. That�s all I could get after gathering all the Fire Fruit in this forest. You can thank me anytime, folks. Kisala: Zegram, this is great! Zegram: Bah! [Kisala notices Lilika leaning on a tree nearby.] Kisala: Ah. Lilika: Jaster... [The team walks over to Lilika.] Jaster: Lilika... What is it? Lilika: I was waiting for you. I�d...like to come along, too. You�re a valiant warrior, Jaster. If it weren�t for you, I would�ve lost the most precious thing in my life. It�s all thanks to you. I want to repay that debt somehow. Let me come with you. Kisala: Huh...? Jaster: You really want to travel the galaxy with us? Lilika: Can I? Jaster: Well... Yeah, of course you can. We�ll head off into space...together. Zegram: Humph. Kisala: [nods] Mmm. [Lilika smiles.] [Back in the Burkaqua Village...] [Ugozi, Qrann and Miri are standing on the edge of the cliff in front of the Chief�s hut.] Ugozi: Forgive me, Lilika. Qrann: It�s all right. Lilika understands, Chief. She left the village knowing what she must do. Ugozi: So many civilizations take a wrong turn and die out. We�ve been running in place, afraid of change--maybe it�s time for us to move forward again. Lilika... Soak it all in. See what�s going on in the galaxy... So you can tell us where to turn next. One day...you will return to us. And on that day, I shall leave everything in your hands. You will change Burkaqua--no, you will change the entire planet. Go forth, Lilika...supreme warrior of the Burkaqua tribe! Miri : Come back soon...my sister. [Back to the group...] Lilika: This is gonna be a long trip. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + Chapter 4: The Great Escape + [CH04] +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ [The Dorgenark leaves Juraika.] [Inside the Dorgenark�s Control Room...] Simon : Yo, Jaster! The engine�s runnin� great now, thanks to you. Monsha: Now we can go to Zerard--finally. Jaster: Zerard? Why are we going there? Monsha: To renew our galactic travel visa. [Monsha throws a galactic travel visa at Jaster.] [Jaster catches and examines it.] Jaster: Galactic...travel visa? Steve : It�s a passport that lets you travel throughout the galaxy. When it expires, you are not allowed to visit other planets. Simon : I�m a little embarrassed to say it, but this ship�s visa has been expired for quite some time now. That�s why we had to avoid docking at Rosa�s spaceport and had to hide in the desert while we scouted you out. Jaster: Oh, I get it. Monsha: All right, scurvy dogs! Full speed ahead! Onward...to Zerard! Simon & Steve: Aye-aye! [The Dorgenark�s engine starts and the ship takes off, leaving Juraika.] [Meanwhile, in a building on Zerard...] [The Intergalactic Corporation Daytron Corp. President, Valkog Drazer, is sitting in a room with a woman, Norma.] Valkog: [to Norma] How are things looking, my dear Norma? Norma : I�ll check right now. [Norma presses the button of a device.] [The device shows the hologram of a board-shaped form.] [A device next to it shows a man on its screen.] Norma : What�s the latest on the second tablet? Man : There�s a slight problem. Morarty�s demanding a higher price for the tablet. Norma : How much? Man : Two hundred million zehn. Norma : Oh, is that all? I thought he�d drive a harder bargain than that. Fine, let him have it, then. Man : Yes, ma�am. Norma : Goodness, has it really been two years since the first tablet was found? How is the decryption process coming for the code found on that tablet? Man : The analysis is complete--they�ve moved on to formation. In the next phase, they�ll be installing the life support device. Norma : So it�s all proceeding quite nicely. I�m so excited! I can�t wait to find out the results. Tee hee hee... Thanks for the update. [Norma switches off the second device.] Valkog: The first tablet reads �Person�, the second reads �Gate�. When the two are exchanged, the gate to Eden shall be opened. A little something from the Geo Record. Before long, both of them will be in our possession. Norma : Ooh, which means the day you�ll reign as galactic emperor is right around the corner, too. Valkog: My dear Norma, don�t be so rash. I am not worthy of such an honor. We�ve still got ways to go for that, but still... Someone like me...becoming emperor... Ha ha ha ha ha... [Meanwhile, the Dorgenark enters Zerard and docks at the spaceport.] [Inside the Dorgenark�s Control Room...] Steve : We�ve landed on Zerard. Simon : Zerard! It�s been a long time! Monsha: All right, then! We�re to proceed on our new mission--Renew the Galactic Travel Visa! This time around, hmm... Jaster! You�re still pretty new around here. I think I�ll let you handle this one. Jaster: Sure thing. I�ll take care of it. Monsha: Allow me to explain the details of your mission: Head to the Galaxy Corporation...and renew our visa! That is all. Jaster: What? That�s it?! Monsha: A clear and simple mission is always preferred. My instructions are absolutely perfect! Lilika: I�m going, too. I�d like to see the most-advanced planet in the galaxy with my own eyes. Simon : Just a second! Lemme come along too! Why, I was born an� raised on Zerard! I�d make for a great tour guide. Monsha: Very well then, it�s all set. It�s up to you three. [As Jaster, Simon and Lilika head for the deck...] Jaster: [holds up the visa] So, are we going to be allowed to use the spaceport with an expired visa? Simon : The spaceport by the Galaxy Corporation lets ships dock for a few days even without a valid visa. So you see, we�re not the only procrastinators around in the galaxy. [On the deck...] Lilika: So this is Zerard...the galaxy�s most developed planet. It�s like night and day compared to Juraika. [The three get off the ship and reached Zerard�s main street.] Jaster: Amazing... Lilika: It�s a bit unsettling. Simon : Yeah, it�s a big place, with tons o� people. Try not to get separated, okay? Jaster: So where�s the Galaxy Corporation? Simon : It�s that pyramid-shaped building across the way. There�s plenty of other important spots around here too, like the Daytron factory and the Rosencaster Prison. There�s also a load of shops around, as well as the Insectron Stadium. You wanna take a look around? Lilika: No, that�s all right. This planet has terrible air. Let�s get this over with. Simon : Aww, don�t say that. Take your time, enjoy yourselves! This is where I grew up, after all. Jaster: Let�s just head for the Galaxy Corporation first. [The three reach the Galaxy Corporation.] [The receptionist, MIO, is sitting behind her table.] [They walk towards MIO�s table.] MIO : Welcome to the Galaxy Corporation! Jaster: We�d like to renew our travel visa. Number ZR-KJ1701...the Dorgenark. MIO : Oh, I�m sooo sorry! The Galaxy Corporation has, like, temporarily suspended visa renewals! Boo hoo! Come back again, okaaaay? Jaster: Huh?! Lilika: What are you talking about? MIO : Uh, in case you haven�t noticed, we�ve had a bit of a small problem, okay? Everyone, like, knows this already. [Lilika bangs the table with her fist.] Lilika: Explain it so we understand! MIO : Eek! OMG, scary...! Lilika: Why, I oughta...! [Two prison guards--Robert and Henry, run towards the MIO�s table.] Henry : Here! Come on, she�s over here, Robert! Robert: Calm down, Henry. Henry: Whoaa! It�s MIO! [Henry takes several photographs of MIO.] Henry : [to Robert] I can�t believe I�m seeing MIO face-to-face for the very first time!! [Henry takes more photographs.] Henry : [to Robert] It�s the real MIO! MIO live and in person! [to MIO] Smile! [Henry takes more photographs.] MIO : Huh? Oh! Ciao, baby! [Robert pushes Henry back.] Robert: [to Henry] How rude! Calm down, have you lost your manners? [Robert looks at MIO and blushes.] Robert: Wow... Henry...could you take our picture? [Henry salutes.] [Robert stands next to MIO.] MIO : Cheese! [Henry takes several photographs.] Robert: [holds up his MIO fan club membership card] Oh, this is the best day of my life! I--I�m Robert, member number 00756. Henry : [holds up his card] Hah! That�s nothin�! I�m Henry, member number 00125! MIO : Oh, my! I don�t believe it, both of you, in the triple digits? You must really love little ol� MIO! I�m so happy! Ready? One, two... MIO, Robert & Henry: Lovely! Honey! MIO!! (turns around) MIO : Kawaii! [Henry and Robert leave.] Lilika: Quit dancing around! Tell us why you can�t renew our visa! You keep goofing around and I�m gonna pulverize you! [Lilika bangs the table again.] [Suddenly, an explosion went off on the wall next to the main entrance of the Galaxy Corporation.] [Jaster, Lilika and Simon look at the direction.] Lilika: Huh? MIO : Eeeeeeeeek! [A few police cars arrive in front of the Galaxy Corporation.] [Several Longardian soldiers enter the building.] MIO : [to soldiers] Over here, troops! They�re, like, over here! [The armed Longardian troops surround the team.] MIO : [points at Lilika] She�s totally the one that did it! She said she was gonna blow me up or something! Lilika: What?! MIO : [points at Jaster and Simon] And these guys over here are her accomplices! Jaster: Huh? That�s not true!! Longardian Soldier: Shut up, you Draxian spy! [The troop rush towards the three.] Jaster: No! Wait! Just...listen to our side of the story! MIO : Gosh, it�s sooo icky when a bad guy doesn�t know when to give up. Like, I can�t believe they�d try something like this. it�s soooo totally lame. Good thing Zerard has Rosencaster Prison, though huh? Thank goodness too, or else there�d be weirdoes like you everywhere. Go turn over a new leaf now, �kay? Toodles! Lilika: Arrrgh! You�ll regret this! [While Jaster, Lilika and Simon are being taken to the Rosencaster Prison...] [Zegram is standing behind one of the pillars of the Galaxy Corporation.] Zegram: That was a cinch... Sorry, Jaster...but I need you off the ship. I�m not gonna let you get in my way. [Inside Rosencaster Prison] [Jaster Lilika and Simon are tied up, kneeling on the floor.] [A tall man approaches them.] Man : I am Alekt Rosencaster. I am the warden of this prison. Humph, you certainly LOOK like criminals. I was told all of you are Draxian spies. Do you have anything to confess? Lilika : It�s a false accusation! We haven�t done anything! Jaster : Listen to me! We just came to renew our galactic travel visa. We had nothing to do with that explosion! Simon : Take a good look at us, Warden. I mean, come on, we can�t be criminals--we don�t look suspicious at all! Rosencaster: You really are sticking to that story, huh. It doesn�t matter anymore. You could be innocent or guilty--it means nothing to me. The only thing that is important is that you�re here now. You really are lucky to be in this prison today. You can atone for your crime AND contribute to the progress of life as we know it. Jaster : What? What are you talking about?! Rosencaster: Heh heh heh... You�ll see soon enough. [to prison guards] Place all of them in a Level 4 cell! Guard : Yessir! [Later...] [Jaster, Lilika and Simon are thrown into a cell.] Jaster: Hey! Simon : Ow! Jaster: Dammit! Lilika: It won�t be easy to escape this place. Simon : We�re in some real trouble now... Why did we have to get thrown into Rosencaster�s Prison of all places? Y�know, what they call him? The Guardian of Hell. Once you�re in here, there�s no getting� out. It�s all over... [A mysterious hooded prisoner is standing at the far end of the cell.] [The group wonders what to do next.] Mysterious Prisoner: Hey, youngsters... Why don�t you calm down a bit? Save your strength for when you need it. Jaster : You really think we can calm down?! We didn�t do anything! We�re innocent! Mysterious Prisoner: Ah. Mistakes get made all the time in this world of ours. And interplanetary wars are the height of stupidity. Jaster : Who are you...? Simon : So what should we do? Do we need to bribe someone or what? Lilika : That�s it, we�re digging our way out. Simon : What?! Have you completely lost the plot? It�ll take years to escape that way. It�s not gonna happen! Mysterious Prisoner: Hey, keep it down. [Meanwhile...] [Robert and Henry are sweeping the floor of one of the rooms in the prison.] Henry : For crying out loud. We leave our post for just a sec and we get slapped with clean-up duty for a month... But it was so worth it for being able to meet MIO in person. I still can�t believe it! [Behind a nearby wall, two Longardian soldiers are spying on them.] Henry : Hey, by the way, your membership number was lower than mine... Robert: How�d you manage to pull that of far? Henry : Oh, come on, I�m miles different from wannabe fans like you, Robert. [A ring is heard.] [Henry and Robert take out their MIO fan card.] Robert: Whoa! [The picture of MIO in the card had changed.] Henry : R-R-Robert! C-C-Check it out, MIO�s changed into her j-j-jammies! Robert: Ooh...what kind of dreams will you have tonight, MIO my sweet? If I could only be your blanket... Henry : Ooh...what would I give to be your pillow for just one fluffy, cuddly night. [The spying Longardian soldiers walk past behind Henry and Robert, unnoticed.] [Back in the group�s cell...] Mysterious Prisoner: Here we go... Jaster : What? [The two Longardian soldiers who had been spying on Henry and Robert earlier-- Wusho and Kordon, came.] Wusho : [to the mysterious prisoner]We apologize for the delay. [The mysterious prisoner walks towards the door.] [The door opens.] Mysterious Prisoner: [to team] Would you like to come along? Jaster : What? Are you breaking out? Mysterious Prisoner: This is unjust detention. There is no reason I should be in here. You were innocent, too, weren�t you? ...My pirate friends? Simon : Pirates...? Hehe, so you knew? Lilika : Who the heck are you anyway? ...This doesn�t feel right. Mysterious Prisoner: Well, you can always stay here if you like. I�ll make sure it�s locked good and tight. Jaster : All right, fine--we�re coming, too. We won�t get anywhere stuck in this place. [to Lilika and Simon] Come on! [Simon and Lilika nod.] [The team makes their way through the Level 4 Prison and reaches Level 3.] [On their way, Lilika notices something and stops.] [Lilika looks at a cell and listens.] Lilika: Huh? [Lilika hears a soft voice coming out of the cell.] Voice : Help...me... Jaster: Lilika, what is it? Lilika: Someone�s in there. [A growl is heard.] [A white beast, the Protobeast suddenly breaks out of the cell and jumps at the team.] [The team fights and defeats the Protobeast.] Simon : Man, that caught me by surprise! What the heck was that doin� in there? Lilika: There was something strange about that beast... [The three leave the area and continue their journey.] [Meanwhile, in the prison�s Observation Room...] [Rosencaster watches an experiment being carried out.] [A man inside a tube screams as the tube is electrocuted.] Prison Guard: We can�t go any higher, Mr. Rosencaster! Let�s stop here! Rosencaster : Keep going! One more jolt! [The man screams as the tube is electrocuted again.] [The glass of the tube starts cracking.] [The machines stop working.] [It appears that the experiment failed.] Rosencaster : Dammit! Not again! [to the prison guard] Bring in the next prisoner! Prison Guard: But sir, in order to use any more prisoners, we�ll need permission from the higher ups. Rosencaster : Do you know who I am?! Prison Guard: Yessir! You�re the warden, sir! Rosencaster : That�s right, I�m the one in charge here. We don�t need permission. I�ll decide! Got it? Just do what I say. Now--bring the next prisoner! Prison Guard: Right away, sir. [The prison guard runs out of the room.] Rosencaster : I�m never going to give up... We�re too close. There�s no way I can give up now. [The team goes through the prison and reached the Interior Pathway A3.] [They go into a room and found the dead Mark VIII Salamander in it.] Jaster: Is this...the beast we fought on Rosa?! Simon : It�s the Salamander! Lilika: Shh! Someone�s coming. [The group hides behind the wall beside the Mark VIII Salamander.] [Henry and Robert came in from a door on the other side of the room.] Henry : This really sucks, why did we have to get stuck cleaning up over here anyway? A cleaner robot�d get the job done in half the time. Robert: Pah, you can�t trust those things. I�m much better at cleaning than they are! Henry : I guess your 43 years of experience as a bachelor are good for something, huh! Hehe! Robert: Shut up! [Robert hits Henry on the head.] Robert: Think that�s a compliment? I happen to be touchy about that subject! [Robert and Henry start cleaning the room.] Robert : You know...Mr. Rosencaster�s different somehow. He was never like this before. Henry : Yeah... Mr. Rosencaster is too wound up in those experiments of his. It�s borderline obsession if you ask me. I mean, they used to call him the best officer ever. Everyone used to look up to him, he was such a great guy. I don�t know what�s happened to him. Robert: I suppose it has to do with Claudia... Henry : Claudia? What do you mean? Robert: Oh, never mind. I guess it�s not for us rank-and-file guards to know. C�mon, let�s get back to work! Lilika: [to Jaster] What do you want to do? Simon : Now�s our chance. They�re not lookin� our way. Jaster: Let�s go...! Lilika: Wait! [Norma came in with two Longardian soldiers.] Norma : [looks at the Salamander] So this is what came out of that experiment? All that time and this is what we�ve ended up with? A big pile of garbage? [Norma views the room.] Norma : [to a prison guard] Take me to Rosencaster immediately. Prison Guard: Yes, ma�am! Norma : What a colossal waste of money. We need a reorg here. [Norma and the prison guards leave.] [Jaster and group continue their journey.] [Meanwhile, Rosencaster is sitting in his Observation Room, looking at a photograph of himself and a woman, Claudia.] [Rosencaster thinks about the time Claudia died of illness.] Rosencaster : Claudia... I�m sorry. I couldn�t do anything for you. I would do anything--anything if I could only bring you back. Why, Claudia--why have you left me all alone...? [Suddenly, the alarm beeps.] [A prison guard appears on the screen in front of Rosencaster.] Rosencaster : What�s going on! Prison Guard: Rosencaster, sir! We have an urgent situation! The Level 4 prisoners have escaped their cells! Rosencaster : [stands up] What did you say?! Grr... Those little punks. [Rosencaster bangs the table.] Rosencaster : Secure the partitions. Post officers at every gate! Don�t let them get away! Prison Guard: Yessir! Rosencaster : Good-for-nothing idiots. [Norma comes in.] Norma : Did I come at a bad time, Mr. Rosencaster? It�s all well and good to go after those escapees, but I wonder how that experiment�s coming along? Rosencaster : It�s...coming along. We�re close to perfecting the Rune-cell cultures. Once we do, you�ll finally get what you want. We�ll be able to produce artificial human soldiers to your heart�s content. Norma : Oh, but that�s not what YOU�RE after, is it? I know--you�re fixated on one dead woman, and it�s holding up the whole experiment. Rosencaster : [sighs] I have to go after those escapees. We can talk later. Norma : Don�t give me the runaround! I can see right through you! I know what you�re up to. Rosencaster : Nonsense! I�m following orders and doing exactly as I was told! Norma : Humph, still clinging to that old story, huh? Hmm, you�ve got quite the one-track mind, Mr. Rosencaster, obsessed with a woman like that. [Rosencaster heads for the door.] Norma : Rosencaster! Listen up--this is your final warning! [Rosencaster groans and leaves the room.] Norma : Perhaps it�s time for him to resign. [The team walks into the Observation Room.] [They see many tubes as they walk through the room.] Simon : Wow, take a look at that! This place is more like a secret lab than a prison. Lilika : Look, Jaster--there�re people in there. [The team stops and looks around.] Jaster : What�s going on...? What are they doing in this place? [The mysterious prisoner that they had met in the cell earlier comes.] Mysterious Prisoner: Toying with human lives... They�ve been experimenting with Rune in order to obtain forbidden powers. Lilika : What do you mean? Mysterious Prisoner: There�ve always been rumors, but I had no idea the experiments had actually gone this far. We can�t let them get away with this. [Rosencaster enters the room and chokes holds the mysterious prisoner up by the neck.] Mysterious Prisoner: Ack! Rosencaster : That wasn�t very smart of you. You should have run when you had the chance, old man! Jaster : Rosencaster! Mysterious Prisoner: Urk...so...it WAS you... Getting involved in this kind of experiment... How could such an honorable soldier like you-- Rosencaster : Shut up! You know nothing about me! [Rosencaster tightens his grip.] Simon : Oh no! [Lilika shoots an arrow at Rosencaster�s left shoulder.] Rosencaster : Ah! [Rosencaster drops the mysterious prisoner.] [Jaster, Lilika and Simon draw their weapons.] Jaster : Guh!! Rosencaster : Playtime is over! [Rosencaster pulls the arrow out.] Rosencaster : I�m gonna CRUSH you fools! [A battle begins.] [Jaster, Lilika and Simon defeat Rosencaster.] Rosencaster : I-I�ll never...forgive you for this! Mysterious Prisoner: Rosencaster... Don�t make Claudia any sadder than she already is. Think about what you�re doing for a moment. Is this really what she would want? Rosencaster : You act as if you know... [The door opens.] [Some Longardian soldiers come in and start shooting at them.] Jaster : Damn...! Simon : We�re outnumbered! Run, gramps! [The team starts running away.] Mysterious Prisoner: [to Rosencaster] Snap out of it! It�s not too late! [The mysterious prisoner runs away.] [The Longardian soldiers stopped firing and lower their guns.] [Norma enters the room and walks towards Rosencaster.] Norma : You�re fired. Official notice from president Valkog. [Norma takes out a handgun and points it at Rosencaster.] Rosencaster : Urk...! Norma : Goodbye. [Norma shoots Rosencaster.] [Meanwhile, Jaster, Lilika, Simon and the mysterious prisoner make it out of the prison.] Simon : We finally escaped...but boy, was that a close one! Lilika : Don�t relax just yet. [Four police cars arrive.] Mysterious Prisoner: It�s all right, don�t worry, they�re friends of mine. [The mysterious prisoner walks towards the cars.] Jaster : Friends? What are you talking about?! [Some Longardian soldiers came out of the cars.] Longardian Soldier : We�ve come for you, sir. Do you have any injuries? Mysterious Prisoner: I was a stupid old man to fall for their tricks, getting myself thrown into jail like that. Longardian Soldier : Crime is just another way to promote war, sir. Mysterious Prisoner: You said it. And Daytron�s involved somehow. Longardian Soldier : Daytron?! Jaster : [to the mysterious prisoner] Hey, who are you, anyway? Mysterious Prisoner: A fellow prisoner. Isn�t that enough? You know, you have the skills of a warrior, yet you have kindness and mercy as well. [The mysterious takes off his hood.] Mysterious Prisoner: I didn�t think youngsters like you still existed. I�m quite impressed. [The mysterious prisoner offers a handshake.] Mysterious Prisoner: I�m glad I met you. Jaster : Ahh... [Jaster shook hands with the mysterious prisoner.] Simon : Say, have you seen him somewhere before? Hmm... He looks awfully familiar... Mysterious Prisoner: We�ll probably cross paths again someday. But of course, since you guys are pirates... You�d better watch your backs. [The mysterious prisoner walks away.] Jaster : Hey, what�s that supposed to mean?! [The mysterious prisoner leaves with the cars.] Simon : That fella�s a real mystery, all right. Anyway, now that we�ve pulled ourselves together, let�s go and get our travel visa renewed. Hurry up--time�s a-wastin�! Lilika : That little wench is gonna pay for what she did to us. Simon : Er...can we take care of the visa first? Just try to let it go, okay, Lilika? [On their way to the Galaxy Corporation, Jaster, Lilika and Simon see is a big crowd of people in the middle of the city.] [They see the mysterious prisoner speaking as a big holographic image. He is clad in an officer�s outfit.] [Jaster, Lilika and Simon stops and looks up.] Mysterious Prisoner: Therefore, to put an end to the long-standing war between Longardia and Draxil, we need to mutually agree to implement military cutbacks, in order to drive home the point to the dissidents still pushing for war. [The crowd cheers.] Mysterious Prisoner: People of Longardia, now is the time to lay down our weapons and take our first steps on the road to peace. [The crowd cheers.] Simon : I knew I�d seen him before... Well knock me dead with a feather duster, it�s Admiral Banarge. Jaster : Admiral Banarge? Simon : That�s right. He�s the commander-in-chief of the Longardian Army. Lilika : So what was a big shot like him doing in prison? Simon : Banarge is a pacifist, and he�s probably got loads of enemies in the militant Longardia. Eh, I�ll bet you half a haggis he was put in there by some pro-war zealots. Jaster : The war... There�s no escaping it. [Jaster grits his teeth.] [Back at Rosencaster Prison...] [Zegram enters the Observation Room and walks over to Rosencaster.] Zegram: Man, she really did a number on you... [Rosencaster is laying face-down on the floor. He�s dying.] [Rosencaster groans.] Zegram: For cryin� out loud, you old fool. All this, for love. Well, not that I don�t understand the feeling. [Zegram holds the hilt of his sword.] Zegram: Hmm...? [Rosencaster reaches for a photograph in front of him.] [However, he dies before getting it.] [Zegram lowers his hand and looks down.] Zegram: Ah. [Zegram bends down and puts the photograph in Rosencaster�s hand.] Zegram: This time...don�t let her go. [Zegram turns around and walks out of the Observation Room.] xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + Chapter 5: The Master Hacker + [CH05] ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ [As the group continues their journey, they see a woman and a little girl-- Miyoko and Chie beside the main street�s fountain.] [Chie is crying.] Chie : Mommy, I�m hungry... Woman : Hang on just a little longer, Chie. We�ll go get something to eat soon, okay? [Miyoko sees Jaster, Simon and Lilika coming.] Miyoko: Um, excuse me... Please pardon me for asking, but do you happen to know this person...? [Miyoko shows the picture of a man to Jaster and Lilika.] [Jaster takes the picture and examines it.] Jaster: Hm? [Jaster shows the picture to Lilika.] Jaster: Do you recognize him? [Lilika shakes her head.] Lilika: Never seen him before... Who is he? Miyoko: He�s my husband. His name is Sho. There was an accident at the chemical lab where he used to work, and he was caught in the explosion. He managed to survive, but he�s gone missing from the hospital. [Jaster shows the picture to Simon.] Jaster: Simon, do you know this guy? Simon : Uh, er...n-no, I...I can�t say I do, no. [Simon turns his back to them.] Chie : Mommy...? Miyoko: It�s okay, Chie. [to the team] Thank you very much for your time. Um...if you happen to see my husband, please tell him Miyoko and Chie are looking for him. [Jaster returns the picture.] Jaster: All right, we�ll keep an eye out for him. Miyoko: Thank you. [Miyoko and Chie leave.] Lilika: [to Simon] Something bothering you? Simon : N-no, not especially... Ohh...I feel a little dodgy all of a sudden. Do you mind terribly if Steve goes with you instead? Jaster & Lilika: Huh? [Simon leaves.] [Later...] [Steve comes.] Steve : I�ll be joining the party, if you don�t mind. Thank you for your patience. Jaster: How�s Simon doing? Steve : My sensors failed to detect anything out of the ordinary--apart from his body fat percentage, that is. At any rate--let�s get to the Galaxy Corporation. The Captain will have our heads if we don�t hurry. [The three of them enter the Galaxy Corporation and walk up to MIO.] MIO : Huh? ...They released you already? You know, that�s really surprising. Isn�t that awfully fast for a bombing? Gosh, law is, like, sooo complicated. [Lilika bangs the table.] Lilika : We didn�t do anything! This is all your fault! Steve : Now now, let�s just get our galactic travel visa renewed. [Jaster holds out the expired travel visa in front of MIO.] Jaster : One more time: ZR-KJ1701, the Dorgenark. MIO : [tilts her head] Huh? Jaster : Oh no... What now? MIO : Duh, have you guys been in prison or something? Don�t you know what happened? I sure did think it was weird. You guys are so out of it. Don�t you ever watch the news? [MIO shows the group a screen.] MIO : Here. [The Space Report�s on.] Lucy Dyne: We�re live at the Daytron factory, where an unnamed individual has taken over the computer mainframe, but has yet to make any demands. A large number of hunters are coming together from nearby cities to capture the criminal. Daytron is offering a sizeable reward for the capture of the terrorist. This is Lucy Dyne, reporting live from the scene of the standoff. [MIO takes away the screen.] MIO : So, do you get it now? All of Zerard�s government offices are managed by the Daytron mainframe. That�s like a big computer. Soooo...anyway, I�m afraid I can�t help you �til that�s all settled and they get it back up. Sorry! You know, you could always go after the criminal yourself if you�re in such a hurry. Here, look at this! [MIO shows another screen.] [A Granshee, Jupis, is speaking.] Jupis : Attention, Daytron Corporation! This is wrongful termination, pure and simple. I am totally running out of patience here! If you have time to send pathetic hunters in here, you ought to give in to my gosh darned requests! I am the victim here! My wife left me and my life became the absolute pits. I demand two hundred million zehn in compensation for my pain and suffering! Jaster : Is this the guy? Steve : Hmm... It sounds to me like this fellow is taking revenge for being fired. Lilika : What a pitiful guy... [to MIO] If we can manage to capture this guy, we can get our visa renewed, right? [MIO nods.] MIO : Yep, I�d say that�s about right. Steve : Let�s go get him. If it goes well, we�ll even get that reward from Daytron. MIO : My, what confidence! I�m totally impressed! To get to the factory, just head straight out through the main doors and make a left at the central plaza, okay? Good luck out there! [The group reaches the Starship Factory.] [There is a group of people and police in front of the factory�s entrance.] [Wagnarl, a member of the case investigators, is standing next to Inspector Starr.] Wagnarl: Inspector Starr, Squad B has vanished, and Squad A�s whereabouts are still unknown. Starr : Dammit! Jupis Tooki McGanel... They say he�s the brightest hacker in the galaxy. This isn�t gonna be easy. [Starr notices Jaster, Lilika and Steve.] Starr : Hm? Who are you? Steve : Oh, hello, we�re here to help you capture the criminal. Starr : Humph, none of the ace hunters on Vedan have been able to apprehend him. I�m not gonna waste my time talking with random hunters like you. Get outta here! Steve : R-random hunters? How very rude! Go on, Mr. Rogue--set this fellow straight. Jaster : Huh? Steve : [to Starr] Listen, mister. Do you have any idea who you�re in the presence of? Well I�ll tell you. The legendary hunter Desert Claw, that�s who! Now stand back and behold the mighty hero! Starr : Urk! Wait a minute...YOU�RE Desert Claw? I�m so terribly sorry! A-hem! In that case, the Daytron Corporation would like to make a request: We would like you to secure the rebel Jupis Tooki. You may name your own reward. Steve : Oh-ho! [to Jaster] Being famous has its benefits, eh, Mr. Rogue? Jaster : Hey, wait a minute...I- Lilika : [to Starr] Fine, he�ll accept, and happily. But the great Desert Claw won�t come cheap. Jaster : Lilika! Starr : So you�ll do it? Excellent! Jupis has commandeered the entire mainframe and taken control of the factory equipment. He�s one to be reckoned with. Stay alert. [Lilika nods.] Starr : The entrance is over there. We look forward to good results, Desert Claw. [The group enters the Starship Factory.] [There are eight Max Robots in the main hall.] [The Max Robots beside Jaster switched on and attacks him.] Jaster: Whoa! [Jaster evades and jumps away.] [Jupis� voice is heard from the Max Robot.] Jupis : Oooh, you got lucky! But this time I won�t miss! [The rest of the Max Robots are activated.] Lilika: Why, you...! Steve : Be careful you two! These robots are being controlled by remote! By Jupis?! [The Max Robots surround the group.] Jupis : You�re hunters hired by Daytron just like the others, aren�t you? Anyone who gets in my way is just asking for it! [The Max Robots attack the group.] [The team fights and defeats the Max Robots.] Steve : It appears as though Jupis is utilizing the mainframe computer to control all the machines throughout the factory. This won�t be easy. Lilika: Humph, that pathetic sociopath is gonna get it! [The group goes through the factory in search of Jupis.] [They go through the factory�s Assembly Line 1 arrive at the door of Assembly Line 2.] [Jaster clicks the button on the door.] Jaster: Huh? It won�t open. Steve : Leave it to me! Locks like this are a cinch to open. [Steve clicks on the buttons.] [Suddenly, the door explodes.] [Steve is thrown off.] Steve : Argh! Jaster: Steve! [Steve fainted.] [Jaster and Lilika look at each other and nod.] [Jaster and Lilika enter the factory�s Assembly Line 2.] Lilika : Jaster, look! [A big robot, the Attack Walker, in front of them.] Jaster : What IS this...? [The Attack Walker attacks them.] [Suddenly, it is attacked from behind.] The Attack Walker falls.] Jaster : Whoa! [The Attack Walker stands up and turns around.] [Another Attack Walker is standing there.] [The two robots start fighting with each other.] Jaster : What the--? Lilika : It�s on our side? [The second Attack Walker wins.] Attack Walker: [to Jaster and Lilika] Can you hear me? My name is Doctor Donald Pocacchio. I�m a researcher at this factory. I�m in another location, speaking through this robot. I can take care of Jupis. But you three need to get out of here now. Jaster : There�s someone else in here? Lilika : Jupis is ours, you hear me? Researcher or not, you just sit tight and wait for help. Pocacchio : You don�t know how terrifying he really is. Here�s some friendly advice: Get out of here now! Lilika : You sound like a broken record. Pocacchio : Listen to me, Jupis Tooki is using the mainframe computer in an attempt to take over the city of Zerard. [Electric currents are seen running around the robot.] Jaster : Donald? What happened? [The Attack Walker explodes.] [Jaster and Lilika go back outside to see Steve.] [Steve wakes up.] Steve : Goodness, what happened to me? I thought I heard a familiar voice... Lilika: You�re awake? Then let�s move on! That guy will beat us to the punch if we don�t hurry. [Jaster, Lilika and Steve make their way through Assembly line 2 and enter Assembly Line 3A.] [They look around the room.] Lilika : Jaster! [Lilika points at a professor who is surrounded by three Attack Walkers.] Steve : Is that-- [One of the Attack Walkers hits the professor towards the group with its gun.] Professor: Argh...! Steve : Dr. Pocacchio, is that you? Pocacchio: Steve? It can�t be... [Dr. Pocacchio faints.] Jaster : Steve! Let�s take care of these guys first! [The team battles the Attack Walkers and wins.] [They approach Dr. Pocacchio.] Lilika : Friend of yours? Steve : Dr. Donald Pocacchio. He�s my father--rather, the scientist who made me. Jaster : Really! Steve : But what could he be doing here...? Doctor? Dr. Pocacchio? Pocacchio: Oooh... [Pocacchio comes to.] Pocacchio: Mark? Steve : It�s Steve, Dr. Pocacchio. Pocacchio: Oho, Steve! Am I dreaming? Is it really you? [Steve nods.] Steve : Of course it�s me, Dr. Pocacchio. I haven�t forgotten you, not for a picosecond. Lilika : Sorry to interrupt such a tender reunion, but I think we ought to get out of here. Steve : You�re right, my sensors are going off, too. The enemy is approaching. Can you walk, doctor? Pocacchio: [stands up] I�m fine, fine. My office is in here. Please come with me. [In Dr. Pocacchio�s lab...] Steve : Why are you here, in this factory? Pocacchio: Well, you see...my son, Mark, passed away. Steve : No! Mark? That�s not possible! It can�t be true. Pocacchio: Yes Steve, it�s true, I�m afraid. As you already know, he was the only family I had. I�ll admit it, it�s been very difficult since his death... The whole experience has really taken its toll on me. I haven�t been able to concentrate on my research or fulfill any kind of high-level technological development requests I get from the central labs. So I applied for a job managing this factory. Steve : But doctor, all of your talent... Pocacchio: No, Steve, I�m an old man now, and I think like one. In this day and age, forward-thinking engineers like Jupis may be better suited to what lies ahead. Steve : That�s not true! You�re the best scientist around! I really believe that! Pocacchio: Thank you, Steve. That�s very kind. Although you are a robot, you�re able to display such tenderness and care. In all my years, you may be the only great thing I ever created. Steve : Oh sir... Pocacchio: But listen, Steve, we don�t have time to just sit around here. Right now, you�ve got to put a stop to Jupis Tooki! Please, go! Steve : Dr. Pocacchio... Okay. You�re right. Come on, Mr. Rogue! Jaster : Got it! [Dr. Pocacchio smiles.] [The team leaves and enters Assembly line 3B.] Lilika: Wait, Jaster...do you hear that weird voice? [The team tries to listen.] Steve : I don�t hear anything. Why? Voice : Heeeeee hee hee hee hee! [The team sees Jupis.] Jupis : Hey, you made it this far! Good for you! Jaster: Get down here, Jupis Tooki! Lilika: Time to surrender, give it up! Jupis : Surrender? Sounds to me as if you have no clue about the position you�re in! Don�t you understand?! Do you have any idea what�ll happen if you dare defy me? Lilika: Humph, as if we�re going to let ourselves be pushed around by some twisted killjoy! [Lilika shoots an arrow at Jupis.] [However, it goes through him.] [It appears that the one standing there is only Jupis� hologram.] Jupis : Heeeeee hee hee hee hee! What a waste of effort! Say, I�ve prepared some playmates for you. Have fun--and don�t forget to die! Bye-bye! [Jupis� hologram disappears.] Lilika: Damn! Jaster: Oh, man...not again! [Eight Max robots surround the team.] [The team defeats them and proceeds.] [Jaster, Lilika and Steve go through Assembly Line 3B.] [They proceed and enter the factory�s Mainframe Room.] [Jupis is in the middle of typing on the keyboard.] [Jupis notices the team.] Jupis : Huh?! Oh, you�re here already? [Jaster draws his sword.] Jaster: We�ve got you cornered, Jupis Tooki! Lilika: You can�t run from us! Jupis : Grrr...awfully persistent, aren�t you? No sweat though. I might just have a little trump card here! Heeeeeeeeeeeere�s Johnny! [Jupis clicks the buttons on a device on his arm.] [The ground shakes.] Jaster: Whoa! [A platform on the floor rises.] [The Jupis Robot is standing on it.] Jaster: Wow! That�s...quite the trump card, all right. Jupis : Heeeeee hee hee hee hee! Forewarned is forearmed! Iiiiiiit�s showtime! [Jupis goes into the Jupis Robot�s cockpit and takes control of it.] Jupis : I won�t go easy on you! We�re talking a million volts of pure power! Here we go, Johnny! [The battle begins.] [The team attacks the Jupis Robot, but their attacks are blocked by its barrier.] Lilika : This is never gonna work! Jupis : Heeeeee hee hee hee hee! Like it? It�s my landmark invention--a barrier system using time/space energy! Your feeble girly-man attacks have absolutely no effect on it! Jaster : Damn... [Dr. Pocacchio comes.] Pocacchio: Jasterrrrrrrrr! Jaster : Dr. Pocacchio...?! Jupis : Wha-a-a-a-t? Dr. Pocacchio?! Pocacchio: I�m very impressed, Jupis. Your research into time/space energy has come a long way. [Dr. Pocacchio holds out a gun] Pocacchio: But the time has come for you to step back! Jupis : But that can�t be-- [Pocacchio shoots at the barrier.] [The barrier breaks.] Pocacchio: Excellent! It worked! Jaster! [Pocacchio throws the gun at Jaster] [Jaster catches the gun.] Jaster : There you go! Use it just like I showed you! Jaster : Thanks! Steve : That�s our Dr. Pocacchio! Thank you so much! Jupis : ARGH! Using new weapons--that�s not fair! [The battle continues.] [After a while, Jupis seems irritated by the fact that his opponents are now able to attack his robot.] Jupis : That makes me so mad! [The Jupis Robot bangs the floor with its fist.] Jupis : Eh?! [The Jupis Robot starts malfunctioning.] Steve : We did it! Lilika: Let�s finish this, Jaster! Jupis : Oh, you�re so na�ve! I still have an ace up my sleeve! Johnny, switch into super-deluxe mode! [The Jupis Robot glows and transforms into Jupis Robot DX.] Jupis : My fury�s like a big bang! I�ll take care of this once and for all! [They resume the battle.] [Jaster, Lilika and Steve defeats Jupis Robot DX.] [Jupis goes out of the robot.] [The team approaches him.] Lilika: [cracks her knuckles] You certainly didn�t make it easy for us. Jupis : I�m sure you�ll understand if you let me explain. Lilika: Humph! It�s a little too late for that! Jupis : Come on, just hear what I have to say. You�ll probably think I�m so pitiful! Lilika: Fine, out with it. Jupis : Don�t rush me. Anyway, I work for Daytron. Or did, before I was fired. I was the lead researcher on time/space energy. Know anything about that? It�s a theory about an unlimited energy source that can solve the galaxy�s resource problems. For us researchers, it�s like a never- ending romance... I was one step closer to a breakthrough. [Flashback] [Jupis is asleep at his office desk, in front of the computer.] [Tony, Jupis� assistant, comes in.] Tony : Good morning. So Jupis, you�ve been up all night working, too? Jupis: [still leaning on his desk] Yeah. You too? We�ll need a full week of sleep to make up for all this. Tony : Oh, I�m fine. I�m just happy to have this opportunity to work with the chief. [Tony looks at the computer screen.] Tony : Huh? Jupis...is this what I think it is? Jupis: Mmm...pretty soon, pretty soon. I just need to solve this equation and it�ll be complete. Tony : So we�re almost finished... The truths of the universe are about to be laid bare... [Tony looks at a cup of coffee on the desk and then at Jupis.] Tony : With this data, becoming the ruler of the universe is no longer just a dream. [Later, Tony spills the cup of coffee on Jupis� desk.] [The coffee drips from the table to the machine that controls Jupis� computers.] [The machine explodes.] [Jupis wakes up.] [All of Jupis� computers blow up.] Jupis: Whoa! [End flashback] Jupis : And alllll of my data was destroyed! That�s when Daytron fired me. Steve : I see... So it was your assistant Tony who caused the accident. And now you�re trying to get them to hire you back? Jupis : No, not at all! This is revenge! That �accident� was all part of Daytron�s plans! They wanted that data all to themselves! They got Tony to play his role in bringing me down! You�ve got to believe me! [Jupis notices Inspector Starr coming into the Mainframe Room with eight Longardian soldiers.] Jupis : Ah! Starr : I knew I could count on the Desert Claw! But I still can�t believe you caught Jupis this quickly! [to Jupis] All right, Jupis Tooki McGanel, you�re coming with us. You have a Daytron inquest to attend. Jupis : [shivering] Oh, so now you�re going to take me to �court�, huh? Forget it! I�m not standing for any fake trial! Starr : If you come clean now, we can lighten your punishment. Jupis : No way--you want the death penalty! And I don�t want to die! All I wanted to do was recover all of my research! So this means...I guess I have no choice...! [Jupis throws a smoke ball.] [The room is engulfed with thick smoke.] Starr : Argh! I can�t see! Lilika : That rat! [Lilika looks around.] Steve : Over there! [Steve points at Jupis, who is running towards the exit.] Jupis : Heeeeee hee hee hee hee! I won�t let you catch me! Adios, amigos! Ha ha! [Jupis leaves the room.] [The Longardian soldiers run after Jupis.] Jaster : That guy is unbelievable. Starr : He has nowhere to run. I�ve dispatched soldiers to all likely locations. It�s only a matter of time before we get him. Steve : Phew...so that�s that, then. Starr : [to Pocacchio] Dr. Pocacchio, if you wouldn�t mind, could you please restart the mainframe for us? Pocacchio: [nods] Of course. Please come to my office. [In Dr. Pocacchio�s Lab...] [Dr. Pocacchio restarts the mainframe.] Pocacchio: Hmm...everything should be fine now. It seems that Jupis has not lost his pride as a scientist after all. The mainframe computer hasn�t been harmed one bit. Starr : I see, that�s excellent news, Doctor. [to Jaster] We owe it all to you, Desert Claw. Now, about that reward... Let�s see, how would you feel if I gave you this Pocacchio Factory? Jaster : Huh? Pocacchio: You mean you�re going to use my factory again? What�s going on, Starr? Starr : You�ve had plenty of time to rest by now, Doctor. I think it�s time to forget about the past and return to your work, don�t you agree? [to the team] Well? Steve : [to Jaster] With a facility like this, he�d be able to produce all kinds of items. I�d be much better than some lousy reward money. What do you say, Mr. Rogue? Jaster : All right. We�ll take the factory. Pocacchio: [to Jaster and group] So, you really want to use my factory. I see. Then I�ll bring it back up to speed as soon as possible so that you will be able to utilize it. Steve : It�s a deal, Dr. Pocacchio! I�m so happy! [Dr. Pocacchio smiles.] Pocacchio: Steve... [Later...] [Steve and Dr. Pocacchio are in Dr. Pocacchio�s Lab.] Pocacchio: You seem to be doing very well, Steve. You have good friends by your side and you look happy. I�m relieved to know you�re doing so well. By the way, can I ask you a small favor? Would you mind contacting me once in a while to tell me about the things you see and do on your journey through the galaxy? Steve : The things I see and do... Well of course. But why? Pocacchio: Oh, well, it�s nothing, really... It�s just that, I don�t know... I�ve been pretty lonely lately. Steve : Is that all? All right, I�ll definitely keep in touch with you and tell you all about our adventures, then! Pocacchio: Oh, really? How excellent! I�m so glad! Thank you, Steve. Steve : It�s no trouble at all. Pocacchio: Well then, it�s time for you to go. Until we meet again. [Steve nods.] Steve : Yes, doctor! [Steve walks out of the lab and approaches Jaster and Lilika.] Steve: Thank you for waiting. We sure took the long way around, but the Galaxy Corporation should be back online now. Let�s go see. [Jaster and Lilika nod.] [They return to the Galaxy Corporation.] MIO : Hi! Welcome to the Galaxy Corporation! They�ve solved the problem with that terrorist and the mainframe�s back up and running! I�m ready to process your requests now! Lilika: Oh, really? This time for sure? MIO : This time for sure! I mean, come on, that is my job, after all. Duh. [Jaster holds out the expired visa.] Jaster: This is all we need. PLEASE, can you issue us a new galactic travel visa now? MIO : Ab-so-lute-ly! What have you got? [MIO takes the visa.] MIO : ZR-KJ1701, the Dorgenark. [MIO types on the keyboard.] MIO : Looks like the category of this vessel is a free-sailing freighter. [MIO finished typing and holds out the renewed visa.] MIO : All right...and there we go! Now you�re all set. Jaster: Is that it? That�s all it took?! [Jaster takes the Renewed Galactic Travel Visa.] MIO : �Do it fast and do it right�-- that�s the motto of the Galaxy Corporation! We look forward to serving you again! Jaster: Wait--I have two cards here. [Jaster examines the second card.] Jaster: What�s this? [It�s a MIO Fan Card.] MIO : Oh, that�s just a little present from me. Member number 78500 is a bit high, but what can you do?! Lilika: [to Jaster] Well aren�t you lucky? MIO : Thanks for your support! [Jaster, Lilika and Steve return to the Dorgenark.] [In the Control Room...] [Jaster and Lilika gape when they see Jupis looking around in the Control Room while drinking a cup of coffee.] Jupis : Hmmm...now THIS is a good-looking ship. I like it, I like it! Jaster: [to Jupis] Hey! What are you doing here? Jupis : [sips the coffee] I�ll be on the most-wanted list before long, right? My house is surrounded by soldiers. I have nowhere to hide! So I decided to become a crew member here �til things die down. Lilika: Oh yeah? Says who?! Monsha: Says me, that�s who! [Monsha is holding a dried fish.] [There is a plate of fish beside him.] Monsha: Jupis is a vital part of the Dorgenark team! [Monsha nibbles at the fish.] Monsha: This is good! Mmm! This is great! Mmm! [Monsha continues nibbling at the fish.] Jaster: So he bribed you. [Kisala is eating some dumplings.] Kisala: Mmm, this is so good! Jupis : You folks are lucky to have me as a friend! It�ll be nice working with you! [Lilika hits Jupis on the head.] Jupis : Yow! Hey, what was that for?! Lilika: Humph! [Jaster sighs.] xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ++++++++++++++++++++++++ + Chapter 6: The Guide + [CH06] ++++++++++++++++++++++++ [The Dorgenark leaves Zerard.] [Jaster is looking around on the ship�s deck.] [Simon and Steve comes.] Steve : Oh, there you are, Mr. Rogue. Hurry to the bridge--the Captain has awakened from his nap. Jaster: The Captain? You mean Dorgengoa? I get to meet him? Steve : In fact, I believe he has specific orders for you. Simon : Ah, Desert Claw! Takin� orders straight from the boss, huh? Steve : Everyone�s on the bridge already. You�d better get moving. [Jaster, Simon and Steve leave the deck and head for the bridge.] [In the Dorgenark�s Control Room...] Zegram : Hey, Jaster. Quite a promotion, huh? I hear this next mission is all yours. Kisala : Papa�s usually not one to trust people. Good for you, Jaster! Zegram : Good for you? Maybe--IF you�re the real deal. Monsha : All present and accounted for? My most distinguished pirates, Dorgengoa, our great and honorable Captain, has finally awakened! Company, fall in! [The floor shakes.] [A groan is heard from behind the bridge�s curtains.] Monsha : T-the Cap�n is on the bridge! Jaster : (I finally get to meet him... Dorgengoa...) [Captain Dorgengoa enters the bridge, holding a piece of Primeval Beef.] [Dorgengoa bites the meat.] Dorgengoa: Scalawags! How are things? Guess I was out for a little too long this time. Well, can�t very well sleep forever. It�s time we go out and fulfill my ambition! [Dorgengoa looks at the crew.] Dorgengoa: So, did we ever find the Desert Claw? Steve : Yes, he�s right here. [Steve motioned to Jaster.] [Dorgengoa looks at Steve and Jaster.] Dorgengoa: Didn�t you hear me? Where�s Desert Claw? Steve : Er, um...right here, sir! [Steve motioned to Jaster again.] Simon : Desert Claw is actually Jaster here. Dorgengoa: What? This kid? Y-Y-Y-Y-YOU IDIOT! [Dorgengoa points at Jaster with the meat.] Dorgengoa: This runt ain�t the Desert Claw! Steve : Wha-at?! Zegram : Humph. Simon : But he�s gotta be! Jaster�s terribly strong! There�s no way! How could we be wrong on this? Dorgengoa: I know what Desert Claw looks like. And this snot-nosed little whelp don�t look like Desert Claw! Simon : [to Jaster] You tricked us! Good grief! Kisala : Jaster, is it true? Jaster : Uh, no, I just... I�m sorry. I meant to come clean sooner or later. Steve : Oh, my goodness! What a frightful mess! Dorgengoa: Tie this imposter up! And toss him overboard! Kisala : Papa, wait! Jaster might not be Desert Claw, but he�s our friend. Please Papa, don�t punish him! Dorgengoa: Wha-at? Kisala...why are you sticking up for this scurvy dog? Kisala : While you were taking a nap, Jaster was a tremendous help to us. A true pirate never forgets his obligations, right? Steve : That�s right! And Mr. Rogue�s strength is for real! Simon : Cap�n, I guarantee without a shadow of a doubt it will be good to have Jaster around. We�re beggin� ya! Let him stay in the crew, okay? Dorgengoa: Aww, now YOU have to pour it on... Zegram : Humph. What a bunch of suckers. Simon : Captain! Dorgengoa: I can�t hear myself think! SHUDDAAAAAAAP!! Scurvy dogs... Exactly whose ship do you think this is?! Ya bunch of selfish crybabies!! Jaster, was it? All right then, I�ll give you another chance. Let�s see if you can prove your usefulness. Kisala : Papa! Simon : That�s our cap�n! Dorgengoa: HOWEVER! If you screw up, it�s curtains for you! Ya got that, Jaster? Jaster : Y-Yes, sir. I understand. What is it that you�d like me to do, Captain? Dorgengoa: Hmm... But before that... All ya dogs, clean out yer ears and listen good! I�m gonna tell you my top-secret plans that I�ve been keeping you in the dark about �til now. Simon : Really, Captain? Zegram : Hmm... Well this should be entertaining. Steve : So you�re finally going to tell us! It IS rather odd not even to tell your crew the reason for their voyage. Kisala : C�mon, Papa--out with it! Dorgengoa: My ultimate goal is the legendary lost planet of Eden! Zegram : Eden...? Kisala : Oh, I�ve heard of that. It�s a phantom planet that vanished long ago. Simon : Yeah, and they say it holds enough treasure to allow anyone to rule the entire galaxy. Kisala : Yeah, that�s the one! And they say that on the planet, there are people that live forever. Simon : [to Dorgengoa] You�re not telling me you really believe in all that hogwash, are ya? Steve : I remember now! Eden suddenly vanished from our galaxy some ten thousand years ago. Supposedly they were even more advanced than Zerard. It is the utopia spoken of in legends throughout the galaxy. Zegram : [to Dorgengoa] You mean that old fairy tale? You can�t honestly be serious... Dorgengoa: Shuddap! I�m dead serious! It�ll take one hell of a mission to be able to find the path to Eden and actually make it there. And that�s why I ordered you to scout out the very best hunters. In other words, we are going to strip Eden bare of all its spoils. The galaxy�s foremost treasures will be mine! [to Monsha] Monsha! Monsha : A-Aye aye, Cap�n! Deadlights on the screen, mates! [A screen appears, showing the Geo Record.] Dorgengoa: I take it you all know about the Geo Record? It�s the galaxy�s top adventure log, containing every kind of treasure. According to this, Eden has an undeniable tie to the Great Tablets. Jaster : Great Tablets? Kisala : Ancient tablets--we�ve been looking for them for ages. [to Dorgengoa] I get it now. That�s why you�ve been so obsessed with them. Dorgengoa: If my intuition is correct, the secret that will open the path to Eden is hidden on the Great Tablets. But before we can get to Eden, we�ve got to get our hot little hands on those tablets first. According to my sources, a huge ancient tablet was excavated from a mine on Vedan just the other day. I don�t know if this is one of THE tablets, but it�s certainly worth investigating. Zegram : The mines are controlled by the Zax Morarty family. And they ain�t pleasant to deal with. [Monsha gulps.] Dorgengoa: Listen up, Jaster! You�re going down to Vedan to find out if that tablet is legit. Jaster : [nods] Aye-aye, Captain. Dorgengoa: Succeed and I�ll permit you to stay. [Jaster nods.] Kisala : Oh, that�s great news, Jaster! I was a little nervous for a second there. [Jaster and Kisala leave.] [The crew dismisses.] Zegram : Heh... [to Dorgengoa] You�re not gettin� soft on me, are ya? Dorgengoa: Didn�t you notice? Somethin�s special about him. Of all the warriors I�ve come across in my life, this is only the second one that�s given me this feeling. Zegram : Is that right? And who was the first guy? Dorgengoa: Desert Claw--the real one, that is. [Dorgengoa goes back into the Captain�s quarters through the bridge�s curtains.] Zegram : Humph. [The Dorgenark arrives at Vedan�s spaceport.] [Jaster and Kisala are on the deck.] Jaster: So this is Vedan. Kisala: Over forty percent of the galaxy�s metal ore and minerals are mined here on Vedan. The vast resources available here make it one of the top mining planets. Jaster: Looks kind of dark. Kisala: Uh-huh, the sun never rises in this mining sector. This place is also known as the city of eternal night. Pretty romantic, don�t you think, Jaster? Jaster: City of eternal night... So where do we start? Kisala: Well, we�ll have to go to the mines if we want to check on this tablet. Most likely, they only allow authorized people to enter. We should start off by heading into town and try find a way into the mines. [Meanwhile...] [Steve puts on a headset which allows him to communicate with Dr. Pocacchio.] Steve : Dr. Pocacchio? Dr. Pocacchio? Can you hear me? Pocacchio: Yes, the connection is excellent, Steve. And I�m glad to see that you seem to be doing well, too. Steve : [nods] Of course I am! That�s because of your brilliant design, Doctor Pocacchio. Pocacchio: Heh heh...so you�ve learned how to do flattery now, huh? That�s quite an accomplishment. Listen, I�d like to make a small adjustment. Do you mind if I take control of your circuits for a while? Steve : Not at all. Be my guest... [Pocacchio starts typing.] [Steve shuts down.] [The holographic image of a boy appears in front of him.] Pocacchio: [to the boy] Mark...what�s space like? Mark : It�s fantastic! And totally different than I pictured. It�s like the stars go on forever and ever. I really have to thank you--and Steve. Pocacchio: You�re welcome. Mark : And the Great Tablet! Pocacchio: Hmm? What�s that? Mark : It�s this really huge treasure. With the Great Tablet, you can go to this paradise called Eden. So now we�re all looking for it. Pocacchio: Eden, huh...? I wish I could see it in person. Mark : I�ll tell you all about it! Pocacchio: I�m glad... I�m looking forward to that, Mark. Mark : Just leave it to me! Gosh, I can�t believe how excited I am...! [Meanwhile...] [Jaster and Kisala catch the train in the spaceport, bound for the North Myna Station.] [They go out of the station and enter the town of Myna.] [They see an archaeologist who is running hurriedly.] Jaster : Huh? [The archaeologist is chased by a group of six hitmen who are armed with guns.] Hitman : Hold up, old man! You think you can get away with this?! [The group of Hitmen runs past Jaster and Kisala.] Kisala : [to Jaster] Are those...Morarty�s men? [The archaeologist appears to be hiding behind Jaster and Kisala.] Archaeologist: Th� coast is clear! Kisala : Ah! Archaeologist: Sorry--didn�t mean t� frighten you. Don�t worry, I don�t bite. My name is Burton. I�m an explorer who came all th� way out here to examine th� ancient tablets they discovered in th� mine. Jaster : Hold on a second... You�re here for that, too? Burton : Oho! So you know about �em! I bet you�re here gatherin� info yourselves as well. In that case, how �bout we swap data, eh? Jaster : Um, well... Sure, but we don�t have much yet... Burton : Well, so far, I�ve managed to learn that th� miners hang out in a place called �Angela�s Bar�. I reckon if we go there, we�ll be able to find out something. The only thing is, I have no idea where the place is. How �bout you? Jaster : Angela�s Bar, huh? [The six hitmen returns.] Hitman : There he is! Burton : Uh-oh--this isn�t good! [Burton runs away.] Kisala : Wait, Burton! Hitman : Huh? [The hitmen stop in front of Jaster and Kisala.] Hitman : Hey, you guys! You�re in cahoots with that old coot? Jaster : Huh? What do you guys want? What�s goin� on?! Kisala : Uh, I don�t like this... [The hitmen pointed their guns at Jaster and Kisala.] Kisala : Hey, come ON! How did we get involved? [A fight ensues.] [Jaster and Kisala defeat the hitmen.] Hitman #1 : H-How dare you...defy the Morarty clan...ow! Hitman #2 : If you know what�s good for you, you�ll get lost. [The Hitmen leave.] Kisala : [looks at Jaster] Uh-oh--now we�ve gotten their attention. Jaster : That old guy mentioned something about Angela�s Bar. Maybe we can learn a few things if we go there. Kisala : All right, let�s try to find it. [While searching for Angela�s Bar, Jaster sees Miyoko and Chie from a distance.] Jaster: It�s them again. Chie : [to Miyoko] Mommy...is Daddy here? Miyoko: I�m not sure darling. Well he might be...but he might not be. [A group of Morarty�s men is running that direction.] Man : Outta the way! [They pushed Miyoko and Chie out of their way.] Miyoko: Ah! Chie : Mommy! [Chie runs to Miyoko.] Chie : [to Morarty�s men] Why did you do that to my mommy?! Miyoko: It�s all right, Chie. I just tripped, that�s all. Chie : Mommy...! If Daddy were here, he�d beat up those bad guys! [Chie starts crying.] Chie : When are we gonna see Daddy...? [Miyoko hugs Chie.] Miyoko: I�m sorry, honey. I�m so sorry for putting you through all this. Your daddy, he�s working really hard to help people--to help the world. I�m sure we�ll find him soon... So hang in there, okay? Chie : Okay...I�ll try, Mommy... [Jaster watches Miyoko and Chie leave.] [Jaster and Kisala reach Angela�s Bar, which is in front of Myna�s Power Station, and enter it.] [A Quan, Deego, is sitting at the counter.] [The barkeep, Angela, is standing behind the counter.] Deego : [to Angela] Gimme another. [Deego pushes his empty glass forward.] Angela: Come on, that�s enough, Deego. Deego : Oh, drop it, would you? Why can�t I drink as much as I want? Angela: [takes the glass] Come on, cut it out. You never used to be like this. What happened to the old Deego, the heroic soldier? Look at you, you�re just a shell of your former self. [Angela fills the glass.] Angela: And look at me--silly enough to fall in love with such a miserable man. [Angela puts the glass in front of Deego.] Deego : Oh, this again? I�m tired of talking about the past. Angela: Deego... [Angela notices Jaster and Kisala at the doorway.] Angela: Oh, I�m sorry, I didn�t see you in there. Something to drink? This way. [Jaster and Kisala walk in.] [Suddenly, Burton is thrown in from the door.] Burton: Ah! Jaster: It�s that old guy! [A teenage boy, Junia, walks in.] Junia : Heh heh heh heh! Burton: What was that for?! All I did was just ask around about the tablet! [Gale walks in.] Burton: Oh, er, sorry about that... Gale : All this secretive sniffing around... Guess you still have no idea. Angela: Gale...! [Gale picks Burton up by his lapels.] Burton: Urk! Gale : Keep sneaking around and you�ll be putting your life at stake, old man. Burton: N-No...I-I was just... [Gale sees Jaster and Kisala.] [Gale drops Burton.] Gale : Haven�t seen YOU before. Something�s fishy. Who are these guys? Angela: They are my customers, Gale. And while they�re in my bar, you don�t get to hassle them. Gale : Humph... [Gale points at Jaster and Kisala.] Gale : Look, this is a very important time for our town. Don�t do anything that would make anyone suspicious--that goes for you too, Angela. Got a problem with that? No? Good. Just remember: Defy Zax Morarty and you won�t survive for very long in this town. So don�t try anything stupid. Got that, Angela? And Deego. Got your tail between your legs, as usual. All that money you scraped up in the mines--was just to buy yourself some drinks? You definitely are a loser, Deego. Pathetic. [Gale looks at Julia.] Gale : [to Julia] Move! Junia : Urk! Heh heh heh. [Gale and Junia leave.] [Angela looks at a photograph on the table behind the counter.] [It was a picture of Deego, Gale and herself.] [Angela sighs.] Burton: [to Jaster and Kisala] Whoa! This is great! Why, it�s fate that has brought us together! [Burton walks over to Deego.] Burton: Say, big fellow, you look like you work at th� mine. Is there a secret entrance to that place? Would you be so kind as to show me? Deego : No thanks. I�m not getting involved. Burton: Oh, come on. Please? Deego : Don�t make me tell you again. I won�t do it. Burton: Oho! I see how it is! You�re afraid o� that fella! You look pretty tough, but you�re really just a wuss, aren�t you? [Deego bangs the table.] Deego : What?! Burton: Whoa! Wait a second, don�t get mad! This has been a dream of mine. They found an ancient tablet in a mine on this planet. It�s archaeological value is absolutely mind-boggling. I can�t die until I gazed upon that tablet and unlocked its secrets. C�mon, can�t you help an ol� archaeologist�s dream come true? Deego : A dream come true... So that�s your dream, huh? Burton: you bet! Deego : Tell me, you got money, old man? Burton: Bwah ha ha! Oh, that�s rich! Oh, my! Have faith good fellow, money is no object for me! [Deego nods.] Deego : All right. Kisala: [to Jaster] Hey, why don�t we go with them, Jaster? Burton: Oh, so you two want to help, as well? [Jaster and Kisala nods.] Jaster: Sure, can we come along? Burton: Are you serious? Of course, of course! [Burton shakes hands with Jaster and Kisala.] Burton: All right then, it�s settled! The Burton Caravan is off to find th� great tablet! Deego : Then we�ll leave soon. First, you need an ID card. The item shop downtown should have some black-market cards. [to Burton] Gale�s got his eye on you, old man. You stay here. We�ll get the card for you. Burton: Oh...I see. Yes, all right. But you know, I will get a little lonely. Angela: [to Burton] Oh, don�t worry. I�ll be happy to keep you company. Burton: Ah! Yes? That sounds marvelous. [Burton sits down.] Burton: Ahh, haven�t had a drink wit� a beautiful woman in quite some time... Well, good luck out there, troops! Oh, and feel free to take your time. Jaster: Huh? [Jaster, Kisala and Deego leave Angela�s Bar and go downtown.] [They reach and enter Item Shop Corbis.] [They bought a Mine ID Card from Corbis for 1200 zehn.] [When they get out of the shop...] Jaster: Whoa! Not YOU again! [Gale, Junia and six of Morarty�s men are standing outside the shop.] Junia : Heh heh heh heh! Gale : I saw a suspicious looking ship dock at port--and guess what? It�s yours. Hey, Deego! Want to get yourself taken in on aiding and abetting charges? Deego : And what would you do? Want to take me on? I won�t stand here and be defeated by one of Morarty�s lapdogs. [Deego draws his axe.] Gale : Go on, taunt me while you still can. Once Morarty�s trade with Daytron succeeds, I�ll be rolling in the zehn. Then it�s farewell, Vedan. Deego : Wait...you�re not serious... Are you considering going back to the military?! Gale : Who knows? No more chit-chat. I�ve been given orders by Zax Morarty to do away with the lot of you. [The six Morarty�s men point their guns at the team.] [The team readies their weapons.] Kisala: [looks at Deego] Deego? [The team battles Morarty�s men and wins.] Gale : Huh...worthless goons! Deego, you loser! Howl all you want--it won�t change a thing! I�m not like you, you know. You don�t see me rolling over and playing dead! Deego : Don�t you get it? The military doesn�t need outdated soldiers like us anymore! Gale : Shut up! Watch your back, Deego. Payback�s a bitch. [to Junia] Move...! Junia : Hee hee hee! [Gale and Junia leave.] Deego : Urgh... Kisala: Deego... Deego : He�s changed. He�s sold his soul to get back into space. Jaster: So both of you guys used to be soldiers? Deego : Yeah, a long time ago. But Longardia�s changed...there�s no place for us now. I don�t know why you can�t get that through your head, Gale. Back then...competing with you to be the top dog... How the mighty have fallen. [Burton comes running to them.] Burton: Oh, no! Jaster: Burton...? Burton: It�s a disaster, an absolute disaster! Somethin� terrible�s happened! Kisala: What�s going on? Burton: Someone set the bar on fire! Deego : What?! Could it have been...Gale? Burton: Hurry up! It�s burning right down to the ground, but Angela is refusing to leave the bar! Kisala: Oh, no! Come on, Deego, let�s go! Deego : I hope you�re all right, Angela... [The team runs towards the bar.] [Junia is looking at them from behind a wall.] Junia : Hee hee... [Jaster, Kisala, Deego and Burton reach Angela�s Bar.] [The bar is on fire.] Jaster: How awful... [Deego runs towards the entrance of the bar.] Deego : Angela! Where are you?! Angela: Right here... [Angela is sitting in front of the Power Station.] [Deego runs towards Angela.] Deego : Are you okay? Angela: I think so. Deego : That�s good... Angela: I�m sorry, Deego. My bar...it�s history now. I know it was your one and only hangout... Deego : Angela...I didn�t go there to hang out. [Deego pulls Angela closer to him.] Deego : I went to be with you. Angela: Deego... [Angela starts sobbing.] Deego : I can�t believe Gale would do this. Nrgh. [Flashback] [The Longardians are attacking a ship and are shooting at their enemies.] [Deego and Gale are taking cover behind a wall in a corridor. There are several other civilians behind that wall.] [Deego shoots at the enemies.] [Deego sees a civilian running across the corridor to take cover.] Deego : What the--? [to Gale] Wait! They�re civilians! Gale : Whaddya mean? The enemies are supposed to be specialized forces in disguise! Deego : We�ve been set up. This is a civilian ship. Gale : Why?! How could this happen?! [The civilian runs forward with a gun.] Deego : Oh no! Civilian: I won�t let you kill our children! Deego : Urk! [Deego runs out to block the civilian from getting shot.] Deego : Stop! Hold your fire! [However, the shooting continues.] [Deego�s right arm gets shot.] Deego : Arrrrgh! Gale : You bastards...! [Gale runs out from behind the wall.] Deego : Gale...stop... [Gale runs towards the civilians.] [End flashback] Deego : We killed a lot of citizens out of sheer ignorance. But that�s no excuse. [Deego looks at his mechanical arm.] Deego : Gale and I quit the military after that incident. Since then...everything�s gone crazy... Kisala: But why would they do this...? Deego : The military is full of people who don�t want this war to end. Someone like that must have set us up. They wanted to stir up hatred for the other side and did whatever they could to escalate our battles. Kisala: How horrible... Deego : We lost our pride as soldiers. Our fighting morale was shot, of course, but so was our will to live. Jaster: Deego... Deego : So that�s what happened. The burdens we�ve carried these ten years has been a pretty heavy one. I think it�s about time. Time for me to end this, Gale. [to Jaster and Kisala] Come on, you two. We�re off to the mine. Jaster: Okay. [Jaster, Kisala and Deego head off to the South Myna Station.] [The picture of Angela, Deego and Gale is shown lying on the ground with burnt edges.] [At the South Myna Station, the team rode the mineliner to the Rockbelter Mine Station.] [Jaster, Kisala and Deego approach the entrance of the Rockbelter Mine.] [Two of Morarty�s men--Sefan and Chagall, are guarding the mine�s entrance.] Sefan : Halt! Deego : [to Sefan] Time for a shift change. [Deego shows Sefan and Chagall the Mine ID Card.] [Sefan takes the Mine ID Card and examines it.] Sefan : Huh? Haven�t seen you around before, you new? Deego : Haven�t you heard? We joined the drilling team yesterday. Chagall: It checks out. [Is this switched with the line below?] Sefan : All right, go on in. [Jaster, Kisala and Deego go into the Rockbelter Mine.] [They go through the mine�s first and second strata.] [The team heads for the mine�s excavation site.] [Meanwhile...] [Steve contacts Dr. Pocacchio.] [Steve shuts down.] [Mark appears in front of him.] Mark : This is terrific! Pocacchio: What is it? How come you�re so excited? Mark : The mines under the surface of Vedan go for miles and miles! They might even go straight into its core. I never dreamed such a place even existed! There are lots of other planets aren�t there? Gosh, space is so incredibly exciting... I want to visit every planet there is and see them all. Pocacchio: There�s nothing stopping you. You can go anywhere you want. You have plenty of time. And that�s all thanks to Steve, of course. [Jaster, Kisala and Deego reach the Rockbelter Mine�s Excavation Site.] Deego : Ga-ale! [Missiles are shot at the team.] Deego : Gale! [A robot, the Early Model Drill Rig, emerges.] [Gale jumps out of its cockpit.] Gale : So it�s you, Deego! Deego : Open your eyes, Gale! Don�t do anything stupid--like rejoining the military. Gale : I�m not about to live my life a loser like you. Now...I�m gonna reclaim everything I�ve lost. Deego : Don�t you get it, Gale?! This will never bring back what we�ve lost! Come on! [Gale shrugs and goes back into the Drill Rig�s cockpit.] Deego : Gale! [Jaster, Kisala and Deego battle the Drill Rig.] [The team first destroys the Drill Rig�s arms and then attack the robot.] [Gale jumps out of the Drill Rig�s cockpit.] Gale : Urk! [The Drill Rig explodes behind him.] Deego : Jaster, Kisala--I�ll handle this. Please. Jaster: Deego... [Deego walks forward.] Gale : Aha... Deego : End of the line, Gale. There�s still time. Bring back the old Gale. Gale : Humph... Who are you to talk? You�ve given up on life! You actually think your past crimes are forgiven just because you let your life go to hell? I�m not like you, you know. No...I�m going to reclaim everything I�ve lost. Deego : So...that�s your decision? [Deego draws his axe.] [Gale draws his guns.] Gale : All right, Deego--let�s finish this! [Deego battles Gale.] [Deego wins.] Gale : Urk... It�s not over yet... I�m... [The ground shakes.] Jaster: What the--?! Kisala: Look over there! Deego : It can�t be! Jaster: Is that-- [The tablet is taken out of the excavation site by a Daytron transport ship.] Deego : The tablet...! Gale : Guess the trade�s complete. [Gale lifts his hand to show the transport ship that he�s there.] [However, the ship shoots at him.] [Gale evades the ship�s attack.] Gale : What?! Of all the... Morarty--why?! Deego : Do you get it now, Gale? The Morarty clan doesn�t care about you at all. They were just using you. [The Daytron ship leaves.] Gale : He he he... Yeah...again. Just like they did back then. And you were right all along, Deego. But it seems you WERE wrong about one thing. I didn�t get involved with the tablet negotiations for money or for a ticket back to the military. You see, Morarty promised me. He told me that the tablet would bring an end to this war. That its mysteries would be unraveled so that the fortunes of Eden could bless the galaxy with abundant resources. Deego : And you believed them? Gale : No... More like...I wanted to believe. If we are to atone for the crimes we committed, we have to put an end to this foolish conflict. All I wanted to recover...was my pride. My pride as a human, not as a soldier. Deego : Gale... You�re... Gale : Deego, it�s time for me to go. Deego : Where are you going Gale? There�s nowhere left for you. Gale : Sure there is. Just one place. [Gale tosses an Officer�s Coin at Deego.] [Deego catches it.] Gale : Keep that--and I�ll see you on the starry seas. [Gale leaves.] Deego : [to team] Let�s go back. I�m worried about Angela. [Jaster, Kisala and Deego returns to Angela�s Bar.] [They see Burton outside the bar.] Burton: [to team] If you�re lookin� for th� lady, she said she was leavin� town. She didn�t leave any message. Deego : It�s better this way. Gale and I were nothing but bad luck to her. Kisala: I don�t think so... That�s not true at all. Don�t you get it, Deego? Angela�s leaving town because she wants to help you. You ran away from living your life by depending on her to keep you going. She figures that as long as she�s around, you�ll never be able to stand up on your own two feet again. Deego : Angela... Kisala: Are you just going to let her leave? Jaster: Hey, Kisala... Deego : Kisala. Burton: She must be at th� station. You might get there in time if you leave now. Kisala: Go on, hurry, Deego! Deego : Thanks. [Jaster, Kisala and Deego go to the North Myna Station.] [When the three reach, the train bound for the Vedan spaceport arrives.] [Angela goes into the train.] [Deego runs towards her.] Deego : Angela! [Angela looks at Deego.] Angela: Deego. [Angela sighs.] Angela: I�m sorry... I didn�t want to tell you. You know me, I�m just no good at farewells... Deego : Don�t go, Angela. Stay here--please! I need you, Angela. You�re the only one... Angela: Deego... [The train leaves for the spaceport.] [Angela stays behind.] [Angela smiles at Deego.] [Deego and Angela go and sit side by side inside the station.] Angela: Having no second thoughts? Deego : No... Angela: You�re the one that stopped me from going. And now you�re leaving? Deego : I�m sorry... I have to figure out how to redeem myself... Please understand. Will you wait for me until I return? Right now, I�m not a man who can make you happy. But out there, I plan to find the part of me that can. [Angela nods.] Deego : I�m sorry, I�ve made you wait for too long. I...I can hardly ask you for more than you�ve given me. Angela: Do you really think that? [Deego looks at Angela.] Angela: You�re so spoiled. You know full well what I�m going to do, don�t you? Deego : Angela... [Angela leans on Deego.] Angela: But I�m so happy. I�ve waited so long for you to come back from where you were. Welcome home...Deego. [Meanwhile...] [Zax Morarty and 5 of his men meets Gale.] Zax : [to Gale] We have no more use for you. Scram. [Gale points one of his guns at Zax.] Gale : I�m afraid that�s my line, Zax. [Morarty�s men aim their guns at Gale.] Zax : What are you trying to do? Gale : You tricked me. Daytron has the tablet now, but this war won�t end. Am I right? Zax : Humph... So what if you are? Gale : You know my history. You used that promise to lure me in just so you could use me. Zax : Heh heh... So what? What do you hope to accomplish right now? Don�t worry about it. It doesn�t matter anymore. You�re about to die anyway. [to his men] Kill him! [Morarty�s men start firing at Gale.] [Gale runs at Zax, evading all the bullets in the process.] [Zax takes out his gun and shoots at Gale.] [Zax misses.] [Gale shoots Zax.] [Zax dies.] [The Morarty�s men continue shooting at Gale.] [Gale defeats all of them.] Gale : It�s over. [Junia is standing nearby. He�s shocked by the incident.] Junia: Heh...heh heh... [Meanwhile, the Dorgenark is about to leave Vedan.] [In the Dorgenark�s control room...] Dorgengoa: Jaster! What happened to the tablet? Jaster : We saw it, but hey handed it over to Daytron. The ship it is in is just leaving Vedan now. Le�s go after it! Dorgengoa: What?! Those Daytron scum... [to Steve and Simon] You two! Anchors aweigh! Steve & Simon: Aye-aye! [Burton looks back at the burnt Angela�s Bar before leaving.] [Gale is about to leave the place where he killed Zax Morarty.] [He sees Junia on the stairs when he is about to walk down.] Junia: Heh heh heh heh... Gale : Oh, it�s you... You�re free now. Get outta here. [Gale starts descending the stairs.] Junia: Heh heh... [When Gale passed by him, Junia stabs him in the heart with a knife.] Gale : Nrgh... Junia: Heh heh heh! F-For what you d-did t-to Dad... Gale : Oh, I see how it is. [Gale falls down the stairs.] [Deego is sitting sadly at Veronica in the Dorgenark.] [Angela is at the Myna Observation Deck (Daytron View).] [Angela looks at the picture of Deego, Gale and herself. She smiles.] [The Dorgenark leaves Vedan.] [Gale is lying on the ground at the bottom of the stairs, looking up at the sky. He�s dying.] Gale: Deego... I couldn�t get anything back after all. [Gale raises his hand towards the stars.] Gale: Can you see that, Deego? It�s our star. Our... [Gale dies.] [Where Zax Morarty died, a device is seen lying next to him on the floor.] [The device activates.] [Norma is seen on the screen.] Norma: Mr. Morarty, I just wanted to inform you that we have received the tablet as promised. I�ve placed the two hundred million zehn in your bank account as you�ve requested. Consider this transaction complete. Best wishes to you...Boss. [The device deactivates.] [In the Dorgenark�s control room...] Dorgengoa: Hey, Jaster! Jaster : Hmm? [Dorgengoa tosses a coin at Jaster.] [Jaster catches Dorgengoa�s Coin.] Jaster : What�s this? Dorgengoa: From now on, you�re a part of our crew. So, that means you�re now in cahoots with a bunch of lawless space pirates. [Dorgengoa laughs.] Jaster : Pirates, huh... [The Dorgenark continues to follow Daytron�s transport ship.] Steve : It looks like the tablet is being transported directly to Rosa. Jaster : Rosa?! Jupis : It�s a slave planet under Longardian control. Super boring, too-- it�s all desert! Kisala : I wonder what they plan on doing with it there. Dorgengoa: We�ll find out soon enough. Don�t lose sight of it. Lilika : [to Steve] Hey, make sure you stay close behind. Steve : Y-Yes, ma�am. Kisala : Ooh...! [Kisala runs out of the room quickly. She runs to the ship�s deck.] Jaster : Kisala? What happened? Lilika : Kisala... It�s okay, I�ll go see. [On the deck...] [Kisala had turned semi-transparent. She�s panting.] Kisala : Ooh, ow! Ohh... [Kisala turns back to normal.] [Lilika comes.] Lilika : Are you all right, Kisala? Kisala : Oh, Lilika! You saw that, huh? Lilika : When did it start? Kisala : A while ago. It was never this bad before, but lately, it�s been happening more often. Lilika : Have you seen the doctor? Kisala : No, this isn�t anything he could cure. I know what it is... Something�s trying to warn me... But don�t tell anyone, okay, Lilika? It doesn�t bother me. Really. Lilika : Kisala... [Steve�s voice is heard.] Steve : Lilika? Kisala? We�ll be entering Rosa�s gravitational sphere. Better come inside--it�s dangerous. [The Dorgenark follows Daytron�s ship into Rosa�s atmosphere.] [Meanwhile, in Zerard�s Stadium...] [Valkog is standing on a floating platform.] [Chairman Vandersch, two of his men and Admiral Banarge are present behind Valkog.] [Valkog is speaking.] Valkog : Ladies and gentlemen! The salvation you�ve been waiting for all these years has finally arrived! With this magnificent technology, a Longardian victory is all but guaranteed! [The crowd cheers.] Valkog : So now, let us behold! [The stadium�s roof opens.] [A big battleship moves across the top of the stadium.] Valkog : A grand masterpiece of Daytron know-how--the new battleship, the Emperor! [The platform on which Valkog, the Chairman, and Admiral Banarge are on moves up towards the Emperor.] Valkog : [to Chairman Vandersch] Take a look! Such a splendid combination of elegance and ferocity. And behold its power! A perfect complement to the ruler of a galaxy. Banarge : Chairman, please reconsider. Introducing a ship like this will only magnify the conflict even further. Chairman! Valkog : With all due respect, Admiral... It�s because of lukewarm commanders like yourself that this war shows no sign of ending. You may be a military man, but you refuse to bulk up your arsenal. How can you protect yourself from the enemy with no weapons? You can�t stand for justice when there�s no power behind it. Banarge : Justice! What justice?! All you�re really interested in is profiting from this war! How much are you going to profit from this war before you�re satisfied-- Valkog : That�s enough. You�re not the one deciding. [to Chairman Vandersch] now, Chairman...what do you say? Chairman�s Man: [to Chairman Vandersch] Sir? [The Chairman whispers to his man.] Chairman�s Man: Yes. [to Valkog] His Excellency has decided. We shall take 300. Banarge : Sir...! Valkog : Thank you for your business. Chairman Vandersch of the Longardia War Council has placed an order for 300 units! [The crowd cheers.] Valkog : Humph! [Valkog jumps off the platform.] Valkog : Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! [Valkog landed in Norma�s flying car.] Valkog : I bid you, farewell! [The vehicle flies away.] Norma : Well, congratulations, you handled that beautifully! Valkog : Very nice timing as always, Norma! This deal was just like taking candy from a baby. And aren�t YOU looking dazzling as always! Norma : Oh, sir...you�re such a flirt. Tee hee hee... Valkog : By the way, Norma, how�s that thing coming along? Hmm? Norma : Oh, that? I�ve received reports that it�s just about to arrive at the site. Valkog : Is that so? Well then, we�d better be on our way. [The vehicle flies into the Emperor.] [The Emperor takes off.] [The Dorgenark reaches Rosa. It is still following Daytron�s transport ship.] Steve : It seems the transport ship landed near the ancient ruins in the south of the Sylvazard Desert. Dorgengoa: Oh, the ancient ruins, eh...? I always figured there was some kinda connection between the Great Tablets and all these planetary ruins. I was right after all. Monsha : You sure are a sharp one, boss! Lilika : Oh, shut up! [Lilika hits Monsha on the head.] Monsha : Yeow! Steve : They�ll spot us for sure if we land this close. What should we do, Captain? Jaster : Let�s hit the port in Salgin. From there we�ll approach through the desert. Simon : The desert? Er, not too sure about that. Lilika : That�s the only way in. If we approach in plain sight, they�ll spot us before we get there. Besides, Jaster knows this planet inside-out. I say we go through the desert. Monsha : You scalawags have a lot of nerve to be whippin� up strategies, you know. Of course, as the first mate, I�ll have to okay anything you come up with. Lilika : [to Monsha] Give it a rest, puffykins. [to Dorgengoa] Well, Captain? What should we do? Monsha : Wh-Wh-Why, I never...! Dorgengoa: Hmm. Now listen up, ya dogs! We�ll land at the port and proceed through the desert. Now quit dawdlin�! [The Dorgenark lands at Salgin�s spaceport.] Dorgengoa: So, Jaster! Rosa�s your home planet, eh? Must know your way around. Jaster : Of course! The desert is through the residential area�s south gate. We�ll make our way through Sylvazard towards the ancient ruins. Don�t worry, we can do it! [Meanwhile...] [Steve contacts Dr. Pocacchio.] [Steve shuts down.] [Mark appears.] Pocacchio: How are your adventures coming along, Mark? Mark : Something terrible�s happened! It�s Daytron! They took the Great Tablet! Pocacchio: Daytron...! I see now... So that would explain why things have been so frantic around here. It all makes sense. Mark : But it�s okay! Jaster and his team won�t give up! They�re going across the desert to take it back. I�ve never seen anything like this! I love traveling with these guys! I�m having a blast! Pocacchio: Don�t do anything silly, now. Let�s make an upgrade to Steve�s self-defense system, just in case. Mark : No, don�t! Pocacchio: Mark... Mark : Everyone�s doing their best. The others would be in trouble if Steve ever ran away. Pocacchio: You�re right... I�m sorry, I shouldn�t have assumed. But take care of yourself, Mark. [Dr. Pocacchio continues typing in his office.] [He notices MIO at the doorway.] Pocacchio: Huh? Oh, it�s you. I didn�t see you come in. I was kinda distracted. MIO : Um...here�s the data you asked me to get for you, Doctor Pocacchio. [MIO holds out a floppy.] MIO : I was able to pull it off the mainframe directly. [Dr. Pocacchio takes the floppy.] Pocacchio: Thank you very much. MIO : Sure... So, uh...how�s Mark been doing lately? Pocacchio: He�s just fine. I feel terrible for making you spy for me like this. Especially since you and Mark were childhood friends. MIO : No, it�s all right, Doctor! It doesn�t matter--I�m happy as long as Mark�s doing okay. Well, see ya. [MIO starts walking away.] MIO : Oh...by the way, some Daytron investigators came by the other day trying to dig up information. Be careful, okay? Pocacchio: I will. Thank you. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + Chapter 7: Valkog�s Ambition + [CH07] ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ In hot pursuit of the Great Tablet Daytron made off with, Jaster and his friends return to the Desert planet Rosa. The tablet seems to have been taken to the ruins in the Sylvazard Desert. Knowing it would be reckless to attack Daytron with their ship, the team decides to cross the desert on foot... [The party reaches the residential area�s south gate.] Jaster: [points at the gate] If we go through the desert from here, we�ll reach the ruins. But this area can be dangerous--it�s rife with beasts. Kisala: Umm... That scares me a little, but as long as you�re here...I don�t mind. Zegram: I�m never a big fan of deserts myself. Jupis : This is the only way we can approach without the enemies spotting us. But I sure do hate this heat! Simon : Hey Jaster, you sure this is all right? I mean, I really don�t wanna drop dead out there. Jaster: We�ll be fine. Come on! [The party enters the Sylvazard Desert, go through it and reach the Ancient Ruins of Rosa.] [Meanwhile...] [Valkog and his crew landed in an area with engravings on the ground.] Norma : Looks like we made it in time. Valkog: The negotiations dragged on, thanks to that idiot Banarge. We nearly let a truly historic moment pass us by. Norma : He�s a would-be politico, a senile old man with an obsolete sense of justice. Valkog: Yes yes, you�re right on the ball, my dear Norma. He�s always delaying Council decisions! The man is an absolute nuisance. Norma : Not to change the subject, sir, but I think they�re about to begin. Valkog: Ah, at last! Norma : This should be fun. After all, this is where all of Daytron�s money went. All those millions. Valkog: When you think of what it�ll bring us in the end, it�s practically a steal. Heh heh heh... Norma : Now, then... The time has come for you to serve your president. Work hard...and don�t disappoint him. [Norma and Valkog looks behind.] [A masked man, Seed, comes.] Valkog: What is up with that mask, anyway? Norma : My apologies, sir. Apparently, they still haven�t quite finished forming his face yet. Care to take a look? [Valkog sweats, seemingly intimidated by Seed.] Valkog: N-No, that�s all right... [Norma giggles.] [The group made it through the Ancient Ruins and reached the area where Valkog is.] [The Daytron transport ship that has the Great Tablet has finally arrived.] [It starts lowering the Great Tablet onto the engraved surface on the ground.] [The party peeked at Valkog and his crew from behind a nearby wall.] [The party members communicate in low voices.] Jaster: There they are--it�s Daytron. Valkog: [to the crews of the transport ship] Be careful with that, do you hear me?! If you damage that tablet, you�re fired! [Professor Izel walks over to Valkog.] Izel : There�s absolutely no need to worry, sir. We�re taking every conceivable precaution. Valkog: Eh? Is that a fact, Izel? Norma : It�s been a while, Professor. [Norma motions to Seed.] Norma : [to Izel] Thanks to you and your team of Daytron scientists, our boy is nearly complete. Izel : Him? He�s all set. His cosmetic appearance has no bearing on his function. Norma : Oh, is that so, Professor? But it�s always important to look good. You know--like me. Tee hee hee... Izel : Er...I suppose... [The ground shakes.] Norma : Oh, it looks like they�re about to begin. Valkog: Mmm. [The Great Tablet is lowered onto the engravings.] [Three pedestals rise from the Great Tablet.] [The first pedestal projects the image of a scale; the second projects a crab; the third projects a lion.] Valkog: Aha--so those must be hints. Norma : Well, what are they? Valkog: Look over there. We probably have to place a Key Piece on each of these three pedestals. Those images are most likely telling us where we can find them. Jaster: But that�s... Norma : [to Valkog] So where exactly are these Key Pieces? Valkog: We have to figure these out first. Norma : Let�s see...that�s... A...scale? And...a crab... And this one�s...a lion? Huh? I don�t get it, what do they all mean? Valkog: Let�s leave all of this stuff to the great minds of the Daytron scientists. They ought to be able to find some kind of meaning to the clues before us. Zegram: Did you hear that? Those are hints. Kisala: Yeah, but who knows what it means? Jaster: Let�s keep watching. [Seed notices something.] Seed : Hmm? [to Valkog] Father, some rats have found their way in. I will dispose of them! Jaster: Damn, we�ve been spotted! [The party tries to escape.] Norma : Eh? [Seed goes after them.] Norma : Oh, what a perfect timing! Now we�ll get to see what our new boy can do. [Seed stops the party.] Jaster: Dammit... Kisala: Huh? Zegram: C�mon now, can�t we all get along? We�re not hurting anything! Seed : Humph...leave you alone? I cannot allow anyone to interfere with Father�s business. [The party battles Seed.] [After a while...] Jaster : It�s no good... He�s just too strong. Kisala : What should we do?! Jaster : I dunno. We can�t even run away--he�s too fast! [Suddenly, Desert Claw comes.] Jaster : What the...! Desert Claw: Follow me! [Desert Claw uses the sand to conceal their escape.] [The party manages to escape.] Seed : Humph...vermin always run away so quickly. [Afterwards, outside the tunnel to the Great Tablet pit...] Desert Claw: That was close, but you�ll be safe here for now. Jaster : You rescued us! But what are you doing here? Kisala : Hey, Jaster, who is this man? Jaster : This is Desert Claw. The REAL Desert Claw. Kisala : Really? The genuine article? He DOES look the part, Jaster, a lot more than you I suppose. Desert Claw: Well, I�m off. See you later. Jaster : Wait--I want to ask you something. You gave me the sword on purpose so that Dorgengoa and his crew would think that I was Desert Claw. Didn�t you? Desert Claw: Not at all... They drew their own conclusions. Jaster : But-- [Desert Claw leaves.] Kisala : He�s gone. Wow, he�s definitely a strange one. Jaster : Yeah, no kidding... Come on--the transporter will get us back to the ship. [In the Dorgenark�s bar, Veronica...] Dorgengoa: Hmm...oh, I see... All right, I get it now. But those three pictures: scales, crab, lion... What does all of that mean, anyway? Monsha : Yeah, what do they mean? Deego : A crab and a lion...hmm. Maybe they stand for the ruins of the ancient kings? Kisala : Ancient kings? Deego : Long ago, there was a king on each of the twelve planets in the Wilherser System. The Vedanian king�s crypt was decorated with a crab, so they called him the Cancer King. The crypt is supposedly somewhere in the ancient ruins found in Vedan�s underground water supply. Lilika : I get it... The Great Juraikan Jungle is home to the ruins of the Leo King, who ruled ancient Juraika. So that means the two diagrams are pointing to the ancient rulers of two planets. Then what about the scales? Jupis : Oh, that�s an easy one. There�s a Zerardian legend about two princes. Ages ago, two sons were born to a great Zerardian king. After their father died, the twin princes obeyed his dying wish and set out to rule the planet together, in peace. But they were blinded by power and began to quarrel. Two towers were built to symbolize the two princes who no longer spoke to one another. This--the quarrel, the avoidance--it went on until the day they died. The two towers are still standing in Zerard: The Gladius Towers. Kisala : Oh, I get it now, so that�s where the scales come from. Jaster : In other words, the three diagrams point to the ruins of ancient royalty. So somewhere within the ancient ruins of the three planets, we should be able to find something to unlock the mystery of the tablets. Looks like we have no choice but to go check them out. Monsha : Wait just a minute! You can�t act on a mere guess like that! Don�t you have any solid evidence? Lilika : Of course not. How could we? Monsha : Then forget it. I won�t let you go gallivanting around. Lilika : Listen, fur ball... Dorgengoa: All right, I get it now. Listen up, you dogs! We�re gonna head for those ruins and find those Key Pieces! Leave no stone unturned! Monsha : Got that?! The Cap�n means business! [Lilika hits Monsha�s head.] Monsha : Yeow! Steve : I�ve marked off on our map the starting points for investigating the three ruins. Come on, Mr. Rogue, let�s be on our way. [The Dorgenark is about to leave.] [Meanwhile...] [Steve contacts Dr. Pocacchio again.] [Steve shuts down.] [Mark appears.] Pocacchio: How�s everything coming, Mark? Mark : Great! Say, Dad, do you know about the ruins of the ancient kings? Pocacchio: I don�t know the details... You mean like the Gladius Towers? Mark : But that�s not the only one. There�re some on other planets, too-- with secrets about treasure. Pocacchio: I see... Mark : We�re going after those secrets now. If I didn�t have Steve, I would never have been able to do all this, would I? Thanks, Dad. I want you to know that I�m so glad I was reborn like this. Pocacchio: Well then, I guess I wasn�t mistaken after all... I�m so glad. Mark : About what? Pocacchio: Oh, it�s nothing, Mark. You be careful out there, my boy. Mark : Uh-huh! xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + Chapter 8: Chasing a Legend + [CH08] +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Chapter 8 - Part I: The Cancer King�s Crypt ------------------------------------------- The great ruins of Rosa provide three hints in the form of images of scales, a crab, and a lion. These three images are said to be symbols of the ancient kings: the Libra King of Zerard, the Cancer King of Vedan, and the Leo King of Juraika. Hoping to find an answer to the riddle set before them, the party begins their search of the three planets... [The Dorgenark arrives on Vedan.] [The party goes into the scrap yard in Myna.] [They see three Longardian soldiers in the scrap yard.] [One of the Longardian soldiers sees them.] Longardian Soldier: Huh? What are you doing here?! Simon : Not a thing! Just takin� a stroll, that�s all! Keep up the good work, fellas! Longardian Soldier: Oh yeah? Just taking a stroll huh? Zegram : [whispers] Hey, Jaster let�s take �em down. Jaster : No, I don�t want to cause a scene. We should try to talk our way out... Longardian Soldier: What are you whispering about? That�s it--I�m taking you in for questioning. Come with us. Jaster : Urk! [Jaster pulls out his sword.] Jaster : Okay, Zegram...you win. Zegram : See? We�d be fighting �em either way. [The party battles and defeats the three Longardian soldiers.] [The Longardian soldiers guarding the scrap yard find out that there are some intruders in the scrap yard.] Longardian Soldier: They�re inside! Block all exits! Jaster : Now we�ve done it... This isn�t good. Huh? [Jaster notices a boy waving at them from a secret entrance on the floor of the scrap yard.] Boy : This way--hurry! [The party runs into the entrance.] [The entrance is then closed.] [The Longardian soldiers come.] Longardian Soldier: Damn...where�d they go?! [The boy takes the party to the orphans� hideout.] Boy : That was a close one. Hi there--I�m Harry. Jaster: Good to meet ya. Thanks a lot. I�m Jaster. [Zegram looks around the hideout.] Zegram: Whaddya know...never pictured a place like this under the town. Harry : This is our hideout. We live here, me and my friends. But listen, I could really use your help. You see, there�s been some trouble... Zegram: Sorry, kid--we�ve got our hands full. We don�t have time to make some brat�s wish come true. Harry : I�ve been following you guys for a while now. And I just know you�ll be able to help us. Zegram: Sheesh, how many times do I have to tell you? We have grown-up business to-- Steve : Now now, let�s just listen to what he has to say. Zegram: Humph! Harry : I need you guys to help Borga. Jaster: Borga? Harry : Yeah, he�s a friend of ours. He lives waaaay deep inside the waterway, in the Cancer King Ruins. Jaster: So, what happened to him? Harry : These weird robots came in and started messing up with the ruins. It�s almost as if they were looking for something. Borga�s trying his best to stop them, but he can only do so much. He�s gonna get himself killed unless we do something! Jaster: Daytron�s robots, I�ll bet... All right, I don�t know if we�ll be able to help your friend, but we�ll do our best. Harry : You really will?! Thank you so much! Go and rescue Borga and get him far away from there! Steve : So what�s this Borga person look like? Harry : Person? Ah, Borga�s not a person... He�s a beast. Jaster: A beast?! Harry : Yeah, but it�s not like he�s a bad beast! He protects us. He�s fought for us zillions of times. He�s awful nice and warm-hearted. Just like a real person. Zegram: Pretty harsh joke you�re tryin� to pull. Well, Jaster? [Zegram looks at Jaster.] [Jaster�s smiling widely.] Zegram: As if I even have to ask. Jaster: He�s deep inside the waterway, right? Harry : Yup! And I can help you guys out from here. I�ll get all kinds of items ready for you. And they�re all yours! For a small price, of course, heh. Zegram: Humph...shrewd little brat. Harry : Oh, and take this! [Harry holds out a handcrafted bell.] [Jaster takes Harry�s bell.] Harry : Use it to get in touch if you guys run into some trouble. All right then, good luck out there! [The party leaves the orphan�s hideout and goes through the Cancer King�s Ruins: Area 1.] [Soon, they reach a wastewater stream with a strong current.] [Kisala looks at the current.] Kisala: We�ll never get past this. Whoa! If we fell in, we�d be swept away and who knows where we would end up. Jaster: Hmm... Then what should we do? Steve : I�m not exactly waterproof myself. Zegram: Hey, you know what, maybe that kid would have some idea how to get around this. He told us to ring him if we got stuck. [Jaster rings Harry�s bell.] [Harry comes. He�s holding a wooden box.] Harry : You rang? So what�s up? [Harry looks at the wastewater stream.] Harry : Oh, this place. Jaster: Well? Can you do anything? Harry : Sure, no problem. Hang on a sec. I�ll set it up so that you can cross. [Harry opens his wooden box and searches the things inside it.] Harry : Usually, the water only comes up to my knees, but when it gushes like this...look out! This is where I first met Borga... It was flooding like this back then, too. I was just about to drown... But just then, Borga came and saved me. And ever since then, we�ve been hanging out together. Borga�s saved my skin tons of times since then, too. He�s a way better friend than most adults *I�ve ever known. And now...it�s MY turn to save HIM. Okay, that should do it. [Harry laid out a wooden bridge across the wastewater stream.] Harry : It�s pretty cool huh? I made it myself! Well, I�ll head back, then. You take care of Borga, okay? [Harry leaves.] [Zegram looks at the wooden bridge.] Zegram: Are you sure about this rickety thing? [The party crosses the bridge.] [Jaster and the team go through the Cancer King�s Ruins: Area 2.] [They reach a room with a deep pit beneath it at the end of Area 2.] [A bright light shines from the other side of the room.] Jaster: Whoa! [Jaster shields his face with his hands.] [Jaster opens his eyes to see Seed standing on the stairs in front of them.] Jaster: Him again! Seed : So it is you... I warn you: You are not the ones who are to approach Eden. It is better if you leave now. Jaster: Humph! Too bad, not gonna happen. Seed : Then I have no choice. You are in Father�s way... Begone. [Seed raises his sword.] Seed : The sight of this blade shall be your last. [The party battles Seed.] [In the middle of the battle...] [Jaster attacks Seed.] [Seed blocks the attack with his sword.] [Jaster uses his sword to push Seed down the pit.] [Seed falls down.] Jaster: He fell! Zegram: I seriously doubt that�d be enough to kill him... Come on. This is no time to linger. Jaster: Yeah... [The party is about to leave the room.] [Zegram looks back.] Zegram: Heh. [Seed is standing on the stairs behind the party.] [The party leaves.] Seed : It seems they have not noticed yet. The fools... Everything is in the palm of Father�s hand. [The party goes through the Cancer King�s Ruins: Area 3.] [They arrived at the room where the Cancer King�s Altar lies.] [They hear a roar.] Jaster: What the--?! Kisala: Could that be Borga? Let�s hurry, Jaster! [The party runs further into the room.] [Borga is thrown to the wall beside Jaster.] Jaster: Whoa! So this is Borga. [Jaster sees three Assault Walkers.] Kisala: And look, he�s fighting Daytron�s mechanized troops. They must have come here looking for that Key Piece. [Borga runs forward to attack one of the Assault Walkers.] [However, Borga is shot by it and falls down.] Jaster : Aah! [The Assault Walkers walk towards Borga.] [One of the Assault Walkers stomps on Borga.] Steve : We have to do something! Jaster : Yeah. [The party battles and defeats the Assault Walkers.] [Harry comes and sees Borga lying on the floor.] Harry : Oh, no! Borga! [Harry runs to Borga.] Harry : Borga! Borgaaa! [Harry kneels beside Borga.] Borga : Haaa...rrry... [A figure appears in front of the altar.] Kisala : Who�s that? Steve : It...looks like one of the ancient kings, the Cancer King... But why is he here? Zegram : Don�t get so worked up--it�s just a ghost. Steve : JUST a ghost? Jaster : [to Harry] Harry... Harry : Whoa! Don�t try to move, Borga! [Borga stands up and walks slowly towards the Cancer King.] Borga : Mmmmmassssssterrrrr... [Borga kneels in front of the Cancer King.] [The Cancer King puts his hand on Borga�s head.] Cancer King: You look different...but I know it�s you. I could never forget those gentle eyes. You were my top retainer--and my friend. It�s been too long, Borga. My friend, have you been watching over my tomb all this time? Yet, I was unable to protect the kingdom that you and I worked so hard to build together. Please forgive me, Borga... I�m sorry for failing you. [Borga shakes his head.] Cancer King: That�s enough, Borga my friend. Our time has come to an end. You and I do not belong to this era-- we were merely ghosts hanging on to the past. Come with me, Borga. It is time to depart. Harry : Borga, you�re... [Borga starts glowing.] Harry : No, Borga! Don�t go! Borga! [Borga looks at Harry.] Harry : Borga... Borga : G...good...bye... Haaarry... Harry : Y-You said my name! [Harry sobs and takes off his hat.] [He wipes his tears, looks at Borga and smiles.] Harry : Goodbye...Borga. [Borga smiles and disappears.] Simon : So Borga was the Cancer King�s vassal... [Kisala nods.] Kisala : And he kept on guarding the king all this time even after he turned into a beast. [Harry falls down on his knees and cries.] [The Cancer King raises his hands.] [Small spheres of light start falling.] [A glowing object floats down from the ceiling above Jaster.] [Jaster takes the glowing object.] [The object stops glowing.] Jaster : The Cancer King�s Key Piece... [The Cancer King nods and disappears.] [Harry is sitting on the stairs, holding his hat.] Jaster : Harry, you okay? Harry : Yeah... I�m okay, it�s better this way, I mean, did you see him? Borga was actually smiling. Jaster : Yeah, you�re right. This is better... Harry : Borga finally got to go home... Home to the beloved king he had always dreamed about. We�ll keep trying our hardest, too, Borga. We�ll do whatever it takes to survive down here! [Harry stands up and puts on his hat.] Harry : All right then, thanks a lot. Now that you have that Key Piece thing you came looking for, I guess you�re all set. You�re gonna leave now, huh? Jaster : You knew about that? Harry : Yeah, well, you know. Listen, come back here anytime, okay? I�ll be waiting for you! Jaster : Got it. Good luck, Harry. Harry : You bet! [Desert Claw is watching them nearby.] Desert Claw: One step closer to the legend... [The party returns to the Dorgenark.] [The Dorgenark heads for Juraika.] [In the control room...] Simon : Got a message from Zerard space authority. The route to Alistia is open! Jaster: Alistia? Lilika: What kind of planet is that? Steve : Alistia is an ocean planet with more than 90 percent of its surface covered by water. Through an agreement with the Galaxy Corporation, landing on Alistia is possible only for a select period of time. Simon : It�s like a primo resort for road-weary travelers. We�re so busy, though, we hardly ever make it there. Steve : We should try to stop by if we have the chance. Zegram: I wouldn�t mind a break myself. [The Dorgenark continues its journey to Juraika.] Chapter 8 - Part II: The Leo King�s Castle ------------------------------------------ Jaster and the crew find the Cancer King�s Key Piece in Vedan�s underground ruins. Concerned by Valkog�s suspicious activity, they hurry on in search of the two remaining Key Pieces. What awaits the adventurers in the ancient ruins of Zerard and Juraika? [The Dorgenark arrives on Juraika.] [The party goes through the path to the ruins.] [They reach the Leo King�s Castle.] [When Jaster and the team reach the first room, they see Burton.] [Burton is studying the carvings on one of the walls.] Burton : Hmm...it�s just as I thought! These ruins have markedly similar qualities. Why, this is a revolution in archaeology! [Burton turns back.] Burton : Oho! If it isn�t Jaster! Did ya come here after hearin� about th� legend of the mad witch? Jaster : The legend of the mad witch? Burton : Don�t know it? It�s th� tale of a fearsome witch who destroyed an ancient Juraikan dynasty. Kisala : I thought that was just an old folktale. She never really existed, did she? Burton : [puts on a scary expression] Legend has it, she became a ghost an� has been controlling this castle for tens o� thousands o� years. Oooooh, spooky! Kisala : [hides behind Jaster] Come on, cut it out will ya, Burton! Burton : I�m dead serious! Look, I know all of you only came here because you�re hoping for a chance to nab at her treasure. Being greedy pirates an� all. [A bat swoops down at them.] [A woman�s laughter is heard.] Burton : Ohh! Here she comes! Kisala : Wha-at?! [The mad witch appears, floating in the room with a giant black snake coiled around her.] Mad Witch: Foolish wanderers... This castle is sacred ground where my treasure sleeps. Do you, too, seek my treasure? Burton : Oh yes, I know these folks here sure do. But not me, you see. I�m just a scholar. I�m tryin� to unravel th� mysteries o� past civilizations. Mad Witch: Enough of your ramblings! I don�t care! Your excuses mean nothing! No one who enters this castle will walk out alive. [The mad witch�s snake hisses.] Mad Witch: Oho ho ho ho ho! [The mad witch raises her hands.] Mad Witch: Come forth, my cursed incarnations! [The mad witch summons six Dark Gigants from the ground.] [Jaster pulls out his sword.] Burton : Jaster, watch out! Mad Witch: O my servants, crush the fools who have dared to sully this holy place! [The mad witch laughs and disappears.] [The party battles and defeats the Dark Gigants.] [Burton claps.] Burton : Oho! You�ve gotten pretty strong. Not bad at all! Listen, I�m goin� t� follow that witch to see where she goes. You go look for her treasure. [waves at the party] Well, cheers! [Burton runs towards the doors leading to the next room.] Jaster : Hey! Burton! [Burton leaves.] Jaster : That guy is completely insane... Kisala : I sensed something about that witch. She seemed sort of sad. Or was it just me? Come on, Jaster, let�s keep going. [The party continues their journey.] [They reach the end of the first floor of the Leo King�s Castle.] [They hear Seed�s voice.] Seed : This is your last chance. Hand over the treasure. Jaster : Huh? Did you...just hear that? Deego : It came from that way. [The party runs through the doors to the next room.] [They see Burton hiding behind a pillar.] Jaster : Burton...? Burton : Shh! keep it down! Lilika : But that�s... [The party stands behind the pillar. They see Seed talking to the mad witch.] Mad Witch: So another has come to defile my treasure. You shall have no mercy, just like the others. [The mad witch�s snake hisses.] Seed : Humph, this is rich... Show me what you�re capable of. [Seed takes out his sword.] [The mad witch directs a thunderbolt at Seed.] [Seed deflects the bolt using his sword.] Seed : Is that it...? I see that a disembodied witch is hardly a match for me. Mad Witch: Heh heh heh... You think not? [The mad witch sends two whirlwinds at Seed.] Seed : Huh?! [Seed is caught in the whirlwinds.] [When the whirlwinds stop, Seed had disappeared.] Mad Witch: Humph. I won�t let you lay a finger on my treasure--my Leo King. That man...he said I was disembodied. Yet he himself had no soul. How strange are the ties that bind us... Heh heh. [The mad witch disappears.] Burton : Hmm... Well, that was quite a scene now, wasn�t it? Deego : She must be a pretty powerful witch to be able to drive someone like him off. Kisala : �My treasure--my Leo King�... What did she mean by that? Burton : The Leo King was th� ruler who once governed all o� Juraika. Th� king...is the treasure? I wonder what she meant by that? Well, anyhow, as usual, I�ll go on ahead. Cheers! [Burton leaves.] Jaster : [looks at Burton] You just plow into things, don�t ya. [The party continues their journey.] [Leo King�s Castle: 3F] [Jaster sees Miyoko and Chie.] Jaster: Again? Chie : Mommy...is Daddy here? Miyoko: I�m not sure darling. Well, he might be...but he might not be. Your Daddy, he always pretended to be tough, but he was really a scaredy-cat inside... I only hope he knows what he�s doing, wherever he is... [Miyoko starts crying.] Chie : Don�t cry, Mommy... [Chie stars crying, too.] Miyoko: Oh...don�t be silly, Chie. There�s nothing for you to cry about. [Some bats swoop down at Miyoko and Chie.] Chie : Mommy, I�m scared! [The bats fly away.] Miyoko: This way, Chie! [Miyoko and Chie leave.] [The party is back on their way.] [Soon, the party reaches the Leo King�s Altar Hall.] Jaster : Something�s different about this hall... Lilika : I know... I think this is the Leo King�s crypt. [The team sees Burton, who had been petrified.] Simon : Hey, what in the blazes is Burton doing? Jaster : Burton? [The bats swoop at the party.] Lilika : Whoa! [The bats fly away.] Jaster : Huh? [The mad witch is standing on the other side of the room.] Mad Witch: Welcome, welcome. You are the first to have survived for so long after having felt my wrath. But I cannot permit you to go further. The Leo King�s sanctuary is my final hope! You shall not trespass! Jaster : Your final hope? What are you talking about? Mad Witch: You don�t need to know! How dare you disturb His Majesty�s sleep! [The snake uncoils itself from the mad witch.] [The mad witch stars levitating.] Mad Witch: You will pay with your lives! [The mad witch laughs.] [The party battles the mad witch.] [Jaster and his team defeat the mad witch.] [Burton turns back to normal.] Burton : Oof! Jaster : Burton, are you okay? Burton : Ooh...ow. I�m too old t� be standing around like that. Mad Witch: Nrgh... Why...why can�t you leave well enough alone?! Do you intend to take everything from me? I will not give you the Leo King! I refuse! [The mad witch walks up the stairs towards the altar.] Mad Witch: I will not give him up! Kisala : Look! [The mad witch turns back into her original form, a young woman, the queen of the castle.] Queen : What a horrid misfortune... Don�t take everything away... I...I... [The queen kneels down and looks into the altar.] [Flashback] [The Leo King�s Castle is under attack.] [The queen is in the Altar Hall with a servant.] Servant: There�s nothing left we can do, Your Highness. Without His Majesty, all hope is lost. The enemy is already before the castle grounds. Please, Your Highness, leave at once. Queen : Nothing comes of war. We were mistaken--I see that now. And all because we started this conflict... Servant: Your Highness... [The queen cries.] Queen : What should I do, Andronius? What should I do? I just want my child to live in peaceful times. I would gladly plunge into the fiery depths of hell to make that possible... Servant: What? [The queen takes out a knife.] Servant: No, Your Highness! You mustn�t...! [The servant tries to stop the queen.] [The queen pushes the servant away.] Queen : Let me go! This is the only way! [The queen faces a carving on the wall behind the altar.] Queen : O Evil One! I offer my life unto darkness! [raises her knife] With this blood covenant, I pledge my soul to you! Make me a servant of the underworld! And in turn, bestow your cursed powers upon me! [The queen stabs herself with her knife.] [The queen screams.] [The queen kneels in front of the altar.] [She looks into the altar.] Queen : Powers of evil, waiting for the furthest reaches of time--protect this child from harm until the day of salvation is upon us! Live on, Leo King, my son...my dearest Leo King. [A baby lies asleep in the altar.] [End flashback] [The queen looks at the sleeping baby in the altar.] Queen : Ohh... Leo King... [Suddenly, Seed comes and stabs the queen on her back.] [The queen falls down.] Seed : Humph... So it was not the Key Piece, after all. I guess we were wrong. Jaster : Bastard! Why would you do that?! Seed : What? You are the ones who defeated her. I merely ended her suffering. But I do not understand... All that...for this? [Seed looks at the Leo King.] Seed : Heh. Humans certainly are stupid creatures. [Seed contacts his crew.] Seed : Ready... [Seed is teleported away.] [The party runs towards the altar.] Kisala : [as Seed teleports away] Ah! Arrrgh! [Jaster and Kisala run to the side of the altar and look at the sleeping baby.] Jaster : So you�re the Leo King. [The baby wakes up.] [The baby raises his hands.] Jaster : Eh? [A bright light shines above the baby�s hands.] Jaster : Oh... [The Leo King�s Key Piece appears on the baby�s hands.] [Jaster takes the Key Piece.] Jupis : Hey, is that... Jaster : The Leo King�s Key Piece. [The party leaves the Leo King�s Castle.] [Burton is carrying the Leo King.] Burton: So th� poor queen took a desperate last gamble. She sold her soul in an attempt t� keep this kid safe. It turns out that the legend o� th� mad witch was just a sad tale of a mother�s love for her child. [to group] Don�t worry about th� baby. I�ll make sure to take �im t� Burkaqua Village. I�m certain that they�ll raise �im up right. Lilika: [to the Leo King] Hey, little guy! You�ll be a great Burkaquan warrior one day. [The party continues to walk away from the Leo King�s Castle.] [Jaster looks back at the entrance of the castle.] Jaster: Ah! [Jaster sees the spirit of the queen standing at the entrance gates.] [The queen is smiling.] [Jaster smiles and nods at her.] Kisala: [to Jaster] What is it? [The spirit had disappeared.] Jaster: Nothing... Come on--our next adventure awaits. Kisala: Uh-huh. [The party leaves.] [Desert Claw is watching from on top of one of the lion statues in front of the castle.] Desert Claw: That�s all three Key Pieces... Our wait is over. [Meanwhile...] [Steve contacts Dr. Pocacchio.] [Steve shuts down.] [Mark appears.] Mark : Dad...I�ve learned so much traveling with Steve. I realized that this galaxy is full of both good people and bad people. Pocacchio: Is that so? But everyone on the ship is good, right? [Mark nods.] Mark : Sure--they�re super good people. I can tell. But pirates are actually bad guys, aren�t they...? Pocacchio: Mark...in this world of ours, you can never take anything at face value. You must always look at its true nature, deep within. Mark : Huh? ...I don�t really get it. Pocacchio: That�s all right. One day, you�ll understand. Chapter 8 - Part III: The Gladius Towers ---------------------------------------- [The Dorgenark arrives on Zerard.] [The party goes to Gladius Tower 1.] [When they reach, they find a barrier blocking the entrance.] Jaster: [touches the barrier] Huh? This barrier...it�s not part of the ruins. It is some electronic lock. Zegram: Probably put there by some Longardian troops. And it looks like the latest model. Jupis : It�s awfully secure. I bet only a supercomputer could unlock it. Jaster: So this tower is that important to them. Steve : Er...may I give a try? I might be able to unlock it. Kisala: Are you sure? Steve : Leave it to me. [Steve walks to the front of the barrier.] Steve : Hmm...this uses the latest technology. We�re doing with tricky customers indeed. [Steve puts his hands on the barrier and tries to unlock it.] [After a while, Steve withdraws his hands.] Steve : Phew... Jaster: No good? Steve : Unfortunately not. Hmm...guess I�ll have to pull out all the stops. If I put my brain circuits on full burst, we might be able to get somewhere. Jaster: Full burst? Steve : Yes, when I activate my full burst mode, it allow me to increase my processing power to 150 percent. I�m sure Dr. Pocacchio will switch me over if we ask him. Simon : Looks like that�s our only option, Jaster. Jaster: Yeah... Let�s get Dr. Pocacchio�s help. [The party meets Dr. Pocacchio in front of his lab in the Starship Factory.] Pocacchio: Full burst mode? Are you insane? Steve : It�s only for a short while, Doctor. If I could just take down that barrier. Pocacchio: Forget it! The damage to your emotional circuits would be too great. Steve : Can�t you do something? You�re the only option we have. Pocacchio: [to party] In any case, I can�t make this decision by myself. Wait here a moment. [to Steve] This way, Steve. Steve : Huh? All right... [Steve follows Dr. Pocacchio into his lab.] Jaster : [to Kisala] He can�t make it himself...? Then whose decision is it? [Inside the lab...] [Steve shuts down.] [Dr. Pocacchio contacts Mark by using his computer.] Pocacchio: Are you sure about this, Mark? Mark : I�m with Steve on this one, Dad. I want to go on lots more adventures. Pocacchio: But if this doesn�t go well, there�s likely a chance that you might disappear forever. And if that were to happen... Mark : Dad, I want to help Jaster and his friends. Pocacchio: Mark...! Mark : They�re really great people. They are Steve�s good friends--every one of them--and that makes them my good friends, too. Pocacchio: Friends... Friends, huh...? I see... You�ve made new friends... I�m so glad, Mark. I was hoping you would. [Later, Dr. Pocacchio and Steve walk out of the lab.] Pocacchio: [to party] I�ve removed the burst mode limiter from Steve�s central processing unit. When Steve goes into full burst made, he�ll be as powerful as the Galaxy Corporation�s latest and greatest super computers. [Dr. Pocacchio holds out a Burst Mode Switch to Jaster.] Pocacchio: Here, take this with you. With this switch, you�ll be able to activate Steve�s burst mode. [Jaster takes the switch.] Steve : Dr. Pocacchio...thank you for listening to my selfish demands. Pocacchio: I should be the one thanking you...Steve. [to party] Now, you should get going. Your adventure is far from over. [The party leaves the Starship Factory.] [The party goes back to the entrance of Gladius Tower 1.] [Steve stands in front of the barrier and activates his Burst Mode.] Steve : If we hang around here too long, Daytron will be onto us. Let�s get this barrier out of the way. Jaster: You�re in a good mood. Steve : All thanks to Dr. Pocacchio. [Steve puts his hands on the barrier. He then shatters it.] Jaster: You did it! Jupis : That Pocacchio is a genius! Sure can�t take him for granted. Steve : You�re absolutely right! Jaster: Let�s keep going. [The party enters the first floor of Gladius Tower 1.] Jupis : This place looks pretty shady. I�m looking forward to seeing those ruins, though! Jaster : Eh...? Steve : Look, Mr. Rogue! [Many spirits appear in the room.] [Some light gathers over a fountain and forms a glowing sword.] Jaster : What is this? Sword : Heroes, hark! Jupis : Whoa! Are swords supposed to talk like that? Lilika : There�s a soul within that sword. Sword : I speak of the valor of the Libra King... I have waited for you across the eternal ages... [Suddenly, the sword emits a blinding light.] Jaster: Whoa...! [Jaster shields his face with his hand.] [When Jaster opens his eyes again, he finds himself holding the sword.] Sword : I believe that you may be the ones who can finally quell the turmoil in this cursed castle. I am the Libra King, I am the lord of this castle. O brave and valiant travelers, do me the honor of listening to my request. Jaster : A request? What is it? Libra King: The tortured souls of my sons wander these two towers. They have continued their pointless quarrel over these many long years--not even noticing as their bodies crumbled to dust... [The Libra King�s Sword shines.] Libra King: Please, help bring peace back to these two towers. [The sword stops glowing.] Jaster : W-Wait! Simon : Take a look at that. [The spirits appear on the side of the stairs leading to an elevator.] Jaster : The spirits...they�re showing us the way? What�s going on? Simon : Looks like the King�s servants are guiding our way. Well then, what do you want to do? Jaster : Let�s give it a shot! Simon : I knew you�d say that. Ready, willing, and able--same as always! Deego : Jaster, I hope you�re ready, This time around, it�s not gonna be easy. Jaster : I know. [When everyone is walking toward the elevator, Zegram leaves the party.] [He stands behind a pillar and contacts Norma.] Zegram : It�s me. Just as you suspected, they�ve managed to dupe the Libra King. We should just let �em go for now, right? Norma : Yes, might as well leave the dirty work to the dirty workers, don�t you think? We�ll pick up again once they�re through finding them all. [Zegram rejoins the party.] [The party continues on their way.] [Meanwhile...] [Steve contacts Dr. Pocacchio.] [Steve shuts down.] [Mark appears.] Mark : I did it, Dad! Steve and I unlocked the barrier. Pocacchio: Ah, that�s great to hear! You�ve certainly become quite the adventurer, haven�t you? Mark : Yup! And I�m not gonna give up now! [Mark�s image starts faltering.] Pocacchio: Huh? Mark : What�s the matter, Dad? Pocacchio: No, it�s--it�s nothing. Just be careful out there. [The party proceeds going up the intertwining paths of the Gladius Towers.] [Gladius Towers: 2nd Tower: 4F] [Burton�s voice is heard.] Burton: Oho! If it isn�t Jaster! What a coincidence! [The party sees a spirit.] Jaster: What the--?! What�s going on? [The spirit speaks.] Burton: C�mon, Jaster! It�s me! Jaster: No way... Is that really you? Burton? Burton: Of course it�s me! Can�t ya tell? Jaster: How could I?! What happened? Burton: A beast got me while I was exploring, and next thing I knew, here I was, like this. Kisala: You turned into a spirit? Jaster: Don�t you mind? Burton: Oh, no--this is so much better! Now that I�m a spirit, it�s a cinch t� find out all sorts o� things about the past! I must say, it�s quite a pleasant surprise. Oops--can�t hang around like this. I�ve got a lot more research t� do! See ya later, folks! [Burton�s spirit leaves.] Jaster: Hey, Burton, wait! Kisala: �See ya later�? Talk about happy-go-lucky. [The party continues their journey.] [Gladius Towers: 2nd Tower: Throne Room] [The party sees phantom Gazel standing in front of the throne.] Gazel : What do you want? This is the king�s chamber--no place for commoners to be barging in. Jaster: We�re here by the order of your father, the Libra King. Please, hear us out. Gazel : Ha ha ha...don�t make me laugh. My dead father sent you here? So the dead are now recruiting the living? Or is this all my brother Logan�s doing? Jaster: Don�t you see? The Libra King is no longer of this world, but neither are you. You have been dad for a long time. Your obsession with the throne prevents you from moving on. All you are now is a phantom cursed to haunt this tower for eternity. Gazel : Humph...don�t be absurd. Jaster: Fine, then take a look at this. [Jaster hold out the Libra King�s Sword.] Gazel : What? That�s my father�s sword. Where did you get it? [The sword glows.] Gazel : Oh, I see now. Logan went all the way as to use Father�s name in his little scheme. An unforgivable folly! Pawns of Logan, I shall bury you all in the name of the king! [Gazel transforms into his beast form.] [The party battles and defeats phantom Gazel.] [Gazel transforms back into his human form.] Gazel : Urk... I felt my father�s presence in that blade... It was as though he spoke to me with every strike. So you deny me, Father... I have lost myself in the pursuit of the throne. I was a poor excuse for a king. I am nothing compared to my father... Please...tell my brother Logan for me. Tell him that the throne is his...and that he is the one fit to succeed out father. [Gazel disappears.] [The party leaves the throne room and goes back to outside the Gladius Towers.] [This time, they go into the first floor of Gladius Tower 2.] [The party makes their way up the tower.] [The party reaches the Gladius Towers Route between the fifth floors of the 1st and 2nd Tower.] Deego : Jaster...! Jaster : You again! [Seed is standing there.] Seed : And you, I see. Using the king�s powers to persuade idiot princes? Jaster : What�s your point? Seed : I would gladly handle that task in your stead if you please... [Jaster pulls out his sword.] Jaster : Forget it. Seed : Heh heh heh. Then let us play! After all, I had plenty of time. [The party battles Seed.] [Seed wins.] [Seed knocks Jaster down.] [Jaster lands on the ground.] [Jaster�s sword stabs the ground beside him.] [Jaster stands up.] Seed : You could stand a little more practice. A pack of incompetent fighters is far worse than one! [Suddenly, Desert Claw comes.] Desert Claw: Fine, then take me instead. [Desert Claw attacks Seed.] Seed : Huh?! [Desert Claw and Seed continues to battle.] Jaster : Desert Claw! Desert Claw: Nrgh...he�s got superhuman speed. No--his powers aren�t human at all. Seed : So, what about it? You yourself are something special indeed to be fighting with me on the same level. I shall withdraw. I�m not foolish enough to know the risks and fight anyway. Ready. [Seed is teleported away.] Jaster : [to Desert Claw] Thanks. Desert Claw: Stay alert. You never know what Daytron has up its sleeve. [Desert Claw jumps off the bridge.] Jaster : Ah-- [The party continues their journey.] [Gladius Towers: 1st Tower: Throne Room] [The party sees phantom Logan standing in front of the throne.] Logan : Who goes there? Jaster: Uh, I�m Jaster. [Jaster holds out the Libra King�s Sword.] Jaster: We�re here by the order of the king. Please, hear us out. Logan : Ah, that is indeed my father�s sword... What is he telling mew to do now? I�m doing a fine job with my royal duties, thank you. Jaster: [sighs] Can�t you se? Take a good look, you�re no longer human. What kind of a king is that? The Libra King sent me here to try to make you understand. [The Libra King�s Sword starts glowing.] Logan : What are you talking about? Oh, I see what you�re up to--I bet my brother Gazel talked you into this! Pawns of Gazel, your journey ends here. Prepare yourselves! [Logan transforms into his beast form.] [The party battles and defeats phantom Logan.] [Logan transforms back into his human form.] Logan : Urk... Father... So you do not believe in me? You have chosen Gazel? I�m so ashamed. I still have so much to learn from you... How could I be king? I never had what it took to be king. Please, I want you to give my brother Gazel a message. Tell him I surrender the throne...and that he is the one who can fulfill our father�s wishes. [Gazel appears.] Logan : Gazel...! Gazel : Logan...we realized it too late. How foolish we�ve been. We dishonored our father�s throne and brought nothing but hardship to our people. We must atone for our sins. We must atone for them...together. Logan : Yes, you�re absolutely right, my brother. [Later...] Logan : We are the sons of the great monarch, the Libra King--our father. Gazel : We have continued to quarrel these many long years. Logan : But now we have recognized our own gross foolishness. [The spirits of the Gladius Towers start appearing in the throne room.] Logan : All those who lost their lives during our war... Find it in your hearts to forgive us. Gazel : I swear this now in the name of King Zerard: We the two princes shall henceforth become one king... Logan : Beloved citizens... Let us journey forth. To the brink of time, where we can live anew! Where we shall build our kingdom! [Logan produces a helmet.] Logan : [to party] Honorable warriors, I must thank you. Please, allow me to give you this symbol of our kingdom as a token of our gratitude. [Logan gives the helmet to Jaster.] Gazel : We no longer have any need for it. Our father�s heart rests within us. [The helmet turns into scales, the Libra King�s Key Piece.] Jaster: So this is Zerard�s Key Piece. Logan : We�re setting forth for a new age. One day, we hope to rebuild our kingdom once again. That shall be our penance. Gazel : Thanks to you, we are able to join hands as brothers once more. Farewell, and thank you... May you have the best of luck on your journey. [Logan, Gazel, and the spirits disappear.] Simon : They�re gone... Jaster: They�ve finally become true kings-- Now, they are free to move on to a new world and establish a new kingdom together. [The bells of the Gladius Towers toll.] Lilika: Listen, the bells... Simon : Nice sound to it... Seems the peace has finally returned to this place. [Meanwhile, the fountain on the first floor of the 1st Gladius Tower shines.] [Burton is thrown out of the fountain. He isn�t a spirit anymore--he�s back to his normal form.] Burton : Oof! Ow ow ow ow... Huh?! What?! Have I come back t� life? There sure are some strange things in this ol� world of ours... Hmm... I bet I know what�s going on. This is a sign that th� gods wanted me t� continue with my research. Weeeeell...I�d better hurry, then. I�ve got other ruins waitin� for me! [Burton runs out of the Gladius Tower 1.] [Desert Claw is standing behind one of the pillars.] Desert Claw: A child of royal blood... Jaster, the fate of the galaxy lies within the blood flowing through your veins. [Meanwhile...] [Steve contacts Dr. Pocacchio.] [Steve shuts down.] [Mark appears.] Pocacchio: Can you hear me, Mark? Mark? [Mark�s image falters.] Mark : Dad...I feel so sleepy. Pocacchio: Mark! Don�t worry. I�ll take care of everything. Mark : Can I still go up into space? Pocacchio: Of course you can. So just relax and go to sleep now...Mark. Mark : Okay...good night, Dad. [Mark�s image fades away.] [Steve wakes up again.] Steve : Huh?! Dr. Pocacchio? I�m terribly sorry. I must have slipped into sleep mode without realizing it. That�s strange, everything seems to be operating normally. Pocacchio: Oh, r-really. Well, it�s good to rest your circuits once in a while using sleep mode. Make sure you continue to do so. Steve : Yes Doctor, I will. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + Chapter 9: The Mystery of Eden + [CH09] ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ After a long quest and several ferocious battles, Jaster and his team finally obtain all three of the ancient kings� Key Pieces. What kind of ancient secrets are contained within these three relics? The party decides to return to the Dorgenark and consult the captain on their next move. [The party returns to the Dorgenark.] After collecting all three Key Pieces, the crew moored the Dorgenark in safe space and reported to Captain Dorgengoa. [In the Captain�s quarters...] Dorgengoa: So we�ve got the three Key Pieces, have we? Ah, Valkog, I can just see your whinin� face now! Gah ha ha ha... [Simon runs into the Captain�s quarters from the control room.] Simon : Oh, no! This is terrible! Jaster : Calm down--what happened? Simon : The three Key Pieces-- The three Key Pieces we collected-- Jaster : Yeah, what about them? Simon : They�ve been stolen! Jaster : What?! Dorgengoa: What do you mean, Simon? Simon : And this was left behind in its place. [Simon places a circular device in the center of the room.] [The device shows a holographic image of Zegram.] Zegram : Hey, how�s it goin�? I see all your goofy mugs are here. Sorry, but... those three Key Pieces had to come with me. I really appreciate the help, folks. We went through a lot together, ya know? Ah, good times. Well, gotta go. Good luck with all that treasure-hunting! Ciao. [Dorgengoa roars.] [Dorgengoa picks Monsha up and throws him at the holographic image.] [The image disappears before Monsha hits it.] [Monsha lands on the floor.] Dorgengoa: That bastard! He double-crossed us! Kisala : Papa, try to calm down! What does Zegram want with the Key Pieces, anyway? Lilika : He must want the treasures of Eden all to himself. Jaster : Isn�t there a way we can go after him?! [Jaster hears some sounds coming from the ship�s deck.] Jaster : Wait--I hear something! Hey, he�s still on board this ship. [Jaster runs out of the room, heading towards the deck.] Kisala : Jaster, wait! [On the deck...] [Jaster sees Zegram standing on one side of the deck, about to leave.] Jaster: Hold it, Zegram! Zegram: Humph... Jaster. So, you actually think you can stop me, do you? Jaster: Gimme back the Key Pieces, Zegram. Or else... Zegram: Heh heh heh... �or else�? You�ve been rubbin� me the wrong way ever since I met you. Let�s end this. [Zegram throws a shuriken at Jaster.] [Jaster deflects it with his sword and charges at Zegram.] [Jaster and Zegram battle.] [After awhile, Zegram sheaths his sword.] Zegram: You�ve gotten a little better, I see. Wish I could play some more, but I�ve got other plans. Later, kid. [Zegram jumps off the side of the deck into a boat.] Jaster: Zegram! [Zegram smirks.] [The boat leaves.] [The rest of the party arrives on the deck.] Kisala: We�re too late. [Everyone heads back to the Captain�s quarters.] Dorgengoa: That Zegram... Betraying me, Dorgengoa, king of the pirates?! He�ll pay for this! Kisala : [to Jaster] Quick--let�s chase after him! Deego : We don�t have to. There�s only one place he could be headed with the Key Pieces. Monsha : He should be headed for the Rosa desert ruins. Kisala : But that�s where Valkog is right now-- Huh?! Wait, was Zegram in cahoots with Valkog all along?! Deego : Most likely. Kisala : This is horrible... Jaster : We can�t let him hand the Key Pieces over to Valkog. Let�s get to the Rosa desert ruins, and fast. Dorgengoa: Full speed ahead! Port rudder! Our destination is Planet Rosa--the desert ruins! Simon, Steve & Monsha: Aye-aye! [Simon and Steve run to the control room.] [At the Tablet Pit in the Rosa: Ancient Ruins...] [Zegram had arrived.] [Valkog and his crew are there.] Valkog: [to Zegram] Ah, I see that you�ve made it. It was very wise of me to plant you on Dorgengoa�s ship. Now, bring the three Key Pieces over here. Zegram: Wait just a second! You remember our deal, right? Valkog: Our deal...? Oh, yes. Your girlfriend...er, what is-her-name... Zegram: Jane. Valkog: Ah yes, yes--Jane. Jane�s revivification is coming along quite nicely as a part of Daytron�s Rebirth Program. Now...the Pieces, if you would. Zegram: No. Not until I see some proof. [Izel whispers to Valkog.] Izel : There�s a slight problem, sir. The Rune-based Rebirth Program has already been reworked. We have no proof. [Valkog whispers back to Izel.] Valkog: I know, I know. We just need to placate him and get those Key Pieces. Izel : [to Zegram] Even if we wanted to show you proof, Zegram, we can�t. Your girlfriend is in a Daytron lab, right in the middle of the Rebirth Program. She is on strict bed rest. Please be patient. Valkog: Yes, the professor�s right--I can vouch for that. Now, the Key Pieces, if you please. Zegram: Heh heh heh... You really think I�m that stupid? The experiments conducted in Zerard prison-- they aren�t for any rebirth program. They�re trying to turn humans into monsters. I suppose that�s how you roped in Rosencaster, too? Valkog: Why you... Zegram: You�re not trying to figure out how to bring people back from the dead! You use Rune to turn humans into battle monsters! What you REALLY want is to use monsters to stir up more conflict so you can rake in the cash! Valkog: Oh... Well, if you know so much, why would you bring us the Key Pieces so readily? Zegram: Well, you know... how should I put this... I wanted to settle this myself. Or uh, something like that. Valkog: Oh, I see... Then let�s settle this once and for all--this little �issue� of ours. [Valkog raises his hand.] [Seed comes.] Zegram: Not you again... Seed : Father, may I have your permission to remove my mask now? Valkog: [to Izel] Oh, is his face ready, then? Izel : Yes, it has been completed. It is now in an acceptable condition. Valkog: Very well then, show us. [Seed removes his mask.] Valkog: Oh my, they did an impressive job. Zegram: What?! But...how? What�s going on here? Valkog: We have no more use of this fellow, Seed. Take care of him. But only after you�ve retrieved the Key Pieces. [Seed drops into fighting stance.] Seed : I will. Zegram: [to Seed] Feelin� all right? Your face is awfully pale. Plus you look like this guy I absolutely despise. But whatever--bring it on... [Seed and Zegram starts battling on the Great Tablet.] [Soon, Seed knocks Zegram down.] Zegram: Damn... Thing�s a freak of nature... [Zegram sits up.] Seed : Giving up already? Too bad, I hoped for so much more. Zegram: Sorry to disappoint... [The Dorgenark arrives.] Zegram: Well now...it�s about time. [Jaster and Kisala come down riding Kisala�s air bike.] Jaster: Zegram! Give back the Key Pieces! [Jaster and Kisala landed on the Great Tablet and jump off the air bike.] Zegram: Here! [Zegram throws the small bag containing the Key Pieces to Jaster.] Zegram: They�re all yours, kid. [Jaster catches the bag.] Zegram: Damn things are worthless to me. Take them and get out now. Jaster: Huh? [Seed attacks Jaster with a blast of wind.] [Jaster dodges the attack.] Jaster: Whoa! Seed : I will defeat all three of you and take the Key Pieces. Zegram: Sorry you two, but it looks like we�re all in this together... Seed : Let me ask you this, just in case... If I asked nicely, would you be prepared to give them back? Jaster: Over my dead body! Seed : I thought so... All right. I shall do as you wish. [Seed drops into fighting stance.] Jaster: I�d like to see you try! [Jaster and Kisala draw their weapons.] Jaster: Zegram, don�t forget which side you�re on. [Zegram shrugs.] [The three of them start battling Seed.] [Suddenly, three pedestals on the Great Tablet rise.] Jaster: What the--?! Zegram: The tablet�s reacting to the Key Pieces. Stick the pieces in those things. Kisala: You�re right. It�s better than getting them stolen. Go for it! Jaster: All right! [Jaster puts the three Key Pieces on their respective pedestals.] [The pedestals sink back into the tablet.] [The markings on the Great Tablet shine.] [The engravings on the ground in front of the Tablet start shining as well.] [The ground shakes.] Jaster: Wh...What�s that! Seed : Eh? What is it? What is this that is happening? [The engravings on the ground emit a blinding light.] [A huge dark blue tower-like structure rises from the engravings on the ground.] Jaster: What is this...? [Dorgengoa and Monsha are watching from the Dorgenark�s deck.] Dorgengoa: Oho! The mystery of Eden is nearly solved! I�m...I�m downright giddy! Monsha : This is fantastic! Jaster: Look at that huge structure... What IS it, anyway? Valkog: That is a puzzle. Jaster: Huh? Valkog?! Valkog: Unless you can solve this puzzle, the gates to Eden will remain closed. In other words, they�re testing our abilities. Jaster: �They�? Valkog: The people of Eden only allow the brightest and best. But I can�t say I know why, myself. Jaster: I don�t get it. What did you plan on doing with this huge thing? There�s no way you could possibly move something this big. Valkog: Well what did you expect? Of course it�s not an easy puzzle to solve. But I have found a way to do it. Seed! [Seed comes.] Seed : Father... At last the time has come for me to fulfill my ultimate purpose. Valkog: That�s right--you were born for precisely this moment. Now you must prove yourself as an entity that far surpasses all other species. Seed : That is right... I have waited for this. Waited for this moment since my creation... Yes, I shall now show them the proof... Proof that I am an entity that surpasses all. I am the ultimate being! You should watch this part, Father. Now, let us begin. [Seed walks up the stairs to a platform in front of the structure.] [Seed raises his hand towards the structure.] Seed : Kin galgabaran de la arzeth, gult zen norzeth. [Seed moves the right part of the structure with a wave of his hand.] Seed : Sku de la geeta, leu sendra, ugor. [Seed continues separating the pieces and reshaping the whole structure.] Valkog: Ah-hah... It seems that I was correct, after all. Jaster: [to Valkog] What IS he, anyway? Valkog: Heh heh heh...ah, very well, I suppose I can tell you about him. You see, Seed is an artificial human created by analyzing the genetic code that has been engraved upon the Great Tablets. Jaster: Artificial...human? Valkog: I figured the hints needed to open the door were hidden within the volumes of data written on the Great Tablets. But we need to decipher the text in order to find out. My outstanding scientists--Daytron�s pride and joy, put their heads together to unlock the message contained within. That�s when it hit us. The letters� arrangement closely resembled that of the human genetic code. Realizing the similarities, it was a simple matter of converting the code into genes and reconstructing an entity from them. The final result was an artificial human. And the product of that is Seed. Seed has powers we normal humans lack. He is an envoy, sent by Eden�s inhabitants to guide us to their land. Jaster: So you�re saying that he was created...? [Seed continues rearranging the pieces of the puzzle.] [However, one of the pieces fails to fit in.] [Seed keeps attempting to fit the piece in, but is wouldn�t fit.] [The entire structure soon crumbles.] Seed : Wh-What am I doing wrong? Why can I not solve this? [The structure rearranges itself into its original unsolved position.] [Seed falls on his knees.] Seed : Why can�t I?! [Valkog runs up the stairs to the platform.] Valkog: What?! Th-That�s impossible! [to Seed] What are you doing, you worthless twit! Seed : Me...? Worthless...?! Valkog: That�s enough... You�re no longer needed. Seed : Th-This is not... Valkog: Don�t you understand? Results are everything, Seed. The gates didn�t open. That means you�re an abject failure. [Valkog walks away.] Seed : What...I�m... A failure...? An abject failure...? [Seed stands up.] Seed : Wait, Father. You...you told me...you told me that I was special. I...I am outstanding, am I not? I surpass all others, correct? That is what you told me, Father. [Valkog stops walking and looks at Seed] Valkog: Humph, I have no use for you anymore. Get lost, Seed--you dud. [Valkog continues to walk away.] Seed : Why...? Why? I...I...I am not a failure! [Seed screams at the sky.] Seed : Heh heh heh... What else can I do...? What else is there? [Seed starts walking down the stairs.] Seed : After all, I am a failure. I have no choice... Heh heh heh... Jaster: Urk! Seed : Heh heh heh heh... [Zegram strikes Seed in his back.] [Seed falls on his knees.] Zegram: Didn�t you hear the man? There�s no use for you anymore. Seed : Nrgh... Zegram: Afraid your time�s up, freak. Seed : Why...you...! Jaster: Zegram! [Seed starts laughing.] [Seed glows and turns into a giant centaur-like beast.] [Valkog, who�s about to leave, turns to look at Seed.] Valkog: Oho! Looks like those Rune cells we implanted just for kicks have activated. Now this should be interesting! Let�s see--which one of you can defeat the new Beast-Seed? Heh heh heh... Jaster: But this... Zegram: Well well, so now he�s a monster, eh? This oughta be loads of fun. [A battle ensues.] [In the middle of the battle, Beast Seed strikes Jaster with his spear.] [Jaster is thrown off his feet.] Jaster: Ah! [Jaster�s eyes suddenly turn red.] [Beast Seed attacks Jaster with his spear.] [Jaster emits a red aura and stops Beast Seed�s spear with one hand.] [Jaster deflects Beast Seed�s attack and knocks him back.] Zegram: Jaster! Valkog: What the-- Kisala: Jaster, what�s going on? [Beast Seed attacks Jaster again.] [Jaster knocks Beast Seed away with one hand.] [Beast Seed throws his spear away and draws out two giant swords.] [The battle with Beast Seed continues.] [Jaster battles Beast Seed alone and defeats him.] [Seed transforms back into his original form.] [Seed walks in front of Jaster and falls down on his knees.] Seed : I...I get it now... It is all clear to me... From the very beginning, I was never meant to solve that puzzle... What was written on the tablets was not meant to create me... Oh, Father... there was so much you misunderstood. [Seed coughs.] Seed : Heh heh heh... I could see your memories during our battle. I saw them all. Humans... they truly are such pointless little creatures... However... [Seed starts to turn into sand.] Seed : I also wanted to live as you did-- as a regular human. That is all I ever wanted... [Seed crumbles into dust, blown away by the desert wind.] [Kisala looks away.] [Jaster looks at Valkog.] Valkog: Urk! I think...it�s best if I just say goodbye for now. [Norma comes down to the tablet on her flying car.] [Valkog and Izel jump into the car.] Valkog: Farewell, then. [The car leaves.] Norma : [to Valkog] What a disappointment that was. Losing poor little Seed like that... Valkog: Humph, what a total waste of money he was. When we get back to headquarters, we will have to come up with another way to solve that puzzle. Norma : Sir, we�re just leaving them there? Valkog: What? Don�t worry about them. They can�t do a thing about that puzzle. Norma : Now that you mention it... You�re probably right. Tee hee hee... [The car goes into the Emperor.] [The Emperor leaves.] [Jaster walks up the stairs to the platform in front of the puzzle.] Kisala : Jaster! Zegram : That fool... What�s he up to? [The puzzle glows red.] [Jaster raises his hand.] Jaster : Kin galgabaran de la arzeth, gult zen norzeth orezen [Desert Claw is watching them from behind a nearby wall.] Desert Claw: Here we go... Jaster : Sku de la geeta, leu sendra, ugor. [The pieces of the puzzle separate.] [Jaster successfully rearranges the pieces of the puzzle and shapes it into a lion-like structure.] Zegram : Incredible! Kisala : The puzzle--he solved it. [The rest of the crews are watching from the Dorgenark�s deck.] Monsha: What in blazes is going on here? Jupis : Just what IS this Jaster fellow? Lilika: What�s...what�s happened to him? Simon : I don�t believe it! What�s goin� on? Steve : How could Mr. Rogue do that? Deego : The Star King... They say a man by that name ruled the galaxy long ago. According to the legends, the Star King had enough strength to move entire towns. Simon : Are you saying what I think you�re saying? Jaster is the Star King?! Deego : No. But one of the Star King�s descendants could very well live on in this day and age. Steve : Is that truly possible? The Star King reigned fifty thousand years ago... [Jaster had gone back to normal.] [Zegram and Kisala walk up the platform.] Zegram: Jaster...what did you do back there? Jaster: I don�t know... What�s happening to me? I don�t have a clue to what�s going on. [A pathway with stairs leading to an underground labyrinth had opened in front of the platform.] Kisala: Are you all right, Jaster? Jaster: Yeah. Kisala: Look--you did it. You opened the gates to Eden. [The Dorgenark is moored nearby.] [Later...] [Zegram is sitting on the Great Tablet, with his hands tied behind his back.] Dorgengoa: Hey Zegram, you really pulled a fast one on me back there. Before we head for Eden, I have a score to settle with you. Zegram : Whatever. Boil me, fry me--I don�t care. Jaster : Captain, Zegram was misled, too. Don�t be too hard on him. Kisala : Yeah, and we�ve opened the gates to Eden--can�t we let it go? Dorgengoa: Hmm... How about it Zegram, pledge your eternal loyalty to me and I�ll reconsider. Zegram : Yeah right! I�d rather die. Dorgengoa: WHA-AT? Jaster : Now, now, Captain. Zegram�s strong. We could certainly do worse than having him on our team. Kisala : That�s right. Come on, Papa! Please? Dorgengoa: Nrgh... fine. I�ll let you slide--just this once! Jaster : That�s great! [Jaster unties Zegram�s ropes.] Dorgengoa: Y�know, I never thought you�d put your life on the line for a lady, Zegram...heh heh heh. Who knew you were such a sap. [Dorgengoa continues laughing.] Zegram : Humph! Shut up! [Zegram looks down.] Zegram : Really, though, what was I thinkin�? You can�t just go around bringin� dead people back. I DID know that somehow, somewhere deep inside, but I put my faith in the one-percent chance that Jane could come back. She was my true treasure... The best in the galaxy... Kisala : Zegram... Dorgengoa: Your treasure... maybe we can get it back. Zegram : What did you say? Dorgengoa: We�re heading for Eden. Zegram : Heh heh heh... you were really serious about that huh? That phantom utopia, home to untold riches, And the land of the Eternal Soul to boot... Are you saying that once we get there, we can bring Jane back to life? Right. I don�t think so. Ha ha ha ha! Man, I guess I�ll never learn. [Zegram stands up.] Zegram : Fine-- I�m with you all the way on this one. The mysteries of Eden are just ahead of us. Let�s keep moving forward. [Kisala smiles.] Dorgengoa: I�ll be waiting inside the ship, as usual. All right, you dogs! Get us there! Zegram : [slaps Jaster on the back] Come on, Jaster! [The party goes down the stairs.] In a battle with Seed, Jaster displays an inexplicable flash of power stemming from the legendary Star King. Stranger still is how Jaster wields that power yet again to solve the puzzle that seals the path to Eden. What has happened to Jaster? And could the puzzle and the labyrinth be related to the fabled Ruins of Eden...? [The party enters the first room of the Labyrinth.] [Jaster looks around.] Jaster: Wow... What is this place for, I wonder?] Kisala: It�s wonderful. Maybe this is where Eden�s secrets are. [Suddenly, Burton runs past the party.] Burton: Hey there, folks! How�s everything goin�? [Burton runs around and inspects the room.] Jaster: I-It�s you! What are you doing here? Burton: Oho! How remarkable! This architecture is made by ancient hands! Brilliant! Jaster: Look, this place is dangerous. Go back. [Burton runs and stops in front of Jaster.] Burton: I will not! Oh I see, I know what you�re up to! You�re just tryin� t� blow mw off so you can have th� treasure all t� yourselves! Don�t worry--I�m not interested in any treasure. It�s a matter of pride as an archaeologist, y�see. So don�t mind me. [Burton runs off to the next room.] Jaster: Hey, wait! [Jaster sighs.] Jaster: Oh boy. That guy is such a troublemaker... [Jaster and crew continue their quest.] [They enter the Maze of Temptation.] [While going through the maze, Kisala suddenly turns semi-transparent.] Kisala: Ooh! [Kisala falls down to her knees.] Jaster: Huh? Kisala, what�s the matter? Kisala: Ooooh...owww! Jaster: Wh...What�s going on? Kisala: D-Don�t worry... It�ll...oooh...be over soon... [Kisala turns back to normal.] Jaster: What�s happening? Kisala: It�s been going on for a little while now. Something�s drawing nearer to me. I can feel it. I don�t know. It�s almost as if something�s trying to stop me from getting near Eden. That�s what it feels like... Jaster: Eden... Why? What�s your connection to Eden? Kisala: I have no idea. I just know I can feel it... Something�s getting closer. [Kisala stands up.] Kisala: I�m fine now. Let�s keep moving! Jaster: Okay. Sure... [The party continues going through the Maze of Temptation and reaches its last room.] Jaster: Eh? [The party sees a robot in the middle of the room.] [The party stops in front of it.] [The robot activates.] [Jaster draws his sword.] [The robot examines each party member.] [The robot suddenly bows to Kisala.] Kisala: Huh? What is all this? [Jaster lowers his sword.] Jaster: I think...I think it�s bowing to you, Kisala. Kisala: What? To me? But why? Jaster: I...I don�t know... but that�s what it feels like. Kisala: Say, robot...who are you? And how come you�re bowing to me? Robot : ... Jaster: Sounds like it�s talking, but I don�t know what it�s saying. Kisala: I think it�s trying to communicate with us. [The robot�s eyes suddenly turn from green to red.] Jaster: Huh?! Kisala: What is it? What are you trying to say? [The robot stands up and readies its weapons.] Jaster: Kisala, be careful, it�s acting weird. Kisala: Hey robot. Stop that! [The robot advances towards the party.] Jaster: It�s no good--it doesn�t understand! Kisala: Do we have to fight it? [The party battles and defeats the robot.] [Kisala approaches the robot.] Kisala: I don�t understand. Who ARE you? Do you know me? [The robot nods.] Jaster: Hey! You understand our language! Kisala: So you DO know me! What is it? Please tell me! [The robot opens its chest, revealing a round empty slot.] Kisala: Huh? Jaster: What�s this? Kisala: I�m not entirely sure, but it looks like it�s trying to tell us something. Maybe it�s trying to give us a clue by opening its chest. Jaster: Should we put something in its chest? It could be missing a major circuit or something. Kisala: [to robot] Listen, you wait here, okay? There might be something further ahead. [to Jaster] Let�s keep going and maybe we�ll get lucky. Jaster: I guess so. [Meanwhile...] [Steve contacts Dr. Pocacchio.] [Steve shuts down.] [Mark appears.] Mark : Dad...I�m getting even sleepier now. Am I...am I going to disappear? Pocacchio: Don�t worry--Dad�s right here. I�m right by your side. Mark : Dad...I�ve been thinking about this for a long time. [Pocacchio notices something.] Pocacchio: Huh? Hang on a second, Mark. Mark : Dad...? [In Dr. Pocacchio�s Lab, Starship Factory, Zerard...] [Dr. Pocacchio is sitting at his desk, in front of his computer.] [Inspector Starr had just entered.] Starr : Dr. Pocacchio. If I may ask, who was that you were just talking to? [Starr walks towards Dr. Pocacchio.] [Dr. Pocacchio stands up.] Pocacchio: Oh, that was Steve. You�ve met him, right? I was trying to get in touch with him, but there�s something wrong with the sound quality. Starr : Is that so? I could have sworn I heard a child�s voice... Pocacchio: Huh? Starr : Dr. Pocacchio, surely you�re not still... Pocacchio: I�m very sorry, Starr, but I�ve had a long day. I�d like to be alone, please. Starr : Doctor... Yes, of course. I�ll come back another time then. [Starr leaves.] Inside the labyrinth, the party encounters a strange robot who somehow knows Kisala. It tries to tell them something, but cannot communicate properly due to what seems to be a missing part. If only Jaster and company could restore the missing component... [The party enters the Maze of Chaos.] [They go through it and reach the last chamber.] [The party sees a lot of engravings on the wall.] Jaster: What�s all this? [The party walks to the front of the wall in the middle of the room and examines it.] Kisala: It looks like ancient writing. Hmm...too bad we can�t read it. Jaster: Yeah, right. Kisala: Let�s keep going. [The party leaves the room.] [Burton enters the room.] Burton: Oooh! Look at this! [Burton runs and stops in front of the wall that the party had examined earlier.] Burton: I�ve found it at last--yes, this is the ancient Mariglot tongue. [Burton takes out a book and flips its pages.] Burton: Let�s see... [Burton reads the writing engraved on the wall.] Burton: Hmm... Wh-What--?! [Burton flips the book�s pages and continues reading the engravings.] [Burton drops his book.] Burton: What in blazes...?! But that means...I�ve been horribly mistaken. Eden...Eden isn�t any legendary planet o� fantastic treasure... I�ve gotta stop those kids before somethin� terrible happens. I have to hurry! [Burton leaves the room.] [The party enters and goes through the Maze of Decision.] [The party enters a large sandy room at the end of the maze.] Kisala: Jaster, look! What IS that? [The party sees a giant squid-like creature, the Sand Kraken.] Jaster: Whatever it is, it�s huge. Kisala: Hmm, must be the keeper of this labyrinth. [Jaster draws his sword.] Jaster: Ready? [Kisala draws her daggers.] Kisala: You bet! [The party battles the Sand Kraken.] [They attack the Sand Kraken�s tentacles.] [When all eight of the Sand Kraken�s tentacles die off, the Sand Kraken buries itself in the ground, leaving only it�s top part above.] [The party attacks the top part of the Kraken.] [They soon defeat the Sand Kraken.] [Kisala sees a small spherical object on the ground. It�s the Ancient Circuit.] [Kisala picks it up.] Kisala: [to Jaster} Check this out. Jaster: You think that could be...? Kisala: Yeah, I bet it belongs to that robot. Jaster: I guess that monster must have taken it. Kisala: Let�s give it back to him! [The party exits the room.] [Burton enters.] Burton: Hmm... I thought I heard people over here. Must be Jaster and his friends. [Burton looks around the room.] Burton: I�ve got to tell them what I�ve discovered, or who knows what�ll happen. I must hurry! [Burton runs out of the room.] [The party returns to the last room of the Maze of Temptation, where the robot is.] [Kisala places the Ancient Circuit inside the robot�s chest.] [The robot closes its chest.] [The robot�s eyes turn back from red to green.] Robot : Thank you very much. Jaster: It talked! Kisala: So now that you can talk, you can tell us, right? Who ARE you? Robot : I am Ragnar. Multipurpose android model R2947. Kisala: So Ragnar, do you know me by any chance? Ragnar: Of course I know you. In fact, not only do I know you... I was specifically created to ensure your protection. Kisala: Me? Ragnar: I see...so you do not remember anything. That is to be expected. You were still quite young. Kisala: Wait. Was this...before Papa--before Dorgengoa took me in? Ragnar: Yes. In fact, I was the one who brought your lifeboat into this galaxy. I placed it into an established interplanetary route in order to make it especially easy to find. Kisala: But that means... You know who I am, don�t you? Ragnar: Yes. Of course I do. You�re a princess, Princess Irieth of Mariglenn. Kisala: Mariglenn? Ragnar: It is the legendary planet known throughout the galaxy as Eden. It�s true full name is Le Marie Glennecia. We refer to it as Eden for short. And you, Irieth, are the princess of Mariglenn. Jaster: Kisala is? Kisala: I�m... a princess? If that�s true, then why did I leave Mariglenn? Ragnar: Ah, yes... All will be made clear once you return to Mariglenn. Please, you must see it all with your own eyes. I�m afraid there is nothing more I can tell you at this time. Kisala: What do you mean? Why not? Ragnar: Because it�s not my place to say. I am sorry. Kisala: Hmm, you�re pretty stubborn for a robot. [Kisala smiles and nods.] Kisala: All right. Fine then, I�ll go to Mariglenn. I�ll return to the planet where I was born. How do I get there, anyway? Ragnar: The path to Mariglenn has been sealed for thousands of years. You must open its gates before you venture forth. [Ragnar holds out his hands and produces a shiny object. It�s the Eternal Keyplate.] Ragnar: Take this. [Ragnar gives the Eternal Keyplate to Kisala.] Kisala: What is it? Ragnar: Place it in the Pedestal outside the labyrinth and the gates will be opened. Now, Princess Irieth, you may return home to Mariglenn. All the answers you seek await you there. I will remain here, praying for your safe journey. [Ragnar bows to Kisala.] Kisala: I understand. Ragnar, thanks for everything. [Ragnar stands up.] Ragnar: Travel safely. Oh, and you... [looks at Jaster] Jaster: Y-Yes? Ragnar: You are the one who opened the gates to this labyrinth, correct? I see...in that case...it maybe possible after all. Hurry on your way, now. Mariglenn is waiting for your arrival. Jaster: Honestly...I don�t get what�s going on. Kisala: All the answers are in Mariglenn... The strange things that have been happening to me must have some ties to Mariglenn, too. Everything�ll become clear once we�re there. I�m sure of it. C�mon, Jaster! Jaster: Okay. [The party leaves.] [Ragnar waves at them.] Kisala: Jaster... Jaster: Hmm? Kisala: Listen, don�t tell anyone that I�m a princess from Eden...I-I mean Mariglenn, okay? I don�t want them to treat me any differently. I just want to be a regular member of the Dorgenark, that�s all. Jaster: It�s okay, don�t worry, I won�t. [Burton enters the room where Ragnar is.] Burton: I thought there was someone over here. [Burton looks around the room.] Burton: Or was that my imagination? [Burton looks at Ragnar, who had deactivated.] Burton: Hey, wait a second! I�ve seen this before! [Burton takes out his book and flips its pages.] Burton: Aha! I knew it! Here it is! [While Burton is reading his book, Ragnar activates, his eyes glowing red.] [Ragnar walks towards Burton.] [Burton looks up from his book.] Burton: Whoa! [falls backwards.] Listen, I know exactly what you�re up to, okay? I won�t let anyone go t� Eden! Do you hear me?! If th� gates are opened, th� entire galaxy will be destroyed! An� I can�t let that happen! [Ragnar inches nearer to Burton.] [Burton screams.] [Meanwhile, the party made it back outside the Labyrinth.] [Jaster and Kisala are standing in front of the pedestal on the platform at the top of the stairs.] [Jaster takes out the Eternal Keyplate.] Jaster: With this we can really get to Mariglenn? Kisala: We�re almost there, Jaster... [Suddenly, Monsha comes riding on Kisala�s air bike.] Monsha: Th-th-th-this is terrible! [Monsha lands the air bike behind Jaster and Kisala.] Kisala: Monsha! What are you so worked up about? Monsha: Valkog�s warship is attacking the town. The Dorgenark�s heading there on a rescue mission! Jaster: What?! [Kisala looks at the direction of Salgin.] Kisala: Look over there! There�s smoke rising from the town! Monsha: Get on, you two! [Jaster and Kisala get onto the air bike. Monsha: We�re takin� off! [The air bike flies to Salgin.] [The air bike arrives at the Salgin Residential Area.] [Jaster and Kisala get off the bike.] [Jaster looks at the buildings.] Jaster : What have they done...? [The buildings in the Residential Area are in ruins.] [The Emperor is hovering above them.] Valkog : Dorgengoa and crew! And you, that Jaster fellow! Hand over what is rightfully ours, immediately! Otherwise this entire town here is going to be history. [Dorgengoa is sitting and watching from the Dorgenark�s control room.] Dorgengoa : [stands up] What?! He�s gonna destroy the town?! Jaster : [looks at the Eternal Keyplate which he�s holding.]That Valkog... Dammit! Kisala : Jaster... Monsha : What do we do? Do we hand over the key? Jaster : We�ll have to. [Raul comes.] Raul : Jaster, wait! Jaster : Raul! Raul : You can�t let them have that. That�s...important--necessary. To protect the beautiful starry sky that you love so much. Jaster : That�s well and good, but I have no choice! Raul : Just hold on to the key! [Raul holds up his staff.] Raul : I�ll take care of the rest! [Raul activates his staff, producing an electromagnetic field.] [Suddenly, the Emperor shakes.] Valkog : What�s going on? Emperor Crew: Someone�s producing a powerful electromagnetic field. It�s wreaking havoc with our instruments. We�ll lose the ship�s control before long! Izel : Look over there. [Valkog sees Raul on a screen.] Valkog : So it�s him. Kill him. [The Emperor shoots at Raul with a pair of its cannons.] [Raul was thrown off his feet by the explosion.] Raul : Aaarrrghhh... [Raul falls to the ground.] Jaster : Raul! [The Emperor is plunging downwards.] Izel : [to Valkog] Captain, our output is dropping significantly! If this keeps up, we�ll crash on Rosa. We must escape this planet�s gravitational field. Valkog: [bangs the table] Nrgh...those wretched worms! Izel : Captain! Valkog: Nrgh... I guess we have no choice. Time to retreat! [The Emperor leaves Rosa.] [Jaster kneels beside Raul, holding him in his arms.] Jaster: Raul! Stay with me! C�mon, Raul! Raul : Ugh...Jaster... The town... Jaster: It�s fine--everybody�s safe. So hang on, don�t you leave me, Raul! Raul : Jaster...there�s something I...must tell you. Jaster: It�s all right, Raul. Don�t talk. Raul : It�s about...your father. Jaster: My father? You...you know my father? But I thought you found me on the church steps. Raul : I�m sorry... That wasn�t true. You were given to me. Your father gave you to me. Jaster: What? Raul : Listen to me, Jaster... you are a unique child. There are things you are destined for. Things that only you can do. [Raul holds up a Star Pendant.] [Jaster takes it.] Jaster: What�s this...? Raul : That will guide your way. Go now, Jaster. Jaster: Raul, what do you mean? I don�t understand. What is this? [Jaster holds up the Star Pendant.] [Raul holds Jaster�s hand.] Raul : Jaster... You must protect that great starry sky of yours... Nrgh... [Raul�s hand falls lifelessly to the ground.] Jaster: Raul! No, please... Hey, Raul! Wake up, Raul! You promised--you said you�d wait for me. No, you can�t die. Come on, Raul! [Monsha looks away.] Jaster: It can�t be... This isn�t happening. It�s not true... It�s not true. Why did Raul have to die...? Why? WHY?! [Jaster cries.] Jaster: RAAAAAAUUUUL! [Nighttime] [Jaster is sitting on the steps of one of the destroyed building in the Salgin Residential Area, staring at the Star Pendant he�s holding.] [Kisala and Lilika are looking at him from nearby.] Kisala: I wonder if Jaster�s okay. Lilika: To him, this is like losing his real father. Now, Jaster is all alone. He has no one. Kisala: All alone... Lilika: True warriors must overcome the pain of saying goodbye to the ones they love. Let him be... [Lilika leaves.] [Kisala walks towards Jaster and sits beside him.] Kisala: Jaster... Are you all right? I...um...I don�t know what to say... Um... The stars sure are beautiful, huh? [Kisala points at the night sky.] [Kisala is disappointed to get no response from Jaster.] Kisala: It�s sad, what happened to Raul... But this isn�t like you, Jaster. Jaster: Leave me alone. [Kisala stands up.] Kisala: Let�s go back to the ship. The desert is dangerous at night, and cold too. [Jaster stands up.] Jaster: Go by yourself. I�m staying here. [Jaster starts walking away.] Kisala: Jaster... [Kisala grabs Jaster�s hand.] [Jaster pulls his hand away.] [Kisala frowns.] [Kisala slaps Jaster.] [The Star Pendant falls to the ground.] Kisala: What�s with you?! Snap out of it, Jaster! Is it really that awful, being all by yourself? [Kisala cries.] Kisala: I mean...I�m just as alone as you are! We�re both the same! But we have all these people around us. All our crewmates-- friends who share our excitement, our fear, our joy. We�re NOT alone. [Kisala wipes her tears.] Kisala: Let�s go back to the ship, [smiles] okay, Jaster? Jaster: Kisala... [The Star Pendant suddenly shines brightly.] Kisala: Huh? [The Star Pendant emits a holographic image of a planet.] Jaster: It�s a map... [A point is blinking on the map.] Kisala: Where is that? Jaster: This is a map of Rosa. It�s pointing right at the middle of Kuje Desert. There shouldn�t be anything in there. What...What does this mean? [Jaster thinks of what Raul had said to him.] (Raul : That will guide your way.) Jaster: Raul... Is this where you want me to go? Kisala: Jaster... Come on, let�s go check it out! We should go back to the ship and prepare for the journey. [Jaster nods and looks back at the map.] [Jaster and Kisala return to the Dorgenark.] [At the Captain�s Quarters] Dorgengoa: You want to go to the Kuje Desert, huh? [Jaster and Kisala nod.] Jupis : That place is famous for its deadly sandstorms. Go in alone and your chance of survival is less than one percent. Monsha : Have you two got a death wish or what going to that place?! Jaster : It�s Raul--he�s showing us the way. There must be something there. Kisala : Come on, Papa. Let us go, please! Dorgengoa: Hmm... Even if I say no, are you going to listen to me? It doesn�t matter what I say, right? I know you�ll wind up going, no matter what. Jaster : Thanks, Captain. Dorgengoa: By the way, we�ve used that key of yours at the ruins, but nothin� happened. It appears as though the mystery of Eden ain�t quite solved yet. [Monsha is holding the Eternal Keyplate.] Monsha : Maybe there�s something else we need to do. Dorgengoa: All right--go forth you scurvy dogs! Who knows, you might just find a hint that�ll get this figured out. [Jaster and Kisala nod.] Kisala : Thanks, Papa. [Jaster and Kisala walk away.] Dorgengoa: Kisala! [Jaster and Kisala stop and look back at Dorgengoa.] Dorgengoa: You be careful. [Kisala nods.] Kisala : I know, we�ll be fine! [Jaster and Kisala leave the Captain�s Quarters.] Father Raul is mortally wounded by a ferocious blast from Valkog�s battle cruiser, and Jaster mourns for the death of the only father figure he has ever known. In the aftermath of the conflict, Jaster calms himself by idly playing with the pendant Raul entrusted to him. Suddenly, the pendant bursts open and emits a holographic map that points to the center of the Kuje Desert. Jaster decides to travel into the fearsome desert to fulfill Father Raul�s dying wish... [The next day, the party approaches the gates which lead to the Kuje Desert.] Zegram : Jaster! Jaster : Yeah? Zegram : I�m just thinkin� here, but... Dorgengoa said he used the key, but nothing happened. You think that�s because you weren�t around when he tried? Jaster : What? What do you mean? Zegram : Well, the thing is... You�ve got some kinda secret deep within you. Before you hit the desert, give the ruins one more try. It just might work if you�re the one doin� it. [Desert Claw comes.] Desert Claw: Wait! Jaster : Desert Claw... Desert Claw: You need to head for Kuje Desert. Jaster : Why? Desert Claw: I�m afraid I�ve tampered with the gate to the ruin. The key you have won�t do a thing. Jaster : But why? Why would you get in our way? Desert Claw: If you open the path now, only destruction awaits. I can�t let you go to Eden just yet. You�ve awoken the power of the Star King, Jaster. But not entirely. Jaster : The power...of the Star King? Desert Claw: Yes--the power you used when fighting Seed. You held the potential to unlock that vast power within you. And that�s why I gave you the Desert Seeker the first time we met. Jaster : So...from the very beginning, you�ve been... Desert Claw: Right. I had to guide you on your way so that you could unleash your true power. That�s why I�ve been traveling through the galaxy. All to save our universe from destruction. Jaster : Destruction...? Desert Claw: Right now, you should go to the place Raul specified. Go there and everything will become clear. [Desert Claw starts walking away.] Jaster : But what�s there? [Desert Claw stops walking.] Desert Claw: The truth. You�ll learn everything once you get there. That�s where our journey began, yours and mine... Jaster : Huh?! Desert Claw: Farewell. [Desert Claw jumps to the rooftops and leaves.] Jaster : Hey, wait! What IS all this?! I still don�t understand! Kisala : Everyone just LOVES secrets, don�t they? If we want to find out the truth, we�ll just have to go there. Come on, Jaster! [The party walks towards the gates.] [Jaster stops and looks back.] Jaster : Raul. What is it? What are you trying to tell me? [Jaster follows the party through he gates.] [The party and enters Kuje Desert.] Jaster : What could possibly be in the middle of this desert? [Jaster thinks back about the things that had been said to him earlier.] (Raul : That will guide your way. Go now, Jaster.) (Desert Claw: The truth. You�ll learn everything once you get there. That�s where our journey began, yours and mine...) Jaster : Raul...what am I supposed to be looking for out here? [Meanwhile...] [Steve contacts Dr. Pocacchio.] [Steve sees Mark appear in front of him.] Mark : Dad...? [Mark looks around and calls out for Dr. Pocacchio.] Mark : Dad! Steve : Mark... What�s going on? Why are you in my brain? Have--have you been with me this whole time?! Mark : Dad�s not answering! Something terrible�s happened. I just know it! [Mark turns and looks at Steve.] Mark : Steve, you�ve got to help me! You can go check on the factory, right? Hurry, Steve! Please! Steve : All right--I�ll connect right away! [Steve shows what happens in Dr. Pocacchio�s Lab in the Starship Factory.] [Steve and Mark see Dr. Pocacchio standing next to his desk. Inspector Starr and two Longardian Soldiers are standing in front of him.] Mark : No--Dad! Starr : It�s a pity, Dr. Pocacchio... Someone as highly regarded as you doing something like this. You know that duplicating memories is strictly forbidden. Yet you�ve kept your son Mark�s memories hidden inside Steve, a robot you�ve created specifically for this purpose. You are hereby under arrest, in violation of article number 3241 of the Galactic Federation Law. [A barrier appears around Dr. Pocacchio, trapping him in it.] Starr : We�ll search the control room and confiscate any and all evidence related to Steve. Pocacchio : Wait! Please wait! Starr : Don�t you understand, Dr. Pocacchio? That�s not your son in there. It�s nothing more than a collection of data with the same memory information as your son before he passed away. Doctor...everyone must die one day. Even those we love very, very much, are no exception. It�s really a pity, Dr. Pocacchio. Having to send a great man like you to prison. [to Longardian Soldiers] We need to secure the evidence related to this crime. We�re looking for a multipurpose humanoid robot named Steve. Hurry! Longardian Soldiers : [salute] Sir! Pocacchio : No! Leave Steve alone, I beg you! Steve : Oh, my...this is terrible. [to Mark] What should we do? Mark : Dad... [Mark looks at Steve.] Mark : Listen, Steve...! There�s something only you can do. Steve : Only me? Mark : Yeah, you�re the only one... who can delete me. Steve : What are you saying?! Mark : Hurry! You have to delete me! Otherwise they�ll get Dad...! Steve : Absolutely not! I could never do that! The doctor would be completely devastated without you! [Mark looks away.] Mark : I--I�m not human. I�m...I�m just memories. Mark�s memories. Nothing but data. Steve : Oh, er... [One of the Longardian Soldiers had been attempting to hack into Dr. Pocacchio�s computer.] Mark : We�re not going to make it! Delete me, Steve! Steve : I can�t! Mark : Dad and I have to part ways, Steve. Or he�ll never stand on his own two feet again! Please, Steve! Help him...help my father! [Mark runs to Steve and hugs him.] [Mark starts glowing.] Steve : Huh? Mark! What are you doing?! [Mark stops glowing.] [Electricity starts running through Steve.] [Mark lets go of Steve.] Mark : Goodbye...Steve. Steve : Mark...!! [Mark starts disappearing.] [The word �SYSTEMDELETED� appears on Dr. Pocacchio�s computer screen.] [The computer stars giving out electricity.] Longardian Soldier #1: Whoa! Pocacchio : Aah! No, Mark! Mark... Oh dear...what happened?! Mark! [Dr. Pocacchio falls on his knees.] Pocacchio : MARK!!! Oh, no...this isn�t happening. [Mark had completely disappeared.] Steve : Mark... [Mark�s voice is heard.] Mark : I�m sorry, Dad... Thanks for all that you�ve done... [Later, Inspector Starr and the two Longardian Soldiers leave the factory.] Longardian Soldier #2: Do we just leave him like that? Starr : Doesn�t matter. We can�t arrest him without evidence. That�s enough for today. I�d say we�ve done our jobs, haven�t we? [The two Longardian Soldiers look at each other and continue to follow Starr.] [Steve contacts Dr. Pocacchio.] Pocacchio : Mark... Steve : Mark, is it true? Are you really gone? Mark... And you cared so much for Dr. Pocacchio... Doctor... What makes a human...human? Suddenly...I�m not so sure anymore. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + Chapter 10: The Illusory Oasis + [CH10] ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Desert Claw reveals to Jaster how he foresaw the awakening of the Star King�s power within Jaster and thus decided to bestow the Desert Seeker upon him the day they met. He goes on to explain that Jaster�s hidden power may be the only thing that can save the galaxy from destruction. Desert Claw, like Father Raul before him, advises Jaster to venture into the Kuje Desert--to find the truth... [The party proceeds going through the desert.] Jaster: Whoa--is that...? [Jaster sees Miyoko and Chie.] Miyoko: Are you okay, Chie? Maybe we should rest a bit. Chie : Mommy...is Daddy here? Miyoko: Well... I don�t know...he might not be. Chie : Let�s go home Mommy... Maybe Daddy�s already there! If we�re not home, we can�t tell Daddy �welcome back�. I wanna tell Daddy �welcome back�... [Miyoko kneels in front of Chie and puts her hands on Chie�s shoulders.] Miyoko: You�re right...you�re right, Chie. That�s where Daddy would come back to... Chie : I said a special prayer, Mommy. To the Leo King, the Libra King, the Cancer King...I prayed to everybody. So I�m sure Daddy�ll come back to us. [Miyoko hugs Chie.] Miyoko: Oh, my dear, sweet Chie... Let�s go home... To the house where Chie and Mommy...and Daddy all live. Chie : Uh-huh...! [Chie hugs Miyoko back.] [Jaster shakes his head and walks away.] [The party continues their journey and reaches the Desert Fork.] [They see an old man.] Old Man: Pardon me, may I have some of your water? I seem to have gotten lost in this desert... [Jaster takes out a bottle of water.] Jaster : Here. Old Man: Oh, how wonderful. [takes the bottle of water] I shall never forget your kindness. [The old man disappears.] Jaster : Hey... [The party proceeds to go through the rightmost path from the fork.] [Nearing the end of the path, they see a crying little girl.] Girl : Ooh, it hurts, it hurts! Jaster: Hey, what happened? [There�s a bite mark under the girl�s knee.] Girl : A poisonous snake bit me. I�m gonna die if you don�t help me! Please, suck out the poison! Jaster: All right. Hang on. [Jaster kneels beside the girl.] Girl : Oh, wait! Jaster: What is it? Girl : If you suck out the poison, you might die. W-Will you still do it? Jaster: It�s all right. This little bit won�t kill me. [Jaster sucks out the poison and spits it out.] Girl : Thanks, mister. [The girl disappears.] Jaster: Huh? [The party returns to the Desert Fork and takes the leftmost path.] [Halfway through the path, Jaster sees a person lying on the ground.] [Jaster runs towards him and examines him.] [It appears to be a withered corpse.] [Jaster covers his nose with his scarf.] Jaster: A body...way out here. [Jaster continues examining the corpse.] Jaster: Poor guy... He collapsed in the desert. [Jaster notices a piece of paper which the corpse is holding.] Jaster: Huh? [Jaster kneels down and takes the paper.] Jaster: It�s a letter... [Jaster reads the contents of the letter.] �My dear wife that�s waiting for me... it doesn�t see that I�ll be able to get back home. I wanted to bring this money to you before I part this world, but it doesn�t look like I�ll be able to do so. I�m sorry, Emily.� [Jaster looks at the corpse and sees a bag of coins in the corpse�s hand.] [Jaster picks up the bag of coins.] [The corpse disappears.] [The party continues walking and reaches a monument at the end of the path.] [They see a woman.] Woman : Excuse me... I�m Emily. I�m looking for my husband--he�s been lost in the desert. His name is Ronnie. Have you seen him wandering in the desert somewhere? Jaster: Yes. Emily : Oh, really? Was he--was he all right? Jaster: No. Emily : Oh, my goodness... Poor Ronnie, wandering on his own in the desert... [Jaster takes Emily�s hand and puts the bag of coins in it.] Emily : Is this--from him?! He left all of this money...just for me? [Emily cries.] [Emily wipes her tears.] Emily : I don�t know what to say. You�ve told me about my husband�s death, and now I know how much he loved me. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Now I don�t have to wait for my dear Ronnie anymore. I have grown so very tired... [Emily turns into a corpse.] [Jaster, being startled, takes a few steps back.] [The desert wind slowly blows Emily away as grains of sand.] [The party continues going through the Kuje Desert, taking the path behind the monument.] [The sandstorm is getting even fiercer.] [Kisala sees something.] Kisala: Look at that! Jaster: Whoa... Where did that come from? [They can see the shapes of buildings in the distance.] Jaster: It just... You gotta be kidding. How can there be a village out here?! Kisala: Let�s check it out! Jaster: Yeah! [Jaster and the team walk towards the village.] [When they arrived, they are surprised to see that the village is full of greenery and that there is no sandstorm there.] Jaster : A place like this in the middle of a desert... Kisala : Sure is strange. I mean, look how green it is! I don�t get it. Jaster : And quiet--too quiet. I can�t even hear the sandstorms. Kisala : But it�s been a while since I�ve seen such a beautiful place. [stretches] And the wind feels soooo nice! Jaster : This isn�t right. [Jaster and Kisala looks at each other] Jaster : I dunno--something�s going on. Kisala : Really? You think? Well, now that you mention it, I guess I DO kinda get this weird vibe... Jaster : Come on, let�s take a look around. [Jaster and Kisala walks around the village.] [They soon meet the Village Elder, Elder Naba.] Elder Naba: Welcome, welcome. This is Johannasburg, the illusory oasis. Jaster : Johannasburg...? Wait, you�re that guy I saw in the desert! Elder Naba: Ah, please allow me to apologize. I had to test you, you see, to determine if you were fit to enter our town. Jaster : I never realized there was a town out here. How long has it been here? Elder Naba: Since long, long ago--many years now. And it will remain here for years and years to come... Johannasburg is an eternal sanctuary. Jaster : I still can�t believe such a lush place exists on Rosa. I�ve never even heard of Johannasburg before. Elder Naba: Come with me, you must be very tired from your journey through the desert. Let us go to my house. [The party follows Elder Naba to his house.] [Later, Jaster tells Elder Naba about the reason why they had come to the village.] Elder Naba: I see... So you want to make your power complete. Jaster : You know about it? Elder Naba: Not really. I�m afraid that I�ve never heard of this Star King. And this is certainly no place for training. I�m very sorry, but I have no idea what it�s all about. Jaster : Then, do you know a man called Desert Claw? Elder Naba: I do not. Jaster : Hmm... Kisala : Is there anything else you can tell us? Elder Naba: Hmm. We�ll now... Let�s see... [Elder Naba looks at Jaster.] Elder Naba: Oho! Wait a minute. This birthmark here... Yes, I�ve seen it before! Jaster : What?! Really? Elder Naba: I recall someone in town having the same birthmark as this one. Yes, just like it... Or quite similar I believe. Hmm... Jaster : The same birthmark... So, where�s this person now? Elder Naba: It was someone who used to live here. But one day, the person suddenly disappeared. And no one knows what happened. Jaster : Were there any clues left behind? Elder Naba: I don�t know. Kisala : What was this person�s name? Elder Naba: Name? Why of course, yes...hmm... Strange, I can�t seem to remember it... I must have said it a hundred times, too. I am sorry. I am an old man. You might want to ask the villagers. They may be able to tell you something. Kisala : I see... Let�s ask around. Jaster : Yeah... [The party exits the Elder Naba�s house and asks the villagers.] True to Raul�s dying wish, the party crosses the blazing sands of the Kuje Desert. Deep within the heart of the desert, the party is blinded by a wild sandstorm that clears to reveal a village that certainly wasn�t there before. �Go there and everything will be clear.� Desert Claw�s words echo in the back of Jaster�s mind. What does this village have in store for Jaster? [Later on, the party comes upon a house atop a hill while exploring Johannasburg.] [The party enters the house.] Jaster : Is this the place? Kisala : Hmm... It doesn�t look like anything special... [Jaster and Kisala go deeper into the house.] Kisala : Ah! Who�s there?! Jaster : What the--?! [They see the ghost of a woman, Johanna. Apparently, she has the same birthmark as Jaster.] Jaster : The same birthmark... So you�re the one! Johanna: So you�ve finally come all this way, Jaster... Jaster : Huh? Wait, how do you know my name? Johanna: I�m sorry, but I can�t tell you anything now. Draw your sword, Jaster. Jaster : Wh-What?! Why? Johanna: If you don�t have the strength to defeat me, you�re not ready to know the truth. Come, Jaster! Fight and awaken your true self! Jaster, search deep within your soul and unleash your true power! [A red aura surrounds Johanna.] Johanna: Prepare yourself! [Johanna teleports Jaster and herself to a grass field, where their battle begins.] [In the middle of the battle, a red aura surrounds Jaster and blocks the Johanna�s attacks.] Jaster: What�s this?! [Jaster awakens the power of the Star King and continues battling.] [Soon, Jaster defeats Johanna.] [Johanna teleports them back to her house.] Johanna: Jaster... You have passed your trial. Jaster : So this is my power... Johanna: Now I shall reveal everything to you. About this village, me, and you, Jaster--your very own story... Long ago, this was a peaceful and prosperous village. But one day, it was stricken by a fatal disease. We tried everything we can to keep it contained, but before long, it had spread to everyone who lived in the village. Once infected, the victims would succumb within a matter of months... It became apparent that the village was in peril. I cared very much for the kind-hearted people living in this place. They were all like family to me. And so I decided to do everything I could in order to save them. I would use the mysterious power deep within me. Jaster : Mysterious power...? Johanna: I had kept my power a secret all these years. If I used it, people would discover that I wasn�t a normal human being... So I never told a soul. I stopped time here in this village... By stopping the flow of time, the disease could no longer progress, and those infected by it would not die. That�s how the village come to live on forever, for tens of thousands of years... To keep my secret power�s sake, I took away the villagers� memories of me. Still, for some reason, they never forgot me completely. Kisala : Johannasburg... Your name is Johanna, isn�t it. Even with their memories taken away, the villagers still remember you and cherish you deep within their hearts. They named the village after you to show their gratitude. Jaster : How do you have that kind of power? Who ARE you, anyway? Johanna: I�m a unique being... I am a descendant of the Star King... Jaster : The Star King-- you mean from the great legend? Johanna: That�s right-- the legend of the Star King is no fairy tale. Long ago, the Star King ruled over the entire galaxy with his mighty powers. While he still lived, it was a peaceful place indeed. I am a direct descendant of the great Star King. And his blood runs through your veins as well, Jaster. Jaster : Huh?! Johanna: You are my son... My only son. You have inherited my blood...and everything that goes with it. Jaster : What! What do you mean?! So you�re my...?! Johanna: Listen, Jaster... You�ve been given a great gift, and with it, a great responsibility. Use your power to bring hope to the people. I know you will be able to bring peace back to this universe. I must leave now. The time has come for me to go back where I belong. I am so glad I was able to see you. Farewell...my child. Jaster : No! Wait! If you�re my mother, there�re so many things I want to ask you! Mom! [Johanna emits a blinding light.] [The village disappears.] Kisala : [opens her eyes] What...?! We were in a village just now, weren�t we? Jaster : It�s gone... Were we...dreaming? [Desert Claw comes.] Desert Claw: That was no dream. Jaster : You again! What�s going on here? What just happened? Desert Claw: You awoke the power of the Star King--completely. Now my job here is done. Jaster : Wait--you know something. Tell me, please! Desert Claw: Very well... I guess it�s about time. Listen carefully, Jaster. Eighteen years ago, I became lost in this desert. No matter how far I walked, I saw nothing but sand, I walked on for days without food or water. Finally, my body gave out, and I collapsed on the sand. I thought that was it, I was done for. Then, a woman appeared before me. She was nothing less than an angel. She carried me to a village and tended to my weakened body. She was a mysterious woman...and beautiful, too. Before long, I fell in love with her. I spent several months in that tranquil village even after I had recovered. The time I spent with her--it was like a dream come true. Soon, she had a new life within her--it was our child. I was overjoyed, but she was uncertain somehow. I asked her why, and she told me her story. The village�s terrible hidden secret... Kisala : The village where time stopped... Desert Claw: Yes. Left behind in the flow of time, the village had never interacted with the outside world. She wanted to leave the village for the sake of our unborn child. She wanted to show our child the vast galaxy out there. So we decided to leave the village. And eventually, our child was born--he was our greatest treasure. That�s when we truly knew what it was like to feel joy. But our joy didn�t last long. Shortly after she gave birth, she fell ill and lost her life. She had contracted the same deadly illness as the other villagers. It was only because time had been stopped that she had gone on living. She was a strong woman... She must have seen it coming from the moment she decided to leave. She brought forth our child at the cost of her own life. Jaster : Ah... Desert Claw: The child�s face bore her same birthmark. That child was you, Jaster. Jaster : That�s...not possible. But wait...that means you�re my... [Desert Claw removes his hood.] Desert Claw: Yes, I am Mizel--your father. Jaster : D-Dad. Mizel : I�m sorry I kept this from you, my son. But I had no choice. It was all to set you on the right path. On her deathbed, your mother told me: �This child will bring peace...to you and to this universe alike...� I had no idea what she meant at the time. As the months and years passed, I came to notice you were no ordinary boy. You had powers, mighty powers. That�s when I finally realized the great responsibility your mother had entrusted to me. I left you with my friend Raul and embarked on a journey. I knew Raul would raise you to be a fine young man. I traveled from planet to planet as Desert Claw. I traced the path of the Star King and pursued the secrets of his powers, hidden in the past. All to call forth the great powers that slumbered within you. The Star King ruled the galaxy after quelling a drawn-out interplanetary war. Now, the galaxy is in need of the Star King once more. Jaster, I know you�ll be able to use your powers justly. You�re the only one who can put an end to this conflict. Jaster : [nods] I understand. I don�t know if I�m truly worthy to wield this power, but I�ll try Dad... I�ll try. Mizel : Jaster... I�ve told you everything I know. I don�t know what awaits you in Eden. From ere on, you�ll have to see for yourself. My journey as Desert Claw ends here, too. I look forward to sharing my stories with you one day, my son. I�ve released the lock that was on the ruins. Use your key to open the path to Eden. Stay the course, Jaster. [Mizel walks away.] Jaster : Dad... xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + Chapter 11: Legendary Planet + [CH11] ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ In the village where time has stopped, Jaster learns that Johanna and Desert Claw are in fact his parents. They explain to Jaster that as a descendant of the Star King, he is destined to save the galaxy. With the seal on the ruins broken, the time has come to travel onward to Eden... [The party goes back to the tablet pit in the Ancient Ruins of Rosa.] [Jaster inserts the Eternal Key Plate into the pedestal.] [The lion-like structure in front of the pedestal shoots out a beam of light into space.] [The Dorgenark is hovering above.] [Monsha calls out from the Dorgenark�s deck.] Monsha: Jaster! A gate showed up in space! We�re leaving now, so get back on board right away! [The party returns to the Dorgenark.] [The Dorgenark takes off.] [They arrive in front of the gate.] [In the Dorgenark�s control room...] Jaster : A gate, floating in space... Lilika : Are we supposed to go in there? Simon : Sure does look really cool! Jupis : My, my--this is fantastic! They say Eden�s civilization is considerably advanced. Zegram : Seems kinda like overkill, don�t it? Must have some great treasure inside. Kisala : So it�s right on the other side--Eden the phantom planet... The place where I was born...Mariglenn. Deego : We�ve finally arrived... Steve : Captain, are we ready to enter the gate? Dorgengoa: No. Not yet! Listen up-- Eden is finally within our grasp. Who knows what�s waitin� for us behind that gate. Could be unendin� riches or it could be an unspeakable hell. Do whatever it takes to get good and ready for anythin� Eden might throw at us! [Later, Jaster meets Kisala on the ship�s deck.] Jaster: What is it, Kisala? How come you called me out here? Do you need something? Kisala: Jaster, there�s something I want to tell you. Jaster: Huh? Kisala: I�m nervous about getting any closer to Mariglenn. Like I won�t be able to be with everyone anymore... It�s a scary feeling. And it�s only getting worse. Jaster: Kisala... Kisala: I have a strong tie to Mariglenn because of who I am... And I�m sensing that something horrible is about to happen. Something huge...and...and awful. [Kisala starts crying.] Kisala: Jaster! [Kisala hugs Jaster and continues crying.] [Later on, they return to the control room.] Dorgengoa: You all ready, then? Party : Yes. Dorgengoa: Then whaddya waitin� for? We gotta set out for Eden! Grab yer gear and let�s get movin�! [The Dorgenark goes through the gateway.] [When they reached the other side...] Kisala : So this is a whole other galaxy... Steve : Let�s see... Presuming that the gate is a type of wormhole, there is a good chance that we are no longer in the Wilherser system. Simon : Look! Over there! Dorgengoa: [stands up from his seat] Whoa! Now that�s a gorgeous planet! Jaster : That must be... [The Dorgenark enters the skies of Mariglenn.] Deego : Looks like it�s a highly civilized planet. Kisala : Finally, we�ve made it. Dorgengoa: What treasures could it hold? Oh, man--they must be outta this world! Jaster : Well, I guess we�ll find out soon enough. Kisala : Look! [A beam shoots out from the top of the highest tower in the middle of the city. The tower appears to be a palace.] [The beam bends and goes under the Dorgenark.] Jupis : Is that some sort of tractor beam? It�s like they�re inviting us in or something. Lilika : Hmm... As if they always knew that we�d be coming. Zegram : I don�t know. I�m not buying it. Don�t you think it�s kinda unusual? That such a civilized bunch�d let us outsiders just waltz right on in like this? Jaster : Yeah, but what else can we do, after coming all this way? We�ve got to take our chances and land. Steve : What�s your take on it, Captain? Dorgengoa: Just like Jaster said--ain�t no use in runnin� and hidin� now. We might as well accept their hospitality. [Zegram shakes his head.] Steve : Yes, sir! We�ll follow their guide beam, then. [Kisala sighs.] Lilika : What�s that?! [A giant creature, along with a lot of other smaller ones beasts descended from the sky.] Zegram : Beasts! See? Told you we were being set up. Simon : What the...look at �em all! I�ve never seen so many beasts. Oh no, even the Dorgenark is a match for a swarm like that. Jaster : Captain, what should we do? Dorgengoa: Break out the Big Guns... Fire �em at that huge fella there. Steve : Aye-aye, sir! I�ll start charging them up right away then! Jaster : �Big Guns�? Simon : That�s right. It�s our number-one weapon, attached to the bow! No enemy in the world can survive an attack from the Big Guns! [The Dorgenark starts attacking the smaller beasts with her cannons while the Big Guns are being charged up.] [The beasts counter the Dorgenark�s attacks.] Simon : Uh-oh--not enough time to charge up! Kisala : What do we do now?! Dorgengoa: Grr...annoying little twerps! Steve : This isn�t good. The ship won�t stand much more of this! Jaster : Hmm... Look! [5 robots come out of the palace and fire laser beams at the beasts, easily destroying them.] Simon : Wow, they�re really knockin� �em down, eh? Oh, it�s nice to have someone on our side for once, isn�t it? Jaster : Hey, don�t they look like the robot we met in the labyrinth? Kisala : I think you�re right. They must live on this planet. They�re trying to protect us! Zegram : Well if that�s true, that must mean Eden didn�t send the beasts in the first place. Steve : Captain! The Big Guns are charged up and ready to fire! Dorgengoa: About time! Have a taste of this ya bilge scum! All right, let �em have it, Steve! [Steve salutes.] Dorgengoa: FIRE! Steve : Firing Big Guns! [Steve presses the helm.] [The Big Guns are fired at the giant beast.] [The laser beam from the Big Guns created a giant hole in the middle of the creature.] [The giant beast dies and begins falling towards the ground.] [The smaller beasts start to scatter.] Zegram : They�re pulling back. Sure gave us a run for our money, though. Simon : [sighs] Thank goodness... Dorgengoa: That�ll teach ya to mess with us!! You stinkin� piles o� crap! Gah ha ha ha ha! [Steve is leaning on the helm.] Steve : Ha ha ha... Kisala : Hey, it looks like they�re escorting us down to their city. [The 5 robots escorted the Dorgenark along the guide beam towards the palace.] [The Dorgenark lands at the palace�s depot.] [The party comes down.] Kisala : I can�t believe it. It�s such a beautiful place. Jaster : Amazing... It�s like the city goes on forever. Kisala : That�s strange--for some reason, it feels so familiar here. Jaster : Of course it does, it�s because you were born here. Kisala : But I was just a baby when I left this planet. Jaster : Oh. Oh yeah. Kisala : Still, I feel kind of nervous. Zegram : Hey, look at that. They�re comin� to greet us. [A woman comes, accompanied by to of her female servants.] Zegram : She must be some kinda big shot around here. Woman : Welcome to Mariglenn--you have journeyed far. This place is known throughout the galaxy as Eden�... I am Freidias, the queen of this planet. We have been waiting for your arrival for a long time. Welcome home...Irieth. [Jaster looks at Kisala.] Freidias : Do you...remember me? Kisala : Are you...my mother? [Kisala starts crying.] Kisala : Finally...oh, finally... [Kisala runs and hugs Queen Freidias.] Dorgengoa: Wh-What�s all this?! So Kisala must be... Jaster : That�s right, she�s the daughter of the queen of Mariglenn. That makes her a princess. [Dorgengoa clenches his fists.] Dorgengoa: Jaster! You knew all about this?! Jaster : Well, er, Kisala asked me not to tell anyone. Dorgengoa: Why, you... I�m gonna murder you! [Dorgengoa chokes Jaster.] Jaster : Aaack! Ahhh! [Zegram smirks.] Zegram : Heh heh heh... [Later, the party goes to the Queen�s Chamber in the palace.] [Queen Freidias is standing in front of her throne.] Freidias : Welcome to Mariglenn. You must be weary from your journey. Please, rest here for a spell to regain your strength. Dorgengoa: By the way, Missus Queen. I heard Eden--er, Mariglenn holds the most prized treasure in the universe. I�m really fixing to know exactly what kinda treasure they could be talkin� about. Think you could show me? Freidias : Most prized treasure you say? Well, I�m not sure whether they qualify exactly, but we do have an abundance of precious stones and the like on our planet. But I�m not sure as to whether they are the treasures you seek. Dorgengoa: Well, do you know about this Eternal Soul thing? �Cause I, er, well...as a pirate, y�see... The thing is... Uh, I�d really like to get my hands on it...so...um...yeah. Kisala : How could you say that?! Dorgengoa: [whispers to Kisala] C�mon! This is what we pirates DO, Kisala! Freidias : Eternal Soul... Yes, the Eternal Soul does indeed exist on this planet. Dorgengoa: Oho, then it�s true! Wonder if you couldn�t, er, you know, let us, uh, have it. Kisala : Argh! Papa, will you cut it out! Freidias : Papa...? I see...so you must be the one who raised Irieth. I don�t know how I can ever thank you for what you�ve done. [Freidias bows.] Freidias : Very well then...you shall have all the treasures you can find on Mariglenn. Dorgengoa: Really? Do you mean it? And the Eternal Soul, too? Freidias : That, unfortunately we do not have. For that, you�ll have to see... Mother. Jaster : Mother? Dorgengoa: Okay, sounds good. So all we need to do is go ask this Mother person, then. Freidias : I�m afraid that is not possible. Mother never deigns to listen to us. It seems I�ll need to tell you everything--the sad tale of Mariglenn. I shall reveal to you how we ended up where we are today. Once upon a time, Mariglenn was the most technologically advanced planet in the entire Wilherser system. But one day, the evil energy known as Rune appeared in our planet and began to eat away at Mariglenn. Rune is composed of forbidden energy that gives life to the lifeless. As I�m sure you have already witnessed first hand, those who fall victim to the Rune gain new life as monsters. Rune does not discriminate--No one can withstand its influence. Even worse, the Rune monsters on this planet are several times stronger than the ones you�ve encountered in the Wilherser system. This is because Mariglenn is home to a fearsome force that is the source of all Rune: Mother. Jaster : I see... So Mother is the cause of all the beasts that exist throughout the galaxy. Freidias : Exactly. Once our planet was in Mother�s grip, there was nothing we could do except to wait for the inevitable. The Rune that Mother released would eventually strip this planet bare. And once our world is destroyed, it would move on to another planet and repeat the same process. Rune is like a voracious microbe that feasts on planets. We quickly realized that unless we somehow stopped her, Mother would eventually destroy the entire galaxy. That is why we decided to seal Mariglenn into a space/time cleft, into a galaxy in a different dimension. That was the only choice we had. Everything we did was for the protection of our beautiful galaxy. Zegram : So you sacrificed yourself to safe the galaxy. How very sad indeed. Freidias : I wish there was another way we could stop Mother, but unfortunately, we had no choice. You must understand, I love this planet very much. I could not hand it over to Mother without a fight. Desperately, I tried to figure out another way to save it somehow. There was only one person who could stand up against Mother and win... And that is the Star King they spoke of in legends. Our greatest prophets predicted that the one who carried the Star King�s soul would appear in ten thousand years. Believing their words, I sent Ragnar to each planet in the Wilherser, placing keys on each one that could open the gate to our world. It was a gate that only the one with the Star King�s powers could open.... It was the gate of hope. Irieth, you were still just a baby back then. I was sure you could live in peace during the reign of the Star King, so I left you to Ragnar. I did not want to see you grow up in a world controlled by Mother. I wanted you to carry the blood of the Mariglenn people into the future. Kisala : Mom... Freidias : After we made all the preparations, we waited many long years for you to open the gates of time and arrive on our planet. Jaster : So that�s how it happened... Freidias : Now that the gate has been unsealed, Mother is sure to use it to bring her malice to other planets--just as soon as she destroys Mariglenn. Please, help us defeat Mother and bring peace to this planet, as well as the entire galaxy. Dorgengoa: I get it now, Missus Queen. Just leave it to us, all right? Jaster : Yeah! I don�t know if I�m as strong as all that, but I�m prepared to give it a shot. Kisala : We�ll fight for you, Mom. I promise. For this planet, and our entire galaxy. Freidias : Thank you Irieth, and thank you all so much. I believe in you. I believe in your powers. Please help us Mariglendans learn to smile again. A man named Yuvan waits for you near the south gate... Go speak with him--he will lead you on your way. Go forth, brave warriors! Zegram : Wait, let me get this straight--pirates, fighting to save someone? Since when are we so charitable? Dorgengoa: [puts a hand on Zegram�s shoulder] Yeah, well, what about it? Look, this planet is drowning in riches. What a terrible waste it�d be if it all got eaten up by Rune! We�ll get our share of �em as a reward, I�m sure. Trust me, Zegram. Zegram : Hmm... If you say so. Dorgengoa: Besides, have you taken a good look at Kisala�s ma? She�s a looker! How can you say no to a woman like that, huh? He he he. Zegram : Humph, I figured as much. The crew learns that Eden�s true name is Mariglenn and that its ruler is Queen Freidias. The Queen explains that Kisala is actually Princess Irieth of Mariglenn, her daughter. She goes on to talk of her planet�s invasion by �Mother�, the origin of the Rune, and how she sealed Mariglenn in an alternate dimension to stop the scourge from ravaging other planets. For the sake of the galaxy, Jaster and crew set out to strike down Mother and restore peace... [The party leaves the Palace.] [They go to the South Gate.] [At the South Gate, which leads to the Ti�atha Forest, they encounter Yuvan.] Yuvan : Ahh, at last...at last we meet. I�ve waited so long for you to arrive. This is truly an honor. [bows] Jaster: Uh, for me? Yuvan : Yes. Only he who has the Star King�s blood in his veins can defeat Mother and bring peace to the galaxy. I have the utmost faith in your power. [Yuvan looks at Kisala.] Yuvan : And Princess Irieth. Within these woods, a trial awaits you. This trial is something you must overcome yourself. Kisala: A trial? [Yuvan turns towards the Ti�atha Forest.] Yuvan : Yes. You will not be able to reach Mother�s lair without first going through this forest. [Yuvan turns back to face the party.] Yuvan : Be strong, Princess. You must steel your heart. I believe in you. I have confidence that you will make it through these woods successfully. May you both find good fortune on your way. Jaster: Are the woods really that bad? Yuvan : Yes--It will be difficult, especially for Princess Irieth. Jaster: What? What does that mean? Kisala: It�s all right, Jaster. Don�t worry, I have no intention of giving up. I�m not going to fail. I�m going to save this planet...the planet where I was born. Jaster: Kisala... All right. Let�s go! Thank you, Yuvan. Goodbye. Yuvan : Good luck, and be careful. [The party leaves.] Yuvan : Lord Albioth... Irieth has grown into a fine young woman. Soon, my duties will come to an end. Then, I�ll be able to die without any regrets. I am certain Princess Irieth will make your dream a reality, Lord Albioth. She is destined for greatness. [Jaster and his friends go through the Ti�atha Forest and reach a clearing.] [A giant winged lion-like beast is seen in the clearing.] Kisala : It�s a beast! Jaster : Look--it�s not attacking us. [holds the hilt of his sword] Let�s get in the first strike! Kisala : Wait! Something�s not right... [The beast emits a bright glow of light and transforms into a man.] Jaster : It�s a human?! [lowers his hand.] Man : Irieth, is it really you? My beloved daughter... Kisala : Huh? Man : How eagerly I�ve waited for this day... The day that you would come back to me... Kisala : D-Dad...? Man : Yes, I am your father, Albioth--King of Mariglenn. I am so happy to see that you have grown up into such a beautiful young woman. Kisala : Are you...are you really my father? Then why are you...I don�t understand... Albioth: To save Mariglenn, I went up against the cause of the evil destruction, Mother. But she was unimaginably strong...and there was nothing I could do. My beastly form is the price I paid...the price I paid for defying her. Kisala : How terrible... Albioth: You see, Mother is the source of all the evil beasts that exist in this world. She is a mass of Rune energy, a fearsome monster with a strong will for destruction. There is no weapon that can be used against her. Even if there existed a weapon that could be used against her, she has eternal life. Mother cannot be defeated. Kisala : Then what can we do? She destroyed my planet, transformed my father... I can�t let her get away with that! [shakes her head] Albioth: There is only one way. We have discovered a way to neutralize the power of the Rune using Drigellum energy. If you pierce Mother�s heart with a sword forged from Drigellum, you may be able to destroy her from inside out. Kisala : Drigellum... Jaster : Where can we find one? Albioth: Listen to me carefully, Irieth. A Drigellum is-- [Suddenly, Mother�s voice is heard.] Mother : Servant...have you forgotten that you live only because of my mercy and generosity? [Everyone looks around for the source of the voice.] Mother : Do not forget that you swore your allegiance to me. Your life is provided only as compensation for that alliance. As long as you live, you shall fight for me. Your life belongs to me. [Suddenly, Albioth shrieks.] [He falls to his knees, emitting a glow of light.] Kisala : Dad! Jaster : We�ve got to get away from here! [Jaster pulls Kisala�s hand] Albioth: Irieth-- listen. You must defeat me. This is the trial that has been given to you. [groans] If you cannot defeat me...you will never defeat Mother. [Albioth transforms into Beast Albioth.] [Kisala tries to pull her hand free from Jaster.] Kisala : DAD! Jaster : Kisala! Kisala : Let me go! Jaster : No! Kisala, he�s not human! Kisala : Dad... [Kisala stops struggling.] Kisala : All right, I�ll save you from your suffering. [Jaster lets go of Kisala�s hand.] [Kisala draws her daggers.] Kisala : Don�t you worry, Dad! [The party fights and defeats Beast Albioth.] [Albioth transforms back into his human form, lying on the ground, dying.] [The party approaches him.] [Kisala kneels down beside Albioth.] Albioth: You did it... You have managed to stop me. Thank you...my beloved daughter. Kisala : Dad... [Tears roll down Kisala�s cheeks.] Kisala : Why? Why Dad...? We only just met... Albioth: I could not die by myself, Irieth. My body and soul are entirely under Mother�s control. I cannot fight her. So, you see. I had to be slain by another. For so long I�ve dreamed for a chance to have one last look upon your face before I die. And now that dream has come true. This makes it all the more easy for me. My long, arduous battle is approaching its end... Kisala : No, you can�t... This isn�t right--Dad! I only just met you, you can�t go! Albioth: Now listen to me carefully, my dearest Irieth. In order to defeat Mother, you must obtain Drigellum. This mysterious energy can be found deep within our hearts. Here, take this... [Albioth places his right hand in over Kisala�s heart and then moves it in front of her face.] [Pink strands of light materialize into an orb in front of Kisala.] Kisala : What is this--? Albioth: This is the Drigellum that you have created. It is a Drigellum of kindness, born of your own heart. [Kisala holds the pink orb.] Albioth: This energy is produced in our hearts using the strength of our wills. It is the only thing that can nullify the Rune�s life-force. If you can manage to gather all of your allies� Drigellums, it may just be strong enough to bring an end to Mother�s curse. Ahead lies the Gulza Sanctuary. There you will likely be attacked by phantoms born of the weakness in your hearts. Yet this may be what it takes to unsettle your hearts and draw forth the Drigellums. [Albioth looks at Jaster.] Albioth: You who bear the Star King�s powers. Jaster : Y-Yes? Albioth: After all the Drigellums have been collected, go see Yuvan. He will forge your Drigellums into a single sword-- It will become the ultimate weapon, crafted from the combined strength of your hearts. Jaster : All right. Albioth: Take care of...my daughter... And take this planet back from Mother... [groans] Kisala : Dad...no. Don�t leave me. Albioth: Irieth, let me look upon your face one last time... [Albioth reaches out a hand towards Kisala�s cheek. He glows with light and starts becoming transparent.] Albioth: I am so glad I... [Before he can touch Kisala�s face, Albioth glows brightly and stars disappearing.] Kisala : Noooo! [Albioth disappears completely.] [From the distance, Yuvan sees the bright glow of light.] Yuvan: Lord Albioth... I see that your wish has been granted... Please, wait for me on the other side--I shall be joining you shortly. [Kisala continues to cry.] [Jaster kneels down beside Kisala and places his hand on her back.] Jaster: Are you all right, Kisala? [Kisala stops crying.] Kisala: [looks at Jaster] Uh-huh... Jaster: The valley is just beyond here. Let�s keep moving. [The party begins to leave.] [A white ball of light floats by.] xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + Chapter 12: All Good Things... + [CH12] ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ [The party enters the holy valley, the Gulza Sanctuary.] Kisala: Look Jaster, this must be the Gulza Sanctuary that Dad mentioned... Jaster: Wow, this place feels really strange. [The party walks along the paths of the Gulza Sanctuary.] xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + Chapter 13: To Eternity + [CH13] +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ++++++++++++++++++ + The Ghost Ship + [GS] ++++++++++++++++++ xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + The Insectron Tournament + [INS] ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ [Jaster enters the Insectron Stadium for the first time.] Jaster: Is this... [Fabre approaches Jaster.] Fabre : Hey! It�s you again! So you�re gonna be in the Insectron tournament, huh? Jaster: [looks around] This is the Insectron stadium? Hmm, nice place. Fabre : It�s the hottest competition in the galaxy right now! Oh yeah, the other day, I found a great Insector on Juraika. Thanks to it, I�ve gotten as far as the D-rank champion! Pretty cool, huh? Jaster: Really? Well, that�s great! Fabre : First you gotta start at the bottom, E-rank, and work your way up. I�ll see you in the D-rank finals! Jaster: All right then. You better watch out! Fabre : Just make sure you get to D-rank before I get too old and have to retire, okay? Heh heh... Anyway, I�ll be waiting for you! Make sure to train some good Insectors! See ya! [They wave at each other.] [Fabre leaves.] [Jaster goes through the E-rank and makes his way through D-rank.] [D-rank finals] Fabre: Ohh! There you are! I knew you�d make it! Well, you�re up against me next. I hope you are ready! Here we go! [The battle begins.] [Jaster wins.] Announcer: Oho! He�s done it! We have a new D-rank champion! Ladies and gentlemen, a round of applause! What�s this? seems the former champ has something to say. Fabre : Wow! I can�t believe you beat me! I hate losing, but I�m glad it was against you! I�ll find an even stronger Insector and get my revenge! All right! You�d better win the C-rank bout next. I�m off to find an even more awesome Insector! See ya later! [Fabre waves and leaves.] ++++++++++ + Extras + ++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++ + Insectron Tournament + ++++++++++++++++++++++++ E-rank: Announcer: D-rank: Announcer: B-rank: Announcer: A-rank: Announcer: S-rank: Announcer: +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + Insectron Tournament Participants + +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ E-rank Participants: D-rank Participants: 1. Zak 1. Matty 2. Randall 2. Philly 3. Matilda 3. Medis 4. Keller 4. Cordison 5. Robert 5. Fabre D-rank (2nd time) Participants: C-rank Participants: 1. Matty 1. Retslyn 2. Philly 2. Sam 3. Medis 3. Denver 4. Cordison 4. Matthew 5. Burmani 5. Bolgo B-rank Participants: A-rank Participants: 1. Emp 1. Kalt 2. Henry 2. Gary 3. Osmond 3. Jaques 4. Ertessa 4. Starr 5. Bari 5. Monj S-rank Participants: S-rank (2nd time) Participants: 1. Camilla 1. Lucy Dyne 2. 2. Jin Red 3. 3. Ugozi 4. 4. MIO 5. Jin Red 5. Pocacchio xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx +++++++++++ + Alistia + [AL] +++++++++++ xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx +++++++++++++++ + The Credits + [CR] +++++++++++++++ Rogue Galaxy � 2007 Level 5 Rogue Galaxy game script � 2007 CrescentFox and Synsacra Thanks to ShaggyGlucose, jfissel and Nolax for the suggestions for the word Kisala�s �air bike�. Thanks to mystic_spirit, Roratastic, Melchior111, Nivarnaya, cmilano and SilverScimitar for the support and encouragement. Special thanks to mystic_spirit for requesting for this game script. Thank you all for reading. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
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